The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has raised significant competition concerns regarding the proposed £1.2 billion ($1.61 billion) merger between convenience food manufacturers Greencore Group and Bakkavor Group... comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Never Miss an Update! Receive personalised weekly email newsletters with industry news curated just for you. Email* Submit or create an account to access more > CMA raises competition concerns in chilled sauces market while clearing Italian operations The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has raised significant competition concerns regarding the proposed £1.2 billion ($1.61 billion) merger between convenience food manufacturers Greencore Group and Bakkavor Group, specifically targeting potential anti-competitive effects in the UK's chilled sauces market. Regulatory Assessment and Market Concentration Issues In its preliminary Phase 1 assessment, the CMA identified that the merger could substantially reduce competition in the supply of own-label chilled sauces, potentially positioning the combined entity as one of the UK's largest suppliers in this specialized market segment. The regulator's analysis revealed limited competitive alternatives, with only 2 Sisters Food Group and Billington Foods identified as other substantial competitors in the chilled sauces space. However, the CMA characterized both companies as weaker rivals compared to the proposed Greencore-Bakkavor combination. Partial Market Clearance Despite concerns in the UK chilled sauces market, the CMA has cleared the merger for Italian markets covering chilled ready meals and salads. This partial clearance demonstrates the regulator's nuanced approach to market evaluation, recognizing that competitive dynamics can vary significantly across geographic regions and product categories. The differential treatment highlights the complexity of modern food industry consolidation, where companies operate across multiple markets with varying competitive landscapes. Leadership Response and Strategic Vision Greencore CEO Dalton Philips expressed satisfaction with the regulatory progress, stating: "The CMA process has been constructive and the Phase 1 decision is a welcome one, confirming our view of the highly complementary nature of our businesses and product portfolios across 'food for now' and 'food for later'." Philips emphasized the strategic rationale behind the combination: "We are now working with the CMA and Bakkavor for the benefit of all our stakeholders to complete the Bakkavor transaction early next year. I'm genuinely excited about what 2026 has in store as we bring these two great businesses together to create a true UK national food champion to deliver high-quality, innovative food to customers and consumers." Bakkavor CEO Mike Edwards reinforced the positive outlook: "Today's positive news from the CMA is a significant step forward in the process, providing welcome clarity which means we can collectively work at pace and stay on track to complete the transaction in early 2026." Remedies Process and Timeline Both companies have until November 3, 2025, to propose remedies addressing the CMA's competition concerns in the chilled sauces market. The companies remain committed to completing the transaction in early 2026, subject to satisfactory resolution of regulatory issues. The remedies process will likely focus on addressing market concentration concerns while preserving the strategic benefits of the merger for both companies and consumers. Broader Regulatory Context The CMA's intervention reflects the UK's increasingly vigilant approach to maintaining competitive markets, particularly in essential consumer goods sectors like food manufacturing. This scrutiny aligns with broader global trends toward stricter antitrust enforcement in food and beverage industry consolidation. The case demonstrates how regulators are applying sophisticated market analysis to evaluate the competitive effects of mergers across different product categories and geographic markets. Industry Implications The proposed merger would create a significant convenience food powerhouse with combined operations spanning ready meals, salads, and chilled sauces. The transaction represents one of the largest food industry consolidations in the UK market this year. Success in addressing regulatory concerns could establish a template for future food industry mergers, while failure might signal increased regulatory resistance to large-scale consolidation in essential food categories. Greencore-Bakkavor £1.2 Billion Merger Faces UK Antitrust Scrutiny Over Market Concentration Concerns October 28, 2025 Retail Sainsbury's and Morrisons Held Talks over UK Supermarket Merger Alcohol UK Introduce Digital Age Verification for Alcohol Sales Facilities Haribo Opens New £35M Warehouse West Yorkshire Facility Business & Finance Suntory Beverage and Food GBI Invests £14.5M in UK Blackcurrant Facility Food Retail Legal Related news

The agreement serves as a critical component of Subway’s broader strategic roadmap to fortify its footprint across the Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) region. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. Featured in this news Foodservice Subway The Newsroom Never Miss an Update! Receive personalised weekly email newsletters with industry news curated just for you. Email* Submit or create an account to access more > Global sandwich giant Subway has announced its official entry into the Azerbaijani market, signing a master franchise agreement with local operator N Sky Build . The deal grants the partner exclusive rights to develop, operate, and manage all Subway outlets across the country. The agreement serves as a critical component of Subway’s broader strategic roadmap to fortify its footprint across the Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) region, tapping into the emerging quick-service restaurant (QSR) sector in the Caucasus. EMEA Expansion Subway views the region as a high-priority growth corridor. According to the company, this latest deal adds to a portfolio of more than ten master franchise agreements concluded in EMEA since 2021. Collectively, these agreements represent a pipeline of over 4,000 planned restaurants . This announcement follows closely on the heels of a similar move in December 2025 , where Subway entered a master franchise agreement with Alamtiazat Al Alamyah Food Stuff to manage expanding the brand’s network in Qatar. Partner Profile and Operational Standards N Sky Build brings over two decades of experience to the partnership, with a track record of managing international brands across hospitality, retail, and food and beverage sectors. Under the terms of the arrangement, the local partner is tasked with modernising the guest experience. This involves implementing Subway’s latest global restaurant design standards and introducing the brand’s updated digital platforms to the market. The focus will be on driving operational efficiency while ensuring brand consistency in new locations. Nuri Garagoz , Chairman of N Sky Build, commented on the market potential: “This partnership with Subway opens an exciting chapter for our business. The agreement is a marker of our belief in Subway’s appeal in Azerbaijan and we're proud to be bringing the Subway experience to guests across the country.” Tracy Gehlan , Subway EMEA President, highlighted the strategic fit of the partner: “Azerbaijan presents an exciting growth opportunity for Subway, and N Sky Build is the perfect partner to help us realise this ambition. Their deep market knowledge and proven operational excellence will enable us to expand strategically in the country and deliver an exceptional experience to guests.” Subway Enters Azerbaijan Market via Master Franchise Deal with N Sky Build January 20, 2026 Foodservice Coca-Cola and KFC Announce US Beverage Partnership Foodservice Taco Bell Expands Live Más Café with Horchata Lineup and New Sites New Products Wingstop Launches Sour Patch Kids Flavoured Wings Business & Finance Starbucks Explores Takeover of Chipotle Logistics & Supply Chain Foodservice Bakery Business & Finance Related news

Bulletproof has expanded its functional coffee portfolio with the launch of Mood Booster Mushroom Latte, combining Arabica coffee with functional mushrooms. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Never Miss an Update! Receive personalised weekly email newsletters with industry news curated just for you. Email* Submit or create an account to access more > Bulletproof has announced its expansion into the instant latte segment with the launch of Mood Booster Mushroom Latte. The product combines instant Arabica coffee, functional mushrooms, adaptogens, and MCT oil alongside an integrated dairy creamer and subtle sweetness. Engineered for rapid preparation using either hot or cold water, the launch marks the brand's initial entry into the latte format, addressing expanding consumer demand for functional wellness benefits and lower caffeine options. Functional Formulation The formulation integrates three distinct functional mushroom varieties alongside adaptogenic botanicals to support mood elevation, cognitive focus, and stress management. Key functional ingredients and active components within the product architecture include: 🍄 Functional Mushroom Trio: Combines Lion's Mane, reishi, and chaga mushrooms to support focus and cognitive health. 🌱 Adaptogenic Ashwagandha: Formulated with ashwagandha to assist stress management and balanced mood regulation. ☕ Instant Arabica Base: Delivers a coffee-forward profile, supplying approximately 50mg of caffeine per serving, roughly half the content of a standard cup of coffee. 🥥 MCT Oil Matrix: Incorporates medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) oil to complement the active functional ingredients. 🥛 Built-In Dairy Creamer: Formulated with real dairy creamer to generate a frothy, café-style texture when mixed with water. Reduced Caffeine Content A primary objective during product development was overcoming common taste barriers associated with mushroom-infused beverages. By pairing the mushroom and adaptogen blend with real dairy creamer and natural Arabica coffee notes, the recipe masks earthy undertones while delivering a rich, creamy mouthfeel. Formulated with less than 3g of sugar per serving, the product offers consumers a low-caffeine alternative suitable for morning routines or secondary afternoon coffee occasions. Retail Distribution Bulletproof Mood Booster Mushroom Latte has become commercially available directly via the company's proprietary e-commerce portal and on Amazon. A secondary expansion into physical grocery and mass retail stockists is scheduled to begin across North American retail channels in autumn 2026. Bulletproof Launches Lower Caffeine Mood Booster Mushroom Latte August 13, 2026 New Products Evolution Fresh Launches Thrive Functional Juice Line New Products Coca-Cola Launches Prebiotic Line across Coke, Sprite and Fresca New Products McDonald's Debuts Bottled Pickle Brine Pickle Boost for Chicago Marathon New Products Goodrays with Brewgooder to Launch Functional Alcohol-Free Beers Coffee & Tea New Products Beverage Health & Nutrition Related news

Starbucks has announced a major expansion of its ready-to-drink (RTD) portfolio, bringing functional nutrition to the grocery and convenience aisles with the launch of Starbucks® Coffee & Protein. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. Featured in this news Soft drinks PepsiCo Featured in this news Coffee & Tea Starbucks The Newsroom Never Miss an Update! Receive personalised weekly email newsletters with industry news curated just for you. Email* Submit or create an account to access more > Starbucks has announced a major expansion of its ready-to-drink (RTD) portfolio, bringing functional nutrition to the grocery and convenience aisles with the launch of Starbucks® Coffee & Protein . Developed through the North American Coffee Partnership (NACP) —the company's long-standing joint venture with PepsiCo —the new line aims to capture the rapidly growing consumer demographic seeking high-protein, gut-friendly beverages without the sugar load typically associated with flavoured coffee. The nationwide rollout begins on March 23 , hitting grocery stores, convenience channels, and gas stations. Protein Meets Prebiotics The new RTD line is explicitly positioned to "level up" the morning routine by combining premium coffee with a highly competitive macronutrient profile. Rather than focusing solely on protein, Starbucks is adopting a "holistic approach to digestive wellness." Key Nutritional Specifications: Protein: 22g of complete protein per bottle. Gut Health: 5g of prebiotic fibre. Sugar: Just 2g of sugar per serving. Fortification: Includes five essential vitamins and minerals. The brand cites internal data indicating that 80% of Americans prioritise daily protein intake , while 54% actively seek foods and beverages high in fibre . By combining these two functional benefits into a single 12 fl oz bottle (MSRP $3.99 ), Starbucks is positioning the product as a convenient meal replacement or morning nutritional boost. The line will debut in two core flavours: Classic Caffè and Caffè Mocha . Translating Cafe Trends to the CPG Aisle This retail launch follows a successful menu strategy deployed within Starbucks' physical footprint. Last fall, the coffeehouse giant introduced Protein Lattes and Protein Cold Foams to its permanent menu across the U.S. and Canada. By migrating this functional concept from the cafe into the RTD format, the NACP is leveraging established consumer trial and brand equity to drive immediate velocity in the highly competitive CPG energy and coffee coolers. Zero Sugar and 'Lite' Formats In addition to the protein launch, Starbucks is executing a wider reformulation strategy across its legacy RTD lines to address the macro-trend of sugar reduction. Also launching on March 23 are two significant portfolio updates: 1. Starbucks Doubleshot® Energy Zero Sugar: A zero-sugar reimagining of the original energy coffee line. The new formulation maintains the bold coffee taste and energy boost but brings the calorie count under 100 per can. Flavours: French Vanilla and Dark Chocolate. Format: 15 fl oz can. MSRP: $3.59. 2. Starbucks® Frappuccino® Lite Drink Expanding the "Lite" tier of the iconic bottled Frappuccino range with a new Chocolate Hazelnut Gelato flavour. Profile: Deep chocolate accented with hazelnut, utilising a creamy texture without added sugars. Format: 9.5 fl oz bottle (100 calories). MSRP: $2.99. Market Context For retail buyers, these launches represent a concerted effort by the category leader to defend its shelf space against agile, functional-first challenger brands. By upgrading its portfolio with prebiotic fiber, high protein, and zero-sugar alternatives, Starbucks is ensuring its RTD offerings align with the modern "better-for-you" criteria dominating the grab-and-go beverage sector. Starbucks and PepsiCo Launch Functional RTD 'Coffee & Protein' Range February 26, 2026 New Products Evolution Fresh Launches Thrive Functional Juice Line New Products Coca-Cola Launches Prebiotic Line across Coke, Sprite and Fresca New Products McDonald's Debuts Bottled Pickle Brine Pickle Boost for Chicago Marathon New Products Goodrays with Brewgooder to Launch Functional Alcohol-Free Beers Coffee & Tea New Products Ingredients Beverage Health & Nutrition Related news

Genius Gourmet has entered the RTD shake category with Ultra-Filtered Protein Milkshakes, delivering 30g of protein and 170 calories. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Never Miss an Update! Receive personalised weekly email newsletters with industry news curated just for you. Email* Submit or create an account to access more > Genius Gourmet has announced its entry into the traditional protein shake category with the commercial launch of Genius Gourmet Ultra-Filtered Protein Milkshakes. The product introduction marks the company's first ready-to-drink (RTD) liquid platform while marking the return of company Chief Executive Officer Lance Rankin, one of the original co-founders of Premier Protein, to the category he helped establish. Formulated using ultra-filtered milk, the line enters commercial retail distribution across two flavours: Root Beer Float and Creamy Chocolate. Delivering 30 grams of protein and 170 calories per serving, the beverages are sweetened with real cane sugar to replicate the sensory profile and mouthfeel of a classic soda-shop milkshake. "Protein shakes have come a long way, but I still believe there is tremendous opportunity to innovate around taste, nutrition and the overall consumer experience," said Lance Rankin, CEO of Genius Gourmet and one of the original founders of Premier Protein. "Coming back into this category with Genius Gourmet is exciting for me personally. We didn't want to create just another protein shake. We wanted to develop something that tastes indulgent, delivers 30 grams of protein and brings something genuinely different to the category." Ultra-Filtered Formulation and Flavour Profiles The product development combines high macronutrient density with sensory indulgence, moving away from zero-calorie or sugar-free positioning in favour of real cane sugar sweetness. The lineup debuts across two initial flavour varieties: 🍺 Root Beer Float: A nostalgic soda-fountain profile blending classic root beer flavour notes with a smooth, creamy milkshake base. 🍫 Creamy Chocolate: A rich, cocoa-forward profile engineered to deliver traditional chocolate milkshake flavour while packing 30g of protein. Key formulation specifications and nutritional attributes across the range include: Protein Content: Formulated with 30g of protein derived from ultra-filtered milk. Caloric Value: Delivers 170 calories per serving. Sweetener Matrix: Sweetened with real cane sugar, incorporating 4g of added sugar. Format: Single-serve ready-to-drink liquid convenience. Tom Lunneborg, Chief Operating Officer of Genius Gourmet, who assisted in formulating the new line, stated that the technical development focused on achieving a milkshake profile first and a functional protein drink second, noting that balancing 30g of protein, 170 calories, and cane sugar sweetness required extensive formulation testing to achieve the desired creaminess. "This is one of the most exciting product launches we've had at Genius Gourmet," said Pete Vas Dias, President of Genius Gourmet. "We're entering a highly competitive category, so we knew we had to bring something special to the table. With Lance's history in the protein shake category, our team's product development experience and flavors like Root Beer Float, we believe we've created a line that can really stand out." Availability and Retail Distribution Genius Gourmet Ultra-Filtered Protein Milkshakes will commence commercial availability on 15 September 2026 through direct-to-consumer and nationwide retail channels: Deployed across 1,400 Target store locations nationwide starting 15 September 2026. Available through Amazon.com and directly via the brand's online portal at GeniusGourmet.com from 15 September 2026. A 15-pack configuration of the Root Beer Float SKU will roll out digitally via Costco.com beginning 21 September 2026. The multi-channel distribution model provides nationwide retail density, positioning the functional brand to capture mainstream consumers seeking convenient, macro-optimised dairy beverages across high-traffic mass and club retail sets. Genius Gourmet Launches 30g Protein Milkshakes September 9, 2026 Coffee & Tea Starbucks Debuts Pink Protein Drink and Pecan Sticky Bun Latte Foodservice Rich Products Launches Protein Syrup for Foodservice Beverages Coffee & Tea Caffè Nero Launches Protein Matcha and Latte with Myprotein Energy Drinks Monster Unveils Protein Energy Hybrid Beverage Line with 30g Protein Dairy Beverage New Products Health & Nutrition Related news

Somerset-based family-owned cider maker Thatchers has expanded its exclusive Cider Barn range with three new small-batch ciders: Thatchers Redwood, Thatchers Grenadier, and Thatchers Tremletts. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Never Miss an Update! Receive personalised weekly email newsletters with industry news curated just for you. Email* Submit or create an account to access more > Somerset-based family-owned cider maker Thatchers has expanded its exclusive Cider Barn range with three new small-batch ciders: Thatchers Redwood, Thatchers Grenadier, and Thatchers Tremletts . The Cider Barn collection celebrates Thatchers’ tradition of experimental cider-making, crafted using apples from this year’s harvest. Each cider showcases distinct qualities, from single-variety expressions to innovative blends. Martin Thatcher, fourth-generation cider maker, said: "The Cider Barn range holds a special place in our hearts. We’ve been making cider at Myrtle Farm for over 121 years, and innovation remains as important now as it was back in 1904. These small-batch ciders represent the passion of our expert cider makers." New Cider Variants Thatchers Redwood (6% ABV): A blend of bittersweet and culinary apples, including Katy, Harry Masters, Dabinett, and Yarlington Mill. Matured in 175-year-old oak vats and infused with oak chips, it delivers a golden cider with subtle vanilla aromas. Thatchers Grenadier (7.4% ABV): A single-variety cider using freshly pressed Grenadier apples, creating a sparkling, wine-like cider with floral and fruity notes. Thatchers Tremletts (6% ABV): Crafted from Tremletts apples, a bittersweet variety traditionally used in Thatchers Gold and Rascal blends, offering depth and character. Richard Johnson, head cider maker, commented: "Each cider tells a story about the apple varieties, the orchards they come from and the craftsmanship behind every bottle. Working with single-variety apples grown here on Myrtle Farm has been a joy, and our 175-year-old oak vats add unique depth and flavour." The new Cider Barn range is available in 500ml bottles exclusively from the Thatchers Cider Shop at Myrtle Farm , online, and at the Railway Inn in Sandford , priced from £2.60 . Thatchers unveils three new variants in its exclusive Cider Barn Range November 29, 2025 New Products Wingstop Launches Sour Patch Kids Flavoured Wings Foodservice Zaxbys Launches NERDS Strawberry Milkshake New Products Dan-O's Seasoning Launches Clean-Label Chilli and Tac-O Seasoning Packets Snacking Cheetos Launches Multi-Sensory Sweet Phantom Heat Puffs in US Beverage New Products Alcohol Related news

Solar Foods has secured a United States patent for the production process of Solein, its microbe-derived protein produced via gas fermentation, paving the way for commercialisation in the US Health and Performance nutrition sector. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Never Miss an Update! Receive personalised weekly email newsletters with industry news curated just for you. Email* Submit or create an account to access more > Solar Foods, a global leader in sustainable alternative proteins, has announced the receipt of a patent from the United States Patent and Trademark Office covering the production process of its flagship protein ingredient, Solein®. The patent grants the Finnish food-tech company exclusive rights to produce Solein using its proprietary gas fermentation process and a unique microorganism discovered in the Finnish wilderness. The US approval adds to a robust intellectual property portfolio, joining existing patents in major global markets including Europe, Canada, Australia, and China. IP Security in a Major Protein Market Securing intellectual property rights in the US is a critical milestone for Solar Foods as it transitions from research and development into commercial scale. The United States represents one of the largest and most lucrative protein-consuming markets globally, making it a primary target for alternative protein innovators. Juha-Pekka Pitkänen, Chief Scientific Officer at Solar Foods, stated that the patent allows the company to bring its "completely new harvest" to the food industry. He emphasised that the microbe, discovered nearly a decade ago, is extremely well-suited for a variety of product categories as a safe, highly nutritious, and functional ingredient. Technical Process and Supply Chain Stability Solein is produced using a bioprocess that effectively bypasses traditional agriculture. By utilising gas fermentation, the system feeds a single microbe with carbon dioxide and hydrogen, converting these gases into a nutrient-dense protein powder. This method offers several distinct B2B advantages for food manufacturers: Agricultural Independence 🌾 Production is completely decoupled from land use, weather patterns, and climate conditions, allowing facilities to be located anywhere in the world. Stable Supply and Pricing 🏭 The continuous, indoor fermentation process offers a reliable ingredient supply, insulating manufacturers from the price volatility associated with conventional commodity crops. Nutritional Parity 🧬 The resulting ingredient features a unique nutritional profile that combines the complete amino acid benefits of animal-based proteins with the sustainability metrics of plant-based alternatives. Commercialisation Strategy and Regulatory Milestones Solar Foods has officially commenced the commercialisation of Solein in the United States, strategically focusing initial efforts on the high-margin Health and Performance nutrition market. This sector is particularly receptive to clean-label, high-density protein alternatives. The US rollout follows successful early market validation in Singapore, where products containing Solein have already been made available to consumers. Looking ahead to broader international expansion, the company anticipates receiving regulatory approval for Solein in both the European Union and the United Kingdom during 2026. Scaling Production Infrastructure To meet projected global demand, Solar Foods is actively scaling its manufacturing infrastructure. The company’s first commercial-scale facility, Factory 01, began operations in 2024 with an annual capacity of 160 tons. Planning is currently underway for a massive expansion via Factory 02, which is designed to increase production capacity to 6,400 tons annually. The final investment decision for Factory 02 is expected to be made in 2026, with the first phase of the facility slated to become operational by the end of 2028. As the company proves its model, it intends to deploy a network of decentralised Solein factories globally, reshaping how bulk protein ingredients are sourced and produced. Solar Foods Secures US Patent for Solein Gas Fermentation Protein April 17, 2026 Ingredients Business & Finance Manufacturing Cultivated Related news

Borealis Foods has expanded into Europe, partnering with Foodvibez to manufacture an expected 10 million units annually of Niom Niom high-protein noodles. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Never Miss an Update! Receive personalised weekly email newsletters with industry news curated just for you. Email* Submit or create an account to access more > Borealis Foods Inc. has expanded its international business into Europe with the launch of high-protein noodles under the Niom Niom brand in Germany. Niom Niom is a German creator-led brand developed by Foodvibez GmbH. Under the commercial partnership, Borealis is manufacturing the high-protein "Niom Niom by Chef Woo" product line through its wholly owned consumer packaged goods (CPG) subsidiary, Palmetto Gourmet Foods. The launch enters commercial distribution with an expected initial volume of approximately 10 million units annually, based on the current product and shipment mix. The noodles have secured nationwide physical shelf placement across leading German supermarket multiples, including EDEKA and REWE. Manufacturing and Scale The Niom Niom product portfolio is produced at Borealis Foods' manufacturing facility in Saluda, South Carolina, and exported to Germany. The production agreement merges Foodvibez's domestic branding and digital reach with Borealis's proprietary high-protein noodle formulation and industrial processing capabilities: Nutritional Density: Formulated using Chef Woo® high-protein noodle technology to deliver 20 grams of plant-based protein per cup. Production Scale: Initial run configured to deliver approximately 10 million units per year, with capacity structured to scale as German distribution broadens. Export Operations: Manufactured entirely at the Saluda, South Carolina plant for transatlantic distribution into continental Europe. Reza Soltanzadeh, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Borealis Foods, stated that the launch demonstrates the commercial value of the food science, product development, and manufacturing platform developed at the company. Soltanzadeh noted that Foodvibez has created a distinctive consumer brand for the German grocery sector, with Borealis providing the large-scale production foundation and protein technology to support market rollout. German Retail Footprint The Niom Niom brand was developed by Foodvibez in collaboration with prominent German content creators Rezo, Dilara, and Mexify. According to Foodvibez, the three creators collectively command an audience exceeding 30 million followers across major social media platforms. The brand positions the line as a modern convenience meal designed to upgrade the traditional instant ramen fixture with elevated nutritional value. Borealis anticipates that order volumes will increase over time as Foodvibez deepens store penetration, expands off-shelf promotional displays, and broadens consumer awareness across the German market. International Co-Manufacturing The German market deployment reflects Borealis Foods' broader operational model of leveraging its internal processing capacity for both proprietary brands and external commercial partners. While the Chef Woo brand was originally created as an internal retail label, Borealis is using its underlying food science and extrusion technology as an external business-to-business platform. Soltanzadeh explained that these technical formulation capabilities allow the business to engineer differentiated products for third-party brands and overseas markets, using high-throughput manufacturing to service growing consumer packaged goods labels. The commercial execution provides Borealis with an operational pathway to increase factory utilisation, lift production throughput at its South Carolina site, and enter international consumer corridors without building regional manufacturing infrastructure abroad. Borealis Foods Expands into Germany with Niom Niom High-Protein Noodles September 14, 2026 New Products Del Monte Launches Ranch Corn and Zesty Italian Green Beans in US New Products Pasta Rummo Launches Potato Gnocchi and Traditional Shapes in US New Products Potts Launches Air Fryer Paste Portfolio in Recyclable Aluminium Tubes New Products Old El Paso Launches First Broths and Canned Soups New Products Food Related news

Wonderbrands introduces Wonder AirCrisp, a three-SKU fresh pull-apart bakery range formulated specifically for rapid air fryer preparation. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Never Miss an Update! Receive personalised weekly email newsletters with industry news curated just for you. Email* Submit or create an account to access more > Canadian baking business Wonderbrands has launched Wonder AirCrisp, a fresh bakery line developed specifically for air fryer preparation. The product format is engineered to transform from a soft, ambient pull-apart bread into a warm, crisp snack within four minutes when heated according to on-pack air fryer parameters. Arriving initially across supermarket shelves in Ontario, the launch introduces an air-fryer-dedicated SKU format directly into the fresh bakery aisle. The development addresses evolving household cooking preferences, where consumers increasingly turn to benchtop convection appliances for speed and convenience, while fresh bakery products have historically remained calibrated for conventional oven reheating or direct ambient consumption. "Air fryers have become part of everyday life because they make it incredibly easy to prepare food quickly, but the fresh bakery aisle really hasn't been designed around that experience," said Nina Abbott, Senior Director of Marketing at Wonderbrands. "That's what makes AirCrisp different. We developed a bakery product specifically for the air fryer – something you can have hot and crispy in just four minutes." Products and Flavour Varieties Baked in Canada, the Wonder AirCrisp lineup contains no artificial flavours or colours. The formulation is structured around a "Tear. Air. Share." preparation model, allowing consumers to separate individual portions before placing them into the appliance basket. The range launches in three savoury flavour varieties: 🧄 Garlic & Herb : Seasoned pull-apart bread balancing roasted garlic notes with aromatic dried herbs. 🌶️ Jalapeño : Formulated with diced peppers and savoury spices to deliver mild chilli heat. 🥯 Everything : Coated in a savoury seed blend inspired by traditional everything bagel seasonings. The multi-portion layout is positioned across diverse eating occasions, including after-school snacking, quick side dishes, and casual social entertaining, designed for standalone consumption or pairing with dips, spreads, and main meals. Rollout and Footprint Commercial distribution for Wonder AirCrisp has commenced exclusively across Ontario, securing listings with select major grocery retail banners across the province. The launch expands the brand architecture of Wonderbrands, whose wider manufacturing estate spans staple Canadian bread and bakery brands, including Wonder, Country Harvest, D'Italiano, Gadoua, and Casa Mendosa. By tailoring a fresh ambient bakery line directly to air fryer cook times, the manufacturer aims to capture high-frequency snacking occasions and meet expanding consumer demand for fast-preparation meal accompaniments in the fresh bakery aisle. Wonderbrands Launches Wonder AirCrisp Line for Air Fryers September 25, 2026 New Products Calise Bakery Launches Higher Fibre Kaiser and Sub Rolls New Products Sara Lee Debuts Limited Edition Mike's Hot Honey Half Loaf New Products Bimbo Bakeries USA Launches Sourdough Bagels under The Rustik Oven Bakery Dave's Killer Bread Relaunches Pumpkin Spice Organic Bagels Bakery New Products Food Related news

The American Pastured Poultry Producers Association (APPPA) has formally petitioned the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to establish a clear, enforceable regulatory definition for the term "pasture-raised" on shell egg cartons. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Never Miss an Update! Receive personalised weekly email newsletters with industry news curated just for you. Email* Submit or create an account to access more > The American Pastured Poultry Producers Association (APPPA) has formally petitioned the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to establish a clear, enforceable regulatory definition for the term "pasture-raised" on shell egg cartons. The move aims to close a persistent regulatory gap that currently allows producers using standard "free-range" systems to market their eggs as "pasture-raised," a practice the association warns is misleading to consumers and detrimental to ethical farming operations. The Regulatory Gap: FDA vs. USDA Jurisdiction The core of the issue lies in the overlapping but distinct jurisdictions of federal food regulators. Following a 2023 petition that garnered over 16,000 supporting comments, the USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) formally adopted a definition distinguishing "pasture-raised" from "free-range" for poultry meat. The USDA standard dictates that pasture-raised poultry must spend a majority (51%) of its life on rooted, vegetative cover. However, because the FDA maintains jurisdiction over shell eggs , the USDA guidelines have not been uniformly applied to egg cartons. Consequently, current FDA rules allow the "pasture-raised" claim to be used for "free-range" systems, which only require outdoor access without any mandate for vegetation. "Most shoppers believe 'pasture-raised' means hens spend their days outdoors on real pasture," said Christian Alexandre , President of APPPA and owner of Alexandre Family Farms. "Right now, most supermarket eggs don't match that expectation." Combating 'Greenwashing' in the Egg Aisle For the B2B supply chain, including retailers and foodservice operators, the lack of a standardised definition creates an uneven playing field. Pasture-based farmers invest heavily in land stewardship, rotational grazing management, and higher animal welfare standards. Allowing industrial barn operations with basic outdoor access to utilise the same premium labelling undercuts these investments. Ginger Shields , Director of APPPA, highlighted the market distortion caused by this discrepancy: "When eggs produced in industrial barns with outdoor access are marketed using the same language and imagery as pasture-raised, it undermines consumer trust and disadvantages farmers who are raising birds on pasture. Clear, consistent labelling benefits everyone, helping consumers make informed choices and ensuring that farmers who are doing the right thing are not undercut by misleading claims." The Proposed Solution: Regulatory Alignment Rather than requesting the creation of entirely new regulatory frameworks, APPPA’s petition—submitted in January 2026 to the Department of Health and Human Services and the FDA—requests the simple application of the existing, well-understood USDA FSIS definition to FDA-regulated egg labels. By defining "pasture-raised" shell eggs as coming from hens that spend the majority of their laying life on pasture with a majority rooted vegetative cover, the APPPA argues the FDA can immediately improve market transparency, eliminate greenwashing, and build consumer confidence across multiple product categories. APPPA is currently encouraging consumers, retailers, and industry stakeholders to submit public comments in support of consistent, cross-agency labelling standards. APPPA Petitions FDA to Close 'Pasture-Raised' Egg Labelling Loophole and Align with USDA Standards February 12, 2026 New Solutions Sidel Launches EvoDECO Next Roll-Fed Labelling Solution Energy Drinks Indian Food Regulator Enforces 90-Day Energy Drink Label Removal Deadline Health & Nutrition WK Kellogg Co Launches 'Spoons' Nutrition Labelling Framework Foodservice POS Supply Solutions Launches QuickStick Foodservice Labelling Line Legal Agriculture Food Business & Finance Packaging Safety & Quality Related news

The Spice & Tea Exchange has signed five new franchise agreements across North Carolina, Florida, and Louisiana, expanding its footprint in the US Southeast. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Never Miss an Update! Receive personalised weekly email newsletters with industry news curated just for you. Email* Submit or create an account to access more > The Spice & Tea Exchange has announced the signing of five new franchise agreements, expanding its retail footprint across North Carolina, Florida, and Louisiana. The new locations, spanning Vero Beach, Florida; Southern Pines, New Bern, and Hillsborough, North Carolina; and St. Francisville, Louisiana, build upon the brand's national expansion strategy, targeting high-growth regional markets characterised by strong entrepreneurship and favourable economic conditions. The commercial expansion reflects broader retail franchising momentum across the US Southeast, where growing population density and consumer demand for experience-driven speciality retail continue to drive new unit development. The multi-state deal concentrates heavily on North Carolina, which accounts for three of the five newly signed franchise agreements. According to data published in the International Franchise Association's (IFA) 2026 Franchising Economic Outlook, the Southeast represents nearly 30 per cent of all franchised businesses in the United States, with regional franchise establishments projected to expand by 1.7 per cent in 2026 and generate $274.9 billion in economic output. In the IFA's state-level rankings for 2026, Florida and North Carolina were named among the top five markets for national franchise growth, ranking second and fifth respectively. The new store locations will offer the brand's core product portfolio, which encompasses fine spices, hand-blended seasonings, and loose-leaf exotic teas sourced globally. Alongside its physical store expansion, The Spice & Tea Exchange has restructured its senior leadership team to align sales and operational functions under a unified command structure. Tatum Crews has been promoted to Vice President of Sales and Franchise Operations. In her expanded role, Crews oversees the complete franchise lifecycle, combining initial partner recruitment and onboarding with store openings and long-term operational execution. Crews stated that unifying sales and franchise operations is designed to establish operational continuity for new franchise partners, ensuring store openings are backed by structured training, technology platforms, and cross-departmental support. To support its growing store network, the enterprise is investing in updated franchisee infrastructure, including digital tracking tools, enhanced onboarding programmes, and centralised operational resources. The latest franchise expansion follows the company's inclusion on the Inc. 5000 list of America's fastest-growing private companies, reflecting sustained multi-year revenue and unit growth. Amy Freeman, Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder of The Spice & Tea Exchange, stated that the brand's momentum demonstrates strong consumer demand for experience-led speciality retail, adding that the five new agreements support a disciplined growth strategy designed to scale regional store density across the Southeast. The business confirmed that additional franchise developments and location launches will deploy across its pipeline as regional onboarding progresses throughout upcoming trading cycles. The Spice & Tea Exchange Secures Five New Southeast Franchise Deals August 18, 2026 Water Primo Brands Opens Greenfield Mountain Valley Water Facility Facilities Müller Plans German Site Closures across Sauces and Sliced Cheese Soft drinks Firefighters Extinguish Blaze at Coca-Cola Auckland Bottling Plant Facilities Arca Continental Completes $42m San Antonio Bottling Plant Expansion Facilities Business & Finance Coffee & Tea Related news

Hershey Canada has partnered with The Pokémon Company International to launch a range of limited-edition collectable chocolates comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. Featured in this news Confectionery Hershey Company The Newsroom Never Miss an Update! Receive personalised weekly email newsletters with industry news curated just for you. Email* Submit or create an account to access more > Confectionery manufacturer Hershey Canada has announced a collaborative retail campaign with The Pokémon Company International. The seasonal launch introduces limited-edition collectable packaging across three of Hershey's core chocolate lines. The rollout follows a successful market trial in the United States in 2025. The Canadian expansion aims to drive consumer engagement and impulse transactions during the summer retail season by combining physical products with collectable elements and digital tracking features. Brand Licensing and Gamification The joint venture represents a growing food industry focus on using established entertainment intellectual property (IP) to drive brand loyalty and category excitement. By utilising high-recognition characters, Hershey Canada seeks to transform everyday confectionery purchases into a collectable consumer experience. Sana Goguen, Marketing Director at Hershey Canada, stated that the collaboration is built on the shared values of discovery and fan community. Goguen noted that the Canadian launch offers consumers exclusive packaging designs to encourage active trading and collection throughout the summer. Product Portfolio The limited-edition range features customised, collectable foils across three distinct product categories, allowing consumers to hunt for different character designs: 🔴 Hershey's Kisses : Individually wrapped in Poké Ball-themed foils, featuring one of the 151 original Pokémon. This selection also includes 10 unique Team Rocket foil variations. 🍪 Hershey's Cookies 'n' Creme Bars : The white creme and cookie bar is paired with 12 distinct character foils featuring popular Pokémon. 🥜 Hershey's Almond Bars : The milk chocolate and roasted almond bars feature 12 collectable character foils. Retail Footprint To bridge the gap between physical retail and digital engagement, Hershey Canada is supporting the launch with an online platform. Through this digital interface, consumers can track the specific foils they have collected, monitor their collection progress, and unlock shareable digital rewards. This digital component is designed to extend the lifespan of the campaign, encouraging repeat purchases as consumers attempt to complete their collections. The limited-edition Hershey's Pokémon products are currently rolling out across Canada and will be available at participating retail networks for a limited period during the summer. Hershey Canada and The Pokémon Company Launch Collectable Chocolate Range July 7, 2026 People Lindt & Sprüngli CEO Adalbert Lechner Steps Down New Products Ghirardelli Launches Dubai Style Chocolate Squares New Products On The Rocks Debuts Limited-Edition Chocolate Martini New Products Ferrero Expands Halloween Range into Adultoween Confectionery Lineup Confectionery Marketing Food New Products Related news