Plant-based beverage brand Califia Farms has acquired Uproot, a US-based plant milk dispenser system for foodservice. Uproot provides sustainable, nutritious plant-based milk to the foodservice sector. Its plant-based milk dispenser programme, which launched in 2022, operates over 150 dispensers at colleges, schools and hospitals across the US. The programme serves oat milk, soy milk, and chocolate pea milk to meet the growing demand for plant-based milk. The acquisition will enable Califia to expand its ‘Away From Home’ portfolio of products and services. Dave Ritterbush, CEO of Califia Farms, said: “The founders of Uproot have developed a turnkey solution for dispensing plant-based milk and have achieved impressive distribution in just five years. We look forward to building on this foundation, connecting with consumers in new ways and providing our plant milks to more people.” Kevin Eve, founder of Uproot, added: “Jacob and I founded Uproot to bring great plant-based milks to college dining and other food services. We are excited to continue this mission with Califia Farms because they share our commitment to nutrition and sustainability. Together with Califia Farms, we will be able to offer more delightful, dispensed plant-based products and better serve our customers!” Under the deal, Uproot’s employees, including its two founders, will join the Califia team. The financial terms of the deal were not disclosed. #CalifiaFarms #Uproot #US #plantbased #plantbaseddairy

Elin Roberts, co-founder of Better Nature Tempeh, has stepped into the role of co-CEO. Better Nature launched in 2020 and is now listed in over 1,000 retail locations nationwide, including Tesco, Asda, Lidl, Ocado, Planet Organic and Whole Foods Market. The brand’s mission is to help consumers live healthier lives by ‘making whole food proteins the norm, not the alternative’ with its portfolio of tempeh products. Roberts joins current CEO Christopher Kong, where she will continue to head up business strategy, team culture and marketing as co-CEO. Kong will lead on sales, business development and fundraising. Commenting on her new role, she said: “I’m excited to join forces with Chris in the co-CEO role, balancing his energy and determination with sales, fundraising and business development with my business strategy and team leadership skills as we take the business to the next stage of our growth journey”. Kong added: “I am delighted to be working with Elin as co-CEO. Elin’s bold decision-making, rooted in consumer insight, is one of the fundamental reasons Better Nature Tempeh is now the UK’s fastest-growing meat-free brand, and her compassionate yet firm leadership has helped create a workplace culture that gets the best from our team, day in and day out.” #BetterNatureTempeh #UK

Kraft Heinz’s potato-based frozen food brand Ore-Ida has partnered with frozen dessert firm GoodPop to launch the Fudge n’ Vanilla French Fry Pop. The ice cream stick was developed to tap into US consumers’ preference for dipping salty French fries into cold, creamy milkshakes. According to a survey, this is one of America’s most popular food combinations. The Fudge n’ Vanilla French Fry Pop wraps a frozen vanilla oat milk base in a rich, chocolate fudge shell rolled in real, crispy potato bits. Jackie Britva, senior brand manager for Ore-Ida at The Kraft Heinz Company, said: “For over 70 years, Ore-Ida has offered Americans delicious and crispy French fries in the comfort of their homes. Nothing says summer quite like the sweet and salty combo of a fry dipped in a milkshake, but fans often have to go to a restaurant to enjoy the summertime staple. In partnership with GoodPop, we put a unique and convenient spin on the American classic, bringing it to home freezers everywhere. Put simply, we dipped it, so our fans don’t have to.” Daniel Goetz, CEO and founder of GoodPop, added: “At GoodPop, we love creating cleaned-up versions of classic treats. With this seasonal collaboration, we hope to rekindle that child-like joy of summer, with a decidedly modern twist. As always, GoodPop's goal is to elevate expectations for nostalgic favourites, so these Fudge n’ Vanilla French Fry Pops are dairy- and gluten-free, fit for all families to enjoy." The new ice cream sticks are available to purchase at select US retailers now for a limited time. #GoodPop   #OreIda   #US   #icecream

Speciality ingredient solution provider Ingredion has launched a new pea protein optimised for cold-pressed bars. The solution, named ‘VitEssence Pea 100 HD’, helps manufacturers maintain the softness of cold-pressed bars throughout shelf life, providing preferred texture and sensory attributes and adding nutritional value. “Consumers want soft, smooth textures and balanced taste,” Ingredion said in a statement. “Yet soy, whey and other plant proteins pose challenges. Generally, bars become harder over the products’ shelf life and gritty, powdery, dry and chalky textures are common, reducing the desirability of the bar.” VitEssence Pea 100 HD delivers a minimum of 84% protein on a dry basis and functions like whey or soy protein with softness through shelf life in cold-pressed bars. Ingredion’s proprietary process ensures a consistently functional product with fewer texture changes and desired sensory attributes for cold-pressed bars. The protein is non-hydrolysed, minimising bitter tastes and providing a cleaner label – this reduces negative consumer connotations while performing like a hydrolysed protein for smooth texture. Tara Kozlowich, director of global segment marketing, healthful solutions protein fortification at Ingredion, said: “Ingredion identified key consumer drivers such as taste, texture and sensory attributes in the sports and nutrition bar space. Understanding these preference drivers drove the development and launch of the plant protein. Our objective was to reach and maintain low levels of hardness in cold-pressed bars to keep smooth and creamy textures intact from the first bite to the last – throughout the product’s shelf life – without compromising nutrition or the eating experience.” Ingredion compared VitEssence Pea 100 HD to other protein sources in accelerated shelf-life and sensory studies. The technical experts from Ingredion’s innovation centres developed a cold-pressed bar model system and swapped competitive protein sources one-for-one. They also assessed the same model system against commercially available bars, using a third-party survey to gauge consumer preference. Michael Valenti, manager, global innovation business lead of healthful solutions protein fortification at Ingredion, added: “VitEssence Pea 100 HD showed desirable and predictably stable softness over shelf life and among pea protein competitors measured, had low pulse flavour and significantly lower chalky/gritty mouthfeel. In testing versus commercially available bars, consumers preferred the Ingredion cold-pressed bar prototype with VitEssence Pea 100 HD.” VitEssence Pea 100 HD is free of major food allergens and can help reduce the carbon footprint and blue water usage in cold pressed bars when replacing whey isolate. #Ingredion #peaprotein #ingredients

GoodMills Innovation has increased its capacity to produce plant-based ingredients following the completion of a new production tower at its site in Hamburg, Germany. ‘Tower III,’ the result of a multi-million euro investment, hosts a fully automated production process combining extrusion, texturization, wet defibering and hydrothermal product refinement. The project underlines GoodMills Innovation’s mission to play a ‘visionary role’ in shaping the plant-based F&B market, and establish itself as a ‘centre of excellence’ for the texturization of plant-based proteins for use in vegetarian and vegan products. The new facilities on 2,500-square-metres of production space, spread over seven levels, are ready after three years of construction. The central location of the 42-metre-tall Tower III gives GoodMills Innovation direct access to grinding and speciality mill products from the group’s sister company, Aurora Mühle Hamburg, as well as seaport access. Katharina Haack, head of marketing communications at GoodMills Innovation, said: “Plant-based nutrition is a building block towards a more sustainable future. And this is where we want to make a major contribution.” “Our raw materials enable manufacturers to produce high-quality meat and fish alternatives on an industrial scale, all of which are convincing in terms of taste, sensory properties and nutritional physiology. Only in this way can plant-based products gain an even greater market share.” Top image: © GoodMills Innovation #GoodMillsInnovation #Germany

The shortlist has been unveiled for the Speciality & Fine Food Fair Awards 2024, sponsored by the Federation of French Charcuterie Catering Companies (FICT), which recognise quality artisan products and inspiring independent retailers. Nicola Woods, Event Manager for Speciality & Fine Food Fair, comments: “We were overwhelmed by the volume and quality of the award entries this year, with our judges deliberating hard to select the shortlisted products and businesses. “It’s so exciting to see the innovation in the UK and international speciality food sector, and to read about the amazing work independent retailers are doing to serve their communities and champion artisanal food & drink. “Congratulations to everyone shortlisted, we can’t wait to celebrate with you at the Fair!” The shortlist for the 2024 Speciality & Fine Food Fair Awards is: Not Yet on the Shelf Fowlescombe Rare & Pasture Ltd - Rare @ Pasture Smoked Beef Pastrami Persian Kitchen Foods Ltd - Baba Ganoush Hensol Castle Distillery - Hensol Castle Welsh Vodka SUPERKEEN - Organic Cereal powered by Tiger Nuts Caragh Keane, Founder of SUPERKEEN, comments: "I am so incredibly grateful to hear that SUPERKEEN is shortlisted for a Speciality & Fine Food Fair Award 2024! Specialty & Fine Food Fair is an amazing event that I have wanted to be a part of since starting the brand. We are 'Super Keen' to hear the results and to hear all about the wonderful brands involved.” New Product of the Year - International ·        Asilia Limited - Asilia Salt ·        The Happy Pear - Dip & Snack Red Pepper Hummus ·        Be Truffle - Sweet Truffle Chilli ·        Be Truffle - Truffle Soy Sauce New Product of the Year - UK ·        Golden Hooves - Red Leicester ·        House of Theobroma - Cacaolasses ·        The Matcha Yaad - Matcha Ginger Refresher ·        Golden Hooves - Smoked Cheddar Best DEI Initiative ·        NEMI Teas Ltd. ·        The Biskery Large Independent Retailer of the Year, in partnership with BIRA ·        Low Sizergh Barn ·        The De Beauvoir Deli ·        Cobbs Farm Co Ltd ·        Priory Farm Estate Small Independent Retailer of the Year, in partnership with BIRA ·        Cheese Etc. The Pangbourne Cheese Shop ·        The Norfolk Deli ·        Forest Deli ·        The Cheese Lady Andrew Goodacre CEO of BIRA (British Independent Retailers Association) and awards judge, comments: “In my role as CEO for BIRA I am lucky to be invited to judge many awards. I see this as a privilege as I read about some of the fantastic retail businesses on our high streets throughout the UK. These awards were no different, with all the entrants showing their real passion for their business and their customers. In my mind they are all winners.” Stefano Cuomo, CEO of Macknade and awards judge, adds: “Showcasing the very best of our peers, as chosen by the communities that use them, these awards highlight the innovation and hard work that goes on in our independent businesses, up and down our nation, to not only provide incredible service and experience, but illustrating how we, as a sector, are leading the shift to progressive and sustainable supply chains and consumption – reading my peers’ entries for these awards makes me so proud to be part of this vibrant sector!” The independent retailer and new product awards are now open for public industry vote. Industry professionals can learn more about all the nominees and cast their vote for the winners at specialityandfinefoodfairs.co.uk/speciality-fine-food-fair-awards-2024/cast-vote. Speciality & Fine Food Fair returns to ExCeL London on 10-11 September 2024 to celebrate its 25th anniversary. To find out more about everything happening at this special edition of the Fair, and to secure your complimentary trade ticket, visit specialityandfinefoodfairs.co.uk.

Sustainable hummus brand ChicP has launched a new range of ambient hummus snack pots. The new dips, which combine hummus with crunchy breadsticks, come in five flavours: Original, Harissa, Basil, Truffle and Chocolate. Each pot contains 100% natural ingredients, is rich in protein, fibre and healthy fats, and is free from additives and suitable for vegans. Each ready-to-eat pack has a shelf life of 12-months and requires no refrigeration, tapping into demand for convenient, on-the-go snacks. ChicP’s founder Hannah McCollum said: “We are seeing a real shift in consumers and companies wanting healthier snacks that are also functional. We understand that more and more of our consumers are leading increasingly more hectic and fast-paced life and work styles, which is why our ambient Hummus Snack Pots are high in protein, iron and dietary fibre, to help them get the most out of their day”. She continued: “There is a huge desire for healthier, on-the-go, no fuss snacks for the whole family and our ambient Snack Pots are helping to curb that hunger”. #ChicP #hummus

Independent beverage solution provider Refresco has entered into an agreement to acquire Frías Nutrición from Alantra Private Equity and the founding family. Frías, which manufactures plant-based drinks, has a production facility in Burgos, Spain, and employs around 250 people. Frías produces private label plant-based drinks, including almond, rice, hazelnut and soy beverages. Hans Roelofs, Refresco’s CEO, commented: “As part of our proven ‘Buy & Build’ strategy, we are looking to expand our capabilities in existing and adjacent beverage categories. The acquisition of Frías significantly strengthens our position in the fast-growing plant-based drinks category. It complements our existing footprint in Spain with a production facility solely dedicated to plant-based products.” Roelofs explained that the acquisition will enable Refresco to further expand its service offering to branded customers and retailers across Europe, accelerating its product innovation capabilities in the plant-based drinks category and underscoring the firm’s ability to capture opportunities in the market. Bruno Delgado-Luque, partner at Alantra Private Equity, added: “Since we acquired Frías in 2019, the company has been on a remarkable growth trajectory, confirming its leadership position in the Iberian Peninsula, and expanding its international business. Together with the Frías family, we launched a major investment plan that resulted in the creation of one of the most modern and efficient plant-based drinks factories in Europe. We are confident that Frías has a bright future ahead and will continue its successful growth with the support of Refresco.” The news follows Refresco’s acquisition of US beverage manufacturer VBC Bottling Company in April this year. Refresco expected the deal to bolster its footprint and capabilities in North America, strengthening its ability to provide beverage solutions to branded customers. Financial terms of the deal – which is subject to regulatory approval – were not disclosed. #Refresco #Frías #Spain #beverages

Seed + Mill, a women-owned tahini and halva company based in New York City, has launched a new Chocolate Sesame Sauce, adding to its existing line of squeezable tahini products. This latest offering aims to offer a versatile ingredient that caters to the growing consumer demand for healthier alternatives to traditional chocolate spreads. Chocolate Sesame Sauce is formulated to be gluten-free, palm oil-free, nut-free, vegan and Kosher, making it suitable for a wide range of dietary preferences. With only 4g of sugar per serving, compared to 22g found in many conventional chocolate spreads, the product positions itself as a healthier option in the competitive market of sweet condiments. Seed + Mill’s founder, Rachel Simons, emphasised the significance of this launch, noting that the combination of chocolate and tahini has been a long-requested flavour by the brand's community. "Our team is bubbling over with excitement over this new product," she stated. "The squeezable format makes it incredibly easy to drizzle this sauce over everything, appealing to both consumers and manufacturers looking for innovative ingredient solutions." Chocolate Sesame Sauce is made from high-quality, double-milled sesame seeds, which contribute to its smooth texture and enhanced flavour profile. The incorporation of oats, demerara sugar and dark chocolate aligns with current trends in the food industry that favour clean labels and minimal processing. As the food and beverage industry increasingly focuses on sustainability and health-conscious products, Seed + Mill's new offering reflects these priorities. The sauce can be used in various applications, from drizzling over desserts to incorporating it into baking recipes, providing a versatile ingredient that can enhance product lines. The new product is now available online through Seed + Mill’s website and Amazon, as well as at their Chelsea Market storefront and select speciality stores, with a suggested retail price of $10.99. #chocolatespread #tahini #newproduct #US #glutenfree #sesame

Onego Bio, a precision fermentation company, has secured €14 million from the European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator programme, bringing the company's total funding to €65 million. The firm produces Bioalbumen, a bio-identical egg protein, which promises a stable supply, high protein quality and neutral flavour. The product is also designed to reduce the environmental impact of traditional egg production by approximately 90%. Founded in 2022 as a spinoff from the Technical Research Center of Finland (VTT), Onego Bio collaborates with major food companies on product formulations across various categories, including baked goods, confectionery, snacks, sauces, pasta and meat alternatives. The company operates commercially from San Diego, California, and is finalising plans for its first manufacturing unit. According to the company, Onego Bio is advancing its commercial efforts in North America, where the regulatory landscape facilitates quicker market entry. The business plans to submit a Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) notice to the FDA this year, aiming for a positive response in 2025. The EIC funding will support regulatory approval efforts in the EU, specifically from the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). Maija Itkonen, CEO and co-founder of Onego Bio, said: "The new funding and immense support from our investors demonstrate their confidence in our vision and the potential of innovations like Bioalbumen to build a more sustainable system. It also shows that the EU recognises precision fermentation as a solution to address sustainability issues and enhance food security in Europe and worldwide." "However, to remain competitive and fully capture the potential of exceptional European research and innovation, the regulatory approval process must be accelerated, as the EU currently lags behind other regions in this area." Top image: © Onego Bio #OnegoBio #US

US food-tech company Voyage Foods has introduced its bean-free coffee to commercial customers in foodservice and food manufacturing channels. The bean-free brew, made from roasted chickpeas, rice hulls and green tea-derived caffeine, is over 40% cheaper than traditional coffee, "providing coffee manufacturers with price stability that results in significantly better margins," said the firm. Available in various caffeinated and decaffeinated formats – including roast and ground, liquid, liquid concentrate and instant – the bean-free coffee aims to address rising coffee prices driven by extreme weather conditions and climate change. Adam Maxwell, CEO and founder of Voyage Foods, said: "Given the current dynamics of the coffee market, food and beverage suppliers are uneasy about supply-chain volatility as well as fulfilling their triple bottom line of people, planet and profit". "There will always be a place for premium, fair-trade, single-origin coffee, and that's not our target – we intend to make the biggest possible impact, and we'll do that by supplying an eco-friendlier, ethically made alternative to commodity coffee." Top image: © Voyage Foods #VoyageFoods   #US

Several consumers in Canada have become ill with Listeria infections linked to recalled milk alternative products, with two confirmed fatalities. The contaminated milk alternative beverages, sold in Canada by Danone under its Silk brand and Walmart under its private-label Great Value brand, have been linked to nine hospitalisations and 12 illnesses in total, confirmed by the Canadian government’s Public Health Agency. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) confirmed the cases of infection with Listeria monocytogenes and issued a national recall of 18 Silk and Great Value products, including various almond, coconut and oat beverages. The recall was first issued on 8 July. According to the CFIA, it pertains to products with 'All Best Before dates up to and including October 24 2024, and a product code containing 7825.' The majority of infections have occurred in Ontario, as well as one case each in Quebec and Nova Scotia. 67% of those infected are female, and 58% are aged 60 or older. Symptoms of Listeria infection can include fever, muscle aches and gastrointestinal issues, which can be particularly severe for vulnerable populations. Frédéric Guichard, president of Danone Canada, wrote in a statement: “The news in this notice is devastating and our most sincere sympathies go out to the families and loved ones during this difficult time. We would like to reassure our consumers that we have conducted the recall and have removed the affected products from retail shelves, in close collaboration with our retail partners.” On its website, Danone said that the contaminated products were produced in a third-party manufacturing facility, and that all refrigerated Silk beverages produced at the site have been preventatively recalled. Guichard continued: “We are working with the utmost seriousness and in close partnership with the authorities to thoroughly investigate and shed light on the circumstances surrounding this event. Food safety, quality, and the health of our consumers are, and will always be, at the core of everything we do. We are committed to providing updates as more information becomes available.” #Canada #Danone #Walmart