NEW SKUs

Resealable Beverage Can
After many years of development work with Coca-Cola and Bound2B B.V., Ball Packaging Europe has introduced a resealable beverage can. The new type of can end—made of plastic and aluminum—permits resealing of both steel and aluminum cans after initial opening. A simple rotating movement uncovers the opening. The flat opening mechanism allows the can to retain its classic shape and maintain its stackability for transport and storage. Because the total amount of plastic used in the can is small, it does not affect the recyclability of the container. The can also maintains its tamper-proof capabilities; consumers can easily verify that the seal has not been broken prior to opening.

The first user is Coca-Cola, which launched its energy drink Burn in the French market in the resealable, 500-mL aluminum can. According to consumer research conducted by Coca-Cola during the test phase, key benefits of the resealable can include "convenience," "great for on the go," and "exactly what I need from a pack."

Flavorful Fiber
Many consumers want to eat healthier but few are willing to give up their favorite foods and drinks. Recognizing this trend, Procter & Gamble, Cincinnati, Ohio, is launching Metamucil Pink Lemonade flavored powder to its fiber supplement line. The product contains soluble fiber from psyllium husk. Clinical studies suggest that 7 g/day of soluble fiber from psyllium may help reduce the risk of heart disease by lowering cholesterol. Soluble fiber may form a gel in the stomach, entrapping food, sugars, cholesterol, and fats before carrying them through the digestive tract. Good sources of soluble fiber include oats, beans, peas, many types of fruit and vegetables, and psyllium husk.

"Pink Lemonade has always been an iconic summer flavor," said Metamucil Brand Manager Amy Connor. "We are excited to offer consumers yet another tasty way to add fiber to their diet." The product is available in 48-, 72-, or 114-dose canisters. Other flavors in the Metamucil line include Berry Burst and Orange.

Snacks with Less Sodium
Frito-Lay North America, Dallas, Texas, part of PepsiCo, is rolling out reduced-sodium versions of its popular snacks—Lay’s potato chips, Tostitos tortilla chips, Fritos corn chips, and Ruffles potato chips—under the Pinch of Salt umbrella brand. Pinch of Salt products contain 75 mg of sodium/1 oz serving, which is about 30–50% less than its regular snacks. For example, Lay’s Classic potato chips contain 180 mg of sodium/1 oz serving.

"The number one request from our consumers is for low-sodium versions of the products they love most," said Jaya Kumar, Chief Marketing officer, Frito-Lay North America. "While consumers request low-sodium versions of their favorite products, they aren’t willing to compromise on taste. The Pinch of Salt line still gives consumers great-tasting snack chips they want, but with less sodium than their original counterparts." The product line carries a suggested retail price of $2.29 for 6.25–8 oz packages, depending on the product.