Cheez-It Protein Original is a new protein-forward version of the classic cheese cracker, delivering 7 grams of protein per 30-gram serving while keeping the brand’s real-cheese positioning. Mars announced the product on September 28, 2026, with a nationwide retail rollout beginning in October.
What’s New About Cheez-It Protein Original
Mars says Cheez-It Protein Original is made with 100% real cheese and is designed to keep the familiar cheesy, salty crunch while raising the protein content. The official product listing shows a 30-gram serving of 29 crackers with 140 calories and 7 grams of protein.
For comparison, the current Cheez-It Original nutrition page lists 3 grams of protein per 30-gram serving. The new version therefore more than doubles the protein listed for the standard Original cracker while staying in the same general snack format.
Cheez-It Protein Original Availability
- Announcement date: September 28, 2026
- Retail rollout: Nationwide beginning in October 2026
- Protein: 7 grams per 30-gram serving
- Serving size: 29 crackers
- Calories: 140 per serving
- MSRP: $4.49 for a 7.3 oz box
Mars says Cheez-It Protein Original will carry an MSRP of $4.49 for a 7.3 oz box. The company did not give one universal national shelf date, so exact availability may vary by retailer as the October rollout begins.
For another recent protein-focused packaged-food launch, see our coverage of MaxiNutrition Bars launching in the U.S..
Is This Common?
Protein-focused extensions of familiar snack formats are a recognizable packaged-food strategy, but this release is a distinct new Cheez-It product rather than a reformulation of standard Original crackers. The key product difference is measurable: the new version lists 7 grams of protein per serving versus 3 grams on the current Original nutrition page.
Quick Questions
When will Cheez-It Protein Original be available?
Mars says the product will begin rolling out to retail shelves nationwide in October 2026, but it did not provide one universal in-store date.
How much protein is in Cheez-It Protein Original?
The official product listing shows 7 grams of protein in a 30-gram serving of 29 crackers.
Is the product made with real cheese?
Yes. Mars says Cheez-It Protein Original is made with 100% real cheese.
Sources
Primary source: Mars / PR Newswire launch announcement. Nutrition details: official Cheez-It Protein Original product listing and Cheez-It Original product page.
Update Log
September 28, 2026: Draft prepared from Mars’ launch announcement and official product nutrition pages.
