Women’s health start-up Evelyn has expanded into functional snacking with the launch of The PMS Bar. The company claims it is the first snack bar specifically formulated to support women during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle. The hormone-free bar has been developed to address three of the most common premenstrual symptoms – mood changes, cravings and fatigue – using a food-based format positioned as an alternative to sugar-heavy or ultra-processed snacks. PMS affects up to 85% of women, while around one in 20 women experiences premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). Evelyn says the product is designed to reflect the physiological changes that occur in the luteal phase, including drops in serotonin that can drive carbohydrate cravings and impact energy and mood. The PMS Bar contains 11 active ingredients, combining: Complex carbohydrates for sustained energy, prebiotic fibre to support gut health and hormone metabolism, as well as key nutrients including L-tryptophan, magnesium and vitamin B6, which are linked to mood regulation, stress response and energy metabolism. According to Evelyn, the formulation is intended to work with cyclical hormone shifts rather than adopting a “one-size-fits-all” nutrition approach. Anna Cantlay, head of medical at Evelyn, said: “The luteal phase brings real, measurable shifts – from changes in serotonin to increased nutrient needs. These fluctuations can influence mood, cravings and overall well-being, yet most health advice still treats the cycle as one flat line. Phase-specific nutritional support can make a meaningful difference when it’s practical and evidence-informed.” The launch comes amid growing consumer demand for natural, hormone-free and evidence-led solutions, driven in part by limited access to GP support and increased reliance on online health information. Co-founder Bonnie Hatcher said the bar was designed to translate clinical research into everyday use. “The PMS Bar is about making science-led care practical – something women can reach for at the exact moment symptoms hit.” Co-founder Jared Williams added that the brand aims to raise standards in the women’s health category. “Too many products rely on minimal dosing or outdated formulations. Everything we create is built around evidence, therapeutic dosing and real physiological needs.” The PMS Bar joins Evelyn’s existing portfolio of hormone-free products, which are vegan, prescription-free and formulated by doctors and scientists. The range includes: Rhythm – gut-brain axis support targeting mood, digestion and hormone metabolism Restore  – anti-inflammatory support for pain, bloating and breast tenderness Revive – mood and energy support focused on serotonin and stress response Evelyn says all products are backed by clinical research on ingredients shown to reduce PMS and PMDD symptoms, and can be used individually or in combination depending on symptom profile. By moving into functional food, Evelyn is positioning itself at the intersection of women’s health, evidence-based nutrition and convenience snacking, as interest in cycle-aware and personalised nutrition continues to grow.

Stefan Welker What if routine quality checks could do more than just ensure compliance? Stefan Welker at Industrial Physics explores how modernising inspection processes with data-driven technologies and automation can transform packaging operations, reduce waste, strengthen brand trust and create tangible competitive advantages that drive long-term growth. Reframing the traditional process of quality control has the potential to critically transform the way food and drink packagers conduct operations. From reducing waste and unplanned downtime, to enhancing brand trust and customer satisfaction, modernising quality control processes offers a pathway to market differentiation and long-term growth: enabling manufacturers to gain efficiencies and deliver measurable value beyond pure compliance. Deeper insights When embedded into the core of packaging operations, quality control becomes a source of insight, rather than a resource-heavy requirement. To utilise quality control as a driver of performance, rather than a reactive safeguard, manufacturers must embrace data-driven technologies, automation and real-time monitoring tools. Advancements in technology now offer information and control throughout each stage – whether containers are aluminium cans, plastic trays or flexible pouches – allowing for early intervention when any defects are spotted and building operational resilience. By integrating advanced testing systems such as high-speed optical inspection, inline sensors and automated gauges, for instance, manufacturers can ensure consistency and accuracy in issue identification on the production line. In beverage can manufacturing, automatic gun recognition and assignment during compound quality checks, or automatic recognition of the bodymaker ID for machine-related production quality recording are considered standard. These record key criteria in the process including trimmed can height, wall thickness distribution and bottom depth recording. However, there are also opportunities in the area of three-piece cans to use automatic measuring devices to bring quality control to a more reliable level and thus achieve greater process control. A simple example is the recording of the bead profile analysis, which enables wear monitoring and the alignment of the rollers through increased can sampling. This directly leads to a higher axial load capacity of the can and can be used as a basis for possible downsizing developments to reduce material consumption. The same applies, of course, to seam quality inspection. Automatic systems can now be automatically loaded with cans from the line, whereby the measurement results of the seam parameters can be directly assigned to a seamer head. This reduces the risk of seam defects and the time-consuming inspection of the entire seamer at regular maintenance intervals, while at the same time increasing product quality. Advanced testing conditions allow manufacturers to maintain compliance and quality assurance, at the same time as reducing waste and improving resource utilisation. Data-driven decisions The use of Statistical Process Control (SPC) applications in combination with automatic test equipment facilitates stronger data collection, which can then be used to increase output, forecast maintenance requirements and reduce defects. By proactively identifying trends and anticipating upcoming failures or product defects, packaging manufacturers can create a more efficient production process. This is particularly desirable in the face of rising costs and where manufacturers are striving to achieve a targeted reduction in resources. Advanced and automatic tools allow manufacturers to collect and monitor production data, spotting inconsistencies and addressing them at the earliest stage. For example, non-contact automated systems are available which measure coating thickness at the metal coil coating stage. The incorporation of this technology facilitates full control of the process and allows coil coaters to ensure precise application of the required coating thickness but also distribution. For metal which will then be processed for can making, this ensures that the material is suitable and cans will not have to be destroyed once inspected if areas of the can have been under or overcoated, reducing the protective element afforded by the coating. Competitively, the result of these faster, more effective automatic inspection processes is higher quality, which means improved reputation as trust is built right through the supply chain to the end customer. Building trust Consistent delivery of high-quality packaging builds brand trust. With the right test and measurement technology in place, businesses can obtain but also analyse the data required to fulfil this, meeting customer requirements reliably. Automatic colour inspection, for instance, can reduce the volume of defective products manufactured. Colour is integral to consumer perception, and brand colours that are easily recognisable on the shelf have a positive influence on buying decisions. Automated colour inspection gauges provide that reassurance to can manufacturers by scanning multiple points on the packaging and comparing it to colour references and then confirming an exact match or rejection. Maintaining customer trust through quality control can also be achieved via structural testing, a critical component which directly impacts consumer safety and brand integrity. Processes such as axial load and burst testing ensure stability and prevent collapse of packaging materials, which would damage brand reputation if the products made it to consumers. Maintaining a high standard of quality control throughout the packaging process cultivates trust through the ability to sustain quality at scale. Manufacturers can demonstrate reliability, which boosts the confidence of brands and helps to build loyalty. Quality control and sustainability As the packaging industry’s impact on the environment comes under scrutiny for contributing to high levels of waste, sustainability has become an integral part of the production process but also the design of the package itself. Those who are packaging with sustainability at the forefront of their agenda are in prime position to appeal to consumers and be better prepared for regulation changes. Sustainability provides a significant competitive advantage within food and beverage packaging by aligning environmental responsibility with product integrity. Packagers that prioritise sustainability are often supported by technology that focuses on minimising waste, whilst drawing on data that implements more transparent and traceable supply chains – enabling better oversight and control throughout the packaging process. A mindset shift The shift from quality control to process control in the packaging industry requires a change in mindset – away from viewing the product as a control point and toward strategic investment in safe and stable manufacturing processes. This inevitably leads to competitive advantages due to reduced resource consumption. Through advanced technologies, data-driven insights and a culture of continuous improvement, food and beverage packaging manufacturers can improve performance across the board. In doing so, there is an opportunity to reduce costs, minimise risk, elevate sustainability profiles and enhance reputation to overcome competition.

C4 Energy has entered the energy shot category with the launch of C4 Performance Energy Shots, a compact format designed to provide a quick source of caffeine. The product contains 200 mg of caffeine, CarnoSyn Beta-Alanine and no sugar in a small, portable bottle. The energy shots come in three flavours: Frozen Bombsicle, Hawaiian Punch Fruit Juicy Red and Popsicle Grape. The new format represents C4’s first significant product innovation since the brand’s launch. According to the company, the C4 Performance Energy Shots are intended for consumers seeking a portable energy option, including gym-goers who prefer a smaller pre-workout dose and individuals looking for a quick energy boost on the go. The product is NSF Certified for Sport. The new range is available via the brand's website and on Amazon.

A new bottled water brand, Loonen, launched this week in select California retailers and on Amazon, following a $6 million funding round led by Brand Foundry Ventures. Loonen was founded by Clara Sieg, a former venture investor, and David Kimmell, a beverage industry veteran. The company says it was created in response to concerns over contaminants in both tap and bottled water. According to the founders, nearly half of US tap water contains PFAS, over 55% of systems test positive for lead, and there are currently no federal limits for microplastics in either bottled or tap water. The water is sourced from protected mountain springs in California. Loonen’s process includes transporting water in stainless steel, purifying it through membrane filtration, and adding trace minerals such as magnesium and Celtic sea salt. Each batch is tested by independent labs, with results accessible through a QR code on packaging. Sieg said: "Loonen was born from a moment of panic that turned into purpose. When I was pregnant with my daughter, I became aware of how much plastic and contamination hides in the water we drink." She continued: "Partnering with David, who understands the structural issues in the beverage industry, turned that urgency into a solution: water that's verified clean, free from microplastics and balanced with the highest quality minerals to taste the way water should." Kimmell added: "After years in the beverage industry, I saw how little transparency existed, especially in bottled water. Consumers believed they were getting something clean, but the sourcing and bottling practices behind most products told a different story. That gap drove us to create Loonen with a different level of integrity." The company is advised by a group of health and wellness experts, including pediatrician Manasa Mantravadi, functional medicine physician Robin Berzin, clinical nutritionist Kelly LeVeque and hormonal health specialist Alisa Vitti. They provide guidance on water safety, nutrition and health considerations. Mantravadi commented: "As a pediatrician, I've seen how something as simple as water can be one of the most powerful tools for a child's health. At the same time, we know that plastics can leach harmful chemicals into what our kids eat and drink." "Choosing water that is free from harmful chemicals isn't just better for children's growth and development today – it's an investment in their long-term health as adults." Loonen is currently available in California and online, with plans for broader distribution in 2026.

Rxbar has introduced a new product, Rxbar Protein Energy Bites, expanding the brand’s offerings beyond its traditional protein bars. The bites are designed to provide 8-10 grams of protein per serving and include a source of dietary fibre. They come in two flavours: dark chocolate peanut butter and strawberry peanut butter, featuring a chewy outer layer with a peanut butter filling. Ingredients include peanut butter, egg whites, dates and apples. According to the company, the bite-sized format responds to a growing consumer interest in smaller, texture-rich snacks made with simple, nutrient-dense ingredients. Each pouch contains two bites, intended for convenience and portability. Eileen Flaherty-Yao, senior director of brand marketing at Kellanova, which owns Rxbar, said: "Rxbar Protein Energy Bites are a natural next step for the brand. People want convenient, bite-sized snacks made with simple ingredients and great flavour, and this innovation delivers exactly that. By pairing protein with a good source of fibre in a novel format, we're offering an easy way to stay energised no matter what the day looks like, and a whole new way to enjoy Rxbar." Rxbar Protein Energy Bites are available at retailers nationwide and through the company’s website.

Pret A Manger has appointed Ross Warnes as president for its UK and Ireland operations, effective January 2026. Ross Warnes Warnes joins from Kraft Heinz, where he held several senior positions, including area VP for the US’s largest business unit and VP of sales for Northern Europe and the UK & Ireland. His previous experience also includes roles at Unilever and Nestlé in the UK. In his new role, Warnes will oversee Pret’s 500+ shops across the UK and Ireland. He will be responsible for managing the company’s operations in its largest market. Pano Christou, CEO of Pret, said: “I’m excited to welcome Ross to the Pret team overseeing UK & Ireland. Ross has great experience in growing food brands and leading high-performing teams. His leadership will be instrumental as we focus on growing our UK market share, driving transactions and delivering more value to our customers.” Warnes added: “I grew up with Pret and have always cherished its freshly made food, organic coffee and friendly service. It’s been amazing to see it evolve over the years and I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to be part of its exciting future. I’m looking forward to joining the team and taking the Pret brand to new places across the UK and Ireland.”

Momo Kombucha, a producer of fermented beverages, has partnered with UK-based speciality produce supplier Natoora to introduce Carmelo’s Green Mandarin Kombucha. This innovative seasonal offering, priced at £4.50 for a 330ml bottle, will be available in select retailers including Planet Organic, Whole Foods Market, Gail’s Bakery and Selfridge. The collaboration showcases Momo’s unfiltered kombucha, expertly blended with the unique tardivo di Ciaculli mandarin, a rare variety sourced from Sicily. This partnership not only highlights the vibrant flavours of the green mandarin but also addresses the growing consumer demand for high-quality, seasonal products. Momo’s founder, Josh Puddle, said: “We’re thrilled to launch our new Green Mandarin Kombucha for a second year as part of our seasonal collaboration with Natoora. These green mandarins bring an exceptional, bold flavour that makes this kombucha truly unique.” Puddle also noted that proceeds from sales will support Natoora’s Farm Fund, which empowers young farmers to foster sustainable agricultural practices. Natoora’s founder, Franco Fubini, added: “Our partnership with Momo has been getting more exciting as the seasons progress. Together, we’ve been able to capture incredible flavours in a delicious, healthy drink.” Fubini’s vision for green citrus fruits has transformed the culinary landscape, with chefs worldwide embracing these unique ingredients for their aromatic complexity. The green mandarin used in this kombucha is harvested during a short window from October to November, allowing Momo to preserve the fruit's vibrant flavour throughout the winter months. This innovative approach to sourcing reflects Natoora’s commitment to revolutionising the fruit and vegetable supply chain by prioritising flavour and sustainability over traditional harvesting practices. Kombucha, a fermented tea known for its refreshing taste and probiotic benefits, aligns well with the current consumer trend towards health-conscious beverages. Momo Kombucha noted quality by using premium ingredients, including organic teas and slow-pressed juices, and brewing in small batches to ensure maximum flavour and health benefits. As the demand for unique and health-oriented beverages continues to rise, the launch of Carmelo’s Green Mandarin Kombucha positions Momo and Natoora at the forefront of this burgeoning market. This collaboration not only enhances their product offerings but also sets a precedent for future partnerships focused on sustainability and innovation in the food and beverage sector.

UK-based coffee brand Grind has opened a new café at Waterloo station in London, one of the UK’s busiest commuter hubs. The Waterloo site has been developed in partnership with One Retail, the retail specialist division of Compass Group UK & Ireland. The opening extends Grind’s presence in travel retail, adding to its existing partnerships with British Airways and Dubai International Airport. According to the company, the new location serves coffee, food and alcoholic drinks to commuters and travellers passing through the station. Grind said the opening marks its first café within a UK railway station. Grind currently operates 15 cafés, restaurants, cocktail bars and coffee trucks across the UK. The Waterloo café represents its latest expansion beyond its original East London base. David Abrahamovitch, CEO and founder of Grind, said: “Bringing Grind to one of the UK’s busiest stations marks a major milestone for us – we can’t wait to bring our craft coffee to thousands of commuters at Waterloo. We’re offering travellers a completely new experience: a place where they can grab a great coffee on the go, sit down for brunch, or unwind with cocktails after a long day. It’s our first in a station, and we’re thrilled to make it happen with One Retail.” The café – located on the mezzanine level opposite platform five – operates daily from 7am to 10pm. The venue has seating for 35 customers.

As the UK intensifies its focus on reducing high-sugar beverages, Air Up is stepping into the spotlight with its new Shaky Shakes flavour range. The new product line offers a compelling solution for families seeking to keep their children hydrated without the added sugars found in traditional milkshakes. The Shaky Shakes Pods leverage Air Up's patented Scentaste technology , which enhances the taste of plain water using scent alone – eliminating the need for sugar, sweeteners or calories. This unique approach aligns perfectly with the current health landscape, where pre-packaged milkshakes are increasingly scrutinised under new soft drinks levies. With the growing movement towards healthier drinking options, especially during the festive season when sugary treats are more prevalent, Air Up aims to provide parents with a guilt-free alternative. The Shaky Shakes Variety Pack includes three nostalgic flavours: Banana Shake, Blueberry Shake and Strawberry Shake, designed to appeal to children while promoting increased water intake. Each Pod is capable of flavouring at least five litres of water, allowing a single pack to deliver up to 15 litres of enjoyable, flavoured hydration at a retail price of £6.99. User surveys reveal promising results regarding hydration habits among Air Up customers. Approximately 69% of users reported increased daily water consumption after six months, while 57% noted a decrease in sugary drink intake. This trend highlights Air Up's potential as a beneficial tool for parents, especially during the holiday season when children are often tempted by sugary beverages. The brand’s ethos – making water enjoyable – resonates with health-conscious families looking to instil better hydration habits in their children. In addition to the Shaky Shakes Pods, Air Up provides a variety of soft-drink-style alternatives aimed at those wishing to cut back on sugary fizzy drinks. Popular flavours include Kola, Strawberry Soda, Lemon Lime Soda and Ice Tea Peach, catering to diverse taste preferences. The company, founded in Munich, has quickly gained traction across Europe, particularly among younger consumers who appreciate its distinctive design and trending flavours.

Austria’s nationwide Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) has completed its first year with strong public support and impressive collection results, surpassing 1.2 billion returned PET bottles and aluminium cans by the end of November. Operated by EWP Recycling Pfand Österreich in partnership with technology provider Sensoneo, the system is now set to enter its next phase of enhancements aimed at convenience, accessibility and environmental impact. Rapid roll-out and widespread acceptance Launched on 1 January 2025, Austria’s DRS applies a €0.25 deposit to single-use beverage containers ranging from 0.1 to 3 litres – among the highest deposit values in Europe. The programme was implemented swiftly following the establishment of EWP in late 2022 and formal regulations in September 2023, ensuring a rapid and nationwide roll-out. Early data indicates broad public acceptance, with 75% of consumers supporting the scheme. Many cite reduced littering and improved recycling as key benefits, while local authorities have noted cleaner public spaces and more consistent recycling outcomes across the country. The scheme has seen steady growth in weekly returns, stabilising at 7-9 million containers per week. By late October, EWP reported one billion returned units, rising to 1.2 billion by November’s end. The operator expects to meet Austria’s 80% return-rate target by year-end, with final figures due in January 2026. Next steps: Convenience, accessibility and public education Looking ahead, EWP plans to enhance the system through improved consumer guidance and easier access. Key initiatives include: Adding more manual collection points to support smaller retailers Exploring public return locations to increase convenience Introducing drop-off containers for charitable donations, allowing citizens to return bottles and cans for social purposes Fraud prevention continues to be a priority. EWP reports that fraudulent attempts have been successfully detected and prosecuted, reinforcing the scheme’s security measures. Technology partnership driving efficiency A cornerstone of the DRS’s success is the collaboration between EWP and Sensoneo. The technology partner provides a nationwide SaaS platform that supports all stakeholders and DRS processes, enabling high levels of automation from the outset. Valentin Hamm, head of IT at EWP Österreich, said: “Sensoneo’s expertise in other countries that started implementation of a DRS before Austria was not only valuable during the set-up phase of the scheme in 2024, but Sensoneo is still acting as a kind of sparring partner to reflect ideas and solution approaches by Austrian colleagues". "In combination with software delivered on time and quality, EWP is looking forward to implementing the next needed functionalities with Sensoneo’s professional and motivated team." Peter Knaz, deputy CEO at Sensoneo, added: “EWP came exceptionally well prepared, with clear processes and a strong security focus. Thanks to the close cooperation between both IT teams, Austria’s scheme launched smoothly and with several unique tools to address cross-border fraud." "We are proud to contribute to Austria’s successful DRS operation and look forward to further improvements that will support high collection rates and consumer convenience.”

Coca-Cola’s plans to sell Costa Coffee are at risk of being abandoned, according to the Financial Times , as negotiations with private equity firm TDR Capital encounter difficulties over valuation. The FT reports that TDR Capital, the owner of UK supermarket chain Asda, was selected earlier this week as Coca-Cola’s preferred bidder following a board meeting in New York. However, discussions between the two sides, alongside advisers at Lazard, have stalled due to disagreements on price. People familiar with the situation said that Coca-Cola is expected to decide next week whether to continue with the sale process or withdraw Costa from the market entirely. The proposed transaction would see Coca-Cola retain a minority stake in Costa Coffee, with the size of that stake potentially adjusted to help secure an agreement. Earlier this year, Coca-Cola was reported to be exploring a potential sale of Costa Coffee , which it acquired in 2018 for more than $5 billion. TDR Capital is understood to be pursuing the acquisition of Costa’s UK and international operations, excluding China. Other bidders involved in the process reportedly included Bain Capital’s Special Situations arm and Centurium Capital, owner of China-based Luckin Coffee. Apollo and KKR are said to have withdrawn earlier in the process. The potential sale comes as Coca-Cola announced that chief operating officer Henrique Braun will succeed James Quincey as chief executive in March .

Italian coffee company Lavazza has opened a new 'Training Center' in Dallas, Texas, expanding its network of coffee education facilities in North America. The centre joins existing locations in New York, Chicago, Miami, Los Angeles, West Chester and Toronto. The Dallas facility is equipped with espresso, brewing and coffee innovation equipment, and will provide training for industry professionals, baristas, distributors and other coffee operators in the Southwest. Programmes at the centre will include hands-on workshops, certification courses and menu development sessions. Lavazza said the centre is part of its broader strategy to expand in high-growth US markets and to support local hospitality partners. Current Dallas-area partners include Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek, Coury Hospitality Group, Al Biernat's Steakhouse and Vandelay Hospitality, with the company also supplying American Airlines. Daniele Foti, VP of Marketing at Lavazza North America, said: "As one of the fastest growing hospitality and culinary markets in the country, Dallas represents a tremendous opportunity for Lavazza". "Our investment in this new Training Center demonstrates our commitment to the region and to the partners who bring the Lavazza experience to life every day. Dallas is a city of innovation and high standards and we are excited to deepen our roots here." Hossam Ashraf, president of Lavazza North America, added: "Dallas has an incredible energy and an ever evolving coffee scene. We are proud to support our partners with the resources, expertise and tools needed to deliver exceptional coffee experiences." "This centre is not only an investment in our business. It is an investment in the people, the talent and the creativity that make this market so dynamic." The new facility is part of Lavazza’s global network of training centres, which includes seven locations in Italy and additional centres worldwide.