Archive 2002

New Products Update Archive - 2002

December 2002

Viskase & Rhodia develop antimicrobial sausage casing
12/09/02 - Viskase Corp., Willowbrook, Ill., and Rhodia Food, Cranbury, NJ, announced development of NOJAX® AL(TM), a cellulose casing that reduces the risk of Listeria monocytogenes surface contamination in the production of hot dogs and other cooked sausage products. This technology is GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration) and is fully approved for use. The casing involves the application of a natural antimicrobial system developed by Rhodia to a meat surface via the cellulose casing manufactured and marketed by Viskase. After cooking and peeling away the casing, the resultant surface treatment on the hot dog or sausage demonstrates a definite kill of Listeria within the first few hours of package life, thus providing an effective safeguard in the event of a post-processing contamination episode. Extensive field testing has been conducted and confirmation testing is currently being conducted by US Department of Agriculture laboratories. Commercialization of this technology is expected to take place early in 2003 following successful completion of this confirmation testing program.

ADM to sell fat-fighting cooking oil
12/03/02 - Archer Daniels Midland Co., Decatur, Ill., announced the launch of Enova(TM) brand cooking oil. The new cooking oil has been clinically shown to help with the fight against body fat and obesity. "Enova oil is an exciting and entirely new type of oil, the first and only cooking oil that can help millions of Americans with their struggle to maintain a healthy weight and fight obesity," said G. Allen Andreas, Chairman and Chief Executive. The product will be marketed by ADM Kao LLC., a joint venture between ADM and the Kao Corporation of Japan formed in June 2001. Enova oil will initially be available in the Atlanta and Chicago metro regions, beginning as early as January 2003. To be sold in 20 oz. bottles through grocery and other retail food stores, the product has been the subject of much anticipation in the food industry. Developed in Japan by Kao, Enova oil was introduced as Healthy Econa Cooking Oil in Japan in 1999. It has since become the best-selling oil in the Japanese market. More than 15 years of research and numerous studies have indicated that the oil helps reduce both body weight and fat mass when used as part of sensible diet. Enova oil is produced from a patented process that increases concentrations of diacylglycerol (DAG), a naturally occurring component found in all vegetable oils. In 2000, Kao successfully notified the FDA of the GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) status for Enova oil. Enova oil can be substituted for ordinary cooking oils in salad dressing, home frying, baking and cooking. While Enova oil contains the same amount of calories and fat as conventional oils, it is metabolized differently. Because of its chemical structure, more of Enova oil is burned directly by the body as energy, rather than stored as fat. This means Enova oil can actually help people maintain or lose weight when included in a sensible diet. A study recently completed by the Chicago Center for Clinical Research has shown that, over a 24-week period, people who incorporated Enova oil into a calorie-controlled diet reduced their weight by an average of 3.6 percent, and their body fat mass by 8.3 percent. Studies have also shown that Enova oil can help reduce post-meal serum triglycerides by 30 to 50 percent. Enova oil is currently being produced in Decatur, Illinois. In addition, ADM Kao is developing plans to expand Enova oil production capacity. The launch of Enova oil will be supported in the two lead markets through a marketing campaign that includes television and print advertising, in-store product sampling and public relations outreach to consumers and to health professionals. Enova oil will also be available for sale nation-wide at www.enovaoil.com. ADM Kao is also working with leading U.S. food companies to incorporate Enova oil into a wide range of prepared foods, including bottled salad dressing, margarine and mayonnaise. "We estimate the long-term U.S. sales potential to be in excess of $150 million per year," said Andreas. "This launch is the first step in a major effort from two leading companies to bring the health benefits of Enova oil to the U.S. market. We believe it has the potential to change the way people cook and eat." Enova oil is a product of ADM Kao LLC. a joint venture of Archer Daniels Midland Company and the Andrew Jergens Company, a US subsidiary of the Kao Corporation. Headquartered in Decatur, Illinois, ADM Kao brings together ADM's long experience in vegetable oil processing and functional food development with Kao's scientific innovations and marketing experience in Japan.

November 2002

Yves Veggie Cuisine launches new line in Japan
11/26/02 - Yves Veggie Cuisine's soy-based products will be available at 100 of Tokyo's largest grocery stores in mid- November through a recently-signed joint venture between Yves, Organic Guild Inc. and Shin-Shin - one of Japan's largest fresh food makers. Shin-Shin and Organic Guild Inc. will market and distribute Yves' products in Japan under the brand name Shin-Shin Yves. Yves Managing Director Kurtis Hooley stated that interest from Japanese retailers has been so strong Yves and Shin-Shin are foregoing planned test marketing and moving straight into stores. All the products have been created specifically for the Japanese market. All Yves products will continue to be produced at and shipped from the company's Annacis Island plant in Delta, B.C.

McCormick introduces new organic flavor line
11/25/02 - McCormick has introduced a new line of flavors that were developed to meet the needs of industrial food processors who are aiming to fulfill the growing consumer demand for organic products in the marketplace. These flavors can be used in organic fruit purees, yogurts, beverages, cereals and desserts. McCormick's all-natural flavors have been certified organic through the Oregon Tilth Certification Program. For more information see McCormick's Web site at www.mccormickflavor.com .

Cargill introduces solvent-free chondroitin sulfate
11/11/02 - Cargill Health and Food Technologies, Minneapolis, Minn., announced the development of a new chondroitin sulfate, called OptaFlex™. The product is said to be the first solvent-free chondroitin sulfate derived from 100% North American sources. "We are extremely excited to launch this highly unique and valuable product. Through proprietary technology we are able to produce this natural chondroitin sulfate without the use of traditional solvents," said Ted Ziemann, president of Cargill Health & Food Technologies. Cargill Health & Food Technologies, based in Minneapolis, is a developer, processor and marketer of science-based, healthy ingredients for food and dietary supplements worldwide. It is a business unit of Cargill, Incorporated, an international marketer, processor and distributor of agricultural, food, financial and industrial products.

Harvest Bay uses vacuum frying for snack products
11/08/02 - Harvest Bay is using a specialized cooking method called vacuum frying, which leaves their snack products with half the fat of regular potato chips. Vacuum frying uses a specialized process: cooking kettles first draw a vacuum in a chamber, then inject a mist of heated oil around the raw product, cooking the vegetables faster and at a lower temperature than conventional fryers. Vacuum fried snacks absorb less oil, and retain more of their natural colors and flavors due to the reduced cooking time and lower temperature. Recently introduced, Harvest Bay offers six varieties of vegetable chips and sticks that are all natural, made with real carrots, green beans, squash, taro, sweet potatoes, red sweet potatoes and radishes. Flavors include hot and spicy Asian, Tomato Basil, mild Tamari Soy and Original Blend. All Harvest Bay products are vacuum fried in 100% non-hydrogenated canola oil, contain no saturated fat, no trans fats and less total fat than ordinary potato chips. Harvest Bay vegetable chips and sticks can be found in your local grocery, gourmet or health store.

Cascadian introduces new organic products
11/07/02 - Cascadian Farm, a manufacturer of organic products, is introducing a new line of 16-ounce Family Size frozen organic vegetables, available in: Sweet Corn, Garden Peas, Broccoli Cuts, Cut Green Beans and Mixed Vegetables. Cascadian Farm's new line of 16-ounce Family Size organic vegetables are available in grocery stores and natural food stores. Prices will range between $1.99 and $2.69 per bag, depending on the variety.

PacificHealth and Cargill to introduce sports drink
11/07/02 - PacificHealth Laboratories, Inc., Woodbridge, NJ, and Cargill, Inc., announced that they have entered into a strategic alliance for the launch of PacificHealth Laboratories ready-to-drink sports product, Accelerade. As part of the agreement, PacificHealth Laboratories will incorporate AscendTM, Cargill's branded ingredient, Trehalose, into their sports drink and Cargill will provide substantial distribution and manufacturing resources to PacificHealth Laboratories for the launch of the product in ready to drink form. Until now, the drink was only available as a powder, whereas ready-to-drink products represent the major segment of the sports drink category. Robert Portman, CEO, PacificHealth Laboratories, Inc. said, "We began an informal working arrangement with Cargill about six months ago. We expect to have store placement in a San Diego area test market in January 2003."

October 2002

New process improves vegetable oil refining
10/29/02 - Researchers at the Texas Engineering Experiment Stations, Ernesto Hernandez and Steve Rathbone have developed a new, simplified method that improves the efficiency and the end product of vegetable oil refining. The new process uses sodium silicate instead of sodium hydroxide as the binding agent. Sodium silicate also acts as an absorbent for the "soapstock," allowing it to be removed by filtration, a much more efficient and less costly option to centrifugation.

New oils introduced at Retail Bakery Assn. Expo
10/09/02 - Progressive Baker(R), a brand of Minneapolis-Minn.-based Cargill, is introducing a new line of shortenings and oils to meet the special needs of its bakery customers. Samples of the new line were featured at the Retail Bakery Association’s Expo 2002 show held October 6-8 in Atlantic City, New Jersey. This conference combined RBA’s Marketplace show with the Atlantic City Bakery Expo under one roof, and was touted as the biggest baking show in the Eastern United States. The new line ranges from premium Flake Products which aid in stabilizing icings and fillings, especially in warm environments, to a durable Roll-In Margarine that is ideal for Danish pastries, to Perfection Icing Shortening, a special formulation for cake decorating that provides smooth, fluffy icings, superior yields and flavor release.

Nutrinova introduces new omega-3 product
10/08/02 - Specialty ingredients manufacturer, Nutrinova, will be launching its omega-3 fatty acid, docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), to the Nutritional Supplement Industry at Supplyside West. Supplyside West will be held in Las Vegas, Nev. on Dec. 4-6, 2002. Marketed under the brand name DHActive, this latest addition to Nutrinova's product portfolio marks the company's decision to take a proactive role in the trend for health-conscious nutrition. Nutrinova began marketing DHA following the acquisition of Celanese Ventures' biotechnology unit Protos-Biotech in July this year. Nutrinova uses highly developed microorganisms called protists to produce DHActive. The company claims that the process confers advantages over omega-3 fatty acids which are extracted from cold water fish. According to the company, studies also show that DHA can be a contributing protective factor in cardiovascular disease (CVD). DHA can only be produced in limited quantities by the body, thus resulting in a need to consume additional DHA. The company says that in the last few months, the required standards for marketing the product in the United States have been met. An independent team of international experts granted DHActive GRAS ("generally recognized as safe") status, enabling the product to be used in the United States of America in dietary supplements and in traditional foods such as baked goods, cereals, dairy products, fruit juices or snacks. Nutrinova, a wholly owned subsidiary of Celanese AG, is a leading supplier of specialty ingredients for the food, beverage and pharmaceutical industries. The company invented Acesulfame K and markets this high intensity sweetener under the brand name Sunett. With its headquarters in Frankfurt, Germany, Nutrinova has fifteen affiliates throughout the world.

September 2002

IBP to offer case-ready irradiated beef
9/30/02 - IBP Fresh Meats, a unit of Tyson Foods, announced they will offer a new line of irradiated ground-beef products. The line features exact-weight, case-ready, ground-beef trays, pre-formed patties and chub packs in five-pound and eight-pound sizes. All packaging will include the "Irradiated for Food Safety" emblem.

Carolina Soy Products introduces no trans cooking oil
9/16/02 - Carolina Soy Products, Inc., Warsaw, N.C., announced the introduction to U.S. markets of a commercial cooking oil that contains no trans fatty acids (TFAs). The Whole Harvest (R) line of cooking oils is said to be rich in heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, is not hydrogenated and is naturally low in saturated fats. The oil can be used for all cooking, baking and frying applications in restaurants or food processing facilities. The line was recently picked up as the exclusive cooking/frying oil for The Libby Hills seafood restaurant chain. For more information on the oil, see: www.carolinasoyproducts.com.

McDonald's to reduce trans fat with new oil
9/05/02 - McDonald's USA announced on Sept. 3, 2002, a plan to significantly reduce trans fatty acids (TFAs) in its fried menu items with the introduction of improved cooking oil in all of its 13,000 restaurants. The company claims that the new oil will reduce French fry TFA levels by 48%, reduce saturated fat by 16% and increase polyunsaturated fat by 167%. While the total fat content in the fries remains unchanged, health experts agree that reducing TFAs and saturates while increasing polyunsaturates is beneficial to heart health. McDonald's claims that they are the first national fast-food company to set a goal of eliminating TFAs in cooking oil. The national rollout of the improved cooking oil begins in October 2002 and will be completed by February 2003. The company plans to use the new oil to prepare McDonald's French fries, Chicken McNuggets, Filet-O-Fish, Hash Browns and crispy chicken sandwiches. The new oil was developed by Minneapolis, Minn.-based Cargill. According to a Cargill press release, McDonald's approached Cargill about finding ways to reduce TFA and saturated fat in their French fries. A global team was assigned to respond, headed by food scientist Ram Reddy, PhD, Assistant Vice President of Cargill Dressings, Sauces and Oils-North America. "To say it was a challenging undertaking would be an understatement," Reddy said in a statement. "McDonalds was asking us to hit ambitious nutritional targets while maintaining the product's unique taste and texture and ensuring it would work effectively in the potato factories' processes." For more information, see press releases at www.mcdonalds.com and www.cargill.com.

August 2002

Nature Valley introduces yogurt-covered granola bars
8/29/02 - Nature Valley has introduced Chewy Granola bars with a naturally flavored yogurt coating. The new Chewy Granola bars will be available in Strawberry Yogurt and Vanilla Yogurt. To support the launch of this new product, Nature Valley will provide over seven million samples at various health clubs and PGA Tour, USTA, and Running USA events. A print advertising campaign will support the product launch and is scheduled to appear in magazines from December to January. The new Nature Valley bars should be available on store shelves nationwide by mid-September 2002. The suggested retail price for one box of six Chewy Granola bars with naturally flavored yogurt coating is $2.69. General Mills is the maker of Nature Valley.

Walnut Acres launches squeezable organic fruit snack
8/22/02-Walnut Acres has introduced the Walnut Acres Certified Organic Fruit Squeezies. These apple sauces are available in two varieties, Berry Wild and Wild Apple. The Fruit Squeezies contain pureed certified organic apples, organic grape juice concentrate, natural flavors and added Vitamin C. The certified organic snacks do not contain any synthetic pesticides, artificial colors, flavors, preservatives or sweeteners. The fruit snacks are squeezable tubes of apple sauce that do not need to be refrigerated. Each two-ounce tube contains 50% of the RDA for Vitamin C and are 35 calories. Beginning in September 2002, Walnut Acres Certified Organic Fruit Squeezies will be available in conventional supermarkets, natural supermarkets and independent health food stores for the suggested retail price of $2.99. Each box contains eight individual Fruit Squeezie tubes.

Tropicana targets children with new OJ product
8/19/02 - Tropicana is introducing a new fortified orange juice targeted at children. Tropicana Pure Premium Healthy Kids is debuting in retail stores throughout the U.S. this month. The product is fortified with a mixture of vitamins A and E, calcium plus the vitamin C and other nutrients inherent in orange juice. According to the company, the USDA reports that 91% of kids 6 to 11 do not get the recommended 5 servings of fruits and vegetables each day. The company says that a serving of Tropicana Pure Premium Healthy Kids equals a fruit serving for this important gauge. Through a proprietary process, Tropicana claims that it has created a taste profile that kids enjoy. Healthy Kids will be available nationally in mid-summer. It's packaged in a 64-oz carton and single serve (8 oz), on-the-go sizes bundled into a 6-pack. Suggested retail prices $3.49 for the 64-oz and $3.79 for the 6-pack. Tropicana Products, Inc., a division of PepsiCo, Inc., is the world's leading producer and marketer of branded fruit juices.

UK agency considers cholesterol-lowering food ingredient
8/09/02 - The UK Food Standards Agency is considering a ‘novel food’ application by a food manufacturer to market 'milk and yogurt type' products with an ingredient that lowers cholesterol. The ingredient has already been cleared for use in Flora Pro-Active spreads and the application comes from the same manufacturer, Unilever. Under the Agency’s openness policy the novel food application dossier is made available for public comment. These comments are then considered by the independent expert Advisory Committee for Novel Foods and Processes (ACNFP) at its next meeting on September 12, 2002. The ‘milk type’ products under consideration include skimmed, semi-skimmed and vegetable-based milk variants. The ‘yogurt type’ products include a range of natural and fruit-flavored yogurts. Both would include phytosterol-esters. The cholesterol-lowering effect of phytoesterols has been demonstrated and is similar to that seen in ‘Yellow Fat Spreads’ containing this ingredient. In line with the Agency’s openness policy, all novel food applications are placed on the website for public comment. The first one appeared in June 2000, shortly after the Agency was set up.

A&B Ingredients offering "organic" line
8/08/02 - A&B Ingredients, a provider of rice-based ingredients, is capitalizing on the organic foods trend with a new line of organic rice starch and organic rice flour. The line is being offered to the North American market. The line includes a raw "cook-up" organic rice starch, an instant pre-cooked rice starch, and an organic flour series. The U.S. organic foods market is valued at $10 billion annually and organic food sales have grown by more than 20% per year since 1992 according to the company.

July 2002

Land O'Lakes to introduce lactose-free milk
7/25/02 - Dean Foods Company and Land O'Lakes, Inc. announced a new, expanded strategic alliance and licensing arrangement. The deal will allow Dean Foods to use the Land O'Lakes brand name nationally on a broad range of value- added fluid milk and cultured dairy products, as well as on all basic fluid dairy products. In mid-August 2002, Dean Foods, through its Morningstar Foods subsidiary, will launch Land O'Lakes Dairy Ease lactose-free milk. The new arrangement grants perpetual, royalty-bearing national licensing rights of the Land O'Lakes brand directly to Dean Foods and includes additional products such as fortified nutritional milks, aseptic products, infant formula and soy beverages. Morningstar Foods is a subsidiary of Dean Foods and produces nationally branded products.

Pepsi introduces blue cola
Pepsi Blue, the latest in a series of new soft drink introductions, such as Mountain Dew Code Red, Pepsi Twist and Sierra Mist, has been introduced by Pepsi-Cola North America. The berry-flavored, blue-hued cola is being delivered this week by PCNA bottlers. Full national distribution, in 20-ounce and 1-liter bottles, is expected by this August. For more product information, visit www.pepsi-blue.com.

Sun-Rype launches shelf-stable OJ with calcium
7/11/02 - Sun-Rype Products Ltd. is making its first foray into the "functional beverage" market with a new Calcium Enriched Orange Juice. The product is available in the grocery "juice aisle", and is available in a one-litre size tetra package. It can be found in most grocery stores across Western Canada at this time. "With osteoporosis as a growing concern amongst the 35 - 54 baby boomer segment of the population, our new product fills an important need," says Rob Peter, Beverage Category Manager for Sun-Rype Products Ltd.

June 2002

Heinz to offer organic ketchup
6/20/02 - H. J. Heinz Company, makers of Heinz brand ketchup, is going organic with the debut of Heinz Organic Ketchup. Beginning this month, Heinz Organic Ketchup will be available in supermarkets and organic food stores in the U.S. Heinz Organic Ketchup, certified as organic according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture standards, is made from vine-ripened tomatoes that are 100% certified organic. Other natural ingredients include organic sugar, spices and onion powder. The decision to launch organic ketchup was spurred by increasing consumer demand for organic products. "The organic condiments category is growing rapidly because consumers today want more choices that fit their lifestyles," said Casey Keller, managing director for ketchup, condiments and sauces at Heinz North America. Available in a 15-ounce, plastic squeeze bottle, Heinz Organic Ketchup has a green cap and features a green version of Heinz's classic keystone label.

New peanut butter alternative introduced
6/14/02 - The USDA's Agricultural Research Service (ARS) and Red River Commodities, Inc., a major sunflower seed producer based in Fargo, N.D., have developed a new peanut butter alternative. Red River Commodities officially unveiled the new product at the Institute of Food Technologists 2002 Annual Meeting in Anaheim, Calif. The new product, Sunbutter, contains sunflower seeds as its main ingredient. The new product is important because the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology estimates that 3 million Americans are allergic to peanuts and/or tree nuts, with symptoms ranging from a mild case of hives to severe anaphylactic shock. Because children make up a growing number of those allergic, some schools have opted not to allow peanut butter in their cafeterias. The new product allows school cafeterias to produce a sandwich with jelly that is similar to the peanut butter and jelly sandwich. For more information, USDA Press Release.

Danisco introduces new enzyme ingredient
6/06/02 - Food ingredients maker, Danisco, is launching a new enzyme derived from seaweed, which can be used by the bread industry and in the production of cheese, among other things. The enzyme, which is also known as HOX, allows bakeries to stop using bromate and ascorbic acid as bread improving agents, and can also be used within the dairy industry. It a discovery made by the Biotechnological Institute a couple of years ago, which has been further developed and is now produced by Danisco. Scientists at the Institute discovered that hexose oxidase would be very useful in a number of applications, including as a food ingredient. It has been approved by food authorities in the US, and similar approvals are expected within a short period of time in Europe and elsewhere. Danisco is expecting to see sales of HOX enzymes at around $6 million - $12 million in three to five years. For more information, see Oresund Food Excellence News at www.foodoresund.com.

Aarhus Olie's site goes online
6/04/02 - European food ingredients company Aarhus Olie has launched a new Investor Relations site at www.aarhus.com. The site contains the latest financial news, annual reports and developments in share prices have been drawn together in a user-friendly format. General information about the ownership structure of the Aarhus Olie group, strategy and business areas also gives investors a broad company insight - a frequently asked questions section answering many specific inquiries. For more information, see www.aarhus.com.

New Product Updates
For weekly a weekly roundup of the latest in new food product introductions from around the world see the Global New Products Database at www.ift.org/extra/newproducts.htm .

May 2002

Diageo to launch 'Captain Morgan Gold'
5/22/02 - Diageo, a leading spirits, beer and wine company, has introduced Captain Morgan Gold, a cold, ready-to-drink (RTD) premium malt beverage with a taste inspired by the Captain Morgan Original Spiced Rum brand. Captain Morgan Gold becomes the second RTD launched in the U.S. from the Diageo brand collection, joining Smirnoff Ice, which launched in January 2001. Captain Morgan Gold will initially be available in both 6- and 12-packs with a suggested retail price in line with Smirnoff Ice and most premium beers. Captain Morgan Gold is five percent alcohol by volume (ABV). The new RTD is launching behind a $65 million marketing investment in the first six months, highlighted by a television campaign.

Online Nutrient Directory launched
5/20/02 - A new online directory from the USDA makes it fast and easy to find information and more for some 1,147 familiar foods. Users can look up the amount of a specified nutrient on the electronic directory. It's an abridged version of the Nutrient Database for Standard Reference, or SR14, which contains more than 6,000 items. USDA's ARS scientists at the Nutrient Data Laboratory developed SR14 using sophisticated analytical techniques to determine nutrient content of foods. This large database is the foundation for most public and private nutrient databases in the United States. The directory is at www.nal.usda.gov/fnic/foodcom . Once there, users can click on "Reports by Single Nutrients," to find a table listing nutrients such as protein, calcium, fiber, carbohydrate, cholesterol, or fats. For each nutrient that they specify, visitors can opt to have the directory "sorted alphabetically" by names of foods, or "sorted by nutrient content" from highest amounts, or best sources, to lowest amounts.

Sara Lee launches crustless bread
5/02/02 - Sara Lee's IronKids brand has recently launched a crustless bread. The IronKids Crustless Bread is the size as a regular loaf and double-wrapped. For more, see the IronKids Web site.

April 2002

Cadbury Schweppes looking at new Dr. Pepper product
4/30/02 - According to a report in the Wall Street Journal and Beverage Digest, Cadbury Schweppes PLC plans to introduce a new version of its Dr Pepper brand in the U.S. in July. The report says that the new drink has been formulated to taste somewhat like Dr Pepper, but bear a more prominent cherry flavor. The new drink's color is said to be a deep red, setting it apart from the brownish tint of Dr Pepper. The product will bear its own name, with a small Dr Pepper logo on its label.

Hormel and Cargill combine to market case-ready meats
4/29/02 - Hormel Foods Corp. and Cargill, Inc., announced that Hormel and Excel Corp., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Cargill, intend to form a joint venture to market nationally branded fresh case ready beef and pork under the existing Hormel Always Tender brand name to retailers in the U. S. The two food companies are combining their marketing and distribution capabilities and expertise through this joint venture to provide omplete case ready meat solutions that address consumers' and retailers' needs. The joint venture, named Precept Foods LLC, will be based in Austin, Minn. The current brand primarily includes pork. Cargill's Excel Corporation subsidiary will supply fresh beef and pork to the nationally branded program, resulting in an enhanced assortment of fresh case ready pork and beef products that will be distributed in retail supermarkets and club stores nationwide under the brand name. Each company would independently maintain existing fresh case ready programs and other meat programs, such as Hormel Foods further-processed meat products and Excel's branded premium meat programs. Precept Foods LLC's products - fresh pork and beef case ready products - will take advantage of recognized, patented processes from both Hormel Foods and Excel.

Vanilla Coke begins distribution
4/15/02 - The Coca-Cola Company announced that Vanilla Coke will begin distribution in the U.S. starting May 15. The debut of Vanilla Coke (Coca-Cola with a hint of vanilla) will be followed by a rollout in Canada. Packaging graphics for Vanilla Coke will feature, for the first time ever, the "Coke" brand name in the unique script of the Coca-Cola. The dynamic ribbon device, or "wave," will also return. The company also announced the repositioning and new graphic look for Cherry Coke, consistent with the design elements of Vanilla Coke packaging.

ADM's soy pasta available online
4/02/02 - Archer Daniels Midland Company has announced that Soy7(TM) pasta is now available for sale via the Internet. "We have had such tremendous success in the Denver, Colorado market. Consumers from all over the country have been contacting us requesting to purchase Soy7(TM) pasta products," stated Tony DeLio, Vice President of Marketing and External Affairs. Each serving of pasta contains 7 grams of soy protein and is available in six varieties: spaghetti, rotini, lasagna, elbow, penne macaroni and angel hair pasta. For more information, visit www.soy7.com .

Dole launches chilled orange juice
4/02/02 - Dole® Beverages is launching its first-ever chilled orange juice in five different flavors and packages. The new line of juices will feature English/Spanish packaging. It is the first national chilled juice brand to offer consumers bilingual packaging. Over the next year, Dole® plans to incorporate the bilingual information throughout its line. The new line is currently available in 64 oz. cartons (No Pulp, Some Pulp and With Calcium) and 96 oz. plastic jugs (No Pulp and With Calcium). Dole® Orange Juice is 100% juice with no sugar and no preservatives added. In addition, Dole® is also launching a new 100% juice blend flavor, called Paradise Blend. The blend, made with carrot juice, is the first blend in the Dole line to have vegetable juice included.

ADM develops controlled-release supplement
4/01/20 - Archer Daniels Midland Co. and Nutraceutix, Inc. have announced an exclusive licensing agreement for ADM to use Nutraceutix' patented Controlled Delivery Technology to develop and market dietary supplements. ADM will market its products using this technology on an exclusive global basis to dietary supplement manufacturers. The first product to be marketed is Novasoy® Daily Dose(TM). This once- a-day supplement provides a consistent, steady delivery of natural-based soy isoflavones (a phytoestrogen) throughout the day, much like a woman's body naturally produces estrogen. Results of a recent clinical study published in the March 2002 Journal of American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists concluded that women who took isoflavones three times a day had significant reduction in a variety of menopausal symptoms. In addition, it was determined that isoflavones may help support a healthy cardiovascular system. The new product is designed to provide all the benefits of isoflavones in a single daily dose.

Burger King launches new veggie burger
4/01/02 - Burger King Corp. has launched the national launch of BK VEGGIE? burger. According to the company, it is the first veggie burger available nationally at a quick service restaurant chain. The new veggie burger features flame-broiled taste, along with a newly introduced reduced-fat mayonnaise. The new burger was launched in restaurants on Monday, March 18, 2002.

March 2002

Cholesterol-lowering beverages developed
3/28/02 - Arthur D. Little, a Cambridge-Mass.-based consulting firm, announced it has developed a series of new beverage formulations that contain a soluble dietary fiber--found naturally in oats--that reduces the risk of coronary heart disease and lowers blood cholesterol. Working with a subsidiary of Van Drunen Farms, a food ingredient manufacturer based in Momence, Illinois, ADL developed the beverages using Nutrim®, the newest generation of oat bran, which features a highly concentrated amount of oat beta glucan. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved oat beta glucan as the component of oats that lowers cholesterol. A completely natural product with no chemical additives or modifications, Nutrim® was originally developed and patented by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) as a food additive to act as a healthy replacement for butter, oil, cream, and other fats. Van Drunen Farms licensed the USDA technology and involved ADL in developing a line of beverages that contained sufficient amounts of oat beta glucan to meet the requirements of the FDA's Nutrition Labeling and Education Act health claim, while also having the equivalent flavor, mouth-feel, and texture as the leading meal replacement and smoothie beverages now on the market. ADL's beverage formulations include cran-raspberry and mango-orange smoothies and chocolate meal replacements. The company also developed a low-carbohydrate version for use by athletes and people on certain weight-reduction programs. "My original intention in developing oat beta glucan into a food ingredient was to provide people with a convenient and palatable way to lower their cholesterol,'' said Dr. George Inglett, the USDA scientist who originally developed and patented oat beta glucan.

Baby foods with DHA and ARA introduced
3/27/02 - Beech-Nut Nutrition Corp. announced that it will develop and market a line of baby food with two fatty acids found in breast milk, DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and ARA (arachidonic acid). The First Advantage baby foods are claimed by the company to be a milestone in infant nutrition, because these nutrients are considered important building blocks of the central nervous system. Research has indicated that DHA supports a baby's mental and visual development. Beech-Nut food scientists developed a patented process to create baby food with DHA. An all-natural, wholesome baby food, each Beech-Nut First Advantage 4-ounce jar is specially formulated to contain no less than 60 mg of DHA. The product is made for babies age six months and older and is available in 13 varieties including Peaches, Oatmeal & Cinnamon, Banana Cream Dessert, Rice Cereal with Apples, and Tropical Fruit Blend. For more information, see the Breech-Nut Press Release.

Coors to launch new malt beverage
3/26/02 - Coors Brewing Co., Golden, Colo., U.S., announced that it will launch a new malt-based beverage, called Vibe, later this spring. Consumption of malt-based alternatives to beers, or "malternatives" is growing according to the report. Consumption has grown 87% from 2000 to 2001, according to Coors.

Cascadian Farm unveils organic comfort foods
3/19/02 - In the U.S., Cascadian Farm has unveiled its new line of Organic Entrees which are said to appeal to the palates of "comfort food" seekers. Cascadian Farm's new Organic Entrees are available in five flavors, including Macaroni & Cheese, Chicken Alfredo, Penne Marinara, Chicken Enchiladas and Spinach Lasagna. Packaged in 10-ounce, single-serving containers, Cascadian Farm's Organic Entrees can be found in natural food stores and select mainstream grocery stores throughout the country this month. Suggested retail prices will vary from $2.99 to $3.59 depending on the entree. Cascadian Farm is said to be the only company to offer consumers organic chicken in their entrees.

Cargill markets shellfish-free glucosamine
3/12/02 - Cargill Acidulants announced plans to market a version of glucosamine hydrochloride, a product for the dietary supplement industry that does not use shellfish as its source. The announcement was made in conjunction with Natural Products Expo West 2002 at the Anaheim Convention Center. Some research suggests that glucosamine may be effective in promoting joint health. Glucosamine used in supplements today is derived from shellfish, which can cause an allergic reaction in some people. Cargill has developed a process for manufacturing glucosamine using sources other than shellfish.

February 2002

Uncle Ben's serves breakfast in a bowl
2/20/02 - Uncle Ben's is introducing Uncle Ben's Breakfast Bowl (TM) products, marking the company's first entry into the breakfast category. These Breakfast Bowls are packaged in single-serve, microwave-safe, recyclable bowls and are available in eight varieties. From Peach & Pecan Pancakes, to Egg, Cheese & Salsa, to Bacon, Egg & Potato, the company believes that this line is a "tasty and healthy alternative to traditional breakfast offerings." The Breakfast Bowls will be available in the U.S. in March and have a suggested retail price of $2.79.

Heinz introduces Mystery Color ketchup
2/16/02 - Heinz will introduce three new colors of the its new product for kids: Heinz EZ Squirt Mystery Color. Three new colors of the condiment will hit grocers' shelves in the U.S. in late April, but children and parents won't have a clue what's inside the EZ Squirt bottles until they squirt it or draw with it on their favorite foods. The new colors are Passion Pink, Awesome Orange and Totally Teal. Heinz is keeping consumers in suspense with the new product via its mystery-designed bottle. The mystery bottle is white and wrapped in a special rainbow label that helps hide what's inside, keeping the user in suspense until they squeeze. The 19-oz. Heinz EZ Squirt Mystery Color bottle has a suggested retail price of $1.79.

Tetra Pak produces retorted food in cartons
2/15/02 - Tetra Pak has recently launched a new innovative carton packaging system. It is believed to be the first time that retorted food has been packed in cartons. The new system is suitable for wet shelf-stable food that traditionally has been packed in cans or glass jars, e.g. soups, sauces, tomato products, fruits, vegetables and pet foods. The food packaged in cartons has the canned food advantages of staying fresh and healthy without refrigeration - a result of having been through thermal processing (retorting). The system processes the food at a speed equivalent to the traditional can systems. However, the carton offers solutions to many of the problems traditionally associated with cans. This makes the product very competitive and suggests that it could make a strong impact on the established canned food market. The new product looks like the existing cartons for liquid foods, but is produced differently and it has a new opening solution.

Kellogg unveils new cereals
2/10/02 - Kellogg Co., Battle Creek, Mich., in conjunction with The Walt Disney Company have unveiled some new cereal products. The three new cereals, Mickey's Magix(TM), Hunny Bs(TM) and Buzz Blasts(TM), were unveiled at the Disney Store in New York. The new cereals are part of a multi-year global relationship between Kellogg and Disney that extends to Kellogg and Keebler brands, and is aimed at exploring new product opportunities. Mickey's Magix cereal is a mix of marshmallows and oat stars that turn milk blue. Hunny Bs cereal combines graham-flavored Pooh bear and golden honey pot and bumblebee shapes with letter "B" cereal pieces. Buzz Blasts feature flying saucer cereal shapes.

January 2002

Sam Adams launches light beer
1/29/02 - The Boston Beer Company is introducing a light version of their popular Sam Adams brand. Sam Adams Light (TM) was successfully test marketed Rhode Island; Maine; Columbus, Ohio; and San Diego, California. The new light version will be available in New Hampshire stores in six and 12 packs beginning in March. According to Sam Adams founder and brewer Jim Koch, "We've worked for years to develop a recipe that offers the flavor and drinkability that beer lovers want,'' explained Koch. "Sam Adams Light is the only light beer, domestic or imported, brewed with only two-row malt and Noble hops.'' Sam Adams Light is said to be the only light beer that uses only the four classic ingredients of beer: water, yeast, hops and malt. The Spalt Spalter hops used in Sam Adams Light are among the world's most expensive and are grown in the Spalt region of Germany. Sam Adams Light has 128 calories and is 4.2 percent alcohol by volume. The Boston Beer Company was founded in 1984 by sixth-generation brewer Jim Koch, the Company and has won more than 200 international awards for its better-tasting beers. Samuel Adams Boston Lager is the Company's flagship brand.

Frito-Lay introduces ‘Go Snacks'
1/18/02 - Frito-Lay, Inc. unveiled their top-selling snack foods in mini shapes in the U.S. In addition, the snacks will be packed in a compact, 8``-tall canister featuring an hour-glass design. Frito-Lay is shipping Doritos Mini 3D's, Cheetos Asteroids, and Fritos Hoops in the Go Snack variety this month. The company plans to add additional brands later in the year. Go Snacks will be sold in supermarkets, mass merchandisers, convenience stores, and drug stores at a suggested retail price of $1.29 per canister.

Miller Brewing and Allied to sell flavored alcoholic malt beverages
1/18/02 - Milwaukee-based Miller Brewing Co. and Britain's Allied Domecq Plc announced a commerical partnership to sell a range of flavored alcoholic malt beverages. The first two ready-to-drink bottled products, to be launched this spring, will be based on the flavors of Allied's Stolichnaya vodka and Sauza tequila. The drinks will compete in the U.S. market against premium light beers. The new Stolichnaya and Sauza ready-to-drink malt beverage products will be produced and distributed by Miller in the U.S. The companies plan to initially invest up to $50 million in development, launch activity, and marketing.

Diversa and Givaudan to develop new enzyme applications
1/07/02 - Diversa Corp. and Givaudan Flavors Corp. announced that they have entered into an agreement to discover and develop novel enzymes and processes for the production of new products for consumer applications. Under the terms of the agreement, Diversa is entitled to receive from Givaudan undisclosed payments. Givaudan currently produces flavors that are added to soft drinks, fruit juices, baked goods, chewing gum, chocolate, ice cream, fresh dairy products, instant desserts, ready meals, snacks, soups and sauces. In developing new flavors and fragrances, Givaudan invests in R&D activities ranging from the discovery of new molecules to the improvement of delivery systems that allow the flavor or fragrance to be released. Diversa develops and applies proprietary technologies to discover and evolve novel genes and gene pathways from diverse sources.

New Product Update Index