On May 19, the Sweets & Snacks Expo in Las Vegas awarded the winners of the 2026 Most Innovative New Product Awards. With nearly 500 products entered this year—the largest field in program history—the awards spotlight breakthrough innovation and emerging trends. Wicked Cutz received the Most Innovative New Product Award in the meat snacks category for its Cinnabon Bakery Inspired Flavored – Bacon Jerky.

The bacon jerky product taps into demand for snacks that balance indulgence with convenience. The offering is the first of many to launch through a licensing collaboration with bakery chain Cinnabon. Future products in the line include meat sticks, bacon jerky and jerky chips, which will all feature the Cinnabon flavor.

"The Most Innovative New Product Awards celebrate the creativity, ingenuity and consumer-focused innovation that continue to move the confectionery and snack industries forward," says John Downs, president and CEO of the National Confectioners Association, the host organization for Sweets & Snacks Expo. "With a record number of entries this year, the 2026 finalists and winners demonstrate how brands are responding to evolving consumer preferences and creating opportunities for innovative treating."

Scott James, owner of Wicked Cutz, says, “Cinnabon brings a flavor identity that’s instantly recognizable and incredibly craveable. Combining that with our approach to protein snacks opens up something entirely new for consumers.”

The Wicked Cutz x Cinnabon line is currently rolling out nationwide across mass retailers, convenience stores, grocery, and club channels, with additional product launches planned throughout 2026.

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