Goldfish is launching a protein-fortified version of its fish-shaped cracker, delivering 6 grams of protein per serving, according to brand owner The Campbell's Company. The move puts the 64-year-old brand into one of the food industry's biggest demand drivers.

The new Goldfish comes in cheddar and pizza flavors. It debuts at Walmart and other grocery stores in October before expanding to retailers nationwide in early 2027.

The consumer demand behind the launch is measurable. According to Circana's Eating Patterns in America report, 48% of U.S. adults say they seek more protein in their diets — second only to vegetables among nutrients consumers want to increase.

Campbell's is joining a crowded field. PepsiCo's Doritos, Kraft Heinz's Mac & Cheese, J&J Snack Foods' Super Pretzels and Mars' Eggo waffles have all launched protein-fortified extensions as food makers look to boost sales and position products as healthier.

"Protein has become a bigger priority for many families, whether it's after school, between activities or on the go," Tiphanie Maronta, senior vice president of Goldfish Crackers, said in a statement. "Goldfish made with 6g of Protein is our way of meeting that need with a snack that's both delicious and familiar."

The launch extends an aggressive innovation streak on the $1 billion Goldfish platform. Campbell's has spent years acknowledging it did not do enough to keep the brand relevant, particularly among older consumers. Last month, Goldfish introduced its first gluten-free cheddar crackers and reformulated whole grain versions of its smiling cheese crackers.

The push carries strategic weight for Campbell's. On an earnings call earlier this month, CEO Mick Beekhuizen said Goldfish is showing "encouraging progress" despite consumption declines across the company's salty snack business. Beekhuizen expressed confidence that positioning the brand as a family-friendly snack — backed by a new marketing campaign, innovations and refreshed packaging — will benefit Goldfish over the long term.

For marketers, the rollout signals how legacy CPG brands are using fortified reformulation, staged retail distribution starting with Walmart, and family-centric messaging to defend shelf relevance against the protein trend reshaping snacking.