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Dairy Foods

Food Navigator
"From cottage cheese blends to clean-label pints, new protein-packed ice cream and frozen dessert brands are turning indulgence into everyday fuel – and capturing a fast-growing health-conscious market"

The Natural List Podcast
"Cottage cheese ice cream brand Smearcase and Newtopia exhibitor also gets a shoutout."

 

"In a recent episode, I talked with Joe Rotondo, Founder & CEO of Smearcase, shared the story behind launching FroCo—the world’s first frozen cottage cheese dessert. The idea was born during marathon training when Joe couldn't find a high-protein ice cream option. This led him to experiment with cottage cheese and eventually developing a product that offers 40 grams of protein per pint. Smearcase quickly scaled from a kitchen experiment to being stocked in over 100 stores, including Whole Foods and Sprouts, within a year. The brand's name, "Smearcase," is derived from the German word "schmierkäse," meaning cottage cheese, reflecting its roots and mission to redefine healthy indulgence. This is a great episode for an emerging brand founder (especially in frozen)!"

Shelf Help Podcast

"On this episode, we’re joined by Joe Rotondo and Drew DiSpirito, the co-founders of Smearcase — the world’s first frozen cottage cheese dessert, also known as FroCo. What started as a post-run craving turned into one of the most disruptive frozen product launches in recent memory. Smearcase packs 40 grams of protein per pint, uses clean-label ingredients (no gums, no seed oils), and is now stocked in over 100 stores including Whole Foods and Sprouts, less than a year after launch.  In this episode, we dive into how Joe and Drew went from first prototype to shelf in six months, what it took to scale with a co-packer from day one, and why they believe “speed over perfection” is their greatest competitive advantage. We also talk product innovation, navigating frozen logistics, why they trademarked “FroCo,” and what’s coming next as they prepare for West Coast expansion."

Men's Health
"An unfortunately named company called Smearcase makes a cottage-cheese-based ice cream that is the best of both those worlds."

Men's Health
"The 15 Best High-Protein Packaged Products
They’ll help you hit your nutrition goals—and actually taste great.
The ingredients list is simple. The sugar is real. The flavor is a cross between the salty kick or cottage cheese and the easygoing sweetness of vanilla ice cream. And the protein count? At 13 grams per serving? Come on."

Khaa-lo Podcast

"CPG #founder Series #4: Making Ice Cream Healthier and Talking to Your Next Protein Dealers: We spoke to Drew and Joe from Smearcase about how and why they are your next protein dealer and how they are innovating ice cream or "froco" using Cottage Cheese as their star ingredient for a healthier lifestyle."

  

The Business of Food
"Make it Pennsylvania Dutch and make it sexy.

Smearcase is ice cream made from cottage cheese, and what’s cool about the name is that it sounds a little naughty but you don’t know why.“Smearcase” is not making a sex joke. It feels messy and punk, yet has a legit cultural reference (from the German word “schmierkäse” for spreadable cheese). That tension is what makes a great name. It’s sneaky sexy.And if you think cottage cheese is Granny, think again. Thanks to Good Culture and TikTok, cottage cheese isn’t granny anymore."

"One interesting newcomer is Smearcase, New York, N.Y., which created a Smearcase Froco ice cream “powered by cottage cheese and boosted with collagen.” Officials say Smearcase delivers 40g of protein with half the fat of regular counterparts. Smearcase was one of four start-ups recognized in a pitch competition by The California Milk Advisory Board and VentureFuel during a Future of Dairy Expo last fall in San Ramon, Calif."

  

"Brains: Not your mothers Cottage Cheese
Smearcase is the first and only frozen cottage cheese, offering the highest-protein ice cream on the market. The first and only FroCo (frozen cottage cheese), offering the highest-protein ice cream on the market—40 grams per pint—boosted with collagen, low-fat, and free from artificial gums or sweeteners."

   

"Curd Your Enthusiasm: How SmearCase, A Frozen Cottage Cheese Finds Its Way:

Innovation rarely comes from reimagining traditional products in the crowded ice cream and frozen dessert market. Yet that’s precisely what Joseph Rotondo and his business partner Drew DiSpirito have accomplished with SmearCase—a frozen cottage cheese product (or “froco” as industry insiders now call it) rapidly capturing market share and consumer imagination. Their journey offers valuable lessons for entrepreneurs looking to disrupt established categories."

"Cottage cheese being used as a base in homemade ice cream “is an exciting usage occasion. There is even a cottage cheese ice cream brand called Smearcase which is new to market.”

Interview with Joe Rotondo

"Joe and I talk about why he created Smearcase, a high protein, collagen infused "ice cream" or FroCo.  We explore how Smearcase went from a marathon-inspired idea to shelf in just one year. Joe shares the biggest challenges of building the company, how they ensure ingredient quality, and the key strategies they’ve used to build brand awareness. We also discuss their vision for growth, including innovation, distribution strategies, and hiring plans.

The conversation touches on how to stand out against competition and how authenticity can be a powerful differentiator. Finally, the Joe shares insights on creating luck through action and advice for entrepreneurs innovating in traditional food categories."

Smearcase California Milk Advisory Board Excelerator Pitch Competition
Smearcase frozen cottage cheese pitches the CMAB and wins $30k in grant money

Healthy New You
Smearcase FroCo Ice Cream
"This is the next BIG thing--it’s so amazing that it sold out on the company’s website last year. With up to 44 grams of protein per serving, a boost of collagen, and half the fat of regular ice cream, dessert no longer has to be on the naughty list. It’s so rich and creamy that you’d never guess it’s powered by cottage cheese (seriously, NEVER guess!). Enjoy in a bowl or add a scoop to the blender and up your smoothie game.
Flavors (seriously delicious): Vanilla Bean, Peanut Butter, Mocha Joe
Nutrition (per serving): 39-44 grams protein"

  

"Protein, and more protein! As you’re aware, our spoonfuls of love for the humble cottage cheese are limitless, so we are manifesting more innovations like Smearcase—a cottage cheese FroCo billed as 'your new protein dealer.'"

  

Smearcase, which states it is the world’s first cottage cheese-based frozen dairy dessert, was named a winner of a California Milk Advisory Board Accelerator award. Dr. Licon explains why she calls it the “next Greek yogurt.”

     

"Founder Feature: Joseph R. Rotondo of Smearcase - Protein-packed Frozen Cottage Cheese
Have you ever wondered how a simple post-workout craving can lead to the creation of a groundbreaking product? What does it take to disrupt the traditional ice cream market with a healthy alternative? In this podcast, our host Grace Kennedy sits down with Joseph Rotondo, founder & CEO of Smearcase, the innovative brand behind the world’s first frozen cottage cheese. Joseph shares his journey from that initial craving to crafting a protein-packed dessert that’s redefining indulgence. Discover how Smearcase is not only changing the perception of cottage cheese but also setting new standards in branding and product development."

 

Top viewed brands...
We have 1,300 brands on the CPGD website, these were the 20 most viewed brands in 2024....!!!
1.) Single & Fat
2.) Butt
3.) Smearcase

     

"On this episode of the Firebelly Social Show, Duncan Alney talks with Joe Rotondo, Founder and CEO of Smearcase, about reinventing ice cream with healthier alternatives. Joe discusses the inspiration behind Smearcase, the importance of a sense of place in ensuring product integrity and sustainability, and the future direction of Smearcase, focusing on mastering classic, high-quality flavors."

Berry on Dairy

"Smearcase introduced FroCo, the first-of-its kind frozen dairy dessert made with cottage cheese as its base ingredient. The product comes in 14-ounce multi-serve pints in three varieties: Mocha Joe, Peanut Butter and Vanilla Bean. It is enhanced with collagen and is marketed as having half the fat and seven-times the protein of regular ice cream."

   

"Joe is the Founder & CEO of Smearcase, the first frozen cottage cheese ice cream (FroCo) on the market. Smearcase is the most protein-dense ice cream on the market with over 40 grams of protein per pint and boosted with collagen. Launched in July 2024 in NYC, Smearcase has quickly expanded to over 60 stores in the tri-state area and is set to debut in Sprouts and Whole Foods in 2025."

    

"Smearcase, a cottage-cheese-based ice cream, represented by founder and CEO, Joe Rotondo"

    

"Ice cream brands are also taking note launching high-protein SKU's. Startup's such as east coast-based Smearcase have taken DIY cottage cheese ice cream trend into the grocery store."

   

"Smearcase is FroCo, a trademarked name for the world’s first cottage cheese-based frozen dairy dessert. The product is infused with collagen and provides 40 grams of dairy protein per pint. Smearcase was the People’s Choice winner."

  

Dairy Reporter

The 2024 Real California Milk Excelerator cohort

     

"Joe is the founder and owner of Smearcase! A protein packed cottage cheese ice cream! This local, small business is changing the protein dessert game! This idea inspired Joe when he was craving some ice cream while trying to remain health conscious, eating a bowl of cottage cheese when the idea popped into his mind. He immediately started working on it with his sister Gianna and soon brought in business partner, Drew. Since starting this business, it’s been thriving! Smearcase is powered by cottage cheese and boosted with collagen. In one pint, you’ll get 40g of protein with HALF the fat. They are located in 40 stores across the New York metro area, or you can go to their website and check their store map!"

    

Venture Fuel

"Smearcase: The Protein-Packed Cottage Cheese Ice Cream
Smearcase is breaking new ground with its cottage cheese-based ice cream. This innovative product is the first of its kind to hit the market, offering a whopping 40 grams of protein per pint. Infused with collagen, Smearcase ice cream is designed to be a 'better-for-you' dessert option that doesn't compromise on taste. Unlike traditional ice creams laden with artificial gums and sweeteners, Smearcase prides itself on clean, natural ingredients. This makes it an excellent choice for those looking to satisfy their sweet tooth while staying committed to their health goals."

    

"With all the cottage cheese recipes we’ve been seeing online, it was only a matter of time before brands started to throw their hats into the ring. One of which is Smearcase, a new cottage-cheese ice cream brand. That’s right, the main ingredient here is cottage cheese. Smearcase blends cottage cheese with milk, cane sugar, and a collagen-rich protein blend, packing a lot of protein into each pint, ranging from 39 to 44 grams, depending on the flavor."

  

"NYC-based entrepreneurs Joe Rotondo and Drew DiSpirito met while both living in NYC and they both had that entrepreneurial itch early on – Joe ran a sustainable denim company and Drew ran an athleisure company. Through the years they would often meet to discuss their companies and one day Joe mentioned his idea for a cottage-cheese based ice cream. Drew was all in on the idea and the two partnered and started Smearcase, the first cottage cheese-based ice cream on the market infused with collagen."

    

"Sharing a new small business that is changing the protein & dessert game - @eatsmearcase!
Smearcase is powered by cottage cheese & boosted with collagen. The founder created the product with his sister in his NYC apartment when was training for Runningman & realized there were no protein packed ice creams on the market.
The ice cream is made in the heart of NY’s Hudson Valley & has 40 grams of protein per pint 🍦"

  

Food Navigator
"Smearcase brings cottage cheese ice cream to the frozen aisle.
Even though most Americans consume enough protein, they continue to want more and companies at the Summer Fancy Food Show in New York City are delivering with increasing innovation and sophistication across categories and occasions, including snacks, one-the-go solutions and even dessert."

  

"Meet Joe Rotondo, inventor of Frozen Cottage Cheese "FroCo" and founder of Smearcase, a brand disrupting the ice cream industry with their unique protein-packed cottage cheese ice cream."

    

Smearcase is the first cottage cheese-based ice cream on the market infused with collagen. Featuring the most protein per pint of ice cream at 40 grams, this ‘better-for-you’ ice cream does not use artificial gums or sweeteners.

    

"Ice cream barely had any protein, which made no sense since it’s made from dairy, a great protein source. On top of that, the ingredient lists were filled with artificial sweeteners, palm oils, and fillers—things I wasn’t about. I left empty-handed, went home, and ate my usual dessert of cottage cheese with honey and blueberries. But it wasn’t as satisfying as ice cream. That’s when it hit me: why wasn’t there a high-protein ice cream?"

    

"The California Milk Advisory Board, in partnership with VentureFuel, has named eight startups focusing on health and wellness using the benefits of dairy and innovating products to improve digestion, boost cognitive function, provide balanced nutrition, support hydration and deliver sustainable and convenient solutions, for its sixth Real California Milk Excelerator.

Smearcase: A brand turning cottage cheese into an ice cream-like product formulated with collagen."

  

"From high-protein dairy to coffee with collagen: Who’s made it into the 2024 Real California Milk Excelerator final? We look at the food and beverage start-ups that will go head-to-head in the 6th edition of the competition.
Smearcase, makers of cottage cheese ice cream infused with collagen."

Real California Milk Excelerator (PR Newswire)
"The California Milk Advisory Board (CMAB), in partnership with VentureFuel, has announced the eight finalists for the 6th Real California Milk Excelerator during the program's kick-off in Davis, Calif.
This year's competition, centered on health and wellness, focuses on harnessing the nutritional benefits of real dairy and features startups with products designed to improve digestion, boost cognitive function, provide balanced nutrition, support hydration, and deliver sustainable, convenient solutions for busy lifestyles.
Smearcase is the first cottage cheese-based ice cream on the market infused with collagen. Featuring the most protein per pint of ice cream at 40 grams, this 'better-for-you' ice cream does not use artificial gums or sweeteners."

   

Dairy Processing
"The past few years have been good for cottage cheese. It was seen on toast topped with avocado, turned into cookie dough, used as a vegetable dip with mustard, and featured along with other social media trends on TikTok.
Continuing the trend is Smearcase’s FroCo, a brand turning cottage cheese into an ice cream-like product formulated with collagen. Founder Joe Rotondo heard about the cottage cheese trend on social media but “tuned out the noise” to create an “authentic ice cream brand.”"

    

"High-Protein Ice Cream from Smearcase! United States"
"Smearcase’s mission – to “revolutionize the ice cream aisle by offering the most protein-packed frozen option available” – is certainly closer to success with its official launch!
Ice cream lovers looking for a guilt-free yet indulgent ice cream can find Smearcase’s range in select stores across New York City. The brand’s three core flavors are made with premium ingredients, including cottage cheese, collagen, and farm-fresh dairy."

      

"Americans can’t get enough daily protein, and food and beverage brands are rushing to cram more protein into more products. Naturally, interest in classic high-protein foods like cottage cheese has surged. Now, startups are looking to find a way into the trend by launching new versions of food that have yet to be touched by the protein wave - Smearcase’s FroCo’s frozen cottage-cheese ice cream"

  

"People want protein-packed foods. People are looking for different ways to consume cottage cheese. I think this is the way to do it. We’re getting those cottage cheese consumers to the frozen aisle to enjoy the food they love.” 

  

"The Brand That Made Cottage Cheese Ice Cream a thing.
Let’s talk about Smearcase—a brand that didn’t just jump into a new category; they created it.
I mean, Cottage Cheese Ice Cream? That’s bold. And honestly, they nailed it.
Being first to market with something so unique is both a blessing and a challenge."

  

"Is frozen cottage cheese (froco) the new froyo?"

In recent years, high protein content has gained popularity as an important
factor when food shopping. Thanks to its numerous health benefits, protein's popularity will continue to grow going forward. With
social media recently fueling a cottage cheese renaissance, this offers
another way to appeal to these younger demographics, thanks to its high
protein content.
US brand Smearcase claims to have launched the 'first-of-its-kind frozen
cottage cheese' in June 2024. One pint is said to contain 40 grams of
protein, and is also boosted with collagen.

     

"Say cheese — in different ways
Cottage cheese has become trendy in and of itself. But ice cream made from cottage cheese? A company called Smearcase is giving it a go, saying it has all the taste of traditional ice cream but with the benefit of added protein (plus, it’s lower in fat)."

  

"Enter Smearcase, the first FroCo-based ice cream company. What is FroCo? It stands for Frozen Cottage Cheese, and honestly, don’t knock it until you try it. The founder, Joe, is incredibly passionate about the product, and rightfully so. He has taken what was once an archaic style of cheese-making and transformed it into a beautifully creamy, protein-packed dessert.
At the show, I tried three flavors: vanilla, peanut butter, and chocolate. With my years of experience in the ice cream industry, I can tell you Joe is onto something big. The nutritional benefits of his products, combined with their great taste, give him the potential to create a brand new market and make a name for himself as your next Protein Dealer.
If he can lock down his flavours he could be onto the next Froyo sensation."

  

"Following TikTok-viral cottage cheese ice cream recipes, Smearcase is introducing a first-of-its-kind frozen dairy dessert using cottage cheese as its primary ingredient. FroCo ice cream boasts 40 grams of protein per pint thanks to a nourishing base of cottage cheese and a boost from collagen."

"Summer Fancy Food: Glucose Control Callouts, Vevan Refreshes Branding: 

Food and beverage brands took over New York City this week for the annual Summer Fancy Food Show hosted by the Specialty Food Association. Here’s a first look at some of the new products, innovative brands and industry trends we’re tracking from the event."

   

"Cottage cheese core... If you're on TikTok, you see cottage cheese literally everywhere. It's all the rage with the girlies-- people are making cottage cheese tortillas for crying out loud. (SOS) But "cottage cheese ice cream" has gone particularly viral. So I was especially intrigued by Smearcase, a cottage cheese-powered ice cream with 40g of protein per pint. They call themselves this decade's Halo Top and, I think, did a great job riding a cultural moment."

  

"Making our debut at the Summer Fancy Food Show is a significant milestone for Smearcase, We're thrilled to introduce our innovative ice cream to retail buyers and industry professionals, and we believe our unique approach to high-protein, low-fat ice cream will resonate with health-conscious consumers and ice cream lovers alike."

 

"I had the pleasure chatting with Joe Rotondo from Smearcase, we talked about his upcoming product, "FroCo" frozen cottage cheese ice cream and how the popularity of this in general has exploded over the past few years as protein becomes center stage - not to mention as more require it as they ride the GLP-1 wave.  

Smearcase launches at Pop Up Grocer and Happier Grocery in July as their first retail point. As protein reigns supreme as the ultimate health hack, will frozen cottage cheese become this new decade's Halo Top?"

 

  

SELF STARTER SHOW
"LOCKEDin - JOE ROTONDO'S ROCKY (CLARK) ROAD TO the WORLDS #1 PROTEIN ICE CREAM, SMEARCASE"