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PepsiCo has revealed a new portfolio strategy for 2026, centered around multifunctional protein innovation across several brands.

The F&B giant revealed the strategy in its Q3 2025 financial earnings report yesterday (9 October 2025).

The strategy aims to ‘redefine the conversation around protein’ as the category becomes increasingly crowded – rather than focusing solely on amount of protein in grams, PepsiCo is shifting the narrative toward multifunctional health benefits and tailored support to meet unique consumer needs.

According to the company, its new protein innovations for next year are science-backed and ‘rooted in consumer insights’ to meet the growing demand for enhanced offerings in the space. These innovations are set to hit the market in early 2026, and they span three brands: Propel, Muscle Milk and Starbucks.

Propel

PepsiCo’s Propel hydration brand will enter the protein category in 2026 with Propel Clear Protein, a new offering for the active nutrition market.

The new powdered beverage mix will feature a proprietary blend of electrolytes, protein and fibre, designed to deliver efficient hydration and healthy lifestyle support. The three-in-one benefit stack includes 20g of whey protein to help maintain muscle mass, 3g of fibre for digestive health support, and electrolytes to support hydration.

Notably, the product is also positioned as a convenient option for GLP-1 medication users, who often benefit from supplemental protein, fibre and electrolytes due to factors such as reduced appetite and thirst, and gastrointestinal side effects.

The product contains no artificial colours or flavours, and no sweeteners. It is launching in three flavours: pear apple, watermelon mint, and peach ginger.

Muscle Milk

Muscle Milk, a protein drink designed for athletes and active people focused on muscle building, is set for an overhaul as part of the 2026 strategy.

PepsiCo said the beverage will be completely reformulated, integrating ultra-filtered milk for an enhanced taste and a smoother, shake-like experience.

According to the company, it will also become the only major RTD protein drink brand in the US without any artificial flavours or sweeteners, and no added colours.

The Muscle Milk Base will offer 26g of protein, while Muscle Milk Pro will provide 42g. The drinks feature 3g of sugar, 200 kcal per serving, and provide a source of calcium and vitamins A and D.

Starbucks

Through its North American partnership with the coffee brand, PepsiCo is launching Starbuck Coffee + Protein, integrating protein into the morning coffee occasion.

The line aims to extend coffee’s benefits beyond energising consumers in the morning, designed to help fuel both performance and wellness goals in a convenient option that does not require compromise of consumers’ daily rituals.

It features 100% Arabica coffee, 22g of protein, 5g of prebiotic fibre, five essential vitamins and minerals, and 2g of sugar. Flavours will include Classic Caffé and Caffé Mocha.

Tara Glasgow, global chief science officer at PepsiCo, commented on the strategy: “Most people don’t realize that it’s not just how much protein you consume – it’s when and what type of protein that matters”.

“Your body can only use so much at once, so spreading protein throughout the day helps maximise its benefits. That’s why our innovations are designed to deliver protein and other functional ingredients in the right form, at the right time, for the right person.”