JDE Peet’s is rolling out its new home-recyclable paper refill packs for instant coffee in the UK and Ireland this month. The company, which includes coffee brands Kenco, Douwe Egberts and Tassimo within its portfolio, claims to be the first major coffee brand to switch from plastic to paper refills. The new packaging launch follows a year of research, development and testing. According to JDE Peet’s, the packaging is made from over 85% paper, meaning it can be placed into home recycling bins. It has been designed to keep coffee fresh for 15 months and contains 96% less packaging than a standard 200g glass jar, reducing waste. The new paper packaging will replace the existing packs for Kenco and Douwe Egberts and will be rolling out to introduce the L’or brand to the refill format for the first time. The packs are launching across major UK and Ireland retailers from this month onwards. Roberto de Felice, marketing director, UK and Ireland at JDE Peet’s, said: “Research shows consumers want to embrace reusable and refillable packaging, 76% of shoppers are looking to recycle more – but ease of recycling can be a significant barrier”. He added: “Our new packs will help empower consumers to make greener choices by making it easier to recycle and driving wider adoption of refills, reducing packaging waste and removing plastic from retail supply chains”. The company is targeting 100% reusable, recyclable or compostable packaging across its brand portfolio by 2030.

Tea manufacturer D’Amazonia is extending its ‘feelgood’ range by introducing various functional brews, beginning with a tea designed specifically for menopause support. According to the company, 13 million women in the UK are currently perimenopausal or menopausal, equating to one-third of the female population. Women experiencing menopause are the fastest-growing demographic in the workforce, with eight out of ten menopausal women actively working. In the UK, the average age women begin to experience menopause is 51. However, one in 100 women will experience it before 40. D’Amazonia’s tea contains nine beneficial ingredients including hibiscus, which supports cardiovascular health, rosehip that contains anti-inflammatory properties, passionflower leaf that boosts calmness and hawthorn which helps lower blood pressure. Marcela Tupinamba, co-founder of D’Amazonia, said: “From day one, our primary goal was to be a vocal advocate for best-in-class hot beverages that offer deep-rooted healthier living benefits. We started out with a digestive brew, a health and wellness beverage and a superior sleep tea in 2021. Therefore, it made perfect sense that our fourth recipe tackled yet another mass-market ailment.” The blends come in recyclable pouches containing bio-degradable pyramid teabags, which can be used twice. The tea will be available to purchase online in February.

The Louis Dreyfus Company (LDC) and The Nature Conservancy (TNC) have announced a collaboration to promote and implement regenerative agriculture and habitat conservation in agricultural supply chains. According to LDC and TNC, the global agri-food system accounts for 31% of greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) and agricultural expansion is responsible for 88% of native habitat loss globally. The collaboration aims to accelerate the shift from commitment to the application of a “net-zero, nature-positive role for agri-commodities". LDC’s plan targets a minimum of 3 million acres by 2030, reaching out to around 30,000 farmers, with a focus on the adoption of agricultural practices that improve soil health, restore aquifers, promote biodiversity and mitigate climate change. Axelle Bodoy, head of regenerative agriculture for LDC, said: “Through large-scale projects at the landscape level around some key LDC facilities, we intend to aggregate cross-crop rotation and cross-value chain collaboration with like-minded partners upstream and downstream. With TNC’s support, we are ideally positioned to understand farmers’ needs and support the adoption of relevant innovations, co-design programs with farmers and other value chain partners to lead the development of more resilient, future-proofed agronomic systems, and provide robust, credible and ambitious ESG impacts for our supply chain partners.” The collaboration focuses on two main features: regenerative agriculture and deforestation-and-conversion-free (DCF) production. Both companies will collaborate to implement LDC's regenerative agriculture strategy, which includes programming, financing and impact accounting. The focus will be on significant initiatives in North America, Brazil and Argentina. This involves joint assessments of existing regenerative agriculture projects to identify opportunities for collaboration and expansion throughout the value chains. Additionally, there will be formalisation and expansion of the existing collaboration between TNC and LDC, specifically concerning DCF production. This aims to support LDC's global commitment to DCF, with a focus on creating incentive mechanisms for farmers and enhancing monitoring and reporting of the implementation process. Jennifer Morris, CEO of TNC, said: "A successful transformation of the global food system is imperative to address the climate crisis and halt biodiversity loss. In order to see real change, the full value chain needs to be engaged – from farmers to traders to retailers. We are inspired by the steps that LDC has already taken and look forward to scaling these practices to eliminate deforestation and habitat conversion from commodity production on a global scale. Collective action in this sector is imperative to unlock benefits for both people and nature." Bodoy added: “As we pursue our regenerative agriculture strategy, we are thrilled to be working with TNC, which brings a science-based approach and decades of experience in building and scaling resilient food systems that benefit both people and the planet.” LDC, TNC and local agronomists and project implementers also continue to develop pilot projects in other supply chains, such as citrus in Brazil and coffee in Vietnam, Indonesia, Uganda and other origins.

Albertsons Companies has expanded its private label product range with the launch of its Signature Select Mix + Match meal solution. The new line of frozen entrees, sides and veggies can be cooked together in one standard oven at 375 degrees for about 35 minutes. The Signature Select Mix + Match meal solution offers shoppers a variety of classic meal combinations, including entrees like chicken parmesan, chicken meatloaf with sweet & spicy glaze, Italian meatballs with marinara sauce, chicken marsala with mushrooms, and southern-style BBQ pulled pork. The meal solution includes sides such as homestyle mac & cheese, parmesan crusted potato medley, garlic mashed potatoes, cornbread casserole, and creamy tomato basil pasta. In addition to the entrees and sides, it also includes a selection of vegetables like honey-glazed carrots, green bean almondine, sweet corn succotash, broccoli with cheese sauce, and mashed cauliflower with chives. Jennifer Saenz, EVP and chief merchandising officer at Albertsons Companies, said: “At Albertsons Cos, we are committed to delivering great quality with unparalleled value and convenience. Our new Signature Select Mix + Match line of frozen entrees, sides and veggies made from quality ingredients is the ultimate solution for busy families who need a simple, delicious dinner without time-consuming prep and clean up.” The meal solution is available at Albertsons Companies' stores, including Albertsons, Safeway, Vons, Jewel-Osco, ACME and Shaw’s.

Nestlé has unveiled a strawberry sundae flavour to its Lindahls Pro+ protein range in the UK. The new product offers 18g of protein per serving, featuring a 50:50 blend of whey and casein protein. Ideal for fitness enthusiasts looking to boost their protein intake, it is also a low-sugar, fat-free snack option. According to Nestlé, the strawberry sundae flavour "has all the benefits of a protein shake, in a handy 150g pot". Paul Wiseman, marketing director at Lactalis Nestlé chilled dairy sector, said: “The introduction of our new strawberry sundae flavour marks an exciting chapter in the growth of Nestlé Lindahls Pro+ range in the UK. As always, our focus remains on delivering high-quality, great-tasting options that cater to the diverse tastes of our consumers, and we’re hopeful that strawberry sundae will become a firm favourite.” The new flavour is available in selected Sainsbury’s stores across the UK for an RRP of £1.40.

Robotic food service solutions Blendid has expanded its 2024 menu designed to meet diverse beverage preferences and nutritional needs. Developed in partnership with personal trainers and fitness experts, the new menu has been available at the Bay Club locations in California, US, since late last week. Furthermore, it will be accessible at all autonomous robotic kiosk locations powered by Blendid technology later this month. The 2024 Blendid kiosk menu features a variety of options. From high-protein drinks made with almond milk, super greens, whey proteins and a variety of vitamin-packed fruits to caffeinated beverage choices like cold brew and seasonal flavoured drinks. There are also hydrating drink options providing low-calorie nutrition and Blendid's traditional smoothies with a full selection of customisable blends and add-ons. Blendid currently operates kiosk locations in a variety of non-traditional venues, including active-lifestyle and athletic clubs, shopping centres, colleges and university campuses and corporate offices. Vipin Jain, CEO and co-founder of Blendid, said: “Since expanding into the athletic club industry in 2023 through our collaboration with The Bay Club Company, we’ve seen tremendous interest in expanded menu options focused on meeting varied nutritional and fitness needs across all of our locations". "We are dedicated to driving the health-conscious reinvention of fast food, and our robotic kiosks can now deliver fast, customisable and nutritious on-the-go choices across a wide variety of beverage options that consumers crave. We think the introduction of our new menu is perfectly timed as the start of the year always creates an even stronger focus on health and wellness; our customers at fitness centres, hospitals, college campuses, retail centres and more will eagerly embrace the new options in the coming year.”

Up to 600 jobs have been put at risk at poultry meat firm Bernard Matthews Farms after the company announced proposals to close its Norfolk, UK, site following another year of losses. The Norfolk-based brand lost £10m in 2023, with £25m in losses in the year prior. It is proposing to close its processing plant in Great Witchingham, Norfolk, UK, which has been the firm's headquarters since 1955 and employs around 600 people. A Bernard Matthews spokesperson said the cooked meat site was "not a sustainable operation" and that the company would offer colleagues alternative roles at its other sites if the closure goes ahead. The spokesperson continued: “Despite investment in recent years and our efforts to secure more business, it is still loss-making and not commercially viable. Therefore, our proposal is to cease operations at this location, putting the site at risk of closure. We understand this will be extremely disappointing news for everyone concerned at Great Witchingham. This proposal is in no way a reflection of the hard work and commitment our colleagues show every day.” In a statement, Bernard Matthews said that before going forward with any plans, its key priority is to hold consultations with all employees and their unions, exploring “the full range of options”. Great Witchingham Hall in Norfolk was acquired by the company’s founder Bernard Matthews in 1955 – five years after founding the company – to deal with growing market demand. By 1960, Matthews had become the biggest turkey farmer in Europe. The company was bought by entrepreneur Ranjit Singh Boparan in 2016 and now employs more than 2,000 people.

International Flavors and Fragrances (IFF) has appointed Jon Erik Fyrwald as its new chief executive officer and member of the board of directors, effective 6 February 2024. Fyrwald will succeed Frank Clyburn, who will work closely with him until 3 March, before assuming an advisory role until December this year. Fyrwald's most recent role was as the CEO of agriculture company Syngenta. Prior to that, he held the position of CEO at chemical and ingredients company Univar Solutions and water treatment provider Nalco. Fyrwald also has an extensive background in executive leadership positions at DuPont, including in the company's agriculture and nutrition business. IFF's board chair, Roger Ferguson, said: “We are delighted to welcome Erik to IFF’s board and leadership team. Erik’s exceptional track record, passion for successful execution, customer-centric mindset and highly complementary industry experience will be invaluable as we capitalise on the significant value-creation opportunities ahead of us. The board is confident that Erik is the right executive to shepherd IFF through its next chapter as we execute on our strategic plan with a focus on driving long-term, profitable growth.” Ferguson continued: “On behalf of the board, I want to thank Frank for his leadership and contributions to IFF. During his tenure, Frank played an instrumental role in strengthening our commercial execution and research and development initiatives, executing our portfolio optimisation efforts and guiding IFF through the initial stages of our refreshed strategic plan. We wish him all the best as he leaves IFF to pursue outside interests.” Fyrwald added: “I am thrilled to be joining the IFF team...I’m excited to help advance its purpose of applying science and creativity for a better world...With strong progress made against IFF’s strategic priorities, I look forward to doubling down on execution to accelerate financial performance by building on the company’s innovation, commercial and productivity efforts, and continuing to strengthen its capital structure through portfolio optimization to drive value creation for all IFF stakeholders.”

GEA has initiated operations at its recently inaugurated facility in Janesville, Wisconsin, US, spanning 86,000-square-feet and dedicated to fabrication, repair, logistics and training. With an investment of $20 million, the facility aims to cater to the increasing needs of GEA's expanding customer base in the US Midwest. The site’s production capabilities are focused on the finalisation of separators, decanter, valves and pump assembly. The facility has incorporated several features designed to boost sustainability, such as solar panels, water reuse systems and a building management system. Azam Owaisi, CEO of GEA North America, said: “Opening the new Janesville facility as anticipated in December 2023 represents a significant step toward meeting our customers where they operate. It highlights GEA’s commitment to product quality and service excellence. We are excited to become a vibrant employer and partner for the Janesville community.” Utilised predominantly in sectors such as dairy, food, marine and pharmaceuticals, separators function as machines to segregate liquids of varying densities. Decanters play a pivotal role in enhancing environmental cleanliness across various industrial applications, including wastewater and water treatment. Valves and pumps serve to regulate flow technology equipment, while homogenisers achieve uniform and consistent mixtures. GEA reaffirms its commitment to minimising its environmental footprint by incorporating eco-friendly features such as LED lighting, electric car charging stations as well as a high-efficiency heating and cooling system. This is the latest in a string of investments from GEA. In October last year, the company opened a homogeniser production facility in Parma, Italy, and in September GEA partnered with Unilever to reduce greenhouse emissions in dairy farming.

UK-based Italian grocery brand, Crosta & Mollica, has received an investment from Perwyn, a European private equity firm specialising in buyouts and growth capital within sectors such as food and ingredients, technology and healthcare. Crosta & Mollica produces pizza, gelato and aperitivo snacks using premium ingredients and regional recipes from Italy. In the past year, we have witnessed a raft of launches from Crosta & Mollica, including new gelato flavours, pasta sauces, ready meals and pasta variants. Products include: Italian ground coffee, Caffè Torinese Amaretto Tiramisù and Caramel Crema Cotta Four “authentic” Italian Biscotti Sorbetto Shells Gluten-free margherita pizzaWith the investment, Perwyn says it aims to aid Crosta & Mollica in its ongoing international expansion while ensuring sustained growth in the UK through product innovation, customer service and brand investments. The existing Crosta & Mollica team will continue with the company. Upon completion, David Milner, a food executive with leadership experience at Tyrrells, Lily’s Kitchen and St. Pierre, will join as chairman. James Orr, founder of Crosta & Mollica, said: "I am delighted to welcome Perwyn as partners to Crosta & Mollica. Their shared vision for the potential of the business matches the ambition of our incredible team. We are only part way towards realising our goal of becoming a leading global Italian food brand and Perwyn’s international and sector expertise will help accelerate us towards achieving that.” Gurinder Sunner, partner at Perwyn, added: “Perwyn are extremely happy to be collaborating with Crosta & Mollica. Their growth and increasing presence across multiple countries is incredibly impressive and a testament to the passion they have for developing top-quality products befitting of a premium and relatable brand. The investment aligns perfectly with Perwyn’s food sector expertise and track record in successfully partnering with entrepreneur-owned businesses.” Milner, incoming chairman of Crosta & Mollica, said: "James and his team have created a truly unique business – their relentless focus on innovation and quality has led to a best-in-class product range spanning the most loved categories of the world’s favourite cuisine. The opportunity for further growth is huge and I am thrilled to be able to join the business at this exciting juncture.”

In a move to enhance its food certification capabilities, Amtivo Group proudly has acquired UK Food Certification. This development solidifies Amtivo's commitment to delivering high-quality certification services for the global food supply chain. Based in Cheshire, UK Food Certification provides food certification services across the UK and Ireland. The company operates as a UKAS-accredited certification body, offering certification services covering the four fundamental BRCGS Standards, namely Food Safety, Packaging Materials, Storage and Distribution, and Agents and Brokers. Additionally, the company's certification extends to include the BRCGS free-from Standards for Gluten-Free and Plant-Based, as well as the AOECS Gluten-Free Standard. Amtivo CEO Mike Tims said: " Welcoming UK Food Certification to the Amtivo Group marks an important moment for Amtivo. This not only diversifies our service portfolio but also creates synergies that will elevate our position in the food certification market. We are excited about the development opportunities and enhanced value we can bring to our clients." As a distinguished '5 Star' certification body, UK Food Certification brings a legacy of technical experience and customer service that aligns with Amtivo's comprehensive range of services to empower organisations. Phillip Knight, co-founder of UK Food Certification, added: “Over the last seven years, we have built UK Food Cert with the support of our wonderful team and loyal customers, but the time has come to finally retire. We were impressed by the Amtivo team from the outset and could see a great fit and people who would provide a safe home for our customers and team." He continued: "They understand how to run a great Certification Body and share the same ethos and values, and we firmly believe they will inject new energy into the business, and take it to the next level”. This expansion caters to the evolving needs of their client bases, offering a one-stop solution for BRCGS and ISO certification requirements in their respective industries.

The Sustainable Bottling Co has launched a new 8,000-square-foot aluminium bottling facility near Leicester, UK. The site was constructed following a £1 million investment secured by Melvin Jay, the founder of The Sustainable Bottling Co and soda brand Gunna Drinks. According to the company, the facility is the first in the UK and Europe equipped to bottle drinks in aluminium beyond water. It will produce Gunna lemonades and also provide white-label aluminium bottling to the drinks industry. The company said that it will not only provide 470ml aluminium bottles, the same packaging used by Gunna Drinks, but will also have the capacity to manufacture bottles ranging from 330ml to 750ml. The Sustainable Bottling Co explained that choosing an aluminium bottle over the standard 330ml can, commonly used for packaging many soft drinks, brings exciting possibilities as it can accommodate more liquid and mimics the footprint of a plastic bottle on the shelf. This facilitates a "seamless" transition in terms of size and stock capacity, contributing to the industry's shift away from plastic. Melvin Jay said: “From both a personal and professional perspective, I’m a passionate advocate of sustainability, and it’s something that’s been at the heart of the Gunna Drinks brand for the last six years. So, it’s incredibly exciting to be launching The Sustainable Bottling Co and be able to offer the industry access to significantly more planet-friendly bottling." "We believe aluminium bottles are the future. We’ve put significant investment in place to bring this vision to life, and we know that sustainable packaging is something that brands, retailers and shoppers are all actively looking for. There are far-reaching needs across the FMCG industry for aluminium bottling, and we can’t wait to start fulfilling these and helping to reduce the drinks sector’s reliance on harmful single-use plastic bottles. The potential environmental ramifications here are huge, and we’re excited to be able to make responsibly sourced and sustainable packaging more accessible.”