Consumables

IRVING, Texas — Following the introduction of its Smartwhite bread, Wonder Bread is introducing a new 100% whole wheat bread to its lineup.

New Wonder Smartwheat provides 22 g of whole grain and the calcium of 8 oz. of milk in two slices, and is a good source of nine vitamins and minerals, the company said. Additionally, Wonder Smartwheat contains no high fructose corn syrup and is lower in sodium as part of the brand's recent commitment to the National Sodium Reduction Initiative.

The definition of snacking has broadened, and more choices are competing for the consumer dollar. Consumers also continue to want more for their money.

Value is a big issue for consumers when it comes to purchasing snacks. Research from SymphonyIRI Group revealed that 80% of consumers actively look for the best value when buying snacks, and 42% are cutting back on money spent on snacks.

Meanwhile, competition is increasing from fast food chains that are adding smaller-sized snackable foods to their menus.

NEW YORK — Consumers always want more, whether it is a thinner, lighter iPad, a faster car or a muffin with more blueberries. The same is true in the world of coupons, where a stumbling national economy caused shoppers to demand more coupons from consumer packaged goods companies.

American cuisine always has been influenced by the country’s diverse population. An expanding ethnic population and a proliferation of TV cooking shows have led to even greater interest in ethnic foods among American consumers.

Ethnic food sales are expected to increase 19% from 2010 to 2015, according to a recent report published by Mintel. The study revealed that 64% of U.S. households said that ethnic sauces, condiments and/or seasonings could be found in their kitchens.

SUPPLIER NEWS — Juicy Fruit has expanded its sugar-free gum offerings with new mystery-flavored Juicy Secret gum. The gum builds on the 2009 launch of Juicy Fruit’s foray into sugar-free treats with its pellet gum, available in parent company Wrigley’s Big E-pak. Juicy Secret will be available in a 15-stick slim pack nationwide.

BROOMFIELD, Colo. — Soy milk brand Silk has added a coconut milk product that contains no dairy, no lactose and no cholesterol.

New Silk Pure Coconut, now available in grocery stores nationwide, joins Silk's lineup of soy milk products, which include original, vanilla and almond flavors. Silk Pure Coconut is calcium-fortified and is an excellent source of vitamins D and B12, so that those who are either lactose-intolerant or just prefer the taste of soy milk over traditional milk can get the nutrients they need, the company noted.

NORTHFIELD, Ill. — The active gum category has a new functional addition. Kraft Foods recently introduced Stride Spark, a gum that contains vitamins B6 and B12, two essential nutrients known for helping to release energy in the body.

Manufacturers have been boosting new gum flavors with vitamins and supplements in an effort to help consumers meet their daily nutritional requirements and keep the category exciting. The strategy has worked — gum has seen steady growth over the past few years, outpacing many other confection segments.

WESTON, Fla. — For a limited time, a spring water brand is rolling out new packaging through a new marketing partnership with Paramount Pictures/Nickelodeon Movies.

H20 said its new "Rango"-themed bottles, which will be available through May, feature the namesake character from the animated film. H20 also launched a commercial starring Rango, the company said.

H20 products are available at Kmart, Whole Foods and other retailers.