Unilever Introduces First Cholesterol-lowering Mini-drink with Natural Plant Sterols

ENGLEWOOD CLIFFS, N.J. -- Unilever has become the first company to offer a mini-drink containing natural plant sterols, which have been clinically proven to help actively remove cholesterol as part of a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol.

Promise activ SuperShots fruit-and-yogurt mini-drinks contain two grams of plant sterols per three-ounce serving. The beverage also contains Heart Health Essentials omega-3 linolenic acid and omega-6, as well as being a good source of vitamin E.

Natural plant sterols occur in many foods, but at low levels, which means that it would take about 100 pounds of fruits, vegetables, and nuts to get two grams of natural plant sterols.

"Most Americans are not at optimal levels of cholesterol," said Lori Mosca, director of preventive cardiology at New York-Presbyterian Hospital and author of "Heart to Heart." "The good news is, we can better manage our levels through a comprehensive lifestyle approach that includes good nutrition and novel approaches to cholesterol reduction. One way that people can lower their cholesterol levels naturally is through using foods that are rich in natural plant sterols. Plant sterols are recommended as a therapeutic dietary option by the expert panel that established national cholesterol management guidelines."

Promise activ SuperShots come in strawberry, peach, and raspberry flavors. The manufacturer recommends that plant sterol-containing foods be consumed twice a day with meals.

The Promise brand portfolio of products also includes Promise Buttery Spread and Take Control Spread. "Promise activ SuperShots represent a significant expansion of the Promise brand in the United States," noted Eric Berman, brand director, Promise. "Our mission is to deliver delicious foods that can aid in the overall improvement of heart health. We're particularly excited with this latest innovation, as it represents a 'first' not only for the Promise brand, but for the American marketplace as well."

Promise activ SuperShots will arrive in grocery stores' dairy aisles beginning next month, retailing for about $3.99 per four-pack.

Among Unilever's many well-known brands are Axe, "all," Ben & Jerry's, Bertolli, Breyers, Caress, Country Crock, Degree, Dove personal care products, Hellmann's, Knorr, Lipton, Popsicle, Promise, Q-Tips, Skippy, Slim-Fast, Snuggle, Suave, Sunsilk, and Vaseline.
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