Taco Bell Adds More Protein to Bowls and Burritos

QSR will also begin testing a Power Breakfast menu.

July 14, 2014

MCLEAN, Va. – Taco Bell is making a run for more protein, announcing changes to its entire Cantina Power Menu last week.

The QSR announced last Thursday that it's overhauling its entire Cantina platform and replacing it with bowls and burritos packed with at least 20 grams of protein that weigh in at 500 or fewer calories, notes the news source.

"People are not looking for diet food," said Taco Bell President Brian Niccol, in a conference call with reporters. "They want food that gives them energy."

For consumers, the changes will be noticeable: Cantina Power Bowls will omit corn salsa and creamy cilantro dressing, replacing them with a double portion of chicken or steak, reduced-fat sour cream, real cheddar cheese and an avocado ranch sauce. The Power Burritos will come without rice and beans, replaced by reduced-fat sour cream and cheddar cheese.

Protein is a hot buzzword in foodservice, with more food manufacturers introducing new products packed with more protein. Consumers cite many reasons for adding protein to their diets, notes the news source, suck as maintaining energy levels, supporting overall health, improving muscle tone and feeling satisfied by a meal or snack.

Taco Bell’s new Cantina platform launches nationwide on July 17. In August, Taco Bell is planning to test a Power Breakfast Menu in Omaha featuring a Steak Bowl, Steak Burrito and Three Happy Cows-brand Greek Yogurt with a granola topping.

"Consumers are saying they want more protein at breakfast," Niccol commented. "We want to see how we can take more protein across all day parts."

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