ReportersNotebook — Consumables, 1/10/11

Supplier News — A citrus soda made by Dr Pepper Snapple Group is making a major splash in the Southern states in which it’s currently sold. Sun Drop is made with orange juice and caffeine. DPS’ sudden focus on Sun Drop stems from the company’s interest in directing consumer interest to flavored sodas, a noncola segment of the soft drink industry in which the company specializes.



Trident, which is owned by Kraft Foods’ Cadbury unit, is rolling out a new gum lineup called Trident Vitality that includes a new flavor, Vigorate, which contains “10% of the daily value of vitamin C” in each piece, according to the company. The gum line, which will be introduced early this year, also will include Rejuve, a blend of mint and white tea, and Awaken, a peppermint flavor with a “dash of ginseng,” the company said.



Retailer News — Spartan Stores introduced its new Michigan-made Indulgent Creations premium ice cream, which will be available year round through Spartan Stores, D&W Fresh Market, Family Fare, Felpausch, Glen’s Market and VG’s Grocery stores, as well as through nearly 400 independent stores in Michigan and northern Indiana that sell Spartan Stores’ brand products. The four core flavors include double vanilla, toasted butter pecan, mint chip and double dark chocolate. Eight additional seasonal flavors will be carried for a limited time throughout the year.