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LAKELAND, Fla. - Publix has announced that it will introduce New Generation irradiated frozen ground beef patties, boneless chicken breasts and chicken tenders in its stores sometime early next year.

BRUSSELS - North American companies and governments are stepping up a campaign asking European Union lawmakers to modify controversial labeling proposals for genetically modified foods, Dow Jones Newswires reports.

Retailers are turning to high-quality house brands to help polish their image and win the loyalty of a choosier breed of deli shoppers.

When a shopper picks up a jar of pasta sauce, it's often just a beginning. Many also seek ingredients that will make it their 'own,' and other components to complete the meal.

Despite the myriad challenges of last year, supermarket sales rose 3.5 percent from 2000, when the economy was in decidedly better shape. All departments shared in the advance.

CHICAGO - Overall consumption of CPG products appears to have returned to normal a year after the tragic events on Sept. 11, 2001, but consumer shopping and purchase behavior continue to be influenced by concerns about the economy and national security, according to the latest report from Information Resources Inc.

WASHINGTON - Scientists from the U.S. Agriculture Department are developing a new type of soybean that could prevent allergic reactions in some children and adults, Reuters reports.

WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. - Winston-Salem, N.C.-based Lowes Foods has become the second regional chain to offer irradiated fresh, ground beef to consumers at 48 of its 105 stores.