The dairy checkoff has partnered with General Mills to launch YoBark, a yogurt-based snack designed to offer families a delicious and nutritious alternative in the growing snacking category. By combining the smooth creaminess of yogurt with the crunchy texture of Nature Valley Granola, YoBark appeals to diverse palates and makes indulging simple.
YoBark is packaged in convenient stand-up pouches in strawberry and honey vanilla flavors and is currently sold at major retailers, including Albertson’s, Safeway, and Walmart. In the coming months, the company plans to expand distribution nationwide.
"Recognizing this trend, we partnered with General Mills and co-funded research to develop product concepts that would appeal to this demographic," said Chris Urban, vice president of growth platforms and partnerships for DMI."The lead concept that emerged from our collaboration was YoBark, which received the highest-ranking score in our concept evaluations."
Texture-Rich Yogurt Barks
General Mills Launches the YoBark Brand for Family Snacking
Trend Themes
1. Texture-infused Snacking - Combining creamy and crunchy textures in snacks offers a novel sensory experience that caters to evolving consumer preferences.
2. Family-centric Nutrition - Products designed with family-friendly ingredients prioritize health without compromising on flavor, unlocking opportunities in shared meals and snacks.
3. Convenient Snack Packaging - Innovative packaging solutions like stand-up pouches not only enhance product appeal but also cater to the on-the-go lifestyle of modern consumers.
Industry Implications
1. Dairy and Plant-based Alternatives - Exploring hybrid or cross-category products such as yogurt snacks presents new market opportunities within the dairy sector.
2. Snack Food Manufacturing - The integration of diverse textures in ready-to-eat snacks can disrupt traditional snack food manufacturing approaches.
3. Retail and Distribution - Expansion into major retailers highlights significant distribution potential for innovative snack products that capitalize on convenience and taste.