# Protein-Rich Sandwich Menus Cousins Subs' Protein Power Plays Lineup is Packed with Extra Protein By Katherine Pendrill | Published 2026-04-01 | Lifestyle Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/protein-power-plays References: [qsrmagazine](https://www.qsrmagazine.com/news/cousins-subs-releases-protein-power-plays-lineup/) & [instagram](https://www.instagram.com/p/DWg6L4ZAEa6/)  Cousins Subs is looking to cater to the [explosive demand for protein-rich meals](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/protein-wave) with the debut of its new Protein Power Plays lineup. Just as the name suggests, [Cousins Subs'](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/east-coast-philly-steak) new Protein Power Plays menu is designed to offer consumers the extra protein they seek, along with bold flavors and fewer carbs. As Christine Specht, CEO of Cousins Subs, explains, "Protein Power Plays give our customers more of the protein they want, without compromising on the fresh, craveable flavors they love from Cousins.” In total, there are four new [protein-packed sandwiches](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/stacked-subs) to choose from and each is served on the brand's freshly baked five-inch Italian bread. One of the tasty new options includes the Power Club, which features a whopping 33 grams of protein thanks to the addition of ham and turkey. Another option is the Power Tuna, which features tuna mixed with Cousins’ signature mayo to deliver 23 grams of protein per serving. Image Credit: Cousins Subs ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 3.8/10 - Popularity: 22% | Activity: 23% | Freshness: 70% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - 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 ### Why This Trend Is Growing - **Protein-first Fast Casual:** Reflects a shift toward menus that prioritize high-protein entrees as the core selling point for convenience dining experiences. - **Low-carb Comfort Foods:** Signals consumer demand for indulgent flavors with reduced carbohydrates, prompting reformulation of classics like sandwiches and sides. - **Functional Bakery Products:** Creates space for breads and rolls fortified with protein or alternative flours to deliver higher macronutrient value without sacrificing texture. ### Industries Being Reshaped - **Quick-service Restaurants:** Sees potential in differentiating brands through protein-forward menus and limited-time protein lines that drive frequency and ticket size. - **Food Manufacturing:** Encourages development of concentrated protein fillings, spreads, and ready-to-use components tailored for high-protein sandwich production. - **Nutrition Technology:** Benefits from integrating protein-tracking features and personalized recommendations into ordering platforms to match consumer macronutrient goals. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Triple-Protein Breakfast Sandwiches](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/triple-double-biscuit.md) - [Chipotle Turkey Sub Sandwiches](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/baja-chipotle-turkey-sub.md) - [Protein-Packed QSR Sandwiches](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/hardees-frisco.md) - [Protein-Packed Sandwich Menus](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/highprotein-menu.md) - [Reimagined Cheesesteak Sandwiches](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/fried-chicken-philly.md) - [Triple Meat Croissant Sandwiches](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/meat-lovers-croissant.md) - [Flavor-Driven Chicken Sandwich Menus](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/chicken-melt-trio.md) - [Extra-Hearty Sub Sandwiches](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/blimpie-deli-primo.md) - [Protein-Packed Sub Sandwiches](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/subway-fresh-fit.md)