The latest food and beverage industry news and trend analysis

Green River Distilling Co. has announced a major addition to its core portfolio with the launch of Green River Wheated Full Proof Bourbon. The launch leverages the recipe that was recently honoured as "Best Overall Bourbon" at the 2025 New York World Spirits Competition.

Developed in partnership with Trilliant Food & Nutrition, LLC, a leading U.S. coffee manufacturer, the collection translates the chain's signature shop flavours—including fan favourites like Golden Eagle® and Annihilator®—into retail-ready formats.

This infrastructure investment comes as the company reports it is approaching $100 million in annual revenue, driven by surging demand from foodservice operators, manufacturers, and retailers for operationally efficient, plant-forward ingredients.

The move comes as the functional beverage sector prepares for a critical phase of regulatory maturation and mainstream retail adoption.

Turnbull will report directly to Zhiqiang Li, Director of the Yili Oceania business division. The appointment signals a strategic move to unify leadership across Yili's diverse New Zealand portfolio, which spans ingredients, consumer brands, and foodservice.

By utilising a cottage cheese base for the crust, the brand claims to achieve a crisp texture often lacking in cauliflower or alternative-flour bases, while delivering up to 23 grams of protein per serving.