Consumables

ADDISON, Ill. — Michael Season's, a Natural Snacks brand, has introduced a new line of snacks made with black beans.

The new Michael Season's Popped black bean crisps line, the company said, features nutritional benefits of protein and fiber, is wheat-free and gluten-free and touts reduced fat and low sodium. The crisps also are free of preservatives, artificial coloring and flavors.

Michael Season's Popped black bean crisps are available in sea salt, nacho and roasted red pepper flavors and carry a suggested retail price of $2.99 per 3-oz. bag.

Customer loyalty has always been paramount for retailers, but as we wade into 2012 and beyond, it is becoming increasingly evident that retailers have a renewed focus on establishing a strong sense of loyalty and creating an engaging customer experience through cross-channel initiatives that are touching customers both in and — perhaps more importantly — out of the store.


Americans may be eating more meals at home, but they are still as pressed as ever for time. That means that food-prep time-savers are crucial for consumers. Consumers want to make healthful, fresh meals at home, but they depend on some prepared elements.


SUPPLIER NEWS — Anheuser-Busch’s Michelob Ultra brand has launched a new iced tea and lemonade-flavored alcohol beverage that’s inspired by the golf course. New Ultra 19th Hole light tea and lemonade is a lighter alternative to traditional flavored malt beverages, the company said. Ultra 19th Hole is available in single-serve and four-packs of 16-oz. cans.


ATLANTA — Sprout Foods is broadening its current pouched baby food portfolio with the launch of a line of organic toddler meals.

The company said the toddler entrées offer a variety of nutritious, organic ingredients, including meats, whole grains, beans and fruits and vegetables, but are free from preservatives and additives. The lineup includes eight varieties, including:

• Pasta, zucchini and tomato sauce with beef;

• Vegetable and potato stew with beef;

NORTHFIELD, Ill. — After a nearly two-year presence on store shelves, Kraft Foods is pulling its Greek yogurt brand, according to published reports.

The company announced its plans to pull Athenos Greek yogurt, despite the substantial growth experienced by the category. Kraft Foods generated buzz around the brand last year with the launch of an advertising campaign that featured yiayias, or Greek grandmothers, and their no-nonsense, unsolicited opinions of the world.

CHICAGO — Nielsen and the University of Chicago Booth School of Business said they plan to offer comprehensive historical perspective on consumer purchases to all U.S.-based academic researchers for the first time.

NEW YORK — Domino Foods is expanding its lineup of sweeteners by adding new items to its Domino and C&H sugar brands.

New Domino Light and C&H Light are an all-natural blend of pure cane sugar and stevia with half the calories of sugar, the company said. Domino Light and C&H Light are available in two package sizes: a 40-count packet box, and a 2-lb. resealable pouch, which offers the sweetness equivalent of a 4-lb. bag of sugar.