New Zealand dairy group Synlait Milk has agreed to sell its North Island operations to the local unit of US healthcare company Abbott Laboratories for NZ 307 million (approx. $178 million). The deal builds on an existing relationship between the two businesses, with Abbott having been a customer of Synlait since 2020. The transaction encompasses Synlait’s Pōkeno manufacturing plant and its Auckland sites, including its blending, canning and warehousing facilities. The assets were placed under strategic review last year as the company looked to streamline its operations and strengthen its balance sheet. The sale is expected to complete on 1 April 2026, pending regulatory approvals and shareholder consent. Synlait’s largest shareholder, Bright Dairy Holding, has already confirmed it will back the transaction. Synlait said the sale would provide additional capital to reset its business and focus on long-term growth opportunities, while Abbott continues to expand its footprint in the infant nutrition sector. George Adams, Synlait chair, commented: "The sale will strengthen the company’s financial position, with the proceeds used to significantly reduce debt. We are equally pleased Abbott will onboard the vast majority of our people who work in these assets at completion – that is a great outcome." Synlait's CEO, Richard Wyeth, described the sale as a "much needed step-change" for the company. He added: "In short, this sale will deliver a stronger, simpler, and more secure Synlait. It enables us to, in time, explore opportunities to diversify what we do and better enable Synlait to reach its full potential."

Once again previewing for Oktoberfest, Drinktec returned to the dynamic city of Munich from 15-19 September, drawing 58,281 visitors from 164 countries to explore a host of drink and liquid food solutions and technologies. From filling and packaging equipment to integrating AI and innovative ingredients, this year’s Drinktec was a hub of state-of-the art technology, with over 1,000 exhibitors showcasing solutions covering the entire value chain of beverage production, with particular focus on optimisation, modernisation and digitalisation. Sustainability dominated conversations, with a range of innovations aimed at promoting the circular economy and encouraging recyclability. Reducing carbon footprints For many exhibitors, sustainability meant reducing energy consumption and minimising waste. Breweries were offered systems to cut wastewater, while compact machines promised to reduce downtime as well as output. Lightweighting and smaller packaging formats stood out as another major theme, helping to cut material use and meet evolving regulations worldwide. Among the highlights was a KHS and Husky collaboration introducing a smaller PET bottle format for soft drinks. This, along with companies like Gentlebrands, which were debuting PET bottles designed to look like glass for a more premium edge, shows how packaging has changed over the last few years. BMT lightweight bottles and prototype tech GEA highlighted its commitment to sustainability with carbon-neutral brewing solutions that preserved traditional practices. The modernisation of brewing was another huge talking point at this year’s event, with many brewers tackling the trend of sober curious consumers by creating low and no alcohol options, while still holding the flavour and texture that we all know and love. Diversification of brewing technology was evident throughout the halls, spanning hop production to colour and flavour innovation. Among the new solutions, Negardo stood out – a mushroom-based ingredient helping craft brewers expand no/low ranges while adding natural and health-focused appeal. Speaking of brewing, one of the most exciting innovations was functional alcohol. It’s increasingly clear that consumers want drinks that do more than just taste good, and this lifestyle trend has moved from soft drinks into the alcohol sector. ADM, for instance, wowed the FoodBev team with several new ingredient innovations for the brewery market, many already successful in the US. Samples from ADM Technology solutions At this year’s event, modernisation was a big theme, with a strong focus on AI integration in production lines to improve quality control and customisation. Many companies also offered completely custom outfits, tailored to the size, shape and scale of their customers’ facilities. Sustainability played a major role here, too. BMT introduced virtual testing and 3D printing to cut R&D waste, while Regal Rexnord showcased services to reduce plastic and metal use with longer-lasting, low-maintenance parts. Heuft focused on AI integration, presenting a fully modular labeller that saved space and minimised downtime. Space efficiency was also key for Krones, which unveiled solutions designed to take up less room without reducing output. During the event, we visited AF Compressors, which unveiled its new AFZ Dryer. With a honeycomb structure, it delivers up to 770 m³/h at 40 bar, a pressure dew point from -20°C to 0°C, and operates without refrigeration gas. AF Compressors marketing manager Pascal Heyden highlighted it as another example of sustainability in action, noting its low cost and energy consumption. One surprise for visitors was the arrival of an army of imperial Stormtroopers who were guarding Sidel’s stand as part of a promotion for the new EvoBlow Laser, a revolutionary new way to shape bottles and other plastic beverage packaging. Pretty packaging In terms of packaging solutions, many stands focused on interactivity, offering a more engaging drinking occasion. One company that caught the team’s eye was Destilla. Alongside its low/no functional beverages – including a reworked alcohol-free Old Fashioned – the company showed how packaging can elevate the experience: on selected cans, consumers could scan a QR code to hear music tailored to the flavours, making every sip feel like an experience. There was plenty to see in packaging, with Ball Corporation displaying a wall of artwork made entirely from cans, while Crown showcased aluminium printing options ranging from glow-in-the-dark designs to cans that change colour at optimal drinking temperature. Image: Ball Packaging New this year, the Liquidrome offered an interactive space for networking, panels and keynote sessions. Richard Clemens, managing director of the VDMA Food Processing and Packaging Machinery Association, Drinktec’s conceptual partner, said: “The Liquidrome, with its programme of presentations and panel discussions, proved to be the perfect platform for expert exchange. It was extremely well attended and undoubtedly a highlight of this year’s event.” The Liquidrome also hosted this year’s World Beverage Innovation Awards, presented by FoodBev’s Daniel Blunt. Recognising Innovation The 22nd World Beverage Innovation Awards took place on Tuesday 16 September, rounding off a day of networking and speaker events. Well attended by companies from around the world, trophies were awarded across categories from best sparkling drink to best technology innovation, followed by drinks and traditional German pretzels. With more than 20 categories recognising beverage innovators, you can see the winners, finalists and commended products here . Congratulations to all the winners, and don’t forget to enter for next year’s awards. Markus Kosak, executive director of Drinktec, highlighted. “This year’s Drinktec has once again impressively demonstrated that Munich provides the perfect platform for the global beverage and liquid food industry. The exhibitor and visitor numbers underscore the importance of high-level exchanges and deep insights into technology and innovation.” Over the course of five days, the FoodBev Media team had the pleasure of meeting with some of the industry’s finest. We’d like to say thank you to everyone who invited us to their booths to demonstrate some of their latest innovations, including: GEA, Bericap, ADM, GNT Exberry, BMT, Gentlebrands, Regal Rexnord, Heuft, Krones, KHS, Sidel, Ball Packaging, Crown and many more. We’d also like to thank everyone who visited our stand in Hall C, along with our standmates, Coccola and the Good Cup. We look forward to the next Drinktec, scheduled for September 2028. Top image: © Drinktec All other images: © FoodBev Media

UK-based Yeo Valley Organic has launched a new flavour in its popular Kefir range: Madagascan Vanilla. This addition aims to meet the growing consumer demand for indulgent yet health-conscious dairy products, offering a creamy and delicately sweet option for both new and existing customers. Packaged in a convenient 500ml bottle, Madagascan Vanilla Kefir is designed to provide a versatile drinking experience, suitable for various occasions – from a refreshing morning beverage to a comforting evening sip. The product is fortified with 14 live culture strains, supporting gut health, which aligns with the increasing consumer interest in functional foods that promote wellness. Yeo Valley is also expanding its existing Blueberry Kefir line, introducing a 1-litre bottle and a 4x100g multipack. The Blueberry flavour, unique to Yeo Valley, is crafted to deliver a breakfast-inspired experience, catering to the rising trend of fruity, indulgent flavours in the yogurt category. These new formats are positioned to enhance the consumer's breakfast routine, whether poured over cereal or blended into smoothies. The introduction of Madagascan Vanilla and the expansion of the Blueberry range come at a time when demand for kefir – a traditional fermented milk drink known for its probiotic benefits – is on the rise. As consumers increasingly seek out products that offer both taste and health benefits, Yeo Valley's latest offerings are poised to capture a larger share of the growing functional dairy market. Kefir, with its origins in ancient fermentation practices, is lauded for its slightly tangy flavour and high probiotic content, making it a popular choice among health-conscious consumers. The new Madagascan Vanilla flavour not only broadens the appeal of Yeo Valley's Kefir range but also reinforces the brand’s commitment to quality and innovation in the organic dairy sector. Available now in select Sainsbury’s stores, the new products are priced competitively, with Madagascan Vanilla Kefir retailing at £2.50, the Blueberry 1-litre at £3.50 and the 4x100g multipack at £2.40.

Kemin Industries, a global ingredient manufacturer, has acquired CJ Youtell Biotech, the enzymes and fermentation subsidiary of CJ Bio. This acquisition enhances Kemin's enzyme production capabilities and solidifies its position as a frontrunner in enzyme innovation across multiple sectors, including animal feed, food processing, aquaculture, textiles and biofuels. The acquisition grants Kemin full ownership of CJ Youtell's fermentation plants and its extensive enzyme product portfolio. Notably, CJ Youtell operates state-of-the-art fermentation facilities located in Shandong and Hunan, China, which will now be integrated into Kemin's existing operations. This move is expected to streamline Kemin's supply chain and expand its market reach, enabling the company to deliver high-performance, sustainable enzyme technologies to a global customer base. Chris Nelson, president and CEO of Kemin Industries, said: “We are pleased to welcome CJ Youtell into the Kemin family. This acquisition is a bold step forward in our ongoing strategy to provide cutting-edge fermentation solutions directly to our customers.” Nelson also pointed out that the addition of CJ Youtell enhances Kemin’s ability to supply high-quality and innovative enzyme ingredients across various industries. The acquisition is poised to bolster Kemin's research and development capabilities, with the newly acquired facilities supporting advanced laboratories and technical teams specialising in bioengineering and enzyme formulation. This enhancement will enable Kemin to optimise production costs, reduce supply chain risks and offer competitively priced enzyme solutions tailored to the specific needs of its diverse clientele. Michelle Lim, president of Kemin Enzymes, added: “For over 40 years, Kemin has been formulating and delivering enzyme solutions across multiple markets. With CJ Youtell's fermentation expertise now part of our portfolio, we offer customers a fully integrated solution – from proprietary strain development and manufacturing to final formulation and application support.” By combining in-house fermentation with advanced formulation techniques and comprehensive technical support, Kemin is well-positioned to meet the evolving demands of its customers, ensuring they remain competitive in rapidly changing markets. Kemin Industries, established in 1961, operates in over 90 countries and provides more than 500 specialty ingredients for human and animal health, nutrition and various industrial applications.

Eco-friendly paper packaging company, JBM Packaging, has officially broken ground on a new 52,500-square-foot facility in Lebanon, Ohio, marking a key moment in the company's 40-year history. This expansion is designed to bolster JBM's kitting and packing operations, positioning the company for sustained growth in an increasingly competitive market. Marcus Sheanshang, president and CEO of JBM Packaging, said: “As we celebrate 40 years of business, this expansion really shows how far we’ve come and where we’re going”. The new facility, strategically located just a mile from the company’s headquarters, will enable JBM to scale its operations while remaining embedded in the local community. The construction will unfold on an 11-acre tract of previously undeveloped land, with the first phase featuring a prefabricated concrete building designed to accommodate high-volume production needs. The facility will include two separate units: JBM will occupy 26,801 square feet, while 25,699 square feet will be available for lease, each equipped with multiple loading dock options to streamline logistics. Dan Puthoff, chief financial officer, added: “As our kitting and filling business has grown, space has become a challenge. This expansion helps us keep up with demand, shorten lead times, and welcome more team members through our Fair Chance Program”. This initiative underscores JBM's commitment to social responsibility, providing employment opportunities to individuals with past incarceration records, thereby fostering community reintegration. The facility is projected to be completed by the end of February 2026, with plans for future growth already in consideration. Although there are no immediate plans for a second phase, the land acquisition includes provisions for an additional 52,000-square-foot building, should demand necessitate further expansion. JBM Packaging has established itself as a leader in eco-friendly flexible packaging solutions, catering to diverse markets, including food and beverage, health and beauty, and agriculture. As a B Corp Certified organisation, JBM adheres to rigorous standards of social and environmental performance, accountability and transparency, making it a compelling partner for businesses seeking sustainable packaging solutions.

Dairy giant Danone has inaugurated its OneBiome Laboratory in Paris, France, strengthening the company’s position in microbiome science and nutrition-driven health innovation. The new facility is located within the Paris-Saclay research and innovation cluster in the south of the French capital, which is home to the Paris-Saclay University and Polytechnic Institute of Paris. It will act as a global hub for research into the gut micobiome, nutrition and digital health. Building on the OneBiome Lab first launched in Singapore with a focus on early life, the Paris-Saclay site expands Danone’s scientific capabilities to accelerate the development of targeted nutrition solutions. The lab brings together advanced microbiology, artificial intelligence and data science to explore how gut health influences overall wellbeing. The initiative underscores growing industry and consumer interest in the microbiome, an area in which Danone has been active for more than a century. “Science and innovation are at the heart of Danone’s mission to bring health through food to as many people as possible,” said Antoine de Saint-Affrique, chief executive officer of Danone. “The launch of the Danone OneBiome Laboratory marks a new chapter in our Renew Strategy , deepening our capabilities in microbiome science and reinforcing our leadership in science-led health innovation.” Isabelle Esser, Danone’s chief research, innovation, quality and food safety officer, highlighted the company’s long-standing commitment to biotics. “We believe the future of nutrition lies in understanding and harnessing the power of probiotics, prebiotics, postbiotics and symbiotics for gut health," she commented. "With these new capabilities, we will continue to push the boundaries of scientific knowledge and its application in food.” The opening follows Danone’s recent acquisition of The Akkermansia Company, a microbiome-focused innovator in gut health solutions. This move complements Danone’s portfolio of science-backed brands, including Activia and Actimel, which have recently expanded with innovations such as Activia Fibre, Activia Proactive and Actimel+ Triple Action. Consumer awareness of gut health continues to grow, yet research cited by Danone shows that only one in two people believe they have a healthy microbiota. The company sees this as an opportunity to advance both education and innovation in the category. By anchoring its microbiome research at Paris-Saclay, Danone aims to foster collaboration with academic partners, stimulate public interest in gut health and accelerate the delivery of science-driven, preventive nutrition solutions for both consumers and patients.

The European Union is poised to push back the implementation of its much-anticipated anti-deforestation regulation (EUDR) yet again. Originally scheduled to take effect on December 30 2025, the European Commission announced a 12-month extension for the implementation of the regulation back in October last year (2024) . The EUDR has been a focal point of environmental policy since its inception. First proposed in 2021, the EUDR aims to curb the import of commodities linked to deforestation. The regulation was designed to ensure that products sold in the EU do not contribute to the destruction of forests, aligning with the bloc's broader commitment to sustainability and climate action. However, the implementation timeline has faced multiple setbacks, with initial deadlines postponed from 2024 to December 2025. Now, the EU is considering yet another delay, raising significant concerns for the food and beverage sector that heavily relies on these commodities. A troubling pattern of delay? The EUDR aims to ensure that imports of commodities such as palm oil, cocoa and coffee do not originate from deforested land. This regulation is a critical step in the bloc’s commitment to sustainable sourcing and environmental protection. However, this latest postponement raises significant concerns for businesses in the F&B sector (and beyond), which rely heavily on the products at the heart of deforestation issues. The European Commission has cited complications with the IT platform designed to manage compliance data as the reason for the delays. This has raised serious questions about the EU’s preparedness to enforce such crucial regulations effectively. European Commissioner for Environment, Jessika Roswall, expressed concerns regarding the functioning of the IT platform, stating that it could create “uncertainty for authorities and operational difficulties for stakeholders.” She added: “In view of this, the Commission is considering a postponement of the entry into application of the EUDR, currently foreseen for 30 December 2025, for one year”. The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) has criticised the European Commission's repeated delays, describing them as leading to “massive stranded costs” for companies that have already invested in compliance. Anke Schulmeister-Oldenhove, forest policy manager at the WWF European Policy Office, condemned this latest development, stating: “It is probably no coincidence that this move comes right as the Commission pursues an unprecedented deregulation agenda, throwing the EUDR under the bus. This is unacceptable and a massive embarrassment for President Von der Leyen and her Commission.” Schulmeister-Oldenhove further asserted: “We should be able to expect more from our leaders than an excuse like ‘The dog ate my homework’! We’re calling on the Commission to step up its efforts and investments to get this system up and running by the end of the year instead of proposing a further delay of this important law and caving in to political pressure.” In a statement on its website, WWF also highlighted the urgent consequences of these delays: "Since the EUDR was postponed last year, over 23 million trees have been lost forever. Over 7 million trees were lost due to chocolate consumption alone, and another 7 million trees due to beef and leather." "Additionally, 4.41 million more trees are destroyed every year for soy, which is fed to animals and ends up on our plates in foods like fish, cheese or eggs." Industry reactions and concerns Christine Schneider, a leading negotiator on the EUDR, welcomed the opportunity for further discussion but cautioned that the persistent delays signal deeper issues within the regulatory framework. “The renewed postponement clearly shows: the problems run deeper and cannot be solved by further transitional periods or non-binding guidelines,” she said in a press release. Schneider's call for the introduction of a ‘zero-risk’ category – potentially exempting certain countries from compliance – adds another layer of complexity to an already fraught negotiation process. The timing of this announcement is particularly striking, coinciding with the EU’s recent trade negotiations with Indonesia, the world’s largest palm oil exporter. While the Commission has assured that Jakarta will still need to comply with EUDR obligations under the new trade deal, the delay raises concerns about the EU's commitment to enforcing sustainable practices in its trade relationships. Nicole Rycroft, founder and CEO of Canopy, expressed a critical perspective on the delay: “The EU’s decision to once again delay the implementation of the EUDR creates uncertainty when clarity and momentum are needed. Forests – and the climate – cannot afford another year of inaction.” Rycroft also highlighted the need for companies to leverage this delay as a “springboard” to build resilient supply chains and transition towards low-impact alternatives. Meanwhile, the Malaysian Palm Oil Council (MPOC) said it welcomes the EU's decision to delay the EUDR' however, it did question the regulation's viability without a clear implementation path, particularly after companies have invested heavily in compliance preparation. Belvinder Sron, chief executive of MPOC, commented: "Despite the challenges posed by the current EUDR framework, the Malaysian palm oil sector remains committed to sustainable production and constructive engagement with the EU. However, given the many issues arising from the implementation of EUDR, and unless the EU develops a very clear understanding of on-the-ground realities, we question whether this regulation is truly workable in its current form. "Companies across our industry have invested time, money and resources preparing for EUDR compliance at great cost, yet the continued uncertainty about the regulation's direction creates an unsustainable burden for responsible businesses. We call upon European policymakers to use this additional time wisely to create a more equitable and scientifically sound classification system that truly reflects environmental performance and provides the clarity that industry desperately needs." Navigating uncertainty in F&B For the food and beverage sector, this regulatory standoff represents both a challenge and an opportunity. Companies must navigate the uncertain regulatory landscape while simultaneously responding to growing consumer and investor demands for sustainable practices. The delay could be seen as a chance to innovate and strengthen supply chains, but it also risks eroding market confidence and slowing progress towards sustainability goals. As the EU grapples with its regulatory commitments, businesses must remain vigilant and proactive. Stakeholders must advocate for stronger regulations and work collaboratively to ensure that the EUDR, once implemented, effectively addresses the urgent challenges of deforestation and climate change. While this latest delay may provide temporary relief for some, it underscores the pressing need for decisive action in the face of mounting environmental challenges. The food and beverage sector cannot afford to wait for regulations to dictate their practices; instead, it must lead the charge towards sustainable solutions that benefit both business and the planet.

Nestlé Confectionery has unveiled a festive twist for chocolate fans with the launch of a brand-new mystery flavour Quality Street for Christmas 2025. In a first for the brand, the flavour will remain secret until December, encouraging shoppers to guess while enjoying the limited-edition treat. The sweet will be available exclusively at John Lewis and Waitrose, featuring in the returning pick and mix stations as well as in pre-packed tins. The mystery addition joins the classic line-up of 11 Quality Street favourites, giving customers the opportunity to create bespoke tins for gifting or sharing. Last year’s seasonal hit, Coffee Crème, also returns for 2025, with dedicated gift cartons available in John Lewis and Waitrose stores nationwide. Nestlé’s Rachael Mundy, marketing manager for gifting and seasonal, said: “Each year we look forward to bringing a limited-edition sweet into the mix to excite and delight Quality Street fans, but this year we’ve taken it a step further by keeping the flavour top secret. We can’t wait to find out what the nation thinks the flavour is.” The flagship pick and mix station at John Lewis Oxford Street is open now, with additional sites rolling out in October across major locations including Bluewater, Cambridge, Cardiff, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Leeds, Liverpool, Newcastle and Southampton.

UK-based Momo Kombucha has unveiled its latest seasonal release: Amadora's Passion Fruit Kombucha, created in collaboration with produce specialist Natoora. Launching on 30 September, the new flavour is made with organic passion fruit grown by fourth-generation farmer Amadora in Seville. Unlike commercial crops picked early for transport, Amadora allows her fruit to ripen fully on the vine before collecting it from nets placed beneath the plants – a low-intervention method that produces fruit with higher natural sweetness and aromatic depth. The kombucha is Soil Association–certified organic and marks both Momo and Natoora’s first Spanish-grown collaboration and their first partnership with a female producer. Sales will also support the Natoora Farm Fund, which invests in the next generation of sustainable growers. Momo Kombucha co-founder Josh Puddle said: “We’re incredibly excited about this collaboration with Natoora – our first Spanish-grown seasonal flavour and our first working with a female producer. Amadora’s passion fruit is exceptional in every way: sweet, vibrant, and bursting with tropical character. Our brewers have done an amazing job capturing that flavour in its purest form.” Described as 'vibrantly sweet and sour with a tropical burst', the kombucha combines Amadora’s ripe passion fruit with Momo's raw, unfiltered kombucha base. The result is a bright, refreshing drink that balances natural fruit sugars with the tang of living kombucha cultures. Amadora’s Passion Fruit Kombucha (RRP £4.50 / 330ml glass bottle) will be available from Momo’s website, Natoora, Gail's Bakery, Selfridges, Planet Organic and Whole Foods Market.

Ferrero has announced that its $3.1 billion acquisition of WK Kellogg has been completed, marking a new milestone in the company’s North America growth strategy. The deal, first announced in July and approved by WK Kellogg Co shareholders in September, makes the cereal business a wholly owned subsidiary of the Italian confectionery company. WK Kellogg Co, which separated from Kellogg Company in 2023 , has since been delisted from the New York Stock Exchange, with shareholders receiving a cash payment for each share held prior to closing. The acquisition brings a roster of well-known brands under Ferrero’s ownership, including Frosted Flakes, Rice Krispies, Froot Loops and Special K. The company will now have a stronger presence in North America across breakfast and snacking occasions, complementing its existing confectionery portfolio. Ferrero said the move is in line with its strategy of acquiring 'iconic brands in attractive categories' while continuing to invest in innovation and organic growth. The group also highlighted WK Kellogg’s sustainable business framework, Feeding Happiness, as a foundation for future expansion in the US, Canada and the Caribbean.

The Fruit Factory is set to invigorate the fruit snack category with the launch of its new Sour Apple Fruit Strings, scheduled to hit shelves in Tesco and Morrisons next month (October). This latest addition to the brand’s top-selling Strings range aims to capture the attention of health-conscious parents and adventurous children alike, further solidifying The Fruit Factory's position in the competitive kids' snacking market. The Sour Apple Fruit Strings, which will be available in a convenient five-pack format, leverage the brand's existing popularity – its flagship Fruit Strings are the number one format in the category and the third best-selling product overall. This new SKU is designed not only to attract new shoppers but also to encourage repeat purchases among existing customers. Made with real fruit juice and free from artificial colours and preservatives, each 100g pack contains only 71 kcal, aligning with the increasing consumer demand for healthier snack options. Tara Stevens, Senior Brand Manager at The Fruit Factory, commented: “We know sour flavours are growing in popularity, particularly among families looking for snacks that are both fun and flavourful. Our new Sour Apple Fruit Strings bring something fresh and exciting to the category, offering a bold twist on a proven favourite.” Market research indicates a notable shift in children's taste preferences, with studies showing that children aged five to nine exhibit a stronger inclination towards sour flavours compared to adults. Furthermore, a significant 80% of parents express a willingness to purchase sour-flavoured fruit snacks for their children, presenting a clear opportunity for brands to cater to this emerging trend. The Fruit Factory has already garnered a loyal customer base, with nearly 650,000 consumers choosing the brand in the past year and 70% of them returning for more.

Amanda Garnier According to Gallup, only 54% of drinking-age adults in the US consume alcohol today – the lowest level since the survey began in 1939. Declines cut across every demographic, from young adults to older generations, and even those who still drink are doing so less frequently than before. The cultural shift is so significant that it’s even fuelling entirely new types of events – like Drinks with Benefits, New York City’s first zero-proof festival, taking place on September 27th. Amanda Paul-Garnier, VP of Marketing for The Daily Pour (the company behind Drinks with Benefits), spoke to FoodBev about how these changing consumer preferences are impacting the alcohol sector. I’m struck by a paradox: despite living through multiple overlapping crises, Americans are actually drinking less. At first glance, this feels counterintuitive. Two wars are raging abroad, domestic politics are unstable, inflation is high and the US economy shows signs of strain. In August 2025, inflation rose to 2.9%, only 22,000 jobs were added and unemployment ticked up to 4.3%. Add to that the systemic challenges that predate COVID-19, such as restaurants closing, labour shortages, lack of paid family leave and the crushing costs of childcare, and you would think people might drink more to escape. Yet Gallup reports that the share of US adults who drink alcohol has fallen to 54% which is the lowest level in nearly 90 years of tracking. The decline has been steady for three consecutive years, suggesting this isn’t a blip but part of a deeper cultural shift. More than generational changes Everyone talks about Gen Z drinking less, but who is actually drinking less? According to the Gallup study: Adult drinking is down 8 percentage points Women report an 11-point decline; men, 5 points Younger adults (18–24) are down 9 points; adults 35–54 are down 10 points The biggest drop-offs come from both ends of the income spectrum: those making under $40k, and those earning more than $100k. Interestingly, political identity seems to play a role. Republicans’ drinking rates have fallen sharply (down 19 points, to 46%), while Democrats remain steady at 61%. Money is a large factor in the decline, as alcohol is expensive, especially when household budgets are stretched thin, but culture is shifting too. Health consciousness is now mainstream, and consumers have more alternatives than ever, from functional beverages to alcohol-free cocktails that replicate the experience without the hangover. Events like the Drinks with Benefits Festival, which brings together low- and no-alcohol innovators alongside traditional brands, highlight just how central this movement has become in reshaping drinking culture. Science also plays a role. In 2023, the World Health Organization stated unequivocally that no amount of alcohol is safe for health. Ireland has since taken a historic step, becoming the first country in the world to require cancer warnings on alcohol labels, set to roll out by 2026. Canada’s updated guidelines now advise no more than two drinks per week, down sharply from earlier recommendations. Even the US National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism has intensified its messaging around links between alcohol and cancer, cardiovascular disease and mental health risks. The chorus is clear: alcohol is being reframed not just as a lifestyle choice, but as a serious public health concern. Young adults were early adopters of this belief, but it’s now gaining traction across older generations as well. Alcohol in wider society Personally, I love a glass of wine with dinner or an ice-cold beer on a hot day. Alcohol has been a social lubricant for centuries, there’s a reason it’s woven into rituals, meals and celebrations around the world. I don’t believe in extremes, but I also respect science. Alcohol isn’t harmless: it disrupts biological processes, stresses our systems and increases long-term health risks. Still, I wonder: is alcohol being singled out unfairly while bigger dangers like ultra-processed foods loaded with dyes and additives fly under the radar? Which lobby has more influence in Washington: alcohol or Big Food? In terms of the future, I don’t see drinking disappearing. It predates history and goes back more than 9,000 years, but I do believe Americans are becoming more intentional. My advice would be to listen to science, educate yourself and above all, practice moderation. If you love that glass of wine with friends, maybe have two instead of four. If you enjoy craft beer, perhaps choose one strong pour instead of three lighter ones. Drink less, but better. And while you’re at it, pay attention to what’s on your plate as much as what’s in your glass. At the end of the day, it’s not just about alcohol; it’s about the bigger cultural movement toward health, balance, and conscious consumption.