The European Food Safety Authority has issued a positive safety assessment for Givaudan’s Everzure Galdieria, a natural and acid-stable blue colourant. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. Featured in this news Flavours & Colours Givaudan The Newsroom Givaudan Sense Colour has announced that the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has issued a positive scientific opinion regarding the safety of blue galdieria extract. The assessment marks a critical step toward the final authorisation of Everzure Galdieria as a food colour additive in the European Union. The extract is positioned as a high-performance natural alternative to synthetic Brilliant Blue FCF (E133). The file now moves to the European Commission, which will determine final authorisation for use across the EU member states. Technical Advantages and Acid Stability Everzure Galdieria is derived from Galdieria sulphuraria , a microalgae known for its resilience. A primary driver for this innovation is its acid stability, which allows for applications in categories where existing natural blues, such as spirulina, typically fail. Once fully authorised, the extract will enable manufacturers to achieve vibrant blue, green, and purple shades in acidic environments, including: Beverages Confections Sports and Energy Drinks The shade provided by the extract closely matches the profile of Brilliant Blue, allowing brands to maintain visual appeal while meeting consumer demand for natural ingredients. Partnership and Biotechnical Production The product was developed through a strategic collaboration with Fermentalg, a French biotech company specialising in blue biotechnology. The production process utilises precision fermentation followed by a gentle water extraction. This proprietary method ensures a scalable and consistent supply chain, which is often a challenge for natural pigments. Barry Foley, Regulatory Director for Givaudan Sense Colour, noted that the milestone follows rigorous testing of the extract in various food and beverage applications to support the intensive EFSA assessment. Global Market Context While awaiting final European Commission approval, Everzure Galdieria is already approved for use and available for sampling in the United States. This existing regulatory status in North America provides a baseline for global manufacturers looking to synchronise their international product portfolios. Nathalie Pauleau, Global Product Manager for Givaudan Sense Colour, stated that the close colour match to synthetic options will allow customers to create novel food experiences without compromising on natural labelling. The success of this regulatory pathway reflects Givaudan’s ongoing investment in algae-based innovation and sustainable ingredient sourcing. Flavours & Colours Givaudan Reaches Key Regulatory Milestone for Natural Blue Colour in Europe News March 16, 2026 Ingredients NUS Researchers Develop Colour-Sensing Yeast for Advanced Biomanufacturing Coffee & Tea Starbucks Announces Autumn 2026 Menu with PSL Return and New Beverage Formulations New Products Mondelez Launches CHIPS AHOY Mystery Cookie Flavour Logistics & Supply Chain LBB Specialties Appointed Authorised Distributor for Borregaard BioVanillin Ingredients Legal Flavours & Colours Related news

QSR brand Burger King is bringing back its fan-favourite Crown Nuggets after a fifteen-year hiatus, alongside a creative Crayola partnership comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom The strategic reintroduction of discontinued menu items represents a highly efficient mechanism for Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) operators to generate organic brand engagement, capture consumer nostalgia, and drive immediate transaction velocity. Commencing on 2 June 2026, Burger King is set to bring back its iconic Crown Nuggets to restaurants nationwide across the United States. The crown-shaped, dippable chicken nuggets, which were last featured on national menus in 2011, are returning in response to sustained, multi-year consumer demand. For brand managers, mining a company’s historical archive for fan-favourite products provides a distinct commercial advantage: Built-In Brand Equity: Reintroducing a classic product bypasses the extensive research, development, and marketing launch costs required to introduce entirely new menu concepts to the public. Low-Friction Trial: Nostalgic marketing campaigns carry high conversion rates, particularly among Millennial and Gen Z cohorts who welcome the return of childhood favourites. Earned Media Value: Discontinued product returns naturally generate high volumes of organic social media discussion, word-of-mouth recommendations, and earned media coverage, lowering the brand’s overall customer acquisition costs. By timing the national rollout at the start of June, Burger King is positioning the nostalgia-driven product to capture early summer footfall as families transition into school holidays and seasonal travel routines. Co-Branded Partnership While the return of Crown Nuggets appeals to nostalgic adult consumers, securing repeat family transactions requires an experiential component tailored directly to children. To address this, Burger King is launching a national partnership with Crayola, an iconic brand synonymous with youthful creativity and hands-on play. Beginning 9 June 2026, the chain will introduce a Crayola-themed King Jr. Meal. Rather than relying on licensed plastic figurines or digital entertainment tie-ins, the co-branded meal focuses on physical, tactile engagement: Interactive Packaging: Each meal is served in a specially designed, colourable meal bag accompanied by a customisable, colourable paper crown, instantly transforming the mealtime environment into an interactive activity. High-Value Physical Assets: The inclusion of a co-branded four-pack of authentic Crayola crayons provides a high-quality physical keepsake that extends brand visibility in the home long after the meal has concluded. Screen-Free Appeal: Aligning with a physical, creative brand like Crayola appeals directly to modern parents who are actively seeking screen-free, educational, and imaginative activities for their children during dining occasions. According to Anna Roca, Head of Global Partnerships at Crayola, the collaboration combines the core strengths of both brands to create shared, colourful family moments that make everyday mealtime more engaging. From a back-of-house and franchise operations standpoint, the return of a historic product like the Crown Nugget represents a highly streamlined execution compared to introducing entirely new protein platforms. Maintaining low operational complexity is vital for franchise networks, especially during the peak summer trading window when transaction volumes spike: Standardised Ingredient Footprint: The Crown Nugget relies on the brand's existing chicken supply chain, utilising standardised preparation, frying, and holding protocols without requiring operators to source new raw materials or expand cold storage inventory. Consistent Yield and Speed of Service: Utilising established portion sizes ensures that staff can maintain speed-of-service benchmarks during high-volume lunch and dinner rushes, preventing bottlenecks in the kitchen. Seamless Menu Integration: The product integrates cleanly into the existing King Jr. Meal structure, requiring minimal adjustment to cash register configurations or back-of-house training. By leveraging existing raw materials in a novel physical format, Burger King is proving that creative menu innovation does not require complex supply chain re-engineering. As QSR operators face intense competition for the family dining wallet, value positioning remains critical to protecting market share. Burger King has positioned the Crown Nuggets within its standardised King Jr. Meal pricing architecture, offering the snack as part of a 3.99 USD kid's meal that includes a side and a drink. Additionally, the brand is offering a standalone eight-piece order of Crown Nuggets, catering to older demographics and sharing occasions. This tiered pricing model allows the brand to capture budget-conscious parents looking for affordable family dining solutions, whilst simultaneously encouraging average basket size growth through add-on transactions. According to Joel Yashinsky, Chief Marketing Officer of Burger King US&C, the dual launch of Crown Nuggets and the Crayola-themed King Jr. Meal underscores the brand’s ongoing commitment to listening to guest feedback and delivering interactive, high-value experiences for the entire household. As the summer campaign progresses, the commercial performance of this nostalgic product return and creative brand alignment will serve as a key case study in how heritage quick-service brands can successfully merge nostalgia, value, and interactive packaging to dominate the family dining sector. Foodservice Burger King Leverages Nostalgia with Crayola Marketing Campaign Eddie Sanders May 27, 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 Marketing Business & Finance New Products Foodservice Related news

Doritos Protein in the UK, debuting non-HFSS tortilla chips made from soya, lentils, and corn with 10g of protein across two flavours: Sweet Chilli and Steak. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. Featured in this news Soft drinks PepsiCo The Newsroom PepsiCo has expanded its UK savoury snacks portfolio with the commercial launch of Doritos Protein, introducing a high-protein tortilla chip format across grocery and convenience channels. The rollout marks the UK debut of the brand's protein platform, following an initial deployment in the United States earlier this year. Formulated to provide 10 grams of protein per 48-gram single-serve bag, the line enters the market under non-HFSS (high in fat, salt, or sugar) nutritional standards, targeting daytime snacking and food-to-go occasions. The product introduction debuts across two initial flavour varieties: Sweet Chilli Chipotle and Sizzling Steak, at a recommended selling price (RSP) of £2.00 per pack. Formulation and Nutrition The formulation of Doritos Protein departs from traditional maize-only bases, combining pulse and legume ingredients with corn to elevate macronutrient density while lowering fat content. Manufactured with a blend of soya, lentils, and corn, the product delivers a non-HFSS nutritional profile designed to replicate the crunch and seasoning intensity of standard Doritos crisps. Key formulation specifications and nutritional attributes include: Protein Fortification: Delivers 10g of protein per 48g single-serve pack. Ingredient Matrix: Produced using a base of soya, lentils, and corn. Reduced Fat Profile: Contains 30 per cent less fat than the average bag of regular tortilla chips. Dietary Fibre: Formulated as a high-fibre snack format. Regulatory Compliance: Fully non-HFSS compliant under UK nutritional guidelines. Cynthia Finke, Marketing Director for Doritos UK, stated that protein is increasingly integrated into everyday eating patterns, with consumers looking for protein options across a wider range of food categories. Finke noted that Doritos Protein addresses that preference within savoury snacking by introducing new ingredients while maintaining the brand's traditional crunch and flavour profile, adding that the 48g format provides a dedicated high-protein option for food-to-go fixtures and meal deals. Flavour Lineup and Packaging Formats The UK launch introduces two savoury flavour variations engineered for single-serve consumption: 🌶️ Sweet Chilli Chipotle: A sweet-and-spicy profile balancing warming chipotle chilli heat with subtle sweetness. 🥩 Sizzling Steak: A savoury meat-inspired seasoning profile developed to deliver rich, grilled flavour notes. Packaged in 48g single-serve bags carrying an RSP of £2.00, the format is sized specifically for convenience checkouts, grab-and-go lunchtime displays, and front-of-store meal deals. Healthier Snacking Portfolio The UK arrival of Doritos Protein follows the product's US debut in February and aligns with PepsiCo's wider operational programme to expand its healthier snack portfolio across British supermarket aisles. The rollout takes place as shifting consumer purchasing habits, inflationary pressures, and the wider adoption of GLP-1 weight-loss medications alter demand across traditional snack and beverage aisles. In response, food manufacturers are formulating snacks offering higher satiety, reduced fat levels, and added micronutrients or protein. The introduction of Doritos Protein follows PepsiCo's launch of Wow earlier this week, a better-for-you UK snacking masterbrand that brings reformulated, non-HFSS versions of Wotsits and Snack a Jacks into grocery multiples. Through high-protein and reduced-fat line extensions across core brand names, PepsiCo continues to reposition its savoury snacks estate toward functional, nutrient-dense formats. Snacking PepsiCo Debuts Doritos Protein in UK with Sweet Chilli Chipotle and Steak Flavours Dan Bunt September 10, 2026 New Products Beyond Meat Launches Phytosphere Platform with Powders, Bars and Beverages Business & Finance Power Crunch Unveils Brand Refresh and Refined Protein Bar Formula New Products CLIF Expands Portfolio with 20g High Protein Bar Range Snacking David Protein Relaunches Pumpkin Spice Gold Bars for Autumn Health & Nutrition Snacking Food New Products Related news

Following a successful direct-to-consumer (DTC) pilot on Black Friday last year, which saw the product sell out rapidly, the beverage giant is now moving the line into mass retail distribution. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. Featured in this news Soft drinks PepsiCo The Newsroom PepsiCo has officially entered the functional carbonated soft drink (CSD) market with the nationwide rollout of Pepsi Prebiotic Cola . Following a successful direct-to-consumer (DTC) pilot on Black Friday last year, which saw the product sell out rapidly, the beverage giant is now moving the line into mass retail distribution. The launch marks a significant milestone in the beverage industry: Pepsi is the first "legacy" cola brand to introduce a prebiotic fiber formulation. This move signals a direct challenge to high-growth challenger brands that have disrupted the soda aisle with low-sugar, gut-health positioning. Functional Ingredients Meet Legacy Taste The development of Pepsi Prebiotic Cola represents a strategic pivot for PepsiCo's flagship trademark. By incorporating functional ingredients into its core cola architecture, the brand aims to retain consumers who are migrating away from traditional full-sugar or aspartame-sweetened sodas in favor of "better-for-you" alternatives. The product is engineered to deliver the "Unbelievably Pepsi" taste profile while adhering to modern nutritional expectations. Key Product Specifications: Prebiotic Fiber: 3g per serving (targeting gut health trends). Sugar: Reduced to 5g per can (significantly lower than traditional colas). Calories: 30 calories per 12 oz serving. Sweeteners: Formulated with no artificial sweeteners . Flavor Portfolio and Formats The launch debuts with two SKUs designed to cover the most popular consumption preferences within the cola segment: Original Cola Cherry Vanilla Commercial availability spans 12 oz. single cans and 8-packs , positioning the product for both the immediate consumption (impulse) channel and the take-home grocery market. Market Context This nationwide launch serves as a major validation of the "functional soda" category. Until now, this space has been defined by startups leveraging prebiotic and probiotic claims. Pepsi's entry suggests that functional benefits—specifically fiber and gut health—are moving from niche health food stores to the center-store CSD aisle, becoming a baseline expectation for the modern beverage consumer. Soft drinks Pepsi's Functional Soda 'Pepsi Prebiotic Cola' Launches Online Availability News February 17, 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 Soft drinks Health & Nutrition Business & Finance Beverage Related news

Talenti, the best-selling gelato brand in the United States (a Unilever subsidiary), has announced an expansion of its portfolio: Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Gelato and Paradise Passionfruit Sorbetto. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Talenti , the best-selling gelato brand in the United States (a Unilever subsidiary), has announced a strategic expansion of its portfolio with two new globally inspired SKUs: Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Gelato and Paradise Passionfruit Sorbetto . The launch utilises a "contrasting flavour" strategy, introducing one indulgent, comfort-led dairy profile alongside a refreshing, fruit-forward dairy-free option. This approach allows the brand to capture diverse consumer need states—ranging from "snowed-in indulgence" to "sun-soaked escape"—within a single seasonal rollout. Global Sourcing and Texture The new flavours highlight Talenti's focus on ingredient provenance and textural complexity, key drivers in the super-premium ice cream category. Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Gelato: A nod to traditional Italian gelato flavours. It features a smooth chocolate gelato base blended with 100% roasted Italian hazelnuts , decadent fudge sauce, and crunchy chocolate cookie pieces. This SKU targets the "indulgence" occasion with a rich, multi-textured profile. Paradise Passionfruit Sorbetto: A dairy-free addition designed for the "refreshment" occasion. It is formulated with 100% real passionfruit juice sourced from South America and Southeast Asia, delivering a balance of sweet, tart, and floral notes without dairy or artificial flavourings. Influencer Content and Experiential Activation To support the launch, Talenti is deploying a dual-channel marketing strategy involving influencer partnerships and physical experiential activation. Content Partnership: The brand has renewed its collaboration with Sarah Fennel of Broma Bakery as a "Talenti Tastemaker." Fennel has developed custom recipes—the Hot Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Affogato and the Paradise Passionfruit Parfait —to demonstrate the versatility of the pints as ingredients in elevated home desserts. Experiential Event: On February 19 , Talenti will host a pop-up event in New York City titled "Snowed In or Sun-Soaked: A Talenti Tasting Experience." The activation is designed as a sensory journey, physically guiding consumers through an "Italian après-ski" zone (tasting the gelato) into a "South American jungle lounge" (tasting the sorbetto). This investment in sampling aims to drive immediate trial and brand heat in a key metropolitan market. Commercial Availability Both Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Gelato and Paradise Passionfruit Sorbetto are available immediately at major retailers nationwide. The line carries a suggested MSRP of $5.49 , consistent with the brand's super-premium positioning. Nicole Towner , Associate Director at Talenti, commented: "We love how different these two flavours are, while still feeling equally craveable. One delivers an Italian-inspired, chocolatey richness, and the other brings a vibrant, tropical freshness." New Products Talenti Expands Premium Portfolio with Globally Inspired Gelato and Sorbetto Innovation News February 11, 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 Facilities The Magnum Ice Cream Company Invests €10M in Hungarian Production Facility Snacking New Products Dairy Related news

Odeko has acquired Seattle-based fresh food distributor Catapult NW and secured an exclusive distribution partnership with Artisan Premades. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Operations and technology platform Odeko has announced the acquisition of Catapult NW, a fresh food distributor headquartered in Seattle, Washington. Concurrently, Odeko has entered into an exclusive distribution partnership with fresh food producer Artisan Premades. The combined transactions strengthen Odeko's commercial infrastructure across the Pacific Northwest while broadening the fresh food portfolio available to its independent coffee shop, café, and foodservice client network. Regional Expansion and Distribution Catapult NW specialises in sourcing and distributing regional fresh food brands across the Pacific Northwest, serving a client base that includes independent coffee shops, cafés, grocery networks, and corporate dining facilities. The acquisition adds to Odeko’s existing operational footprint in the region, where the business already manages three processing and logistics hubs. By integrating Catapult NW's distribution operations, Odeko aims to expand its local vendor network and increase store-level fresh food availability for regional operators. Ken Banas, Chief Financial Officer of Odeko, stated that the acquisition represents a strategic investment in the Pacific Northwest market, reinforcing the company's commitment to enhancing service capabilities for retail customers and supplier partners. Brad Gillis, President of Catapult NW, added that joining Odeko provides regional suppliers and retail clients with expanded growth opportunities through enhanced technology systems and national distribution capabilities. Exclusive Fresh Food Partnership In tandem with the acquisition, Odeko has secured an exclusive distribution agreement with Artisan Premades, a manufacturer of prepared sandwiches, salads, and fresh convenience foods. Under the terms of the agreement, the partnership grants Odeko exclusive distribution rights to Artisan Premades' product lines across specified commercial channels. In return, Artisan Premades gains access to Odeko's broader distribution network to scale its retail reach across new geographic markets. Technology Integration and Customer Offerings Following the integration, Catapult NW's existing customer base will transition onto Odeko's digital supply chain platform. The integration provides regional retail clients with access to several core enterprise services: 📱 Digital Procurement: Access to Odeko's proprietary online ordering interface and centralised national product catalogue. ⏱️ Customer Support: 24/7 technical and operational customer service coverage. 💼 Financial Services: Integrated commercial financing options and business insurance products tailored for independent foodservice operators. The deal highlights ongoing consolidation across the café and independent foodservice supply chain, where technology-driven logistics platforms are acquiring regional distributors to offer integrated supply, ordering, and financial solutions. Business & Finance Odeko Acquires Catapult NW and Partners with Artisan Premades Eddie Sanders August 18, 2026 New Products Fiorucci Launches Clean Label Deli Slices New Products Boars Head Launches The Fryer's Deep-Fried Turkey Breast Foodservice Subway Offers to Help Americans Struggling with Rising Gas Prices Plant-based Prime Roots Expands Plant-Based Deli Meats Across Canada With Dot Foods Bakery Business & Finance Foodservice Related news

Mel Robbins, the Golden Globe-nominated podcast host and best-selling author, has announced her entry into the CPG sector as the co-founder of Pure Genius Protein. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Mel Robbins, the Golden Globe-nominated podcast host and best-selling author, has announced her entry into the CPG sector as the co-founder of Pure Genius Protein . Marking her first-ever consumer product launch, Robbins introduced a "first-of-its-kind" protein shot designed to address the convenience gap in the functional nutrition market. The product distinguishes itself from traditional protein shakes and bars by packing a high dosage of protein into a compact, TSA-friendly liquid format with a juice-like viscosity. Product Specifications and Formulation Pure Genius Protein is engineered for rapid consumption and portability. The formulation targets the "busy professional" and "health-conscious traveller" demographics, offering a macronutrient profile that rivals significantly larger ready-to-drink (RTD) beverages. Technical Specs: Format: 3.38 oz (100ml) TSA-friendly bottle. Protein Content: 23 grams of complete protein per serving. Caloric Profile: 100 calories. Attributes: Zero sugar, zero fat, lactose-free, gluten-free, and no artificial flavours or sweeteners. Flavour Architecture: Departing from the dairy-based profiles (chocolate/vanilla) typical of the category, the line launches with three fruit-forward options designed to taste like juice without chalkiness: Blueberry Lemonade Strawberry Guava Pineapple Strategic Rationale and Founder Insight Robbins cites personal experience and data gathered from her podcast experts as the primary drivers for the launch. Medical guests highlighted a critical insight: many women are under-eating protein by approximately 50%, leading to muscle deterioration and long-term health risks—including a statistic noting that 30% of women over 65 who break a hip die within a year. Mel Robbins commented on the market gap: "I'm very proud that we have created an entirely new way to get high-quality protein on the go and have made it shockingly delicious. There is absolutely nothing like this available in the market today... Pure Genius Protein makes it easier for people to take care of themselves and protect their future." Medical Advisory Board To validate the science behind the product, Robbins has assembled a "founding scientific advisory team" comprising high-profile medical professionals: Dr. Dawn Mussallem, DO: Lifestyle medicine and integrative oncologist (Mayo Clinic). Dr. Amy Shah, MD: Immunologist and nutrition expert. Dr. Betsy Grunch, MD: Board-certified neurosurgeon. Dr. Jeff Karp, PhD: Biomedical innovator. Dr. Rocio Salas-Whalen, MD: Endocrinologist and obesity medicine specialist. Target Demographics While positioning the product for general wellness, the brand has explicitly identified key use cases, including first responders working long shifts, caregivers, and notably, patients on GLP-1 medications who struggle with appetite suppression but require muscle-maintaining protein. Beverage Mel Robbins Debuts 'Pure Genius Protein' with High-Potency 23g Shot News January 5, 2026 Soft drinks CCEP Refreshes Coca-Cola Supercan Range with Premier League Loyalty Launch Business & Finance Maison Pommery and Henkell International End Partnership Talks Coffee & Tea Luckin Coffee Partners with Duolingo for Back to School Campaign Business & Finance Kraft Heinz and Disney Form Multi-Year Foodservice and Media Alliance Health & Nutrition People Flavours & Colours Beverage Business & Finance New Products Related news

HiteJinro has launched a global limited-edition K-POP Star Toad label for its top-selling JINRO Green Grape soju, combining K-culture comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Korean spirits producer HiteJinro has announced the global release of a limited-edition packaging variant for its flagship fruit-flavoured soju, JINRO Green Grape. Featuring the brand's iconic 'Toad' mascot reimagined as a K-POP artist, the release aims to leverage global interest in Korean cultural exports to drive brand engagement and collectability across international off-premise and on-premise channels. The limited-time offering maintains the product's core 13 per cent alcohol by volume (ABV) formulation while introducing dual collectable label designs, promotional merchandise, and an interactive bottle-cap marketing activation. The brand refresh updates JINRO's established mascot visual identity with a stage-inspired K-POP artist concept, designed to appeal to younger adult consumer demographics across overseas export markets. The limited-edition Green Grape lineup enters commercial distribution in two distinct visual packaging options: 🟢 K-POP Star Toad Green Label: Features the stage-themed mascot character set against JINRO's signature green colourway. 🌸 K-POP Star Toad Pink Label: A complementary visual variant presenting the K-POP artist concept against a vibrant pink aesthetic. Jung-ho Hwang, Head of Overseas Business at HiteJinro, stated that the release leverages the global reach of K-POP to strengthen JINRO's presence in mainstream international spirits markets by aligning signature brand assets with Korean cultural trends. To support the retail rollout and stimulate repeat purchasing, HiteJinro is pairing the limited-edition bottle launch with an interactive promotional campaign and collectable trade items. Key promotional elements and campaign mechanics include: Message Challenge Cap Mechanics: Bottle caps feature printed alphabet letters (A to Z) on the underside, encouraging consumers to collect caps, build custom words or messages, and share photos on social platforms. Collectable Figurine: A limited-edition 'K-POP Star Toad' figurine produced for promotional displays and trade activations. Novelty Hardware: A custom bottle-shaped microphone accessory designed as a collectable brand asset to support campaign visibility. The global campaign highlights how international spirits producers deploy character-driven licensing, gamified packaging mechanics, and novelty merchandise to boost consumer engagement and retail velocity. New Products JINRO Unveils K-POP Star Toad Limited Edition Green Grape Soju Jacob Deraille August 10, 2026 New Products Sazerac Enters Soju Category with US Launch of DALHO New Products Echo Falls Debuts Glow-in-the-Dark Sour Apple Fruit Fusion New Products Good Peels Enters RTD Category with Spiked Apple Refresher Business & Finance Diageo Unveils $1B Cost-Cutting Plan to Drive Growth New Products Beverage Alcohol Related news

The move targets the intersection of two high-growth trends: the rising demand for lower-alcohol options and the increasing consumer preference for portable, single-serve wine formats suitable for "on-the-go" occasions. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Butter Wines by JaM Cellars, best known for producing the number one premium Chardonnay SKU in the US, has announced a strategic packaging evolution for its low-alcohol portfolio. One year after the product's debut, the brand is releasing ButterLight Chardonnay in convenient 250mL cans . The move targets the intersection of two high-growth trends: the rising demand for lower-alcohol options and the increasing consumer preference for portable, single-serve wine formats suitable for "on-the-go" occasions. The Low-Alcohol Boom The expansion is supported by robust category forecasts. According to company data, the low-alcohol wine sector is projected to grow at a CAGR of 7.8% from 2025 to 2032. JaM Cellars aims to position ButterLight as a year-round staple rather than just a "Dry January" temporary fix. By offering a canned format, the brand creates new consumption occasions (outdoor, poolside, events) for a demographic that wants the ritual of wine with reduced impact. John Anthony Truchard , Founder and CEO of John Anthony Wine & Spirits, commented on the strategy: "Consumers are looking for more choices that fit every occasion, and ButterLight was designed with this shift in mind: real Chardonnay flavour, lower alcohol, and zero compromise on quality. Packaging it in a convenient can was the natural next move." Product Specifications and Quality ButterLight Chardonnay maintains specific nutritional and sensory parameters designed to retain the brand's signature "lush" profile despite the reduction in ethanol. Technical Specs: Format: 250mL Aluminium Cans. Caloric Profile: 85 calories per serving. ABV: 8.5% (Representing 40% less alcohol than traditional wine). Taste: Engineered to preserve the creamy texture and smooth finish associated with the core Butter Chardonnay product. Jeff Kandarian , Executive Winemaker, emphasised the technical achievement: "We worked to preserve what Butter drinkers love most, lush Chardonnay character and a smooth finish, while crafting something noticeably lighter. ButterLight proves that 'light' can still mean full-flavoured." Future Roadmap: Entering the Non-Alcoholic Space Looking ahead, the company has confirmed plans to disrupt the zero-proof category with the upcoming launch of ButterZero™ . Scheduled to hit grocery shelves in early 2026 , this new extension is crafted to deliver less than 0.5% ABV . The line will mirror the disruption caused by the original Butter Chardonnay launch in 2010, aiming to offer approachable pricing and high flavour intensity in the NA space. ButterZero Portfolio (750mL Bottles): Sparkling Rosé Sauvignon Blanc Chardonnay Pinot Noir Sarah Montague , Chief Marketing Officer, highlighted the portfolio approach: "Extensions like ButterLight Chardonnay and new ButterLight Cans aren't just new products, they're how Butter continues to grow into a portfolio with something for everyone. Today's wine drinkers are wonderfully dynamic, and we're focused on meeting them wherever they are." Alcohol JaM Cellars Expands Low-Alcohol 'ButterLight' Range with Canned Format and Teases Non-Alcoholic Line News January 14, 2026 New Products Optimum Nutrition and Wisconsin Brewing Launch ChampionSips Protein Non Alcoholic Beer New Products Dr Zero Zero Launches AperZero Non Alcoholic Aperitivo in US Market New Products Riboli Family Wines Expands Spritz Del Conte Range with Hugo and Non Alcoholic Options New Products Tom Holland’s BERO Launches Non-Alcoholic Shandy Line New Products Beverage Alcohol Related news

Tesco is accelerating its multi-year modernization of the frozen food category, launching 147 new and revamped products aimed at meeting increased consumer demand for premium value and seasonal convenience. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. Featured in this news Retail Tesco The Newsroom Tesco has initiated the next phase of its category-wide frozen food refresh, introducing more than 140 new and improved products ahead of the summer season. This move represents a significant expansion of one of the UK’s fastest-growing grocery categories and follows the retailer's most substantial overhaul of the frozen aisle in over a decade. The launch, which commenced on Monday, 16 March, is designed to enhance the supermarket’s value proposition while catering to the increasing "premiumization" of the frozen sector. Seasonal and premium segments The refresh heavily prioritises the "ready-to-cook" and "barbecue" segments, reflecting shifts in consumer behaviour toward convenient, high-quality outdoor dining options. Key developments include: Firepit BBQ Range: The introduction of 11 new lines, including Beef Smash Burgers and Tandoori Thigh Fillets, specifically engineered to be cooked directly from frozen. Finest Frozen Portfolio: An overhaul of the premium private label fish and sausage ranges. The new fish lineup features value-added products such as Mediterranean Basa with Ragu and Wild Argentinian Red Shrimp, while the new Finest sausage range has transitioned to a gluten-free formulation to broaden consumer inclusivity. Market exclusives and category innovation Tesco is utilising its market position to secure several retail exclusives, a move intended to differentiate its frozen offering from competitors. Notable exclusive launches include: Fruit Riot: A UK-first snack product featuring frozen fruit with lemon juice and candy flavouring. Branded Exclusives: New entries from global brands, including Nutella frozen doughnuts and Tru Fru chocolate-covered strawberries. According to Naomi Kasolowsky, Tesco Frozen Category Director , the expansion is a response to the "fantastic quality, convenience, and value" that the frozen category currently offers. The strategy aims to transition the perception of frozen food from a "emergency backup" to a primary source for high-quality meals and hosting. Operational efficiency and waste reduction Beyond finished meals, the expansion includes a wider range of frozen herbs, such as basil, coriander, and parsley. In a B2B context, these additions reflect a broader industry trend toward minimising domestic food waste while providing year-round availability of seasonal ingredients. Future outlook for the category This 147-product revamp follows a foundational restructure of the frozen aisle last year. By continuously updating its "Firepit" and "Finest" ranges, Tesco is signalling its intent to maintain a dominant share of the frozen market. As inflationary pressures continue to influence shopper behaviour, the retailer’s focus on "premium frozen" serves as a strategic bridge between price-sensitive value and the high-quality dining experiences typically associated with fresh categories. Retail Tesco expands frozen range with 140 new products for summer season News March 19, 2026 New Products Iceland Foods and Myprotein Expand Range with 25 High-Protein Products Retail Tesco Expands Frozen Aisle with 150 New Products Retail Asda Completes £7.5M Digital Shelf Label Rollout across Express Stores Retail Co-op Introduces 7am Online Delivery across 1200 Stores for Back to School Rush Retail Food New Products Related news

McDonald's USA is entering the energy drink category through a national rollout of the Red Bull Dragonberry Energiser across participating US restaurants. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. Featured in this news Foodservice McDonald's Corporation The Newsroom McDonald's USA has announced its official entry into the functional energy drink category with the nationwide launch of the Red Bull Dragonberry Energiser. Scheduled for commercial availability starting 17 August 2026, the rollout follows successful regional menu trials and represents an expansion of the enterprise's custom cold beverage platform across its US store footprint. Alongside the energy beverage platform, the operator is introducing new custom-crafted sodas, reduced-sugar options, and cold foam toppings to drive cold beverage sales and capture afternoon daypart footfall. Co-Branded Functional Energy The development of the Red Bull Dragonberry Energiser pairs functional energy components with fruit-forward flavourings engineered for cold beverage consumption. The energy drink menu platform features three distinct product options: 🐉 Red Bull Dragonberry Energiser: Combines signature Red Bull with blue raspberry syrup and freeze-dried dragon fruit inclusions over ice. 🍃 Red Bull Zero Option: Allows consumers to swap classic Red Bull for a reduced-sugar Red Bull Zero liquid base. 🥫 Standalone 8.4 oz Can: Offers an 8.4 oz single-can format directly across participating counter, drive-thru, and digital ordering channels. Alyssa Buetikofer, Chief Marketing and Customer Experience Officer at McDonald's USA, stated that growing consumer enthusiasm for custom sodas and refreshers prompted the national rollout following initial US test markets. Custom Crafted Soda Options To complement the functional energy launch, McDonald's USA is expanding its crafted soda lineup with cold foam toppings and reduced-sugar syrup choices. The expanded cold beverage platform includes: 🍨 Vanilla Swirl: Combines smooth vanilla flavouring with a choice of Coca-Cola, Diet Coke, or Coke Zero Sugar, topped with a layer of cold foam. 🍊 Orange Dream with Fanta: A cream-and-citrus carbonated soft drink option. 🥤 Reduced Sugar Lineup: Customised carbonated options formulated with Diet Dr Pepper, Dr Pepper Zero Sugar, and Sprite Zero Sugar. The integration of third-party energy brand equity into QSR beverage lines reflects broader industry strategies aimed at capturing high-margin afternoon daypart traffic and meeting consumer demand for functional, customizable beverages. The Red Bull Dragonberry Energiser and expanded custom soda options will commence nationwide commercial distribution across participating US McDonald's locations on 17 August 2026. Energy Drinks McDonald's USA Launches Red Bull Dragonberry Energiser Dan Bunt August 11, 2026 New Products Gerber Launches Paediatric Organic Oral Rehydration Solution New Products PepsiCo Brand bubly Launches Mocktail-Inspired Sparkling Waters Soft drinks Fanta Partners with Ghost Face for Halloween 2026 Haunted Universe Launch New Products Suntory Launches -196 Limited Edition Kiwi Flavour Foodservice Energy Drinks New Products Beverage Soft drinks Related news

The Association of Convenience Stores has welcomed a £60 million grant package from Exchange for Change, designed to offset the costs for small independent retailers hosting reverse vending machines. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom The Association of Convenience Stores (ACS) has formally welcomed a new grant support package confirmed by Exchange for Change, the administrators for the upcoming UK Deposit Return Scheme (DRS). The funding is specifically targeted at small independent retailers to assist with the operational and capital requirements of hosting reverse vending machines (RVMs) ahead of the scheme’s implementation in October 2027. Under the newly published details, a total of £60 million has been allocated to provide grants of £6,000 per site. This financial assistance will be distributed over three years at a rate of £2,000 per year for qualifying independent locations. Reverse Vending Machines The introduction of the grant is seen as a critical step in de-risking the transition for the convenience sector. While larger supermarkets often have the infrastructure and capital to implement RVMs, small-format independent stores face higher relative costs for space and maintenance. While the grant addresses the initial hosting of hardware, the retail handling fee, the amount retailers receive per container returned, remains under consultation. Final details regarding these fees are expected to be confirmed this summer. The ACS has emphasised that the final fee structure must ensure the scheme remains cost-neutral for retailers to prevent a surge in exemption applications. Convenience Sector The ACS has reiterated its stance that local shops must not be financially penalised for participating as return points. Ed Woodall, ACS Chief Executive, noted that clarity on the net costs of the scheme is essential for retailers to make informed participation decisions. Industry advocates warn that if grants and handling fees do not accurately reflect operational realities, the scheme could undermine consumer access to recycling points. A lack of financial viability for small retailers may lead to "recycling deserts" in communities where independent convenience stores are the primary retail touchpoints. Criteria for Small Format Stores Exchange for Change has also provided refined details regarding how smaller stores can seek exemptions from the mandatory requirement to host a return point. The updated criteria focus on floor space and location: Stores 100 square meters or less : In urban areas, these locations will be automatically exempt from hosting a return point, though they may apply to host one on a voluntary basis. Stores between 100 and 200 square meters : These operators may apply for exemptions based on premises limitations and proximity to other return points. The specific criteria for these applications are currently under review. October 2027 Implementation With the DRS scheduled to come into force across the UK in late 2027, the ACS is urging retailers to begin evaluating their involvement strategy. This includes deciding whether to seek an exemption, host a manual return point, or utilise the new grant support to install a reverse vending machine. The move toward a more proportionate approach to exemptions and the provision of targeted grants suggests a recognition of the unique challenges faced by the independent sector. However, the final success of the scheme will likely depend on the handling fees confirmed later this year, which will dictate the long-term sustainability of the return network. Retail Exchange for Change £60m Grant Support for Reverse Vending Eddie Sanders April 9, 2026 Packaging CCEP and Exchange for Change Test Reverse Vending Machines Ahead of 2027 DRS Launch New Products Pepsi Launches Night Edition with Extra Caffeine for Saudi Football Fans Coffee & Tea VendinGO Acquires Portuguese Roaster Caffier Business & Finance Mini Melts USA and Magnum Ice Cream Automated Retail Partnership Retail Packaging Business & Finance Sustainability Related news