At the new product showcase on the first floor of the convention center, you’ll discover something to satisfy all your meal needs from breakfast through after-dinner drinks. If you haven’t checked it out yet, it’s a worthwhile diversion from the hustle and bustle of the show floor. Here’s a sample.

My grandfather’s favorite words in the English language were “Breakfast served all day” and he would have found plenty to chew on in the showcase: gluten-free waffle and pancake mixes, fully cooked uncured bacon, organic instant oatmeal, granola, Greek yogurt and an array of teas, juices and beverages to rev one’s morning engine.

Lunch might be served up in the form of ethnic convenience foods from pierogies to samosas. There are plenty of inspiring ideas for kids’ snacks here, too—from dried fruits to chips, nuts and crackers. Freeze-dried bananas, anyone?
And, if you’re looking for something a little more carnivore-friendly, there’s always natural jerky. Mmmm, jerky.

For dinner, there’s pasta, there’s pizza, there’s chicken and soup and burrito fixin’s. And to top it all off, a bevy of earth- and palate-friendly condiments from organic ketchup to vegan sour cream.

Your sweet tooth will be tempted by cakes and cookies, gluten-free ice-cream cones, frozen treats and even organic chocolate syrup. While you’re indulging in your 100 percent organic banana split, take a moment to pamper your four-legged friend with a scoop of Yoghund’s organic frozen yogurt for dogs.

Finally, you can even find inspiration for your liquor cabinet with offerings like U.S. Department of Agriculture-certified organic sake from Kikusui or drink mixers from Organic Stirrings.

Pick up a scanner from the friendly folk manning the desk, stroll past the display cases and zap the bar codes that appeal to you. It’s free, and when you’re done, you’ll walk away with a printout of your favorite finds. One piece of advice: Don’t go on an empty stomach. Happy hunting!

Cara Hopkins
Associate editor
Natural Foods Merchandiser