Archives for April 7, 2026

How Bel defied global snacking headwinds

The maker of Babybel has been on a sustained growth trajectory by leaning into new flavours, formats and ingredient trends

FN+

California pushes ‘non-UPF’ seal as certifications multiply and confusion grows

A proposed state-backed label aims to simplify ultra-processed food choices, but could competing definitions and private certifications risk muddying the message for consumers and complicate reformulation efforts?

Cacao pods and ‘ugly’ potatoes powering the upcycled foods movement

Brands like Roots Farm Fresh, Blue Stripes and Salt and Straw are finding new value in food waste through upcycled snacks and frozen foods

Future Food-Tech San Francisco

Danone bets on nutrient quality, not quantity, as consumers look to food for health

Danone’s R&D chief lays out why the future of food hinges on bioavailability, behavior change and nutrient quality – not just bigger numbers on the label

FN+

‘More is more’ spells the end for low and no

Low and no loses its shine as consumers reject restriction in favour of real ingredients, richer flavours, and products that prioritise pleasure

FN+

How ‘GLP-1 friendly’ claims are regulated in the UK and EU

Can brands promote food for GLP-1 users on pack?

Stagflation is food manufacturing’s worst-of-both-worlds scenario

Costs are rising again just as consumers start to hesitate and that’s a far more difficult mix than inflation alone.

Spotlight On: How to formulate healthier products that taste as good as consumers expect

In paid partnership with Tate & Lyle

Discover how sensory science, consumer insights, behavioural science and technical mouthfeel expertise can create healthier products that taste exceptional.

FN+

Animal welfare info makes consumers want to buy meat . . . up to a point

Consumers appreciate knowledge about animal welfare, but it depends on framing

Private label beverages pour on growth as innovation accelerates

Retailer-owned beverages are gaining market share

Japan Focus: Sodium labelling shift, Asahi cyberattack, silkworm protein, and more

This edition covers Japan’s sodium labelling shift, Asahi’s profit dip post-cyberattack, silkworm protein for health, and more

FN+

Vietnam’s food safety overhaul moves forward after months of delay

After a disastrous attempt to implement new food safety regulations in January, Vietnam has taken next steps forward — but looks unlikely to make the original April deadline

FN+

6 key food innovation trends driven by feel good indulgence

Consumer demand for indulgence — and feeling good about it — is increasingly driving food innovation strategies. Here are six key drivers powering this change.