In most of my stories, I usually avoid using brand names and just use a generic term like "candy bar" or "sports drink". The story I'm currently working on one character has some specific dietary needs at certain times. What are the legalities of mentioning specific brands of these things? Do I need to credit the manufacturers someplace or get permission to use the names?

The trademark on a brand name does not restrict your right to say "or write" the name. I have seen lots of novels, poems, stories, etc where they mention brand names.

Ok, thanks. that makes life a lot easier.