Ingredients specialist IMCD has officially reopened its modernised Food & Nutrition application laboratory in Cologne, Germany. The facility forms part of a new Life Science Hub that brings together the company's Food & Nutrition, Pharmaceutical and Beauty & Personal Care laboratories under one roof for the first time in Germany. The integrated approach is designed to accelerate product development through interdisciplinary collaboration while providing customers with hands-on support. According to IMCD, the Food & Nutrition laboratory is equipped to support a wide range of applications including bakery, beverages, confectionery, dairy, savoury, edible oils and fats, fruits and vegetables, and nutritional products. The lab focuses on formulation challenges relating to taste, texture, nutritional enhancement and functional performance, combining application expertise with a broad ingredient portfolio. Daniel Kany, business unit manager for Food & Nutrition at IMCD Germany, said the facility provides food and beverage customers with a ‘best in class environment’ for development, consultation and regulatory support. Katja Wilmes, application technologist in the Food & Nutrition unit, highlighted the role of the centre in addressing complex formulation demands. She said: “Whether it is improving mouthfeel, intensifying flavour, extending shelf life or enriching products with nutrients, the interdisciplinary setup allows us to respond more precisely to changing market requirements.” The Cologne site also houses IMCD’s long-established Pharmaceutical Technical Centre, which supports the development of pharmaceutical and dietary supplement formulations, as well as Beauty & Personal Care laboratory focused on skin, hair, sun care and cosmetic applications. The Food & Nutrition laboratory is part of IMCD’s global network of more than 80 application laboratories worldwide. The facility is now open for customer visits and collaborative development projects.

UK-based tempeh brand Better Nature has expanded its range with the addition of a Peri Peri-flavoured variety, available in Tesco. The brand is targeting meat eaters with its latest launch, providing a plant-based alternative to the classic Peri Peri chicken dish. In a release announcing the launch, Better Nature noted that UK consumer appetite for Peri Peri is on the rise, indicated by restaurant chain Nando’s scaling up its operations. With this in mind, the plant-based brand aims to encourage a swap to tempeh, launching its latest offering alongside a ‘Give Chicken the Night Off’ marketing campaign. The new Peri Peri Tempeh offers 44g of protein per pack, a source of iron, and fibre and gut health benefits due to its fermented nature. It provides a minimally processed option that can be prepped and cooked like traditional chicken, suitable for serving with rice, wraps and stir fries. Elin Roberts, co-founder and CEO of Better Nature, said: “With Nando’s fuelling the UK’s appetite for Peri Peri, our new Peri Peri Tempeh is tapping into the chicken shop boom, targeting meat-eaters who want more from their mealtimes”. The launch coincides with a packaging redesign for the brand, which has a more natural look and feel. It also includes ‘three steps to prep’ on-pack instructions, and ‘supercharged protein’ messaging, tapping into the protein trend. Better Nature Peri Peri Tempeh is now rolling out in Tesco stores nationwide, priced at RRP £3.00 per 220g pack.

JonnyPops, the US-based frozen novelty brand known for its colourful, clean-label treats, is launching a new product designed to meet the growing trend of functional indulgence, announcing the launch of No Sugar Added with Electrolytes mini pops, a new addition to its No Sugar Added line up. Scheduled to arrive in stores nationwide from April 2026, the new mini pops were developed in response to direct consumer feedback. According to the brand, consumers have shared how they have been using JonnyPops to hydrate after sports or in hot weather, prompting this launch. The new frozen pops feature added electrolytes, are organic, contain no added sugar and are free from artificial dyes. Like other products in the line, they are made with layered flavours designed to deliver visual appeal and taste. The launch aligns with broader category trends as frozen dessert brands increasingly look to bridge indulgence with functional benefits, such as hydration and clean ingredients. JonnyPops No Sugar Added with Electrolytes mini pops will be available from April 2026 across the US.

Anheuser-Busch has unveiled its latest offering, Michelob Ultra Zero Lime, aiming to capitalise on the burgeoning non-alcoholic beverage market Set to hit shelves nationwide this January, the new brew promises a refreshing alternative for health-conscious consumers, featuring a 0.0% alcohol by volume content and only 39 calories per serving. The introduction of Michelob Ultra Zero Lime is poised to enhance Anheuser-Busch's rapidly expanding non-alcohol beer segment, which has seen significant growth in recent years. In 2025, the Michelob Ultra brand emerged as a top-selling and fast-growing beer in the US, with Michelob Ultra Zero capturing over 13.5% of the non-alcohol beer market. This latest launch aligns with the company's commitment to meeting evolving consumer preferences for lighter, flavour-forward options. Kyle Norrington, chief commercial officer at Anheuser-Busch, said: “Our focus is always on our consumers and ensuring that we continue to invest and innovate in growing segments to meet their needs”. He added that the launch of Michelob Ultra Zero Lime represents another exciting choice for consumers aiming to maintain an active lifestyle without sacrificing taste. Michelob Ultra Zero Lime will be available in six-pack 12oz bottles and select states will also offer it in 12-pack 12oz cans. The product aims to attract a demographic of 21+ consumers who are increasingly seeking refreshing, alcohol-free beverages, particularly as the trend towards mindful drinking continues to gain traction.

McCormick & Company, a global flavour solutions provider, has announced the successful acquisition of an additional 25% ownership interest in McCormick de Mexico from Grupo Herdez, bringing its total ownership to 75%. This acquisition, finalised for a purchase price of $750 million, enhances McCormick's foothold in the burgeoning Mexican market and paves the way for further expansion throughout Latin America. The acquisition, initially disclosed on August 21 2025 , marks a significant milestone in McCormick's longstanding partnership with Grupo Herdez, a collaboration that dates back to 1947. By increasing its stake in the joint venture, McCormick aims to leverage its extensive expertise in category management, innovation, and marketing to drive growth in the region. Brendan M Foley, chairman, president and CEO of McCormick, said: “We are excited to acquire majority ownership in McCormick de Mexico, further strengthening our track record of driving shareholder value through strategic acquisitions”. He continued: "With this expanded ownership, we plan to build on McCormick de Mexico's strong performance by enhancing our product offerings and expanding into adjacent categories”. The transaction is expected to positively impact McCormick's financial performance in 2026, contributing to net sales, adjusted operating margin, and adjusted earnings per share, excluding integration costs. Furthermore, McCormick anticipates minimal impact on its Net Debt to Adjusted EBITDA ratio as a result of this acquisition. As the demand for flavour continues to rise globally, McCormick's expanded presence in Mexico positions the company to capitalise on emerging trends within the food and beverage industry. The acquisition not only solidifies McCormick's leadership in the flavour segment but also aligns with its strategy to enhance brand marketing support and product innovation tailored to local consumer preferences. McCormick will provide further financial guidance for fiscal 2026, including the effects of this acquisition, during its fourth quarter earnings call scheduled for 22 January 2026. The company's extensive portfolio includes well-known brands such as McCormick, French's and Frank's RedHot, positioning it to meet the growing consumer demand for flavour in the global food and beverage market.

Jade Leaf Matcha, a premium matcha company is set to launch a Pistachio Matcha Latte Mix. This new offering, which combines the smoothness of matcha with a creamy pistachio twist, will be exclusively available at Target, marking a significant expansion of the brand’s ready-to-mix latte line-up. Pistachio Matcha Latte Mix is designed for consumers seeking an on-trend, convenient and cost-effective alternative to café-style drinks. At a retail price of $10.99 for a package containing ten servings, each cup of this new latte mix costs approximately $1, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers who desire a premium beverage experience at home. With the growing popularity of matcha and plant-based beverages, this launch aligns with current consumer trends favouring health-conscious and flavourful drink options. Pistachio Matcha Latte Mix offers a naturally sweet and nutty flavour profile, appealing to both matcha enthusiasts and those new to the beverage. The product is available for purchase online and in store. As the demand for convenient, high-quality beverages continues to rise, Jade Leaf Matcha’s new offering aims to attract a diverse customer base, from busy professionals to health-conscious families. Jade Leaf Matcha specialises in premium matcha products sourced from Japan. The company is dedicated to providing high-quality matcha while promoting the health benefits associated with this traditional beverage.

Sacmi has acquired a majority stake in the French-based Groupe Emballage Technologies, strengthening its position in the food packaging sector and expanding its footprint in key European markets. The transaction, finalised on 19 December 2025, sees Sacmi take a 65% shareholding in Groupe Emballage Technologies through its subsidiary Sacmi Packaging & Chocolate, the group’s business unit dedicated to food packaging solutions. Groupe Emballage Technologies includes the companies Etpack, Sermatec and Pactisoud. Sacmi's relationship with Etpack dates back to 2019, when the two companies began collaborating via Sacmi's Poland-based subsidiary. According to Sacmi, the acquisition builds on a long-standing industrial partnership and a shared strategic vision, creating significant commercial and technological synergies. With the integration of Groupe Emballage Technologies, Sacmi Packaging & Chocolate expands and completes its secondary packaging portfolio, incorporating complementary technologies that enable access to additional industries and market segments. The move also strengthens Sacmi's capabilities in flowpack line construction and in low- and medium-speed vertical packaging machines, which are designed by Sacmi and assembled by Sermatec. This integration is expected to enhance the group’s responsiveness to evolving market demands. Groupe Emballage Technologies is well established in France, a market Sacmi views as strategically important. The acquisition supports Sacmi's objective of developing a strong local presence through a network of production and sales facilities, while reinforcing its broader international positioning. Sacmi Packaging & Chocolate already operates in Poland, the DACH region and the US. “Strengthening our food packaging operations is a key Sacmi goal,” said Sacmi president Paolo Mongardi. “The skills and widespread presence of Groupe Emballage Technologies in France will significantly support our growth in this market. The complementary nature of our primary and secondary packaging solutions completes Sacmi's technological offering and opens up new market opportunities through the full involvement of our global network.” “Maintaining autonomy is essential, given the excellent work carried out over recent years,” added Pierrick Doux, who has led the Group since 2007. “Closer collaboration will allow us to pursue shared strategic objectives and support growth both in France and internationally.” The first official joint market appearance following the acquisition will take place at CFIA Rennes in March 2026.

Danish industrial biotech company EvodiaBio has raised €6 million (DKK 45 million) in a new funding round to accelerate expansion across European, North American and Asian markets, as well as to broaden applications of its fermentation-based aroma technology within the beverage sector. The round was led by US-based RA Capital Management’s Planetary Health Fund, with participation from new investors Wild Radicals and Francis Family Funds, alongside existing backers. This brings EvodiaBio’s total capital raised to DKK 150 million over the past three years. Founded to develop sustainable aroma molecules via fermentation, EvodiaBio has moved from lab-scale research to industrial production in just three years. The company produces yeast-derived natural monoterpenes – key volatile aroma compounds – using a platform it says is significantly more resource efficient than traditional extraction or chemical synthesis. EvodiaBio’s initial focus has been on the beer industry, where its technology is positioned as an alternative or supplement to hops to tackle crop issues due to climate volatility. According to the company, the platform allows brewers to achieve a consistent aroma profile while reducing dependence on agricultural inputs and supply chain risks. EvodiaBio’s CEO Camilla Kloss Fenneberg said: “Within just three and a half years, we have gone from a research project to industrial production with all necessary approvals and a profitable product. This investment allows us to accelerate global growth and build the foundation for expansion into new markets.” Kyle Teamey, managing partner at RA Capital, added: “The technology convincingly solves the challenge of producing natural aromas efficiently and sustainably at an industrial scale”. While brewing remains the primary commercial focus, EvodiaBio plans to expand its technology into adjacent categories, including other beverages, wine and the wider aroma and flavour industry. Asia has been identified as a priority growth region following expansion in Europe, the US and Canada. “Our ambition is to become a global leader in industrial biotech,” Fenneberg commented. “We see significant opportunities to apply our platform across multiple industries with a strong need for sustainable, scalable aroma solutions.”

Ben & Jerry’s has unveiled its latest product innovation: the Cookie Dough Ice Cream Sandwich. The new launch aims to meet the burgeoning demand for convenient snacking options, which is anticipated to expand by 6.7% over the next three years. The new Cookie Dough Ice Cream Sandwich features a combination of Ben & Jerry’s iconic cookie dough flavour, renowned as the brand’s top-selling pint, enhanced with an indulgent twist. Each sandwich consists of two soft cookies – infused with vanilla and cocoa swirls – encasing a generous portion of rich vanilla ice cream, studded with cookie dough chunks. Lucy McManus, UK brand manager for Ben & Jerry’s, said: “We’re excited to introduce our Cookie Dough Ice Cream Sandwich, offering fans a new way to enjoy their favourite flavour". She continued: "This product is designed for both at-home enjoyment and on-the-go indulgence, allowing consumers to experience cookie dough bliss in a convenient format”. The Cookie Dough Ice Cream Sandwich is produced using Fairtrade Certified ingredients, including sugar, vanilla and cocoa, along with eggs sourced from free-range hens. The product will be available in two formats: a four-pack (68ml x 4) with a suggested retail price of £5, and a single sandwich (120ml) priced at £2.50. Distribution will commence in major UK retailers, including Asda and Morrisons, starting in January 2026.

SunBuzz has entered the rapidly expanding alcohol-alternatives market with the launch of its premium, alcohol-free, hemp-derived THC ready-to-serve cocktail line, targeting adult consumers seeking moderation-forward, better-for-you beverage options that still deliver a social, elevated experience. As mindful drinking, Dry January participation and reduced-alcohol lifestyles continue to influence purchasing behaviour, hemp-derived THC beverages are emerging as a fast-growing category. SunBuzz positions itself at the intersection of wellness, social ritual, and familiar cocktail culture, offering low-calorie formulations designed to replicate classic mixed drinks, without alcohol. The SunBuzz portfolio includes four initial flavours inspired by well-known cocktails: Espresso Martini, Cosmopolitan, Margarita and Jalapeño Pineapple Margarita. The beverages are packaged in 750ml resealable bottles intended for sharing and on-premise-style occasions. Each 5-ounce serving contains 20 calories and a measured 5mg blend of hemp-derived THC and CBG, aimed at delivering a consistent and approachable experience for adult consumers. “Consumers are rethinking their relationship with alcohol and looking for better-for-you beverage options that still feel social and sophisticated,” said Larry Trachtenbroit, founder of SunBuzz. “SunBuzz delivers an alcohol-free cocktail alternative that aligns with intentional drinking habits without sacrificing flavour or experience.” Unlike single-serve THC beverages that emphasise convenience, SunBuzz leans into premium presentation and classic cocktail familiarity. The brand’s focus on low calories and controlled dosing reflects broader industry trends toward transparency, moderation and wellness-forward formulations. SunBuzz products are made with hemp-derived THC and formulated in compliance with current applicable federal guidelines. The beverages are intended for adults 21 and over and are available where permitted by law. The brand has launched statewide distribution in New Jersey and is also selling direct-to-consumer online.

Saudi Arabia has begun cautiously loosening its long-standing prohibition on alcohol, a policy adjustment that, while limited in scope, is already prompting quiet recalibration among global food, beverage and hospitality groups assessing the kingdom’s evolving consumer landscape. Without public announcement, authorities have expanded controlled access to alcohol beyond diplomats to a small cohort of non-Muslim expatriates holding premium residency status, according to people familiar with the matter. Sales are restricted to tightly regulated outlets, with purchase quotas, identity checks and location limits firmly in place. For now, volumes are negligible and access remains confined to a narrow segment of residents. But for international brewers, distillers, distributors and hotel operators, the move signals something more consequential than immediate sales: the emergence of a regulated framework where none previously existed. “We always knew it was coming, that Saudi was preparing for something,” Michael Ratney, who served as US ambassador to the kingdom under the Biden administration, told the Wall Street Journal . “One thing was just the physical signals – you would go into new restaurants, and they all had bars. The bars didn’t have alcohol, but the infrastructure was starting to pop up.” A regulatory experiment, not a retail launch Alcohol has been banned in Saudi Arabia since the early 1950s, apart from tightly controlled diplomatic exemptions. Its reintroduction, even on a limited basis, touches on religious, cultural and political sensitivities that the government has sought to manage through incremental change rather than sweeping reform. Access is currently restricted to non-Muslim expatriates who meet income and residency thresholds, with purchases tracked through a points-based system. The government has not outlined a formal policy roadmap and officials have declined to comment publicly. Industry executives say the lack of fanfare is deliberate. By avoiding a headline policy shift, Saudi authorities retain flexibility to expand, pause or reverse the programme while gauging domestic response. That approach mirrors earlier social reforms under Vision 2030 – the economic diversification strategy launched by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman – where pilot schemes preceded broader liberalisation in areas such as entertainment, tourism and women’s participation in the workforce. Implications for drinks, hospitality and ingredients suppliers While the current regime does not permit alcohol sales in mainstream restaurants, bars or retail, analysts say it begins to address a structural issue that has long complicated Saudi Arabia’s ambitions as a tourism and events destination. The kingdom is investing heavily in high-end resorts along the Red Sea coast, as well as giga-projects such as NEOM and Qiddiya, designed to attract international visitors, conferences and sporting events. In most global markets, premium hospitality offerings assume at least some availability of alcoholic beverages. For global hotel groups with large Saudi development pipelines – including Marriott, Hilton, Accor and IHG – the question is less about whether alcohol will be permitted universally, and more about zoning. If so, a segmented model could be one outcome. We may start to see alcohol permitted in specific resorts or tourism zones, while remaining prohibited elsewhere. That is broadly consistent with how neighbouring markets have evolved. For drinks producers, particularly premium spirits and craft beer companies, any future participation would likely be indirect at first, supplied through licensed distributors serving hotels and resorts rather than consumer-facing retail. Executives caution that Saudi Arabia would not resemble a mass-market opportunity even under a more permissive regime. Consumption limits, high prices, import controls and cultural norms would cap volumes. But margins, particularly in luxury hospitality, could be attractive. A supply-chain story as much as a social one Industry specialists note that the emergence of a legal channel for alcohol could also reshape adjacent supply chains – from cold storage, operations and logistics to glass packaging, ingredients and flavourings, and non-alcoholic alternatives. Several global beverage groups already operate in Saudi Arabia through malt drinks, alcohol-free beers and functional beverages, categories that have seen strong growth. Any future expansion into alcoholic products would likely sit alongside – rather than replace – these portfolios. Saudi Arabia’s cautious approach reflects a broader pattern across the Gulf, where alcohol policy varies sharply by jurisdiction. The United Arab Emirates permits sales in licensed venues, while maintaining restrictions in more conservative emirates. Qatar and Oman allow alcohol in designated hotels. Kuwait maintains a total ban. Rather than importing any one model wholesale, Saudi policymakers appear intent on designing a system aligned with domestic priorities Analysts say the country is unlikely to replicate any single regional model, instead developing a system aligned with its own economic and social priorities. For now, the policy shift remains limited and tightly managed. But for an industry accustomed to reading regulatory signals years in advance, it represents a notable change in direction.

Arla Foods has entered the cottage cheese category with the launch of a new range, tapping into rising demand for high-protein and low-fat dairy products. Cottage cheese is experiencing a resurgence in the UK, driven by the increased consumer interest in high-protein dairy amid trends like rising health-consciousness and GLP-1 medication usage. Arla said it aims to broaden appeal among younger, protein-seeking consumers while driving value growth for retailers. With one in four UK households currently buying cottage cheese according to Kantar data, Arla hopes its latest launch will help recruit new and lapsed shoppers to the category by trading up from private label through ‘taste and trusted quality’. The range has been developed for broad, everyday usage across meals and snacks – such as on toast, in bakes and sauces, or as a high-protein topping. It combines a light and spoonable texture with a ‘clean and creamy’ taste, Arla said, aiming to appeal to young audiences who engage with social recipe trends involving cottage cheese on platforms like TikTok. Stuart Ibberson, Arla brand director at Arla Foods, said: “Cottage cheese is back on shoppers’ radar for good reasons – taste, versatility and protein. With Arla Cottage Cheese, we’re bringing the reassurance and reach of the Arla masterbrand to help retailers trade the fixture up, recruit younger shoppers and unlock repeat through everyday usage.” He added: “Penetration is building, and the UK still under-indexes versus other markets and adjacent dairy protein categories, so there’s clear runway for future growth”. The new line is available at selected UK retailers from today (5 January 2026) in Natural and Low Fat Natural varieties.