January Food Product Round-Up: Dietitian-Approved Functional Soda & High-Protein Cereal Finds

January food finds featuring probiotic soda and high-protein cereal. A dietitian reviews Culture Pop and Catalina Crunch.

January always brings a wave of “new year, new you” messaging, but as a dietitian, I’m far more interested in foods that support health in realistic, sustainable ways. No extremes. No fear-based marketing. Just products that taste good and have thoughtful ingredient profiles.

This month, two brands stood out: a functional soda collaboration tied to mental health advocacy and bakery-inspired protein cereals that make breakfast more balanced without sacrificing nostalgia. Here’s my honest review.

Culture Pop Soda x Noah Kahan: Limited-Edition Sparkling Black Cherry

Culture Pop Soda partnered with New England native Noah Kahan to launch a limited-edition Sparkling Black Cherry flavor — a reimagined version of his favorite Culture Pop blend.

The collaboration also includes a $100,000 day-one donation to The Busyhead Project, Kahan’s initiative focused on expanding mental health resources and reducing stigma. As a dietitian who regularly discusses the gut-brain connection, I appreciate when brands meaningfully connect food and mental well-being.

What Makes Culture Pop Different?

Culture Pop is positioned as a soda alternative made with:

• Organic fruit juice
• Organic herbs and spices
• A live probiotic
• No refined sugar
• No stevia, monk fruit, or aspartame

It is Whole30 Approved, certified non-GMO, gluten-free, plant-based, shelf-stable, and kosher.

Unlike many “healthy” sodas that rely heavily on non-nutritive sweeteners, Culture Pop uses real ingredients for a slightly sweet, lightly tart flavor.

Dietitian Perspective

Is this a replacement for water? Of course not.

But compared to traditional soda, it’s a significant upgrade. You’re getting:

• Real fruit-based sweetness
• Low sugar content
• A live probiotic for digestive support

The Sparkling Black Cherry tastes clean and balanced — not syrupy, not artificial. It’s a great option for those looking to transition away from conventional soda without feeling restricted.

Catalina Crunch Protein Cereals: Strawberry Strudel & Apple Turnover

High-protein cereal continues to gain popularity, and Catalina Crunch has expanded its lineup with two bakery-inspired flavors:

• Strawberry Strudel
• Apple Turnover

Both flavors offer 10–11 grams of protein per ½ cup serving and are an excellent source of fiber.

Why This Matters

Many traditional cereals are primarily refined carbohydrates, which can cause rapid blood sugar spikes followed by energy crashes. Protein and fiber help:

• Slow digestion
• Support satiety
• Improve blood sugar stability
• Reduce mid-morning cravings

From a metabolic standpoint, this is a major improvement over conventional sweet cereals.

Flavor & Texture Review

Strawberry Strudel offers a subtle berry flavor without tasting artificial.

Apple Turnover has warm spice notes that feel especially fitting for winter mornings.

Both maintain crunch in milk, which, let’s be honest, is a non-negotiable for cereal lovers.

Dietitian Perspective

Catalina Crunch cereal is a convenient, higher-protein option for:

• Busy professionals
• Teens
• Anyone increasing protein intake
• Clients working on blood sugar balance

Pair it with:

• Milk or fortified soy milk
• Greek yogurt
• Fresh berries
• A handful of nuts

That combination further boosts protein and fiber for sustained energy.