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Each year a few rising stars in the produce department capture the public's attention and are touted by friends, foodies and food bloggers alike. But what are consumers actually buying at the grocery store? Here's what was popular in 2013 and what you should look for at the grocery store to keep your family healthy, and subsequently, happy.

1. Power Greens
Kale is the leafy green veggie that took the nation by storm in 2012 and continued to enjoy strong growth in 2013. Kale's "Power Green" cousins Brussels sprouts, organic salads, and bagged greens topped the retailer's highest-selling produce list. Bagged baby kale saw the biggest growth in 2013 with a nearly 200 percent sales jump from 2012. Why the big jump? It's all about nutrition. The leafy, nutrient-dense foods in the Power Green category pack a big nutritional punch without a lot of calories – a great combination. The popularity of bagged Power Greens is all about convenience – less time spent on washing, trimming and chopping.

2. Fresh Herbs
As consumers gravitate toward more nutritional options at mealtime, they don't necessarily want to compromise on taste. At the same time, consumer palates are becoming more sophisticated. Home cooks, who would have previously added salt, are more often using fresh herbs like basil and cilantro to enhance flavor. Limit your family's sodium intake to reduce the risks associated with high blood pressure. Herbs are a great alternative and another excellent source for antioxidants.