Q2 Earnings Report and US Snack Volume
Ramon Laguarta, CEO of PepsiCo, recently discussed the company’s Q2 earnings report on ‘The Claman Countdown.’ While global snack and beverage volumes showed growth, US snack performance did not meet expectations. In response, PepsiCo plans to invest in affordability, transform its portfolio, and enhance growth in away-from-home sectors to strengthen its market presence.
Discontinuing Popular Grocery Items
Many shoppers are witnessing the discontinuation of grocery store favorites this year, ranging from beloved juice products to favored snack flavors. While some 2026 exits have been confirmed, others remain speculated by food outlets and consumers. Coca-Cola decided to remove a product from the freezer section due to changing consumer preferences, as reported by The Associated Press earlier this year.
PepsiCo’s Strategic Reductions
In the previous year, PepsiCo announced its intention to reduce approximately 20% of its US product offerings. This move aims to focus more on items with simpler ingredients and functional benefits. Reports suggest that over 20 snacks may be affected, though PepsiCo has not confirmed every specific product change.
Products on the Chopping Block
Recent lists, such as those from Tasting Table, spotlight various products potentially being discontinued across major brands. These include beloved frozen juice concentrates and snack items.
Minute Maid Frozen Juice Concentrates
Coca-Cola will stop producing Minute Maid frozen orange juice, lemonade, and limeade products. These products, fondly remembered for childhood summers, marked an 80-year presence in the frozen-can category. Consumers shared sadness over this decision on platforms like Reddit.
Blue Bell Butter Crunch
Blue Bell’s Butter Crunch, featuring vanilla ice cream with chocolate peanut butter candy, is currently unavailable. Fans express their desire for the flavor’s return online. The 2026 grocery exits span a variety of freezer staples and snacks.
Cheese Pizza Cheetos Puffs
After returning in 2025, Cheese Pizza Cheetos Puffs face discontinuation once again. Reviews were mixed, with some enjoying them and others claiming they did not resemble pizza flavor. The flavor was reportedly among PepsiCo’s cuts.
Lay’s Sweet Potato Poppables
Reports indicate that Lay’s Sweet Potato Poppables, part of PepsiCo’s broader reductions, may be leaving shelves. Fans have voiced their disappointment, particularly on social media platforms.
Smartfood Movie Theater Butter Popcorn
Although still available in some stores, Smartfood’s Movie Theater Butter Popcorn has become scarcer due to PepsiCo’s changes. Loyal customers expressed their frustration and nostalgia for the flavor.
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