For those who crave candy bars with a breakfast flavor, Hershey has introduced a new Kit Kat variant: Blueberry Muffin. This latest offering is now available in stores across the country. The distinctive purple candy captures the essence of blueberry muffin batter, featuring hints of both fresh and baked blueberries. Besides the classic wafers, this flavor also includes graham cookie pieces. Dan Williard, Kit Kat Brand Manager, stated, “KIT KAT Blueberry Muffin has quickly become one of our favorites; it delivers the taste of a freshly baked blueberry muffin without the need to bake!”
Although blueberry muffins are a beloved morning snack, they may not be the first flavor that comes to mind for a Kit Kat. Around the world—particularly in Japan—Kit Kats have been available in a variety of unique flavors. In the U.S., where flavored versions have only emerged in recent years, options like Mint, Dark Chocolate, Strawberry and Dark Chocolate, Hazelnut, and Birthday Cake have gained popularity. This new launch aligns with Hershey’s broader strategy to expand breakfast snacking opportunities. Last year, Hershey collaborated with Dunkin’ to create a Kit Kat-topped doughnut and discovered that many consumers enjoy Kit Kats alongside their morning coffee. The Blueberry Muffin flavor seems perfectly suited for morning coffee, although some early tasters have noted it might be a bit too sweet for the rest of the day—Megan Poinski.
As consumers increasingly prioritize wellness when choosing beverages, the market for products with mood- and energy-boosting ingredients is on the rise. A notable example is Clover Sonoma’s launch of Organic Moon Milks, which it claims to be the first organic, ready-to-drink refrigerated moon milk available in the U.S. This traditional Indian beverage combines milk and turmeric. Clover Sonoma’s Moon Milks blend organic 2% milk with ayurvedic herbs and spices, offered in three flavors: Golden Moon (with turmeric and ginger), Blue Moon (blueberry and lavender), and Pink Moon (Cherry Berry Hibiscus). These beverages will be available in quarts at Whole Foods nationwide starting this month.
According to Clover Sonoma, their Moon Milks can help the body cope with “physical and emotional stressors.” The product contains botanicals that promote calmness, antioxidants that enhance immunity, and tryptophan and magnesium for relaxation. Ayurvedic herbs have been utilized in India for centuries to foster balance between the body and mind, focusing on prevention rather than reaction to disease. Clover Sonoma noticed a growing trend on social media where consumers were making their own moon milks. The company cited a Mintel trend forecast that identified moon milks as a beverage to watch in 2022, as consumers began seeking “rituals that combine experience with indulgence and comfort” during the pandemic.
Kristel Corson, Clover Sonoma’s Chief Growth Officer, highlighted the product’s versatility in various applications beyond a simple glass of milk. “Consumers can now create a new ritual of enjoying Moon Milks at any time of day. They can enhance smoothies, turn tea or coffee into creamy lattes, brighten breakfast cereal, elevate ice with a pour-over, or simply warm it up for a soothing bedtime treat,” Corson stated.
In recent years, traditional dairy milk has experienced declining sales and stiff competition from non-dairy alternatives like oat and almond milk. To adapt to these trends, incorporating functional ingredients could help retain dairy consumers and attract those who have switched to alternatives. Last year, Hershey partnered with functional milk brand a2 to create a co-branded beverage featuring the candy giant’s cocoa and 2% reduced-fat milk that contains only A2 protein, excluding the A1 protein found in most milk that can cause digestive discomfort—Chris Casey.
In a surprising twist, Icee, known for its chilled beverages, has launched a new cookie product. This treat combines the beloved frozen carbonated drink, popular at movie theaters and sporting events, sandwiched between two vanilla wafers. Available in the classic flavors of Cherry and Blue Raspberry Icee crème, these cookies aim to deliver a nostalgic experience.
Natalie Peterson, vice president of marketing for The Icee Company, expressed excitement about the new product, stating, “We are continually innovating at Icee and are thrilled to bring fans their favorite frozen beverage flavors in a fun cookie format. It’s a completely new experience—perfect for on-the-go snacking—that evokes childhood nostalgia!” The Icee Sandwich Crème Filled Cookies are exclusively available at Kroger stores nationwide for $3.29.
Since its inception in 1967, Icee has become a household name, creating its own niche in the food and beverage market and establishing itself as the leader in frozen liquids, as reported by the company. Icee is a part of J&J Snack Foods, which also produces Luigi’s Real Italian Ice and Auntie Anne’s At Home brands. While Icee is primarily recognized as a frozen carbonated drink served from machines, it has also diversified into other categories, including frozen resealable pouches and squeeze tubes. Earlier this year, premium soda maker Jones featured Icee’s cherry flavor in a special release program, with plans to introduce a soda with Icee’s blue raspberry flavor later this year—Christopher Doering.
Moreover, as consumers become more health-conscious, the demand for products containing beneficial ingredients like calcium citrate (1200 mg) is on the rise, reflecting a growing interest in nutritional value in beverages and snacks.