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Consumer Corner

What’s Trending in the Toy Box? The Toy Insider™ Experts Dish on What’s Hot to Help Holiday Shoppers Find Toys Sure to “Wow” Kids and Kidults

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A Barbie-fueled doll craze, toys inspiring future chefs and makers, parent-approved pets and active toys, plushies in all shapes and sizes, plus toys and games made for adults, all on trend 

 NEW YORK /PRNewswire/ —The Toy Insider, the toy industry’s most influential organization and a trusted go-to resource for parents and gift-givers, revealed the top toy trends of 2023 and expert toy picks from each trend for effortless holiday shopping. As inflation persists in toy aisles this holiday season, consumers should prepare to add a couple more dollars to their budget and shop early to find trending toys at the best price.


The Toy Insider revealed the top toy trends of 2023 and expert toy picks from each trend for effortless holiday shopping.

“This year’s trending toys are filled with thoughtful and fun innovations, giving everyone the chance to revel in the joy of play, whether you’re a kid or kid at heart,” says Marissa Silva, Co-Editor-in-Chief, The Toy Insider. “We’re seeing trusted classics—dolls, stuffed animals, active toys and activity kits—undergo a modern-day renaissance for today’s kids. More options are tapping into kids’ love of food and pets. Plus, a rapidly growing assortment of options for adults proves grown-ups just want to have fun, too!”

Shoppers can choose from a wide range of trending toys, with something for every budget, using The Toy Insider’s 18th annual Holiday Gift Guide. Broken down by age, the guide has more than 360 toys from 135 vetted toymakers, with direct links to multiple retailers for an easy toy shopping experience. 

The Toy Insider’s Top Toy Trends of 2023:  

Hello, Dolly!: Thanks in large part to Barbie: The Movie, the doll aisle is busier than ever! These classic toys promote social skills, inspire imaginations, and spark creativity.

The Toy Insider’s Favorites: Barbie Dreamhouse Playset (Mattel), Cry Babies Newborn (IMC Toys), Disney ily 4EVER Fashion Dolls (JAKKS Pacific), Fidgie Friends Fairie Garden (Sunny Days Entertainment), Glitter Girls Gia & Gypsy (Glitter Girls), Hugs & Giggles (Madame Alexander), Latinistas Fashion Dolls (Purpose Toys), Rainbow High Color & Create (MGA Entertainment), Style Bae (Just Play), The Fresh Beats Collection (The Dr. Lisa Co., formerly World of EPI)

Bake It ’til Ya Make It: They always say, “Don’t play with your food,” but we must disagree! These toys encourage pretend play in the kitchen, from popping pizzas in the oven to mixing up batches of cookies!

The Toy Insider’s Favorites: Build-a-Slice Pizza Cart (LeapFrog), Cook & Care Kitchen Nursery (Step2), Cookeez Makery (Moose Toys), Disney Princess Style Collection Fresh Prep Gourmet Kitchen (JAKKS Pacific), MGA’s Miniverse Make It Mini Food Café & Diner – Series 2 (MGA Entertainment), Mini Brands Series 5 Capsule (ZURU), My Baking Oven with Magic Cookies (Hape), Pretendables Cinnamon Roll Set (Fat Brain Toys), Shape Sorting Grocery Cart (Melissa & Doug), Sushi Go – Spin Some for Dim Sum (Gamewright)

Kids @ Heart: “Kidulting” is a big buzzword this year because toys have a new audience: adults! More grownups are playing with toys than ever, and toy companies are making toys with kids at heart in mind.

The Toy Insider’s Favorites: 3Doodler Flow 3D Printing Pen Set (3Doodler), Crayola HD Coloring Set (Crayola), Deadlines (Foxmind), Disney Castle Revolution (Ravensburger), Kanoodle Pyramid (Educational Insights), Lite-Brite Touch (Basic Fun!), Monopoly Prizm: NBA Edition Game (Hasbro), Rainbow Brite 3-inch Figures (The Loyal Subjects), Risk The 1980’s Edition (Winning Moves Games), Super Mario Wonder (Nintendo)

Make & Create: Whether it’s learning how things work or gaining a new hobby, the benefits of creating something or learning a new skill are monumental for kids at any age! If they love music, building, jewelry, beauty, or anything else, there are plenty of ways for kids to unleash their creativity.

The Toy Insider’s Favorites: Craft Your Own PomPom Purse (Purple Ladybug), Hydraulic Boxing Bots (Thames & Kosmos), Magic Sketch Glow (Boogie Board), Monster High Ghoulish Glam Nail Salon (Cra-Z-Art), Penn & Teller Magic Lab VR (Abacus Brands), Pinxies Unicorn Creation Studio (Luki Lab), Snap FM Radio (Snap Circuit), STMT Infinity Jewelry (Horizon Group USA), Switch & Go 3-in-1 Rescue Rex (VTech), Tinkertar (Buffalo Games)

Movin’ and Groovin’: We know how important regular movement can be to both physical and mental health — so why not use playtime to encourage kids to move? These playthings get kids moving, dancing, and staying active.

The Toy Insider’s Favorites: 3-in-1 Skate Trainer (Flybar), Bebé Fuerte Stack & Count Kettlebell (TOMY), Bluey 12-inch Kids Bike (Dynacraft), CoComelon Big Bouncer (Bestway USA), Droyd Romper (Droyd), KanJam Pickleball (Eastpoint Sports), Koosh Face-Off (PlayMonster), Laser X Ultra Double Blasters (NSI International), Sesame Street Elmo Slide (Just Play), Stapelstein Rainbow Set Classic (Stapelstein)

Pet FrenzyNo mess, no stress—just fun! Kids can care for these digital pets and furry friends that encourage nurturing and responsibility, while providing companionship.

The Toy Insider’s Favorites: Bitzee (Spin Master), Furby (Hasbro), Jurassic Park Real FX Baby T. Rex (Wow! Stuff), Little Live Pets My Puppy’s Home (Moose Toys), MINTiD Dog-E (WowWee), My Fuzzy Friends: Magic Whispers Kitty (Skyrocket), Pokémon Dreams Plush (The Pokémon Co.), Pokémon Train & Play Deluxe Pikachu (Jazwares), PYXEL: A Coder’s Best Friend (Educational Insights), Tamagotchi Uni (Bandai Namco Toys & Collectibles America)

Pint-Size Pals: There’s nothing better than a bestie—and a lot of times, kids really connect with the characters they see in their go-to entertainment content. Kids’ BFFs from their favorite shows and movies come to life in the toy box!

The Toy Insider’s Favorites: Disney Bluetooth Karaoke with Wireless Mic and Easy Link Technology (eKids), Batman and Wonder Woman Tonies (tonies), LEGO Disney 100 Years of Disney Animated Icons (LEGO), Numberblocks Step Squad Mission Headquarters (hand2mind), PAW Patrol Chase’s Mighty Transforming Cruiser (Spin Master), Playmobil 1.2.3. & Disney: Winnie’s & Piglet’s Tree House (Playmobil), RTR Blaze RC Rock Crawler (NKOK), Sonic Prime Paradox Prism (PMI Kids’ World), Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Mutant Mayhem Pizza Fire Van (Playmates Toys), YuMe Disney 100 Surprise Capsules (YuMe)

Plush-a-Palooza: Plush toys are often one of the most memorable staples of childhood—and this year, they are hot, hot, HOT for kids of all ages. Stuffed animals, collectibles, and plushies in all shapes and sizes are topping wish lists this year.

The Toy Insider’s Favorites: BumBumz (Jazwares), Bumpas (Bumpas), Care Bears Sequin Cheer Bear (Basic Fun!), Emotional Support Fries (Relatable, formerly What Do You Meme?), Fluffie Stuffiez (MGA Entertainment), GUND Sustainably Soft Plush (Spin Master), Snackles Super Sized 14-inch Snackles (ZURU), Squishmallows (Jazwares), TeeTurtle Plushie Tote Bags (TeeTurtle), Vs World Cows Vs. Aliens (Cepia)

About The Toy Insider

The Toy Insider is the go-to source for information about toys, tech and entertainment. Its expert team publishes two seasonal gift guides yearly and reviews toys daily to find what’s hot and trending. Visit www.thetoyinsider.com for reviews, toy news, giveaways and parenting tips. Follow them on InstagramTwitterFacebook and YouTube.

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Consumer Corner

5 Ways to be Environmentally Conscious at Home

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environmentally conscious

5 Ways to Be Environmentally Conscious at Home

(Family Features) Being environmentally conscious doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. In fact, by making simple changes to your daily routine, you can make a positive impact on the planet while also saving money and living a more sustainable lifestyle.

Consider these practical ways to reduce your carbon footprint and protect the planet for future generations right from the comforts of your own home.

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle: This classic mantra is still relevant today. By reducing the amount of waste you produce, reusing items whenever possible and recycling materials like paper, plastic and glass, you can help minimize the amount of trash that ends up in landfills and oceans. Composting food scraps and avoiding single-use plastic items like water bottles and shopping bags can also help reduce your impact on the environment.

Conserve Energy: One of the biggest contributors to climate change is the burning of fossil fuels for energy. Simple steps like turning off lights when you leave a room, unplugging electronics when they’re not in use, adjusting your thermostat to save on heating and cooling costs and using energy-efficient lightbulbs and appliances can help reduce your carbon footprint and save you money in the long run.

Save Water: Water is a precious resource, and it’s important to use it wisely. Simple actions like fixing leaky faucets, taking shorter showers, using the dishwasher or washing machine only when full and watering your garden in the early morning or late evening can help conserve water and protect the water supply. You can also install low-flow showerheads and toilets to further reduce water usage.

Choose Sustainable Products: When shopping for household items, look for products made from sustainable materials that are biodegradable or recyclable. Choosing products with minimal packaging or opting for eco-friendly alternatives can help reduce waste.

Grow Your Own Food: If you have the space, consider starting a small garden at home. Growing your own fruits, vegetables and herbs allows you to enjoy fresh, organic produce while also reducing the carbon footprint of your food by cutting out the transportation and packaging involved in store-bought produce.

Find more tips for going green at home at eLivingtoday.com.

Photo courtesy of Unsplash

Watch video to find out how!


SOURCE:
eLivingToday.com

Our Lifestyle section on STM Daily News is a hub of inspiration and practical information, offering a range of articles that touch on various aspects of daily life. From tips on family finances to guides for maintaining health and wellness, we strive to empower our readers with knowledge and resources to enhance their lifestyles. Whether you’re seeking outdoor activity ideas, fashion trends, or travel recommendations, our lifestyle section has got you covered. Visit us today at https://stmdailynews.com/category/lifestyle/ and embark on a journey of discovery and self-improvement.

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Consumer Corner

Important Recall Notice: Wiers Farm, Inc. Announces Voluntary Recall of Cucumbers Due to Listeria Concerns

Wiers Farm recalls cucumbers due to Listeria risk. Discard affected products immediately.

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In a decisive move to ensure consumer safety, Wiers Farm, Inc., a respected distributor based in Willard, OH, has announced a voluntary recall of select cucumber products over concerns of potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes. This recall specifically targets a limited number of whole and bagged salad cucumbers, sourced from out of state and distributed under the Wiers Farm brand.

Recall Details

Date of Announcement: July 12, 2024
FDA Publish Date: July 16, 2024
Product Types: Whole cucumbers and 2 lb bagged salad cucumbers
Pack Dates: June 5, 2024 (whole cucumbers), June 5 and 6, 2024 (salad cucumbers)
Distribution: Select Walmart stores in Michigan, Indiana, and Ohio

Reason for Recall

The potential for contamination was identified through routine sampling by the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD). While no illnesses or customer complaints have been reported to date, Wiers Farm is proceeding with the utmost caution to safeguard its customers.

About Listeria

Listeria monocytogenes is a bacteria capable of causing the serious infection known as listeriosis. It primarily affects pregnant women, newborns, the elderly, and adults with weakened immune systems. Symptoms include fever, muscle aches, nausea, and diarrhea. If you have consumed any of the recalled products and are experiencing these symptoms, it is advised to seek medical attention promptly. More information about Listeria can be found on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website.

Product Identification

Whole Cucumbers: Approximately 1.5-2.5 inches in diameter and 6-9 inches in length
Bagged Salad Cucumers: Packaged in a clear bag with a blue base, marked with the specified pack dates

Consumer Action

Consumers in possession of the affected cucumbers are urged not to consume them. Even though the products are past their shelf life and likely out of distribution, if you still have them, please safely dispose of them immediately. Questions or concerns can be addressed by contacting Wiers Farm customer care at (419) 933-2161 or via email at customercare@wiersfarm.com.

Company Statement

Wiers Farm has expressed its commitment to the highest standards of food safety and health. “We have taken immediate steps to address this isolated incident and are collaborating closely with the Ohio Department other traceability data to ensure that the product in question is swiftly and effectively removed from all channels,” stated a company spokesperson.

Summary

This recall serves as a reminder of the importance of stringent safety measures in the food distribution process. Wiers Farm’s proactive steps in recalling potentially affected products underscore their dedication to consumer safety and health standards. Consumers are advised to follow recall instructions and dispose of any questionable products to ensure health and safety.

FDA notice: https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/wiers-farm-inc-issues-voluntary-recall-whole-and-salad-cucumbers-due-possible-contamination-listeria

Our Lifestyle section on STM Daily News is a hub of inspiration and practical information, offering a range of articles that touch on various aspects of daily life. From tips on family finances to guides for maintaining health and wellness, we strive to empower our readers with knowledge and resources to enhance their lifestyles. Whether you’re seeking outdoor activity ideas, fashion trends, or travel recommendations, our lifestyle section has got you covered. Visit us today at https://stmdailynews.com/category/lifestyle/ and embark on a journey of discovery and self-improvement.

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Immediate Recall Alert: Reser’s Fine Foods Announces Voluntary Recall of Hill Country Fare Mustard Potato Salad

Reser’s recalls Hill Country Fare Mustard Potato Salad due to potential plastic contamination. Return for a refund if purchased.

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In a decisive action prioritizing consumer safety, Reser’s Fine Foods has issued a voluntary recall for one of its popular products, the Hill Country Fare Mustard Potato Salad, available in 48 oz (3LB) containers. This recall specifically targets products with a Use By Date of JUL/26/24. The reason behind this precautionary step is the discovery of potential contamination from pieces of hard plastic, which could present a health risk to consumers.

Key Details of the Mustard Potato Salad Recall:

  • Company Announcement Date: July 02, 2024
  • FDA Publish Date: July 09, 2024
  • Product Type: Food & Beverages
  • Reason for Recall: Possibility of Hard Plastic Foreign Material
  • Company Name: Reser’s Fine Foods
  • Brand Name: Hill Country Fare
  • Product Description: Mustard Potato Salad

This product was exclusively distributed through H-E-B and Joe V’s Smart Shop stores located within Texas and was produced at a regional facility operated by Reser’s Fine Foods. It is important to note that, fortunately, no injuries or adverse effects have been reported as of now.


Consumer Safety Measures

To prevent any potential hazards, all affected product batches have been removed from retail shelves. Reser’s urges consumers who have purchased this specific product to avoid consuming it. Instead, they should return it to the store where it was purchased for a full refund or safely dispose of it.

Contact Information for Consumer Inquiries:

For those with further questions or in need of additional information regarding this recall, Reser’s Fine Foods has made provisions for customer communication. You can reach them at:

  • Phone: 888-223-2127
  • Operational Hours: Monday to Friday, from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Pacific Time.

Why This Recall Matters

Recalls are a vital part of ensuring safety in the food supply chain. Reser’s Fine Foods has taken this proactive step out of an abundance of caution to protect its consumers from any possible harm. Such actions reflect a commitment to high standards of food safety and consumer protection.

Taking Action

If you have purchased the recalled Hill Country Fare Mustard Potato Salad, check the packaging for the specified Use By Date, and follow the outlined safety guidelines. It’s also wise to keep abreast of updates from Reser’s Fine Foods and the FDA.

This voluntary recall showcases the importance of rigorous quality checks and responsiveness in addressing any potential risk swiftly. For continued safety, keep informed about the latest food recalls and guidelines issued by health and food safety organizations.

Closing Thoughts

Reser’s Fine Foods remains dedicated to upholding the highest levels of safety and quality and is actively working on measures to prevent future issues. Consumers can rest assured that swift actions like these reflect a commitment to their well-being.

For continuous updates, stay tuned to the FDA’s announcements or sign up for direct alerts from food safety authorities to ensure you and your lovedators are always protected.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/resers-fine-foods-announces-voluntary-recall-hill-country-fare-mustard-potato-salad-use-date-jul2624

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Visit our Food & Drink section to get the latest on Foodie News and recipes, offering a delightful blend of culinary inspiration and gastronomic trends to elevate your dining experience.

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