The demand for protein-rich salty snacks is up, but HIPPEAS saw an opportunity to deliver plant-based protein with a more satisfying crunch, and as a result, created HIPPEAS Protein Crunch. This new release from the brand known for its better-for-you chickpea puffs packs eight grams of plant-based, pea-powered protein per one-ounce serving—double the protein of the brand's original puffs—all within craveable flavors like Cheddar Vibrations and Pizza Party.
In the crunchy snacks category, these promise to catch the eyes of ingredient-aware snackers because they're made with avocado oil, baked rather than fried, and boast 55% less fat than the leading crunchy puffs.
The new Protein Crunch snacks build on the brand's recently refreshed identity, expanded lineup of puff flavors, and new offerings across HIPPEAS' Tortilla Chips and Pops.
Puffed Plant Protein Snacks
HIPPEAS Protein Crunch Packs Plant-Based Protein into Craveable Bites
Trend Themes
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Plant-based Protein Snacks — A surge in snacks that deliver animal-free protein in familiar formats creates room for novel formulations that rival traditional meat- and dairy-based options in nutrition and mouthfeel.
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High-protein Crunch Texture — Elevating protein density while preserving a satisfying crunchy bite signals opportunity for new processing techniques and texturants that transform protein isolates into craveable snack structures.
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Ingredient-transparent Better-for-you Snacks — Clear labeling around oils, fat reduction, and baking versus frying sets expectations for premium cleaner-label snacks that combine health claims with indulgent flavor profiles.
Industry Implications
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Snack Manufacturing — Modern production lines that can integrate protein isolates, novel binders, and low-fat cooking methods are positioned to redefine scale and cost structures for premium protein snacks.
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Retail Grocery and CPG — Shifts in shelf space allocation toward high-protein, plant-forward SKUs indicate potential for new merchandising, pricing and private-label strategies that capture health-conscious shoppers.
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Food Ingredient Supply — Growing demand for pea protein concentrates, avocado oil, and functional texturizers points to innovation opportunities in tailored ingredient blends that optimize nutrition, flavor, and processing performance.