Molecular spirits maker Endless West has raised $21 million in Series B funding, bringing its total investment to date to $33.7 million.  Established in 2015 by scientists Alec Lee and Mardonn Cua, the tech start-up examines the molecular composition of wines and spirits, identifies key flavour and aroma molecules, and extracts them for use from more efficient sources, such as plants, fruits and yeast.  The brand will use the funds to expand its US distribution, research and development efforts and grow its B2B platform Blank Collective.  Endless West's molecular spirit products currently include: Glyph, which is inspired by whiskey, with three distinct expressions; Gemello,  inspired by Moscato d'Asti wine; and Kazoku, a saké-inspired spirit.  "At Endless West, we've created a brand new category of spirits to directly address and eliminate some of the biggest pain points in the industry," said Lee. "We protect the natural resources used to make spirits, pronounce those unique flavours that define the spirits' characteristics and innovate flavour through our technology-driven platform." Investors in this funding round include Horizons Ventures, Litani Ventures, North East Family Office and SOSV, among others. "Endless West is one of the first companies to address climate change and true product innovation in the spirits world," says Sarah Cone, founder and managing partner of Social Impact Capital. "For too long, we've been operating under the guise that the finest beverages must be produced using large swaths of land, exploiting precious resources. Endless West's use of technology presents a precise, flavorful experience without significant amounts of resources such as wood, water, land and energy that is usually needed to produce wine and spirits," she added.

Nestlé has inaugurated a new plant-based meal solutions manufacturing facility in Malaysia, following an investment of MYR 150 million ($36.3 million approx.). The facility, which marks the first in ASEAN and second in Asia, will cater to the rising local demand for plant-based food, as well as exports. It joins the company’s plant-based food facility in Tianjin, China. Located in Selangor, the new factory will produce plant-based burgers, schnitzels, chargrilled pieces and mince under the new Harvest Gourmet brand. The facility has the capacity to produce 8,000 tonnes of halal certified plant-based food per year and will supply both food service and retail. According to Nestlé, Harvest Gourmet has already inked deals to supply global and regional restaurant chains including Element Fresh in China, KyoChon in Malaysia and Carl’s Jr in Singapore. The plant has already commenced production of its new Harvest Gourmet products for the out-of-home markets and is getting ready to launch its consumer range, starting with Tmall and Hema stores in China. “We are confident that with this new facility we will be able to capture the exciting growth opportunity for plant-based products in this region, which is a very important growth priority for the Nestlé Group worldwide,” said Chris Johnson, Nestlé CEO for Asia, Oceania and Africa. Juan Aranols, CEO of Nestlé Malaysia , said: “In the same way as it is happening in other parts of the world, Malaysians are becoming interested in exploring alternatives to meat consumption, either because of health reasons or for environmental considerations. “For them, we have developed an exciting range of new products that provide an excellent nutritional alternative supporting healthier and more sustainable lifestyles.”

PepsiCo-owned snack brand Lay's has released two spicy potato chip flavours in the US through its new Kettle Cooked Extra range. Lay's claims that the new Honey Habanero and Extreme Cheddar flavours provide fans with 'more of what they love' – extra flavour and extra crunch. Both flavours are now available nationwide from selected retailers in the US, with a suggested retail price of $3.49 per 7.75oz bag. To support the launch, Lay's is also launching a new ad campaign with NFL star and Super Bowl winner Marshawn Lynch to promote the brand's Kettle Cooked snacking range.

PepsiCo has partnered with Peeps to introduce a marshmallow-flavoured Pepsi soft drink, which will be available for a limited time through a competition. Peeps' signature marshmallow chicks and bunnies are often associated with springtime by US consumers, and the spring-inspired beverage seeks to evoke the "joyous, relaxing vibes of springtime". The drink combines the taste of Pepsi cola with the 'pillowy-sweet' Peeps Marshmallow flavour, while the 7.5oz mini-cans will feature bright pink, yellow and blue colour schemes. To win the limited edition drinks, consumers will need to submit a photo of themselves "enjoying their favorite springtime activities" with Peeps Marshmallow Chicks and Bunnies through the #HangingWithMyPEEPS hashtag. Todd Kaplan, vice-president of marketing at Pepsi, said: "After what has been a very difficult year, many consumers are looking for new things to smile about. "So, to celebrate the start of springtime, Pepsi collaborated with Peeps to develop a limited batch of its first-ever marshmallow cola. "We know our consumers love our limited product drops, and we believe that Pepsi x Peeps will deliver an iconic and delicious pairing that has the potential to become a fan favourite."

Plant-based energy bar maker, Quantum, has raised $2.5 million in a seed funding round.  Major League Soccer star Jozy Altidor has announced his investment in Quantum Energy Squares, alongside tennis players Sloane Stephens, Mike Bryan and Sam Querrey, and former president and CEO of Ballast Point and Cutwater Spirits, Jim Buechler.  Quantum Energy Squares are plant-based, coffee-infused snack bars with balanced macronutrients from fruits, seeds and nuts plus MCT oil which “helps slow caffeine absorption for long-lasting energy, with no spike and no crash,” a statement said.  Energy Square flavours currently include: Dark Chocolate & Pink Himalayan Salt, Caffe Mocha Almond Chip, Peanut Butter Dark Chocolate and Coconut Almond Chocolate Chip. Quantum products are certified gluten-free, non-GMO, soy-free, dairy-free and kosher, and are available nationwide at Whole Foods and Sprouts Markets.

Ice cream manufacturer  Unilever has unveiled a portfolio of new frozen treats in the UK.  Under its Wall's brand , Unilever will release a soft-serve Cornetto featuring a 50% recycled plastic lid in three flavours – chocolate, salted caramel and strawberry.  Cornetto Soft Chocolatey is topped with chocolate sauce, served in a wafer cone and features the signature chocolatey flavoured tip. Multipacks are available in strawberry and salted caramel flavours.  A brand new flavour will also be added to the Twister brand, Twister Peek-A-Blue, which is made with fruit and contains a mix of melon, strawberry-lemon and apple-blueberry flavours. This product also joins Unilever's Responsibly Made for Kids range.  Also new from the Cornetto brand, Cornetto Go is an ice cream sandwich covered with rich cocoa biscuit and filled with vanilla ice cream and pieces of cocoa cookie. “In summer, treating yourself to an ice cream is one of life’s great joys. Whether it’s a day out in the park or down by the seaside, sharing an ice cream can bring you closer together and make these moments special,” said Jennifer Dyne, ice-cream brand experience director, Unilever UK&I. “We know shoppers are looking for innovative products and flavours but also expect these to make a positive difference to the world – with our new launches this year, ice cream lovers are going to be delighted with the choice that is on offer this summer season from their favourite brands,” she added.

Dunkin’ Donuts has teamed up with The Coca-Cola Company to launch a new line of ready-to-drink bottled iced coffees in Girl Scout cookie-inspired flavours. The bottled coffees are produced and distributed by The Coca-Cola Companyas part of the companies' partnership that started in 2017. The three new iced coffee varieties are inspired by beloved flavours of Girl Scout Cookies: Thin Mints, Coconut Caramel and S’mores. Each bottle is made using Arabica coffee blends, with real milk and sugar. The cookie-inspired flavours join the line of Dunkin’ branded bottled iced coffee beverages that includes French Vanilla, Mocha and Original flavours. As part of the launch, Dunkin’ is offering a new limited-edition set of merchandise including the three drinks, clothing and an iced coffee tumbler. "We're thrilled The Coca-Cola Company is teaming up with Girl Scouts of the USA to offer three new ways to enjoy Dunkin' iced coffee on-the-go, while also surprising brand fans with crave-worthy, exclusive merchandise," said Brian Gilbert, vice president of Dunkin' retail business development. Barry Horowitz, chief revenue officer, Girl Scout USA, said: "We're excited to join forces with Dunkin’. Girl Scout Cookies are the vehicle for girls to learn important entrepreneurship and leadership skills that set them up for success in life, and our licensed products help carry that message across the country." The new Dunkin’ ready-to-drink iced coffees are available now at retailers nationwide.

US-based nut butter and snack brand Abby's Better has raised $1 million in a seed round, ahead of a Series A funding launch, with investments from professional basketball player Kevin Love and supermodel Kate Bock. Established in 2015, the female-owned, family-operated clean label brand is aimed at creating healthier snacks that are gluten-free, peanut-free, paleo and plant-based. Meanwhile, its nut butters and snack bites contain five or fewer ingredients and are sweetened with fruits or honey.  Abby's Better will use the funds to build brand awareness and scale its national distribution.  “I started Abby’s Better when I was 15 years old because I noticed the lack in variety of nut butter and healthy snack options that were both flavourful and nutritious,” founder and CEO, Abby Kircher, said. Love added: “Impressed by the company that Abby has built, and the products her team has brought to market, I’m excited to work with a food brand that leads with both taste and natural ingredients, along with Abby’s own strong entrepreneurial spirit”. “I’ve always been passionate about clean, healthy eating and that’s why I’m an advocate for Abby’s Better products,” said Bock. "There are so many delicious products to choose from, but the Coffee Almond Butter is my absolute favourite.” Abby’s Better can be found in grocery and big box stores throughout US states, including North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Georgia, Florida, Virginia, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York and Massachusetts.

Moju has raised £2.5 million in a funding round led by Danone’s venture arm, marking the first UK-based investment for Danone Manifesto Ventures (DMV). The round also received participation from new and existing investors, including professional footballer Hector Bellerin, Butternut Box founders Dave Nolan and Kevin Glynn, as well as Tom Carroll and Roger Hassan, former COOs of Graze and Hello Fresh respectively. DMV has made a minority investment in the company, which plans to use proceeds from the round to accelerate the growth of its functional shots platform. Moju offers a range of functional shots that aim to provide “alternatives to refreshment-led formats that are heavily compromised by sugar and artificial ingredients”. The brand’s offerings come in a ready-to-drink 60ml shot format and 500ml multi-serve ‘dosing’ bottles, and include a recently launched prebiotic option. “The past year has been incredibly tough for the UK, its people and its businesses. We feel privileged to be in a position where, with the support of a new group of investor partners, we can invest across every channel of the business, to increase brand awareness, drive innovation and enhance sustainable sourcing,” said Rich Goldsmith, Moju co-founder and CEO. “We’re building on the momentum our awesome team generated in 2020, and we’re super excited to accelerate out of the other side of the pandemic where we can help people from all walks of life to optimise their health and daily performance through better nutrition, all whilst reducing our footprint through more sustainable ways of doing business.” Paul Chifflet, head of Europe for DMV, added: “Moju is a thriving omnichannel business with a smart and strong team that are addressing the fast-emerging consumer needs for natural functional and experiential products. We are excited to be partnering with the team on their next phase of growth.”

Mondelēz International  is continuing its expansion in the snacking sector, as it agrees to acquire UK performance nutrition company Grenade from its majority shareholder Lion Capital. The deal comes on the heels of Mondelēz’ purchase of premium cracker company Gourmet Food Holdings  and  plant-based snack brand Hu Products , as the business looks to strengthen its position in the snacking sector. Grenade manufactures a range of sports nutrition products including high-protein bars, shakes, spreads and cookies. Most recently, the brand added three new flavours to its energy drink line. Founded in 2010, the company has a growing presence in the UK and is also available across other regions including North America and Asia Pacific. Grenade is said to have a strong ecommerce presence with approximately 25% of its sales coming from online channels. Mondelēz says its recent acquisition will enable its expansion in broader snacking and fast-growing well-being segments. The company did not disclose the terms of the transaction – which is expected to be completed by the end of March – but Grenade has previously been valued at around £200 million.  “Grenade’s great-tasting, on-trend products are a great platform for Mondelēz International in the UK market and beyond,” said Dirk Van de Put, chairman and CEO of Mondelēz International. “This is another exciting opportunity to deliver on our strategy to be a global leader in broader snacking, including in the important area of well-being,” he added. Alan Barratt, co-founder and CEO of Grenade, said: “When Jules and I founded Grenade from our spare bedroom with a budget of $700, we dreamt of building an iconic brand available globally. “This partnership with Mondelēz International gives us access to enormous resource and capability to help make those aspirations a reality and I couldn’t be more excited about our future growth and continued innovation.” Following completion of the deal, Grenade’s current senior leadership will continue to run the business from its headquarters in the UK and will retain a minority equity interest in the company. Meanwhile, Mondelēz plans to operate the firm separately and will provide resources to support the international growth of the brand.

SeaPak has added a new addition to its line of frozen seafood: Coconut Cod.  The new product, which features crunchy coconut breading and 12g of protein per serving, follows the release of SeaPack's Jumbo Coconut Shrimp.    "When most people think of cod, they think of its mild, slightly sweet flavour. Cod is an excellent staple at the dinner table," said Kristen Beadon, director of marketing for SeaPak Shrimp & Seafood Co. "With Coconut Cod, you're getting the best of both worlds – unmatched flavour and added crunch. Just grab your favourite dipping sauce for an extra burst of delicious," she added.

Amcor has partnered with a number of companies to produce Australia's first soft plastic food wrapper made with recycled content.  Together with  Nestlé , CurbCycle, iQ Renew, Licella, Viva Energy Australia, LyondellBasell, REDcycle and Taghleef Industries, Amcor has developed a KitKat prototype aimed at reducing plastic waste in the environment and closing the loop on recycling soft plastics.   Each company bought a wealth of experience to the project, from knowledge on collecting and processing soft plastic waste, to turning it back into oil using advance recycling technology, and creating the prototype KitKat wrapper.  "This is an exciting time for Amcor and our participation in this project is fully aligned with our commitment to ensure all our packaging is designed to be recyclable or reusable by 2025," said Simon Roy, VP and general manager Amcor Flexibles Australia and New Zealand. "As the global leader for consumer packaging we were proud to contribute our expertise in designing a structure which meets consumer needs and has a responsible end of life where it can be reprocessed and reused in food-grade packaging."  Roy continued: "Soft plastics create a strong consumer-friendly packaging solution with great barrier properties and are lightweight and cost-efficient. This collaboration shows how soft plastics can be part of the circular economy when stakeholders across the entire value chain work together and is a fantastic outcome for the environment and our communities." Sandra Martinez, CEO of Nestlé Australia, added: "Between us, we have shown there's a pathway to solve the soft plastics problem. Manufacturers like Nestlé will have a key role in driving demand for food-grade recycled soft plastic packaging and creating market conditions that will ensure all stakeholders throughout the value chain view soft plastics as a resource and not waste".