News for professionals in the food business

UK Consumers Distrust Food Companies’ Health Claims

A YouGov survey found that three-quarters of UK adults doubt food companies' honesty about the health impacts of their products. Only 17 percent trust them to be truthful and 13 percent believe they will make food healthier without government intervention. Involving nearly 5,000 UK adults, the poll was conducted by Recipe for Change, a campaign by NGOs and charities. Nearly 70 percent of respondents wants the UK Government to extend the sugary drinks tax to unhealthy foods. Food manufacturers say they are reducing sugar, calories and salt, and warn that new taxes could raise food prices for low-income consumers.

Protein-Rich Snacks Drive Extruded Snack Innovations

Health-conscious consumers are fueling growth in the extruded snacks market, projected to reach $91.8 billion by 2032 with a 5.6% CAGR. Plant proteins are increasingly used in these snacks to meet demand for sustainable, protein-rich options. Companies like Hippeas and Kibo Foods lead the way with products like chickpea-based puffs and green pea crunch chips, offering high protein and fiber content. Innovations include fortification and diverse flavors, but challenges like density and texture arise when incorporating proteins.

Nuri Puffed Chips Are Unique, Healthy Snack Options From France

Nuri introduces puffed chips made from kombu algae and coral lentil flour, blending bold flavors with better-for-you benefits. Options like BBQ, beet, tomato, and Provence herb offer variety while delivering a high fiber content, protein and 70 percent less fat than traditional chips.

Bio&Me Launches Super Nutty Muesli In Tesco

Bio&Me adds Super Nutty Muesli to its range. Now available in 550 Tesco stores for £3.50 per 450g pack, the muesli is made with 13 plant-based ingredients like oats, almonds and cashews. It’s high in fiber, free from added sugars and designed to support gut health. Co-founder Jon Walsh highlights growing consumer interest in foods that promote gut and immune health. Bio&Me, based in Chester in England, also offers granolas, porridges, snack bars and kefir yogurts alongside its mueslis.

KoRo Secures €35M To Fund European Growth

German natural snack brand KoRo raised €35 million in a Series C funding round led by Coefficient Capital, with contributions from investors like Five Seasons Ventures and HV Capital. With over two million customers, KoRo sells clean-label snacks, nut butters, and functional foods both online and in 10,000 European stores. Funds will support its expansion in France, Italy and the Benelux region, along with product innovation.

Soul Grain, Flavorful And BFY Granolas With Soul

Soul Grain reimagines granola with unique flavors like Purple Grain and Banana Pudding, blending cultural inspiration with premium, better-for-you ingredients. Co-founded by nutritionist Liza Maya and pastry chef Sylvia Williams, the brand delivers crispy, gluten-free granolas using healthful components like amaranth, oats and coconut oil. Each flavor draws on African-American culture and soul food traditions, complemented by curated Spotify playlists for a complete sensory experience. Despite challenges like limited funding, the women-led brand has gained recognition through incubators and awards. Soul Grain plans to expand with new flavors, bars and lifestyle products, bringing nutrition and nostalgia to more homes.

Nestlé Highlights Whole Grains For Healthier Diets

Nestlé and Cereal Partners Worldwide, a joint venture between General Mills and Nestlé, are pushing for increased whole grain consumption to improve global health and sustainability. Whole grains, rich in fiber and essential nutrients, are linked to reduced risks of obesity, chronic diseases and environmental impact. Despite these benefits, global intake remains below recommended levels, with most people consuming only one of the three suggested daily servings. Nestlé and CPW emphasize breakfast as a key opportunity to boost whole grain consumption through convenient and nutritious products tailored to various dietary needs. They support International Whole Grains Day, which raises awareness of the health benefits of whole grains and calls for global policy measures, including front-of-pack labelling and clear definitions of whole grain foods.

Arnott’s Expands With Better-For-You Snack Brands

Arnott’s Group acquired three New Zealand-based brands from Prolife Foods, adding to its portfolio of better-for-you cereals and snacks. Mother Earth, known for muesli bars, nuts and baked slices, is a trusted name in New Zealand with a growing presence in Australia. Flemings and VP both offer nutritional snacks like bars, nuts and mixes. Arnott’s plans to expand their portfolios and distribution while investing in local manufacturing.

Burts Snacks Eyes Growth Amid Financial Challenges

Burts Snacks, a UK-based crisps and popcorn maker, reported a pre-tax loss of £5.18 million for the 13 months ending January 2024 despite a rise in turnover to £97.4 million. Costs linked to its acquisition by Europe Snacks in March 2023 and accounting adjustments added £2.35 million in exceptional expenses, contributing to the loss. Burts remains optimistic, highlighting growth opportunities from the acquisition and plans for further investment. In October 2023, it announced a £6 million upgrade to its Leicester factory to boost production and reduce costs. One Rock Capital Partners recently agreed to acquire Europe Snacks.

Carp Crisps, A Potentially Protein-Packed Snack Alternative

Scientists at Poland’s West Pomeranian University of Technology developed carp-based crisps as a healthier, high-protein alternative to traditional potato chips. Funded by the EU’s Maritime, Fisheries, and Aquaculture Fund, the snack contains fewer calories and less fat than standard crisps, with significantly higher protein content. Made with carp meat, salt, pepper, sugar and tapioca starch, the crisps are designed for both taste and durability. Tapioca starch increases volume and prevents breakage during frying. The crisps will be available as a ready-to-eat snack or semi-cooked for home preparation, offering consumers a sustainable and nutritious snacking option while supporting Poland’s carp farming industry.

Majans Introduces Infuzions Air Fries To Australia

Majans, an Australian snack company, launched Infuzions Air Fries, a healthier alternative to traditional fried snacks. Made from 100% Australian-grown split peas, Air Fries have a 4-star health rating and are designed for health-conscious consumers seeking both taste and nutrition. The range offers three flavors: spicy Peri Peri, tangy Tomato Sauce and savory Aioli. Exclusively available at Woolworths in the Health aisle, Air Fries aim to provide a better-for-you snack option for Australian families. Majans, known for its Bhuja and Infuzions brands, focuses on creating sustainable, high-quality snacks that balance flavor and health.

Premium Cereals Thrive Despite Consumer Focus On Value

WK Kellogg Co. reported a surge in premium cereal and granola sales, achieving double-digit growth even as overall cereal sales declined 1.4 percent in the third quarter due to consumer preference for value channels. CEO Gary Pilnick noted that while shoppers are price-conscious, demand remains strong for premium offerings, helping the company beat earnings expectations despite a slight dip in net sales and volume. Frosted Flakes and Raisin Bran led in market share growth among core brands. Overall, the company’s net sales fell 0.4 percent.

UpSnack Brands Unites Pipcorn And Spudsy

Newly-established UpSnack Brands acquired Pipcorn Heirloom Snacks and Spudsy, merging their expertise in sustainable snacking. Pipcorn's heirloom corn-based products and Spudsy's upcycled sweet potato snacks are set to expand under the new ownership, emphasizing better-for-you options and eco-friendly practices. Pipcorn CEO Joe DePetrillo will become UpSnack’s CEO. Spudsy’s founder Ashley Rogers will transition to CEO of Sprinkles CPG, a company owned by Spudsy’s former private equity owner, KarpReilly. UpSnack’s mission is to pioneer high-quality, health-conscious snacks that benefit consumers and the environment.

Mars Acquires Kellanova Amid Snacking Industry Evolution

Mars Inc.’s acquisition of Kellanova received overwhelming shareholder approval for a deal valued at $83.50 per share. It adds billion-dollar brands like Pringles, Cheez-It, RXBAR and Nutri-Grain to Mars’ portfolio and positions Mars to double its Snacking division and expand into new categories like crackers, salty snacks and breakfast items. Kellanova reported strong Q3 2024 results, with a 6 percent organic sales increase driven by Pringles and Cheez-It, despite a slight decline in volume.

Kestrel Foods Grows with Innovation And Brand Expansion

Kestrel Foods, a leading healthy snacks company in the UK, continues its growth trajectory, with revenue up 19 percent to £27.6 million for the year ending April 2024. Expanded UK distribution, consumer loyalty and product innovation helped drive 30 percent growth in branded sales, with Forest Feast, its largest brand, growing volumes by 21 percent. European sales grew 29 percent to £8 million. Recent developments include acquiring Indie Bay snacks and launching the Just Live a Little Gluten Free granola brand, signaling its move into the breakfast category. CEO Michael Hall mentioned plans for geographical expansion, continued innovation and building out the Indie Bay brand.

Six New Suppliers Join Co-op’s Apiary Programme

Six innovative suppliers will launch in over 100 Co-op stores in the UK this month as part of the retailer's Apiary mentoring and support programme. This initiative, aimed at nurturing diverse and purpose-driven food and drink businesses, offers tailored guidance, insights and networking opportunities. Among the new additions, Cheeky Nibble features allergen-free granola and snacks inspired by British desserts, crafted in a nut-free facility; ELEAT Cereal is a high protein and fiber, vegan-friendly option low in sugar and gluten-free; and Loro Crisps are vegan and gluten-free plantain crisps in four flavors inspired by Colombia.

Hain Celestial Revamps Strategy To Boost Snack Sales

Hain Celestial Group is restructuring its North American strategy to strengthen consumer engagement and streamline market access, according to CEO Wendy Davidson. With the aim of making its brands "first to mind, first to find," Hain is enhancing its supply chain, expanding distribution and deepening partnerships with key retailers. Despite a 15 percent drop in snack sales for the first quarter of fiscal 2025, the company remains optimistic about upcoming growth, focusing on high-interest products like Flavor Burst tortilla chips and expanding campaigns for Garden Veggie snacks. Davidson noted that improved availability and targeted promotions will help drive growth in key brands with strong recognition but low household penetration.

Nesquik Minis, A High Protein Chocolatey Options For Mornings

Nestlé Cereal launched Nesquik Minis, a smaller version of the classic Nesquik cereal, designed to bring fun to breakfast. The mini cereal pieces offer the same chocolatey taste and crunch, made with wholegrain as the primary ingredient. Nesquik Minis are high in fiber and enriched with vitamins and minerals, including calcium, Vitamin D and energy-releasing B vitamins.

Chris Paul’s Good Eat’n Snacks Launch In Texas

NBA star Chris Paul’s plant-based snack brand, Good Eat’n, is now in over 250 H-E-B stores across Texas. With a lineup of gluten-free, non-GMO options like Hot Hot Puffs, Nacho Cheeze Tortilla Chips and Cookies N Creme Popcorn, they are designed to deliver bold flavors and healthier ingredients. Each flavor is free from artificial dyes and flavors. Good Eat’n has eye-catching packaging highlighting its mission to transform classic snacks into better-for-you options.

Stellar Snacks Opens Pretzel Plant, Launches Gluten-Free Thins

Stellar Snacks opened a $137 million industrial pretzel plant in West Louisville, Ky., creating 350 jobs over the next decade. Alongside the plant opening, Stellar is introducing gluten-free Pretzel Thins, available at Louisville Kroger stores. The company’s pretzels are already sold in over 5,000 US retail locations and served on major airlines like Southwest and Emirates.

Healthy And Convenient Breakfast Cereal Trends On the Rise

Breakfast cereals remain a staple in UK households, driven by convenience, taste, health benefits and sustainability. Brands like Kellogg’s, Nestlé and Weetabix emphasize fiber, protein and low sugar content to meet evolving consumer preferences. Kellogg’s focuses on family favorites and non-HFSS options. Nestlé Cereals has been reformulating its options and by last year 87 percent of the portfolio was non-HFSS. Weetabix Crispy Minis achieved strong growth, appealing to younger audiences with its balance of nutrition and flavor. Rude Health champions simple, wholegrain ingredients and low sugar, addressing consumer concerns about ultra-processed foods. Seasonal trends, like back-to-school time, and price-marked packs are key sales drivers. Across the category, innovation and transparency are crucial as shoppers seek wholesome, sustainable and tasty breakfast choices.

Uglies Chips Launches Sweet Potato Flavors, Reduces Food Waste

Uglies Kettle Chips, known for turning imperfect potatoes into kettle-cooked snacks, launched two new sweet potato chip flavors: Hot Honey and Spicy BBQ. Building on the success of its original sweet potato chips, Uglies introduces these flavors as sweet and spicy snacks gain popularity. Available at Giant Food Stores and online, these chips align with growing consumer interest in sweet potato snacks. Uglies help combat food waste by using cosmetically imperfect potatoes, rescuing over 30 million pounds of produce since 2017. It also supports farmers and donates a portion of profits to charity.

Origin Nutrition Expands Healthy Snacking With Pea-Based Chips

India’s Origin Nutrition launched a high-protein, compression-popped pea chip line to meet rising local demand for healthy snacks. Known for its pea and pumpkin seed protein powders, the company now offers Mojo Pops, a potato-free snack containing ingredients like lentils, spinach and carrot, in flavors like Pudina chutney and sour cream and onion. Co-Founder Aditi Mammen Gupta says compression popping is a healthier alternative to baking or frying, enhancing the chips' fragrance and texture.

Top 10 Healthy Tortilla Chips Recommended By Dietitians

For those seeking healthier tortilla chip options, dietitians advise choosing chips made from whole grains, such as whole-grain corn, with minimal ingredients and no additives. Key factors include selecting baked over fried chips for reduced fat, low sodium levels and options that avoid trans fats. High fiber content is also recommended for fullness and digestion. The top picks for nutritious tortilla chips are Beanitos White Bean Chips, Hippeas Chickpea Tortilla Chips Sea Salt & Lime, From the Ground Up Cauliflower Tortilla Chips, Popcorners Sea Salt Chips, Zack's Mighty Sea Salt Tortilla Chips, Siete Tortilla Chips, Mi Niña White Corn Tortilla Chips, Que Pasa Organic Yellow Corn Tortilla Chips, 365 Organic Thin & Crispy White Corn Tortilla Chips and Good & Gather Organic Black Bean Quinoa Multigrain Tortilla Chips.

FUEL10K Launches High-Protein Multigrain Breakfast Flakes

FUEL10K, a Premier Foods brand, is launching Multigrain Flakes in Chocolate and Red Berry flavors, featuring wholegrain wheat, toasted spelt and barley flakes, addressing rising consumer interest in healthier breakfasts with less sugar and added nutritional benefits like protein and fiber. Non-HFSS and designed for a younger demographic, Multigrain Flakes aims to attract new consumers to the breakfast category. The launch will be supported by FUEL10K’s largest digital and influencer campaign, with the product available in select Tesco stores from mid-November.

Tempeh Crisps Offer Healthier, Protein-Packed Snack Alternative

Mamame Foods launched tempeh crisps in the UK, offering a nutritious, protein-rich alternative to traditional potato crisps. Made from fermented black-eyed beans, they are suitable for those with soy allergies and are free from gluten and seed oils. Available in four flavors—Hot Chilli, Original, Sea Salt and Rosemary—the crisps provide a thick crunch with a subtle hint of coconut oil and a touch of seasoning. They are available from UK Whole Foods Markets and Planet Organic.

Nemi Snacks Elevates Mexican Culture With Healthy Chips

Nemi Snacks, a Chicago-based snack, offers Mexican-inspired, healthy snacks made from nopal cactus and a blend of seeds, chilis and spices. Now in 400 stores across Illinois, Texas and the East Coast, Nemi Snacks creates crunchy snacks reminiscent of traditional churritos. Varieties include Chile Turmeric, Smoky Chipotle and Mexican Lime. The brand's Pickled Jalapeno flavor recently won Best Savory Snack at the 2024 Natural Products Expo West NEXTY Awards.

Little Spoon Launches Clean Label Baby Cereal

Kids food brand Little Spoon introduces its Organic Oatmeal Baby Cereal, setting a new industry standard as the first US baby cereal with comprehensive testing for heavy metals, pesticides and plasticizers. Featuring ancient grains like barley and millet, this cereal delivers 14g of whole grains per serving and is fortified with 13 essential vitamins and minerals, supporting brain development, bone health and immunity. Providing 50% Daily Value of iron, 30% DV of calcium, 20% DV of vitamin D, and 35% DV of zinc, there’s no added sugar or rice, and its free of top nine allergens.

Smart Snacks Surge As Health-Conscious Choices Expand

Rising consumer interest in health-focused snacks is driving growth in the “smart snacking” market, with NielsenIQ data showing this segment is expanding 1.2 times faster than traditional snacks and 20 percent of snacks have health claims. Consumers increasingly seek snacks that offer health benefits like bone and heart health, favoring options rich in vitamins, minerals and natural ingredients such as multigrains and nuts. This trend spans urban and rural areas alike, with Southern and Eastern India leading smart snack consumption.

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