Clean-Label Protein Snacking Reaches Mass Market Olli Salumeria is scaling its preservative-free salami snack packs into major QSR and retail channels, now available in over 61,000 U.S. retail doors. The Oceanside, California–based producer has secured nationwide distribution at Starbucks and is expanding across more than 3,600 Walmart locations, capitalizing on rising consumer demand for high-protein, whole-food snacks. The expansion reflects a broader industry shift: research cited by Olli shows 60% of consumers actively seek high-protein snacks, with 85% preferring real, whole-food protein over artificial alternatives. Olli's refrigerated snack packs have grown 119% over the past 18 months, driven by the company's mastery of high-pressure processing (HPP) technology to eliminate nitrates and nitrites while maintaining product quality—a technical hurdle that competitors have struggled to clear.

Product Rollout and Revenue Shift "Our mission has always been to bring authentic, slow-cured Italian salami to everyday snacking occasions without compromise," said Tim Goldsmid, CEO of Olli Salumeria. "To honor this, we're expanding our footprint with availability in Starbucks and Walmart, two major wins for our growing brand, which allows us to meet consumers wherever they are. Whether they're grabbing a quick high-protein bite with their afternoon coffee or stocking up during their weekly grocery run, we're able to give snackers exactly what they want and need with real-protein, preservative-free options that they'll actually enjoy." At Starbucks, Olli offers its Genoa & Fontina Snack Pack, delivering 13 grams of protein and zero grams of sugar. Walmart shoppers can choose from four SKUs: Genoa & Fontina, Sopressata & Cheddar, Pepperoni & Mozzarella, and a newly launched Hot Honey & Fontina variant. The company has shifted its revenue model substantially, moving from 50% private label to 80% branded sales. Olli holds the #1 position as Whole Foods' salami supplier and claims the #1 slot in the better-for-you refrigerated adult snack pack category.

Manufacturing and Supply Olli, founded by fourth-generation Italian salami maker Oliviero Colmognoli, manufactures all products in-house using antibiotic-free pork. The company continues to expand its manufacturing footprint to support growth driven by the QSR and mass retail push.

Why It Matters

The move signals consolidation in the premium protein snacking segment, with national QSR and big-box retail distribution now accessible to direct-to-consumer and specialty brands. Operators and retailers watching the clean-label category should note the demand fundamentals: consumers are trading convenience-store grab-and-go snacks for higher-protein, whole-food alternatives, and that shift is now reaching scale.

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Written by FBM Publications Editors