Slideshow: What's new in food

KANSAS CITY — Whole grains are getting a whole lot of play in new products as consumers seek more nutrient-rich foods.

Seventy-one per cent of people in 16 countries said they want whole grains as a source of nutrition in products, according to HealthFocus International’s report, “Fiber, Grains and Gluten — A Global Perspective.” In just the United States, 67% of Americans said whole grains are the most important item they look for on packages, according to the Whole Grain Council’s 2015 Food & Health Survey, and 70% are trying to consume more whole grains.

To help consumers in this endeavor, The Quaker Oats Co., a unit of PepsiCo, Inc., is introducing Real Medleys SuperGrains Granola in cinnamon apple walnut and blueberry pecan flavors. Offering 28 grams of whole grains per serving, the granola contains a mixture of oats, wheat, flaxseed, quinoa, sunflower seeds, amaranth, barley, fruit pieces and nuts.

Lesley Butler, senior marketing director for Quaker Foods North America

“We’re committed to uncovering the power of the whole grain oat to help fuel the busy lives of families, while at the same time offering delicious varieties,” said Lesley Butler, senior marketing director for Quaker Foods North America.

J&J Snack Foods Corp. is utilizing a snacking staple as a vehicle for whole grains with its new SuperPretzel multigrain soft pretzels. The fully-baked pretzels feature 11 grams of whole grains per serving.

Alissa Davis, director of marketing for J&J Snack Foods

“In a day and age where people are constantly on the go, it’s important that they have access to not only a quick and easy snacking option, but also one that is satisfying and nutritious,” said Alissa Davis, director of marketing for J&J Snack Foods. “We think our new SuperPretzel multigrain variety is exactly that.”

Catering to children in need of a whole grains boost, Clif Bar & Co.’s Clif Kid division is introducing Clif Kid Zbar Fruit + Veggie. Offering 10 to 11 grams of whole grains, the certified U.S.D.A. organic snack bars feature vegetable powders and a blend of fruit puree. The chewy bars contain no G.M.O.s, high-fructose corn syrup, artificial flavors or synthetic preservatives and are available in three flavors: Awesome Orange, Keen Green and Purple Power.