MCDONALDS BIG ARCH

 

Starting March 3 for a limited time, McDonald's is going BIG. Like, really BIG.

Introducing the BIG ARCH™ BURGER: a premium flavor experience that delivers BIG with every bite. It’s our “most McDonald’s, McDonald’s burger” yet – a love letter to fans who simply can’t get enough – and features a dream team of mouth-watering ingredients:

• Two quarter pound beef patties*
• Three slices of melted white cheddar cheese
• Crispy and slivered onions
• Fresh lettuce   
• Tangy pickles  
• Toasted buns, featuring sesame and poppy seeds
• Our game-changing Big Arch Sauce – a tangy, creamy sauce with a perfect balance of mustard, pickle and sweet tomato flavors

DORITOS® LAUNCHES BOLDEST INNOVATION YET: DORITOS PROTEIN

Protein is getting a flavor upgrade: Introducing Doritos® Protein tortilla style chips, a new take on Doritos. Doritos Protein hits shelves next month with 10 grams of protein per one ounce serving and will be followed by a 17 grams of protein per single serve bag later this year. The new product is a strategic expansion for the brand into the rapidly growing protein snack category while maintaining the tasty, bold flavor and iconic crunch that has defined Doritos for generations.

Two Fan-Favorite Flavors
Designed for fans who love Doritos but want more out of their snack, Doritos Protein is leveling-up the snacking experience with the benefit of added protein, as well as no artificial colors or flavors. The new snack launches with two tasty and timeless flavors:

• Doritos Protein Nacho Cheese: The true classic and #1 selling Doritos flavor with bold cheesy seasoning
• Doritos Protein Sweet & Tangy BBQ: A bold experience that elevates traditional BBQ flavor with sweetness, complex spices and tanginess

Meeting Consumer Demand for Functional Snacking
Doritos Protein marks a significant evolution for the classic and beloved brand, delivering protein in a format that feels familiar, flavorful and accessible. It's more than a product launch, it's a new product platform that addresses topical consumer trends in the snacking category:

• 86% of Americans are actively adding protein to their diet1
• 70% of consumers want salty snacks to have protein2
• Over 50% of consumers prioritize protein during snacking occasions3

As consumers increasingly look for functional ingredients in their everyday snacks and beverages, PepsiCo is leveraging its iconic portfolio of brands to lead the category transformation. Doritos Protein joins recent launches including SmartFood® Fiber Pop™ coated popcorn, SunChips® Fiber whole grain and black bean snacks, Pepsi® Prebiotic Cola, poppi® Prebiotic Soda, Quaker® Protein Granola Bars and Quaker® Protein Old Fashioned Oats, emphasizing a commitment to delivering the foods and beverages consumers love, enhanced with the functional ingredients they seek. Doritos Protein will continue to push innovation forward, meeting evolving consumer needs for exceptional taste and convenient formats.

"The launch of Doritos Protein marks our strategic expansion into the protein snack category.  We're elevating the bold flavor and signature snacking experience consumers expect by using novel flavor and seasoning methods. Now, each one-ounce serving delivers 10 grams of protein, and a single-serve bag with 17 grams of protein is coming later this year," said Hernán Tantardini, chief marketing officer, PepsiCo Foods U.S. "This innovation underscores PepsiCo Foods' commitment to evolving its portfolio to meet shifting consumer preferences toward foods with functional ingredients. 70% of consumers want their salty snacks to have protein- and now we are making it more accessible and seamlessly integrated into everyday snacking occasions without compromising the distinctive Doritos experience."

"Doritos is synonymous with bold flavor and iconic crunch – two attributes that our fans know and love. When we set out to create this product, we wanted to ensure we were delivering that unmistakable snacking experience, but in a new way with the added benefit of protein," said Jess Spaulding, vice president of marketing, PepsiCo Foods U.S. "As consumer desires shift, we're showing that Doritos is a brand that can evolve and expand with those desires, offering consumers the best of both worlds- delicious taste, as well as new functional ingredients." 

Additional Product Details
Available starting next month in select retailers and markets, Doritos Protein is made with:

• Dairy-based protein (casein) as its protein source (and the first ingredient listed) – a complete dairy protein containing all nine essential amino acids
• No artificial colors or flavors
• The bold Doritos flavor and crunch consumers expect

Doritos Protein will come in two sizes: 7oz. for SRP $4.89 and 12.75oz for SRP $7.39, with additional rollout expected this year. Additional sizes, including a single-serve size option with 17 grams of protein per bag, are planned for later this year to bring consumers even more snacking options.

For more information and to stay up to date on the latest news from Doritos, follow along with the brand on social media or visit the website.

NEARLY 21 MILLION VIEWERS WATCHED NBCUNIVERSAL"S COVERAGE OF THE US-CANADA HOCKEY GAME

 

NEARLY 21 MILLION VIEWERS WATCHED NBCUNIVERSAL'S COVERAGE OF USA-CANADA OLYMPIC MEN'S GOLD MEDAL HOCKEY GAME, PEAKING AT 26 MILLION FOR GAME-WINNING GOAL ON NBC & PEACOCK

Team USA's 2-1 OT Win Averaged a Combined 20.7 Million Viewers and 18.6 Million Live (8:15-11 a.m. ET) on NBC & Peacock, Marking the Most-Watched Pre-9 a.m. ET Sporting Event on Record in U.S.

Despite 8:15 a.m. ET Opening Faceoff, USA-Canada is NBC Sports' Second Most Watched Hockey Game Ever (behind 2010 Vancouver Olympics Men's Gold Medal Game; 3:15 p.m. ET Puck Drop)

2.1 Million Viewers Watched Encores on NBC (Sun. after late local news) & USA Network (Sun. 4 p.m. ET)

Led by Peacock, 3.7 Million Viewers Live Streamed USA-Canada - NBC Sports' Most Streamed Event (excluding NFL)

Milan Cortina Olympics is Most-Watched Winter Games since 2014

STAMFORD, Conn. - February 24, 2026 - Team USA's thrilling 2-1 overtime victory against Canada in Sunday's Milan Cortina Olympics men's gold medal hockey game was watched by 20.7 million viewers across NBC, Peacock and Versant's USA Network, and peaked at 26.0 million live viewers on NBC and Peacock for the game-winning goal, based on Nielsen Big Data + Panel and digital data from Adobe Analytics.

The USA-Canada gold-medal game delivered an average live audience of 18.6 million viewers on NBC and Peacock (8:15-11 a.m. ET), which:

· Marks the most-watched pre-9 a.m. ET (start time) sporting event on record in U.S. history.

· Ranks as NBC Sports' second-most watched hockey game ever, behind only the USA-Canada men's gold medal game at the 2010 Vancouver Olympics, which had a more favorable puck drop time of 3:15 p.m. ET (27.6 million viewers).

· Includes NBC Sports' most-watched streaming audience (excluding NFL), with an average of 3.7 million viewers, led by Peacock.

"As the final medal event, the gold-medal hockey game was a fitting crescendo to a spectacular 17 days of Milan Cortina Winter Olympic competition that we were so honored to present," said NBC Sports president Rick Cordella. "We applaud all the athletes, organizers, and our gracious hosts, and thank our passionate Team NBC colleagues who worked tirelessly to bring these Winter Games, Super Bowl LX, and the NBA All-Star Game to more than 215 million Americans in our 'Legendary February.'"

"Jack Hughes wins it! The golden goal for the United States! For the first time since the 1980 Miracle, the United States takes the gold!" - Kenny Albert

An astounding average of 26.0 million viewers on NBC and Peacock were watching between 10:45-11 a.m. ET as Kenny Albert called Jack Hughes' overtime game-winner for Team USA (10:52 a.m. ET). The victory marked the United States' first Olympic gold medal in men's hockey since 1980.

"For all the young people out there, not just the hockey, but all the Olympics you've watched, those dreams are for now. Go chase them and go get them. Because our country loves sports and it brings us together unlike anything else." - Mike Tirico

Following NBC Olympics host Mike Tirico's memorable sign-off, NBCUniversal made the gold-medal game replay available on-demand on Peacock, presented a full encore on USA Network at 4 p.m. ET, and aired a two-hour version of the game on NBC stations following their late local news on Sunday event. Collectively, those presentations delivered 2.1 million viewers.

NBCUniversal owns the U.S. media rights to the Olympic Games through 2036, which are scheduled for Milan Cortina (2026), Los Angeles (2028), French Alps (2030), Brisbane (2032), Utah (2034), and the 2036 Summer Games. Click here for more information on how to watch the Milan Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games.

DR PEPPER CREAMY COCONUT

 

From dirty soda culture to throwback sips, playful concoctions and 'newstalgia' are helping consumers make the most of every moment. This year's lineup leans into that energy with limited-time drops of bold, indulgent flavor mashups that feel familiar yet fresh, perfectly timed for summer moments and seasonal celebrations.

• Dr Pepper Creamy Coconut: A decadently "dirty" fan‑favorite returns – Dr Pepper's iconic 23‑flavor blend combined with refreshing, summery coconut flavor for a smooth, creamy indulgence available for a limited time starting in April.
• Snapple Two Hundred Fif‑TEA Party: This limited‑time summer blend pairs juicy raspberry flavored tea with lemonade for a berry‑meets‑citrus refresh in celebration of America's 250th birthday.
• 7UP Shirley Temple: Returning nationwide for the holiday season, this festive favorite pairs sweet pomegranate and crisp lemon-lime flavors for a playful twist on the nostalgic mocktail.
• A&W Root Beer Float: Enjoy all the creamy, vanilla‑kissed flavor of a classic float without the fuss: no spoon, no ice cream, mess – just pop and enjoy. Available for a limited time from beginning in July.

Modern Twists on Iconic Classics
Some of our familiar favorites are evolving with contemporary flavor innovation and bold new looks, including expanding our fruit-forward spin on a timeless ginger ale and a modernized visual identity for a cultural icon.

• Canada Dry Fruit Splash Strawberry: The Fruit Splash line, the #1 new CSD innovation launch of 20242, is adding a new Strawberry flavor made with a splash of real juice, combining fruity brightness with signature ginger ale, rolling out nationally in February.
• Snapple Brand Refresh: Snapple is unveiling a refreshed visual identity—bringing to life new colorful graphics and a logo that gives a nod to the brand's classic trademark. Built to boldly jump off the shelf, spotlight real ingredients and return the Snapple brand to icon-status, the new look starts rolling out across packaging and other visual identity markers in March.
• Bloom Pop: Nutrabolt and KDP are serving up a trio of feel-good, nostalgia-rich favorites for the brand – Root Beer Float, a classic soda shop blend topped with creamy vanilla; Peach Pineapple, a juicy tropical escape; and Rocket Blast, a vibrant burst of ice pop flavor this summer. 

Citrus-Inspired Innovation
Citrus continues to dominate as the #1 preferred flavor profile among younger shoppers3, who crave refreshing, flavor‑forward beverages. This year's lineup leans into that momentum with vibrant, juicy flavor profiles designed to stand out on shelf.

• Bai Barù Blood Orange: A nationwide launch in February, Bai introduces a tangy, vibrant blood orange water beverage that taps one of the fastest‑rising citrus flavors4 while delivering the antioxidant-infused experience Bai is known for – It's WonderWater®.
• 7UP Endless Summer Mandarin Orange (Kroger exclusive): A bright mix of mandarin and classic lemon‑lime flavors, this seasonal flavor delivers a crisp, refreshing taste inspired by easy, carefree summer moments.

More Choice, Less Sugar
Zero sugar continues to outpace the CSD category, driving 6x more dollar growth than regular varieties5, as consumers look for balance without sacrificing flavor. All 2026 CSD innovations will be offered in both regular and zero sugar options. And now, more zero sugar options are hitting the juice aisle.

• Mott's Zero Sugar Juice Drinks: For the first time ever, Mott's is introducing a Zero Sugar juice drink line, expanding Zero-sugar options for families. Launching nationwide in March alongside refreshed packaging and new sauce pouch innovations, Mott's brings its trusted taste into a lighter, modern format.

Flavor‑Driven Fuel 
Energy shoppers, especially younger consumers, are leaning into recognizable, irresistible flavors and right‑sized formats that fit more moments, and our owned and partner brands are ready with a strong lineup to meet that demand this year.

• GHOST Energy: This year's lineup includes the debut of new 8.4 oz. cans in OG, OG COLADA, STRAWBERRY WATERMELON and WELCH'S® GRAPE to spark trial and introduce the brand to new consumers. The brand also expands its 16 oz. innovation slate with: BLUE RASPBERRY, which transforms a fan-favorite powder flavor into a sweet, fizzy RTD with a bright citrus twist; ICED TEA LEMONADE, a Walmart and Circle K-exclusive delivering bold lemonade balanced by a smooth, sweet tea finish; STRAWBANGO™, a breakout favorite expanding nationwide, combining strawberry with sweet-and-sour mango and subtle citrus notes; BUBBLICIOUS® STRAWBERRY SPLASH™, a Kroger exclusive pairing juicy strawberry with classic bubble gum nostalgia; and, WELCH'S® GRAPE-CRAN, blending sweet grape with tart cranberry for a balanced, fruit-forward flavor.
• C4 Energy: Rolling out a dynamic lineup that includes Mango Fuego, where sweet mango collides with subtle heat; Hawaiian Punch Berry Blue Typhoon, a nostalgic island blue burst available exclusively at Circle K; Pink Lemonade, a limited time offer with a bright, refreshing mix of raspberry and zesty lemonade that's tangy and fruity without being too sweet; and Casey's exclusive Cherry Cola, infused with fizzy, soda shop flair.
• Bloom Sparkling Energy: Introducing tangy strawberry lemonade Summer Splash, which is sure to win the taste buds.
• Black Rifle Energy: Offering bold, high‑impact flavor from new GrapeX – a sweet, punchy grape profile – and Tiger Strike, a limited‑time summer fusion of bright citrus and tropical notes.

Additional Partner-Driven Variety
Across our partner portfolio, additional new flavors showcase the best of what we help to deliver nationwide, including vibrant flavor innovation and wellness‑minded refreshment.

• Electrolit: Expanding its hydration lineup with Cherry Ice, a cool and refreshing cherry flavor with an icy finish, coming soon to stores nationwide; Strawberry Kiwi, a bright and balanced blend of sweet strawberry and tangy kiwi, now conveniently available in a 6-pack multipack; and a 7 Eleven-exclusive flavor to be revealed ahead of summer.
• La Colombe Draft Latte: Seasonal favorites return in single‑serve and 4‑pack formats, beginning with two café-inspired Draft Latte® coffee drinks, Strawberry Mocha and S'mores. Strawberry Mocha features chocolate‑dipped strawberry notes while S'mores blends toasted marshmallow and rich cocoa notes for sips of decadent goodness. Fall and winter Draft Latte® flavors follow with Pumpkin Spice, a sippable slice of pumpkin pie made with perfectly roasted coffee, frothy farm‑fresh milk, and real pumpkin purée, and Peppermint Mocha, a festive blend of cool mint and chocolate crafted for the holiday season.
• Polar Seltzer: Bringing back fan ‑favorite Strawberry Créme, pairing juicy strawberry with a silky crème twist for a lightly sweet, dessert ‑inspired sparkle, alongside the nationally returning Toasted Coconut, known for its smooth coconut flavor and warm toasted finish.

Keep an eye out in stores to discover what's new across the full Keurig Dr Pepper portfolio, with even more surprises to come throughout the year – so stay tuned!

TOPO CHICO UNAVAILABLE IN THE US

 

Topo Chico Mineral Water is temporarily unavailable in the U.S.

Production of the Coca-Cola-owned carbonated water brand is paused as the company makes upgrades to its water source and manufacturing facilities in Mexico. The beverage giant aims to have the drinks back in production later this year, a spokesperson told Food Dive in an email.

Other Topo Chico drinks, including the brand’s flavored sparkling waters and hard seltzers, are not affected and still available, the Coca-Cola spokesperson said.

“As always, safety and quality are the company’s top priorities,” the spokesperson said.

Topo Chico mineral waters are expected to return to the U.S. later this year. Last summer, Coca-Cola recalled a limited batch of Topo Chico cases in five states after discovering potential contamination from pseudomonas, which can naturally be found in water sources.

Coca-Cola did not specify why the facility needs upgrades, but CNN reported that problems with source wells slowed production and led to a temporary stoppage of orders.