It’s true what they say: the safe way is always the best way. But how can manufacturers know that they are operating to a safe level while still keeping one eye firmly on the bottom line? In the food and beverage industry, this is a challenge that looms large. Relentless inflation and the cost of living increase cast a daunting shadow over food manufacturers across Europe. But it need not be all doom and gloom. In this article, Rob Rogers, senior advisor of food safety & regulation at Mettler-Toledo, explores the solutions that help improve food safety and provide cost savings. As inflation rates dance to their unpredictable tune, the supply chain finds itself in a tango with uncertainty. The procurement of raw materials, once a breeze, has now become a daunting task. Conflicts between countries impact ingredient prices, wages and transportation costs, causing a ripple effect on food manufacturers. The result? Increasing expenses, mounting production costs and an industry yearning for solutions. Advice for the bold and conscientious manufacturers To combat rising input costs, food manufacturers need to focus on improving efficiency, productivity and waste reduction throughout their production processes. One valuable tool in achieving this is product inspection technology. While many manufacturers associate product inspection systems with meeting compliance and safety demands, these technologies can also play a pivotal role in boosting productivity and controlling costs. Accurate checkweighing is one such technology that can help achieve tighter production tolerances and reduce waste, allowing manufacturers to maximise yield from expensive ingredients and raw materials. Investing in the latest product inspection machinery, such as metal detection systems, can also reduce downtime, as well as x-ray systems which can additionally provide significant energy savings. Innovations and technologies for cost reduction Modern product inspection technologies offer numerous features that help reduce manufacturing costs. For instance, x-ray inspection systems detect foreign body contaminants, help to reduce waste, plus save energy costs. By employing high-resolution imaging and sophisticated algorithms, x-ray inspection systems detect foreign contaminants as well as product defects, helping to keep consumers safe and protect brand reputation. By integrating exceptional sensitivity and precision, these systems minimise false rejects, optimising production efficiency and reducing the potential for product recalls, thereby delivering valuable cost savings and supporting food safety. Improving food safety and quality while minimising costs Product inspection technologies serve a dual purpose, delivering both cost savings and heightened food safety and quality. By identifying and rejecting physical contaminants throughout the supply chain, they mitigate the risk of food recalls, curbing waste and aiding in consistent product quality. Embracing cutting-edge inspection systems not only boosts manufacturers' credibility and consumer confidence but also translates into substantial cost reductions stemming from minimised recalls and rejected products. Furthermore, the strategic implementation of these technologies at the early stages of the production process offers huge advantages, including streamlined reworking processes, reduced time and material investments and preservation of packaging integrity. Advancements driving efficiency and quality in food safety The latest advancements in product inspection technology focus on enhancing accuracy, speed and adaptability. Advanced checkweighers equipped with electromagnetic force restoration (EMFR) load cells and feedback control software offer precision weighing at high speeds, allowing manufacturers the ability to set precise fill levels for packages. This, in turn, ultimately keeps costs down by reducing product waste, thereby avoiding additional giveaway and reworking costs. Furthermore, automated data collection and storage using product inspection systems streamline compliance processes, offer valuable insights for improvement, and reduce the risk of errors compared to manual paper-based systems. Role of automation, software integration, machine learning and AI Automation, software integration, machine learning and artificial intelligence (AI) have immense potential in helping manufacturers save money and enhance food safety. Automation streamlines processes, reduces human error and boosts efficiency across the supply chain. Software integration enables seamless communication between different systems, enhancing data collection, analysis and decision-making. Machine Learning and AI can optimise production processes, predict maintenance needs, and identify potential safety issues early on, preventing costly disruptions. The combination of these technologies can lead to substantial cost savings while aiding in better food safety and quality. Successfully implementing advanced technologies Successful implementation of advanced product inspection technologies requires a well-planned strategy that includes thorough training of personnel, close collaboration with technology providers and a clear roadmap for integration. Manufacturers should invest in training their staff to operate and maintain the advanced systems effectively. Building strong partnerships with reliable technology providers ensures ongoing support and access to the latest updates, ultimately leading to cost savings in areas such as training, support and spare parts. What's next for the food & beverage industry? The future of the industry is likely to see even greater adoption of automation, digitalisation and smart technologies. Companies will embrace Industry 4.0 principles, combining automation, data exchange, IoT and AI to create efficient and interconnected manufacturing processes. This digital maturity will enhance food safety, quality and cost savings. When savings and safety collide Food manufacturers can enhance the safety of their food and production lines, while simultaneously combatting rising costs by leveraging product inspection technologies. These innovations not only reduce expenses but also enhance overall efficiency, productivity and food quality, helping manufacturers secure a prosperous and sustainable future in an ever-evolving industry. Because the old adage is true: the safe way is always the best way.

Finsbury Food Group has agreed to be acquired by Frisbee Bidco for £143.4 million. The acquisition is set for a vote by the Finsbury shareholders. The Finsbury board has unanimously decided to recommend that shareholders vote in favour of the deal. Frisbee Bidco – which was formed for the purpose of the acquisition – is owned by funds managed by DBay Advisors, an asset management firm based in the Isle of Man, UK. Finsbury has headquarters in Cardiff, UK, and operates across the UK and Europe, manufacturing a range of baked goods, including cakes and bread, for the retail and foodservice markets. Peter Baker, non-executive chairman of Finsbury, said: “For the next phase of the Finsbury Group’s development, the business will need to pursue strategic, transformational M&A to achieve the scale required to be successful in an increasingly competitive and demanding marketplace. I am confident that Finsbury will thrive under DBay's stewardship in the private market, with access to DBay's investment and operational support to pursue the current strategy of scaling Finsbury’s buy-and-build M&A in the future.” He continued: “The Finsbury Board unanimously intends to recommend that Finsbury Shareholders also vote in favour of the Acquisition.” Alexander Paiusco, chief executive of DBay, commented: “We are pleased to have reached agreement with the Finsbury Board and that the acquisition has received a unanimous recommendation...We have been supportive shareholders of the business for over a year and have been impressed with the management team during our ownership, but we strongly believe Finsbury would benefit from transformational M&A, including international expansion, and this would be better achieved in private ownership without the barrier of the current listing.” The acquisition is expected to close in Q4 2023, subject to satisfaction of customary closing conditions.

Nestlé has partnered with Kellogg to launch two breakfast-inspired beverages under the Frosted Flakes and Eggo brands. Nestlé Sensations Frosted Flakes' cereal-flavoured milk features the taste of frosted cornflakes, "complete with a rich and creamy dairy finish," said the company. Meanwhile, Nestlé Sensations Eggo maple waffle-flavoured milk is packed with notes of "toasty waffles," butter and maple syrup. Meaghan Sparkman, Nestlé USA general manager and marketing director for the RTD business unit, said: “Breakfast is synonymous with cereal and waffles, and fans will be able to shake up their morning routine with a drinkable way to enjoy the taste of both. Inspired by two Kellogg classics, Nestlé Sensations Frosted Flakes Cereal and Sensations Eggo Maple Waffle combine the magic of childhood meals with the delicious flavour of our iconic milk beverages, delivering a delightful taste to our fans nationwide.” Both products will be available at retailers nationwide, priced at $2.59 per 14oz bottle. The launch of Sensations Frosted Flakes is scheduled for November, and Sensations Eggo will roll out in stores starting January 2024.

Mission Foods is expanding its ‘better-for-you’ range with three new tortilla products, aiming to satisfy the cravings of health-conscious consumers. The new tortillas are available in three varieties: Zero Net Carbs Sriracha Ranch tortillas, Carb Balance Chipotle tortillas and larger Carb Balance Burrito tortillas. The Zero Net Carbs Sriracha Ranch tortilla follows the brand’s other Zero Net Carbs tortillas launched last year, while the Carb Balance Chipotle product is a fajita-sized tortilla flavoured with fire-roasted jalapeños and containing only 1g net carbs. The Carb Balance Burrito brings the lower-carb formula to a larger burrito-sized tortilla, with only 4g net carbs, aiming to deliver more flavour with lower carb content than traditional large tortilla products. All three products are Keto Certified. The lower carb tortillas are zero sugar and high in fibre, and each new tortilla also contains no trans fats or cholesterol. Juan Gonzalez, CEO of Mission Foods, said: “With these new additions, we are thrilled to give consumers even more options and opportunities to achieve their nutritional goals without sacrificing flavour”. The products are available now at select US grocers and will be rolling out nationwide over the coming months.

Keurig Dr Pepper (KDP) has appointed former Mondelēz International executive Tim Cofer as its new chief operating officer, with plans for Cofer to succeed current CEO Bob Gamgort in the second quarter of 2024. Cofer, who will join KDP on 6 November, will work closely with Gamgort while in the capacity of COO. Following the transition, Gamgort will assume the role of executive chairman. Cofer has over 30 years of multinational expertise, and currently serves as CEO of Central Garden and Pet Company. Prior to joining Central in 2019, Cofer spent over 25 years with Mondelēz and its predecessor company, Kraft Foods. During this time, he held various executive roles with responsibility across a wide range of product categories, including coffee, chocolate and packaged food. Gamgort said: "Tim is the ideal person to lead KDP in its next chapter. With his background as a successful public company CEO and a veteran CPG executive, Tim steps into this role with the experience and capabilities that will propel KDP's growth journey. I'm fully committed, as is our entire ELT, to supporting Tim as he prepares to assume the CEO role. When the transition occurs, I will lead the board of directors as executive chairman." KDP's lead independent director, Paul Michaels, commented: "The process the board took in evaluating KDP's next CEO was thoughtful and comprehensive, including the consideration of internal and external candidates. We are confident that Tim's extensive CPG experience and growth-oriented leadership will make him a very strong next CEO of KDP."

Tasty, nutritious, sustainable and great value for money, consumers now expect much more from their plant-based products. Deltagen UK is helping manufacturers meet this demand with high-quality plant proteins, proven technical capabilities and a solution-based approach to formulation. Unlocking opportunities Deltagen UK manufactures the Atura Proteins range of high-quality plant proteins sustainably sourced from fava beans, chickpeas and red lentils. With a portfolio of pulse isolates, concentrates and flours, the UK-based company has an ingredient solution for plant-based food and nutrition. Nutriscore, nutritional profile and key functionalities, such as egg replacement, can all be improved with the appropriate use of the Atura range. At the same time, they support important product platforms that have become increasingly influential in this space, such as flexitarian, clean-label and allergen-free. But that’s only part of the picture. What sets Deltagen UK and its range of Atura Proteins apart is the strength of the company’s technical platform and commitment to sustainability. Learn more about the benefits of working with Atura Proteins at this year’s Plant Based World Expo Europe on the 15 and 16 November in London, UK, and HiE/FiE Europe on the 28-30 November in Frankfurt, Germany. Explore our ingredient portfolio and put your questions to our technical team. We hope to see you there.Unique capabilities A dedicated focus on meeting the needs of the food industry is evident in the scope of the company’s technical knowledge. In practical terms, this translates into an extensive toolkit to help customers understand the benefits of each plant-based ingredient in a range of applications – including dairy alternatives, beverages, meat alternatives, bakery and many more. This valuable point of reference not only helps to inform live projects but, as an evolving organic process, continues to push the boundaries and explore new opportunities for plant-based product innovation. Of course, this is only possible thanks to the quality and unique functionality of the ingredients themselves. The company’s processing expertise enables the production of different proteins to meet specific requirements, with customers also benefiting from its local manufacturing operation. Underpinning these capabilities is a robust food safety framework. In-house laboratories, which carry out detailed microbiological, allergen and protein testing, provide quick and definitive monitoring of important product parameters. Sustainability in action Just as important is a clear commitment to embedding sustainable practices across the entire business. The company believes it has a responsibility to do as much as possible to ensure a sustainable and environmentally responsible production system. Deltagen UK has taken decisive action to support this goal. The recent installation of over 1,000 solar panels on the roof of the manufacturing facility, for example, marked a major milestone. Covering over 2,000 square metres of roof space, the panels are expected to generate around 60% of the energy needed to power the production site every year. At the same time, there have been concerted efforts to further improve waste and water management with equally impressive results: Zero waste to landfill: Dry waste is recycled, diverted waste is incinerated to produce energy, and plastic packaging arriving on site is compressed and sold on for recycling. Rainwater harvesting: An underground tank captures and holds up to 100,000 litres of rainwater, which is recycled for production or released back into the river network. Looked at in this context, it’s not hard to see why Atura Proteins has become the partner of choice for many leading manufacturers and brand owners. Email info@aturaproteins.com or visit www.aturaproteins.com to find out more.

Britvic Ireland has announced a €6 million investment in its Ballygowan facility in Newcastle West, County Limerick, to increase production capacity by 20%. The investment aims to meet the growing consumer demand for Ballygowan mineral water. It is also expected to create 28 new manufacturing jobs. In addition to the new roles, the investment will provide additional bottling capacity for the equivalent of 50 million fully recycled and recyclable 500ml bottles of Ballygowan, enhancing the site’s production capability and sustainability credentials. According to Ballygowan, sales of its products have undergone strong double-digit volume growth in recent years compared to pre-Covid levels. Kevin Donnelly, managing director at Britvic Ireland, said: “We are incredibly proud of this latest milestone in Ballygowan’s journey as Ireland’s most loved and leading bottled water brand, and the benefits this investment will return for Britvic Ireland and the wider community in Newcastle West”. Newcastle West is the home of Ballygowan mineral water, which has been produced and bottled at source since 1984. Britvic Ireland have been a local employer in Newcastle West since 2007. The facility currently employs 55 people in addition to the newly announced roles. Ballygowan bottles are made from 100% recycled and recyclable plastic (rPET) following a €2 million investment in the Newcastle West facility in 2021.

Ferrero North America, part of the Ferrero Group, has announced the opening of its new Innovation Center and North America R&D Labs in Chicago, Illinois, US. The new 45,000-square-foot facility brings together Ferrero's R&D teams from throughout the US and houses teams working on Keebler, Famous Amos, Mother's, Fannie May, and other brands in the Ferrero portfolio – with a total of more than 150 employees. Ferrero says that the new research and development centre will be used to develop new cookies and other treats. Alanna Cotton, president and chief business officer of Ferrero North America, said: "Our new Innovation Center and R&D Labs here in Chicago reflect Ferrero's rich heritage and will foster the creativity and culture that Ferrero known for around the world. Investments like this help us create high-quality, innovative products that will become a special part of Americans' lives and further drive category growth in confections, cookies and beyond." The investment expands Ferrero's footprint in Illinois – where the company already manufactures Butterfinger, Baby Ruth, Keebler, Crunch, 100 Grand, and other products. Additionally, Ferrero is currently building a new chocolate processing facility and a new Kinder Bueno production facility in Bloomington, Illinois. Chicago’s Mayor, Brandon Johnson, commented: "Chicago's innovation is not only propelling the growth of iconic global brands like Keebler, Famous Amos and Fannie May, but it's also cementing our city's reputation as a prime destination for the world's best talent and businesses. Congratulations to the Ferrero team on this remarkable achievement.” You may also like to read: Ferrara to acquire Brazilian sweets and snacks company Dori Alimentos Ferrero acquires Italian bakery company Fresystem Ferrero to acquire US ice cream manufacturer Wells

Danone is installing a 5-MW combined heat and power (CHP) solution and microgrid controller at its dairy manufacturing plant in Boksburg, Gauteng, South Africa. The facility produces a variety of dairy items, such as Nutriday yogurt and Ultramel custard. The microgrid project will support Danone's global commitment to achieve net zero by 2050 while also addressing the demand for a resilient local energy solution during the ongoing supply challenges in South Africa. Moshesh Cogeneration, a special-purpose vehicle owned by Moshesh Partners, has chosen Clarke Energy to build the turnkey CHP facility and microgrid controller for Danone. Moshesh will own and operate the plant for a period of 20 years under a PPA contract with Danone. According to a statement, the gas-fired power generation stands as a substantial contributor to carbon reduction when compared with grid coal-fired power or diesel generation. The CHP system will enable Danone to recover waste heat, as steam and hot water further aid in reducing the company's carbon footprint. Moreover, given the nationwide power crisis and frequent grid failures beyond load shedding, the microgrid solution "will deliver resilient power supplies and therefore, maximum uptime to the 24/7 manufacturing plant," said Clarke Energy. The hydrogen-ready CHP solution presents the flexibility to transition to H2 operation as soon as a sufficient supply becomes available. The 5-MW CHP system consists of two containerised engines from Innio Group's J616 Jenbacher, a waste heat boiler and a 75,000-litre thermal storage unit supplied by Clarke Energy that will feed the hot water distribution system. The microgrid controller systems will facilitate the integration of the CHP engines with four existing diesel gensets, a solar photovoltaic array provided by a third party, and the grid. Senior director for operations and 'Design to Deliver': Danone Sub-Saharan Africa, Kid Nkantsu, commented: "With our frequent power supply outages, this microgrid solution will allow us to become independent from the grid, increase production uptime and integrate various distributed energy resources including hydrogen all while reducing our carbon footprint. We selected Moshesh Partners and Clarke Energy due to their track record in the region." Sifiso Shongwe, CEO of Moshesh Partners Fund Management, said: "This project signifies a significant step forward in South Africa's renewable energy transition, allowing Danone to become energy independent, thus further reducing its carbon footprint. We are confident that this milestone will inspire other organisations to consider similar renewable energy investments, advancing our collective goal to combat climate change and drive economic growth in a socially responsible manner."

Brussels-based agrifood tech impact investor Astanor Ventures has announced the successful closing of its second venture fund at €360 million. Building upon the success of its first venture fund, Astanor is committed to its core investment strategy of supporting early-stage and mission-driven companies that have identified a social or environmental issue and have developed a nature positive solution to resolve it. Eric Archambeau, co-founder and partner of Astanor, said: “When looking at new companies to invest in, our approach will continue to always look for highly disruptive and scalable business models, driven by ambitious entrepreneurs who also share our vision of sustainable and resilient agrifood and bioeconomy systems”. Astanor says that the agrifood value chain requires investors to take a holistic view to achieve system change and that over the years, it has developed an extensive network of entrepreneurs, experts, scientists, leaders and policymakers, enabling it to identify the innovative technologies that will drive the bioeconomy, with a specific emphasis on solutions that foster regenerative agriculture. Due to this ecosystem, to date, Astanor has invested in more than 45 companies and mission-driven founders globally. This focus aligns with the investor’s core values of climate transition, nature positivity, resource efficiency and to better social and health outcomes. Hendrik Van Asbroeck, partner at Astanor Ventures, commented: "As we witness the ever-evolving landscape of the agrifood market, it becomes increasingly evident that innovation is not an option but a necessity. The challenges we face today, from climate change to resource scarcity, demand a transformation in how we produce, distribute, and consume food. Astanor Ventures is dedicated to playing a pivotal role in this transformation by supporting visionary entrepreneurs who are redefining the future of agrifood, paving the way for a more sustainable and resilient global food system.” This latest closing tops Astanor’s existing funds and special purpose vehicles, which altogether amount to around €800 million assets under management.

August Storck-owned confectionery brand Werther’s Originals is expanding its range with the launch of Chocolate Covered Caramels. The new sweets combine the rich, buttery taste of the brand’s classic caramel sweet, with a smooth milk chocolate. According to the brand, caramel has shown the strongest growth as a flavour in the sugar category over the last twelve months, with chocolate caramel sweets outperforming category growth at 20% year-on-year. Andy Mutton, managing director at Storck UK, said: "We know that caramel remains a popular flavour within the sugar category and chocolate covered caramels are also seeing growth. Our latest NPD is set to drive excitement within the category, appealing not just to our existing, loyal customer base but also bringing new consumers into the category.” August Storck also owns caramel-hazelnut confectionery brand Toffifee, as well as Germany’s “first-ever” candy brand Riesen, and milk-hazelnut wafer brand Knoppers. The new Werther’s Original Chocolate Covered Caramels are available to purchase now in 100g packs for an RRP of £1.25.

Premier Foods’ Paxo brand is expanding its range of dry mixes with the addition of new Paxo Potato Rosti Cakes, available in two flavours. The Potato Rosti Cake mixes follow Paxo’s successful launch of its Veggie Fillers and Meat Free Mixes, tapping into consumer demand for meat-free options. Launching in Red Onion & Herb and Mixed Veg flavours, the mixes provide a blend of potato, herbs and vegetables that only require the addition of water to be baked, grilled or fried into patties. They are designed to offer a convenient, flavourful addition to a main meal that can be prepared quickly and easily. The line is also non-HFSS, low in fat and provides a good source of fibre. Mark Alldred, marketing director for flavours and seasonings at Premier Foods, said: “The versatile Potato Rosti Cakes can be paired with a variety of meals, expanding Paxo past the traditional roast dinner and to other cuisines, and times of consumption throughout the day. By expanding its range, Paxo aims to widen its appeal to attract new shoppers and drive further sales for the category and retailers.” Paxo Potato Rosti Cakes will be available within the UK grocery channel from this month, and in wholesale and convenience later this year, with an MRSP of £1.89 per 120g pack.