Rating 1995’s New-Product Ideas

No-fat cupcakes, bath tissue made of cotton instead of paper and a laundry product said to repair some wash-day mistakes were among the best new product ideas of 1995, a consumer research firm said.

Among the ideas rated worst in consumer polls were meat marinade in a syringe and hand cream in a glove, AcuPoll Precision Research said.

AcuPoll did not test the products but did show pictures to consumers, who then rated them on unusualness and value and said whether they thought they would buy them.

Those polled said they would definitely try Duncan Hines Angel Cups, which have no fat or cholesterol and have candy sprinkles instead of frosting. They are made by Procter & Gamble Co.

They also liked the idea of Cotton Fluff Sanitized Bathroom Tissue, made of organically grown cotton and containing no ink, dye or perfume. It’s made by a British firm, Multisofft Products.

They also liked the idea of Carbona In-Wash Color Run Remover from Delta Carbona, AcuPoll said. According to product literature, when colors bleed in a wash load, Carbona’s phosphate-free product can correct the problem if the load is washed again with it.

Also on the winners list: Domino Flavored Confectioners Sugar in strawberry, lemon and chocolate from Tate & Lyle, and Kraft Sandwich Creations--spreadable dressings in ranch, honey Dijon and barbecue flavors from Philip Morris Cos.’ Kraft Foods.