The latest food and beverage industry news and trend analysis

Red Tree Beverages has launched Fresca Hard, a 4.6% ABV flavoured malt beverage targeting the post-game occasion. With zero sugar and 99 calories, it disrupts the active lifestyle RTD market.

Green River Distilling Co. is launching a product into the sweetened liqueur category, 92-proof Honey Finished Bourbon, utilising an "in-barrel" finishing process with 100% natural honey to deliver structural depth without artificial additives.

Hero Group has launched the Goodies snack line for children aged four and up, targeting the US baby aisle to capture parents seeking clean-label, "big kid" alternatives at Walmart and Kroger.

Pop & Bottle has expanded its RTD portfolio into the functional hydration category, launching a Matcha Coconut Water line that combines ceremonial-grade matcha with over 600mg of natural electrolytes to target the "clean energy" wellness market.

Starbucks has launched Coffee Craft in the UK, a premium Arabica concentrate designed to capture the at-home iced coffee market by reducing preparation friction for lifestyle consumers.

McDonald’s Canada is adding new beverages, including Strawberry popping pearls, freeze-dried dragonfruit, and silky cold foam, McCafé Crafted Sodas, Refreshers, and Cloud Iced Coffees

The Jel Sert Company and Dunkin' have launched a zero-sugar powdered drink mix, leveraging TikTok Shop to scale functional, caffeinated hydration beyond the traditional QSR environment.

HIPPEAS has launched Protein Crunch, a new pea-based puffed snack delivering 8g of plant protein per serving. Utilising avocado oil and a baked formulation, the range targets the functional salty snack market.