Alpen Adds Oat-Based Variant to Snack Bar Line October 19, 2021: 12:00 AM EST The British muesli breakfast cereal brand has expanded its snack bar offering with the launch of an oat-based variant in three flavors: Salted Caramel, Dark Chocolate Orange and Cocoa & Peanut.  Alpen Oat Blends mix fiber-rich oats, nuts, and fruits with a caramel center and topped with nuts or nibs. The new range will initially be available in Asda this month with an RRP of $4.14 per four-packs of 32 grams. The launch will be backed by in-store and digital promotions as part of the brand’s biggest promotional campaign in recent years: “Up & Alpen.” "Alpen Launches Oat-Based Cereal Bars", Kam City, October 19, 2021, © EMR-NAMNEWS Ltd.

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Nightfood Expands Distribution To Hotel Chains October 19, 2021: 12:00 AM EST Although the Tarrytown, N.Y.-based bedtime snack maker’s products are found in more than 1,500 supermarkets, including some Walmart and Albertsons locations, the company says its imminent national hotel rollout will greatly accelerate growth. A successful pilot test with an unnamed global hotel brand that led to the introduction of its ice cream, which has 10 percent of the fat of traditional ice cream, less sugar, and no artificial sweeteners, into thousands of hotel lobbies in the next few months. According to the company, that distribution would equate to an endorsement by the industry and would accelerate consumer awareness and acceptance. Nightfood has engaged North Carolina-based iDEAL Hospitality Partners Group to help boost the hotel footprint.  Nick Thomas, "Can This Company Create a New Industry Category by Helping People Snack Better Before Bed?", Benzinga , October 19, 2021, © Benzinga

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New FDA Guidance Urges Snack Producers To Cut Salt Content October 19, 2021: 12:00 AM EST The FDA’s guidance encourages food producers to voluntarily reduce sodium content across categories like bakery, breakfast cereals, and snacks, to help consumers decrease salt consumption by 400 mg/day – 12 percent over the next two and a half years. Excessive salt intake is directly linked to chronic conditions like heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and obesity, all of which are preventable through better diets. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans for 2020-2025 advises people 14 years and older to cut their salt consumption to 2,300 mg/day, from 3,400 mg/day. The guidance is fully voluntary and non-binding. Gill Hyslop, "FDA sets voluntary salt reduction targets for bakery and snack producers", BakeryAndSnacks.com, October 19, 2021, © William Reed Business Media Ltd

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Furikake Adds Flavor, Texture To Rice-Based Snacks October 18, 2021: 12:00 AM EST Originally a Japanese dietary supplement comprising pulverized sardines, poppy seeds, and seaweed, the modern version of furikake is a seasoning made from sesame seeds, seaweeds, herbs, fish flakes, and salt. It is commonly served on bowls of steamed rice and pressed into rice-based snacks, adding a layer of flavor, texture, and nourishment. Writer Sonoko Sakai notes that furikake not only gives rice a punch of flavor, but also perks up pasta, noodles, vegetables, pizza, popcorn, dips, and focaccia. Sakai has also “come across savory granolas that act like furikake but are substantial enough to be snacks.” Sonoko Sakai, "What is Furikake, the Nutty-Salty-Savory-Seaweedy Japanese Sprinkle?", Bon Appétit , October 18, 2021, © Condé Nast.

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Whole Foods Markets Sees Sunflower Seeds As Big 2022 Food Trend October 18, 2021: 12:00 AM EST In its annual year-end forecast compiled by local foragers, regional and global buyers, and culinary experts, the grocery chain says sunflower seeds are no longer just for trail mix and granola. The seeds can now be found in crackers, ice creams, dips, and more. They” deliver plenty of protein and unsaturated fats, “making them a healthy and hearty snack.” Other food trends emerging in 2022 include: urban farm-grown Gotham Greens: Butterhead Lettuce, and AeroFarms Micro Broccoli; the spread of yuzu fruit in recipes; and the appearance of hibiscus in seltzers, teas, fruit spreads, and yogurts. Samantha Leffler, "Here Are the 10 Biggest Food Trends of 2022, According to Whole Foods", Real Simple, October 18, 2021, © Meredith Corporation

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British Bank Loan Will Help Snack Fresh Meet Increasing Demand October 16, 2021: 12:00 AM EST The £50,000 ($69,000) Recovery Loan from HSBC U.K. will allow the U.K.-based packaged nuts and spices supplier to invest in new eco-friendly packaging, purchase additional stock to meet an increase in demand, and hire four new staff to streamline distribution. Snack Fresh is a wholefoods delivery company that sustainably sources nuts and spices and distributes them in bio-degradable packaging made from recycled paper. The company reportedly has seen a considerable increase in demand over the past year, particularly from the vegan and vegetarian markets. James Ridler, "Snack Fresh secures £50k investment and creates jobs", Food Manufacture, October 16, 2021, © William Reed Business Media Ltd

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Corn In Pivot Bio’s Snacks Is Grown With Non-Synthetic Fertilizers October 15, 2021: 12:00 AM EST The Berkeley, Calif.-based supplier of natural microbial nitrogen fertilizer for agricultural use has launched a popcorn “designed to accelerate progress toward cleaner air and water.” Connect popcorn is made from corn grown with microbial nitrogen instead of synthetic nitrogen fertilizers. The fermentation process used to make the fertilizer reduces potential greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 98 percent. Connect Gourmet Yellow Butterfly Popcorn is 100 percent whole grain, a good source of fiber, and is non-GMO. The snacks, which are mailed in boxes made with a minimum of 35 percent post-consumer recycled paper, are available on Amazon for an RRP of $12.99/24oz pack. The company also plans to launch a microwave popcorn line in 2022. Gill Hyslop , "U.S. fertilizer company sashays into snack sector with climate conscious popcorn", BakeryAndSnacks.com, October 15, 2021, © William Reed Business Media Ltd

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Holy Crap Cereals Expands Online Availability October 13, 2021: 12:00 AM EST Pursuant to its recently announced growth strategy for the coming months, Plant&Co. Brands Ltd. (Vancouver, B.C.) announced that Holy Crap breakfast cereals are now available online through ShopVejii.com, an online marketplace for plant-based foods. The company's growth strategy is based on expanding distribution channels for greater growth in 2022. Holy Crap breakfast cereal, available in five flavors, is certified organic, non-GMO, kosher and gluten-free. Ingredients include hemp seed, buckwheat, chia seeds, and gluten-free oats.  "Plant&Co's Holy Crap Cereals Expands Etail Distribution", Newsfilecorp.com, October 13, 2021, © Newsfile Corp.

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Insect Snacks Debut In Japanese Vending Machines October 12, 2021: 12:00 AM EST Snacks made with fried and dried insects – house crickets, locusts, silkworm chrysalises, caterpillars, beetles, etc. – are now being sold in more than 20 vending machines in Japan. A machine installed recently in a shop in the province of Gifu dispenses cookies laced with cricket powder, salted fried locusts, red-legged grasshoppers, and two-spotted crickets. The bottled bugs are sold for about $9 a jar, and the menu changes depending on the time of year. The insects are supplied by Hamaru Foods, which imports frozen bugs – both farmed and captured – from Thailand and cooks them at its factory. The process is eco-friendly because insect farming purportedly requires much less water and grain than livestock farming, and the growing period is shorter. "Vending machine selling fried insect snacks debuts in central Japan's Gifu Pref.", Mainichi Japan, October 12, 2021, © THE MAINICHI NEWSPAPERS

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BFY Foods, Ingredients Shine At Food Expo October 11, 2021: 12:00 AM EST Better-for-you ingredients grabbed the spotlight at the recent food and beverage trade fair Anuga 2021 (Cologne, Germany). The emerging high protein soy alternative sacha inchi from Green Mind Solutions (GMS)  for example, offers a range of applications. The sacha inchi seed, grown in Colombia and Peru, is eaten like almonds or sunflower seeds, and can be incorporated into other foods and drinks. It is high in omegas 3, 6 and 9 fatty acids, and contains vegan proteins with all nine essential amino acids. The company has made a range of sacha inchi-based snacks, beverages, and flours for baked treats, sharing its product concepts with Amazon, Nestlé, and Purina. Other hot trends showcased at Anuga included probiotic-enriched meat alternatives, keto chips made from pomegranates, whole meals in a bottle, and prebiotic cereal. India’s Fit & Flex is planning to launch a line of savory prebiotic cereals, including lemon-mint-chili, tangy tomato, and cheese flavors. "Functional first: Nutritionally elevated snacking, breakfast & plant-based NPD spotlighted at Anuga 2021", Food Ingredients First, October 11, 2021, © CNS Media BV

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Namdhari Group Branches Out Into Healthy Snacks October 11, 2021: 12:00 AM EST The Indian conglomerate has launched a snack division (Namdhari Agro Fresh – Think Snack) whose mission is to sell “safe-to-consume yet guilt-free foods.” Its products include low-fat vegetable and fruit chips, brown rice chips, popcorn, and makhana (lotus seeds) that are baked, air-fried, or vacuum fried, and also gluten-free, non-GMO, and artificial- and preservative-free. The snacks will be sold online and in Namdhari’s Fresh stores in Bengaluru city, and Simpli Namdharis.  "Seed and agricultural company Namdhari ventures into healthy snacks segment", Agro & Food Processing, October 11, 2021, © Agro & Food Processing

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Perkier Raises $1.4M In Crowdfunding Round October 8, 2021: 12:00 AM EST The British healthy snack bar company, which raised the cash on Seedrs with backing from 345 investors, plans to spend the cash on a marketing campaign to boost brand awareness, investment in NPD, staff, and in-store activation. Perkier's range of snack bars are available online and in more than 5,000 stores in the U.K., including Sainsbury's, Morrisons, and Asda. The company, which says its snacks contain 60 percent less sugar and 100 percent more fiber than competitors, also makes protein balls and porridge pots. Retail sales increased 16 percent last year and have accelerated in 2021, growing 86 percent in the latest quarter. Edward Devlin, "Perkier closes £1m funding round", thegrocer.co.uk, October 08, 2021, © William Reed Business Media Ltd

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Australian Scientists See Lupin Bean As Next Superfood October 8, 2021: 12:00 AM EST Largely unknown in the U.S., lupin beans are a natural nutritional powerhouse, according to researchers at Edith Cowan University (Perth, Western Australia), who see lupin's "huge potential" as the next superfood. Packed with more protein than any other legume, lupins “can combat heart disease, reduce blood glucose levels, and reduce inflammation in the body," says researcher Arineh Tahmasian, who helped identify more than 2,500 different lupin proteins. In Canada, they are labeled “lupini beans,” and offered as a bar snack “in a bowl, salted." Unfortunately, to get to that stage, they need to be washed, soaked in brine, and boiled for a long time to get rid of the bitter alkaloids and render them edible. Laura Brehaut , "Could the unassuming lupin bean become the next superfood?", The National Post (Canada), October 08, 2021, © Postmedia Network Inc

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Microsalt’s Low-Salt Chips Will Be Sold In Large N.A. Supermarket Chain October 8, 2021: 12:00 AM EST The so far unnamed chain will market SaltMe! potato chips, developed by the U.S. subsidiary of U.K. investment firm Tekcapital’s portfolio company Salarius. The chips will be available in more than 800 of the chain’s stores in 2022. In September 2020, the company hired food distributor Gehring-Montgomery Inc. to assist in the sale of Microsalt products in the U.S. The distinguishing feature of MicroSalt is its small salt particles – one hundred times smaller than table salt – that use a large surface area-to-volume ratio to generate a salty taste with less salt. Microsalt expects SaltMe! to become “a national brand” in the low-sodium snack category. The company is hoping other food manufacturers will use MicroSalt in their products. Francesca Morgan, "Tekcapital hails MicroSalt’s North American roll-out", Vox Newswires, October 08, 2021, © Vox Newswires

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Jackson’s Snack Brand Is Poised For Major Growth October 7, 2021: 12:00 AM EST The sweet potato snack brand, developed by the parents of Jackson Reamer, diagnosed with a rare auto-immune disorder, is expanding its product line with new flavors. Bolstered by a state-of-the-art production facility, new packaging and branding, and a new website, Jackson's chips are non-GMO Project Verified, vegan, gluten-free, paleo, nut-free and kosher, and available in redesigned 1.5oz and 5oz bags. Flavors include the original Sea Salt Sweet Potato Chips with Coconut Oil; Sea Salt Sweet Potato Chips with Avocado Oil; Spicy Tomatillo Sweet Potato Chips with Avocado Oil; and Carolina BBQ Sweet Potato Chips with Avocado Oil. The company says a $1.25 million investment from Shark Tank's Rohan Oza helped the brand find a “passionate community of super fans.” The chips are sold at Whole Foods Market and Natural Markets as well as local co-ops. Rick Lingle, "Up-and-Coming Snack Brand Upgrades Packaging and Production", Packaging Digest, October 07, 2021, © Informa Markets, a trading division of Informa PLC.

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Crunchmaster Debuts Popped Cassava Snacks October 5, 2021: 12:00 AM EST The Loves Park, Ill.-based subsidiary of snack maker TH Foods says its Bistro Crisps are grain-free, paleo, vegan, certified gluten-free, non-GMO Project verified, and kosher. Naturally colored with turmeric and available in vegan cheddar, nacho, and Margherita pizza flavors, the olive oil-popped cassava crisps contain 120 calories per 63-crisp serving and are made with cassava root flour, tapioca starch, coconut flour, and sesame flour. Crunchmaster’s snack portfolio also includes multi-seed and multi-grain crackers, grain-fee and protein snack crackers, and protein brownie thins. Rebekah Schouten, "New Crunchmaster offering ushers in ‘new realm of snacking’", Food Business News, October 05, 2021, © SOSLAND PUBLISHING COMPANY

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Griffith Foods Introduces Prebiotic Snack Seasoning October 5, 2021: 12:00 AM EST The Canadian food ingredients specialist collaborated with Canadian potato starch producer MSP Starch Products Inc. to create a prebiotic seasoning using MSP's resistant potato starch, Solnul. The seasoning, available in tzatziki (a Greek cucumber yogurt sauce) and white cheddar flavors, targets digestive health and is “well-suited for popcorn, extruded snack, rice cake, and crisp applications.” Solnul is a substantiated prebiotic resistant starch that increases Bifidobacterium, the beneficial bacteria known for its effects on healthy digestion, IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) symptoms, and proper immune system function, according to MSP. "Griffith Foods Partners with Solnul to Create Prebiotic Snack Seasoning", Griffith Foods, October 05, 2021, © Griffith Foods

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Conagra Brands Spotlights Snacking At C-Store Confab October 5, 2021: 12:00 AM EST The Chicago-based branded food company returned to the National Association of Convenience Stores' 2021 NACS Show with an assortment of familiar snacks that did not claim any better-for-you benefit. The company’s $2.7 billion snacking portfolio includes Andy Capp's Hot Beer Battered Onion Rings, the 3 oz. Slim Jim Savage meat snack, ACT II microwave popcorn, and BiGS Sunflower Seeds. ACT II is entering the ready-to-eat popcorn category with 1.7 oz. bags of ACT II Butter Lovers popcorn. The company also showcased its collection of merchandising racks and displays for convenience stores to enable optimal assortment, better placement, and improved product visibility. "Conagra Brands Debuts Snacking Innovation at 2021 NACS Show", Conagra Brands, October 05, 2021, © Conagra Brands, Inc.

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Pop Star Brothers Launch Popcorn Brand October 5, 2021: 12:00 AM EST The Jonas Brothers – Nick, Joe, and Kevin – have teamed up with food and beverage platform The Naked Market to launch a vegan “artisanal” treat inspired by a bowl of popcorn Nick first had more than a decade ago. Rob’s Backstage Popcorn – named after long-time friend Rob Garbowsky – is available for nationwide delivery on eatrobs.com. The brothers say the key to Rob’s popcorn is Garbowsky’s “secret seasoning,” which they describe as “a perfect mix of sweet and savory.” The popcorn is vegan, GMO-free and gluten-free. Rob's Backstage Popcorn is sold in a four-pack for $19.99 Tim Chan , "How An Impromptu Sleepover Led to the Jonas Brothers Launching a Popcorn Brand", Rolling Stone , October 05, 2021, © Rolling Stone, LLC, a subsidiary of Penske Business Media, LLC.

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Farm Girl Launches Diabetes-Friendly Breakfast Granola October 4, 2021: 12:00 AM EST The Canadian online provider of health food products (Mississauga, Ont.) has launched a range of low-carb, keto- and diabetic-friendly breakfast cereals that help consumers eat a healthy breakfast without consuming empty carbs. Farm Girl’s new nut-based granola is available in salted caramel, caramel apple spice, cinnamon maple, cinnamon banana, chocolate, chocolate hazelnut, and Ontario strawberry and banana crisp flavors. One of the company's more popular varieties of granola is the Ketocrunch: Salted Caramel Nut Based Cereal containing flax, walnuts, almonds, coconut flakes, sunflower seeds, and caramel flavor sea salt. "Canada Low-Carb Nut-Based Granola - Diabetic-Friendly Breakfast Cereal Launched", MarketersMedia News Hub, October 04, 2021, © MarketersMedia News Hub

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Laid Back Snacks Operates Canada’s Only Subscription Snacking Service October 4, 2021: 12:00 AM EST The Vancouver, B.C.-based snack company, which says it is the only Canadian firm offering a direct-to-consumer subscription snacking service, was originally named Naked Snacks. The recently relaunched brand was created in 2014 after founder Neil Thomsen emigrated from stressful London to Vancouver with a goal of founding a healthy snack ecommerce subscription company. The Laid Back Snacks online subscription service allows customers to choose from 31 snacks online and have them delivered. Laid Back Snacks are also found across North America in gifting services, grocery stores, and in food service locations including hospitals and 5-star hotels.  Lyndi Barrett, "Laid Back Snacks: Relaunched brand offers subscription snacking service", Daily Hive, October 04, 2021, © Buzz Connected Media Inc.

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Singapore Snack Company Ventures Into Vending Machines October 4, 2021: 12:00 AM EST Boxgreen, whose main business is healthy packaged snacks, has ventured into the vending machine business. The company, whose healthy snacks include nut mixes, mushroom chips, and soy crisps, hopes its snacks and vending machines can deliver an alternative to salty and fatty snacks, confectionery, and sugary drinks. Boxgreen rolled out its first vending machine in 2017, and this year deployed ten more. Ten percent of its total revenue is now contributed by vending machine sales from corporate offices, where the firm sees rising demand for healthier snacks, and from gyms, country clubs and other organizations. Guan Yu Lim , "From food loss to healthier choice: Why vending machines are trending in new categories", Food Navigator Asia, October 04, 2021, © William Reed Business Media Ltd

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Salty, Spicy Snacks Succeed At C-Stores During Pandemic October 4, 2021: 12:00 AM EST Retailers everywhere took it on the chin with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, but one fgood category that prospered, especially at convenience stores, was the salty snack category. The National Association of Convenience Stores (NACS) reports that sales of Frito-Lay legacy brands, for example, are up over the past several months, with Lay’s up 32 percent and Tostitos up 42 percent. Salty snacks – chips, popcorn, pretzels, tortilla chips, and more – all satisfied the slaty snack cravings of cooped-up consumers globally. The introduction of new formats and flavors – ghost pepper, habañero, Tabasco, Korean barbecue, wasabi, sriracha, and salted caramel – excited consumers, especially Gen Z and Millennials. In the wake of the pandemic, as more consumers than ever focus on their health, sales of better-for-you free-from snacks are booming, along with healthier items containing protein and plant-based ingredients like nuts, seeds, and trail mixes. Howard Riell, "How Did COVID-19 Impact the Salty Snack Category at C-Stores?", CStore Decisions, October 04, 2021, © WTWH Media LLC.

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Brown Bag Unlimited’s Gourmet Popcorn Becomes AATAC Brand Partner October 2, 2021: 12:00 AM EST The Naples, Fla.-based manufacturer says its Nature's Crush Popcorn line was accepted as a brand partner by the Asian American Trade Association Council (AATAC), which represents 50,000 convenience store members (80,000 stores) in the U.S. Founded in 2017, the gourmet popcorn brand adds a variety of crushed herbs and spices to create microwavable popcorn in four flavors: Original 23 Blend, Light & Zesty Lemon Pepper Garlic Blend, Aromatic Herb, and the newest, Tex-Mex Chili Lime Sea Salt. All are gluten-free, non-GMO, and vegan, contain no artificial preservatives, colors, or ingredients, and are packaged in PFOA-free bags. The suggested retail price per single bag (3.2 ounces) is $1.49, and multi-packs are available. "Nature's Crush Popcorn Brand Joins AATAC", PR.com, October 02, 2021, © PR.com

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Good Food Partners Releases Reformulated Messy Monkeys Snack October 1, 2021: 12:00 AM EST The new cereals and snacks division of Australia’s Arnott’s Group has released its first product, a reformulation of Messy Monkeys Wholegrain Bites. Arnott’s, purchased by U.S. private equity firm Kohlberg Kravis Roberts (KKR) from the Campbell Soup Company in 2019, bought the cereals and snacks business from distressed Freedom Foods early in 2021. The business became Good Food partners, and the reformulated Messy Monkeys Wholegrain Bites is their first branded product. The new Bites have revamped flavors, a softer texture, and are gluten- and allergen-free, containing no nuts, soy, or egg. They also have less than one gram of sugar per serve and account for more than 10 per cent of a child’s daily fiber intake. They are available in Australia for A$4.80 each, or A$0.80 per individual serve. Kim Berry , "First branded product from Arnott's Group's Good Food Partners", Food & Drink Business, October 01, 2021, © Yaffa Media

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Sweet Potato Upcycler Spudsy Closes $3.3M Funding Round September 30, 2021: 12:00 AM EST The Costa Mesa, Calif.-based brand that upcycles imperfect sweet potatoes and turns them into snacks has closed a $3.3 million funding round led by KarpReilly and Stage 1 Fund. This brings the total funding for the brand to $6.5 million in two years. Spudsy annually upcycles 75,000,000 tons of sweet potatoes headed for landfills due to minor “flaws” (shape, size, color) into Sweet Potato Puffs and Sweet Potato Fries. According to the company, the new cash provides the capital to enter new sales channels and reach new customers. The brand will also use the money to develop sales and marketing strategies and build out its ecommerce channel.  "Spudsy Positioned for Continued Chip Aisle Domination with Close of $3.3 Million Series A Funding", PRNewswire, September 30, 2021, © Cision US Inc.

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Michele’s Granola Says Its New Muesli Cereal Has Only Three Grams Of Sugar September 28, 2021: 12:00 AM EST The Timonium, Md.-based maker of small batch granola and muesli cereal has added its lowest sugar variety, Michele’s Apple Cinnamon Toasted Muesli, to the product lineup.  The new variety is a toasted oat-based cereal with nuts, seeds, apples, and raisins, and a total of three grams of sugar per serving. Two grams of sugar occur naturally in the dried fruit, while one gram is added via pure maple syrup. The company introduced its original Toasted Muesli in 2015. The brand also bakes a line of handmade granola cereals containing all-natural ingredients. The company says it was on a 20-25 percent annual growth trajectory before 2019, but doubled that rate from 2019-2020. "Michele's Granola Adds a New Low-in-Sugar Muesli Cereal to its Product Line", EIN Presswire , September 28, 2021, © IPD Group, Inc. dba EIN Presswire

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Snack Companies Should Cater To Consumer Quest For New Flavors September 27, 2021: 12:00 AM EST Market researcher Mintel’s data support the recommendation that snack companies should experiment with flavors to fuel sales of all types of snacks. Forty-three percent of consumers say they look for new flavors all of the time or most of the time, while about 41 percent do so occasionally. The consumer quest for new flavors varies somewhat by age: the under-45 group, which includes Gen Z and younger Millennials, are most likely to seek out new flavors all of the time while those 55 and older are less likely to try something different. Top flavors such as cheddar, salted, barbecue, garlic, and ranch aren’t surprising: older consumers lean toward onion-flavored snacks while Gen Z tend to prefer peanut butter the most. Dan Malovany, "Use flavor experimentation to bolster snack sales", Baking Business, September 27, 2021, © SOSLAND PUBLISHING COMPANY

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Upcycled Corn Germ Is The Core Of Kazoo Snacks September 23, 2021: 12:00 AM EST Billed as the “first water-saving tortilla brand,” the Dallas, Texas-based snacks are made with 40 percent upcycled corn germ, repurposed from the U.S. corn starch industry that produces germ as a by-product. Traditional tortilla chip companies use 100 percent virgin growth corn. According to the company, the reclaiming and upcycling reduces Kazoo's water footprint by at least 20 gallons per bag.    Kazoo Snacks' tortilla chips, available in Restaurant Style, Bite-sized, and Lime Zest varieties, are vegan, kosher, gluten-free, 140 calories per serving, and rich in fiber, calcium, potassium, and 100 percent natural ingredients. The snacks are sold at an SRP of $4.99 per 11-ounce bag at Hyvee and Market of Choice, and will soon arrive on shelves in Whole Foods Northern California and on Amazon.  "Kazoo Snacks Releases the World's First Water-Saving Tortilla Chip", PR Newswire, September 23, 2021, © Cision US Inc.

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Report: U.K. Consumer Attitudes Toward Bagged Snacks Since Pandemic Onset September 22, 2021: 12:00 AM EST Research by Lumina Intelligence has spotlighted several trends of interest to snack makers in the U.K. One third of Brits, for example, are likely to eat traditional snacks along with BFY snacks, rationalizing that they need to counter "moments of comfort and indulgence" with more permissible options. Older consumers (65+) not only shun on-pack health information the most (36 percent) and are least likely to consider health at all when buying into the category (35 percent). They are also the least adventurous when it comes to trying new flavors, unlike 35 to 44-year-olds, who are most likely to try something new. Other findings focus on frequency of eating bagged snacks, the favorite bagged snack of all, package recycling tendencies, etc. "Lockdown snacking, healthy options and recycling: 10 charts explaining U.K. attitudes to bagged snacks", thegrocer.co.uk, September 22, 2021, © William Reed Business Media Ltd

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U.K.’s Native Snacks Introduces Eco-Friendly Vegan Prawn Crackers September 22, 2021: 12:00 AM EST Available in Original Prawn and Sweet Chilli flavors, the crackers will be in Asda’s vegan aisles in 222 stores from October 4 at an RRP of $2.16 for 60-gram sharing bags, and at Planet Organic, the Vegan Kind Supermarket, and online. The prawn-free snacks are delicately flavored with a light, crunchy texture, similar to traditional prawn crackers, but only 99 calories per serving. The brand says that by offering a prawn-free alternative snack, it will save 2,226 metric tons of CO2 and 460,000 prawns for every 100,000 bags sold. Helen Greaves, "Native Snacks launches first vegan prawn crackers in major U.K. retailer", Vegan Food & Living, September 22, 2021, © Veganfoodandliving.com

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KIND Snacks Hires U.K. Agency Frank PR September 22, 2021: 12:00 AM EST The New York-based unit if Mars hopes the agency will be able to deliver integrated brand-building campaigns to boost the U.K. presence of the brand. Frank has developed several PR campaigns for the brand, including the launch of a social media barometer mapping kind and unkind moments during the pandemic (the Kind Curve Index); and a campaign featuring a traveling, interactive billboard that delivered heartfelt messages to its users' families and friends in lockdown (Driving Kindness). KIND Snacks joins Frank’s portfolio of food and drink clients, which include Burger King, Jammie Dodgers, Tyrells, and Weetabix. Emmie Harrison-West , "KIND Snacks hires U.K. PR agency", PR Week, September 22, 2021, © Haymarket Media Group Ltd.

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Quinn Launches Lentil-Based Pretzel Snack September 22, 2021: 12:00 AM EST While bolstering its board of directors in preparation for future growth, the Boulder, Colo.-based snacks company has launched plant-based Cheezy Style Filled Nuggets, a gluten-free, non-GMO Project-verified, corn-free, soy-free, dairy-free, and vegan-friendly snack made with lentil flour.New tyo the board are Michele Meyer, former president of the snacks operating unit at General Mills, Inc. and an operating partner at NewRoad Capital Partners, along with John Foraker, chief executive officer of Once Upon A Farm and formerly with Annie’s. Foraker and actress Jennifer Garner founded Once Upon A Farm, a baby food company. Foraker said Quinn’s “momentum and vision are extremely compelling.” Jeff Gelski, "New additions to board will help Quinn scale up", Baking Business, September 22, 2021, © SOSLAND PUBLISHING COMPANY

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African Nations Strive To Meet Surging Demand For Cashews September 21, 2021: 12:00 AM EST Thanks to growing demand, the global market for raw cashews will expand at an annual rate of 4.27 percent between 2020 and 2025 and is expected to reach almost $7 billion by 2025. Several forces are driving demand: recognition of cashews’ health and nutritional benefits; the growth in plant-based diets; a growing role as a substitute for both peanut butter and dairy products; and continued popularity as a savory snack. At the forefront of response to the growing demand for cashews are African countries that have increased production. Ghana, one of Africa’s biggest growers of cashews,. produces 85,000 metric tons of raw cashews each year – or about one percent of the world’s total production.  James Boafo and Kristen Lyons, "Global demand for cashews is booming. ", The Conversation US , September 21, 2021, © The Conversation US, Inc.

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Private Equity Firm Acquires U.K.’s Deeside Cereals September 21, 2021: 12:00 AM EST London-based Elysian Capital has acquired the North Wales-based breakfast cereals and snack-bar business through its Wholebake business, a health-snacks company the British investor bought over the summer from Singapore wholesaler Agrotech Impex. Also located in Wales, Wholebake supplies its own brands under names such as Bounce, Nine, and Brynmor, and is also a co-manufacturer. Financial terms were not disclosed.  Laurence Kilgannon , "U.K.'s Deeside Cereals acquired by private-equity firm Elysian Capital", Insider Media Limited , September 21, 2021, © Newsco Insider Limited

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How Brewer’s Crackers Adapted Its Business Model To Survive The Pandemic Crisis September 20, 2021: 12:00 AM EST At the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in early 2020, the Somerville, Mass.-based snack maker  relied on supermarket sales and in-store sampling to drive sales. That all came to a screeching halt as the pandemic wore on. Sales at the company, whose snack crackers are made with spent brewer’s grains and whole wheat flour, slowed to a crawl as people increased their online shopping. The term Brewer's Crackers just didn't pop up on search algorithms. To find new customers, it switched to different outlets, like smaller shops and specialty stores (e.g., cheese shops), and wholesale websites such as Faire.com and MeetMable.com. The company, which recently introduced pita chips made from upcycled brewer’s grains and is changing its name to Brewer’s Foods, is back on the road to growth. Sheryl Nance-Nash, "Moving beyond crackers; Snack firm uses sustainable grain in pita chips, too", Newsday (New York), September 20, 2021, © Newsday

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India’s Parle Products Ventures Into Breakfast Cereals September 17, 2021: 12:00 AM EST The Mumbai-based maker of biscuit brand Parle-G is extending its popular Hide & Seek brand with a breakfast cereal that can also double as a snack. Fills chocolate cereal is mainly positioned as a breakfast cereal eaten with milk. But, thanks to its 50 percent chocolate filling, the product can also be enjoyed as a sweet snack. Hide & Seek Fills will be rolled out across Parle’s distribution network of about eight million outlets across the country, with an RRP of Rs 10 ($0.14) per pack. Gill Hyslop , "India’s leading biscuit producer forays into better-for-you indulgent breakfast cereals category", BakeryAndSnacks.com, September 17, 2021, © William Reed Business Media Ltd

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Warp Snacks’ Sales Described As “Exceptional” September 17, 2021: 12:00 AM EST Sales at the London-based company, created in February after Exponent’s acquisition of Proper Snacks, are up almost 30 percent this year – an “exceptional” start to trading. Combined sales are up 29 percent year-to-date. Sales of Proper popcorn and lentil chips are up 36 percent year-to-date. Out-of-home sales of Eat Real hummus snacks are down compared to the same period last year because of lockdowns on foodservice accounts, but they have staged a strong recovery in July since reopening. “Since Proper and Eat Real joined forces earlier in 2021, we are delighted by the performance of both brands,” said Warp CEO Chris Schulze-Melander. Alec Mattinson, "Warp Snacks reports ‘exceptional’ start to trading", The Grocer, September 17, 2021, © William Reed Business Media Ltd

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Wonderful Pistachios Partners With Esports Star To Promote New Flavors September 16, 2021: 12:00 AM EST The Los Angeles-based company is strengthening its investment in Esports via a content partnership and marketing campaign across the Twitch and YouTube gaming channels with streamer Brennon "GoldGlove" O'Neill. Wonderful Pistachios says it is targeting “adventurous snackers” with its newest No Shells BBQ and No Shells Sea Salt & Vinegar varieties. The alliance with GoldGlove includes three sponsored livestreams through October reaching 1.4 million followers on Twitch, 1.2 million subscribers on YouTube, 400,000 on Twitter, and 148,000 on Instagram. About 47 million U.S. adults are Esports fans, according to MRI Simmons; more than 80 percent of Esports fans say they eat or drink while watching. The newest No Shells flavors are available in 0.75 oz single-serve packs and 5.5 oz, 11 oz, or 22 oz options. "Wonderful Pistachios Expands Esports Marketing With Content Partnership", PR Newswire, September 16, 2021, © Cision US Inc

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Forbidden Foods Raises $5.5M, Will Acquire Snack Bar Company September 16, 2021: 12:00 AM EST The Sydney, Australia-based maker of infant, toddler, health, and plant-based foods is acquiring snack bar company Blue Dinosaur (Littleton, Colo.) after raising $5.5 million. Forbidden Foods sees the $4 million acquisition as a serious step into the snacks market. Ten-year-old Blue Dinosaur caters primarily to health-focused Millennials with its baked snack, protein, and energy bars containing no soy, gluten, dairy, preservatives, added colors or sugars, stabilizers or artificial ingredients. The deal is expected to close by October 2021. "Forbidden Foods scales up company with Blue Dinosaur buyout", Food Processing Au, September 16, 2021, © Westwick-Farrow Pty Ltd

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Myprotein Debuts High-Protein Breakfast Mix In India September 16, 2021: 12:00 AM EST The British online retailer of sports nutrition products says its Protein Rava Idli Mix is an instant breakfast mix with 22 grams of protein per 100-gram serving. The product is a variation of the popular South Indian breakfast food idli (rice cake), made usually with rava durum wheat, Bombay rava, or semolina.  "Myprotein launches South Indian breakfast mix with high protein", Food & Beverages News, September 16, 2021, © Food And Beverage News

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Mission Foods Adds Gluten-Free Tortillas To Product Line September 16, 2021: 12:00 AM EST The Irving, Texas-based maker of tortillas and wraps is extending its BFY product portfolio with new gluten-free Almond Flour and Cauliflower Flour tortillas. Available now at select grocers, and at other grocery retailers in the coming months, the two new offerings feature popular alternative ingredients like almond and cauliflower flour that cater to health-conscious consumers and those with allergy and dietary restrictions. The tortillas are vegan, high in fiber, and contain no artificial colors. The company’s product portfolio also includes flatbreads, dips, salsas, and other Mexican food products.  "Mission Foods Rises to Meet Changing Consumer Needs with New, Great-Tasting Variety for Health-Conscious Shoppers", Business Wire, September 16, 2021, © Business Wire, Inc.

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Protein-Added Snacks Aren’t Necessarily BFY September 15, 2021: 12:00 AM EST Protein, once a niche bodybuilding supplement, has gone mainstream in a big way, and is now added to a vast range of foods and drinks. Though scientists acknowledge humans really don’t need to eat all that protein, for many consumers the word protein signals “virtuous self-restraint, visibly striated musculature, and pert buttocks.” According to writer Sirin Kale, it means “nut bars nibbled elegantly between MacBook-led meetings… and reaching for a thinner version of ourselves.” However, added-protein snacks are often far from healthy: they can be highly processed, and packed with ingredients such as saturated fat-laden palm oil and corn syrup. It is ironic that in an age when processed foods are anathema to health-conscious consumers, “now, nobody cares,” says the marketing manager for a protein snack company. Sirin Kale, "Muscles and methane: How protein became the food industry's biggest craze", The Guardian (London), September 15, 2021, © Guardian News & Media Limited

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Mark's Mindful Munchies Adds Air-Popped Sweet Potato Chips To Portfolio September 14, 2021: 12:00 AM EST The Boston-based maker of air-popped ancient grain chips has launched a line of salty snacks made with sweet potatoes and brown rice. Pop Bitties Sweet Potato Chips, available in Sea Salt and Cracked Pepper & Sea Salt flavors, are Non-GMO Project Verified, vegan, certified gluten-free, corn-free, and tree nut and peanut-free. They contain 110 calories, 3.5 grams of fat and 2 grams of protein per serving, The chips are available in 3.5 oz. bags online and at U.S. grocery stores for an SRP of $3.49.  "New Pop Bitties Sweet Potato Chips Launch in Two Delicious Flavors", PR Newswire, September 14, 2021, © Cision US Inc.

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U.K.’s Burts Snacks’ Sales Unimpeded By Pandemic September 14, 2021: 12:00 AM EST The Plymouth-based maker of crisps and popcorn posted a $9.7 million hike in sales in 2020 to a total of $79.4 million, making it “the U.K.’s fastest growing independent “snacking” company, despite the COVID pandemic.” Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization – a measure of profitability – were $3.6 million for 2020, up from $1.4 million in 2019. The company is optimistic about 2021 sales in the U.K., and is developing several new export markets that it says are “a key pillar in our overall strategy.” William Telford, "Burts Snacks sees sales grow to £57.3m despite hospitality lockdown", Business Live, September 14, 2021, © Reach plc subsidiary

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Mintel Expert Advises Snack Makers On Flavor And Ingredient Experimentation September 14, 2021: 12:00 AM EST Snack makers experimenting with flavors in hopes of broadening snack appeal should pair an unusual one, such as baobab or guajillo chili, with a familiar format, such as tortilla chips, according to Lynn Dornblaser of Mintel. Or, if experimenting with snack chip ingredients, they should try an unconventional base ingredient, such as seaweed or dried portobello mushrooms, combined with cheddar, barbecue, or another popular seasoning. Other snack innovation insights Dornblaser shared with SNAXPO21 attendees: be sure the name lives up to the ingredients – a cayenne pepper snack, for example, better be spicy; if concerned about delivering a healthy snack use chickpeas or plantains and highlight their better-for-you benefits; and experiment with flavors on more receptive younger consumers. Dan Malovany, "Effective ways to expand a brand’s appeal", Baking Business, September 14, 2021, © SOSLAND PUBLISHING COMPANY

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Jackson's Bets Future On New Factory, Packaging, Expanded Product Line September 14, 2021: 12:00 AM EST With the opening of a state-of-the-art factory in Muskego, Wis., the Oregon-based sweet potato chips brand “stands poised to upset the snacking status quo forever.” The company sources non-GMO heirloom sweet potatoes directly from farmers, cooks them low and slow in coconut and avocado oils, and adds seasonings that bring out the sweet potato flavor. Jackson’s new snack varieties complement sweet potatoes' unique flavor profile and are Non-GMO Project Verified, vegan, gluten-free, paleo, nut-free, and kosher. All are available in redesigned 1.5 oz and 5 oz bags online and in select U.S. retailers, including Whole Foods Market and Natural Grocers by Vitamin Cottage.   "Jackson's Dares Snackers to Trade Up Their Chips", PR Newswire, September 14, 2021, © Cision US Inc.

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Dirt Kitchen Tests Binder-Free Snack Technology September 14, 2021: 12:00 AM EST The Mondelēz International brand is testing a better-for-you snack bar created using a mechanical pressure and ultrasound technology developed by an Israeli company. Torr FoodTech’s technology combines different ingredients without using binders or added sugar, instead applying mechanical pressure and ultrasound energy to create multi-textures and sensorial taste profiles not found in a typical snack bar.  Dirt Kitchen so far has focused on chip-like snacks made of vegetables like tomatoes, zucchini, and green beans. The companies plan to roll out four flavors – tomato, raisin and black pepper; apricot, beets and pumpkin seeds; almond, raisin and carrot; and apple, cinnamon and carrot – in about 50 of the few hundred stores that carry Dirt Kitchen products, and on the brand's website.  Christopher Doering, "Mondelēz tests new snack bar made using mechanical pressure and ultrasound energy", Food Dive, September 14, 2021, © Industry Dive

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Kellogg Company Creates Snack Bar Based On A Cereal Product September 13, 2021: 12:00 AM EST The new Krave mixed grain bar, adapted from the eponymous breakfast cereal sold in varying formats in the U.S., the U.K., and elsewhere, has arrived in Australia. Made from crunchy puffed sorghum and churro, choc fudge chocolate or caramel fudge pieces, the snack is available in Go Nuts for Donuts, Nudge to Fudge, and Caramel Pop’n Choc flavors, all of which are free of artificial colors, flavors, or sweeteners. The new mixed grain bars can be found in Australia at Woolworths, Coles, and independent supermarkets. Irene Dong, "Kellogg’s launches mixed grain bar", Inside FMCG, September 13, 2021, © Octomedia Pty Ltd

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Carnivore Aurelius Adds Steak Crisps To Meat-Based Snack Line September 10, 2021: 12:00 AM EST Founded in 2019, the Sheridan, Wy. -based maker of beef liver crisps has introduced a chewy steak crisp made with beef and salt and no sugar or soy fillers. According to the company, plant-based foods offer excellent health benefits but lack some nutrients that humans need for optimal performance, especially vitamin B12, taurine, and iron. Grass-fed steak crisps, containing only salt and 17 grams of protein, are sold by subscription or as a one-time purchase of a 14-bag package at $7.14 per bag. "Carnivore Aurelius Is Excited to Announce the Latest Addition to Its Menu: Steak Crisps", The Mercury News (California), September 10, 2021, © MediaNews Group, Inc.

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