Galaxy Nutritional Foods, a producer of plant-based dairy alternatives, has extended its UltraSmoothie range with the launch of a single-serve version, expected to go on sale in the US from October 2002.
The Ultra Smoothie is a combination of Tropicana fruit juices and Galaxy's Veggie Milk, a milk made from plant proteins. The product contains a complete serving of soy protein, meeting the FDA health claim standard on soy, and 1 1/2 servings of juice in each 8 oz cup.
The Ultra Smoothie contains nine vitamins and minerals, including 100 per cent of the RDA of Vitamin C and 30 per cent of the calcium RDA, according to Galaxy. It is also a good source of potassium and is low in sodium, meeting the FDA health claim standard for reducing the risk of high blood pressure and stroke. The product is low fat, free of cholesterol, lactose and saturated fat and is vegetarian.
"We have worked closely with Tropicana on creating the Ultra Smoothie made with Tropicana Juices and are very excited to launch this product to retailers and food service providers in North America," said Angelo Morini, chairman, president and CEO of Galaxy Nutritional Foods.
"We believe that Americans are demanding foods that offer convenience and nutrition…Whether a consumer is on the go or at home, they now have a great-tasting nutritious dairy alternative beverage available in either a grab and go single-serve package or dispensed semi-frozen into a glass."
Morini added that based upon initial market studies and the level of interest from existing customers for the Ultra Smoothie, Galaxy is confident the product will build momentum when introduced in the marketplace.
Frank Hood, Tropicana licensing manager said: "Aligning with Galaxy's Veggie Milk brand offers us an entry point in this fast-growing soy protein consumer segment. Additionally, this product will expand our reach into new retail and foodservice outlets due to its distinctive packaging and consumer positioning."