16 Feb 2010 --- Sara Lee North American Fresh Bakery announced the expansion of its successful Soft & Smooth bread line with the introduction of its new Sara Lee Soft & Smooth Plus breads Made with DHA Omega-3. Based on a growing body of scientific evidence, docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) Omega -3 helps to support healthy brain developmenti.

Sara Lee Soft & Smooth Plus breads provide moms with a nutritious and simple means to ensure their children continue to receive the benefits of DHA Omega-3, together with other sources of DHA in their the diet, beyond infant formula and jarred baby food.

“While moms recognize that DHA Omega-3 is important to their child’s diet, it can be difficult to incorporate, especially with picky eaters who turn their nose at one of the most common sources - fish,” said Dr. Alanna Levine, Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics and parenting-expert. “If parents can add small portions of DHA into their child’s diet from a variety of sources – especially in something as palatable as a mild, soft-textured bread – it's easy for their child to get the daily nutrition they need.”

Available in 100% Whole Wheat and Made with Whole Grain White, Sara Lee Soft & Smooth Plus Made with DHA Omega-3 breads are the first nationally distributed breads of its kind in the United States. The new breads provide moms an option for their little ones that contains a portion of their daily recommended whole grain intake along with the mild taste and soft texture inherent in the Sara Lee Soft & Smooth line, now with DHA Omega-3. life'sDHA, the algae-based ingredient that provides Sara Lee Soft & Smooth Plus bread with DHA Omega-3 nutrient, is produced by Martek Biosciences Corporation (Martek).

“We understand the need to ensure proper nutrition through all stages of life especially in younger children,” said Tim Zimmer, vice president, Sara Lee North American Fresh Bakery. “Bread with DHA Omega-3 is an excellent and simple way to provide moms with a great-tasting, nutritious option their little ones will love.”

Both varieties of Sara Lee Soft & Smooth Plus Made with DHA Omega-3 breads contain 12 mg of DHA Omega-3 per two-slice serving, which is at least 10 percent of the Institute of Medicine’s suggested daily amount for kids, depending on age, ranging from 1-13 years oldii. Years of research show a role for DHA in the normal development and functioning of the brain i, especially in supporting healthy brain development during those early years when it makes a difference.

“Martek continually aims to provide resources to companies like Sara Lee so together we can promote health and wellness throughout all stages of life,” said David Abramson, president of Martek Biosciences Corporation. “Combining our life'sDHA with the Soft & Smooth product is a natural partnership.”

Sara Lee Soft & Smooth Plus Made with DHA Omega-3 breads are available in grocery retailers where Sara Lee North American Fresh Bakery products are sold.