Kraft’s protein mac lands
Kraft launched PowerMac, a 2026 mac‑and‑cheese variant that adds a protein boost to the classic dish — a clear play to capture both nostalgia seekers and shoppers wanting more nutrition. Reviews suggest PowerMac is positioned to compete in annual mac rankings as consumers look for ‘healthier indulgence’ in comfort food. (tasteofhome.com)
PowerMac will roll out at major U.S. retailers in April 2026 in two flavors — Original and White Cheddar — priced at $2.99 per 7.25‑ounce box. (news.kraftheinzcompany.com) Kraft states a prepared serving provides 17 grams of protein and 6 grams of fiber, achieved by a proprietary protein‑ and fiber‑enriched pasta combined with the brand’s familiar cheese powder. (news.kraftheinzcompany.com) Kraft says the noodle reformulation uses plant protein (reported as pea protein/pea powder) as the protein source for the boost. (usatoday.com) Company materials and reporting note the product was nearly a year in development before launch, with Kraft emphasizing taste parity with its classic blue‑box recipe. (news.kraftheinzcompany.com) Early reviews from Taste of Home and Food Network highlighted that PowerMac preserves the “cheesiness” fans expect while delivering the added protein, suggesting it could factor into seasonal boxed‑mac rankings and comparisons. (tasteofhome.com) Nutrition write‑ups and dietitians flagged trade‑offs: alongside higher protein and fiber, the new formulation increases calories, fat and sodium relative to the original boxed variety, making it a reformulated comfort food rather than an unambiguous “health” swap. (aol.com) Kraft frames PowerMac as an accessible alternative to pricier specialty protein pastas, and retailers are already listing club and multi‑pack SKUs (for example, an 8‑pack listing appears on Sam’s Club). (news.kraftheinzcompany.com)
