Daily Harvest has expanded its direct-to-consumer portfolio with the launch of three limited-edition smoothies celebrating the host nations. 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 > Direct-to-consumer organic food company Daily Harvest has expanded its frozen beverage portfolio with the launch of three limited-edition smoothies inspired by the cultural culinary traditions of the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The product rollout, which commenced on 8 June 2026, introduces themed flavour profiles designed to coincide with the upcoming international soccer tournament hosted across North America. The range is available exclusively via the brand's proprietary e-commerce platform for a limited time. The launch aligns with seasonal summer purchasing patterns, where consumer brand operators leverage high-profile global sporting events to drive digital engagement and platform transaction volumes. Limited Edition Direct to Consumer Portfolio Expansion By keeping the product range exclusive to its direct-to-consumer platform, the company is bypassing traditional brick-and-mortar retail channels for this campaign. This model allows the business to leverage its established digital fulfilment infrastructure to manage inventory and capture first-party consumer data directly. The individual smoothies are sold separately, or bundled together as a discounted "Hat Trick 3-Pack". The promotional bundle retails at a suggested price of $19.99, representing a 25 per cent saving compared to purchasing the items individually. According to Ricky Silver, Chief Executive Officer of Daily Harvest, the range is designed to celebrate the distinct food cultures of the three host nations using organic fruits, vegetables, and plant-based proteins. Cultural Flavour Formulations and Nutritional Metrics The new range introduces three distinct fruit-and-veg-forward profiles, utilising natural sweet and savoury ingredients to replicate regional culinary staples: 🍒 Cherry Pie Protein (USA) – Formulated to replicate a traditional American cherry pie, this variant delivers 15 grams of plant-based protein alongside organic cherries and sweet dessert-inspired notes. 🍁 Blueberry Maple (Canada) – A berry-forward blend featuring sweet blueberries balanced with natural Canadian maple syrup. 🌶️ Mango Chile (Mexico) – A sweet and spicy blend inspired by traditional Mexican fruit carts, combining ripe mango with a sharp, heating chilli kick. To maintain the brand's clean-label ingredient standards, the formulations are manufactured using organic produce and do not contain synthetic sweeteners, artificial flavours, or chemical preservatives. Digital Sweepstakes and Omnichannel Marketing To support the product rollout and generate digital brand awareness, Daily Harvest is launching a multi-channel marketing campaign headlined by a travel-focused promotion. Beginning 15 June 2026, consumers can enter the "Host Nation Getaway Sweepstakes" via the company's proprietary platform. The promotional campaign is designed to drive web traffic, capture customer emails, and encourage social-first brand interactions during the peak of the summer sporting season. The sweepstakes prize tiers are structured around regional travel destinations in each of the three host countries: Grand Prizes: Immersive vacation packages including a stay at a lakeside cottage in Muskoka, Canada, a city getaway in New York, and a beach resort escape in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. Secondary Prizes: Standard travel vouchers valued at $500 and digital Daily Harvest store credits. The sweepstakes is open exclusively to United States residents aged 18 and older, with the brand utilising the travel campaign to extend its digital marketing footprint through the duration of the international soccer tournament. Daily Harvest Launches Limited Edition Host Nation Smoothie Range June 9, 2026 New Products Bonne Maman Expands Premium Pie Filling Portfolio with New Peach Flavour 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 Beverage New Products Related news

Mark Foods has acquired Rhode Island-based frozen seafood importer Endeavor Seafood, fully integrating the business to expand its product portfolio 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 > US seafood importer and processor Mark Foods has completed the acquisition of Newport, Rhode Island-based Endeavor Seafood. The transaction fully integrates Endeavor Seafood into Mark Foods' operational platform, following an initial equity investment made in 2021. The acquisition strengthens Mark Foods' importing and marketing capabilities across frozen seafood categories, building on a period of sustained M&A activity for the US$1 billion revenue business. Integration and Leadership Endeavor Seafood was established in 2001 by seafood supply chain professionals Mike Bush, Todd Clark, and George Souza. Under the terms of the transaction, Mike Bush and Todd Clark will join the combined Mark Foods organisation, maintaining their commercial relationships and sourcing oversight. Co-founder George Souza is retiring concurrently with the deal completion, but will continue to serve the organisation in an advisory capacity to support operational continuity. Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed. Barry Markman, Chief Executive Officer of Mark Foods, stated that fully integrating Endeavor Seafood represents a natural progression following the initial 2021 investment, enabling the company to expand its seafood range and enhance supply chain services for commercial partners. Portfolio Expansion and Infrastructure The acquisition of Endeavor Seafood forms part of a broader expansion strategy executed by Mark Foods across the seafood processing and import sector. Generating more than US$1 billion in annual revenue, Mark Foods operates processing facilities in Orlando, Florida, and Portland, Maine, which together process more than 20 million pounds (approximately 9 million kg) of seafood annually. Mark Foods' strategic acquisitions across the frozen and fresh seafood sectors in recent years include: 🐟 Bristol Seafood (2025): Maine-based processing operations specialising in sustainably sourced whitefish and value-added seafood products. 🦐 Arista Industries Seafood Division (2023): Frozen seafood importing and wholesale distribution networks. 🌊 Openwater Seafoods (2021): Sourcing and trading infrastructure supporting North American foodservice and retail channels. By incorporating Endeavor Seafood's import volume and supply network, Mark Foods aims to reinforce continuity of supply, product specification compliance, and direct sourcing partnerships across retail, foodservice, and wholesale distribution channels throughout North America. Mark Foods Completes Acquisition of Endeavor Seafood July 22, 2026 Business & Finance B&G Foods Sells B&M and Joan of Arc Brands to McCall Farms Alcohol Fintech Acquires Ground Signal to Expand Alcohol Analytics Logistics & Supply Chain Constellation Cold Logistics Acquires Impruv Logistics in Norway Business & Finance Starbucks Explores Takeover of Chipotle Business & Finance Meat & Seafood Related news

Perfect Snacks has expanded its refrigerated bar portfolio with Oaties, a new oat-based protein bar range marking the brand's first 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 > Perfect Snacks has announced the launch of Oaties, its first-ever oat-based protein bar range. The introduction represents a significant brand expansion for the refrigerated snack manufacturer, marking its first product line formulated without its traditional nut-butter base. The launch aims to address consumer demand for clean-label, family-friendly snack options that provide sustained energy without artificial additives. Pivot From Nut Butter to Oat Base Oaties utilise organic whole-grain oats and creamy oat butter as the primary structural and flavour foundation, departing from the peanut and almond butter bases characteristic of the core Perfect Bar line-up. According to Cara Liebrock, chief executive officer of Perfect Snacks, the development of Oaties allows the brand to offer an alternative flavour profile and a lunchbox-friendly format. The product is designed to appeal to both adult and child demographics by balancing taste and portion-appropriate nutrition. Nutritional Profile and Ingredients The new product line is formulated to qualify as a low-glycemic index snack, designed to prevent sudden blood sugar spikes and deliver more consistent energy levels. Each bar contains: 8g of plant-based protein 8g of organic whole-grain oats More than 20 superfood ingredients No artificial colours, flavours, preservatives, or sweeteners No sugar alcohols The bars are sweetened naturally using 100% organic honey and maple syrup, and they contain dietary fibre to support healthy digestion. The product range features two distinct flavours: 🍪 Oatmeal Cookie Dough: A traditional cookie-inspired formulation combining creamy oat butter and whole-food protein. 🍫 Brownie Batter: A rich chocolate option delivering a soft, fresh-from-the-fridge texture. In alignment with the brand’s existing portfolio, Oaties contain no artificial preservatives and must be stored under refrigeration to maintain product quality and freshness. Distribution and Retail Footprint The nationwide rollout of Oaties is underway across multiple retail and digital channels in the United States. The product is currently available for purchase at Target and Whole Foods Market locations, as well as online via Amazon and the brand's proprietary e-commerce platform. Perfect Snacks Introduces Oaties Protein Bar Range July 6, 2026 New Products Calise Bakery Launches Higher Fibre Kaiser and Sub Rolls New Products DolCas Biotech Expands Curcugen into Functional Honey and Beverages New Products Bob Evans Launches First Protein Macaroni and Cheese Bakery Puratos Launches ProteinPro Clean-Label Bakery Mixes Food Snacking New Products Related news

Sonic has launched a line of Frozen Refreshers with real fruit purees and green tea caffeine. Mango Peach, Strawberry Passion Fruit, and Berry Citrus. 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 > Sonic has announced a major expansion of its summer beverage estate with the nationwide launch of Sonic Frozen Refreshers. The new line represents a calculated effort to merge the brand's established frozen-beverage and slush expertise with the high-growth functional energy and iced tea categories, delivering an icy, caffeinated product tailored for hot-weather consumption. The rollout arrives as quick-service restaurant (QSR) brands increasingly look to functional cold beverages to drive high-margin daytime traffic, particularly during the afternoon daypart. Formulation and Green Tea Caffeine Integration A primary technical differentiator for the Sonic Frozen Refreshers is the pairing of real fruit purees with a natural caffeine boost. While traditional frozen slush products often rely heavily on high-fructose corn syrup and synthetic flavour syrups, the new range is formulated to provide a lighter, more refreshing sensory profile. Key technical attributes include: Natural Caffeination: Each 20-ounce serving is fortified with approximately 45mg of natural caffeine derived from green tea extract, providing a clean energy boost that appeals to active-lifestyle consumers. Real Fruit Base: The beverages are crafted using real fruit purees, providing an authentic taste and a smooth, high-viscosity texture that holds up under high-intensity summer temperatures. The lineup features frozen executions of the brand's three existing Refresher flavours alongside an all-new seasonal option: Watermelon Peach: The new seasonal standout, blending sweet watermelon and juicy peach purees, available in frozen, still, or sparkling varieties. Mango Peach: A bright fusion of mango and peach purees. Strawberry Passion Fruit: A tart and sweet mix of real strawberries and tropical passion fruit. Berry Citrus: A deep berry blend featuring wildberry and blueberry purees balanced with a squeeze of real lemon. Barbara Williams, Vice President of Culinary Innovation and Category Management at Sonic, stated that the brand is focused on pushing the frozen category forward. Williams noted that the Frozen Refreshers build directly on Sonic's signature slush expertise, reimagining emerging cold-beverage trends in a highly proprietary, operationally efficient format. Digital Acquisition and App Exclusive Pricing To support the physical rollout and drive digital engagement, Sonic is utilising a phased, app-first distribution model. The Frozen Refreshers will launch exclusively on the Sonic App beginning 26 May 2026. This digital-first strategy serves several B2B objectives: App Adoption: Incentivising consumers to download and purchase through the brand's mobile platform. Transaction Speed: Streamlining drive-thru operations by shifting order-taking and payment processing to the digital interface. Promotional Urgency: Offering the 20-ounce size at a special introductory price of 2.99 dollars from 26 May through 31 May 2026, creating an immediate volume spike ahead of the Memorial Day holiday weekend. Celebrity Alignment and the Sip to That Campaign The launch is supported by the continuation of Sonic's "Sip to That" brand campaign. To ensure high cultural resonance among Gen Z and Millennial demographics, the brand has partnered with prominent reality television stars Ariana Madix and Ciara Miller. The marketing campaign, spanning national television and social media spots, depicts the organic interaction between two friends celebrating daily achievements. By aligning with high-profile lifestyle personalities, Sonic is humanising its brand presence and positioning its premium beverages as accessible tools for social connection. QSR Frozen Beverages The expansion of the Sonic beverage portfolio arrives as the cold-refreshment sector undergoes rapid premiumisation. As consumers increasingly view speciality iced drinks as standalone treats and liquid snacks, legacy fast-food brands must innovate to protect their market share from dedicated coffee and beverage boutiques. By securing a versatile, fruit-forward lineup that delivers both taste and functional caffeine, Sonic is effectively de-risking its summer product strategy. Analysts expect the combination of real fruit ingredients, competitive mobile pricing, and high-impact cultural partnerships to drive significant unit velocity, securing Sonic's role as a primary destination for the next generation of summer beverage rituals. Sonic Scales Frozen Beverage Portfolio with Frozen Refreshers Launch May 18, 2026 Foodservice Taco Bell Expands Live Más Café with Horchata Lineup and New Sites New Products Tropical Smoothie Cafe Launches Fanta Phantom Smoothie Foodservice McDonald's UK and Ireland Launches Limited-Edition World Menu Heist Range Foodservice Wagamama Unveils 26 Dishes and 15 Drinks in US Menu Overhaul Energy Drinks Foodservice Beverage New Products Related news

Homewares brand Thyme and Table has launched a fully automatic espresso machine exclusively at Walmart. 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 premium home coffee sector is witnessing a significant structural shift as high-end, fully automatic brewing technology becomes increasingly accessible to mass-market consumers. Thyme and Table, a homewares brand owned by consumer products firm Core Home, has announced the launch of its first Fully Automatic Espresso Machine. Priced at USD 599.96, the appliance represents a highly aggressive entry into the automated bean-to-cup market. Historically, coffee machines boasting features such as dual-boiler heating, automatic milk texturing, and extensive customisation menus have been positioned at premium price points, often exceeding USD 1,000. By offering a high-specification machine at a sub-600 dollar price tier, Thyme and Table is directly challenging established European appliance manufacturers. This launch demonstrates how nimble consumer goods companies can utilise manufacturing efficiencies to democratise luxury kitchen technologies, opening up premium beverage preparation to a much wider household demographic. Technical Specifications and Manufacturing Efficiencies From an engineering and product development perspective, the Thyme and Table Fully Automatic Espresso Machine integrates a suite of premium components designed to deliver repeatable, barista-quality extraction without the manual labour typically associated with traditional portafilter machines: Dual Boiler Heating System: The inclusion of two distinct boilers allows the machine to transition instantly between brewing espresso and steaming milk, eliminating the temperature lags and waiting times common in single-boiler systems. Integrated Conical Burr Grinder: Featuring 15 distinct grind settings, the built-in grinder provides consumers with precise control over particle size, which is critical for optimising extraction yields and preserving volatile coffee aromatics. High Pressure Extraction: Operating at 20 bars of pressure, the brewing group ensures a balanced, full-bodied extraction with a rich and stable crema layer. Automated Milk Texturing: The integrated milk system automatically froths and dispenses milk directly into the cup from a detachable carafe, simplifying the preparation of complex beverages like lattes and cappuccinos. By automating the grinding, tamping, and brewing processes through an intuitive touchscreen interface, the appliance addresses a major friction point for home brewers: the steep learning curve of manual espresso preparation. The machine offers over 50 customisable hot and cold recipe presets, enabling users to adjust beverage strength and temperature to match their personal flavour preferences. Retail Placement and Distribution The commercial execution of this launch relies on an exclusive retail partnership with Walmart, spanning both the United States and Canada. This distribution model offers substantial advantages for a growing homewares brand: Massive Physical Footprint: Placing the machine in physical Walmart stores and Supercenters ensures immediate, high-volume exposure to millions of weekly shoppers, driving spontaneous impulse trials. Digital Segmentation: To manage inventory flow and gauge aesthetic preferences, Thyme and Table is segmenting its colourways. While the "Sand" colourway is available across physical stores and online, the "Slate" and "Faded Rose" variants are sold exclusively through Walmart's e-commerce platform. Scale Efficiencies: Partnering exclusively with a single retail giant allows Core Home to secure high-volume production commitments, helping the company achieve the economies of scale necessary to support its aggressive pricing structure. According to Steven Bram, Chief Executive Officer of Core Home, the launch aligns with the brand’s core mission to close the gap between premium, high-performing design and affordable pricing. This strategy builds on the successful rollout of Thyme and Table's initial kitchen appliance line, proving that aesthetic and functional innovation can succeed in high-volume, mainstream retail environments. As the automatic home coffee category continues to expand, the commercial performance of this sub-600-dollar machine will serve as a key indicator of consumer appetite for high-spec, value-driven kitchen appliances. Thyme & Table Launches Fully Automatic Espresso Machine May 26, 2026 Coffee & Tea Bellwether Coffee Unveils Next-Gen Shop Roaster and In-House Roasting Data Coffee & Tea Lavazza Launches Capsule-Free Tablì Coffee System in UK Coffee & Tea Starbucks and Suntory Roll out Vending Machines in Japan Coffee & Tea Braun Household Launches OptiBrew Line of Drip Coffee Makers New Products Coffee & Tea Related news

The Hershey Company and Mondelēz International are celebrating the one-year anniversary of the REESE'S OREO Cup, which generated over US$188 million comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. Featured in this news Confectionery Mondelēz International 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 major The Hershey Company and CPG giant Mondelēz International are marking the one-year anniversary of the REESE'S OREO Cup with a celebrity-led creative marketing push. Since its commercial introduction, the cross-category collaboration has generated over US$188 million in retail sales to date. The performance established the product as the Hershey-owned Reese's brand's primary innovation for 2025, driven by strong repeat purchase behaviour and widespread consumer engagement across North American retail channels. Commercial Performance and Consumer Demand The development of the REESE'S OREO Cup originated from years of organic consumer discussion and social media requests advocating for a combination of chocolate, peanut butter, and sandwich cookies. By formalising the partnership, both brand owners translated long-standing consumer sentiment into a commercial product rollout. Key commercial and performance highlights from the first 12 months in retail include: 🍫 Product Formulation: Integrates milk chocolate and white crème peanut butter cups filled with OREO cookie crumb inclusions. 📈 Sales Velocity: Delivered more than US$188 million in total retail sales during its initial 12-month trading window. 👥 Demographic Expansion: Attracted new and younger consumer demographics to the core Reese's franchise, driving incremental volume across the confectionery aisle. Melissa Blette, Senior Brand Manager at The Hershey Company, stated that tapping into pre-existing consumer enthusiasm enabled the business to build a product aligned directly with established market demand, supporting sustained retail performance beyond the initial launch window. Celebrity Marketing To celebrate the product's first year on retail shelves, the brand has launched an integrated marketing push centred on the concept of natural pairings. Directed by Patricia Arquette with creative production managed by Juxtapose Studio, the campaign features actors Lindsay Lohan and Amy Sedaris. The media execution serves as a tribute to the fan community that championed the flavour combination online prior to its commercial production. The promotional rollout utilises digital media, video content, and social channels to reinforce brand awareness and support ongoing store-level sales velocity across mass, grocery, and convenience channels. Cross-Category Co-Branding The success of the REESE'S OREO Cup highlights how leading CPG manufacturers deploy strategic co-branding agreements to generate incremental category growth. By combining intellectual property from two leading confectionery and biscuit brands, Hershey and Mondelēz created a high-impact retail offering that stimulated basket size and trial without relying on long-term capital investments in entirely new sub-brands. The co-branded product continues to hold broad distribution across mass retailers, grocery chains, and convenience store networks nationwide. Hershey and Mondelez Mark One Year of REESE'S OREO with New Campaign July 29, 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 Marketing People Confectionery Business & Finance Related news

Researchers at the National University of Singapore have developed a colour-sensing yeast strain controlled by red and blue light. 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 > Researchers at the National University of Singapore (NUS) have achieved a milestone in synthetic biology by engineering a strain of baker's yeast ( Saccharomyces cerevisiae ) capable of responding independently to multiple colours of light. Led by Associate Professor Poh Chueh-Loo from NUS Synthetic Biology for Clinical and Technological Innovation (SynCTI) and the Department of Biomedical Engineering, the team utilised optogenetics to control gene expression dynamically. By exposing the yeast to red and blue light patterns, the researchers controlled complex multi-step biological processes without relying on repeated chemical inducers. Published in Nature Communications , the research provides a foundation for programmable biomanufacturing, offering enhanced control over the production of high-value bio-based ingredients, speciality chemicals, and pharmaceuticals. Dual Channel Optogenetic Control in Synthetic Biology While yeast has previously been engineered to respond to single wavelengths of light, achieving independent control across multiple channels within a single strain has historically presented technical hurdles due to optical crosstalk. To address this, the NUS team engineered a red light-responsive protein system named y-iLight. Adapted from bacterial and mammalian optogenetic tools, y-iLight binds to target DNA sequences under red light to activate specific genes without requiring additional chemical cofactors. To eliminate blue light cross-activation, the researchers engineered y-iLight with blocking protein modules. When combined with the established blue light-responsive system EL222, the dual-channel framework allowed independent control over two distinct gene expression pathways in the same cell line. Industrial Bioprocessing and Fermentation Applications The team demonstrated the practical utility of the colour-sensing yeast across both metabolic pathway regulation and cellular behaviour management. Key technical specifications and functional achievements include: 🔴 y-iLight System: Red light-activated protein engineered to operate natively in yeast without supplementary helper molecules. 🔵 Crosstalk Suppression: Modular protein engineering eliminated blue light interference, securing independent dual-channel genetic control. 🌿 Pathway Fine-Tuning: Regulated the production of luteolin, a natural plant compound, by adjusting the timing and proportions of red and blue light exposure. 🧫 Automated Cell Separation: Linked the flocculation gene $FLO1$ to red light activation, enabling light-triggered cell clumping and settling to simplify post-fermentation separation. During testing, the yeast produced luteolin under blue light before switching to red light to trigger cell aggregation and clarification. This integration of production and separation mechanisms highlights the potential for cleaner, less resource-intensive downstream processing in industrial fermentation. Future Trajectory for Bio-Based Manufacturing The study also revealed insights into metabolic bottlenecks, such as identifying late-stage efficiency limits in the $F3'H$ enzyme during luteolin synthesis. These data points provide actionable targets for further genetic optimisation. Associate Professor Poh Chueh-Loo noted that the platform demonstrates how multi-coloured light can program gene expression, metabolic output, and physical cell behaviour simultaneously. The NUS research team is currently developing rationally designed gene networks to enhance the sensitivity and performance of these light-sensitive proteins, aiming to scale the technology for broader industrial biomanufacturing applications. NUS Researchers Develop Colour-Sensing Yeast for Advanced Biomanufacturing August 11, 2026 Business & Finance Watkins Completes Acquisition of Sauer Brands Spice Business Flavours & Colours OSF Flavours Launches Solution for Functional Soda Off-Notes Coffee & Tea Starbucks Announces Autumn 2026 Menu with PSL Return and New Beverage Formulations New Products Mondelez Launches CHIPS AHOY Mystery Cookie Flavour Ingredients Cultivated Flavours & Colours Business & Finance Related news

East and South-East Asian cuisine is experiencing a massive surge in the UK, even overtaking traditional British food in the frozen ready meals category with a 22% year-on-year growth in 2025. To help you stay ahead of the curve, the FNBX Insight Lab has distilled the key takeaways from the itsu [grocery] 2026 trend report, exploring the cultural shifts, flavour mashups, and consumer habits set to define the year ahead. Report Unpacking the itsu [grocery] 2026 Trend Report East and South-East Asian cuisine is experiencing a massive surge in the UK, even overtaking traditional British food in the frozen ready meals category with a 22% year-on-year growth in 2025. To help you stay ahead of the curve, the FNBX Insight Lab has distilled the key takeaways from the itsu [grocery] 2026 trend report, exploring the cultural shifts, flavour mashups, and consumer habits set to define the year ahead. March 12, 2026 Go Related News 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 > 1. The Clean Label Pushback & Mindful Eating Consumers are increasingly critical of what goes into their food, signalling a fundamental shift in buying habits. As of October 2025, half of global consumers are actively attempting to avoid ultra-processed foods (UPFs). Shoppers are favoring wholefoods that offer long-lasting fullness and mindful eating experiences. In response, food brands are adopting "clean labels" by increasing packaging transparency and actively reformulating products to remove ultra-processed ingredients. 2. Next-Level Convenience & Functional Ingredients Convenience has evolved past simply microwaving a ready meal; today's consumers expect their food to work harder for their overall well-being. Shoppers are seeking out foods that offer functional benefits like aiding digestion, improving sleep, and reducing stress. Asian-inspired wellness ingredients—such as lion's mane mushroom for cognitive support, ashwagandha for stress reduction, and matcha for relaxation—are going mainstream. Expect to see these functional ingredients break out of the snacking and drinks aisles and make their way into categories like frozen foods and ready meals. 3. Shortcut Scratch Cooking Spontaneous home cooking is on the rise, but consumers still want modern conveniences to make the process easier. Rather than strict recipe following, people are utilising cupboard staples like ready-to-cook pastes and seasonings to quickly build flavour profiles. Flavour boosters are seeing massive growth, with Tom Yum paste growing by 185% and Nasi Goreng paste growing by 97% year-on-year. By 2026, expect fusion-focused pastes to dominate the stock aisle, featuring combinations like black garlic & tamarind, or yuzu & Sichuan pepper. 4. Flavour Remixes & Regional Spotlight The UK's palate is expanding, embracing bold, unexpected taste combinations and regional specialities from across East and South-East Asia. A New Flavour Dictionary: Get ready for mashups like "Swalty" (sweet & salty), "Spour" (spicy & sour), "Swicy" (sweet & spicy), and "Swavoury" (sweet & savoury). Japan: Japanese bakery trends are moving beyond shokupan to include savoury nori butter buns, yuzu kosho cream cheese bagels, and miso-maple glazes. Indonesia: Casual indulgence is rising through street-food formats like crispy tempeh bites, sambal-filled buns, and sweet-savoury martabak. Philippines: Global fusion is being inspired by the country's love for sweet and savoury combos, resulting in dishes like ube croissants and longganisa sliders. Malaysia & Singapore: Classic hawker dishes are getting elevated, with laksa being reimagined into infused noodles and dipping broths, and kaya toast being reworked into fine dining desserts. 5. Intentional Dining Experiences Asian food culture isn't just changing what the UK eats; it is actively reshaping how the UK dines. * Solo Dining: Originating in Japan, solo ramen booths allow diners to order and eat with zero interaction, catering to younger consumers who view solitary, mindful eating as a form of self-care. Omakase: Meaning "I'll leave it up to you," this Japanese dining style is driving a shift toward chef-led craftsmanship and highly personalised, multi-course tasting menus. Overview

Closure Systems International (CSI) acquires two Amcor facilities to boost North American beverage closure production and PCR material innovation. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. Featured in this news Ingredients Amcor 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 > Closure Systems International (CSI), a global leader in high-performance closure solutions, has confirmed the purchase of two industry-leading manufacturing sites from Amcor. The facilities, located in Erie, Pennsylvania, and Hattiesburg, Mississippi, were previously part of Amcor’s Rigid Packaging Solutions division. The acquisition strengthens CSI’s domestic supply chain and provides the technical infrastructure required to meet the escalating demand for closure systems in the high-velocity functional beverage and industrial sectors. Technical Infrastructure and Operational Synergies The two acquired sites provide CSI with a blend of established expertise and modernised capacity. By integrating these assets, CSI is expanding its ability to serve high-volume beverage applications that require rigorous technical standards, such as hot-fill and pressurised CSD environments. Facility Specifications Erie, Pennsylvania: An 183,000-square-foot site featuring a long-standing operational footprint and a suite of specialised assets for complex closure manufacturing. Hattiesburg, Mississippi: A 119,000-square-foot facility characterised by a modern layout and significant available capacity to support future growth in the Southeast region. The transaction is expected to improve sourcing options and risk mitigation for North American customers by diversifying CSI's production hubs. Floyd Needham, CEO of CSI, stated that the addition of these established facilities enhances the company's ability to deliver reliable, high-quality solutions at a global scale. Focus on Lightweighting and PolyCycle PCR Expansion A primary pillar of the acquisition is the implementation of new operational and commercial initiatives focused on sustainability. CSI intends to leverage the facilities’ existing moulding expertise to advance its innovation pipeline in two critical areas: Lightweighting: Reducing the material mass of closures to assist brand owners in meeting plastic reduction targets and lowering Scope 3 emissions. PolyCycle® PCR: Scaling the use of CSI’s proprietary post-consumer recycled resin (PCR), allowing manufacturers to incorporate high-quality recycled content into their packaging without compromising structural integrity. By applying these technologies at the newly acquired sites, CSI is positioning itself as a primary infrastructure provider for brands navigating increasingly stringent environmental regulations and consumer demand for circular packaging. Alignment for Amcor and CSI The deal reflects a strategic "right-sizing" for both organisations. For Amcor, the divestiture allows the firm to focus on its core portfolio strategy as a leader in nutrition, health, and consumer dispensing solutions. For CSI, the move represents a disciplined expansion of its manufacturing network, which now includes 11 global facilities. As CSI transitions production volumes into the Erie and Hattiesburg sites during 2026, the company aims to maintain uninterrupted service while modernising the manufacturing workflows to align with its global technical standards. The acquisition arrives at a time of significant growth in the "active hydration" and protein beverage categories. These segments frequently require specialised closure designs, such as those used in isotonic and juices, where compression moulding offers superior consistency and performance over traditional injection moulding for specific geometries. By securing these assets, CSI is well-positioned to lead the next phase of closure innovation, driving value through a combination of technical rigour, regional proximity, and a robust commitment to the circular economy. CSI Scales North American Manufacturing with Acquisition of Two Amcor Facilities May 6, 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 Manufacturing Packaging Business & Finance Related news

pladis brand Flipz has partnered with Dunkin' to launch limited-edition Pumpkin Spice Donut-Flavored Covered Pretzels across US retail channels through October. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. Featured in this news Foodservice Dunkin’ Featured in this news Food Pladis 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 > Pladis Americas has announced a brand collaboration with Inspire Brands' Dunkin' to introduce Flipz Pumpkin Spice Donut-Flavored Covered Pretzels across US retail channels. Available for a limited time through October 2026, the seasonal product line combines Flipz's signature sweet-and-salty pretzel format with the flavour profile of Dunkin's Pumpkin Cake Donut. The rollout represents a cross-category licensing strategy between the chocolate-covered pretzel brand and the coffeehouse major, aiming to capture seasonal autumn snacking demand across grocery, drug, and discount retail networks. Product Formulation The product development strategy translates Dunkin's autumn foodservice menu profiles into a shelf-stable, packaged snack format. Key formulation attributes and product specifications include: 🥨 Pumpkin Spice Doughnut Coating: Coated with notes of pumpkin, warming spices, and cake doughnut flavouring over a salted pretzel core. 🎃 Seasonal LTO Format: Formulated specifically as a short-run limited-time offering for the autumn retail window through October. Shivani Arora, Marketing Director at pladis Americas, stated that the partnership combines two established consumer brands to offer an alternative format for autumn flavour profiles in the snack aisle. Brian Gilbert, Vice President of Retail Business Development at Inspire Brands, added that extending Dunkin's Pumpkin Cake Donut into the packaged snack category allows the brand to expand its retail touchpoints during the autumn trading period. Retail Distribution The limited-time offering has commenced commercial distribution across national and regional US retail stockists. Key retail stockists receiving distribution for the launch include: Grocery and Mass Retailers: Kroger, Albertsons, Stop & Shop, and Wakefern. Drug and Value Chains: CVS, Dollar General, and Five Below. The multi-channel distribution strategy enables pladis to position the co-branded product across high-frequency impulse channels, mass grocery, and value retail sections throughout the seasonal trading window. Flipz Launches Pumpkin Spice Dunkin' Donut Flavoured Pretzels August 11, 2026 New Products Rancho La Gloria Launches Pumpkin Spice Espresso Martini New Products RYZE Launches Limited Edition Pumpkin Spice Mushroom Coffee at Target New Products Krispy Kreme Debuts Apple Cider Glazed Doughnut New Products Culture Pop Soda Launches Limited Edition Sparkling Apple for Autumn Food Confectionery New Products Snacking Related news

ProAmpac partners with Copperprotek to launch ProActive Intelligence Shelf Protect, embedding tech into films to curb spoilage in meat, seafood, and dairy. 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 > Flexible packaging and material science manufacturer ProAmpac has introduced the ProActive Intelligence Shelf Protect (SP) Series, bringing an active biotechnology packaging solution to commercial protein and dairy processors. Developed in collaboration with biotechnology developer Copperprotek, the technology integrates patented direct-contact biotechnology directly into food-contact packaging films. The solution is engineered to suppress microbial growth responsible for food spoilage across storage and commercial distribution networks, targeting product loss and markdowns across refrigerated supply chains. The platform holds compliance from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) for intended commercial applications spanning fresh beef, fresh pork, cooked sausage, deli meats, fresh salmon, and fresh cheese. "For meat processors, every product lost represents an investment in production, packaging, and distribution that goes unrealised," said Sam Kessler, Senior Innovation Engineer at ProAmpac. "Shelf Protect gives customers a new tool to help preserve that value, bringing active packaging technology to the shrink bags and films they rely on." Embedded Biotechnology and Performance Unlike external sachets or topical antimicrobial washes, Shelf Protect incorporates its functional mechanism directly into the packaging matrix: Film Integrity Preservation : Maintains standard visual package clarity, mechanical durability, and heat-sealing parameters without altering core film physical specifications. Regulatory and Labelling Standards : Requires no additive declaration or special on-package labelling for approved applications beyond standard "use by" or "use or freeze by" date codes. Quality Retention : Third-party laboratory testing and commercial trials across fresh pork, fresh beef, and cooked sausage demonstrated reductions in off-odour development and microbial load during extended cold storage. Actual shelf-life extension varies according to initial microbial baselines at packing, facility sanitation conditions, cut type, and cold-chain integrity, requiring case-by-case commercial validation trials for individual processors. "Our collaboration with ProAmpac's material science team brings Copperprotek's patented biotechnology into packaging formats that help food producers maintain product quality and extend shelf life," noted Javier Lavin, founder of Copperprotek. Packaging Formats ProAmpac is deploying the Shelf Protect technology across three core commercial packaging formats, designed to integrate into existing meat and dairy packing lines without requiring mechanical retooling: 🥩 TruTite-SP-1000 : Boneless shrink bags and continuous tubestock engineered for fresh primal and subprimal cuts. 🍖 ClearShield®-SP-1000 : High-puncture-resistant bone-in shrink bags and tubestock designed for abrasive, bone-in protein cuts. 🧀 Envio®-SP-1000 : Forming and non-forming flexible films calibrated for automated thermoforming, vacuum packaging, and rollstock machinery across processed meats and sliced cheeses. Addressing Shrink and Food Waste The commercial debut of Shelf Protect arrives as food manufacturers and grocery retailers face significant financial exposure to perimeter shrinkage and waste. Post-farmgate spoilage across fresh proteins and chilled dairy represents a major driver of margin erosion, forcing supermarket operators to rely on aggressive price markdowns, product shrink allowances, or total stock disposal. By embedding active antimicrobial properties directly into the barrier film, processors can extend secondary distribution windows, expand geographical shipping radiuses, and reduce waste in retail chillers. The addition expands ProAmpac's broader ProActive Intelligence platform, marking the manufacturer's continued deployment of advanced material science and active packaging solutions across the international food processing landscape. ProAmpac Launches ProActive Intelligence Shelf Protect Packaging October 20, 2026 Technology Ricoh USA and Hyphen Partner to Scale Restaurant Robotics in US Agriculture PepsiCo Launches VR Harvester Training to Tackle Potato Loss Technology 365 Retail Markets and ColdSnap Partner to Bring Frozen Treats to Micro Markets Retail Asda Completes £7.5M Digital Shelf Label Rollout across Express Stores New Solutions Meat & Seafood Dairy Retail Packaging Fresh Produce Related news

Clean-label brand Kevin's Natural Foods has entered the breakfast category with the national launch of its Scramble Starters 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 > Prepared meal brand Kevin's Natural Foods has announced its first-ever expansion into the morning daypart with the nationwide launch of its new Scramble Starters product line. The product rollout introduces a hybrid frozen-to-fresh format, combining pre-portioned frozen proteins, vegetables, and sauces that are cooked in a pan alongside fresh eggs. The launch represents a significant category expansion for the company, which previously established its retail presence through clean-label refrigerated entrées, side dishes, and pasta kits. The launch is timed to address consumer interest in morning convenience and variety, as market data indicates that approximately 70 per cent of consumers regularly repeat the same breakfast choices. By offering a portioned, quick-prep option, the company aims to secure a share of the competitive breakfast market across mainstream grocery and mass-merchandise retail channels. Category Expansion The decision to enter the breakfast daypart allows the brand to extend its clean-label processing model to morning routines. While the frozen breakfast category has traditionally been dominated by fully cooked, microwaveable options, consumer purchasing patterns are increasingly shifting toward products that integrate fresh ingredients with convenience formats. The "just add eggs" model allows the brand to bypass the logistical and textural challenges of freezing whole eggs, whilst giving consumers the sensory experience of a freshly cooked meal. According to Becky Graham, Chief Marketing Officer at Kevin's Natural Foods, the development of the morning line was designed to address a clear gap in the convenience breakfast market. She noted that the product combines the ease of a frozen format with the quality of fresh cooking, providing retail partners with a differentiated offering to drive transaction value in the freezer aisle. Technical Formulation and Flavours To align with modern clean-label standards, the product range has been developed using high-quality proteins and vegetables paired with the brand's signature low-sugar, gluten-free sauces. The summer product rollout comprises four distinct flavour configurations packaged in multi-serve bags: 🐷 Denver-Style Ham and White Cheddar – Applewood-smoked ham combined with bell peppers, onions, and a creamy white cheddar cheese sauce. 🥓 Spinach and Bacon Florentine – Crisp, uncured bacon packaged with spinach, poblano peppers, onions, and a savoury parmesan cheese sauce. 🥑 Tex-Mex Style Avocado Chicken – Tender chicken breast pieces paired with poblano peppers, red bell peppers, and a smooth avocado crema. 🥩 Ranchero Sirloin Steak – Tender sirloin beef strips with onions, bell peppers, and a rich, spiced chipotle ranchero sauce. The formulation utilises rapid freezing techniques to protect the structural integrity and moisture levels of the vegetables and cooked proteins, ensuring they cook evenly once paired with fresh eggs. Retail Distribution To support the commercial launch and manage early volume scale-up, Kevin's Natural Foods is executing a nationwide distribution strategy across physical retail channels. The products are packaged in 16-ounce (approximately 453-gram) multi-serve bags, with each package designed to deliver up to four servings. The range carries a suggested retail price of $9.99 per bag. The product line is currently entering national retail distribution, securing physical shelf space in freezer cases across major supermarket networks: Target Corporation – Supporting the brand's national mass-market visibility. Kroger Banners – Establishing deep regional density across conventional grocery channels. Harris Teeter – Securing presence within prominent East Coast supermarkets. The full-day part portfolio expansion allows the manufacturer to leverage its existing retail relationships to capture incremental basket sizes, offering grocery partners a premium, convenient option to stimulate consumer interest in the frozen breakfast department. Kevins Natural Foods Expands into Breakfast Segment with Scramble Starters June 17, 2026 Cultivated Onego Bio and Zen Waffles Partner to Deploy Fermented Egg Protein in US Flavours & Colours General Mills Completes Removal of Certified Colours from US Cereal Range New Products SURREAL Launches High Protein Low Sugar Overnight Oats Range Business & Finance Ferrero Acquires Clean Label Granola Brand Purely Elizabeth Food New Products Related news