Consumables

ELMWOOD PARK, N.J., and NEW YORK — Marcal's Small Steps, a line of paper products that is made from 100% recyclable paper, is ready to salute those making environmental differences in their communities.

Through Feb. 25, visitors of MarcalSmallSteps.com/Heroes can nominate and vote for everyday heroes making a big environmental impact where they live. Five winners will be announced, receiving a total of $10,000 in donations to be made in their names to environmental charities.

YONKERS, N.Y. — It seems that Americans' everyday items are getting a little smaller.

According to a new survey by Consumer Reports, many packaged goods are being scaled back as suppliers face increased energy costs, as well as rising prices of ingredients. Tod Marks, senior editor and resident shopping expert at Consumer Reports, said that higher commodity and fuel costs are expected to spike in food prices by as much as 3% this year.

IRVING, Texas — Hostess is extending its SmartBakes line with a new breakfast cake.

SmartBakes streusel cakes, available in cinnamon, raspberry and cheese with an indulgent streusel topping, are baked with 100% whole grains and have 3 g of fiber with 150 calories per serving. Each package of Hostess SmartBakes streusel cakes contains eight individually wrapped streusel cakes.

The SmartBakes line, which Hostess launched last fall, also includes such breakfast staples as muffins.

SPRINGDALE, Ark. — Tyson has expanded its Any’tizers line with a new dish that is sure to become a favorite among kids and party guests.

New QuesaDippers snacks combine flour tortillas, all-white chicken with taco or fajita seasoning and Monterey Jack cheese, all packaged with zesty garden or cilantro lime salsa packets, Tyson said. The snacks are packed in resealable packaging, allowing for easy storage in the freezer to maintain freshness.

All Tyson Any’tizers can be found in the frozen food section of grocery stores nationwide.

LAKELAND, Fla. — Publix is rolling out imported and domestic private-label specialty cheeses in its deli department.

Publix customers will have the opportunity to learn about the specialty cheeses — including such varieties as asiago and Spanish manchego — now offered at stores through weekly sales ads, Publix.com and in-store promotions and presentations, the company said.

STAMFORD, Conn. — A nut snack brand now is part of a candy company's portfolio.

DeMet's Candy Co. said it has completed its acquisition of the TrueNorth brand from Frito-Lay North America, a PepsiCo division. The acquisition is said to build on the confectioner's existing portfolio, which includes such treats as Flipz, Treasures and Stixx. DeMet's is owned by a private equity fund.

TOMBALL, Texas — A relaxation/focus soda brand has expanded its market reach.

The Purple Stuff family of beverages has gained retail distribution in 1,264 stores, including convenience stores across the southern United States, according to Funktional Beverages, the brand's manufacturer.

The sodas, which launched in 2008, are available in Sippin' Citrus, Berry Calming, Classic Grape and Lean Apple flavors.

BATTLE CREEK, Mich. — Kellogg announced a new campaign for its Special K brand, which focuses on emotional gains when achieving weight loss.

The "What Will You Gain When You Lose" campaign will encourage women to rethink their weight-loss resolutions through television, print and online advertising, as well as an interactive event held at New York's Times Square on Monday.