GrandyOats Renamed, Expands Product Portfolio February 16, 2022: 12:00 AM EST Maine-based organic granola company GrandyOats is building on 2021 sales growth that saw revenues rebound to pre-pandemic levels by renaming the brand Grandy Organics and extending its product assortment. The company sells to retailers including Whole Foods, online sales now represent 30 percent of its total sales and it has moved from selling bulk granola to packaged products. CEO Aaron Anker said the pandemic forced the company to diversify and look at its communications, which are now more focused on digital ads, and lean more into online channels. It has decided too to raise prices between eight and 12 percent in response to input price inflation and supply chain problems. Lori Valigra, "Iconic rural Maine granola company reinvents itself after COVID rebound", Bangor Daily News, February 16, 2022, © Bangor Publishing Company

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New Better-For-You Pea-Based Products From HA! Expected Soon February 15, 2022: 12:00 AM EST HA! (A Healthier Alternative) is launching a healthier version of HA! salty snacks that contain 11 grams of protein and 140 calories, more than competing pea-based snacks. Founder Justin Wiesehan says the brand is growing 20-30 percent online month-over-month as new platforms take the products. It is aims to enter retail in 2022, with some partnerships already lined up. Wiesehan said HA! completed testing for 10 new flavors, to launch later this year, and there are less immediate plans to enter new categories, such as cereals or even desserts.  Dave Knox, "How HA! Plans To Change The Salty Snacks Aisle", Forbes.com, February 15, 2022, © Forbes Media LLC

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Kashi Launches Maple Waffle Crisp Cereal February 15, 2022: 12:00 AM EST Maple Waffle Crisp Cereal blends the taste and shape of a waffle with fiber and grains, and a hint of maple syrup and cinnamon. Each serving contains 4g of fiber, 22g of whole grains, as well as chickpeas. The products are available from select national retailers. "New Kashi Maple Waffle Crisp Cereal Delights Families With Big Taste, Nostalgia & A Hidden Superfood", PR Newswire, February 15, 2022, © Cision US Inc

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Plant-Based Boosh Brand Acquires Beanfields February 15, 2022: 12:00 AM EST Vancouver-based Boosh has signed an agreement deal to acquire assets of Beanfields Inc. for $8 million in shares and a US$400,000 promissory note at 6 percent annual interest. Boosh also agreed to commit almost $1 million to Beanfields for working capital. The deal is expected to close mid-February 2022 and would make Boosh one of the world’s largest plant-based food companies. Beanfields makes gluten-free, vegan, non-GMO, vegan bean-based chips free of the top eight allergens, in eight flavors and received the 2019 "Rising Star Award" from the Natural, Organic, Sustainable and Healthy (NOSH) organization. NOSH also chose its June 2021 Rings line as the Best New Product for 2021. Boosh expects to benefit from substantial operational and cost synergies, but the article mentioned that “Beanfields' expenses have historically exceeded its revenue, though it had recently adopted big restructuring measures”.  Uttara Choudhury, "Boosh acquires Beanfields, one of the fastest growing producers of plant-based snacks in the US and Canada", Proactive Investors (NA), February 15, 2022, © Proactive

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Popadelics, The New Vegan Snacks From Fun-Gal Snacks February 15, 2022: 12:00 AM EST Fun-Gal Snacks is launching Popadelics Crunchy Mushroom Chips, based on shiitake mushrooms that have been vacuum fried, to allow slower, lower-temperature cooking that means the mushrooms absorb less oil and retain more flavor, color, nutrients and texture. Revenues from the products will support the Fun-Gal Snacks Foundation, which is focused on health and wellness initiatives, such as research by the Johns Hopkins Center of Psychedelic & Consciousness Research into improved mental health. Popadelics will be available for pre-order via Indiegogo from February 22 and available at popadelics.com from April.  "Fun-Gal Snacks LLC Launches Popadelics™ Crunchy Mushroom Chips", PR Newswire, February 15, 2022, © Cision US Inc

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Can Cold Oatmeal Compete With Chips? February 14, 2022: 12:00 AM EST Ashley Thompson, founder of Mush, believes oats can extend beyond breakfast, with cold ready-to-eat products in flavors like mixed berry and vanilla bean. Thompson thinks the products will appeal to snackers on-the-go or at home. The brand has seen annual growth of at least 100% since its 2017 launch. Other attempts to broaden the snack horizon include Brami, a range of marinated snacking beans, Hippeas chickpea “puffs”, and Harvest Snaps baked veggie snacks. A new line of pickled vegetables called Rick’s Picks is now sold in single-serve pouches for on-the-go snacking. IRI found that snacks sales in the 52 weeks to January 23 grew 6.9 percent to $30.5 billion, with growth in all snack categories, including potato chips (+3%) and dried meat (+21.3%). Snacks overall are showing strong growth, but Americans are more willing now to try new ideas, such as Brami’s lupini beans, inspired by the founder’s childhood trips to Italy. Phil Lempert, editor of SupermarketGuru.com, believes the new products pose a serious threat to the ore established brands for space on shelves.  Charles Passy, "‘The world is snackifying’: Americans devour $30.5 billion in snack foods each year", Marketwatch, February 14, 2022, © MarketWatch, Inc.

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Good Crisp Completes Funding Round For Distribution Expansion February 14, 2022: 12:00 AM EST At the end of 2021, The Good Crisp Company announced closure of its largest funding round so far, to support a move into the conventional grocery channel. CEO Matthew Parry refused to say how much was raised, but it was more than the $5 million in May 2020. Investors included earlier participants and new ones. The chips launched in Kroger’s in January. Other retailers include H-E-B. Its cheese balls, introduced last year, will be sold in some 2,700 Walmart stores from March. The financing will also support its e-commerce expansion.  "NOSHscape: The Latest Food Brand News", BevNET.com, February 14, 2022, © BevNET.com

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Young Entrepreneur’s Keto-Friendly Cereal Now In 15,000 Stores Nationwide February 14, 2022: 12:00 AM EST At just 17, Krishna Kaliannan was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. In 2017 he launched Catalina Crunch keto-friendly cereals from a New York City apartment. The low-carb cereals and cookies can now be found on the shelves in over 15,000 stores including national chains like Kroger, Whole Foods, Costco, Target, Publix and Albertsons. Diagnosed in 2010, he found there were few crunchy cereal options for him, and he started by working on chocolate and cinnamon-flavored products, like the Coco Puffs and Cinnamon Toast Crunch he ate as a child. When he launched the brand, there was little competition, but not so now, with the big players also involved. He said that eating low carb and low sugar is the future, and not just for diabetics. The products use “Catalina Flour,” a blend of pea protein, potato fiber, guar gum, corn fiber and chicory root fiber. Some products also contain tapioca flour, sunflower oil, baking powder, salt and stevia extract. Each cereal serving offers 14 grams of carbs.  Makaila Heifner, "Young CEO with Type 1 Diabetes Becomes ‘Cereal’ Entrepreneur", Healthline , February 14, 2022, © Healthline Media a Red Ventures Company

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Microwave Popcorn Sales “Explode” In Pandemic February 9, 2022: 12:00 AM EST Michael Ehmann, CEO of French popcorn maker Natais, which has annual sales of around €65 million, said the pandemic has hit the company’s sales in cinemas, but had boosted sales of microwaveable popcorn. The company supplies over 80 percent of French cinemas, even though international sales represent around 90 percent of its total sales. Sales director Helene Ricau said that “with the health crisis, microwavable popcorn has exploded.” Natais expects annual growth rates of 4-5 percent per year going forwards, as the European market reaches the mature stage attained by the U.S. But cinema sales have not yet recovered as customers forced to wear masks during the films.  "Pandemic sets sales of microwavable popcorn a-pinging", France 24, February 09, 2022, via Agence France Presse -- English, © Agence France Presse/France 24

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One Natural Snack Producer Aims To Bring More Transparency For Customers February 9, 2022: 12:00 AM EST Colorado-based natural snack maker Quinn is launching a direct-to-consumer platform, which will include subscription services as well as greater transparency, allowing customers to trace ingredients back to their source. It is building on its Farm to Bag transparency efforts and a mission to “Be Better. Do Better” and focusing on agricultural partners that want to improve their practices. Quinn introduced the first non-GMO, organic microwaveable popcorn in the Pure Pop bag, which is made from compostable paper. It also launched the first whole grain pretzels, using gluten-free sorghum. The new DTC platform also sells 8-pack products such as Whole Grain, Gluten-free Sea Salt Twists and Sticks, as well as Dark Chocolate'y Peanut Butter Filled Pretzel Nuggets and Movie Night Popcorn Kits. Also available are 6-packs of the microwave popcorn. Gill Hyslop, "Quinn gives consumers the one-click ability to follow its transparency story and stock up on natural snacks", BakeryAndSnacks.com, February 09, 2022, © William Reed Business Media Ltd

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New Non-HFSS Crisp Brand Launches In The U.K. February 7, 2022: 12:00 AM EST Simply Roasted, a Norfolk-based non-HFSS crisp brand, is launching exclusively in northern England through 27 Booths supermarkets. The line includes Sea Salt, Mature Cheddar & Red Onion, Sea Salt & Cider Vinegar and Black Truffle. The company has a patented roasting process using whole slices of potato, for crisps that contain half the fat and 25% less salt than traditional crisps.” James Ridler, "Simply Roasted launches non-HFSS crisp range into Booths", Food Manufacture UK, February 07, 2022, © William Reed Business Media Ltd

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European Food Safety Authority Confirms Rejection Of Nestlé's Beta-Glucan Health Claim February 7, 2022: 12:00 AM EST EFSA has denied Nestlé’s claim that the oat and barley beta-glucan-fortified breakfast cereals, sold by the Cereal Partners Worldwide joint venture, could help reduce blood glucose increases after consuming the meal. The products include Fitness, Cheerios and Cocoa Puffs sold in the EU. Although it is accepted that beta-glucans can reduce the blood glucose response to eating, EFSA said that to obtain the effect claimed, 4g of beta-glucans from oats or barley should be consumed for each 30g of available carbohydrate per meal. Nestlé's application was based on just 1.3g of beta‐glucans per 25g of available carbohydrate, arguing that the cooking process would boost the effect of the beta-glucans. EFSA was asked to review its negative 2021 findings and has upheld that decision.  Oliver Morrison, "EFSA upholds rejection of Nestlé's beta-glucan health claim for cereals", FoodNavigator.com, February 07, 2022, © William Reed Business Media Ltd

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Rhythm Superfoods Extends Plant-Based Snack Range February 6, 2022: 12:00 AM EST The Austin-based brand is showcasing its new Mushroom Crisps at the Winter Fancy Food Show this February in Las Vegas. The product launched nationally last fall at Kroger and Sprouts in two flavors: Sea Salt and Fire Roasted. The brand uses brown and white button mushrooms, crisped at a low temperature, to produce a umami flavor. They are non-GMO certified, gluten-free certified and Vegan-certified and contain Vitamins D, B2, B3 and B5 as well as Folic Acid and fiber. The Mushroom Crisps are available in a 2 oz bag. The company will also show their Cauliflower Bites, Broccoli Bites, Watermelon Slices, Kale Chips, Beet Chips, and Carrot Sticks. Sarah Alexander, "Rhythm Superfoods Showcases New Mushroom Crisps At The Winter Fancy Food Show", Specialty Food Association , February 06, 2022, © Specialty Food Association, Inc.

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New Line Of Vegan And Non-GMO Pretzels Launched By Stellar Snacks February 5, 2022: 12:00 AM EST Stellar Snacks’ vegan, non-GMO, no-MSG pretzels are available in four flavors - Bold & Herby, seasoned with Roasted Garlic, Onion and Monk Fruit; Simply Stellar, with Sea Salt; Maui Monk, with Monk Fruit; and Sweet & Sparky, with Spicy Buffalo Seasoning and Monk Fruit. The Stella Braids are seasoned with salt imported from Italy, sweetened by monk fruit and baked with vegan butter. The products are available nationwide this month at Cost Plus World Market, Central Market in Texas, Whole Foods in Florida, Mariano’s in Chicago and Ralph’s in Los Angeles. "Stellar Snacks Launches Your New Favorite Vegan, Non-GMO Project Verified Seasoned Pretzels", Specialty Food Association , February 05, 2022, © Specialty Food Association, Inc.

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Rule Breaker Snacks® Hits $100,000 Crowdfunding Level February 4, 2022: 12:00 AM EST The vegan, gluten-free, non-GMO, allergy-friendly, kosher, nut-free, snacks brand continues to seek investors after exceeding $100,000 in its first equity crowdfunding campaign on Republic. It aims to raise over $1 million. Chickpeas are the products’ main ingredient, which are available in both singles and bite formats. The company was founded by health journalist and health coach Nancy Kalish, and the snacks are available online and in over 3,500 physical locations in the U.S. The funding will support sales and marketing initiatives, distribution expansion nationally and internationally, and product innovation. "Rule Breaker Snacks Reaches 100K Milestone In Equity Crowdfunding Campaign", EIN Presswire , February 04, 2022, © EIN Presswire - Everyone's Internet News Presswire™

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EnviroKidz Unveils New Kids Cereal February 4, 2022: 12:00 AM EST The Nature’s Path Foods subsidiary has introduced Rhino Rolls, a gluten-free and organic cereal made with whole oat and rice flour, sweetened with organic cane sugar and sprinkled with cinnamon and vanilla. It contains no artificial flavors, colors or preservatives, and each serving has 18g of whole grains. The products can be bought on Amazon as well as in retailers like Whole Foods Market, Kroger and Sprouts. Sarah Straughn, "Nature’s Path launches new children’s cereal", Food Business News, February 04, 2022, © SOSLAND PUBLISHING COMPANY

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New Keto Cereal Brand, Incredi-Bowl, Available In Three Childhood-Inspired Flavors February 3, 2022: 12:00 AM EST Incredi-Bowl has launched in three varieties - Chocolate Crunch, Frosted Flakes and Honey Nut Hoops. The products are low in sugar, high in protein, keto-friendly and grain-free. Each serving provides at least 15g of protein, 7g net carbs, 2g total sugars and 8-9g total fat. The products are through the company’s website, other e-commerce retailers, and in grocery stores.  "The Incredible Incredi-Bowl: The New Keto-Friendly Cereal Here To Save The Day", PR Newswire, February 03, 2022, © Cision US Inc.

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Mary’s Gone Crackers Extends Its Gluten-Free Offerings February 2, 2022: 12:00 AM EST Organic, gluten free and non-GMO cracker-maker Mary’s Gone Crackers has launched a new line of sweet treats, Mary's Gone Kookies Graham-style Snacks, in Sprouts and other outlets. The product comes in three flavors: Honey, Chocolate and Cinnamon. They should be on the shelves this quarter. The low-sugar, low-calorie Kookies add to the brand’s portfolio of Original, Super Seed and Real Thin Crackers. The company was established in 2004 and is based in Reno, Nevada. "Mary's Gone Crackers Introduces Mary's Gone Kookies and Expands Their Iconic Gluten-Free Brand", PR Newswire, February 02, 2022, © Cision US Inc.

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BRB Popcorn Chips Launches In Four Flavours February 2, 2022: 12:00 AM EST Indian company BRB Chips is debuting BRB Popcorn Chips for snacking at home and away, including in cinemas. The range has four flavors - Golden Butter, Salted Caramel, Salsa and Cheese & Olive – and can be purchased on the company's website and at Amazon, as well as offline and online at the 24x7 convenience platform, The New Shop. Co-founder and CEO, Anuj Krishan, said “popcorn chips are the latest result of our product development engine, and we are extremely excited to bring this new product to the market.” The Popcorn Chips are healthier than traditional chips and are made using European popping technology rather than frying or baking. They are gluten-free, cholesterol- and trans-fat-free, and contain no preservatives or artificial flavors. BRB plans to invest around US$2 million in the coming months on marketing, additional capacity, and expanding distribution. The new product adds to the brand’s Popped Potato Chips, which is aimed at the country’s Gen-Z demographic that is transitioning from traditional and ethnic snacks. "BRB Chips Unveils New Snacking Product 'BRB Popcorn Chips'", Indian Retailer , February 02, 2022, © Franchise India Holdings Ltd

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Good Source Snacks® Ancient Grains Addresses Hot Trends February 1, 2022: 12:00 AM EST The new Good Source Snacks Ancient Grains line contains grains in heart-healthy chocolate and superfoods. It is also low in sugar and calories and brings portion control and functional benefits. There are three flavors - Quinoa Crunch, Hemp Hearts and Simply Seeds – and each is all-natural, non-GMO, gluten-free and Fair Trade. John Byrnes, Founder and CEO, says the company is “in this for the long-term mission to help consumers 'Get Healthy, Stay Healthy and Enjoy Life.” "Good Source Foods® Continues to Innovate with Expansion of Healthy Snack Line", PR Newswire, February 01, 2022, © Cision US Inc

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Nestlé Extends Its Non-HFSS Range With SHREDDIES® The Honey One February 1, 2022: 12:00 AM EST Nestlé Cereals’ new variant brings to 24 the company’s non-HFSS Nestlé Cereals brands and follows an announcement from the business that it has so far removed nearly 60 million teaspoons of sugar since 2003, and 3 million teaspoons of salt.  "Nestlé Cereals unveils Shreddies The Honey One", conveniencestore.co.uk, February 01, 2022, © William Reed Ltd

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Granola Brand Purely Elizabeth Completes Series B Financing January 31, 2022: 12:00 AM EST New financing of $50 million will support innovation, a new category launch and efforts to build the core business and capacity in Boulder, Colo. The financing round includes the new SEMCAP Food & Nutrition division, Swander Pace Capital and Fresh Del Monte. The company’s founder and the investors see strong opportunities to expand its distribution network of over 15,000 retailers, building on a CAGR of over 50% for the past six years. It adds that it was a gamble to include ingredients like chia seeds when it set out over a decade ago, but it has paid off. For sweetener it uses coconut sugar, which retains nutrients such including potassium, magnesium, zinc, iron and B vitamins. The granola products have ancient grains, like amaranth and quinoa.  Mary Ellen Shoup, "Purely Elizabeth closes $50m Series B funding round: 'There's an opportunity to double distribution'", FoodNavigator-USA.com, January 31, 2022, © William Reed Ltd

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Pandemic Changed UK Consumers’ Relationship With Breakfast Cereals January 29, 2022: 12:00 AM EST In a long article, the authors look at how lockdowns changed our relationship with breakfast. With breakfast eaten by 98 per cent of the U.K. population, according to Kantar, healthy breakfast options represent a massive opportunity. Although more people were eating breakfast at home during the pandemic, the meal was often taken later, and some consumers were cooking it rather than turning to cereals. The U.K. cereals category is dominated by the big brands. Darryl Burgess from Weetabix says they are backing their big brands this year and looking to bring in innovation after the successful launch of Weetabix Melts. It’s also reviewing pack sizes to optimize them for convenience retailers and the impulse channel. Another issue driving Weetabix’s innovation and communication efforts is impending HFSS legislation and the impact it will have on consumer preferences and expectations. All Weetabix-branded products, including its more indulgent options, are already HFSS compliant, and as a ban on HFSS promotions arrives, Weetabix wants to be sure retailers are ready to direct shoppers to healthy options. Swati Rana, "The 2022 big breakfast opportunity for healthy sales", Asian Trader, January 29, 2022, © ASIAN TRADE PUBLICATIONS LIMITED/GARAVI GUJARAT PUBLICATIONS LIMITED

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TagZ Foods Focuses On Healthier Options, Attracts Investment January 28, 2022: 12:00 AM EST Indian startup TagZ Foods is aiming to expand internationally. Launched in 2019 and based in Bengaluru, it targets urban Gen Z consumers by offering healthier snacks. It launched with popped potato chips with 50 per cent less fat than fried chips, in two ranges: classic Indian flavours like Masala and Cream Onion; and international bar snacks, like Beer n Barbeque and Italian Wine n Cheese. The ranges contain no cholesterol, trans-fat, artificial colors, preservatives, palm oil or gluten. It recently launched a range of international gourmet dips, and it sells its products on its website, around 30 other online stores and in more than 2,000 physical stores nationwide. It identifies Pringles and KETTLE as its primary competitors in the premium potato chips category, and Cornitos and Doritos in the nachos category. It has raised close to $1 million from several investors. Most recently, it raised an undisclosed amount from Ashneer Grover of BharatPe and Namita Thapar, Executive Director of Emcure Pharmaceuticals. Ashneer Grover invested in the company on Shark Tank India, and Namita Thapar, another shark on the show, invested after the show was filmed.  "Shark Namita Thapar Ashneer Grover Invests Undisclosed Amount In TagZ Foods", Business World, January 28, 2022, © BW BWDISRUPT

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Japanese Consumers Are Warming To Bug-Based Snacks January 27, 2022: 12:00 AM EST With growing demand among Japanese for bugs as food and a source of protein as well as nutritional and environmental benefits, the snacks category is looking at opportunities for marketing packets of insects on a mass scale. Today, specialist shops in the country sell options that contain a range of insects, but distribution is expected to expand. Crickets are a popular insect option with a long tradition as food in Japan, and Gryllus Co. is one food technology company, set up in 2019, to look at how best to incorporate them in foodstuffs. They are high in dietary fiber and vitamins, as well as calcium, magnesium, zinc and iron. A vending machine in the city of Kumamoto sells cooked insects like beetles, crickets and insect pupae as snacks, some coated in chocolate.  "Japan: Why are bugs becoming big business in Japan?", Deutsche Welle (DW), January 27, 2022, © Deutsche Welle (DW)

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TSUMo Snacks Receives $4 Million In Seed Funding January 27, 2022: 12:00 AM EST TSUMo Snacks, a snacks brand that makes tortilla chips and cheese puffs infused with 10mg of THC per bag, raised $4 million seed funding led by a Casa Verde, a Los Angeles venture capital firm co-founded by Snoop Dogg. The snacks company is aiming to provide a product that stands out against a THC edibles market that typically offers chocolates, lozenges and gummies. TSUMo officially launched in September last year and sells its snacks in five flavors from Californian dispensaries. The products are currently in one-serving packs, but the company will debut multi-serving bags in February and will use the investment for product innovation. Keerthi Vedantam, "Snoop Dogg’s Cannabis VC Firm Sparks Savory Edible Brand With $4 Million", Dot.LA, January 27, 2022, © Dot.LA

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Arnold Palmer Brand Brings Its Products To The Snacks Category January 25, 2022: 12:00 AM EST A brand named after legendary golfer Arnold Palmer is launching a range of premium snacks in February 2022 aimed at golfers and non-golfers alike looking for a healthier option. Four products make up the line: Protein Nut Blend, Healthy Heart Blend, Grille Room Mix - Sweet and Salty, and Grille Room Mix - Santa Fe Spiced. All come in 2-ounce single-serve packs and larger stand-up packs. Edward Kelly, Jr., President of Arnold Palmer Snacks, said the brand is leveraging the traits of the golfer, such as quality, creativity, fun, energy and inspiration.  "Arnold Palmer Brand Enters Snacking Category", Globe Newswire , January 25, 2022, © GlobeNewswire, Inc

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Seven Nascent Brands Form New Alliance To Limit Sugar Consumption January 24, 2022: 12:00 AM EST The Alliance to Control Excessive Sugar is a joint project from seven emerging brands: Enlightened, HighKey, Koia, Lemon Perfect, Olipop, Super Coffee and Three Wishes. ACES is looking for other brands to join, to help its mission to encourage consumers to choose products containing zero-calorie sweeteners, like stevia and monk fruit. The ACES chair, Jimmy DeCicco, Super Coffee’s CEO, says that aim is to convince consumers that low-sugar food and beverages don’t necessarily have to be low in taste too. The coalition claims to have removed 34 million pounds of sugar from products, but that’s just a small fraction of the 84 billion pounds consumed by Americans in 2021. Consumers can apply for product discounts and suggest brands that might want to join. One of the brands, HighKey from Orlando, Fla., manufactures low-carb cookies, cereal and baking mixes, and Three Wishes from New York makes grain-free ready-to-eat cereal. Monica Watrous, "Emerging brands form alliance to reduce sugar consumption", Food Business News, January 24, 2022, © SOSLAND PUBLISHING COMPANY

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Not A Trace Makes Allergen-Free Snacks And Crackers For Coles In Australia January 24, 2022: 12:00 AM EST Coles, the Australian supermarket chain, awarded A$400,000 to Melbourne-based and family-run Not A Trace to make allergen-free products for the ‘Coles I am free from’ range. Not A Trace said the grant, which comes from the Coles Nurture Fund grant, will help “bring to life an array of new savoury snacks and crackers.” Coles expanded its range of health foods range last year and integrated gluten-free options for cereals and other categories. Rakshnna Pattabiraman, "Melbourne family business launches allergen-free range in Coles", Inside FMCG, January 24, 2022, © Octomedia Pty Ltd

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Brits Are Moving To Healthier Cereal Choices, Away From Products High In Sugar January 22, 2022: 12:00 AM EST A lockdown boom for cereal sales during the pandemic has come to an end, according to Kantar data, but a possibly more serious and enduring challenge is looming for sugary cereals – restrictions on the promotion of HFSS products. Kellogg’s has revamped it Oatibix range to highlight its nutritional benefits. For non-HFSS Weetabix, nothing is changing but it is reformulating its kids' cereal portfolio with all but one of the five bestsellers becoming non-HFSS this year. BY the end of 2022, some Nestlé cereals will contain as much as 16% less sugar and half the salt. Eat Natural is using ingredients like dried fruit and honey to provide much of the sweetness, but some sugar is retained. HFSS is not the only health focus for shoppers in the U.K. ‘Natural and wholesome’ was the only cereal segment to see growth in the past year, benefiting brands like Naturya, which last month added products to its functional breakfast range in December. Alpen launched high-fiber Oat Blend bars last fall and Kellogg's added three high-fiber non-HFSS products to the Wheats line. Another segment that did well out of the pandemic was 'quick eats' but has seen sales plunge.  Megan Tatum, "A spoon less of sugar: cereals including on the go category report 2022", The Grocer, January 22, 2022, © William Reed Business Media Ltd

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Alpina Productos Alimenticios From Colombia Unveils Dried Cheese Snacks January 21, 2022: 12:00 AM EST EnWave Corporation announced that Alpina, which was EnWave’s licensed partner, has launched Alpina Snacks, a dried cheese snack range, in Colombia. Alpina has an exclusive license to use EnWave's Radiant Energy Vacuum dehydration technology in the country. Alpina Snacks is targeting consumers in the region seeking heathier snack and clean labels. The range contains 100% dehydrated cheese, in three variants: Dutch (Edam), Parmesan and Sopó. Alpina will use its existing distribution channels - specialty health, airports, online and traditional grocery retail. EnWave has signed 49 royalty-bearing license agreements for the REV™ technology. "Major Colombian Dairy Company, Alpina, Launches REV,, Dried Cheese Snacks Nationwide in Colombia", GlobeNewswire, January 21, 2022, © GlobeNewswire, Inc.

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Magic Spoon Wants To Deliver Grown-Up Cereals January 21, 2022: 12:00 AM EST The brand is seeking to bring consumers’ childhood flavor classics to healthy adult cereals. The company is launching two new flavors: Honey Graham and Oatmeal Cookie. The former evokes graham cracker snacks - a sweet and mild flavor with 5 grams of net carbs and 14 grams of protein – and the latter is an adult take on cookies and milk, with 4 grams of net carbs and 14 grams of protein. Both are limited edition, and neither have artificial ingredients. Magic Spoon is not yet available in stores but can be bought online via a subscription. Kate Hagan Gallup, "Magic Spoon's New Flavors Are Perfect For Cookie Lovers", Mashed.com, January 21, 2022, © Static Media

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Ingredients Are Key To Healthier Snack Sales This Year January 20, 2022: 12:00 AM EST According to conveniencestore.co.uk, snacking is a potentially important category for store owners to exploit, buoyed by several market trends. Demand for convenient snacks is returning as the pandemic unwinds, but consumers are looking for brands that will help them snack more healthily, even if it means they must pay a bit more. This is particularly true at this time of the year, as they seek options that can help them achieve 2022 goals. A major function consumers seek is weight loss, but with a sustainable diet. Stores can help by signposting products that are high in protein. Consumers are also looking for an energy boost, especially in the context of getting fitter, and are increasingly interested in gut health. Plant-based options are another major attraction, with January becoming Veganuary. Research found that trying vegan changed the eating habits of most, with almost three in 10 staying on a vegan diet.  "Why a focus on ingredients is key to successfully grow healthy snacks in 2022", conveniencestore.co.uk, January 20, 2022, via KIND Snacks, © William Reed Business Media Ltd

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Plant&Co. Announces Expansion In The Distribution Of Holy Crap Cereals January 20, 2022: 12:00 AM EST The health and wellness company, which focuses on plant-based foods, has announced it is extending distribution of its Holy Crap breakfast cereal to Fortinos, an Ontario supermarket chain with 23 stores, owned by Loblaw. The brand’s sales have been growing strongly - 38% in the second half of 2021 and 45% in the fourth quarter versus the previous quarter. The brand offers five variants - Apple Cinnamon, Natural (Skinny B), Blueberry Apple, Maple + Gluten-Free Oats, and Mango Coconut. All contain certified organic, non-GMO, kosher and gluten-free ingredients, and are free from major allergens. "Plant&Co's HolyCrap(TM) Expands into 23 Fortinos Locations Across Ontario as Cereal Division Business Plan Delivers +38% Growth H2'2021", Newsfile Corp. , January 20, 2022, © Newsfile Corp.

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Paulig Snaps Up Spanish Tex Mex Snacks Brand January 19, 2022: 12:00 AM EST Liven’s European Tex Mex and snacking business, based in Spain, has been acquired by Paulig. The deal is expected to strengthen the two companies’ position to grow the Tex Mex and snacking categories in Western Europe. Both companies are family-owned. Paulig’s products are available in 70 countries. Liven is a Catalan company that manufactures snacks, microwave popcorn, tortillas and tex-mex products, for itself and private labels. Its specialty snacks are made from corn, vegetables, grains and pulses. "Paulig acquires Liven, an innovative Spanish based snacks company to accelerate growth in Tex Mex and snacking categories", Paulig Group, January 19, 2022, © Paulig Group

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Kellogg’s Launches Special K® Brown Sugar Cinnamon January 19, 2022: 12:00 AM EST Each serving of the new Special K® Brown Sugar Cinnamon contains 100% of the daily value of 10 essential vitamins and minerals: Zinc, Vitamin B6, Vitamin B12, Vitamin E, Iron, Thiamine, Riboflavin, Pantothenic Acid, Niacin and Folate. The flakes are made with whole grains. The nationwide launch this month includes a 12.5-ounce box at $4.19. The 18.3-ounce box will retail at  $5.29. "Doing What's Delicious Just Got A Nutritious Upgrade Thanks To New Kellogg's® Special K® Brown Sugar Cinnamon", KELLOGG , January 19, 2022, © KELLOGG CO.

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Peel + Pour Popcorn Cups Is Opopop’s Newest Product January 19, 2022: 12:00 AM EST Opopop Popcorn has launched Peel + Pour Popcorn Cups in a reusable silicone microwave bowl. They can be bought online and come in four flavors: Salty Caramel, Like Buddahh, Vanilla Vanilla, and Lightly Salted. The brand, which debuted last year, has expanded distribution to include Foxtrot Markets, Nordstrom, and williams-sonoma.com.  "Opopop, Creator of Flavor Wrapped™ Popcorn Kernels, Debuts Peel + Pour Popcorn Cups", PRNewswire, January 19, 2022, © Cision US Inc.

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New Poll Finds Americans Just want To Snack January 18, 2022: 12:00 AM EST A recent OnePoll survey highlighted the relationship U.S. consumers have with snacks. Over 60% say they prioritize nutrition over taste when choosing healthy snacks, but 56% admit that they find it difficult to choose them over less healthy options. Snack cravings are strong, with four in 10 starting to get them by mid-afternoon. Nearly 70% would prefer to snack through the day than eat large meals, but two-thirds feel guilty if they do. When asked what appeals to them most about snacking, half said it was to calm cravings, 40% just like the taste, and almost the same percentage highlight the convenience. A third of respondents buy in bulk in case they run out, and many hide them rather than share.  "Most Americans would rather snack all day than have full meals", Yahoo! News, January 18, 2022, via SWNS, © Yahoo!

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Boxgreen Has A Social Slant On Plant-Based Snack Boxes January 17, 2022: 12:00 AM EST The Singapore social enterprise sells plant-based boxes of snacks that are nut- and gluten-free, and vegan. Each box is packed by prison inmates in partnership with the Yellow Ribbon Project, which aims to help prisoners improve their skills and become more employable. It trains and employs over 50 ex-inmates as well as other vulnerable people, including refugees, single mothers, people with special needs and drug addicts.  Zi Shan Kow, "S'pore social enterprise Boxgreen selling plant-based healthy snacks packed by inmates", Mothership.sg, January 17, 2022, © Mothership

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Hormel Foods Rolls Out Upgrade For Planters January 15, 2022: 12:00 AM EST The peanut brand, acquired by Hormel Foods, has re-branded with a new logo and packaging, which includes a new "plant-based protein" seal, endorsed by the iconic Mr. Peanut character. The new owners want to turn around the fortunes of a brand that cost $3.3 billion from Kraft Heinz Co. in June 2021, but which has faltered despite fitting into consumer trends such as increased snacking and protein-rich eating. Hormel says it has big ambitions for the brand by extending beyond the nut aisle. The Corn Nuts brand was a part of the acquisition and is also getting strong support, which has already started to pay off.  Brooks Johnson, "Hormel goes nuts for Mr. Peanut: 'We see ourselves ... as a protein company'", Star Tribune , January 15, 2022, © Star Tribune

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The Once Again Nut Butter Brand Pushed Into The Snack Aisle January 14, 2022: 12:00 AM EST available in peanut butter and sunflower seed butter varieties. The snacks are single-serve and on-the-go products, gluten-free and certified organic, made with organic sorghum flour, oat flour and cassava flour. They use palm oil certified by Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil as well as sustainably sourced cane sugar and will appear on retailers’ shelves in March.  Sam Danley, "Once Again launches graham cracker sandwiches", Baking Business, January 14, 2022, © SOSLAND PUBLISHING COMPANY

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Scottish Snack Brand Based on Seaweed Focused On Growth January 13, 2022: 12:00 AM EST Seaweed snack brand, Shore, based in Wick, Scotland, has been operating for some five years, and recently launched a new range of plant-based foods. An overall goal is the promotion of a viable edible seaweed sector in Scotland based on sustainability, beneficial to the coast and supporting local communities. Co-founders Peter Elbourne and Keith Paterson point to the fact that  seaweed needs no intervention to grow and absorbs carbon dioxide. Harvesting seaweed in Scotland has a long tradition, but kelp has recently been given ‘superfood’ status, with nutrition benefits like prebiotic fiber, protein, magnesium antioxidants and iodine, and it is low-fat. The 17 different types of seaweed Shore harvests are hand-picked from the shore before being washed and dried. As well as the chips, seaweed is also used in pestos and tapenades, and as ingredients for food and drinks manufacturers. Elbourne and Paterson say they have retained the umami flavor of the kelp without any fishiness. The chips can be found online and at branches of the Coop and Sainsbury’s supermarkets, as well as in health stores and farm shops in the U.K. Ilona Amos, "Scottish firm creates green and guilt-free vegan snacks from seaweed", Scotsman, January 13, 2022, © JPIMedia Publishing Ltd

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New Campaign From ParmCrisps® Aimed at Raising Awareness Of Better-For-You Snacking January 13, 2022: 12:00 AM EST The “Unsinfully Good” marketing campaign from the artisan-crafted crunchy cheese crisp brand is designed to make consumers more aware of the brand as a player in the better-for-you snack category. It will feature across multiple channels, including TV, streaming services, and social and digital ads. The campaign kicks off next month at the Fashion Show Mall in Las Vegas, where visitors can be photographed as a "ParmCrisps® Angel" next to mural painted by a local artist. Tracy Garbowski, Vice President of Marketing, says the brand aims to remind consumers that snacking isn't sinful when it’s ParmCrisps they are snacking on, and will highlight the brand’s nutritional benefits, such as high protein, low carb content, gluten-free and zero sugar. "ParmCrisps® Launches New "Unsinfully Good" Brand Campaign", PR Newswire, January 13, 2022, © Cision US Inc.

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Startup Chicery Raises The Profile Of Chickpeas As A Nutritional Snack January 13, 2022: 12:00 AM EST Thomas Cantaro from Switzerland sees chickpeas as the perfect base for healthy snacking products from his startup brand, Chichery. The chickpeas are dry-roasted and spiced, are nut- and gluten-free and suitable for vegans. Cantaro calls the snacks a “real superfood”, containing some 24% plant protein as well as several micronutrients. So far self-financed, Cantaro does not rule out future external financing. The snacks appear in several online stores in the country and come in four flavors: Sea Salt, Sweet Chili, Sweet Sesame and Dark Chocolate, with plans to extend that 12 and to move into new retailers and countries.  Von Stefan Mair und Sira Huwiler-Flamm , "Startup Chichery; Chickpeas as a super snack", Handelszeitung (English), January 13, 2022, © Ringier Axel Springer Schweiz AG

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Quevos Vindicating And Building On Shark Tank Investment January 13, 2022: 12:00 AM EST Introducing its snack chips based on egg whites, Chicago-based Quevos gained a $200,000 investment on Shark tank in 2021 from the founder of KIND Snacks, Daniel Lubetzky, who then injected a further $1.35 million. In return, the startup doubled sales in 2021 to $2 million as distribution expanded to retailers including GNC, Vitamin Shoppe, Whole Foods and Wegman's, and has so far raised $3.6 million in seed funding, to support the company’s big push in retail this year.  Jim Dallke, "Why the founder of KIND Snacks doubled down on his Quevos investment after Shark Tank", Chicago Business Journal (Chicago, IL), January 13, 2022, © American City Business Journals

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Upmarket UK Crisp Brand Aims To Double Sales This Financial Year January 13, 2022: 12:00 AM EST The Two Farmers crisp brand, based in Herefordshire, currently makes around 20,000 packets of crisps each day, from locally sourced ingredients and using compostable packaging made from plant cellulose. It says it is on track to more than double sales to £2 million in the year to August 2022. The brand offers five flavors: light salted, salt and cider vinegar, lightly salted, Hereford hop cheese and onion, Hereford bullshot, and Herefordshire sausage and mustard. It is launching a sixth flavor soon. The brand’s sustainability credentials have attracted prestige retailers like Selfridges, Fortnum & Mason and Harvey Nicholls. It is the exclusive crisp brand on Eurostar, is supplied to the London and Dublin offices of Google and won the Food & Drink Award at Insider’s Made in the Midlands Awards 2021. Ian Griffin, "Sustainable Crisp Brand On Track To More Than Double Turnover", Insider Media Limited, January 13, 2022, © Newsco Insider Limited

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Oatibix Gets A Makeover In The UK January 12, 2022: 12:00 AM EST The sister brand to Weetabix is being relaunched next month, with a new non-HFSS Nutty Crunch cereal to challenge Crunchy Nut from Kellogg's. The relaunch includes new packaging and recipe reformulation for a "crispier and lighter" cereal. Oatibix Nutty Crunch contains honeycomb pieces, caramelized nuts and honey-coated corn flakes. As well as its non-HFSS claims, the brand says it’s a source of fiber. The new green packaging is aimed at stressing the brand’s nutritional credentials. Oatibix sales in the U.K. are less than £10 million versus Weetabix sales of around 15 times that, but Oatibix is aiming for 30% growth by 2023.  Daniel Woolfson, "Weetabix to relaunch Oatibix - and battle Kellogg's with 'Nutty Crunch' NPD", thegrocer.co.uk, January 12, 2022, © William Reed Business Media Ltd

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New Product Launches Emerge In Hot Cereals But The Category Has Faltering Sales January 12, 2022: 12:00 AM EST General Mills is among the companies introducing hot cereals with Big G instant oatmeal in May 2021. Also last year, Los Angeles-based This Saves Lives debuted Kids Oatmeal, providing a full serving of fruits and vegetables as well as being gluten-, peanut-, and dairy-free. Last October, Christopher and Jennifer Jane pitched Proper Good company on Shark Tank and then introduced a pre-cooked and shelf-stable Proper Good Ready Oatmeal, adding two new varieties last month. But some of the incumbents in the category could not repeat the strength of 2020 sales last year. Some of the brands that faltered in 2021 include Quaker Oats, Cream of Wheat and Fruity Dyno-Bites, from the Malt-O-Meal line. Overall, the hot cereal/oatmeal category saw sales dip over 3% in the year to December 26. Private label sales were down 15%. Jeff Gelski, "General Mills, others warm up to hot cereal category", Food Business News, January 12, 2022, © SOSLAND PUBLISHING COMPANY

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New Dragon Fruit Snack Company Soul Fruit Now Available in Selfridges January 11, 2022: 12:00 AM EST In 2021, Soul Fruit launched its dragon fruit snacks. This month, it has made a move into major physical retail through a deal with Selfridges to sell its Dragon Fruit Chips and Soft Dried Dragon Fruit. The vegan and 100% natural snacks also contain a range of vitamins, Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids, and antioxidants. The price point for a 20g pack is £1.79. Fiona Briggs, "London-based dragon fruit snack brand wins Selfridges’ listing", RetailTimes.co.uk, January 11, 2022, © RetailTimes.co.uk

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Plant-Based Snack Company Spudsy Launches Sweet Potato Fries At Whole Foods Market January 11, 2022: 12:00 AM EST Following news that the company had secured a new funding round, Spudsy’s new Sweet Potato Fries are coming to Whole Foods Market nationwide in January 2022. This will be Spudsy’s second product sold by the retailer. Spudsy uses sweet potatoes that might be rejected by consumers because of their size or shape and turns their flour into savory snacks.  "Spudsy Launches Shelf-Stable Sweet Potato Fry in Whole Foods Market", PR Newswire, January 11, 2022, © Cision US Inc.

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