Nature Made serves up pickle-flavored gummies for National Pickleball Month

Nature Made is now the “Official Vitamin of USA Pickleball” and will be the Official Vitamin of the US Open Pickleball Championships, one of the sport’s most prestigious tournaments, with on- and off-court presence at the event in Naples, FL this month.

“We know consumers are gravitating toward innovative vitamin forms and flavors to liven up their wellness routines and, as pickle-flavored products continue to spike in popularity, we’re excited to offer our take on the savory snack as a bold, unexpected addition to our leading gummy vitamin lineup,” said Rhonda Hoffman, chief growth officer at Nature Made.

A growing participation sport ​

According to USA Pickleball​, there were approximately five million players in the U.S. in 2021, with the number of ‘pickleballers’ growing at an average annual rate of 11.5% over the past five years.

“Pickleball is really growing as a participation sport, and it’s a really accessible sport bringing together all age-groups and demographics,” Kathi Christensen, director of consumer engagement at Nature Made, told NutraIngredients-USA.

Pickleball players and Nature Made consumers have a lot in common, she added, with both being engaged in their health and wellness journeys.

As more Americans become interested in pickleball, Nature Made and USA Pickleball will also collaborate  to help grow participation in the sport—and proactive wellness—via on ongoing community engagement initiatives including member discounts and special offers, support for local pickleball facilities across the country with equipment, court improvements and instructional support materials.

"We’re excited to welcome Nature Made, the leading company in the vitamin space, to the USA Pickleball community,” said Jose Moreno, chief marketing and strategy officer of USA Pickleball. “This partnership will inspire pickleball players of all ages to prioritize their well-being and provide them with the necessary resources and support. Together, we aim to make a positive impact on pickleball and beyond."

In addition to the pickle-flavored gummies, Nature Made is also releasing a branded Pickleball Capsule Collection, described as “an exclusive drop of limited-edition activewear and lifestyle gear ranging from on-court attire and paddle bags to track suits, socks and more”.