There have been several new product innovations in the dairy sector over the past month, with more probiotic products being introduced on to the international marketplace. A significant development has come from Stonyfield of the US which has launched All Natural Fruit Blends, the first US yogurt made with inulin ­ said to stimulate the beneficial bacteria in the digestive system and work synergistically with probiotic cultures. The yogurt, which also contains all-natural fibre extract derived from the chicory root, is available in tropical fruit, banana, peach, raspberry, strawberry and strawberry banana. Each 6oz cup contains 160 to 170 calories and 1.5g fat. Dairy company Latteria Montello has launched Probiotico Stracchino Cheese, a probiotic soft cheese with Lactobacillus casei LM1 and LM2, said to help against stress. In South Africa, Protein Technologies International has developed a cholesterol, lactose and dairy free powdered soya milk called So Fresh! It is packed in a one litre Instajug standup pouch containing 120g of powder. The user adds water and shakes the pouch. The dry powder has a 12 month shelf life and, once hydrated, seven to 10 days. It is said to have none of the nutty aftertaste associated with soya products. In France, the segmentation of spreads is becoming increasingly blurred. Astra-Calvé is appealing to both butter and margarine consumers with the launch of Spécial Tartine, a spread combining 29% butter made with salt from Noirmoutier and 36% vegetable fat. The European bottled water market is witnessing a small revolution with the launch of Aquarel from Nestlé, It is the first brand to be introduced simultaneously in Germany, France, Belgium, Luxembourg, Spain and Portugal which account for 60% of European bottled water consumption. In France, Lamy Lutti has launched Frutonik, a confectionery product targeted at adults. They are star-shaped jellies with a bitter taste and flavours include grapefruit, blood orange and lemon. Kraft Foods of the US has launched Tombstone Stuffed Dipping Ring Pizza ­ a doughnut ring shaped frozen pizza with a stuffed crust. It is designed for snacking and comes with a tomato dipping sauce. There are three varieties including cheese, sausage and pepperoni fillings. {{P&P }}