NutriSystem Inc. ( NTRI ) is receiving industry recognition as analysts hike estimates. The Zacks Consensus Estimate shows earnings growth of 53% in 2010. Company Description NutriSystem Inc., provider of weight management products and services, sells its products direct to the consumer through nutrisystem.com, by phone, and at select retailers. The company offers proven nutritionally balanced weight loss programs, designed for women, men and seniors, as well as the clinically tested Nutrisystem D plan, designed to help people with type 2 diabetes who want to lose weight. Industry Accolades NutriSystem recently received industry recognition. The company was recognized by SmartMoney magazine and CBS MoneyWatch as the best value in weight loss. Bullish Forecasts The company continues to see bullish earnings forecasts. The current full-year Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.01 per share is up a penny over the past 3 months. For the following year, analysts polled by Zacks are calling for earnings of $1.55 per share, versus the 3 months-ago level of $1.08, which represents earnings growth of 53% in 2010. Strong Earnings Sent Shares Higher The company saw third-quarter earnings of 27 cents per share, exceeding the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 12.5%. Shares of NTRI spiked on the results, maintaining a higher level since then and outpacing the market by more than 20% over the past 3 months. Favorable Comparisons NutriSystem offers a return on equity (ROE) of 25%, soaring past the industry average of 6%. The company's net profit margin of 4% tops the industry average of -0.05%. NutriSystem pays an industry-leading dividend yield of 3%. The balance is shows no debt. Zacks Investment Research