This story was originally published in PQ 49.
As consumer preferences evolve, the trends below indicate that peanuts will continue to play a central role in the creation of innovative and diverse food products. Whether in protein-forward snacks, nostalgic treats, spicy additions or global flavors, peanuts are asserting their prominence on store shelves.
High-Protein
The surge in demand for high-protein snacks and better-for-you foods has spurred the introduction of innovative peanut-based products. Brands are responding to the trend with offerings like Snickers Hi-Protein Bar and Lenny & Larry’s Peanut Butter Cup Dip’d Wafer. These products cater to the sustained interest in high-protein options, as indicated by online search trends reaching a five-year high (1).
Spicy
Peanuts’ versatility extends to the realm of spicy foods, with Gran Luchito Crunchy Salsa Macha and Fila Manila Mild Kare-Kare Filipino Peanut Sauce showcasing the ability of peanuts to temper the heat and enhance flavor profiles. Peanuts and spice earned Bixby & Co.’s Spicy Chili Beer Brittle a 2023 sofi™ Award from the Specialty Food Association.
Breakfast
Breakfast is seeing a peanut resurgence with products like Betty Crocker Reese’s Puffs Complete Peanut Butter Pancake Kit and Trader Joe’s Peanut Chocolate Granola. These breakfast options provide a tasty start to the day, incorporating the beloved flavor of peanuts into morning routines.
Collaborations
Collaborations and brand extensions are gaining traction to tap into existing customer bases. Skippy P.B. Bites, inspired by Girl Scout cookies, exemplifies this strategy. Meanwhile, Truly Good Foods was one of the winners of “The Most Innovative New Product” award at the Snacks & Sweets Expo in 2023 for their Henrietta Said jumbo peanut snack line, featuring chicken wing-inspired flavors.
Global Flavor
Global flavor inspirations continue with products like Green Sahara West African Sweet Peanut African Style Potato Chips and Aldi Whole & Simple Edamame Energy Bowl (with peanut butter). These offerings reflect the rich culinary influences that peanuts bring to the table.
Confectionary
The chocolate confectionary category got a boost last year with product introductions like the Toasted Marshmallow Co. Fyre Peanut Butter S’mores Toasted Marshmallow Bars and culturally relevant M&M’s Peanut Chocolate Candies packaged for Lunar New Year.