Barilla, the world’s leading pasta maker, announced the newest addition to its line of Protein+® pastas – Cellentani (pronounced, “CHELL’-en-tah-nee”), a corkscrew shape made with classic golden wheat and protein from chickpeas, lentils and peas. Cellentani provides 17g of protein and 10g of fiber per 3.5oz serving, providing people with a good source of protein, the energy they crave and pasta taste they love.
A First Taste with Soccer Star Sydney Leroux
Barilla Protein+® pasta is all about fueling everyday activities and powering people’s routines. That’s why Barilla has partnered with professional soccer player Sydney Leroux – a longtime Protein+® fan and athlete who embodies the champion spirit of the brand – to announce Protein+®’s new Cellentani shape.
“As an athlete and mother of two, I understand the importance of maintaining energy levels on and off the field each day. I love that Barilla Protein+® helps my family to do just that and more, making it easy to prepare delicious pasta dishes that fuel our active lifestyle,” said Leroux. “Protein+® pasta is a staple in my house because it helps fuel me through my toughest matches and long days. Plus, my kids are big pasta fans and Protein+® pasta gives us something we can all eat together. It has the protein that I want and the classic taste and texture they demand.”
“Whether it’s scoring a game-winning goal or a getting a family-favorite dinner on the table, finding energy is crucial to tackling life,” says Angie Cotter, U.S. Pasta Brand Marketing Director, Barilla Americas. “Barilla Protein+® pasta meets consumers’ demand for multi-functional foods that offer protein, convenience and taste. It’s an easy and tasty way to fuel performance throughout the day, and our new Protein+® Cellentani shape is also sure to be a win with kids, picky eaters, or anyone looking for a new, delicious way to add protein to their diets.”
A Cut for Everyone
The fun and functional “Cellentani” was first created and named by Barilla in the 1960s to honor famous Italian pop singer Adriano Celentano’s whirling and springy dance moves. Now available in the Barilla Protein+® lineup, the pasta’s twists and spirals make it beloved for its versatility in cooking, especially in pasta salads and mac & cheese, and a hit for households with kids.
Consumers will get a first taste of Barilla Protein+® Cellentani at Natural Products Expo West (Hall E #5454) from March 14-16. On Thursday, March 14 from 3:00 – 5:00 pm PST, Sydney Leroux will make a special appearance to officially launch the new Protein+® Cellentani shape, engage with pasta lovers and offer samples of her very own favorite Protein+® recipe.
Barilla Protein+® Cellentani is available at Wegmans and on Amazon, and is coming soon to Kroger locations nationwide. With the addition of Cellentani, Barilla Protein+® is now available in eight different pasta shapes: Angel Hair, Elbows, Farfalle, Penne, Rotini, Spaghetti, Thin Spaghetti and Cellentani. While prices vary per retailer, all varieties have a suggested retail price of $3.49.
New, Energetic Branding & Packaging
Beginning in April, pasta lovers and protein-seekers will also find the exciting new Protein+® branding and packaging on shelves.
“We’ve rebranded Barilla Protein+® to embody the dynamic energy we see in the fans of our Protein+® pasta,” says Cotter. “Our updated color palette is clean and uncomplicated, featuring the brand’s signature vibrant yellow field paired with the iconic Barilla blue. The Protein+® rebrand is reflective of bold energy and Barilla’s nearly 150 years of quality and craftsmanship in the kitchen.”
