WISEcode has introduced the Non-UPF Shield and a formalised UPF Standard to provide brands and consumers with objective, data-driven frameworks for evaluating ultra-processed foods. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom WISEcode™, a FoodTechAI™ company specialising in ingredient data, has announced the launch of a comprehensive suite of tools designed to standardise the evaluation of ultra-processed foods (UPFs). The company has introduced the Non-UPF Shield™ verification program and a formalised WISEcode UPF™ Standard, alongside a significant update to its consumer-facing mobile application. These developments aim to bring consistency to a sector of the food industry that has long struggled with ambiguous definitions. The WISEcode platform currently analyses more than 840,000 packaged food products across 15,000 attributes, making it one of the most robust food intelligence systems available for manufacturers and retailers. Standardising the Definition of Ultra-Processed Food At the centre of these launches is the WISEcode UPF™ Standard. While public and regulatory discussions regarding ultra-processed foods often rely on broad categories, this new framework evaluates products based on specific ingredient-level data. The standard considers the degree of refinement, added sugar contributions, and the presence of industrial additives often associated with heavy processing. The framework classifies products across five distinct levels: Minimal Light Moderate Ultra Super-Ultra Processed Peter Castleman, Founder and CEO of WISEcode, noted that the standard was built to provide the consistency that brands require and the clarity that consumers demand in a shifting regulatory environment. The Non-UPF Shield as a Pathway for Brand Transparency The Non-UPF Shield™ serves as a verification mark for brands that meet the company’s non-ultra-processed thresholds. Unlike traditional certification programs that may rely on manual audits and extensive paperwork, this verification is powered by an automated system and a pre-built scientific ingredient database. This technology allows for a faster and more transparent review process. Beyond the label itself, the program offers strategic value for Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) companies: Reformulation Support: When a product exceeds UPF thresholds, the platform identifies the specific ingredients or processing techniques responsible. Portfolio Assessment: WISEcode works with partners to evaluate entire product lines, providing structured reports that outline pathways toward Non-UPF qualification. Benchmarking Insights: Brands gain access to data regarding how their products compare to industry competitors within the processing hierarchy. Initial participants in the verification program include Blue Zones Kitchen and OKO, with enrollment now open to broader industry partners. Consumer Visibility and the Redesigned UPF Detector App To complement the B2B verification program, WISEcode has redesigned its mobile app experience to place processing classifications at the forefront of the consumer journey. The app allows shoppers to scan products and receive an immediate determination of whether a product is ultra-processed under the WISEcode Standard. The application translates complex ingredient lists into plain language, helping users understand not only what is in their food but how it was manufactured. Products that have successfully achieved the Non-UPF Shield™ verification are highlighted with a badge within the app, providing verified brands with direct visibility at the point of purchase. Building Infrastructure for Food Transparency As the food industry reaches what leadership describes as a "tipping point," WISEcode is positioning its technology as the necessary infrastructure for the next era of transparency. By translating processing classifications into practical, scalable data, the company aims to support both regulatory compliance and consumer trust. According to Dr. Richard Black, Chief Scientific Officer at WISEcode, the primary goal is to make food processing visible and understandable in a matter of seconds, providing a objective baseline for a rapidly evolving market. Technology WISEcode Launches Non-UPF Shield and Ingredient Standard for Food Transparency News March 5, 2026 Technology Circus SE Completes Acquisition of Belgian Food Robotics Firm Alberts Technology Pattison Food Group Modernises Grocery Fulfilment with Dematic Automation Safety & Quality Körber Launches STEPLogic Tracker for Food Traceability Compliance Technology Leanpath Scales Event Waste Management with Snap AI Mobile Tracker Safety & Quality Business & Finance Health & Nutrition Technology Food Related news

GNT Group has established its first dedicated office and application laboratory in Shanghai to provide localised support for China’s rapidly growing plant-based and clean-label food and beverage sectors. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. Featured in this news Flavours & Colours Exberry The Newsroom GNT Group has announced the opening of its first dedicated sales and application office in Shanghai, marking a significant expansion of its presence in the Chinese market. The move is designed to meet the rising demand for plant-based EXBERRY® colours and provides a localised hub for technical support, innovation, and regulatory compliance. The new facility features a state-of-the-art application laboratory, allowing GNT to offer Chinese manufacturers tailored formulation support and faster decision-making processes in a high-velocity market. Localisation in a Dynamic Market The establishment of a local team and laboratory reflects GNT’s long-term strategic growth ambitions within the Asia-Pacific region. China has emerged as a key driver for natural and clean-label products, with manufacturers increasingly seeking ingredients that align with evolving consumer preferences for health and transparency. According to Andreas Thiede, General Manager APAC at GNT Group, the local presence is essential for keeping pace with the Chinese food and beverage industry. Thiede noted that the office and lab will allow the company to move at the same speed as its customers, offering closer collaboration and solutions specifically engineered for the regional market. Regulatory Advantages of Colouring Foods A critical component of GNT’s value proposition in China is the classification of its EXBERRY® range. These colour concentrates are derived from non-GMO fruits, vegetables, and plants using physical processing methods and water, rather than chemical solvents. Under China’s current official industry standards, these concentrates are classified as Colouring Foods . This classification provides several B2B advantages: Clean Labelling: Enables manufacturers to use clear declarations such as “carrot colouring ingredient” instead of traditional additive listings. Physical Processing: Aligns with the "natural" positioning desired by modern Chinese consumers. Stability and Versatility: The range provides stable shades across the entire colour spectrum for nearly all food and beverage applications. Technical Support and Collaborative Innovation The Shanghai application lab serves as a collaborative space where customers can engage in face-to-face sessions with GNT experts. The facility offers a suite of professional services, including: Concept Innovation: Assisting brands in developing new product categories. Stability Testing: Ensuring colour integrity throughout the shelf life of various products. Workshops and Training: Providing specialised education for customer R&D teams. Victor Foo, GNT Group’s Head of Sales for China, emphasised that the ability to provide tailored training and face-to-face collaboration will be instrumental in unlocking new growth opportunities and strengthening long-term partnerships across the country. Facilities GNT Opens First Dedicated China Office for Exberry Colouring Foods Eddie Sanders April 27, 2026 Business & Finance General Mills to Sell Häagen-Dazs China Shops to Ningji Investor Group Events Bakery China 2026 Showcases Industrial Automation and Chocolate Sector Growth Foodservice McDonald’s China Leverages Heritage Lantern Art for ‘Year of the Horse’ Campaign Foodservice RBI Partners with Asset Manager CPE in $350M Joint Venture for Burger King China Flavours & Colours Facilities Business & Finance Logistics & Supply Chain Ingredients Related news

Halo Top Canada has introduced two seasonal, limited-edition ice cream flavours, S'mores and Maple Pecan, produced domestically comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Halo Top Canada has expanded its domestic product portfolio with the introduction of two limited-edition, seasonal ice cream flavours. The release is positioned to align with consumer interest in summer-themed product ranges. Produced within Canada, the new additions maintain the brand's focus on lower-calorie, high-protein formulations. This launch targets the summer retail period, when category engagement typically increases for seasonal ice cream products. Product Range The limited-edition range includes two flavour profiles developed for the Canadian market: 🔥 S'mores: A marshmallow-flavoured base combined with graham cracker pieces and chocolate chips. 🍁 Maple Pecan: A maple-flavoured base containing pecans. Consistent with the brand's existing portfolio, the seasonal items are formulated to provide a lower-calorie alternative to conventional ice cream. Each serving contains 150 calories and is designed to provide increased levels of protein and fibre compared to traditional formulations, while maintaining a reduced sugar and fat content. Retail Distribution The seasonal offerings are currently available through select major Canadian retailers, including Loblaws, Metro Ontario, Zehrs, Your Independent Grocers, and Real Canadian Superstore. Distribution is limited to the current summer season while supply lasts. New Products Halo Top Canada Launches Limited Edition Seasonal Ice Cream Flavours Eddie Sanders June 29, 2026 Food Tropical Smoothie Cafe Hot-Dog-Shaped Smoothie Popsicles Facilities The Magnum Ice Cream Company Invests €10M in Hungarian Production Facility New Products Asda Expands Premium Dairy Range with Wimbledon-Inspired Ice Cream New Products Protein Pints Launches New Protein Pops Range New Products Dairy Related news

Ascent Hospitality Management, the parent company of restaurant brands Huddle House and Perkins American Food Co., has appointed Paul Damico as chief executive officer, effective immediately. The appointment positions the company for its next phase of growth and modernization under the leadership of a seasoned industry executive. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Four-decade hospitality veteran to lead growth strategy for Huddle House and Perkins American Food Co. parent company Ascent Hospitality Management, the parent company of restaurant brands Huddle House and Perkins American Food Co., has appointed Paul Damico as chief executive officer, effective immediately. The appointment positions the company for its next phase of growth and modernization under the leadership of a seasoned industry executive. Damico brings over four decades of extensive food and beverage experience within the hospitality industry, with particular expertise in overseeing multi-brand operations. His appointment comes as Ascent seeks to build on its established foundation while exploring strategic expansion opportunities. Strategic Leadership Vision As CEO, Damico will spearhead Ascent's growth strategy, focusing on modernization initiatives while maintaining the company's core mission of bringing people together around great food and supporting franchisee success. His mandate includes exploring opportunities to expand Ascent's portfolio through strategic acquisitions of additional brands that align with the company's growth strategy, vision, and values. The appointment reflects Ascent's commitment to leveraging experienced leadership to navigate the evolving restaurant industry landscape and capitalize on emerging market opportunities. Proven Track Record in Multi-Brand Operations Damico's extensive background includes a distinguished career marked by significant achievements in operational efficiency, guest satisfaction, and profitability enhancement. He has demonstrated a proven track record of driving growth with some of the industry's most recognized brands. Prior to joining Ascent, Damico served as chief executive officer at several prominent restaurant companies, including Fuzzy's Taco Shop, Global Franchise Group, and Naf Naf Middle Eastern Grill. His experience also encompasses multiple senior leadership positions at Focus Brands, Inc. (now GoTo Foods), where he honed his expertise in franchise operations and brand development. Portfolio Strength and Market Position Under Damico's leadership, Ascent Hospitality Management will continue to operate its portfolio of nearly 600 locations across the United States and Canada. The company's brands, Huddle House and Perkins American Food Co., represent established names in the casual dining and family restaurant segments. Huddle House, known for its 24-hour comfort food offerings, and Perkins American Food Co., recognized for its family-friendly dining experience, provide Ascent with a diversified portfolio serving different market segments while maintaining complementary operational synergies. Industry Context and Growth Opportunities Damico's appointment comes at a pivotal time for the restaurant industry, as operators navigate post-pandemic recovery, evolving consumer preferences, and technological advancement opportunities. His multi-brand operational expertise positions Ascent to capitalize on industry consolidation trends and franchise growth opportunities. The focus on potential acquisitions suggests Ascent's strategic intent to expand beyond its current two-brand portfolio, leveraging Damico's experience in integrating and optimizing multiple restaurant concepts under unified operational frameworks. Franchise Development Focus With nearly 600 locations already established, Ascent's emphasis on supporting franchisee success under Damico's leadership indicates a commitment to sustainable growth through strong franchise relationships. His experience with franchise operations across multiple brands provides valuable insight into balancing corporate growth objectives with franchisee profitability and satisfaction. The company's dual-brand approach allows for operational efficiencies while serving diverse market segments, positioning Ascent for continued expansion in both existing and new markets. Foodservice Ascent Hospitality Management Appoints Industry Veteran Paul Damico as CEO News October 27, 2025 Foodservice Related news

Chinese dairy leader Yili Group has launched its Global Innovation Vanguard Initiative in Cambridge, establishing partnerships. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. Featured in this news Dairy Yili group The Newsroom Yili Group, a leading global dairy manufacturer, has hosted the launch of its Global Innovation Vanguard Initiative in Cambridge, UK. Under the theme "Gathering Global Wisdom, Pioneering a Healthier Future," the event marked the debut of a comprehensive, open-access research and development framework designed to drive progress across the entire dairy value chain. The launch represents a strategic shift for the dairy conglomerate as it transitions from a traditional manufacturing focus to actively pioneering collaborative, open-source research. To support this initiative, Yili has signed strategic agreements with academic publisher Springer Nature and the Institute for Manufacturing (IfM) at the University of Cambridge. According to Liu Chunxi, Senior Executive President of Yili Group, the rapid pace of technological change requires greater synergy across the entire value chain. By integrating international scientific expertise with commercial manufacturing resources, the company aims to address emerging health and sustainability challenges in the global dairy sector. Cambridge University and Springer Nature The collaboration with European academic and publishing institutions is central to Yili's open-innovation strategy. By partnering with prominent research hubs, the company aims to accelerate the translation of laboratory discoveries into scalable commercial applications. Yili’s newly signed agreements focus on two primary collaborative pillars: Industrial R and D Models with the Institute for Manufacturing: Yili has partnered with the IfM, University of Cambridge, through its Open Innovation Forum. This collaboration aims to explore novel methods of cross-industry innovation and knowledge sharing, allowing Yili to integrate external manufacturing technologies and operational strategies into its production lines. Infant Nutrition Research with Springer Nature: Yili has signed an agreement with Springer Nature to launch the compilation of the 2026 Global Breast Milk Research White Paper. This international research initiative will outline global trends, compile research achievements from leading academic institutions, and guide the development of future infant formula products. According to Stephen Pincock, Executive Vice President of Impact Solutions at Springer Nature, the upcoming white paper will highlight the critical role of corporate-backed research in improving nutrition and health outcomes for the next generation. Thirteen Flagship Projects To translate its innovation framework into concrete operational outcomes, Yili, in partnership with the China National Technology Innovation Centre for Dairy (NTICD), has unveiled 13 flagship research projects. These projects target several of the most pressing technical challenges facing modern dairy producers, ranging from upstream agricultural management to downstream consumer packaging: Upstream Smart Farming and Breeding: Flagship projects will focus on cattle breeding techniques and the implementation of smart farming technologies to improve animal health, milk yield, and farm-level resource efficiency. Downstream Precision Nutrition and Ingredients: The research agenda places a strong emphasis on precision nutrition, high-value functional ingredients, and dairy-derived bioactive compounds to meet the demands of an ageing global population. Sustainable Packaging and Circular Economy: In alignment with global environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards, several projects will focus on developing sustainable packaging alternatives to reduce the carbon footprint of retail dairy products. He Jian, Head of the NTICD and General Manager of Yili's Global Innovation Centre, has extended an open invitation to global research institutes and supply chain partners to collaborate on these projects, offering a shared platform to tackle industry-wide technical barriers. Upgrade for Jinlingguan Infant Formula In tandem with its academic announcements, Yili utilised the event to launch a strategic brand upgrade for its infant formula brand, Jinlingguan, under the theme "Full-Spectrum Nutrition and Ultimate Freshness." The brand strategy leverages Yili's extensive research into maternal and infant nutrition, resulting in a scientific framework designed to address multiple developmental needs simultaneously. According to Dr. Ignatius Szeto, Vice President of Yili Group, the upgraded Jinlingguan formulation is built on a six-in-one scientific strategy focusing on nutrient absorption, immune protection, cognitive development, gut health, bone health, and hypoallergenicity. By aligning its retail brands with rigorous clinical research, Yili aims to differentiate itself in the premium nutrition sector, where consumers increasingly demand evidence-backed wellness claims. The launch in Cambridge is the latest expansion of Yili's "15+1" Global Innovation Ecosystem, which links 15 regional research hubs with top-tier academic institutions worldwide. Dairy Yili Group Announces Global Innovation Vanguard Initiative in Cambridge Eddie Sanders May 26, 2026 Marketing Yili Unveils AI-Generated Dairy Supply Chain Comic Series New Products Flora Food Group Launches Red Barn Creamery Premium Butter Range Business & Finance Nestle to Acquire European Smart Food Brand yfood Dairy Land O Lakes Reintroduces Seasonal Everything Bagel Butter Spread at Kroger Sustainability Business & Finance Dairy Related news

Discover ABB verified distributors, partnership requests and latest industry activity. FNBX is the ultimate 360 platform for the food and beverage industry. All Companies Close Manufacturing ABB Employees 100,000 founded 1988 Headquarters Zürich, Switzerland Food & beverage process equipment needs to operate as efficiently, safely and hygienically as possible, without compromising critical power and data connections. Meanwhile, the sector is under pressure to cut carbon emissions, improve efficiency, and meet net zero targets. ABB understands the challenges you face in the food and beverage processing industry today. We’re focused on providing electrical solutions that address the critical issues in every area of your operation, so you can focus on plant sustainability, cost, quality, flexibility, safety, and regulatory challenges across the production cycle. As a global technology leader in electrification distribution and management, our electrification solutions accelerate decarbonization and increase energy efficiency through safe, smart, and sustainable electrical infrastructure. ABB’s vast experience in electrification makes us the ideal partner to power your future by harnessing our broad portfolio and the capabilities of digital technology. Our F&B installation products protect and connect sensitive electrical wiring in complex processing equipment, to help your plant achieve continuity and food safety. Our family of low voltage products matches specific application criteria from start to finish inside food processing areas, assuring the quality and reliability of electrical system throughout your facility, from incoming raw materials to shipping of finished goods. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ABB Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abbgroup/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/abb X: https://twitter.com/ABBgroupnews YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ABBElectrification/videos About ABB --- Collaboration & Partnerships ABB is not currently looking for partnerships. Pitch a Partnership F&B Ecosystem Claim Profile ABB 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. 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

Salt Lake City-based retailer cooperative Associated Food Stores (AFS) has announced a strategic partnership with software provider GoSpotCheck by FORM comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Salt Lake City-based retailer cooperative Associated Food Stores (AFS) has announced a strategic partnership with software provider GoSpotCheck by FORM to deploy a mobile task management platform across its network. The rollout impacts a massive operational footprint, covering more than 450 independently owned supermarkets and 41 corporate stores across eight western states. The move is designed to equip the Member Retail Service team with advanced tools for capturing shelf intelligence and merchandising insights in real-time. A Tech-Forward Cooperative The deployment marks the latest phase in an aggressive technology investment strategy by AFS. Throughout 2025, the cooperative established itself as an innovation leader within the grocery sector, activating AI-powered warehouse automation at its Utah distribution centre and scaling the use of retail media and smart cart technologies. By integrating GoSpotCheck, AFS is extending this modernisation drive from the warehouse to the retail floor. The platform will be utilised to capture granular data during store visits by account managers and department heads, replacing legacy manual processes. Operational Impact The implementation focuses on providing critical visibility to key internal divisions, specifically the Marketing, Exclusive Brands, and Fresh Teams. Key Capabilities: Real-Time Data: Immediate capture of shelf conditions and compliance. Agility: Enabling faster decision-making based on live field inputs. Consistency: Driving uniform merchandising execution across a diverse network of independent retailers. April Rice , VP of Retail Support at Associated Food Stores, framed the software adoption as a competitive advantage for members: "We've built our technology strategy around giving our member retailers every advantage possible. GoSpotCheck fits perfectly into that vision. With real-time intelligence from store visits, our marketing, Exclusive Brands, and Fresh Teams can identify merchandising opportunities faster and support our members with actionable insights." Jeremy DeSilva , Senior Sales Director at FORM, added: "Associated Food Stores has consistently led the industry in adopting technology that empowers independent grocers to compete and win. We're proud to be part of their technology ecosystem, connecting people, places, and processes so their teams can act on insights and move forward in the market." Technology Associated Food Stores Taps GoSpotCheck to Digitalise Field Operations and Merchandising News January 7, 2026 Technology Circus SE Completes Acquisition of Belgian Food Robotics Firm Alberts Technology Pattison Food Group Modernises Grocery Fulfilment with Dematic Automation Safety & Quality Körber Launches STEPLogic Tracker for Food Traceability Compliance Technology Leanpath Scales Event Waste Management with Snap AI Mobile Tracker Business & Finance Retail New Solutions Logistics & Supply Chain Manufacturing Technology Related news

UK-based gaming supplement brand Sneak has partnered with comic book icon Judge Dredd to launch a limited-edition Mega Berry energy. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom UK-based gaming and lifestyle supplement brand Sneak has announced a licensing partnership with legendary comic book franchise Judge Dredd to launch a limited-edition flavour of its signature energy powder. The collaboration, launching through the brand's online direct-to-consumer platform, features a custom-branded "Mega Berry" formulation. The launch reflects a broader trend within the functional energy sector, where lifestyle brands leverage pop culture intellectual property to drive consumer engagement and brand loyalty. Product Specifications and Formulation The special-edition product will be sold in Sneak’s standard 40-serving tub format, packaged with custom artwork from the Judge Dredd universe. The product includes: 🍓 Mega Berry : A dual-fruit profile blending pink guava and raspberry. In addition to the supplement powder, the launch includes a co-branded, custom-coloured shaker bottle featuring matching graphics. The product will be priced at £35.95 per tub and is positioned as a limited-time release. Distribution and Limited Release Sneak operates primarily through a direct-to-consumer (DTC) model, utilising scarcity marketing tactics and collaborative "drops" to build brand equity. The brand has previously established licensed products across various food, gaming, and pop culture portfolios. The Judge Dredd partnership aligns with the company’s strategy of engaging younger, design-conscious consumers by combining functional wellness ingredients, such as energy and focus-supporting compounds, with collectable, IP-led merchandise. New Products Sneak Launches Judge Dredd Mega Berry Energy Flavour Eddie Sanders May 31, 2026 Energy Drinks Monster Energy Launches Oscar Piastri Limited Edition Cans New Products Alani Nu Partners with Becky G to Launch Purple Cotton Candy Energy Drink Energy Drinks New Monster Energy Lando Norris Zero Sugar Gold Can New Products Bucked Up Expands Portfolio with Protein Popcorn and Limited Energy Drink Launch Energy Drinks New Products Beverage Related news

Now, Heinz is turning that clutter into something far more delicious with the launch of the Heinz Trade-Up, a limited-time activation inviting UAE residents to exchange their unwanted ketchup sachets for a full bottle of Heinz. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. Featured in this news Food Kraft Heinz The Newsroom Every home has one: the chaotic “everything drawer” overflowing with takeaway napkins, wooden cutlery, and—most notoriously— ketchup sachets no one ever uses . Now, Heinz is turning that clutter into something far more delicious with the launch of the Heinz Trade-Up , a limited-time activation inviting UAE residents to exchange their unwanted ketchup sachets for a full bottle of Heinz. According to a new Heinz survey, 70% of UAE residents admit to having unused ketchup sachets at home, with 48% holding onto 5–10 sachets at any given time. Over half (54.7%) even say the clutter is frustrating . And unsurprisingly, 60% say they’d be more likely to use the sachets if they were Heinz . To turn kitchen chaos into a ketch-upgrade, Heinz has installed custom-designed vending machines across Dubai—from Jumeirah Village Circle and Jumeirah Beach Residence to Discovery Gardens and Bur Dubai . From April 16 to 20 , residents can drop off their unwanted ketchup sachets— any brand —and receive a full bottle of Heinz ketchup for every five sachets deposited. “It’s no secret that Heinz fans take their ketchup seriously,” said Passant El Ghannam , Marketing Director at Kraft Heinz MEA. “Their irrational love for Heinz often leads to a stockpile of sachets they never intended to collect. With Heinz Trade-Up, we’re giving them a fun and useful way to upgrade that stash.” Consumers can follow @heinzarabia on Instagram for real-time vending machine locations and updates. The Trade-Up runs while supplies last, giving Dubai residents the perfect excuse to clear their drawers—and finally upgrade to the ketchup they actually want. Sauces Heinz Launches “Heinz Trade-Up” in Dubai: Swap Unwanted Ketchup Sachets for a Full Bottle News April 18, 2025 Packaging Anchor Packaging and Pizza Hut Announce Wing Bowl That Keeps Wings Fresh Foodservice POS Supply Solutions Launches QuickStick Foodservice Labelling Line Packaging SupplyCaddy Elevates QSR Packaging with Custom ‘Romero Britto’ Vessel for SOBEWFF Burger Bash Foodservice McDonald's and Crayola Launch Global 'Planet McDonald's' Happy Meal Experience Sauces Sustainability New Solutions Packaging Related news

You’re reading a free preview of The Newsroom 📰 ✅ Get full access to The Newsroom — your personalised F&B feed with curated insights, company updates, and announcements. + access to the full app collection from FNBX 👉 Join for Free 👋 Log in Subscribe to weekly updates Email* Yes, subscribe me to your newsletter. Submit The Newsroom Snacking New Products July 2, 2026 Honestly I Am Expands Protein Bar Range with Two New Flavours Clean-label snack brand Honestly I Am has announced a significant update to its protein bar range, launching two new flavours: Peanut Butter Jelly and Cocoa Orange. Business & Finance July 2, 2026 Vitamin Well Group Acquires EMPWR Nutrition Group Vitamin Well Group, the parent company of the popular functional snack brand Barebells, has announced an agreement to acquire EMPWR Nutrition Group from Waterland Private Equity Investments. People July 1, 2026 Novus Foods Appoints Admir Basic as CEO Novus Foods has appointed Admir Basic as Chief Executive Officer, effective 1 July 2026, marking the next stage of growth for the $1 billion chilled snacking platform. Food July 1, 2026 Uncrustables Portfolio Now Offers Fridge-Friendly Storage Options The J.M. Smucker Co. has announced that its Uncrustables sandwich portfolio is now fridge friendly, allowing consumers to store products in the refrigerator for immediate consumption. New Products June 30, 2026 INDI Expands Functional Snacking Portfolio with Brain Bar Launch Plant-powered supplement brand INDI is launching its new functional 'Brain Bar' this July, designed to support cognitive function and energy with a clean-label, whole-food formulation. New Products June 26, 2026 King's Hawaiian Enters Convenience Retail with New Soft Pretzel Bites King's Hawaiian has debuted its Original Hawaiian Sweet Soft Pretzel Bites at Sheetz, marking the brand's entry into the single-serve convenience retail snack market. New Products June 26, 2026 Organic Valley Launches Organic Cheese Snack Sticks Nationwide Organic Valley has introduced Organic Valley Snack Sticks, a new line of individually wrapped organic cheese snacks featuring 5g of protein per serving. New Products June 25, 2026 SmartSweets Expands Into Fruit Snack Category With Low Sugar Range SmartSweets has entered the fruit snack category with a new range of low-sugar options, offering 63% less sugar than traditional products across two new varieties. First PREV 1 Page 1 NEXT Last

US Foods Holding Corp. has announced the rollout of Menu IQ, a new AI-powered digital solution engineered to help foodservice operators optimise menu profitability and manage fluctuating food costs. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom US Foods Holding Corp. has announced the rollout of Menu IQ , a new AI-powered digital solution engineered to help foodservice operators optimise menu profitability and manage fluctuating food costs. The tool is being offered at no additional cost to US Foods customers and is fully integrated into MOXē , the distributor's proprietary all-in-one business application used for product browsing, inventory management, and ordering. This move signals a continuing trend among broadline distributors to provide "value-add" SaaS (Software as a Service) capabilities to increase customer stickiness and drive digital ordering adoption. Shifting from Intuition to Data-Driven Strategy Menu IQ is designed to replace manual, spreadsheet-based food costing with automated, real-time analytics. By linking menu items directly to the operator's actual inventory and purchasing data, the tool provides immediate visibility into margin performance at the dish level. Key Capabilities of Menu IQ: AI Recipe Management: Operators can upload existing recipes, and the system's AI will automatically calculate the associated food costs based on current procurement data. Real-Time Profitability Tracking: Continuous monitoring of which menu items are actively driving margins, allowing for agile pricing adjustments. Actionable Insights: Dashboard analytics that instantly highlight underperforming dishes and flag opportunities for recipe optimisation or substitution. Integrated Data Hub: The tool pulls actual, live food costs directly from the MOXē Inventory system, ensuring calculations are based on the operator's real-world purchasing rather than static industry averages. Addressing the Top Operator Concern James Jones , Senior Vice President of Digital Commerce at US Foods, highlighted that the tool was developed in direct response to operator feedback regarding macroeconomic pressures. “Every day we hear about our operators’ biggest challenges, and menu profitability sits at the top of their concerns,” Jones stated. "Our customers are demanding easier, more intuitive solutions to help improve menu profitability, and Menu IQ enables us to meet this need. Menu IQ delivers real-time visibility into which dishes are driving margins so our operators can adjust instantly to make smarter decisions about which changes will drive increased profitability." Market Context As restaurant operators continue to navigate volatile commodity prices and rising labour costs, digital tools that streamline back-of-house operations have become a critical competitive differentiator for food distributors. By embedding advanced AI costing tools directly into its primary e-commerce platform, US Foods is positioning itself not just as a supplier of goods but as a critical operational partner for independent and multi-unit restaurant operators. Technology US Foods Launches AI-Powered 'Menu IQ' to Tackle Foodservice Margin Pressures News February 23, 2026 Marketing Yili Unveils AI-Generated Dairy Supply Chain Comic Series Technology China Agricultural University and Haidian Canteen Launch AI Foodservice Model Technology New AI Partnership Between FPT and CP Vietnam to Digitalise Agricultural Value Chain Agriculture Charoen Pokphand Foods and FPT Corporation Partner to Advance Artificial Intelligence in Southeast Asian Agriculture Business & Finance Foodservice Technology Related news

Red Bull has unveiled Red Bull Zero, a zero-sugar, zero-calorie version of its flagship Red Bull Original energy drink, designed to deliver the same flavour and functionality as the classic variant. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Red Bull has unveiled Red Bull Zero, a zero-sugar, zero-calorie version of its flagship Red Bull Original energy drink, designed to deliver the same flavour and functionality as the classic variant. The global launch reflects Red Bull’s continued focus on portfolio diversification and growing consumer demand for health-conscious beverage options. According to research from Appinio, 75% of consumers consider health factors when selecting a soft drink, while Kantar data shows that taste remains the top purchase driver — underscoring the importance of delivering great-tasting sugar-free alternatives. Red Bull Zero aims to provide consumers with the brand’s distinct energy boost and familiar taste, without sugar, supporting Red Bull’s strategy to expand the sugar-free segment within the wider energy drinks category. The brand said the introduction of Red Bull Zero is intended to drive category incrementality, attracting new shoppers while encouraging existing consumers to purchase across more occasions. The new variant will be available in a range of formats, including 250ml, 335ml and 474ml single cans, as well as multipacks, to suit various consumption occasions and retail environments. The launch builds on Red Bull’s ongoing commitment to offer choice and variety within its global energy drinks lineup, following the success of its Sugarfree range and flavoured Editions portfolio. Energy Drinks Red Bull expands sugar-free portfolio with launch of Red Bull Zero November 26, 2024 Energy Drinks Red Bull Expands Seasonal Portfolio With Sudachi Lime Summer Edition Energy Drinks Red Bull Permanently Reinstates Fan-Favorite 'Iced' and 'Peach' Editions Nationwide Energy Drinks Red Bull Targets 'Quitter's Day' with Strava Challenge and NSF-Certified Zero Sugar Push Energy Drinks Tesco to launch exclusive Red Bull advent calendar for limited one-week run Energy Drinks New Products Soft drinks Related news