Latest Launches: May 2013

New, Improved Tetra Pak

Sunrich Naturals’ sunflower and soymilk beverages are the first U.S. products to debut in Tetra Pak’s (Vernon Hills, IL) new Tetra Brik Aseptic Edge carton. In the food industry, Tetra Pak is known for its environmentally friendly carton packaging. The new Tetra Brik Aseptic Edge carton offers a striking new design, improved functionality, and a better environmental profile. The carton has a sloping top that makes the ridged cap easier to grip and open, as well as a wider opening that makes pouring easier. The carton is made 70% of paper from renewable, re-grown trees. And because it is made primarily of a renewable resource and is lightweight and compact, it has a low carbon footprint throughout its life cycle. All three flavors of Sunrich’s SoL shelf-stable sunflower beverages, as well as its line of soymilks, will use the new Tetra Brik packaging.

Hemp for Sports and Smarts

Hemp Naturals has launched two new hemp seed supplements enhanced with functional sport and cognitive ingredients from supplier Kyowa Hakko USA (New York City). Sport Seeds contain 500 mg per serving of Kyowa Hakko’s Sustamine L-alanyl-L-glutamine. The product helps enhance water and electrolyte absorption, inhibit muscle protein breakdown, promote muscle protein synthesis, and assist in healthy intestinal function. The other product, Smart Seeds, includes 250 mg per serving of Kyowa Hakko’s Cognizin citicoline ingredient to help support memory function and healthy cognition. The product helps protect the brain from free-radical damage, assists in sustaining energy production, and enhances communication between neurons for better visual function.

First Organic Dragonfruit Slices

Navitas Naturals has launched what it calls the first organic, sun-dried dragonfruit slices. Dragonfruit, or pitaya, is a member of the cactus family (the genus Hylocereus). This exotic superfruit has a well-rounded nutrition profile that includes omega-3s, antioxidants, protein, iron, fiber, and a broad range of vitamins and minerals. The slices have a chewy, dried-fruit texture; their taste is said to be similar to that of pears, mangos, and kiwifruit. 

Chia in a Pouch

Chia beverage brand Mamma Chia has pioneered a new type of chia product: a chia snack in a to-go squeezable pouch. Chia Squeeze is available in four flavors-Apple Cinnamon, Blackberry Bliss, Strawberry Banana, and Green Magic. The 70-cal snack combines chia seeds with fruits and vegetables. The product is USDA-certified organic, Non-GMO Verified, vegan, and gluten free. Each 3.5-oz squeezable pouch contains 1200 mg of essential omega-3s, as well as protein and fiber. The product does not require refrigeration.