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Stock #2: Nestlé (NSRGY)

Another consumer staples company that should perform well is Nestlé (NSRGY). Yep, chocolate is just what people need to calm their nerves during volatile times. In late 2007, Nestlé purchased the Ruzskaya Confectionery Factory, which makes the Comilfo and Ruzanna brand chocolates in Moscow. Russia’s chocolate consumption is booming — all that vodka must need a chaser. Chocolate company Barry Callebaut predicts consumption will grow 32% by 2011. But there’s more to Nestlé than just its popular chocolate brands, Kit Kat and Butterfinger.

Based in Switzerland, Nestlé was founded in 1866 and has grown into the world’s biggest food and beverage company. It has factories in practically every country in the world. It produces coffee, water, ice cream, infant nutrition products, soups, pastas, frozen foods and even pet care products. Some of Nestlé’s familiar brands include: Nescafe, Poland Spring, Nesquik, Carnation, Edy’s, PowerBar, Stouffer’s, Lean Cuisine, Toll House and Purina.

Next: Stock #3 – J.M. Smucker (SJM)