British musician Aitch has launched a new range of flavoured fizzy waters exclusively into Iceland stores across the UK. The carbonated waters, named Syps, contain zero calories and are sugar-free, and come in three flavour varieties – strawberry, peach and lemon and lime. Developed to replace calorific sodas and increase hydration, Syps is said to provide the flavour and fizz sensation of a classic fizzy drink, but without the “sugary downside”. Harrison ‘Aitch’ Armstrong, Syps’ founder, said: “I started Syps because I needed to drink more water but was addicted to fizzy drinks. Water just wasn’t hitting the spot in the same way. So, I thought why not make the best fizzy flavoured water in the world and here it is: zero sugar, zero calories, maximum flavour and loads of fizz. I’m really excited to be sharing this with everyone and hope it helps us all stay hydrated.” The line took just under a year of development and has launched into all 1200 Iceland stores across the UK, for an RRP of £1.50 per can.

Fonterra has announced an NZD 36 million (approx. $22 million) investment to install a 20-megawatt electrode boiler at its site in Edendale, New Zealand, marking its next step to transition away from coal. This represents another step for the coop in its efforts to eliminate coal use by 2037 and achieve a 50% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 2030. The investment in the electrode boiler is expected to reduce emissions at the Edendale site by approximately 20%, equivalent to 47,500 tonnes of CO2e per annum. Once operational in the fiscal year 2025, the electrode boiler will contribute to lowering Fonterra's overall carbon emissions from its New Zealand 2018 baseline by nearly 3% per annum. Fonterra's acting chief operating officer, Anna Palairet, said: “Fonterra has a complex manufacturing operation spanning the country. As technologies develop, it’s important we continually assess which energy source and technology is best for each site. With up to 15 million litres of milk being processed at our Edendale site each day, we need to ensure we have a secure energy supply that can meet processing demands." "Cost is also an important consideration. Getting out of coal requires significant investment, and we need to choose the best option that reduces emissions and operational complexity while also doing what’s best for our farmer shareholders.” Fonterra is partnering with hydroelectric power generation company, Meridian Energy, to source electricity from 100% renewable resources, including wind, water and solar energy. Meridian's chief executive, Neal Barclay, added: "Energy contributes around 40% of Aotearoa's total gross emissions and process heat makes up a third of this country's energy use. So, it makes sense for Meridian to work with big industry to switch energy sources to clean energy alternatives”. “We congratulate Fonterra for taking this step given the significance and scale of their operations. Partnerships like these are critical to helping this country meet the target of net zero carbon emissions by 2050." Read more like this: Fonterra announces climate plans for the future Fonterra accelerates Scope 1 and 2 emissions cut, forecasts $790m investment Fonterra makes further investment in decarbonisation strategy Fonterra and Man Energy Solutions partner to reduce CO2 emissions

In recent days, thousands of agricultural workers across Europe have protested against what they perceive as unfair environmental policies and certain free trade agreements that allow the import of foods from overseas. The reasons for the protests are linked to various situations, but the European Federation of Food, Agriculture and Tourism Trade Unions said that a common thread running through the protests is a "strong opposition to the EU’s Green Deal and 'Farm to Fork' ambitions". This week, French farmers blockaded Paris by using tractors and other agricultural vehicles to block motorways leading into the capital. Belgian farmers carried out similar protests on the roads, and German workers also staged protests. Earlier this month, Polish farmers took to the streets to protest EU regulations regarding Ukrainian imports. EU policy The agricultural sector has generally remained suspicious of measures brought in by the EU to revamp its €55 billion Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) and make it more sustainable. CAP has been a central aspect of European policies since 1962. Although CAP's portion of the EU budget has diminished over the years, approximately a quarter of the total budget still goes towards supporting farmers. Traditionally, CAP was based on area payments, where farmers received income based on the size of their farms. Since the 1960s, CAP has undergone several reforms, the latest in 2023, which aims to promote more environmentally friendly farming practices. These changes align with the European Green Deal, the EU's initiative to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. The revamp includes an obligation to devote a portion of arable land to non-productive features, as well as a requirement to carry out crop rotations and reduce fertiliser use by at least 20%. To facilitate this, in 2020 the EU introduced its 'Farm to Fork' strategy, aiming to hasten the shift towards more sustainable food systems. With four main aims, the ‘Farm to Fork’ initiative intends to halve pesticide use by 2030 and reduce fertiliser use, devote at least 10% of agricultural areas to non-agricultural uses (for example, by turning it into fallow land, planting non-productive trees or creating ponds), and to ensure that by 2030, 25% of the total agricultural land in the EU is used for organic farming. If these goals are achieved and the agricultural sector stays in line with the UN’s 'Sustainable Development Goals,' the European Commission says that food and agriculture systems could generate global economic value of €1.8 trillion. While more than 70% of CAP's money is spent on direct payments to farmers as a safety net, many farmers have long argued these measures will make the European agricultural sector less competitive against imports. The Green Deal itself also includes legislation aimed at reducing emissions. With agriculture accounting for around 11% of the EU's total greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, it is expected that farmers could be significantly affected by efforts to reduce emissions. According to lobby group IFOAM Organics Europe, the EU’s target of using 25% of farmland for organic farming by 2030 could have significant benefits. The group said the move could reduce nitrogen pollution by up to the equivalent of 25 million tonnes of carbon, lowering GHG emissions from farming by 15% and increasing biodiversity on organic land by a third. However, some farmers view the effects of these recent changes and EU green targets as unjust and challenging to manage, with many concerned that these measures could jeopardise farming businesses. Luc Vernet of the Brussels-based think tank Farm Europe told the BBC, "Farmers are having to do much more...with less support. They don't see how they can cope any longer." The war in Ukraine Another key factor that has contributed to the protests is the effects of the war in Ukraine. Russia's invasion of Ukraine has blocked trade routes in the Black Sea. To support trading, the EU temporarily lifted restrictions on imports from Ukraine, thereby allowing its agricultural produce to enter European markets. However, the average Ukrainian organic farm is about 1,000 hectares, while European equivalents are, on average, only 41 hectares. This difference in output has created an unbalanced market, and prices have been pushed down in neighbouring countries such as Hungary, Poland and Romania. As such, farmers began to struggle with costs as they couldn’t sell their crops. This, in turn, led to protests in Poland last spring, with roads blocked by farmers and agricultural workers. The EU soon imposed trade restrictions on Ukraine's exports to its neighbours, but only for a limited period. When the ban expired, the governments in Hungary, Poland and Slovakia announced their own restrictions. Now, protesting agricultural workers in Eastern European countries are asking the EU to revise its trade liberalisation measures with Ukraine. The BBC reported that earlier this month, Romanian news outlet Krónika said that the EU letting in cheap Ukrainian goods was "like a non-swimmer trying to save a drowning person. They both drown." In an interview with Polish agricultural news outlet Wieści Rolnicze, Adrian Wawrzyniak, spokesperson for the Polish farmers' trade union, said: "We cannot compete with Ukraine, so we expect, among other things, to introduce quotas that existed before the war. Ukrainian grain should go where it belongs, to the Asian or African markets, not to Europe." Going forward In response to the protests, the French government abandoned plans to gradually reduce state subsidies on agricultural diesel and pledged to ease environmental regulations. However, farmers' organisations have said these measures are insufficient and vowed to intensify their efforts. French farming minister Marc Fesneau announced that the country's President, Emmanuel Macron, would advocate for more pro-farming policies at the European Union leaders' summit in Brussels, Belgium, this week, addressing the concerns shared by many farmers within the bloc. Fesneau intends to visit Brussels to seek modifications to EU regulations concerning fallow agricultural land under the new green rules. President Macron is scheduled to meet European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Thursday in Brussels. The agenda includes discussions on the agriculture industry, EU-wide support for farmers, negotiations on a free trade deal between the EU and Mercosur (a bloc of South American countries), regulations about leaving some farmland uncultivated and Ukrainian imports into the EU. In a statement from the Élysée Palace – the official residence of President Macron, – the French government emphasised that the meeting would specifically focus on the EU-Mercosur trade deal, which France's Prime Minister, Gabriel Attal, said the country "very clearly opposes." This stance aligns with the opposition expressed by some French farmers. Last week, President von der Leyen acknowledged the increasing division and polarisation on agriculture-related issues and started a "strategic dialogue" between agriculture groups and EU decision-makers.

Hain Celestial Group-owned brand Garden Veggie has introduced a new range of tortilla chips, called Flavor Burst. Available in two flavours, nacho cheese and zesty ranch, the gluten-free tortilla chips combine five different vegetables, including spinach, beet, red bell pepper, carrot and tomato. Made with wholesome ingredients, such as non-GMO corn, Flavor Burst contains no artificial flavours or preservatives. Ed Kaiser, Hain Celestial's senior director of marketing, said: "The snacks aisle is crowded with tortilla chips that are viewed as a guilty pleasure. Meanwhile, the few better-for-you tortilla chip options that are available, are often marketed towards adults or specialty diets, such as keto or low carb. Flavor Burst delivers on the unmet consumer need for a delicious, better-for-you snack that both kids and parents will reach for." Flavor Burst's tortilla chips will be available at retailers across the US and Canada from next month.

Rockstar has added a new range of sugar-free energy drinks to its portfolio, called Rockstar Focus, aimed at providing consumers with both an energy boost and enhanced mental focus. Rockstar Focus is made with ingredients such as Lion's Mane, a mushroom used in traditional Eastern cultures, and provides 200mg of caffeine. The sugar-free range is available in three flavours: lemon lime, white peach and orange pineapple. Fabiola Torres, PepsiCo's general manager and chief marketing officer of the energy category, said: "Our fans have always relied on our products for energy, but we knew there was also an opportunity to create a product that could give a mental boost and support focus. Additionally, we found that 64% of our consumers share a heavy interest in the ingredient, Lion's Mane." "With these clear insights, our team was able to transform and expand our portfolio of offerings to include the revolutionary, new Rockstar Focus." Danielle Barbaro, vice president of R&D at PepsiCo Beverages North America, added: "Our new Rockstar Focus formulas are uniquely crafted to include the optimal blend of cutting-edge ingredients and the power of caffeine, setting a new standard to deliver not just energy, but mental focus". "Through our proprietary design process, we artfully curated each flavour to provide the consumer with an energising and refreshing taste experience." Rockstar Focus is available for purchase retailers nationwide for $2.99 per 12oz cans.

Britvic is expanding its 'Tango Editions' range with the limited-edition launch of Tango Mango, a new mango-flavoured take on its popular soda. Britvic says it developed the latest variant to tap into increasing consumer demand for mango-flavoured soft drinks. Tango Mango is the latest sugar-free innovation from Britvic, showcasing the company's dedication to BFY reformulation. According to Britvic, this commitment has resulted in its entire global drinks portfolio containing an average of 22 calories per 250ml serving. Ben Parker, retail commercial director for Britvic Great Britain, said: “Our next big flavour launch, Tango Mango, drives appeal among new and existing Tango fans, generating additional sales opportunities for retailers. We understand retailers don’t have infinite space for new products, but the Tango Editions range has already proven to drive additional sales, and the rotational change seasonally maintains excitement and engagement with the brand." Parker continued: “In addition, Tango Mango aims to attract a broader range of shoppers including Gen Z and families, expanding sales opportunities for retailers. Innovating in the fruit-flavoured carbonates category will always be important to Tango – with new and exciting sugar-free flavours, which play on the brand’s bold, fun tone and personality, helping to increase consumer purchases.” According to research provided by Britvic, the two previous 'Tango Editions' flavours – Paradise Punch and Berry Peachy – were the number one flavoured fruit carbonate NPDs of 2022 and 2023. Tango Mango will launch into major retailers nationwide from February. Available for 12 months, the drinks will come in various sizes and pack formats.

Sazerac and American rapper Quavious Keyate Marshall, known as Quavo, has announced the launch of a new white cognac brand, White X Cognac. According to the company, White X is set to become the first and only white cognac available in the US. White X offers rich flavours with a "fresh and light nose", a hint of sweetness and intense notes of white and yellow peaches, vanilla and dried rose petals. The palate features gentle white stone fruit, creamy vanilla and a subtle hint of tannin without bitterness. The finish is smooth and "extremely long for a younger cognac," said Sazerac. Global cognac brand director at Sazerac, Jess Scheerhorn, commented: "White X challenges the traditional cognac category with its fresh and light taste – it's a total departure from many pre-conceived perceptions about cognac overall. Quavo's electrifying style and willingness to break down barriers makes him the perfect fit to help us debut this brand." White X will be available from early next month, with takeovers in Atlanta, US, and other cities, starting with exclusive sales at BlockBar. The product will also be sold at local retail stores, and will lead to nationwide availability in all markets from June 2024.

Tony's Chocolonely is launching its first Easter egg, called Chunky Egg, which is claimed to be responsibly sourced. Made from 180g of chocolate, the eggs are available in two of the brand's most popular flavours: milk and milk caramel sea salt. It also comes with five mini chocolate eggs. In addition, Tony's egg-stra special chocolate eggs and the egg-stra special chocolate egg pouches will be returning to shelves next month. Chunky Egg will be available to buy from next month at Waitrose, Sainsbury's and Asda stores, as well as online at Ocado for an RRP of £10.

Brookside Flavors & Ingredients (BFI) has completed the acquisition of Sterling Food Flavorings. Sterling Food Flavorings is a manufacturer of flavouring systems based in New Jersey, US. Meanwhile, Brookside Flavors & Ingredients helps food and beverage companies create flavourful products across a wide range of sweet and savoury applications. BFI serves customers from two production locations in the US, located in Addison, Illinois, and Branchburg, New Jersey. According to the company, Sterling's owners, Vitas Roman and Rick Englesbe, will continue serving Sterling's customers as part of BFI. Englesbe and Roman said: "We look forward to joining the BFI organisation. BFI has an excellent reputation in the marketplace and is known for excellent service and quality products. BFI and Sterling are a perfect fit. We will be able to grow faster and provide additional services and products to our customers with the resources they offer." Rudy Dieperink, CEO of BFI, added: "We are very excited to have Sterling join BFI. Sterling enables us to expand our product portfolio and broaden our offerings to our existing customer base. We will also be able to offer a broader range of products and services to the current Sterling customers. Sterling fits in very well with our strategy to offer our current and future customers the right capabilities to help them be successful." Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

Biomass fermentation start-up Superbrewed Food has announced the approval of US Patent Application Publication for its postbiotic protein ingredient. The granted patent application relates to a "composition of matter" and offers broad protection for the production, use and commercialisation of bacterial biomass ingredients. Superbrewed Food's postbiotic protein patent secures key protections, such as covering all forms of bacterial-biomass proteins, including natural, non-GMO and GMO organisms, with a protein content of 60% or higher – the minimum requirement for effective use as a food ingredient. The patent also includes coverage of all production methods, such as aerobic and anaerobic, and encompasses all forms of feedstock like sugar, agricultural waste and CO2. The ingredient extends coverage to the use of biomass protein in food products. Additionally, it ensures long-term protection, extending through 2042. The postbiotic protein is animal- and allergen-free, non-GMO and highly functional, making it a versatile option for replacing or complementing animal and plant proteins in many existing and new food formulations. Brand owners in dairy, health and sports nutrition, meat, sauces, confectionery, snacks and bakery products can now opt to improve the nutritional content in their product updates. According to the company, postbiotic protein is particularly suitable for meeting consumer demand in the 'better for you' category. Bryan Tracy, CEO and co-founder of Superbrewed Food, said: “Securing this patent celebrates the tremendous efforts of Superbrewed Food’s innovation team, and it represents a true breakthrough in food ingredients". "We are excited to provide unique combinations of benefits and strong IP protection to our customers in the fast-growing and competitive alternative protein market. And most importantly, consumers are soon to have access to a new class of proteins that deliver all aspects of better eating.”

Mars is presenting its “most innovative and decadent” Valentine’s Day line-up this year in the US, including the launch of a new dark chocolate and strawberry bar under its Dove brand. The brand-new seasonal treat combines rich dark chocolate with a sweet strawberry-flavoured swirl, described by the confectionery giant as an “on-trend flavour innovation that is sure to delight fans”. Tim LeBel, president of sales at Mars Wrigley, pointed out that data has revealed Dove to be the company’s top brand for Valentine’s Day, and that chocolate strawberry was the flavour most desired by consumers. He added: “Whether gifting chocolate and candy to others, or treating yourself, we've crafted a line-up of fun and delicious offerings to celebrate the season. Valentine's Day is a special occasion to create moments of happiness with friends and loved ones – like with our new Dove Promises Dark Chocolate & Strawberry Swirl.” An array of limited-edition Valentine’s-themed treats from Mars include Dove Milk & Dark Chocolate Hearts, M&M’s Novelty Heart Topper and Lifesavers Wild Berry Gummies.

UK-based dairy-free yogurt producer The Coconut Collaborative has closed a Series B funding round, securing a £1.5 million investment. The company says it will use the investment – which comes from existing shareholders, including Ground Force Capital – to support its transition from its initial ’start-up’ phase to a scaling phase, using “existing momentum to accelerate growth in the coming years”. The Coconut Collab established in 2013 by James Averdieck, founder of Gü desserts. He said that the dairy-free brand has demonstrated rapid growth since its inception, partly due to the rising number of consumers seeking sustainable dairy-free alternatives. Averdieck explained: “We take a unique approach within the category: our Coconut Yog is luxuriously thick and creamy, with a sweetness originating solely from the natural sugars found within the coconut and fruits we use. We know that one of the things consumers love about our products is the health benefits, such as how low in sugar they are, combined with the taste and texture.” "Unlike most of our competitors, we do not add water to our products. Our yogs are made of over 95% coconut, so we do not need to use heavy stabilisers. No nasties and no shortcuts create the creamy and indulgent texture we are known for.” You may also like to read: The Coconut Collaborative unveils dairy-free Double Cre&m The Coconut Collaborative launches gut-friendly plant-based yogurts The Coconut Collaborative unveils three new offerings