News & Analysis on Food & Beverage Development & Technology
The FDA’s new Total Diet Study Interface is already being used to challenge state-level contamination claims, offering a clearer view of nutrient and contaminant data in the US food supply
By redesigning contracts, supply chains and product development, three flour brands show that scaling regenerative agriculture is as much institutional as it is agricultural
CEO calls the move a ‘surgical investment’ as the company integrates Siete Foods, Poppi and its expanded Celsius partnership while preparing relaunches of Gatorade and Quaker Oats
New CEO Hein Schumacher enters a company in decline. Here are the five decisive moves that could put the world’s biggest chocolate maker back on track
A long‑running feud between B&J’s and its parent has escalated into a governance battle - here’s the latest
The company’s 2025 full-year earnings point to substantial challenges, but changes in the cocoa market could be cause for optimism
The confectionery giant is changing fast, and setting the pace for the entire sector
Affordable pricing, convenience and alignment with federal dietary guidance are reshaping consumer demand for value-added protein
Chobani is translating hype and scarcity economics into everyday grocery categories, reframing its Flavor Drops creamer from a staple product into a discovery-driven experience
Court finds that requiring disclaimers like “does not contain meat” violates free speech, marking another victory for Tofurkey, Plant Based Foods Association and the Animal Legal Defense Fund
After years of acquisitions and declining sales, the health-focused food company is narrowing its portfolio and using the proceeds to shore up its balance sheet
From megamergers to shocking splits, Big Food is reshaping itself at breakneck speed. So, who’s next?
Leadership shake‑up at Barry Callebaut reveals deeper strategic tensions at the world’s biggest chocolate maker
In 2026, longevity – not hype – is the real differentiator
Store brands nearly triple the dollar sales growth of national brands, as grocers position wellness-focused products to capture health-conscious shoppers
Although admitting it’s a risk, Oatly is addressing the UPF issue head-on
News Bites
The grocery value equation is evolving beyond simple price tags
As the company reopens applications for its R&D-led accelerator, the focus areas highlight mounting pressure around climate resilience, packaging constraints and shifting consumer expectations
Mayonnaise giants are squaring off against better-for-you upstarts like Graza and Chosen Foods in the race to reinvent a creamy classic
Mondelēz International reshapes top team, elevating CFO Luca Zaramella to powerful dual role
Multinational meat purveyor Smithfield Foods acquires Nathan’s Famous Hot Dogs, moving from longtime licensee to full owner of one of the most recognizable hot dog brands in the US
Nestlé’s new sustainability partnerships could redefine regenerative agriculture for the wider industry
As dealmaking slows and capital shifts to AI, the premium children’s food company is testing whether investors still have room for growth-stage CPG by touting its diverse portfolio, household penetration and steady year-over-year growth
Infant formula contamination recall is damaging company reputations and hitting shares
News Bites
From sensemaxxing and nutrition policy to freeze-dried candy, consumers are reshaping what ‘value’ means in food - moving beyond price, binaries and one-size-fits-all health claims
The CPG majors are facing litigation for their handling of infant formula recalls over possible toxin contamination
Former Mars executive Paul Steed’s 63-month prison sentence for stealing more than $28m exposes how insider fraud can persist inside global food companies – and why scale can magnify risk
Startup Spotlight
Early-stage founders share how they’re reinventing indulgent foods while navigating one of the toughest fundraising environments in recent years
Mars’ $36bn takeover of Kellanova is reshaping the global snacking landscape, combining two powerhouse portfolios and igniting innovation
Letter from the editor
Consumers are redefining ‘healthy’ and rethinking nutrition to focus on their physical and mental well-being, which is creating opportunities and challenges for brands
GLP-1 consumers are re-writing the rules of food retail. Here’s what this means for product innovation and how brands can win
Diet Trends
Study highlights how fiber, convenience-driven healthy meals and mood-boosting products are redefining better-for-you trends
From street food-inspired rice cups to Mexican corn chips, big food makers are betting that spicy flavors and convenient formats will resonate with shoppers
From tropical flavors to protein-rich options, yogurt continues to balance bold taste with health-conscious trends
Barry Callebaut shakes up its leadership as Hein Schumacher steps in during a pivotal moment for the world’s largest chocolate maker
Mars, Ferrara ride TikTok-fueled demand while Sow Good restructures to survive
Sentimentality and health are increasingly influencing consumer snack choices, as they seek comfort, tradition and emotional connection in their purchases
Multigenerational households, protein seekers and inflation-wary diners are driving growth in the freezer aisle
As Americans navigate a maze of information about the safety and nutrition of oils and tallows, Marianne’s Harvest offers clear labeling and expert guidance for its versatile products
A class action filed in California in December accuses General Mills of selling air-heavy cereal boxes, dragging a familiar packaging gripe back into court
Pre Brands aims to maintain premium beef pricing through strategic sourcing and targeted retail promotions
After the collapse of a major merger, Kraft Heinz plans to split into two companies. Will this bold move unlock growth or expose new risks?
Beyond - formerly Beyond Meat - is living up to its new name by stepping beyond plant-based meat, and even food itself, to enter a completely new category
For startup Loonen, water isn’t just water - it’s spring-sourced and filtered with an emphasis on minimizing plastic across the supply chain
Arla enters cottage cheese and Oatly ventures into RTD coffee in out January 2026 NPD round-up
AI can do a lot more than offer guidance and write emails. It can help food companies find brand-new ingredients for product formulation
Coca-Cola said to be scrapping Costa Coffee sale after months of talks with private equity bidders fall flat
EQUII co-founder joins Impossible to accelerate the next phase of plant-based innovation
From protein bars to gut-friendly gummies, functional confectionery is exploding, and it’s changing the game for indulgence
Good Culture’s multi-million dollar backing highlights why cottage cheese may be investors’ next big bet