Trendspotting in 2023: Summer lovin’ with sweet potato Pringles, strawberry milkshake Pop-Tarts and Jude’s black coconut ice cream

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Pic: GettyImages
Jumping on the beach Getty
Jumping on the beach Getty (Dave and Les Jacobs/Blend Images)
Multigrain and sweet potato Pringles
Multigrain and sweet potato Pringles

Pringles is at it again - this time putting a tasty twist on not only its flavours, but the base of its iconic potato crisp.

Introducing Pringles Harvest Blends, an entirely new collection starring two new ingredients infused into the potato base: multigrain and sweet potato.

The first new lineup to come from the brand since the Scorchin’ line in 2020, Pringles gives fans another elevated snacking experience with bold base ingredients. The collection comes with a new take on the iconic Pringles can artwork to reflect the two star ingredients. Pringles announced the news today across Instagram and Facebook.

Pringles Harvest Blends is available in four varieties:  

  • Pringles Harvest Blends Multigrain Farmhouse Cheddar: Toasted grains and black bean deliver an extra bold crunch, dusted with creamy aged cheddar and a hint of salt.
  • Pringles Harvest Blends Multigrain Homestyle Ranch: The multigrain base is infused with the classic taste of creamy, zesty ranch.
  • Pringles Harvest Blends Sweet Potato Sea Salt: The natural sweetness of the sweet potato infused base blends with sea-salt granules creating the perfect balance of sweet and salty.
  • Pringles Harvest Blends Sweet Potato Smoky BBQ: Backyard barbeque adds another level to the sweetness of sweet potato. 
Almond pain au chocolat
Almond pain au chocolat

Délifrance has developed an Almond Pain au Chocolat to satisfy the growing consumer trend for indulgent moments.

A traditional pain au chocolat-style pastry with a chocolate and almond-filled centre, the bake is further elevated with a generously sprinkle of toasted almonds, adding a textural contrast that complements the overall taste experience.

The launch comes after Délifrance’s own research into the breakfast market that revealed how indulgence had gained significant traction post-pandemic.

“Indulgence has become a prominent trend in the baked goods industry, with more consumers actively seeking out rewarding eating experiences,” said Stéphanie Brillouet, marketing director for Délifrance.

“With an understanding of this evolving demand - as well as the rise in popularity of almond and chocolate pastries in artisanal bakeries - Délifrance is delighted to launch the Almond Pain au Chocolat, the ultimate indulgent delight to complement our premium viennoiserie portfolio. We look forward to seeing our latest bakery offering enhance eating experiences and leave a lasting impression among consumers.”

The ready-to-bake Almond Pain au Chocolat is available via from national wholesalers, sold frozen in boxes of 60.

Frosted strawberry milkshake Pop-Tarts
Frosted strawberry milkshake Pop-Tarts

The highly-requested flavour - which has been on and off shelves throughout the 2000s - is dropping in Walmart this September. 

The Strawberry Milkshake Pop-Tart was first introduced in 2005 as part of the brand’s Ice Cream Shoppe Flavours Collection, most recently appearing in stores in 2017 before being discontinued.

However, fans couldn’t get enough of the strawberry milkshake-flavoured filling inside the frosted pastry topped with rainbow-sprinkles, so the treat is making a comeback.

The return is thanks, in part, to Grammy-nominated rap star Lil Uzi Vert, who has publicly declared their love for the flavour. In fact, the very first returning boxes of this pink toaster treat were handed out at Lil Uzi Vert’s Pink Prom to release the Pink Tape album.

“Pop-Tarts iconic flavours have incredibly devoted fan bases, with Frosted Strawberry Milkshake lovers among the most vocal,” said Heidi Ray, senior director of marketing, portable wholesome snacks for Kellogg’s.

“We are happy to announce that this fan-favourite is returning to shelves this fall after a groundswell of fans - including Lil Uzi Vert - requested their return.”

Fruit fillings for home bakers
Fruit fillings for home bakers

British Bakels has added a range of fruit fillings to its Ta-Da! home baking range, launched Direct to Consumer last summer.

Crafted by bakery experts with over 115 years of baking know-how, Ta-Da! comprises a range of sweet and savoury mixes and now fillings - available in Strawberry, Dark Cherry and Wild Blueberry and with whole pieces of fruit.

Ta-Da! Has also launched a Lemon Creamy filling, which is free from egg, non-dairy, free from palm oil and contains no artificial flavours.

The fillings are super simple to use at home, have high versatility and bake stability and come with recyclable packaging. All four are also freeze-thaw stable, ready for consumers to bake their favourite creations, then freeze to enjoy later. 

According to Innova’s 2022 Fruit Flavours report, consumers most desire flavours that invoke nostalgia while firing up new sensations, which the new fruit fillings offer. Familiar flavours come top (47%), followed by traditional and nostalgic flavours (37%) and comforting flavours (34%), ahead of new, unique and different flavours (26%). 

“British consumers look to baked goods to inspire ‘feel good’ moments and see them as essential to a balanced lifestyle,” said Michael Schofield, British Bakels’ marketing manager.

“Younger generations are discovering baking, while also exciting their memories of comfort foods. As experts in producing delicious ingredients, we know consumers of all skill levels are keener than ever to bake. The Ta-Da! sweet mixes, and now the new fillings, give us the opportunity to share the joy of baking with as many people as possible.”

Ta-Da!’s Fruit and Lemon Creamy fillings are available online for £2.80 for 400g. Shoppers will also find recipes and hints and tips for their baking on the D2C website.

White chocolate dipped frozen bananas
White chocolate dipped frozen bananas

Ice cream challenger Pukpip is on a rapid growth trajectory, with its Frozen Bananas Dipped in Chocolate proving a hit with both UK retailers and consumers.

According to the British Frozen Food Federation, the frozen category has seen a renaissance in recent years, proving to be more applicable to modern lifestyles, while helping to preserve nutrients and reduce waste.

Amid the recession, frozen food is more important than ever, and innovation and premiumisation continues to see challenger brands leading the way. 

“Our consumer research indicated a demand for frozen snacks that combine a balance of whole fruit with a bit of indulgence, but now the products are in bricks and mortar stores the response has been incredible,” said Zara Godfrey, Pikpip’s MD.

“Our stockists have said that they are flying out of the freezers and consumer feedback has been overwhelmingly positive.”

Following the launch earlier this year of Milk Chocolate and Dark Chocolate, Pukpip has now added White Chocolate Dipped Frozen Bananas and singles to its line-up.

The new flavour variant combines real frozen banana smothered in creamy white chocolate with hints of vanilla and packs in only 152 calories per frozen banana. The treat is also a good source of fibre and potassium., is gluten free and comes with nothing artificial.

“We are delighted to be able to add the White Chocolate Dipped Frozen Bananas to the range, which is set to have wide appeal for kids and grown-ups alike,” said Godfrey.

Its singles format is available to retail for on-the go snacking and hospitality as a dessert option.

Pukpip products are available online and instore through Vegan Kind, Whole Foods Markett, Planet Organic and Wholefoods Box. Pukpip has also featured in Asda’s Trends Book for 2023/2024, which highlights the trend for products with fewer ingredients and reduced processing.

“Consumer awareness of the impact our food choices have on the environment has also helped Pukpip to position itself by rescuing wonky bananas that would otherwise go to waste and helping them find their true calling as tasty, chocolate-covered treats,” said Godfrey, adding the banana peels are also upcycled back into the ecosystem.

Pukpip is available in multipacks of 3 for an RRP of £3.99. 

Vegan cocktail sausage rolls
Vegan cocktail sausage rolls

Frozen food distributor Central Foods has launched the KaterVeg! vegan cocktail sausage roll for the foodservice sector.

The bite-sized snack is made from pea protein and are ready-glazed and ready to bake - a mini me of the 4” and 6” KaterVeg! vegan sausage rolls.

“The new KaterVeg! vegan cocktail sausage roll is made to the same recipe as our popular 4inch and 6inch vegan sausage rolls, which have gone down well on menus up and down the country,” said Gordon Lauder, MD of Central Foods.

“The demand for tasty plant-based products continues, both from those who don’t eat meat and flexitarians who are reducing their meat intake, and this new product launch will help foodservice operators to serve tasty vegan options to their guests, but which will also be suitable for all.”

The 15g KaterVeg! vegan cocktail sausage rolls are available in packs of 200 from Northampton-based Central Foods.

Plant-based ice cream
Plant-based ice cream

British ice cream producer Jude’s has introduced the Ultimate Plant-Based Ice Cream Tasting Box, along with the return of its Classic Tasting Box.

The tasting box - which is available for home delivery - features 18 mini tubs in six flavours, including Jude’s latest plant-based Mint Chocolate and Strawberry. Other flavours include Vanilla, Salted Caramel, Chocolate and Mango Sorbet.

In its 2023 Impact Report released earlier this year, Jude’s highlighted that its plant-based ice cream has, on average, a 47% lower carbon footprint than dairy, and uses up to 80% less land. This supports Jude’s commitment to lower its carbon intensity by 43% by 2030 (vs 2020 baseline).

As well as the mini snacks, the tasting box includes the recipe book Judes: Ice Cream & Desserts, a handy tote bag and its limited print run Plant Based Recipe Collection, all available online for an RRP of £68.50.

Jude’s Classic Tasting box includes an array of ‘out there’ flavours, including Black Coconut, Rose, Gin & Tonic and Ginger Spice, among others.

The second-generation family business, based in Hampshire, has been making ice cream for more than two decades, partnering with some of Britain’s top chefs to devise on bold, innovative flavours that have garnered it over 70 Great  Taste Awards. 

As a BCorp, Jude’s believes that business should be a force for good, putting people and the planet before profits. Its product portfolio also includes a range of lower-sugar kids’ ice creams, along with dairy and vegan ice cream, stick bars, Little Jude’s kids’ lollies, custards, shakes and sauces.

Popcorn kits
Popcorn kits

Following its successful home gifting launch, Popcorn Kitchen is gearing up to provide a 2nd wave of ‘home-poppin’ joy with three new gifting offers.

The bottle kits include a Halloween Special (complete with spooky electric orange chocolate buttons), the dreaded Christmas Sprouts (but of a sweet milk chocolate persuasion) and timeless White Chocolate Jazzies (a nostalgic pocket money treat from yesteryear).

Each kit is crammed with mushroom popcorn kernels, Belgian chocolate chips and preparation instructions.

“We’re massive fans of fostering impromptu family cooking and freshly popped sweet treats and these easy-to-use kits provide the perfect home-cooking setting that culminates with an impromptu family film night,” said Popcorn Kitchen director Louise Monk.

Popcorn Kitchen is also gearing up for the fast-approaching festive season with its 12 Days of Christmas Gift House.

The advent calendar features eight of the brand’s most popular flavours, namely, Salted Caramel, White Choc Raspberry, Chocolate Orange, Cherry Bakewell, Chocolate Brownies, Cheddar Cheese, Lemon Drizzle and Mint Chocolate.

“Everyone loves an advent calendar; however, the moment of happiness literally lasts a nano second,” added Monk.

“Thanks to our all-singing Christmas Gift House, the ultimate sweet treat moment lasts significantly longer.”

Available online, the Seasonal Home Poppin Kits retail for £12.99 and 12 Days of Christmas Gift House for £26.99.

Vitamin and protein bars
Vitamin and protein bars

Personalised nutrition platform Vitl has won listings in selected WHSmith Travel and Spar outlets across the UK and Ireland for its Vitamin & Protein Bars.

These listings signify the brand’s first instore retail launch of its functional bars, marking the next step in expanding the accessibility of its vitamin products.

Vitl’s Vitamin & Protein Bars are available in three variants - Energy, Glow and Focus - each  packed with 14g protein, nutrients like zinc and magnesium and a different combo of vitamins purposely designed to support wellbeing.

“We are proud to be launching our range of Vitamin & Protein Bars into convenience retailers this summer,” said Charles Stiles, retail lead at Vitl.

“We have seen a boom in the expansion of the healthy snacking category over recent years and believe Vitl bars will drive incremental sales to the fixture by recruiting shoppers seeking different functional health benefits in their snack offer, but not willing to compromise on indulgent taste.”

Vitl’s Vitamin & Protein Bars are available across WHSmith Travel and a number of Spar convenience stores for an RRP of £2.49 per bar.

Sweet wraps
Sweet wraps

Signature Flatbread brand owner Deli Kitchen has expanded its product portfolio with the addition of Deli Kitchen Sweet Cinnamon Wraps and Deli Kitchen Sweet Vanilla Wraps.

The new products were born out of consumer demand for versatility and variety in the bakery category. Both wraps and pancakes are a weekly staple for shoppers, with a combined market value of £300m, and the new Sweet Wraps fuse the benefits of both products and are expected to have broad appeal as breakfast, dessert and snacking options.

The retail value sales of sweet baked goods increased by 13.9% in 2022 and the brand is expecting to see this demand continue throughout 2023.

“Innovation is the heart of our brand and we are always on a quest to develop new products that will excite shoppers, but that also fulfil customer needs,” said Tim Wittekind, head of brand, NPD and Innovation for Deli Kitchen.

“Our Sweet Wraps offer something new and different, but in a format people know and love.

“The versatility of the new products, which can be used across the breakfast, snacking and dessert occasions, will ensure they appeal to families, especially as they also deliver on convenience, quality and taste.”

The new wraps ($1.50) join the 11-strong Deli Kitchen range listed in Morrisons, including wraps (wheat, white, mini, chargrilled and carb lite), focaccia and flatbreads (folded, pizza and Persian-style).

White chocolate digestives
White chocolate digestives

In what it touts as the brand’s ‘most significant launch in a decade’, Pladis has added a White Chocolate variant to its immensely popular McVitie’s Digestives range.

“Over the years, while the biscuits fixture has seen plenty of innovation, nothing has ever been quite as popular with shoppers as our biscuits,” said Aslı Özen Turhan, chief marketing officer at Pladis UK&I.

“This is down to the simple fact that McVitie’s biscuits are the True Originals, delivering on taste and quality time and time again.

“Baked for the first time in 1925, the McVitie’s Chocolate Digestive is a staple in British biscuit tins, with over 60 million packs enjoyed in UK homes every year,”

“Now, using everything we’ve learnt about creating a great-tasting biscuit over the years, we’ve developed a new must-stock snack that’s something really special.”

Pladis is hoping to catapult the ‘star power of McVitie’s Digestives to new heights by enrobing the golden baked biscuit in a coating of white chocolate - aimed to attract the  cohort of shoppers seeking out new flavours.

“As well as benefiting from a flavour profile with such a huge, engaged fan base – putting McVitie’s on the shopper lists of even more consumers – we’ve no doubt loyal McVitie’s Digestive fans will also be clamouring to get their hands on our McVitie’s White Chocolate Digestives,” added Özen Turhan.

McVitie’s Digestives White Chocolate is launched in Sainsbury’s and Co-op in July, followed with a larger roller across the UK for an RRP of £1.89 for a 232g pack.