IRVINE, Calif. – On July 17, Taco Bell plans to nationally launch its new Power Platform at Taco Bell, which was created to reflect the evolving lifestyles and dietary needs of consumers looking for great-tasting options that are high in protein.

The first iteration within the Power Platform is the Cantina Power Menu, which will be available at participating locations nationwide. It offers Bowls and Burritos packed with protein and nutrient-rich produce, with more than 20 grams of protein and 500 calories or less. Taco Bell plans to expand these protein-packed options throughout different day parts and will begin local testing for a new Power Greek Yogurt at Breakfast, as well as Power Breakfast Bowls and Burritos.

“We’ve evolved the Cantina platform based on consumer feedback. We heard customers requesting a higher protein solution with the flavors Cantina delivers, so here is Cantina Power,” said Brian Niccol, president.

The Cantina Power Menu includes Burritos and Bowls that feature premium ingredients, including a double portion of marinated and fire-grilled all-white meat chicken or marinated and grilled USDA-select steak. The menu is layered in fresh produce like crisp romaine lettuce and Pico de Gallo, which is prepared fresh daily – plus guacamole made from Hass avocados and classic Taco Bell flavors like cheddar cheese and reduced fat sour cream. 

The Burrito is wrapped and grilled in a flour tortilla and the Bowl sits on a bed of slow-cooked black beans and premium Latin rice. The suggested retail price for the Cantina Power Burrito is $3.79 for chicken and $3.99 for steak; the Cantina Power Bowl is $4.99 for chicken and $5.19 for steak; vegetarian options are also available at $3.79 for the Burrito and $4.99 for the Bowl.

Taco Bell calls the Cantina Power Menu the next evolution of Cantina Bell, and it was specifically designed as food that fits consumers’ lifestyles and gives them what they want when it comes to balance. The company relays it offers an excellent source of lean protein with 29 grams in the Burrito and 28 grams in the Bowl, each for 500 calories or less. For complete nutritional information, how customers can make informed choices at Taco Bell, and more on the brand’s food values, go to www.TacoBell.com and click on Nutrition.

The Power Platform also brings a test of the Power Breakfast Menu, part of Taco Bell’s ongoing innovation across day-parts. Power Breakfast includes a Steak Bowl, Steak Burrito and Greek yogurt. The Power Breakfast Steak Bowl and Burrito will be priced $2.79 each.

“We set out to create the next generation of Breakfast, which we are doing through one-of-a-kind menu items like the Waffle Taco, Cinnabon Delights and the breakfast sandwich of the future – the A.M. Crunchwrap. It has everything consumers want for breakfast and can be eaten on the go, so it’s not surprising our customers love it,” Niccol said.

A subsidiary of Yum! Brands Inc., Taco Bell Corp. calls itself the nation's leading Mexican-inspired, quick-service restaurant.