Plant-based snack brand Mezcla has secured $9.5 million in a Series B funding round, reinforcing investor confidence in the evolving protein bar category. The round was led by Bluestein Ventures, with participation from Santatera Capital and Lever VC, as the brand accelerates its transition from niche wellness label to national retail contender.
Founded in 2019 by Griffin Spolansky and Coco Sotelo, Mezcla was created to challenge the conventional protein bar format—often criticised for dense textures and limited flavour variety. The brand differentiates itself through globally inspired flavour profiles and a light, crispy texture built on a pea protein crisp base.
From Startup to National Retail
Over the past two years, Mezcla has significantly expanded its retail presence. The brand is now stocked at major US retailers including Costco, Target, Whole Foods Market, Sprouts Farmers Market, and Publix—an expansion that signals strong consumer uptake and shelf velocity.
The company’s flavour portfolio, featuring options such as Mexican Hot Chocolate and Japanese Matcha, reflects its strategy of blending international culinary inspiration with functional nutrition.
Protein Bar Category Remains Active
Mezcla’s latest funding comes amid sustained momentum in the protein bar and better-for-you snack segment. The category continues to see strong investor interest and consolidation activity, with several high-profile acquisitions and rapid-growth challengers entering the space in recent years.
Despite saturation concerns, consumer demand for clean-label, high-protein, and plant-based snacks remains resilient, supporting innovation and premium positioning within the segment.
Growth Priorities
With fresh capital in place, Mezcla is expected to focus on scaling operations, particularly to meet the volume requirements of club retailers. Additional priorities include new product development and increased marketing efforts to strengthen brand visibility in a competitive market dominated by legacy players.
As consumers increasingly seek snacks that balance indulgence with functionality, Mezcla’s crisp texture and flavour-forward positioning place it among the emerging brands aiming to reshape the plant-based protein bar aisle.
