As a whole the grocery industry introduces approximately 15,000 new products a year. Only 25% of new products remain in the store for more than 3 months.

Here is a sampling of products that have recently hit the market, are nutritionally improved, and may be worth taking home.

Broccoflower: The broccoflower is a cross between broccoli and cauliflower. It has a milder and sweeter flavor than either broccoli or cauliflower. Each ½ cup cooked portion contains: 25 calories, 3g fiber, and 100% daily value for vitamin C.

• Select: Firm compact florets and avoid those with brown spots
• Store: Unwashed in plastic, use within 5 days, rinse before use.
• Use: As you would cauliflower.

Broccolini™ (a.k.a. baby broccoli or aspiration): Broccolini closely resembles broccoli with a long stem. It is a cross between Chinese broccoli and broccoli. It has a little sweeter flavor than broccoli, which may be more acceptable to picky palates. Each 1 cup serving provides: 35 calories, 1g fiber, 130% Vitamin C, and 30% Vitamin A.

• Select: Bright green stalks with tight buds, a few yellow flowers are not indicative of age and the flowers are edible.
• Store: In the refrigerator unwashed in a plastic bag for up to 10 days, rinse before use
• Cook as you would broccoli, taking care not to over-cook. The stems are tender and only the tough ends need to be trimmed. Try a quick sauté, stir fry or boil for a real treat.
• For recipes and additional information on broccolini, check out www.broccoli.com

  Wheat Thins (whole wheat that is!): I love this; I have been looking and looking for the whole wheat Wheat Thins and they are here. I just adore crackers, and I know many people feel the same way, so naturally we want to see our favorite foods produced in the healthiest way possible so we can feel good about eating them. One serving (15 crackers) provides: 140 calories, 4.5g fat (0.5g saturated), 230mg sodium (would love to see this reduced, Nabisco), 22g carbohydrate, 2g fiber.

  Bottom Line: Great option for those who want a little crunch or a nice grab-and-go snack. I like to eat them with chopped tomatoes and artichoke hearts, a tasty snack with some veggies to boot.