GORGIE has expanded its zero-artificial-sweetener energy drink portfolio with the launch of Candy Apple, as the brand exceeds 40,000 new US distribution points. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Functional energy drink brand GORGIE has announced the commercial rollout of its latest flavour variant, Candy Apple. Formulated without artificial sweeteners, the release expands the company's better-for-you energy lineup to capture consumer demand for nostalgia-driven flavour profiles in the functional beverage aisle. The launch arrives during a period of rapid physical retail expansion for the enterprise, supported by high-profile investor backing and multi-channel marketing campaigns. Product Formulation and Flavour Profile The development of Candy Apple applies a traditional confection-inspired profile to the brand's core clean-energy formula: 🍏 Candy Apple: Combines crisp green apple flavour notes with a sweet finish, formulated without artificial sweeteners, artificial dyes, or synthetic additives. Michelle Cordeiro-Grant, Chief Executive Officer at GORGIE, stated that the development aimed to pair nostalgic taste profiles with functional ingredients and clean energy metrics suitable for everyday consumption occasions. Where Is It Available? The new flavour release coincides with substantial market share and distribution gains for the brand across North American retail channels. Key retail and performance metrics reported by the business include: Distribution Expansion: Secured more than 40,000 new points of distribution across the United States during 2026. Natural Retail Market Share: Accounts for nearly 20 per cent of the energy category at a major US natural grocery retailer, nearly tripling its market share year-over-year. Early Access D2C Strategy: Deployed an early-access "First Sips" release via its proprietary app-based consumer community, Club G, ahead of the broader physical and direct-to-consumer rollout. Marketing Campaign The introduction follows GORGIE's recent "Energy for All" marketing campaign, which featured strategic brand investors including musician Jon Bon Jovi and digital creator Alix Earle. The integrated campaign spans social media, digital video, and point-of-sale retail activations to drive brand awareness across mainstream and better-for-you retail channels. The Candy Apple variant has commenced commercial availability directly through GORGIE's e-commerce platform and is rolling out across nationwide retail stockists. New Products GORGIE Launches Candy Apple Energy Drink Flavour Jacob Deraille July 28, 2026 Energy Drinks Red Bull Adds Fuji Apple & Ginger Edition to Permanent Lineup across US Retail New Products FLRT Launches Apple Bottoms Up Zero Sugar Energy Drink for Fall New Products Walovi Launches Natural Energy Drink and Berry Juice People Celsius Holdings Announces Leadership Changes New Products Beverage Energy Drinks Related news

Muscle Milk has undergone a complete clean-label reformulation, utilising ultra-filtered milk and removing artificial ingredients 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 The Newsroom Muscle Milk, a pioneer in the ready-to-drink protein category with nearly 30 years of nutrition expertise, has announced the complete nationwide reformulation of its core protein shake portfolio. Now crafted using real ultra-filtered milk, the line delivers 26 to 42 grams of complete protein per serving with zero artificial sweeteners, flavours, or added colours. The move represents a strategic effort by parent company PepsiCo to simplify the category, transitioning the brand from its historical niche athletic positioning to a versatile wellness staple for the everyday active consumer. Re-engineering a high-volume RTD protein shake to eliminate synthetic additives while maintaining taste and mouthfeel represents a major research and development milestone. Muscle Milk has addressed this by transitioning its dairy base entirely to high-quality ultra-filtered milk. Key technical attributes of the new formulation include: Dual Protein Absorption: Ultra-filtered milk naturally contains both whey protein, which acts quickly to support muscle building, and casein, which digests more slowly to provide sustained amino acid release. Portioned Protein Loads: The standard subline delivers 26 grams of complete protein per bottle, while the high-performance Pro subline scales the payload from 33 to 42 grams per serving. Clean Ingredient Deck: The products are formulated with no added colours, no artificial sweeteners, and no artificial flavours, meeting the clean-label procurement standards of modern grocery channels. Indulgence Profile: The liquid is available in popular flavours, including Chocolate, Vanilla Creme, Cookies and Creme, and Strawberries and Creme. Marissa Pines, Vice President and General Manager of Gatorade Brands at PepsiCo, noted that while protein has never been more popular, it has also become increasingly confusing for shoppers. Pines stated that the new formula delivers the high-quality protein and great taste consumers expect from Muscle Milk, but with fewer ingredients built for how people actually use protein today. Inclusive Strength and the Ilona Maher Partnership To bring the new positioning to life, Muscle Milk has entered a strategic partnership with professional rugby player and Olympic medallist Ilona Maher. Known for championing realistic, real-world strength, Maher represents a move away from traditional, exclusive fitness culture toward a more approachable, lifestyle-aligned message. Maher emphasised that establishing consistent routines is key to wellness, noting that accessible, great-tasting protein options make it significantly easier for consumers to stick to their daily goals. This collaboration allows Muscle Milk to cultivate deep brand trust among active-wellness demographics who prioritise holistic health and functional recovery. Experiential Retail Activation and the Prodega Concept To support the physical rollout and address consumer confusion regarding daily protein requirements, Muscle Milk is debuting an immersive pop-up experience in Brooklyn, New York, called the Prodega. Inspired by the culturally familiar New York City bodega, the retail-style space is designed to guide visitors through today's crowded nutritional landscape, highlighting the conflicting claims that shoppers face. Guests can then transition into a calm environment to sample the new formulations and engage with educational tools focused on protein clarity. The activation, scheduled for May 15 and 16, is supplemented by a national digital campaign on Instagram. This multi-channel approach allows the brand to drive immediate trial and digital engagement, while collecting high-resolution feedback from core urban demographics. The transition of Muscle Milk to an ultra-filtered milk base arrives as the functional beverage sector undergoes rapid premiumisation. With industry data indicating that 73 per cent of Americans recognise the importance of protein beyond the gym, yet nearly two-thirds admit they do not know their ideal daily intake, brands that provide clear, simplified solutions are capturing significant retail velocity. Beverage Muscle Milk Announces Clean Label Ultra Filtered Milk Reformulation Eddie Sanders May 18, 2026 New Products Genius Gourmet Launches 30g Protein Milkshakes New Products David Protein Launches 30g Protein Ready to Drink Milkshakes New Products Plenish Launches Clean-Label Protein Oat Drink in UK New Products Rise Wellness Launches Protein Pop Balance Prebiotic Protein Soda Beverage Dairy Health & Nutrition Related news

Sartori Cheese adds Hatch Chile BellaVitano to its flagship product range, blending traditional Wisconsin craftsmanship with trending regional pepper profiles. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Sartori Cheese, the Plymouth, Wisconsin-based artisan producer, has announced the expansion of its award-winning BellaVitano lineup with the introduction of Hatch Chile BellaVitano. The new variety integrates the company’s signature base cheese with the specific heat and smoky profile of Hatch chiles, targeting a growing consumer appetite for sophisticated, spice-forward dairy products. The launch represents a calculated move by the family-owned company to maintain momentum in the speciality cheese sector through thoughtful flavour diversification. Flavour Profile Crafted at the company's facilities in Wisconsin, Hatch Chile BellaVitano maintains the fundamental characteristics of the BellaVitano brand—a creamy texture combined with the caramelised, parmesan-like notes associated with aged Italian-style cheeses. The innovation lies in the layering of Hatch chiles, which are noted for their earthy warmth and subtle smokiness. Unlike standard pepper-jack varieties, the Hatch Chile BellaVitano is engineered to deliver a balanced flavour experience where the heat complements rather than masks the underlying nutty profile of the cheese. The addition of a pepper-infused variety to the BellaVitano range aligns with broader retail trends emphasising "approachable adventure" in the deli aisle. By utilising Hatch chiles—a specific regional ingredient with high name recognition—Sartori is leveraging provenance to differentiate its latest offering from generic spiced cheeses. "Hatch Chile BellaVitano reflects our ongoing commitment to thoughtful flavour innovation," said Sartori Cheese CEO Bert Sartori. He noted that the goal was to create an unexpected combination while adhering to the quality and craftsmanship for which the brand is recognised. Market Recommendations and Pairing Strategies To support retail sell-through and consumer education, Sartori’s Master Cheesemakers have identified specific pairing profiles for the new variety. The savoury and smoky notes of the Hatch chiles make the cheese a candidate for cross-merchandising in several departments: Beverage Pairings : Crisp lagers, amber ales, and medium-bodied red wines. Accompaniments : Fresh fruit, honey, and hearty crackers. The product is designed to function as both a standalone component for charcuterie boards and an everyday snacking option, providing retailers with a versatile SKU for the speciality cheese set. Commitment to Artisan Standards Sartori Cheese continues to utilise traditional cheesemaking methods in Plymouth, Wisconsin, to produce its full portfolio. The launch of Hatch Chile BellaVitano reinforces the brand’s position as a leader in the American artisan cheese movement, demonstrating how legacy companies can iterate on successful platforms to capture evolving consumer palates. New Products Sartori Cheese Expands Flagship BellaVitano Line with Hatch Chile Innovation News March 17, 2026 Dairy FrieslandCampina Completes Major Investments at Gerkesklooster Cheese Site New Products Land O'Lakes Launches Snack Cheese Cubes Dairy Saputo Agrees £988M Sale of UK Dairy Division to Lactalis New Products Kraft Heinz Launches Philadelphia Lactose Free Cream Cheese across US Dairy New Products Related news

Pizza Hut has announced its seasonal marketing offensive for Valentine's Day, partnering with Nick Carter and Howie Dorough of the Backstreet Boys to promote the return of its iconic Heart-Shaped Pizza. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. Featured in this news Foodservice Pizza Hut The Newsroom Pizza Hut has announced its seasonal marketing offensive for Valentine's Day, partnering with Nick Carter and Howie Dorough of the Backstreet Boys to promote the return of its iconic Heart-Shaped Pizza . The campaign, titled "The Shape of My Heart-Shaped Pizza," runs through February 22 and utilises high-affinity pop culture intellectual property (IP) to cut through the competitive holiday noise. The collaboration is a textbook example of "nostalgia marketing," a dominant trend in the Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) sector. By tapping into the 25th anniversary of the Backstreet Boys' Millennium album, Pizza Hut is directly targeting the Millennial demographic—now a key spending cohort for family dining—while using social media trends to maintain relevance with younger consumers. Campaign Strategy: Generational Bridging The creative execution focuses on a playful "generational showdown" between the two band members, debating the Millennial vs. Gen Z "hand-heart" gestures. This tactical choice allows the brand to acknowledge its heritage status while participating in current viral conversations on platforms like TikTok. The campaign centres on the band's hit single "Shape of My Heart," creating an immediate sonic brand association with the product's form factor. Product Commercials and Pricing The Heart-Shaped Pizza serves as a critical Limited Time Offer (LTO) for Pizza Hut during Q1. Product: Medium one-topping pizza on a heart-shaped crust. Price Point: Starting at $11.99 . Availability: Now through February 22. The price point is strategically positioned to capture the "casual celebration" market, offering an accessible alternative to the high-cost dining options typically associated with the holiday. Celebrity Partnerships in QSR This partnership follows a broader industry shift where QSR brands are moving beyond standard endorsements to content-led collaborations. With the Backstreet Boys currently in the spotlight due to their "Into The Millennium" residency at the SPHERE in Las Vegas, Pizza Hut is capitalising on an existing wave of media attention to drive incremental sales during the mid-February trading window. Foodservice Pizza Hut Leverages Nostalgia Marketing with Backstreet Boys Partnership for Valentine's Day LTO News February 10, 2026 Alcohol Hall & Woodhouse Partners with James May to Launch The Spanner Cask Ale Marketing TABASCO Launches Marketing Campaign with Actor Iñaki Godoy as Chief Hot Ideas Person Alcohol Tom Holland's BERO Launches Kingston Golden Pils in Glass Bottles Alcohol Chris Hemsworth Joins Archie Rose as Co-Owner Ahead of US Market Debut Bakery Foodservice Marketing Related news

Beyond Meat has expanded the physical retail footprint of its first functional beverage line, Beyond Immerse, launching across Erewhon stores. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. Featured in this news Plant-based Beyond Meat The Newsroom Plant-based food producer Beyond Meat, Inc. has announced the commercial expansion of its first functional beverage line, Beyond Immerse, into organic grocer Erewhon across Southern California. The retail listing marks the next phase in the product's commercial rollout, following its initial East Coast debut in the New York metropolitan area through beverage distributor Big Geyser and its direct-to-consumer (DTC) e-commerce launch. By securing placement across Erewhon's store network, the manufacturer aims to increase physical retail density within premium organic grocery channels. Retail Expansion across Southern California The partnership brings Beyond Meat's functional drink platform into Erewhon's retail footprint, connecting the product line with wellness-focused consumer demographics in Southern California. Ethan Brown, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Beyond Meat, stated that bringing Beyond Immerse to Erewhon represents a key step in scaling the brand's plant-based functional drinks platform, noting that the retailer reaches a consumer community engaged with daily nutrition and health trends. Functional Formulation Beyond Immerse is engineered as a 4-in-1 lightly sparkling beverage combining plant protein, dietary fibre, antioxidants, and electrolytes within a single-serve canned format. Formulated without dairy or whey inputs, each can delivers 110 calories. Key nutritional metrics and formulation parameters across the range include: Plant Protein Content: Formulated with 20g of plant-based protein per can. Dietary Fibre: Supplies 5g of dietary fibre per serving. Functional Hydration: Enriched with antioxidants and essential electrolytes. Caloric Efficiency: Delivers 110 calories per serving, free from dairy or whey ingredients. Flavour Portfolio The functional beverage line enters Erewhon retail shelves across three fruit-forward SKU variations: 🥭 Peach Mango: A tropical fruit-forward lightly sparkling plant protein beverage. 🍋 Strawberry Lemonade: A sweet-and-tart citrus berry functional drink. 🍒 Cherry Berry: A dark berry-infused sparkling protein refresher. The entry into functional liquid refreshment represents a category diversification for Beyond Meat, extending its core brand equity beyond plant-based meat alternatives into functional soft drinks. Beyond Immerse has commenced commercial availability across Erewhon store locations in Southern California, alongside national order fulfilment via the company's direct-to-consumer e-commerce portal. Beverage Beyond Meat Launches Beyond Immerse Functional Drinks at Erewhon Eddie Sanders August 24, 2026 New Products G&Tea Launches Spirit-Based Sparkling Hard Tea Line in Chicago New Products Shottails Launches Ready-to-Drink Canned Shot Range for UK Retailers New Products Saint James Launches Organic Yerba Mate Range Beverage James Watt Unveils Fools Fix Detoxification Drink Soft drinks Beverage Health & Nutrition Related news

Nando’s has announced the retail expansion of its PERi-PERi Saka collaboration alongside a significant summer menu update featuring premium sides comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Nando’s has initiated a broad strategic update to its UK and Ireland operations, headlined by the transition of its limited-edition "PERi-PERi Saka" sauce into retail. The move, which sees the sauce debut in Tesco aisles, is accompanied by a robust summer menu launch that introduces premium side dishes, revamped plant-based options, and a seasonal beverage programme designed to capture increased footfall. PERi PERi Saka Collaboration Following a successful initial restaurant run, Nando’s is scaling its partnership with professional footballer Bukayo Saka. The collaboration is moving beyond the hospitality space and into the consumer packaged goods (CPG) market, with the PERi-PERi Saka sauce appearing in Tesco stores as of late April. The sauce, which features a flavour profile of tomato, garlic, and smoked paprika, is rated as "Medium" on the brand's proprietary PERi-ometer. While the retail product represents a new revenue stream, the sauce will remain a limited-time fixture at in-restaurant sauce stations until September 30, 2026. This dual-channel approach allows the brand to capitalise on the "home fan" demographic while maintaining urgency in the dining sector. Premium Menu Innovations and Core Returns The summer menu update introduces "Rostinas," a new premium side dish modelled after patatas bravas. Served with Garlic Aioli and a PERi-PERi Drizzle, the addition signals a move toward more sophisticated, shareable side options. Furthermore, Nando’s is leveraging brand nostalgia with the return of the Butterfly Burger. The product has been updated with a new "PERi-house" sauce, marking the brand's latest entry into the competitive speciality burger category. Plant-Based Reformulation and Seasonal Beverages In response to evolving dietary preferences and allergen standards, the company has updated its "PERi-Plant Fillet" recipe. The new formulation is featured in The Great Imitator Wrap, which remains a core pillar of the brand's meat-alternative strategy. Nando's has issued a notice that these changes have altered the product's allergen profile, reflecting an industry-wide trend toward transparent ingredient communication. To address the high-velocity summer lunch and evening markets, Nando's is also introducing: The Big Caesar Wrap: A new extension of "The Lunch Fix" range available until 3 pm on weekdays. Triple Chocolate Brownie: A high-indulgence addition to the dessert portfolio. Frozen Cocktails and Crushes: A new range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic "slushie" style beverages, including Tropical and Pink Berry flavours, available in selected locations. Foodservice Nando's Scales Saka Collaboration with Summer Menu Update Eddie Sanders May 13, 2026 New Products Carbone Fine Food Expands Beyond Pasta Sauce with Italian Chilli Crisp Sauces 7-Eleven Rolls Out In-Store BiG Flavour Bar with Seven Original Sauces Marketing Kewpie Launches Covent Garden Pop Up for KEWPIE IT Campaign in London New Products Potts Partnership Expands into Sweet Category with Coulis Launch Foodservice Sauces New Products Related news

Krispy Kreme has introduced a limited-time Original Glazed Blueberry Flavoured Doughnut across participating US and Canadian stores. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Quick-service bakery chain Krispy Kreme, Inc. has announced a four-day limited-time offering (LTO) with the rollout of its Original Glazed Blueberry Flavoured Doughnut. The seasonal product launch will run from Thursday 23 July through Sunday 26 July 2026 across participating retail locations and digital channels in the United States and Canada. The short promotional window is timed to align with National Blueberry Month trading, utilising high-impact, short-run menu rotation to stimulate consumer engagement and store footfall during peak summer months. Product Formulation The seasonal release incorporates fruit flavouring directly into the dough base before applying the brand's standard glaze finish. The single product variant featured in the seasonal update includes: 🫐 Original Glazed Blueberry Flavoured Doughnut: Formulated with a blueberry-flavoured yeast dough base finished with Krispy Kreme's proprietary Original Glaze coating. Alison Holder, Chief Product and Brand Officer at Krispy Kreme, stated that the release incorporates seasonal fruit profiles into the company's core product architecture to offer consumers a limited-window menu item during the summer trading period. Promotional Mechanics and Omni-Channel Distribution To maximise transaction volume and drive digital orders, Krispy Kreme is supporting the release with cross-channel distribution and promotional bundle pricing: Channel Coverage: Available for in-shop purchase, drive-thru, and online order-ahead for pickup or delivery via the brand’s mobile application and website. Volume Pricing Mechanics: Customers purchasing any dozen doughnuts at standard retail price can add a dozen Original Glazed Blueberry Flavoured Doughnuts for US$5. Digital Redemption: Online orders placed via the application or website utilise a dedicated promotional code to access the discounted bundle pricing. The short-duration strategy reflects broader QSR and bakery industry practices, where ultra-short LTO windows create consumer urgency, accelerate app adoption, and boost average order values through multi-unit promotional pricing. New Products Krispy Kreme Launches Limited Edition Blueberry Glazed Doughnut for Summer Eddie Sanders July 21, 2026 Foodservice Wagamama Unveils 26 Dishes and 15 Drinks in US Menu Overhaul Foodservice Domino's Debuts Chinese-Inspired Pizza and Biscoff Collaboration across the UK Foodservice Taco Bell Partners with Salt & Straw to Launch Churro Ice Cream Taco New Products 7 Brew Launches Autumn 2026 Beverage Range Foodservice Bakery New Products Related news

The launch coincides with the brand's ongoing commitment to its corporate social responsibility (CSR) platform, pairing product news with purpose-driven marketing as it celebrates 50 years in the commercial baking sector. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Famous Amos , the heritage cookie brand known for its signature bite-sized format, has announced the launch of its newest flavour innovation: Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies . The launch coincides with the brand's ongoing commitment to its corporate social responsibility (CSR) platform, pairing product news with purpose-driven marketing as it celebrates 50 years in the commercial baking sector. The new SKU is currently available in select stores, with a full nationwide retail rollout scheduled for Spring 2026 . Merging Heritage Flavour Profiles The new formulation represents a strategic effort to drive incremental sales by combining two of the most popular segments in the cookie category. The product is crafted using real baby oat flakes blended with the brand's signature chocolate chips, maintaining the recognisable bite-sized form factor that defines the Famous Amos masterbrand. Kim Thomas , Senior Brand Manager for Famous Amos & Royal Dansk, highlighted the rationale behind the flavour pairing: "Oatmeal and chocolate chip are two classic flavours that simply belong together, and we're excited to bring them to fans in our famously bite-sized format. Each cookie blends the wholesome texture of oats with our signature chocolate chips for a flavour that feels both new and familiar." Integrating Innovation with Purpose: Ingredients for Success In tandem with the product rollout, Famous Amos is initiating the sixth year of its Ingredients for Success Entrepreneurs Initiative . This program serves as the core of the brand’s CSR strategy, honouring the legacy of its founder, Wally Amos, by empowering early-stage Black business owners. Since its inception in 2020, the initiative has distributed $750,000 in capital awards across various industries, supplemented by mentorship, networking, and educational resources. For retailers and B2B partners, this persistent CSR focus offers a strong brand narrative that resonates with modern, values-driven consumers. "Entrepreneurship is at the heart of Famous Amos," Thomas added, explicitly linking the product launch to the brand's social mission. "Introducing a new flavour along with the next chapter of Ingredients for Success celebrates that spirit. We're always evolving, always creating, and we're committed to opening doors for others to do the same." Market Context The dual announcement allows Famous Amos to maintain its presence in the highly competitive centre-store cookie aisle through tangible product news, while simultaneously reinforcing its brand equity and community impact credentials during the Spring 2026 reset period. New Products Famous Amos Expands Core Portfolio with Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Innovation and Renews Entrepreneurial CSR Initiative News February 23, 2026 Marketing OREO Partners with Marvel for 'Stuf of Legends' Line Featuring Colour-Changing Crème and Record 32 Designs Marketing Insomnia Cookies Trials Dine-In Reservations and Prix-Fixe Menu for Valentine's Day Marketing OREO Partners with Lucasfilm for 'Star Wars' Edition Featuring 'Kyber' Crystal Crème and Blind Packaging New Products Snacking Bakery Related news

Bright State has launched a first-to-market line of 6.9% ABV functional wines infused with vitamins and botanicals, utilising a partnership with Total Wine and More to target the high-growth "intentional drinking" and wellness-conscious consumer segments. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Bright State has announced the debut of a new category-defining line of low-alcohol wines, marking the first major integration of vitamins, botanicals, and herbs within the traditional California wine sector. Developed in Napa by Max Franks and fourth-generation winemaker Alec McTaggart, the great-grandson of Sonoma icon Samuele Sebastiani, the brand aims to bridge the gap between old-world quality and new-world functional innovation. The launch is a direct response to the "intentional drinking" movement, where consumers are increasingly seeking beverages that align with their wellness goals without sacrificing the sensory experience of a premium wine. Low ABV and Functional Infusions Bright State wines are engineered for "permissible indulgence," featuring a significantly reduced alcohol content and calorie count compared to standard table wines. Key technical specifications across the portfolio include: Alcohol by Volume: 6.9% ABV. Caloric Content: Under 90 calories per serving. Ingredient Integrity: Crafted with California grapes and infused with natural botanicals, vitamins, and herbs. Format Diversity: Available in both 375ml and 750ml bottles to suit different social occasions. Max Franks, co-founder of Bright State, noted that the goal was to "honour the integrity of California wine" while incorporating ingredients that have long-standing roles in wellness and culinary traditions. Targeted Flavour Matrix The brand is launching with five distinct Stock Keeping Units (SKUs), each pairing a traditional grape varietal with a specific functional or botanical profile: FOCUS (Chardonnay): Infused with pear, ginseng, and ginger for a zesty, modern profile. RADIANCE (Sauvignon Blanc): Blended with dandelion and gooseberry to create a clean, vivid finish. RESILIENCE (Pinot Grigio): Features notes of saffron and citrus, emphasising earthy spice and minerality. CALM (Pinot Noir): Layers of juicy plum with beetroot for a warm, rounded richness. UNWIND (Cabernet Sauvignon): A bold blend utilising acai fruit and turmeric for a lush, expressive profile. Retail Strategy and Total Wine Exclusivity Bright State has secured an exclusive initial retail partnership with Total Wine and More, the nation's leading speciality wine retailer. This strategy allows the brand to benefit from a highly educated consumer base and premium shelf positioning. Distribution and pricing details include: Multi-State Rollout: Available in Arizona, California, Minnesota, Texas, and Washington. Regional Specifics: 750ml bottles (12.99 dollars) are currently exclusive to the Florida market, while 375ml bottles (6.99 dollars) are available in the other launch states. Omnichannel Presence: Full availability through Total Wine’s digital and e-commerce platforms. The Rise of Intentional Drinking For B2B stakeholders and retail category managers, the launch of Bright State signals the "professionalisation" of the low-ABV wine segment. While the category was previously dominated by "diet" wines focused solely on calorie reduction, Bright State is pivoting toward "value-add" nutrition. This move follows similar successful trends in the functional water and energy drink sectors (such as the rise of nootropic-enhanced beverages). By associating the heritage of the Sebastiani winemaking legacy with modern "ingredient-conscious" standards, Bright State is attempting to protect premium margins in a category that is often susceptible to commoditization. The entry of a functional, botanical-infused wine into a major retailer like Total Wine and More highlights a shift in the "Better-For-You" (BFY) alcohol landscape. As consumers move away from high-sugar cocktails and heavy spirits, the demand for "sessionable" but sophisticated wine alternatives is projected to grow. As the company enters the second half of 2026, industry observers will be watching the performance of the 375ml format specifically. This smaller size aligns with the trend toward "on-the-go" social occasions—such as beach afternoons and post-workout meetups, potentially opening up new day-parts for the wine industry that were previously reserved for hard seltzers or functional soft drinks. New Products Bright State Launches First Low Alcohol Functional Wine with Botanicals Eddie Sanders April 7, 2026 New Products Sazerac Enters Soju Category with US Launch of DALHO New Products Echo Falls Debuts Glow-in-the-Dark Sour Apple Fruit Fusion New Products Good Peels Enters RTD Category with Spiked Apple Refresher New Products JINRO Unveils K-POP Star Toad Limited Edition Green Grape Soju Alcohol Health & Nutrition New Products Beverage Related news

Clean Food Group (CFG) has secured a £4.5 million investment alongside a £700,000 Innovate UK grant to finalise the scale-up of its 1 million-litre fermentation facility, positioning the UK as a global hub for yeast-derived sustainable oils and fats. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Clean Food Group (CFG), a UK-based biotechnology manufacturer specialising in sustainable oils and fats, has confirmed a £4.5 million investment led by Clean Growth Fund and New Agrarian. The funding is supplemented by a £700,000 non-dilutive grant from Innovate UK. Announced during the company's debut at in-cosmetics Global in Paris, the capital is earmarked for the completion of a major scale-up at the company's Knowsley facility in Liverpool. The investment follows CFG’s September 2025 acquisition of the 1 million-litre fermentation manufacturing site, a move that established the company as the world’s largest producer of yeast-derived oils and fats. Scale-Up and Global Market Potential The primary objective of the new funding is to transition CFG from pilot-scale innovation to full-scale commercial deployment. The Knowsley facility is central to this strategy, providing the infrastructure necessary to meet a projected surge in global demand for sustainable ingredients. The global sustainable food market, valued at US$315 billion in 2024, is forecast to reach US$524 billion by 2032, representing a CAGR of 6.7%. By leveraging fermentation technology, CFG aims to provide a localised, low-impact alternative to traditional agricultural and tropical oil supply chains, such as palm oil, which are increasingly vulnerable to environmental and regulatory pressures. Fermentation and Circularity CFG’s proprietary fermentation platform is engineered to produce high-performance oils and fats using food waste as a feedstock. This circular economy approach offers two primary advantages for B2B partners: Functionality : Yeast-derived oils can be tailored to deliver specific performance characteristics for food, cosmetics, and pet nutrition. Resilience : Shifting production to localised microbial fermentation reduces reliance on volatile global trade routes and climate-impacted agricultural regions. The company is supported by industry partner Döhler Group, a global leader in ingredients, which is assisting in the commercial scale-up and market integration of CFG’s products. Addressing Supply Chain Fragility A key driver for this investment is the growing concern over supply chain security. Jim Mellon, Chairman and Founder of New Agrarian, noted that war, climate volatility, and trade disputes have compromised the guaranteed availability of traditional ingredients. By utilising "scalable science," CFG is positioned to build genuine resilience into the ingredient systems of multiple industries. Tom Ellen, CFO of Clean Food Group, emphasised that the capital raised will bring the world’s largest yeast-derived oils facility online, delivering on the long-term vision of sustainable, tech-driven food manufacturing. Partnership and Shareholder Support The funding round saw continued participation from existing shareholders, including the institutional investor SEED Innovations and strategic partner Döhler Ventures. This level of sustained support from both financial and industrial backers underscores the commercial viability of CFG's fermentation platform. Rodrigo Hortega de Velasco of Döhler Ventures stated that the acquisition and subsequent scale-up of the Knowsley facility represent a "significant milestone" in bringing innovative, sustainable fats closer to widespread commercial reality. Operational Roadmap for 2026-2027 With the new capital secured, CFG will focus on: Finalising Equipment Installation : Completing the technical outfitting of the Knowsley site. Expanding Capacity : Increasing production volume to meet existing commercial inquiries. Commercialisation : Accelerating the entry of high-performance yeast oils into the cosmetics and food sectors. For the B2B sector, CFG represents a critical shift toward "biomanufacturing" as a solution for both sustainability mandates and raw material security. As the Knowsley facility reaches full capacity, it is expected to serve as a blueprint for localised, high-tech ingredient production globally. Business & Finance Clean Food Group Secures £5.2M Funding to Scale Oil Facility News April 14, 2026 Facilities Novonesis Invests €600M in Indian Enzyme Facility Business & Finance Medici Brands Secures $250M Series B to Scale David Protein and HallPass Business & Finance Nestlé to Divest Mainstream Supplements Business to Yellow Wood Partners for $1B Business & Finance Chobani Acquires KDP Allentown Facility in $1.2B Dairy Expansion Manufacturing Facilities Ingredients Business & Finance Related news

Starbucks has officially launched its "Energy Refreshers" platform nationwide, a year-round menu evolution that integrates B vitamins and 125mg of natural caffeine into its successful Refreshers line, specifically targeting the high-growth functional energy and wellness-conscious consumer segments. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. Featured in this news Coffee & Tea Starbucks The Newsroom Starbucks Coffee Company has announced the nationwide launch of "Energy Refreshers," a significant strategic pivot that brings functional energy benefits to one of the brand's most popular beverage platforms. Available starting April 7, 2026, the new line provides an "enhanced energy" option that adds B vitamins and caffeine derived from natural sources, marking a definitive move into the competitive functional beverage space. The launch coincides with a broader spring menu update that establishes mango as a year-round flavour anchor and introduces high-protein food options, reinforcing Starbucks' transition toward a comprehensive "all-day" functional nutrition destination. The Energy Refresher Platform The Energy Refresher represents a technical upgrade to the existing Refreshers architecture. While traditional Refreshers contain a baseline of green coffee extract, the Energy variants are engineered for a higher-intensity functional lift. Key product attributes include: Caffeine Load: 125mg of caffeine in a Grande (16 oz) serving, positioning it as a moderate-energy alternative to high-stimulant RTD energy drinks. Nutritional Enrichment: Formulated as an "excellent source of B vitamins," appealing to consumers seeking wellness benefits alongside mental alertness. Natural Positioning: Utilising "caffeine from nature," the brand is prioritising clean-label transparency to differentiate from synthetic energy alternatives. Customisation Moat: The energy boost can be added to any flavour profile and paired with water, lemonade, or coconut milk (Mango Dream Energy Refresher). Dana Pellicano, Senior Vice President of Global Product Experience, characterised the launch as "innovation and flavour without compromise," noting that the company aims to provide choices that consumers "feel good about." The Mango and Ube Platforms In addition to the energy launch, Starbucks is launching several key flavour trends that have shown high velocity in seasonal windows: Mango Year-Round: Previously a seasonal favourite, mango is now a permanent menu fixture. This includes the Mango Strawberry Refresher line and a new "Mango Cold Foam" that can be added as a value-add topping to any beverage. Ube Continuity: Following a successful pilot, the Iced Ube Coconut Cream Shaken Espresso remains on the menu for a limited time, utilising "Ube Coconut Cream Cold Foam" to tap into the global interest in purple yam and nutty-vanilla flavour profiles. Functional Tea Innovation: The Iced Mango Cream Matcha and Iced Mango Cream Chai leverage the mango cold foam to create a "layered" sensory experience, targeting the younger, social-media-active demographic. High-Protein and Better-For-You Snacks To support the beverage-led energy narrative, Starbucks is expanding its grab-and-go food set with a focus on functional nutrition: MUSH Overnight Oats: Now available at most U.S. locations, providing 15 grams of protein and 7 grams of fibre per serving. SkinnyDipped Bites: Offering a low-sugar (3g) dark chocolate coconut almond snack. This "bundled energy" strategy encourages higher average check values by pairing functional beverages with performance-oriented snacks. Industrial Significance and Market Outlook For B2B stakeholders and the broader QSR industry, the launch of Starbucks Energy Refreshers is a clear signal that "energy" is no longer a niche category reserved for speciality brands like Celsius or Ghost. By embedding energy functionality into a platform as ubiquitous as the Refresher, Starbucks is essentially "standardising" the functional afternoon pick-me-up. From a competitive standpoint, this move allows Starbucks to: Recapture Midday Traffic: Targeting the 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM slump, where consumers often migrate toward convenience stores for energy drinks. Increase Loyalty: Offering "caffeine-free" versions of all Refreshers alongside "high-energy" versions ensures the brand captures the entire spectrum of consumer caffeine preferences. Leverage Platform Resilience: By using the existing Refreshers supply chain and adding a functional "booster," Starbucks is achieving innovation with relatively low operational complexity for its baristas. As the company enters the second quarter of 2026, industry observers expect the Energy Refresher to become a multi-million-dollar anchor for the brand, potentially leading to a wider range of "functional add-ons" across the entire Starbucks menu. Coffee & Tea Starbucks Launches Energy Refreshers and Year-Round Mango Flavour Dan Bunt April 8, 2026 Coffee & Tea Starbucks Introduces Aerocano Iced Espresso Coffee & Tea BIGGBY Coffee Launches Autumn 2026 Menu Coffee & Tea Costa Coffee Launches Autumn 2026 Menu with Maple Hazel Matcha and New Toasties Foodservice Chomps Expands Distribution Footprint at Starbucks and Costco Coffee & Tea Energy Drinks Foodservice Beverage New Products Related news

Danone has officially inaugurated its newly transformed plant-based beverage facility in Villecomtal-sur-Arros, southwestern France, following a two-year conversion project designed to strengthen its position in the fast-growing plant-based drinks category. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Danone has officially inaugurated its newly transformed plant-based beverage facility in Villecomtal-sur-Arros, southwestern France, following a two-year conversion project designed to strengthen its position in the fast-growing plant-based drinks category. The site, previously a dairy facility, has been converted into Danone France’s only oat-flour-to-oat-juice production plant, serving as a key European hub for the company’s Alpro brand. The transformation required an investment of several million euros and includes the installation of two new production lines, one of which operates at high speed. The facility is expected to produce over 300,000 litres of oat-based beverages per day, with 90% of output destined for export across 26 European markets. To support the site’s transition, Danone provided specialised training in plant-based processing techniques for all employees. Forty-nine staff members were trained by colleagues at Danone’s existing plant-based production site in Issenheim, eastern France, ensuring operational readiness for the new production lines. The conversion is part of Danone’s ‘Renew Danone’ strategy, which focuses on adapting the company’s portfolio to meet changing consumer preferences for healthier and more diversified products. With the Villecomtal-sur-Arros site now operational, Danone operates two French and four European facilities dedicated to the production of plant-based beverages under the Alpro brand. Alpro currently serves 3.6 million regular consumers in France, with annual sales exceeding 20 million litres domestically and more than 300 million litres across Europe. Benjamin Chevallier, country manager for plant-based at Danone France, said: “Our Alpro brand is committed to dietary diversity, and we are working hard to meet demand. Going forward, we aim to raise awareness among France’s 67-million-strong population, stepping up production of both our oat-based ranges, rich in plant proteins, and our on-the-go formats.” The new facility positions Danone to capture further growth within the European plant-based beverage market, a segment that continues to expand as consumers increasingly seek sustainable, high-protein, and dairy-free alternatives. Facilities Danone opens new plant-based beverage facility in France to boost Alpro production February 13, 2024 Facilities Novonesis Invests €600M in Indian Enzyme Facility Facilities JBM Packaging Opens Ohio Facility to Expand Contract Packaging and Filling Business & Finance Chobani Acquires KDP Allentown Facility in $1.2B Dairy Expansion Facilities Wells Enterprises Completes $425M Expansion of Dunkirk Ice Cream Facility Manufacturing Facilities Plant-based Business & Finance Related news