Last Friday I was lucky to be able to attend New Hope Network’s Natural Products Expo East at the Baltimore Convention Center. The expo showcased healthy food and lifestyle products from around the country. I was amazed by the variety of products, and even more so by the creative minds behind them. High-protein low-carbohydrate foods were extremely popular with protein bars, jerkies, and nut butters leading the way. Fermented foods and yogurt products were also well-represented. These probiotics are highly touted for their contribution to a healthy gut microbiome, which benefits metabolism, the immune system, and GI health. Read on to learn about more products at the expo, including some you may want to try yourself! Some products are available in local grocery stores, but all can be found online at the company website or on Amazon.
Products that made me say “Wow!”
- Bright Greens Smoothie Shakers take all the work out of making your own smoothies. All you have to do is shake the frozen cubes in hot water and drink at least 6 servings of fruits and vegetables on your way out the door! Bright Greens provides all the taste and nutrition without all the clean up!
- Modern Table Meals sells both dry pasta and meal kits. Their pasta is made from lentils and is packed full of protein and fiber. All the products are non-GMO and gluten free. I tried their Pesto Meal Kit and I was happy to learn I could find it in my local Target and prepare it at home in less than 15 minutes!
- The Curious Creamery’s Ice Cream Mix allows everyone to easily create their very own flavor of ice cream. The mix is lactose free and does not contain any artificial colors, flavors, or sweeteners. Simply add 200mL of liquid, mix with a handmixer, and freeze. I think this product offers a fun way to spend time together in the kitchen coming up with creative new flavors, including your favorite vegetable juices and purees! Check out the Curious Creamery’s website for recipe ideas including Yellow Bell Pepper and Tomato Basil Ice Cream – the possibilities are endless!
Products that made me say “Yum!”
- Clio Greek Yogurt Bars were definitely one of my favorites. They taste just like cheesecake, but at only 140 calories and 6g of sugar per bar, offer a much lighter alternative. And they come with the added bonus of protein and probiotics!
- Farmhouse Culture offers fermented vegetables, krauts, and “gut shots”. These products can be used as a side dish, a topping for burgers or salads, or an addition to salad dressings or smoothies. My personal favorite was the Ginger Beets, but no matter which product you choose you’ll reap the benefits of the probiotic cultures.
- GoodSeed Hempseed Burgers are one of the products I will definitely be buying for years to come. These vegan, non-GMO, gluten- and soy-free patties are packed with seeds and vegetables that provide vitamins, minerals, and essential fatty acids. Even as a meat-eater, I’d go for these burgers any day!
Products I Want in My Home
- Lakanto Monkfruit Sweetener is made exclusively from the tropical monkfruit. It has no calories and no impact on blood sugar levels.
Nutryttiva Banana Flour and Otto’s Naturals Cassava Flour are both gluten free substitutes for wheat flour. Banana flour contains resistant starch which contributes to GI health and feeling fuller longer.
- Brio Ice Cream has added vitamins, minerals, and essential fatty acids. Brio offers a new way to get the micronutrients your body needs, especially for those picky eaters!
If I learned one thing at Natural Products Expo East, it’s that truly healthy foods exist to fit the needs of every dietary preference and restriction. Remember, if you are ever unsure of a product’s claims, or whether it is right for you, ask your Registered Dietitian Nutritionist! To read past Expo East blog posts check out Lori’s 2013 post and 2012 post.