The US, GMO-free snack maker was at Natural Products Expo West (California, March 9-12), showcasing its Protein Crisps range; while Philip Banfield, MD of the newly opened British arm, was at ife 2017 (London, March 19-22) to introduce the company’s Bean Crisps and PopCorners to the UK market.
Introduction to UK and EU
Banfield told BakeryAndSnacks at ife the products have only just launched in the UK and Europe; but have already received a lot of attention, particularly in Denmark and Austria.
“Consumers want better-for-you, healthy snacks that offer a great taste,” he said. Bean crisps is a popped bean snack, while Popcorners is a popped corn snack, both very low in fat.
Banfield added the Bean Crisps are unlike anything else offered on the UK snack market.
Made from black beans, green and yellow split peas, “they are very unique in UK … and in Europe, too”, he said.
The Bean Crisps are high in protein and fibre, are gluten-free and non-GMO. Flavors include Cha-Cha Chilli, Saucy Salsa and Salt of the Earth.
“Our flavor research showed us that snackers over here want more exotic flavors compared to US consumers, so we believe sweet chilli will be very popular.”
In the US
On the other side of the Atlantic, Our Little Rebellion is rolling out Protein Crisps throughout the US.
The air-popped crisps are available in three flavors – including Wasabi Ginger with Honey, Hot Buffalo and Sweet & Smokey BBQ – contain no artificial anything, are certified Gluten Free and also Non-GMO Project Verified.
Each 5 oz (140 g)serving contains 10 g of plant-based protein and only 90 calories, and will retail for around £3.99 when its rolled out next month..
“Protein is something that many people struggle to get enough of everyday, especially from their snacks,” said Paul Nardone, CEO at BFY Brands, parent company of Our Little Rebellion.
“With the explosion of plant-based protein, and shoppers reinventing mealtime by snacking more frequently and therefore demanding more from their snacks, creating a protein-packed snack that still delivers on our brand promise has been in our crosshairs for some time,” he said.