Ecotone UK-owned brand Kallø has entered the crispbread market with the launch of a new range of crackers made from plants. Kallø Veggie Thins are snacking flatbreads crafted from chickpeas, boasting natural richness in fibre and plant protein. Available in three flavours – Rosemary & Sea Salt, Mixed Seeds, and Beetroot & Mixed Seed – the snacks are baked, not fried, and are not only gluten-free but also suitable for vegans, free from artificial flavours or preservatives. Ecotone's marketing director, Adele Ward, said: “It’s at Kallø’s core to deliver delicious healthy products suitable and accessible for all while making sure it’s also the right thing for the planet...Our goal is to continue transforming snacking with healthy and innovative products that don’t compromise on taste. With Kallø Veggie Thins, consumers can be proud to enjoy them both at the dinner table and as part of the ultimate sharing board." “As with our wider portfolio, Kallø uses natural ingredients to provide healthier, everyday snacking solutions. Veggie Thins are a source of plant protein and help bridge the fibre gap – with an estimated 91% of consumers not getting enough fibre in their diets.” Kallø Veggie Thins is available at Waitrose stores for an RRP of £2.99.

US beverage provider Sidework has closed a new funding round, increasing its total raised capital to over $10 million. The round was led by Cherubic Ventures and included participation from Finistere Ventures, SOSV, Outlander Labs and Pathbreaker Ventures. Sidework, formerly known as Backbar, is a beverage technology company that provides hospitality businesses with dispensers for a wide range of drinks. Its dispensers have the capability to manage ingredients that are fresh, viscous, and contain particulates, pulp, dairy and more. According to the company, Sidework's dispenser enables operators to swiftly adapt to changing consumer demands. For instance, a menu can feature iced pumpkin spiced lattes in the morning, flavoured sparkling waters and craft sodas during lunch, and automatically transition to cocktails for dinner. Matt Cheng, Cherubic Ventures' general partner, said: "We believe in Sidework's vision to revolutionise the beverage industry. This funding marks an exciting milestone, reflecting the pivotal role they are playing to reshape how beverages are crafted and served." most challenging problems through innovation, and their recent rebranding and fundraising efforts reinforce their standing as a transformative technology player.

UK-based refrigeration technology specialist Enviro-Cool has launched V-Tex, a technology that chills cans and bottles on demand. The low-energy drink-chilling unit uses a Rankine vortex, a mathematical model of a vortex in a viscous fluid, combined with ice and water to chill drinks rapidly. Drinks are placed in a unique gripper and subjected to ‘forced convection,’ rather than the natural convection of existing equipment. According to Enviro-Cool, the technology can chill drinks in a matter of minutes as well as offer energy savings of 50-90% compared with conventional chilling solutions. V-Tex also eliminates the need for commonly-used chemicals and glycol. It has been developed as an ‘eco-friendly solution to refrigeration’, Enviro-Cool said, and is designed to overcome the challenge of agitating carbonated liquids without fizzing. While pre-packed beverages are usually kept cold 24/7 in commercial environments, businesses could utilise V-Tex to chill beverages at the point of sale or consumption. The unit’s universal holders can accommodate any size can, plastic or glass bottle drink from 150ml to two litres. Larger volumes of drinks can also be chilled using fewer refrigerators, an advantage for large-scale operators such as contract caterers. Colin Rodgers, director at V-Tex, said that he hopes the technology will, in time, become the ‘global standard’ for beverage chilling. He added: “The idea of on-demand drinks chilling has been around for many years, and several large companies have tried to achieve it, but without success. V-Tex enables large quantities of drinks to be chilled in a brief time, from a small footprint, whilst using significantly less energy than conventional methods.”

Integrated confectionery processing and packaging solution provider TNA has announced the opening of a second confectionery manufacturing facility in Sydney, Australia. The site at Wetherill Park in Sydney is the company’s third in Australia, and TNA expects it to meet the burgeoning demand of the global confectionery and nutraceuticals sector. Thiago Roriz, chief operating officer at TNA Solutions, said: “Our confectionery processing capabilities are continually evolving. With our new Wetherill Park facility, we extend our ability to deliver complete solutions to our global customers efficiently and with short lead times. We understand our customers’ needs for reliability and efficiency as they cater to the ever-evolving palate and increasing demands of consumers. The added manufacturing capacity is set to ensure that customers worldwide can receive solutions in a timely manner. TNA company creates and integrates complete processing and packaging solutions, from kitchen operations, starch conditioning, mogul tray handling, de-moulding, product cleaning and finishing to depositing, distribution, packaging and case packing.

Alland & Robert advocates for ethical supply chains. The company introduces fair-trade certified gum acacia, a reflection of its strong commitment towards the local communities linked to gum acacia. Both the Seyal and Senegal qualities of acacia gum manufactured by Alland & Robert are available as Fair For Life-certified. This is the first time that such a certification has been obtained in the gum acacia industry, thanks to the unique commitment of Alland & Robert towards sustainability and ethics. "This certification is the result of our ambitious corporate and social responsibility policy. To us, this is the recognition of our long-term efforts towards a gum acacia supply chain that is beneficial to all parties involved," said Violaine Fauvarque, sustainability manager at Alland & Robert. "Fair trade promotes healthy and beneficial trade for people and the Earth. Participating in this collective effort makes us particularly proud.” Products displaying the FFL label are guaranteed to come from environmentally friendly processes practised by fairly paid farmers, from a transparent and traceable supply chain. "As the leading expert of acacia gum worldwide, we have a responsibility to our stakeholders. Our commitment to fair relations and sustainable products has been part of this company and its values since our beginnings," Charles Alland, CEO of Alland & Robert, explained. "This certification embodies our unique work towards the local communities, and it strengthens our lasting relationships with our suppliers in the Sahel. We are extremely proud to be the first to achieve this certification, as we know it will meet the consumers’ demand for ethics, traceability, and transparency ". This certification comes in addition to several other initiatives of Alland & Robert for an ethical and sustainable supply chain, such as being a member of the SEDEX (Supplier Ethical Data Exchange) since 2009, committing to the We-Use-Wild pledge from NGO Traffic and launching a reforestation initiative in partnership with NGO Tree Aid. Fair For Life certification, an international standard for Fair Trade and responsible supply chains Fair for Life promotes an approach of Fair Trade that allows producers and harvesters to take charge of their destinies through the recognition of their work. The Fair For Life certification is also a guarantee of strict economic, social and environmental standards, set by the Ecocert group. Particularly demanding, the Fair for Life label guarantees: > A fair purchase price higher than market prices > Purchase commitments over 3 years minimum > A protection mechanism for producers in the event of a crisis > Decent and safe working conditions throughout the sector > Strengthening the autonomy of producers > Environmentally friendly agricultural practices Alland & Robert at FI Europe 2023 Created in 1884, Alland & Robert is a French family company and pioneer in natural tree exudates. With a strong focus on acacia gum, an entirely natural additive and ingredient, Alland & Robert exports to over 70 countries through a network of 40 distributors. Alland & Robert will be present at Food Ingredients Europe 2023, in hall 3.0, booth C220.

17 Australian dairy farmers have received a combined grant of nearly AUD 1.5 million (approx. $955,000) to fund essential on-farm projects, thanks to the latest round of the Woolworths Dairy Innovation Fund. These grants are arriving at a pivotal moment for the Australian dairy sector, as it prepares to confront the uncertainties osuch as dry weather conditions and the increasing labour scarcity. The latest group of 17 grant recipients exemplifies the innovative approaches farmers are adopting to prepare for the upcoming season, which include enhancing water management, boosting energy efficiency and implementing automation. Each of the recipients has received grants of up to $100,000 to support their initiatives. Over the past three years, the Woolworths Dairy Innovation Fund has invested a total of $5 million in nearly 60 dairy farmers, enabling family-run dairies to make critical investments in technology, seasonal resilience and operational efficiency. Woolworths commercial director of dairy, bakery and deli, Jason McQuaid, said: “Out of necessity, Australian farmers are very wise about the investments they make during good seasons to see them through the tough ones, and we’re pleased to have helped almost 60 dairy farmers put those plans into action through our Dairy Innovation Fund". “We have met some incredible farmers through the Fund, who are looking ahead and making smart investments now to benefit their dairy in the future. While in previous years the fund has supported tech-based projects like cow-collars and dairy automation, we’ve seen a real shift from farmers in the latest round to focus on climate resilience. He added: “It’s exciting to hear from past grant recipients how quickly their investments have delivered measurable efficiency and cost savings, and we look forward to seeing how our recent grants will help these 17 dairies prosper”. Meet the Recipients Kacey Walker is a third-generation dairy farmer who has been awarded a grant of $80,000 to install an automated irrigation system with energy-efficient pumps at Walker Farm Foods in Cambroon, Queensland. This system will allow for precise water management, saving time and reducing waste. Peter Mulheron, who manages a dairy in Swan Marsh, Victoria, has received a $100,000 grant to purchase a modular microgrid system, equipped with solar panels, a battery and an inverter. This renewable energy system will not only reduce energy costs but also provide greater security of electrical supply, which is crucial in the face of increasing weather-related power outages. Emma and Nick Strong, who run a dairy in Jamberoo, New South Wales, plan to build a new calf rearing shed with automated feeding technology, thanks to a $100,000 grant from Woolworths. This will enhance animal welfare and reduce labor intensity, allowing them to expand their business and explore new markets like beef cattle rearing. The Woolworths Dairy Innovation Fund, launched in November 2020, was developed in collaboration with peak industry groups, including Australian Dairy Farmers, Dairy Australia, National Farmers' Federation, Premium Milk and the NSW Farmers' Association Dairy Committee.

Primal Kitchen has introduced a seasonal flavour to its condiment portfolio: Cranberry mayo. Primal Kitchen’s cranberry mayo combines the brand’s mayo with a subtly sweet cranberry flavour. The new offering is free from gluten, non-GMO, adheres to kosher and organic standards, and is made with certified humane, cage-free eggs, containing no sugar and seed oils. Cranberry mayo is available as a limited-time flavour at Thrive Market, Sprouts Farmers Market and at select Target locations for $11.99.

Hero Group has announced its plans to cease operations at one of its jam production plants in Lenzburg, Switzerland, by the end of next year. The decision was made by the group's board of directors after employee proposals submitted during the consultation period "did not provide a viable alternative". Despite Hero's numerous efforts, the plant, which was opened in 2011, "never managed to reach adequate capacity utilisation," said the company. This was further compounded by a continuous decline in jam consumption in Switzerland. The closure will impact a total of 48 employees. Rob Versloot, CEO of Hero Group, said: “We are very saddened by this decision to close the production facility in Lenzburg, and especially by the loss of employment for 48 of our people". "It is a sad day at Hero, but at the same time, it is our duty to take decisions that will ensure the long-term competitiveness of the company." Hero said that employees made redundant by the closure of the production plant will be supported by the company through a “generous social plan”.

Nestlé-owned brand Carnation has expanded its portfolio with a new line of dairy-based coffee creamer. The range is available in two flavours: Sweetened Original and Zero Sugar Original. Leonardo Aizpuru, Nestlé's VP of brand marketing for the beverage division and business unit, said: “Now more than ever, coffee lovers are looking for high-quality coffee creamers that won’t break the bank. Our latest Carnation coffee creamer innovation combines real milk with the iconic flavour of Carnation to deliver a great taste at an affordable price." Carnation's coffee creamers are currently available at select Walmart and grocery retailers, with plans for broader availability starting in January 2024.

Treasury Wine Estates (TWE) is acquiring US wine business Daou Vineyards as it looks to accelerate its focus on luxury wines. The deal includes an upfront consideration of $900 million, plus an additional earn-out of up to $100 million. Founded in 2007 in Paso Robles, California, Daou is said to be the fastest-growing luxury wine brand in the US market over the past year. The deal, which is expected to be completed by the end of the year, includes the brand, Daou Mountain Estate and hospitality site, four boutique luxury wineries and approximately 400 acres of vineyards in the Adelaida district of Paso Robles. Tim Ford, CEO of TWE, said: "The US is the world's largest wine market, and we're beyond thrilled to add Daou to our portfolio, cementing our position as a global luxury wine leader. This is a transformative acquisition that will accelerate the growth of our luxury portfolio globally and paves the way for new luxury consumer experiences." He continued: "...we have grand plans for Daou to become the next brand with the international scale and luxury credentials of Penfolds. With Daou, we will be well-positioned to connect with a new generation of wine lovers, combining tradition with innovation, culture-led experiences and global distribution." Georges and Daniel Daou, founders of Daou, added: "The last frontier has always been international, and as part of the Treasury Wine Estates portfolio, we have unlocked the potential to be amongst the highest-end wines for consumers to enjoy globally". They continued: "In Treasury Wine Estates, we have found a partner that not only understands the value of our brand and the premium assets we have cultivated but also the importance of ensuring that we maintain a relentless focus on quality and craftsmanship as we step into our future. Both companies are change leaders, and by joining forces, we will continue to boldly disrupt the industry and bring the very best in wine and luxury experiences to consumers around the world." The acquisition is subject to US anti-trust approval.

UK pulse and grain brand Merchant Gourmet has entered the rice category with the launch of its new range of microwaveable rice pouches. The brand said it seeks to ‘re-energise’ the microwaveable rice category with new, gourmet flavour combinations made using wholegrains and additional plant-based ingredients such as sunblush tomatoes and alphonso mango. Launched in Sainsburys and Ocado this month, the new range is available in four varieties: Moreish Sunblush Tomato & Basil; Zesty Coconut & Lime Leaf; Spiced Mango, Chilli & Lime; and Simply Cooked Wholegrain Brown, Red & Wild Rice. Merchant Gourmet said the launch responds to growing consumer demand for exciting, global flavours and healthier types of rice. Each pouch offers a source of fibre, is low in fat and sugar and contains no artificial flavours or preservatives. Richard Peake, managing director at Merchant Gourmet, said: “Our latest launch seeks to shake up the category, adding the quality ingredients and exceptional flavour that Merchant Gourmet is known for, whilst introducing exciting innovation to the rice category”.

Keurig Dr Pepper (KDP) has announced a new distribution deal with Grupo PiSa, through which it will sell and merchandise the Electrolit sports hydration beverage across the US. The partnership marks KDP’s expansion into the sports hydration category and is designed to significantly expand Electrolit’s distribution, continuing to accelerate the brand’s growth. Electrolit entered the US market in 2014, having established a strong market position in Mexico, and is now a top five trademark in the sports hydration category. In a statement announcing the deal, KDP said that Electrolit is growing at a strong double-digit rate in the US, where it already generates more than $400 million in retail sales, and has increased more than ten-fold over the past five years. Under the partnership, KDP will sell and distribute Electrolit in the majority of its company-owned direct store distribution territories and across all channels of trade. Commenting on the announcement, Andrew Archambault, president of commercial and beverage concentrates at KDP, said: “We are thrilled to enter the sports hydration category with Electrolit, broadening our portfolio to address this important beverage occasion for our consumers”. He added: “Electrolit is a differentiated brand with tremendous consumer appeal, and KDP's proven sales and distribution capabilities are poised to unlock its significant growth potential”. Caridad Ochoa, president and CEO of Electrolit USA, commented: “KDP is the right strategic partner to further expand Electrolit's footprint in the US. KDP's scale, capabilities and insights, coupled with Electrolit's rich heritage and loyal following, will drive the next stage of our determined growth initiatives.” The transition of Electrolit distribution to KDP will occur in early 2024. Other terms of the agreement were not disclosed.