PepsiCo has introduced a protein-enriched version of its popular snack brand Doritos, as the company looks to capitalize on rising consumer demand for functional and high-protein foods.
The new product, Doritos Protein, will roll out this month with 10 grams of protein per one-ounce serving. The company also plans to introduce a single-serve pack containing 17 grams of protein later in 2026.
The launch will initially feature two flavours—classic Nacho Cheese and Sweet & Tangy BBQ—designed to retain the brand’s signature taste while offering added nutritional benefits.
Jess Spaulding, Vice President of Marketing at PepsiCo Foods U.S., said the company aimed to deliver the familiar Doritos snacking experience while responding to evolving consumer preferences. She noted that the new product reflects the brand’s ability to adapt to shifting demand for functional ingredients.
The move forms part of PepsiCo’s broader strategy to reposition its snack portfolio around healthier formulations and value-driven offerings. The company has recently been adjusting prices across several legacy snack brands as it grapples with declining sales volumes.
According to PepsiCo, about 86% of Americans are actively adding protein to their daily diets, while nearly seven in ten consumers say they would prefer salty snacks with added protein. More than half of shoppers now prioritise protein when choosing snacks.
The growing protein trend has led manufacturers to incorporate the nutrient into a wide range of products, from breakfast items to dairy snacks. PepsiCo has already launched several functional innovations, including fibre-coated popcorn under the Smartfood label and fibre-rich whole-grain snacks from SunChips.
In another move to expand its protein offerings, PepsiCo also recently partnered with Jack Link’s to introduce Doritos-flavoured meat sticks and jerky, combining the snack brand’s signature flavours with convenient protein formats.