For the ninth consecutive year, VR editors and retailers assembled the year’s best new products on the market.

Nine years ago, Vitamin Retailer (VR) magazine decided to honor the year’s top products, and to do so by asking for the opinions of natural product retailers. Now, the objective remains the same, as these stores offer feedback and suggestions on items that made an impact on the market released late 2015 through 2016.

Additionally, the editors at VR compiled a list of their own consisting of items they noticed were trending, whether it be new products spotted at a trade show or a new innovation that caught their attention. Combine these two lists and one has a top 10 assortment of products for the year.

We would personally like to extend a sincere “thank you” to not only all of the retailers who took part, but the manufacturers who created these memorable and successful products. VR presents to you: the 2016 best new products!

Essential Oils

NOW | Bloomingdale, IL | (888) 669-3663

The botanicals used to produce NOW’s certified organic essential oils are grown in soil that is free of pesticides, synthetic fertilizers and herbicide residues. Each one is guaranteed to be the finest quality available, identity verified and certified organic by Quality Assurance International (QAI). Each 1-oz. bottle (peppermint oil) has an MSRP of $16.99. while a 4-oz. bottle is valued at $37.99.

“We love these oils, which offer quality without the over-the-top price tag of some other, more pyramid-structured labels,” said Ramona Billingslea, marketing manager of Betsy’s Health Foods, Houston, TX. “We know these oils are competitive because many of our customers have eagerly switched from the multi-level products they were using to the NOW oils, and they keep coming back.”

 

EarthSweet Chewables

Bluebonnet | Sugar Land, TX | (281) 240-3332

Bluebonnet’s EarthSweet Chewables Vitamin B6, B12 & Folic Acid Tablets (60 chewable tables for $15.50) provide 50 mg of pure crystalline B6 (pyridoxine acid), 1,000 mcg of pure crystalline vitamin B12 (cyanocobalamin) and 400 mcg of folic acid in a natural base of raspberry and strawberry. Sweetened with EarthSweet, the industry’s first all natural sweetening mix of juice concentrates (wild blueberry, cranberry, strawberry, grape, raspberry and bilberry fruits, grape seed and raspberry seed extracts) and cane crystals. It is available in chewable tablets for maximum assimilation and absorption. Other chewables include Magnesium, Vitamin D3, Methylfolate, Melatonin and Methylcobalamin.

“Bluebonnet is our hometown super hero! Located just down the road from us in Sugarland, TX, this family business stands by the retailer, working with us to give us the tools to fight the increasing competition from mass and online competitors, including bringing us great products like their Earthsweet Chewables line,” said Billingslea. “One thing we really like about these chewables is their great taste without an accompanying high sugar content. And because these products come from Bluebonnet, we know we aren’t compromising efficacy for a different form of delivery. These chewables have done well in our store for those who can’t or don’t swallow tablets and capsules.”

Curamin Headache

EuroPharma/Terry Naturally | Green Bay, WI | (877) 575-5155

Curamin Headache combines strong ingredients from award-winning pain reliever Curamin with additional targeted nutrients for safe, and effective relief. Clinically studied curcumin is better absorbed than plain curcumin. It provides a primary response to occasional headaches. Magnesium supports healthy neurotransmitter activity in the brain, and clinical studies have shown it relieves occasional headaches. The amino acid chelate included in this supplement is better absorbed for greater benefits. Boswellia is clinically studied and uniquely standardized by reducing beta-boswellic acid and providing higher levels of AKBA for greater effectiveness. DLPA helps support the effects of endorphins and enkephalins—the “feel good” chemicals in your body. Vitamin B6 as pyridoxal-5-phosphate (P-5-P) can be readily used by the body because it is already in the bioactive form. Vitamin B6 is a factor in serotonin production and relaxation. Curamin Headache is available in both a 21-tablet and 60-tablet size for $18.95 and $44.95 respectively.

“Curamin Headache has been an extremely successful product for our store,” said Leslie Larsen, owner of Wild Market in Maggie Valley, NC. “Our customers have found it to be better than any other natural product they have used for headaches. We have always loved Curamin and are so happy to now have a specific headache formula.”

Omega Curcumin

Nordic Naturals, Inc. | Watsonville, CA | (800) 662-2544

Omega Curcumin is a combination of foundational nutrients—the concentrated omega-3s EPA+DHA, and the powerful antioxidants curcumin, L-glutathione and N-acetylcysteine (NAC)—that work together deep within a cell’s metabolic machinery (MSRP $44.95, 60-ct.). Each nutrient plays a distinct yet complementary role in reducing oxidative stress to help maintain cellular health and support metabolic balance.*

“We have not had this product in our store for very long, but we are excited about its potential,” said Billingslea. “Since fish oil and curcumin are two really popular supplements with customers, it seems like a very smart idea to combine the two in one synergistic blend. Seeing how well customers respond to the patented Longvida curcumin will be interesting. We also like that the product has NAC and glutathione to further support the immune system.”

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Kidstiks

American Health/Ester C | Ronkonkoma, NY | (800) 445-7137

American Health/Ester-C Kidstiks are the super-easy way to support a child’s immune health and help them get the essential nutritional support they need every day … all in a delicious Grape flavored powder packet.* Just mix one non-effervescent Kidstik with 4-6-fl.-oz. of water and the youngster is good to go! With Ester-C Kidstiks, you can be sure that behind every kid-lovin’ serving is Ester-C, a patented vitamin C formula. Ester-C supports immune health and delivers potent antioxidant benefits that growing bodies need.* Along with essential vitamins like B6 and B12 to naturally support energy metabolism, vital electrolytes to aid in hydration, and key minerals including calcium and magnesium to help build strong teeth and bones, Ester-C Kidstiks has got kids covered, 365 days a year.* Each 30-packet box has an MSRP of $17.99.

“The addition of Ester-C Kidstiks to Sprouts’ children’s wellness set has resonated very well with customers,” said Abbey Mullen, vitamin category manager at Sprouts Farmers Market in Phoenix, AZ. “Before Kidstiks, powdered multiples were targeted mainly to adults. Now, adults and children alike can enjoy the nutritional benefits and convenience of these on-the-go single use powders.”

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Ultimate Omega 2X

Nordic Naturals, Inc. | Watsonville, CA | (800) 662-2544

The next generation of fish oil, Ultimate Omega 2X features Nordic Naturals’ new, ultra-concentrated omega oil. In a slightly larger soft gel that delivers 1,000 mg EPA+DHA, this powerful concentrate offers one or two soft gel serving options to meet a broad range of unique nutritional needs. A bottle of 60 softs gels is valued at $49.95.

Theo Kitschker, manager of Green Acres Health Food Store in Piscataway, NJ, said he is a huge Nordic Naturals fan. In fact, he believes that Ultimate Omega 2X is of “great quality.”

Kris Wear, co-owner and CEO of World of Nutrition in Nampa, ID, whole-heartedly agreed. “It’s one of our top three sellers—I love it,” she said.

Joint Bursts

NeoCell | Irvine, CA | (949) 699-1626

NeoCell Joint Bursts are the newest edition to NeoCell’s line of soft nutracosmetic and nutraceutical chews. NeoCell Joint Bursts combine collagen type 2, turmeric and hyaluronic acid to help people maintain healthy joints and manage joint aches and pains. These soft collagen chews come in a “tropical tang” flavor and are all natural. Joint Bursts follow the path of NeoCell’s successful Beauty Bursts and Biotin Bursts. A carton of 30 soft chews cost $19.99.

“NeoCell’s Joint Bursts’ unique formulation offers an incredible taste in super convenient chew! We’re thrilled to offer Sprouts’ customers and team members a delicious “treat” packed with great nutritional benefits,” noted Mullen, “It’s a winning combination!”

VegiDay Line of Sustainably Conscious Foods

Natural Factors | Monroe, WA | (877) 551-2179

VegiDay is part of a growing movement that encourages us to support a sustainable future by choosing to eat more plant-based foods. At VegiDay, products or ingredients are sourced only from similarly “green-minded” companies. They look for suppliers who practice organic farming, guarantee non-GMO (genetically modified organism) ingredients, and are committed to sustainability. All VegiDay products are organic, non-GMO, free of artificial colors and preservatives, and suitable for vegetarians and vegans. Products include the organic vegan snack bars ($2.29 each), Organic Coconut Chips ($4.99 per pouch) and Organic Plant-Based Protein (contact manufacturer for pricing).

Curcumin C3 Reduct (Chewable)

Redd Remedies, Inc. | Bradley, IL | 888-453-5058

When one consumes curcumin, it has greater effect than just its own biological function in your body. When taking curcumin, or curcuminoids, your body turns that group of compounds into even more biologically active metabolites called tetrahydrocurcuminoids. These compounds can impact health in ways that curcumin alone cannot. Curcumin C3 Reduct, available in both 10 and 60 chewable capsule bottles ($7.99 and $27.99 respectively) and captures these biologically active metabolites and delivers them straight to you. With higher bioavailability, greater biological activity and greater potency compared to their parent curcuminoids, tetrahydrocurcuminoids are a better way to take turmeric every day.

Wide Mouth Bottle With New Flex Cap

Hydro Flask | Bend, OR | (888) 584-9376

Hydro Flask’s TempShield insulation has redefined what the classic outdoor water bottle can be. The 32-oz. bottle ($39.95) keeps your beverage icy cold or piping hot from trailhead to summit and every step in-between. It is your perfect “all day and into the next” refreshment solution. Replacing the existing cap on the Wide Mouth bottles (including the 40 and 64-oz. sizes as well), the new award-winning Flex Cap is the ideal combination of strength and flexibility. Designed for ultimate portability, the company crafted every detail with easy-carry comfort in mind—and insulated it too—so you can go further, for longer, keeping your favorite beverage comfortably by your side.

“As I headed into work on a hot August day, I accidentally left my Hydro Flask Bottle with the new flex lid in my car,” said Rhonda Penecale, owner of Bunn’s Natural Foods in Southampton, PA. “Hours had gone by, and the temperature soared into the mid-90s. Later that day, when I rescued my bottle from the hot car, the water from eight hours earlier was still cool and refreshing! The new wide mouth with the flex lid truly keeps your cold beverages cold and your hot liquids hot—all day long. Definitely one of the best new products of 2016!” VR