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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:
Frank’s RedHot turns up the heat in your seasoning.
With the Super Bowl just around the corner, Frank’s RedHot is looking to score some spicy points.
The popular McCormick-owned brand is turning up the heat with four new sauces “designed to give fans a chance to mix things up.” The new flavors will be rolling out to retailers nationwide and include: Garlic Parmesan Wing Sauce & Dip; Pineapple Hawaiian Wing Sauce & Dip; Spicy Maple Wing Sauce & Dip; Ghost Pepper Ranch Squeeze Sauce.
“The Big Game is one of the biggest food moments of the year,” Valda Coryat, McCormick’s vice president of marketing, said in a statement. “Fans are looking for new ways to elevate the flavor of their favorite foods while still sticking to them. Frank’s RedHot is the perfect product to make any dish bold and delicious.”
More than half of Gen Z consider themselves hot sauce connoisseurs. According to a 2024 survey published by NC Solutions,. The survey also found that 62% of all consumers said they were more likely to purchase spicy food or drinks if they were advertised.
McCormick noted that more than 40% of consumers enjoy trying new recipes, and many see gatherings like the Super Bowl as the perfect opportunity to experiment. With few things as hot as spicy food, Frank’s’ new flavor offering gives consumers new options for heating up recipes.
Latest data released by Instacart Frank’s noted that it was the most purchased hot sauce on its delivery platform in 31 states. Includes much of the Midwest, Northeast, and Western Mountains.
from McCormick acquired Frank’s in 2017, and the Maryland-based flavor giant launched new innovations including: frozen chicken wings We have signed partnerships with other brands such as spaghetti os, goldfish, Hormel Bacon and david sunflower seeds.
— Christopher Doering
We plan to present an Easter lineup full of flavor.
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Provided by Just Born Quality Confections
Easter is about to get a little “spicy”. Peeps’ 2026 Lineup Marshmallow chicks.
Just Born Quality Confections, owner of Peeps, has launched a Chili Lime Mango flavor that “meets sweet and tangy,” according to a statement. The new products are part of the brand’s upcoming Easter collection, which includes collaborations with Pop-Tarts and Sunny D.
“Combining progressive innovation and playful partnerships that Chicks and Bunnies fans look forward to every year, our 2026 Easter collection is designed to inspire connection and transform ordinary moments into celebrations,” Caitlin Servian, brand manager for Peeps, said in a statement.
Brands are leaning forward Unusual flavor combination Partnerships to capture the attention of consumers as they become more discerning about their spending. Spicy flavors like Chili Lime Mango are also attracting younger consumers who are adventurous and want to add a little fun to their food.
Peeps Pop-Tarts Frosted Strawberry will be available nationwide, and the other two flavors will be available at select retailers. Chili Lime Mango is available at Kroger stores and Sunny D Peeps are available at Target.
Known as the iconic Easter treat, Peeps has expanded to cater to more seasonal events, including Halloween and Christmas. According to the company, approximately 2 billion Peeps are made annually, or 5.5 million per day.
— Sarah Zimmerman
Absolut and Tabasco team up to launch new spicy vodka
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Provided by Pernod Ricard
Hot sauce brand Tabasco is collaborating with Absolut Vodka. spicy new alcohol.
The new vodka, Absolut Tabasco, is available across the U.S. and there are plans to expand internationally. It is made by infusing Absolut Vodka with the fermented, aged pepper mash used in Tabasco sauce.
The collaboration comes as the two brands capitalize on the growing interest in spicy foods and drinks. Spicy vodka sales are expected to increase 27% by 2029, according to Datassentials data cited by the two companies. Younger consumers, in particular, are flocking to spicy foods and drinks. including alcohol.
“It made sense for the Tabasco brand, with more than 150 years of pepper expertise, to partner with ABSOLUT Vodka, another brand with a storied history of understanding and caring about the technology that goes into its products,” Christian Brown, director of agriculture at Tabasco manufacturer McIlhenny Company, said in a statement.
Absolut and Tabasco are advertised as complementary drinks to Bloody Marys and spicy lemonade. The launch of Absolut Tabasco follows vodka competitor Stoli’s launch of Halapeño Pepper Vodka, a similarly spicy vodka.
Absolut is owned by Pernod Ricard, whose spirits and wine portfolio also includes Avión Tequila, Malibu and Jameson Irish Whiskey.
—Laurel Deppen
