IRVING, TEXAS — Hostess Brands, Inc. announced several innovation and marketing-related initiatives to its Merita brand, including the launch of two new bread varieties: Merita Smartwhite and Merita Made with Whole Grain White.

“The Merita brand is rich in Southern history and has been enjoyed by families for generations,” said Ann Oades, director of marketing for Merita bread. “In the South, nothing goes together better than good food and good family, and Merita is proud to be a part of these traditions. As we look to the next 100 years, Merita remains committed to bringing Southern families the same delicious, quality breads, with more nutritious choices than ever before.”


New Merita Smartwhite provides 5 grams of fiber per serving, the same amount of calcium as of that found in an 8-oz glass of milk per serving, 50 calories per slice, one-third less sodium than regular white bread, and it is a good source of nine vitamins and minerals.

Merita Made with Whole Grain White provides 8 grams of whole grains per serving, the same amount of calcium as of that found in an 8-oz glass of milk per serving, one-third less sodium than regular white bread, and it is a good source of nine vitamins and minerals.

In addition to the new bread varieties, Hostess is launching a new Merita advertising campaign that the company said “captures classic Southern moments paired with delicious sandwiches made with Merita bread.” The advertising features the brand’s first major packaging update in more than three decades. Merita bread now features a new logo, richer colors and design and the Merita “Quality Guarantee,” which reminds consumers that Merita guarantees the quality and fresh baked taste of every loaf.