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Kids love colors that are bright, wild and even a little funky. But purple ketchup? H.J. Heinz Co., hoping to build on last year's success with "Blastin' Green" ketchup, thinks their new "Funky Purple" will hit a homerun where it counts - with the kids. "Boys and girls alike love the cool purple color," said Brian Hansberry, Vice President of Marketing for Ketchup, Condiments and Sauces at Heinz North America. "Just look at kids' entertainment, and you'll find everything from purple computers to Harry Potter purple lightning bolts. Purple is a bold, fun color that brings a hint of mystery and magic to kids' condiment creations."

Nearly a year ago, Heinz EZ Squirt Blastin' Green captured the imagination of consumers -- kids and grownups alike. More than 10 million bottles were sold in the first seven months, with Heinz factories working 24 hours a day, seven days a week to keep up with demand. Desperate consumers eager to get their hands on Heinz EZ Squirt Blastin' Green tried everything from impersonating Heinz executives' relatives to bidding for bottles posted on eBay. The product launch made headlines around the world, even though its distribution is only now expanding outside the U.S.

The cool colors are only a part of the reason for the success of the EZ Squirt line. The curvy soft plastic bottle is designed for smaller hands and the typical, two-fisted grip favored by kids. The nozzle is notably narrow to create a thin stream, enabling young condiment artists to use more precision when decorating their dinners. Heinz EZ Squirt even contains added Vitamin C, which should please Mom and Dad. 

Heinz announced this week that Heinz EZ Squirt Funky Purple will join Heinz EZ Squirt Tomato Red and Blastin' Green in its growing complement of colored condiments. You can expect to start seeing the purple color on grocers' shelves in early September.

Kids can learn more about the new Funky Purple EZ Squirt product by visiting www.ezsquirt.com.

EZ Squirt bottle graphic @2001 H.J. Heinz Co.