Key Points
Papa Johns is testing a protein-infused pizza crust inspired by wellness trends.
Exclusive 8-inch pizzas offer up to 55g protein and premium ingredients, no artificial flavors.
Limited launch for rewards members in Atlanta; wider release possible if customer response is positive.
Papa Johns is testing a new pizza dough—but not for long.
The popular quick-service restaurant chain announced on Thursday that it would roll out a new base for its pizzas, inspired by a broader “wellness-driven” trend among consumers. By now, you’ve probably heard of Protein Cold Foam, Protein Milk, protein popcorn, and now, “protein-infused” pizza dough.
“People are thinking differently about how their favorite foods fit into their wellness-driven lifestyles,” Papa Johns’ senior vice president of brand marketing Shivram Vaideeswaran shared in a Jan. 15 press release announcing Papa Johns’ new concept. “The demand for meals that are satisfying and protein-packed has never been higher. This drop gives our most loyal fans a first taste of what we’ve been working on, and if they love it, they might see it on the menu soon.”
Papa Johns Is Testing ‘Protein-Infused’ Pizza Dough: Where to Find the New Protein Crust Pizza
According to the official announcement, Papa Johns’ new Protein Crust pizza is a personal 8-inch pizza that includes up to 55 grams of protein, is topped with “high quality ingredients” and made without any artificial flavors or colors.
The restaurant chain didn’t go into much detail about the new crust, so it’s currently unclear where it’s getting the added protein from. Similar “protein pizza” recipes, however, have utilized high-protein flowers and/or cauliflower to boost the macros.
Papa Johns said that, so far, it developed two recipes using its Protein Crust, both of which it plans to test with fans during an exclusive limited-time launch next week.
Related: Papa Johns Makes A ‘Bold’ Statement With Latest Menu Update: ‘Bigger Is Better’
“What makes this Protein Crust Pizza so special is that the dough alone delivers 23 grams of protein,” Mark Gabrovic, vice president of culinary at Papa Johns, explained. “From there, we layer on premium ingredients that pack the flavor punch and add even more protein. What we love about this pizza is that it delivers a more balanced, protein powered, delicious meal – without compromising on the quality the consumer has come to expect from Papa Johns.”
According to the brand, customers will be able to try it in two ways:
The Meats (55g protein): Savory sausage and pepperoni with a rich six-cheese blend featuring real cheese made from Mozzarella, Provolone, Fontina, Asiago, Parmesan, and Romano cheeses.
The Veggie (49g protein): Mushrooms, green peppers, and onions paired with the same indulgent six-cheese blend for a balanced option that still delivers flavor.
Sounds good, right? Well, it’ll sound even better if you’re a Papa Johns rewards member who’s located in or around the Atlanta metro area, where it is exclusively testing the items (should the test meet or exceed customer standards, there’s always the possibility of a wider release).
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Papa Rewards members in Atlanta are invited to the participating store to try out the new Protein Crust on Wednesday, Jan. 21, on a first-come, first-served basis while supplies last. Local Papa Rewards members will be notified in the Papa Johns app about the participating location and drop details as the date approaches, per the announcement.
Papa Johns Testing New ‘Wellness-Driven’ Pizza Dough
