The video, released on 24 January, garnered over 45 million views in days, marking a significant shift in the company’s communication strategy—moving from regulatory advocacy to mainstream cultural engagement. 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 > UPSIDE Foods , a frontrunner in the cell-cultivated meat sector, has re-entered the public spotlight following a high-profile feature by YouTube creator MrBeast (Jimmy Donaldson) . The video, released on 24 January, garnered over 45 million views in days, marking a significant shift in the company’s communication strategy—moving from regulatory advocacy to mainstream cultural engagement. The video provided a behind-the-scenes tour of UPSIDE’s production facility, which previously received an investment of approximately US$187 million . The content focused on demystifying the production process of cell-cultivated chicken and concluded with an on-camera tasting. Donaldson’s unscripted verdict—“It tastes just like chicken”—served as a powerful validation for the technology, delivered to an audience of over 460 million subscribers. Reaching a New Demographic This media appearance represents a strategic pivot for the cultivated meat sector, which has historically relied on white papers and policy forums to build credibility. By partnering with MrBeast, UPSIDE Foods bypassed traditional B2B channels to directly engage Gen Z and Millennial audiences—demographics that are critical for long-term adoption but difficult to reach through conventional industry news. However, the exposure also reignited debates around terminology. Critics targeted the use of phrases like “genetically grown,” highlighting the ongoing challenge the industry faces in standardising consumer-facing language that distinguishes cell cultivation from genetic engineering. Legal Battles and Regulatory Context The viral moment follows a year defined by legal and operational restructuring for UPSIDE Foods. Throughout 2025, the company was embroiled in litigation, including a federal lawsuit challenging the State of Texas’ ban on cultivated meat. Filed in September alongside Wildtype and the Institute for Justice , the lawsuit argues that state-level bans violate federal authority over interstate commerce. "For the same reason California cannot ban Texas beef in California, Texas cannot ban salmon or chicken from California," stated Uma Valeti , Founder and CEO of UPSIDE Foods, emphasising the need for a unified federal regulatory framework. Consumer Research Insights In June 2024, UPSIDE Foods conducted a public tasting event in Miami just days before a state ban took effect. An ethnographic study of the event, published in June 2025, revealed that while consumers are open to innovation, their acceptance hinges on transparency regarding ingredients and production methods. The study underscored that firsthand experience is the most effective tool for overcoming scepticism—a finding validated by the massive reach of the MrBeast demonstration. B2B Commercialisation: Launch of Lucius Labs Beyond consumer engagement, UPSIDE Foods is diversifying its revenue streams. On 23 January, the company launched Lucius Labs , a spinoff dedicated to commercialising cell culture media and analytical services. This move leverages UPSIDE's proprietary technology to serve the broader life sciences market, including cell therapy and vaccine production. Dr. Bob Newman , Chief Science Officer at UPSIDE Tech, noted that the new division aims to solve "huge barriers" in media development, offering cost benefits and rapid custom formula turnaround times without compromising performance. Operational Outlook Following a period of capital constraints in 2025, UPSIDE Foods has streamlined its operations. The company has paused the construction of a large-scale facility in Illinois to focus on expanding its EPIC site in California . Additionally, R&D efforts are increasingly exploring hybrid products that combine cultivated biomass with plant-based ingredients to improve scalability and cost-efficiency. UPSIDE Foods Leverages Viral Marketing Strategy with MrBeast Partnership January 28, 2026 Business & Finance Panzani and Cerealis Enter Exclusive Talks to Form €1bn Food Group Foodservice Coca-Cola and KFC Announce US Beverage Partnership Ingredients Oterra Teams up with HowGood to Provide Ingredient Emissions Data Business & Finance CJ CheilJedang and ADM to Form Feed Amino Acid Joint Venture Cultivated Food Marketing Manufacturing Ingredients Meat & Seafood Related news

Al Fresco has launched a seasonal Hot Honey Fully Cooked Chicken Sausage, leveraging sweet-and-spicy flavour trends for the summer grilling market. 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 > Al Fresco has launched a limited-edition Hot Honey Fully Cooked Chicken Sausage, designed to align with seasonal demand in the summer grilling market. The product incorporates current sweet-and-spicy flavour trends into the manufacturer’s existing chicken sausage range. The new variety aims to address consumer interest in globally influenced flavour profiles, specifically the combination of sweetness and spice. By blending natural chicken with wildflower honey and heat, the product serves the market for convenience-oriented meal solutions. The launch is scheduled to run through August 2026 at select retailers. This timeline reflects the seasonal nature of the product, which is positioned for summer grilling and quick-service meal preparation. Nutritional Profile The Hot Honey Chicken Sausage is formulated as a fully cooked, high-protein offering. The manufacturer specifies the following characteristics: Composition: Made from 100% natural chicken with no artificial ingredients. Nutritional Content: Provides 11g of protein per link. Operational Utility: The product is fully cooked, reducing preparation time for the consumer. Al Fresco positions the product as a versatile ingredient for various eating occasions, including use in grain bowls, pastas, or as a component for appetisers. This versatility is intended to facilitate its adoption during the peak summer retail period. Al Fresco Launches Seasonal Hot Honey Chicken Sausage for Summer Retail June 29, 2026 Packaging ProAmpac Launches ProActive Intelligence Shelf Protect Packaging New Products Jack Link's Launches Grass-Fed Beef and LiL' Links Multipacks New Products Sun-Maid Introduces Charcuterie Pairings Line New Products Rosina Food Products Launches Five Frozen Meatball Innovations Meat & Seafood Food New Products Related news

Danish food-tech company Matr Foods has raised €40 million in funding to accelerate the scale-up of its organic, fermented plant-based meat alternatives, marking the largest food-tech financing round in Denmark to date. 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 > Danish food-tech company Matr Foods has raised €40 million in funding to accelerate the scale-up of its organic, fermented plant-based meat alternatives, marking the largest food-tech financing round in Denmark to date. The raise comprises €20 million in Series A equity and €20 million in venture debt, co-led by existing investor Novo Holdings and new investor the Export and Investment Fund of Denmark (EIFO), alongside debt financing from the European Investment Bank (EIB). The capital will be used to expand production capacity at Matr’s facility in Ansager, Jutland, where the company plans to scale its proprietary fermentation-based production from pilot capacity to 4,000 tonnes annually. The expansion will enable the start-up to meet growing consumer and foodservice demand for clean-label, sustainable protein solutions. Founded in Copenhagen in 2021, Matr Foods leverages traditional fungal fermentation to transform locally sourced crops – including oats, split peas, lupins, beetroots and potatoes – into meat alternatives with a naturally juicy texture and rich umami flavour. The process avoids additives and heavy processing, aligning with rising demand for minimally processed, natural plant-based products. The company’s flagship product, Matr Fungi Mince, is made entirely from Scandinavian-grown ingredients. It is high in protein and fibre, low in fat, and offers an amino acid profile comparable to conventional meat. Matr reports that its product has a carbon footprint of 1.5kg CO₂e per kg, approximately 94% lower than beef. The new production line, expected to be operational by early 2027, will create 60 new jobs and support Matr’s growing footprint across Germany, Switzerland and Denmark. Randi Wahlsten, CEO of Matr Foods, said: “We are thrilled to be scaling up and finally able to meet the demand of the many customers and chefs who have shown unwavering support for our products. It’s inspiring to see such enthusiasm for organic, clean-label plant products that also deliver gastronomic excitement.” The investment positions Matr Foods among a new wave of European fermentation-driven protein innovators, as demand for sustainable and regenerative food systems continues to reshape the alternative protein landscape. Matr Foods secures €40m to scale organic fermented meat alternatives October 21, 2025 Packaging CuBE Packaging Solutions Invests $30m to Expand US Facility Business & Finance Cargill Invests $130m to Expand Asian Poultry Operations in Thailand and Philippines Facilities Schreiber Foods Invests $267M in Missouri Process Cheese Plant Beverage SunOpta Invests $35m to Expand Beverage Production Line in Texas Meat & Seafood Business & Finance Related news

SGS, the world's leading testing, inspection, and certification (TIC) company, has announced the acquisition of Murray-Brown Laboratories, a nationally recognised food testing facility based in Denver, Colorado. 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 > SGS , the world's leading testing, inspection, and certification (TIC) company, has announced the acquisition of Murray-Brown Laboratories , a nationally recognised food testing facility based in Denver, Colorado. The move marks a significant expansion of SGS’s operational footprint in North America, a region currently leading the global food safety testing market due to stringent regulatory frameworks and active food recall management. The acquisition is designed to enhance SGS's capabilities in advanced microbial detection and analytical chemistry, specifically targeting the needs of producers, manufacturers, and retailers facing tightening FDA and USDA compliance standards. Regulatory Pressure and Rapid Testing The acquisition is driven by a shifting landscape in food safety regulation. SGS cites an increased demand for rapid, high-precision testing services fueled by stricter oversight and a rise in reported foodborne illnesses. Jodi Jurgens , Head of SGS's Food Group in North America, commented on the market dynamics: "Over the past few years, we have seen an increased demand for rapid and advanced testing services from our North American clients - driven by stricter FDA and USDA regulations, an increase in foodborne illnesses, and consumer demand for safe and high-quality foods." By integrating Murray-Brown’s Denver facility, SGS strengthens its geographical reach and service scope, enabling faster turnaround times for clients in the region. Nutraceuticals and PCR Technology Beyond standard food safety, the deal adds specific technical competencies to the SGS network: Analytical Chemistry: Enhanced capabilities for pesticide and mycotoxin detection. Nutraceuticals: Murray-Brown brings specialised testing services for kratom, kava, and hemp , sectors that require rigorous quality assurance as they mature. Pathogen Detection: The acquisition expands SGS’s capacity to offer PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) and advanced microbial pathogen detection. These DNA-based molecular methods are critical for the rapid identification of contaminants, aligning with the FDA's increasing volume of microbial assays. 'Strategy 27' This acquisition is a tactical step in SGS's broader "Strategy 27" corporate roadmap. The strategy explicitly targets the doubling of North American sales between 2023 and 2027 by capitalising on megatrends such as nutritional transparency and food safety expectations. SGS currently operates six state-of-the-art ISO 17025 accredited labs across the United States. The addition of Murray-Brown Laboratories reinforces this infrastructure, supporting North American manufacturers in navigating complex local and global market access requirements. SGS Acquires Murray-Brown Laboratories to Bolster North American Food Safety and Nutraceutical Testing February 12, 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 Business & Finance Safety & Quality Related news

Ritual Zero Proof has entered the RTD category with a trio of canned non-alcoholic cocktails. Non-Alcoholic Ready-to-Drink Margarita, G&T, and Spritz. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. Featured in this news Alcohol Diageo 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 > Ritual Zero Proof, currently recognised as the leading non-alcoholic (NA) spirits brand in North America, has announced its first strategic entry into the ready-to-drink (RTD) sector. Arriving ahead of the peak summer trading season, the new lineup features three classic cocktails: Margarita, G&T, and Spritz, packaged in lightly carbonated, single-serve cans. The launch represents a significant portfolio evolution for the brand, moving beyond its traditional 750ml bottled spirit alternatives to capture the high-growth "grab-and-go" convenience market. The introduction of an RTD line addresses a primary friction point in the NA category: the complexity of preparation. While bottled spirit alternatives require mixers, garnishes, and preparation time, the canned format provides immediate, portable access to complex flavour profiles. Megan Hurtuk, Head of Marketing of Non-Alcoholic Beverages at DIAGEO North America, noted that consumer expectations for NA options have fundamentally shifted from merely being "available" to being "exceptional." Hurtuk stated that the launch brings Ritual’s standard of cocktail-quality flavour to the ready-to-drink shelf, targeting moments where convenience matters most—such as beach outings, barbecues, and outdoor festivals. By placing a portable non-alcoholic option comfortably alongside traditional full-ABV seltzers and canned cocktails, Ritual is normalising moderation in high-energy social settings. Formulation and Product Breakdown To ensure sensory continuity, each of the new RTD expressions is built upon the foundation of Ritual's award-winning zero-proof spirits. The formulations are engineered to deliver a "true-to-cocktail" bite and complexity, bypassing the overly sweet, juice-like profiles that often plague the NA beverage aisle. The Initial SKU Lineup Includes: 🍋🟩 Ritual Zero Proof Margarita: Utilises the brand's Agave Spirit Alternative, delivering bold, zesty citrus notes upfront, balanced by a smooth, earthy agave finish. 🍸 Ritual Zero Proof G&T: Built on the Gin Alternative, blending classic juniper, coriander, and angelica root notes with fresh lime zest to offset a crisp, bitter tonic. 🍹 Ritual Zero Proof Spritz: An effervescent aperitivo featuring bittersweet citrus, floral aromatics, and subtle spice, designed to replicate a traditional rosé champagne finish. Retail and Availability The Ritual Zero Proof RTDs are launching as a permanent addition to the brand's portfolio, rather than a limited summer drop. The products are priced at a suggested retail price (MSRP) of $13.99 per 4-pack, positioning them competitively within the premium RTD tier. Distribution is currently active via select United States retailers and the brand's direct-to-consumer digital platform. Ritual Zero Proof Scales Non-alcoholic Portfolio with RTD Cocktail Range May 13, 2026 New Products Carbliss Launches 12% ABV Ready-to-Drink Cocktail Range New Products Absolut and Ocean Spray Launch 9% ABV Double Vodka Cranberry RTD New Products Skrewball Launches Peanut Butter and Strawberry Jelly Whiskey in US New Products Shottails Launches Ready-to-Drink Canned Shot Range for UK Retailers New Products Alcohol Beverage Related news

Little Moons has expanded its bite-sized dessert portfolio with Strawberry Matcha Latte mochi ice cream, combining green tea and fruit gelato in the UK. 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 > Bite-sized frozen snack brand Little Moons has expanded its retail portfolio with the nationwide commercial launch of Strawberry Matcha Latte mochi ice cream across the United Kingdom. Now available in the frozen aisle at Tesco, the new line combines green tea and strawberry gelato wrapped in the brand's signature chewy rice dough. The SKU enters the hand-held frozen snacking segment, targeting rising consumer appetite for café-inspired beverage flavour profiles, Japanese botanical ingredients, and portion-controlled frozen indulgence. Flavour Architecture and Specifications The product development translates the popular dual-layered iced strawberry matcha latte beverage format into a frozen, handheld confectionery treat. Formulated with whole milk and real double cream, the formulation embeds freeze-dried fruit inclusions alongside traditional ground green tea powder: 🍵 Matcha Green Tea Base: Formulated with authentic green tea powder (0.6%) to supply characteristic earthy-sweet botanical notes and natural colouring. 🍓 Strawberry Fruit Inclusions: Blended with freeze-dried strawberry pieces (1.2%) and natural flavouring to provide tart fruit acidity and textural contrast against the creamy gelato. 🍡 Sweet Rice Dough Outer: Encased in a soft, gluten-free sweet rice flour dough matrix comprising 40 per cent of the total product weight. ⚖️ Nutritional Profile: Each 30g individual mochi bite delivers 65 kcal, 1.8g of fat (1.2g saturates), and 7.8g of sugars, aligning with portion-controlled snacking standards. Retail Packaging and Commercial Availability The product introduction enters the expanding ice cream snacking category, where handheld and bite-sized formats continue to gain shelf space over traditional multi-serve bulk tubs. Key commercial parameters and distribution specifications include: Packaging Configuration: Formatted in 180g retail packs containing six individually portioned 30g mochi treats. Retail Pricing: Positioned at a recommended retail price (RRP) of £5.25 per pack (£29.17 per kg). Dietary and Allergen Specifications: Certified gluten-free and suitable for vegetarians, manufactured under B Corp sustainability standards. Retail Placement: Commercial availability has commenced across Tesco supermarket and superstore networks nationwide, alongside digital ordering via Tesco.com. The launch builds upon Little Moons' established retail footprint across UK grocery multiples, providing frozen category managers with a trend-led café profile designed to drive impulse trial and basket size across the frozen treats fixture. Little Moons Launches Strawberry Matcha Latte Mochi Ice Cream in UK September 8, 2026 New Products Jeni's Introduces Limited-Edition Appalachian Acorn Pie Ice Cream Dairy Hudsonville Ice Cream Refreshes Super Premium Pint Range Facilities The Magnum Ice Cream Company Opens Global Capability Centre in Pune Facilities Wells Enterprises Completes $425M Expansion of Dunkirk Ice Cream Facility Confectionery Dairy Food New Products Related news

Tesco is scaling its summer inventory with over 300 new SKUs, prioritising a significant expansion of the Tesco Finest Deli portfolio and the introduction of weather-resilient BBQ options to drive seasonal growth. 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 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 > Tesco has announced the launch of more than 300 new products for the summer 2026 season, marking a significant expansion across its chilled, frozen, and ambient categories. The strategy focuses on premiumization through the "Tesco Finest" banner and a "weather-proof" approach to outdoor dining, addressing the operational challenges posed by unpredictable British weather patterns. A core component of the launch is the tripling in size of the Tesco Finest Deli range. The retailer is leveraging its popular "3 for £8" promotional mechanic to drive volume across small plates, salads, and continental meats. Expansion of the Tesco Finest Portfolio The deli category remains a primary driver for summer retail growth. By tripling the number of SKUs in the Finest Deli range, Tesco is attempting to capture the "at-home entertaining" market previously dominated by high-end specialist retailers. New innovations in this segment include first-to-market products designed to align with current social media food trends: Hybrid Formats : The introduction of a Savoury Pastel de Nata, utilising mature cheddar custard, represents a move into savoury-sweet hybrid pastries. Loaded Dips : The range includes "loaded" variants of traditional dips, such as Carbonara and Ploughman’s, catering to consumer demand for textured, multi-layered profiles. Warm Deli Options : Tesco is scaling the "hot-eat" olive trend with Garlic Butter Sicilian Nocellara Olives, designed for gentle heating to differentiate the product from standard chilled offerings. Flavour Profiles and Global Inspiration The 2026 summer range draws heavily from Mediterranean, Texan, and Latin American cuisines. The retailer is particularly focused on "Steakhouse Texas Icons," a six-product range built on authentic smokehouse techniques, including dry rubs and layered seasonings. Key product highlights include: Tesco Finest Tequila Pickled Onions : Positioned as a versatile taco and nacho topper. Slow Cooked Pork Belly Burnt Ends : Featuring a honey BBQ rub and a bespoke vinegar mop glaze. Red Thai Inspired Pork Belly Slices : A limited-edition premium cut for elevated at-home dining. Summer BBQ Sector In a move to stabilise the BBQ category against adverse weather, the "Tesco Fire Pit" range has been expanded to 40 lines across chilled and frozen. The technical innovation in this range focuses on "weather-proof" cooking instructions, ensuring that products like Cajun Hot Honey Chicken Wings and Piri Piri Pork Riblets can be prepared in ovens or air-fryers while maintaining an open-fire flavour profile. This dual-path cooking strategy allows the retailer to maintain sales velocity even during periods of low sunshine, reducing the risk of seasonal inventory waste. Summer Range Launch Schedule Tesco is utilising a staggered rollout to maintain consumer interest throughout the quarter: Category Launch Date Frozen Desserts 9 March BBQ and Steakhouse Icons 23 March Picnic and Deli 13 April Chilled Desserts 18 May Bakery 1 June As Tesco rolls out its largest summer range to date, the industry will be monitoring the performance of the expanded Finest Deli range. The success of this launch will likely be measured by its ability to trade up shoppers from standard private-label tiers to the "Finest" premium tier, particularly through the use of the consolidated "3 for £8" multi-buy strategy. Tesco Expands Summer Portfolio with 300 New Products April 13, 2026 Retail Co-op Merges Franchise and Wholesale Divisions Retail Sainsbury's and Morrisons Held Talks over UK Supermarket Merger New Products Tesco Launches 2026 Christmas Festive Food Range New Products Asda Launches Asquith 1965 Craft Beer Range in Partnership with Independent Breweries New Products Food Retail Related news

Doritos F1 Head2Head, a Formula 1-inspired limited-time flavour showdown featuring Late Night Loaded Taco and new Chimichurri Lime. 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 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 > PepsiCo snack brand Doritos has announced the nationwide rollout of Doritos F1 Head2Head, a limited-time product activation inspired by its global partnership with Formula 1. Entering US retail stockists on 10 August 2026, the promotional push introduces a dual-SKU flavour competition featuring the return of Doritos Late Night Loaded Taco alongside the debut of an all-new variant, Doritos Chimichurri Lime. The product introduction aligns with PepsiCo's global "Taste the Thrill" marketing umbrella, leveraging sports sponsorship equity and interactive consumer voting to drive category velocity across mass grocery and convenience channels. Dual Flavour Formulation The F1 Head2Head campaign positions two distinct savoury profiles against each other, encouraging consumer sampling and social media interaction to determine a winning option. The promotional lineup features two distinct flavour profiles packaged in racing-themed limited-edition bags: 🌮 Doritos Late Night Loaded Taco: A returning savoury tortilla chip SKU delivering a bold, multi-layered taco seasoning profile. 🌱 Doritos Chimichurri Lime: An all-new flavour formulation combining South American herbal chimichurri spices with a bright, citrusy lime finish. Kavita Patel, Senior Director of Brand Marketing and Activation at PepsiCo Foods Nor t h America, stated that the execution taps into Formula 1 fan engagement by translating sports rivalries into an interactive retail snacking competition. Global Sports Licensing The limited-time offering (LTO) represents an operational touchpoint under PepsiCo’s broader multi-year sponsorship agreement with Formula 1. By utilising racing-inspired graphics on primary display packaging, the brand aims to stand out in high-traffic retail aisles and capture impulse purchases during peak late-summer trading. The commercial rollout encompasses two standard retail bag sizes designed to capture both planned household grocery purchases and immediate-consumption impulse channels: Multi-Serve Format: Packaged in 9 oz bags offered at a suggested retail price (MSRP) of US$5.49. Single-Serve Format: Offered in 2.6 oz immediate-consumption bags at an MSRP of US$2.79. The Doritos F1 Head2Head line has commenced commercial distribution across nationwide mass, grocery, and convenience stockists, available for a short-run promotional window while supplies last. Doritos Launches F1 Head2Head Flavour Showdown August 10, 2026 New Products Lay's Debuts Holi-LAY'S Range with Chocolate Chips New Products Doritos Debuts Limited-Edition Lemon Pepper Flavour New Products Walkers Launches Gold Crisp Range New Products Utz Brands Launches Three Flavour Innovations in US Food Snacking New Products Related news

Burger King is expanding its chicken category footprint in the US with the launch of two limited-time variations of its heritage Original Chicken Sandwich. 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 > Burger King has announced the launch of two new additions to its Original Chicken Sandwich menu in the United States. Available from 7 July 2026 for a limited time, the introduction of the Loaded Jalapeño and Club variants represents the brand's latest effort to leverage established product platforms to drive consumer engagement. The menu expansion seeks to capture increased share in the highly competitive quick-service restaurant chicken segment by offering variations on a product that has been a core menu fixture since 1979. Product Formulations The limited-time offerings utilise the signature long white meat chicken patty and elongated sesame seed bun of the traditional sandwich, introducing updated topping configurations: 🌶️ Loaded Jalapeño Original Chicken Sandwich: A spicy profile featuring creamy jalapeño sauce, crispy and pickled jalapeños, crispy onions, lettuce, tomatoes, and American cheese. 🥓 Club Original Chicken Sandwich: A traditional club configuration featuring crispy bacon, Swiss cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, and mayonnaise. The core Original Chicken Sandwich will remain on the menu alongside these temporary additions. The launch is part of Burger King's ongoing initiative to align menu developments with consumer feedback. By modernising a classic product rather than introducing an entirely new platform, the brand aims to minimise operational complexity in kitchens while capitalising on existing consumer familiarity. According to Joel Yashinsky, Chief Marketing Officer for Burger King US and Canada, the development of the Loaded Jalapeño and Club variants allows the brand to respond to consumer interest in customisation and bold flavour profiles. The rollout will take place across participating US locations. Burger King Expands Original Chicken Sandwich Lineup with Two New Flavours July 6, 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 Food New Products Foodservice Related news

The launch leverages robust market data indicating a shift towards "heat" in beverage consumption. The company cites forecasts suggesting that sales of spicy vodka are projected to increase by 27% by 2029. 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 > Pernod Ricard’s Absolut Vodka has announced a major strategic collaboration with McIlhenny Company’s TABASCO® Brand, unveiling ABSOLUT® TABASCO™ . The partnership brings together two heritage category leaders to capitalise on the surging global demand for spicy flavour profiles in the spirits sector. Now available in the U.S., the product is scheduled for an aggressive international rollout across more than 50 markets worldwide . Co-Creation and Fermentation The new liquid is not a simple flavour infusion but a co-created spirit designed to capture the authentic complexity of the famous hot sauce. Technical Specifications: Process: Crafted by fusing Absolut Vodka with a natural essence derived from the fermented, aged red pepper mash used to produce TABASCO® Sauce. Liquid Profile: Delivers the distinctive heat and aroma of the pepper sauce without the vinegar acidity dominating the palate. Clean Label: Like the original Absolut, the spicy variant contains no added sugar and is gluten-free. The 'Swicy' Boom The launch leverages robust market data indicating a shift towards "heat" in beverage consumption. The company cites forecasts suggesting that sales of spicy vodka are projected to increase by 27% by 2029 . Caroline Begley , U.S. VP of Marketing for Absolut, commented on the timing: "Global audiences have an adventurous thirst for bold drinks now more than ever... We're proud to partner with another icon and one of the world's leading hot sauce brands to add a spicy kick to both classic and trending vodka cocktails." The brand positions the product as a versatile base for high-velocity serves, ranging from the traditional Bloody Mary to trending Spicy Lemonades and chilled shots. Marketing Campaign and Design To support the global rollout, Absolut has engaged Wieden + Kennedy London to develop a visual campaign inspired by the brand’s legendary print advertising history. Shot on location near Reykjavík, Iceland, the creative features dramatic, real volcanic visuals where volcanoes erupt with "fiery Bloody Marys" instead of lava. Packaging: The bottle design represents a hybrid of the two brand identities, merging Absolut's apothecary-inspired silhouette with the distinct diamond label and colour palette of the TABASCO® bottle. Christian Brown , Head of Agriculture and 6th generation family member at McIlhenny Company, highlighted the shared values of the partnership: "With more than 150 years of pepper expertise, it only made sense for us at TABASCO® Brand to partner with ABSOLUT Vodka... TABASCO® Brand exists to light up everything we touch, and the powerful blending of these two iconic liquids is long overdue." Absolut Partners with TABASCO® Brand to Launch Spicy Vodka January 28, 2026 New Products Müller Launches Halloween Frijj Chilli Chocolate Milkshake New Products General Mills Launches Gushers Super Sour and Sweet & Fiery Flavours New Products Little Latke Launches Garlic Parm and Spicy Honey Dijon Crisps New Products Schweppes Launches Cherry Pepper Soda to Drive Mixer Premiumisation Alcohol New Products Flavours & Colours Marketing Beverage Ingredients Related news

Elmhurst 1925 introduces its Clean Protein RTD line to Canada, offering 27g of plant protein per carton across major grocers via UNFI Canada. 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 > Plant-based beverage manufacturer Elmhurst 1925 has introduced its ready-to-drink (RTD) Clean Protein range to the Canadian market, marking the brand's commercial entry into the functional RTD protein category in the country. Packaged in single-serve 11-ounce (approx. 325ml) cartons and sold in four-packs, each serving delivers 27 grams of complete plant protein and 190 calories. The formulation is built on a base of whole culinary nuts combined with a blend of mung bean and pea protein, containing between 3 and 4 grams of sugar sweetened with cane sugar and stevia leaf extract. The Canadian rollout follows consumer demand for functional, high-protein beverages formulated without stabilising gums, carrageenan, cellulose gels, seed oils, or artificial sweeteners. "We're thrilled to bring Clean Protein to the Canadian market. This launch marks a major milestone in our mission to provide shoppers with cleaner, more nutritious plant-based options," said Dan Bukowski, President of Elmhurst 1925. "As demand for more functional wellness continues to grow, we see a significant opportunity to expand the category with a product that delivers exceptional nutrition and taste without compromising ingredient integrity. This launch allows us to continue building alongside our tremendous retail and distribution partners who have put their trust in Elmhurst and our vision for the plant-based beverage space." Formulation and HydroRelease Processing Method Clean Protein avoids conventional thickeners and synthetic emulsifiers often used to stabilise dairy-alternative beverages. The range utilises Elmhurst’s proprietary HydroRelease method, an extraction process that uses water to separate and recombine the macro- and micronutrients of nuts, grains, and seeds. Operating on 100% renewable hydropower and upcycling production side streams into energy, the mechanical method preserves native fats and proteins, enabling smooth emulsion stability without requiring additive gums or vegetable oils. Nutritionally, each carton supplies up to 44% of the daily recommended intake of dietary protein, alongside naturally occurring iron, potassium, calcium, and dietary fibre. The portfolio holds Non-GMO Project Verified, Certified Vegan, Gluten-Free, and Kosher certifications. Four Flavour Varieties and Nut Bases The Clean Protein portfolio launches across four flavour profiles built on whole cashew or pistachio bases: 🌰 Pistachio : Formulated with whole pistachios and vanilla extract, delivering a nutty profile recognised with 2026 NEXTY and Good Housekeeping Snack awards. 🍫 Chocolate Sea Salt : Combines a buttery cashew base with cocoa and a touch of salt to balance chocolate indulgence. 🍦 Vanilla : Formulated with real vanilla extract and whole cashews for a classic, lightly sweetened dairy-alternative profile. 🍓 Strawberry : Incorporates real strawberry puree blended with cashews to deliver a fruit-forward profile without artificial flavours. Distribution and Retail Footprint Commercial distribution across Canada is being managed through food distributor UNFI Canada. Over the coming weeks, the four-pack cartons will roll out to retail shelves across major Canadian grocery multiples and regional banners, including Loblaws, Sobeys, Metro, Farm Boy, Save-On-Foods, Longo’s, and Fortinos. The line complements Elmhurst’s wider North American retail presence across traditional supermarkets, natural food channels, and digital direct-to-consumer platforms. Elmhurst 1925 Launches Clean Protein RTD Range in Canada September 27, 2026 Coffee & Tea Starbucks Debuts Pink Protein Drink and Pecan Sticky Bun Latte Foodservice Rich Products Launches Protein Syrup for Foodservice Beverages Coffee & Tea Caffè Nero Launches Protein Matcha and Latte with Myprotein Energy Drinks Monster Unveils Protein Energy Hybrid Beverage Line with 30g Protein Dairy New Products Health & Nutrition Beverage Related news

Del Monte Foods partners with Hidden Valley Ranch to launch Ranch Whole Kernel Corn alongside Zesty Italian Cut Green Beans, targeting centre-store growth. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. Featured in this news Food Fresh Del Monte 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 > Del Monte Foods North America, a division of Del Monte Corporation, has expanded its ambient grocery portfolio with the introduction of two seasoned canned vegetable lines: Del Monte Ranch Flavoured Whole Kernel Corn, created in partnership with Clorox brand Hidden Valley Ranch, and Del Monte Zesty Italian Inspired Vinaigrette Cut Green Beans. Rolling out to grocery multiples and regional supermarket banners across the United States, the line extensions are engineered to modernise the centre-store canned vegetable fixture by introducing recognisable dressing and seasoning profiles into traditional vegetable staples. The commercial launch targets growing consumer demand for affordable, shelf-stable meal starters and convenience-oriented side dishes, particularly among younger households seeking quick culinary shortcuts. The introduction also establishes a multi-year collaborative partnership between Del Monte and Hidden Valley Ranch, with the companies confirming that additional co-developed savoury products will roll out during 2027. "Today's families are looking for meal solutions that fit the realities of modern life, and we're proud to help make mealtime easier and more enjoyable every day," said Chris Faller, Vice President of Marketing for the Foods Division at Del Monte Corporation. "Our latest offerings continue to challenge outdated perceptions of canned vegetables as a new generation of consumers prioritise taste and find convenient, affordable and reliable ways to put delicious food on the table." Flavour Formulations The dual-product rollout applies popular condiment and salad dressing flavour systems directly into canned vegetable processing: 🌽 Del Monte Ranch Flavoured Whole Kernel Corn : Combines US-grown whole kernel sweet corn with the buttermilk, herbal, and savoury seasoning notes of Hidden Valley Ranch, designed as an oven-ready side dish, salad topper, or dip ingredient. 🥬 Del Monte Zesty Italian Inspired Vinaigrette Cut Green Beans : Pairs tender cut green beans with a bright, tangy vinaigrette profile combining Mediterranean herbs, vinegar acidity, and subtle spice notes suited for sheet-pan meals, warm casseroles, and pasta bowls. Both recipes are manufactured using US-grown produce harvested at peak maturity and formulated using non-GMO ingredients. By integrating seasoning directly into the liquid pack medium, the products eliminate separate dressing or spice additions for home cooks and foodservice operators. "Ranch is one of the most beloved flavours in America, while Italian-inspired flavours continue to be a familiar favourite for consumers," Faller added. "With our latest bold-flavoured vegetable offerings, we're making it easier for households to bring craveable flavour to everyday vegetables. Our collaboration with Hidden Valley Ranch is one of the ways Del Monte is reimagining the canned vegetable aisle with convenient options that deliver on both quality and taste." Retail Distribution Del Monte Ranch Flavoured Whole Kernel Corn and Del Monte Zesty Italian Inspired Vinaigrette Cut Green Beans have commenced commercial distribution across major US grocery retailers, mass merchandisers, and digital retail platforms. The product lines are currently available through an extensive retail network including: Regional and Multi-State Supermarket Banners : Giant Eagle, Price Chopper, Tops Friendly Markets, Food Lion, Giant Food, Hannaford, Wakefern Food Corp member stores, Meijer, Schnucks, Hy-Vee, Fareway, and Niemann Foods. Wholesale Cooperatives and Independent Networks : Associated Wholesale Grocers (AWG) and SpartanNash retail accounts. E-Commerce and National Grocery Expansion : Available immediately via Amazon, with commercial distribution scheduled to expand into Kroger stores nationwide in early November. Del Monte Launches Ranch Corn and Zesty Italian Green Beans in US October 20, 2026 New Products Pasta Rummo Launches Potato Gnocchi and Traditional Shapes in US New Products Potts Launches Air Fryer Paste Portfolio in Recyclable Aluminium Tubes New Products Old El Paso Launches First Broths and Canned Soups New Products Borealis Foods Expands into Germany with Niom Niom High-Protein Noodles Food New Products Related news