News for professionals in the food business
Highlights
Grainwell Expands Sustainable Puffed Grains Production
Grainwell Puffed Grains, formerly known as Ancient Brands, has commenced operations at its 105,000-square-foot facility in Dyersville, Iowa, which it claims is North America's only controlled-puffing facility and the largest globally. Utilizing Cerex puffing technology and its proprietary Grainwell Way methodology, the company achieves up to 95 percent efficiency, significantly reducing waste, water and energy use compared to traditional puffing methods. Grainwell produces a variety of ancient and contemporary puffed grains, such as quinoa, amaranth and Kamut, which are in high demand for their nutritional benefits and clean-label status. The company partners with food brands to provide tailored puffed grain solutions for cereals, snacks and other better-for-you products. Grainwell holds over 80 percent of the market share in uncoated puffed grain cereals. CEO Wolfgang Buehler highlights the potential of puffed grains in driving innovation and improving existing products in the global better-for-you food market.
Calbee Leverages AI To Innovate Snack Production
Japanese snack company Calbee is partnering with Silicon Valley's Pegasus Tech Ventures to integrate artificial intelligence into its operations. This collaboration aims to develop healthier snacks, improve production efficiency and introduce new business models. AI is already enhancing Calbee’s production, marketing and administrative processes, and further innovations are anticipated through this venture. Calbee’s investments will target US food tech startups, though details on the number of startups and investment amounts are not yet disclosed. Pegasus Tech Ventures, known for investments in companies like SpaceX and Airbnb, will help Calbee explore AI applications such as optimizing potato chip production and creating AI-powered recipes. AI will also support customizing chip attributes to match consumer preferences and developing environmentally friendly packaging. Calbee also plans to invest in alternative food technologies like plant-based and insect-based products. The company seeks startups that can help address Japan’s aging population by creating healthier snacks and improving sustainability through biodegradable packaging.
Comment & Opinion
Mars Expands Healthy Snacks Portfolio With Kellanova Acquisition
Mars, Inc. has agreed to acquire Kellanova for $35.9 billion as part of its strategy to expand into the healthier snacks market. This acquisition aligns with Mars' goal to diversify its offerings beyond confectionery, capitalizing on the growing consumer demand for wellness-focused products. Kellanova, known for brands like RXBar, NutriGain, Pringles and Cheez-It, complements Mars' existing portfolio and strengthens its presence in the snack bar and salty snacks sectors. The deal also enhances Mars' global reach, particularly in Latin America, China and Africa. The acquisition, expected to close in 2025, will integrate Kellanova into Mars Snacking, creating synergies in supply chains, R&D and marketing, while advancing both companies' sustainability commitments.
Companies, Organizations
Stellar Snacks Launches Grain-Free, Heart-Healthy Pretzel Thins
Stellar Snacks, a women-owned, non-GMO and vegan brand, has introduced its first grain-free pretzel, Stellar Pretzel Thins, made with superfood ingredients. Available at select US grocery stores and soon online, these gluten-free, heart-healthy pretzels are certified by the American Heart Association. Priced at $5.99 for a 7.2-oz. bag, the Thins come in three flavors - Bruschetta, Truffle Pesto, and Sea Salt - and are crafted with cassava and chickpea flour, hemp and pea protein, as well as avocado oil. Designed for health-conscious consumers, the pretzels are peanut-free and offer benefits like fiber, vitamin D, and omega-3.
Latin American Snackers Balance Health And Indulgence
Latin American consumers are reevaluating their snacking habits amidst rising costs and front-of-pack warning labels. While there’s a growing demand for natural, nutritious snacks, economic pressures often push consumers to choose cheaper, less healthy options. Markets with established labeling laws, like Chile and Mexico, have seen increased interest in better-for-you snacks. Opportunities exist for brands to offer affordable, nutritious snacks such as fruit, vegetable and seed-based options. Conversely, indulgent snacks remain popular, with portion control and limited-edition flavors helping consumers justify occasional treats despite health warnings.
Euricom Acquires Sonko, Expands Healthy Snack Offerings
Italian agricultural company Euricom Group has acquired all shares in Poland's Sonko, which makes snacks and food products, from Oshee Polska. This acquisition positions Euricom as a major participant in the healthy rice snacks sector within the European Union. Euricom plans to invest in new production lines and expand Sonko's snack offerings, aiming to boost consolidated revenues to around 1 billion euros.
Skippi Launches Healthy Freeze-Dried Crazy Corn Snacks
Skippi in India has expanded its product line with Crazy Corn, a new freeze-dried snack available in four flavors: Cream and Onion, Jalapeno, Lemon and Mint, and White Chocolate. Utilizing advanced freeze-drying technology with 2 percent olive oil, Crazy Corn offers a crispy, crunchy texture while preserving natural flavors and freshness without artificial preservatives. Priced at Rs 99, these snacks are designed to blend nostalgia with innovation and are available on Skippi's website and major online retailers like Amazon and Flipkart.
Private Equity Firm Invests In Snak King’s Future Growth
Falfurrias Management Partners, a private equity firm focused on growth-oriented businesses, has invested in Snak King, a US manufacturer of private label and co-manufactured salty snacks, including tortilla chips, popcorn and nut clusters. Founded in 1978, Snak King has grown from a small pork rind co-manufacturer into a major industry player with over 780 employees and advanced facilities in Los Angeles and Chicago. The investment aims to support Snak King's next phase of growth, focusing on expanding capacity and continuing product innovation. The partnership will bring additional industry leaders onto Snak King's board, further enhancing the company's leadership and strategic direction. Known for its commitment to quality and innovation, Snak King hopes to benefit from Falfurrias's experience in driving growth for food-focused manufacturing companies.
PROPER Snacks Debuts Savory Popcorn Line In Bold Flavors
PROPER Snacks has expanded its popcorn offerings with a new savory range in three flavors: Tangy Chilli, Smoky & Sweet Paprika, and Cracked Black Pepper & Salt. This launch aims to invigorate the UK popcorn market, which has been predominantly sweet-focused, by tapping into the underdeveloped savory segment. The new popcorn is naturally high in fiber as well as vega and gluten-free. It contains less than 100 calories per serving. Nearly 90 percent of PROPERCORN is now HFSS-compliant, further enhancing its appeal. The vibrant packaging, designed by London artist Annu Kilpeläinen, reflects the bold flavors inside. Available in 70g sharing bags, the new range hits independent retailers in September, priced at £1.90.
Confetti Snacks Expands Sustainable Chips To 900 Walmart Stores
Confetti Snacks, known for its upcycled vegetable and fruit chips, is expanding into 900 Walmart stores across the US. This milestone reflects growing consumer demand for healthier, sustainable snacks. Confetti Snacks transforms imperfect produce into nutrient-dense chips, reducing food waste while offering a visually appealing and nutritious snack alternative. The company, which is woman- and minority-owned, also contributes to global hunger relief through partnerships with organizations like the Red Cross, donating high-fiber snacks to food-insecure communities. The Walmart launch follows successful expansions into European markets, signaling strong global demand for eco-friendly snacks.
Kibo Foods Unveils High-Protein Veggie Crunch Chips
Kibo Foods, an Austin-based producer of plant-based snacks, has launched Veggie Crunch chips, a new line of 3D-shaped bite-size chips made from green peas. They deliver 7g of plant-based protein per serving and come in three flavors: Sea Salt, Hot Chipotle and Sour Cream & Onion. Designed to offer a nutritious snacking option, the chips are free from preservatives, added sugar, gluten, dairy, GMOs and high saturated fat. The Veggie Crunch chips are available on Amazon and from other major retailers. Kibo Foods is also committed to sustainability, using legumes that require less water to farm and supporting regenerative practices in Costa Rica and Colombia.
Pom-Bear Adds Cheese And BBQ Flavors To Snack Lineup
KP Snacks is expanding its Pom-Bear range with two new flavors, Cheese and BBQ, launching in August. These non-HFSS, vegan and gluten-free snacks are designed for lunchboxes and family snacking. The launch coincides with Pom-Bear's first TV campaign since 2018, airing on September 9, which promotes the playful connection between parents and children through the tagline, "Put a little Pom in your Day." The new flavors are available in multipacks; Cheese is also available in single packs. They join the popular Original flavor.
AshaPops Expands Water Lily Snacks Nationwide
AshaSuperfoods, co-founded by Northeastern graduate Jai Farswani and his mother, is bringing their plant-based snack, AshaPops, to retailers nationwide. AshaPops are flavored, popped water lily seeds inspired by the ayurvedic diet, offering a healthy, allergen-free alternative to conventional snacks. The idea for AshaPops originated when Farswani’s mother packed the seeds as a snack during a visit to Los Angeles. After positive feedback, they began selling the snacks at local farmers markets in 2017. AshaPops quickly gained popularity and are now available in major retailers including Whole Foods and ShopRite. With a focus on promoting plant-based, ayurvedic foods, AshaSuperfoods aims to expand its product line and reach more consumers across the US. AshaPops are vegan and free of gluten, grain and soy, and contain 120 calories a bag.
Boundless Secures £1.5M To Expand Gut-Healthy Snack Range
UK-based Boundless, a healthy snacking brand focused on gut health, has raised £1.5 million from prominent investors, including Graze co-founder Ben Jones. The female-led company, founded by Cathy Moseley, offers high-fiber, gluten-free vegan snacks designed for on-the-go consumers. Boundless has seen significant growth, with a 110 percent year-on-year increase in sales value and 171 percent in volume this year. The brand has expanded its distribution network through new foodservice deals and major retailers like Lidl and Ocado. Boundless aims to capture 1 percent of the better-for-you snack market by its financial year-end.
Nim's Rebrand Reflects Expanded Natural Snack Range
UK-based Nim's has rebranded to "Nim's…Naturally" after launching its 65th product, emphasizing its commitment to 100% natural ingredients. Founded by Nimisha Raja MBE in 2017, the company has expanded from air-dried fruit and vegetable crisps to include drink garnishes, botanicals, edible teas and air-dried ingredients under the Let’s Cook and Let’s Bake brands. The rebrand reflects the diversity of its product range, all made with single, natural ingredients. Nim's products are sold in over 1500 UK outlets, including major retailers and food service chains. The company achieved its "Zero Food Waste" milestone last year.
PAI Partners Acquires Majority Stake In Nutripure
Paris-based PAI Partners has acquired a majority stake in Nutripure, a French sports nutrition and wellness company, from investor Ardian. The company's founders, Florent and Christophe Carrio, and Bpifrance retain minority interests. Founded in 2017, Nutripure offers products like protein powders, bars, porridge, granola, vitamins and organic oils, and has over 200,000 subscribers. PAI Partners aims to leverage its expertise to support Nutripure’s growth. Since Ardian’s investment in 2022, Nutripure has quadrupled its turnover and become a leading brand in its market.
Taylors Snacks Offers Healthier Lunchbox Options
Taylors Snacks aims to simplify the lunchbox selection dilemma with its "better-for-you" Lentil Waves. Greg Smith, head of marketing, emphasizes the importance of a smooth shopping experience for time-poor, indecisive consumers, particularly parents during the back-to-school season. Taylors Snacks provides a range of healthier snack options that are lower in fat, high in protein and vegan-friendly. Lentil Waves, available in five flavors, have gained popularity, especially among children. Three flavors comply with Scottish school standards and are currently available in 320 primary and secondary schools. The recent addition of the Prawn Cocktail flavor is expected to appeal to both kids and adults.
Hippeas Introduces Two New Chickpea Puff Flavors
Hippeas launched two new Chickpea Puffs flavors: Mexican Street Corn and Churro. These limited-edition snacks offer the signature crunch and flavor of Hippeas products, with chickpeas as the primary ingredient. They are free from the top 9 allergens, Non-GMO Project Verified and available at Sprouts, select retailers and HIPPEAS.com. Each 1oz. serving of Hippeas Chickpea Puffs contains 4g of protein and 3g of fiber. Julia Hecht, Hippeas CMO, highlights the new flavors as a response to rising demand for unique and indulgent snacks that also offer nutritional benefits and contain no artificial additives. Hippeas' product line includes eight Chickpea Puff flavors, three Chickpea Tortilla Chip flavors and three Veggie Straw flavors.
Calbee Introduces Dadachamame Potato Chips For Summer
Japanese potato chip maker Calbee is launching a new summer flavor – dadachamame – to the Kataage Potato chips range. Inspired by the traditional Japanese summer snack, edamame, these chips feature dadachamame, a highly regarded soybean variety from Yamagata Prefecture known for its sweet and umami-rich taste. This seasonal flavor uses edamame powder made from Tsuruoka-grown dadachamame, offering a unique and authentic taste experience. Previously available only in limited regions, the edamame-flavored chips went national in 2023, but 2024 marks the first use of dadachamame, elevating the flavor profile. Ideal for pairing with cold beer, Calbee's dadachamame chips will first hit Japanese convenience stores on July 29 and then expand to supermarkets on August 5. They will be available through the Obon holiday season until late October, depending on supply.
Puffed Snacks Surge With Healthy, Flavorful Innovations
Puffed and extruded snacks have experienced a notable rise in popularity, with most categories seeing increased dollar sales. According to data from Circana, the corn snacks category, dominated by Frito-Lay/PepsiCo brands, brought in $2.7 billion of sales in the 52 weeks to April 21, with Fritos leading at $1.4 billion and second-ranked Chester’s corn snacks up 37.1 percent. Cheese snacks, dominated by Cheetos, sold $4 billion, with a 10.8 percent increase for the brand. In contrast, pork rinds saw a slight decline. Consumer interest in healthier, better-for-you snacks is driving this trend and brands like Calbee America’s Harvest Snaps are thriving by offering veggie-based nutrition and bold flavors. Despite challenges such as supply chain disruptions and rising costs, producers are adapting through innovation and automation. International and adventurous flavors are also expected to gain traction, with Calbee set to introduce more global-inspired products to the US market.
Deals, M&A, JVs, Licensing
Utz Expands Florida Presence With DSD Route Acquisition
Utz Brands has strengthened its footprint in Florida's salty snack market by acquiring around 65 direct-store delivery routes from National Food Corp. This deal, which includes coverage of key areas like Miami and Fort Lauderdale, builds on a 2021 acquisition of 21 DSD routes in central Florida. With over 200 independent operator-run routes now under its control in the state, Utz is focusing on Florida as a critical market due to its large consumer base and high snack sales. The company plans to boost investment in the region with enhanced retailer support, expanded distribution, and increased service capabilities. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.
Mars Explores Snack Company Kellanova Acquisition
Mars is reportedly considering acquiring Kellanova, the snack-focused business spun off from Kellogg. While Mars is exploring the potential deal, there's no certainty it will proceed, and other buyers may also be interested. Mars has been active in mergers and acquisitions, recently acquiring Kevin’s Natural Foods and Trü Frü. Kellanova, known for brands like Pringles and Cheez-It, reported $13 billion in sales last year and 4.7 percent sales growth in the first half of its current financial year. If the acquisition occurs, it would be a significant move in the US food industry following JM Smucker's $5.6 billion purchase of Hostess Brands.
Innovation & New Ideas
Irish Brand Homespun Innovates Low-Sugar, High-Fiber Snacks
Erica Sheehan, founder of the Dublin-based food brand Homespun, has developed a range of healthier, low-sugar snacks using chicory root syrup, a natural, low-carb, high-fiber sweetener. Since establishing Homespun in 2016, Sheehan has introduced lower-sugar granola and oat bars, now stocked in major Irish retailers. Chicory root syrup, the brand's "secret sauce," has a low glycemic index, making it ideal for those managing blood sugar levels, including diabetics. With only 14g of sugar per 100g, it offers a less sweet yet satisfying alternative to traditional sweeteners like honey and maple syrup, and a lot more fiber. Homespun products are made in Ireland and on sale in some branches of Holland & Barrett, Nourish, SuperValu and Avoca, as well as in independent health and food outlets.
Legal, Legislation, Regulation, Policy
FDA Advances Sodium Reduction In Processed Foods
The FDA has launched "phase II" of its voluntary sodium reduction guidelines, aiming to reduce Americans' daily salt intake to 2,750 mg over the next two-and-a-half years. This follows phase I, which aimed to lower consumption from 3,400 mg/day to 3,000 mg/day. While the new target is still above the 2,300 mg/day recommended by dietary guidelines, it represents a 20 percent decrease from 2021 levels. The FDA's focus remains on commercially processed and packaged foods, where over 70 percent of sodium intake occurs. Although the Center for Science in the Public Interest applauds the progress, it urges more aggressive targets, particularly in the restaurant industry. The FDA's sodium reduction efforts are part of a broader government strategy to reduce diet-related chronic diseases by 2030. The agency is also exploring further nutrition initiatives, including reducing added sugars and updating "healthy" food labeling.
Market News
Pretzels Thrive With Health-Focused Innovation
The pretzel category posted 6.4 percent growth in the 52 weeks to April 21 as sales reached $2.4 billion, according to data from Circana, driven by innovations in flavors, shapes and health-focused options like grain- and gluten-free. Leading brands include Snyder’s of Hanover, Dot’s Homestyle Pretzels and Quinn, with the latter seeing a 51.8 percent growth during the same period. Better-for-you snacks are in high demand, with consumers seeking healthier options and higher nutritional values, such as those containing protein-enriched and plant-based ingredients. Premium brands and private labels are thriving, particularly those offering fewer ingredients and bold flavors. Despite challenges such as labor shortages and rising costs, manufacturers are investing in automation to maintain affordability. Brands like Unique Snacks and Crisp Power are focusing on innovation in sustainable and functional ingredients to meet evolving consumer preferences.
Marketing & Advertising
Hey! Chips Focuses On Singapore, Expands Healthy Snacks
Hey! Chips, a Singapore-based healthy snack brand, has shifted its strategy from overseas expansion to focusing on its local market, leading to increased brand awareness and profitability. The company’s fruit and vegetable chips are now available in major supermarkets and specialty grocers across Singapore. Hey! Chips also introduced smaller packaging for corporate customers, which now account for around 25 percent of its revenue. Despite growing competition in the healthy snack category, the brand is enhancing its visibility through sampling events and plans to launch a new line of seed- and bean-based protein chips without ultra-processed ingredients, in line with its clean-label ethos.
Garden Veggie Snacks Launches 'YUMbelievably Delicious' Campaign
Garden Veggie Snacks™ has unveiled its first national Masterbrand campaign, "YUMbelievably Delicious," to emphasize its commitment to providing better-for-you snacks that are both fun and flavorful. The campaign invites families to explore imaginative snack experiences, highlighting the brand's diverse portfolio, including Veggie Straws®, Puffs, Wavy Chips, Stacked Chips and the new Flavor Burst™ Tortilla Chips. Developed by BrandFuel Co., the campaign will roll out in the US and Canada, featuring dynamic video ads and social media engagement.
Products & Brands
Boulder Canyon Launches Buffalo Ranch Kettle Chips
Utz Foods' Boulder Canyon brand has launched Buffalo Ranch Canyon Cut Kettle Style Potato Chips, its first ranch-flavored product. Made with premium potatoes and cooked in avocado oil, the chips combine spicy buffalo with tangy ranch. They are Non-GMO Project Verified and certified gluten-free, contain no trans fats and are Kosher. These better-for-you chips are available in 5.25-oz. bags for $4.29 at Whole Foods, Sprouts and online.
Proper Crisps Launches Healthy Purple & Gold Potato Chips
Proper Crisps is expanding its Big Cut range in Australia with a new flavor, Big Cut Purple & Gold, featuring thick-cut golden and purple potatoes seasoned with Marlborough Sea Salt and cracked pepper. Free from gluten, dairy, artificial additives and preservatives, the snack offers a healthier alternative with fewer and simpler ingredients, according to nutritionist Monique Pendlebury. The chips, which are also vegan, will be available at Woolworths Metros, Coles Locals and independent retailers at the end of the month for $6.90 per 140g pack.
GoodSAM Launches Sustainable Crispy Fruit Chips
GoodSAM Foods has introduced Crispy Crunchy Fruit Chips, a new line of healthy snacks now available at Whole Foods and online, with availability on Amazon and Thrive Market coming later. Crafted by women in Colombia, these fruit chips celebrate regenerative agriculture, supporting communities in the Paramos ecosystems. Available in five varieties, including Pineapple Slices and Plantain Chips, the chips are vegan, non-GMO and made without added sugars or preservatives. GoodSAM’s mission emphasizes sustainability and supporting smallholder farmers, aligning with its broader commitment to creating food that's "Good for You, Good for Farmers, and Good for the Planet."
The Happy Pear Brings Healthy Snacks To The UK
The Happy Pear, an Irish brand known for promoting plant-based eating, is expanding into the UK market with a new range of healthy food products. Founded by twins Dave and Steve Flynn in 2004, the brand's mission is to encourage people to eat more vegetables daily. The UK launch features their ambient product line, including high-fiber granola and Vita Vibe vitamin drinks, with plans to introduce more items, including chilled products. The Happy Pear emphasizes natural, minimally processed ingredients and sustainable packaging, aiming to meet the growing demand for healthier, convenient food choices without compromising on flavor.
Mission MightyMe Launches Nutty Puffs In Target Stores
Mission MightyMe, a children's food brand focused on preventing food allergies, has secured $2.35 million in funding and will launch its Nutty Puffs in select Target stores on August 25. This marks the brand's first venture into brick-and-mortar retail, expanding its reach to help families follow pediatric guidelines for early nut introduction. Nutty Puffs, made with over 50% nuts, are organic, non-GMO and free from artificial flavors, palm oil and cane sugar. The brand says they the only baby-friendly puffs containing sufficient quantities of peanuts and tree nuts. All products are Clean Label Project Purity Award recipients.
Redefining Banana Chips For Global Markets
Manas Madhu, co-founder of Beyond Snack, transformed Kerala's banana chips brand into a thriving business after quitting his corporate job in 2015. Madhu's vision included standardizing production to ensure consistent taste and quality, leading to the launch of Beyond Snack in 2020. The brand offers a variety of flavors, including coconut oil-based options, aiming to compete with global snack giants like Lay's. With a 95 percent automated facility, production has surged, and the company now partners with 220 farmer groups for high-quality bananas. Beyond Snack expanded its distribution across India and exports to 15 countries. Projected to reach Rs 100 crore in revenue by FY25, the company plans to achieve full profitability by 2026 and aims to make banana chips a standalone category. The startup, backed by $5.98 million in funding, employs a predominantly female workforce and is committed to further expansion and innovation in the better-for-you snack market.
Hain Celestial Offers Healthy Back-to-School Snack Solutions
According to a company press release, as the back-to-school season kicks off, Hain Celestial Group provides a range of nutritious and convenient snack and meal prep options for busy families. Over half of parents seek better-for-you snacks that also appeal to their kids; almost 60 percent want on-the-go snack options. With many parents seeking better-for-you snacks, Garden Veggie Snacks™ and Earth's Best® Organic products offer tasty solutions for kids. Parents can enjoy Terra® Original Vegetable Chips, for example, while younger children can snack on Earth's Best® Organic Pouches. These products are available at major retailers like Walmart, Amazon and Target.
Tantos: Puffed Pasta Chips In Classic Italian Flavors
Celebrity Chef Joe Sasto from “Top Chef” has launched Tantos, the first puffed pasta chip seasoned with Italian-American flavors. Available in Marinara, Cacio e Pepe, Pesto and Classico, Tantos offers a crunchy, flavorful snack with chickpeas as the main ingredient. These chips are free from the top 9 allergens, are Non-GMO Project Verified and provide 4g of protein and 3g of fiber per 1oz. serving. Chef Sasto, inspired by his Italian heritage, developed Tantos to combine the convenience of a snack with the traditional flavors of pasta. Tantos chips are ideal for various occasions, from school lunches to picnics, and are available nationwide through the Tantos website, Amazon and select grocery stores. They are priced at $2.99 for a 1oz. bag and $6.99 for a 4oz. sharing bag.
Trends
Meeting Demand For Nutritious Snacks
Consumers are increasingly prioritizing health in their snacking choices, driving manufacturers to innovate with nutritious options. The global healthy snack market is projected to grow at a 6.6 percent CAGR, reaching $152.3 billion by 2030, according to a report from Innova Market Insights. Health-conscious consumers favor high-protein and fiber-rich snacks that support overall wellbeing, including gut health and mood improvement. Functional snacks with benefits such as better digestion, sleep aid and immunity boosts are also on the rise and favored by around a fifth of consumers. Brands are targeting younger demographics with high-protein and low-sugar offerings. The trend towards clean labels and recognizable ingredients further underscores the demand for wholesome snacks, presenting significant growth opportunities for the industry, as is personalized nutrition.
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