Meat Snacks Remain A Hot Category For Innovation

It was not too long ago that the meat snack category featured two basic applications: strips and sticks in such flavors as original, teriyaki, barbecue and spicy. As the protein trend has accelerated, manufacturers are positioning themselves for future success and adding a variety of new flavors and formats to capitalize on the trend …

The definition of what qualifies as a meat snack is evolving. Several major processors have introduced new products that incorporate meat as an ingredient into a snacking option. Oberto has its trail mix variety while Hormel Foods Corp., Austin, Minn., and Tyson Foods, Inc. are building brand extensions featuring meat snacks.

This past year Hormel Foods introduced its Hormel Natural Choice on-the-go snacks. The snacks are available in four varieties, including an oven-roasted turkey breast option with cheddar cheese cubes and chocolate-covered pretzels; honey ham, which also is paired with cheddar cheese and chocolate-covered pretzels; oven-roasted turkey breast with pepper-jack cheese and chocolate-covered blueberries; and oven-roasted chicken with mild white cheddar cheese and chocolate-covered almonds.