Poland is proposing to significantly increase its sugar tax and widen its scope to cover more beverages, concentrates and drink-form dietary supplements, in a move the government says will strengthen public health measures and increase funding for healthcare. The draft amendment to Poland’s 2015 Public Health Act, published by the Polish government in June 2026, would increase existing rates while closing exemptions that the government says have allowed some manufacturers to avoid the levy. The proposal is currently at an early stage, with the government targeting adoption of the legislation in the third quarter of 2026. If approved, the changes are proposed to take effect from 1 January 2027. The government argues that the existing sugar tax, introduced in 2020, has become too low relative to beverage prices to meaningfully influence consumer behaviour. According to the draft, sales of carbonated drinks initially fell by 19% after the levy was introduced, but subsequently returned to pre-tax levels. Under the proposed changes, the fixed rate for beverages containing up to 5g of sugar per 100ml, or any quantity of specified sweeteners, would rise from PLN 0.50 to PLN 0.70 per litre. The variable charge for every gram of sugar above 5g per 100ml would double from PLN 0.05 to PLN 0.10, while the charge for caffeine or taurine would increase from PLN 0.10 to PLN 1.00 per litre. The maximum levy would also increase from PLN 1.20 to PLN 1.80 per litre. The proposed legislation would also broaden the tax beyond ready-to-drink beverages. All drink concentrates would become subject to the levy regardless of whether they are sold as liquids, semi-liquids, solids or syrups. A separate rate of PLN 3 per litre or kilogram of concentrate is proposed, reflecting the government's view that concentrated products can contain significantly more sugar than beverages ready for consumption. Drink-form dietary supplements would also be brought into scope, although products sold in packs of no more than 200ml would be excluded. The government has specifically highlighted highly sweetened fruit syrups that it says have shifted from being marketed as fortified foods to dietary supplements since the sugar tax was introduced. It argues that this has enabled manufacturers to avoid the levy while placing products with high sugar content in a category perceived by consumers as health-supporting. The proposal would additionally remove an existing exemption for beverages containing at least 20% juice and no more than 5g of sugar where they also contain caffeine, taurine or sweeteners. The government says some manufacturers have reformulated products to meet the current exemption by increasing juice content and reducing sugar in favour of sweeteners such as aspartame, sucralose and acesulfame K. Under the new rules, these products could become subject to the levy. The proposal would affect a range of products, including certain energy drinks, sweetened beverages and non-alcoholic beer. The Polish government says the changes are intended both to reduce the economic accessibility of sugar-sweetened beverages and generate additional revenue for the National Health Fund (NFZ). Currently, 96.5% of revenue from the food levy is transferred directly to the NFZ, where it is used for educational and preventive activities and healthcare services associated with the consequences of overweight and obesity. The government estimates that total NFZ expenditure reached PLN 220.2bn in 2025, while the direct costs associated with obesity – including prevention, diagnosis and treatment – could reach between PLN 4.4bn and PLN 15.4bn. When indirect costs are included, the figure could rise to PLN 44.1bn, according to the government's assessment. The government cites World Health Organization and OECD guidance indicating that fiscal measures can contribute to healthier consumer behaviour. The proposals have nevertheless drawn opposition from an industry coalition comprising 20 organisations representing agriculture, food manufacturing, retail and employers, including the Polish Federation of Food Industry (PFPŻ ZP). The coalition has called for the proposal to be withdrawn in its entirety, arguing that the government has not provided sufficient evidence that higher tax rates or an expanded scope will deliver measurable public health benefits. The organisation argues that the proposal is primarily fiscal and says it should instead be preceded by a comprehensive assessment of the existing tax, including its public health impact, fiscal performance and effects on consumers and businesses. It also claims that the changes could undermine previous reformulation efforts by taxing products that manufacturers have already modified to comply with the existing rules. The coalition has also raised concerns over the impact on manufacturers already facing additional regulatory costs from Poland's deposit return system and forthcoming extended producer responsibility requirements. According to PFPŻ ZP estimates, the proposed measures could result in retail price increases of approximately 6% to more than 22%, depending on the product category. It warned that higher prices could increase cross-border shopping and informal trade while reducing the competitiveness of Polish food and beverage manufacturers. The organisation also cautioned that taxing juice-containing beverages currently exempt from the levy could reduce demand for Polish fruit, affecting growers and processors. Similarly, lower demand for sugar-containing beverages could have implications for the domestic sugar industry and sugar beet producers. The coalition said Poland already has one of Europe's highest effective sugar tax burdens when measured against consumer purchasing power and that further increases could put domestic manufacturers at a disadvantage compared with producers elsewhere in the EU. The proposed changes are not yet law. The draft is currently undergoing consultation, after which the Polish government will consider stakeholder feedback before deciding whether amendments are required and whether to progress the proposal through parliament.

Mentos has expanded its UK sharing bag portfolio with the launch of Sour Tones, a new range of sour-flavoured fruit chews. Available in 150g stand-up pouches, the range combines strawberry, orange and green apple varieties. Each chew is designed to deliver an initial sour taste followed by a sweeter fruit flavour. The company said the launch also responds to growing demand for sour confectionery, which it claims is expanding at more than 4.5 times the rate of the wider market. Victoria Gibson, junior brand manager for Mentos at Perfetti Van Melle, said: “Sour Tones is a significant opportunity for retailers to tap into two powerful trends at once: the continued growth of sharing formats and the Gen Z appetite for bolder, more exciting flavours.” Sour Tones launched exclusively at Sainsbury’s in July and is set to roll out across the wider grocery channel. The sweets are vegan-friendly and made with natural colours.

Oxford-based agricultural biotechnology company Moa Technology has raised £22.2 million in a Series C financing round to advance its pipeline of herbicide technologies. The round was co-led by Oxford Science Enterprises (OSE) and Supernova Invest. New investors included Agri Investment Fund, GrainInnovate, Infinity Investment Partners and Magdalen College Oxford, alongside existing backers Lansdowne Partners, Parkwalk and Oxford University Innovation. Moa will use the funding to move its three most advanced programmes closer to commercialisation, expand its early-stage pipeline of herbicides with novel modes of action and further develop its Moa Amplifiers technology. Moa Amplifiers, discovered by the company in 2025, are not designed to act as herbicides independently. Instead, they could reduce the quantity or concentration of herbicides required to control weeds, potentially supporting agricultural productivity while lowering environmental impact. The company’s proprietary discovery platforms have identified more than 80 areas associated with potential new modes of action, which aim to control weeds in different ways and address rising resistance to existing herbicides. Its most advanced programmes have progressed from laboratory and glasshouse validation to international field trials targeting some of the world’s most difficult weeds. Over the past two years, Moa has also established research and development partnerships with Nufarm, Gowan, Certis Belchim and Corteva Agriscience. Payments from current and future commercial partners will supplement the new equity investment. Virginia Corless, CEO of Moa Technology, described the funding as a “major milestone” that recognised both the company’s scientific progress and its commercial agreements with crop-protection businesses.

Kashi has expanded into the granola category with the launch of Kashi Gut Health Granola, combining whole grains, prebiotic fibre and gut-activated cultures in an everyday breakfast format. The new range has been developed to meet growing consumer interest in gut health while offering a convenient way to incorporate fibre and prebiotics into daily eating routines. Each serving contains 9g of fibre, sourced from whole grain oats, nuts, seeds and fruit, alongside 5g of prebiotic fibre from chicory root. The granola also contains Bacillus subtilis DE111, a gut-activated culture designed to remain stable until reaching the gut. Kashi said the combination reflects its focus on bringing functional nutrition into familiar food formats, without making gut health feel complicated for consumers. The range is Non-GMO Project Verified and contains no artificial colours or flavours. Kashi Gut Health Granola is available in two varieties: Blueberry Almond and Chocolate Almond Butter. Blueberry Almond combines blueberries and almonds with crunchy whole-grain clusters, while Chocolate Almond Butter features Fair-Trade chocolate, almond slices and whole-grain clusters. The products have been designed to be eaten in a variety of ways, including with milk, yoghurt and fruit, or directly from the bag. Stefanie Bryant, lead product development scientist, research and development at WK Kellogg Co, said: “Inside our development kitchen, every ingredient serves a purpose, and we have spent decades studying fibre, prebiotics and wholegrain nutrition. Kashi Gut Health Granola reflects years of bringing together taste, texture and nutrition in a way people can enjoy and helps make gut health support feel easier.” The launch comes as gut health continues to move beyond specialist supplements and into more familiar food and beverage categories. Kashi brand marketing director Sarah McFall said: “The gut health category can sometimes feel complicated. Kashi Gut Health Granola offers a straightforward, delicious way to start the day, bringing together fibre, prebiotics and gut-activated cultures in a format that fits into real routines.” With its move into granola, Kashi is positioning gut health functionality within a familiar breakfast staple, combining established consumer interest in whole grains and fibre with ingredients associated with the microbiome.

Hormel Foods has appointed John Ghingo as its new president and chief executive officer, with the leadership change set to take effect on 26 October 2026. Ghingo, who has served as president and a member of the Hormel Foods board of directors since July 2025, will succeed Jeff Ettinger, who has been serving as interim CEO. Ghingo will continue to sit on the company’s board. As president, Ghingo has overseen the company’s Retail, Foodservice and International segments, alongside global operations, supply chain, research and development, information technology and corporate strategy. He initially rejoined Hormel Foods in 2024 as executive vice president of the Retail business, its largest segment by net sales, before being appointed president the following year. Bill Newlands, chairman of the Hormel Foods board, said: “John has quickly demonstrated his ability to lead at enterprise scale, setting clear strategic direction and translating strategy into disciplined execution. Under his leadership, we believe Hormel Foods will be well positioned to drive our modernisation agenda, accelerate sustainable growth and create long-term value for shareholders.” Ghingo brings more than 25 years of consumer packaged goods experience to the role. Before returning to Hormel Foods, he spent more than 15 years at Mondelēz International in marketing and general management positions, working with brands including Oreo and Cadbury. He subsequently served as president of plant-based foods and beverages at The WhiteWave Foods Company, where he led the Silk and So Delicious Dairy Free brands. Ghingo first joined Hormel Foods in 2018 as president of Applegate Farms, a position he held until 2022. He later became CEO of a better-for-you snacking company backed by private equity firm Kainos Capital, before returning to Hormel Foods. The incoming CEO said: “We have real momentum and a talented team. I am energised to build on that foundation, investing in our brands, modernising how we operate and creating lasting value for our customers, consumers, team members and shareholders.” Ettinger will remain as interim CEO through 25 October 2026 to support the transition, after which he will continue as a member of the Hormel Foods board. He first joined Hormel Foods in 1989 and previously served as chairman, president and CEO, before retiring from the company in 2016. During his career, he helped expand Hormel Foods’ portfolio and international position. Newlands praised Ettinger for providing continuity during the transition and recognised his nearly three decades of service to the company. Ettinger added that he has worked closely with Ghingo over the past year and expressed confidence in his ability to lead the company. Hormel Foods, headquartered in Austin, Minnesota, reported annual revenue of more than $12 billion and owns a portfolio spanning brands including Spam, Skippy, Planters and more.

Dairy cooperative Agropur has strengthened its management board with three senior appointments as it continues to focus on long-term growth, business transformation and modernising its manufacturing operations. Peter Filato has joined Agropur as senior vice president and chief financial officer, bringing more than 25 years of experience leading finance organisations and transformation initiatives. Filato has previously worked across organisational transformation, business model optimisation and operational performance improvement. His experience also includes leading multidisciplinary teams and managing complex integration and transformation programmes in changing business environments. Agropur has also appointed Elisa Plevano as senior vice president and chief information officer, adding information technology representation to its management board for the first time. Plevano brings more than 20 years of experience in using technology to drive business transformation. She will play a key role as Agropur works towards a more modern manufacturing model, with technology expected to become increasingly important in improving operational performance, supporting innovation and creating business value. The cooperative said the appointment reflects the growing strategic importance of technology across its operations, as manufacturers increasingly look to digital capabilities to improve efficiency and competitiveness. Meanwhile, Olivier Gardère has been appointed president, category cheese Canada. Gardère has spent eight years at Agropur, where he has focused on strengthening the cooperative’s commercial capabilities through sales and go-to-market strategy. In his new role, Gardère will lead Agropur’s combined cheese and butter category in Canada. His responsibilities will include driving value creation for the cooperative and its customers, building capabilities and supporting long-term growth amid increasing competition. The three appointments form part of Agropur’s wider efforts to strengthen its leadership capabilities and accelerate its transformation. The cooperative said the expanded management board is intended to bring together complementary expertise across finance, technology and commercial operations, supporting its ambition to become the dairy partner of choice for the industry. The changes come as dairy companies face pressure to improve operational efficiency while responding to shifting consumer demand, technological developments and an increasingly competitive market. Agropur said the strengthened leadership team will help create greater value for its members, customers and employees while supporting the cooperative’s long-term growth strategy.

Kallø, the natural food brand owned by Ecotone UK, is expanding its snacking portfolio with the launch of Popped Corn Cakes, a new range designed to tap into growing consumer interest in fibre-rich products and ‘permissible indulgence’. Inspired by traditional cinema popcorn, the new range will initially comprise six flavours: Cinnamon, Caramel, Buttery Toffee, Dark Chocolate with Sea Salt, Dark Chocolate with Salted Caramel and Sweet & Salty. The Popped Corn Cakes will retail at an RRP of £2.75 and will launch in Waitrose stores from late July 2026, followed by Tesco from August. Kallø said the range has been developed for consumers looking for an evening treat that combines indulgent flavours with nutritional credentials. The products provide 7.8g of fibre per three-cake serving and are made using a minimal list of ingredients. The range is also 100% natural, gluten-free and suitable for vegetarians. All varieties are HFSS compliant, with the exception of the chocolate-topped options. The launch comes as consumers increasingly seek a balance between healthier eating and occasional indulgence, with fibre emerging as a key nutritional consideration and shoppers showing greater interest in products positioned around natural ingredients and reduced processing. Caroline Mitchell, Kallø brand controller at Ecotone UK, said: “Shoppers are increasingly looking for balance in their diets, combining healthier choices with permissible treats rather than adopting an all-or-nothing approach. We’re seeing growing demand for snacks that deliver natural goodness, great taste and added benefits, without feeling restrictive.” Mitchell added that consumers were increasingly interested in clean-label products and avoiding ultra-processed foods, creating an opportunity for snacks that offer an indulgent experience alongside natural ingredients. The Popped Corn Cakes contain no artificial colours, flavours or preservatives, in line with Kallø’s existing brand positioning. The range expands Kallø’s portfolio of plant-based snacking products, which includes rice cakes and veggie cakes, alongside its organic stocks and broths. The launch is also the latest product development from Ecotone UK, which operates a portfolio of natural and organic food brands including Kallø, Clipper Teas and Mrs Crimble’s. Kallø is a B Corp-certified brand and said its product development strategy focuses on natural ingredients, plant-based foods and products that support both health and environmental considerations.

Phytokana Ingredients, a Canadian supplier of pulse proteins and flour ingredients, has raised CAD 25 million (approx. $17.7 million) in financing to advance its planned plant protein processing facility. The unit offering was led by an undisclosed investor and supported by existing shareholders, employees and directors of the company. The terms of the financing were not disclosed. With this support, Phytokana – based in Calgary, Alberta – will be able to proceed to the Final Investment Decision stage for its planned 30,000-metric-tonne-per-annum dry fractionation facility in Strathmore, Alberta. The site will produce high-value protein concentrates and high-protein flour ingredients for domestic and international food and beverage manufacturers, aiming to help serve the fast-growing protein-enriched and ‘better-for-you’ food market. Phytokana focuses on the development, processing and commercialisation of sustainable pulse-based proteins and flour ingredients for the food and beverage industries, particularly within baked goods. The company will now advance final engineering, procurement and project execution activities in preparation for construction of the Strathmore plant. This latest financing follows the company’s recent announcement of long-term definitive offtake agreements representing approximately CAD 450 million (approx. $319 million) in contracted revenues, with cumulative sales opportunities exceeding CAD 500 million (approx. $354.7 million) when combined with executed Memorandums of Understanding. Vincent Chahley, chairman of Phytokana, commented: “Proceeding to Final Investment Decision is the culmination of years of disciplined execution, technical development, and customer engagement”. “We are grateful for the continued confidence of our investors and look forward to advancing a project that will create significant value for Alberta farmers, strengthen Canada's food ingredient manufacturing sector and supply innovative, sustainable ingredients to customers around the world.”

UK children’s food brand Pip Organic has unveiled a duo of new snacking products in Waitrose stores. The new line-up includes Pip Organic Strawberry and Banana Pipcrunch; and a Strawberry & Mango addition to its existing Pipsticks product range. Strawberry and Banana Pipcrunch is made with 100% organic freeze-dried bananas and strawberries in bite-sized crunchy cubes. They are available in a convenient bagged format for on-the-go healthy snacking and lunchbox occasions. Meanwhile, the Strawberry & Mango Pipsticks follow the success of the brand’s popular Mango & Pineapple and Mango variants. Like the rest of the brand’s range, both lines are free from added sugar, flavourings or artificial ingredients. They are made with a fruit selection and freeze-drying process that retains the fruits’ taste in addition to essential vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, Pip Organic said. Karen O’Flaherty, co-founder of Pip Organic, said: “We know from our own ‘Pip Parent Panel’ that consumers are seeking food and drink options that are appealing to children without unnecessary or hidden ingredients”. “Pip Organic exists to provide the solution, making it easier for parents to say ‘yes’ with our range of snacks and drinks made with 100% organically grown not-from-concentrate fruit and vegetables, no added sugar or sweeteners, and no added colourings or nasties.” Both new product lines launch in multi-packs of four, priced at an RRP of £3.00 per multi-pack.

Catalina Crunch has expanded its portfolio with the nationwide launch of new Snack Size Multipacks, bringing its Protein Cereal and Protein Snack Mix ranges into single-serve formats designed for on-the-go consumption. As consumers increasingly snack between meals, during commutes and while travelling, Catalina Crunch said it is responding to demand for convenient products that offer both indulgence and nutritional value. The new Snack Size Cereal Multipacks contain six individually wrapped, single-serve pouches and are available in Cinnamon Toast and Fruity flavours. Each pouch contains 11g of protein, is an excellent source of fibre and contains 0g of sugar. For savoury occasions, the Snack Size Snack Mix Multipacks contain five individually wrapped pouches of Catalina Crunch’s snack mix, combining Catalina Crunch cereal with protein pretzels, nuts and other ingredients. Available in Traditional and Cheddar flavours, each serving contains 10g of protein and is a good source of fibre. The company said the new formats have been developed to meet growing demand for convenient, portioned snacks, particularly as consumers adopt higher-protein eating habits and nutrition plans associated with GLP-1 medications. Sam Martin, chief revenue and marketing officer at Catalina Snacks, said: “Consumers are looking for snacks that work harder for them. More people are turning to snacks throughout the day, whether they're between meetings, commuting, travelling, or even replacing traditional meals." Founded in 2018 by Krishna Kaliannan, Catalina Snacks produces products positioned around protein, fibre and reduced sugar, with its portfolio spanning Protein Cereal, Protein Snack Mix, Chocolate Cookie Bars and Protein Granola. The new Snack Size Multipacks are available through Catalina Crunch’s website, with distribution into major retailers across the US set to follow.

Pringles has partnered with US restaurant chain Buffalo Wild Wings to launch a limited-edition range of crisps inspired by three of the chain’s signature sauces. The collaboration, Pringles’ first flavour partnership with a national restaurant brand in more than five years, includes Parmesan Garlic, Medium Buffalo and Asian Zing varieties. Parmesan Garlic combines aged parmesan and roasted garlic with Italian herbs, citrus notes and red spice. Medium Buffalo offers a blend of tangy Buffalo sauce, cayenne heat and a buttery finish, while Asian Zing pairs chilli peppers with rice vinegar, soy sauce and ginger. Mauricio Jenkins, salty snacks brand and content lead at Pringles owner Mars Snacking North America, said: "When two brands that are synonymous with game day and flavour come together, fans expect something big. We've taken the unmistakable flavours people love from Buffalo Wild Wings and packed them into our iconic stackable crisps, creating a lineup that's made for every kickoff, watch party and tailgate." Tristan Meline, brand president of Buffalo Wild Wings, added: "We're excited to partner with Pringles to bring Buffalo Wild Wings flavours to snack lovers in a whole new way. From game day to every day, these crisps capture the bold taste fans know and love from B-Dubs. It's a fun way to introduce new consumers to the brand and invite them to experience our legendary flavors firsthand." The three products began rolling out at selected US retailers in July and will become available nationwide in September. Each can carries a suggested retail price of $2.69.

US organic drink mix brand Fave has raised $1 million in seed funding and secured a national retail launch at Sprouts Farmers Market. The funding round was led by consumer investment firm Supernatural Ventures, with additional backing from Angel Group, Great Circle Ventures and CPG executives and founders associated with brands including Popchips, Perfect Bar and Brainiac. Fave has launched its range across almost 500 Sprouts Farmers Market stores nationwide, marking the brand’s first major retail expansion. Founded by CPG Industry Veteran Ryan Raish, Fave is positioning itself as an alternative to traditional drink mixes. Raish said: “From day one I knew there was an opportunity to reimagine the category; it took nearly two years and hundreds of formulations to create the nostalgic flavours people remember without compromising on ingredients.” Supernatural Ventures general partner Chris Robb said: “For the past decade innovation in the drink mix category has largely centred on function and performance. Fave saw an opportunity that others overlooked, putting flavour at the centre of the conversation with ingredients today’s consumers expect.” The brand claims to be the first certified organic brand in the nearly $1 billion US drink mix category. Its products contain 6g of organic cane sugar and 25 calories per serving. The launch range comprises four flavours: Lemonade, Fruit Punch, Strawberry Lemonade and Tangy Orange. All four products are USDA Organic and Non-GMO Project Verified, and are made without artificial colours, flavours and preservatives. Fave is available in 10-count cartons at Sprouts for a MSRP of $8.99, while 16-stick pouches are available through Fave’s website, Thrive Market and Amazon for $24.99. The company said the new funding will support its continued growth as it expands its presence in the drink mix category.