NEW YORK — Sales of specialty foods and beverages rose 2.7% in 2009, with much of the growth coming in the fourth quarter, show the findings of "The State of the Specialty Food Industry 2010."

The most frequently purchased categories were cheese; condiments; frozen and refrigerated entrees, pizzas and convenience foods; chips, pretzels and snacks; and frozen and refrigerated meats, poultry and seafood, according to the report prepared by the National Association for the Specialty Food Trade in conjunction with Mintel International. Yogurt and kefir sales grew the fastest, by 38.9% in 2009.

Economical specialties like beans, grain and rice, and shelf-stable pasta also did well. Sales of each rose 30% since 2007.

“The data reveals an industry that continued to grow despite the economical challenges that confronted the U.S. and the world last year,” said Ron Tanner, vice president of communications and education for the NASFT in a statement. “This year manufacturers of specialty food are working hard to maintain that momentum with new go-to-market strategies.”

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