ORGANIC BRANDS SHOW STRENGTH AT EXPO

Robert McMath

WASHINGTON -- Organic food and beverage marketers made a statement at the Natural Products Expo East here last month. The show had representation from about 100 manufacturers/distributors of organic processed/packaged foods and 50 marketers of organic beverages/juices.

Among the products introduced:

Two new certified organic soups packed in ready-to-serve jars from the Walnut Acres division of Acirca, Monroe, Conn.

A line of dry packets of sauces and seasonings, including Vegetarian Chili Seasonings, under the Simply Organic brand from Frontier Natural Brands, Boulder, Colo.

Natural pastas made with organic flour and non-GMO soy flour in 10-ounce bags from New England Harvest, Carrollton, Texas.

A line of 3.5-ounce single-serve trays of bakery items under the brand Maury's and the name "Bake your own" from City Bakery.

Hearty & Natural meatless burgers from a division of Sunrich, Hope, Minn.

Organic dog treats from Original Dog Biscuit Co. The line -- which includes the flavors of Liver Bites, Veggie Crisps, Peanut Delights and Apple Crisps -- is made with human food-grade ingredients, including whole grains.

Natural Product Expo West will be held in Anaheim, Calif., March 7 to 10, 2002.