PepsiCo Foods launches Good Warrior protein beef sticks

PepsiCo Foods is launching Good Warrior, a new protein snack brand. Good Warrior Beef Sticks roll out in March in two flavors: Original and Jalapeño Pepper.

PepsiCo said the beef sticks are made with grass-fed and finished beef and deliver 10 g of protein per serving, with 0 grams of sugar and 100 calories. The beef sticks are gluten-free and contain no artificial colors or flavors, according to the company.

“We created Good Warrior because people deserve protein snacks that don’t feel like a compromise,” Tina Mahal, marketing senior vice president, PepsiCo Foods U.S., said in a release. Mahal said the company plans to add more options in other categories later this year.

PepsiCo tied the launch to increased interest in protein-forward diets, citing a national survey it said found 86% of Americans are looking to add more protein to their diets, while also seeking convenient, better-tasting, on-the-go choices.

Good Warrior joins other PepsiCo launches that the company says add functional benefits to familiar categories, including Doritos Protein, SmartFood Fiber Pop coated popcorn, SunChips Fiber whole grain and black bean snacks, Pepsi Prebiotic Cola, poppi Prebiotic Soda, Quaker Protein Granola Bars, Quaker Protein Old Fashioned Oats and Starbucks Coffee & Protein.

Why this matters for convenience services operators

• Protein-forward snacking continues to expand beyond bars and shakes. Grab-and-go meat snacks are being positioned for everyday use.
• Operators may see more consumer pull for protein items that fit fast-break moments like commuting, snacking between meetings and after workouts.
• If Good Warrior lands in your local retail, it could create cross-channel awareness that supports vending and micro market turns for similar items.
• PepsiCo is extending functional benefits messaging into more of its food portfolio, signaling continued competition for high protein shelf space.