The development addresses one of the industry's most persistent technical hurdles: replicating the dense, fibrous structure of actual muscle tissue rather than just aggregating cells on a scaffold. South Korean food-tech start-up TissenBioFarm has announced a significant technical breakthrough for the cellular agriculture sector, claiming to have successfully produced cultivated meat with a cell density equivalent to—and in some cases exceeding—that of conventional animal meat. The development addresses one of the industry's most persistent technical hurdles: replicating the dense, fibrous structure of actual muscle tissue rather than just aggregating cells on a scaffold. Breaking the Density Barrier According to the company, the achievement marks a shift for the sector from "theoretical possibility" toward "technically realised, measurable outcomes." By controlling initial cell density conditions, TissenBioFarm states it can now produce cultivated meat structures that match the cell density of a real ribeye steak . Furthermore, the start-up claims to have produced samples containing more than twice the cell density found in conventional meat, potentially opening new avenues for "super-dense" nutritional applications. The 'Tissue Engineering' Approach TissenBioFarm attributes this success to a fundamental shift in methodology: focusing on tissue rather than individual cells. "Biologically, meat is not a simple aggregation of cells, but a form of tissue," the company noted in its statement. By treating cultivated meat as "edible artificial tissue," the start-up aims to move away from the perception that cell-based products are merely scaffold-heavy structures lacking the density of animal flesh. Industry Context The announcement comes at a critical time for the cultivated meat sector, which has faced scrutiny regarding scalability, cost, and the slow pace of technological progress relative to early investor optimism. Analysts acknowledge that achieving cell densities comparable to livestock meat has been a major bottleneck. TissenBioFarm suggests this breakthrough redefines the technological boundaries of the category, shifting the conversation from simple cell counts to the potential value proposition of high-density tissue engineering for the end consumer. The Newsroom Cultivated TissenBioFarm Claims Industry Milestone with Cultivated Meat Density Exceeding Real Ribeye News January 7, 2026 Cultivated New Solutions Meat & Seafood Related news Safety & Quality Health Canada and CFIA Approve PRRSV-Resistant Pigs Following Safety Assessments New Products COLUMBUS Craft Meats Debuts Ready-to-Serve 'Entertaining Tray' to Capitalise on Gen Z Hosting Trends Foodservice Wingstop Expands 'Sweet-Heat' Portfolio with Limited-Time Hot Honey Trio Nationwide Technology TAGAT Foodtech Launches Integrated Animal Protein Ecosystem Following EDATA and SAG Merger

This release marks the brand's third major flavour innovation in the past year, following the successful rollouts of Salted Caramel and Marshmallow variants. Butterfinger , the Ferrero-owned confectionery brand, has confirmed the expansion of its limited-edition portfolio with the launch of Butterfinger® French Toast . This release marks the brand's third major flavour innovation in the past year, following the successful rollouts of Salted Caramel and Marshmallow variants. The launch signals a strategic move to capture the "breakfast-inspired" snacking occasion, a growing trend in the confectionery sector where brands are leveraging nostalgic morning flavour profiles—such as maple, cinnamon, and cereal—to drive impulse purchases throughout the day. Innovation Pipeline: The 'Brunch' Strategy The new SKU retains the brand's signature "crispety, crunchety" texture and peanut butter core but introduces a proprietary French toast-flavoured coating . The flavour profile is engineered to deliver notes of syrup and cinnamon, effectively translating the "weekend brunch" experience into a shelf-stable bar format. Yann Bastien , Vice President of Marketing for Butterfinger, positioned the launch as a convergence of comfort food and candy innovation. "French toast is a classic that hits across generations," said Bastien. "We saw an opportunity to take that universal craving and transform it into something you can enjoy anywhere, anytime. It’s comfort food meets candy innovation." Brand Elevation: The Dominique Ansel Collaboration To support the launch and generate "brand heat," Butterfinger has secured a high-profile partnership with Chef Dominique Ansel , the James Beard Award-winner best known as the creator of the Cronut®. This collaboration utilises a "halo effect" strategy, associating the mass-market candy bar with high-end culinary craftsmanship. From February 27 through March 1 , Chef Ansel’s SoHo, New York bakery will retail an exclusive Butterfinger French Toast Croquembouche . The Limited-Edition Pastry Set Includes: Peanut Butter Caramel: Features peanut butter cinnamon ganache and Butterfinger crumbles. Maple Cinnamon: Glazed with creamy milk chocolate. Butterfinger: Filled with Butterfinger ganache and topped with caramel glaze. Strategic Context For retailers, this collaboration serves as a strong marketing hook, driving social media visibility and consumer curiosity. By partnering with a chef known for viral pastry trends, Butterfinger aims to break through the noise of the standard candy aisle and appeal to "foodie" demographics that might otherwise overlook heritage candy brands. "It's a timeless, comforting treat that represents a sense of nostalgia and childhood memories for so many people," noted Chef Ansel on the partnership. Featured in this news Confectionery Ferrero Group The Newsroom New Products Butterfinger Taps Breakfast Trend with French Toast LTO and Dominique Ansel Partnership News February 10, 2026 Snacking Confectionery New Products Related news New Products Nestlé Expands KitKat Portfolio with ‘Cookie Dough’ Flavour Range New Products Rowntree’s Launches Lollies-Inspired Confectionery Range for UK Retailers Marketing Mushroom Council Taps Chef Matty Matheson for 2026 Campaign Targeting Gen Z and Millennials New Products Daesang’s O'food Launches 'Real Kimchi' Ramyun Line at Costco and Loblaws Canada

You’re reading a free preview of The Newsroom 📰 ✅ Get full access to The Newsroom — your personalised F&B feed with curated insights, company updates, and announcements. + access to the full app collection from FNBX 👉 Join for Free 👋 Log in Subscribe to weekly updates Email* Yes, subscribe me to your newsletter. Submit The Newsroom Soft drinks New Products February 11, 2026 Maison Perrier Enters Functional Beverage Market with ‘French Kiss’ Prebiotic Line Launching in time for the Valentine's Day trading period, the new line marks a strategic pivot from the brand's traditional unsweetened mineral water roots into the high-growth functional beverage category. Energy Drinks February 10, 2026 Bang Energy Targets 'Lifestyle' Demographic with Candy-Inspired Lime Pop Drop Launch The launch continues the brand's aggressive strategy of targeting the "high-performance lifestyle" segment with confectionery-inspired profiles that offer bold taste without sugar. Energy Drinks February 8, 2026 Tenzing Enters Nootropic Energy Market with Lion’s Mane ‘Natural Energy+’ Range Tenzing, the UK-based natural energy brand, has announced a strategic expansion beyond its core caffeine-led portfolio with the launch of a new functional sub-range: Natural Energy+. Energy Drinks February 4, 2026 Lucky Energy Secures Major H-E-B and EG America Listings; Bolsters Leadership Team The company is executing a dual-channel rollout across major regional grocery and national convenience networks, supported by a trio of senior executive hires from industry giants including Red Bull, Coca-Cola, and Congo Brands. Beverage February 3, 2026 AG Barr Acquires Fentimans and Frobishers in £51M Premium Soft Drinks Push The company confirmed the completion of a £38 million deal to acquire Hexham-based botanical brewer Fentimans on Monday, funded through a combination of cash and debt Soft drinks February 3, 2026 Coca-Cola Expands Cherry Portfolio with 'Nostalgic' Innovation Strategy The Coca-Cola Company has announced a significant expansion of its Cherry beverage portfolio for the U.S. and Canadian markets, coinciding with the 40th anniversary of the flavour line's debut. Launching in February 2026 Energy Drinks February 3, 2026 Happy Panda Enters Functional Energy Market with Science-Led Formulation The brand is led by a unique founder duo—Dr. Noor and Cam—whose partnership merges elite medical pedigree with professional sports and lifestyle culture to disrupt traditional beverage marketing. Beverage February 3, 2026 Venturi Bold Brew Disrupts RTD Coffee Market with Botanical Nitro Fusions The brand is differentiating itself by moving beyond standard "black" or "latte" profiles, instead positioning its products as "craft beverages" that blend cold brew with tea, culinary botanicals, and indulgent flavours. First PREV 1 Page 1 NEXT Last

Mars Snacking North America has announced a disruptive marketing activation for the 2026 Big Game, partnering with actor Elijah Wood and delivery platform Gopuff to launch a "never-before-tried" advertising concept. Mars Snacking North America has announced a disruptive marketing activation for the 2026 Big Game, partnering with actor Elijah Wood and delivery platform Gopuff to launch a "never-before-tried" advertising concept. Moving away from the traditional broadcast slot, Skittles is redefining the medium by delivering its ad physically to a consumer's home. On Sunday, 8 February 2026 , one contest winner will receive a live performance of a Skittles commercial right at their front door, starring Elijah Wood. Campaign Mechanics: The 'Unskippable' Ad The campaign is positioned as an antidote to the modern viewing experience, offering an ad that "cannot be paused, skipped, muted, or explained to neighbours." The creative concept revolves around a "magical horn" capable of summoning a mysterious creature—played by Wood—who appears on demand to deliver candy. While the broader campaign will feature digital creative, the "Live Commercial" activation brings this fantasy into the real world for a single household. Strategic Partnership with Gopuff The stunt serves a dual purpose: generating viral buzz and promoting Skittles' home delivery capabilities via Gopuff . By linking the "live ad" to the delivery experience, the brand is reinforcing the ease of ordering snacks during the high-demand Game Day window. Gabrielle Wesley , Chief Marketing Officer at Mars Snacking North America, commented on the experiential strategy: "Skittles has always delivered deliciously perplexing experiences to fans, but this year we are bringing the unexpected to fans on game day. Snack selection is nearly as important as the Big Game – so we're excited to give fans a chance to summon SKITTLES, a live commercial, and yes, Elijah Wood too." Consumer Activation To enter for a chance to "summon the rainbow," fans are directed to a dedicated microsite, DeliverTheRainbow.com . In addition to the main stunt, the brand is driving immediate sales through a "SKITTLES Big Game Bundle" available for pre-order on Gopuff, ensuring the campaign converts awareness into transaction volume during the football season. Featured in this news Confectionery Mars Inc The Newsroom Confectionery Skittles Redefines Game Day Advertising with 'Live Commercial' Delivery Starring Elijah Wood News January 14, 2026 People Flavours & Colours Snacking Confectionery Marketing Food Related news Snacking Cheez-It Partners with NBA Star Jimmy Butler for Limited-Edition Collector’s Box People Mars Appoints CPG Veteran Lauren Larsen as Chief Customer Officer for North American Food & Nutrition Business & Finance Mars to Finalise $36bn Kellanova Acquisition Following European Commission Approval

Backed by the private equity investor Elysian Capital since 2021, Wholebake aims to position itself as the UK's most "capable and flexible bar" manufacturer through this significant investment. Multi-million-pound investment in new Wrexham facility positions company as UK's most capable and flexible bar manufacturer Backed by the private equity investor Elysian Capital since 2021, Wholebake aims to position itself as the UK's most "capable and flexible bar" manufacturer through this significant investment. Strategic Facility Expansion This latest development marks Wholebake's third site—a purpose-built food-grade factory converted from a warehouse. It complements the company's existing operations in Corwen and Wrexham. With the Corwen facility's capacity fully utilized, the multi-million-pound investment in Wrexham enhances production capabilities. This expansion streamlines logistics, providing vital support for long-term growth among leading brands and retailers within the healthy snacking sector. Advanced Production Capabilities The new facility features dedicated production zones that allow for efficient workflows, robust allergen management, and the flexibility to adapt as market demand changes. As a result, the site promises increased production capacity, faster turnaround times, and enhanced support for innovation through Wholebake's "state-of-the-art" product development kitchen. Additionally, expanded onsite warehousing enables Wholebake to stock more ingredients and packaging. This reduces dependency on third-party storage, thereby improving overall supply chain efficiency. Regional Employment and Development Wholebake has stated that establishing a second facility in Wrexham strengthens its position as a preferred employer in the region. Furthermore, the company plans to invest in training and multi-skilling as it rolls out new high-speed production lines, thus creating valuable development opportunities for employees. Chairman Robin Williams remarked: "Expanding into this new facility is a transformational step for Wholebake. It gives us the headroom to grow with our customers, bring innov a tive new products to market and deliver even more efficiently at scale. Our immediate focus is continuity, retaining our existing equipment and product ranges, but we now have the platform to invest, innovate and expand in the years ahead." This strategic expansion demonstrates Wholebake's commitment to meeting the growing demand for healthy snacking options while maintaining operational excellence and supporting regional economic development. Image from Wholebake The Newsroom Snacking Wholebake Expands Operations as a Leading Healthy Snack Bar Manufacturer News October 29, 2025 Facilities Snacking Manufacturing Food Related news Facilities Fonterra Breaks Ground on $75M Butter Plant Expansion to Drive High-Value Milkfat Strategy Facilities Danish Crown Expands Domestic Production with New Deboning Facility in Vejen Facilities Tyson Foods Commits $23.5m to Modernise Kentucky Poultry Facility and Secure 1,100 Jobs Facilities AB InBev to Consolidate US Footprint: Closing Two Breweries and Divesting Newark Site

Doritos has unveiled Doritos Silent – a first-of-its-kind noise-cancelling software designed to remove the sound of crisp crunching during online gaming sessions. Doritos launches ‘crunch-cancelling’ tech for gamers with new Doritos Silent software Doritos has unveiled Doritos Silent – a first-of-its-kind noise-cancelling software designed to remove the sound of crisp crunching during online gaming sessions. Developed in partnership with Smooth Technology, a specialist in electronic and interactive design, the innovation uses “crunch-cancellation” technology to filter out chewing sounds via PC microphones. The project took six months to complete and analysed more than 5,000 individual crunch sounds to perfect the tool’s performance. The new platform can be downloaded for free at Doritos.co.uk/SILENT and is compatible with all PCs. According to Doritos’ research, 85% of gamers globally choose the brand as their snack of choice while playing, but many admit that eating noises can be distracting during co-op or team play. Nearly half of UK gamers (46%) say they dislike hearing others eat, while in Portugal (68%) and Spain (64%), crisps were ranked as the noisiest snack. In the US, 30% of gamers said that others crunching negatively impacts their performance. Fernando Kahane, Global Marketing Head at PepsiCo, said: “The connection between Doritos fans and the gaming community is undeniable. Both boldly and unapologetically embrace their individual flavours. Doritos Silent recognises this bond and demonstrates the brand’s commitment to innovation and elevating the gaming experience.” The launch forms part of Doritos’ wider engagement strategy with millennial and Gen Z gamers, who represent around 80% of the global gaming population. To support the rollout, Doritos activated a global marketing campaign across social media and outdoor formats in the UK, US, Spain, Poland, Brazil and Portugal, featuring imagery of Doritos chips replacing noise-cancelling headphones under the tagline “You won’t hear it coming.” Dylan Fashbaugh, lead developer at Smooth Technology, added: “We know gamers love Doritos, but that distinctive crunch can often disrupt gameplay. With Doritos Silent, we’ve created a way for players to enjoy their favourite snack without distraction.” The innovation continues PepsiCo’s focus on cross-sector brand experiences, merging food, technology, and entertainment to reach digital-first consumers. The Newsroom Snacking Doritos launches ‘crunch-cancelling’ tech for gamers with new Doritos Silent software News November 1, 2023 Snacking New Products Technology Food Related news

Royal Cup Coffee and Tea has announced a significant expansion of its Ready-to-Drink (RTD) Cold Brew product line, introducing four new flavour variants to complement its existing portfolio. Royal Cup Coffee and Tea has announced a significant expansion of its Ready-to-Drink (RTD) Cold Brew product line, introducing four new flavour variants to complement its existing portfolio. Building on the commercial performance of its "Signature Cold Brew Sweet Latte," the manufacturer and distributor is widening its offering to capture a broader spectrum of consumer preferences, ranging from purist black coffee to indulgent flavoured lattes. The Cold Brew Boom The product expansion is strategically aligned with current consumption data. Citing the National Coffee Association's Fall 2025 National Coffee Data Trends report , Royal Cup notes that 21% of American adults consumed a cold brew beverage in the past week—a metric that represents a 50% increase since 2020. The new launch aims to help retail and foodservice partners capitalise on this surge by offering a diversified "gold standard" portfolio that addresses convenience and quality simultaneously. Product Portfolio and Flavour Architecture The expansion brings the total count of the RTD collection to five distinct SKUs. The new additions are crafted to deliver specific sensory experiences: ☕ Black Cold Brew: Positioned as the purest expression of the craft, offering an impactful, silky-smooth, and coffee-forward profile. 🍮 Cold Brew Caramel Latte: A decadent twist featuring fragrant golden caramel sweetness. 🍦 Cold Brew Vanilla Latte: Designed to evoke the creamy delight of melted vanilla ice cream. 🍫 Cold Brew Mocha Latte: A rich blend incorporating bittersweet chocolate notes for an indulgent escape. These join the original Sweet Latte to complete the lineup. Chip Wann , CEO of Royal Cup Coffee and Tea, framed the expansion as a direct response to customer feedback: "This expansion is a direct reflection of our commitment to listening to and serving our customers by providing them with high quality, convenient options that don't compromise on flavour. These new lattes and our bold Black Cold Brew are perfectly crafted to excite our current customers and attract new cold brew enthusiasts." Commercial Availability The new flavours are available immediately, signalling Royal Cup's intent to aggressively compete in the premium convenient coffee segment. The Newsroom Coffee & Tea Royal Cup Expands RTD Cold Brew Portfolio with Four New Flavours News January 15, 2026 Flavours & Colours New Products Beverage Coffee & Tea Related news Coffee & Tea happy® Coffee Secures Major Convenience Listing with Expansion into 800+ Sheetz Locations Coffee & Tea Pop & Bottle Launches 'Wickedly Good' Limited-Edition Line to Celebrate Wicked Streaming Release Coffee & Tea Grind Expands into Canned Cocktails with RTD Espresso Martini Launch

The move is the precursor to a broader strategic restructuring, wherein KDP intends to separate into two independent, U.S.-listed public companies post-closing. Keurig Dr Pepper Inc. (KDP) and JDE Peet's N.V. have announced the publication of the Offer Memorandum for the acquisition of JDE Peet's, marking the next phase in a major consolidation of the global coffee sector. Kodiak BidCo B.V. (the Offeror) is making a recommended public cash offer for all issued and outstanding shares at a price of €31.85 per Share . The move is the precursor to a broader strategic restructuring, wherein KDP intends to separate into two independent, U.S.-listed public companies post-closing. Financial Terms and Dividend The offer provides immediate liquidity to shareholders with a distinct bonus structure regarding dividends. Offer Price: €31.85 in cash per Share. Dividend: JDE Peet's will pay a previously declared dividend of €0.36 per Share on 23 January 2026 . Crucially, this payment will not be deducted from the Offer Price, effectively increasing the total value realised by shareholders who hold through the record date. Strategic Roadmap: Two New Giants The acquisition is not an end in itself but a vehicle for a significant corporate split. Following the takeover, KDP plans to divide its operations into two distinct entities: ☕ Global Coffee Leader: A powerhouse serving over 100 countries with a comprehensive portfolio across all price points and segments. 🥤 North American Refreshment Challenger: A scaled growth business focused on the attractive refreshment beverages market in North America. Shareholder Support and Timeline The transaction has secured robust backing from key stakeholders. The Board of Directors of JDE Peet's has unanimously recommended the offer. Furthermore, Acorn Holdings B.V. and all members of the JDE Peet's board—collectively representing approximately 69% of the issued capital—have irrevocably undertaken to tender their shares. Key Dates: Offer Period: Runs from 16 January 2026 to 27 March 2026 (unless extended). EGM: An Extraordinary General Meeting will be held on 2 March 2026 . Closing: Expected early in the second quarter of 2026 . Regulatory and Acceptance Conditions All necessary competition clearances have been obtained. The offer is conditional on a minimum acceptance threshold of 95% . However, this threshold will be lowered to 80% if shareholders vote in favour of specific post-closing restructuring measures at the upcoming EGM. If the Offeror secures 95% or more, statutory Buy-Out Proceedings will commence. If acceptance falls between 80% and 95%, the company intends to implement a Post-Closing Merger to acquire full ownership, a process that may carry specific tax implications for remaining shareholders. Featured in this news Coffee & Tea Peet’s Coffee Featured in this news Beverage Keurig Dr Pepper The Newsroom Business & Finance Keurig Dr Pepper Launches Offer for JDE Peet's at €31.85 Per Share Ahead of Strategic Split News January 16, 2026 Legal Business & Finance Beverage Soft drinks Related news Beverage Willie’s Remedy+ Secures $15M Series A to Drive National Retail Expansion for THC Beverages Sauces The Marzetti Company Acquires Bachan’s for $400M to Expand Premium Sauce Portfolio Business & Finance TrueStart Coffee Secures Series A Investment Led by Innocent Drinks Founders Business & Finance Milliways Plastic Free Chewing Gum Secures $3M Investment to Accelerate US Retail Expansion

Metsä Group’s innovation arm, Metsä Spring, has unveiled a strategic sustainable packaging solution for the fresh produce sector, introducing a new series of wood fibre punnets. Metsä Group’s innovation arm, Metsä Spring, has unveiled a strategic sustainable packaging solution for the fresh produce sector, introducing a new series of wood fibre punnets designed specifically for berries, fruits, and vegetables. Part of the company’s Muoto Uncoated Fibre Series , the new moulded fibre innovations are engineered to address the stringent requirements of the upcoming Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), offering a scalable alternative to single-use plastics. Technology and Sustainability Profile The punnets are manufactured using renewable wood pulp, utilising a proprietary technology that converts wet pulp directly into three-dimensional packages without intermediate steps. This process results in a low-carbon footprint product that is ready to ship immediately after moulding. Key Product Specifications: Material: Renewable wood pulp (Uncoated Fibre). End-of-Life: Durable, recyclable, and plastic-free. Design: Available in two distinct size options. Compliance: Designed to meet strict PPWR standards anticipated to come into force in 2030. Market Potential and Scale Metsä Spring cites market survey data indicating that several billion packages are utilised annually for fresh produce in Europe. By replacing current plastic inventory with fibre-based solutions like Muoto punnets, the industry could significantly reduce the volume of single-use plastic waste. Tarja Heikkilä , Product Manager at Muoto, invited industry stakeholders to engage with the new technology ahead of regulatory shifts: “Our Muoto packages are durable, do not contain plastic, can be recycled and meet the strict requirements of the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation. Since the new legislation is likely to enter into force in 2030, now is the best time to start looking for alternative solutions for packaging fresh products.” Commercial Timeline The new Muoto punnets have reached the pre-commercial stage and are scheduled to enter market testing starting in January 2026 . Metsä Spring is actively seeking partners in the packaging industry to test and co-develop the product further. The Newsroom Packaging Metsä Spring Debuts 'Muoto' Wood Fibre Punnets to Replace Plastic in Fresh Produce Aisle News December 23, 2025 Fresh Produce Sustainability New Solutions Packaging Related news Sustainability CHO America Partners with The Fresh Market to Launch Sustainable Olive Oil Refill System Packaging Eco-Products Expands to UK Market Through Strategic Partnership with Vegware Sustainability UK Deposit Management Organisation Rebrands as 'Exchange for Change' Ahead of 2027 DRS Launch Packaging PaperTech Expands Sustainable Packaging Platform with Acquisition of Bake-Best Trays

UK snack manufacturer Proper has announced a strategic flavour extension to its fast-growing lentil chip portfolio, introducing House Hot Sauce Lentil Chips. UK snack manufacturer Proper has announced a strategic flavour extension to its fast-growing lentil chip portfolio, introducing House Hot Sauce Lentil Chips . The launch is designed to tap into the surging consumer demand for spicy profiles within the "Better-For-You" (BFY) snacking segment. The new SKU features an in-house developed flavour profile aimed at delivering "controlled heat and a tangy finish," catering to a palate shift that is currently reshaping the UK crisp, snack, and nut (CSN) market. The Heat Wave Proper’s innovation strategy is underpinned by robust category data. According to the company, spicy flavours now generate £528 million in UK sales. Crucially, this sub-segment is growing at 3% year-on-year , outpacing the overall snacking category by more than four times. By introducing a hot variant to its lentil base, Proper aims to capture consumers seeking intense flavour experiences without the nutritional baggage of traditional fried potato crisps. Product Specifications and Performance The new variant maintains the brand's core health credentials: gluten-free, vegan, and under 100 kcal per serving . This launch builds on a strong track record of flavour-led growth. Proper Chips has recorded a +21% year-on-year growth trajectory, delivering over £30 million in retail sales value (RSV) over the past five years. Previous limited editions, such as All the Cheese and Prawn Cocktail , generated over £3.2 million in RSV, with the Prawn Cocktail variant notably driving 54% incremental sales for the CSN category. Sandie Dilger , Chief Marketing Officer at Proper, commented on the NPD strategy: “Our Chips range keeps going from strength to strength as more people look for non-potato alternatives to traditional crisps. We jumped at the chance to create our very own House Hot Sauce, and then translate that unique flavour kick onto a chip.” Commercial Availability and Pricing The House Hot Sauce Lentil Chips have secured an initial listing at Tesco stores nationwide. A wider rollout into the convenience and wholesale channels—including Nisa, Costcutter, Spar, and Dhamecha—is scheduled for February . Formats & Pricing: Sharing Bag (85g): £2.25 Price Marked Pack (50g): £1.25 Corporate Context Proper Snacks (which also owns the Eat Real brand) is now ranked among the UK’s top five snack manufacturers. The B Corp certified business reports that more than one in five UK households now purchase a Proper product annually, with six packs sold every second. The Newsroom New Products Proper Launch 'House Hot Sauce' Lentil Chip, Marketing Towards Spice Boom News January 22, 2026 Flavours & Colours Snacking New Products Food Related news New Products Takis® Pivots Brand Strategy with Non-Spicy Innovation and Retailer Exclusives Snacking Pringles Partners with Xbox and Bethesda for 'Fallout 76 Mystery Flavour' Launch in UK & Ireland Snacking Cheez-It Enters Free-From Category with First-Ever Gluten-Free Cracker Launch Snacking Like Air® Partners with Copper Cow Coffee for Exclusive 'Vietnamese Coffee' Puffcorn Drop

Sentia Spirits, the UK-based functional drinks producer co-founded by neuropsychopharmacologist Professor David Nutt, is expanding beyond its core spirit alternatives into the ready-to-drink (RTD) market with the launch of Sentia Cider. Sentia Spirits , the UK-based functional drinks producer co-founded by neuropsychopharmacologist Professor David Nutt, is expanding beyond its core spirit alternatives into the ready-to-drink (RTD) market with the launch of Sentia Cider . Scheduled for release in February , the new product represents a strategic entry into the mainstream cider category—a sector with deep roots in UK beverage culture but historically limited functional differentiation. Sentia aims to disrupt this space by positioning its alcohol-free cider not just as a substitute, but as a functional tool for "relaxation and social connection." Leveraging Neuroscience for Functional Value Unlike standard alcohol-free ciders that focus solely on flavour replication, Sentia’s proposition is built on the proprietary research of its parent company, GABA Labs . While specific formulation details remain proprietary, the brand is known for utilising a blend of botanical ingredients designed to target the GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) neurotransmitter system, mimicking the "sociable" effects of alcohol without the associated ethanol. This move aligns with a broader industry trend where beverage makers are turning to science-led innovation to capture the growing demographic of consumers who are cutting back on alcohol but refuse to abandon social drinking rituals. Premium Ingredients: Heritage Apple Varieties To ensure the product appeals to discerning adult palates, Sentia Cider is crafted using traditional British cider apple varieties, including Yarlington Mill , Dabinett , and Redstreak . Yarlington Mill & Dabinett: Renowned bittersweet cultivars used in craft production to provide body and aromatic complexity. Redstreak: Adds necessary acidity and tannin structure. By utilising these specific cultivars, Sentia aims to deliver the balance of sweetness, acidity, and tannin complexity associated with "real" cider, distancing itself from the sweeter profile of mass-market soft drinks. Shifting the Narrative: From Restriction to 'Upgrade' David Orren , Chief Executive of Sentia, stated that the product design challenges the traditional narrative that alcohol reduction equates to restriction. Instead, Orren describes the product as an "upgrade" to the drinking experience, focusing on experiential value rather than abstinence. This positioning reflects a wider shift in the "No & Low" alcohol sector, where brands are increasingly marketing social benefits and mood enhancement over simple health avoidance. Commercial Strategy and Pricing Sentia Cider will retail at £18 for a six-bottle case via the brand’s direct-to-consumer (DTC) channel. This price point places the product firmly at the premium end of the alcohol-free market, signalling a strategy focused on margin growth through functionality and storytelling rather than volume-led price competition. The Newsroom Beverage Sentia Spirits Enters Alcohol-Free Cider Category with Science-Led Functional Innovation News February 2, 2026 New Products Beverage Related news Beverage Cawston Press Enters No-Low Category with Acquisition of Fruit Beer Brand Loah Beverage Whirlwined Debuts Industry-First Non-Alcoholic THC Wine with Premium Sauvignon Blanc Beverage Tom Holland’s BERO Named Official Non-Alcoholic Beer of Barry’s in Global US-UK Partnership Alcohol JaM Cellars Expands Low-Alcohol 'ButterLight' Range with Canned Format and Teases Non-Alcoholic Line

The ad, titled "Bananas," is scheduled to air during the first quarter in the U.S. and the second quarter in Canada on Sunday, 8 February 2026. Grocery technology leader Instacart has confirmed its return to the Super Bowl advertising roster, securing a 30-second spot to debut its new "Preference Picker" technology. The ad, titled "Bananas," is scheduled to air during the first quarter in the U.S. and the second quarter in Canada on Sunday, 8 February 2026 . The campaign marks a significant creative investment, helmed by award-winning director Spike Jonze in his first Super Bowl commercial in over two decades. The creative execution stars actor Ben Stiller and multi-platinum recording artist Benson Boone as a retro European disco-pop duo. Creative Concept: The 'Bananas' Rivalry The spot leverages a high-concept narrative to highlight specific app functionality. Stiller and Boone perform a synchronized duet on a 60-foot LED-lit stage, singing about their specific banana ripeness preferences. The performance escalates into a "theatrical rivalry," culminating in a spectacular onstage crash involving Stiller’s character. To maximize digital engagement, Instacart is simultaneously releasing a director's cut—a long-form version expanding the narrative arc and musical elements beyond the broadcast constraints. Production Credits: The campaign was developed by Instacart's internal agency, Local Produce , in partnership with McCann and BBDO . Product Innovation: 'Preference Picker' The commercial serves as the launch vehicle for Preference Picker , a new in-app tool designed to digitize the tactile decision-making of grocery shopping. Available immediately across most retailers on the Instacart Marketplace, the feature allows customers to select their specific banana ripeness preference: Not Ripe Almost Ripe Ripe This feature joins Instacart's broader "Grocery Quality Controls" suite, which includes tools for real-time inventory checks, shopper notes, and AI-powered "Smart Backups." The company has confirmed plans to expand Preference Picker to other high-variability categories, such as avocados and deli meat thickness, in the coming months. Why Bananas? The focus on bananas is driven by robust transactional data. Bananas are the number one selling product on Instacart, with over 1.8 billion units delivered to date. Furthermore, they generate the highest volume of specific shopper notes (over 32 million), indicating a significant consumer desire for control over this specific SKU. Laura Jones , Chief Marketing Officer at Instacart, commented on the strategy: "We intentionally cast an unexpected duo who each bring something distinct: sharp comedic timing and emotional, musical lift – creating a spot with both precision and playfulness. The ad is bold and funny, but grounded in something very real: Instacart's commitment to helping people get groceries just how they like." Danilo Boer , Global Creative Lead and Partner at McCann, added: "From the beginning it was clear we shared the same creative sensibilities and love for epic absurdity as the Local Produce team... This partnership, combined with Spike's incredible storytelling skills, Ben's unmatched comedic voice, and Benson Boone's out-of-this-world musical talent was the recipe for a truly memorable film." The Newsroom Marketing Instacart Enlists Spike Jonze, Ben Stiller, and Benson Boone for 'Bananas' Super Bowl Spot to Launch New App Feature News January 28, 2026 Fresh Produce People Business & Finance Retail Marketing Related news