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SEDRO-WOOLLEY, Wash. — Cascadian Farm will welcome a line of bars made with organic pea protein — a protein source derived entirely from plants — to its robust line of products.

The bars are available nationwide in two flavors, Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip and Honey Roasted Nut, and offer a chewy texture that packs 9 g of protein in each serving.

GREENSBORO, N.C. — As a brand that got into the business on the ground floor, blu is positioned to continue its role as a major player in the electronic cigarette category. “The electronic cigarette category is seeing a rapid growth in awareness, trial and usage among adult smokers,” said blu eCigs president Jim Raporte. “As consumer awareness and product trial continue to grow, blu eCigs expects to maintain its market leadership position and contribute to the responsible development of the product.”

PRINCETON, N.J. — Food and beverage manufacturers in the United States exceeded the goal to remove calories from their products by 400%, according to a new report by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation.

The electronic cigarette category is booming. Smokers continue to migrate to the devices, and improved technology and lower price points are fueling sales. Manufacturers say that customized tobacco flavors will propel sales going forward.

(For the full category review, including sales data, click here.)

PRESTON, Wash. — Sparkling Ice, part of the TalkingRain portfolio of beverages, will expand its line of zero-calorie sparkling waters with the addition of two new flavors. Starting this month, consumers will get to indulge in Cherry Limeade and Strawberry Watermelon.

Sparkling Ice Cherry Limeade mingles the sweetness of cherries with the tanginess of lime to provide a bold flavor, while Strawberry Watermelon joins two summertime favorites for a refreshment that can be enjoyed year-round.  

ROCKVILLE, Md. — While snacking has become increasingly popular among Americans, often even replacing regular meals, many companies also have been developing salty snack foods that are healthier, according to a new study.

In a report titled "Salty Snacks in the U.S.," market research firm Packaged Facts found that 50 million consumers who often snack between meals consider salted snacks their favorite, while 90% of households reporting eating salty snacks in the past 30 days.

NEW YORK — A New York-based distribution, merchandising and analytics firm has hired a former executive from Rite Aid and Duane Reade.

L&R Distributors announced Wednesday the hiring of Mike Cirilli as VP category management and procurement. L&R distributes more than 30,000 general merchandise, health, beauty and cosmetics products, pointing more than 12,000 points of distribution across the supermarket, drug, independent and mass-merchandise channels.

WAYZATA, Minn. — Everything from lack of motivation to stress can cause people to find maintaining a healthy diet difficult, according to a new survey by a company that makes stevia-based sweeteners.