THE YUM PANDEMIC
All News

August 2026

Browse past food and drink editions by year, month, and date.

August 31, 2026

Open edition
Features After the quake, Japan’s label reprieve becomes a test of trust Japan’s August 31, 2026 labelling reprieve shows how food systems bend under disaster pressure, but the harder question is how far emergency flexibility can go before confidence frays. Industry Watch South Africa Extends UAE Meat Export Deadline Livestock producers have more time to meet compliance rules for red meat exports to the UAE. Industry Watch Packaging Labelling Confusion as PPWR Begins The Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation is now active, yet critical details regarding labelling remain missing. Daily Digest US Iceberg Lettuce Outbreak Spreads Health officials report that a cyclosporiasis outbreak linked to iceberg lettuce has reached more states. Daily Digest Asda Returns to Growth The supermarket has recorded its first sales increase in two years. Industry Watch Hormel Retail Volume Slumps Commodity turkey and private label snack nuts weighed on Hormel Foods during the third quarter. Daily Digest Winnie the Pooh arrives at Morrisons New themed fruit packs are launching to mark the centenary of the classic children's stories. Daily Digest Canada Removes Seafood From US Tariff List Fish and seafood products have been excluded from Canada's planned retaliatory tariffs on American goods. Culture & Dining Starbucks UK introduces autumn matcha twist A new Iced Apple Crumble Matcha Latte has joined the seasonal menu in the UK. Daily Digest Aldi and Asda Volume Sales Diverge New data reveals a different perspective on the performance of Aldi and Asda. Industry Watch Nulogy Set for PPMA 2026 Manufacturing software provider Nulogy will present its latest smart factory and quality compliance tools at the upcoming PPMA Show. Industry Watch Amcor brings packaging innovations to Stockholm The packaging producer will display its latest food and beverage solutions at the Empack event. Industry Watch Heineken expands Swiss brewing The beverage giant is modernising its manufacturing footprint with a new brewery in Switzerland. Daily Digest Wild Flavours on the Ghan Passengers on Australia's iconic rail journey can now sample native ingredients including crocodile and kangaroo. Daily Digest Japan Eases Food Labelling Rules After Earthquake The Japanese government has granted a labelling reprieve for food products in regions impacted by the Kumamoto Earthquake. Industry Watch UK pesticide advisory group closes The Expert Committee on Pesticide Residues in Food has held its final meeting after providing guidance on food surveillance. Industry Watch FDA Updates Import Alerts for Foreign Foods The US Food and Drug Administration has modified its import alerts to better enforce safety regulations on various food categories. Industry Watch FDA Issues Warnings Over Supplier Paperwork Three food importers have been flagged by the FDA for failing to maintain required foreign supplier documentation. Industry Watch Rise in Foodborne Outbreaks in Poland Recent data indicates an increase in food safety incidents, with Salmonella identified as the primary cause. Industry Watch Walmart Mangoes Recalled Over Salmonella Fears Panorama Produce has issued a recall for mangoes sold across four US states due to potential contamination. Industry Watch New Food Safety Toolkit for Irish Firms Food Drink Ireland has launched a comprehensive guide to help manufacturers prevent and manage food safety incidents.

August 30, 2026

Open edition
Features The Moment Residue Archaeology Turned Back Into Drink A Qin tomb discovery suggests ancient beverage research is moving beyond stains on pottery and into the rarer, more disruptive recovery of liquids in usable volume. Daily Digest Valeo Foods Group Exits Irish Market The company has sold its Ireland operations to a consortium headed by a former executive. Daily Digest Onigiri Venture Takes Root in Chicago A Japanese entrepreneur is bringing the comfort of traditional rice balls to the American market. Industry Watch Constellation Brands Pledges US$100 Million for Farmers A new five-year investment aims to increase profitability and resilience for growers in the United States. Industry Watch Tongaat Hulett Hit With Sugar Levy Claim South Africa's highest court has rejected an appeal from the sugar producer regarding suspended levies. Industry Watch South African Fruit Tech Push Fruit exporters in South Africa are adopting new technology to overcome logistics hurdles and weather volatility. Industry Watch New Shipping Network Links India and East Africa PIL is upgrading its Imara Express service to improve food and goods transport between India and East African ports. Industry Watch South African Food Sector Eyes Growth The food and beverage industry in South Africa is entering a period of optimism following years of economic instability. Industry Watch Former McVitie's Chief Backs Private Label Growth Cem Karakaş explains why retailer-owned brands are becoming more valuable. Culture & Dining Drinks Fueling US Restaurant Growth Younger diners are driving footfall in American eateries through a demand for innovative beverage flavours. Industry Watch Lubrizol to Debut Nutraceutical Innovations The company is set to present a range of taste-focused health solutions at SupplySide Global. Culture & Dining Convenience and Adaptation Drive African Food Trends Urbanisation and social media are reshaping how consumers in Africa interact with traditional and global cuisines. Industry Watch Cold Chain Leaders to Meet in Johannesburg Temperature-controlled logistics experts will gather in South Africa to strengthen the industry's collective voice. Industry Watch Smucker Continues Hostess Integration J.M. Smucker sees mixed results for its Hostess brand across different retail channels. Industry Watch General Mills Removes Artificial Colours From US Cereals The food giant has successfully phased out certified colours across its entire US retail cereal range. Culture & Dining Wine Production Shifts as Climate Changes Traditional vineyards face pressure while northern European nations become more viable for grape growing. Daily Digest The Politics of Girl Scout Cookies A look at the cultural tensions surrounding the Girl Scouts beyond their famous confectionery. Industry Watch Hormel Struggles With Retail Volume The company reports that the general consumer environment shows no signs of improvement. Industry Watch Bachan's Boosts Marzetti Performance Marzetti is seeing a sales lift driven by the success of Bachan's. Industry Watch Ghana Cocoa Farmers Oppose New Legislation Agricultural representatives claim new laws fail to tackle structural issues within the cocoa sector. Industry Watch Kenya Launches New Seed Potato Hub A new centre in Marindas aims to tackle a significant supply deficit of certified potato seeds.

August 29, 2026

Open edition
Features The Commercialisation of Lost Tastes Thailand’s new push to turn forgotten dishes into tourism assets raises a harder question than the marketing suggests: when a recipe is treated as both heritage and product, what exactly is being preserved. Industry Watch Nestle Names New UK Beverages Head Thomas Conquet will lead the company's premium beverages and waters portfolio in the UK. Industry Watch Ghana Cocoa Regulator Faces Financial Strain COCOBOD reports a significant rise in liabilities alongside a sharp drop in equity. Industry Watch South Africa adjusts sugar import price The South African government is increasing the sugar import reference price to US$785. Daily Digest Kettle Cuisine Appoints New CEO Former Kraft Heinz executive Peter Hall has been named as the new leader of the fresh prepared foods manufacturer. Industry Watch Creatine Hits the Soda Aisle Joyburst has developed a new soft drink infused with creatine for a functional boost. Daily Digest Valeo Foods Divests Irish Operations Former managing director Hilliard Lombard takes control of several well known Irish food brands. Industry Watch Pringles Launches Sturdier Crisps Mars Snacking is introducing a thicker chip specifically designed for dipping. Industry Watch Beverage Trends Focus on Function New innovations in the foodservice sector are prioritising functional benefits and popular flavours. Daily Digest Lindt blends chocolate with high fashion The chocolatier has partnered with designer Joe Ando to create couture dresses inspired by a new matcha strawberry treat. Industry Watch Wheat Supplies Under Threat from El Nino Weather patterns are posing a risk to global wheat production according to new forecasts. Industry Watch Cameroon Cocoa Earnings Plunge Export revenues for Cameroon cocoa have dropped by 63 per cent during the 2025-26 season. Industry Watch Kenya Targets Fake Alcohol Industry leaders are demanding stricter border controls and better traceability to combat the rise of counterfeit drinks. Industry Watch Kenya Targets Billions in Meat Industry Growth Agriculture CS Mutahi Kagwe is calling for increased investment in processing technology to unlock a US$3.01 billion market. Industry Watch Mondelez Launches New Clif Protein Bar A new high-protein snack option from Clif has arrived on the market. Daily Digest EMEA Food Tech Finalists Revealed The shortlist for the Global Food Tech Awards EMEA has been announced, highlighting the next generation of food innovators. Industry Watch Constellation Brands Appoints New Supply Chain Head The maker of Corona and Modelo has named Alex Alvarez as the lead for its beer division supply chain. Industry Watch Meat Processing Monopoly Under Fire A proposal to let farmers process their own livestock has sparked a debate over food safety. Industry Watch US Meat Processing Proposal Sparks Safety Concerns A plan to allow farmers to process their own meat has raised warnings about the return of E. coli outbreaks. Daily Digest Climate Change Threatens Global Food Security Recent extreme weather in Europe highlights a growing existential risk to food production. Industry Watch Fresh Sips Hit the Shelves A wave of new beverage launches brings carbonated coffee and functional teas to the market.

August 28, 2026

Open edition
Features The Compliance Cost of the Green Plate As the EU’s packaging regime beds in after August 12, 2026, food manufacturers are being forced to reconcile stricter environmental controls with a sourcing model that still leans on distant suppliers, data-poor farms and ever more complex import networks. Daily Digest PepsiCo Targets Global Taste Profiles The food giant is leveraging international flavours to expand its Fresh Experiences range. Daily Digest Sapporo USA to shut California breweries The beer producer is closing its craft facilities and cutting 220 jobs following the sale of Stone Brewing. Industry Watch Packaging Costs Rise Amid Trade Tensions Manufacturers of glass, metal and fibre packaging warn of supply chain disruptions due to U.S. and Canada trade disputes. Industry Watch Arla to Boost Protein Investment The dairy giant is increasing capital expenditure to meet surging global demand for protein ingredients. Industry Watch The Rise of Functional Drinks Modern beverages are increasingly incorporating targeted ingredients to provide specific health benefits. Culture & Dining The Case for Side-by-Side Dining A new perspective suggests that sitting next to your companion at a restaurant is a superior way to eat. Industry Watch Cyclospora Fears Hit Fresh Produce Consumption A significant number of Americans are avoiding whole foods due to concerns over foodborne illness. Industry Watch NewPrinces Launches Spartan in Italy The beverage company is expanding its portfolio with the introduction of a new energy drink. Industry Watch Kettle Cuisine Appoints New CEO Peter Hall takes the helm at Kettle Cuisine as former leader Liam McClennon retires. Industry Watch Indian Sugar Prices Surge Domestic sugar costs in India have climbed by 15.6 per cent amid production shortfalls and tight global supplies. Industry Watch Red Diamond Coffee and Tea Appoints New SVP Mike Mehrotra joins the company to lead growth for the Away From Home division. Daily Digest Nestle Maintains Top Spot in Global Brand Rankings The food giant retains its position as the world's most valuable food brand for 2026. Industry Watch Lettuce Outbreak Surpasses 11,000 Cases A Cyclospora outbreak linked to iceberg lettuce has spread to three additional states. Industry Watch AI to Tackle Food Safety Habits A new Welsh university project explores how artificial intelligence can improve hygiene behaviours in homes and workplaces. Industry Watch Infant botulism outbreak investigation closed Health officials have ended their probe into a botulism outbreak linked to powdered infant formula. Industry Watch Salmonella outbreak hits Denmark Thirteen people have fallen ill with Salmonella Typhimurium in a recent outbreak of unknown origin. Industry Watch UK Salmonella Outbreaks Linked to Hundreds of Cases Public health authorities are investigating three clusters of Salmonella Enteritidis that have caused nearly 500 infections. Industry Watch Climate Crisis Sparks Recipe Overhauls Food manufacturers are seeking resilient ingredients as environmental and political pressures disrupt global supply chains. Industry Watch Nestle bets on soil to save coffee The food giant is implementing regenerative agriculture to combat soil degradation and farmer shortages.

August 27, 2026

Open edition
Features The Datafication of the Field South Korea’s new agri-food data push sharpens an old question: when governments open field-level intelligence to private firms, do they build resilience or simply hand scale advantages to those already best equipped to exploit them? Daily Digest US Alcohol Consumption Hits Historic Low Drinking rates in the United States have reached their lowest point since 1939. Industry Watch Sports Nutrition Expands Beyond the Gym New product innovations are targeting a wider range of ingredients and consumption occasions. Industry Watch Cereal Industry Secrets Exposed A new book reveals how corporate lobbying and marketing shaped global nutrition policy. Daily Digest Barry Callebaut Names New COO The chocolate giant has appointed Thomas Gaengler to a role that has been vacant for nearly three years. Industry Watch Almond Board of California Outlines Growth Strategy CEO Clarice Turner discusses the nutritional benefits and promotional efforts for almonds. Industry Watch Newtopia Now Bridges Retail Gap A new special report examines the transition from consumer ready to retail ready products. Daily Digest Sainsbury's Slashes Produce Prices The supermarket has introduced half-price offers on fruit and vegetables as part of a new promotional series. Industry Watch General Mills struggles with volume loss The company faced a decline in units despite repricing a large portion of its product range. Industry Watch Pumpkin Spice Expands Beyond the Cup The autumn 2026 flavour trend is moving from coffee shops into snacks, confectionery and protein bars. Industry Watch Sazerac brings American whiskey styles to India Two new brands are launching in the Indian market to offer consumers differentiated drinking experiences. Industry Watch Christmas Chocolate Tubs Shrink Festive confectionery sizes are dropping by up to 14 per cent even as cocoa costs decline. Daily Digest Heart of England Co-op pivots to food to go A new Warwick store marks a shift towards a foodservice-led convenience strategy. Industry Watch 7 Brew Launches Ready-to-Drink Energy Range The beverage brand is expanding its reach with a new line of energy drinks available in retail stores. Industry Watch Funday Natural Sweets Heads to Target The gummy candy brand is preparing for its first major US retail launch. Industry Watch European Alerts Highlight Supplement Risks Dietary supplements are the primary focus of recent cross-border food safety warnings across Europe. Industry Watch Salmonella Outbreak Affects Over 80 Patients Public health officials are investigating a new outbreak after more than 80 people fell ill. Industry Watch Boston Firm Recalls Buffalo Chicken Over 12 tonnes of frozen buffalo chicken products have been recalled due to a lack of inspection. Industry Watch Jalapeno Ranch Dip Recalled Over Egg Allergy Risk Jaime’s Foods ATX has issued a recall for its Spanish Village Jalapeno Ranch due to missing allergen labelling. Industry Watch Salmonella Outbreak in Spain Nearly 30 people have fallen ill after consuming an egg-based dish.

August 26, 2026

Open edition
Features When Food Trade Stops Orbiting the West As SIAL’s Shanghai machine pushes into Guangzhou and Foodtech Kolkata opens with a smart-and-sustainable pitch, Asia’s newer exhibition nodes are starting to redraw how food buyers meet, compare and commit. Industry Watch Boba Breaks Out of the Cup Tapioca pearls are finding new uses beyond the traditional bubble tea market. Daily Digest The Rise of Sardinemaxxing Tinned sardines are seeing a surge in popularity as health enthusiasts embrace a new nutritional trend. Industry Watch Godiva marks centenary with special collection The premium chocolatier is celebrating 100 years of business with limited-edition treats and a new film. Industry Watch The Case for Hybrid Cloud in Food Production Industry experts suggest that pure cloud systems may be too slow for high-speed food manufacturing lines. Daily Digest US Whiskey Eyes Global Dominance The American Whiskey Association aims to establish its spirits as the premier choice worldwide despite ongoing trade challenges. Daily Digest K-Pop Toad Hits the Bottle HiteJinro is celebrating the global popularity of Korean culture with a special edition soju design. Industry Watch Third Wave Coffee Secures Funding for India Expansion The Bengaluru-based specialty coffee chain has raised US$43 million to grow its network of cafés. Industry Watch Guan Chong Reports Massive Profit Jump The cocoa processor saw profits surge fivefold to US$62.58 million during the second quarter of 2026. Industry Watch Maya Kaimal Foods Launches Chinese Indian Range A new collection of seven globally inspired products is arriving at select retailers. Daily Digest Hotel Chocolat reports losses Rising raw material and staffing costs have impacted the chocolatier's bottom line. Daily Digest New fuel price tracker launched A real-time tool now monitors petrol and diesel costs across major UK forecourts and supermarkets. Daily Digest JJ Foodservice Introduces Colleague Awards A new recognition scheme allows staff to nominate peers who embody company values. Industry Watch AI Tackles Food Safety Paperwork Artificial intelligence is helping small food manufacturers reduce the clerical burden of compliance. Industry Watch Cyclospora Outbreaks Surpass 17,000 Patients The CDC reports a massive spike in cases across seven separate outbreaks. Industry Watch Listeria Warning Issued for Pakistan Researchers are calling for urgent public health action as Listeria infections rise across the country. Industry Watch EU Reviews Meat Safety in France and Germany Recent audits suggest meat controls are mostly effective despite some procedural flaws. Industry Watch Veggie Chips Recalled Over Wheat Risk A Canadian firm is recalling specific vegetable crisps in the US due to missing allergen warnings. Industry Watch Pickled Meat Recall in Texas Over 1,600 pounds of goat and chicken products are being withdrawn from sale due to inspection failures. Industry Watch Chocolate Doughnuts Recalled Over Milk Allergen The Better Bakehouse Snack Company is recalling specific batches of cake doughnuts due to undeclared milk.

August 25, 2026

Open edition
Features The Indigenous Gourmet Pivot As ants move from tribal chutneys to urban tasting menus, the harder question is no longer whether diners will try them, but whether the communities that refined these foods will remain visible, credited and economically present in the upscale story. Industry Watch Maersk introduces rail link in Morocco A new rail service between Tangier and Casablanca aims to reduce port congestion. Culture & Dining School Menus Fail Food Standards A large majority of secondary school menus are reportedly breaching nutritional guidelines. Industry Watch Flowers Foods Faces Economic Headwinds The company is pivoting its product strategy to counter falling consumer demand. Industry Watch Revolution Foods Expands with Ardella's Acquisition Revolution Foods has purchased Ardella's to grow its range of school meal offerings. Industry Watch Walmart Increases Price Gap With Rivals The retail giant has raised its full-year guidance following strong second quarter performance. Industry Watch Saudi Arabia Coffee Imports Hit Record High The Kingdom is transforming into a regional hub for roasting and trading as imports reach 1.86 billion US dollars. Industry Watch FDA reviews new food colour petitions The US food regulator is currently analysing three petitions for new colouring agents. Daily Digest Food Producers Call for Cost Cuts UK manufacturers are urging Prime Minister Andy Burnham to reduce financial pressures on the food and drink sector. Industry Watch US Dairy Sector Supports Trade Tariffs Industry bodies in the United States have praised President Trump for his stance in a trade dispute with Canada. Industry Watch Constellation Brands Pours Millions Into US Farms The company behind Modelo is investing 100 million dollars to boost agricultural resilience in the United States. Daily Digest US Lawmakers Demand Aluminium Pricing Probe Nearly 60 members of Congress are calling for an investigation into pricing structures affecting beverage cans. Industry Watch Grenade Heads to America Mondelez is expanding the reach of the Grenade brand by launching it in the US market. Industry Watch Predictive AI Tackles Factory Downtime New AI tools are helping food manufacturers prevent production halts before they happen. Daily Digest Australia Probes Supermarket Food Fraud A consumer watchdog is investigating misleading origin claims and product adulteration across Australian supermarkets. Industry Watch Löfbergs Names First Female CEO Swedish coffee group Löfbergs has appointed Anneli Ellsäter to lead its global expansion and sustainability efforts. Industry Watch Barriers to Biobased Packaging Experts highlight food safety and consumer trust as primary obstacles to the adoption of biobased packaging. Industry Watch Contractor Sentenced for Fraudulent Hygiene Checks A temporary officer in England has been sentenced after admitting to faking food safety inspections. Industry Watch Silence from Food Safety Officials Thirteen letters sent to health agencies and Taylor Farms have reportedly gone unanswered. Industry Watch Industry Struggles With Audit Fatigue A new survey highlights the growing burden of compliance costs and resource shortages in food safety auditing. Industry Watch Lindt introduces 100 per cent cocoa bar The chocolatier has added an ultra-dark option to its Excellence range to meet rising consumer demand.

August 24, 2026

Open edition
Features What Barilla’s 149-year run says about food businesses now Barilla Group’s story is not only about longevity. The current news peg matters because a family-owned pasta shop founded in Parma in 1877 now sits at the centre of a food market being reshaped by format experimentation, local sourcing and shifting expectations about what a food business should be. Daily Digest Iceland Lands in Alderney The frozen food specialist has opened its first store on the island as part of a wider partnership. Industry Watch Logistics Boost for F1H2O Championship AD Ports Group has signed on as the official logistics partner for Team Abu Dhabi. Daily Digest Bernard Matthews Shuts UK Processing Site The turkey meat supplier has confirmed the closure of another processing plant within the UK. Daily Digest Mondelēz targets luxury market The confectionery giant is upgrading its brand portfolio to meet the rising demand for indulgent treats. Daily Digest Cizzle Brands Eyes US Listing A Canadian sports nutrition company is planning to list on a US securities exchange. Daily Digest Libstar Warns of Profit Drop South African food group Libstar expects a decline in first-half earnings due to non-recurring items. Daily Digest Abbott Laboratories Settles Formula Lawsuits The company has reached agreements with approximately 2,000 parents over infant formula health claims. Daily Digest PepsiCo Faces Infrastructure Gaps Despite Plastic Cuts The beverage giant has reduced its plastic footprint through lightweighting but warns that circularity depends on external systems. Daily Digest Super El Nino Warning The UK Met Office suggests the 2026 El Nino event could be the most significant since the 1800s. Industry Watch Gopuff Launches Seasonal Private Label Range The delivery service is growing its own brand with a new collection of sweet treats. Daily Digest British Crop Production Under Threat The NFU warns that home-grown food supplies for next year are at risk due to financial instability. Daily Digest The Allure of Allulose Food manufacturers are increasingly looking at this rare sugar to solve clean-label dilemmas. Industry Watch Morrisons Expands Price Match Strategy The supermarket is introducing a new commitment to match all rival prices across 500 product lines. Daily Digest PepsiCo Eyes Iraq for Production Growth The beverage giant is focusing on Iraq as a potential new manufacturing centre in the Middle East. Industry Watch USDA seeks input on new GMO soybean The US government is requesting public feedback regarding the deregulation of a genetically engineered soybean designed to fight pests. Industry Watch Home-delivered meals linked to UK death A Listeria monocytogenes outbreak connected to meal delivery services has resulted in one fatality. Industry Watch Fatal E. coli Outbreak in Belgium Authorities have identified a high-risk food item linked to a deadly outbreak of E. coli. Industry Watch FDA Issues Warning Over Raw Pet Food A California based raw pet food manufacturer has been warned after Listeria was detected in its products. Industry Watch UK Hit Hardest by Salmonella Outbreak The United Kingdom has recorded the highest number of cases in a multi-country Salmonella outbreak. Industry Watch New Suction Tech for Apple Picking A transformative harvesting system combines gentle suction and gravity to improve fruit quality and worker safety.

August 23, 2026

Open edition
Features From Morning Coffee to Midnight Cocktails A run of August 2026 London openings suggests that hospitality brands now want one address to work harder across the whole day, not just at lunch or dinner. Industry Watch Johnnie Walker Launches Luxury Experience in Kenya A new immersive destination at Village Market combines whisky education with personalised craftsmanship. Industry Watch South Side Launches Watermelon Hard Soda The hard soda brand introduces a new Watermelon Twist flavour as its distribution grows. Daily Digest Fricy flavours on the rise A new food trend combining fruit and spice is gaining global momentum. Daily Digest Xanthan Gum Under Fire New research suggests a link between the common food additive and gut inflammation. Industry Watch FDA Reviews Natural Colour Alternatives The FDA is evaluating petitions for plant-based dyes as the industry moves away from synthetic options. Industry Watch Canada Moves to Block Vegetable Brand Sale The Competition Bureau is seeking to stop B&G Foods from selling its vegetable business to Nortera Foods. Daily Digest Australian Organic Market Hits Major Milestone Certified organic sales and exports in Australia have exceeded A$1bn for the first time. Culture & Dining The Return of the Paper Punchcard Dining out is becoming overly digital as restaurants push more apps on their customers. Industry Watch Citrus Solutions Through Upcycling Kerry is introducing upcycled flavours and juice solutions to address ongoing citrus supply chain issues. Industry Watch Caulipower Launches Protein-Rich Pizza A new pizza innovation combines Greek yogurt and cauliflower to boost protein levels. Daily Digest Sazerac Enters Soju Market The drinks giant is launching Dalho to meet rising demand for the Korean spirit among younger consumers. Daily Digest Green Giant Sale Faces Canadian Hurdles A proposed deal to sell vegetable brands to Nortera Foods has sparked antitrust worries in Canada. Industry Watch Saudi Arabia Hits Potato Self-Sufficiency The kingdom is now meeting its own potato needs while growing its frozen export market. Industry Watch Singapore Retailer Launches Own Chocolate Range A confectionery specialist in Singapore has entered the manufacturing space with a new locally inspired brand. Industry Watch Kenya Sugar Prices Rise Amid Production Boom Retail costs for sugar in Kenya are climbing even as mills report record output for the first half of the year. Industry Watch Sanfilippo Eyes Protein Bar Growth John B. Sanfilippo & Son is investing in new capacity to boost revenue through the protein bar market. Industry Watch Mars launches colour-free sweets online A range of popular confectionery brands will be available on Amazon without FD&C colours. Industry Watch Target Reports Snack Sales Surge The retailer is seeing strong momentum following a strategic reset of its food offerings. Industry Watch Scale of Foodborne Illness Outbreaks Raises Alarm A single outbreak causing over ten thousand illnesses highlights systemic risks in the food supply chain. Industry Watch Alfalfa Sprout Recall Following Multi-State Outbreak Everything Sprouts LLC is recalling three varieties of alfalfa sprouts linked to E. coli and Salmonella.

August 22, 2026

Open edition
Features The Data Friction Crisis Food supply chains now move at exhibition speed, wartime risk and laboratory precision. The lag sits in the reporting layer, where compliance and traceability still struggle to keep pace. Industry Watch Panera Bread Appoints New CMO The bakery cafe chain has hired Rebhun to lead its marketing efforts. Industry Watch New Science Lead for J.M. Smucker Jeff Varcoe has been appointed as the senior VP of science and technical excellence. Industry Watch USDA Urges Innovation for Commodity Producers A leading economist warns that producers must find new ways to maintain profitability as margins shrink. Industry Watch US Grocery Sales Slide Changes to SNAP eligibility are driving American shoppers toward value brands and budget stores. Industry Watch Walmart Sales Slowdown Signals Risk for Food Brands A dip in same-store sales growth at the retail giant may indicate upcoming challenges for packaged food companies. Daily Digest US Ground Beef Tariffs Paused President Donald Trump is allowing a temporary duty-free import of beef to combat rising costs. Industry Watch Tyson Foods Announces Major Job Cuts The company is closing facilities in Illinois and Arkansas as part of a wider workforce reduction. Industry Watch US Dietary Guidelines Face Legal Challenge A group of physicians is suing federal agencies over alleged industry influence in new nutrition advice. Industry Watch Asahi Beverages adopts recycled plastic in Australia The company is moving its soft drinks portfolio to 100 per cent recycled PET bottles. Industry Watch Carrefour returns to India The French retail giant is relaunching in the Indian market with a specific focus on fresh produce and local sourcing. Industry Watch Ardagh Considers Metal Packaging Sale The company may divest its metal packaging arm to reduce leverage and reshape its global portfolio. Daily Digest The Risk of Brand Brainrot New research examines whether food and drink companies can use internet slang without appearing inauthentic. Industry Watch Whey Protein Prices Surge Industry buyers are searching for more affordable alternatives as the cost of the popular protein source climbs. Industry Watch Safety Fears May Slow GLP-1 Growth Concerns over severe side-effects from weight-loss drugs could provide a reprieve for food manufacturers. Industry Watch Gluten-Free Market Expands Food manufacturers are increasing the number of gluten-free options available to consumers. Industry Watch Lettuce Parasite Outbreak Hits 10,000 Cases A widespread parasite outbreak linked to lettuce has affected thousands of people across 17 states. Industry Watch DP World Expands Southeast Asia Logistics A new warehouse in Johor marks the start of a wider regional expansion for the logistics giant. Daily Digest Reese's Puffs brings PB&J to breakfast General Mills is expanding its cereal range with a peanut butter and jelly inspired flavour. Culture & Dining Reese's partners with The Nitro Bar The Hershey Company is entering the coffee space through a seasonal collaboration with viral brand The Nitro Bar. Industry Watch Alfalfa Sprouts Linked to Growing Outbreak Fifty-five people across 15 US states have fallen ill following the consumption of contaminated sprouts.

August 21, 2026

Open edition
Features What This Week’s Heritage Food Stories Really Tell Us From a custom lager in Sydney to a spinach-derived citrus treatment in the US and a hut-style fish-and-chip format in London, the shared stake is practical: heritage food businesses still need fresh products, reliable ingredients and sharper formats to stay commercially legible now. Daily Digest Olive Oil Giant Deoleo Under Review The world's largest olive oil producer faces potential changes as major investors assess their holdings. Industry Watch M&S Expands Heathrow Presence A larger M&S Food outlet has launched at Terminal 5 to better serve departing passengers. Culture & Dining Bakers + Baristas Inks Five Year Coffee Deal The company has partnered with Miko Coffee to provide beverage solutions across 62 sites. Industry Watch Drink Tank to Analyse Beverage Trends An upcoming conference will gather key figures from the UK drinks sector to discuss industry shifts. Industry Watch That's it. Expands Fibre Range The brand is scaling its fruit-focused offerings with a new wave of product innovations. Industry Watch Dietary Guidelines Hit by Lawsuit A group of doctors claims that beef and dairy industry insiders illegally influenced government nutritional advice. Industry Watch Food Manufacturer Confidence Sees Slight Rise A new industry survey reveals a partial recovery in business confidence for food and drink producers. Industry Watch Asahi Hit by Cyberattack A recent security breach at Asahi is among several industry concerns highlighted in the latest safety report. Daily Digest The Role of Heat in Global Glucose Output Precise temperature control is essential for the millions of tonnes of glucose produced for various industries annually. Industry Watch Dr Heidi Overton nominated to lead FDA The incoming FDA head faces a massive challenge with the largest recorded Cyclospora outbreak. Industry Watch SANY Nutrition Group Launches New US Facility A new manufacturing plant in Arkansas will focus on sports nutrition and healthy snacks. Daily Digest Confectionery Fraud on the Rise Manufacturers are battling an increase in ingredient adulteration and counterfeiting across the sweets sector. Industry Watch Baking Sector Scales Back Green Goals New data suggests a dip in environmental priorities across the baking industry. Daily Digest The Rise of Barilla The world's largest pasta producer has evolved from a small Italian shop into a global powerhouse. Industry Watch The Rising Cost of Food Recalls Recent data suggests that while food recalls are happening less often, the scale of each event is growing significantly. Industry Watch Alfalfa Sprouts Linked to Multi State Outbreak Consumers are warned to avoid specific brands of alfalfa sprouts following reports of illness. Industry Watch IAEA to Study Edible Insect Safety A new project aims to improve the safety and application of food irradiation for insects used in human diets. Industry Watch Salmonella Outbreak Linked to Jalapeños Hundreds of people across 32 US states have fallen ill in a growing outbreak linked to jalapeño peppers. Industry Watch Scientists Seek Official Recognition for Toxoplasmosis Experts are urging the World Health Organisation to classify toxoplasmosis as a neglected tropical disease. Industry Watch US Food Safety Oversight Under Fire Critics argue that the current system of food recalls is a failure rather than a sign of success.

August 20, 2026

Open edition
Daily Digest Teknomek Updates Heavy-Duty Table Range A new centre tie-bar design allows food manufacturers to create more stable island workstations. Culture & Dining Sazerac Acquires Au Vodka The owner of BuzzBallz has purchased the UK canned cocktail brand to grow its ready-to-drink range. Culture & Dining Scaling the Soul of Regional Snacks Patang explores how to bring culturally rooted flavours to a global market without sacrificing authenticity. Daily Digest Tesco refreshes Fred and Flo range The supermarket has updated its baby and toddler product line to cover more categories. Industry Watch The Price of Paperwork in Food Safety Food manufacturers are facing significant operational costs when relying on manual systems for SQF compliance. Industry Watch Seven Sundays launches oat pancake mix A new protein-rich pancake mix based on oats has been introduced by Seven Sundays. Industry Watch McCain Launches New Filled Frozen Snacks The company has expanded its frozen range with the introduction of Tastiez Flavour-Fulls. Industry Watch Nutiva Launches Asian-Style Sauce Range The brand has expanded its product offering with three new varieties of marinades and sauces. Culture & Dining Silverhand Sparkling Wine Hits Supermarkets Kentish producer Silverhand is bringing its Silver Reign Brut to supermarket shelves. Industry Watch Frozen Treats Move Beyond the Tub Innovative frozen novelties are growing faster than traditional pints as younger shoppers seek new formats. Culture & Dining Matcha Moves Beyond the Cafe New startups are transforming the traditional tea ritual into convenient, on-the-go formats. Industry Watch Leadership Shake-up at Celsius Holdings The energy drink company has announced key promotions following the departure of Eric Hanson.