Kraft is shaking up its Mac & Cheese offerings with the launch of two exciting new flavours: Jalapeño and Ranch. These new varieties are designed to add a burst of flavour to the beloved classic, addressing a growing demand for more adventurous taste experiences in familiar comfort foods.
Flavour Innovations
1. Ranch: This new flavour combines the creamy, tangy taste of Ranch dressing with Kraft’s iconic Mac & Cheese. It’s a fusion that promises to elevate the classic dish with a zesty twist.
2. Jalapeño: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, the Jalapeño flavour infuses the cheesy comfort of Mac & Cheese with a spicy kick. This variety caters to the increasing trend of incorporating spicy elements into popular dishes.
Behind the Launch
Kraft’s decision to introduce these flavours was not made lightly. The company undertook substantial research, reviewing 27 different flavours and 40 concepts before finalizing Ranch and Jalapeño. This thorough process ensured that the chosen flavours would resonate well with their audience.
Interestingly, the choice of Ranch and Jalapeño also reflects social media trends. Kraft noticed that many fans were already customizing their traditional Mac & Cheese with Ranch dressing or seasoning, making the Ranch flavour a natural addition. The rising popularity of spicy foods also influenced the decision to include Jalapeño.
Consumer Engagement
The flavours were not only tested internally but also gauged through a social media sweepstakes. Kraft invited fans to submit their flavour ideas for a chance to win $10,000. Thousands of submissions were considered, with Ranch and Jalapeño emerging as clear favourites among participants. Other suggested flavours included creamy pesto, Sriracha Mac & Cheese, and even pickle-flavoured options.
Availability
This launch provides an opportunity for fans to explore these bold new flavours and perhaps try their own “Mac hacks” — creative tweaks to enhance the classic dish. For inspiration, Kraft suggests checking out online forums and threads where enthusiasts share their inventive Mac & Cheese recipes.