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The Leftovers is a look at some of the product ideas that are popping up everywhere. Some are interesting, some sound amazing, and some are the kinds of ideas we would never dream of. We can’t write everything we suggest, so here are some leftover items from our inbox:
Dole launches Piña Colada Pineapple
Producer giant Dole Food Company has created a new pineapple that’s perfect for anyone who loves piña coladas (and might even get caught in the rain).
After 15 years of research and development, Dole unveiled the Colada Royale pineapple. The company calls this a “game-changing” innovation in the fresh fruit sector. Pineapples are traditionally bred to be green and gold on the outside and cream-colored on the inside, offering “coconut and piña colada flavors for those seeking the ultimate tropical dining experience,” according to the report.
Colada Royale also contains 2.5 times more vitamin B6 than standard Dole pineapple, supporting brain, nervous system and immune health, the company said. Bil Goldfield, Dole’s director of communications, said in a statement that the fruit’s goal is to provide premium pineapple to all income levels.
“Our new Colada Royale Pineapple is not just a novelty or promotional stunt, but rather a long-term strategy for Dole to allow more people to embrace the tropical grandeur of pineapple through a luxurious new taste experience that leaves them wanting more,” Goldfield said in a statement.
Premium pineapples are growing in popularity as health-conscious consumers turn to tropical flavors and seek “exotic and vivid taste experiences,” according to Innova Markets. Fresh Del Monte’s Pinkglow pineapple, bioengineered to have a rosy interior, was the production company’s standout product, with demand once outstripping supply.
— Sarah Zimmerman
Mission Tortilla Flip for GLP-1
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Provided by Mission Food
Mission Foods is offering consumers taking GLP-1 drugs for weight loss a new option for tacos or wraps.
The Mexican food manufacturer is expanding its Better For You line with the launch of Zero Net Carbs Spinach Tortillas. This product is intended to provide flavor and essential nutrition to consumers looking for low-carb and high-fiber choices.
“At Mission Foods, we know that eating well is different for everyone,” Sathish Mohanraju, vice president of sales and marketing at Mission Foods, said in a statement. “Our Zero Net Carb Spinach Tortillas are designed to support today’s most important health goals: reducing carbohydrates, increasing fiber, and fueling your body.”
Food companies have no choice but to respond to the GLP-1 craze. Approximately 13% of people used GLP-1, according to data from the Kaiser Family Foundation cited by Mission. As availability expands, more consumers are expected to take the medication, which may change their eating preferences and purchasing patterns.
These changes have led food manufacturers to launch new product lines or expand existing products specifically targeting this demographic. Danone’s Oikos launched a yogurt drink targeting GLP-1 users, and Nestlé launched its first major U.S. brand called Vital Pursuit for consumers taking these drugs.
— Christopher Doering
Coca-Cola is reintroducing Diet Cola Lime.
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Provided by Coca-Cola
Coca-Cola is capitalizing on the nostalgia trend with a limited-edition reissue of Diet Coke Lime.
Retro Diet Coke Lime will be available in 12-pack cans and 20-ounce bottles at grocery stores, convenience stores and other large retailers nationwide by the end of the year. The launch follows the success of Retro Diet Cherry Coke earlier this year. The company said it “proved how much there is a desire for a taste of the past that connects people to cultural moments and personal memories.”
Diet Coke Lime was first released in 2004 and discontinued in 2018. The soda giant is bringing back flavors to revitalize Diet Coke after a two-decade decline. CEO James Quincy told investors the company had recently noticed “more response to our investments in marketing and innovation” for the brand.
Coca-Cola is featuring a lime drink in its Diet Coke “This Is My Way” campaign. The campaign focuses on consumers’ personal preferences for Diet Coke, with some people on social media adding pickle juice and jalapenos to the drink.
“We spend a lot of time listening to what consumers are saying online,” Ryan Watson, brand director for Diet Coke North America, said in a press release. “People have signed petitions and sent DMs requesting past flavors, including cherry and lime. We take all of this into consideration before conducting extensive qualitative research and testing to determine our next product.”
Customization and unique flavors have been a staple of soda over the past few years, even giving rise to the “dirty soda” craze..
—Laurel Deppen
