In a move to future-proof its rice supply chain and support farming communities facing the impacts of climate change, Mars Food & Nutrition, the maker of brands like Ben's Original, Tasty Bite and Seeds of Change, has announced a $20 million investment in sustainable rice sourcing over the next decade. The investment, which will be channelled through Mars' new 'Raising Rice Right' platform, aims to help rice farmers across the United States, Europe, India, Pakistan and Thailand adopt climate-smart agricultural practices. These practices, such as 'alternate wetting and drying' (AWD), have been proven to reduce water usage by up to 30% and greenhouse gas emissions by over 40% without compromising yields. "Rice is a daily staple for billions of people and provides an income to millions of farmers around the world, but climate change is placing extraordinary pressure on this vital crop," said Dale Creaser, global VP of supply chain at Mars Food & Nutrition. He continued: "This $20 million investment is about backing our farmers with the tools, technology and training support they need to adapt and thrive in a changing environment". The investment comes at a critical time, as the latest IPCC and FAO reports warn that global rice yields could decline by 10-15% by 2050 under current trends, with climate shocks becoming more frequent. In the UK alone, 63% of people consume rice at least once a week, with the nation consuming 2.3 billion bowls annually. Through the Raising Rice Right platform, Mars will scale the implementation of climate-smart agriculture practices, provide additional training and support to farming communities, and continue to build farmer resilience. The company will also play a leadership role as a founding member of the Sustainable Rice Platform, a global alliance working to promote sustainable rice farming and reduce the environmental footprint of rice production. "As the owners of Ben's Original, one of the world's largest rice brands, we have a responsibility to act," Creaser added. "This investment is about future-proofing our business to ensure we're building a resilient food supply chain and protecting yields and livelihoods for our farmers today and for generations to come." The $20 million investment is part of Mars' broader Sustainable in a Generation plan, which includes science-based goals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions across its value chain by 50% by 2030 and achieve net zero emissions by 2050.

Celsius Holdings has announced substantial progress in the integration of the Alani Nu brand, as the beverage company continues to strengthen its position in the competitive energy drink market. As of December 1, over 80% of Alani Nu's direct store delivery operations have successfully transitioned into the PepsiCo distribution network, with full integration anticipated by the end of Q1 2026. The integration of Alani Nu is a critical component of Celsius' broader strategy to enhance its product offerings and distribution capabilities. CEO John Fieldly highlighted the disciplined approach taken by the company: “Our teams have been incredibly focused this year, maintaining our commitment to consumers while executing the integration of two new brands into our energy beverage portfolio.” This integration not only streamlines operations but also positions Celsius to leverage PepsiCo's extensive distribution network, significantly enhancing its market reach. Fieldly further noted that the integration is on track alongside the ongoing integration of the Rockstar brand, which is expected to be completed in the first half of 2026. In conjunction with the integration efforts, Celsius Holdings reported a remarkable milestone, achieving a 20.2% market share in the energy beverage category during the 12-week period ending 23 November. This growth of 25.5% outpaces the overall energy drink market, which grew by 13.7% in the same timeframe. Such performance underscores the effectiveness of Celsius' strategies in capturing consumer interest and expanding its footprint in the industry. Celsius’ CFO Jarrod Langhans and chief of staff Toby David are set to present at the Morgan Stanley Global Consumer & Retail Conference later today, where they will likely discuss the ongoing integration of Alani Nu and its implications for the company's future growth trajectory. In premarket trading, shares of Celsius Holdings increased by 0.7%, reaching $41.10, reflecting a significant 55% rise year-to-date and reinforcing the company’s leadership position in the beverage sector.

Ishida has acquired Swedish robotics company RobotGrader, expanding its automation capabilities for fixed-weight tray-packing in the protein sector. RobotGrader, based in Mölndal and founded in 2004 by Sverre Stenbom, develops robotic equipment that integrates weighing, grading and pick-and-place technologies. The two companies have worked together since 2014, with Ishida acting as RobotGrader’s exclusive European distributor and installing systems in 13 countries. Ishida said the acquisition will expand access to technical expertise, spare parts and project support, with plans to grow the RobotGrader team to enhance service and system optimisation. The move also brings RobotGrader’s solutions directly into Ishida’s portfolio for food manufacturers. RobotGrader’s systems can handle up to 320 pieces per minute, depending on the machine and product type, and are designed to reduce labour needs, increase output and minimise product giveaway. Ishida said the acquisition supports its focus on new product development and further innovation in protein packing automation. Darren Chandler, general manager for protein solutions at Ishida Europe, commented: “RobotGrader has long been known for its innovative robotic grading systems, and this move brings together two family-owned businesses with a shared commitment to engineering excellence and quality service. We are excited to build on the success we’ve experienced already." “Precision tray-packing technology is becoming ever-more important to improving performance while reducing food waste and giveaway. We are confident our even closer ties will lead to even greater innovation in this space, and ensuring RobotGrader’s team can continue to flourish.” Dave Tiso, managing director at Ishida Europe, said: “With automation high on food manufacturers’ agendas, we are pleased to be able to offer RobotGrader solutions as a direct part of the Ishida portfolio. With Ishida’s experts in weighing, packaging and quality control, and RobotGrader’s mechatronics specialists working more closely together than ever before, we can provide even deeper integration to serve the needs of protein processors globally.” Sverre Stenbom, who will remain actively involved in the business, added: “This is a very positive move for both companies and clearly demonstrates the ambition of Ishida to be a major contender in the protein packaging and automation sector. I am looking forward to seeing what the future holds.”

Horizon Family Brands has acquired Maple Hill Creamery, a US 100% grass-fed organic dairy company, in a move aimed at strengthening its presence in the organic dairy market. The acquisition brings together two established organic dairy brands, with Horizon citing opportunities to expand retail reach, enhance product innovation and reinforce sustainable farming practices. Horizon said the deal will improve supply chain efficiency and accelerate product development, with both companies committed to operational continuity during the integration. Tyler Holm, CEO of Horizon Family Brands, said: "This acquisition represents an exciting step forward for Horizon as we continue to advance our strategic objectives and invest in better-for-you brands". "Maple Hill's expertise in grass-fed organic dairy and impressive growth across customers and channels complement Horizon's capabilities and vision for the future. Together, we will be better positioned to serve our customers, support our farmers and suppliers, and drive innovation and growth in the organic dairy industry." Jim Hau, president and CEO of Maple Hill Creamery, stated: "Joining forces with Horizon is an incredible opportunity to amplify Maple Hill's mission and impact. This partnership is about more than growth. It's about shared values, supporting sustainable farming practices and delivering the highest quality 100% grass-fed organic dairy products to consumers." "We see this as a great opportunity to build a stronger future for the organic dairy space through the enhancement and growth of the Maple Hill grass-fed organic product offering." Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

Ripple Foods has raised $17 million in new funding as it prepares to expand its plant-based milk portfolio and grow its retail and foodservice presence. The round includes new backing from Material Impact and Rich Products Ventures, with existing investors S2G Investments, Prelude Ventures, Fall Line Capital, Euclidean Capital, Tao Capital Partners and Tim Koogle also participating. The California-based company produces allergen-free plant-based milks and shakes that offer up to 20g of protein per serving, 50% more calcium than dairy milk and lower sugar and calorie levels. The products are free from nuts, soy, lactose and other common allergens, and the company says they are recommended by pediatricians. Ripple says the funding comes amid strong momentum in the alternative protein ingredients sector, valued at $23 billion in 2024 and expected to more than double by 2030. The company reports consistent double-digit revenue growth in recent years. Becky O'Grady Alongside the investment, Ripple has appointed longtime board member Becky O’Grady as CEO. O’Grady previously spent more than 20 years at General Mills, including roles as global president and chief marketing officer for international at Häagen-Dazs, and president of Yoplait USA. She has served on Ripple’s board for the past five years. O’Grady will lead the company’s next phase of growth, which includes launching a new line of organic plant-based milks in Q1 2026, expanding distribution of its core and high-protein kids’ ranges, and moving further into foodservice channels. Ripple says it will also build on its existing retail partnerships with Target, Whole Foods and Walmart. "This is a pivotal moment for Ripple," said O'Grady. "Harnessing the power of our brand and the strength of our team, we are poised to unlock our full potential. We are launching innovative new products, driving consumer penetration and customer expansion, and opening new growth horizons through transformative partnerships and capabilities." Melissa Fensterstock from Material Impact added: "We couldn't imagine a more exciting time to invest in Ripple Foods. With Becky at the helm and a sharp focus on growing top-line revenue and achieving profitability, the company is poised to deliver strong results in the plant-based protein market." "On a human note, Ripple's products provide a wonderful solution for the millions of families struggling to find a nutritious, tasty and clean alternative to dairy." Top image: © Ripple Foods

Prodalim has acquired René Laurent, a beverage flavours producer based in southern France, from International Flavors & Fragrances (IFF). Founded in 1885 in the Grasse region, René Laurent specialises in beverage flavour solutions and aromatic ingredients. The company works with multinational and local beverage manufacturers and develops customised formulations across syrups, liqueurs, naturals and coffee. Its capabilities include an extensive flavour library and in-house distillation and extraction. René Laurent will be integrated into Prodalim’s Beverage Compounds division, expanding the group’s platform of juice-based compounds, multi-blends, functional compounds and flavour-based solutions. Prodalim said the acquisition will enhance its ability to offer a “one-stop-shop” for customised beverage development. The deal forms part of Prodalim’s wider transformation strategy. The company has reorganised into three divisions: Juice Solutions; Specialty Ingredients & Solutions (covering essential oils, fruit-based essences, flavours, beverage compounds and functional ingredients such as citrus fibres and natural colours); and Solos, which provides de-alcoholisation solutions for the no- and low-alcohol sector. Prodalim said all divisions are supported by a vertically integrated supply chain designed around circular economy principles. Top image: © International Flavors & Fragrances

Amazon has partnered with British artisan producer Wild & Fruitful to introduce To-Matcha Ketchup, a unique condiment that creatively merges the earthy flavours of Japanese matcha with the rich tanginess of traditional tomato ketchup. This limited-edition product, priced at £3.99 per bottle, is available exclusively on Amazon UK, catering to the growing demand for innovative food products that resonate with contemporary consumer trends. To-Matcha Ketchup aims to redefine one of the UK's most beloved condiments, appealing particularly to the burgeoning matcha-loving demographic. The product is crafted using 100% natural ingredients, reflecting Wild & Fruitful's commitment to quality and flavour. The ketchup is positioned as a versatile addition to festive dining, perfect for dipping, drizzling, and enhancing a variety of dishes. Jake Winter, founder of Wild & Fruitful, said: “As a nation, Britain loves ketchup, and matcha has become an everyday pick-me-up for many. With To-Matcha Ketchup, we’ve brought these two ingredients together in a surprisingly delicious way – it's the perfect talking point for foodies this Christmas!” The launch comes at a strategic time, as consumers seek unique and exciting products for the holiday season. To-Matcha Ketchup is not only designed for personal enjoyment but also as a potential gift item, catering to the increasing trend of gourmet and artisanal food gifting. The product is expected to serve as an engaging conversation starter at festive gatherings, appealing to both casual consumers and culinary enthusiasts alike. John Boumphrey, UK country manager of Amazon, added: “To-Matcha Ketchup is a fantastic example of the inventive products our small business partners bring to Amazon customers. With over 2 million grocery and household essential items, we have something for everyone for the festive period ahead.” The versatility of To-Matcha Ketchup is underscored by suggested pairing ideas, which include: Dipping sauce: Ideal for party snacks like cheese straws and nachos. Glaze for fried chicken: When mixed with soy sauce, it creates a sticky, flavourful glaze. Roast potato drizzle: Adds a vibrant twist to classic roast potatoes. Christmas sandwich spread: Perfect for enhancing turkey and stuffing leftovers. Charcuterie board addition: A unique flavour experience that can elevate any charcuterie setup.

Fresh Del Monte, one of the world’s largest vertically integrated fresh produce companies, has entered into a long-term sourcing partnership with Thaco Agri, the agricultural division of Vietnam’s Thaco Group. Under the deal, Fresh Del Monte will source bananas directly from Thaco Agri’s extensive farming operations in Vietnam and Cambodia. The partnership also includes plans for Thaco Agri to develop dedicated pineapple cultivation areas that will supply Fresh Del Monte through a phased rollout. The agreement was formalised during a signing ceremony held at Thaco Group headquarters in Ho Chi Minh City. The collaboration represents a significant step for Fresh Del Monte in strengthening and diversifying global supply chains amid increasing climate challenges. Mohammad Abu-Ghazaleh, Fresh Del Monte’s chairman and CEO, said: “Partnering with Thaco Agri is an important step in strengthening our sourcing capabilities in Southeast Asia. Its scale and integrated circular operations align with our long-term strategy to build a more resilient and diversified supply network.” The move supports Fresh Del Monte’s efforts to mitigate rising pressures facing the global banana industry, including climatic volatility, disease threats and shifting cost structures. Thaco Agri oversees more than 85,000 hectares of agricultural land across Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos. Its operations integrate fruit cultivation with livestock production within a circular and organic-driven model. The company aims to become the leading agricultural corporation in ASEAN by 2027. Tran Ba Duong, Thaco's chairman, said: “We highly appreciate our new partnership with Fresh Del Monte. This partnership is an important step for Thaco Agri’s agricultural operations and we look forward to building a stable, long-term collaboration that supports both organisations.”

Goldfish will launch its first flavoured pretzels in January 2026, expanding the brand’s pretzel range with two new seasoned varieties. The baked, Goldfish-shaped pretzels will be available in Honey Mustard and Hot Buffalo. The Honey Mustard option is coated in a sweet-savoury seasoning, while the Hot Buffalo flavour offers a spicy, tangy profile. Goldfish said the launch follows strong growth of its original pretzel line, which has become a top ten best-selling pretzel brand despite being sold in the cracker aisle. The company noted that pretzels are currently the fastest-growing salty snack category, with seasoned pretzels attracting the most new buyers. Mike Fanelli, senior director of Goldfish, said: “As we head into 2026, we’re bringing new flavours and formats for the whole family in ways that only Goldfish can, making snacking even more fun for everyone in the household." "From seasoned pretzels to our Toy Story collaboration and Zesty Ranch offering, we’re introducing craveable flavors and playful experiences that are sure to delight snackers of all ages.” The new products will roll out nationwide in the US from January across retailers including Amazon, Target and Walmart. They will be sold in 8oz bags with an SRP of $3.69.

Water reuse technology company Epic Cleantec has introduced what it calls a breakthrough moment in sustainable beverage production: two commercial beers brewed with highly purified recycled water recovered from showers and laundry systems. Shower Hour IPA and Laundry Club Kölsch, developed in partnership with Devil’s Canyon Brewing Company in San Carlos, California, mark the first wide-release beers in the US made from recycled water sourced directly from buildings equipped with Epic’s advanced reuse systems. The water undergoes multistage treatment using state-of-the-art purification processes, resulting in what the company says is “exceptionally pure” brewing water. “As water and infrastructure challenges grow worldwide, buildings continue to discard perfectly good water with tremendous potential for reuse,” said Aaron Tartakovsky, co-founder and CEO of Epic Cleantec. “By creating Shower Hour IPA and Laundry Club Kölsch, we’re giving people a fun and approachable way to see recycled water in a new light.” Epic previously generated major buzz in 2022 with OneWater Brew, an experimental batch that went viral and earned recognition from TIME and Fast Company. The new release represents the company’s first full-scale commercial offering. While both new beers highlight the use of recycled water, Shower Hour OPA further integrates sustainable agriculture and brewing practices, with a recipe that includes: Azacca hops, semi dwarf varietals requiring less irrigation and offering strong disease resistance. Fonio grain, a drought-tolerant African cereal known for fast growth without fertilisers and for improving soil health. Kveik yeast, a fast-fermenting strain that thrives at high temperatures, lowering the brewery's energy consumption. Chris Garrett, founder and CEO of Devil’s Canyon Brewing Company, said: “These first-of-their-kind beers are a testament to what's possible when innovation, sustainability and craftsmanship converge. We’ve led with pristine recycled water and for the IPA, responsibly sourced ingredients that reflect our commitment to environmental stewardship.” The beers will be available at major retailers across California, including BevMo!, Total Wine & More and Bianchini’s Market, as well as select independent stores throughout the San Francisco Bay Area. Distribution is also beginning in Virginia, Oregon, Ohio, Kentucky, Vermont, New Hampshire, Nebraska, North Dakota, Rhode Island, Alaska and Washington, DC.

Senior packaging leaders from across North America will gather from 26-27 January 2026 for the AmericaPack Summit 2026 , hosted by Marcus Evans at the Red Rock Casino Resort and Spa in Las Vegas. The summit is known for its private, invitation-based environment that brings together decision makers across FMCG packaging, sustainability, operations and innovation.   Unlike a typical trade show, the summit focuses on direct conversations, peer learning and curated meetings that connect packaging executives with solution providers aligned to their current needs. Attendees include packaging directors, heads of R&D, sustainability leads, and senior supply chain and operations executives.   This year’s programme will explore the issues most affecting the packaging sector as companies balance cost pressures, regulatory shifts and rapid changes in consumer expectations.   Compliance continues to shape long term packaging strategies as brands prepare for evolving EPR requirements across North America and Europe. Growth remains top of mind as teams look to deliver packaging that meets rising consumer expectations for functionality and design. Talent challenges are intensifying as packaging teams navigate new technologies, including AI, while managing fiscal pressures. Macro-economic factors such as tariffs, geopolitical shifts and federal policy changes are impacting planning, sourcing and production decisions. Innovation will be a major discussion point, especially around the most practical uses of AI in packaging workflows and design processes. Sustainability remains central as companies work to improve recyclability, reduce materials and meet long term environmental targets.   The summit will also feature insight from respected industry voices who bring deep experience in packaging development, materials, and academic research: Buzot , director global packaging development at the Estee Lauder Group of Companies Polina Ware , global director technology and innovation at PPG Andrew Hurley , professor, food, nutrition and packaging sciences at Clemson University   These contributors will share their perspectives on the realities of packaging transformation, the future of materials, and the balance between innovation, compliance and brand value.   The AmericaPack Summit 2026 offers an opportunity for senior leaders to step back from daily pressures and engage in meaningful conversations with peers and partners facing the same challenges. The summit’s format supports targeted collaboration and practical exploration of what successful packaging strategies look like in the year ahead.   For more information or participation details, visit the official summit page  or contact Kyriakos Xenophontos at kyriakosx@marcusevanscy.com .

Royal FrieslandCampina has announced its intention to acquire Wisconsin Whey Protein, a well-regarded producer of whey protein isolates based in the US. This acquisition is set to enhance FrieslandCampina Ingredients' capacity and capabilities in a rapidly growing segment of the food and beverage industry. Wisconsin Whey Protein will be integrated into FrieslandCampina Ingredients, which is recognised as a leader in proteins and prebiotics. The acquisition is expected to significantly increase FrieslandCampina’s total whey protein capacity, allowing the company to better meet the surging global demand for high-quality protein ingredients. This expansion is particularly aimed at extending FrieslandCampina's market leadership from Europe and Asia into the North American landscape. Wisconsin Whey Protein operates state-of-the-art facilities located in the heart of the US dairy region, which are currently undergoing expansion to more than double their whey protein isolate capacity. This will position FrieslandCampina Ingredients to serve a diverse range of market segments, including performance, active and medical nutrition. Anne Peter Lindeboom, president of FrieslandCampina Ingredients, said: “By joining forces with Wisconsin Whey Protein, we bring together expanded capacity in the United States with our deep expertise in protein technology, research, and application development. This acquisition will enable us to scale our proven successes in high-end protein offerings to customers in the US and worldwide.” K Kachadurian, CEO of Wisconsin Whey Protein, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the entrepreneurial spirit of his company and its alignment with FrieslandCampina's global growth ambitions. He expressed pride in joining a purpose-driven organisation that aims to make a meaningful impact in the nutrition sector. The acquisition comes at a time when protein supplementation is becoming increasingly mainstream in nutritional food and beverages. Recent consumer surveys indicate that 71% of individuals actively prioritise protein intake – up from 59% in 2022. This trend is driven by a growing awareness of the health benefits associated with higher protein diets, particularly for fitness and weight management. As consumers become more discerning about protein quality, the demand for complete proteins – those containing all nine essential amino acid – continues to rise. The whey protein market is projected to grow at an annual rate of 6.6% until 2030, presenting significant opportunities for companies that can deliver tailored, high-quality protein solutions. The transaction is subject to customary conditions, including regulatory approvals, and financial details of the acquisition have not been disclosed.