PepsiCo’s Doritos launches Doritos Protein
The innovation marks Doritos’ entry into the rapidly growing protein snack category, reflecting consumer demand for functional foods that deliver both taste and sustenance.
USA – PepsiCo’s Doritos brand has launched Doritos Protein, a new line of protein‑infused tortilla‑style chips that combines the brand’s iconic crunch and bold flavors with added nutritional value.
The release positions Doritos firmly in the fast‑growing high‑protein snack category, offering consumers a familiar, bold‑flavored chip with significantly more protein than the original recipe.
Doritos Protein will hit shelves in the US this month in two familiar flavors: Nacho Cheese and Sweet & Tangy BBQ, each delivering 10 grams of protein per one ounce serving.
Later this year, the brand plans to follow up with a single‑serve bag variant containing 17 grams of protein, aimed at snackers seeking a concentrated protein boost in a convenient format.
The chips are formulated with dairy‑based protein (casein) as the primary protein source, which PepsiCo describes as a complete protein containing all nine essential amino acids and known for its slower digestion, helping to keep consumers fuller for longer.
The product also contains no artificial colors or flavors, aligning with growing consumer preference for cleaner‑label, functional snacks.
According to Hernán Tantardini, Chief Marketing Officer, PepsiCo Foods US, the launch reflects a strategic move into the protein‑snack segment, where more than 70% of salty‑snack consumers say they want protein in their snacks.
“This innovation underscores PepsiCo Foods’ commitment to evolving its portfolio to meet shifting consumer preferences toward foods with functional ingredients. 70% of consumers want their salty snacks to have protein- and now we are making it more accessible and seamlessly integrated into everyday snacking occasions without compromising the distinctive Doritos experience,” said Hernán Tantardini.
Additionally, PepsiCo highlighted market research showing that 86% of Americans are actively increasing their protein intake, underscoring the opportunity for mainstream snack brands to meet evolving nutritional preferences.
Doritos Protein is being rolled out in select retailers and markets, with the brand emphasizing that the new line maintains the same bold taste and iconic crunch that define classic Doritos while adding a functional‑snacking benefit.
Doritos Protein is available in 7-ounce for SRP US$4.89 and 12.75-ounce for SRP US$7.39, with additional rollout expected this year.
Additional sizes, including a single-serve size option with 17 grams of protein per bag, are planned for later this year to bring consumers even more snacking options.
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