NPG’s latest Food and Drinks products launch round-up
Globally distributed natural skincare brand Burt’s Bees has entered the functional food for the first time category with the launch of Burt’s Bees Plant-Based Protein Shakes. The line includes Daily Protein, Protein +Gut Health with Probiotics, and Protein +Healthy Radiance with Antioxidant Vitamins A, C & E. Each formula provides 15 grams of protein per serving from five sources: pea, rice, flaxseed, sunflower seed, and oat – all selected to achieve high digestibility and a complete essential amino acid profile. The new protein shakes also feature vitamins extracted from fruits and vegetables, such as spinach, shiitake mushroom and strawberry. The line is non-GMO, gluten-free, soy-free, dairy-free and made without artificial sweeteners or flavours. Retail prices (US) range from USD 29.99–39.99 and offer 16-18 servings per tub.
La Vida Vegan is Netherlands-based Brinkers’ first range of organic, vegan and Fair Trade chocolate spreads, available in three variants: 15% Hazelnut chocolate spread, 30% Dark chocolate spread and Chocolate spread. In addition to being organic, Fairtrade and Vegan, the three variants are gluten-free and palm oil free. Earlier this on the range picked up the ‘SWEETIE’ award, an initiative from the Rundschau, a magazine for the food trade, in Germany. The SWEETIE is awarded for innovation in the confectionery industry. La Vida Vegan is distributed by Importhaus Wilms in Germany.
A new natural and organic Aloe Vera Juice Supplement has been created by UK drinks start-up Simplee Aloe. The product has been designed to target adults looking for the digestive and anti-inflammatory benefits of aloe vera in a versatile form with minimum sugar content. Available in a 500ml bottle, the supplement comes in two varieties – Original, with a dash of lemon juice, and Cranberry – and can be taken neat or mixed with smoothies or juice.
UK-based organic food pioneer Whole Earth has launched a new range of Power Balls, endorsed by the British Triathlon Federation. Designed to provide energy and fuel for active consumers, the all-natural protein snacks are based around the brands Peanut Butter and incorporate gluten-free oats, roasted peanuts and dried fruits. The Power Balls come in resealable pouches of five and are available in four flavours: Classic Peanut Butter; Coconut; Pumpkin Chia & Flax Seed; and Goji & Red Berries.
US-based fair trade and organic food pioneer Alter Eco is this month (April 2017) launching four new premium ethical chocolate bars. In Dark Salt & Malt, Dark Salted Almonds, Dark Super Blackout and Dark Mint Organic Truffles variants, the bars are made with the some of the world’s rarest and highest quality single origin Ecuadorian cacao that’s roasted from the inside out and finished by expert Swiss chocolatiers. The products, priced from USD 3.99-7.99 (US), are hitting shelves now.
UK-based vegan food brand VBites has added four new additions to its range of 100% natural plant-based products. New BBQ Pulled Pork is designed to have the authentic taste and texture of the American BBQ classic while Piri Piri Burgers are seasoned with herbs and spices for a spicy, smoky and slightly sweet flavour. VBites’ Lemon & Black Pepper Scampi Style Bites comes in a crispy breadcrumb coating, and Vegetable Baked Fingers are made from vegetables including carrots, green beans, onions and sweetcorn in a crunchy breadcrumb coating.
Bravura Foods is expanding its brand portfolio with four new launches this year. Free From Fellows is the company’s own brand and comprises a line of gelatine-, sugar- and gluten-free Gummy Bears, Cola Bottles and Midget Gems. Certified by The Vegetarian Society and The Vegan Society, the brand has also gained Sugarwise status (the UK-based certification scheme for low free-sugar products)