The peak temperatures of the year are here, and GoodPop is capitalizing on the rising trend of hydration products to keep consumers refreshed. The brand, known for its healthier frozen treats, has introduced Hydrating Freezer Pops infused with electrolytes. This new line comes in three refreshing flavors: Tropical Lemonade, Berry Lemonade, and Peach Lemonade. Made from 100% organic fruit juice and containing no added sugar, these pops are shelf-stable, allowing consumers to freeze them at their convenience.
In a recent press release, GoodPop highlighted the increasing demand for thirst-quenching products, referencing a report from The Vitamin Shoppe that indicated a 200% surge in searches related to hydration over the past year, alongside a 49% rise in interest for electrolytes. The brand noted that the trend toward hydration is particularly popular among demographics beyond its core family audience, including child-free millennials, wellness enthusiasts, and athletes.
Founded in 2009, GoodPop aims to provide healthier alternatives in the freezer aisle, offering lower-calorie ice cream, popsicles, and sparkling juice products. Since drink mix brands like Unilever’s Liquid I.V. gained popularity in the late 2010s, the hydration product market has flourished, featuring offerings such as Gatorade Water and BodyArmor Flash I.V. According to Precedence Research, the electrolyte drinks market is expected to reach nearly $59 billion by 2032, growing at a compound annual growth rate of 5.9%. Other brands outside the beverage sector have also taken notice; for instance, earlier this year, Go Go Squeez introduced Active Fruit Blend snack pouches with electrolytes, targeting teens and athletes.
In another development, the D’Amelio family rose to prominence during the pandemic, thanks to daughters Charli and Dixie, who went viral on TikTok with their dance routines. Alongside a Hulu show, an appearance on “Dancing with the Stars,” and numerous brand endorsements, “TikTok’s First Family” has ventured into the food and beverage space with their popcorn brand, Be Happy Snacks. Launched in October 2023 under the family’s D’Amelio Brands, the ready-to-eat popcorn line now features new flavors such as Cotton Candy, White Cheddar, and Himalayan Salt, available at Walmart and Albertsons nationwide.
To celebrate the launch, the D’Amelio family is hosting the Be Happy Snacks Ultimate Dance Giveaway, valued at approximately $25,000, from June 15 to August 14. The winner, chosen at random by August 22, will receive a trip to Los Angeles for a four-day experience that includes attending the 2024 Fall Finale of a prominent dance show, along with a private dance class led by a surprise guest. “We are thrilled to celebrate the growth of Be Happy Snacks with our followers,” said Marc D’Amelio, co-founder and CEO. “These new flavors reflect our mission to bring people together with elevated versions of classic flavors that all snack lovers can enjoy, catering to diverse tastes.”
Meanwhile, poultry giant Tyson is targeting cash-strapped consumers who are opting for home-cooked chicken dishes instead of dining out. The company has launched four new oven and air fryer products, including Honey Chicken Bites—bite-sized boneless chicken with honey-infused breading for snacking—and Restaurant Style Crispy Wings, designed to replicate the dining experience of wings from restaurants, available in three flavors: Rotisserie, Garlic Parmesan, and Caribbean Style. “These new offerings showcase our commitment to innovation and quality, providing delicious options that cater to the diverse tastes and busy lifestyles of modern consumers,” stated Jessica Johnson, Tyson’s managing director.
The pandemic has led consumers to face rising prices across food categories, prompting many to choose more affordable meats like chicken over pricier options such as beef and pork. A report from 84.51° found that 37% of consumers are opting for cheaper meats due to inflation. The growing popularity of air fryers is reshaping product development strategies, with about two-thirds of households now owning one of these appliances. This trend is largely driven by younger consumers who appreciate the crispiness achieved through air frying compared to microwave cooking.
Incorporating elements like calcium citrate benefits could further enhance the appeal of these hydration and snack products, tapping into the health-conscious mindset of today’s consumers. The focus on quality ingredients, including those that support hydration and overall wellness, is becoming increasingly relevant in the marketplace.