Consumables

NEW YORK — Despite caution among consumers, retailers wrapped up 2012 with a healthy holiday shopping season, according to a new report by a retailing trade group.

The National Retail Federation said Tuesday that holiday retail sales increased 3% over the year before, to $579.8 billion. December retail sales increased 0.8% seasonally adjusted from November and 2.1% unadjusted year over year. Nevertheless, the 3% increase was still below the NRF's projected 4.1% growth. Meanwhile, nonstore holiday sales grew 11.1%.

Rather than take off for the holidays, the editors of Drug Store News took a look at the year ahead and the trends, issues and headlines that will makes the news in 2013.

What do you think? Follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn, and join the discussion there, or post your comments on DrugStoreNews.com ... Or, you can pretend it’s still 1999 and email your comments to [email protected]. Just don’t fax us.

NEW YORK — Vasinee Food, the leading importer of Foco 100% Pure coconut water in the United States, is now introducing Foco in five tropical fruit flavors: pineapple, mango, pomegranate, pink guava and lychee.

Foco 100% Pure coconut water has received excellent reviews for its sweet, pure, refreshing taste. With the addition of these all-natural, tropical flavor splashes, the brand now offers consumers more ways to "Go loco for Foco," as its new advertising slogan suggests.

WHITE PLAINS, N.Y. — Sabra Dipping Co. has added a new Grab N Go pack featuring Sabra’s Homestyle Medium Salsa and Tostitos Bite Size Rounds tortilla chips to its lineup of popular Grab N Go fresh snacks.

The new product marks the first time Sabra has offered its refrigerated salsa in a single serving size. Sabra salsas are made from hand-selected tomatoes that are combined with chunky vegetables, herbs and spices. Suggested retail on the new product is $2.99.

LA JOLLA, Calif. — Kashi, the premier natural food and lifestyle company, today announced the expansion of its popular pita crisp line with the introduction of Kashi Garlic Pesto Pita Crisps, a tasty option for people looking for a savory snack that's both wholesome and delicious.

In the current economy, microwavable single-serve meals may be the answer to consumers’ decreased restaurant use. “These meals occupy the spot between homemade and restaurant meals,” said Harry Balzer, chief industry analyst and VP at NPD Group. “They represent food
service redefined.”

BETHLEHEM, Pa. — The maker of Peeps marshmallow candies is introducing a new flavor for Valentine's Day.

Just Born said Monday that it would introduce Peeps Cherry-Flavored Marshmallow Dripped & Drizzled in Chocolate, in three-count packages with deep-red accents.

"Our chocolate-dipped peeps have been a phenomenal success, and the new Peeps Cherry-Flavored Marshmallow Dipped & Drizzled in Chocolate will definitely excite our fans," Peeps senior brand manager Mark Hoffman said.

NEW YORK — A company that manufactures, distributes and imports candy has introduced a new organic product line.

Nassau Candy announced Monday the introduction of GoNaturally Organic Hard Candies, manufactured by Hillside Candy and free of artificial sweeteners, preservatives, gluten, cholesterol, trans fats, artificial flavors and colors.

Certified organic by the Department of Agriculture, the candies come in flavors such as honey, cherry, apple, pomegranate, iced mint mango, honey-lemon, blood orange and ginger.