Classic American pantry staples are getting a major protein- and fiber-packed makeover

Cheesy ramen, protein-packed Jell-O and round bacon slices specially cut for sandwiches are among the new twists coming to grocery stores as Kraft Heinz reportedly tries to breathe new life into old brands. The new products, expected to hit shelves in the spring, are part of a broader push by the packaged-food giant to invest in innovation.

The company has invested an additional $700 million in its business, with funding for marketing, lower prices, staffing and product development. It also hired 400 employees as part of its turnaround strategy.

New Product Innovations

Kraft Mac & Cheese Cheesy Ramen is set to arrive nationwide in early 2027, according to a press release. The instant noodle cups will come in Spicy, Chicken and Pork varieties and contain no artificial flavors, preservatives or dyes. Kraft said it is the brand's first move into a new category in nearly 20 years.

The launch also follows the brand's introduction of PowerMac, mac and cheese with added protein and fiber. Cahillane told the Journal that PowerMac helped return the brand to sales growth after several years of decline.

Other new products include Jell-O pudding with 10 grams of protein, Crystal Light with added fiber and protein, and Oscar Mayer Sandwich Bacon. About half of its 2027 product pipeline will focus on health and wellness, Cahillane told the Journal.

Balancing Tradition and Innovation

The new offerings reflect consumers' growing interest in protein and wellness, but the company is also staying true to its roots, focusing on taste and convenience. Traditional Heinz ketchup will still be made with high-fructose corn syrup, in part because cane sugar is more expensive.

Kraft Heinz faces challenges with some of its core products. Oscar Mayer meat and Kraft cheese continue to struggle, as is Philadelphia cream cheese with consumers switching to cottage cheese. The company is trying to develop cream cheese products that rely less on carbohydrates like bagels.

Market Skepticism

Cahillane said he still expects sales to be flat next year, with sales and profits returning to growth in 2028. Kraft Heinz at one point planned to split into two companies, separating its global condiments business from its North American grocery unit, but Cahillane later paused the plan.

Some analysts remain skeptical that the company's struggling brands can be revived. "There are too many holes in the boat, too many plates to spin," TD Cowen analyst Rob Moskow told the Journal. "I'm not sure how they can get it all done."

Cahillane acknowledged the challenges of being in so many categories simultaneously: "We have to whack one mole at a time." The company's strategy appears to be a careful balance between innovation and tradition as it attempts to revive its iconic American brands.