The latest news, trends, analysis, interviews and podcasts from the global food and beverage industry

SolMaya Brands has launched a new line of Latin-flavoured, ready to drink dairy beverages at the recent Expo Comida Latina/Cultural Food Expo in New York City – the industry’s largest Hispanic food and beverage show in the US.

Lucozade, the UK’s number one Sports and Energy drink, is set to take the stimulation drinks category by storm with the launch of Lucozade Alert.

In stores from April 2008, Maltesers Malty hot chocolate from Aimia Foods contains a treat-sized bag of Maltesers. The 20cl carton can be heated in a microwave for office or home convenience.

Hansen Beverage Company has launched a low-calorie version of its guava-based, juiced energy drink Ace Local, to appeal to the health-conscious consumer.

Described as a cosmeceutical vitality drink, this calorie-burning formulation from Marquis Platinum is said to deliver cellular refreshment, metabolic enhancement and mood elevation.

Arizona-based Boink International has developed Boink as a healthier energy drink using natural additives without caffeine.

The cult TV programme 24 has spawned its own drink. A striking can from Crown Bevcan Europe & Middle East pays homage to Cott’s 24 CTU.

Dodekamin Black from Asahi Soft Drinks in Japan contains seven energising amino acids, three vitamins and stamina boosting maca and guarana.

DLR Associates in the US is aiming at Hispanic consumers with its 16oz Potencia Energy Drink. President Daisy Ramirez explained how the appetite suppressing ingredient tamarind is known to be beneficial for gut and colon health.

Playboy and Play Beverages LLC have announced the launch of the ultra-sexy, invigorating Playboy Energy Drink.

DSM has announced the launch of TensGuard, a new and unique ingredient developed to target the growing global market for blood pressure management.

As the first Northern Ireland dairy company to produce milk enriched with omega-3, Dale Farm continues to lead the way in product innovation with the launch of Mega Milk, the first local product to offer the additional benefits of omega-3.