Mintel Unveils IFT 2010 Taste Test Winners

CHICAGOMintel once again hosted its Global New Products Pavilion, featuring innovative product tastings and presentations highlighting the latest trends in the food, drink and foodservice industries, during last months Institute of Food Technologist (IFT) 2010 Annual Meeting and Food Expo in Chicago.

Nearly 700 attendees were on hand to hear Mintel's new product experts Lynn Dornblaser and David Jago discuss the topics of Baby Boomers, Satiety and Simple Ingredient Statements. The attendees then voted on their favorite products in each category. The IFT 2010 taste test winners include:

Baby Boomersa generation in search of new products. With baby boomers comprising 26% of the population, it only makes sense that manufacturers are positioning products just for them," Dornblaser said. The trick is to position these products with the needs of baby boomers in mind, without making the consumer feel like they have ailments or are aging."

Smartfood Popcorn Clusters from the United States took first place in the boomer category. While being an indulgent snack, it also serves up some powerful nutrition, such as calcium and fiber. Tripl3 O Antiox Green Tea with Honey from Colombia, and Kelloggs All-Bran Buds Singles from Canada took second and third place, respectively.

Satietythe next big thing in weight management. With rising obesity rates and an increase in chronic ailments, wellness and wellbeing is a trend we will be seeing a lot of in the next few years and satiety fits right in.

IFT attendees chose the EcoSlim Dark Chocolate Bars from Portugal as their favorite product for staying fuller longer. Kelloggs Special K Sustain Breakfast Cereal from the United Kingdom came in second place, followed by Barilla Mulino Bianco Grancereale Fiber Biscuits from Italy.

Simple Ingredient Statementsclear language for confused consumers. Natural and additive-free have become part of the consumers health and wellness vocabulary, and according to Dornblaser, people are attracted to clean labels and are taking great measures to avoid over-processed foods.

Pepsi Raw Natural Born Cola (United Kingdom) came in first place with its natural plant extracts and new pack design. In second place was Yoplait Simply Gogurt Portable Lowfat Yogurt from the United States, followed by the United Kingdoms Planet Lunch Squeezable Fruit containing 100% natural ingredients.