Fantastic Finds at Natural Products Expo West 2011

On my 4th annual visit to the Natural Products Expo West, I’m happy to report that I found some new and exciting healthy and green living products. Along with making time to chat with friends, it is absolutely ginormous and overwhelming. So much so that it is almost impossible to choose favorites but for the sake of time and brevity, I’ve compiled my top finds to chat about with you! Be sure to look for the following goodies at a store near you! (or online outlet!)

Food & Beverage
(in no particular order)

Chicago Soy Dairy Vegan Mozzarella Sticks – I’ve been waiting my whole vegan life for these (12 years!) Just as I remembered them, sinfully delicious!
Vegan Calamari & Breaded Shrimp – One of the last things that I missed when going vegan (along with the aforementioned fried cheese), this seals the deal that going vegan is easy & yummy!
Soylatto (vegan gelatto) – The flavors and ingredients in this creamy delicacy make for a decadent treat!
Vegan Queso – Spicy, cheesy, creamy, this really kicks up Latin and Mexican cooking up to a whole new level. Fantastic!
Asherah’s Quinoa Burgers – Such a wonderful alternative to junk filled veggie burgers. Full of flavor & nutrition, these are tough to beat!
Soy Free Vegenaise – Very exciting to see more soy free alternatives on the market. Just as tasty as the original, it’s great for those who are looking to curb their soy consumption.
Vegan Ranch Dressing – OMG! Finally, a bottled version of this non-vegan classic. You’ll be a hit at parties with your veggies & ranch dip now!
Miso & Easy – Convenience is key these days and the tasty Ginger & Tomato Miso & Easy is perfect for folks on the go who want yummy, healthy, protein packed soup. Toss in anything you like as far as soup ingredients, squirt in your miso & easy, add hot water and done! (**The original is not vegan as it has fish powder but the ginger & tomato is perfect!)
Silver Hills Sprouted Breads – With sprouted, gluten free and vegan varieties, these breads will be your new favorite for breakfast as well as your lunchbox!
VegeUsa Chicken Tikka Masala – Holy cow does this vegan chicken kick with flavor! Great texture and terrific tasting, this product (as well as a bunch of their new flavors) are sure to turn any skeptic into a believer!
So Delicious Greek Yogurt – Another void in the vegan market has been filled and by one of the top vegan dairy companies in the biz. 3 cheers for So Delicious!
Sea Snax Seaweed Salad & Sprinkles – If you’re looking for a crubhy, salty snack, throw away the chips and go for the Sea Snax! And now they have sprinkles which a great for salads and soups as well as their quick a tasty seaweed salad. Oh so good!
Earth Balance Coconut Spread – Another fabulous soy free alternative, I was so pleasantly surprised at the rich, buttery flavor that I think my morning toast will be slathered in for all eternity ; )
Peas of Mind Veggie Wedgies – Broccoli, Carrot, Cauliflower & Apple, these “fries” are just as delicious, if not more so, then their potato counterparts! Great and nutritious for kids & adults alike!
No Oodle – High fiber yam flour noodles that are vegan, soy & gluten free and zero calories! Load up on these, guilt free!
Stirrings – All natural cocktail mixers, you now have an excuse as well as proof that drinking can be a little healthy, haha!
Chocolate Decadence – All I need to say is vegan, dark chocolate covered, gluten free pretzels. Heaven!

Health, Beauty & Lifestyle
(in no particular order)

Spoonk Massage Mats – Need a massage? No one there to help? Lay down on a Spoonk acupressure massage mat! So relaxing!
Ecotensil – Another smart and innovative item to rid the world of crappy disposables. Whether you recycle or not, ecotensil takes up little space and is biodegradable and compostable. See ya plastic spoons!
Sparklehearts – I thought this was a really fun and cute way to have little girls be pretty and sweet smelling without the harsh chemicals and garbage in conventional girly products. Natural is also fun!
Preserve – Be it plates and plates or toothbrushes and razors, everything in their product line is made of 100% recycled #5 plastic. And when you’re done, send it back to them and they’ll make more!
Himalayan Salt Air Inhaler – A really wonderful alternative to inhalers for asthmatics and others who have a tough time breating. All natural Himalayan salt is inhaled for breathing relief and recovery.
The Ginger People Skin Care Line – If you love their edible products, you’ll love theit all natural, eco-friendly line of skin care featuring their famous ginger!
Herblix Restoratives – A fantastic way to detox while you sleep. A night time application helps clean out clogged glands under the armpits while also promoting clean flow in the lymph nodes and breast tissue, releasing impurities.
Hugo Naturals – A beautiful booth called me in and a great product line kept me there. Created by a chef, his food grade line of sweet smelling body, skin and hair care has made it mainstream.
Way Out Wax – No nonsense candles with all the yummy scents. Soy candles that are eco-friendly and non-toxic, move over glade, we’re goin au naturale!
Synergy Organic Clothing – Who doesn’t like cute clothes? Especially eco-conscious clothes? Synergy has you covered (pun intended) ; )
I Play – Organic baby wear and accessories. So cute and safe, you’ll want nothing but this line for you little one!