Mondelēz tops Snack Food & Wholesale Bakery’s 2026 Global Top 100 candy companies ranking, ahead of Mars and Ferrero, as confectionery sales remain strong.
Nutri-Score was once the favourite to be rolled out across the EU on a mandatory basis. Those days are gone, meaning that in all likelihood, the continent's other front-of-pack labelling schemes are here to stay. What are they, and how do they work?
As the Trump administration rolls out new section 301 tariffs, food industry experts warn of supply chain disruptions, lawsuits and rising import costs.
The future of sustainable food may lie less with brands and more with their suppliers, which are investing in regenerative agriculture, traceability and climate-smart infrastructure to build more transparent and resilient supply chains.
Hershey is ramping up its premiumisation strategy through innovation, acquisitions and seasonal offerings as it targets growth beyond mainstream confectionery.
Kerry Latin America CEO Marcio Luz discusses GLP-1-driven food innovation, rising protein demand, M&A ambitions, biotechnology investment and the consumer trends reshaping one of the world's fastest-evolving food markets.
The EU’s Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) is being implemented over time. Limits on PFAS are now enforceable, but in the future, harmonised labelling, rules on composting, and limits for reused plastic will all become applicable.
Mars celebrates its 115th anniversary, marking five generations of family ownership as the maker of M&M's, Snickers and Twix looks to shape the future of food through innovation, sustainability and long-term investment.
The pumpkin spice craze is still mainly focused on North American markets, but Europe is catching on. Here are some of the newest product releases for pumpkin spice season.
As FDA’s synthetic dye phaseout accelerates demand for natural colors, manufacturers, suppliers and retailers are working to overcome sourcing, scalability and cost challenges through coordinated supply chain investments and innovation
Krispy Kreme reported improved profitability in Q2 2026, with adjusted EBITDA up 43.2% and net losses narrowing by $421.3m. The doughnut maker's turnaround plan is gaining traction, but revenue remains under pressure.
The EU's Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) is applicable from 12 August. The regulation introduces PFAS limits, aims to harmonise recycling and pushes for packaging to be designed for recyclability. The regulation may be costly, but the EU predicts that it will lead to long-term savings.
Grupo Bimbo, Warburtons, ARYZTA and other bakery leaders are investing billions in factories, automation and logistics. Discover what's driving the biggest manufacturing shake-up in decades.
Functional beverage brand Roxii Supercube is carving out its own space in the crowded functional beverage market by tapping into the frozen aisle as a destination for personalized nutrition.
Nestlé’s decision to close its Diósgyőr factory highlights how rising costs, shifting seasonal demand and manufacturing rationalisation are reshaping the confectionery industry.
Drought has hit Europe, affecting the UK, France, Switzerland, Germany, Italy and may other countries. How have crop yields been impacted by this? Have some crops been more resilient than others?
When a brand is licensed to a different company in a different geography, how much control does its owner maintain, and how much lies with the licnesee? This kind of arrangement is common: for example, in the US Mondelēz International-owned Cadbury is licenced to Hershey.
New HHS proposals mandate FDA GRAS notifications for additives and addresses a definition for ultra-processed foods, sparking consumer brand backlash and advocate critiques.
Why is private label growing globally?
Private label products continue to gain market share as consumers seek value and retailers look for higher margins, greater control over supply chains and stronger differentiation from competitors. In some Western European markets, private label now accounts for more than half of supermarket sales.
Where are private label products made?
Most private label manufacturing remains close to end markets, particularly in the US and Europe, where domestic suppliers can respond quickly to retailer demands. However, countries including China, Thailand, Malaysia and Vietnam are becoming increasingly important manufacturing hubs thanks to competitive costs, export capabilities and growing technical expertise.
Which regions are emerging as private label powerhouses?
Europe remains the global leader in private label penetration, while Southeast Asia is attracting growing interest from retailers and brand owners seeking alternative sourcing locations. Thailand, Malaysia and Vietnam are particularly well positioned due to strong agricultural supply chains, export infrastructure and food manufacturing capabilities.
What does this mean for food and drink manufacturers?
The growth of private label is creating opportunities across the supply chain, from ingredient suppliers and co-packers to specialist manufacturers. At the same time, competition is intensifying as retailers increasingly demand innovation, premium products and faster product development from their manufacturing partners.
What are functional drinks?
Functional drinks are beverages designed to provide benefits beyond hydration, such as supporting gut health, energy, recovery, relaxation, immunity or cognitive performance. Popular categories include protein drinks, electrolyte beverages, probiotic and prebiotic products, and drinks containing vitamins, minerals, adaptogens or nootropics.
Why is the market growing?
Consumers increasingly view wellness as a daily priority and are looking for convenient products that support specific health goals. As a result, brands are developing drinks that target hydration, digestion, muscle health, focus, stress management and sleep.
Can functional drinks actually deliver health benefits?
Many functional ingredients are supported by scientific research, but effectiveness depends on factors such as dosage, formulation and the quality of evidence behind a claim. Industry experts increasingly argue that successful products will be those built around science-backed benefits rather than marketing hype.
What challenges do beverage brands face?
Regulators in major markets including the EU, UK and US are scrutinising health claims more closely. Brands must ensure claims are supported by credible evidence and communicated accurately, while also delivering on consumer expectations for taste, convenience and transparency.
Which functional drink categories are growing fastest?
High-growth areas include protein beverages, gut-health drinks, electrolyte products, cognition-support beverages and relaxation drinks containing ingredients such as magnesium, adaptogens and botanicals associated with stress management.
This edition features Asahi’s focus on its beer adjacent categories and East Africa expansion, Calbee’s personalised granola, government investment into food technology, and more.
A federal court ordered the USDA to rewrite its GMO labeling rules by Jan. 1, 2028, closing loopholes for highly processed foods and QR code disclosures.
Discover how Wiliot's battery-free IoT tags and AI technology are helping Walmart monitor grocery supply chains, tracking temperature for perishables nationwide.
NielsenIQ explains in this episode of FoodNavigator-USA’s Soup-To-Nuts podcast how AI, social commerce, digital merchandising and faster fulfillment are reshaping impulse shopping online and in stores despite GLP-1s and inflation.
Baobab, which originates in Africa, has been consumed for thousands of years. But now, it is gaining popularity as a functional ingredient, due to its density in vitamin C, its gut health credentials, and its versatility.
GLP-1 drugs including semaglutide, liraglutide and tirzepatide may be linked to more than 150 deaths and thousands of adverse reactions, according to the UK's Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), specifically data collected by its Yellow Card biobank. Alongside deaths, the drugs are suspected of having been linked to gastrointestinal symptoms, psychiatric disorders and nervous system disorders.
WK Kellogg says new recipes free of controversial food colorants will be introduced across its cereal portfolio, including flagship Froot Loops and Apple Jacks brands, later this year.
Celsius Holdings missed Q2 earnings estimates as its PepsiCo integration of Alani Nu and Rockstar caused growing pains. Read about the $300M stock buyback.
Nestlé is expanding After Eight beyond Mint for the first time in over 60 years, launching Caramel, Orange and Raspberry flavours alongside a brand refresh.
CEO Steve Cahillane says Kraft Heinz is raising brand investment "from a position of strength" as US consumption improves and separation plans stay on hold.
FDA submitted its proposed ultra-processed food definition as a white paper instead of a rule. Here’s what that means for food labeling, reformulation and future regulations.
Why did Nestlé sell 50% of its Waters business to Platinum Equity? Analysts unpack the rationale behind Peranel, the valuation, risks and growth prospects.
Once, calorie-counting was the predominant way in which consumers tried to lose weight. Now, diet culture has shifted, with consumers instead gravitating towards diets such as keto and paleo which prioritise nutrients like protein.
How are food giants such as Nestlé, Barry Callebaut, Danone and Kraft Heinz preparing for El Niño? Boosting supply chain resilience, diversifying sourcing and investing in farmer productivity are just some of the ways in which industry is aiming to protect itself.
Beyond Meat continues to struggle in Q2, although its revenue and sales declines are starting to slow. In international retail, particularly Europe and Canada, net revenue and sales are up. This, believes CEO Ethan Brown, reflects populations more in tune with food's connection to climate change.
Why is the world's first floating dairy farm closing?
Floating Farm in Rotterdam has been put up for sale after its owners became embroiled in a regulatory dispute over a replacement emissions-reducing floor that was not certified for use in the Netherlands, despite meeting environmental performance requirements.
What is Floating Farm?
Launched in 2019, the €4m project was designed to demonstrate how food could be produced closer to consumers without relying on traditional farmland. The three-storey floating facility houses dairy cows, automated milking systems, manure management technology and on-site dairy processing.
Why does it matter?
Floating Farm became an internationally recognised example of urban agriculture and climate-resilient food production. Its closure highlights the challenges innovative food systems can face when regulations struggle to keep pace with new technologies and business models.
What happens next?
The farm is being marketed for sale and has attracted international interest. While it could potentially be relocated elsewhere in the Netherlands, any new site would require significant infrastructure and regulatory approvals to support dairy production and processing.
BellRing Brands outlines how Premier Protein plans to sustain growth through innovation, new channels, operational discipline and pricing amid rising competition.
Stranger Things, Wednesday and Wicked tie-ins show why movie collabs work for snack brands, with 68% of consumers buying co-branded or special edition products.
Food and beverage innovation is moving beyond the traditional seasonal calendar, with brands increasingly focused on fast-moving trends and micro-seasons.
Can adults eat full-fat dairy every day without harming health?
A new 12-week study from researchers at the University of Toronto found that adults consuming three daily servings of full-fat dairy experienced no significant changes in body weight, body fat or cholesterol levels compared with those consuming less dairy.
Why does the research matter?
Many dietary guidelines recommend low-fat dairy because full-fat products contain saturated fat, which has traditionally been linked to higher cholesterol and cardiovascular disease risk. The new findings add to growing evidence suggesting dairy fats may behave differently from saturated fats in other foods.
What is the dairy matrix hypothesis?
Researchers argue that dairy's unique structure, known as the dairy matrix, influences how fats and nutrients are digested and absorbed. The interaction between dairy proteins, fats and micronutrients may help explain why some studies find neutral or even positive health outcomes from full-fat dairy consumption.
What else did the study find?
Participants consuming more dairy recorded higher intakes of calcium, protein and vitamin D, alongside lower blood pressure, suggesting potential nutritional benefits beyond simply providing energy and fat.
Nestlé is bringing festive flavour to shelves early with the launch of Milkybar Caramel Crunch, a new seasonal sharing bar featuring caramel biscuit pieces.
Colostrum has potential as a functional food. However, it remains controversial. While some research exists linking it to functional benefits, many believe that the evidence is not yet strong enough. Furthermore, it does not have a good reputation when it comes to animal welfare and is associated with cruelty, as it is diverted away from newborn calves that need it.
The Cyclospora outbreak is driving shoppers away from fresh produce, boosting frozen food sales and reducing traffic at restaurants and grocery stores.
Why are major CPGs including Nestlé, PepsiCo, Mars, Ferrero, Kraft Heinz, and Mondelēz embracing contract manufacturing? Experts explain the shift, benefits, risks and future of co-manufacturing.
Tyson says its shift to branded, value-added chicken products is protecting profits from falling commodity prices while Prepared Foods provides the blueprint.
Learn why food companies are shifting from hero ingredients to benefit stacking as GLP-1, nutrient density and value reshape product innovation in this episode of FoodNavigator-USA’s Soup-To-Nuts podcast
What has happened?
Danone and Arcor have finalised a jointly controlled dairy business in Argentina by combining Danone's local operations with dairy producer Mastellone Hermanos. The deal gives the partners equal ownership and includes the integration of logistics subsidiary Logistica La Serenísima.
Why is it significant?
The transaction deepens a long-standing partnership between Danone and Arcor and creates a more integrated dairy platform focused on innovation, distribution and higher-value dairy products. It also increases Danone's exposure to one of its key Latin American markets.
What does it mean for the dairy sector?
The move comes at a time of significant change in Argentina's dairy industry. With Saputo reducing its presence and SanCor continuing to struggle financially, Danone and Arcor are positioning themselves to capture market share and strengthen their competitive advantage in the region.
What is the new whey-to-bioethanol breakthrough?
Scientists at Heriot-Watt University and start-up Take Root Bio have developed a process that converts sugars found in whey into bioethanol, creating a potential new use for a dairy byproduct that has traditionally been difficult and costly to manage.
Why is it significant for the dairy industry?
Whey has become increasingly valuable due to booming demand for protein ingredients, with prices rising sharply in recent years. If bioethanol production becomes commercially viable, it could create another source of demand and further increase competition for whey supplies.
What are the sustainability benefits?
The technology aims to upcycle dairy byproducts into renewable fuel, helping manufacturers extract more value from waste streams while reducing disposal challenges. Researchers are also exploring whether similar approaches could be applied to fruit, vegetable and agricultural processing waste.
Mars' Shubh Mint programme is improving farmer livelihoods, empowering women and building a more resilient natural mint supply chain through sustainable sourcing and climate-smart farming practices in India.
Grocery delivery platform Uber Eats is betting local and regional grocers can better compete with national retailers through its plug-and-play marketplace, which combines delivery infrastructure, retail media capabilities and access to new customers.
From Coca-Cola to Co-op, cyber attacks are hitting the food and beverage industry harder than ever. Here's how companies can tackle the growing threat.
Why is Yili calling for a new global dairy ecosystem?
Yili Group chairman and president Pan Gang has called on the global dairy industry to collaborate more closely through three new ecosystems focused on innovation, digital intelligence and green development. Speaking at the World Dairy Conference, he said the sector must work together to address future challenges and create shared value across the dairy supply chain.
What are Yili's proposed ecosystems?
The Chinese dairy giant outlined plans for a digital intelligence ecosystem, supported by its Dairy Data Intelligence Hub, alongside initiatives for greener dairy production and broader industry innovation. However, few operational details were provided on how these ecosystems would function in practice.
Why does it matter?
As one of the world's five largest dairy companies, Yili's vision highlights China's growing influence in global dairy. The company's push for industry-wide collaboration, data sharing and sustainability could shape future discussions around dairy innovation, emissions reduction and supply chain transformation.
The meaning of indulgence has changed. Consumers no longer associate it primarily with unhealthiness and instead see it as synonymous with premium quality and clean-label ingredients, according to Circana's Ananda Roy.
The city’s proposed public grocery stores could create a taxpayer-backed retail channel for CPG brands, while raising questions about category eligibility, pricing and competition.
Hershey has joined the growing Summerween trend as consumers embrace Halloween months before October. Discover how the social media-driven phenomenon is creating new opportunities for confectionery brands, retailers and seasonal sales.
In its Q2 results, Mondelēz International reported that it had returned to volume growth for the first time since 2024, as well as seeing success in emerging markets, particularly Latin America. However, revenues were down in Europe compared to the year-ago period. What are the reasons behind these successes and failures?
Nestlé’s H1 2026 results point to a recovery in momentum, with stronger volume growth, resilient margins and increased marketing investment helping offset ongoing commodity cost pressures and weaker consumer demand.
Psyllium, a functional fibre often used in gluten-free baking, has many of the same functional properties as other fibres. But it also boasts several key functionalities of its own, both from a health and technical perspective. It is predicted to grow in popularity as an ingredient in food, driven by the popularity of gut health, clean label and GLP-1s.
Building a functional food startup takes more than great science. Discover five hard-earned lessons on scaling, formulation, consumer trust and knowing when to pivot.
Hershey reports strong Q2 2026 results, with net sales up 6.6% to $2.78bn and net income surging 629%, prompting the confectionery giant to raise its full-year outlook.
Sprouts Farmers Market is refining its affordability strategy after selective price cuts boosted unit sales but failed to significantly increase store traffic.
As category growth slows and shoppers become more selective, CPG giants like, The Hershey Co., General Mills and Kellanova are looking for growth by expanding where and how their brands show up in consumers’ lives.
Exosomm says its proprietary process preserves naturally occurring milk exosomes that are typically destroyed during processing, creating a functional dairy ingredient for gut health, immune support and medical nutrition.
As demand grows for high-protein and clean-label snacks, Zenko is betting roasted edamame can offer consumers a natural alternative to processed protein products.
New Zealand breakfast cereal brand Blue Frog sees opportunities to premiumize Asia’s breakfast market as consumers increasingly seek cleaner-label, minimally processed foods.
Stingless bee honey offers innovation potential for low GI and antibacterial functional foods that can target health concerns such as diabetes and chronic inflammation, say experts.
Ferrero reveals how power brands, acquisitions, innovation and manufacturing investment are driving expansion across confectionery and sweet packaged foods.
Stress-relief, mood-support and relaxation drinks are emerging as one of the fastest-growing segments in functional beverages, fuelled by rising consumer demand for emotional wellbeing, stress management and holistic health solutions.
Mondelēz International has seen solid growth in its Q2, with emerging markets in particular driving this. Growth in North America has been moderate, and in Europe net revenues have declined, in part due to lower chocolate sales as a consequence of the heatwave.
As food and supplements increasingly converge, sports nutrition brands must sharpen their health messaging and create new consumption occasions to stay competitive.
