The variety of snacks available today is a bit overwhelming–there is something for everyone, no matter how restricted your diet or obscure your taste. While I sampled more than can fit in one article at Outdoor Retailer this year, here are a few new flavors for spring and summer that stood out. Most are available now, the rest this summer.
Nuun Active and Nuun Energy ($7): Nuun has updated the formula of its sports hydration products to be certified vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, and soy-free and not contain any substances banned by athletic organizations. The new formulas add plant-based sweeteners and ingredients, including monk fruit extract, beet juice powder, and avocado oil. The caffeine source for the Nuun Energy product is derived from organic green tea extract, while another new ingredient is dextrose, a fast releasing carbohydrate.
Honey Stinger: The company just released three new products, including it’s first ever gluten-free organic waffle line available in three flavors–Cinnamon, Salted Caramel, and Maple ($1.49 each), Raspberry Protein Chews ($2.49) with 5 grams of plant-based protein blend, and a Mango Orange flavored gel ($1.39).
GU Energy Gel and Roctane Energy Gel flavors: The Cucumber Mint Energy Gel ($1.45) is said to offer a refreshing lightness, with GU’s formulation of 450 mg of amino acids, 125 mg of sodium, 20 mg of caffeine, and 100 calories. Designed for longer or particularly difficult races and training, Roctane Chocolate Coconut ($2.50) delivers amino acid supplementation and energy with 1425 mg of amino acids, 125 mg of sodium, 35 mg of caffeine, and 100 calories.
Clif Luna and Organic Energy Food: Available in three flavors (Peanut Butter Dark Chocolate Chunk, Dark Chocolate Mocha Almond, and Dark Chocolate Hazelnut) each new Luna bar features only 5 grams of sugar (25% less than the original) with 7-8 grams of protein and 180 calories of energy. And most likely to combat the growing popularity of Munk Pack, Clif just released two new oatmeal squeeze pouches as part of their Organic Energy Food line–available in Apple Cinnamon and Banana Maple ($2.99).
GoMacro Thrive Ancient Seeds Superfood Nut Bar: The new seed and nut based bars come in six different flavors and make a gluten-free and vegan superfood snack. At 180 calories, each GoMacro Thrive bar contains 3 grams of fiber and 4 grams of protein. Available June 2016.
Spring! Yes please!