What's Happening
Protein Pints has officially expanded beyond its signature ice cream tubs with the launch of Protein Pops, marking the brand's first new product format since entering retail. The new line introduces individually portioned, high-protein ice cream bars coated in a crispy milk chocolate shell with quinoa crunch.
The launch includes four flavors: Vanilla Crunch, Caramel Crunch, Peanut Butter Crunch, and Mint Crunch.
Each Protein Pop delivers 10g of complete protein, 180–190 calories, and at least 75% less sugar than traditional ice cream, while containing no artificial sweeteners. The bars are also made with natural ingredients, are gluten-free, and provide all nine essential amino acids.
The rollout begins with limited online availability through their website, followed by a nationwide launch at Sprouts Farmers Market on June 29, Harris Teeter in late July, and additional retail expansion planned for the fall.
Protein Pops represent the company's first expansion beyond pints, giving consumers a more portable, grab-and-go option while maintaining the same protein-focused positioning that helped establish the brand in more than 15,000 retail locations.
Why It Matters
This launch reflects the rapid growth of the frozen novelty category, where individually portioned frozen treats are gaining momentum as consumers seek convenient snacks that fit active lifestyles. By entering the ice cream bar segment, Protein Pints is expanding into one of the fastest-growing areas of frozen desserts while staying true to its high-protein positioning.
It also highlights the continued evolution of protein foods beyond traditional shakes and bars. Frozen desserts have become one of the newest frontiers for functional nutrition, with brands focusing on products that deliver meaningful protein without sacrificing taste or convenience.
The move is especially significant because it broadens the brand's appeal. Ice cream bars naturally fit more occasions than full pints, whether it's a post-workout snack, afternoon treat, or on-the-go dessert, making the format more accessible to everyday consumers.
The chocolate coating and quinoa crunch also reflect a broader trend in functional foods, where texture and indulgence are becoming just as important as nutrition. Rather than positioning protein as a compromise, brands are increasingly competing on the full eating experience.
Bigger Picture
The frozen dessert category is rapidly evolving as consumers demand products that combine indulgence with higher protein and better nutrition.
Protein Pops demonstrate how functional food brands are expanding beyond their original formats to compete across multiple snack occasions, signaling continued innovation in the high-protein frozen food space.
Sources
Protein Pints – https://proteinpints.com/collections/pops
Mass Market Retailers – https://massmarketretailers.com/untitled-12/