# Star-Shaped Protein Pastas Barilla Protein+ Stars Have 17 Grams of Protein Per Serving By Laura McQuarrie | Published 2026-01-14 | Lifestyle Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/barilla-protein-stars References: [prnewswire](https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/barilla-launches-protein-stars-pasta-and-derek-hough-led-training-timers-to-encourage-movement-in-the-time-it-takes-to-cook-302659815.html) & [youtube](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FdIHCu1Dikc)  [Barilla](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/chickpea-orzo) Protein+ Stars is a new pasta with a novel shape, joining Barilla's Protein+ lineup to provide 17 grams of protein and 10 grams of fiber per 3.5-ounce serving. This [star-shaped cut](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/taco-stars) expands the range, offering a great-tasting, satiating option for busy people who need energy. Fueled by the success of its viral cooking playlists, Barilla came up with Barilla Protein+ Training Timers—micro workouts that can be completed in the time it takes to prepare Protein+ pasta. Created and led by winning choreographer and six-time Dancing with the Stars champion Derek Hough, each routine in the snackable, simple movement experience features exercises inspired by one of four Protein+ pasta shapes: Star Jacks, Penne Plié Squats, Rotini Spiral Planks, and Spaghetti Arm Waves. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 7.5/10 - Popularity: 82% | Activity: 83% | Freshness: 61% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial - Top markets: North America ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Lifestyle](https://www.trendhunter.com/lifestyle) > [Food](https://www.trendhunter.com/food) ## Key Themes ### Key Themes Behind This Trend - **Protein-enriched Pastas:** The development of high-protein pasta options like Barilla Protein+ Stars aligns with the growing consumer preference for nutrient-dense food products that support active lifestyles. - **Interactive Cooking Experiences:** Barilla's integration of micro workouts with cooking times showcases an opportunity to innovate by blending physical activity with meal preparation, enhancing user engagement. - **Novel Pasta Shapes:** The introduction of uniquely shaped pastas such as star-shaped cuts provides a platform for brands to differentiate their product offerings through visual and functional appeal. ### Where This Applies - **Food and Beverage:** The increasing demand for protein-fortified foods presents food brands with opportunities to craft specialized products that cater to health-conscious consumers seeking convenient nutrition. - **Fitness and Wellness:** Combining cooking routines with workout sessions signals a convergence opportunity for the fitness industry to tap into culinary spaces, offering integrated lifestyle solutions. - **Culinary Design:** Innovative pasta shapes extend possibilities for culinary design, encouraging the food industry to experiment with form as a means of enhancing the sensory dining experience. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Novel Toddler-Focused Food Brands](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/beyond-the-bib.md) - [Protein-Packed Private Label Meals](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/asda-protein-ready-meal-range.md) - [Creamy Ramen Meals](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/creamy-ramen-meals.md) - [Athlete-Targeted Pastas](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/happieats-sports-pasta.md) - [Grain-Based High-Protein Foods](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/impossible-foods-and-equii.md) - [Craveable Meal Prep Contests](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/sunday-reset-sweepstakes.md) - [Customizable Mediterranean Bowls](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/kypelos.md) - [Meatless Protein Cubes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/daditos.md) - [Chef-Curated Italian Simmer Sauces](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/italian-simmer-sauces1.md)