Protein Pints, the Grand Rapids-based disruptor in the functional frozen dessert space, has announced the launch of two indulgent new flavors: Salted Caramel and Banana Graham Slam. According to the company’s announcement on March 10, 2026, these releases are part of a strategic “retail-exclusive” rollout designed to drive foot traffic to major grocery partners Albertsons Companies and Kroger.
With 30 grams of protein per pint and 85% less sugar than traditional ice cream, Protein Pints continues to bridge the gap between “Better-for-You” (BFY) performance nutrition and premium dessert indulgence.
Strategic Retail Exclusivity and Flavor Innovation
Protein Pints is leveraging a tiered distribution strategy to maximize brand visibility across different retail ecosystems:
- Salted Caramel (Albertsons Exclusive): Features a burnt brown sugar ice cream base with sea salt caramel ribbons.
- Banana Graham Slam (Kroger Exclusive): A nostalgic, “home run” flavor profile using real banana ice cream, graham cracker crust crumbles, and crispy-melty peanut butter flakes.
“Salted Caramel and Banana Graham Slam prove you don’t have to sacrifice crave-worthy flavor to hit your protein goals,” said Paul Reiss, co-founder and CEO of Protein Pints.
By securing exclusive placement with Kroger and Albertsons, the brand is positioning itself as a destination product within the highly competitive frozen functional aisle.
Why it matters
For CPG manufacturers and ingredient suppliers, Protein Pints’ expansion is a case study in high-protein stabilization. Achieving a creamy, “indulgent” mouthfeel in an ice cream with 30g of protein—without the use of artificial sweeteners—requires sophisticated hydrocolloid systems and natural bulking agents like chicory root or allulose.
From a procurement perspective, the Banana Graham Slam flavor highlights the logistical complexity of inclusion management. Suppliers must provide graham cracker crumbles and peanut butter flakes that maintain their “crispy-melty” texture in a high-moisture frozen environment. For a co-packer or manufacturer, this rollout underscores the growing demand for clean-label inclusions that can survive the freeze-thaw cycle while delivering on a nostalgic “comfort food” promise. Furthermore, the 8,000+ retailer reach demonstrates that the “functional ice cream” category is no longer a niche specialty but a mainstream grocery staple.
Other News
The success of Protein Pints in the frozen aisle highlights a broader consumer demand for protein that doesn’t sacrifice flavor or mouthfeel. While Protein Pints is mastering the indulgent, creamy side of the category, other innovators are solving for the opposite end of the sensory spectrum. This is evidenced by the recent launch of Javvy Coffee’s Clear Protein Refreshers, which utilizes clear whey isolate to deliver 15g of protein in a light, juice-like format. For CPG strategists and retail buyers, these concurrent launches—one a “Salted Caramel” dessert and the other a “Strawberry Lemonade” hydrator—signal that “High-Protein” is no longer a single-category destination, but a versatile functional requirement that must adapt to every consumer mood and day-part.
FAQs
Where can I find the new Protein Pints flavors?
Salted Caramel is available exclusively at Albertsons Companies stores, while Banana Graham Slam is found exclusively at the Kroger Family of Stores.
How much protein is in each pint?
Every Protein Pints product contains 30 grams of complete protein per pint.
Is Protein Pints gluten-free?
Yes, the entire lineup—including the new flavors—is gluten-free, made with natural ingredients, and contains zero artificial sweeteners.
About Source86
The ability to create high-protein, clean-label desserts like Protein Pints requires a sophisticated network of R&D and ingredient experts. Whether you are seeking the perfect “crispy” graham inclusion or a natural sweetener blend that mimics sugar’s freezing point, Source86 provides the data-driven insights to help you innovate.
Source86 simplifies the path for CPG and functional food innovators through expert R&D, private label development, and wholesale ingredient coordination. Contact us today to find the right partner for your next high-performance food launch.
