For the eighth year in a row, Vitamin Retailer (VR) reached out to its retailer readership and asked them what they thought about 2015’s new products. Retailers were asked to comment on their favorite products that made their debut into the market in late 2014 through 2015.
VR editors reviewed the retailers’ suggested list and, focusing on the ingredients, customer needs and response, compiled a list of the top 10 new products of 2015. These products cover everything from natural energy and joint health to probiotics and proteins!
Thank you to the retailers for their participation and congratulations to the winning manufacturers! In no particular order, here are the winners of VR’s Best New Products of 2015!
Hyaluronic Acid for Joints: HA Gummy
Hyalogic | Riverside, MO | (866) 318-8484
Hyaluronic Acid (HA) for Joints, by Hyalogic, is a natural lubricant for the joints. The HA gummies are naturally flavored and lightly sweetened. HA supplements synovial fluid within the joint to maintain cushioning properties, according to Hyalogic. HA is a water-loving molecule that acts as a lubricant for joints, a hydrating moisturizer for skin and is an important component of healthy eye function. Each bottle contains 60, berry-flavored gummies and can be taken anywhere without water. Suggested retail price, per bottle, is $39.95.
“We have recently been converts to the HA for Joints with many employees here taking the product themselves. With all the options we have in this category, this should say a lot!” said Chris Seeley, co-owner of Main Street Market at Tuscany Square in Rapid City, SD.
CuraMed Effervescent
Terry Naturally | Green Bay, WI | (866) 598-5487
CuraMed Effervescent from EuroPharma’s Terry Naturally brand contains the cell-protecting power of BCM-95 Curcumin in a liquid form that’s easy to swallow. The great tasting tangerine-flavored tablets dissolve in water for all the benefits of safe, studied and effective curcumin. The MSRP for CuraMed Effervescent is $29.95 for 30, 350 mg effervescent tablets.
“From the week of release we have had loyal customers of Terry Naturally products rave about this wonderful option for taking CuraMed. Just after the first month of introducing this product, our store continues to receive testimonies of the fast-acting relief of joint and inflammation pain from the CuraMed Effervescents,” said Juanita Landon, assistant store manager of Garner’s Natural Life, Columbia, SC.
Super Earth Organic VeggieProtein
Bluebonnet | Sugar Land, TX | (281) 240-3332
This unique blend of four powerful plant proteins collectively delivers a balance of all nine essential amino acids similar to high-quality animal protein. In addition, it has been certified USDA (U.S. Department of Agriculture) Organic and provides 18 g of protein from complementary plant sources with inherent essential amino acids, fiber and omega-3, -6 and -9s, plus a host of naturally occurring minerals for complete and balanced nutrition. According to Bluebonnet, Super Earth Organic VeggieProtein can provide the qualities of animal protein like whey and casein with all of the dietary benefits important to vegetarians and vegans. VeggieProtein comes in a one-pound canister in four flavors that have been naturally sweetened with stevia (Natural Vanilla, Vanilla Chai, Chocolate, Chocolate Mocha).
“The Bluebonnet Super Earth Veggie Protein is a great product that mixes well and has a good flavor,” said Ramona Billingslea, marketing manager of Betsy’s Health Foods, Houston, TX. “We like the proteins and the quality and freshness of the Super Earth products in general.”
Reg’Activ Immune & Vitality
Essential Formulas | Farmers Branch, TX | (972) 255-3918
Essential Formulas’ (EFI) Reg’Activ Immune & Vitality, contains the glutathione-boosting probiotic Lactobacillus fermentum ME-3, which helps boost glutathione levels and generate powerful antioxidant support for the cardiovascular system, and condition-specific ingredients for synergistic health-promoting benefits, according to the company. Reg’Activ Immune & Vitality (MSRP $50.80) provides consumers with a revolutionary probiotic blend of ME-3 plus KP08 that supports immune system health and provides a core energy boost.
“Glutathione, arguably one of the most vital antioxidants in the body, can be very hard to stabilize in supplement form. The ideal situation is to optimize the body’s own production of glutathione, which is exactly what the Lactobacillus brevis and essential vitamins does to further enhance immune function in the Immune & Vitality formula,” said Ursula Neal, health and body care coordinator at PCC Natural Markets, Issaquah, WA.
MyPainAway Fibro Cream
Topical BioMedics, Inc. | Rhinebeck, NY | (845) 871-4900
MyPainAway product line by Topical BioMedics, Inc. includes MyPainAway Fibro Cream, a patented topical treatment for pain caused by fibromyalgia. The product addresses aches and pains and helps the body rid itself of excess toxins and fluids from the source of the pain, according to the company. It is formulated with natural biomedicines and does not contain parabens, petroleum or other harsh chemicals, and is free of counter irritants, such as camphor, capsaicin and menthol. MyPainAway Fibro Cream (MSRP $14.99, 3-oz. tube) has no odor or grease and it easily absorbs into the skin.
“Fibro Cream is consistently one of our best-selling and most positively reviewed products—especially on Senior Discount Day!” said Kelsey Ferguson from Chuck’s Produce in Vancouver, WA. “It’s my go-to product for customers who come in seeking relief for joint pain in their hands or feet, and those that do try it regularly come back with glowing testimonials. Personal anecdotes play a large part in the product’s success; my manager, Becky, likes to tell the story of when she broke a bone in her foot a year ago and how, after trying just about everything she could to ease the pain, Fibro Cream was the only product that worked. Sometimes, other customers will even come up and share their stories with the customers directly! To me, that is the surest measure of this product’s effectiveness and the biggest reason behind its success.”
Purifying Skincare Line
derma e | Simi Vallet, CA | (800) 933-9344
derma e’s Purifying Skincare is doctor developed and clinically tested. derma e Purifying Skincare line is specially designed for oily, active or urban skin types, the Purifying formulas work naturally to draw out toxins, replenish vital nutrients and restore skin’s resistance to oxidative stress. The Purifying Skincare line includes Purifying 2-in-1 Charcoal Mask (MSRP $19.50, 1.7-oz.), Purifying Daily Detox Scrub (MSRP $15.50, 4-oz.), Purifying Youth Serum (MSRP $29.50, 1-fl-oz.), Purifying Toner Mist (MSRP $15.50, 2-fl.-oz.), Purifying Oil-Free Moisturizer (MSRP $29.50, 1.7-fl.-oz.) and Purifying Gel Cleanser (MSRP $15.50, 6-fl.-oz.).
“We have always had good luck and customer response with all derma-e products and the Purifying Skincare line is no exception!” Seeley said.
Turmeric Supreme Immune A.S.A.P.
Gaia Herbs | Brevard, NC | (800) 831-7780
For thousands of years turmeric has been valued in ayurveda, the traditional medicine system of India. Today, science has identified compounds in turmeric, curcumins in particular, which support healthy inflammatory function—maintaining overall health and vitality. Gaia Herbs’ Turmeric Supreme Immune A.S.A.P. helps the body’s immune function when needed. Each 20-capsule bottle, retails for $29.99. Curcumins have been shown to stimulate production of proteins which help regulate innate immune cell function. Combined with echinacea, elderberry and other supportive herbs, Immune A.S.A.P. delivers broad immune support when taken at onset.
“We like Gaia’s new Turmeric Supreme Immune A.S.A.P. because it combines the anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric and ginger with the immune-boosting properties of echinacea and elderberry to help you get feeling better fast!” said Jennifer Metsker, supplement manager at The Sunspot Natural Market, in Kokomo, IN.
MineralRich Concentrate
Maximum Living | Soulsbyville, CA | (800) 445-4325
Maximum Living’s MineralRich Concentrate, is a supplement that delivers more than 70 essential ionic trace minerals in convenient liquid form. It can be added into healthful smoothies, fresh juice or water. It boosts any beverage with pH balancing trace minerals, as well as B-12 (as methylcobalamin) biotin and extra magnesium. The new MineralRich Concentrate offers a broad range of nutritional support for muscles, bones, teeth, hair, skin and nails, and helps sustain energy levels naturally throughout the day, without added sweeteners or preservatives. Each 4-oz. dropper bottle has a suggested retail price of $38.95, contains 48 servings (six-week supply), is gluten free and certified vegan.
“We sell a lot of the whole line,” said Diane Cravens, from GNC in Anderson, IN. “People come in requesting the brand, which has been on the shelves for 20 years—we specifically make sure we make room for it on our shelves.”
Allergy Rescue
Rainbow Light | Santa Cruz, CA | (866) 972-6879
Rainbow Light’s Allergy Rescue, formulated by Christopher Hobbs, PhD, supports allergy relief by easing discomfort from seasonal and other allergies by reducing the body’s natural response to common environmental irritants. Allergy Rescue supplement combines eyebright and xanthium with other nutrients, antioxidants and enzymes. Rainbow Light’s Herbal IQ Guarantee means its products have been thoroughly reviewed by qualified herbalists and backed by the latest science. Extracts are identity verified and tested for purity, efficacy and safety. The suggested retail price is $14.99 for 30-ct. box or $23.99 for 60-ct. box.
“Rainbow Light’s Allergy Rescue is my absolute favorite natural allergy relief product,” said Jessi Rizzi, wellness manager and supplement buyer, MOMs Organic Market, College Park, MD. “I came to work for MOMs Organic Market and was introduced to Rainbow Light Allergy Rescue, and I haven’t looked back since! It helps with my indoor, outdoor and pet allergies. Even on the high pollen count days I know I can pop three and be good to go. I get similar relief to the prescription medications without the unwanted chemicals and side effects.”
Energems
Energems | Deerfield, FL | (954) 294-6777
Energems are made from a formula of high-quality dark chocolate and energy-enhancing ingredients, such as vitamin B and D plus caffeine. In addition, the product contains no artificial colors, flavors or preservatives. Just three gems are equivalent to a large cup of coffee, the company said. Energems come in three flavors: Dark Chocolate, Mint Dark Chocolate and Berry Flavored Dark Chocolate. Each bottle has a suggested retail price of $6.99 per bottle.
