Hormel Foods-owned brand Spam has announced the launch of its eleventh flavour variety, a new maple syrup-flavour. The new product combines Spam’s classic salty, savoury flavour with sweet natural maple flavouring. It was developed “following an outpouring of fan-developed maple recipes and consumer insights and feedback”. Lisa Selk, VP of marketing for the Spam brand, said: "For 86 years, the Spam brand has introduced a unique variety of products, aligning our great flavours with consumer trends and feedback. When recent research showed a resurgence of cooking breakfast at home and an unwavering consumption of maple products, we knew it was time to create Spam maple flavored. And as a permanent addition to our lineup, we can't wait to see the culinary creations our fans cook up for breakfast and beyond." The lastest launch follows Spam’s unveiling of its limited edition Figgy Pudding product in November last year, featuring a blend of warm spices and seasonal ingredients cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, allspice and cloves. In October, the brand introduced frozen cheesy fritters to its product line. The new maple-flavoured Spam is available to purchase now in retailers across the US.

British kombucha producer Momo Kombucha is launching a new Watermelon Kombucha product in collaboration with Natoora. The product blends Momo’s unfiltered kombucha with Sentinel watermelon, grown by Oscar Zerbinati in Mantua, Northern Italy. The watermelons are grown slowly, reaching up to 18kg, with one melon grown per plant and a carefully restricted water intake that forces the melons to cling to nutrients in the clay soils resulting in rich, dense flesh. Momo describes its latest offering as “the lightest, most refreshing” kombucha it has made yet, with a sweet, fruity flavour balanced by the kombucha’s “zingy” tones. Founder of Momo Kombucha, Josh Puddle, said: “We are so grateful to have partnered with Natoora and to have been able to combine Zerbinati’s expertly grown watermelons with our kombucha. I wasn’t sure the flavour would cut through the kombucha, but it really does and has totally surpassed our expectations – all credit to our head brewer, Matt Canham.” He added: “We’re also happy to be supporting Natoora’s Farm Fund through this partnership, a fantastic organisation supporting young farmers committed to agroecological methods”. Momo Watermelon Kombucha launches on 25 July from Momo, Natoora, Planet Organic and Whole Foods in the UK (RRP £4.50 per 330ml glass bottle). The company also recently partnered with Caravan Coffee Roasters to launch a Gesha Coffee Kombucha product in April.

Unilever has opened a new manufacturing facility in Palmira, Colombia, for its local dressing brands, Fruco and Del Huerto. Situated within Unilever's existing production complex, known as the Palmira Hub, the site joins a logistics operations centre and four other production plants. The hub operates three facilities for home and personal care products, while the fourth is for the newly-built factory. The hub is the fourth-largest Unilever production centre in Latin America and employs around 1,200 people, supplying customers in Colombia and 16 other countries in the LATAM region. The company's food division in Latin America owns 13 brands including Hellmann’s and Knorr. Unilever said that the decision to expand the Palmira Hub is based on a strategic decision aimed at consolidating local production and logistics in a single location in Colombia. Rodrigo Sotomayor, general manager of Unilever in Colombia, commented: "Consolidating all our production and logistics in a single point in the country is part of our firm commitment to Valle del Cauca, a region that has significant competitive advantages and on which we have been betting for many years". He continued: "By centralising our operations in Palmira, we are able to improve logistical efficiency, optimise our supply chain and strengthen our capacity to respond to market demands”.

The Arab-Africa Trade Bridges Program (AATB) – a programme aimed at promoting and increasing trade and investment between African and Arab member countries – has launched a $1.5 billion programme to address ongoing challenges amid the global food security crisis During a hybrid launch event, which took place at the headquarters of the African Export-Import Bank in Cairo this month, members of the AATB's executive committee emphasised the relevance of the new food security programme to their member countries. With the launch of the programme, AATB hopes to leverage its expertise, resources and partnerships to implement targeted actions that address the specific food challenges faced by each member country. The programme is centred around AATB's four pillars: Trade, Investment, Insurance and Infrastructure. As part of the new programme, funded and unfunded financial transactions related to food security will be provided, in addition to capacity development and technical assistance services. In a statement, AATB said the core aim of the programme is, in the short term, to address the "immediate food security requirements of member countries, with a specific focus on ensuring the resources for a consistent and reliable supply of essential food commodities". AATB hopes that by attracting "investments, upgrading infrastructure, optimising value chains and fostering cooperation, the programme aims at building resilient and sustainable food systems that ensure the availability, accessibility and affordability of nutritious food for all". The statement said: "The programme is a key focus of AATB, reflecting its commitment to addressing the evolving priorities of member countries in crucial sectors such as health and food security for sustainable development. By prioritising the food sector, AATB recognises its importance for human wellbeing, economic growth, environmental sustainability and interconnected development." "Through this programme and associated initiatives, AATB aims to contribute to achieving the SDGs and promoting inclusive economic development among member countries."

ADM has announced that it is launching a significant expansion of its re:generations generative agriculture programme in North America. After successfully enrolling more than one million acres in 2022, ADM is investing to expand the programme to cover two million acres in 2023, on its way to a goal of four million acres globally by 2025. The expansion will offer producers spanning 18 states and three Canadian provinces financial incentives and technical support for implementing regenerative agriculture practices. Practices include cover cropping, improved nutrient management and conservation tillage. ADM is incentivising multiple practices and performance outcomes spanning crops including corn, soy beans, peanuts and wheat. According to the company, producers who enroll receive premium payments ranging up to $25 an acre per year, and in some instances receive an additional per bushel premium for grain delivered to ADM. Paul Scheetz, director of Climate Smart Ag Origination at ADM said: “We know producers have always been stewards of the land, and that this is their lifeblood. We’re excited to continue to invest to expand our unique array of re:generations benefits to bring even more of them into the programme.” He added: “We are helping create new value for our producer customers, while they reduce greenhouse gas emissions, increase soil carbon sequestration, improve water quality, and promote biodiversity”. The programme was designed for ease of use and adoption by producers, ADM said, including short-term agreements and customised support. Technical assistance partners will provide producer support on a state-by-state basis, including explaining programme details and qualifications, and providing guidance and education for successful practice implementation. ADM’s programme managers will allow producers the opportunity to start the enrollment process in meetings this July and August, as producers consider their cover crop plan for the autumn and planting decisions for Spring 2024.

US-based organic meat brand Applegate Farms has expanded within the breakfast category with the launch of its new Frittata Bites. The high-protein frozen egg bites include two of Applegate’s best-selling items, chicken breakfast sausage and bacon. The brand said the launch represents a shift as it moves into a new category for the first time: handheld, frozen breakfast predominantly featuring eggs as an ingredient. Applegate Naturals Frittata Bites are available in two varieties – one with egg and uncured bacon, and one with egg, chicken sausage, red pepper, onion and spinach. Each serving of two bites provides 13-19g protein and contains 1g or less sugar, ready to heat and eat within three minutes. They are described as “100% natural” and are available with an MSRP of $9.99 for an 8.4 oz box of four bites, exclusively in Sprouts stores across the US. Joseph O’Connor, president of Applegate, said: “As a longtime leader within the natural and organic meat category, we’ve led food movements including organic and meat raised without antibiotics”. “We’re looking to do it again by offering the first and only frozen handheld egg bites where the eggs and meat are Certified Humane, providing our fans with a convenient, tasty breakfast option that also fulfills their desire for natural ingredients, clean protein and Applegate humanely raised meat.”

Danone has launched a science-backed probiotic supplement that aims to support breastfeeding experiences by preventing mastitis. Mastitis, an inflammation of the breast tissue that often results in breast pain, swelling, fever and redness/skin rashes, affects around one in four breastfeeding mothers during the first 26 weeks postpartum. Danone's new supplement, called Almimama, has now been released in Spain and is available in packs of 30 powdered sachets. Danone recommends taking one every day, and says the supplement has a "neutral taste and dissolves quickly in water". According to Danone's research, probiotic supplementation during late pregnancy and in the early stages of breastfeeding can reduce mastitis. "Almimama is the only synbiotic supplement for pregnant or lactating mothers that combines the probiotic strain L. salivarius PS2 with fructooligosaccharides," Danone said in a statement. The French dairy giant claims this particular strain of probiotics can reduce the incidence of mastitis by up to 59%. Rocio Martin, global medical and scientific affairs director at Danone, said: “Many women say during pregnancy they used to imagine what it would be like to give birth, but they never, or rarely, consider not being able to breastfeed". She added: "They are given little information in this regard and may not know that complications occur in up to one-third of cases. We understand this can be distressing and, with this solution, we hope to support mothers in extending their breastfeeding journey as long as possible.”

Synergy Flavours has introduced a new line of "high-impact" concentrated flavours designed for protein bars, as it looks to expand the company's sports nutrition portfolio. In addition, the range is also targeted at manufacturers who are seeking to launch innovative products in the sports nutrition bar market. The range consists of eight flavours, including popular options like chocolate, strawberry and vanilla bean, as well as consumer favourites such as peanut, dark cookie crumb and coconut. To provide manufacturers with labelling and positioning flexibility, the range also offers natural versions of certain flavour profiles. Chris Whiting, European business development manager at Synergy Flavours, commented: “The sports nutrition market is evolving at a rapid pace, and as protein bars become increasingly popular, there is a real opportunity for manufacturers to innovate in this space and attract new customers who may be interested in trying these products as part of an active lifestyle”. He added: “The new solutions are concentrated to deliver high-impact flavour, which, in turn, allows manufacturers to offer popular flavours while balancing costs, at a time when raw material and energy prices remain high". "Taste is still king for many consumers, who should not, and will not, compromise on flavour. That’s why our new range has also been formulated with cost-optimisation in mind, meaning manufacturers can still create great-tasting products, and consumers can still enjoy their favourite flavours, without being forced to compromise on quality.”

The UN-brokered deal that facilitated the export of more than 30 million tonnes of Ukrainian grain to global markets via three Black Sea ports expired yesterday (17 July). António Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations, said: “Today’s decision by the Russian Federation will strike a blow to people in need everywhere”. The Black Sea initiative was agreed by Russia, Ukraine, Turkey and the UN in July last year, along with a parallel accord between the UN and Russia on grain and fertiliser exports from the country. With the decision, Russia has also withdrawn security guarantees for ships navigating in the northwestern part of the Black Sea. Russia told the UN shipping agency – the International Maritime Organization – that its "guarantees for the safety of navigation" had been revoked and that "proactive necessary actions and response measures to neutralise threats posed by the Kiev regime in the area will be taken”. “Ultimately, participation in these agreements is a choice. But struggling people everywhere and developing countries don’t have a choice,” Guterres said. He added: “At a time when the production and availability of food is being disrupted by conflict, climate change, energy prices and more, these agreements have helped to reduce food prices by over 23% since March last year". Guterres confirmed the news on Twitter: I deeply regret Russia’s decision to terminate the implementation of the Black Sea Initiative, which has been a lifeline for global food security in a troubled world. Hundreds of millions facing hunger & consumers confronting a global cost-of-living crisis will pay the price.— António Guterres (@antonioguterres) July 17, 2023 US Secretary of State Antony Blinken accused Russia of a "continued weaponisation of food" that could harm millions of vulnerable people globally. According to Reuters, Moscow suggested that if demands to improve exports of its own grain and fertiliser were met, it would consider resurrecting the Black Sea agreement. However, Guterres said that a UN pact that aimed to help facilitate Russia’s shipments over the past year was also terminated. In a statement, Russia’s foreign ministry said: "Only upon receipt of concrete results, and not promises and assurances, will Russia be ready to consider restoring the deal". While Russian exports of food and fertiliser are not subject to sanctions imposed in the West after Russia's invasion, Moscow said restrictions on payments, logistics and insurance have amounted to a barrier to shipments. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said he spoke with Guterres on Monday about trying to renew Black Sea shipments, while Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan said he believed Putin wants the deal to continue and would discuss it with him when they meet in person in August. A UN Security Council meeting held in Ukraine yesterday saw most countries urge Russia to resume the deal. Russia’s deputy UN ambassador Dmitry Polyanskiy told the council there had been no progress on improving Russia's exports – he accused Ukraine of using "the cover of the open maritime corridor to wage provocations and attacks against Russian civilians and military objects," but did not provide evidence. Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba told the council, "Russia is blackmailing the world. This blackmail affects the lives of millions of Ukrainians and tens of millions more around the world, primarily in Africa and Asia, who face the threat of rising food prices and hunger." Sophia Murphy, executive director, Institute for Agriculture and Trade Policy, commented: “Russia’s decision to pull out of the Black Sea grain deal will deepen food insecurity in the world, including for many of the world’s most vulnerable people. The decision continues the steady erosion of Ukraine’s grain production and export capacity. The bombing of the Nova Kakhovka dam in June eliminated a crucial source of irrigation water for large parts of the country. Meanwhile, two of the global grain trade giants, Cargill and Viterra, announced in March their withdrawal from Russian terminals from 1 July. As farmgate prices fall, Ukrainian farmers will be wondering if planting grain is still worth the effort.” Jean-Michel Grand, executive director of Action Against Hunger UK, added: “It is deeply concerning to see hunger used as a tool in geopolitical conflicts, at a time when ensuring access to nutritious food should be a global priority. The present global hunger crisis is a result of a number of factors: climate change, unstable markets, gender inequality and poverty, to name but a few – and the ending of the Black Sea grain initiative threatens to compound this crisis by driving up the price of food and fertiliser." He finished: "Russia’s decision to withdraw highlights the need to ensure fragile food systems are shielded from international conflicts and that longer-term solutions, such as sustainable farming practices, are implemented.” Speaking on behalf of the news, ADM also said in a statement: "ADM strongly urges all involved parties to come together to reinstate and return to full operation the UN Grain Initiative. As one of the leading growers of wheat, corn and barley, Ukraine is a critical pillar of global food security, and the grain corridor has allowed Ukrainian farmers to continue to serve that vital role even amid Russia’s invasion." ADM added: "Since February 2022, in addition to prioritizing the safety of our Ukrainian colleagues and their families, ADM has been focused on supporting Ukrainian farmers and ensuring the flow of food to those who need it around the world. We'll continue to use all of our resources and work with all of our partners to find other routes for Ukrainian grain to reach world markets, but there is no true substitute for Ukraine's ports on the Black Sea. ADM is committed to supporting an agreement for safe passage of food and ag products through the grain corridor. We believe this is critical to serving global nutrition needs, to Ukraine's agriculture sector, and to economic recovery when the war is over." You may also like to read: Black Sea grain deal extended for two months South Ukraine’s agricultural operations hit by Kakhovka dam destruction Russia resumes participation in Ukraine Black Sea grain deal

Investment company Kliro Capital Partners has acquired 100% of the share capital of UK-based independent alcoholic drinks manufacturer, Intercontinental Brands (ICB). ICB produces and distributes alcoholic drinks in the UK, with brands including Apollo passionfruit liqueur, Cactus Jack, Veroni Amaretto, V-Kat, Hawksbill Rum, Rozél Vodka and Bella Apertini. The company produces over 2.5 million cases across nearly 400 SKUs and various formats annually. Warren Scott, founder of Kliro Capital Partners, commented: “We are delighted to have completed the acquisition of ICB. It is a good business with a strong leadership team and we believe that there is significant potential for growth both in the UK and beyond." He continued: "We are committed to working closely with the ICB team to maximise the company’s potential by driving the pursuit of excellence in the drinks industry. This is the first step in our strategy to create a leading group supplying a diverse range of drinks products to UK retailers and third-party brand owners.” Kliro Capital Partners, which has experience in the drinks industry, divested its interest in Quintessential Brands Group in July last year, and the team has sought to invest in a UK spirits business to "support, develop and grow both organically and through further acquisition". Quintessential Brands has a strong portfolio of brands, which includes Greenall's gin, Ophir gin, Bloom gin, and The Dubliner Irish whiskey. Simon Witham, whose recent positions formed part of the senior executive team at Quintessential Brands, will be joining ICB as interim managing director. He said: “I am excited to be joining ICB at this important milestone in the company’s history. I believe that there is significant potential for growth, and I look forward to working with the team to build on the company’s success.”

Arcadia Biosciences-owned GoodWheat, a high-fibre wheat pasta brand, has entered into the breakfast category with the launch of two product ranges: GoodWheat Quikcakes and GoodWheat Pancake & Waffle Mix. GoodWheat Quikcakes will be available in three flavours: Buttermilk, chocolate chocolate chip and confetti. GoodWheat Pancake & Waffles Mix will also roll out in three varieties: Buttermilk, chocolate chocolate chip and apple cinnamon. The new pancake mixes are made with simple ingredients and Arcadia's proprietary wheat grain, which is said to be naturally higher in fibre and protein than traditional wheat. According to Arcadia, GoodWheat Quikcakes have 11 times the amount of fibre found in the traditional single-serve pancake mixes and 7g of protein per serving. Meanwhile, each serving of GoodWheat Pancake & Waffle Mix delivers eight times the fibre content compared to the classic pancake mix and offers 5g of protein. GoodWheat Quikcakes will be available to buy in stores in the US, including select Meijer stores, beginning next month, while GoodWheat Pancake & Waffle Mix will launch at Giant Food Company and Giant Eagle in August and September, respectively.

Nature’s Path Organic Foods’ co-founder Ratana Stephens has retired as CEO and will join her husband and fellow co-founder, Arran Stephens, on the board of directors. Arjan Stephens, current general manager and president of subsidiary Que Pasa, will take on the role of president of Nature’s Path Organic Foods. He will lead the company’s growth and sustainability strategy across the 50 countries that the family-owned business operates in. Outgoing CEO Ratana Stephens said that she is proud to pass the torch to her son Arjan, who has been an integral part of the company for over 17 years. “He has consistently demonstrated his unwavering commitment to making Nature's Path Organic Foods the first choice for consumers who value high-quality organic food,” she commented, adding that he has shown dedication to the company’s success by overseeing new manufacturing facilities and the acquisition of Que Pasa, Anita’s and Love Child Organics. “Another of his major contributions has been co-developing our Love Crunch brand. With Arjan as president, working alongside the company’s leadership team, we are confident that Nature's Path will continue to thrive and fulfill its mission to leave the earth better than we found it.” New president Arjan Stephens commented on his new appointment: “I am honored to have the opportunity to lead Nature's Path Organic Foods as its new president. On behalf of the entire team I want to express heartfelt appreciation for the incredible leadership and vision of my mom Ratana Stephens, who co-founded Nature's Path with my dad Arran over 35 years ago.” He added: “With her unwavering commitment to our mission to leave the earth better than we found it, the company has grown into a leader in the organic food industry. I look forward to continuing their legacy of innovation and sustainability and ensuring that Nature's Path Organic Foods will always be the first choice for consumers who value great tasting, high-quality, organic food.” The company said that by remaining a family-operated business, it can uphold its commitment to organic practices and sustainability while expanding a “culture of innovation” and giving back to its communities.