Origin Materials, a company specialising in the development of carbon-negative materials, has launched the Carbonated Soft Drink (CSD) PET Cap, said to be the lightest cap of its kind ever produced commercially. This innovation marks a key advancement in sustainable packaging solutions, promising enhanced recycling circularity, lighter packaging and improved product shelf life. The newly launched PET cap, compatible with the PCO 1881 neck finish, is the “world’s first” to be manufactured entirely from PET material, whether virgin or recycled (rPET). This achievement is poised to revolutionise the beverage packaging industry, particularly in the CSD sector, known for its widespread use of the PCO 1881 finish. John Bissell, co-founder and co-CEO of Origin, said: “There are hundreds of different kinds of caps and closures in container packaging. But the PCO 1881 neck finish is considered a leading standard for carbonated soft drinks and is often used for other products such as juices or even still or sparkling water. Because of the ubiquity of bottles using the PCO 1881 finish, it’s an area where our 100% PET cap can make a tremendous difference by improving recycling circularity and product performance in a massive market.” He continued: “Our innovation in the design and manufacturing of PET closures, including closures made with recycled PET, has enabled us to pursue solutions previously thought to be impossible, and an 1881 compatible CSD PET cap is certainly one of them. Now that we have unlocked the use of PET and rPET for use in food, beverage, and home goods closures, we can bring the benefits to a range of products – benefits like improving recycling, extending product shelf life, using less plastic through light-weighting, decreasing manufacturing waste during the bottling process and expanding the use of recycled material.” Origin’s PET cap boasts a lightweight design without compromising performance, leveraging the superior mechanical properties of PET compared to traditional materials like HDPE and PP. Furthermore, the design incorporates tamper evidence features, ensuring both functionality and user satisfaction. “Our caps and closures platform enables mono material solutions – just one material, PET, the most recycled plastic – from cap to bottom for a wide range of product types,” added Bissell. “Until now, PET was ubiquitous in packaging, except for the caps and closures. We are changing that, by enabling the production of closures with any kind of PET material, whether it’s virgin PET, recycled PET, or bio-based PET.” Origin anticipates the commercial availability of its PET caps and closures, produced at commercial scale, by Q4 2024. This solution is expected to address sustainability challenges in the packaging industry while catering to a market valued at over $65 billion.

Utz, a US-based salty snack food brand, has collaborated once again with Mike’s Hot Honey to launch the new extra-hot potato chips flavour. Available now until September, this limited-time flavour intensifies the heat of the original Utz Mike’s Hot Honey chips threefold. The ‘swicy’ (sweet and spicy) potato chips are gluten-free and kosher-certified, and are offered in both on-the-go 2.625-ounce packs and take-home 7.75-ounce sizes. The original Utz Mike’s Hot Honey potato chips, introduced as a limited-time offer in May 2023, quickly gained popularity and became a permanent flavour in August of the same year, surpassing sales records of Utz’s previous limited-time launches. Utz Brands’ marketing director Amber McGrogan, said: “We know hot and spicy is currently the No 1 flavour in salty snacks. That’s why, following the success of our original Mike’s Hot Honey potato chips, we wanted to offer fans an even hotter snacking option.” She added: “Mike’s Hot Honey has been a great partner over the last year, and we look forward to continuing to work together to bring the sweet heat to snacking fans nationwide.” Expanding on the ‘swicy’ trend, Utz also introduced Utz Mixed Mini pretzels in Mike’s Hot Honey flavour in March 2024, offering fans more ways to enjoy the sweet heat of Mike’s Hot Honey. Utz Mike’s Hot Honey Extra Hot potato chips are now available at leading grocery, mass and convenience retail stores nationwide and online. Mike’s Hot Honey founder Mike Kurtz, commented: “At Mike’s Hot Honey, we think everything is better if it has the perfect kick of sweet and heat, and that’s never been more true than with the incredibly popular Utz Mike’s Hot Honey potato chips. We’ve tasted the new Utz Mike’s Hot Honey Extra Hot Chips, and we just know Utz fans are going to love them as much as we do.”

Mondelēz International has launched the first-ever certified gluten-free chocolate chip cookie under its Chips Ahoy! brand. Scheduled to hit shelves this May, the unveiling of the Chips Ahoy! Gluten-Free cookie marks a core expansion in the brand’s product portfolio. Leveraging years of development, Mondelēz has created a cookie that not only meets the stringent standards of gluten-free certification but also promises to deliver the signature taste and texture that has made Chips Ahoy! a household favourite across America. Jainette Quinones, brand manager for Chips Ahoy! Innovation, said: “When we set out to create our first Chips Ahoy! Gluten-free cookie, we didn’t want it to be a good gluten-free cookie, we wanted it to be a great cookie that’s also gluten-free. I am proud to say that our innovation team has succeeded – the new Chips Ahoy! Gluten-Free cookie is an absolutely delicious cookie that everyone can enjoy.” The introduction of the new variant follows closely on the heels of Mondelēz’s recent success with its MMMproved Chips Ahoy! Original recipe.

Kirin Brewery has launched a new series, ‘Hyoketsu Mottainai,’ as part of its RTD brand, Kirin Hyoketsu. The initial release, Kirin Hyoketsu Mottainai Hama-nashi (limited edition), will hit shelves in Japan on 7 May, offering consumers a unique taste experience coupled with a commitment to sustainability. Recognising the challenges faced by fruit farmers in recent years, including climate issues and rising costs, Kirin’s Hyoketsu aims to support these producers while delivering the fresh taste of fruit to consumers. The company’s new initiative, the ‘Hyoketsu Mottainai Project’ seeks to reduce food waste and bolster farmer support efforts. In line with the project, fruits deemed unsuitable for sale due to cosmetic imperfections are repurposed as ‘mottainai fruits,’ featured in products to minimise food loss. Kirin will donate 1 yen from each product sold to these producers, furthering its commitment to sustainability. The flagship product of the series, Kirin Hyoketsu Mottainai Hama-nashi, showcases the flavours of Yokohama’s brand pear, Hama Nashi, aiming to reduce waste by approximately 22,000 pieces of this fruit. With a focus on both taste and social impact, Kirin aims to engage young consumers and expand its presence in the RTD market.

Kirin Brewery has launched a new series, ‘Hyoketsu Mottainai,’ as part of its RTD brand, Kirin Hyoketsu. The initial release, Kirin Hyoketsu Mottainai Hama-nashi (limited edition), will hit shelves in Japan on 7 May, offering consumers a unique taste experience coupled with a commitment to sustainability. Recognising the challenges faced by fruit farmers in recent years, including climate issues and rising costs, Kirin’s Hyoketsu aims to support these producers while delivering the fresh taste of fruit to consumers. The company’s new initiative, the ‘Hyoketsu Mottainai Project’ seeks to reduce food waste and bolster farmer support efforts. In line with the project, fruits deemed unsuitable for sale due to cosmetic imperfections are repurposed as ‘mottainai fruits,’ featured in products to minimise food loss. Kirin will donate 1 yen from each product sold to these producers, furthering its commitment to sustainability. The flagship product of the series, Kirin Hyoketsu Mottainai Hama-nashi, showcases the flavours of Yokohama’s brand pear, Hama Nashi, aiming to reduce waste by approximately 22,000 pieces of this fruit. With a focus on both taste and social impact, Kirin aims to engage young consumers and expand its presence in the RTD market.

This week, Starbucks Canada launched a new collaborative effort to advance sustainability in the dairy sector, in partnership with Dairy Farmers of Canada (DFC). Starbucks Canada has committed CAD 500,000 (approx. $364,426) to the initiative so support dairy sustainability-focused projects over the course of this year, rewarding the efforts of Canadian dairy farmers on their path to net zero. The partnership includes three projects, the first – which has already begun – is in collaboration with Farm Credit Canada (FCC) and Lactanet for FCC’s Dairy Sustainability Incentive programme. The programme rewards farmers who successfully adopt environmental best management practices and encourages continued sustainable farming by granting annual incentives to customers who meet select criteria. David Wiens, president of Dairy Farmers of Canada, said: “The support of Starbucks will help recognise more farmers’ commitment to environmental management and show Canadians that sustainability begins with the people producing their food. When farmers set out to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, we knew we would not go it alone. DFC welcomes Starbucks as they join us on this leg of the journey.” Lori Digulla, SVP and general manager for Starbucks Canada, commented: “At Starbucks, we are committed to working alongside others to help our communities thrive and protect the planet. As a company that relies on the dairy sector every day, we have a responsibility to innovate and collaborate to source dairy responsibly and sustainably. With DFC, we hope to combine the best knowledge and resources together to help the farmer community in Canada and ensure a sustainable future of dairy for all.” Dairy is an integral part of the Starbucks menu, and supporting the long-term health of the dairy sector is one of the latest efforts in the company’s push toward sustainability. Last week, the coffee giant joined the Environmental Defense Fund’s global Dairy Methane Action Alliance, along with Californian dairy brand Clover Sonoma. The alliance first launched in December 2023 at the UN’s climate summit (COP28) in Dubai, with Danone, Bel Group, General Mills, Lactalis USA, Kraft Heinz and Nestlé as its founding members. By joining the initiative, these companies commit by the end of 2024 to annually and publicly disclose methane emissions within their dairy supply chains, with each pledging to create and publish a methane action plan by the end of the year. Starbucks’ action plan will specifically apply to methane in regions where Starbucks directly purchases milk for its stores. Katie Anderson, senior director, business food and forests at Environmental Defense Fund, said: “We’re pleased to welcome Clover Sonoma and Starbucks to the Dairy Methane Action Alliance. With these additions, the alliance now comprises an even wider array of dairy sector players – from regional producers, to processors, to restaurants – and demonstrates that the sector is gaining momentum on methane action.” Angela Anderson, director of Starbucks Sustainable Dairy, added: “As a company, we’re committed to supporting farmers as we work together to reduce emissions across our dairy supply chain. We’re excited to join the Dairy Methane Action Alliance and collaborate across industries on solutions to advance our resource positive goals.” #Starbucks

Valeo Foods-owned premium snack brand Kettle Chips has added two new flavours to its line-up: Chorizo & Red Pepper and Sour Cream & Chive. The Chorizo & Red Pepper variant, a new addition to the Ridge Cut range, delivers a satisfying crunch, courtesy of its uniquely textured chips. Crafted by Kettle’s Innovation Chef, the combination of smoky chorizo and sweet red bell pepper transports taste buds “straight to a Spanish summer”. Arriving just in time for BBQ season, the Sour Cream & Chive flavour offers a blend of rich sour cream and tangy fresh chives, both complementing the classic cut chip. Vibrant and refreshing, these new flavours are poised to become staple additions to summer gatherings as temperatures rise. Made from premium potatoes and real food ingredients, Kettle Chips cater to adventurous food enthusiasts seeking palate-pleasing experiences. Hand-cooked and free of artificial flavourings, each pack aims to inspire culinary exploration. Phil Holford, head of brands at Valeo Snackfoods, said: “We’re overjoyed to be able to treat consumers to our two new flavours, each the result of the passion and creativity of our Innovation Chef”. He added: “From the mouth-watering spice of chorizo to the delicate hum of chives, every element has been refined from the highest quality ingredients to build the perfect seasoning. We know that our firm fans and new faces alike will enjoy tucking into a bag of both.” The Chorizo & Red Pepper and Sour Cream & Chive flavours will hit UK shelves on 13 May, available for purchase at supermarkets including ASDA and Morrisons, with a recommended retail price of £2.39.

Mars Wrigley has introduced Skittles Giants Gooey candies, featuring large, soft fruit-flavoured shells filled with a gooey citrus centre. This latest innovation capitalises on the trend for adventurous and unexpected flavours while tapping into the growing demand for fruit-inspired confectionery, which has seen a steady increase in the category at a CAGR of 4.3%. Available in two packaging formats, each bag contains five popular fruit flavours: Strawberry, Lime, Lemon, Blackcurrant and Orange. The 109g treat bag size has now launched in the impulse channel, with a 125g pouch set to hit grocery, discounter and digital channels soon (RSP £1.35). Alice Maramotti, Skittles senior brand manager, said: “We have a track record of pushing flavour, taste and texture boundaries to help drive category innovation, excitement and growth. Last year we had Skittles Desserts and before that, Skittles Squishy Cloudz in Fruits and Crazy Sours flavours. These unique tastes and textures sit at the heart of our innovation pipeline and bring a sense of fun to the category.” She added: “Skittles Giants Gooey is the next major chapter in our innovation story, offering an impactful twist on a favourite SKU and taking our NPD strategy to the next level. By extending the Skittles Giants range, for which 40% of shoppers are incremental to the category, we will drive frequency and penetration among shoppers looking for a flavour adventure with a burst of intensity.”

New energy drink brand Bizzi has entered the market with a line of RTD beverages that combine caffeine and collagen. The three varieties – Coffee + Collagen Signature Blend, Matcha + Collagen Signature Blend and Coffee + Collagen Vanilla & Turmeric – are designed to appeal to health-conscious consumers seeking convenient wellness options. Bizzi Coffee + Collagen Signature Blend features Ugandan cold-brew coffee with 10g of bovine collagen, along with 100% of the recommended daily allowance of vitamin C and zinc. It supports joint, muscle, skin and immune health. Bizzi Coffee + Collagen with Vanilla & Turmeric offers the same base but with vanilla and turmeric flavours. It contains 10g of bovine collagen, plus 100% of the recommended daily allowance of vitamin C and zinc, adding a fruity twist to the caffeine boost. Meanwhile, for a non-coffee option, Matcha + Collagen Signature Blend combines Japanese ceremonial-grade matcha tea with 10g of bovine collagen and 100% of the recommended daily allowance of vitamin C and zinc. Ashley Verma, founder of Bizzi, commented: “I can’t wait for people to experience Bizzi’s cold brew and matcha RTDs and bring this collagen and coffee first to the UK market. As a self-confessed coffee lover, I designed Bizzi to not only enrich busy lifestyles and support wellness but also to taste absolutely fantastic.” “The UK drinks market is a hugely dynamic and ever-changing landscape, and I believe that Bizzi fits beautifully into what consumers are looking for.” Bizzi’s collagen-infused beverages are available for purchase on the brand’s website and through Amazon.

UK-based functional beverage brand Trip has launched the Mindful Blend range. Known for its CBD-infused drinks, Trip is now venturing into new territory by infusing lion’s mane, magnesium, ashwagandha and L-theanine into its latest range of nature-inspired beverages. The Mindful Blend range debuts with four flavours – Cucumber Mint, Blood Orange Rosemary, Elderflower Mint and Raspberry Orange Blossom. Each variant aims to offer consumers a refreshing and calming experience, harnessing the powerful health benefits of its functional ingredients. Trip’s new functional drinks are now available for purchase online, with nationwide retail availability commencing on 6 May 2024. Consumers can find the Mindful Blend range at leading retailers such as Waitrose, Sainsbury’s, Holland & Barrett, Whole Foods, Co-op, Ocado, as well as in restaurants and coffee shops, including Leon outlets nationwide. Lion’s mane, recognised for its cognitive benefits, magnesium, praised for its calming effects, and ashwagandha, known for its stress-relieving properties, have garnered widespread attention on social platforms like TikTok, where health-conscious users have driven billions of views. Olivia Ferdi, a representative from Trip, said: “As consumers continue to prioritise health and wellness, Mindful Blend provides an accessible way to incorporate these trending ingredients into your lifestyle and a new way to unwind. Millions already find calm through the functionality of our CBD drinks, and seeing the increased demand and popularity of these ingredients has made it clear that there is a market for us to expand into a new range of soft drinks.”

Lavazza has entered a deal to increase its stake in vending machine operator IVS Group with the aim of purchasing the entire business, reports state. If the sale is completed, Lavazza will gain an additional 28.36% stake in IVS for a price of €185 million, resulting in IVS being delisted from the stock exchange. According to Reuters, Lavazza already holds a 20.4% stake in IVS, after it acquired shares in the company totalling €75 million in 2020, and has offered to buy the remaining stock from other investors at €7.15 per share. The buyout offer, which values IVS at €647 million, comes after Lavazza signed an agreement with the majority shareholder of IVS, giving the Italian coffee giant the option to take full control of IVS from 2027. IVS is currently controlled by IVS Partecipazioni, which will maintain its 50.75% stake until the put and call options are exercised, a process that can only occur after the approval of IVS’s 2026 financial statements. FoodBev has approached Lavazza for comment.

Blupura has introduced its new filtration system, the Blutron Action. Blupura stated that the filtration system is designed to enhance the water quality of coffee machines, beverage dispensers, steam ovens and combination ovens. The new filter incorporates Blupura’s 0.5-micron carbon block technology to remove chlorine and improve water taste. The company explained that this step is vital as chlorine could hinder the effectiveness of the system’s high-efficiency ion exchange resin, which is key to reducing temporary water hardness. The resin helps prevent limescale build-up. Blutron Action features an integrated bypass system with four levels, allowing for water treatment customisation of up to 70%. This flexibility lets users tailor the system to their specific needs, ensuring the right balance between equipment protection and water quality. The filter removes unpleasant odours and flavours, and lowers the water’s pH, enhancing the taste of coffee and other beverages. With a micrometric pre-filter and a final stage for filtering suspended particles, it ensures optimal water quality and consistency.