Plant-based proteins and other foods not normally associated with convenience stores are being tested by 7-Eleven as a way to increase its range of healthier products. 

7-Eleven is selling 25 brands of such products in 200 stores in the Los Angeles and San Diego metro areas, in a test that began Aug. 18. They include: ahi tuna jerky strips from Pescavore; PigOut “pigless pork rinds” from Outstanding Foods; plant-based, vegan protein shakes from Koia; and algae oil popcorn from Pop Zero.

The test is part of 7-Eleven’s second “Sips & Snacks,” an initiative to get more diverse and healthier products into the chain’s lineup. The first “Sips & Snacks,” last year, launched 31 companies, but only two – a protein bar from Perfect Snacks and Roar organic electrolyte drink – were added to the national lineup. We previously reported on 7-Elevens Innovation Lab Launch earlier last year.

"We want brands to understand that launching their products in 7-Eleven stores can help them build their business effectively beyond the grocery and natural channels," Jack Stout, a 7-Eleven senior VP, told CNN Business.