Innovation is the key in crowded marketplace

Greek yogurt in your body wash? Body powder in a spray can? What makes some products sink and some products swim? According to the experts, it comes down to innovations like these, as nearly 50,000 new packaged goods products are introduced each year into the market.

And those truly innovative products that stand out to consumers are awarded “Product of the Year,” the world’s largest consumer-voted award. Backed by the votes of over 40,000 consumers, the shortlist of winners can serve as a shortcut for shoppers in the supermarket, saving them time and money.

“Our research shows that nearly half of all consumers are more likely to purchase a product recommended by 40,000 shoppers just like them,” says Rich Fryling, Managing Director, Product of the Year USA.

Looking to try something new? Here are some highlights from this year’s winners:

• Greek Yogurt in your body wash: Winner of the “Personal Hygiene” category, Dial Greek Yogurt Body Wash rethinks shower time.

• Easy snacking: Eliminate snack-related spills on your couch and in your car with Snackeez, a dishwasher-safe container that holds a 16 ounce drink and a snack in one, and seals to keep snacks fresh and prevent spills.

• Burgers for pets: You no longer will have to throw your dog your barbecue scraps. Milo’s Kitchen Grilled Burger Bites, winner of the “Pet Nutrition” category, is a new home-style dog treat that’s made of beef, bacon and sweet potato.

• Nobody better lay a finger on my peanut butter cup: A new take on two old favorites, Butterfinger Peanut Butter Cups won in this year’s “Candy” category.

• Powder in a can: Consumers can now get the same relief they expect from Gold Bond Powder faster and more conveniently. Gold Bond No Mess Powder Spray, winner of the “body comfort & relief” category is quick and easy.

• Gluten-free pizza: Taking the title for the “Convenience Meals,” category, LiveGfree Gluten-Free Pizza could be a dream come true for the gluten-intolerant, busy consumer.

• Real food for babies: If you’re not sure what those ingredients mean on the label of your baby’s food, check out Beech-Nut Naturals, winner of the “Baby” category, which is made with no artificial preservatives and all-natural ingredients.

• Safe paint: Benjamin Moore’s Natura Waterborne Interior Paint, which won in this year’s “Interior Paint” category, is a virtually odorless alternative to conventional interior paints that goes beyond zero VOC (volatile organic compounds), to offer zero emissions.

• Get relief: Crest Sensi-Stop Strips, winner of the “Sensitivity Pain Relief” category, are thin, flexible strips that contain an active ingredient used by dental professionals, providing more targeted delivery of relief for sensitive teeth.

To take a cue from other shoppers, check out the full list of this year’s winners at www.ProductoftheYearUSA.com.

In a crowded marketplace, innovation will be rewarded. Rather than sticking with the same old, same old, consumers are flocking to products that redefine the status quo.