The packaged food industry continues to evolve as consumers increasingly demand bold, convenient, and flavorful options. Idahoan® Foods, a key player in the U.S. potato product market, has taken this trend seriously by introducing two new products: Idahoan® Tapatío® Triple Cheese Mashed Potatoes and Idahoan® Bacon Cheddar Potato Shreds. These new offerings cater to a growing segment of consumers who crave intense flavors and on-the-go snacking options.
Recent surveys indicate that 82% of consumers are drawn to foods with hot and spicy flavors, reflecting a significant shift in consumer taste preferences towards bolder options. In response, Idahoan Foods partnered with Tapatío®, a household name in the hot sauce market, to develop the Tapatío® Triple Cheese Mashed Potatoes. This product blends the creamy, cheesy comfort of mashed potatoes with the spicy kick of Tapatío® hot sauce, creating a unique flavor profile that appeals to spice enthusiasts.
On the other hand, the Bacon Cheddar Potato Shreds tap into another popular trend—bacon. Bacon remains a favorite among U.S. consumers, with a 2022 survey showing that 65% of Americans consider bacon a “must-have” for a variety of meals. By combining bacon with cheddar cheese, another staple of American comfort food, Idahoan has crafted a product that not only satisfies cravings but also offers convenience in a 2-cup pack, perfect for on-the-go snacking.
Ryan Ellis, Vice President of Retail Marketing & Business Development at Idahoan Foods, emphasized the company’s focus on innovation and consumer feedback. He stated, “We are eager to expand our most popular on-the-go lines with two new flavor-packed options designed for potato fans looking for convenience and great taste.” This sentiment reflects a broader industry trend where brands are constantly innovating to keep pace with evolving consumer demands.
The partnership with Tapatío® also highlights the importance of collaboration in product development. Roche McCoy, Director of Licensing Operations at Tapatío®, praised the partnership, saying, “At Tapatío®, we look for partners that bring the same passion for their products that we do, which is why working with the team over at Idahoan was a no brainer.” Such collaborations are becoming increasingly common as brands seek to leverage each other’s strengths to meet consumer expectations.
With these new products, Idahoan Foods is positioning itself at the intersection of convenience, flavor, and innovation—key drivers in the modern food industry. As consumer preferences continue to evolve towards more bold and convenient options, Idahoan’s ability to adapt and deliver will be crucial to maintaining its position as a leader in the packaged potato product market.
Idahoan® Foods’ latest product launches demonstrate a clear understanding of current consumer trends, particularly the demand for bold flavors and convenience. By collaborating with established brands like Tapatío® and offering products that align with popular taste profiles such as bacon and cheese, Idahoan is poised to capture the attention of snack lovers and expand its footprint in the competitive packaged food industry.
