PopCorners expands into protein offerings with a new take on its signature crunch

PopCorners expands into protein offerings with a new take on its signature crunch

For years, PopCorners has carved out its place in snacking with a texture that feels distinct from the rest of the aisle - light-textured, airy and unmistakably its own. Now, the brand is building on that equity with a product designed for how people are increasingly choosing to snack.

The new PopCorners Protein innovation extends the brand's distinctive popped, never fried identity into a growing snacking space, with three bold flavors, 9 grams of protein per serving and a convenient new way to add protein into your daily routine.

The launch arrives as protein continues to influence the way people eat, shop, and think about snacking. 73 percent of Americans are intentionally consuming foods with protein each day, and more than half (54 percent) are turning to snacks to help meet that goal.¹ PopCorners Protein provides consumers with a new protein option.

"At PepsiCo, we're evolving our portfolio to meet shifting consumer preferences toward foods with functional ingredients," said Tina Mahal, senior vice president of marketing, PepsiCo Foods. "As more snackers look for protein options that fit into their daily routines, PopCorners Protein is a convenient snack offering a good source of protein, with 9 grams of protein per 1 ounce serving, that can be enjoyed with the great taste of PopCorners."

The new lineup is built to feel versatile without losing what makes PopCorners distinctive. With Hickory BBQ, Zesty Cheddar and Cinnamon Delight flavors, the range spans savory and sweet while keeping the brand's light-texture and airy crunch at the center. Made with pea protein, rice protein, and rice flour, PopCorners Protein delivers 9 grams of protein per serving, and each variety is made with no artificial flavors or colors.

More broadly, the launch of PopCorners Protein reflects PepsiCo's continued focus on evolving its portfolio around the routines, preferences, and expectations from consumers that's shaping food and drinks today. Across categories, we're expanding offerings with functional ingredients to give consumers more choice within the brands they already know and trust.

PopCorners Protein will be available in 5 oz. bags and 4-count multipacks, arriving in select retailers and markets at the end of May before expanding nationwide in July.

Frequently asked questions

What is PopCorners Protein?

PopCorners Protein is a new snack from PepsiCo that delivers a unique popped, never fried texture and delicious flavor with 9 grams of protein and 140 calories per 1 ounce serving.

What flavors does PopCorners Protein come in?

PopCorners Protein will be available in three flavors: Hickory BBQ, Zesty Cheddar and Cinnamon Delight.

How much protein is in PopCorners Protein?

Each 1 ounce serving contains 9 grams of protein.

What is PopCorners Protein made with?

PopCorners Protein is made with pea protein isolate, rice protein isolate, and rice flour.

How does PopCorners Protein fit into protein trends?

Protein isn't a trend, it's a longstanding part of how consumers think about food. PopCorners Protein is designed for snackers who want to add protein into their daily routine and enjoy the great flavors of PopCorners. It is not a meal replacement or performance product.

Does PopCorners Protein contain artificial flavors or colors?

No. Each variety is made with no artificial flavors or colors.

How does PopCorners Protein fit into my diet?

PopCorners Protein is designed for snacking occasions, whether that's mid-day or on the go; it's a convenient snack option with 9 grams of protein per serving.

What package formats will be available?

PopCorners Protein will be available in 5 oz. bags and 4-count multipacks starting May. It will also be available in 9.5 oz. bags and 14-count multipacks starting in July.

When will PopCorners Protein be available?

PopCorners Protein will begin arriving in select retailers and markets at the end of May before expanding nationwide in July.

Will PopCorners Protein replace regular PopCorners?

No. PopCorners Protein is an addition to the portfolio, giving consumers more choices.

¹Source: Online survey of 1,000 nationally representative Americans fielded by RepData on behalf of PepsiCo Foods US. Margin of error is +/-3%. Fielded from January 5-21, 2026.

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