Yucatan and Cabo Fresh launch protein guacamole in nearly 8,000 stores

Insignia International is rolling out what it says is the guacamole category’s first protein-enhanced product under the Yucatan and Cabo Fresh brands, with 5 grams of protein per 3-ounce serving. The launch starts in select stores and is set to expand to nearly 8,000 locations across more than 30 states by the end of 2026.

Why it matters: - Protein remains a major food trend, and Insignia is trying to bring that demand into a category usually low in protein. - The launch could broaden guacamole’s appeal beyond a side or topping by making it a higher-protein snack or meal add-on. - The products are designed to deliver more protein without changing the creamy texture and avocado flavor shoppers expect.

What happened: - Insignia International is launching Yucatan Protein Guacamole and Cabo Fresh Protein Singles and Protein Squeeze. - The company says the products are the guacamole category’s first protein-enhanced offerings. - Each product delivers 5 grams of protein per 3-ounce serving. - The launch began in Portland-area stores and is rolling out at Kroger, Target, Publix and Albertsons. - Distribution is expected to reach nearly 8,000 stores in more than 30 states by the end of 2026.

The details: - The products come in single-serve cups and squeezable pouches. - The added protein comes from fermentation-derived yeast protein. - Yucatan Protein Guacamole delivers about 1.7 grams of protein per ounce. - Traditional guacamole typically contains 1 gram of protein or less per ounce, based on Insignia’s review of category products. - Protein Squeeze products carry a suggested retail price of $6.99 to $8.99. - Protein 3-Pack Cups are priced from $5.99 to $7.99. - Prices vary by retailer. - Kroger and Target are carrying the products nationally. - Stop & Shop, Hy-Vee, Shaw’s, Raley’s, Smart & Final and other retailers will add the products over the next 30 days. - Giant Food will follow in December.

Between the lines: - Insignia is using two brands with different store placements to reach more shoppers across refrigerated departments. - Yucatan has more than 30 years in market and is primarily sold in grocery deli departments. - Cabo Fresh has been on the market for more than 25 years and is generally merchandised in produce and dairy sections. - The strategy gives the protein innovation broad shelf presence rather than limiting it to one part of the store. - The launch also reflects a wider consumer shift toward protein-rich foods beyond bars and shakes. - In the International Food Information Council’s 2025 Food & Health Survey, 70% of Americans said they were trying to consume protein, up from 59% in 2022. - The survey found that a high-protein diet was the most commonly followed eating pattern for the third straight year. - “Good source of protein” ranked as the top characteristic respondents used to define a healthy food.

What's next: - Insignia expects the products to expand into additional retailers over the next month. - National availability at Kroger and Target, plus regional expansion at other chains, should widen trial and visibility before year-end. - The company is betting the format can create a new subcategory in refrigerated guacamole rather than just a one-off product.

The bottom line: - Insignia is turning guacamole into a protein play, and it’s backing that bet with broad retail distribution and familiar brand names.