Nonfoods

LANDOVER, Md. -- As a way to help shoppers live healthier lifestyles, Giant Food, LLC began Jan. 1 to distribute "Fresh Start...Healthy Rewards," a free booklet of tips on exercise and better nutrition.

WHITE PLAINS, N.Y. -- The Dannon Co. is getting more active than ever in the U.S., introducing its probiotic yogurt brand Activia throughout the nation this month.

BOULDER, Colo. -- National organic and natural foods chain Wild Oats, Inc. here is taking a positive spin on new-year weight loss goals, with a diet plan focused on nutrient-dense "superfoods" such as nuts, green leafy veggies, kiwifruit, and pomegranates.

Washington, D.C. -- Registration for the 2006 United Fresh Fruit & Vegetable Association (United) Produce Show in Chicago, May 6-9 officially begins today. United, as one of five major food trade associations, will co-locate with the annual FMI Show, which will also host the Fancy Foods Show, U.S. Food Export Showcase, and All Things Organic.

Some are painfully obvious, others will blindside you. But nontraditional competition means much more than Wal-Mart, and each grocer must decide which suspects most bear watching.

The refrigerated dough category looks to the smaller-household, health-and-wellness, and private label segments to reinvent itself.

A solid connection to health, as well as an increased emphasis on specialty fruit, should help citrus turn in a strong peak season.

Progressive Grocer places bets on which operators will merit headlines in 2006.