MINNEAPOLIS – General Mills has unveiled a roster of more than 150 new products launching this summer that reflects the current protein craze — along with demand for bold flavors in snacks and entrees, gluten-free foods of all kinds, whole grains and indulgent offerings.

According to an article in Marketing Daily, new products drove nearly 5% of the company's net U.S. retail sales this past fiscal year, and 11 of those made IRI's New Product Pacesetters ranking of the top 100 top-selling launches (including Yoplait Greek 100, Fiber One Protein Bars, Honey Nut Cheerios Medley Crunch and Green Giant Steamers). 

Highlights from the newly announced products include:

• Protein: With more than half of consumers saying that they're looking to add protein to their diets, General Mills is expanding the Cheerios franchise with Cheerios Protein, as well as introducing Cascadian Farm Protein Granola. The company will continue to expand the high-protein Yoplait Greek yogurt line with seven new flavors.
• Bold, globally inspired flavors: Progresso is pushing outside the soup category with a line of hearty chili in two varieties and General Mills’ Old El Paso brand, perhaps taking a cue from the hugely popular Taco Bell Doritos Locos Tacos, is introducing a Bold Nacho Cheese Taco kit. On the snacks front, Chex Mix is launching new Xtreme flavors, including Habanero Lime and Sweet & Spicy Sriracha.
• Gluten-free foods: To woo the estimated 30% of consumers trying to reduce gluten consumption, Chex is jumping into the hot cereal category with gluten-free oatmeal in three varieties and Betty Crocker is debuting a gluten-free pizza crust. Lärabar is launching the first nationally distributed grain-free granola bar, dubbed Renola.
• Whole-grain foods: Some 81% of consumers say they are trying to consume more whole grains. General Mills' responses include a new boxed line dubbed Suddenly Salad, offering blends of whole and ancient grains  paired with popular salad dressings. Nature Valley is launching Fruteria, a line of 100-calorie granola bars developed to appeal to Hispanic consumers. Green Giant Steamers is bowing new varieties combining vegetables and whole grains.