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Consumers may have tightened their belts in the current economy, but they aren’t skimping when it comes to their pets. The American Pet Products Association’s annual review of spending data revealed that overall spending in the pet category grew more than 6% to more than $48 billion in 2010.

NEW YORK — Planters is bringing back its peanut butter business, according to published reports.

The company, which recently gave its Mr. Peanut brand mascot the chance to speak — giving him the voice of Robert Downey, Jr. — will reintroduce creamy and crunch peanut butter varieties, according to a New York Times blog. To mark the return into the peanut butter category, Planters is introducing a mascot for the products who will be called Peanut Butter Doug, the Times said.

NORTHFIELD, Ill. — Kraft’s new entry in the water-
flavoring category, MiO Liquid Water Enhancer, is the first new product category the company has entered in 15 years. The zero-calorie line of concentrated liquid flavorings packaged in a sleek egg-shaped dropper bottle clearly is different than other water enhancers on the market. Promotion for the product focuses on “personalizing” flavors.


NEW YORK — ESI Cases and Accessories is encouraging consumers to get a whiff of the company's Jelly Belly candy-scented smartphone and accessories cases.

Through its new product catalog, the company unveiled accessories for iPhone, iPod, Blackberry and gaming devices that smell like Jelly Belly jelly bean candies. The gel cases are available in five scents, including Very Cherry, Licorice, Blueberry, Strawberry Cheesecake and Berry Blue.

NEW YORK — A new study recently estimated that 5.9 million children in the United States suffer from a food allergy.

The study, published in the July issue of Pediatrics, also found that children with a tree nut or peanut allergy tend to have the most severe reactions, with nearly 39% of children ages 18 years and younger surveyed saying they had a severe or life-threatening allergy. Additionally, more than 30% of children surveyed said they suffered from multiple food allergies.

The study was funded by the Food Allergy Initiative.

Drug Store News spoke with Greg Tradup, category manager of perishable, supplies and foodservice at McLane Co., about how chain drug retailers successfully can operate in the growing perishable foods space.

Drug Store News: Why have fresh and frozen food become such an attractive category for chain drug retailers?

ELK GROVE VILLAGE, Ill. — A popcorn seasoning brand has launched its all-natural, ready-to-eat popcorn in four kosher varieties.

Kernel Season's said each of its popcorn varieties are made with natural sunflower oil, real cheese and clarified butter, and are free of trans fat per serving, artificial colors or flavors. The company debuted the popcorn this past May at the annual Sweets & Snacks Expo.

PALM BEACH, Fla. — Conservative radio host Rush Limbaugh has introduced a new brand of iced tea that puts a playful spin on patriotism.

Two If By Tea is named after the famous line, "one if by land, and two if by sea," in the poem "Paul Revere's Ride." The beverage's packaging is adorned with Rush Limbaugh dressed to look like Paul Revere.

The launch of the iced tea brand also will be supported in an advertising campaign that will include radio and digital media elements, as well as outdoor displays.