UK dairy brand All Things has today (16 April 2026) announced a multi-million-pound investment led by The Equity Studio. The brand, founded by chef Thomas Straker and entrepreneur Toby Hopkinson, officially launched as All Things Butter in 2023 after Straker’s butter recipe videos went viral on social media. Since then, it has diversified its dairy portfolio to become All Things, rapidly growing into a wider platform with international presence and cross-category innovation. The brand recently tapped into another growing dairy trend – the resurgence of cottage cheese – with a new range, available in natural, flavoured and low-fat varieties. This latest investment round, which also saw participation from Access Industries and Active Partners, comes at a pivotal time for the business. Its current national retail expansion is underway, including a Tesco launch in May, alongside an upcoming launch into a national US retailer in September. All Things noted that while dairy has long been a functionally driven category marked by price-led competition, consumer behaviour is now shifting. Brands are transforming everyday groceries into objects of taste, identity and cultural expression – a phenomenon described as the rise of the ‘status economy’ in food, the brand said. A recent report from HighSnobiety highlighted that more than 70% of consumers now treat groceries as a form of lifestyle expression. Co-founder Hopkinson said: “Food used to be about convenience and price. But people want more from what they cook with every day. They want flavour, provenance and inspiration.” All Things’ latest backing from The Equity Studio reflects the investment firm’s confidence in the brand’s ongoing growth into a scaled, multi-category dairy platform. The brand has successfully launched into the Middle East and is now preparing for further global expansion with its US launch. It has confirmed a ‘strong NPD pipeline in adjacent segments’ beyond butter and cottage cheese, and will allocate a portion of the proceeds raised toward investing in its supply chain and farm partners. This marks the first step in its vertical integration strategy to support the scaling of cottage cheese production and expansion into additional categories.

Yakult UK & Ireland has named Shinji Yamaguchi as its new managing director, succeeding Hiroaki Yoshimura, who will relocate to the Netherlands to take up the role of managing director at Yakult Europe. Shinji Yamaguchi Yoshimura departs after more than a decade in the UK business, including eight years as managing director. During his tenure, Yakult expanded its product range and drove consumer engagement through initiatives such as the pan-European 'My Yakult' campaign, while helping to elevate awareness of gut health across the region. Yamaguchi’s appointment signals continuity alongside a renewed strategic focus, as the company looks to consolidate its position in an increasingly competitive functional beverages market. Bringing over 30 years of experience within Yakult, Yamaguchi began his career in the company’s home delivery operations, an integral part of its direct-to-consumer model. He has since held a variety of roles across international markets, including the United States, where he supported the early-stage development of Yakult’s operations spanning sales, logistics and supply chain. Most recently, he served in Yakult’s International Business Division in Japan, where he led market development initiatives and contributed to strengthening global capabilities. This combination of operational and strategic expertise is expected to support Yakult’s next phase of growth in the UK and Ireland, particularly as the brand navigates evolving consumer expectations around health and wellness. Yamaguchi said: " Having worked in a number of international markets, I’m excited to now lead the continued growth of Yakult across the UK and Ireland. These are mature markets with strong foundations where Yakult has earned a position of trust through its unmatched expertise in the field of probiotics."

Mulu, a farmer-owned brand from Dairy Farmers of America, has launched across the US, positioning itself as the 'highest-protein cottage cheese currently available at retail'. The product delivers 18 grams of complete protein per half-cup serving, approximately 33% more than leading cottage cheese brands, placing it at the forefront of a category that is undergoing a significant consumer-driven revival. Cottage cheese, in particular, is experiencing a renaissance. US retail sales have grown significantly over the past year, supported in part by social media trends and increased consumer awareness of protein-rich, minimally processed foods. Platforms like TikTok have helped reposition cottage cheese as a versatile, modern staple, attracting younger demographics and expanding usage occasions. Mulu's differentiation lies in its proprietary two-layer protein system, combining fast-digesting whey with slow-release casein. While traditional cottage cheese relies almost entirely on casein, Mulu’s formulation is designed to deliver both immediate and sustained amino acid availability. Chris Mohr, an exercise physiologist and performance nutrition expert, explained: "Combining whey and casein provides both immediate support and longer-lasting nourishment." Kristen Coady, chief innovation and brand officer at Dairy Farmers of America, said: "Consumers are increasingly looking for protein options that deliver performance without compromising taste. Mulu brings that together through real dairy – offering a high protein, rich, creamy texture, along with live active cultures to help support gut health and no artificial flavours.” The launch comes amid strong tailwinds for high-protein foods. Industry data indicates that roughly 70% of Americans are actively seeking more protein in their diets, making it one of the most influential drivers of innovation across categories. The line is available in both 2% low-fat (100 calories per serving) and whole milk (120 calories per serving) varieties. Mulu is now available exclusively at Walmart stores nationwide, launching in 16-ounce cartons with a suggested retail price of $4.26.

Death Wish Coffee Co has expanded its ready-to-drink (RTD) portfolio with the launch of a Caramel Cold Brew Latte. The new product builds on the brand’s existing RTD range, which includes Mocha, Vanilla and Classic Cold Brew Lattes, and responds to demand for higher-caffeine, better-for-you coffee options. The company positions the launch against traditional energy drinks, highlighting consumer preference for natural ingredients and flavour in the RTD coffee segment, particularly among Gen Z and Millennial consumers. Caramel remains one of the leading flavour profiles in the category, and Death Wish Coffee said the new variant is designed to offer a more balanced alternative to sweeter coffeehouse-style drinks. The Caramel Cold Brew Latte is made with 100% Colombian cold brew coffee that is Fair Trade USA certified and contains no artificial colours or flavours. Each 11oz slim can delivers up to 120mg of natural caffeine. The company states the product contains 65% less sugar than a leading competitor and is a source of protein. Steve Gardiner, CEO of Death Wish Coffee, said: “We built Death Wish Coffee by refusing to settle for weak, bitter brews and we’re done with the idea that convenience requires compromise. Our Caramel Cold Brew Latte proves you don’t have to sacrifice ingredient integrity for potency. It is the bold, insanely smooth, natural caffeine kick our fans need to live at full throttle – without the junk, and with the Fair Trade standards the planet deserves.” The product is available via Amazon and in-store at Walmart, Safeway, Albertsons and other retailers.

Nestlé is expanding its confectionery portfolio with the introduction of a new pistachio-flavoured variant of its Aero range. Rolling out in UK retail from April, the Aero Pistachio sharing bar combines the brand’s signature aerated chocolate format with a pistachio flavour profile, aligning with continued consumer demand for nut-based and premium-leaning taste experiences. The launch follows earlier 2026 innovation within the range, including a caramel-flavoured Aero Bubbles variant, signalling a broader strategy to drive incremental growth through flavour diversification. Pistachio has emerged as a strong performer across multiple F&B categories, from dairy to bakery and confectionery, often associated with indulgence and perceived premium quality. By introducing pistachio into a mainstream brand like Aero, Nestlé is effectively bridging trend-led innovation with mass-market accessibility. The launch coincides with a partnership with The Devil Wears Prada 2, which is scheduled for UK cinema release on 1 May. Aero Pistachio is available in selected stores now. Aero and The Devil Wears Prada 2 on-pack promotion begins in April, with chances to win available from 20th April 2026 until 12th July 2026.

Froneri and Grupo Herdez have announced a strategic partnership to develop and expand the ice cream category in Mexico. As part of the agreement, Grupo Herdez will integrate its ice cream operations, run under an exclusive licence from Nestlé since 2015, into the new partnership structure. The portfolio includes well-established brands such as Helados Nestlé, Häagen-Dazs, Mega and Carlos V. Brand licensing in Mexico will be aligned with Froneri’s global framework with Nestlé, enabling the business to leverage international innovation pipelines, operational standards and category expertise. Under the terms of the deal, Froneri will contribute capital to strengthen the business and support future growth. Grupo Herdez will transfer full operational control to Froneri, allowing the company to implement its specialised ice cream operating model. The transaction will not generate immediate cash proceeds for Grupo Herdez but is positioned as a long-term value creation move within its broader portfolio strategy. Phil Griffin, CEO of Froneri, said: "We are thrilled to be partnering with Grupo Herdez to unlock the significant potential of their ice cream business in Mexico. The business operates under a portfolio of much- loved brands which we plan to invest in to further develop the business. We look forward to working with the Grupo Herdez team." Héctor Hernández-Pons Torres, chairman of the board and CEO of Grupo Herdez agreed, adding: "This alliance marks the next step in the configuration of our portfolio, and we are proud to share the potential of this business with a global expert like Froneri. The focus of this alliance will remain on long-term value creation." The transaction remains subject to approval by Mexico’s competition authority, the National Antitrust Commission (CNA), alongside customary closing conditions. Completion is expected later this year.

Nestlé has entered a four-year agreement with Soil Capital to expand regenerative agriculture practices across France, Belgium and the UK, supporting farmers with agronomic expertise, digital measurement tools and financial incentives linked to verified environmental outcomes. The programme will focus on a flexible portfolio of key European crops, including wheat, corn, barley and sugar beet. Participating farms will receive tailored agronomic support and access to Soil Capital’s platform, which verifies changes in farming practices, soil health improvements and emissions performance. By linking financial incentives to verified results, the initiative is designed to support farmers through the transition to regenerative agriculture, while aiming to restore soil function, reduce input use and improve biodiversity at farm level. Anita Wälz, head of sustainability at Nestlé Europe, said: “We want to back farmers with the tools, science and market continuity to drive change, not by just asking them to take on risk. We’re investing in the long-term health of our supply base, strengthening resilience, and focusing on soil.” Chuck de Liedekerke, CEO of Soil Capital, added: “This is what systemic change looks like, farmers being paid for outcomes society urgently needs – healthier soils, fewer emissions and more resilient ecosystems. It’s progress you can measure, built on trust, and delivered at scale.” The programme is supported by Soil Capital’s Monitoring, Reporting and Verification (MRV) system, which combines satellite imagery with field-level data to track carbon sequestration, emissions and soil health indicators. The system provides Nestlé with environmental metrics to support Scope 3 reporting, sourcing transparency and long-term risk management. The agreement builds on a 2023 pilot focused on wheat and corn in France, followed by a 2024 expansion into the UK. Now extended to Belgium, the programme is expected to support nearly 230 farmers across 13,000 hectares.

The Kraft Heinz Company is expanding its iconic Kraft Mac & Cheese portfolio with the debut of a new premium line designed to bring restaurant-style flavours into the home. Announced this week, Kraft Mac & Cheese Restaurant Edition marks the brand’s first foray into elevated, foodservice-inspired offerings, responding to growing consumer demand for more sophisticated at-home meal solutions amid reduced dining-out frequency. The new range features three varieties: Parmesan Pesto, Romano Cacio e Pepe and Monterey Jack Caramelized Onion. Each product combines premium cheeses with distinct pasta shapes, such as gemelli, pipette and cavatappi, developed to enhance sauce adhesion and deliver a more restaurant-like eating experience. According to the company, the launch follows extensive product development, with more than 40 flavour concepts tested before narrowing the range to three core SKUs. Each serving contains 10g of protein and is made using a durum wheat semolina pasta blend to achieve an al dente texture. The move reflects broader industry trends toward “premiumisation at home,” as consumers seek elevated meal experiences without the higher cost of dining out. Kraft Heinz positions the range as delivering both quality and value, with each 9.5oz box retailing from $3.49 and offering approximately 30% more product than the brand’s traditional blue box format. Sara Roashan, associate director of mac & cheese innovation at Kraft Heinz, said: "Consumers are increasingly looking for restaurant-inspired flavours that are accessible and easy to prepare. This range brings together convenience, affordability and a more elevated taste profile.” Kraft Mac & Cheese Restaurant Edition is rolling out nationwide in the US this month.

Suntory has announced plans to acquire Daiichi Sankyo Healthcare from Daiichi Sankyo in a transaction valued at approximately ¥246.5 billion ($1.6 billion), marking a significant expansion into the fast-growing self-care and health products segment. The acquisition reflects Suntory’s ambition to broaden its footprint beyond traditional food and beverage categories into health-related products, as consumer demand for preventative healthcare and functional products continues to rise. Daiichi Sankyo Healthcare offers a portfolio of over-the-counter (OTC) brands, including Lulu, Loxonin, Minon and Clean Dental, alongside capabilities in functional skincare, oral care and food products. The company entered the sports nutrition market in 2024 with its acquisition of DNS. The transaction will be executed in three stages, with Suntory ultimately acquiring 100% ownership: June 2026: Initial 30% stake June 2027: Increase to 70%, making the business a consolidated subsidiary June 2029: Full ownership at 100% The phased structure allows for regulatory approvals and integration planning, with the total valuation subject to customary adjustments. The deal highlights a broader convergence between food, beverage and healthcare sectors, as major players seek to capitalise on rising consumer interest in holistic wellbeing. By combining beverage innovation with pharmaceutical-grade expertise, Suntory is positioning itself to compete more aggressively in adjacent categories, including functional foods, supplements and OTC health solutions. For Daiichi Sankyo, the divestment enables greater focus on its core pharmaceutical business, while ensuring its consumer healthcare arm benefits from Suntory’s scale and distribution capabilities.

Few ingredients in the functional nutrition space have attracted as much research interest as lion's mane (Hericium erinaceus). For product developers and formulation teams, that growing body of scientific literature has made it one of the most discussed species in the category, and one of the most commercially relevant for brands building in the cognitive wellness segment. From research interest to formulation reality The bioactives hericenones and hericenes, found in lion’s mane, are considered important for cognition. A recent peer-reviewed human clinical study, published in an open-access journal by MDPI, using NordRelease lion’s mane, found that it “helped improve working memory, complex attention and reaction time two hours post ingestion and perceptions of happiness over a two hour period”. The commercial momentum behind lion’s mane is real. It is increasingly appearing in supplement formulations, functional beverages and active nutrition products. Brands entering or expanding in this space are looking for ingredients that can support credible product development backed by verifiable quality, consistent bioactive content and documentation that holds up to regulatory review. The challenge is that the ingredient supply has not always reflected the seriousness of that demand. Much of the lion's mane available on the market varies significantly in sourcing, extraction methodology and analytical verification. For manufacturers where batch consistency and label accuracy are non-negotiable, that variability creates real risk in quality control, in supplier reliability and in compliance across different regulatory environments. This is the problem Kääpä Biotech was built to address. Standardisation as a competitive advantage Standardisation is where Kääpä's proprietary NordRelease mushroom extraction technology provides direct value to manufacturing partners. With full EFSA approval backing it, this groundbreaking technology has been developed by Kääpä exclusively for its partners. NordRelease produces lion's mane organic extracts with verified, consistent bioactive compounds across all batches. Every batch is analytically tested, with full documentation available to support quality control processes, regulatory submissions and technical due diligence. The brands driving serious growth in this category are not sourcing commodity powders. They are building formulations that require ingredient partners who can deliver technical data packages, supply chain transparency and the kind of documented quality that withstands scrutiny from regulatory bodies, retail partners and increasingly rigorous market standards. This is where NordRelease slots in to provide just that. Kääpä's R&D and formulation teams work tirelessly to support partners' needs across capsules, powders, functional foods and beverages, gummies and emerging delivery formats. They work closely with partners to develop products from ingredient specification through to finished format requirements. As the functional mushroom category matures, the gap between low-quality commodity supply and properly developed, analytically verified ingredients will only widen. Brands that build on credible ingredient foundations now will be better positioned as regulatory and market expectations continue to rise. Kääpä exists to be that foundation: consistent, transparent and built for partners who take ingredient quality seriously. Meet the Kääpä team at Vitafoods Europe, booth 6D67. To learn more, get in touch here.

The rapid rise of GLP-1 therapies is driving a profound shift in how consumers approach food, redefining not only eating habits but also the very concept of nutritional value. Reduced appetite, medication side effects and evolving taste perceptions are accelerating a transition from volume-driven consumption to a model centred on nutrient density. Data projections highlight the scale of the trend: the GLP-1 market is expected to grow significantly in the coming years, with estimates pointing to a value of up to $170 billion by 2033, according to market research firm Markets and Markets. In this rapidly evolving context, FMCG companies and out-of-home players are looking for smart, easy-to-implement solutions allowing them to rethink their value propositions, delivering balanced nutrition in smaller portions. The key challenge, today, is pivoting from 'filling the plate' to 'optimising the bite'. This is where the global value-added solutions manufacturer Nexture steps in, with a comprehensive portfolio of ready-to-roll GLP-1 smart ingredients catering to diverse needs: sugar and fat reduction for lower calorie intake; fibre enrichment for satiety, digestive health and metabolic balance; and protein enrichment to support muscle mass preservation. Multi-benefit systems: When one ingredient does it all Nexture’s portfolio of GLP-1 smart solutions includes unique ingredients which deliver multiple benefits across a vast range of applications. For example, Meltec by HiFood – part of Nexture group – is a patented fibre-based system of natural origin that replicates the functional properties of sugars and syrups, enabling up to 50% sugar reduction in specific applications as well as contributing to fibre content thanks to its 66% dietary fibre content. In addition, Meltec also raises the bar when it comes to textures, improving structure, creaminess and mouthfeel across a wide range of applications from bakery and snack bars to sauces, ice cream and beverages. Another relevant example of a multi-purpose solution is the wide range of high-fibre and high-protein enriched preparations by Frulact, also part of Nexture Group. These preparations, which can be both fruit-based as well as in warm flavours, are enriched with different organoleptic profiles and added nutrients, including algae, plant extracts, essential fatty acids, vitamins and minerals (vitamin C and D, calcium, iron, zinc, etc.). They are perfect for several applications ranging from yogurt and plant-based dairy alternatives all the way to beverages and ice creams. Specialised enrichment solutions: Making every bite count Nexture’s portfolio also includes solutions that target fibre enrichment or protein enrichment specifically, ingredients which seamlessly integrate into existing production processes and deliver unique eating experiences. Hi-Car 469 by HiFood, for example, is a highly soluble vegetable fibre system with a neutral taste and excellent processability. It allows to reach 'high-fibre' or 'source-of-fibre' claims while preserving flavour, texture and sensory appeal. It also demonstrates excellent technological performance across a vast range of applications, including conventional and gluten-free baked goods, bars and snacks, ice creams and frozen desserts, sauces and dressings, ready meals and plant-based alternatives. Nexture’s vast array of protein enrichment solutions caters to the most diverse needs of food makers. These solutions range from a vast line of protein creams and preparations by Frulact ideal for baked goods, yogurt and plant-based beverages, all the way to Micro Protein by HiFood, a micronised yellow pea protein system with an ultra-fine particle size (<30 μm) and a high protein content (≥70%) that is ideal for a wide range of applications. Helping people thrive on their wellness journey Together, all these solutions enable a new generation of products tailored to the GLP-1 era. By leveraging its integrated expertise and relevant internal synergies, Nexture positions itself as a strategic partner for food makers looking to navigate this evolving landscape and create new products aligned with customers’ evolving eating and drinking habits.

Global food price stability is under threat as disruptions to critical shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz risk delaying agricultural inputs, according to the UN's Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). In a recent podcast, FAO chief economist Máximo Torero and David Laborde, director of the agency’s agrifood economics division, stated that unless vessels carrying fertilisers and energy inputs resume transit soon, the global food system could face a ripple effect reminiscent of the Covid-19-era supply issues. Torero highlighted the time-sensitive nature of crop cycles, particularly in lower-income countries, warning that 'the clock is ticking'. Delays in fertiliser access could also force farmers to reduce use, lowering yields and pushing commodity prices higher into 2026 and beyond. While the FAO Food Price Index for March remained stable, pressure is building. Farmers are entering critical planting decision windows, and uncertainty around fertiliser availability and energy costs is influencing crop choices. Laborde also cautioned that the sector is already at an 'input crisis', warning that failure to act could escalate the situation into a broader catastrophe. Rising oil prices are further complicating the outlook, incentivising shifts towards biofuel production at the expense of food crops. The FAO is urging governments to reconsider biofuel mandates and avoid export restrictions on fertilisers and energy – measures that have historically exacerbated global price spikes during crises. Between 20% and 45% of global trade in key agricultural inputs relies on routes through the Strait of Hormuz, making the current disruption particularly acute. Fertiliser and energy markets are highly inelastic, meaning even small supply constraints can trigger disproportionate price rises. To mitigate the risks, the FAO is calling for coordinated international action, including financial support mechanisms for countries struggling to secure fertiliser supplies. The organisation has also developed a crop calendar-based prioritisation system to identify countries with the most urgent fertiliser needs, aiming to ensure the timely allocation of limited resources. Unlike climate-related disruptions such as El Niño, Torero emphasised that the current crisis is geopolitical and therefore resolvable. However, he warned that inaction could create a 'perfect storm', particularly if compounded by adverse weather conditions. Torero continued: "The risks are very clear. If we don't accelerate action, they will only worsen." For the food and beverage industry, sustained input shortages and rising commodity prices could translate into higher production costs, tighter margins and increased retail prices – igniting inflationary pressures across global markets.