Kraft Foods to Launch 70 New Products in 2012

NORTHFIELD, Ill. -- Responding to consumer demand for simplified meal solutions, robust new flavor combinations and customized taste enhancements, Kraft Foods Inc. is launching more than 70 new targeted product innovations in the new year.

"Americans are having more interactive experiences with food and want the opportunity to do some of the cooking themselves," said Barry Calpino, Kraft's vice president of breakthrough innovation. "With global influence and the merging of different cultures, consumers are open to new flavor combinations. Being able to customize the flavor and texture to enhance the end dish is important and Kraft Foods is delivering."

Of most interest to convenience stores are:
• Energy Beverages: 2011's new water enhancer Mio has unveiled new MiO Energy Liquid Water Enhancer in Black Cherry and Green Thunder flavors. When one squirt – about half a teaspoon – of MiO Energy is mixed with 8 ounces of water, the resulting beverage also has 60 milligrams of caffeine (about the same as a 6-ounce cup of coffee), as well as B vitamins. Consumers also can enjoy a new offering from Crystal Light: Energy Powdered Drink Mix in three varieties including Citrus, Grape and Peach Mango On The Go.

• Better-for-You Offerings: Kraft is bringing a nutritious European favorite to the United States with BelVita Breakfast Biscuits. A crunchy biscuit baked with whole grains, this unique on-the-go breakfast delivers sustained energy for the morning. Lunchables Lunch Combinations also is expanding its better-for-you options in 2012 to feature more varieties available with fruit, including Turkey & Cheddar Flatbread Sandwich with applesauce; Ham & American Flatbread Sandwich with applesauce; and BBQ Chicken Dippers with pineapple tidbits in 100-percent pineapple juice.

• Confectionery: Sugar-free gum gets a boost with Stride Spark Kinetic Berry Sugar Free Gum. A distinctly berry blend with a touch of sour, this new sugar-free gum features B vitamins to awaken the taste buds.

Northfield, Ill.-based Kraft Foods Inc. markets biscuits, confectionery, beverages, cheese, grocery products and convenient meals in approximately 170 countries, under such brands as Cadbury, Maxwell House, Milka, Nabisco, Oreo, Oscar Mayer, Philadelphia, Tang and Trident.

X
This ad will auto-close in 10 seconds