ORGANIC ONLY
Oakland, Calif.-based Numi Organic Tea recently rolled out a new line of pu-erh teas as well as a pair of decaf blends. The pu-erhs are offered in five flavors: Cardamom, Basil Mint, Jasmine, Ginger and Coconut. On the decaf front, Numi introduced Decaf Simply Green, marked by a smooth and grassy flavor, and Decaf Earl Grey, which brings citrus tones to the classic blend. Numi features a 100 percent organic product line and is aiming to use National Organic Month (September) to get the word out about the growing presence of the certification; the compa- ny says a 2011 survey found that 40 percent of American families said they were buying more organic products than they had the year before. 888/404-6864. numitea.com
VALVE VALUE
Packaging and labeling company Avery Dennison recently released its Flexis Air for Coffee valve system that aims to offer roasters a more efficient and attractive alternative to hard-button degassing valves. Unlike injection-molded button valves, which tend to be rigid, Flexis valves are flexible and conform to a package's con- tours. Brand owners can place the valve anywhere on a package, expanding bill- board space and increasing design options. The valves are available with graphic options and printing in one color. 440/878-7130. averydennison.com
LAUNCHED AND LAUDED
Syrup maker Monin released its Fruit Smoothie Mix line at the SCAA show held in Portland in late April, and the mixes won the show's Best New Product honor in the
Specialty Beverage category. The product is designed to be poured straight out of the box onto ice, allowing operators to cre- ate fruit drinks and cocktails quickly. The line is available in five flavors: Mango, Peach, Wildberry, Strawberry and Strawberry Banana. 855/352-8671. monin.com
AUTOMATED SIPHON BREWS
The Steampunk brewer, recently brought to market by manufac- turer Alpha Dominche, was awarded a Best New Product award at April's SCAA expo. The device, designed by former roaster and shop owner Khristian Bombeck, offers operators a siphon brew method but with automation and temperature control. The machine also can produce four cups in as little as 30 seconds. "As the mechanical pour-over method gained in popularity," Bombeck explains, "I became frustrated by how long it took to brew each cup and how challenging it was to engage my customers during the long wait time." 801/212-9789. alphadominche.com
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