Jones Soda Co. has expanded its craft beverage portfolio in Canada with the launch of Jones Zero, a zero-sugar and zero-calorie range. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Never Miss an Update! Receive personalised weekly email newsletters with industry news curated just for you. Email* Submit or create an account to access more > The craft beverage sector is adjusting to shifting consumer preferences as demand for lower-sugar alternatives continues to rise. Jones Soda Co. has announced its entry into this segment with the launch of its Jones Zero craft soda range, distributing initially through club stores across Western Canada. The new product line aims to offer the brand's established taste profile without the sugar or calorie content of its traditional range, providing a commercial option for retailers looking to capture health-conscious beverage buyers. Retail Distribution The initial rollout focuses on the club store channel in Western Canada, a format that allows the brand to test bulk consumer purchasing habits for the sugar-free alternative. By targeting this region, Jones Soda Co. aims to reconnect with lapsed consumers who have reduced their intake of traditional sugary craft sodas. Scott Harvey, Chief Executive Officer of Jones Soda Co., stated that the development of the range was driven directly by consumer demand for lower-sugar options that do not compromise on taste. He noted that the product serves as an entry point to bring former customers back to the craft soda segment by delivering a familiar sensory experience without the associated sugar or calories. Flavour Portfolio and Product Specifications The Jones Zero range features four of the brand's established core flavours, formulated to meet craft soda standards while containing zero sugar and zero calories: 🫐 Berry Lemonade: A sweet and tart berry-infused lemonade profile. 🍊 Orange and Cream: A smooth blend of citrus and sweet cream flavours. 🍦 Cream Soda: A vanilla-forward interpretation of the classic craft recipe. 🥤 Root Beer: A traditional, richly spiced root beer option. Alongside the retail launch, the company is introducing a social-first marketing initiative titled "Show Us Your Aftertaste Face". The campaign is designed to address a common consumer barrier in the zero-sugar beverage category: the lingering sweetener aftertaste. By encouraging consumers to share their reactions on social media channels, the brand aims to build digital engagement and drive trial at the retail level. The campaign offers consumer incentives, including product prizes, to support the regional product launch and build brand visibility across digital platforms. Jones Soda Co. Launches Zero Sugar Lineup at Western Canada Club Stores July 15, 2026 New Products Caliwater Debuts Dragon Fruit Flavour with Benson Boone Collaboration New Products Pepsi Debuts Limited-Edition Vanilla & Cream Flavour Soft drinks Justin Timberlake and Jessica Biel Join PRODA Protein Soda as Co-Founders New Products PepsiCo Unveils 2026 Halloween Lineup across Snacks and Beverages New Products Soft drinks Beverage Related news

Spindrift has expanded its beverage portfolio into the ready-to-drink tea category with a new line of non-carbonated, Non-UPF verified teas formulated with real brewed tea and squeezed fruit. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Never Miss an Update! Receive personalised weekly email newsletters with industry news curated just for you. Email* Submit or create an account to access more > Spindrift Beverage Co. has announced a strategic expansion into the ready-to-drink (RTD) tea market with the launch of Spindrift Tea. The new non-carbonated line combines custom-brewed tea blends with real squeezed fruit, marking a significant step beyond the brand's foundational sparkling water portfolio. This launch also aligns with Spindrift’s recent industry milestone of becoming the only beverage brand to secure verification under the Non-Ultraprocessed Food (Non-UPF) Standard across its entire product lineup. Disrupting the Ready-to-Drink Tea Category The commercial tea aisle is currently dominated by products formulated heavily with refined sugars and artificial or non-sugar sweeteners. According to Spindrift's internal data, products utilising real squeezed fruit account for less than one percent of the RTD tea category. Dave Burwick, CEO of Spindrift, noted that entering the tea market was a logical progression for the company's clean-ingredient philosophy. The strategy is designed to offer a cleaner, brighter alternative to traditional sweet teas. Jon Silverman, Senior Vice President of Spindrift Ventures, added that the goal was to reverse the industry norm of prioritising sweetness over the actual tea profile, creating a balanced beverage where both the brewed tea and fruit notes are distinct. Supply Chain and Product Formulation Spindrift Tea represents the first commercial release from the brand's Ventures Lab, developed over a three-year research and development period. To achieve the desired flavour architecture, Spindrift partnered with one of North America's largest leaf tea importers. This collaboration yielded proprietary black and green tea blends sourced from 16 global origins, including India, China, Indonesia, and Argentina. The initial product rollout includes four distinct SKUs, utilising fruit sourced from long-standing regional farm partners: 🍋 Lemon Black Tea : Brewed black tea combined with California lemon juice and apple. 🍊 Blood Orange Black Tea : Black tea featuring blood orange and citrus profiles. 🍵 Raspberry Black Tea : Black tea blended with Pacific Northwest raspberries. 🍑 Peach Green Tea : Green tea mixed with sun-ripened Pacific Northwest peaches. To achieve a "slightly sweet" profile without relying on heavy processing, select flavours in the lineup incorporate a small amount of organic agave. Industry Impact and Clean Label Momentum The rollout of Spindrift Tea highlights a growing opportunity within the beverage sector for minimally processed options. By maintaining its Non-UPF verification for this new product line, Spindrift is reinforcing its corporate commitment to transparent, real-ingredient formulations. For retail category managers, this launch offers a premium, clean-label alternative in a high-volume category. As consumer scrutiny regarding ultra-processed foods intensifies, Spindrift's expansion provides a compelling case study on how brands can scale real-ingredient sourcing models into new, mature beverage segments. Spindrift Expands Beverage Portfolio with Real Brewed Tea Line March 3, 2026 New Products Saint James Launches Organic Yerba Mate Range Coffee & Tea The Spice & Tea Exchange Secures Five New Southeast Franchise Deals New Products Yorkshire Tea Launches Fruit Herbal and Green Tea Infusions Range New Products Clearspring Expands Japanese Tea Range with Organic Hojicha Powder Coffee & Tea Beverage New Products Soft drinks Related news

Paramount Coffee has introduced a ready-to-drink cold brew line under its Joe Knows Coffee brand, utilising 100% Arabica beans comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Never Miss an Update! Receive personalised weekly email newsletters with industry news curated just for you. Email* Submit or create an account to access more > Paramount Coffee has announced the launch of Joe Knows Coffee Cold Brew, a new line of ready-to-drink (RTD) canned coffee. This product development marks an expansion for the 100% employee-owned roaster, which has operated since 1935, into the chilled coffee segment. The decision to introduce the RTD range follows industry data highlighting the shift in consumer coffee consumption. According to the Fall 2025 National Coffee Data Trends report, 21% of American adults reported consuming cold brew coffee in the past week, a figure that represents a 50% increase since 2020. The shift is particularly pronounced among younger demographics, with data suggesting a preference for cold or iced coffee formats over traditional hot preparation. Product formulation and range The new line is crafted using 100% Arabica beans, consistent with the existing ground coffee products under the Joe Knows Coffee label. The cold brew process involves steeping coffee in cold water for several hours to produce a profile described by the manufacturer as less bitter and smoother than traditional iced coffee. The RTD range is packaged in 12-ounce cans and includes four flavour profiles: 🍮 Caramel Café: notes of butter and toasted flavours with a nutty finish. 🍫 Mocha Mo-Joe: cocoa profile with a bittersweet finish. 🍦 Vanilla Chill: vanilla, buttery sweetness with notes of caramel and dried fruit. ☕ Tall, Dark and Handsome: a dark-roasted, bold flavour profile. Retail availability Paramount Coffee intends to release the Joe Knows Coffee Cold Brew line in late July. The products will be available for purchase through the company’s website and at select retail locations across the United States. Paramount Coffee Debuts Joe Knows Coffee June 25, 2026 Coffee & Tea Lavazza Expands Hong Kong Footprint and Introduces Buffalo Milk Latte Coffee & Tea Happy and Marvel Studios Launch Avengers Doomsday RTD Coffee Line New Products Dunkin' Launches Avengers Doomsday Menu and Collectables Coffee & Tea Purity Coffee Launches Dedicated Whole Bean Espresso Blend Business & Finance New Products Coffee & Tea Beverage Related news

GoodBelly has announced the launch of a new line of Protein + Probiotics Smoothies, positioning the brand to expand its presence within the dairy-free comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Never Miss an Update! Receive personalised weekly email newsletters with industry news curated just for you. Email* Submit or create an account to access more > GoodBelly has announced the launch of a new line of Protein + Probiotics Smoothies, positioning the brand to expand its presence within the dairy-free functional beverage category. This refrigerated range serves as a plant-based alternative to traditional kefir, addressing rising consumer demand for products that support both digestive health and daily protein intake. Nutritional Profile and Functional Benefits The new smoothie range is designed to provide dual functionality by combining plant-based protein with probiotic support. Each 8-ounce serving contains 11 grams of protein and 1 billion CFUs of probiotics. The product is entirely dairy-free and is packaged in 32-ounce multi-serve bottles. The range is formulated to integrate into established morning routines, providing a plant-based option for those seeking higher protein intake. According to data from the September 2025 Numerator Protein Trends Report, 78% of shoppers identify the importance of meeting daily protein goals, with breakfast representing the primary occasion for protein consumption. Flavour Portfolio GoodBelly is positioning these smoothies as a direct alternative to existing kefir and drinkable yoghurt products. To reflect this, the company has confirmed that the products will be situated within the refrigerated dairy aisle of retail partners. The smoothie line is available in three fruit-forward flavour profiles: 🫐 Blueberry 🍑 Peach 🍓 Strawberry Availability and Expansion The product line is scheduled to begin shipping in June 2026. Retail distribution will initially include select outlets such as Giant Food, FreshDirect, Save Mart, Raley's, The Fresh Market, Nugget Markets, and Market of Choice, with further retail expansion projected throughout the remainder of the year. This launch follows the company's objective to increase the accessibility of gut-health-focused beverages. By providing a refrigerated, plant-based alternative to kefir, GoodBelly aims to capture market share from consumers looking for convenient, functional options that align with digestive health priorities. GoodBelly Launches Protein and Probiotic Smoothies June 23, 2026 New Products PIM Brands Launches Functional Probiotic Yogofruits Fruit Snacks New Products Lifeway Foods and Erewhon Market Launch Tropical Probiotic Smoothie Partnership New Products Living Things Expands Functional Portfolio with Cherry and Lime Prebiotic Soda Ingredients ZBiotics Pre-Alcohol Probiotic Expands into US Hospitality Beverage New Products Health & Nutrition Related news

BeatBox Beverages has expanded its flavoured alcohol portfolio with the nationwide launch of a limited-edition Xtreme Sour Black Cherry variant. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Never Miss an Update! Receive personalised weekly email newsletters with industry news curated just for you. Email* Submit or create an account to access more > BeatBox Beverages has announced the nationwide retail rollout of its latest limited-time offering, Xtreme Sour Black Cherry. Following an initial consumer preview at the Lollapalooza music festival, the product launch entered US retail channels on 1 August 2026. The release addresses growing consumer appetite for high-intensity, tart sensory profiles within the RTD and flavoured alcoholic beverage categories. Sour Flavour Formulation The formulation pairs a dark cherry base with a sour finish, expanding BeatBox's portfolio of portable party drinks. The new product SKU introduces: 🍒 Xtreme Sour Black Cherry: A limited-time flavour combining sweet, ripe black cherry notes with a sharp sour profile, packaged in a single-serve carton. Justin Fenchel, Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder of BeatBox, stated that the development strategy centred on direct consumer engagement to deliver distinct taste profiles that differentiate the brand on shelf. Packaging and Retail Availability The product is packaged in BeatBox's signature eco-friendly, resealable carton format, designed for outdoor venues, festivals, and group gathering occasions. The limited-time release has commenced nationwide commercial distribution across mass, grocery, and liquor stockists while promotional supplies last. BeatBox Launches Limited-Edition Xtreme Sour Black Cherry August 6, 2026 New Products Carbliss Launches 12% ABV Ready-to-Drink Cocktail Range Coffee & Tea Happy and Marvel Studios Launch Avengers Doomsday RTD Coffee Line Alcohol Constellation Brands Acquires Spirit-Based RTD Brand SpikedAde New Products Absolut and Ocean Spray Launch 9% ABV Double Vodka Cranberry RTD Beverage New Products Alcohol Related news

TGI Fridays has entered into a landmark development agreement with Devolli Group to open 10 restaurants across Kosovo, Albania, and North Macedonia. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Never Miss an Update! Receive personalised weekly email newsletters with industry news curated just for you. Email* Submit or create an account to access more > TGI Fridays has signed an international franchise development agreement with Southeast European conglomerate Devolli Group, marking the brand's commercial entry into the Balkans across Kosovo, Albania, and North Macedonia. Under the agreement, Devolli Group will construct and operate 10 TGI Fridays locations across the three national markets. The transaction also grants Devolli Group exclusive sub-franchising rights throughout the territory, establishing a regional platform for long-term casual dining and bar expansion across Southeast Europe. The partnership represents a key milestone in TGI Fridays' franchise-led growth model, expanding the enterprise's European footprint into emerging Balkan hospitality corridors. Sub-Franchising Rights The development pact provides TGI Fridays with immediate market entry into Southeast Europe through an established regional operating partner. As one of the Balkans' leading diversified business groups, Devolli Group will oversee site selection, capital allocation, restaurant construction, and local supply chain integration across Kosovo, Albania, and North Macedonia. Securing exclusive sub-franchising rights allows Devolli Group to scale the restaurant network beyond initial company-operated sites by onboarding regional franchise partners across urban and high-traffic travel destinations. Phil Broad, Global President of TGI Fridays, stated that the Balkans represents an expanding growth market supported by infrastructure development and rising consumer demand for international casual dining brands. Broad noted that Devolli Group's market reach and operational capabilities provide a foundation to build brand presence across Southeast Europe while advancing corporate expansion targets. Blerim Devolli, President of Devolli Group, added that introducing an established American casual dining brand supports the group's commercial hospitality investments across Albania, Kosovo, and North Macedonia, creating local employment and developing regional foodservice talent. Global Pipeline and Vision The Balkan expansion forms part of TGI Fridays' corporate roadmap, designated as the "1-2-3 Strategic Vision", which targets an operational estate exceeding 1,000 restaurants globally by 2030. The enterprise has accelerated international development agreements over the past three quarters, adding more than 150 restaurant commitments to its forward pipeline through multi-market franchise partnerships: New Market Entries: Executed master franchise agreements across Kenya, the Maldives, and the Western Balkans. Territory Expansions: Extended long-term franchise agreements to support unit growth across Peru, Japan, Mexico, and the Philippines. European Consolidation: Deepened regional franchise networks across Greece, Cyprus, and Spain. European Footprint and Regional Growth The addition of Kosovo, Albania, and North Macedonia strengthens TGI Fridays' European operational footprint, complementing established restaurant networks in the United Kingdom, Spain, Norway, Greece, and Cyprus. The Balkan region has seen rising levels of foreign direct investment, commercial retail development, and international tourism, creating commercial opportunities for global casual dining chains to establish first-mover advantages in key urban hubs. By combining US brand assets with Devolli Group's domestic distribution networks and operational infrastructure, TGI Fridays aims to scale its bar-forward restaurant model across Southeast Europe as part of its global multi-unit franchise roadmap. TGI Fridays Expands into Balkans with Devolli Group Franchise Agreement September 8, 2026 Technology Ricoh USA and Hyphen Partner to Scale Restaurant Robotics in US Foodservice Common Table Group Acquires 57 Whitbread Sites in Hospitality Deal Foodservice Sealed Air Launches CRYOVAC ZeroPrep Pouches for Foodservice Dispensing Business & Finance London Gatwick Issues Major Food and Beverage Tender Foodservice Business & Finance Related news

Rao's Homemade has expanded its premium Italian sauce portfolio with two new mascarpone-infused creamy tomato SKUs comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Never Miss an Update! Receive personalised weekly email newsletters with industry news curated just for you. Email* Submit or create an account to access more > Rao's Homemade, a prominent leader in the premium Italian culinary sector, has announced the national rollout of two new permanent additions to its portfolio: Creamy Roasted Garlic and Creamy Peppered Parmesan . The strategic launch represents a calculated effort by the organisation to expand its footprint in the high-margin "premium indulgence" segment of the ambient grocery aisle. By incorporating authentic Italian mascarpone cheese into its signature slow-simmered tomato base, the brand is targeting the modern home cook who prioritises restaurant-quality flavour and texture-driven culinary solutions. Premium Italian Sauce Sector In a highly competitive ambient grocery landscape, brand differentiation requires a continuous focus on premiumisation. While standard red sauces often face commoditisation and intense price competition, value-added creamy segments are experiencing rapid value growth. By introducing these new creamy, dairy-infused formulations, Rao's Homemade is capitalising on this market migration. The strategy is designed to encourage consumers to upgrade their weekly pasta night into an elevated dining ritual, increasing the average basket value for retail partners. The launch allows the brand to capture incremental sales from households that may be dining out less frequently due to macroeconomic factors but are willing to pay a premium for high-integrity, authentic ingredients at home. Technical Formulation and Dairy Sourcing Replicating the delicate, velvety texture of a restaurant-style cream sauce within a shelf-stable, jarred format represents a major food science and research and development milestone. Many mass-market brands rely heavily on synthetic thickeners, starch-based stabilisers, or heavy cream concentrates that can separate over time or dull the natural acidity of the tomatoes. Rao's Homemade resolves this technical challenge through the deliberate integration of Italian mascarpone cheese : Textural Velvet: Mascarpone, a mild and creamy Italian cheese, acts as a natural emulsifier, delivering a luxurious, cohesive mouthfeel that clings perfectly to diverse pasta geometries. Flavour Balance: The rich, buttery notes of the cheese are engineered to soften and balance the bright, natural acidity of the brand's slow-simmered Italian tomatoes. The range launches with two distinct, high-intensity flavour profiles: Creamy Roasted Garlic: This variant blends the signature tomato-mascarpone base with deep, caramelised notes of slow-roasted garlic, creating a highly savoury sauce with significant depth on the palate. Creamy Peppered Parmesan: A sophisticated, multi-layered formulation that pairs the creamy base with real Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, finished with the sharp, warm kick of cracked black pepper. Ethan R. Holmes, Executive Chef at Rao's Homemade, stated that premium Italian tomatoes remain the essential foundation for every sauce the brand manufactures. Holmes noted that the inclusion of mascarpone cheese creates a highly balanced, versatile liquid that seamlessly elevates classic pasta dishes whilst complementing a wide variety of contemporary recipes. The introduction of the Creamy Roasted Garlic and Creamy Peppered Parmesan SKUs is supported by strong historical data. In May 2025, the brand made its initial entry into the creamy sub-category with the national launch of Rao's Homemade Creamy Marinara. The performance metrics for that launch validated the brand's premium dairy strategy: Category Dominance: The Creamy Marinara SKU rapidly ascended to become the number one new product in the highly competitive Italian sauce category. Award Recognition: The formulation secured multiple prestigious industry awards for its quality, taste, and close replication of the professional restaurant experience. By leveraging the established consumer trust and high retail velocity of this existing line, the brand is de-risking its latest expansion, ensuring that the new garlic and parmesan variants enter the market with a pre-verified audience of brand loyalists. Rao's Homemade Scales Premium Portfolio With Creamy Tomato Sauce Launch May 19, 2026 New Products Heinz Launches Six Ready-to-Eat Soup Collection in Canada New Products Sara Lee Debuts Limited Edition Mike's Hot Honey Half Loaf New Products Toss Launches UK First Squeezy Pesto Hey Pesto New Products DOJO Launches Barrel-Aged Japanese Soy Sauce in Squeeze Bottle Food Sauces New Products Related news

Dunkin enters the energy drink market with Dunkin Zero while debuting a seasonal banana-inspired menu to drive mid-day sales and beverage innovation. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. Featured in this news Foodservice Dunkin’ The Newsroom Never Miss an Update! Receive personalised weekly email newsletters with industry news curated just for you. Email* Submit or create an account to access more > Dunkin’ is officially expanding its reach beyond the morning coffee daypart with the nationwide launch of Dunkin’ Zero. This new line of zero-sugar energy drinks is designed to capture the "in-between" moments of the day, targeting consumers who require functional energy after the traditional morning rush. The move signals a strategic effort by the brand to compete more directly in the rapidly growing functional beverage and energy drink categories. Market Entry With Dunkin' Zero The new Dunkin’ Zero line consists of six fruit-forward varieties, each containing 20 calories per medium serving and zero grams of sugar. The lightly carbonated beverage is positioned as a "reset" tool for professionals and parents moving between daily commitments. The initial flavour lineup includes: 🫐🍊 Blackberry Tangerine 🥭 Tropical Mango 🍑 Juicy Peach ✨ Glamberry (Blackberry Tangerine and Juicy Peach blend) ☀️ Sunzest (Tropical Mango and Juicy Peach blend) 🥤 Blushpop (Blackberry Tangerine and Tropical Mango blend) Jill Nelson, Chief Marketing Officer at Dunkin’, noted that the expansion is intended to fuel the rhythm of everyday life for guests who are already integrated into the Dunkin’ ecosystem but seek sugar-free energy alternatives. To drive initial trial and digital engagement, Dunkin’ Rewards members can access a $3 medium drink promotion during afternoon hours through mid-March. Seasonal Menu Innovation Features Banana Profiles In addition to the energy category entry, Dunkin’ has introduced an extensive spring menu centred on banana flavour profiles. The brand is utilising two new components—Banana Syrup and Banana Cold Foam—to integrate the flavour across several beverage platforms, including espresso, matcha, and its Refreshers line. Key additions to the spring lineup include: Banana Puddin’ Cloud Latte : An espresso and whole milk beverage topped with Banana Cold Foam. Banana Daydream Refresher : A combination of existing Refresher bases (Strawberry Dragonfruit, Mango Pineapple, or Berry Acai) with oatmilk and Banana Cold Foam. Bananarama Matcha : A matcha latte incorporating the new banana flavour. Anthony Epter, Vice President of Menu Innovation at Dunkin’, cited the versatility and nostalgic appeal of banana as the primary reason for the seasonal focus. The launch is also supported by a limited-edition merchandise drop, a tactic the brand frequently employs to boost social media visibility and brand loyalty. Portfolio Growth in Refreshers and Bakery The Dunkin’ Refreshers line has also seen a permanent expansion with the addition of Berry Acai. This new flavour profile is designed to mimic the notes of an acai smoothie bowl and is being featured in specific builds such as the Bananaberry Protein Daydream Refresher. In the bakery segment, the brand is targeting the upcoming spring wedding season. Coinciding with National Proposal Day on March 20, Dunkin’ has introduced Wedding Cake MUNCHKINS. These blueberry-flavoured doughnut holes are coated in wedding cake-themed sprinkles. This limited-time offering precedes a larger planned partnership and campaign focusing on "brides who run on Dunkin’," which the company expects to detail later this month. Dunkin Expands Beverage Portfolio With Zero Sugar Energy Drink Line March 4, 2026 Foodservice Coca-Cola and KFC Announce US Beverage Partnership Foodservice Taco Bell Expands Live Más Café with Horchata Lineup and New Sites New Products Wingstop Launches Sour Patch Kids Flavoured Wings Business & Finance Starbucks Explores Takeover of Chipotle New Products Coffee & Tea Beverage Energy Drinks Foodservice Flavours & Colours Related news

Swiss food-tech startup Cosaic has raised $6 million in seed funding to scale its yeast fermentation platform and accelerate the market entry of clean-label ingredients designed for creaminess and stability. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. Featured in this news Ingredients Dsm-Firmenich The Newsroom Never Miss an Update! Receive personalised weekly email newsletters with industry news curated just for you. Email* Submit or create an account to access more > Cosaic, a Swiss food-technology startup formerly known as Cultivated Biosciences, has announced the completion of a $6 million seed funding round. The investment was led by DSM-Firmenich Ventures, the venture capital arm of the global nutrition and beauty giant, with additional participation from Swiss deep-tech investor Kickfund and existing investors Navus Ventures and Zuercher Kantonalbank. The successful raise comes during a period of cautious investment within the food-tech sector, signalling strong institutional confidence in Cosaic’s specific technological approach and its path toward commercial viability. Technological Platform and Ingredient Innovation Headquartered in Horgen, Switzerland, Cosaic is developing a specialised category of food ingredients derived from yeast fermentation. The company’s proprietary technology platform is engineered to address one of the most persistent challenges in plant-based and dairy-free formulations: achieving a high-quality sensory profile without complex additive lists. The single-ingredient solution targets three primary functional areas: Creaminess: Providing the mouthfeel typically associated with animal-derived fats. Stability: Maintaining structural integrity across various processing conditions. Functionality: Replacing the need for multiple texturizers and stabilisers in a single application. By consolidating these functions into one fermented ingredient, Cosaic aims to help manufacturers simplify labels and reduce the reliance on traditional thickeners and emulsifiers. Priorities for Market Readiness The $6 million capital injection is earmarked for three core growth priorities as the company transitions from product development to commercial availability. Regulatory Compliance: Navigating the necessary approvals for new fermentation-derived ingredients in key global markets. Production Scale-up: Increasing manufacturing capacity to meet the volume requirements of industrial-scale food producers. Industrial Client Trials: Executing large-scale trials with major food and beverage manufacturers to validate the ingredient’s performance in diverse product formats. Backing and Commercial Validation The investment from DSM-Firmenich Ventures follows a separate commercial validation earlier in late 2025, when Cosaic announced a partnership with the global ingredients solutions provider Ingredion. This combination of strategic investment and commercial partnership is intended to accelerate the company’s transition to market launch. Tomas Turner, co-founder and CEO of Cosaic, stated that the company is building an ingredient designed to resolve the frequent trade-offs manufacturers face between sensory performance, cost, and clean-label requirements. Turner noted that the company’s capital-efficient scale-up model and strategic backing position it to move efficiently toward launch readiness. By leveraging yeast fermentation to create functional fats and texturizers, Cosaic joins a growing segment of the "next-generation" ingredient industry focused on improving the performance of sustainable food systems through biotechnology. Cosaic Secures $6 Million Seed Funding Led by DSM-Firmenich Ventures April 23, 2026 Business & Finance Edonia Raises €15m to Scale Microalgae Protein Ingredient Edo Business & Finance ADM and Convoy of Hope Launch Disaster Response Fund Alcohol Unifying Spirits Secures $2.2M for Boba POPS Expansion Business & Finance Organic Traditions Secures $10.5M Series A Round to Expand US Retail Business & Finance Ingredients Related news

Coffee equipment developer Mago Maga is launching its third-generation AI-powered home coffee roaster, the Roma-X, via a global Kickstarter on 23 July 2026. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Never Miss an Update! Receive personalised weekly email newsletters with industry news curated just for you. Email* Submit or create an account to access more > Coffee hardware developer Mago Maga has announced the global launch of the Roma-X, its third-generation artificial intelligence AI-powered home coffee roaster. The product is scheduled to debut on the crowdfunding platform Kickstarter on 23 July 2026. The release marks a continuing development in the speciality consumer coffee hardware segment. As home espresso machines and precision grinders reach saturation across mature markets, small-scale roasting equipment is attracting interest from consumers seeking greater control over bean freshness and roast profiles. The announcement follows the appliance's debut at World of Coffee San Diego 2026, where it was selected as one of eight finalists in the Best New Product category. An earlier iteration, the Roma Pro V1.0, received the Best New Product People's Choice Award at the 2024 Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) Expo in Houston. Technical Specifications and Hardware Design Unlike minor iterative updates, the Roma-X represents a structural and electronic redesign compared to the manufacturer's previous Roma Pro series. The appliance combines automated temperature controls with manual adjustment options suited to both novice operators and experienced roasters. Key technical and operational features of the appliance include: 🫘 300g Batch Capacity: Engineered to process up to 300 grams of green coffee beans per roasting cycle, accommodating typical domestic consumption requirements. 💨 Integrated Smoke Filtration: Features a built-in filtration system designed to capture up to 90 per cent of airborne particulate matter and smoke, facilitating indoor countertop operation. 🖥️ Full-Colour Touchscreen: Equipped with a 5-inch full-colour touchscreen interface supporting multi-language navigation, including English, Spanish, and Chinese. 🔎 Borosilicate Glass Chamber: Utilises a dual-layer borosilicate glass roasting chamber, providing thermal insulation and direct visual monitoring throughout the thermal transformation. ⚙️ Multi-Tiered Roast Settings: Ships with six preset roast levels, 266 pre-programmed origin profiles, and a manual override mode for custom profile creation. AI Integration and Cloud Profile Network The appliance incorporates machine learning algorithms designed to maintain thermal consistency during the roasting cycle. System software connects to a cloud-based network, allowing the unit to adapt temperature curves based on real-time sensor feedback. The hardware ecosystem integrates with iOS and Android mobile applications via Bluetooth and wireless networks. Through the companion app, users can monitor roast metrics in real time, download new firmware updates over-the-air (OTA), and access a shared cloud database to upload, download, and review custom roasting curves created by other coffee enthusiasts globally. Chifeng Lei, Chief Executive Officer of Mago Maga, stated that the development of the Roma-X was focused on combining machine learning automation with a social platform for profile sharing across the global home-roasting community. Crowdfunding and Deployment Mago Maga is utilising Kickstarter to facilitate product discovery and establish an initial user base for its cloud profile database. The campaign is scheduled to open on 23 July 2026, featuring promotional early-bird pricing structured at more than 50 per cent off the planned standard retail price of US$1,598. Commercial manufacturing and global logistics distribution for fulfilled campaign orders are scheduled to commence in autumn 2026. Mago Maga to Launch Roma-X AI Home Coffee Roaster on Kickstarter July 21, 2026 Coffee & Tea Bellwether Coffee Unveils Next-Gen Shop Roaster and In-House Roasting Data Coffee & Tea Lavazza Launches Capsule-Free Tablì Coffee System in UK Coffee & Tea Starbucks and Suntory Roll out Vending Machines in Japan Coffee & Tea Braun Household Launches OptiBrew Line of Drip Coffee Makers Technology New Solutions Coffee & Tea Related news

Utz Brands is leveraging nostalgia and high-velocity seasonal demand by launching two limited-edition, new Sizzlin’ Summer Burger and returning Lemonade comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Never Miss an Update! Receive personalised weekly email newsletters with industry news curated just for you. Email* Submit or create an account to access more > Utz Brands, a United States-based salty snack brand, has announced the launch of its 2026 summer innovation programme. The rollout features two limited-time offerings (LTOs): the all-new Sizzlin’ Summer Burger Ripples and the return of the fan-favourite Lemonade flavoured potato chips. The strategy represents a calculated move to own the "iconic taste of summer" through high-intensity sensory profiles, utilising the LTO model to drive incremental basket value during the peak outdoor socialising months. A defining component of this seasonal strategy is the re-entry of Utz Lemonade flavoured potato chips. While "sweet and savoury" potato chips are often viewed as high-risk innovations, Utz has validated the commercial viability of this specific SKU. In 2025, the Lemonade variant generated more than 1 million dollars in sales, proving that consumer demand for "citrus-forward" refreshment extends into the ambient snack aisle. The formulation balances tangy, sour, and sweet notes, targeting the "flavour-seeking" demographic that prioritises novelty and experiential snacking. Technical Formulation: Sizzlin’ Summer Burger The second pillar of the launch, the Sizzlin’ Summer Burger, is engineered for the "ridged chip" subcategory. By utilising the Utz Ripple format, the brand provides a high-surface-area vehicle for complex seasoning blends. Key Technical Attributes Include Layered Flavour Profile: The seasoning is designed to replicate the multi-dimensional notes of a grilled burger, incorporating smoky and savoury aromatics. Texture Optimisation: The ridged architecture ensures a robust "crunch" that holds up against heavier dips, aligning the product with high-volume social gatherings and barbecues. Format Versatility: Available in both 2.625 oz on-the-go bags and 7.75 oz sharing bags to capture different retail dayparts. ESG Integration and Cause Marketing To reinforce its brand equity and social responsibility credentials, Utz has extended its partnership with Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation (ALSF) for a second consecutive year. This cause-marketing initiative serves as a primary "feel-good" differentiator in the competitive snack aisle. The organisation has committed to donating a portion of the proceeds from the Lemonade Chips, up to a ceiling of 40,000 dollars, to support childhood cancer research. Stacey Shultz, Senior Vice President of Marketing at Utz Quality Foods, noted that the initiative allows snack lovers to enjoy the season while contributing to a meaningful mission. Utz Brands Announces Burger and Lemonade Flavoured Crisps May 15, 2026 New Products Lay's Debuts Holi-LAY'S Range with Chocolate Chips New Products Doritos Debuts Limited-Edition Lemon Pepper Flavour New Products Walkers Launches Gold Crisp Range New Products Utz Brands Launches Three Flavour Innovations in US New Products Food Snacking Related news

Ghirardelli is capitalising on the viral Dubai chocolate trend by launching a seasonal Strawberry Bliss dessert comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Never Miss an Update! Receive personalised weekly email newsletters with industry news curated just for you. Email* Submit or create an account to access more > The Ghirardelli Chocolate Company has announced the nationwide expansion of its "Dubai Style" dessert portfolio with the launch of the Dubai Style Chocolate Strawberry Bliss. Debuting across the brand's proprietary Chocolate and Ice Cream Shops, the new limited-time offering (LTO) represents a strategic effort to sustain the massive commercial momentum generated by the viral pistachio-and-chocolate flavour trend. The introduction builds on the runaway retail success of the brand's original Dubai Style Chocolate Sundae, which reportedly sold out within hours of its initial launch last year. By updating the profile with fresh, seasonal fruit, Ghirardelli is transitioning a viral internet sensation into a reliable, seasonal footfall driver. Productising Viral Social Media Trends The foodservice sector is increasingly looking to digital platforms like TikTok to inform menu innovation. The "Dubai chocolate" trend, characterised by the rich, textural combination of pistachio cream and crispy kataifi pastry, has dominated the premium dessert market globally. Lacey Zane, Vice President of Restaurant and Retail at Ghirardelli Chocolate Company, noted that the rapid sell-out of the original sundae provided clear consumer validation. The brand recognised that the indulgent, sweet, salty, and crunchy profile possessed lasting commercial appeal beyond a fleeting social media moment, prompting the development of an extended menu platform. Technical Formulation and Sensory Contrast While the original sundae focused on heavy indulgence, the Strawberry Bliss variant is engineered to provide a lighter, contrasting sensory experience specifically targeted at the summer consumption window. Key Technical Attributes Include: Textural Layering: Incorporates fresh sliced strawberries to provide natural acidity and brightness, cutting through the richness of the brand's handmade hot fudge. The "Dubai" Core: Utilises a proprietary blend of pistachio butter, crispy kataifi, white chocolate, and sea salt to deliver the signature umami and crunch associated with the trend. Premium Finishing: Finished with whipped cream and barista chips, maintaining the high-visual aesthetic required for consumer-generated social media sharing. Menu Architecture and Format Flexibility Alongside the new Strawberry Bliss launch, Ghirardelli has refined the architecture of its core Dubai Style Chocolate Sundae. The original dessert is now being offered in both full-size and "mini" formats. This sizing strategy is a critical B2B operational move. By introducing a mini variant, Ghirardelli is lowering the price and caloric barrier to trial, appealing to the "snackification" trend where consumers seek smaller, permissible indulgences throughout the day rather than committing to a full-sized dessert. Ghirardelli Targets Dubai Chocolate Trend with Strawberry Bliss Menu Addition May 13, 2026 People Lindt & Sprüngli CEO Adalbert Lechner Steps Down New Products Ghirardelli Launches Dubai Style Chocolate Squares New Products On The Rocks Debuts Limited-Edition Chocolate Martini New Products Ferrero Expands Halloween Range into Adultoween Confectionery Lineup Foodservice New Products Fresh Produce Confectionery Related news