FOOD
Many kids aren’t getting enough protein. This new formula was made for them
Many parents worry their children aren’t getting enough protein. Hiya’s new Kids Daily Growth + Protein combines grass-fed whey, prebiotics and healthy fats in a formula designed specifically for kids
Kasey CaminitiUSA TODAY
Aug. 6, 2026, 6:59 a.m. CT
Many parents know the struggle of getting enough protein into a growing child without relying on sugary shakes, highly processed snacks or supplements designed for adults
As more families prioritize cleaner ingredients and age-appropriate nutrition, a new product from children’s wellness brand Hiya is drawing attention. Hiya’s Kids Daily Growth + Protein was created specifically for children ages 2 and older and aims to make meeting daily protein needs easier for busy families
Unlike many protein products marketed to children, Hiya’s formula wasn’t adapted from an adult supplement. The pediatrician-informed blend combines grass-fed whey protein, prebiotics and healthy fats in a product designed to support growth, development and everyday nutrition
Shop Hiya’s new protein for kids
Why more parents are thinking about protein
Protein helps support muscle growth, tissue repair and overall development during childhood. While many children get protein through everyday foods, parents of picky eaters often look for additional ways to help fill nutritional gaps
Convenient options such as protein bars, shakes and fortified snacks can help, but some snacks contain ingredients parents prefer to limit, including:
- Added sugars
- Artificial flavors and sweeteners
- Fillers and highly processed ingredients
- Nutrient profiles created for adults rather than children
Hiya Kids Daily Growth + Protein
A pediatrician-informed protein powder designed specifically for kids, made with grass-fed whey, prebiotics, and brain-supporting healthy fats—without the added sugar or artificial ingredients found in many alternatives. Save 40% on your first order
Is protein-heavy food typically made for kids?
The kids’ supplement aisle hasn’t always been built with children in mind. Some of the biggest concerns parents have include:
- Sugar-heavy formulations disguised as “healthy”
- Adult protein powders repackaged for kids
- Lack of transparency around ingredients and sourcing
As a result, many parents find themselves stuck between convenience and confidence—wanting something easy, but also something they can trust
Shop Hiya Kids Daily Growth + Protein
What makes Hiya’s Kids Daily Growth + Protein different?
Hiya’s new product takes a different approach by starting with the idea that children’s nutrition shouldn’t be an afterthought. Here’s what sets it apart:
Designed specifically for kids
Unlike many competitors, the formula isn’t adapted from adult protein powders—it’s built from the ground up with pediatric input
Grass-fed whey protein for growing bodies
Provides high-quality protein to support growth and development
Supports digestive wellness
Supports digestion and helps promote a healthy microbiome—an area of increasing focus in children’s wellness
More than just protein
Hiya goes beyond protein alone to support cognitive development, a key concern for parents
Safety and transparency matter to parents
For many families, ingredient quality is just as important as nutritional value. Hiya emphasizes:
- Third-party testing
- Heavy metal screening
- Clean Label Project Purity Award certification
For families looking to supplement a growing child’s diet with a convenient protein option, Hiya’s newest launch may be worth a closer look
Save 40% on your first Hiya order
As part of USA TODAY’s Fall Reset series, many families are focusing on simpler meal prep, healthier lunches and smarter snack routines. Here are answers to a few common questions parents have as they refresh their back-to-school nutrition habits
How can parents add more protein to school lunches without packing more food?
Protein doesn’t have to come from larger portions. Parents can increase the protein content of lunches by incorporating ingredients such as Greek yogurt, cheese, nut butters (where school policies allow), eggs and protein-rich smoothies
For picky eaters or children with smaller appetites, some families also look for protein supplements specifically formulated for kids that can be added to breakfast smoothies or after-school snacks to help support daily nutrition goals
What are some smarter after-school snack ideas for growing kids?
After-school snacks that combine protein, healthy fats and fiber may help keep kids satisfied between meals. Popular options include:
- Apple slices with nut butter
- Greek yogurt with fruit
- Cheese and whole-grain crackers
- Protein smoothies
- Trail mix (when age-appropriate)
- Protein-rich snack bars
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