Very Lazy has launched a new ambient chopped onion product in the UK, featuring Quick Fry technology designed to reduce preparation time comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Very Lazy has introduced its new Chopped Onion product to the UK market, aiming to address the time-intensive nature of onion preparation in home cooking. The product is designed as an ambient cooking ingredient that eliminates the need for peeling or chopping. Product Features and Usage The Chopped Onion features proprietary Quick Fry technology, which allows the product to be incorporated directly from the jar into a pan, reaching cooking readiness in under 60 seconds. The product is formulated for consistent quality and consistency, with one tablespoon serving as the equivalent of one small onion. Key benefits for the consumer include: Elimination of manual peeling and chopping tasks. Removal of common kitchen irritants such as eye irritation and lingering odours. Ambient storage stability. Accelerated cooking times for meal preparation. But Why Onion? The launch aligns with a broader industry focus on convenience-led ingredient solutions. As consumer demand for time-saving cooking aids grows, brands are increasingly prioritising products that remove barriers to scratch cooking while maintaining flavour profiles. Kate Sayers, marketing and innovation director, stated that Very Lazy Chopped Onion is designed to deliver consistent flavour without the preparation time, helping shoppers cook from scratch with increased confidence. The brand intends for the product to remove specific barriers in the kitchen while supporting the trend toward more efficient meal preparation. The product is now available to consumers, marking the latest addition to the brand's range of cooking shortcuts New Products Very Lazy Launches Chopped Onion for UK Retail Eddie Sanders July 3, 2026 New Products Conagra Brands Expands Portfolio with Extensive 2026 Product Launches New Products Egglife Foods Launches Chocolate Egg White Wraps Exclusively at Target New Products Campbells and Banza Partner to Launch Gluten Free Condensed Chicken Noodle Soup New Products Nissin Foods Launches Regional BBQ Cup Noodles Range at Walmart Food New Products Related news

AUSTRIA JUICE has launched a patent-pending fermentation technology, reducing sugar in 100% fruit juices by 30% comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. Featured in this news Beverage Austria Juice The Newsroom AUSTRIA JUICE, a leading European producer of food and beverage ingredients, has unveiled a new proprietary fermentation technology designed to reduce the sugar content in 100% fruit juice by a minimum of 30%. The organisation is officially introducing an apple juice concentrate as its flagship reduced-sugar product at the PLMA trade show in Amsterdam this May. The launch is strategically timed to intersect with impending European regulatory shifts, providing consumer packaged goods (CPG) brands with a "plug-and-play" solution to overcome the primary barrier in the juice category: high natural sugar content. A central commercial driver for this technology is the updated EU Breakfast Directives. Originally enacted in June 2024, the revised guidelines will officially take effect on 14 June 2026. These directives introduce a brand-new legal category: "reduced-sugar fruit juice." To qualify for this categorisation, products must demonstrate a minimum sugar reduction of 30% compared to standard offerings. Cornelia Kerschbaumer, Director of Marketing & Communication at AUSTRIA JUICE, stated that the company is aiming to help CPG brands transform this "regulatory disruption" into a tangible product opportunity. By utilising this technology, manufacturers can legally label their beverages as "reduced-sugar fruit juice from concentrate" without resorting to artificial sweeteners. Technical Formulation and Fermentation Logic Reducing sugar in fruit juice without compromising its sensory profile has historically challenged the beverage sector. AUSTRIA JUICE addresses this by leveraging its deep institutional knowledge in wine fermentation. The Technical Process: Controlled Fermentation: The patent-pending process converts the natural sugars present in the juice. Refinement: Processing aids are subsequently and completely removed. Blending: The processed liquid is then precision-blended with standard fruit juice concentrate to hit the exact 30% reduction target for both sugar and calories. A critical differentiator is the prevention of "off-flavours." Kai Oliver Antonius, Vice President of AUSTRIA JUICE, noted that the streamlined process guarantees the final product contains no undesirable alcoholic or fermented aromas. Furthermore, the company utilises its distinct FTNF (From the Named Fruit) expertise to ensure the liquid remains naturally fruit-forward, maintaining the robust mouthfeel consumers expect from a 100% juice product. AUSTRIA JUICE is positioning the technology as an "at-scale" infrastructure solution for beverage manufacturers. Severin Guski, Business Development Manager, highlighted that the reduced-sugar concentrates—currently available in apple, orange, and multifruit, are market-ready. This "just add your brand and sell" approach allows major players to bypass lengthy internal R&D cycles, diluting the concentrates for immediate ready-to-drink (RTD) retail distribution. According to Innova Market Insights, the high natural sugar content of 100% juice is the primary barrier to consumption in the current wellness-driven market, with 66 per cent of consumers actively trying to limit their sugar intake. By delivering a clean-label, sweetener-free solution that aligns with strict incoming EU directives, AUSTRIA JUICE is securing its position as an essential supply-chain partner for the next generation of the European beverage market. Beverage AUSTRIA JUICE Launches Fermentation Tech to Reduce Fruit Juice Sugar by 30% Eddie Sanders May 12, 2026 Logistics & Supply Chain Evolution Fresh Secures Fresh Orange Juice Supply Chain New Products Dose and Juice Press Launch Clinically Backed Dose of Vitality Smoothie New Products Vive Organic Expands Functional Shot Portfolio With Cognitive Focus Business & Finance Prodalim Acquires Food Tech Startup 'Better Juice' to Scale Sugar Reduction Tech Beverage Health & Nutrition New Solutions Ingredients Technology Related news

Shipley Donuts has introduced a limited-edition Patriotic Pack of yeast donuts decorated with seasonal colours, available at participating locations. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Shipley Donuts has launched a limited-edition product line, the "Patriotic Pack," in anticipation of the Fourth of July holiday. Available from 22 June through 5 July, the range serves to align the brand's inventory with consumer interest during the summer holiday period. The products are formulated using the company's existing yeast donut base, featuring specific aesthetic modifications to appeal to seasonal demand: 🍩 Yeast donut with red icing 🍩 Yeast donut with white icing 🍩 Yeast donut with blue icing 🍩 Holiday-themed sprinkles The launch is supported by a digital ordering framework to manage stock and customer fulfilment. Consumers can secure the limited-edition items up to seven days in advance through the company's proprietary app and website. Shipley Donuts continues to utilise Olo for its catering and large-order operations, facilitating high-volume requests for corporate meetings and group gatherings during the holiday window. Alongside the product launch, Shipley Donuts is utilising the conclusion of National Donut Month to incentivise in-store traffic. On Friday, 26 June, the brand is offering a complimentary donut with any purchase at participating locations. This operational tactic aims to maintain consumer engagement throughout the final week of June, bridging the period between National Donut Month and the Fourth of July holiday demand. New Products Shipley Donuts Launches Limited Edition Patriotic Pack for July Eddie Sanders June 23, 2026 New Products Krispy Kreme Launches Girl Scout Cookie Doughnuts across US New Products Krispy Kreme Unveils Patriotic Doughnut Collection for 250th Independence Day New Products Dunkin Launches Seasonal Patriotic Menu New Products Krispy Kreme Launches Summer Doughnut and Chiller Collection across US Bakery New Products Related news

Canadian regenerative ingredients company Above Food has agreed to acquire the speciality crop food ingredients division of The Redwood Group for approximately $34 million, in a move that strengthens its global supply chain and ingredient capabilities. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Canadian regenerative ingredients company Above Food has agreed to acquire the speciality crop food ingredients division of The Redwood Group for approximately $34 million, in a move that strengthens its global supply chain and ingredient capabilities. Under the terms of the deal, Above Food will pay $8.1 million in cash and issue 5.6 million common shares, with the transaction subject to customary closing adjustments. The Redwood Group’s crop ingredients division, headquartered in Montana, US, supplies grains, pulses and speciality crops to customers across more than 35 countries. Its vertically integrated operations span origination, merchandising, processing and value-added finishing, serving both the human and pet food sectors. Above Food said the acquisition aligns with its seed-to-fork model, which ensures full control over sourcing, processing and product development, while maintaining commitments to traceability, quality, and regenerative agriculture practices. Lionel Kambeitz, founder, president, CEO and executive chairman of Above Food, commented: “The Redwood Group’s speciality crop ingredient division operates in full harmony with our seed-to-fork approach. It brings top-tier processing and storage capabilities, backed by robust safety and quality systems, and strong relationships with growers, suppliers and customers.” Mike Kincaid, founder and president of The Redwood Group, described the transaction as a “significant milestone” for the company: “While it’s a bittersweet moment in our history, this deal represents a tremendous opportunity for our teams in Mission, Kansas and Chester, Montana, to join an organisation focused on speciality crops and value-added opportunities both regionally and globally.” He added that Above Food’s acquisition would enable the combined business to enhance utilisation and expand margin structures across several Above Food assets. The deal follows Above Food’s acquisition of Brotalia last month – a Spanish plant-based food and technology firm specialising in 3D printing and dry fermentation systems – as the company continues to expand its regenerative food platform and global ingredients footprint. Would you like me to add a headline deck + meta description (for SEO and web publishing) in the same B2B style? It’s typically how professional food trade outlets prepare article intros. Ingredients Above Food acquires Redwood Group’s crop ingredients business in $34m deal August 11, 2024 Food Business & Finance Ingredients Related news

BJ’s Restaurant and Brewhouse is expanding its menu on 25 June with a new range of handcrafted chicken sandwiches, including a value-focused meal deal option. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom BJ’s Restaurant and Brewhouse is expanding its menu with a new range of handcrafted crispy chicken sandwiches. The launch, effective 25 June, introduces three distinct flavour profiles to the chain's current offering, alongside a value-focused meal deal programme. The introduction of the new chicken sandwich line follows a broader initiative to innovate the chain's core menu, which has traditionally focused on pizza and the brand's signature Pizookie dessert items. Heidi Rogers, Chief Marketing Officer at BJ’s Restaurants, Inc., stated that the new additions are intended to provide guests with increased variety and customisation options. The move also serves to reinforce the brand's value proposition through integrated meal deals. New Chicken Sandwich Offerings The updated menu features three core variations of the new sandwich, each utilising crispy fried chicken on a brioche bun. The range includes: 🌶️ Korean Sweet & Spicy Chicken Sandwich: Featuring an Asian glaze, in-house pickled vegetables, sesame seeds, and sriracha aioli. 🍗 BJ’s Classic Crispy Chicken Sandwich: Offered plain or with a choice of signature sauces—including Honey BBQ, Peppered BBQ, Hot Honey Buffalo, Tatonka Stout Buffalo, or Nashville Hot—topped with coleslaw, dill pickles, and mayonnaise. 🐔 BJ’s Original Crispy Chicken Sandwich: Prepared with lettuce, tomatoes, dill pickles, and honey mustard. Promotions To support the launch, the brand is leveraging its existing Pizookie Meal Deal. Starting 25 June, guests can purchase the Original Crispy Chicken Sandwich combined with a personal Pizookie for a set price. This promotion is available from Monday through Friday, a strategy intended to drive weekday foot traffic and increase average transaction value. In addition to the sandwich launch, the company is reintroducing its Graham Cracker S’mores Pizookie to the seasonal dessert menu. This item features a Ghirardelli triple chocolate cookie base, topped with graham cracker crumbles, toasted marshmallows, and vanilla bean ice cream. Foodservice BJ’s Restaurant and Brewhouse Launches New Chicken Sandwich Lineup Eddie Sanders June 24, 2026 Foodservice Burger King Expands Original Chicken Sandwich Lineup with Two New Flavours New Products 7 Brew Launches Freeze the Heat Frozen Chiller Lineup Foodservice White Castle and Garage Beer Launch Summer Collaboration Foodservice Subway Canada Expands Menu with New Customisable Hot Dog Offering New Products Foodservice Related news

The launch aims to capture the "clean label" consumer, offering pantry-friendly ingredient decks across multiple categories including milk alternatives, creamers, and ready-to-drink (RTD) coffee. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Premium plant-based beverage brand Califia Farms has announced a significant expansion of its "Simple & Organic" platform to kick off 2026. The innovation slate is anchored by the company's first-ever entry into the soy category, alongside a strategic reformulation of its core creamer portfolio to remove oils and gums. The launch aims to capture the "clean label" consumer, offering pantry-friendly ingredient decks across multiple categories including milk alternatives, creamers, and ready-to-drink (RTD) coffee. Simple & Organic Soymilk Califia’s debut in the soy market is positioned as a "meaningful innovation" for a category that has seen limited premium activity in recent years. The product is crafted with just three ingredients: organic soybeans, water, and sea salt . Product Specifications: Nutritional Profile: Delivers 8g of protein per serving. Clean Label: Free from oils and gums. Formats: Available in 48oz and 32oz bottles. Suzanne Ginestro , Chief Marketing Officer at Califia Farms, cited shifting demographic trends as a key driver for the launch: "Soy has seen an 8% consumption boost amongst Gen Z, citing protein-benefits; we're excited to offer soymilk drinkers a new, premium, protein-packed, and simple option that captures Califia's irresistible goodness." Creamer Expansion and Reformulation Building on the momentum of its Simple & Organic Almond Creamers launched in 2024, the brand is introducing two new flavours: Sweet Crème and Salted Caramel . Simultaneously, Califia is executing a major update to its core creamer portfolio. The recipes for best-sellers like French Vanilla , Caramel , and Toasted Hazelnut have been reformulated to eliminate oils and gums while maintaining the signature texture fans expect. RTD Coffee & Tea Innovation The 2026 roadmap also includes a new lineup of Coffee and Tea Blends, designed for customisation or direct consumption. The New Lineup: ☕ Vanilla Cold Brew with Almondmilk 🍵 Unsweetened Matcha with Almondmilk 🍬 Brown Sugar Cold Brew with Almondmilk Rounding out the expansion, Califia is introducing a new 32oz format for its Simple & Organic Coconutmilk, targeting versatility in cooking and baking applications. Plant-based Califia Farms Expands 'Simple & Organic' Platform with First-Ever Soymilk and Clean Label Creamers News January 22, 2026 Plant-based Steakholder Foods Partners with KeHE to Launch Perfecta Plant-Based Range in US Business & Finance Bayou Best Foods Acquires Plant Based Seafood Firm BettaF!sh Plant-based Beyond Meat Launches Beyond Steak Filet at Wegmans and H E B New Products Forager Project Expands Indulgent Dairy-Free Creamer Line New Products Beverage Plant-based Coffee & Tea Flavours & Colours Related news

The company is officially launching ChlorOxygen® Lemonade Powder, translating its legacy liquid botanical formulation into a modern, on-the-go stick pack. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Herbs, Etc. , a practitioner-founded herbal supplement manufacturer with nearly six decades of industry experience, has announced a major format expansion for its top-selling chlorophyll product. The company is officially launching ChlorOxygen® Lemonade Powder , translating its legacy liquid botanical formulation into a modern, on-the-go stick pack. The launch signals a strategic move by the 57-year-old brand to capture market share within the booming powdered functional hydration category. By adapting a product historically confined to the "medicine cabinet" (liquid droppers) into a portable format, Herbs, Etc. is targeting the active lifestyle demographic seeking plant-forward wellness rituals. Chlorophyll Meets Dietary Fibre While maintaining the core active ingredient that established the brand's reputation for natural energy and daily cleansing support, the new powder introduces a distinct nutritional upgrade optimised for modern dietary trends. Key Product Specifications per Stick Pack: Active Base: 50mg of chlorophyll. Gut Health Support: 3 grams of dietary fibre (addressing a major macro-nutritional trend). Clean Label: Zero sugar and 100% vegan ingredients. The addition of fibre is a particularly notable formulation choice, effectively bridging the gap between the greens/cleansing category and the gut health segment. Balancing Heritage and Convenience Dan Coyle , President of Herbs, Etc., emphasised the importance of maintaining the brand's practitioner-grade integrity while adapting to new consumption habits. "Consumers are increasingly looking for clean, simple ways to support everyday wellness," Coyle stated. "We developed this new format to make a trusted product even more convenient, without compromising quality or formulation integrity." Since its founding in 1969, the company has built its equity on liquid botanical extracts and bioavailability. This new format is designed to leverage that established trust to compete against newer, trend-driven supplement startups in the hydration space. Sara Steinbeck , Director of Sales and Marketing, highlighted the strategic alignment with consumer demand: "As the category continues to evolve, we're focused on meeting consumers where they are. ChlorOxygen® Lemonade Powder builds on a proven product while offering a format that reflects modern lifestyles. Plus, it has the added benefit of fibre, which a lot of consumers are looking to increase in their diets." Market Context For retailers, the introduction of a single-serve stick pack allows Herbs, Etc. to expand its merchandising footprint. The new format is highly suited for impulse purchases at the checkout or placement within the active nutrition and water-enhancer aisles, moving the brand beyond the traditional, specialized supplement sets. Health & Nutrition Herbs, Etc. Enters Functional Hydration Market with ChlorOxygen Stick Pack Format News February 27, 2026 New Products Barebells Expands Milk Drink Range with New Cookie Flavour Coffee & Tea Ehrmann Partners with Glow25 to Launch RTD Collagen Coffee New Products Huel Expands Ready-to-drink Portfolio with Four New Flavours New Products AMASS Brands Group Launches Functional Electrolyte Powder Mixers Beverage New Products Health & Nutrition Related news

The UK government has announced a significant extension to the Soft Drinks Industry Levy (SDIL), commonly referred to as the sugar tax, now encompassing high-sugar milk-based drinks. Analysis UK Sugar Tax Extension and Its Implications for the Food and Beverage Industry This move, effective from 1 January 2028, expands the levy beyond traditional soft drinks to include pre-packaged milk-based and milk alternative beverages with added sugar, such as flavoured milks, milkshakes, sweetened yoghurt drinks, and ready-to-drink (RTD) coffees. November 28, 2025 Go Subscribe to weekly updates Email* Yes, subscribe me to your newsletter. Submit Related News The UK government has announced a significant extension to the Soft Drinks Industry Levy (SDIL), commonly referred to as the sugar tax, now encompassing high-sugar milk-based drinks. The extension represents a notable shift in regulatory focus and carries profound implications for manufacturers, retailers, and consumers alike. Here, we explore the expected impact on the UK food and beverage sector, drawing on data trends, industry commentary, and policy objectives. 1. Background: The Soft Drinks Industry Levy Introduced in April 2018, the SDIL was designed to reduce sugar consumption in soft drinks. It targets manufacturers and importers rather than consumers directly, incentivising product reformulation. Since its introduction: The average sugar content in drinks within scope has fallen by nearly 50% . Many manufacturers halved sugar levels in flagship products to avoid levy charges. The policy has been credited with influencing healthier consumer choices without significantly affecting sales volumes. Historically, milk-based drinks with added sugar were exempt from the levy despite containing sugar levels comparable to fizzy drinks, often added directly during production. This extension seeks to close that gap. 2. Scope and Threshold Changes The new levy extension introduces the following changes: Threshold reduction: Drinks with sugar content exceeding 4.5g per 100ml will now be subject to the tax (down from the previous 5g per 100ml). In-scope products: Flavoured milks, milkshakes, sweetened yoghurt drinks, and RTD coffees with added sugar. Exempt products: Plain milk and unsweetened milk alternatives remain outside the levy. The phased implementation provides manufacturers until 1 January 2028 to adjust formulations, packaging, and pricing strategies. 3. Policy Objectives and Expected Outcomes The government projects that the extension will deliver measurable public health and economic benefits: Reduction of daily calorie intake by 4 million in children and 13 million in adults across England. Health and economic benefits estimated at £1 billion , including £36 million in savings for the NHS . Targeted reduction in obesity, heart disease, stroke, and cancer risk factors, particularly among children from low-income households. Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting emphasised the broader societal and economic impacts, linking healthier diets to reduced pressure on the NHS and a more productive workforce. 4. Industry Response Supportive Perspectives The Food and Drink Federation (FDF) has welcomed the extension, noting that it: Recognises the technical and financial challenges of product reformulation. Acknowledges industry investments in healthier product innovation. Opens dialogue on government support for R&D to facilitate further reformulation. Manufacturers are already weighing strategies to reduce sugar levels in in-scope products while preserving taste, texture, and consumer appeal. This presents both operational challenges and opportunities for product differentiation. Critical Perspectives Some experts remain cautious. James Watson, UK partner at Argon & Co, criticised the lack of a clear, long-term strategy, highlighting: Reformulation costs, including new ingredient sourcing, packaging updates, and compliance. Limited impact of milkshake levies, given their relatively small contribution to overall sugar consumption. Uncertainty over how tax revenue will be reinvested to further public health objectives. Watson argues that without a coherent roadmap, piecemeal measures may create mixed signals for manufacturers and consumers alike. 5. Strategic Implications for Manufacturers For food and beverage companies, the extended SDIL necessitates proactive planning across several dimensions: Product Reformulation: Reducing sugar content without compromising taste or stability is technically complex, particularly in milk-based beverages where sugar contributes to texture and mouthfeel. Investment in alternative sweeteners or flavour-modifying technologies may accelerate. Pricing Strategy: Passing the tax onto consumers could affect price-sensitive segments. Strategic pricing models must balance compliance costs with maintaining brand loyalty. Labelling and Compliance: Regulatory updates will require revisions to packaging, nutritional labelling, and marketing communications. Manufacturers will need robust tracking systems to ensure all products meet the revised thresholds. Portfolio Diversification: The extension incentivises growth in low- or no-sugar milk-based beverages. Expanding offerings in this space may align with both regulatory compliance and evolving consumer health trends. 6. Market Opportunities Despite the compliance burden, the extension creates avenues for innovation: Development of fortified low-sugar beverages with functional ingredients (e.g., protein, probiotics). Launch of RTD coffee and milk products using natural or alternative sweeteners. Marketing strategies that highlight health-conscious product credentials to appeal to a growing segment of consumers prioritising nutrition. Industry analysts suggest that companies that anticipate and embrace these changes may gain a competitive edge in a market increasingly influenced by public health initiatives. The UK’s sugar tax extension signals the government’s commitment to curbing sugar consumption in all liquid forms, reflecting a broader public health agenda. For the food and beverage industry, this is both a challenge and an opportunity: companies must navigate the costs of reformulation, labelling, and pricing, while also leveraging innovation to meet evolving consumer preferences. Success will depend on a combination of technical agility, strategic foresight, and constructive collaboration with policymakers. The extended SDIL underscores a fundamental truth for the sector: in the era of health-conscious regulation, sugar reduction is not optional—it’s a strategic imperative. Key Takeaways for Industry Professionals: The levy now applies to milkshakes, flavoured milks, RTD coffees, and sweetened yoghurt drinks. Sugar threshold lowered to 4.5g/100ml; compliance required by 1 January 2028. Projected health and economic benefits include £1bn in savings and millions fewer daily calories consumed. Reformulation, pricing, labelling, and product innovation will be critical levers for compliance and growth. Overview

Federal Industries has unveiled the Vision Series Salad Case, a refrigerated merchandiser featuring proprietary stainless steel lettuce guards designed to maintain air curtain integrity and optimise high-speed salad assembly. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Federal Industries®, a leading manufacturer of speciality refrigeration and display solutions, has announced the launch of the Vision Series® Salad Case™. The new refrigerated, self-serve merchandiser is engineered to address the specific operational and thermal challenges of modern salad assembly programs, where ingredient accessibility and the preservation of delicate greens are paramount. The introduction of the Vision Series reflects a broader shift in the foodservice sector toward "assembly-point" efficiency. By placing ingredients directly at the point of preparation, the system aims to reduce staff movement and ensure consistent product quality during peak demand periods. Technical Innovation: The Proprietary Lettuce Guard A primary technical challenge in open-air salad merchandising is the tendency for loose leafy greens to migrate and obstruct the air curtain, leading to temperature fluctuations and ingredient spoilage. Federal Industries has addressed this through a proprietary perforated stainless steel lettuce guard. Key technical attributes of the Vision Series engineering include: Airflow Optimisation: The lettuce guard prevents debris from blocking the air curtain, ensuring a steady flow of refrigerated air and maintaining optimal temperature zones. Large-Capacity Infrastructure: Designed with bin-friendly shelving to accommodate high-volume ingredient storage, minimising the need for frequent restocking during busy shifts. Integrated Tag Moulding: Built-in labelling systems allow for rapid ingredient identification, supporting a faster and more accurate assembly workflow for front-line staff. Solving Operational Strains in High Volume Environments The Vision Series is specifically targeted at quick-service restaurants (QSRs), convenience retail, and institutional dining halls where salad programs are a core revenue driver. Ross Kaye, Product Manager at Federal Industries, emphasised that while salad assembly is becoming more common, maintaining freshness during high-speed production remains a significant hurdle. "The Vision Series Salad Case was engineered specifically for salads," Kaye stated. "It helps operators work faster, stay organised, and deliver high-quality meals with confidence." For B2B stakeholders, this translates to reduced food waste and improved labour productivity—two critical metrics in an era of rising operational costs. Heritage and Industrial Reliability Founded in 1919, Federal Industries has established a reputation for durable construction and "thoughtful engineering" in demanding real-world environments. The Vision Series builds on this 100-plus-year legacy, offering a solution that is both robust enough for heavy industrial use and refined enough for front-of-house customer interactions. The company's focus on "real-world performance" is evident in the choice of materials and the accessibility of the shelving units, which are designed to withstand the rigours of constant use in education, healthcare, and commercial retail settings. Market Outlook As the "better-for-you" and fresh-prepared segments continue to grow within the foodservice industry, specialised equipment like the Vision Series Salad Case is becoming a competitive necessity. Standard refrigerated cases often fail to meet the specific humidity and airflow requirements of fresh produce, making specialised "salad-first" engineering a key differentiator for equipment buyers. Industry observers expect the launch of the Vision Series to set a new benchmark for specialised produce merchandising. By combining functional display with high-speed operational support, Federal Industries is positioning itself as a primary partner for brands looking to scale their fresh-prepared offerings throughout 2026 and 2027. Fresh Produce Federal Industries Launches Vision Series Salad Case for Foodservice Eddie Sanders April 6, 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 Technology New Solutions Fresh Produce Foodservice Related news

The UK Government has set out a definitive timeline for significant animal welfare reforms, launching a consultation on plans to completely phase out colony cage systems for laying hens by 2032. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom The UK Government has set out a definitive timeline for significant animal welfare reforms, launching a consultation on plans to completely phase out colony cage systems for laying hens by 2032 . Announced today (12 January), the proposals form part of the broader Animal Welfare Strategy and include simultaneous measures to tighten restrictions on painful sheep husbandry practices, specifically castration and tail docking. The End of the 'Cage Age' for Hens Under the new plans, the poultry sector faces a hard deadline. All colony cage systems—which currently supply just over 20% of UK shell egg production—must be phased out by 2032. This mandate extends to smaller producers, ensuring sector-wide compliance. The government cites the restrictive nature of current systems, where up to 80 birds are housed per cage with individual space allowances no larger than an A4 sheet of paper. The move aligns legislation with existing commercial reality; major retailers ranging from Sainsbury’s to Aldi have already committed to removing caged eggs from their supply chains. The government aims to bring regulatory baselines in line with this "widespread best practice" and public sentiment. Lamb Welfare and Pain Management Parallel to the poultry reforms, the government is consulting on stricter regulations for sheep farming. The proposals require farmers to take tangible steps to minimise pain during necessary mutilation practices such as castration and tail docking. Based on advice from the independent Animal Welfare Committee, the new rules would likely mandate greater use of pain relief and improve access to alternative methods, addressing concerns that these procedures are often carried out without anaesthesia. Stakeholder Commentary Farming Minister Dame Angela Eagle framed the reforms as a balance between ethics and economics: "We are committed to improving the lives of farm animals and to supporting farmers to produce food sustainably, profitably and to the high standards consumers expect. British consumers want high animal welfare standards and these measures reflect those values, creating healthier livestock and high welfare food production." Anthony Field , Head of Compassion in World Farming UK, welcomed the swift action: "We warmly welcome the UK Government’s leadership in honouring a key commitment in its Animal Welfare Strategy by swiftly launching a consultation on phasing out the use of cages for laying hens. This marks an important and long-awaited step towards ending the cage age." Regarding the sheep welfare proposals, Field added: "Lambs are routinely subjected to painful, unnecessary mutilations... causing great suffering, so this is an extremely encouraging move." Consultation and Next Steps The proposals are now subject to an 8-week consultation period commencing today. This window allows farmers, industry bodies, and welfare organisations to submit views on the implementation, ensuring that impacts on trade and production are managed effectively. This legislative push follows recent enactments including the Animal Welfare (Import of Dogs, Cats and Ferrets) Act 2025 and the Dogs (Protection of Livestock) (Amendment) Act 2025 . Legal UK Government Unveils Roadmap to Ban Colony Cages by 2032 and Tighten Sheep Welfare Rules News January 13, 2026 Alcohol UK Introduce Digital Age Verification for Alcohol Sales Facilities Haribo Opens New £35M Warehouse West Yorkshire Facility Soft drinks Coca-Cola Relaunches Zero Caffeine Zero Sugar in UK Soft drinks PepsiCo Brings US Functional Soda 'Poppi' to the UK Market Sustainability Agriculture Dairy Legal Meat & Seafood Safety & Quality Related news

Bansk Group has entered a definitive agreement to acquire a majority interest in So Good So You, the top-selling US refrigerated wellness shot brand, following a period of 500% sales growth. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Bansk Group, a consumer-focused private investment firm, has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire a majority interest in So Good So You. The company is a leading player in the rapidly expanding refrigerated functional wellness shot category. As part of the transaction, co-founders Rita Katona and Eric Hall will remain equity holders and maintain seats on the board of directors. Prelude Growth Partners, which previously held a minority investment in the company, will exit its position. While the majority stake has been confirmed, the specific financial terms of the deal were not disclosed. Acquisition and Leadership Structure The partnership with Bansk Group is intended to support the next phase of growth for So Good So You. The company was founded in 2014 with a focus on accessible functional nutrition. Under the new ownership structure, the founders will continue to guide the brand’s mission while leveraging Bansk’s experience in scaling purpose-driven consumer brands. Brian O'Connor, Senior Partner and Chief Investment Officer at Bansk Group, stated that the acquisition aligns with the firm's long-term approach to value creation. He noted that consumers are increasingly seeking "food-as-medicine" solutions that integrate into daily routines. Market Leadership and Performance Metrics So Good So You has demonstrated significant commercial momentum over the last four years, growing sales more than fivefold. This performance has established the company as the top-selling wellness shot brand across total U.S. Multi-Outlet (MULO) channels. The brand's portfolio includes refrigerated shots formulated with organic ingredients targeting specific wellness needs: Immunity and Energy: Formulations designed for daily physiological support. Digestion and Mood: Functional blends aimed at holistic health. This growth has been supported by consistent investment in sales and marketing, alongside innovation across various functions, flavours, and formats. Consumer Trends and Functional Innovation The acquisition comes at a time of heightened interest in the functional beverage sector. Bansk Group’s investment suggests a move to professionalise and scale the wellness shot sub-category, which has moved from niche health stores into mainstream retail. The brand’s success is attributed to its ability to combine functional efficacy with taste, addressing a common barrier in the wellness space. By acquiring a category leader, Bansk Group is positioned to capture a larger share of the wellness market as consumers transition away from traditional supplements toward refrigerated, food-based formats. So Good So You is a certified B Corporation, and its business model is built around sustainability and transparency. The brand’s co-founders emphasised that Bansk Group is aligned with these core values, particularly regarding environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles. The company has historically prioritised responsible business practices and investment in its workforce. This focus on sustainability is expected to remain a central component of the brand’s identity as it expands its reach to new consumer demographics under Bansk Group’s guidance. Business & Finance Bansk Group to Acquire Wellness Shot and Beverage Brand So Good So You Eddie Sanders March 25, 2026 Technology Circus SE Completes Acquisition of Belgian Food Robotics Firm Alberts Business & Finance Dole Nordic Acquires Greenfood Fresh Produce Division to Expand Regional Footprint Business & Finance Vitamin Well Group Acquires EMPWR Nutrition Group Business & Finance Solina Acquires Epicurean Butter to Enhance Dairy Flavour Solutions Business & Finance Beverage Health & Nutrition Related news

Catalina Snacks has expanded its retail portfolio with the launch of single-serve Snack Size Multipacks alongside its upcoming national marketing campaign. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Better-for-you brand Catalina Snacks has announced the nationwide launch of its new Snack Size Multipacks, translating its best-selling product lines into single-serve formats. The product rollout is paired with the upcoming debut of the company's national marketing campaign, designed to capture the growing consumer demand for functional, convenient nutrition that aligns with modern eating habits and active daily routines. Snacking and Nutrition The expansion of the brand's packaging configurations comes as the lines between traditional meals and snacks continue to blur, with consumers increasingly relying on snacks to sustain energy throughout the day. To address these shifting purchasing patterns, Catalina Snacks has formulated its product range to deliver complete nutrition, focusing on high protein and dietary fibre content with lower sugar values. The portfolio is positioned to meet the nutritional requirements of health-conscious consumers, including those following high-protein eating habits and GLP-1-related nutrition plans. By offering smaller, portion-controlled packaging, the manufacturer provides retail channels with a versatile option to capture transactional growth in both the cereal and savoury snack aisles. Portfolio and Formulations The new Snack Size Multipacks package the brand’s signature Protein Cereal and Protein Snack Mix formulations into individually wrapped, single-serve pouches. The cereal range is sold in boxes containing six individual pouches, with each serving delivering 11 grams of protein, a high source of fibre, and zero grams of sugar. The certified formulations are launching with two distinct sweet flavour profiles: 🍞 Cinnamon Toast – A warm, cinnamon-spiced protein cereal. 🍓 Fruity – A sweet, fruit-forward classic cereal variant. For consumers seeking savoury profiles, the Snack Mix range is sold in boxes containing five individual pouches. The formulation combines the brand's protein cereal with protein-dense pretzels and nuts, delivering 10 grams of protein and a source of dietary fibre per serving. The initial savoury lineup includes two distinct configurations: 🧂 Traditional – A classic, savoury-seasoned cereal and nut mix. 🧀 Cheddar – A cheese-infused savoury protein snack mix. The convenience-driven formats are engineered to fit into travel, workplace, and on-the-go routines, eliminating portioning steps for the consumer. National Snacking Campaign To support the physical retail launch and drive consumer brand awareness, Catalina Snacks is deploying its new national marketing campaign, titled "Snack Like It Matters". Scheduled to launch on 6 July 2026, the digital-first campaign will focus on the role of nutrition in modern snacking behaviours. The creative assets will be distributed across multiple digital networks, including connected TV (CTV), streaming video, YouTube, Meta, and TikTok. According to Sam Martin, Chief Revenue & Marketing Officer at Catalina Snacks, the campaign is grounded in the insight that consumers are increasingly looking for foods that provide clear functional benefits without requiring a compromise on taste. He noted that the new single-serve multipacks are designed to deliver on these expectations by providing immediate, portable access to the brand's protein-packed offerings. By combining the launch of the physical multipacks with a coordinated digital media push, the brand intends to increase everyday consumer touchpoints, driving repeat purchase frequency and supporting grocery partners during peak summer trading. Snacking Catalina Snacks Launches Snack Size Multipacks and National Marketing Campaign Eddie Sanders June 16, 2026 New Products Pringles Enters Bakery Segment with Flavour-Infused Hot Dog Buns New Products King's Hawaiian Enters Convenience Retail with New Soft Pretzel Bites Flavours & Colours Takis Commits to Removing Artificial Colours New Products Drake's Cakes Launches Sunny Doodle Dogs New Products Snacking Food Related news