Versatile, shelf-stable solution helps foodservice operators meet growing demand for functional beverages while creating new opportunities for customization and growth
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Buffalo, NY (RestaurantNews.com) As today’s consumers increasingly look to beverages for more than refreshment, global, family-owned food company Rich Products is helping foodservice operators turn evolving expectations around protein, functionality and personalization into new opportunities for growth.
Rich’s is introducing Rich’s Beverage Solutions Protein Syrup, a versatile addition to the company’s expanding beverage portfolio. Designed to work across a broad range of beverage formats, the new syrup gives operators a simple way to add protein to coffee, lattes, smoothies, refreshers, lemonades, frozen beverages and more.
One pump delivers 15 grams of protein per one fluid ounce. Made with collagen peptides plus amino acids, the concentrated, shelf-stable formula blends into hot, iced, blended and frozen beverages without unwanted flavor, chalkiness or grittiness. Designed with foodservice operators in mind, it requires no refrigeration, measuring, scooping, pre-mixing or additional blending, helping expand customization opportunities without creating added complexity. Simply pump, stir and serve.
“Beverage continues to be a strategic and important platform for innovation, personalization and growth,” said Alyssa Barrett, senior customer marketing manager, Rich Products. “Consumers want beverages that deliver on taste while offering benefits that fit their individual needs. Rich’s Protein Syrup gives restaurant operators a simple way to add customizable protein enhancements to beverages already on the menu, helping increase ticket sizes, create new snacking occasions and drive incremental revenue without adding significant operational complexity.”
The market opportunity is being fueled by growing consumer interest in protein and functional beverages. According to the Datassential 2026 Big Picture, 64% of consumers are interested in foods and beverages with protein. Younger consumers are helping accelerate demand for functional beverages, with 80% of Gen Z and Millennial consumers interested in adding at least one functional ingredient to their beverage, according to the Datassential Non-Alcoholic Beverage Keynote from December 2025.
Unlike protein options that can be limited by temperature, flavor or texture, Rich’s Protein Syrup performs across a wide range of beverage applications. That versatility allows operators to offer protein as a customizable enhancement without developing an entirely new beverage platform.
For operators, the product is designed to fit naturally into existing beverage operations. Each 32.9-ounce bottle of Rich’s Protein Syrup comes with an individual pump that produces 32 consistent servings. The product arrives and stores at room temperature, allowing operators to keep it alongside traditional beverage syrups without taking up valuable refrigerator or freezer space. There are four bottles per case with a shelf life of 365 days unopened and 30 days at room temperature after opening.
For more beverage inspiration, visit RichsUSA.com/beverages. Discover all of Rich’s solutions for restaurant operators, including recipes, trends, and insights at RichsUSA.com.
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Meet Rich’s
Rich’s, also known as Rich Products Corporation, is a family-owned food company dedicated to inspiring possibilities. From cakes and icings to pizza, appetizers and specialty toppings, our products are used in homes, restaurants and bakeries around the world. Beyond great food, our customers also gain insights to help them stay competitive, no matter their size. Our portfolio includes creative solutions geared at helping food industry professionals compete in foodservice, retail, in-store bakery, deli, and prepared foods among others. Working in 100 locations globally, with annual sales exceeding $5.8 billion, Rich’s is a global leader with a focus on everything that family makes possible. Rich’s® – Infinite Possibilities. One Family.
Learn more at Richs.com or join the conversation on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and X.
Media Contact:
Karen Haggerty
[email protected]
770-579-9897
The post Rich’s Expands Beverage Innovation Portfolio With New Protein Syrup first appeared on RestaurantNews.com.