UK retailer Co-op has announced that it will add a "freeze me" message to its own brand of milk products, in an effort to cut down on 70,000 tonnes of milk wasted a year. The on-pack message will read: “Don’t waste me, freeze me, in a suitable, clean container, then defrost in the fridge, use within 24 hours”. Co-op said that milk is best within one month of freezing. While for larger bottlers, it is recommended to decant them into a container. When the milk is ready to be used, consumers should defrost it in the fridge to "thaw fully" and then use it within 24 hours. Catherine Dishington, environment and sustainability manager at Co-op, said: “We’re committed to reducing our impact on the planet and we’re trying to help our customers and members make small changes that collectively, can make an impact". She continued: “Freezing food is one of the easiest ways to make the most out of your weekly shop and prevent food wastage but not everyone knows that it’s perfectly safe to freeze milk. We hope that by having this message on pack it will not only save customers some money, it should also help them to throw away less.” The new message will come into effect from September 2022.

Co-op has launched whole bean and ground coffee variations of its Ever Ground brand for consumers to use at home. The retailer’s “grounded in good” Ever Ground brand launched in 2020 as a 100% Fairtrade hot drink on-the-go solution served from coffee vending machines in Co-op stores. In the latest move, the new coffee lines will be available to purchase across Co-op and Nisa stores. Grace Bowker, Co-op own-brand planning manager, said: “We’re thrilled to be bringing Ever Ground to the shelves for the first time following the success of our hot drinks launch in 2020. Our customers and members have already really resonated with our new brand as it not only makes delicious coffee, but the range is sourced on Fairtrade terms which means standing with farmers for fairness and equality, in countries such as Ethiopia, Brazil and Colombia.” The new Ever Ground Whole Bean (200g/£3.50) and Ground Coffee (200g, £3.50) are made with arabica beans sourced on Fairtrade terms for a barista-style coffee. The launch follows the introduction of two chilled RTD Ever Ground coffee lines, which launched to festival-goers this summer before being rolled out in-store.

Private equity firm INVL Baltic Sea Growth Fund has signed an agreement to acquire the entire shareholding of Galinta Group. Galinta is said to be one of the largest suppliers of buckwheat in Europe, as well as a key player in the production and trading of flakes, rice and other groats in the Baltic region. Last year, Galinta achieved approximately €38.5 million in revenue. The production capacity for buckwheat reached a monthly output of 1,000-1,500 tons, while packaging operations amounted to around 8 million units per month. Currently, Galinta has a workforce of over 100 individuals in Lithuania. Deimantė Korsakaitė, managing partner of INVL Baltic Sea Growth Fund, added: “ We believe that the plant-based food sector has strong potential for growth, and Lithuania demonstrates a competitive advantage in the field of food processing, especially in the grain segment. Therefore, it has represented one of the strategic sectors we have looked at for potential investment since the fund’s establishment She continued: "...The business has the potential for rapid growth by both increasing volumes in existing markets and expanding into the new ones as well as the launch of new product segments.” “We strive to grow regional leaders and provide consumers with high-quality and healthy food at affordable prices; thus, we are actively working with other acquisitions in this area as economies of scale and possible synergies are the essential condition for ensuring business competitiveness internationally, modern and efficient production, and the development and introduction of new products into the markets. ” “Sustainability is gaining more and more leverage in society today. Therefore, post-acquisition, we will not only target product development but also strengthen sustainability-related initiatives in the company’s day-to-day activities. We strongly believe that incorporating sustainability initiatives into the business model encourages management to follow a path of innovation and adopt sustainable yet effective business solutions.” Terms of the transaction, which is expected to be completed at the beginning of 2024, have not been disclosed.

Voodoo Scientific been awarded a US patent for a novel method that allows distillers to eliminate harshness from spirits, a significant development for the beverage alcohol industry. The patented technology, known as Viriato, uses an enzymatic system designed to target and neutralise specific compounds responsible for unpleasant sensory effects in alcoholic beverages. The innovation addresses a long-standing challenge in spirit production: the harshness that can detract from the overall drinking experience. By removing these harsh compounds, Voodoo Scientific claims to enhance the enjoyment of spirits while revealing more subtle flavour profiles that are often masked. This advancement not only improves the quality of the final product but also allows brands to explore new flavour innovations. Key features of Viriato include: Versatile application: Viriato is compatible with various distillation processes, requiring no modifications to existing production methods. It can be applied across all types of spirits, including vodka, tequila, rum, brandy, soju and whiskey to name a few. Efficiency: The enzymatic treatment does not extend the manufacturing timeline or alter the ethanol production process, making it a practical solution for distillers aiming to enhance product quality without incurring additional costs. Recognition: Voodoo Scientific's breakthrough has garnered attention from industry leaders, receiving an Innovation of the Year award from the Distilled Spirits Council of the US (DISCUS), highlighting its potential impact on the spirits market. The spirits industry has increasingly focused on quality and consumer experience, leading to heightened interest in innovations that can elevate product offerings. Voodoo Scientific’s patent positions the company as a key player in this evolving landscape, with the potential to transform how spirits are crafted. Joana Montenegro, chief science officer at Voodoo Scientific, emphasised the significance of this technology for the future of spirits production. “The ability for spirits brands to create truly smooth products promises to be a game-changer for the industry,” she said, noting the enthusiasm from brands exploring new product possibilities. Industry stakeholders, including Donald Wilkes, founder and CEO of Blue Pacific Flavors, have expressed optimism about the transformative potential of Voodoo Scientific's technology. The growing recognition of the need for smoother, more refined spirits aligns with consumer preferences for premium products. Voodoo Scientific is currently working to expand its patent protection globally, signalling its commitment to establishing a strong market presence. As the company scales up manufacturing capabilities, further announcements regarding commercial availability are anticipated.

The Co-operative Group is set to launch a novel product in its fresh fruit aisle: mojito-flavoured grapes, branded as 'Mojito Fresh'. This unique offering will be available in approximately 500 Co-op stores starting July 23 2025, tapping into the growing consumer interest in innovative and flavourful fruit options. Developed in Spain by Uvasdoce Fresh, these grapes are characterised by their sweet taste with a hint of lime, reminiscent of the classic summer cocktail. The flavour profile is achieved through selective breeding techniques, combining different grape varieties to create a distinct taste that aligns with current trends in fresh produce. The introduction of mojito-flavoured grapes reflects a broader trend within the food and beverage industry, where flavour innovation is becoming increasingly important. Retailers are seeking to attract consumers looking for unique and convenient snacking options, particularly during the summer months when demand for refreshing products peaks. The grapes will be part of Co-op's premium Irresistible Limited-Edition range, priced at £2.90 for a limited three-week period, aiming to capitalise on seasonal consumer behaviours. The launch of mojito-flavoured grapes not only diversifies Co-op's product offerings but also highlights the importance of collaboration with suppliers, such as AmFresh, in developing innovative products that meet evolving consumer demands. As retailers continue to explore unique flavour profiles and limited-time offerings, suppliers may need to adapt their cultivation and production strategies to support these initiatives.

Brazilian seafood companies the Frescatto Company and Prime Seafood are set to merge, creating a business with a combined turnover of more than $300m. With Frescatto’s 80-year history in the Brazilian seafood sector and Prime’s export expertise, the two companies aim to bring together decades of experience in their respective areas of activity. Combined, the two businesses produce more than 30 million kg of fish annually. According to Frescatto Company, the union will improve competitiveness and strengthen its position in the global market by enhancing its export operations. This includes expansion to strategic markets such as China and the US. The merger, creating an entity worth around BRL 1.6 billion (approx. $318 million) is expected to lead the new business to earnings of over BRL 2 billion (approx. $399 million) in 2024. It will also enable deeper integration of operations with processing plants and distribution centres spread across Brazil, increasing the production capacity of each region and allowing supply to the national and international market. Eduardo Lobo, president at Prime Seafood, will join Frescatto’s board of directors. He commented on the development: “Our merger brings to Brazil the first major consolidation of the fish sector, transforming Frescatto into a global company. Others will certainly happen, but the first will always be the first!” Thiago De Luca, CEO at the Frescatto Company, said: “The incorporation of Prime Seafood further boosts the reach of our raw material capture network, increasing our variety of products”. “We will be able to bring ‘export-type’ products sold by Prime to Frescatto customers, such as lobster, snapper and yellow hake among others. Furthermore, Frescatto offers the opportunity to export other species that are not available in the Prime Seafood production line.”

SHS Drinks -owned soft drink brand Bottlegreen has collaborated with English distiller Edwards 1902 on the launch of a new range of vodka spritz canned beverages. The partnership marries Bottlegreen’s cordials with Edwards 1902’s premium vodka. The new line comes in three flavour varieties, Elderflower, Raspberry and Lime & Mint, each with an ABV of 5%. Sarah Lawson, head of marketing at Bottlegreen, said: "We are thrilled to unveil this collaboration between Bottlegreen and Edwards 1902. Our shared passion for quality and superior taste has resulted in a vodka spritz range that delivers a truly refreshing alternative for the ready-to-drink can market. The RTD category is dominated by high ABV cocktail cans that are often high in calories and sugar. Our research identified a gap for something premium and lower in calories but without any compromise in taste – a common need that was only currently being fulfilled by gin-based products.” Emma Hamilton, co-founder of Edwards 1902, added: “This exciting collaboration brings together not only the finest flavours and ingredients into a new RTD format, but also celebrates a fantastic partnership between two successful British brands with a shared passion for quality and heritage.” This is the second collaboration between the two brands. Last year, the companies unveiled a new elderflower vodka liqueur , combining Bottlegreen's elderflower cordial and Edwards 1902's vodka. The RTD cans contain less than 150 calories and are available to purchase in UK retailers now for an RRP of £2.50.

Low calorie and sugar brand Jordan's Skinny Mixes has unveiled a new line of naturally sweetened margarita mixes, as it looks to meet consumer demand for all-natural products. The four new margarita mixer flavours are Classic, Peach, Spicy and Strawberry Key Lime. The mixers do not contain any artificial sweeteners, flavours or colours. The natural margarita mixes are made with real lime juice and sweetened with agave, containing 75% less sugar and 75% less calories. The mixers are designed to be sipped on the rocks or mixed with tequila. Jordan Engelhardt, Skinny Mixes founder and president, said: "Similar to how Skinny Mixes began from seeing what was missing in the market, we heard our loyal consumers asking for more all-natural products. Our four new margarita mixers are so delicious and will absolutely be the must-have at every event this summer." Jordan's Skinny Mixes naturally sweetened margarita mixes will be available on the brand's website as well as at local retailers across the US, Canada and Europe.

Jordan's Skinny Mixes has expanded its sauces and flavour bursts portfolio with the launch of two new pumpkin flavours. The Pumpkin Spice Skinny Sauce joins the brand's sugar-free salted caramel sauce and sugar-free dark chocolate espresso sauce. Skinny Sauces are free of calories, carbs and sugar. Meanwhile, the Pumpkin Spice Flavor Burst is said to "transform the same best-selling Skinny Syrup formula that fans know and love". "The end of summer means only one thing, it's officially Pumpkin season. We are excited to introduce our innovative and flavourful Skinny Sauce and Flavor Burst to one of our most-loved collections," said Skinny Mixes' founder, Jordan Engelhardt.

Jordan’s Skinny Mixes has released three new products to its festive collection. The new additions feature sugar-free Peppermint Mocha Sauce, sugar-free Eggnog Syrup and sugar-free Chestnut Praline Syrup.  “The holiday season is right around the corner, and so are festive coffee drinks, cocktails, and decadent desserts. We reimagined our Holiday Collection to give people a way to enjoy all those delicious treats without all the extra calories and sugar,” said Skinny Mixes founder of Jordan Engelhardt. “Our holiday line-up is one of our highest anticipated launches of the year, and we are so excited to be adding these three new products!” Skinny Mixes products can be found at over 13,000 local retailers across the US, Canada, and Europe.

Jordan's Skinny Mixes has introduced a range of what it describes as "Mexico-inspired syrups". Available in three flavours – churro, horchata and dulce de leche – the new syrups are said to be sugar-free without compromising taste. Skinny Mixes founder Jordan Engelhardt said: "We've been working a very long time to perfect these fan-favourite dessert flavours and are excited to finally release them. Whether you're a home chef looking for a new staple in your kitchen pantry, or a barista looking for a unique twist on classic drinks, our Mexico-inspired syrups are the perfect addition to your repertoire." The line is available on the brand's website and can also be found at local retailers across the US, Canada and Europe.

Jordan’s Skinny Mixes , a zero-calorie and zero-sugar syrup brand, has launched a new ‘Sours’ syrup collection. The new range features Sour Green Apple (Dragon), Sour Watermelon (Love Potion) and Sour Blue Raspberry (Genie) syrup flavours. They are designed to add a sour and fruity twist to the brand’s Fantasy collection. Skinny Mixes’ new syrups are made with natural flavourings, and sweeteners sucralose and acesulfame potassium. They contain zero calories or sugar and can be added to a range of beverages including cocktails, protein shakes, soft drinks such as lemonade or just plain water. Jordan Engelhardt, founder of Skinny Mixes, said that the new range aims to reach a younger demographic by expanding into a new fun flavour portfolio. She added: “Creating new and innovative products is always exciting, and we look forward to seeing how our consumers react and utilise this new line”. Skinny Mixes products are available online and at over 15,000 retailers across the US, Canada and Europe. The new Sours collection is available now for online orders.