The divestiture allows Neogen to streamline its operational footprint, redirecting capital and focus toward its core competitive advantages in the food and animal safety markets. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Neogen Corporation , a global provider of food and animal safety solutions, has announced a definitive agreement to sell its global genomics business to animal health giant Zoetis Inc. The transaction, valued at $160 million (subject to customary closing adjustments), marks a significant step in Neogen's ongoing portfolio optimisation strategy. The divestiture allows Neogen to streamline its operational footprint, redirecting capital and focus toward its core competitive advantages in the food and animal safety markets. Deleveraging and Portfolio Simplification For Neogen, the sale serves as a primary financial lever for debt reduction. The company confirmed that the net proceeds from the $160 million transaction will be utilised primarily to accelerate deleveraging efforts and improve long-term profitability margins. Mike Nassif , Chief Executive Officer and President of Neogen, framed the sale as a critical component of the company's broader corporate realignment. "This transaction is part of the company's strategic portfolio review and allows the company to accelerate de-leveraging and improve profitability going forward," Nassif stated. "Furthermore, this deal allows us to focus in areas where the company has the most significant competitive advantage and further leverage our core capabilities in food and animal safety." The GeneSeek® Portfolio The sale involves Neogen's entire genomics unit, widely known under the GeneSeek® banner. The division is recognised as a pioneer in advanced DNA testing for both the livestock and companion animal industries, providing data-driven insights to improve herd health, trait screening, and overall profitability in the beef and dairy sectors. Key Assets Transferred to Zoetis: Igenity® and GGP® Portfolios: Industry-standard genomic prediction tools. Encompass™ Platform: The division's proprietary platform for genomic data integration. Traceability Partnerships: Strategic initiatives advancing DNA-backed animal traceability. The genomics unit is a substantial operational asset, having generated approximately $90 million in sales during Neogen's 2025 fiscal year. Timeline and Transition The transaction is expected to close by the end of the first half of Neogen’s 2027 fiscal year , pending standard regulatory approvals and closing conditions. Until the deal concludes, Neogen has committed to maintaining a "smooth transition" for existing customers, employees, and stakeholders to ensure continuity of testing services. Guggenheim Securities LLC served as the exclusive financial advisor to Neogen for the transaction. Safety & Quality Neogen Announces Sale of Genomics Business to Zoetis News March 2, 2026 Business & Finance General Mills Completes Sale of Brazil Business to 3corações Alcohol Sazerac Expands Kentucky Bourbon Network with Acquisition of Garrard County Distilling Business & Finance GrubMarket Enters UK Market with Acquisition of JR Holland Business & Finance Pilgrim's Europe to Acquire Walkers Deli and Sausage from Samworth Brothers Manufacturing Safety & Quality Business & Finance Related news

Confectionery manufacturer Storck is expanding its Riesen portfolio in the UK with the launch of Riesen Salted Peanut, a limited-edition 135g sharing bag. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Storck has announced the expansion of its Riesen brand in the United Kingdom with the rollout of a limited-time offering, Riesen Salted Peanut. Scheduled for commercial availability starting 26 August 2026, the limited-edition variant combines the brand's established dark chocolate and chewy toffee with salted peanut pieces. The launch will deploy across grocery, wholesale, and impulse channels, seeking to capture consumer demand for sweet-and-salty flavour profiles ahead of autumn trading. Sweet and Salty Flavour Innovation The development of Riesen Salted Peanut applies a popular flavour pairing to the brand's core recipe, maintaining its traditional chewy texture and dark chocolate coating while incorporating savoury nut notes. Key product parameters and trade specifications include: 🥜 Riesen Salted Peanut: A 135g sharing bag combining chewy toffee, dark chocolate coating, and salted peanut pieces. 📦 Case Configuration: Supplied in wholesale trade cases of 12 units. 💵 Retail RRP: Offered at a recommended retail price of £1.50 per 135g bag. The limited-time release comes as Storck seeks to build upon Riesen's sales momentum across the UK confectionery market. Storck noted that the short-run SKU is engineered to stimulate category engagement, drive trial among new and existing shoppers, and offer retailers an innovative line from an established confectionery brand. Riesen Salted Peanut will commence physical retail distribution across UK grocery, wholesale, and impulse networks on 26 August 2026. New Products Storck Launches Riesen Salted Peanut Limited Edition in UK Jacob Deraille August 19, 2026 New Products Reese's Expands UK Portfolio with Caramel Block and White Cups New Products McVitie's Launches Chocolate Christmas Treat Range with Penguin and Jaffa Elf Confectionery M&M'S Partners with Practical Magic 2 for Halloween Spell and Snack Packs Confectionery Ghirardelli Relaunches Seasonal Jack O'Lantern Chocolates across US Retail New Products Snacking Confectionery Related news

Subway has announced a major update to its US menu and value proposition for the start of 2026, introducing a new grab-and-go format alongside a revamped daily discount structure. 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 Subway has announced a major update to its US menu and value proposition for the start of 2026, introducing a new grab-and-go format alongside a revamped daily discount structure. Starting 8 January , the chain is rolling out Protein Pockets , a soft tortilla-based option designed to offer high protein density at a competitive entry price of $3.99 . Simultaneously, the brand is reintroducing a structured value tier with a new $4.99 "Sub of the Day" lineup. Product Innovation: Protein Pockets The launch of Protein Pockets targets the "protein-conscious" and mobile consumer. The product features a toasty wheat-flavoured soft tortilla filled with curated proteins and vegetables. Key Selling Proposition: Price: $3.99. Nutrition: Over 20g of protein per serving. Target Audience: Grab-and-go consumers seeking non-fried protein options. The Debut Lineup: 🍗🔥 Baja Chicken: Grilled chicken, Monterey cheddar, smoky Baja Chipotle sauce, lettuce, Roma tomatoes, and jalapeños. 🍗🥗 Peppercorn Ranch Chicken: Grilled chicken, Monterey cheddar, zesty Peppercorn Ranch, lettuce, Roma tomatoes, and pickles. 🥩 Italian Trio: Black Forest ham, aged pepperoni, Genoa salami, Monterey cheddar, lettuce, Roma tomatoes, and mayo. 🦃🐖 Turkey & Ham: Oven-roasted turkey, Black Forest ham, Monterey cheddar, lettuce, Roma tomatoes, and mayo. Value Strategy: Sub of the Day To address price sensitivity in the QSR market, Subway is formalising a daily value calendar. Guests can purchase a specific six-inch sub for $4.99 , with an upsell option to add a drink and chips/cookies for an additional $2. The Rotating Schedule: Monday: Meatball Marinara Tuesday: Classic Tuna Wednesday: Sweet Onion Chicken Teriyaki® Thursday: Oven-Roasted Turkey Friday: Black Forest Ham Saturday: Italian B.M.T.® Sunday: Spicy Italian Dave Skena , Chief Marketing Officer, North America, emphasised the strategic focus on affordable nutrition: "Getting more protein in their diet is important to so many people. But all too often that protein is expensive or fried. With Subway's new Protein Pockets, they can get over 20 grams of protein for $3.99 without sacrificing taste. And with our new Sub of the Day lineup... folks can eat freshly made, delicious food at a great value every time they come to Subway." Loyalty Integration The launch is supported by the recently updated Sub Club loyalty program (launched in December), which offers a "buy three footlongs, get the fourth free" mechanic, further layering value for high-frequency customers. Foodservice Subway US Launches 'Protein Pockets' and Revamps Value Menu with $4.99 'Sub of the Day' News January 7, 2026 Business & Finance Odeko Acquires Catapult NW and Partners with Artisan Premades New Products Fiorucci Launches Clean Label Deli Slices New Products Boars Head Launches The Fryer's Deep-Fried Turkey Breast Foodservice Subway Offers to Help Americans Struggling with Rising Gas Prices New Products Foodservice Bakery Health & Nutrition Related news

This year, the Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) giant is pivoting away from standard holiday tropes, choosing instead to anchor its campaign in the authenticity of intangible cultural heritage: traditional Chinese lantern art. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. Featured in this news Foodservice McDonald's Corporation The Newsroom McDonald’s China has unveiled its marketing strategy for the upcoming Lunar New Year (Year of the Horse), rolling out the third iteration of its highly successful "Wishing you a Golden Arches Year" (祝你今年金拱门) platform. This year, the Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) giant is pivoting away from standard holiday tropes, choosing instead to anchor its campaign in the authenticity of intangible cultural heritage: traditional Chinese lantern art. The strategic shift reflects a growing sophistication in how Western brands approach localised marketing in China. Rather than relying on generic "prosperity" messaging, McDonald’s is attempting to embed its brand directly into the authentic cultural experiences and "muscle memory" of the Spring Festival. Cultural Partnerships and Content Strategy To execute this vision, McDonald’s partnered with four designated heritage inheritors to reinterpret regional lantern classics, including: Wangmantian fish lanterns Beijing palace lanterns Qinhuai lotus lanterns Foshan decorative lights The storytelling component is driven by a short-film series titled One Lantern, One Wish , produced in collaboration with Harper’s Bazaar China . The content deliberately avoids high-energy spectacle, focusing instead on the quiet rhythm of craftsmanship and materials. This understated approach culminates in a simple, resonant brand message: come home early . Menu Merchandising and Packaging The cultural integration extends directly to the product level. Running until 3 March , McDonald’s has introduced eight limited-time Lunar New Year items. In a clever linguistic merchandising play, all eight items incorporate the Chinese character for gold ( 金 ) in their names. To support the visual identity of the campaign, everyday items such as burgers, fries, and desserts are being served in bespoke, lantern-patterned packaging, transforming routine transactions into seasonal touchpoints. Omnichannel Experiential Retail To capture physical footfall and drive User-Generated Content (UGC), McDonald's is aggressively activating offline across major public spaces. Experiential Activations Include: Cultural Pop-Ups: Brand installations at major Spring Festival landmarks, including Shanghai’s Yuyuan Garden and Nanjing’s Confucius Temple. Themed Stores: 25 restaurants across 14 cities have been completely converted into New Year-themed flagship locations. These spaces are specifically optimised for "lingering, snapping, and sharing," turning the dining room into an interactive marketing asset. Strategic Outlook This campaign marks the third year of the "Golden Arches New Year" strategy. Following last year's focus on shadow puppetry, the integration of lantern heritage signals a clear, long-term operational philosophy for McDonald's in the region: shifting from "shouting for attention" with one-off gimmicks to achieving seamless cultural embedding during China's most critical retail season. Foodservice McDonald’s China Leverages Heritage Lantern Art for ‘Year of the Horse’ Campaign News February 9, 2026 Foodservice LEON Partners with Fable Food Co to Reformulate LOVe Burger Foodservice Burger King Reformulates Chicken Nuggets and Dipping Sauces Following Consumer Feedback New Products SONIC Launches Banana Collection and Returns Banana Pudding Shake New Products Smoothie King Launches First GLP-1 Friendly Pumpkin Smoothie Foodservice Business & Finance Marketing Related news

PepsiCo’s Lay’s brand enters the experiential dining sector in Shanghai with a limited-time restaurant concept designed to grow the away-from-home channel and engage younger consumers. 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 PepsiCo’s flagship snack brand, Lay’s, has officially launched its first immersive dining concept in China. Located in Shanghai’s Xintiandi district, the Lay’s Potato Restaurant represents a strategic pivot for the company as it seeks to expand beyond traditional retail and into the away-from-home channel. The limited-time brand experience reimagines the potato through menu innovation and cross-industry collaborations, serving as a high-visibility test for experiential consumption in a key global market. Experience led consumption The launch aligns with evolving consumer priorities in China, where younger demographics are increasingly prioritizing tangible, shareable experiences over simple product ownership. By moving from the snack aisle to a full-service dining environment, PepsiCo is positioning Lay’s to capture new meal occasions that were previously untapped by the brand. According to Nina Mu, Chief Marketing Officer for Greater China Foods at PepsiCo, Shanghai serves as an essential test-and-learn market. The restaurant concept allows the company to explore how culinary creativity and cultural partnerships can inform brand-building strategies across different geographies. Culinary innovation and menu diversification The restaurant focuses on a farm-to-table narrative that showcases the versatility of the potato as a primary ingredient. The menu utilizes a fusion of Eastern and Western culinary techniques to transform traditional potato chips and premium potatoes into diverse offerings suitable for various times of day. Highlights of the menu innovation Chef Collaborations : Lay’s partnered with Michelin-starred chef Francesco Bonvini and chef Tian Shuai to develop a limited-time menu that traces the potato’s lifecycle from planting to the finished product. Exclusive Formats : The restaurant introduced four Shanghai-exclusive mashed potato dishes, blending creamy textures with diverse ingredients such as strawberry, mango, shrimp, and octopus. Meal Occasions : The offerings range from light bites and signature beverages to hearty mains, moving the brand into the lunch, dinner, and social gathering categories. Collaborative marketing and spatial storytelling To elevate the brand experience beyond the food itself, the restaurant incorporates multi-sensory design and fashion partnerships. This approach strengthens the connection between the brand and culture-driven consumers who value aesthetic and interactive environments. The facility features art installations created in partnership with fashion brand 8ON8, including a distinctive façade that depicts the industrial transformation of potatoes into chips. The interior design utilizes spatial storytelling, with the first floor dedicated to texture-based chip design and the second floor focusing on the farm-to-factory journey. Market implications and retail integration The project also includes a dedicated retail zone featuring limited-edition Lay’s merchandise. This includes potato-inspired packaging, accessories, and co-branded fashion items, allowing the brand to extend its reach into the lifestyle category. As a flagship within PepsiCo’s convenient foods portfolio, the Lay’s Potato Restaurant serves as a new benchmark for brand experience innovation. The insights gained from this Shanghai location are expected to influence how PepsiCo engages with younger consumers and develops new touchpoints in the away-from-home sector globally. Foodservice PepsiCo Launches First Lays Potato Restaurant in China Dan Bunt April 28, 2026 Foodservice Wagamama Unveils 26 Dishes and 15 Drinks in US Menu Overhaul Foodservice TGI Fridays Expands into Balkans with Devolli Group Franchise Agreement Foodservice Hoogland Restaurant Group Acquires Five Marco's Pizza Locations Foodservice Biscuit Belly Acquires 34 Maple Street Biscuit Company Outlets Foodservice Snacking Business & Finance Related news

Premium preserve producer Bonne Maman has expanded its US baking portfolio with the launch of its Peach Pie Filling across mass and speciality grocers. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Bonne Maman has expanded its baking portfolio with the nationwide launch of its Peach Pie Filling across US mass and speciality grocers. Offered in 21.1 oz (approximately 600g) glass jars at a suggested retail price of US$9.99, the product enters retail baking aisles as a permanent addition to the brand's ready-to-bake pie filling collection. The product introduction builds upon the enterprise's strategy to translate its premium preserve brand equity into adjacent ambient baking categories, following the initial rollout of its seasonal Pumpkin Pie Filling. Premium Clean Label Baking Expansion The development of the Peach Pie Filling reflects ongoing consumer demand for clean-label ambient baking ingredients that deliver scratch-style quality with convenience. Formulated with large, visible pieces of fruit, the product is packaged in ready-to-bake formats designed for home pies, cobblers, and multi-category dessert applications. In line with the brand's established formulation parameters, the product contains no high-fructose corn syrup, preservatives, synthetic additives, or artificial colours. Full Pie Filling Lineup The introduction of the peach variety expands Bonne Maman's pie filling platform to five distinct product offerings packaged in standard 21.1 oz glass jars: 🍑 Peach: The newest year-round addition, formulated with large stone-fruit pieces for pies and cobblers. 🍎 Apple: A classic orchard fruit filling formulated for traditional pie and tart applications. 🫐 Blueberry: A berry-forward pie filling designed for baked goods, pastries, and toppings. 🍒 Cherry: A whole-fruit cherry filling engineered for home baking and dessert assembly. 🎃 Pumpkin: A seasonal autumn formulation developed for holiday pie baking occasions. Retail Distribution and Packaging The full five-SKU pie filling range is packaged in Bonne Maman's signature glass jars, supporting visual product transparency and on-shelf brand recognition within the baking aisle. Bonne Maman Peach Pie Filling has commenced commercial distribution across select mass and speciality grocery stockists throughout the United States, carrying a suggested retail price of US$9.99 per 21.1 oz jar. New Products Bonne Maman Expands Premium Pie Filling Portfolio with New Peach Flavour Jacob Deraille August 17, 2026 New Products New Erewhon Malibu Mango Smoothie Kit Launches for Nationwide Delivery Beverage Del Monte and Treatt Partner to Launch Upcycled Fruit Extracts for Beverages New Products Asda Targets US Flavour Trends with Launch of Ranch Style Mayonnaise Business & Finance Suntory Beverage and Food GBI Invests £14.5M in UK Blackcurrant Facility New Products Food Related news

Death Wish Coffee Co. is expanding its ready-to-drink portfolio with a Caramel Cold Brew Latte, combining its signature high-caffeine profile with a "better-for-you" formulation featuring 65% less sugar than category leaders. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Death Wish Coffee Co., recognised for its high-caffeine roasts, has announced the nationwide launch of its Caramel Cold Brew Latte. This strategic expansion into the ready-to-drink (RTD) space directly addresses the surging demand among Gen Z and Millennial consumers for functional, "clean-label" energy solutions that do not compromise on potency or flavour. The new variant joins the brand's existing RTD lineup, which includes Mocha, Vanilla, and Classic Cold Brew Lattes, and is now available via Amazon and major brick-and-mortar retailers, including Walmart, Safeway, and Albertsons. The launch arrives at a pivotal moment for the RTD coffee sector. Recent industry data indicates that RTD coffee is now the preferred beverage format for younger demographics. According to National Coffee Association data, approximately 63% of consumers aged 18 to 34 purchase RTD coffee at least once per week, a 12-percentage-point increase since 2020. Furthermore, caramel has consistently ranked as a top-three flavour profile within the category. By integrating this popular flavour with its "never-bitter" 100% Colombian Cold Brew, Death Wish Coffee Co. is positioning itself to capture a larger share of the premium RTD market, which is projected to grow at a CAGR of over 5.7% through 2031. Energy and Coffee Intersection Death Wish Coffee is positioning the Caramel Cold Brew Latte as a natural alternative to synthetic energy drinks. Key technical specifications of the new SKU include: Potency : Up to 120mg of natural caffeine per 11-fluid-ounce slim can. Sugar Reduction : Contains 65% less sugar than the leading RTD coffee competitor, responding to the 72% of consumers who report checking labels for sugar content. Nutritional Value : Formulated as a "good source of protein," catering to the growing "proffee" (protein coffee) trend favoured by fitness-conscious consumers. Certifications : Utilises Fair Trade USA Certified coffee, aligning with the ethical sourcing priorities of 60% of Gen Z shoppers. Steve Gardiner, CEO of Death Wish Coffee Co., noted that the product was developed to eliminate the perceived trade-off between convenience and ingredient integrity. "Our Caramel Cold Brew Latte proves you don't have to sacrifice ingredient integrity for potency," Gardiner stated. Retail and Distribution The nationwide rollout is supported by a multi-channel distribution strategy designed to maximise "grab-and-go" visibility. By securing placement in major grocery chains and high-velocity e-commerce platforms like Amazon, the brand is targeting the urban professional and student demographics who prioritise speed and portability. The use of the 11-ounce slim can format is a deliberate nod to the energy drink category, allowing the product to sit effectively in both traditional coffee sets and functional beverage coolers. This cross-category appeal is expected to drive incremental sales as consumers pivot away from traditional carbonated soft drinks toward more functional, coffee-based alternatives. As the "High Caffeine" segment outpaces general coffee growth, showing a reported +51.5% dollar change over recent tracking periods, Death Wish Coffee Co.'s expansion into flavoured RTD lattes represents a calculated double-down on its core brand identity. Retailers can expect the "Back for the Believers" sentiment to drive early adoption, particularly as the brand leverages its "Society of Strong Coffee" fan base to generate social proof and regional velocity. Coffee & Tea Death Wish Coffee Expands RTD Line with Health-Focused Caramel Cold Brew Latte Dan Bunt April 9, 2026 New Products RYZE Launches Limited Edition Pumpkin Spice Mushroom Coffee at Target Coffee & Tea Jimmy's Launches Limited Edition Cookie Butter Iced Coffee Coffee & Tea L'OR Launches Limited Edition Pumpkin Spice Coffee Capsules in UK Coffee & Tea 7-Eleven Launches 2026 Autumn Coffee Range Coffee & Tea New Products Related news

Quick-service restaurant chain Tim Hortons U.S. has expanded its seasonal menu with a line of summer beverages, themed bakery items comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Quick-service restaurant chain Tim Hortons U.S. has announced the launch of its summer menu expansion, introducing a series of fruit-forward cold drinks, campfire-inspired coffee options, and a range of soccer-themed baked goods. The product roll-out, which is entering participating US locations immediately, is structured to align with peak warm-weather purchasing patterns. By combining beverage customisation options with event-based bakery additions, the brand aims to drive customer transaction frequency and increase average ticket sizes ahead of the major international soccer tournament hosted across North America this season. Beverage Innovation and Customisation Options To meet the rising consumer demand for fruit-forward cold coffee alternatives and customisable options, the brand has introduced five new beverage variants and partnerships. The summer drink line-up comprises the following options: 🍇 Blackberry Citrus Refresher – A fruit-juice-based iced beverage blending blackberry and orange notes with freeze-dried blackberries, available with coconut milk or lemonade. 🍓 Strawberry Cold Foam – A velvety, fruit-flavoured dairy topper developed to customise cold brew and iced matcha drinks. 🍪 Strawberries and Cream Iced Capp – A blended frozen coffee beverage incorporating strawberry flavours, cookie crumbs, and real cream, finished with Oreo pieces. 🪵 S'Mores Beverages – A range of lattes and iced caps incorporating toasted marshmallow flavours, chocolate chips, and graham cracker toppings. 🥛 Chobani Oat Milk – A premium plant-based dairy alternative introduced to allow for custom iced coffee variations. The customisation segment represents a primary focus for the chain. By partnering with established consumer packaged goods brands like Chobani and Oreo, Tim Hortons is positioning its cold beverage portfolio to attract younger demographics who prioritise premium textures and customisable ingredient decks. Bakery Expansion In addition to its beverage expansion, the brand has updated its baked goods selection with a series of themed sweets, fruit-forward doughnuts, and bite-sized confectionery items. The seasonal bakery portfolio includes: ⚽ Soccer Ball Doughnut – A yeast-based doughnut filled with Venetian cream, topped with chocolate icing and a powdered sugar soccer stencil design. 🇺🇸 USA Vanilla Dip Doughnut – A classic ring doughnut featuring white vanilla-flavoured icing and red, white, and blue sprinkles. 🟢 Key Lime Timbit – A bite-sized doughnut hole featuring a key lime cheesecake filling finished with powdered sugar. 🎂 USA Birthday Cake Timbit – A celebration-themed bite-sized treat decorated with red, white, and blue sprinkles. 🍋 Lemon Cake Doughnut – A moist, lemon-flavoured cake doughnut lightly coated in powdered sugar. The inclusion of soccer-themed and nationally branded baked goods allows the company's franchise network to target local family gatherings, watch parties, and holiday events, helping operators secure volume sales within the competitive morning and afternoon snacking categories. Retail Merchandise and Brand Touchpoints To support the physical menu launch and generate auxiliary revenue channels, Tim Hortons is introducing a line of limited-edition summer retail merchandise. The product range includes soccer-themed buckets and a USA-inspired colour-changing cup, which is available to customers purchasing medium or large iced beverages. Additionally, the brand is debuting the "Tim Hortons USA Travel Collection," featuring ceramic mugs and reusable straw tumblers designed for travel and on-the-go consumption. By extending its retail presence into durable drinkware and travel accessories, the chain aims to increase everyday brand touchpoints beyond its traditional restaurant footprint, supporting its broader volume growth goals during the high-traffic summer travel season. New Products Tim Hortons Launches Summer Beverage and Soccer-Themed Bakery Lineup Eddie Sanders June 9, 2026 Foodservice LEON Partners with Fable Food Co to Reformulate LOVe Burger Foodservice Burger King Reformulates Chicken Nuggets and Dipping Sauces Following Consumer Feedback New Products SONIC Launches Banana Collection and Returns Banana Pudding Shake New Products Smoothie King Launches First GLP-1 Friendly Pumpkin Smoothie Beverage Foodservice New Products Coffee & Tea Related news

Mill Industries is launching Mill Commercial, a high-capacity food recycler equipped with a Gemini-enabled visual waste characterisation system. The platform translates physical waste into real-time procurement and operational intelligence. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Mill Industries Inc. (Mill) has announced a significant technological advancement in the commercial food service sector with the introduction of Mill Commercial. This high-capacity food recycler features an integrated visual waste characterisation system powered by Gemini models. The move represents a shift from passive waste management to active operational intelligence, enabling large-scale operators to identify, track, and characterise food scraps at the exact point of generation. Supported by Google’s AI Futures Fund, Mill is utilising next-generation multimodal models to bridge the gap between physical waste and digital data, addressing a $400 billion economic drain caused by food waste in the United States. The Move to Point-of-Generation Intelligence The core innovation of the Mill Commercial system is its ability to "see" and understand what is being discarded. Traditional waste auditing is often retrospective, manual, and prone to error. Mill’s characterisation system utilises integrated computer vision to automate this process. Key technical capabilities include: Automated Classification : Identifying specific food types being discarded without manual input. Volumetric Tracking : Measuring the precise quantities of waste in real-time. Contextual Characterisation : Determining "why" food is being wasted (e.g., spoilage, over-preparation, or plate waste), which is critical for adjusting back-of-house operations. Harry Tannenbaum, Co-Founder and President at Mill, noted that access to pre-release Gemini models allows the company to accelerate the development of these capabilities, moving closer to the goal of eliminating food waste entirely. Transforming Waste into Procurement Intelligence For enterprise food service operators, the value of Mill Commercial extends beyond waste reduction to the optimisation of the entire supply chain. By translating the waste stream into actionable data, the system provides: Procurement Optimisation : Identifying recurring waste patterns to adjust ordering and reduce over-purchasing. Operational Efficiency : Pinpointing specific areas in the kitchen or menu where food loss is highest. Financial Transparency : Quantifying the "pounds and dollars" lost at the source, allowing for more accurate P&L management. Jonathan Silber, Co-Founder and Director of the AI Futures Fund at Google, emphasised that the stakes of this application are measurable in tangible financial metrics, aligning with Google's commitment to resource efficiency. The Google AI Futures Fund Partnership The technology partnership is enabled by Google’s AI Futures Fund, which provides Mill with early access to next-generation Gemini models and engineering resources. This collaboration is a two-way exchange: Mill gains elite-level AI tools to speed up its innovation cycle, while Google receives high-volume, real-world feedback on model performance in complex physical environments. This "high-volume environment" represents a new frontier for Gemini, testing the model's ability to perform in industrial settings where visual data is diverse and rapidly changing. Opportunity and Economic Impact In the United States, food is the most common material sent to landfills, representing an estimated 400 billion dollars in lost value annually. For B2B stakeholders in the hospitality, healthcare, and education sectors, Mill Commercial provides a hardware-and-data solution to combat this trajectory. As ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) reporting becomes more stringent, the ability to provide precise, AI-verified data on waste reduction will become a competitive necessity. Mill’s integrated approach allows organisations to prove their sustainability claims with hard data rather than estimates. The launch of Mill Commercial signals the arrival of "Smart Kitchen" infrastructure, where AI is no longer a back-office tool but a frontline operational necessity. As the platform moves from pre-production environments to wider commercial deployment, industry analysts expect a ripple effect across the procurement sector. If Mill can successfully demonstrate that AI-driven waste characterisation leads to a significant reduction in food spend, the technology will likely become a standard requirement for large-scale institutional kitchens. The partnership with Google ensures that Mill remains at the cutting edge of multimodal AI, positioning the company as the primary data provider for the circular food economy. Technology Mill Industries Integrates Gemini AI for Real-Time Waste Intelligence Eddie Sanders April 23, 2026 Foodservice Tso Chinese Partners with Autolane and Nash for Autonomous Food Delivery in Austin Marketing Yili Unveils AI-Generated Dairy Supply Chain Comic Series Technology China Agricultural University and Haidian Canteen Launch AI Foodservice Model Technology New AI Partnership Between FPT and CP Vietnam to Digitalise Agricultural Value Chain Technology Food Business & Finance New Solutions Safety & Quality Related news

Mars Snacking is diversifying its TWIX brand with "TWIX Bits," a poppable format designed to capitalise on the high-growth bitesize snacking segment, supported by a "Two-Way Contract" campaign featuring LiAngelo Ball. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. Featured in this news Confectionery Mars Inc The Newsroom Mars Snacking has announced the national launch of "TWIX Bits," a significant brand extension that transitions the classic TWIX flavor profile, creamy caramel and crunchy cookie, into a poppable, bite-sized format. The launch is part of a broader strategic effort to align the brand with the "poppable" snacking trend, which continues to drive volume in the confectionery sector by meeting consumer demand for portion control and on-the-go convenience. To support the rollout, TWIX has entered a high-profile partnership with professional basketball player and platinum-certified rapper LiAngelo Ball, leveraging his "multi-hyphenate" status to reinforce the brand's core theme: "Two Is More Than One." Bitesize Snacking The introduction of TWIX Bits reflects a calculated move by Mars to capture a larger share of the "snackable" candy market. While the traditional TWIX bar remains a staple of the checkout aisle, the "Bits" format is engineered for different consumption occasions, such as shared social snacking, cinema/home-viewing, and incremental "poppable" indulgence. By maintaining the signature duality of creamy and crunchy textures in a single bite, Mars is attempting to reduce the friction of choice for consumers. Martin Terwilliger, Marketing Vice President at Mars Snacking, stated that the innovation is designed to help fans "embrace the two-ness within themselves," signalling a shift toward lifestyle-oriented branding. Marketing Partnership: The "Two-Way Contract" The collaboration with LiAngelo Ball is specifically targeted at Gen Z and Millennial demographics, 89% of whom are reportedly pursuing dual talents or "side hustles." By positioning Ball—a dual-threat athlete and musician—as the face of the launch, TWIX is aligning itself with the cultural shift toward "multi-hyphenate" identities. Key components of the "Two-Way Contract" campaign include: Consumer Engagement : A sweepstakes running from April 13 to April 27, offering fans a chance to win a "Two-Way Contract" and $2,000 in cash to fund their own dual passions. Social-First Strategy : Entries are incentivised through Instagram and TikTok using #TwixBitsSweepstakes, designed to generate organic social proof and high-frequency brand visibility. The Duality Narrative : Reinforcing the "creamy and crunchy" product attributes through the lens of pursuing multiple talents. For retailers, TWIX Bits represents an opportunity to drive incremental value in the confectionery aisle. The poppable format typically commands a higher price-per-ounce than standard bars and is well-suited for secondary placements in the snacking or "impulse" sections of the store. The product's branding—focused on "two-ness"—is intended to create shelf-standout by differentiating the SKU from single-attribute competitors. Retailers can expect the social-led campaign to drive significant initial trial, particularly among younger consumers who are responsive to athlete-led endorsements and multi-channel digital activations. The success of TWIX Bits will likely be measured by its ability to secure permanent placement alongside other high-performing poppable brands in the Mars portfolio, such as M&M'S and Skittles, while maintaining the premium "creamy and crunchy" identity that defines the TWIX brand equity. New Products Mars Expands TWIX Portfolio with Poppable "TWIX Bits" Launch Eddie Sanders April 13, 2026 New Products Co-op Launches Halloween 2026 Confectionery and Snack Range New Products Milk Bar Partners with Beyond Meat to Launch Savoury Plant-Based Range Foodservice Chomps Expands Distribution Footprint at Starbucks and Costco Snacking Little Bites Launches Mystery Muffin and Naming Contest Food Snacking New Products Confectionery Related news

Duni Group has transitioned key product families within its Duniform food packaging range to pure polypropylene mono-materials to improve recyclability. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Duni Group has announced a material transition across key product lines of its Duniform takeaway, ready meal, and catering brand. The brand is shifting to mono-material solutions to enhance recyclability and support circular economy infrastructure. The update has been implemented across all new production and is being gradually rolled out to customers. Duniform is a food packaging brand owned by Duni Group, operating within its Food Packaging Solutions business area. Designed for the food industry, professional kitchens, restaurants, catering, hotels, and food retail, Duniform provides a complete system of sealing machines, trays, films, and technical support. Duni Group is represented in more than 50 markets globally. Transition to Pure Polypropylene The material transition focuses on reducing the use of additives and fillers, resulting in packaging constructed entirely from pure polypropylene (PP). This shift simplifies the physical makeup of the packaging, making it highly compatible with existing municipal and industrial sorting systems. The transition has been applied across three primary product categories: 🥡 Take Away – Packaging designed for quick-service and grab-and-go dining. 🍲 HMR (Ready Meals) – Solutions optimised for home meal replacement and ready-to-heat foods. 🍽️ Cater Line – Heavy-duty and multi-portion trays designed for professional catering and events. Alignment with EU Regulations The transition is part of Duni Group’s long-term product development strategy to design packaging for end-of-life recycling. The move aligns with tightening environmental standards, including the European Union's upcoming Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR). By adopting mono-materials ahead of these legal frameworks, the brand seeks to help food service operators navigate evolving compliance demands. Marie Davies, Category Manager for Trays and Films at Duniform, stated that the transition significantly improves recyclability at scale while maintaining the same functionality and quality. Davies noted that the shift allows businesses to adopt more sustainable options without requiring changes to their day-to-day operations. Operational Continuity for Customers To prevent disruption for professional kitchens, distributors, and retailers, Duni Group has ensured that the material update does not alter the physical design or technical performance of the Duniform range. Product dimensions, temperature resistance, and existing article numbers remain unchanged. This enables food service operators to maintain their current sealing equipment, packaging workflows, and ordering processes. Packaging Duni Group Transitions Duniform Range to Recyclable Mono-Material Solutions Eddie Sanders July 7, 2026 Packaging Aldi and Arla Launch Trial for UV Tagged Milk Bottle Recycling Logistics & Supply Chain Amcor Secures RecyClass Certification for Pallet Protection Stretch Films Packaging Amcor Partners With Kelpi to Develop Seaweed Based Barrier Materials Facilities Circular Services Opens First Permitted Food and Beverage Depackaging Facility in Florida Packaging Sustainability Business & Finance New Solutions Related news

Unilever has expanded its Korean-inspired instant noodle brand, Namdong, with a Creamy Cheese flavour, tapping into viral social media culinary trends comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. Featured in this news Food Unilever The Newsroom Unilever has expanded its Korean-inspired noodle brand, Namdong, with the introduction of a Creamy Cheese flavour. The new product has been developed to capture the growing consumer interest in "cheesy ramen" dishes popularised across social media platforms. The addition represents the first major portfolio extension since the brand's market debut, aiming to offer consumers a convenient way to recreate viral food trends at home while maintaining the brand's signature customisable taste profile. The development of the Creamy Cheese variant took 12 months to complete. Unilever focused research and development efforts on translating the viral cheese ramen trend, which has garnered significant engagement on video-sharing platforms like TikTok, into a shelf-stable, commercial format. Adjustable Heat : The packaging includes a separate chilli powder sachet, allowing consumers to customise the spice level from mild to high heat without altering the underlying cheese profile. Packaging Formats and Distribution The new flavour is designed to cater to different consumption occasions, rolling out in two distinct packaging configurations across the UK grocery sector: 🍲 84g Pots : A convenient, portable format designed for quick lunches and on-the-go consumption. 🍜 120g Blocks : A larger packet format suitable for stove-top preparation and home-cooked meals. Unilever has secured immediate physical distribution for both formats with prominent UK supermarket multiples, including Asda, Tesco, and Morrisons. The product launch is being supported by a targeted, social-first marketing campaign designed to engage younger consumer demographics. New Products Unilever Expands Namdong Noodle Portfolio with Creamy Cheese Flavour Eddie Sanders July 8, 2026 New Solutions Kraft Heinz Launches Extra Rich Beans New Products Maggi Expands Instant Noodle Portfolio with Three Asian-Inspired Ramen Flavours New Products Bonne Maman Expands Premium Pie Filling Portfolio with New Peach Flavour Business & Finance Jif Unveils First Major Brand Refresh in Over 30 Years New Products Bakery Business & Finance Food Related news