UK frozen food brand Birds Eye has launched Crispy Wedges, as part of its ongoing strategy to diversify its potato offerings. Building on the success of its Crispy Chips introduced last year, the new wedges are positioned to cater to the growing demand for family-friendly meal solutions. Crispy Wedges are uniquely designed to be skin-off and un-spiced, allowing consumers the flexibility to season them according to individual tastes. This feature is particularly appealing to younger families seeking versatile meal options that can adapt to various palates. The wedges are gluten-free, enhancing their appeal to health-conscious consumers. They are also air-fryer friendly, and can be ready in just ten minutes. The launch comes at a time when the potato category is witnessing significant growth, with wedges experiencing a 2% increase in value, translating to an additional £826,000 in sales over the past year. According to market data, wedges are now featured in 7 million more meals than they were a year ago, indicating a robust consumer interest in this format. Birds Eye's Crispy Chips range has already established itself as a contender in the market, currently valued at £11.8 million and ranking as the second largest frozen chip brand since its debut in July 2024. The introduction of Crispy Wedges is expected to capitalise on this momentum, further solidifying Birds Eye's position in the competitive frozen food sector. Starting from August 25, Crispy Wedges will be available at Iceland stores, followed by a rollout at Tesco on September 8, with a recommended retail price of £2.50. Wider distribution is planned for later in September, aiming to reach a broader audience across various retail channels. Birds Eye, owned by Nomad Foods, continues to emphasise its commitment to providing accessible, healthy and delicious frozen food options.

Keychain, a start-up in the consumer packaged goods (CPG) sector, has secured $30 million in Series B funding, in a round led by Wellington Management, with participation from existing investor BoxGroup. This funding brings Keychain's total capital raised to $68 million, aimed at enhancing its AI-powered platform that connects brands, retailers and manufacturers. The funding will primarily support the development of KeychainOS, a software suite designed to optimise supply chain operations and improve product development processes. With its engineering hub based in Gurugram, India, Keychain is focusing on expanding its presence in North America. Keychain's Series B funding follows a Series A round completed in November 2024, where the company raised $15 million at a post-money valuation of $260 million. Prior to that, in November 2023, Keychain secured $18 million in its seed round, led by Lightspeed Venture Partners. The total funding raised to date now stands at $68 million, indicating a robust interest from investors in Keychain’s potential to innovate within the CPG industry. The new capital will be directed toward several strategic priorities: Enhancement of KeychainOS: Further developing the platform to include modules for food safety compliance, purchasing, inventory management and production planning. Team expansion: Increasing the engineering and product teams in Gurugram to accelerate development efforts. Market growth: Strengthening Keychain's foothold in North America and exploring potential partnerships in Europe. AI integration: Using AI technologies to streamline data integration and improve supply chain efficiency. Since its establishment in 2023, Keychain has made significant strides, collaborating with eight of the top ten US retailers and several major CPG brands, including General Mills. In addition, customers like Rich Products and Aura Bora have praised the platform for streamlining supply chains. To date, the platform has facilitated over $1 billion in project submissions, reflecting its growing influence in the market. Keychain's AI-driven marketplace seeks to digitise a traditionally offline process, significantly reducing the time it takes for brands to connect with manufacturers. This approach has the potential to disrupt existing market dynamics, particularly for traditional intermediaries. As the CPG industry increasingly embraces digital transformation, Keychain is well-positioned to capitalise on trends favouring AI-driven solutions and the demand for private-label products. The company also plans to expand into European markets in the near future. Some of the product supply chains that Keychain currently works with include nuts, seeds, dried fruit, deli meats, gelato, spring and distilled water, protein bars and chocolate, to name just a few. CEO Oisin Hanrahan said: “It’s the talent, depth, availability and the speed with which you can access talent [in India] that makes it a compelling destination for product development. If we can take [the manufacturing partner search] from months down to days, we think we can unlock innovation in product development for this whole industry.” Kevin Spratt, regional president at Rich Products, added: “This partnership is a strategic move that will empower us to drive greater growth, foster enhanced innovation and deliver even more unique value for our customers”. With strong financial backing and a commitment to enhancing its platform, Keychain aims to play a significant role in the evolving landscape of CPG manufacturing.

Que Pasa, an organic snack brand under Nature's Path Foods, has launched its latest product line: Que Pasa Rolled Tortilla Chips. Available in two bold flavours – Chile & Lime and Spicy Queso – these chips are crafted to meet the growing consumer demand for healthier, flavourful snacking options. Manufactured in Canada, the new rolled chips are designed to offer a crunchy texture and vibrant taste without compromising on quality. The product features an all-organic ingredient list, free from artificial flavours, colours and preservatives. This commitment to real ingredients aligns with the increasing trend among consumers seeking transparency and authenticity in their food choices. Arjan Stephens, president of Nature's Path, said: “With Que Pasa Rolled Chips, we're bringing bold flavours to the table – flavours that live up to the talk. No artificial dyes, no flavour disappointments – all organic, real taste and serious crunch.” This positioning not only highlights the product's quality but also aims to resonate with health-conscious consumers looking for snacks that do not compromise on taste. The Chile & Lime flavour offers a zesty, tangy profile, while the Spicy Queso variant provides a rich, creamy taste with a kick. Both variants are crafted using volcanic stone-ground corn and seasoned with high-quality ingredients, reflecting culinary standards that elevate the snacking experience. Que Pasa Rolled Chips are produced in small batches, ensuring freshness and quality control. The use of heirloom corn and authentic spice blends distinguishes these chips in a crowded market, appealing to both retailers and consumers who prioritise premium, organic products. Currently, the chips are available at major retailers across Canada and select locations in the US, positioning Que Pasa to capture a share of the expanding organic snack market.

Anheuser-Busch InBev, the global brewing giant behind brands such as Budweiser and Bud Light, has announced a $15 million investment in its US brewery operations in St Louis, Missouri. This initiative aligns with the company’s broader strategy to enhance domestic production capabilities amid ongoing efforts by the US government to bolster local manufacturing. This latest investment is part of a larger $300 million commitment made by Anheuser-Busch earlier this year, aimed at creating and sustaining manufacturing jobs across the US. According to Reuters , the decision comes at a time when many companies are ramping up investments in the US to avoid tariffs and adhere to the 'Made in America' campaign that is being promoted by the current administration. Anheuser-Busch's investment will focus on improving supply chain infrastructure, specifically designed to facilitate the transportation of domestically sourced ingredients to its St Louis brewery. This enhancement aims to streamline operations and improve efficiency in getting beer products to market. In recent months, Anheuser-Busch has faced challenges, including a decline in sales volumes attributed to sluggish demand in key markets such as Brazil and China. This downturn has raised concerns among investors regarding the overall growth prospects of the beverage industry. However, the company’s proactive investment strategy signals a commitment to revitalising its US operations and addressing market fluctuations. Industry analysts view this move as a response to changing consumer preferences and a competitive landscape that increasingly favours local production. By investing in its US facilities, Anheuser-Busch not only aims to enhance its operational capabilities but also to reinforce its brand loyalty among consumers who prioritise domestic products.

Good Foods, a brand known for its dips and spreads, has announced the upcoming launch of its Cheddar Jalapeño Bacon dip, set to hit select Costco locations this autumn. This new offering is timed to coincide with the football season in the US, catering to the growing demand for shareable, flavourful appetisers during game day gatherings. The packaging claims that the new product is “US inspected” and approved by the Department of Agriculture. Cheddar Jalapeño Bacon dip is crafted using real Wisconsin cheddar, ensuring a rich and creamy texture that is ideal for pairing with a variety of snacks, as well as uncured bacon. With an MSRP of $9.99 for a 24oz container, this product aims to attract consumers looking for premium, convenient options to enhance their tailgate experiences. The dip can be served hot or cold. The dip will be available in Costco locations across the US Midwest starting September 1, followed by launches in Canada West on September 17 and Canada East on October 17. This phased rollout reflects Good Foods' strategy to penetrate key markets during a peak consumption period, leveraging the popularity of football season to drive sales.

A new report, published by UK food system charity The Food Foundation, is calling on the food industry to address biodiversity loss – warning of higher economic costs in the long term if this crisis is ignored. The report brings together evidence showing that our food system and supply chain are highly vulnerable to the impacts of biodiversity loss, despite directly contributing to it. For example, one study shows that a 30% decline in UK pollinator populations over ten years would cost nearly £200 million a year in lost crop yields. Issues such as deforestation and industrial farming of livestock are driving water and air pollution and biodiversity loss, The Food Foundation emphasises. The report highlights that the agricultural sector is almost entirely dependent on natural capital for its continued viability, so will suffer if farming methods and consumption patterns are not adapted to preserve and restore the natural environment. It states that transitioning to more plant-rich diets in the UK could make a significant difference, reducing by 58% the number of species projected to become extinct over the next 100 years as a result of what we are eating. PwC research shows that over half of the world’s GDP is moderately or highly dependent on nature – yet biodiversity is declining at an unprecedented rate, with extinction rates 100 to 1,000 times above natural levels and rising. In the UK alone, nature loss is projected to reduce GDP growth by between 6-12% in the 2030s. This would be a decline greater than that caused by the 2008 financial crisis or the Covid-19 pandemic. The Food Foundation and the Investor Coalition for Food Policy – which comprise 35 member organisations – make several recommendations in the report, calling on businesses and investors to help safeguard nature through their corporate stewardship and financing activities. The organisations call for: Businesses and investors to support ‘nature-friendly’ actions such as shifting to portfolios centred around plant-rich diets, and investing in sustainable, regenerative farming practices. Companies to ensure board-level expertise in, and oversight of, sustainability and climate matters including nature and biodiversity loss. Currently, only 2% of businesses have board-level expertise on these issues, according to the World Benchmarking Alliance. Businesses to develop a clear idea of the steps they need to take to improve traceability and manage their nature-related risks and impacts, and how long those steps will take. Investors to reframe their understanding of nature ‘not as an externality but as an asset to be valued, accounted for and invested in’. Short-term investor returns should be considered against the importance of nature and biodiversity, the organisations stress. Sarah Buszard, responsible investor engagement lead, said: “Since all of us are dependent on food production and consumption for our very survival, by extension the viability and prosperity of the whole economy – and not just investors in food businesses – is dependent on efficient and sustainable management of natural capital”. “How we move our food system to one that is healthier and more sustainable is something business leaders, investors and policymakers alike should be thinking about and taking urgent action on.” Antony Yousefian, general partner at The First Thirty Ventures, warned of how biodiversity loss impacts ecosystems and contributes to declining health, commenting: “A teaspoon of healthy soil hosts more microorganisms than entire human population, yet intensive farming has depleted ecosystems and the quality of our food”. “Investors should actively engage with companies to support sustainable agriculture and diets, delivering nutrient-rich, pesticide-free foods for resilient, nature- and health-positive financial returns.”

Fortifi Food Processing Solutions, a player in food processing automation, has entered a definitive agreement to acquire Provisur Technologies, a leading provider of further processing solutions for the protein sector. This strategic acquisition marks a significant step in Fortifi's mission to deliver comprehensive, integrated solutions that encompass automation, robotics and advanced software capabilities. Massimo Bizzi, CEO of Fortifi, highlighted the transformative nature of this acquisition: “This is a pivotal moment for our organisation and our valued customers. We look forward to joining forces with Provisur as we strengthen our product breadth across the protein value chain.” The move is expected to enhance Fortifi's operational footprint and application expertise, ultimately improving customer experiences and outcomes in food processing. The integration of Provisur’s technologies aims to bolsters Fortifi's offerings in downstream protein processing. Provisur's expertise in grinding, forming, slicing and tumbling technologies complements Fortifi’s existing product line-up, which includes brands such as Bettcher, Frontmatec and MHM Automation. This synergy positions Fortifi as a more formidable player in the food processing sector, enabling the company to deliver end-to-end solutions tailored to the needs of food processors globally. Josh Weisenbeck, a partner at KKR and a board member at Fortifi, highlighted the broader implications of the acquisition: “This acquisition reflects Fortifi’s continued focus on building a diversified, global leader in food processing automation”. He noted that Provisur’s well-respected brands and deep application expertise would enhance Fortifi’s capabilities in further processing, thereby solidifying its market position. Furthermore, the acquisition will strengthen Fortifi's aftermarket services, expanding customer access to parts, service, and technical support across a diverse installed base. The established support network of Provisur, along with its strong customer relationships, is expected to enhance Fortifi's ability to deliver continuous performance improvements, minimise factory downtime, and extend the lifespan of equipment – key factors that underline the company’s commitment to long-term value and partnership. Brian Perkins, President of Provisur Technologies, expressed enthusiasm about the merger, stating: “Becoming part of Fortifi marks a meaningful new chapter for us, expanding the reach of our business and accelerating our shared vision for the future of food processing”. The acquisition is subject to regulatory approvals and is anticipated to close in the fourth quarter of 2025. Upon completion, Provisur employees will be integrated into Fortifi’s broad-based ownership program, allowing them to partake in the benefits of equity ownership.

San-Ei Gen F.F.I., a manufacturer of food additives, has announced the upcoming launch of two new food-colouring products in the US, following the recent approval of its Gardenia (genipin) blue by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This approval, effective August 29 2025, allows Gardenia blue to be used as a colour additive exempt from certification in a variety of processed food products. The new formulations, branded as San-Ei Blue (R) G-BF30 WSP and San-Ei Blue (R) G-BFA20 WSP, are designed for a wide range of applications including sports drinks, flavoured waters, fruit juice beverages, tea drinks, and both hard and soft candies. The introduction of these products is poised to enhance the colour offerings available to food and beverage manufacturers in the US market. According to San-Ei Gen F.F.I., the Gardenia blue formulations boast superior heat and light stability compared to other natural blue colourants, making them particularly suitable for processed foods that require long shelf lives. The vivid hue of Gardenia blue can also be blended with yellow to create green tones or with red for purple shades, offering manufacturers versatile options for product differentiation. This capability addresses a growing demand for stable, naturally derived colorants that can withstand the rigors of food processing and storage. Yasuhiro Shimizu, president of San-Ei Gen F.F.I., said: “Our mission is to provide all people with healthy life and enjoyment of food through safe and secure food additives”. He highlighted the company’s integration of advanced research and development across five key areas: flavour, colour, texture, taste and health/function. The approval of Gardenia blue represents a significant milestone for San-Ei Gen F.F.I. as it seeks to expand its footprint in the competitive US food market. The company plans to actively promote these new products and continue investing in product development to meet evolving consumer preferences for natural and visually appealing food options.

Asda has unveiled a new range of limited-edition cheese products designed to cater to evolving consumer flavour preferences. With the rise of social media-driven trends, particularly the popularity of #CheeseTok, Asda aims to enhance its offerings for summer gatherings, barbecues and charcuterie boards. As consumer interest in unique and premium cheese experiences grows, Asda's latest launches include the British Cheddar with Sweet Roast Garlic and Yorkshire Wensleydale with Mango & Ginger. The introduction of these products reflects a broader trend toward innovative flavour combinations that appeal to adventurous palates. Market insights indicate that garlic-flavoured cheese is experiencing a surge in popularity, evidenced by a 2,000% increase in searches for Asda’s Garlic & Herb Cheese Blend following a viral social media post. Matthew Forde, Asda’s product development manager for cheese, commented: “We decided to bring this limited-edition product into our cheese range because we know that Asda customers go absolutely wild for garlic”. The new cheddar variant, priced at £2.50 for a 200g wedge, combines the richness of cheddar with the sweetness of roast garlic jam, aiming to entice consumers seeking bold flavours. Additionally, Yorkshire Wensleydale with Mango & Ginger, priced at £1.99 for a 200g wedge, introduces a refreshing twist to traditional cheese offerings. Forde noted that the combination of sweet mango and warming ginger complements the mild, crumbly texture of Wensleydale, providing a 'swavoury' experience that is expected to resonate with customers looking for summer-friendly cheese options. “Think a sweet, fruity addition to your cheeseboard,” he added, highlighting the product's potential as a lighter alternative to festive cheese blends. Earlier this summer, the retailer also launched a line of Cheese Burger Melts featuring trending flavour profiles such as Hot Honey and Scotch Bonnet Chili. These products are designed to enhance the grilling experience, making them ideal for summer barbecues. The burger melts, priced at £2.00 for a 100g pack, cater to diverse consumer tastes and are positioned as a convenient way to add flavour to grilled meats.

OCOchem, a leader in CO2 electrolysis technology, has entered into a new partnership with ADM. The collaboration aims to establish an innovative CO2 conversion facility at ADM's corn processing complex in Decatur, Illinois, utilising OCOchem’s proprietary Carbon FluX Electrolyzer technology. The new facility will convert biogenic CO2 emissions from ADM’s ethanol production into formate molecules, which are versatile compounds applicable in various consumer and industrial products. The partnership is poised to meet the growing demand for carbon-negative, biogenic formate products, aligning with the increasing focus on sustainability. Todd Brix, co-founder and CEO of OCOchem, highlighted the importance of this partnership: "Working with ADM allows us to scale our CO2 electrolysis process commercially and fulfill early customer demand for sustainable formate products at competitive prices". This collaboration not only underscores OCOchem's innovative approach but also positions ADM as a leader in industrial carbon management. Kris Lutt, president of sustainable materials and strategic initiatives at ADM, added: "This collaboration represents a high-potential pathway for converting captured CO2 into valuable, carbon-negative molecules. OCOchem's impressive technology aligns seamlessly with our strategy to lead in sustainable molecule production, supporting lower-carbon supply chains and unlocking new value across the bio-based economy." Key details of the partnership Facility development: OCOchem will construct and operate modular Carbon FluX electrolyzer systems within ADM's existing facility, transforming water and CO2 captured from the bioethanol plant into carbon-negative formate molecules. Construction is expected to commence later this year, with completion targeted for the end of 2026. Product range and applications: The companies plan to develop a comprehensive value chain for formate molecules and their derivatives, including formic acid, potassium formate and ethyl formate. These products will cater to diverse applications such as crop protection, fertilisers, industrial solvents, active pharmaceutical ingredients, as well as flavours and fragrances. Innovative technology: OCOchem’s Carbon FluX Electrolyzer uses advanced gas diffusion electrode technology to efficiently convert CO2 and water into organic molecules. By employing biogenic CO2 as a feedstock, the facility aims to produce carbon-negative products, significantly reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Sustainability impact: This partnership is a testament to the growing trend of integrating sustainability into industrial processes. By converting CO2 emissions into valuable products, OCOchem and ADM are contributing to the development of a circular economy and addressing the urgent need for carbon reduction in manufacturing. Since its inception, OCOchem has rapidly scaled its technology, achieving a 1,500x increase in the performance of its CO2 electrolyzer cell. Its commitment to innovation has garnered support from key organisations, including the US Army Research Office and the US Department of Energy. The successful implementation of this facility could pave the way for broader adoption of CO2 conversion technologies across various sectors, further enhancing the sustainability of supply chains. About OCOchem OCOchem is a pioneering CO2 electrolysis company dedicated to converting CO2 into organic molecules through innovative technologies. Based in Richland, Washington, OCOchem focuses on decarbonising global supply chains and promoting a sustainable industrial future.

A2 Milk Company Limited has acquired a nutritional manufacturing facility in New Zealand for NZ 282 million ($168 million), a move aimed at expanding its footprint in the lucrative Chinese market. This facility, previously owned by a unit of China Mengniu Dairy, already holds two existing product registrations for the Chinese market, positioning A2 Milk to enhance its operational capabilities and product offerings. The acquisition is part of A2 Milk's broader strategy to increase its market share in China, which remains its top revenue-generating region. The company views this facility as a critical asset that will enable it to capitalise on the growing demand for infant milk formula products in Asia. By securing local manufacturing capabilities, A2 Milk aims to streamline its supply chain and improve its responsiveness to market trends. In conjunction with this acquisition, A2 Milk plans to divest its 75% stake in Mataura Valley Milk for approximately NZ 100 million. This divestiture is expected to help fund the facility purchase and aligns with A2 Milk’s focus on core business areas. The acquisition reflects a strategic investment in A2 Milk’s future growth, particularly as the company seeks to navigate the competitive landscape of the infant nutrition sector. With the New Zealand facility now part of its operations, A2 Milk is well-positioned to leverage its existing product registrations and enhance its offerings in the rapidly expanding China label infant formula market.

Mars has introduced its latest product, Skittles Gummies Fuego, which combines traditional gummy candy with a spicy twist. This new offering features a blend of five Skittles flavours – Mango, Watermelon, Strawberry, Raspberry and Lemon – coated with a chilli layer to create a 'swicy' (sweet and spicy) experience for consumers. The gummies are now available for purchase on TikTok Shop while supplies last, with a US nationwide rollout planned for January 2026. A limited release at select retailers is also expected this fall. The introduction of Skittles Fuego Gummies reflects a growing trend in the industry towards bold flavour combinations. As consumer preferences shift toward more adventurous snacks, brands are increasingly exploring hybrid flavours that blend sweetness with spiciness. Ro Cheng, vice president of marketing for Mars Wrigley North America, said: "With Skittles Gummies Fuego, we're adding some spice to a sweet, original fan favourite, bringing a bold flavour experience that we know 'swicy' fans will enjoy".