2026-06-23T08:01:00
(BPT) – Sponsored by QUAKER
Key Takeaways
- Americans are seeking ways to increase their protein intake every day, including when it comes to their snacking choices.
- Nearly 9 in 10 Americans (86%) are adding protein into their daily diet, and 63% say they would choose snacks with added protein over regular ones.*
- Americans seek more protein options in both sweet and salty snacks.
- New Quaker® Protein Rice Crisps, available in Chocolate Caramel and Tangy Barbecue flavors, add taste and 6 grams of protein per serving into your daily routine.
Life is busy. From work obligations and errands to life’s everyday chores and chaos, it’s not always easy to achieve daily diet goals like meeting your protein goals.
The demand for protein has grown well beyond a trend, as more Americans opt for snack options that contain additional protein. In fact, the protein snacks market has increased over 11% from 2025 to 2026, and more than half of Americans (54%) prioritize protein during snacking occasions.*
Now, it’s easier than ever to enjoy delicious snacks in formats you love with the functional ingredients that you’re looking for.
Adding protein to snack time
You can enjoy functional ingredients in your favorite snacks, too. Quaker offers tasty snack options that make it easy to add protein into your everyday routine, like the new Quaker Protein Rice Crisps. They’re airy, crunchy mini rice cakes with a light texture, offering 6 grams of protein and 9 grams of whole grains per serving. And they’re convenient for packing with lunch, taking to work as an afternoon snack, or on a snack board at home.
Ideas for gluten-free snacks
There are many people seeking gluten-free choices these days who will be glad to know that Quaker Protein Rice Crisps are also gluten-free (see specially marked packages). They’re also made with no artificial preservatives or flavors added.
If you’re looking for additional portable, gluten-free snacks containing protein, you can also choose things like nuts, seeds and edamame.
Salty versus sweet protein options
Americans are looking for both salty and sweet options when it comes to protein snacks. 70% of Americans want their salty snacks to have protein, while 65% want sweet snacks with protein.
Quaker Protein Rice Crisps come in two different varieties to suit your palate.
- Quaker Protein Rice Crisps Tangy Barbecue Flavor puts bold, tangy flavor into every airy, crispy bite — and contains 6 grams of protein per serving.
- Quaker Protein Rice Crisps Chocolate Caramel Flavor offers a sweet chocolate, caramel flavor and a good source of protein (6 grams) per serving.
70% of Americans want their salty snacks to have protein and 65% want sweet snacks with protein.*
Planning your pantry
Be better prepared to meet your nutrition goals by stocking your pantry with protein-forward snacks during your weekly grocery run. Having delicious options on hand, whether you’re at home, at work or out with the family, helps you make snacking choices you can feel good about. Quaker provides convenient options that taste good and help you meet your protein goals.
Learn more about Quaker Protein Rice Crisps and other offerings to add protein into your daily routine at QuakerOats.com.
*Online survey of 1,000 nationally representative Americans fielded by RepData on behalf of PepsiCo Foods U.S. Margin of error is +/-3%. Fielded from Jan. 5-21, 2026.
