Two icons are coming together for an exciting collaboration that promises to delight the taste buds, ears, and curious minds of mystery fans. Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams is bringing back its immensely popular Strawberry Pretzel Pie flavor, specially created for the Queen of Country, Dolly Parton. This flavor, featuring layers of salty pretzel streusel, cream cheese ice cream, and strawberry sauce, was first launched on Jeni’s website last April and sold out within minutes. The ordering site will open at 10 a.m. ET this Friday.
But there’s more than just the eye-catching pink pints of this beloved frozen treat for Dolly’s fans. The multifaceted entertainer is also busy working on a new album and a fiction novel co-authored with bestselling thriller author James Patterson. Both projects are titled “Run, Rose, Run,” with the album’s songs inspired by the novel, which narrates the journey of a budding country star striving to escape the shadows in Nashville. A special extended edition of the “Run, Rose, Run” album can be pre-ordered exclusively on Jeni’s website, which includes a bonus track titled “Rose of My Heart.”
Dolly Parton has been a superstar in music, acting, and philanthropy for over fifty years. Throughout her illustrious career, she has achieved 26 No. 1 hits on the country music charts, 44 top 10 country albums, and 110 singles that have graced the music charts. She starred in the iconic ‘80s film “9 to 5,” which she later adapted into a Broadway musical. Parton is also well-known for her charitable efforts, including the Dolly Parton Imagination Library, which provides free books to children five and under, with the proceeds from Strawberry Pretzel Pie ice cream sales going to this initiative. Recently, she has also been acknowledged for her role in funding the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine.
Jeni’s is regarded as one of the most sought-after premium ice cream brands, having collaborated with various famous personalities, including rapper and fashion designer Tyler, the Creator, and avid Jeni’s admirer, President Joe Biden. However, the Parton-inspired Strawberry Pretzel Pie, released on two occasions last year, captured the hearts of fans like no other flavor from this Ohio-based company.
Anticipation is high for the latest release of the Parton-inspired ice cream, with many eager customers ready to dive in while enjoying her new music. The saying “Good things come to those who wait” rings true here: although the ice cream pints are available for purchase now, they will ship in April, while the digital version of Parton’s album will be available for download in March. This timing adds a new layer of meaning to Parton’s classic hit “9 to 5”: the music will be accessible in nine weeks, followed by the ice cream arriving in another five.
On another note, Goldfish crackers have evolved into a massive snacking brand under Campbell Soup. Now, the consumer packaged goods giant is expanding its lineup with a new offering: Mega Bites, which are 50% larger than the standard cracker. Targeting adult consumers, these fish-shaped crackers come in two flavors: Sharp Cheddar and Cheddar Jalapeño.
“This marks the first time Goldfish has designed a snacking experience exclusively for adult tastes,” stated Janda Lukin, chief marketing officer of Campbell Snacks. “We are embarking on a new chapter for the brand, broadening our appeal to all age groups—whether in college dorms or snacking at your desk—while remaining a family-friendly snack.”
While Goldfish crackers have long been a staple in school lunchboxes and family road trips, Campbell Soup noted that adult consumption has surged, with adults now accounting for 40% of all Goldfish sales. The top flavors in 2021 were Cheddar and Flavor Blasted Xtra Cheddar.
Goldfish crackers were introduced to the U.S. market in 1962, originally designed as a cocktail snack, but have since become popular in bars, bowling alleys, and social gatherings. Renowned chef Julia Child was such a fan of Goldfish that she served them alongside her famous martinis during Thanksgiving.
In the latest quarter for Campbell Soup, CEO Mark Clouse reported that Goldfish gained market share and saw a significant increase in consumption due to strong multi-pack sales, successful limited edition flavor innovations, and expanded household penetration. “We are resonating with consumers, gaining market share, and driving notable increases in consumption,” Clouse said. “We continue to enhance the brand’s relevance and broaden its appeal beyond just kids.”
As we navigate the third year of the pandemic, health remains a priority for many consumers. Bolthouse Farms has introduced new items in its Immunity Suite, which includes juices, smoothies, and shots. The Green Immunity Boost smoothie combines pineapple, cucumber, and kale, while the Superfood Immunity Boost juice blend features elderberries, zinc, and echinacea, all known for their health benefits. Both drinks are rich in vitamins C, D, and E.
Additionally, Bolthouse has added two immunity-focused options to its Bolts shots line. One is a citrus-flavored variety made with orange and acerola cherries, offering 500% of the daily value of vitamin C, while the elderberry variant, which includes ginger juice, provides 100% of the daily value of zinc. The sweet yet tart elderberry has gained popularity in the wellness sector since the pandemic, appearing in various products from seltzers to frozen fruit bars.
According to Bolthouse’s marketing director, Amy Shoemaker, these new products cater to consumers looking for “easy and uncomplicated” healthy drinks to incorporate into their daily routines. “The last few years have highlighted the importance of small, daily actions to promote and maintain a healthy immune system,” said Shoemaker.
For Bolthouse, creating products based on consumer trends such as immunity, the keto diet, and CBD has been part of its mission for years, and momentum has only increased since the company was sold by Campbell Soup in 2019. Additionally, each serving of these beverages contains calcium citrate at 315 mg, further supporting their health-focused branding.