New Product

America’s protein obsession seemingly scaled to new heights in 2025, popping up in everything from instant mashed potatoes and pasta sauce to popcorn, chocolate bars and even Pop-Tarts.

From multimillion-dollar valuations to sudden shutdowns, the stories that resonated most with Nosh readers this year reveal just how dynamic the packaged food landscape has become. Our coverage spanned dramatic downfalls, blockbuster acquisitions, and legal battles that left founders, lenders and consumers in limbo. Here’s a look back at the 10 stories that captured the most attention.

The Nosh team rates RXBAR Protein Energy Bites and Linear All Natural Protein Bar on taste, texture, packaging and positioning.

Rotten was named the winner of Pitch Slam 16, Nosh’s annual pitch competition for emerging food brands sponsored by Vdriven.

Creatine-laced Man Cereal is positioning itself as the irreverent, unapologetic option among other better-for-you, next-gen breakfast brands.

The Nosh team samples Casa Arte Sano Nopalli cactus-based tortilla chips, Gotham Greens’ refrigerated plant-based dips, and Dirty Gut functional chocolates.

In this week’s notable new products roundup, Archer expands its beef jerky lineup with a Cowboy Cut, Cleveland Kitchen unveils a revamped look across its fermented foods portfolio, and Heinz introduces a limited-edition format for its homestyle gravy.

In this reviews roundup, we taste the latest from RIND, Lentiful and Better Sour, evaluating the taste, texture, positioning and more of each product.

The Nosh team reviews TIPS Potato Chips cooked in beef tallow and Grillo’s Thickles thick-cut pickles.

Popped sorghum brand Cob has closed a $5 million seed round led by tennis legend Novak Djokovic, as it positions itself as a healthier alternative to popcorn.