Wingstop has announced a major flavour expansion for the start of the year, turning up the heat on the popular "swicy" (sweet + spicy) trend with the launch of the Hot Honey Trio. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Wingstop has announced a major flavour expansion for the start of the year, turning up the heat on the popular "swicy" (sweet + spicy) trend with the launch of the Hot Honey Trio . The limited-time lineup builds upon the success of the brand's original Hot Honey Rub, diversifying the profile into three distinct executions. The launch targets the growing consumer appetite for complex heat profiles, offering a range that spans from savoury garlic notes to high-intensity sriracha. Flavour Architecture and Variation The Trio is designed to offer a spectrum of heat experiences, moving beyond a single SKU to a comprehensive flavour tier. The Lineup: 🍯🔥 Hot Honey Rub: The returning "classic" option. A dry rub application delivering a balanced interplay of heat and sweetness. 🌶️🥣 Saucy Sriracha Hot Honey: A wet-sauce innovation described as a "fiery take on the OG," kicked up with the distinct profile of sriracha chilli. 🧄🍯 Sweet Garlic Hot Honey: A savoury-sweet option layering garlic and honey with a familiar background heat, targeting fans of the brand's existing garlic profiles. The 'Formal Apology' To support the rollout, Wingstop is executing a tongue-in-cheek marketing campaign. The brand has issued a "formal apology" to fans, acknowledging the difficulty of choosing between the three options. This messaging aligns with the brand's strategy of framing flavour exploration as a lifestyle choice, encouraging social sharing and "crew" consumption occasions ranging from game days to date nights. Michael Skipworth , President and CEO of Wingstop, commented on the decision to expand the platform: "Hot Honey fans are passionate, and we wanted to give them more ways to indulge. Here's our official apology — we're sorry that choosing your favourite hot honey just got harder. The good news is, at Wingstop, you don't have to choose." Commercial Availability The Hot Honey Trio is available immediately at Wingstop locations nationwide for a limited time. The flavours can be ordered across the brand's full protein menu via the Wingstop app and website. Foodservice Wingstop Expands 'Sweet-Heat' Portfolio with Limited-Time Hot Honey Trio Nationwide News January 20, 2026 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 New Products Health-Ade Taps 'Swicy' Trend with Strawberry Mango Chilli Kombucha Foodservice Meat & Seafood New Products Related news

RäFoods has introduced the Living Nutrition Fund™, a national initiative dedicating a portion of all product proceeds to childhood literacy and nutritional education, aiming to address the foundational drivers of long-term public health and human well-being. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom RäFoods, a pioneer in the "Living Nutrition" category, focusing on biologically active, nutrient-dense foods, has announced the launch of the Living Nutrition Fund™. This national initiative is designed to advance childhood literacy and nutritional education across the United States, addressing two critical pillars that the company identifies as foundational to long-term human health. The program establishes a sustainable funding model where a percentage of proceeds from every product sold across the RäFoods portfolio is directed toward the fund. The initiative aims to support schools, non-profit organisations, and community leaders in delivering practical resources to children and families nationwide. Literacy and Nutrition The Living Nutrition Fund™ is built on the premise that educational proficiency and physical health are inextricably linked. RäFoods cites critical national data as the catalyst for the initiative: Literacy Gap: Nearly two-thirds of U.S. children do not reach reading proficiency by the end of fourth grade, a milestone highly correlated with lifetime opportunity and economic stability. Health Crisis: Rising rates of diet-related diseases underscore an urgent need for "nutrition literacy" to be established during early developmental stages. By addressing these dual challenges, RäFoods is positioning itself as more than a functional food provider, moving toward a "total well-being" brand identity that invests in the intellectual and physical development of its future consumer base. Leadership and Vision The initiative is supported by a leadership team with deep roots in food safety, public health, and corporate strategy. Susan Harlander, a partner at RäFoods and a recognised expert in food safety, emphasised the systemic necessity of the fund. "If we are serious about improving public health in this country, we have to start with education—both in literacy and in nutrition," Harlander stated. She noted that these foundational skills are the primary drivers of lifelong health behaviours. CEO Des Hague characterised the fund as an investment in the nation's future infrastructure. "Nutrition fuels the body. Literacy fuels the future," Hague remarked. He expressed the company's ambition for the initiative to grow into one of the most impactful private-sector efforts supporting education and nutrition in America. Living Nutrition Beyond the Plate The fund is a direct extension of RäFoods’ core "Living Nutrition" philosophy. Chairman Jeff Sholl noted that the company was founded on the belief that food should be "alive, nutrient-dense, and purposeful." The Living Nutrition Fund™ expands this purpose-driven model by empowering the next generation with the information needed to make informed health choices. The company is also developing secondary concepts to accelerate the fund’s impact, including: Living Nutrition Garden: An early-stage community-level concept designed to bring nutritional principles to life through hands-on agricultural education. Collaborative Programming: Partnerships with educators and community leaders to integrate literacy and nutrition curricula. Industrial Significance For B2B stakeholders and retail partners, the launch of the Living Nutrition Fund™ represents a sophisticated approach to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) strategy. By embedding social impact directly into the transaction (a percentage of every sale), RäFoods is creating a "circular value" model that encourages consumer loyalty through shared purpose. As the "food-as-medicine" and "clean-label" trends continue to dominate the premium grocery sector, brands that demonstrate a verifiable commitment to public health outcomes are likely to secure stronger shelf positioning and higher brand equity. Industry observers expect the success of this fund to encourage similar cross-sector collaborations between the food industry and the education sector throughout 2026 and 2027. Health & Nutrition RaFoods Launches Living Nutrition Fund to Support Health Across America News April 2, 2026 Health & Nutrition Abbott Launches First Whole Milk Ready to Feed Infant Formula in US New Products Celtic Sea Salt Launches Hydrate Electrolyte Mix Health & Nutrition M&S Overhauls Beans and Pulses Range to Launch Summer Health Campaign Health & Nutrition Coalition for Metabolic Health Launches Series of Congressional Briefings on Nutrition Business & Finance Food Health & Nutrition Related news

The transaction, expected to close by the end of the second quarter of fiscal 2026, marks a significant strategic pivot for the food giant as it seeks to reduce exposure to commodity market volatility. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Hormel Foods Corporation has announced a definitive agreement to sell its whole-bird turkey business to Life-Science Innovations (LSI) . The transaction, expected to close by the end of the second quarter of fiscal 2026, marks a significant strategic pivot for the food giant as it seeks to reduce exposure to commodity market volatility. The deal sees Hormel offloading the upstream and commodity-heavy segments of its turkey operations while retaining the high-margin, value-added components of its portfolio—specifically the JENNIE-O® brand. The divestment aligns with Hormel’s long-term strategy to shift its revenue mix away from commodity-driven businesses, which are susceptible to grain prices and avian flu fluctuations, towards more stable, branded protein solutions. Jeff Ettinger , interim Chief Executive Officer of Hormel Foods, explained the decision: "Our strategy for sustainable, profitable growth centres on expanding our value-added protein portfolio to meet evolving consumer needs, while reducing our exposure to more volatile, commodity-driven businesses." Asset Transfer and Operational Continuity Under the terms of the agreement, LSI will acquire significant physical assets in Minnesota, including: Production: The whole-bird production facility in Melrose, MN . Supply Chain: The feed mill in Swanville, MN , and associated transportation assets. Grower Network: Supply contracts with third-party turkey growers dedicated to the whole-bird business. To ensure an uninterrupted supply for customers, the two companies have structured a transitional period. LSI will provide co-manufacturing services to Hormel Foods through the end of fiscal 2026. JENNIE-O® Stays with Hormel Crucially for retailers and consumers, the transaction does not include the JENNIE-O® brand name or its broader array of value-added products (such as ground turkey, burgers, and deli meats). John Ghingo , President of Hormel Foods, noted that the move allows for a "more focused turkey portfolio," enabling the company to double down on the branded, processed segments of the category. Buyer Perspective For Life-Science Innovations , the acquisition represents a consolidation of its supply chain capabilities. Richard Huisinga , CEO of LSI, described the deal as a continuation of a "75-year relationship" with the Jennie-O business, combining Hormel’s assets with LSI’s existing hatchery and grower infrastructure. Financial terms were not disclosed, though Hormel expects the sale to have a "minimal impact" on its adjusted fiscal 2026 financial results. Business & Finance Hormel Foods Divests Whole-Bird Turkey Assets to Life-Science Innovations to Focus on Value-Added Portfolio News February 18, 2026 New Products Rosina Food Products Launches Five Frozen Meatball Innovations New Products Tango Enters Frozen Aisle with Boneless Chicken Bites Range at Iceland Business & Finance Pilgrim's Europe to Acquire Walkers Deli and Sausage from Samworth Brothers New Products Rancher's Premium Smokehouse Launches Two Burnt Ends Business & Finance Meat & Seafood 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 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. Meat & Seafood Matr Foods secures €40m to scale organic fermented meat alternatives October 21, 2025 Facilities Novonesis Invests €600M in Indian Enzyme Facility Business & Finance Medici Brands Secures $250M Series B to Scale David Protein and HallPass Business & Finance Nestlé to Divest Mainstream Supplements Business to Yellow Wood Partners for $1B Business & Finance Chobani Acquires KDP Allentown Facility in $1.2B Dairy Expansion Business & Finance Meat & Seafood Related news

The rollout is available immediately nationwide, aiming to offer consumers permissible indulgence and functional breath refreshment within the competitive impulse category. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. Featured in this news Food Nestlé The Newsroom Nestlé UK & Ireland has announced a significant expansion of its iconic POLO mint brand with the launch of two new sugar-free SKUs: POLO Sugar-Free Extra Strong Mint and POLO Sugar-Free Berry Mint Flavour . The rollout is available immediately nationwide, aiming to offer consumers permissible indulgence and functional breath refreshment within the competitive impulse category. The launch represents a strategic move to modernise the heritage brand by aligning it with contemporary health trends. Both new variants are sugar-free and vegan-friendly , addressing two critical purchase drivers for younger demographics in the confectionery aisle. Flavour vs. Function The expansion segments the portfolio to cater to different consumer needs: POLO Sugar-Free Extra Strong Mint: Translates the brand's signature "strong" potency into a sugar-free format, targeting consumers seeking intense functional refreshment without the caloric load. POLO Sugar-Free Berry Mint Flavour: Bridges the gap between mints and fruit confectionery, offering a "bold, refreshing" alternative for shoppers looking for flavour variety beyond standard peppermint. Sophie Browning , Brand Manager for POLO & Rowntree’s at Nestlé UK and Ireland, commented: “At POLO, we love that fresh breath feeling and these new sugar-free flavours offer even more ways to enjoy that signature POLO freshness. We’re proud to make them right here in York, continuing our heritage while moving our sugar-free offerings forward.” Manufacturing and Health Credentials The new products continue to be manufactured at Nestlé’s factory in York , which has served as the home of POLO production for over 70 years. This domestic production ensures supply chain consistency for UK retailers. Crucially for the "better-for-you" positioning, the range retains its accreditation from the Oral Health Foundation , which recognises POLO Sugar-Free Mints as a useful aid in oral health. This endorsement serves as a key differentiator at the point of sale, validating the product's functional benefits. Commercial Strategy To maximise the rate of sale and trial, Nestlé has positioned the new SKUs with a pricing strategy in line with the core POLO singles range . By maintaining price parity, the brand offers consumers a value-driven entry point into the sugar-free segment without a premium markup. New Products Nestlé Expands POLO Portfolio with Two New Sugar-Free Variants to Drive Impulse Sales News February 18, 2026 New Products Fazer Alku Launches Market-First Sugar-Free Oat Cereal and Expanded Porridge Range New Products Jones Soda Co. Launches Zero Sugar Lineup at Western Canada Club Stores New Products Eggo Introduces High-Protein Zero-Sugar Waffles to National Market Energy Drinks New Monster Energy Lando Norris Zero Sugar Gold Can Snacking Confectionery New Products Ingredients Related news

Froosh is expanding its adult beverage and functional snack range with Froosh Energy Drink Lemon & Lime, the Froosh+ Glow smoothie. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Nordic smoothie brand Froosh, part of Fazer Group, has announced the autumn expansion of its beverage and functional snack portfolio across Finnish retail channels. Following its initial entry into the adult functional energy market in spring 2026, the brand is introducing a new citrus variant to its energy drink lineup alongside Froosh+ Glow, a vitamin-fortified functional smoothie. Concurrently, the manufacturer is reintroducing its seasonal Froosh Winter smoothie in response to consumer demand ahead of the autumn and holiday trading windows. The product additions address expanding consumer interest in portable nutrition, natural caffeine sources, and vitamin fortification within ambient and chilled grocery categories. Adult Energy and Functional Drinks The expansion strategy reflects shifting consumer eating habits where convenient snacks and functional drinks play a central role in daily routines. By pairing whole-fruit bases with active ingredients, including natural caffeine from guarana and added vitamins C and D, the brand aims to capture both morning refreshment and afternoon daypart occasions. Julia Weijola, Marketing Director at Froosh, stated that consumers expect smoothies to offer convenience and functional benefits alongside taste, noting that natural ingredients and healthier formulations remain primary factors in purchasing decisions. Product Portfolio and Specifications The autumn product rollout introduces three distinct beverage formats across energy, functional wellness, and seasonal limited-time offerings (LTOs): 🍋 Froosh Energy Drink Lemon & Lime (330ml): Formulated with 13 per cent fruit juice from lemon, lime, and apple, containing 105mg of natural caffeine derived from guarana per 330ml aluminium can. Contains no added sugar, delivering a low sugar profile of 0.8g per 100ml originating entirely from natural fruit juices. 🍋🟩 Froosh+ Glow Smoothie (235ml): A tropical fruit smoothie featuring a citrus twist, fortified with vitamins C and D. Formulated with zero added sugar, vitamin C contributes to normal collagen formation for skin function and helps reduce tiredness as part of a balanced diet. Packaged in a paper-based CartoCan designed for carton recycling. 🍎 Froosh Winter Smoothie (250ml): A returning seasonal LTO featuring an apple and cinnamon flavour profile, formulated from fruit with zero added sugar. The product is engineered to be served chilled or warmed for autumn and winter consumption occasions. Retail Distribution and Rollout The new product portfolio is deploying across primary Finnish grocery networks under a phased retail distribution schedule: Froosh Energy Drink Lemon & Lime: Available across K stores starting 27 August 2026, with distribution expanding to S stores on 8 September 2026. Froosh+ Glow Smoothie: Rollout commencing across S stores on 22 September 2026, followed by availability in K stores from 28 September 2026. Froosh Winter Smoothie: Deployment starting across S stores on 22 September 2026, with K store stockists receiving shipments from 28 September 2026. The cans utilised for the Froosh Energy line enter regional deposit return systems for aluminium recycling, while the CartoCan packaging used for the Froosh+ Glow line aligns with paperboard recycling streams across regional markets. New Products Froosh Expands Beverage Lineup with Lemon and Lime Energy Drink and Glow Smoothie Dan Bunt August 27, 2026 New Products RYZE Launches Limited Edition Pumpkin Spice Mushroom Coffee at Target New Products Beyond Meat Launches Phytosphere Platform with Powders, Bars and Beverages New Products Optimum Nutrition and Wisconsin Brewing Launch ChampionSips Protein Non Alcoholic Beer New Products Wave Kids Launches Four Organic Flavoured Waters for Back to School Beverage Soft drinks New Products Related news

Pepsi has expanded its UK zero-sugar portfolio with three ice cream-inspired flavours, supported by a multi-channel summer marketing pop-up experience in London 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 Soft drinks brand Pepsi has launched an integrated summer campaign under its "You Deserve a Treat" platform to support a new range of ice cream-inspired Pepsi Zero Sugar flavours across the UK. The multi-channel marketing push combines digital, out-of-home (OOH), social media, and experiential activations to drive consumer trial for three dessert-inspired variants: Cherry & Vanilla, Raspberry Ripple, and Salted Caramel. The launch represents Pepsi's latest investment in zero-sugar flavour innovation, targeting summer indulgence and impulse purchasing across retail and foodservice channels. Ice Cream Inspired Zero Sugar Flavours The new range applies dessert-inspired flavour profiles to Pepsi’s core zero-sugar cola formulation, aiming to capture growing consumer demand for treats without sugar content. The three zero-sugar SKU variants include: 🍒 Cherry & Vanilla: Combines dark cherry notes with a smooth vanilla finish to recreate a classic ice cream float profile. 🍨 Raspberry Ripple: Pairs tart raspberry berry notes with creamy vanilla undertones inspired by traditional dessert ripple ice creams. 🍮 Salted Caramel: Integrates rich, buttery caramel flavouring with a subtle savoury salt finish into the zero-sugar cola base. How To Take Part The campaign launched across UK OOH, digital, and social media channels on 20 July, centred on a creative hero asset featuring "Pidge", a CGI pigeon character designed to represent "elevated indulgence". To drive trial and brand engagement, Pepsi is supporting the product rollout with experiential activations under the "Pepsi Parlour" banner, a Y2K-inspired pop-up concept mimicking classic ice cream parlours. As part of the experiential drive, Pepsi partnered with dessert chain Creams Café to serve bespoke gelato ice cream floats created with the new zero-sugar lineup. Key campaign and experiential touchpoints include: Soho Pepsi Parlour: An immersive pop-up venue operating at The Designer Boutique in Soho, London, from 24 to 26 July, serving custom floats including the Cherry & Vanilla Sundae Swirl, Raspberry Ripple Sundae Surprise, and Salted Caramel Sundae Soda. Brighton Pepsi Parlour: A seaside experiential pop-up running in Brighton from 8 to 9 August. Nationwide Sampling: A high-velocity sampling tour distributing chilled cans across key footfall locations throughout the summer trading window. www.designmynight.com Pepsi Parlour Buy tickets for Pepsi Parlour, London. Information on Pepsi Parlour, This event has taken place. in London. Retail The coordinated push across advertising, social media, and physical sampling is designed to build brand awareness and accelerate store-level velocity for the new flavour variants. With zero-sugar carbonated soft drinks continuing to drive category growth, the high-profile launch offers grocery, convenience, and foodservice operators an opportunity to stimulate incremental basket value and impulse soft drink sales during the peak warm-weather trading period. Soft drinks Pepsi Announces Pop-up Ice Cream Parlour Experience in Soho Featuring Ice Cream-Inspired Range Dan Bunt July 26, 2026 Foodservice Taco Bell Partners with Salt & Straw to Launch Churro Ice Cream Taco New Products Mars Expands Galaxy Portfolio with Dessert-Inspired Chocolate Bars Retail 7-Eleven Japan Launches Fruit Sandwich with Cocoa Bread New Products M&S New Chocolate Strawberry & Pistachio Creme Sandwich Soft drinks Beverage Marketing Related news

WaterJunkie, the UK-based functional beverage brand, has expanded its portfolio with the launch of a new range of mushroom-infused sparkling drinks. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom WaterJunkie , the UK-based functional beverage brand, has expanded its portfolio with the launch of a new range of mushroom-infused sparkling drinks . The move represents a strategic effort to bring adaptogenic ingredients to a mainstream audience by overcoming the primary consumer barrier in the category: taste. Positioned at the intersection of hydration and wellness, the new line blends functional mushroom extracts with natural flavourings. The brand aims to shift the perception of mushroom-based beverages from niche "health tonics" to accessible, everyday refreshments suitable for the casual consumer. Strategic Diversification Beyond CBD This launch marks a significant pivot for WaterJunkie as it builds a diversified functional portfolio. Moving beyond its initial focus on CBD (cannabidiol), the company has identified functional mushrooms as a core pillar for future innovation. This strategy aligns with broader UK market trends, including the rise of "sober-curious" behaviour and the increasing demand for low-sugar, alcohol-free alternatives that offer tangible functional benefits—such as balance, focus, and calm—without the medicinal taste profile often associated with adaptogens. 'Medicinal Credibility' Meets 'Beauty Design' Queenie Porter , founder of WaterJunkie, emphasised that the product development process focused heavily on "clarity and confidence" to demystify the ingredient list for new consumers. "At WaterJunkie, we believe functional ingredients should feel both trusted and accessible," Porter said. "Functional mushrooms have been used for centuries, but the category has become increasingly complex for consumers. Our approach was to bring clarity and confidence back to the space, combining the credibility of the medicinal world with the considered design cues of the beauty industry." Porter added that the result is a range that is "purposeful, approachable, and quietly confident," designed to stand out on retail shelves through premium aesthetic cues rather than aggressive health claims. Market Context The functional beverage sector continues to drive growth within the wider UK soft drinks market. WaterJunkie’s expansion targets the "wellness-led" purchasing decisions that are reshaping retail planograms, focusing on scalable product development relevant across: Mainstream Retail Hospitality Venues Wellness-led Channels New Products WaterJunkie Targets ‘Taste Barrier’ with New Functional Mushroom Range News February 2, 2026 New Products RYZE Launches Limited Edition Pumpkin Spice Mushroom Coffee at Target New Products Beyond Meat Launches Phytosphere Platform with Powders, Bars and Beverages New Products Optimum Nutrition and Wisconsin Brewing Launch ChampionSips Protein Non Alcoholic Beer New Products Wave Kids Launches Four Organic Flavoured Waters for Back to School Health & Nutrition New Products Soft drinks Ingredients Beverage Related news

The ad, titled "Bananas," is scheduled to air during the first quarter in the U.S. and the second quarter in Canada on Sunday, 8 February 2026. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Grocery technology leader Instacart has confirmed its return to the Super Bowl advertising roster, securing a 30-second spot to debut its new "Preference Picker" technology. The ad, titled "Bananas," is scheduled to air during the first quarter in the U.S. and the second quarter in Canada on Sunday, 8 February 2026 . The campaign marks a significant creative investment, helmed by award-winning director Spike Jonze in his first Super Bowl commercial in over two decades. The creative execution stars actor Ben Stiller and multi-platinum recording artist Benson Boone as a retro European disco-pop duo. Creative Concept: The 'Bananas' Rivalry The spot leverages a high-concept narrative to highlight specific app functionality. Stiller and Boone perform a synchronized duet on a 60-foot LED-lit stage, singing about their specific banana ripeness preferences. The performance escalates into a "theatrical rivalry," culminating in a spectacular onstage crash involving Stiller’s character. To maximize digital engagement, Instacart is simultaneously releasing a director's cut—a long-form version expanding the narrative arc and musical elements beyond the broadcast constraints. Production Credits: The campaign was developed by Instacart's internal agency, Local Produce , in partnership with McCann and BBDO . Product Innovation: 'Preference Picker' The commercial serves as the launch vehicle for Preference Picker , a new in-app tool designed to digitize the tactile decision-making of grocery shopping. Available immediately across most retailers on the Instacart Marketplace, the feature allows customers to select their specific banana ripeness preference: Not Ripe Almost Ripe Ripe This feature joins Instacart's broader "Grocery Quality Controls" suite, which includes tools for real-time inventory checks, shopper notes, and AI-powered "Smart Backups." The company has confirmed plans to expand Preference Picker to other high-variability categories, such as avocados and deli meat thickness, in the coming months. Why Bananas? The focus on bananas is driven by robust transactional data. Bananas are the number one selling product on Instacart, with over 1.8 billion units delivered to date. Furthermore, they generate the highest volume of specific shopper notes (over 32 million), indicating a significant consumer desire for control over this specific SKU. Laura Jones , Chief Marketing Officer at Instacart, commented on the strategy: "We intentionally cast an unexpected duo who each bring something distinct: sharp comedic timing and emotional, musical lift – creating a spot with both precision and playfulness. The ad is bold and funny, but grounded in something very real: Instacart's commitment to helping people get groceries just how they like." Danilo Boer , Global Creative Lead and Partner at McCann, added: "From the beginning it was clear we shared the same creative sensibilities and love for epic absurdity as the Local Produce team... This partnership, combined with Spike's incredible storytelling skills, Ben's unmatched comedic voice, and Benson Boone's out-of-this-world musical talent was the recipe for a truly memorable film." Marketing Instacart Enlists Spike Jonze, Ben Stiller, and Benson Boone for 'Bananas' Super Bowl Spot to Launch New App Feature News January 28, 2026 Marketing SNICKERS Launches Hungr.AI Interactive Campaign Marketing TABASCO Launches Marketing Campaign with Actor Iñaki Godoy as Chief Hot Ideas Person Marketing Kewpie Launches Covent Garden Pop Up for KEWPIE IT Campaign in London Foodservice McDonald's UK and Ireland Partners with Xbox for Gaming-Inspired Menu Fresh Produce People Marketing Retail Business & Finance Related news

The Magnum Ice Cream Company has invested €10 million to modernise its Veszprém factory in Hungary, introducing a new production line comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom The Magnum Ice Cream Company (TMICC) has announced a HUF 4 billion (approximately €10 million) investment to modernise its manufacturing facility in Veszprém, Hungary. The project, which includes the installation of a new production line, aims to enhance the site's capability to deliver high-quality ice cream formats across the European market. This investment reinforces the role of the Veszprém site as a critical node in TMICC’s European manufacturing network. Established in 1955, the factory currently employs over 500 staff and produces 230 million ice cream units annually, supplying global brands such as Magnum, Cornetto, and Carte d’Or to both Hungarian and wider European markets. Upgraded Capabilities and Product Innovation The modernisation of the Veszprém facility is designed to support the scalability of complex product formats. The new production line is specifically configured to manufacture Magnum Bonbons—a premium, bite-sized ice cream product developed to address shifting consumer preferences. The move towards smaller, shareable portions reflects broader trends within the snacking category, where ice cream is increasingly positioned as a year-round choice for various consumption occasions, ranging from coffee breaks to shared dessert moments. By integrating this production locally, TMICC intends to: Enhance supply chain efficiency for European markets. Increase manufacturing precision and consistency for complex product formats. Ensure reliable delivery of new product lines to meet dynamic retail demand. European Manufacturing The Veszprém factory serves as an essential link between TMICC's global innovation strategy and its regional execution. With 32 factories and 13 research and development centres globally, the company relies on strategically located hubs to translate product concepts into scalable retail offerings. For TMICC, this upgrade is part of a broader ambition to align its global brand development with local production capacity. By leveraging the expertise at the Veszprém site, the company maintains the ability to adapt its portfolio to evolving consumer needs while supporting long-term growth across its European operations. The investment confirms the continued focus on Hungary as a key industrial location for the group, supporting its broader strategy of category growth through innovation, new product formats, and expanded consumption occasions. Facilities The Magnum Ice Cream Company Invests €10M in Hungarian Production Facility Eddie Sanders June 30, 2026 New Products Ben & Jerry's Launches Limited Batch Razz Up Flavour Foodservice Haagen-Dazs Shops Launches New Sundae Series Facilities The Magnum Ice Cream Company Opens Research and Innovation Centre in India New Products Halo Top Canada Launches Limited Edition Seasonal Ice Cream Flavours Manufacturing Business & Finance Food Dairy Facilities Related news

Active nutrition brand Linear has secured USDA Organic certification for its layered protein bars formulated with organic whey protein. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Active nutrition brand Linear has secured USDA Organic certification across its entire layered protein bar portfolio, marking a significant operational milestone in the clean-label functional snacking segment. The certification covers the brand's established and newly expanded product lines, positioning Linear as one of the few players in the protein bar sector to formulate with certified organic dairy-based protein. The move addresses growing consumer and retail demand for third-party verified organic products that do not compromise on nutritional density or ingredient transparency. Sourcing Challenges and Category Differentiation The primary differentiator for the brand's formulation is the integration of organic whey protein, which remains highly valued for its amino acid profile and bioavailability. While plant-based organic proteins are widely available, sourcing high-quality whey protein that complies with strict USDA Organic standards presents significant logistical and financial hurdles for manufacturers. The organic dairy supply chain requires certified organic feed, pasture-access verification, and chemical-free processing, which dramatically increases raw material overheads compared to conventional whey. According to Mel Scott, founder of Linear, the decision to pursue the USDA Organic seal was driven by a commitment to raise formulation standards within the functional snack category. He noted that the company wanted to provide a premium option that eliminates the trade-offs often associated with standard protein bars, combining certified clean ingredients with functional performance. Nutritional Specifications and Ingredient Standards The certified range has been engineered to deliver high functional values whilst adhering to strict clean-label manufacturing guidelines. The core nutritional parameters of the certified bars include: Protein Content: Each bar is formulated to deliver 20 grams of complete organic whey protein to support muscle synthesis and daily recovery. Dietary Fibre: Provides up to 10 grams of dietary fibre per serving to promote satiety and support digestive health. Formulation Purity: Manufactured entirely without seed oils, sucralose, artificial sweeteners, chemical preservatives, or synthetic flavourings. Taste Profiles and Distribution The certified portfolio comprises three distinct layered variants, combining premium textures with familiar confectionery profiles: 🍯 Chewy Gooey Caramel – A rich blend of dark chocolate, sweet caramel, and a soft, chewy core. 🍂 Sweet Cinnamon Crunch – A warm, spiced cinnamon formulation layered with a caramel filling and textured crisp pieces. 🐢 Sweet Pecan Tortoise – A chocolate-flavoured base integrated with nutty pecan pieces and smooth caramel. Linear is utilising a multi-channel sales strategy to support its organic rollout. The USDA Organic certified bars are currently available through the brand's direct-to-consumer platform and Amazon, alongside physical retail distribution in speciality grocery accounts, including organic supermarket chain Erewhon. The brand plans to scale its manufacturing output to support additional physical retail partnerships and plans to introduce further certified flavour variants later this year. Snacking Linear Secures USDA Organic Certification across its Whey Protein Bar Lineup Eddie Sanders June 9, 2026 New Products Iceland Foods and Myprotein Expand Range with 25 High-Protein Products New Products SURREAL Launches High Protein Low Sugar Overnight Oats Range New Products Puori Launches Single-Ingredient Unflavoured Whey Protein Powder New Products Seven Sundays Launches Clean Label Protein Oatcakes Snacking Food Related news

Riviana Foods has introduced Success Boil-in-Bag Sticky Rice, a first-to-format innovation that delivers authentic Asian-style texture in 12 minutes, targeting the high-growth "global-at-home" meal segment and viral culinary trends. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Riviana Foods Inc., the largest rice company in the United States, has announced a significant addition to its Success® portfolio with the debut of Success Boil-in-Bag Sticky Rice. The launch represents a strategic effort to democratise specialised "restaurant-style" ingredients for the home cook, utilising the brand's proprietary "no measure, no mess" boil-in-bag technology to simplify a traditionally labour-intensive preparation process. The product is currently rolling out across the Eastern United States, with a planned nationwide expansion following the initial retail launch in April 2026. 12-Minute "Foolproof" Preparation The primary differentiator for this new SKU is the technical adaptation of sticky rice (glutinous rice) to the boil-in-bag format. Traditionally, achieving the characteristic "tacky" texture of Asian-style sticky rice requires extensive soaking and steaming. Success Rice has engineered a solution that delivers this authentic profile in 12 minutes of boiling. Key technical and dietary specifications include: Format Architecture: A 14 oz. box containing four individual bags (two servings per bag). Clean Label Benchmarks: Non-GMO Project Verified, certified Kosher, and Gluten-Free. Additive Profile: Formulated without preservatives or artificial additives, aligning with "clean eating" consumer demands. Dietary Versatility: Suitable for vegan and vegetarian diets, serving as a functional base for various plant-based applications. Global Culinary Trends The launch is a direct response to the "globalisation" of the American pantry. Erica Larson, Director of Marketing at Riviana Foods, noted that sticky rice is currently "having a moment," driven by celebrity-chef menus and viral social media recipes (such as home-made poke bowls and mango sticky rice). For B2B stakeholders, this launch signifies a move toward "high-convenience speciality" items. By reducing the "low-effort" barrier to entry, Success Rice is enabling retailers to capture incremental sales from consumers who previously viewed sticky rice as a "dining-out only" category. Market Positioning and Usage Occasions Riviana is positioning Success Sticky Rice as a foundational component for the "centre-of-the-plate" global meal movement. The product's versatility allows it to compete across multiple meal times and categories: Savoury Occasions: A base for poke bowls, sushi, and stir-fry. Sweet Applications: A component for traditional Asian desserts. Portion Control: The pre-portioned bags address the growing demand for reduced food waste and single-serve convenience in urban households. Retail Distribution The initial rollout focuses on select Eastern U.S. retailers, a strategic territory with high densities of "experimental" home cooks and global cuisine enthusiasts. As the product gains traction, the nationwide expansion will likely see the SKU integrated into the competitive "convenience rice" sets of major mass and grocery multiples. New Products Riviana Foods Launches Success Boil-in-Bag Sticky Rice for Retail Eddie Sanders April 1, 2026 New Products Maggi Expands Instant Noodle Portfolio with Three Asian-Inspired Ramen Flavours New Products PepsiCo Launches Refrigerated Alvalle Gazpacho New Products Goodles Launches Twirly Mac Range with Three Bold Flavours New Products General Mills Expands Totino's Portfolio with Fan-Inspired Flavour Innovations Food New Products Related news