Frederic Lebourg With consumers increasingly seeking healthier options for home cooking, seed oils are under scrutiny for their nutritional value, ingredients and refining processes. Frederic Lebourg, chief executive officer of Fresh Press Farms, a producer of cold-pressed artisanal oils, discusses with FoodBev how processing methods can shape consumer perception and help health-conscious shoppers make better choices. In the food and beverage manufacturing industry, few ingredients have sparked more debate in recent years than seed oils. Once considered a kitchen staple, many seed oils are now under scrutiny due to concerns about their processing methods and nutritional impact. But as with many trends in health and wellness, the full picture is more nuanced, and important distinctions often get lost in the noise. Crop quality vs production methods Many food companies have spent the past few years working to better understand this category, particularly how seed oils are grown, pressed and refined – or left unrefined. It’s time to separate fact from fiction: not all seed oils are created equal, and often the processing method has a greater impact on quality than the source crop itself.   Take sunflower oil, for example. It can be obtained from regular high-yield seeds or from high-oleic seeds. Regular seeds yield an oil rich in saturated fat (between 15% and 17%!), which is the most harmful type of fat to consume, as it increases bad cholesterol. On the opposite side, high oleic seeds produce an oil containing only 3-5% of saturated fat. Furthermore, high oleic sunflower oil contains mostly monounsaturated fat. According to the Mayo Clinic, monounsaturated fat from plants has been proven to decrease bad cholesterol (HDL) and triglycerides in the blood, while raising good cholesterol (LDL) and therefore promoting cardiovascular health. But fatty acid profiles only tell part of the story. The production process plays a critical role in determining the nutritional and functional value of the final product. Many commercial seed oils are extracted using high heat and chemical solvents, then refined, bleached and deodorised to extend shelf life and remove flavour. While this approach creates a uniform, neutral product, it wipes the oil of beneficial compounds such as vitamins and introduces oxidative free radicals that can be harmful. Refining is a way of transforming low-quality oils into marketable oils that otherwise would be considered rancid (high free fatty acid) or present a bad taste.   Cold pressing offers an alternative. This method involves mechanically extracting oil at low temperatures, preserving more of the oil’s natural nutrients and minimising oxidative stress. The slower extraction time yields less volume, but we believe it results in a cleaner, better-tasting and healthier product. Sourcing also plays a crucial role. By creating optimal growing conditions for crops like sunflowers and managing every step of production onsite – from seed to bottle – producers can maintain tighter control over quality and traceability. This vertically integrated approach is increasingly important for manufacturers seeking transparency in their supply chains. Meeting nutritional targets From a formulation standpoint, high-oleic sunflower oil presents an opportunity to meet both functional and nutritional targets. Its high smoke point and nutty flavour make it versatile in a range of applications, from snacks and baked goods to dressings and sauces, while its fat profile supports better-for-you positioning. Of course, the seed oil conversation is ever evolving. While it is easy to group all oils from seeds under a single umbrella, science shows that this category is far more diverse. For manufacturers and product developers, this presents both a challenge and an opportunity: the challenge of navigating consumer perceptions, and the opportunity to rethink ingredient selection through a more informed lens. Ultimately, the goal is not to defend seed oils as a whole, but to encourage a more accurate and science-based view of what they are and what they can be. With better sourcing, thoughtful processing, and clearer communication, seed oils have a place in the future of food.

Painterland Sisters, a dairy brand founded by fourth-generation farmers, has closed its seed funding round, attracting significant investments from prominent angel groups, including The Angel Group and Supernatural Ventures, as well as individual investors from the sports and lifestyle sectors. This funding will enhance the brand's mission to promote organic, health-forward dairy products, particularly its popular skyr-style yogurt. The funding round underscores Painterland Sisters' growth trajectory, with the brand's organic, high-protein, lactose-free skyr yogurt resonating with health-conscious consumers across the US. In just under three years, the brand has expanded its distribution to over 5,000 stores nationwide, achieving remarkable sales of more than 5.7 million cups in 2024 alone. Notably, the brand has experienced a staggering 161.8% increase in dollar growth among the top 15 dairy brands in recent months, according to SPINS data. Investors were drawn to Painterland Sisters not only for its strong market performance but also for its commitment to sustainability and transparency in the food supply chain. The brand’s founders, sisters Stephanie and Hayley Painter, are dedicated to preserving their family’s organic regenerative dairy farm while connecting consumers directly with their food sources. Their approach aligns with a consumer demand for nutrient-dense, responsibly sourced dairy products. “Painterland Sisters checks every box for us,” said Adam Spriggs, founding member at The Angel Group. “It’s a brand with proven traction and strong fundamentals, led by founders who are deeply committed to a mission that resonates with today’s consumers.” The brand has garnered support from notable athletes and lifestyle entrepreneurs, including Olympic medalists Shawn Johnson and Andrew East, further validating its market appeal. The investment will be used to bolster operations and innovation as Painterland Sisters continues to expand its footprint, including a recent launch into Whole Foods Market. In 2024 alone, the brand utilised over 8.7 million pounds of milk, reinforcing its commitment to supporting American dairy farmers and sustainable practices. Jaxon Stuart, principal at Spacestation Investments, highlighted the brand’s unique position in a market traditionally dominated by legacy players. “Painterland Sisters is not just riding the wave of consumer interest in premium dairy; they are defining it with a compelling brand story and exceptional product quality,” he commented. As consumers become increasingly educated about ingredient quality and health benefits, Painterland Sisters is poised to lead a renaissance in the dairy sector. The brand's focus on clean, transparent ingredients and its mission-driven approach align with current market trends, making it a key player in the evolving landscape of health-oriented dairy products. With this funding round, Painterland Sisters is set to enhance its operations and continue its trajectory as a leader in the premium yogurt space, catering to a consumer base that increasingly values quality, nutrition and sustainability in their food choices.

The Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) – in partnership with Linney and milk processors such as Müller UK & Ireland – has released new research aimed at understanding how aisle design and packaging can significantly influence consumer purchasing behaviour in the milk category. This research comes at a critical juncture for the dairy industry, which faces declining milk consumption and shifting consumer attitudes towards dairy products. The dairy landscape: Challenges and opportunities The dairy category stands as one of the most valuable segments within the grocery market, accounting for a staggering £16.4 billion in total spend in the UK alone. Despite its prominence, milk volumes have experienced a concerning decline of 2.6% over the past year, equating to a loss of approximately 102 million litres. The AHDB/YouGov Consumer Tracker reveals that nearly 20% of consumers are considering reducing their dairy intake, primarily driven by health concerns and animal welfare issues. This decline poses significant challenges for retailers and dairy processors, necessitating innovative strategies to engage consumers effectively. Insights from the AHDB’s 'Optimising Milk In-Store' research To address these pressing challenges, the AHDB's 'Optimising milk in-store' research seeks to provide retailers and processors with actionable insights into shopper preferences and behaviours. The study employed a multifaceted approach, including a quantitative survey and a consumer immersion phase that tested over 4,000 unique combinations of packaging designs and aisle layouts. Key findings: Health messaging drives purchase intent: One of the standout findings from the research is the powerful impact of health-related communication within the milk aisle. When health messages were incorporated into the shopping environment, 25% of consumers indicated they would be more likely to purchase milk. The most effective health message identified was: “Milk naturally contains seven vitamins and minerals – vitamins B2, B5 and B12, calcium, iodine, potassium and phosphorus”. This messaging not only enhanced the perceived quality of the milk aisle but also transformed it into a more inspirational and engaging space, encouraging shoppers to view milk as a vital component of a healthy diet. The importance of packaging: On the packaging front, the research revealed that visuals and messaging centred around farming practices resonate strongly with consumers. Cow-centric imagery – depicting cows grazing in lush fields – coupled with messaging emphasising high food and farming standards, proved particularly effective in capturing shopper attention. Becs Goodwin, category development controller at Müller, commented: “AHDB’s fixture and packaging strategy is built on deep consumer insight, and Müller is proud to be part of the work to shape the fixture of the future. This collaboration reflects our shared ambition to reinvigorate the dairy aisle and inspire consumers with the benefits of milk, and we’re looking forward to engaging with our retail partners to help them deliver a more impactful and engaging experience in-store.” Consistency is key: The study also underscored the importance of maintaining consistent messaging across both aisle communication and packaging. Shoppers responded most positively to clear and cohesive themes that highlighted nutritional benefits and responsible farming practices. This consistency not only aids in reinforcing brand identity but also helps consumers make informed purchasing decisions, ultimately influencing their loyalty to specific products. Consumer immersion techniques: A noteworthy aspect of the research was the use of themed 3D virtual aisles, allowing researchers to simulate shopping experiences and gauge consumer reactions to various aisle designs and packaging strategies. This innovative approach provided valuable insights into how different elements of the shopping environment can impact consumer behaviour, revealing preferences for certain layouts and messaging styles that resonate with modern shoppers. Strategic implications for retailers For retailers, the insights gleaned from this research offer a strategic framework for enhancing shopper engagement within the milk category. By prioritising clear communication about the nutritional benefits of milk and showcasing responsible farming practices, retailers can effectively address consumer concerns and potentially reverse the downward trend in milk sales. Redesigning the milk aisle: Retailers are encouraged to consider redesigning milk aisles to incorporate health messaging prominently. This could involve new signage that highlights the nutritional advantages of milk, creating a visually appealing and informative shopping experience. Additionally, integrating interactive elements, such as QR codes linking to further information on sourcing and health benefits, could enhance consumer engagement. Leveraging packaging innovations: Highlighting packaging that features authentic visuals of dairy farming and clear messaging about quality standards can help differentiate products in a crowded market. Retailers should collaborate with processors to ensure that packaging not only meets regulatory standards but also resonates with consumer values around sustainability and animal welfare. Training staff and educating consumers: To maximise the impact of these changes, retailers should invest in staff training to ensure that employees are knowledgeable about the benefits of milk and can effectively communicate these to shoppers. Educational campaigns, both in-store and online, can further engage consumers and foster a deeper understanding of the health benefits and quality standards associated with dairy products.

Signode, a manufacturer of transit packaging solutions, has launched the Octopus Prestige Stretch Wrapper, designed specifically for the high-speed demands of beverage production lines. This new machine, set to be showcased at Drinktec in Munich, promises to enhance packaging efficiency while maintaining load stability and reliability. The Octopus Prestige stretch wrapper is engineered with direct input from beverage industry operators, ensuring it addresses the unique challenges faced in fast-paced production environments. Its design incorporates advanced features aimed at maximising uptime and minimising operational disruptions, making it a vital addition to any beverage packaging line. Key features of the Octopus Prestige include: High-speed performance: The machine is built to keep pace with rapid production lines without sacrificing load integrity, a critical factor in beverage packaging. User-friendly maintenance: The TopDown design allows all maintenance areas to be lowered to floor level, facilitating quick and efficient service without the need for extensive downtime. Enhanced durability: With fewer sensors and reduced wear and tear, the Octopus Prestige is designed to increase operational uptime, a crucial element for beverage manufacturers. Advanced film handling: The new Double-S film carriage system ensures stable loads while significantly reducing film consumption, contributing to cost efficiency. Integrated top sheet dispenser: This feature, combined with the RollCycler Film Roll Changing System that accommodates up to eight film rolls, allows for seamless operations and fewer interruptions during production. Jyri Lehtiö, business development director at Signode, noted the importance of customer feedback in the development of the Octopus Prestige. “Beverage lines demand speed, consistency, and uptime. The Octopus Prestige stretch wrapper delivers all three,” Lehtiö commented. “It’s built on customer insight and engineered to perform where it matters most.”

In a move to enhance its market presence, 818 Tequila has launched its new product line, 818 Minis, alongside an investment from Grupo Solave, one of Mexico’s largest family-owned agave producers. These two moves mark a pivotal moment for the brand, which has quickly risen to prominence in the competitive spirits landscape. The introduction of the 818 Minis aims to cater to the growing demand for premium, portable spirits, particularly among younger consumers and those seeking convenience without compromising on quality. The miniatures, which capture the essence of the brand’s full-sized offerings, are designed to appeal to both retail and hospitality sectors, providing an innovative option for bars, restaurants and retailers looking to diversify their beverage selections. Grupo Solave, renowned for its four generations of expertise in agave cultivation, has become a part-owner of 818 Tequila, reinforcing the brand's commitment to authenticity and excellence in production. This partnership not only deepens the brand’s roots in traditional Mexican craftsmanship but also enhances its supply chain capabilities, ensuring that 818 Tequila maintains the highest standards of quality as it scales operations. With this strategic investment, 818 Tequila is poised for accelerated growth in the premium spirits category. The brand's focus on quality and craftsmanship resonates well with consumers who are increasingly discerning about their beverage choices. The 818 Minis are expected to be a game-changer, allowing the brand to reach new markets and demographics. In conjunction with the product launch, 818 Tequila has appointed Larry Goodrich as the new chief executive officer. Goodrich, who previously led the brand during its early expansion, brings invaluable experience and a deep understanding of the company's vision. His leadership is anticipated to drive the brand's next phase of growth, leveraging both the new product line and the strategic investment to capture a larger share of the market.

Neil Pein Neil Pein, CEO of BNP Paribas Leasing Solutions, speaks to FoodBev about how Product-as-a-Service models can support European farmers facing mounting economic pressures, population growth, climate change and sustainability demands – giving them greater access to cutting-edge technology, financial flexibility and a more resilient future. ‘Empty shelf syndrome’ has become all too familiar for shoppers across Europe. Shortages are an almost daily occurrence in food supply, from olive oil to honey and, more recently, items like cauliflower and broccoli. But this empty shelf space is more than just a supply chain hiccup: this is a symptom of deeper-rooted problems in farming. The farming community is no stranger to hardship braving – unpredictable weather, tight finances, rising production costs and the demands of the land. Incomes are dropping, and many are being forced to close shop altogether. The European Union has seen a huge 37% drop in farms since 2005, with 5.3 million farms disappearing over just 15 years. At the same time, farmers are facing growing heat to invest in more sustainable farming practices, while many are struggling to make ends meet. Tightening regulations, new policy changes and green subsidies are changing ways of working on farms. Many are racing to play their part in building a more sustainable future – and the stakes are far greater than just keeping shelves full. A PaaS-ing trend? Farmers are now looking in other directions to manage business risks and costs, while having to tighten their belts. Product-as-a-Service (PaaS) business models are stepping in as a solution to respond to the challenges of modern farming. PaaS models allow customers to pay for the services and outcomes a product can provide, rather than paying for the ownership of the asset itself. For farms, this opens the door to modern, sustainable and expensive assets, which may otherwise be out of reach – such as ground-based sensors, drones, autonomous tractors, or GPS technology. These costs are spread over the contract’s duration, providing financial flexibility, predictable expenses and the freedom to reinvest in growth. PaaS is a win-win for manufacturers, too. Offering PaaS contracts can unlock predictable revenue streams for manufacturers by offering services that span the entire lifecycle of farm machinery. It’s a well-known fact that machinery, like combine harvesters and tractors, comes with a hefty price tag. With long asset lifespans, moving away from one-time sales helps manufacturers to diversify their revenue opportunities and build long-term relationships with farmers. The future of farming is circular Traditionally, the high cost of equipment has made it tough for farmers to modernise and invest in new, sustainable tools, with steep upfront costs being a major barrier. PaaS solutions are emerging as a way to democratise access to the tools they need to adapt and succeed. The EU’s Farm to Fork (F2F) strategy, introduced under the European Green Deal, has added urgency to updating outdated farm machinery and lean into circular economy principles. The F2F strategy aims to shift the current EU food system towards a sustainable model, with ambitious goals to halve the use of pesticides and fertilisers, reduce food loss and waste, and promote more sustainable production and consumption habits. Under these goals, pay-per-use contracts for advanced equipment like seeders and sprayers can add real value for farmers. By keeping upfront costs low, PaaS enables farmers to use precision farming methods that comply with the F2F strategy, help manage rising fertiliser costs, as well as protect water, soil and air quality. What’s more, PaaS agreements support sustainability aims by letting manufacturers reclaim valuable materials at the end of a machine’s life. They can also offer options like maintenance and spare parts. This not only supports the circular economy, but also provides a buffer against raw materials price fluctuations and supply chain disruptions. Giving farmers tools at their fingertips Farmers are familiar with the risk and disruption facing the sector. Across Europe, farmers have been taking to the streets to protest issues like EU subsidy delays and bureaucracy, while in the UK, thousands marched against upcoming inheritance tax changes on agricultural assets over £1 million starting April 2026. Pinching pennies, compounded by the growing impacts of climate change – like natural disasters and unpredictable weather patterns – are pushing the adoption of digital tools to the forefront, promising to lower operating costs and improve precision and accuracy. PaaS models leverage digital asset management, giving farmers the data insights to monitor equipment usage and performance like never before. This can span soil moisture levels, temperature fluctuations and livestock behaviour – offering data at their fingertips to better manage crops, minimise waste and weather the challenges ahead. The future of farming is rooted in a combination of financial flexibility and sustainable practices. With access to cutting-edge tools without the burden of high upfront costs, farmers can meet more stringent sustainability regulations, meet the food security needs of a growing population and reduce operating costs – ensuring stocked shelves become the norm, rather than the exception.

Eggo, owned by Kellanova, has added three new products to its protein breakfast range in the US, aiming to meet demand for convenient, high-protein options without compromising on taste. The latest additions include Buttermilk Vanilla Protein Waffles, Vanilla Protein Pancakes and Blueberry Protein Pancakes. The launch follows last year’s introduction of Chocolate Chip Brownie and Strawberry Delight Protein Waffles. Each serving provides 20% of the recommended daily value of protein, making Eggo the only leading waffle brand to reach this level, according to the company. Alicia Mosley, vice president of marketing for frozen foods at Kellanova, said: "We've focused on keeping taste first while delivering an excellent source of complete protein in every bite. Families are surprised that protein-packed waffles and pancakes can taste this good – but Eggo proves you can fuel your morning without giving up the taste everyone loves." Eggo says the products contain all essential amino acids and are designed for quick preparation, with the waffles ready from the toaster and pancakes microwaveable for busy mornings. The new protein waffles and pancakes are available now at US retailers, priced at $5.99 for a ten-pack of waffles or a 12-pack of pancakes.

Case Farms has completed the acquisition of Foster Farms’ Farmerville, Louisiana complex, marking a strategic expansion of its poultry operations. The deal covers the Farmerville Fresh Chicken, Prepared Foods and Protein Conversion facilities, along with a feed mill in Arcadia and a hatchery in Athens, Louisiana. Both companies said they will work to ensure a smooth transition for employees, customers and suppliers. The sale forms part of California-based Foster Farms’ strategy to focus on its core branded retail and foodservice channels, while giving Case Farms greater operational flexibility to meet customer needs. Tom Shelton, Case Farms's founder and chairman, said: “We are proud to welcome the well-respected Foster Farms team members and growers to the Case Farms family". Mike Popowycz, vice chairman and CEO of Case Farms, noted: “The acquisition fits Case Farms’ strategic growth plan and provides flexibility to provide our customers with the products they need to grow their business”. Jayson Penn, CEO of Foster Farms, commented: “We want to extend our gratitude to the entire Farmerville team for their dedication and hard work at Foster Farms. We are proud to have been part of the Farmerville community and to have worked closely with our elected leaders to position this important complex for sustained success. We look forward to seeing Case Farms continue to invest in the poultry operations in the region with the help of our colleagues joining their team today." “Looking ahead, this transaction is a significant step in growing our core branded retail and foodservice channels, which is central to our company strategy. We are now even better positioned to serve the millions of consumers who have made our brand a part of their lives for generations. Case Farms is a well-respected operator in our industry, and we wish the Farmerville team continued success.”

Danone North America has announced a significant investment in its Minster, Ohio, yogurt facility, aimed at expanding production capacity to meet the surging consumer demand for high-protein, nutrient-rich yogurt products. The multi-million-dollar initiative includes a 48,000 square-foot expansion, the installation of a new production line and upgrades to existing facilities, ultimately creating 30 new full-time jobs in the region. The Minster facility, which produces popular brands such as Oikos, Activia, Dannon and Danimals, is set to enhance its capabilities to better serve the growing yogurt market. With consumers increasingly seeking health-oriented food options, Danone’s investment is strategically timed to capitalise on this trend. The yogurt category is currently experiencing robust growth, driven by consumer preferences for products that offer both nutritional benefits and convenience. To support this expansion, Danone plans to increase its milk procurement by 60% over the next few years, collaborating with existing dairy producers and onboarding new local farms. This move not only secures a reliable supply chain but also strengthens Danone’s commitment to sourcing ingredients from American farmers, reinforcing its position as a leader in the US dairy market. Danone's investment in the Minster plant aims to enhance American manufacturing and operational excellence. The company sources 90% of its ingredients and packaging materials domestically, a practice that supports local economies and aligns with its mission to "bring health through food". The new production line is expected to improve efficiencies and expand product offerings, positioning Danone to better meet the needs of its customers in a competitive landscape. Heiko Gerling, chief operations officer for Danone North America, commented: “This is the latest example of our 80+ years of investments in American food, its economy and the farming partners that sustain our food systems – and this closely follows our recent investment in Jacksonville, Florida”. The yogurt market is projected to continue its upward trajectory as consumers increasingly prioritize health and wellness in their dietary choices. Danone’s proactive approach to expanding its Minster facility is a strategic response to this trend, ensuring that the company remains at the forefront of innovation in the yogurt sector.

Health-Ade has unveiled its latest innovation in the beverage market with the launch of SunSip Classic Cola, a prebiotic soda designed to combine nostalgic flavour with functional benefits. This new offering, available exclusively on the website starting today and at Whole Foods Market beginning September 3, aims to capture a significant share of the rapidly growing segment of health-conscious consumers seeking better-for-you soda alternatives. SunSip Classic Cola is positioned as a healthier version of the beloved cola flavour, which traditionally dominates the soft drink category. According to Health-Ade's chief marketing officer, Charlotte Mostaed, cola flavours account for 39% of the soda market but represent only 5% of the digestive health soda segment. This stark contrast highlights a substantial opportunity for growth in the functional beverage space, particularly as consumer preferences shift towards products that offer both taste and health benefits. Each can of SunSip Classic Cola contains gut-friendly prebiotic fibre, essential vitamins (C, B6 and B12), and minerals such as zinc and selenium, making it a compelling option for consumers focused on immunity and overall wellness. With just 5g of sugar derived from fruit juice, monk fruit and organic cane sugar, and only 35 calories, SunSip Classic Cola stands out in the crowded soda market by eliminating artificial ingredients while maintaining a classic taste profile. The introduction of Classic Cola marks the fourth flavour innovation for SunSip in 2025, following the successful launches of Cream Soda, Dr. Bubbles and Grape. The brand has rapidly gained traction at Whole Foods, where its Cream Soda has already become the top-selling flavour among new prebiotic soda brands. This momentum reflects a broader trend towards functional beverages that appeal to health-conscious consumers looking for enjoyable alternatives to traditional sugary sodas. Starting September 3, retailers will stock all nine flavours of SunSip, including the newly launched Classic Cola, Cherry Cola, Root Beer, Cream Soda, Dr. Bubbles, Raspberry Lemonade, Strawberry Vanilla, Peach and Grape. The expansion of flavours is indicative of Health-Ade's strategy to diversify its product offerings while meeting the evolving tastes and dietary preferences of today's consumers. Health-Ade's entry into the cola segment with a prebiotic twist not only aligns with current consumer trends but also positions the company to compete effectively in a market increasingly dominated by health-focused alternatives. As consumers become more aware of the health implications of their beverage choices, the demand for functional sodas is expected to continue its rapid growth, with cola-flavoured options projected to expand nearly 50% year-over-year.

Lifeway Foods, a player in the probiotic and fermented dairy market, has announced an expansion of its ProBugs line with the introduction of Conventional Whole Milk Kefir pouches. These new products will soon be available nationwide in the US, providing families with a fun, accessible way to enhance gut health for children. The new ProBugs Kefir pouches are designed specifically for kids, offering a convenient and engaging format that promotes healthy eating habits. Lifeway has introduced three kid-friendly flavours: Creamy Orange, Goo-Berry and Strawnana. Each pouch is crafted from conventional whole milk kefir, ensuring a rich source of bioavailable protein and billions of live probiotics – key components for supporting a healthy microbiome. Originally launched in 2007, ProBugs has carved out a space the children's nutrition segment by combining functional benefits with a playful packaging design. The new whole milk offerings build upon this legacy, catering to the growing demand for nutritious, kid-friendly dairy products. According to market research, the global kids' yogurt pouch market reached approximately $3.2 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 6.1% through 2033. Lifeway's expansion into conventional whole milk kefir aligns with its mission to promote good gut health by making probiotic-rich foods more accessible and affordable for families. Julie Smolyansky, CEO of Lifeway Foods, said: "Our goal has always been to make probiotic-rich foods easy, fun and available to all families". The new ProBugs pouches not only fulfil this goal but also cater to the increasing consumer interest in convenient, health-oriented snacks. Each pouch is lactose-free and perfect for on-the-go consumption, making it an ideal choice for busy families. The launch of the ProBugs Conventional Whole Milk Kefir pouches complements Lifeway's expanding product range, which includes the recently introduced Probiotic Smoothies + Collagen and 32oz conventional whole milk kefir.

Resources are becoming increasingly scarce, markets more agile and processes more complex. In this dynamic world, holistically conceived systems that combine technology, data and artificial intelligence are essential to boost efficiency, respond to change with flexibility and save valuable resources. From 15-19 September 2025 at Drinktec in Munich (halls B6 and C6), Krones will demonstrate how to achieve these goals. The focus will be on smart and sustainable data-based or data-defined solutions that can be responsively adapted to each individual requirement, regardless of whether small batches or large volumes are involved. The days of focusing on single machines are long since over. Now, it’s all about ensuring the perfect interaction of all the components in a line, which must be intelligently connected and flexibly scalable in order to achieve clear goals: reducing operating costs, enhancing resource-economy and creating processes that are even more reliable and more sustainable. The lines of the future One of the special highlights at the fair will be the fully automated and digitally connected line of the future. What was still just a vision in 2022 is now reality. The line of the future features many innovations that take efficiency, flexibility and resource-economy to new heights. And although the line exhibited is for PET bottles, the Krones team is already working on futuristic connected line concepts for glass and cans as well. Great variety of technologies for all container types A canning line, for example, will in future have a substantially smaller footprint. The newly developed LinaFlex eSync requires up to 40% less space, reduces maintenance, and, with its single-lane conveyor, ensures gentler handling. Other canning innovations include inspection and filling systems and Modulseam seamers, which offer excellent hygiene, fast changeovers and a new high-speed model capable of 135,000 cans per hour. The well-thought-out solutions that Krones will be showcasing for glass containers range from a new bottle washer boasting particularly gentle bottle handling, a smaller footprint and enhanced energy and media efficiency to design upgrades for filling valves for beer and spirits right through to innovative approaches aimed at ensuring flexible, cost-efficient filling. The filling exhibits are complemented by new labelling technologies and Compact Class solutions from Krones subsidiaries Kosme and Gernep. In digital transformation and intralogistics, Krones will showcase connected systems, smart intralogistics and AI-based process controls that enhance transparency, boost efficiency and ensure optimal resource allocation. Find out more here .