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| Australian organic olive oil launched “Historically organic farming has often been conducted on a small scale and the produce comparatively expensive. But organic production is the key to healthy food systems and therefore healthy people. That’s why our philosophy has always been ‘Organic for the People’,” said Mark Kailis, Managing Director of Kailis Organic Olive Oils. “SPLISH is a success on many levels. We have proven that marrying organic methods with large-scale farming has brought economies of scale and therefore an easily affordable and accessible product with great health benefits,” he added. The health benefits of a diet rich in olive oil are widely acknowledged. A recent study by Dr Cécilia Samieri from the University of Bordeaux and the National Institute of Health and Medical Research (INSERM) in Bordeaux, France, found that those who regularly used olive oil for both cooking and as a dressing had a 41% lower risk of stroke compared to those who never used olive oil in their diet. The 7625 study participants mainly used extra virgin olive oil, which makes up 98% of available olive oil in France (Samieri & others 2011). Australia has been slower than many countries to embrace organic production;
however, industry growth has been increasing and prospects for the industry
are good. Biological Farmers of Australia (2010) estimated that domestic
retail sales of organic products increased by 40.8% between 2006–07
and 2008–09. “This moment has been 17 years in the making and we’re extremely proud to bring SPLISH to market. Our farms have been set up for this moment since day one, but it takes time to develop the organic farm systems we employ, to establish the olive groves, to find the right varieties for the soil and climate and build up the harvest from year to year. With the 2011 harvest coming to a conclusion our fruit quality has been exceptional which is testament to the health and benefits of land management under an organic farming system. Now, with over 1795 hectares and five olive groves, across four farms in Western Australia we’re proving that ‘Organic for the People’ is not just a dream, but a reality,” concluded Mr Kailis. References Antioxidant rich juices Mr De Luca believes that they are providing consumers an easy, completely natural option for keeping healthy throughout winter, due to the high antioxidant levels and anti-viral properties of their products. Containing one of the highest fruit antioxidant levels (measured by Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity (ORAC)), Found Organic’s pomegranate juice has an ORAC level of 3307. Pomegranate juice is believed to help lower cholesterol and blood pressure while increasing blood flow and circulation. Pomegranate is also claimed to fight free radical causes of cancer, ageing, heart disease, lung disease and Alzheimer’s, and to provide digestive and circulatory benefits claimed to help reduce the formation of cellulite. Found Organic’s orange juice is made entirely from Washington navel oranges, which are low in natural sugar, while their sour cherry juice contains antioxidants that reportedly prevent cancer and heart disease. It is also rich in melatonin, an antioxidant known to protect the heart and slow the ageing process, and a potential source of treatment for diabetes, gout, arthritis and high cholesterol. Sour cherry also contains high levels of anthocyanins which reportedly have powerful anti-inflammatory properties. As well as being available in Australia, the products are also sold in the Maldives, Turkey, Singapore and other parts of Asia with distribution expected soon in Sweden, UK and USA. The products are certified by the BCS-OKO Organic Certification Body and UK Soil Association A daily calcium boost “on-the-go” New EXTRA Professional Calcium is an Australian-first for sugar-free gum. Chewing just two pieces of the gum for 20 minutes is claimed to provide 10% of the Recommended Dietary Intake (RDI) of calcium (800 mg/day). “New EXTRA Professional Calcium is a significant innovation for us – the first fortified sugar-free gum to be approved for release in this market. With more than half of the Australian population already chewing gum, EXTRA Professional Calcium is an ideal way for consumers to add a little bit more calcium to their diet, without having to make and sustain any major lifestyle changes,” said Wrigley Pacific Marketing Director Andrew Leakey. The EXTRA Professional range (which includes EXTRA Professional and EXTRA Professional White), has been a key category growth driver, accounting for 16.1% share of gum in national grocery channels, and a 15% share of gum in national convenience channels. Over the past five years, the gum category has grown strongly at 7.72% in national grocery channels. During this period, total EXTRA Gum has grown 1.64%, whilst the EXTRA Professional range has seen an impressive 2.58% growth. “We know that consumers are increasingly seeking products that offer additional new benefits, so we believe that EXTRA Professional Calcium has the potential to expand the category by increasing per capita consumption and attracting new or lapsed users,” said Shane Bonello, Wrigley Pacific Sales Director. The launch of the gum will be supported via a substantial integrated marketing and communications campaign across Australia and New Zealand, including above the line advertising, dedicated point of sale, experiential marketing, proactive media engagement and healthcare professional outreach to drive awareness of the launch. The addition of calcium to chewing gum is regulated through Standard 2.10.3 of the Food Standards Code. Coopers launches new DIY beer The Marketing Manager Brewing Products for Coopers, Scott Harris, said that the new micro fermenter addressed many of the common problems experienced by novice brewers. “The new fermenter is injection-moulded from clear plastic and has been designed so that it is much easier to clean and sterilise. It also has a rounded, conical base to capture sediment and does not require an airlock. We have also developed an easy-to-read plastic hydrometer specifically for measuring alcohol content of beer that replaces the fragile glass hydrometers provided previously. “These developments will overcome the vast majority of problems that new brewers experience,” he explained. Mr Harris also explained that the new conical-based fermenter had a floating collar and lid, which would enable vigorous brews to expand instead of bubbling through the airlock, while the clear plastic design meant that people could see when fermentation was taking place rather than relying on the previous unreliable method of bubbling through the airlock. “We have also incorporated a number of other advances which make it easier for people to produce their own beer simply with greater reliability and minimal cleaning. A new dvd rom has been made to take people through the simple steps involved in brewing with their DIY Beer kits. It contains links to interesting sites, as well as tips and hints for new brewers. A new website, www.diybeer.com.au, has also been developed to assist new brewers,” he said. Mr Harris said that the DIY market in general was growing strongly throughout the community and many DIYers were also enthusiastic about making their own beers. “The use of modern brewing equipment and high quality ingredients means that good results are now virtually guaranteed if people follow the instructions,” he concluded. Peelable ice-cream being released worldwide The ice-cream stick can be eaten like a banana, starting with a bite from the top of the peelable jelly shell, which can then be rolled down like a banana skin to reveal a ice-cream core. The ice-cream meets the Nestlé Nutritional Foundation requirements, containing no artificial colourings, being low in fat and low in sugar. The launch was aligned with the Eat Smart Play Hard campaign in Thailand – with the endorsement of the Thai Ministry of Public Health – which focused on children aged between 6–12 years old to encourage more health-conscious food choices. More breakfast cereals with BARLEYmaxTM Victorian-based Popina Foods has launched more breakfast cereal products under its Goodness Superfoods brand. All products contain the CSIRO developed BARLEYmaxTM (see Food Aust 60(10): 467, October 2008, Food Aust 63(1, 2): 4, Jan/Feb 2011) and follow on from the launch of Digestive 1st and Protein 1st in 2009 (Food Aust 61(10): 407, October 2009). BARLEYmax is promoted as a “super wholegrain” that is high in fibre, particularly resistant starch, which promotes the good bacteria in the gut for optimum bowel and digestive health. Increased wholegrain intake is also encouraged as it may help lower the risk of large bowel cancers, heart disease, diabetes, and stroke, and can even assist with weight control. Extensive studies have been carried out on b-glucan and its benefits for heart health. It is believed that b-glucan is heart protective because of its ability to lower cholesterol, in particular, the re-absorption of cholesterol. A unique combination, used for the first time in an Australian breakfast cereal, combines BARLEYmax (at least 51%) and wholegrain oats. Heart 1st provide one of the highest amounts of B-glucan of any breakfast cereal available on the market; the nutritional result is double the fibre and more than double the B-glucans of just oats alone. Heart 1st also contains cranberries for their antioxidant properties, nuts (for their “good fats”) and is low GI. The final new product to be launched is FibreBoost Sprinkles. Made with 100% wholegrain kibbled BARLEYmaxTM, FibreBoost Sprinkles are promoted as a versatile and easy way to increase fibre content, by adding to a range of foods. Speaking at the product launch in Sydney in February were CSIRO Chief Research Scientist Dr David Topping, who outlined some of the research evidence concerning BARLEYmax and bowel health, and Dr Joanna McMillian APD, who discussed the nutritional benefits of the new cereals. Further information is available from www.csiro.au/foodfutures and www.goodnesssuperfoods.com.au. European-style pastries possible with new glaze The Australian family-owned company’s Neutral Glaze Product will give tarts, cakes and cheesecakes an excellent shine. It will also extend the life of the product by coating the fruit and preventing drying. Trisco Foods Director Mike Tristram said that Neutral Glaze was a fantastic innovation. “At Trisco Foods, we aim to create high quality products that help Australian businesses achieve superior results. Our new Neutral Glaze product will enable bakers to recreate European-style baked goods that look amazing and taste delicious,” he explained. New generation Vegemite product Kraft Foods Australia/New Zealand Head of Vegemite Ben Wicks said, “MY FIRST VEGEMITE is a result of a growing consumer need for products with added nutritional benefits. Mothers told us that they want children’s products that are age appropriate, lower in sugar and sodium, and an additional source of iron. MY FIRST VEGEMITE delivers on all of these properties, whilst maintaining the Vegemite flavour that Aussies love.” “What our research and development team has innovated, locally here in Australia, is a product that manages to deliver on the features that make Vegemite an Australian household favourite; however, with added benefits – a 50% reduction in sodium is a significant achievement for this product. With the new fortification benefits, we believe MY FIRST VEGEMITE will ensure that this Australian icon continues to be a part of every growing child’s life, just as it has been a part of the Aussie breakfast ritual for more than 85 years,” added Mr Wicks. MY FIRST VEGEMITE has been endorsed and commended by nutritionists Kara Landau and Dr Joanna McMillan for children over the age of one. The recommended serving size of MY FIRST VEGEMITE is 2.5 g, giving children a boost to their daily iron dietary requirements and 25% of the recommended intake of B6 and B12. 2010 new product round-up food Australia frequently receives information on new product releases which we are not always able to include in the publication. In this Product Development Feature therefore we provide a run-down of some of the more interesting foods and beverages which have come to our attention in recent months. Beverages Queensland-based ZAG beverages released a natural alternative Oski Positive energy drink that contains no caffeine, no artificial stimulants and little to no sugar. The drinks, however, contain L-theanine, Siberian Ginseng, Ginkgo Biloba and Schizandra, which they claim, when combined, may maintain and improve mental alertness and concentration, maintain physical performance and overcome fatigue. Berri Juice sought to fill the gap between iced teas and juice in the petrol and convenience market by introducing their Berri Creations fruit drinks range for ‘on-the-go’ consumers. Whilst suitable for all consumers, Berri Creations was aimed predominantly at 18–24 year old consumers (Gen Y). Berri discovered that Gen Y consumes a high percentage of total beverages during the day, but not much juice outside of the breakfast period, so saw an opportunity to create a fun, carefree and refreshing juice alternative. They backed their faith in the new brand with a $2.5 million media campaign. Lipton Large Leaf tea in its unique pyramid bag hit the supermarket shelves in August 2010, its design aimed at offering the full flavour of loose tea along with the convenience of a tea bag. The gossamer mesh bag allows extra room for tea leaves, and in the case of herbal tea, bigger fruit pieces, to move whilst brewing. Claimed to contain five key electrolytes – potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, sodium and calcium and rich in iron, copper, proteins, vitamins C and B and glucose, BEYOND 100% pure coconut water was promoted as a natural alternative to sports drinks. Meat and egg products Vegetables and cereals Emma & Tom’s Life bars claim to be the first chia seed containing
snack bars. Two of their unprocessed bar products, Fig & Lemon and
Banana, contain chia seeds as well as preservative-free dried fruits
and raw nuts, which are the standard in Emma & Tom’s products.
For people SUPA SECRETS chips and bars for children were released by Slim Secrets at the end of 2010. Both products fall within the Healthy Kids amber category used by canteens. The chips have 1.3 g fat per serves, which is 80% less fat than regular chips. The oat-based bars contain omega-3s, low sodium and chia seeds and provide 115 calories per bar. New snack products in the retail market The first half of 2010 has seen a new range of versatile, healthy or indulgent, innovatively flavoured snack products within the pie and tarts, cakes and muffins and biscuit categories. Pies and tarts In a stylish new pack, Nanna’s up-market Premium Tarts feature some new flavour combinations: Custard with Apple & Rhubarb, Custard with Peach & Passionfruit and traditional Lemon Curd. Nanna’s Brand Manager, Jane Westney, said that the new Premium Tarts provide patisserie quality, at a value that Nanna’s is famous for. “They’re perfect for a sweet treat at morning or afternoon tea, and classy enough to dress up as a great dessert for family or guests. Just the thing to have in your freezer for when unexpected visitors arrive. No heating required, 20 minutes out of the freezer and they are ready to eat.” Nanna’s Premium Tarts are available in the frozen dessert section of Woolworths supermarkets. Sara Lee, bakers of frozen desserts, has introduced a new recipe for its frozen fruit pies. Sara Lee claims to have taken Australia’s much-loved apple pie and made it even better, transforming the apple recipe using 100% Australian Pink Lady apples, to give Sara Lee Fruit Pies the ‘perfect balance of flavours’. The crisp Pink Lady apples are combined with a new crunchy, golden short crust pastry. Sara Lee Apple Pies come in a number of varieties; viz Apple or Apple & Berry, with custard or crumble. Sara Lee has also introduced the first chocolate pie from the supermarket freezer. Sara Lee Chocolate Pies are baked in a short crust, with a chocolate sponge topped with chocolate sauce and a lattice top. Available in full chocolate or a chocolate and caramel combination, Sara Lee claims that dessert fans and die-hard chocoholics will be completely satisfied. Cakes and muffins The Lite Bakes range has been developed and portioned with healthy eating in mind and includes a Blueberry Muffin with a blueberry sauce centre, a Choc Muffin with a berry sauce centre, a Banana Muffin with a berry sauce centre, a Banana Cake, a Choc Vanilla Cake, a Carrot Cake, an Apple Slice and a Fruit Cobbler Slice. Each product has reduced fat compared with the standard Sara Lee product, is a source of fibre and has no artificial colours, flavours or preservatives. Promoted as a program to make healthier and easier choices using green, amber and red categories for display proportions, State governments aim to reduce the availability of ‘red’ foods whilst increasing ‘green’ menu items. In a study conducted nationally to understand the bakery needs of kiosk and canteen retailers within healthcare facilities (non-patient), 84% said it had been implemented to some degree in their hospital, and 67% said they were fully implementing the healthier choices program. However, the majority stated that their main concerns were the ability to keep prices in line with customer expectations, the diversity of product offerings, keeping products appealing to customers and turnover of products leading to waste. “Sara Lee is committed to providing their consumers with healthier choices – that’s why we’ve worked hard to develop our new diverse and delicious Lite Bakes range,” explained Nick Roberts, Marketing Director of Sare Lee Bakery. The Lite Bakes range is individually portioned and wrapped for hygiene and convenience in healthcare retail and hospitality facilities, and can be stored frozen to reduce waste. Sara Lee believes that their new range offers a solution to retailers within healthcare facilities. By offering a tasty, diverse range of bakery snacks that meets the ‘Amber” criteria across five states, the Lite bakes range fills a gap in menu supply without impacting current costs, margins and diversity of product offering – making it easier to comply with the governments’ healthier choices guidelines. Wendy’s 300 stores across Australia and New Zealand now include gourmet Ice Cream Cupcakes on the menu – chocolate cups filled with Wendy’s scoop ice cream, topped with flavoured whipped cream and decorated with chocolate or biscuit pieces. “At Wendy’s we are always developing unique and innovative products and we are very excited to be the first to offer Ice Cream Cupcakes. We’re sure this product will prove to be very popular,” said Wendy’s General Manager Marketing, Todd Duthie. Biscuits, crackers and more New Goodies baked crackers are available in two varieties: Goodies Two Seeds – containing sesame seeds and poppy seeds and Goodies Four Grains – containing millet, buckwheat, quinoa and amaranth. The gluten-free snacks are described as being ‘full of crunch and flavour’ that is derived from natural seeds and grains and are promoted as perfect for munching or dipping. Many people are now looking for products that contain grains and seeds; however, some snacks with natural ingredients can taste bland. “Our focus for the new Goodies range was to create simple snacks with grains and seeds that taste fantastic,” said Michael Neale, Fantastic Snacks’ Head of Sales and Marketing. Kez’s Almond Toffee retains its homemade flavour derived from being made on the stove. Toasted almonds are coated in light toffee and premium chocolate provides a sweet sensation. The Kez’s Gluten and Dairy Free range also includes Almond Bread, Chocolate Coconut Bread, Cranberry Biscotti, Melting Moments and Olive Oil, Rosemary and Linseed Bread. Family-owned and run for over ten years, Kez’s aims to provide Australians with delicious indulgences made from the finest quality ingredients, proven recipes and a true gourmet attitude to great taste; and they believe that this range is no exception. New ‘meat’ product releases for 2010 This year will see chicken retailer Lenard’s launching ten new products in order to meet the growing demands of Australian families for more variety in their weekly lunch and dinner menus. The 10 out of 10 Range includes seven new products now available in Lenard’s stores across Australia including Lenny Pops, Grill Stick, the Pinwheel, Chunky Chicken Sausages, Garlic Potato Hi-Top Muffin, plus Singapore Sizzle and Hong Kong Hotpot stir fries. Further products will be released to the range each month. Lenny Pops proved popular with both children and adults so Lenard’s has added it to the menu for the remainder of 2010. The Lenny Pop is comprised of freshly minced chicken coated in a tasty crumb and served on a stick. For the gourmets in the family, Lenard’s new Chunky Chicken Sausages are available in three international flavours: Italian, Thai and Moroccan. In addition to these new products, three menu items from the successful Vegemite range have been added to the Lenard’s staple product list for the remainder of 2010; viz Vegemite and Cheese Chicken Sausages, Vegemite and Cheese Chicken Mini Strudels and Vegemite Marinated Wings. Chicken from the supermarket “The pouch-pack makes storing your chicken fillet and pieces a whole lot easier, particularly for those cooking for just one or two people. The pouch-pack concept was prompted by our consumers. We identified through recent research, a vast number of consumers arrive home after visiting the supermarket, unpack their tray of breast fillets and then individually plastic wrap each fillet before storing in the freezer,” said Ms Moroney.
Lilydale Brand Manager Bianca Di Donato said that the new winter offerings will boost Lilydale’s shelf presence and brand awareness while meeting consumer demand for more quick and easy ways to enjoy quality, nutritious free range chicken. A variety of pies “For many, chicken has become even more popular than beef, so introducing a chicken party pie seems obvious really. It provides families with more variety and choice. They’re great for parties, snacks, and with a few veggies make an easy mid-week meal the kids will love. Now there are more reasons than ever to serve Patties Party Pies, whatever the occasion,” said Sue Clohesy, Patties Brand Manager. “Party pies should be fun. Kids love Patties Mini Party Pies, and they love Mr Men Little Miss books. So we put them together in this fun new product,” said Ms Clohesy. “Beef and mushroom is a traditional winter warmer. It’s perfect for people who want a convenient meal and don’t want to compromise on quality or taste. Quick, easy and great tasting, serve with salad or veggies for an ideal lunch or dinner…,” said Ms Pittas. The Beef & Mushroom Pie is the latest flavour in Herbert Adams’ 2-pack range, which includes King Island Beef, Chilli Con Carne, Creamy Chicken & Leek and Traditional Shepherds Pie. Ms Pittas said, “We are excited that we can now offer a chicken pie to our customers within our Herbert Adams finger food range. Chicken seems to have overtaken beef as Australia’s favourite meat, so this great addition to our range just made sense – an excellent tasting petite pie made with real chicken. It provides a great flavour choice that will have wide market appeal. They are just the thing for entertaining, or a great afternoon or pre-dinner snack.” The Chicken & Leek Petite Pie is the latest flavour in Herbert Adams’ finger food range, which also includes Pepper Steak, Beef & Burgundy petite party pies and Spinach & Ricotta petite rolls. Exotic beef jerky flavours Geronimo Jerky uses fresh, lean cuts of beef. After marinating, the meat is dehydrated for 15–17 hours and from there it is packed fresh and ready for sale. The jerky is available in six flavours: Original, Spicy Shaman, Buckshot (with a peppery note), Sidewinder (with chilli flavours), Blazin’ Saddles and Flamin’ Hot. Low fat ‘cream’ The Light version contains up to 60% less fat than regular cream (35% fat) and comes minus the product failings of other cream products – no separating or curdling. Kim McCosker, author of Australia’s best selling cookbook 4 Ingredients, has thrown her support behind the new products, labelling Philadelphia Cream for Cooking ‘a food revolution’. “Philadelphia Cream for Cooking challenges the concept
of cream as we know it. It has the indulgent texture of a pure dollop
cream, can be easily spooned into a hot pan, and unlike most creams
won’t curdle or separate in any recipe. Kraft Foods Australia/New Zealand Director of Corporate Affairs Simon Talbot has marked the launch of Philadelphia Cream for Cooking the most significant innovation for the organisation in 2010. “We think Philadelphia Cream for Cooking has the potential to challenge the consumer perception of cream and have no doubts that it will surpass their expectations. Historically cream usage in cooking has been limited due to the fat content, with low-fat creams regarded as non-performing with inferior functionality,” he explained. “Our research and development team at Kraft Foods Australia/New Zealand has created a product that allows consumers to indulge in the luxury of cream-based cooking, without the negative implications. “What we’ve developed, locally here in Australia, are two products that deliver on the properties that make cream a kitchen favourite, without the high fat content or the problems of separating and curdling. “Most significantly, with the launch of this Philadelphia Cream for Cooking, we will manufacture more than 20 000 tonnes of Philadelphia and cream cheese-based products in Mount Gambier each year. This is good news for Australian dairy farmers and our manufacturing plant in South Australia,” concluded Mr Talbot. Philadelphia Cream for Cooking has been released in two varieties: original, which is 30% less fat, and Light, which is 60% less fat than regular cream. Philadelphia Cream for Cooking appeared in stores across Australia from April. World-first technology for ‘energy drink’ The new ready-to-go Berocca Performance Twist N Go drink uses a world-first cap technology, developed by Australian designers, to hold the tablet which, when twisted, is released into purified water. Once dissolved, the drink ‘gives a burst of healthy energy’ just like normal Berocca to ‘improve physical and mental performance throughout the day’ (Haskell & other 2009). Bayer Marketing Manager Nick Stabback said that Berocca Twist N Go was created “in response to consumer demand for convenient, healthy products that offered all day energy”. It is claimed that Berocca Performance is scientifically proven to improve concentration (Carroll & others 2000) and that when taken daily for 28 days it can reduce stress and mental tiredness. “Health and convenience continue as increasingly important factors driving purchasing behaviour around the globe … Berocca in a ready-to-go format made perfect sense. We know it will be the ideal solution to help active Australians stay energised …” said Mr Stabback. It has taken Australian designers more than ten years
to develop and produce the technology behind the unique Berocca Twist
N Go cap technology. References
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Kailis
Organic Olive Oils have recently released SPLISH Organic Extra
Virgin Olive Oil. Working on the ethos of ‘Organic for the People’,
SPLISH is claimed to be Australia’s first widely produced
organic olive oil. The release of SPLISH, available in both
mild and fruity flavours, continues to strengthen the organic industry
as it provides Australian consumers with more affordable and accessible
organic produce.
In
addition to claiming to be the world’s first carbon neutral juice
company, Found Organic (www.foundorganic.com.au) has launched
a range of juice products that is claimed to be 100% organic and made
entirely from cold-pressed fruit sourced from Turkey. The company was
founded in 2007 by Sydney-based Mark de Luca and Onur
Kece.
The
Wrigley Company has launched a new product innovation to its EXTRA
Professional™ sugarfree chewing gum range across the Pacific
region.
Coopers
Brewery has launched DIY Beer to tap into the growing interest of people
in brewing their own beer. The release of a new-generation DIY Beer
kit containing a new micro fermenter and accessories aims to make it
even easier for people to make their own beer.
An
innovative ice cream stick developed by Nestlé called Eskimo
Monkey, launched in 2010 in Thailand under the Eskimo brand, is currently
being rolled out worldwide, starting with Malaysia, followed by the
Philippines and then Europe.
Also
combining BARLEYmax and oats are new Barley+Oats porridge
products, the first to combine these ingredients. These products contain
51% wholegrain rolled barley flakes (BARLEYmax) and 49% wholegrain
rolled oat flakes and are available in Traditional or Quick varieties,
in Original and Apple & Honey flavours. Even the Quick varieties
have 75% more fibre and 85% more b-glucan than oats alone.
Brisbane-based
Trisco Foods (www.triscofoods.com) has launched an innovative
new glaze that will allow Australian bakers to make products that match
the quality of European patisseries.
Kraft
Foods Australia/New Zealand has launched MY FIRST VEGEMITE
– a specially formulated Vegemite spread designed to suit a younger
palate, with extra vitamins B12 and B6, added iron and half the sodium.
It also has the same unique Vegemite flavour, just a touch milder.
Black
Giraffe was part of Burleigh Brewing Co’s ‘Bit on the
side department’, joining My Wife’s Bitter, another
limited run beer released for Father’s Day in March 2010. Filtered
through local lava rock, the beer is the company’s coastal interpretation
of a classic English Bitter, with roasted maltiness, a soft caramel
flavour and dense, aromatic foam. My Wife’s Bitter featured
a collectible screen-printed, long-neck bottle decorated with a scantily
clad lass holding an English flag (see also Food Aust. 62(12)
564, December 2010).
Also
in the brewed drinks line, Bundaberg launched a new ‘café’
range of flavours in 2010, designed to enable consumer to “enjoy
the café experience and bring it home with them”. The boutique
range included Bundaberg Guava, Blood Orange and Pink Grapefruit flavours.
Claimed
to be an Australian first was Farm Pride’s Powdered Whole Eggs.
Previously exclusive to manufacturers and foodservice customers, the
shelf stable product is now available in the baking aisles of Coles.
Egg producers Sunny Farms also released a new egg product: fresh egg
– snap frozen, pasteurised and HACCP- and Halal-approved.
Uncle
Toby’s entered the breakfast on-the-go market with their Uncle
Tobys® Oats Quick Cups, providing an easy to prepare, convenient
single serve cup of porridge that can cooked in the microwave in a minute.
wanting
a touch of indulgence, Kez’s finished the year with an assortment
of delicacies for all catering needs in their Kez’s Petite Range.
Some of the options available were The Conference Petite – 12
bite sized treats, the Conference Tea & Coffee Selection, Assorted
Conference – including White Éclair, Melting Moment, Passionfruit
Shortcake and Vienna Kiss, Gluten Free Conference Box and Conference
Bites. Coming this year are Monster Choc, Caramel Pecan, White Choc
Cranberry and Almond & Pistachio Swirl.
Nanna’s,
the brand associated with ‘wholesome family desserts’, has
launched a new “black label” range of Premium Tarts (www.nannas.com.au/premiumtarts).
To
make healthier food choices easier for consumers, Sara Lee has developed
the first national range of bakery snacks to comply with the “Amber”
category for retail sale in public healthcare facilities – Sara
Lee Lite Bakes. This new range of eight muffins, cakes and
slices became available in May 2010.
In
a first for the retail treat market, and featuring a twist on an old
favourite, Wendy’s launched a new product this April.
In
response to growing demand for grains and seeds as part of a healthy
diet, Fantastic Snacks has developed a new snack product that they claim
delivers on good quality and delicious taste.
With
health high so on the agenda these days, Kez’s has also provided
the consumer with more options through their new product, Kez’s
Free. This is a range of products designed to change consumers’
perceptions of gluten and dairy free, with a wide range of choices.
Lenard’s
customers had a preview of the new Lenny Pop product when it was released
in January as part of Lenard’s range of exclusive chicken products
with Vegemite as the key ingredient.
Lenard’s-own
Grill Sticks also joins the range in seven flavours. Grill Sticks are
Lenard’s answer to the kebab with a tender drumstick fillet skewered
on two sticks. The new format is promoted as easier to cook and serve
than traditional kebabs.
The
Pinwheel is a variation on the Australian sausage roll. It comes in
three flavours, Greek, Italian and Plum & Apricot, and features
freshly minced chicken scrolled in light puff pastry and packed with
chunks of fresh ingredients and deli cheeses.
Garlic
Potato Hi-Top Muffins combine freshly minced chicken, vegetables and
a creamy garlic potato centre; almost a meal in themselves.
Although
not strictly a new product, the Steggles Family Feast is making
a comeback. The lightly marinated 2.1 kg chicken can feed up to eight
people.
Steggles
has also created a new pouch pack featuring perforated sections with
each containing chicken breast fillets. Designed for maximum convenience
and easy storage, each pouch pack contains two boneless and skinless
chicken breast fillets. Consumers can use a single portion, or two,
and store the rest for later in the freezer or fridge.
Lilydale
Free Range chicken is strengthening its market position with three new
products. Consistent with Lilydale’s innovative approach, the
latest products include the only free range chicken mince on the market.
For
families on a budget, the Free Range Portions, containing two leg, two
wing and two thigh pieces in one pack, are conveniently pre-cut ready
to use.
With no artificial colours, flavours or preservatives, Lilydale’s
Boneless Roast with sage, onion and jasmine rice stuffing is a variation
on the traditional Sunday roast and promoted as a healthy alternative
for time-poor home cooks.
Patties
new Chicken & Corn Party Pies bring a new flavour to the family
favourite range. The Chicken & Corn flavour combination is made
with 100% ‘real chicken’ and corn kernels, in a white sauce.
Patties
has also released Mr Men Little Miss packs of 36 Mini Party
Pies, which also includes a free Mr Men Little Miss book inside.
The universal appeal of the Mr Men Little Miss characters have
made the books international best sellers, with over 100 million copies
sold worldwide.
Herbert
Adams’ latest addition to its gourmet range is the Beef &
Mushroom Pie in a 420 g 2-pack. It is a combination of beef pieces and
chopped mushrooms, encrusted in Herbert Adams’ flaky
pastry. Patties Foods Assistant Brand Manager Thea Pittas
said that the new flavour is just right for the colder months ahead.
Herbert
Adams also has a new addition to its finger food range –
Chicken & Leek Petite Pies, in a 380 g 16-pack.
Geronimo
Jerky is a Brisbane-based company which specialises in the production
of the Best Beef Jerky You’ve Ever Tasted. Their Native
American recipes have been handed down from generation to generation
for over 100 years. The marinade recipe incorporates a blend of natural
ingredients and products which are locally supplied in Australia, with
the exception of a chilli oil imported from the States.
Kraft
Foods Australia/New Zealand has released its most significant product
innovation of 2010 with two Philadelphia Cream for Cooking
products.
Australians
will be the first to experience a new drink from Berocca that puts the
effervescent multivitamin tablet into a ready-to-use bottle.
