Protein Pop-Tarts: Is 10 Grams Enough to Counter the Corn Syrup?

Another breakfast food is jumping on the protein bandwagon.

Kellanova Introduces a Higher Protein Poptart

Kellanova, the maker of Pop-Tarts, announces a higher protein Pop Tart line that will be available in November. According to KCEN, one Pop-Tarts Protein pastry will include 10 grams of protein per serving (one pastry).

Pop Tarts Protein Flavors

The new higher protein Pop Tarts will be available in three flavors:

Slammin’ Strawberry

Boostin’ Brown Sugar Cinnamon

Bumpin’ Blueberry

Protein Is a Huge Money Maker for Big Food

According to Fortune.com, the protein enriched food market could be worth in excess of $100 billion dollars within five years time. In 2023, the global market value for protein fortified foods was $67 billion dollars. PepsiCo announced protein-enriched Doritos earlier this month while Starbucks is adding protein to lattes. Forbes says a recent poll found that 70% of Americans are trying to eat more protein compared to 59% in 2022.

The Carb Question Remains

While adding protein to one’s diet does aid in building and retaining muscle, excessive carbohydrates could pose a problem to those trying to lose fat. Current Pop Tarts are packed with carbohydrates in the form of refined flour and sugar. And we are not talking about one type of sugar. According to Healthline.com, Pop Tarts contain three types of sugar: refined white sugar, corn syrup and high fructose corn syrup. This is in addition to highly processed ingredients like soybean oil. It is for this reason that Healthline.com lists Pop Tarts as number one on its list of unhealthiest junk food.

Pastries That are High in Protein and Low in Carbs

If you enjoy a pastry in the morning, but want a low carb/high protein version, you can find them out there. Legendary Foods Protein Pastry comes in several flavors, but without a ton of carbs. The nutrition info on the box lists: 20G PROTEIN; 4G NET CARBS; LESS THAN 1G SUGAR; 180 Calories per pastry; Gluten-Free and Keto Friendly. I have eaten these on my Keto diet, and while they are not as tasty as a Pop Tart...they are not horrible.