Agropur Division Natrel Introduces the Latest Addition to the Natrel Family - Baboo: The Step Before Grown-Up Milk

Natrel innovates with the first Canadian dairy product specially designed to complement the balanced diet of toddlers aged 12-24 months.

LONGUEUIL, QC, Feb. 6, 2012 /CNW/ - Agropur Division Natrel is proud to announce the launch of its latest innovation in the dairy category and the first dairy beverage specially designed for toddlers aged 12-24 months. With the well-being of toddlers in mind, Natrel Dairy experts designed Baboo to ensure a smooth transition from breast milk or infant formula to regular milk. Baboo is rich in nutrients to help with toddlers' development in complementing their balanced diet, easier to digest and gentler on a toddler's system.  It's convenient for parents thanks to its aseptic shelf-safe Tetra Pak cartons.  As the step before grow-up milk, Baboo is the best introduction to the world of dairy.

"We've listened to moms across Canada and we know that making the best introduction to dairy is a priority for them and they want their toddlers to receive all of the nutritional benefits without difficulty," says Caroline Losson, Vice President Marketing, Agropur Division Natrel.  "As dairy experts, we are committed to offering the right dairy product to help toddlers meet every important milestone in their young lives. We believe Baboo is the answer and a great addition to the "pack and play" needs of busy young families," Ms. Losson adds.

Available in stores across Canada, the ingredients in Baboo are simple.  Made with fresh Natrel milk, it contains the proper milk protein level and ratio, less sodium and a lower mineral content, all of which make it easy to digest and easier on a toddler's system. Enriched with a natural source of Omega-3 DHA, it supports the normal development of the brain, eyes and nerves and with a natural source of Vitamin C, it aids in the absorption of iron in iron-rich foods that are an important addition to a toddler's growing menu of first foods. Baboo contains 4 per cent fat content - an important source of energy for brain and tissue development and an important part of a toddler's balanced diet.  It is also an excellent source of calcium and a source of vitamins A,D, E and B₆.

Baboo has the wholesome taste of fresh milk and is freshly packaged in 1L and 6x250 ml Tetra Pak aseptic shelf-safe cartons, that are lightweight and recyclable, protecting Baboo's nutrients without preservatives and making it easy to store and have on hand when needed.  Baboo is ready to drink, so no mixing is necessary and it is 100 per cent hygienic.

"What I love about Baboo is that it has so many elements that are important to a toddler's diet: less sodium and a lower protein content which helps protect a toddler's kidneys while they are still developing, and a higher fat content," says Lydia Knorr, Registered Dietitian. "Baboo is the perfect accompaniment to playdates, snacks and meal times. It's easy for parents to incorporate into their toddler's routines to complement their nutritious and balanced diet."

"When we conceived the idea of Baboo, we envisioned a dairy product made with natural dairy ingredients that tastes like the wholesome fresh milk it contains and is gentle on a toddler's system. Our work began two years ago when we started our research of what was available in other countries and we committed to ensuring that as the first dairy product of its kind in Canada, Baboo would contribute to the development of Canadian toddlers (age 12-24 months), comply with Canadian regulations and meet the lifestyle needs of busy Canadian families," says Ms. Losson.

Baboo is sold across Canada and can be found in major chains and mass merchandisers, as well as most grocery and pharmacies for the suggested retail price of $3.29 per 1L and $6.99 per 6 x 250 ml.  Look for it in the baby section or dairy case.

For more information including recipes and menu ideas for growing toddlers go to www.natrelbaboo.com where you will find the Baboo Toddler Menu Planner and other parent resources for toddler feeding. To continue the conversation with moms and dads about the important transitions in their active lives, Natrel Baboo has a Facebook page with experts, tools and resources for sharing.

About Natrel products

The Natrel brand is synonymous with distinction and represents added value for Canadian consumers. Its premium dairy products meet the needs of a demanding and ever-changing consumer base. The innovative division offers several value-added health products, including NatrelNature~Pure, NatrelNature~Pure Organic, Natrel Lactose Free, Natrel Omega-3, Natrel Omega-3 DHA, Natrel Calcium and Natrel Nutrition 24.

About Agropur

Founded in 1938, Agropur cooperative is a Canadian dairy industry leader, with $3.4 billion in annual sales. It has 3,459 members and over 5,500 employees distributed among its 27 plants, and numerous distribution centres and offices across Canada, the U.S. and Argentina. It processes 3 billion litres of milk annually and offers an impressive array of products, including such popular brands as Québon, OKA, Sealtest, Natrel, Champfleury, Island Farms, Yoplait, La Lacteo and Schroeder.