Slideshow: New on the shelves

KANSAS CITY — The free-from frenzy is still in full force. Consumer demand for free-from products has been a key driver in the surging growth of the healthy snack category, according to a recent report from Packaged Facts, and allergen- and gluten-free claims are the most popular in the segment.

To cater to these ingredient-avoiding consumers, the industry is launching new products touting grain- and gluten-free claims.

Adding to the healthy snack segment, Mondelez International, Inc. expanded its Good Thins snack line with three new flavors. The new corn with sea salt variety features a call-out in the corner that reads, “We’re gluten free.”

Pamela’s Products is pumping out pancake mixes to appeal to the grain-free and the gluten-free consumer. The company is launching a grain-free pancake mix, made from nut and coconut flours, and a five-product line of gluten-free sprouted grain pancake mixes in buttermilk, protein, non-dairy, 6 grain and buckwheat varieties.

BFree Foods is making gluten-free grill-outs a whole lot easier with its two new gluten-free hot dog bun varieties, both free of gluten, wheat, dairy, eggs, nuts and soy. BFree brown seeded hot dog buns and white hot dog buns are made with a blend of flours, starches, proteins and fibers.

Siete Family Foods is introducing its grain-free Cassava & Chia tortillas. Made with chia seeds and a blend of coconut and avocado oils, the tortillas are paleo, gluten-free and dairy-free.

“Perfecting the recipe for grain-free baked goods can be a major challenge, if you insist on getting the taste and texture just right,” said Veronica Garza, co-founder and president of Siete Family Foods.

Offering a gluten-free on-the-go snack, Justin’s is launching Banana Chip Snack Packs. The portable packs offer non-perishable, dried organic banana chips in two varieties: classic peanut butter + banana chips and honey peanut butter + banana chips.

GU Energy Labs is giving gluten-free consumers a breakfast boost with its new Energy Stroopwafel. These dutch-style syrup waffles, featuring a layer of energy gel-infused syrup between two thin wafers, come in two gluten-free varieties: salted chocolate and wild berries.