Utz Brands to Spotlight Innovation at Natural Products Expo West 2026
Utz Brands, Inc., a leading U.S. manufacturer of branded salty snack foods, is set to present a dynamic portfolio of new and bestselling products at the 2026 Natural Products Expo West. The company will exhibit at Booth 1117 in Hall A during the event, taking place March 4–6 at the Anaheim Convention Center in Anaheim, California. As one of the largest trade shows dedicated to natural, organic, and better-for-you products, the expo provides a significant platform for brands to connect with retailers, distributors, and industry professionals seeking the latest innovations in the food and beverage space.
At this year’s event, Utz Brands will highlight exciting product developments from two of its well-recognized snack brands: Boulder Canyon and Utz. Both brands continue to evolve in response to shifting consumer preferences, emphasizing bold flavors, functional ingredients, and cleaner labels while maintaining the crunch and taste that loyal snackers expect.
Boulder Canyon Showcases Better-For-You Snacking Leadership
Boulder Canyon, widely recognized as one of America’s fastest-growing salty snack brands and the leading salty snack brand within the natural channel, will present its comprehensive lineup of products at the show. Known for its dedication to premium ingredients and distinctive flavors, Boulder Canyon continues to strengthen its position in the better-for-you snack segment.
The brand’s portfolio on display will include its signature classic kettle style potato chips, a growing assortment of tortilla chips, and its latest innovation: Boulder Batch Agave Sriracha flavored kettle style potato chips. Each product in the Boulder Canyon range is crafted with avocado oil, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to non-seed oil cooking methods that resonate strongly with today’s health-conscious consumers.
Avocado oil has gained popularity among shoppers seeking alternative cooking oils perceived as cleaner and more wholesome. By consistently using avocado oil across its portfolio, Boulder Canyon aligns itself with consumer demand for transparency, quality sourcing, and functional ingredient benefits.
Introducing Boulder Batch Agave Sriracha Kettle Style Chips
The newest addition to the Boulder Canyon lineup, Boulder Batch Agave Sriracha flavored kettle style potato chips, delivers a distinctive flavor experience that balances subtle sweetness with bold heat. The sweetness of agave complements the spicy kick of sriracha, resulting in a globally inspired taste profile designed to appeal to adventurous snackers.
Cooked in avocado oil for a crisp, satisfying crunch, the chips reflect two strong trends shaping the snack category: international flavor exploration and alternative oil usage. Consumers increasingly seek bold, worldly flavors that bring variety and excitement to everyday snacking occasions. At the same time, many shoppers are actively looking for products made without traditional seed oils, further elevating the appeal of Boulder Canyon’s avocado oil-based offerings.
Like all Boulder Canyon products, the new Agave Sriracha flavor upholds the brand’s emphasis on attributes valued by modern shoppers. The chips are gluten-free, Non-GMO Project Verified®, and Kosher certified, reinforcing Boulder Canyon’s focus on ingredient transparency and quality standards. The Boulder Batch Agave Sriracha kettle style chips are scheduled to launch in April 2026 and will be available at natural and grocery retailers nationwide.
Continuing a Legacy of Purpose-Driven Innovation
Boulder Canyon’s commitment to better-for-you snacking dates back to its founding in 1994. Over the years, the brand has positioned itself as a pioneer in crafting snacks made with carefully selected ingredients while delivering robust flavor and crunch.
According to Stacey Schultz, Senior Vice President of Marketing at Utz Quality Foods, LLC, a subsidiary of Utz Brands, Inc., the company remains focused on evolving with consumer preferences while staying true to its roots. Whether through its classic kettle style chips, its specialty Boulder Batch line, or its newer tortilla chip offerings, Boulder Canyon aims to provide snacks that fit seamlessly into consumers’ lifestyles and everyday moments.
The brand’s ongoing innovation reflects a broader industry shift toward mindful indulgence—snacks that combine taste satisfaction with ingredient integrity. By expanding flavor offerings and maintaining clean-label credentials, Boulder Canyon continues to reinforce its leadership within the natural snack segment.
Utz Enters the Protein Snack Category
In addition to Boulder Canyon’s innovations, Utz Brands will debut an entirely new product line under the Utz brand: Utz Protein Pretzels and Utz Protein Cheese Curls. This launch marks the company’s first entry into the protein-focused snack category, blending traditional salty snack formats with functional nutrition benefits.
Market insights indicate that protein remains a top priority for consumers. According to Innova Market Insights, 60% of consumers are actively looking to incorporate more protein into their diets. Responding to this demand, Utz has developed protein-enhanced versions of two beloved snack classics—pretzels and cheese curls—without compromising on flavor or texture.
Utz Protein Pretzels Deliver Crunch and Functionality
The new Utz Protein Pretzels are crafted without artificial flavors and offer multiple flavor options to satisfy diverse preferences. The lineup includes Classic Sea Salt, delivering 10 grams of protein per serving, as well as Honey Mustard and Cheddar varieties, each providing 8 grams of protein per serving.
By combining familiar pretzel crunch with meaningful protein content, Utz aims to attract consumers seeking convenient snack options that support active lifestyles, satiety, and balanced nutrition. The introduction of protein-enhanced pretzels allows the brand to tap into growing interest in functional snacks while preserving the signature texture and taste that define the Utz name.
Utz Protein Cheese Curls Expand Better-For-You Indulgence
Utz is also expanding its protein innovation into the cheese snack category with Utz Protein Cheese Curls. Available in Cheddar and Hot and Spicy Cheddar varieties, both options contain 10 grams of protein per serving and are made without artificial flavors.
Hot and Spicy Cheddar, notably the leading flavor within the broader cheese snack category, offers a bold flavor profile that appeals to consumers seeking a more intense snacking experience. By delivering protein content alongside classic cheese curl crunch and flavor, Utz provides an option that bridges indulgence and nutritional awareness.
The expansion into protein snacks signals a strategic move for Utz Brands as it seeks to broaden its portfolio beyond traditional salty snacks. By leveraging established brand equity while responding to evolving dietary trends, Utz is positioning itself for continued growth in a competitive and rapidly changing snack landscape.
Nationwide Availability and Brand Engagement
Both Boulder Canyon and Utz products are available for purchase online and through retailers nationwide. The company continues to strengthen omnichannel accessibility, ensuring that consumers can find their favorite snacks in natural food stores, grocery outlets, and digital marketplaces.
Through its presence at Natural Products Expo West 2026, Utz Brands underscores its commitment to innovation, quality, and consumer-focused product development. By introducing globally inspired flavors, expanding into protein-rich snacks, and reinforcing clean-label standards, the company demonstrates its dedication to meeting the evolving preferences of today’s snack consumers while maintaining the taste and crunch that define its brands.
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