Reviews: Protein Pints Pop Off; Goodles Gets Twirly

Protein Pops

Protein Pints launched its handheld frozen dessert Protein Pops in June. The 4-SKU line is the brand’s first portfolio extension and features 10 grams of protein, between 180 and 190 calories and 4 grams of sugar per pop. Each ice cream stick is encased in a quinoa-studded chocolate shell.

Things that stand out:

• Solid flavor lineup – Peanut Butter Crunch, Vanilla Crunch, Mint Crunch, and Caramel Crunch – that leans on tried-and-true ice cream favorites.
• The inclusion of crispy quinoa adds a satisfying texture to the chocolate shell.
• On the surface, a 3-bar box might feel a little stingy, but on closer inspection, less than $3 per bar is a good deal.

Things to consider:

• The big miss is the ice cream texture. A protein-enriched frozen dairy dessert is challenged in the creamy department, but Protein Pops’ formulation leaves the bars rock hard. Tinkering with the formulation to allow for bite-friendly consumption would be an obvious next evolution.
• We know it’s ice cream, so bear with us here, but 10 grams of saturated fat (51% of the recommended daily value) is a little steep. Especially when compared to the flagship pints, which contain 12 grams per 3-serving container.

Rating:

Goodles Twirly Mac

Next-generation mac-and-cheese maker Goodles continues to push the bounds of innovation within a category that’s traditionally been fairly straightforward. The brand’s newest line – Twirly Mac – brings a unique noodle shape and differentiated yet approachable flavors including Hotshot Jackpot, Alfredo Heights and Cheddar Weather. The line offers 14 grams of protein, 7 grams of fiber and 21 plant-derived nutrients per serving.

Things that stand out:

• The flavor profiles are fun, unique, easy to understand and will likely have a wide appeal.
• The classic cheddar was a true standout bringing an even more savory and elevated iteration of the brand’s classic cheddar variety to its lineup.
• We were skeptical this noodle shape would truly be “twirlable” when assessing the dry pasta; however, once cooked it grew to the perfect size – twirlable without entering spaghetti territory.

Things to consider:

• We would love to see more flavors and dietary-specific varieties to this line including plant-based and gluten-free.
• The name Twirly Mac makes this seem as though it would be positioned for kids; however, the flavor profiles, which include ingredients like white miso and chili garlic, will likely appeal more to adults.
• A clearer image of the noodle size and shape somewhere on the package would help shoppers understand how the texture and size of the noodles are distinctly different and one of the selling points of this product.

Rating: