Mast-Jägermeister US has announced the appointment of a new CEO, Joe Fortune, effective 1 April. Fortune succeeds Jeff Popkin, who has led the business for six years and was instrumental in securing its partnership with Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson and his tequila brand, Teremana Tequila. Fortune joined Mast-Jägermeister US in 2016 as its chief financial officer and most recently served as chief commercial officer. He is said to have "well-rounded experience and powerful command of the spirits business". Michael Volke, global CEO of Mast-Jägermeister SE, said: "We are fortunate to have extraordinary talent at Mast-Jägermeister US and therefore thrilled to promote Joe into this key global leadership position from within. Joe's remarkable performance as chief commercial officer, proven ability to deliver strong results, deep understanding of the spirits industry and appreciation of the unique Jägermeister relationship with our consumers and customers, made him the ideal US CEO successor."

Investindustrial-owned CSM Ingredients has announced the acquisition of Italian ingredients firm, Hi-Food, for an undisclosed amount. Founded in 2012, Hi-Food specialises in the research, development and production of natural-origin ingredients, focusing on functional solutions for the plant-based and clean label food industry. As part of the transaction, Hi-Food's shareholders will reinvest their proceeds into CSM Ingredients, and take on roles in the areas of research and development (R&D) and commercial management. CSM – which already has over 1,400 employees, three research and innovation centres, eight production plants and two open-innovation hubs – describes the acquisition as "another decisive step with the creation of an Italian ingredient-tech hub dedicated to uncovering transformative solutions for the world of food". Over the next few months, Hi-Food plans to complete the construction of a production and processing facility for plant-based ingredients. Located in Pilastro di Langhirano (near Parma), the new plant, which is equipped with a permanent high-tech extrusion research centre, will offer "some of the most advanced development and application services in Europe," said CSM. The facility will also feature a coordinated group of pilot structures, experimental kitchens and industrial machines, which will create product prototypes and new foods. Aldo Uva, CSM's CEO, said: “As part of CSM’s innovation and strong expansion, Hi-Food represents excellence in the quest for solutions that can contribute to the sustainable evolution of the food industry. The acquisition allows us to create a perfect blend between the operational solidity, the global footprint and the professional know-how of CSM Ingredients with the visionary and pioneering spirit of Hi-Food, helping to accelerate the propulsive reality for the future of food." He continued: "The acquisition of Hi-Food is the first milestone of our ongoing R&D worldwide effort, that, in the medium term, will exceed €200 million in investments”.

Kellogg's is expanding its Kashi's cereal portfolio with the launch of Maple Waffle Crisp. The bite-sized cereal combines the taste of cinnamon and sweet maple syrup with homemade waffle-inspired shapes. Maple Waffle Crisp contains 4g of fibre and 22g of whole grains. The cereal also features chickpeas. "...Kashi continues to create delectable flavours that bring joy to the bowl for both parents and kids, like Maple Waffle Crisp Cereal," said Melanie Hall, director of brand marketing at Kashi. "It's delicious on its own, mixed with other Kashi cereal flavours, or as a snack on the go." Kashi Maple Waffle Crisp Cereal is available at select US stores, including Kroger, Walmart and Publix.

Danone North America has expanded its Silk portfolio with the introduction of new almond and oat milk creamers in the US. Offering 4g of protein per four-tablespoon serving, Silk Enhanced Almond Creamers come in two flavours: vanilla latte and salted caramel, which also contains vitamin A. Silk Enhanced Creamers are free from gluten, as well as artificial colours and flavours, and are available at Walmart. “More consumers are looking to the 'better-for-you' category for both great taste and convenience in food and beverage options,” said Amanda Simerman, senior director of plant-based and organic creamers at Danone. “New Silk Enhanced Almond Creamers are a delicious and easy way to add enhanced benefits to your morning brew.” Meanwhile, the company is also introducing Silk Sweet Oat Latte Creamer. The new offering joins flavours such as oatmeal cookie and vanilla as part of the Silk oat milk creamer portfolio, and is available at grocery stores across the US.

French foodservice firm Sodexo has appointed its chairman Sophie Bellon as the company's CEO, a position she has held on an interim basis since 1 October 2021. Bellon first joined Sodexo in 1994 and has held various leadership roles within the company, including CEO of the corporate services business unit for Sodexo France. According to Sodexo's board of directors, Bellon's "in-depth knowledge of the activities of the group" was considered to be a major asset. Bellon said: "I will continue to rely on the skills and diversity of the members of the board, as well as the commitment and expertise of the executive committee and our teams to accelerate Sodexo's transformation and strengthen its competitiveness. The principles that will guide my actions will be loyalty to Sodexo's values, entrepreneurial spirit, as well as efficiency and speed of execution. More than ever, I am committed to reinvigorating Sodexo's growth path, which has been part of the group's DNA since its creation." Headquartered in Paris, Sodexo offers end-to-end services to businesses and the public sector, including food services and catering, vending machines, micro markets and more.

The Coca-Cola Company has launched its new limited-edition drink inspired by space, as part of its global innovation platform debut, Coca-Cola Creations. The beverage, named Coca-Cola Starlight, combines classic Coca-Cola with a reddish hue. The taste includes notes "reminiscent of stargazing around a campfire, as well as a cooling sensation". The drink will be available in regular and zero-sugar variants, sold in bottle form or in cans. The new Coca-Cola Creations range will release limited-edition beverages under the Coca-Cola trademark – driven by collaboration, creativity and culture. The range was developed under the 'Real Magic' brand platform, which was revealed late last year. Oana Vlad, senior director and global brand strategy at The Coca-Cola Company, said: "For over a century, Coca-Cola has maintained its iconic status around the world as a symbol of optimism that has refreshed generations. When we launched ‘Real Magic’, we wanted to connect with and celebrate the experiences that bring joy to young people today and that has taken us to an exciting new territory." She continued: "Coca-Cola Creations aims to surprise, delight and engage global audiences through magical and unexpected tastes, moments and collaborations – something we know our fans have come to expect from us".

As the global food and beverage market continues to grow, so too does the level of competition. How can manufacturers grow within these markets while addressing increasing consumer demands for delicious, nutritious and sustainable products? It is a question that DSM has been asking itself for some time now: which is why the decision was made to consolidate its Food Specialties, Hydrocolloids and Nutritional Products businesses areas into one simplified, global food and beverage business group. By bringing together its unique blend of ingredients, expertise and scientific solutions, DSM is now better placed to help the industry tackle a wide range of challenges, such as standing out from the competition by fast-tracking innovation cycles; realising production efficiencies; reducing costs; and hitting sustainability targets. Above all, this strategic shift will support DSM in its ultimate goal of striving to achieve a world where food and beverage brands no longer have to choose between taste, texture and health (of both people and planet); and neither do consumers. They can enjoy it all. Learn more. #business #DSM #Food #sustainability

Kerry has announced two biotechnology acquisitions, as it looks to expand its expertise, technology portfolio and manufacturing capabilities. The company has reached an agreement to acquire biotechnology innovation company, c-LEcta, and has purchased Mexican enzyme manufacturer, Enmex. German company c-LEcta specialises in precision fermentation, optimised bio-processing and bio-transformation, producing targeted enzymes and ingredients. The business is said to have a strong pipeline of functional bioactives for the food, beverage and other consumer markets. Enmex, meanwhile, is an enzyme manufacturer located in Mexico, supplying solutions for the food, beverage and animal nutrition markets. The acquisition will extend Kerry’s fermentation and enzyme manufacturing capabilities into Latin America. Albert McQuaid, chief science and technology officer at Kerry, said: "The food and pharmaceutical industries are on the cusp of a new wave of innovation, where new developments in biotechnology, synthetic biology and precision fermentation are radically transforming these sectors". Other stories you may like to read: Kerry launches €6m dairy sustainability programme Kerry expands Saudi Arabia operations with new facility Kerry appoints Oliver Kelly as president and CEO in North America

Packaging company Amcor has introduced a high-barrier, recyclable paper-based packaging for snacks and confectionery in Europe. According to Amcor, LifeSpan Performance Paper is the first product to launch on the company's AmFiber platform. The new high-barrier, grease-resistant, FSC-certified paper-based solution has over 80% paper fibre content, as well as being PVDC-free and recyclable across most European countries. Noemi Bertolino, VP of research and development for Amcor’s EMEA business, said: “LifeSpan Performance Paper is a unique paper-based solution that provides a high barrier, even in tropical conditions. Our customers have confirmed excellent performance on their packing lines, and a high barrier after processing, overcoming two common challenges when switching to paper." She continued: “This launch is the result of Amcor’s approach to material innovation. We aim to continually enhance the sustainability of packaging, while delivering the performance that brands require. Currently, we’re in development for further applications of LifeSpan Performance Paper – such as coffee, spices, dried soups and more." LifeSpan Performance Paper is expected to be available in stores for snacks and confectionery in 2022, with plans to expand into coffee and culinary.

US holding company Golden Grail Technology has announced the acquisition of Tickle Water, a flavoured sparkling water brand aimed at children. Founded in 2016, Tickle Water offers natural, flavoured sparkling water that is free of preservatives, artificial sweeteners, sodium, calories, GMOs, gluten and sugar, while also being certified OU Kosher. The brand's line-up includes orange mango, green apple, watermelon, grape and natural sparkling water. Golden Grail's chief marketing consultant, Erin Heit, said: "Tickle Water is the fourth and latest addition to our rapidly growing and already robust beverage portfolio of functional healthy brands. We are excited about Tickle Water, which adds another premium beverage offering to a new demographic, children." She continued: "In addition to our plans for re-launching the thousands of established retailers that previously carried Tickle Water, Golden Grail plans to market Tickle Water responsibly to tweens". Terms of the deal have not been disclosed.

Functional beverage company Barcode has closed a $2.2 million fundraising round, which will support the brand's retail expansion plans. The fundraising round included participation from investors such as Trousdale Ventures, Midnight Venture Partners, Cathexis Ventures, Silas Capital, Gaingels and Erewhon Market, as well as music artist Kelly Rowland and NBA basketball player Maurice Harkless. Barcode was launched by NBA coach and professional trainer Mubarak Malik after he discovered "hydration, recovery and mental recharge are key to optimising human health". Headquartered in Los Angeles, California, the company produces plant-based, adaptogen-powered functional beverages for everyday performance – currently available in lemon-lime, watermelon and pinot noir flavours. Malik commented: "I want Barcode to be an iconic brand – one that was born in NBA with athletes, moved to Hollywood to take on the better-for-you epicentre and eventually dominate the natural channel". The plan is for the brand to scale the business steadily over time by focusing on markets in Southern California, Texas and Florida, before expanding across the US.

US alternative meat company Prime Roots has launched a new line of koji deli meats and charcuterie, designed to mimic products found at the deli counter. The new offerings include umami-rich hams, cracked black pepper turkey, pâtés, foie gras, pepperoni and salami. Prime Roots' 'meats' are made with koji, the fungi also used to produce miso and soy sauce – a mycelium that naturally grows in long fibres that slightly mimics animal muscle. Koji meats are naturally umami-rich, GMO-free and have a simple ingredient list. The company hopes to "branch out to a wider audience and reach meat-eaters directly" as its "ultimate goal is to challenge the idea of what makes a meat 'alternative'". The brand's plan is to encourage simple swaps by offering koji meats as an alternative alongside animal meats in restaurants, deli cases and sandwich shops across the US.