ProMinent has launched a new single-channel controller aimed at simplifying water quality management for beverage producers and other industrial users, as manufacturers seek more reliable and easier-to-run systems under tightening quality and efficiency requirements. The Dulcometer diaLog C is positioned as an entry-level controller that can be deployed across a wide range of water treatment applications, including beverage production, wastewater treatment and industrial processing. The German dosing and water treatment specialist says the device is designed to reduce operational complexity while maintaining precise dosing and process control. Water quality remains a critical control point for food and beverage manufacturers, where even small deviations can disrupt production, compromise product safety or trigger compliance issues. At the same time, plants are under pressure to operate with fewer specialist staff and greater automation. ProMinent said the new controller supports all of its sensor types and can function either as a transmitter or a two-way controller, allowing it to manage dosing tasks and control two pumps simultaneously. This enables more targeted chemical dosing and improved resource efficiency, particularly in continuous production environments. The controller features a graphical display and simplified menu navigation intended to reduce training requirements and lower the risk of operator error, an ongoing concern for multi-shift manufacturing sites. “With the Dulcometer diaLog C, we are focusing on a solution that makes everyday operations noticeably easier,” said Andreas Zühlcke, vice president of product management and marketing at ProMinent. “Our aim is to make water treatment as simple and safe as possible, regardless of industry or application.” The launch strengthens ProMinent’s broader push into integrated water analysis and control systems. From March 2026, the controller can be paired with the company’s new Dulcoeye LT optical sensor for low turbidity measurement, allowing even small changes in water quality to be detected and automatically corrected through adjusted dosing. Such real-time monitoring and control is increasingly important for beverage manufacturers facing stricter hygiene standards, sustainability targets and rising costs for water, energy and treatment chemicals. ProMinent said the controller is aimed at plant operators, engineering firms and municipal and industrial users, with applications spanning beverages, chemicals, semiconductors, hospitality and wastewater treatment.

Zurich-based chocolate maker Barry Callebaut will invest €250 million over several years to upgrade and future-proof its Wieze factory in Belgium, the world’s largest chocolate production site. The news comes as the group aims to double down on operational efficiency and customer reliability amid ongoing volatility in global cocoa markets. The investment forms part of a broader capital programme aimed at strengthening Barry Callebaut’s European manufacturing backbone, with a further €125 million earmarked for its Halle facility, also in Belgium. The Wieze site plays a central role in supplying industrial food manufacturers, professional users and global consumer brands across Europe and beyond. The upgrades are designed to modernise production lines, improve food safety and quality standards, and enhance on-site logistics, including the construction of a ring road to streamline traffic flows and reduce environmental and safety risks. Barry Callebaut says part of the spending falls under its previously announced 'BC Next Level' programme, which focuses on operational excellence, cost discipline and service levels, while the remainder represents routine capital expenditure. The move comes as food manufacturers face sustained pressure from historically high cocoa prices, tighter margins and increased scrutiny around supply chain resilience and sustainability. By investing heavily in its largest facility, Barry Callebaut is signalling a long-term commitment to scale, efficiency and reliability for customers that rely on a consistent chocolate and cocoa supply. “Wieze remains a cornerstone of our global production network,” said Wim Debedts, managing director for the group's Benelux and Nordics regions. “These investments reinforce our ability to deliver quality, value and service to customers worldwide.” Plant manager Filip Hermans said the masterplan would also improve working conditions and safety for employees, while ensuring the site remains fit for purpose in the years ahead. Barry Callebaut operates more than 60 production facilities globally and reported sales of CHF 14.8 billion in its 2024/25 financial year. The group supplies chocolate, cocoa and non-cocoa solutions to large food manufacturers as well as artisanal and professional customers, with Belgium remaining a hub for its European operations.

Just as people have identities that tell their story – who they are and where they come from – products, too, are entering an era where their identity becomes fully transparent and digitally accessible. Traditionally, information about a beverage’s origin, ingredients or sustainability footprint  was squeezed onto a physical label. Today, in an increasingly digital world,  information can be accessed instantly and interactively through a simple scan. At the heart of this transformation lies the data carrier, a QR code or similar 2D symbol that unlocks an entire universe of product information. Although it may appear to be nothing more than a square printed on a label, it contains dynamic, updatable and highly valuable data. This shift is being accelerated by GS1, the global standards organisation behind the original linear barcode. GS1 is guiding the transition from traditional barcodes to 2D barcodes , capable of storing richer information and enabling real-time updates – all without the need to reprint packaging. This next-generation identifier is what we call Digital Product Identity. Why digital product identity matters The move toward 2D barcodes is not just a technical upgrade; it’s a strategic enabler for the entire beverage value chain. Here are some of the most transformative benefits: Improved operational efficiency The Digital Product Identity enhances process reliability by improving product accuracy and eliminating common labeling errors, including incorrect labels, unreadable GTINs or outdated packaging elements. By relying on a digital source of truth, brands can significantly reduce costly mistakes, minimise product returns, and boost customer satisfaction. Seamless global compliance As product information adapts automatically to the country and language of the scan, brands can meet international regulations more easily – delivering the right information to the right market without redesigning or reprinting packaging.   Enhanced traceability: from batch to individual item serialisation Digital Product Identity  supports both batch-level and item-level serialisation, giving manufacturers holistic visibility across their supply chains. Batch serialisation   helps trace groups of products through the supply chain for quality assurance and logistics optimization. Item serialisation  goes further, assigning a unique digital passport to every single bottle or can. This level of granularity strengthens anti-counterfeiting protection and enables more precise supply chain analytics and recall management.   Stronger consumer engagement and better data insights Digital Product Identity creates a direct digital bridge between producers and consumers. With one scan, consumers can learn about product origins, sustainability efforts, serving tips, loyalty programmes and more. For brands, each interaction generates insights that support smarter marketing decisions and more accurate forecasting. Want to see how it works? Join the Inexto webinar. If you want to understand how to integrate the Digital Product Identity into your beverage operations, don’t miss this webinar : “Digital Product Identity: The Next Step for the Beverage Industry,” hosted by Inexto in partnership with GS1 Switzerland on Thursday, 5 March at 2pm (CET). During the session, experts will walk through implementation insights, practical use cases, and benefits for beverage brands and producers. Register now here .

Jason Cadman In today’s complex food and beverage manufacturing landscape, equipment choices do more than move products – they shape operational efficiency, food safety and audit readiness. Jason Cadman of Contact Attachments explains how strategically selected forklift attachments can reduce contamination risks, optimise workflows and support long-term business goals. Food and drink manufacturers operate in a landscape defined by increasing complexity. While ensuring the highest safety standards remains paramount, businesses must simultaneously navigate operational efficiency, cost pressures, sustainability objectives and complex supply chains. In this environment, the equipment supporting daily operations is far more than a functional tool – it’s a strategic asset. Historically, the role of warehouse and material handling equipment across the sector was largely defined by compliance – ensuring that regulations were met and audits passed. While essential, compliance alone no longer meets the demands of today’s industry. Forward-thinking manufacturers recognise that carefully selected equipment can actively strengthen food safety, optimise operational workflows and future-proof their business. Despite their critical role in day-to-day operations, forklift attachments are rarely considered as part of this strategy. Often viewed as standard, interchangeable tools, they are frequently overlooked when manufacturers plan for contamination control, efficiency or audit readiness. By providing ongoing support, maintenance, staff training and a strategic, big-picture approach, these partners help manufacturers ensure their equipment evolves alongside their business, turning routine operations and audits into opportunities for competitive advantage. Reducing contamination and optimising operations Contamination remains one of the most pressing risks in food manufacturing. Even small lapses can have devastating consequences, from costly product recalls to reputational damage. While hygiene protocols, staff training and cleaning regimes are critical, the physical equipment that interacts with products also has a pivotal role to play. Forklift attachments, for example, come into direct contact with pallets, crates and packaged goods. Standard or poorly maintained equipment can inadvertently introduce contaminants, particularly in high-sensitivity environments such as ready meals, dairy or fresh produce handling. Food-grade finishes, smooth surfaces that resist microbial build-up and designs that allow easy cleaning are not mere luxuries – they are essential preventive measures. In today’s fast-paced market, simply being safe isn’t enough. Manufacturers are constantly looking for ways to work smarter – moving products faster, using storage more effectively and keeping operations running smoothly. And where no two production facilities are the same, custom-designed forklift attachments can be a real game-changer. For example, delicate items like baked goods or soft fruits benefit from attachments that distribute weight evenly and prevent crushing, while bulk or heavy goods can be safely handled without damaging packaging. By tailoring the solution to the product, manufacturers can lower the risk of contamination, spoilage or product loss. Well-designed attachments also contribute to longevity and reliability. By reducing wear and tear on both the forklift and the goods, manufacturers experience fewer breakdowns, less product damage and lower maintenance costs. In food manufacturing, audits are a routine but critical part of maintaining trust and compliance. External inspectors, retailers and certification bodies increasingly focus not just on whether hygiene standards are met, but on the systems and processes that underpin them. Equipment decisions influence audit outcomes more than many manufacturers realise. Cleanable, hygienic forklift attachments demonstrate a proactive approach to contamination control. Bespoke solutions tailored to operational needs show that a manufacturer has considered product safety at every stage of handling. Supplier partnerships and future-proofing operations Choosing the right attachments is only part of the equation. Equally important is the relationship with the supplier. The most successful partnerships extend beyond the point of purchase, providing ongoing support and expertise. Long-term support can include preventative maintenance, rapid replacement of worn components, and tailored training for operators. This ensures that equipment continues to perform optimally, reducing the risk of contamination or operational disruption. Training, in particular, is a critical – but often overlooked – aspect of manual handling in the sector. Even the best-designed attachment can pose a risk if operators are unaware of its correct handling, cleaning or limitations. Moreover, strategic suppliers take a forward-looking approach, providing equipment that can adapt alongside the business. As storage systems, product ranges and regulatory requirements evolve, attachments can be reconfigured, upgraded or replaced to meet new demands. This adaptability protects the manufacturer’s investment and ensures that operational capability keeps pace with business growth. When food and drink manufacturers embrace the strategic potential of material handling equipment, the benefits extend far beyond regulatory compliance. Carefully considered attachment choices can: Reduce contamination risk | Hygienic designs and product-specific solutions protect food safety Increase efficiency | Customised solutions reduce manual handling, streamline workflow and protect goods Enhance audit readiness | Equipment and supplier practices demonstrate a proactive approach to safety Support sustainability | Longer-lasting attachments reduce waste, while operational efficiency reduces energy consumption Future-proof operations | Flexible, adaptable solutions grow with the business In an industry where margins are tight, reputations are fragile and standards are unforgiving, turning routine operational decisions into strategic advantages is a critical differentiator. Forklift attachments are no longer just tools – they are enablers of excellence, driving food safety, operational efficiency and business resilience.

Ready-to-drink alcohol brand Mom Water is expanding beyond fruit-infused vodka waters with the launch of its first Iced Tea + Vodka line, marking the company’s entry into a new beverage alcohol category. The new line will debut this spring in four flavours and will be sold in an 8-can variety pack called the “Bes-TEAS” pack, with online pre-orders opening mid-month via the brand’s direct-to-consumer platform. Retail rollout will include major chains such as Target, Total Wine, and Meijer, with initial distribution across more than a dozen US states and additional markets to follow. Unlike many RTD tea-based alcoholic beverages, Mom Water’s Iced Tea + Vodka is distinctly unsweetened, with zero added sugar, zero artificial sweeteners and no carbonation. Each can is made with real unsweetened black tea, real vodka and all-natural fruit flavours. The four-flavour launch includes: Jenny – Classic Tea Katie – Peach Tea Nikki – Raspberry Tea Lisa – Strawberry Tea The naming strategy is designed to tap into millennial nostalgia and emotional brand connection, positioning the line-up as familiar, personality-driven flavours rather than traditional varietal descriptors. Packaged in 12 oz cans, each drink is just 90 calories, non-carbonated and contains 0 sugar, carbohydrates, artificial flavours or sweeteners, as well as being gluten-free with 4.5% ABV. The Iced Tea + Vodka launch represents Mom Water’s first portfolio expansion into a new RTD category, signalling broader ambitions beyond vodka waters. According to founders Jill and Bryce Morrison, the move reflects both consumer demand for unsweetened beverage options and the brand’s long-term strategy to innovate within the “better-for-you” alcohol space while maintaining clean-label credentials. In parallel with the tea launch, the company has also announced plans to introduce two new original flavours in a separate 12-can variety pack later this spring, further expanding its RTD portfolio.

Swiss packaging solutions specialist Corvaglia Group has announced the appointment of Marcel Dissel as chief executive officer, as well as several leadership team changes. Dissel is an experienced entrepreneur and business leader and will steer the group into its next phase of growth, with a focus on technological advancement and sustainable business development. At the same time, long-serving CEO Michael Krueger, who has spent 14 years with the company, including 11 years in the top executive role, will transition into the newly emphasised position of chief innovation officer (CIO). In this role, Krueger will lead portfolio development, innovation strategy and the exploration of new business fields, applications and emerging technologies. In a further leadership strengthening move, Rufat Dauti has been appointed managing director of Corvaglia Mould, in addition to his current responsibilities as chief technology officer (CTO). This major leadership transition forms part of a strategic move to strengthen innovation, sustainability and long-term value creation across its global operations. The leadership restructuring reflects Corvaglia Group’s ambition to reinforce its position as a technology-driven partner to the food, beverage and packaging industries. The company is known for its advanced closure solutions and lightweight packaging innovations, which support sustainability goals such as material reduction, circular economy design, and operational efficiency. By separating operational leadership and innovation leadership into distinct executive roles, Corvaglia is positioning itself to accelerate both commercial execution and long-term innovation. The structure is designed to balance continuity with renewal, ensuring strategic stability while enabling faster development of next-generation packaging technologies. The board of directors stated that the new leadership configuration is intended to strengthen Corvaglia’s market position and enhance its ability to deliver sustainable, future-ready solutions to global food and beverage customers. The appointment of Dissel comes at a time when the global packaging sector is under increasing pressure to deliver sustainable, recyclable and lightweight solutions, particularly for the beverage and food industries. Investment in innovation, materials science and smart manufacturing technologies is becoming a competitive differentiator. With Dissel focusing on corporate growth and strategy, and Krueger driving innovation and new business development, Corvaglia is aligning its leadership model with broader industry trends that prioritise sustainability, R&D intensity, and portfolio diversification.

Indian FMCG company Marico has signed definitive agreements to acquire a 60% stake in Cosmix Wellness Private, the owner of digital-first functional wellness brand Cosmix, at an equity valuation of approximately ₹375 crore (approx. $41.5 million). Cosmix offers plant-based protein powders, fermented yeast protein powders and functional superfood blends, and has recently expanded into functional foods including plant-protein pancake mixes and bars. Its flagship protein products are formulated using blends of rice and pea protein isolates, as well as yeast protein combined with pea protein, catering to consumers seeking digestibility, gut health benefits and sustainable nutrition alternatives. The products are offered in multiple flavours and positioned as premium, clean-label and lifestyle-oriented. Founded in 2019 by Vibha Harish and Soorya Jagadish, Cosmix operates primarily through its direct-to-consumer channel and also sells via e-commerce and quick-commerce platforms. The brand is positioned in the plant-based and functional nutrition segment. Following the transaction, Cosmix will focus on accelerating profitable growth, expanding into adjacent wellness and nutraceutical categories, strengthening multi-channel distribution and continuing new product development. Saugata Gupta, MD and CEO of Marico, said: “The investment in Cosmix brings another strong and differentiated brand into our digital-first portfolio. We foresee immense potential in the wellness and plant‑based nutrition space, and Cosmix has already demonstrated deep consumer resonance with its best-in-class, innovative offerings." "Together, we are committed to accelerating their journey, expanding into relevant adjacent wellness categories, and building a sustainable, profitable brand that inspires trust and delivers meaningful value to consumers across India.” Harish and Jagadish added: “We started Cosmix to champion clean ingredients and honest communication – creating the kind of wellness products we wanted for ourselves and our community. Partnering with Marico is a defining moment for that mission." "We see incredible synergies in R&D, manufacturing and more. Seeing such a long, beautiful future for Cosmix makes us incredibly happy. Together, we’ll continue building one of India’s most loved, ethical and trusted wellness brands.”

Coca-Cola will discontinue its frozen product portfolio, including the Minute Maid frozen line, across the US and Canada as it responds to changing consumer preferences, according to Reuters. A company spokesperson told Reuters: "We are discontinuing our frozen  products and exiting the frozen can category in response to shifting consumer preferences". Minute Maid has a long history in the US beverage market, having originated in 1945 as Florida Foods Corporation. The business was established after securing a US Army contract to supply powdered orange juice during World War II, though the war ended before the product was shipped. The move comes as Coca-Cola, which recently promoted current EVP and COO Henrique Braun as CEO from 31 March 2026, increasingly prioritises zero-sugar beverages and higher-value offerings such as its Fairlife milk brand, amid ongoing pressure from a volatile consumer environment. The spokesperson added that while the juice category is experiencing strong growth overall, Coca-Cola is focusing on formats and products that better align with consumer expectations. "Frozen products will be discontinued in Q1 2026, with in-store inventory available while supplies last," they told Reuters. Top image: © The Coca‑Cola Company

Nestlé Confectionery has launched a new Aero Caramel flavour bubbles in the UK and Ireland. The flavour feature caramel-flavoured bubbles encased in a milk chocolate and caramel-flavoured shell. Rachel Beaufoy, marketing manager at Nestlé Confectionery, said: “Aero Caramel flavour bubbles bring together our signature bubbly texture with a smooth caramel flavour, offering a bubbly smooth treat that’s perfect for sharing. It’s a great way to kick off the year.” As with other Aero chocolate products, the new Caramel flavour bubbles are made using milk sourced from First Milk farmers in southwest Scotland and cocoa that is Rainforest Alliance certified. The product joins Aero Bubbles Peppermint within the range and is available in stores nationwide.

Just in time for Fibre February, Nestlé Cereals is bringing a fruity twist to its Shredded Wheat brand to UK supermarket shelves. Shredded Wheat Raisin Wheats are made with toasted whole grain wheat and a delicious fruity raisin filling. With no added sugar, the new breakfast cereal is high in fibre, low in fat and salt and suitable for vegans. The new Raisin Wheats join the wider Shredded Wheat Fruit Wheats range, sitting alongside consumer favourites such as Blueberry Wheats, Apricot Wheats and Red Berry Wheats. The full lineup offers shoppers a choice of deliciously fruity, high fibre cereals wrapped in classic wholegrain Shredded Wheat bitesize biscuits. Sarah Fordy, head of marketing at Nestlé Cereals, said: “Raisin Wheats is an exciting addition to the Shredded Wheat Fruit Wheats family. It’s deliciously fruity and high in fibre, landing just when people are looking for easy ways to increase their fibre intake.” According to research, 96% of people in the UK are not reaching the recommended 30g of fibre a day. The Fibre February movement aims to help consumers boost their daily intake. Shredded Wheat Raisin Wheats rolls out across stores nationwide this month.

Wonder Juice, the cold-pressed juice brand known for bold flavours and functional nutrition, has expanded its portfolio with the launch of two new Wonder Green varieties: Clean Green and Veg8 & Cayenne. Designed for consumers seeking both performance and taste, the two new flavours bring fresh energy to the green juice category, targeting daily wellness routines, detox support and adventurous palates. “Clean Green and Veg8 & Cayenne are a natural evolution of the Wonder Juice brand,” said Michele Abo, general manager. “Our consumers want juices that work harder for them, delivering real nutrition, vibrant flavour and variety without compromise. These two new blends bring exciting personality to the green juice category, whether you're looking for something refreshing and light or bold with a little heat.” Positioned as a daily wellness staple, Clean Green offers a crisp, refreshing profile focused on hydration, cleansing and plant-powered nutrition. The blend features kale, spinach, green apple, cucumber, lemon and ginger, delivering a smooth, approachable green juice experience designed for everyday consumption. Created for consumers who prefer bolder flavour profiles, Veg8 & Cayenne layers hearty vegetables with a touch of spice. Ingredients include carrot, beet, celery, cucumber, red pepper, tomato, cayenne and lemon. The cayenne adds gentle heat while enhancing the natural sweetness of the vegetables, appealing to shoppers seeking functional benefits with complexity and heat. The new Wonder Green flavours join the broader Wonder Juice line-up, which spans three established lines, Wonder Beet, Wonder Melon and Wonder Lemon, totalling 11 varieties: Each line targets specific wellness needs, from hydration and immunity to energy, digestion and heart health. Wonder Juice products are made with 100% cold-pressed organic juices using Fair-Trade certified and non-GMO ingredients. The brand emphasises a no-compromise formulation strategy, with no added water or sugar and packages exclusively in 100% recyclable glass bottles. “Wonder Juice responds to consumers' demand for 100% authentic juices with no shortcuts, no added water, no added sugar,” Abo added. “Every blend is carefully crafted to deliver a curiously good experience that is both delicious and nourishing.”

Ultra-processed foods (UPFs) are facing mounting calls for tighter regulation akin to tobacco, as new academic research and consumer data point to growing concern over their health impacts. A paper released on Tuesday by researchers from Harvard University, the University of Michigan and Duke University argues that UPFs share key characteristics with cigarettes, including being engineered to maximise consumption and stimulate reward pathways linked to addiction. The authors say these products warrant regulation “commensurate with the significant public health risks they pose”. The study, published in the health policy journal Milbank Quarterly , comes as governments face rising healthcare costs linked to diet-related disease, and as pressure grows on food manufacturers to reformulate products and improve transparency. UPFs, which include soft drinks, packaged snacks and many ready-to-eat foods, account for more than half of the average UK diet – the highest proportion in Europe – according to public health data. While the comparison with tobacco remains contested within the scientific community, the report signals a shift in the regulatory debate away from individual responsibility towards industry accountability, including potential marketing restrictions, warning labels and structural interventions. For F&B manufacturers, the more immediate risk may lie in changing consumer expectations. New research from consumer insight firm Attest shows that 48% of UK consumers support tobacco-style health warnings on ultra-processed foods, while 46% say they are prioritising brands that clearly explain what goes into their products. Todd Latham, chief executive of Attest, said the findings highlight a growing challenge for the industry. “The body of evidence linking ultra-processed foods to chronic health conditions, including cancer, has grown rapidly in recent years and our data shows consumer awareness is catching up,” he noted. “What’s striking is that many consumers are worried about ultra-processed foods, but don’t feel confident they can actually define what a UPF is or spot one in a list of ingredients. “It is a kind of invisible threat and that feels very unsettling.” Latham added that the combination of high UPF consumption and economic pressure created a difficult balancing act for brands. “In a country that consumes more ultra-processed food than anywhere else in Europe, this creates a clear challenge for food and beverage brands. Consumers remain extremely cost-conscious and continue to trade down to cheaper options, but that hasn’t reduced their expectations. They want radical transparency and honesty from brands so they can make informed choices that work for both their finances and their health.” The debate gained momentum as the UK government on Tuesday set out a new ten-year cancer strategy, while separate studies have linked high UPF consumption with reduced life expectancy among cancer patients. Not all researchers support treating UPFs in the same regulatory category as tobacco. Critics argue that food, unlike cigarettes, is essential to survival, and that health risks may stem as much from dietary displacement – the replacement of fibre-rich whole foods – as from processing itself. Nonetheless, the direction of travel is clear. As scrutiny intensifies, food manufacturers are likely to face increasing pressure to justify processing methods, simplify formulations and communicate ingredient choices more clearly to consumers and regulators alike. For the sector, the question may no longer be whether ultra-processed foods attract regulation – but how quickly brands adapt before it arrives.