NEW SKUs

‘Greener’ Can for Coffee
Kraft Foods, Northfield, Ill., is switching from metal cans to paperboard composite containers for its Maxwell House Coffee brand. The conversion will affect the brand’s 1-lb containers. Sonoco, Hartsville, S.C., is supply the new canister, spiral-wound from 100% recycled paperboard. It includes a high-barrier liner to keep the contents fresh. Sonoco’s patented Sealclick plastic closure technology produces a resealable lid. Kraft promotes this new overcap as its “Flavor Lock Lid,” which tightly reseals by applying pressure on the lid’s center. The top of the canister features a flexible membrane that creates a hermetic seal, while the bottom of the can is metal. A valve in the membrane releases built-up pressure that may occur in coffee packaging. Rotogravure printing produces striking graphics that enhance shelf appeal and branding. The recycled paperboard is chain of custody certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), the Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI), and the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC).

Shot in the Dark
While most energy shot-style drinks are supposed to give consumers a boost, a new product from AriZona Beverage Co., Cincinnati, Ohio, is designed to make them relax. P.M. Relax FastShots are packaged in 2-oz PET bottles supplied by Constar, Philadelphia, Pa. The monolayer bottles feature oxygen-scavenging technology, which preserves the integrity of the vitamins, nutrients, and flavor. A 20-mm finish (bottle opening) enables consumers to sip their drink in a controlled manner. The product contains a green tea base and a proprietary blend of vitamins and herbs, including milk thistle, taurine, several B vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. In addition to P.M. Relax, the company is marketing A.M. Awake FastShots. Containing vitamins, plant-sourced minerals, and phytonutrients, A.M. Awake is designed to promote mental clarity, support a healthy immune system, and enhance endurance. Each FastShots variety carries a suggested retail price of $2.99.

Seasonal Energy Bars
Many food and beverage marketers introduce seasonal or limited-edition products to infuse excitement into their brands. In fact, one maker of energy bars is making it an annual tradition. Clif Bar & Co., Berkeley, Calif., is rolling out three limited-edition flavors this fall and winter in the United States. With popular holiday fruits, nuts, and spices, CLIF BAR’s seasonal energy bars combine all-natural and organic ingredients in athlete-tested formulas that deliver sustained vigor. New to the seasonal line-up is Cranberry Orange Nut Bread, featuring dried organic cranberries and chunks of walnuts. Back by popular demand are Spiced Pumpkin Pie and Iced Gingerbread flavors. “CLIF BAR seasonal flavors have become a much-anticipated holiday tradition for us and our consumers,” said Carly Lutz, Clif Brand Director. “Every year we get a ton of calls and emails asking what the seasonal flavors are going to be and when they’ll be available.” Each bar carries a suggested retail price of $1.39.