SymphonyIRI Group, Chicago, named Dr Pepper Ten, Kraft’s Mio beverage mixes, Sparkling Ice from TalkingRain Beverage Co., Starbucks K-cups and TruMoo from Dean Foods among the 2011 Food & Beverage “Rising Stars” in its 2011 New Product Pacesetters report, which is an analysis of exceptional first-year CPG sales success for newly launched products.

"The Pacesetters of today, having beaten the new product odds regardless of a difficult and complex environment, are truly remarkable," said Larry Levin, executive vice president of consumer insights for SymphonyIRI, in a statement. "It all begins with listening and responding to consumers. Those manufacturers that are taking the time to gain an intimate knowledge of the needs and wants of their consumers are cracking the code on true innovation."

This year's list of “Rising Stars” hints at a future of consumer product goods (CPG) products marked by bold flavors and gourmet appeal, offering wellness and indulgence direct from the grocery aisles, SymphonyIRI said. This is reinforced by the fact that, despite prolonged economic difficulties, 22 percent of consumers are actively looking for new products to try, it added.