Chilean food tech company NotCo has expanded its range of functional snacks with NotSquares, a new product containing up to 6 grams of protein per serving.
Designed by NotCo’s AI technology, Giuseppe, the snacks are free of sugar and contain a slow-release carbohydrate called Palatinose™. This is said to provide sustained energy without the fatigue and increased appetite sometimes caused by excessive refined sugar consumption. NotSquares also contain Vitamin B6 and chocolate made with 60% cocoa.
The launch is part of the consolidation of NotCo’s 2.0 phase, which will see the company invest over $30 million in the growth of the snack category over the next three years. This strategy aims to go beyond creating plant-based versions of existing products, transforming stagnant food categories with nutritious and flavorful products.
Targeting a broader audience
NotSquares will build on the success of NotSnack Bars Protein, NotCo’s first venture into the snack category. The protein-rich bars were launched last year, marking the first time the company had entered a category that was not obviously animal-based.
In their first year, NotSnackBars have reportedly proven highly successful. With their portfolio of five flavors, the bars increased their distribution by 157% in 2024, reaching 1,942 stores.
Earlier this year, NotCo also launched NotShake Protein, a range of sports drinks available in flavors such as Banana Pancakes with Cinnamon and Strawberry with Dates. The products aim to align with health and wellness trends, providing a source of protein and nutrients without added sugars.
“The functional food and snack categories are exploding right now and will continue to grow in the coming years,” said Matías Muchnick, CEO and co-founder of NotCo. “We saw this trend and understood the opportunity. We started with NotSnack Bars Protein and it was incredible with an 11% share in less than a year. This gave us the signal that it was worth betting in this direction, and that is why we are here today with NotSquares, which is targeting an even broader audience. This will be the spearhead of NotCo’s innovation from now on.”
