The FBIF2026 forum in Hangzhou brought together 53,000 industry professionals to explore breakthrough strategies in AI, neural sensory research comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom The Food & Beverage Innovation Forum 2026 (FBIF2026) and the FBIF Food Innovation Expo 2026 recently concluded at the Hangzhou International Expo Center, drawing an estimated 53,000 attendees. Under the theme "Forging Ahead," the event served as a high-velocity hub for 160 speakers and 650 exhibitors to discuss the technical and strategic variables shaping the next decade of the food and beverage industry. The forum addressed critical shifts across dairy, snacks, bakery, and beverage categories, focusing on how data-driven innovation and professionalised globalisation frameworks can mitigate market volatility. FBIF Food Innovation Expo FBIF Food Innovation Expo 2026 featured 650+ exhibitors alongside organiser-curated special events, continuing this year to empower both brands and channels. Brand exhibitors covered a wide range of categories, including dairy, beverages, snacks, alcohol, convenience foods, functional foods, and condiments, gathering leading and emerging companies from both China and overseas. Want Want, Lemon Republic, LiuBiJu Food, Tasogare Coffee, and ÖarmiLk, among others, showcased a wide array of innovative products and interactive experiences, with many booths drawing significant engagement from professional visitors. At the same time, supply chain innovators such as Tetra Pak, FrieslandCampina Ingredients, and MOINS COFFEE also participated, offering forward-thinking solutions for the industry. Sessions & Talks Speakers noted that "water alternatives" are not a short-term trend, but a long-term structural opportunity. From a product perspective, brands are innovating around the idea of being "better-tasting than water, healthier than traditional beverages." Tasogare Coffee targets daily consumption scenarios with large-format American coffee. RANGCHA is evolving from sugar-free tea to sugar-free fruit tea. TheCocoCompany is expanding into plant-based and functional beverages across scenarios. Three key characteristics define water alternatives: mass-friendly flavour, clean ingredients, and light functionality. Channel collaboration is also critical—co-creating products with retailers like Freshippo and supermarkets to better match real consumer demand. From an industry perspective, as consumer groups expand and consumption occasions grow, beverage consumption is shifting from a "youth market" to an all-age market. At its core, the rise of water alternatives reflects a broader upgrade in consumer demand for health, convenience, and emotional value. Technological Advancement in Sensory and Ingredient Research A primary focus of the technical sessions involved the transition toward "quantified sensory" models. Rather than relying on subjective taste panels, industry leaders explored how biological signals can inform product development. Key Research Applications Include Neural Sensory Responses: Utilising neural monitoring to quantify consumer taste perceptions objectively, allowing for higher precision in formulation. Peptide Screening: Enhancing cheese and protein flavour structures through targeted peptide identification to improve sensory profiles without synthetic additives. Upcycled Umami: Developing high-umami seasonings from industrial by-products, effectively merging flavour optimisation with resource utilisation. These advancements signal a move toward "agentic" food science, where AI and molecular screening proactively identify consumer-preferred profiles before large-scale production begins. Professionalised Globalisation and Operating Systems The forum provided a comprehensive framework for companies seeking to scale their brand assets across international borders. Strategic discussions centred on moving beyond simple export models toward integrated global operating systems. Stephan outlined four critical pillars for international success Operating System Development: Establishing centralised management for overseas branches and deploying dedicated teams to work alongside local distributors. Capability and Organisational Structure: Building a resilient organisation that provides the execution power required for complex regional marketing strategies. Cultural Drivers: Developing highly motivated teams supported by strong cultural values that align with the parent company and the local market. Asset Management: Protecting and scaling brand equity through rigorous IP management and regionalised product adaptation. Data Models for Reflecting Regional Demand To help buyers and manufacturers navigate regional market differences, the forum introduced five core variables that effectively reflect local demand patterns. These data points provide a technical foundation for infrastructure planning and retail placement: Bank deposits per capita Nightlight density per square kilometer High-income household percentage Lifestyle retail scores Automobile penetration rates Pavel, a key speaker at the event, noted that Chinese consumers contribute significantly to the global cross-border economy. As outbound travel remains high, these consumers increasingly seek the same premium, high-quality products they discover abroad once they return home, creating a stable demand for international luxury and speciality food items. The culmination of FBIF2026 reinforces the food and beverage sector’s role as a technology-led industry. By merging historical artisanal techniques with modern neural science and professionalised logistics, global brands are de-risking their supply chains and future-proofing their product portfolios. Events FBIF2026 Highlights Breakthrough Strategies for the Global Food and Beverage Industry Dan Bunt May 14, 2026 Events Caffè Culture Returns for 2026 with Its Most Ambitious Programme Yet Dairy Yili Group Unveils Data and Tech Innovations at World Dairy Conference Events Brand Licensing Europe Last Call for Speakers Events Cut+Dry Announces RESERVE Leadership Summit for Foodservice Industry Food Events Marketing Business & Finance Related news

Discover Tesco company profile on FNBX with verified distributors, partnership requests and latest industry activity. All Companies Close Retail Tesco Employees founded Headquarters UK Tesco plc is a British multinational groceries and general merchandise retailer headquartered in Welwyn Garden City, England. The company was founded by Jack Cohen in Hackney, London in 1919. About Tesco --- Collaboration & Partnerships Tesco is not currently looking for partnerships. Pitch a Partnership F&B Ecosystem Settings Loading... Name Title Be discovered by B2B buyers Showcase your product catalog Signal partnership intent Claim Your Spot Are you a supplier, competitor, or distributor in the F&B space? Create your company profile to connect with giants like this. Create Free Page Takes 2 minutes. No credit card required. Authorised Distributors Americas Asia Europe Oceania There are no distributors currently. Sekai Brasil Licensed Distributor of The Good Cup (Brazil) Contact Sales Opal Packaging Plus Licensed Distributor of The Good Cup (Australia) Contact Sales BM Target Licensed Distributor of The Good Cup (Japan) Contact Sales Alternative Way Licensed Distributor of The Good Cup (France) Contact Sales PackEco Solutions Licensed Distributor of The Good Cup (Canada) Contact Sales Groupe DGL Licensed Distributor of The Good Cup (US) Contact Sales No More Lids Licensed Distributor of The Good Cup (UK) Contact Sales Submit New Distributors Company Name Contact Email Description Distribution Location Asia-Pacific Americas MENCA Europe Submit Are you a verified distributor? Claim your territory Recent Activity Retail Tesco Expands Frozen Aisle with 150 New Products September 5, 2026 Coffee & Tea Tesco Trials Own Brand Finest Coffee Machines in Meal Deal Expansion August 19, 2026 Retail Tesco Partners with Uber Eats and Deliveroo to Expand Rapid Delivery Reach July 21, 2026 Retail Tesco Expands Clubcard for 16 and 17 Year Olds June 25, 2026 Listings Add Listing

Discover Smurfit Kappa company profile on FNBX with verified distributors, partnership requests and latest industry activity. All Companies Close Packaging Smurfit Kappa Employees founded Headquarters Dublin, Ireland Smurfit Kappa is Europe’s leading producer of corrugated packaging, container board and ‘bag in box’ packaging systems. The company produces more than 10 billion square metres of cardboard packaging and 7 million tonnes of paper packaging every year, with a breadth of operations facilities worldwide: more than 200 packaging conversion plants, 30 paper mills and 50 recycling facilities. Smurfit Kappa employs 45,000 people with operations across 33 different countries, and annual revenue in excess of €8.5 billion. About Smurfit Kappa --- Collaboration & Partnerships Smurfit Kappa is not currently looking for partnerships. Pitch a Partnership F&B Ecosystem Claim Profile Smurfit Kappa has no members on FNBX yet. Be discovered by B2B buyers Showcase your product catalog Signal partnership intent Claim Your Spot Are you a supplier, competitor, or distributor in the F&B space? Create your company profile to connect with giants like this. Create Free Page Takes 2 minutes. No credit card required. Authorised Distributors Americas Asia Europe Oceania There are no distributors currently. Sekai Brasil Licensed Distributor of The Good Cup (Brazil) Contact Sales Opal Packaging Plus Licensed Distributor of The Good Cup (Australia) Contact Sales BM Target Licensed Distributor of The Good Cup (Japan) Contact Sales Alternative Way Licensed Distributor of The Good Cup (France) Contact Sales PackEco Solutions Licensed Distributor of The Good Cup (Canada) Contact Sales Groupe DGL Licensed Distributor of The Good Cup (US) Contact Sales No More Lids Licensed Distributor of The Good Cup (UK) Contact Sales Submit New Distributors Company Name Contact Email Description Distribution Location Asia-Pacific Americas MENCA Europe Submit Are you a verified distributor? Claim your territory Recent Activity Listings Add Listing

Chicago-based pizzeria chain Lou Malnati's has expanded its seasonal menu with a limited-edition BBQ Chicken Pizza. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Chicago-style deep-dish pizzeria chain Lou Malnati's has announced the launch of its summer menu expansion, leveraging both its multi-state physical restaurant network and its established direct-to-consumer (DTC) e-commerce platform. The commercial rollout introduces a themed product and beverage line to participating locations across the United States. By combining in-restaurant menu updates with nationwide shipping logistics, the brand aims to drive transaction frequency across physical dining channels while capturing off-premise sales from a broader national consumer base. The launch is timed to align with peak summer trading, providing off-trade and on-premise channels with a seasonal menu platform to stimulate customer engagement throughout the summer months. Distribution and Direct-to-Consumer Shipping A central operational component of the summer campaign is the integration of physical restaurant sales with Lou Malnati's dedicated DTC shipping network, Tastes of Chicago. While conventional quick-service and fast-casual brands restrict seasonal menu items to local delivery zones, the Chicago-based chain is utilising specialised logistics to scale the rollout nationwide. Under the program, the new pizza offerings are hand-assembled and baked fresh at the company's production facilities before undergoing a rapid flash-freezing process to lock in moisture and flavour. The frozen products are packaged in temperature-controlled shipping containers and distributed via the brand's digital commerce platform, allowing consumers outside the brand's physical footprint to prepare the artisanal pizzas at home. The dual-track distribution model spans several key commercial channels: Regional Retail Footprint – Operating across physical restaurant locations in Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, and Arizona for dine-in, carryout, and local delivery. National E-Commerce Shipping – Utilising the Tastes of Chicago online platform to coordinate temperature-controlled parcel delivery to all 50 US states. Summer Product Formulations and Menu Innovation The seasonal menu rotation focuses on backyard-inspired flavour profiles, pairing sweet and smoky barbecue elements with the brand's signature cornmeal-crust bases. The summer product expansion introduces three distinct configurations: 🍕 BBQ Chicken Pizza – Available in both deep-dish and thin-crust formats, featuring grilled chicken, red onions, and a house Bar-B-Lou sauce, layered with mozzarella and cheddar on a signature crust. 🥗 Chicken BBQ Club Salad – A structured mix of romaine lettuce, grilled chicken, Roma tomatoes, salami, and tortilla chips, tossed with mozzarella, cheddar, and Bar-B-Lou dressing. 🍪 Chocolate Chip Cookie Pizza – A dessert offering served with vanilla bean ice cream, available in-restaurant or as an unbaked retail format developed for home-baking convenience. The inclusion of an unbaked dessert option allows the brand to streamline back-of-house kitchen labour while providing consumers with an interactive home-cooking experience. Seasonal Menu Marketing To support the commercial launch and incentivise digital engagement, Lou Malnati's is utilising its customer loyalty program and regional experiential marketing events. The promotional campaign officially commenced on 18 June 2026, with the brand deploying a structured rollout timeline to drive repeat visits and app downloads: Loyalty Pre-Sale – Registering rewards members received exclusive early access to the summer menu starting on 16 June 2026, driving customer app retention. Experiential Launch Event – A backyard-themed preview campaign executed on 17 June 2026 at the brand's West Loop location in Chicago. The promotional activation distributed 2,000 free slices of the new pizza to stimulate local consumer trial and generate social media coverage. National Distribution – Launching full dine-in, carryout, and e-commerce availability on 18 June 2026 for a restricted trading window through the end of the summer season. By linking its digital rewards database with an experiential physical event and a nationwide logistics network, the brand intends to strengthen its regional market share while building long-term equity in the competitive premium pizza segment. New Products New BBQ Chicken Pizza Launches Lou Malnatis Eddie Sanders June 16, 2026 Foodservice Pizza Hut Australia Unveils $10M Brand Overhaul and Network Expansion Business & Finance Yum! Brands Completes $1.5B Pizza Hut Acquisition to LongRange Capital Foodservice California Pizza Kitchen and T-ROC Global to Deploy 1000 Automated Retail Kiosks Foodservice Coco Robotics and Little Caesars Launch Autonomous Robot Pizza Delivery New Products Food Related news

PepsiCo brand Cheetos has launched Cheetos Sweet Phantom Heat Flavoured Puffs, a multi-sensory cinnamon sugar and Sichuan pepper-inspired seasonal snack. 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 Foods U.S. brand Cheetos has announced the nationwide launch of Cheetos Sweet Phantom Heat Flavoured Puffs, introducing a multi-sensory seasonal snack ahead of the autumn and Halloween trading window. Commercial availability will commence across physical retail stockists nationwide and digital social commerce channels via TikTok Shop starting 31 August 2026. The launch enters the seasonal savoury snack category as food manufacturers increasingly deploy sensory-led formulations and interactive eating experiences to capture impulse purchasing and offer alternatives to traditional sweet confectionery during autumn holidays. Multi-Sensory Flavour Formulation The product development translates classic autumn cinnamon sugar profiles into a multi-phase sensory experience that evolves during consumption. The formulation combines initial sweet notes with subsequent sensations of heat, tingling, numbing, and subtle effervescence, drawing technical inspiration from active compounds found in Sichuan peppers. Key formulation specifications and technical attributes include: 🌶️ Sichuan Pepper Sensation: Inspired by naturally occurring sanshool compounds in Sichuan peppers, which interact with oral sensory nerves to generate a distinct numbing and tingling feel. 🌱 Clean Label Attributes: Manufactured without artificial colours or synthetic flavourings. 🎨 Natural Botanical Colouring: Coloured using natural plant concentrates, including red radish juice and paprika extract. ⏱️ Intensity Profile: Sensorial effects build progressively with subsequent bites, lasting up to 30 minutes post-consumption depending on individual physiological response. Jess Spaulding, Senior Vice President of Marketing at PepsiCo Foods U.S., stated that the development strategy focused on delivering a multi-layered sensory snack to provide consumer surprise within the seasonal savoury aisle. Joyce Xu, Senior Director of Research and Development at PepsiCo, added that the R&D team utilised real food compounds to layer sweetness, heat, and physical tingling effects into a single puff matrix. Consumer Sensation The commercial deployment connects product innovation with recent academic research evaluating consumer eating psychology during seasonal stress and fear triggers. Data published in the journal Food Quality and Preference in 2026 indicates that heightened emotional stress and fear-inducing seasonal contexts can increase consumer cravings for spicy and sensory-stimulating food products. By positioning a multi-sensory puffed corn snack during the Halloween period, the enterprise aims to capture seasonal demand for experiential eating while expanding salty snack occasions alongside traditional candy and chocolate purchasing. Retail Distribution and TikTok Shop The limited-time offering (LTO) will deploy across a dual-channel retail model encompassing traditional brick-and-mortar grocery and digital social commerce. Key commercial parameters of the rollout include: National Brick-and-Mortar Placement: Physical store distribution starting 31 August 2026 across grocery, mass, and convenience channels nationwide. Social Commerce Integration: Direct-to-consumer digital availability via TikTok Shop starting 31 August 2026, targeting younger adult consumer demographics. Seasonal LTO Window: Positioned as a short-run LTO available throughout the autumn and Halloween trading periods while promotional stocks last. The multi-channel execution enables PepsiCo to leverage social media virality and impulse trial ahead of peak seasonal holiday sales across US retail networks. Snacking Cheetos Launches Multi-Sensory Sweet Phantom Heat Puffs in US Dan Bunt August 19, 2026 New Products Co-op Launches Halloween 2026 Confectionery and Snack Range Confectionery HI-CHEW Brings Back Halloween Mystery Mix with New Hidden Flavour Soft drinks Fanta Partners with Ghost Face for Halloween 2026 Haunted Universe Launch New Products Hershey Unveils 2026 Halloween Range with Fruity Sweets and Salty Snacks Food New Products Flavours & Colours Snacking Related news

Nestlé International Travel Retail has launched its biggest After Eight innovation, expanding beyond mint with Caramel, Orange, and Raspberry variants. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. Featured in this news Food Nestlé The Newsroom Nestlé International Travel Retail (NITR) has announced the rollout of three new flavour variants for its After Eight confectionery brand, marking the first time in the brand's 60-year history that it has expanded beyond its core mint recipe. Rolling out across global travel retail channels starting in September 2026, the portfolio expansion introduces Caramel, Orange, and Raspberry options alongside the original Mint chocolate. The launch is supported by a modernised packaging design and travel-exclusive visual messaging aimed at driving category growth across airport, duty-free, and travel retail outlets. New Flavour Variants and Formulations The expanded range retains the brand's signature dark and milk chocolate shell formats while introducing non-mint fillings to capture broader consumer taste preferences. The updated After Eight portfolio features four distinct SKU options: 🍮 Caramel: Features a rich, buttery caramel filling paired with a smooth milk chocolate shell. 🍊 Orange: Combines a zesty citrus filling with dark chocolate. 🫐 Raspberry: Incorporates a vibrant fruit filling encased in dark chocolate. 🌿 Mint: The core heritage recipe containing 100 per cent natural peppermint oil encased in dark rippled chocolate. All products across the expanded lineup are manufactured without artificial colours, synthetic flavours, or chemical preservatives. Travel Retail Demographic By moving beyond its heritage mint flavour profile, Nestlé aims to extend After Eight's reach into broader gifting occasions, premium impulse purchases, and self-treating dayparts within global travel networks. The retail execution focuses on recruiting younger adult consumer demographics, including Gen Z travellers, who exhibit high demand for flavour discovery and premium confectionery formats. Fred Porchet, General Manager at Nestlé International Travel Retail, stated that introducing non-mint flavour variations enables the brand to expand its consumer footprint while preserving the product quality and individually wrapped envelope format that define After Eight. Porchet added that the expanded lineup provides retail partners with differentiated gifting options designed to generate excitement across travel retail channels. Sustainable Cocoa Sourcing and Packaging Design The brand refresh introduces updated visual branding and clear colour-coding across packaging to differentiate the four flavour variants on shelf. Despite the updated visual identity, the range retains its classic individually wrapped paper sleeves to maintain product protection and portion-controlled sharing. In line with Nestlé's sustainability targets, all cocoa mass utilised across the After Eight portfolio is sourced from farming families participating in the Nestlé Income Accelerator Programme. The initiative aims to improve the livelihoods of cocoa-farming households and advance sustainable agricultural practices throughout primary cocoa supply chains. New Products After Eight Expands Beyond Mint with Three New Flavours Eddie Sanders August 7, 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 Confectionery New Products Snacking Related news

Vocelli Pizza has launched an imported Pinsa Romana crust from Di Marco, leveraging high-protein, easily digestible dough to drive premium-tier QSR growth. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Vocelli Pizza, a leading regional player in the premium pizza sector, has announced the nationwide launch of its imported Pinsa Romana crust across all operating locations. Effective 18 May 2026, the rollout marks a significant expansion of the brands gourmet estate, introducing an authentic, high-protein alternative to traditional pizza dough to capture the rising demand for lighter, highly digestible fast-casual Italian options. The launch represents a strategic effort by the organisation to transition its menu toward artisanal, heritage-focused products. By aligning with a premier Italian supplier, Vocelli is positioning itself to capture incremental sales from health-conscious and texture-seeking demographics during its heaviest marketed campaign year to date. Technical Formulation and Digestibility The primary technical differentiator of the new Pinsa Romana offering is its hand-crafted, high-protein formulation. While standard pizza dough relies exclusively on wheat flour and short proofing cycles, the Pinsa crust is engineered for superior digestibility and textural complexity. Key technical attributes include: Flour Matrix: Crafted using a specialised, proprietary blend of wheat, rice, and soy flours. This specific flour ratio creates a robust protein structure while maintaining a low sugar and low fat profile. Fermentation Protocol: The dough undergoes a strict 72-hour cold-fermentation process. This extended resting window allows natural enzymes to break down starches, resulting in an easily digestible base that minimises post-meal bloating. Textural Contrast: The hand-stretched, oval-shaped crust is baked to deliver a light, airy crumb with a crispy exterior and a pillowy soft interior. Toni Bianco, CEO of Vocelli Pizza, characterised Pinsa as a distinct speciality rather than a standard pizza variation. Bianco stated that the product is deeply steeped in tradition but built precisely for modern tastes, expressing confidence that the high-quality crust will remain a permanent anchor on the Vocelli menu for years to come. Sourcing and the Di Marco Partnership To ensure product authenticity and maintain strict quality standards, Vocelli has partnered directly with Di Marco, the Rome-based enterprise founded in 2001 by entrepreneur Corrado Di Marco. Recognised as the pioneer and original inventor of the modern Pinsa Romana formulation, Di Marco provides Vocelli with a premium, verified supply chain of par-baked crusts imported directly from Italy. This partnership offers several B2B operational advantages: Quality Consistency: Eliminating back-of-house dough-prep variability by sourcing pre-formed, authentic Roman crusts. Brand Authenticity: Leveraging Di Marcos massive global equity, including its high-profile partnership with the Italian National Soccer teams, to validate Vocellis premium ingredient claims. Operational Speed: Par-baked crusts allow kitchen staff to execute artisanal pizzas in under ten minutes, matching the ticket times of standard QSR operations. Bianco noted that the Vocelli R&D team spent over a year evaluating various alternative crust options, concluding that nothing compared to the structural integrity and taste of Di Marcos output. Bakery Vocelli Pizza Launches a High-Protein Pinsa Crust Eddie Sanders May 18, 2026 Foodservice Pizza Hut Australia Unveils $10M Brand Overhaul and Network Expansion Business & Finance Yum! Brands Completes $1.5B Pizza Hut Acquisition to LongRange Capital Foodservice California Pizza Kitchen and T-ROC Global to Deploy 1000 Automated Retail Kiosks Foodservice Coco Robotics and Little Caesars Launch Autonomous Robot Pizza Delivery New Products Ingredients Health & Nutrition Bakery Foodservice Related news

The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf expands its functional beverage offerings with a new line of Cold Brew Energy Teas and protein-infused horchata drinks for spring. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf has announced its spring menu, highlighted by the debut of a new Cold Brew Energy Tea collection. The product launch signals a strategic move by the coffeehouse chain to capture market share in the rapidly growing functional energy and alternative beverage space, supplemented by an expansion of its popular horchata flavour platform. Formulation and Positioning of Energy Teas The Cold Brew Energy Tea line is positioned as a lighter, functional alternative to traditional coffee beverages. The base of the beverage utilises the brand's signature Ceylon tea, which is slow-steeped for five hours. To achieve the functional energy benefit without relying on synthetic caffeine, the formulation utilises a blend of green coffee and tea extracts infused with Vitamin B12. The beverages contain no added sugars and deliver a measured caffeine boost of 80 milligrams for a regular size and 120 milligrams for a large. The initial product lineup incorporates real fruit pieces to enhance texture and visual appeal, featuring three distinct flavour profiles: 🥭 Mango Passionfruit Energy Tea Blended with real mango pieces. 🫐🍓 Mixed Berry Energy Tea A combination of blueberry, strawberry, and raspberry flavours with real berry inclusions. 🍍 Pineapple Yuzu Energy Tea A citrus-forward blend featuring real pineapple pieces. Capitalising on Horchata and Functional Additives In addition to the new energy teas, The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf is expanding its horchata-inspired beverage line. The brand is utilising the established popularity of the cinnamon-spiced profile to introduce other functional ingredients, such as matcha and high-yield protein, to its menu. The spring horchata lineup includes: 🍵 Iced Matcha Horchata Latte A fusion of earthy matcha and traditional horchata spices. 💪 Iced Horchata Protein Latte A functional adaptation of the classic flavour, formulated to deliver 20 grams of protein per serving. ☕ Horchata Dry Iced Americano The return of a viral consumer favourite, featuring a dry iced Americano base with vanilla powder, half-and-half, and a caramel drizzle finish. Loyalty Program Rollout Strategy To drive digital engagement and reward customer retention, The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf is utilising a staggered rollout strategy for the spring menu. Members of the brand's loyalty program will receive exclusive early access to the new collections beginning March 11, acting as a digital driver ahead of the official nationwide launch on March 18. Beverage Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf Targets Functional Beverage Space With Energy Teas News March 4, 2026 New Products Saint James Launches Organic Yerba Mate Range Coffee & Tea The Spice & Tea Exchange Secures Five New Southeast Franchise Deals New Products Yorkshire Tea Launches Fruit Herbal and Green Tea Infusions Range New Products Clearspring Expands Japanese Tea Range with Organic Hojicha Powder Foodservice Beverage Coffee & Tea New Products Related news

Tesco is significantly expanding its footprint in the health-led convenience sector with the launch of its first chilled own-brand High Protein ready meal range. Supported by search data showing over 423,000 queries for high protein on Tesco.com in the last year. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. Featured in this news Retail Tesco The Newsroom Tesco has announced a major strategic move into the chilled health-led meal sector, introducing six new own-brand High Protein ready meals. This launch marks the retailer's first foray into own-label chilled protein-focused meals, a decision driven by robust consumer data indicating a massive surge in demand for functional, nutrient-dense convenience options. Between April 2025 and March 2026, Tesco recorded over 423,000 searches for "high protein" on its digital platform, signalling a clear shift in consumer priorities toward muscle-recovery and satiety-focused diets. Nutritional Benchmarks and Flavour The new range is engineered to meet specific health criteria favoured by the "active-lifestyle" consumer. By prioritising a flavour-first, nutrition-led approach, Tesco is attempting to bridge the gap between "functional fuel" and "premium culinary experience." Key nutritional and product specifications include: Protein Density : Each meal contains a minimum of 30g of protein. Health Metrics : Every SKU provides 2 of the recommended 5 a day and serves as a significant source of fibre. Global Flavour Profiles : The range includes Chicken Shawarma, Tandoori Spiced Chicken, Thai Green Chicken Curry, Jerk Chicken and Rice, Chilli Beef and Rice, and a Chicken, Tomato and Mozzarella Pasta. Pricing and Clubcard Integration To ensure the new range remains accessible while driving loyalty-app engagement, Tesco is integrating these products into its aggressive Clubcard pricing strategy. The pricing model includes: Base Price : 3.50 pounds per unit. Clubcard Multibuy : 2 for 6.00 pounds. This value-driven approach is designed to encourage trial among shoppers who may currently be using specialised D2C (Direct to Consumer) meal prep services, positioning Tesco as a more convenient and cost-effective alternative for daily nutrition. Ecosystem Expansion: HIDE and Pure Power Partnerships Beyond its own-brand innovations, Tesco is strengthening its category authority by introducing two distinct third-party brands, creating a comprehensive "Health and Performance" hub within the chilled aisle. 1. HIDE (Lean Kitchen Network) Launching exclusively at Tesco this month, HIDE provides a 10-product ecosystem including chilled meals, grain bowls, and high-protein snacks. This exclusive partnership allows Tesco to offer a "curated" performance brand that appeals to the "Food To Go" professional demographic. 2. Pure Power A specialised Irish brand founded by nutrition and sports experts, Pure Power brings high-protein, slow-cooked options to the Tesco range. SKUs include Diced Steak and Chicken and Chorizo Paella, catering to consumers seeking "pro-grade" sports nutrition in a retail format. The Rise of Functional Convenience The ready meal category is undergoing a fundamental transformation. As consumers move away from "low-calorie" messaging toward "functional-density" (High Protein/High Fibre), retailers are forced to modernise their own-brand inventories. Tesco’s move follows the success of specialised performance brands like The Gym Kitchen, indicating that "Performance Nutrition" has moved from a niche fitness requirement to a mainstream consumer expectation. By offering high protein alongside its Calorie Controlled ranges, Tesco is providing a "total category" solution that accommodates diverse wellness goals. New Products Tesco Launches First Chilled Own-Brand High-Protein Meal Range News April 15, 2026 New Products Iceland Foods and Myprotein Expand Range with 25 High-Protein Products New Products SURREAL Launches High Protein Low Sugar Overnight Oats Range New Products Puori Launches Single-Ingredient Unflavoured Whey Protein Powder New Products Seven Sundays Launches Clean Label Protein Oatcakes Business & Finance Meat & Seafood Health & Nutrition Technology New Products New Solutions Related news

The investment, which includes $1 million in recurring annual support, upgrades the infrastructure at the university's Robert M. Kerr Food & Agricultural Products Centre (FAPC). comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Oklahoma State University (OSU) has significantly expanded its food processing and applied research capabilities through a $7 million state-supported modernisation initiative , anchored by the installation of a new Hiperbaric 55 High Pressure Processing (HPP) system. The investment, which includes $1 million in recurring annual support, upgrades the infrastructure at the university's Robert M. Kerr Food & Agricultural Products Centre (FAPC) . By bringing advanced non-thermal processing capacity in-house, OSU is addressing a critical bottleneck for regional food manufacturers who previously had to outsource complex validation services out of state. Bridging R&D and Commercialisation The integration of the Hiperbaric 55 system was heavily driven by FAPC's Industry Advisory Committee, identifying HPP as a priority technology for the local market. High Pressure Processing utilizes hydrostatic pressure rather than heat to inactivate pathogens, effectively extending refrigerated shelf life while maintaining product quality and eliminating the need for chemical preservatives. For the Oklahoma food industry, FAPC's new capability provides direct access to applied research and commercialisation pathways across multiple categories, including: Beverages and Juices Meats and Dairy-Based Products Sauces and Dips Ready-to-Eat (RTE) Foods "The Hiperbaric 55 represents an important step forward for Oklahoma's food industry," stated Dr. Roy Escoubas , Director of the Robert M. Kerr FAPC. "Adding HPP strengthens our ability to help processors validate food safety systems, extend refrigerated shelf life and bring high-quality products to market. This investment ensures companies across the state have access to advanced processing support right here in Oklahoma." Joining the Global HPP Academia Network Concurrent with the installation, OSU has officially joined the Hiperbaric HPP Academia Network , a global consortium of universities, R&D centres, and pilot facilities dedicated to multidisciplinary food innovation. This partnership elevates FAPC’s role from a regional testing centre to a hub for cutting-edge microbiological research and regulatory guidance. Furthermore, the equipment will be utilised for advanced workforce development, enhancing FAPC's existing Preventive Controls Qualified Individual (PCQI) and HACCP training programs by giving students and industry partners hands-on experience with modern regulatory compliance tools. Strengthening Regional Infrastructure Rob Peregrina , Director of Hiperbaric USA, highlighted the broader trend of academic institutions stepping in to bolster local food supply chains. "Oklahoma State University's investment is a strong signal that applied research institutions are taking an active role in strengthening regional food processing infrastructure," Peregrina noted. "By integrating HPP into FAPC's modernisation initiative, OSU is expanding access to a validated, non-thermal processing technology for food companies across the state. At Hiperbaric, our role goes beyond equipment... ensuring both institutions and processors have the technical foundation to meet evolving food safety standards." As a land-grant institution, OSU’s modernisation initiative successfully positions the university as a critical commercial bridge, helping both food startups and established CPG brands navigate the shift towards "clean-label" processing requirements. Business & Finance Oklahoma State University Invests $7M to Modernise Regional Food Processing with Hiperbaric HPP News February 24, 2026 New Products WK Kellogg Co Launches Super Stars Cereal for School Breakfast Programmes Health & Nutrition PLAYR1 Partners with K-12 Food Solutions to Launch Functional Beverages in US Schools Plant-based Peruvian Court Orders Vegan Meal Provision at Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos Foodservice Liberty University Renews 10 Year Partnership with Sodexo Business & Finance Manufacturing Related news

The product is packaged in SIG SmallBloc 350 ml carton packs and has secured nationwide distribution at 7-Eleven stores, targeting the growing consumer demand for convenient, functional nutrition. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Lactasoy Co. Ltd. has introduced a significant category innovation for the Thai beverage market under its new brand, Benefitt . The company has launched Thailand's first high-protein UHT milk, creating a new ambient segment in a market previously dominated by pasteurized, cold-chain dependent options. The product is packaged in SIG SmallBloc 350 ml carton packs and has secured nationwide distribution at 7-Eleven stores, targeting the growing consumer demand for convenient, functional nutrition. Overcoming Cold-Chain Limitations Until now, high-protein milk in Thailand has largely been restricted to pasteurised formats requiring constant refrigeration and offering shorter shelf lives. Benefitt addresses these logistical constraints through aseptic processing and packaging. This shift allows for ambient storage and distribution, significantly expanding the consumption occasions for high-protein beverages beyond the immediate home or gym fridge. Nutritional Profile and Formulation The product is engineered to deliver a high macronutrient load without the viscosity issues often associated with protein-fortified drinks. Key Product Specifications: Protein Content: 31 grams per 350 ml serving. Formulation: Smooth, low-viscosity texture designed for drinkability. Sugar Profile: Contains no added sugar. Target Audience: Office workers, meal replacers, and health-conscious individuals. Manufacturing Technology The launch utilises the SIG Small 24 Aseptic filling machine. This technology provides Lactasoy with high operational flexibility, supporting 16 different packaging options regarding formats, volumes, and openings. This agility allowed the producer to enter the new ambient high-protein category without necessitating additional capital investment in separate filling lines. Phanwana Mahasup , Advertising Manager and Marketing Coordinator for Benefitt at Lactasoy, highlighted the strategic advantage of the UHT format: "Our goal with Benefitt is to make high-protein milk accessible, convenient and enjoyable for consumers across Thailand. The UHT format allows us to deliver high nutritional value without the need for refrigeration, and the SIG packaging gives us a solution that is easy to carry, easy to drink and suitable for nationwide distribution." Vatcharapong Ungsrisawasdi , Regional Director for Thailand, Laos, Myanmar, and Cambodia at SIG, added: "This launch shows how flexible aseptic filling technology can open new opportunities and help customers innovate and expand into new categories efficiently. By working closely with Lactasoy, we’ve supported the successful introduction of a high-protein UHT milk that reflects both evolving consumer needs and market growth potential." New Products Lactasoy's 'Benefitt' Brand Launches Thailand’s First High-Protein UHT Milk with SIG News January 13, 2026 Packaging Mars Snacking Debuts Cheez-It and Club Crackers in Resealable Canisters Packaging deltaH Innovations and Brains Brewery Launch Self-Cooling Beer Can Facilities JBM Packaging Opens Ohio Facility to Expand Contract Packaging and Filling People SIG Appoints Ann-Kristin Erkens as Chief Executive Officer Technology Beverage Dairy Packaging New Products Business & Finance Related news

Monster adds a new flavour with Monster Nitro Blue Flash, a blueberry-flavoured energy drink rolling out across UK retail in August. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. Featured in this news Energy Drinks Monster Beverage Corp The Newsroom Coca-Cola Europacific Partners (CCEP) has announced the nationwide launch of Monster Nitro Blue Flash, adding a blueberry-flavoured SKU to its Monster Additions range across the United Kingdom. Rolling out in early August 2026, the new product builds on the established Monster Nitro platform, which launched in August 2024 and has grown to a retail value of £8.7 million. The launch arrives as the Monster Energy brand reaches a total value of more than £916 million in the UK market, with flavour innovation generating a major share of overall category growth across impulse and grocery channels. Product Specifications Monster Nitro Blue Flash combines the brand's core energy blend with a light blueberry flavour profile, packaged in single 500ml cans featuring electrifying blue graphics designed to maximise shelf visibility. The launch expands CCEP's Monster Additions portfolio, which encompasses Reserve, Nitro, and special edition collaboration SKUs. ⚡ Monster Nitro Blue Flash: A 500ml single-can SKU pairing CCEP's core energy formula with a light blueberry flavour profile. Retail and Distribution To drive trial and support in-store merchandising, CCEP is making point-of-sale materials and digital marketing assets available to independent and convenience retailers via its MyCCEP.com portal. Rob Yeomans, Vice-President of Commercial Development at Coca-Cola Europacific Partners GB, noted that flavour innovation remains a key driver of consumer engagement within the soft drinks sector. Yeomans highlighted that following the rollout of Monster Nitro Cosmic Peach, the addition of Nitro Blue Flash provides retailers with an extra flavour option to drive category velocity and repeat purchases. The 500ml cans will begin appearing on store shelves nationwide from early August. Energy Drinks Monster Energy Launches Nitro Blue Flash Blueberry in UK Dan Bunt August 1, 2026 Foodservice Zaxbys Launches NERDS Strawberry Milkshake New Products Dan-O's Seasoning Launches Clean-Label Chilli and Tac-O Seasoning Packets Snacking Cheetos Launches Multi-Sensory Sweet Phantom Heat Puffs in US Coffee & Tea Philadelphia and Ziggi's Coffee Debut Everything Bagel Latte New Products Beverage Energy Drinks Related news