Ukrop's Supermarkets, Inc. has taken consumer first aid to a new level with a new bandage offering made using blood-stopping technology found in bandages that the U.S. Army uses in Afghanistan and Iraq.

Supplied to Ukrop's by Portland, Ore.-based HemCon Medical Technologies, Inc., the KytoStat Bandage was designed to stop stubborn bleeding while sealing and protecting the wound when it is in direct contact with blood and pressure is applied.

Ukrop's said it is offering the bandage line as a new option of wound care for consumers on blood-thinning medications, as well as those who work and play in extreme environments.

"KytoStat will serve an important need for many of our customers," said John Beckner, director of pharmacy and health services for Richmond, Va.-based Ukrop's. "Our pharmacists [are] providing counseling and information on this unique new product."

Ukrop's offers the bandage in all 28 of its Virginia stores in Richmond, Roanoke, Fredericksburg, and Williamsburg.

The 1-inch x 4-inch KytoStat Bandage is engineered with chitosan, a compound that is naturally found in shrimp shells. According to HemCon, KytoStat gives these people control when conditions or medications - such as low-dose aspirin regimens for people with heart trouble -- interfere with the body's blood clotting ability.

Ukrop's operates 28 retail food stores, Joe's Market (a regional specialty market), a central bakery and kitchen, and a distribution center.