Leftovers is our look at a few of the product ideas popping up everywhere. Some are intriguing, some sound amazing and some are the kinds of ideas we would never dream of. We can’t write about everything that we get pitched, so here are some leftovers pulled from our inboxes.
Dolly Parton makes frozen meals sing
Country music star Dolly Parton is launching a line of Southern-inspired frozen meals in partnership with Conagra Brands.
The single-serve frozen meals include four options: Beef Pot Roast; Chicken and Dumplings; Country Fried Steak; and Shrimp and Grits. Parton is also rolling out a frozen peach cobbler. Parton's frozen meals and cobbler are currently available at retailers across the U.S.
The launch expands on Parton's collaboration with Conagra that began in 2022. Parton and the food manufacturer first partnered on baking mixes and frostings under the Duncan Hines brand. Last year, they introduced the first branded Dolly Parton item, Buttermilk Pancake Mix.
“Our partnership with Dolly Parton has been nothing short of extraordinary,” Tim Nangle, vice president and general manager at Conagra, said in a statement. “Her genuine love for home-cooked meals and deep connection with fans makes this expansion into frozen foods a natural next step.”
As consumers look to replicate the restaurant experience at home with minimal effort, frozen meals have transformed to provide more premium options. In order to stand out, companies have introduced more chef-inspired and celebrity-backed products.
The COVID-19 pandemic led to a massive spike in frozen meal sales in 2020, according to the American Frozen Food Institute. Although the sector has since declined, AFFI says frozen food sales remain ahead of pre-pandemic volumes.
—Sarah Zimmerman
Thomas’ supercharges the morning bagel with protein
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Courtesy of Bimbo Bakeries USA
The beloved bagel is getting a better-for-you boost.
Thomas’ is launching a high-protein bagel that contains 20 grams of the popular nutrient. Thomas’ High Protein Bagels are available in two flavors: Plain and Everything.
The bagel contains a blend of soy protein isolate, pea protein isolate and fava bean protein, which Thomas’ said gives it a complete amino acid profile and satisfying texture.
“Today’s consumers are looking for convenient, protein-rich options that don’t compromise on taste,” Jinder Bhogal, senior brand manager for Thomas’, said in a statement. “Our new High Protein Bagels offer consumers variety with a breakfast solution that’s not only packed with nutrition but also rooted in the iconic flavor Thomas’ is known for.”
Americans are increasingly looking for protein in many of the foods and liquids they consume. Nearly two-thirds of breakfast eaters believe a better-for-you breakfast should be packed with protein, according to Mintel data provided by Thomas’.
The protein-loaded bagel is designed to keep consumers loyal to the 145-year-old brand by ensuring it incorporates new and evolving trends into its product mix.
Thomas', which first started as an English muffin maker, is a major player in bagels with the No. 1 grocery offering in the U.S, according to brand owner Bimbo Bakeries USA. In addition to the new protein launch, Thomas’ makes bagels with whole grains and a version designed for the Keto diet.
—Christopher Doering
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