Summer is almost synonymous with new flavors and culinary experiments, especially as grocery aisles start brimming with seasonal offerings. Kroger, with its latest selection of grocery items from its exclusive brands—Kroger Brand, Simple Truth, and Private Selection—sent us a box full of new and some buzzworthy products to try out. So, in the spirit of sunshine and good food, let’s dive into which of these new Kroger products you should consider adding to your cart or skipping altogether.
Kroger Blue Raspberry Pop! Flavored Seltzer Water
This one is for the festive souls out there. While not bursting with flavor, it offers a subtle touch of blue raspberry that could be quite refreshing on a hot day. The can’s patriotic color scheme makes it a fun addition for a Fourth of July celebration, adding to its appeal.
Recommendation: Buy (if you’re feeling festive)
Simple Truth Acai Bowl Granola with Mixed Berries
For acai bowl enthusiasts looking for a crunchy addition to their favorite dish or a tasty, berry-infused snack, this granola is a great pick. Mixed with freeze-dried strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries, and dusted with acai powder, it provides a burst of berry flavors that’s sure to delight. While the dried fruit pieces could be less dry, the granola itself is perfectly crunchy.
Recommendation: Buy
Carbmaster Hawaiian Hamburger Buns
Calling all carb counters! These Hawaiian hamburger buns are a game-changer in the world of keto-friendly bread. They manage to capture the slightly sweet essence of traditional Hawaiian buns without the typical bitterness or dryness often found in low-carb breads. Whether used for burgers or enjoyed as a dinner roll, these buns are soft, tasty, and surprisingly normal-tasting.
Recommendation: Buy (especially if watching your carb intake)
Private Selection Smokehouse Charred Ends BBQ Sauce
A fan favorite, this BBQ sauce is intriguing with its burnt brisket end flavor notes—uncommon and bold. It’s a sweet sauce with layers of brown sugar, cane sugar, and molasses, complemented by a tangy, smoky backdrop. Perfect as a dip for chicken tenders or slathered on a rack of ribs, it’s a versatile sauce that BBQ lovers should definitely consider trying.
Recommendation: Buy
Private Selection Cacio e Pepe Creamy Macaroni & Cheese
This isn’t just any boxed mac and cheese; it’s a gourmet twist on the classic cacio e pepe. The sauce is a creamy, luscious blend of Romano, white cheddar, parmesan, and a generous hit of black pepper, clinging to fancy pipette rigate noodles that cook to al dente perfection. While cacio e pepe is traditionally simple to whip up with just pasta, cheese, and pepper, this elevated version is worth a try for its convenience and delicious flavor profile.
Recommendation: Buy
Kroger Pineapple Coconut Flavored Seltzer Water
For those who are not big fans of flavored seltzers, this might be a pass. The pineapple coconut variety promises tropical vibes but delivers a rather muted flavor that might leave you wishing for a stronger taste. The carbonation is on point, though, making it a refreshing, albeit lightly flavored, beverage option.
Recommendation: Skip
These new Kroger products offer a mix of convenience, unique flavors, and healthy options, catering to a variety of tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you’re grilling, crafting the perfect burger, or simply looking for a refreshing drink or a nutritious snack, there’s something new to explore at Kroger this summer. Happy shopping and tasting!