ICL has signed a definitive agreement to acquire Bartek Ingredients, a global supplier of food-grade malic and fumaric acid used across food, beverage and personal care applications. The phased transaction positions ICL to expand capacity and capitalize on a functional ingredients market projected to top $45 billion by 2030.
Administration orders accelerated rescheduling to Schedule III while signaling tighter oversight and clearer standards for hemp-derived cannabinoids used in foods and beverages
The federal government is moving to formally recognize marijuana’s accepted medical use and accelerate its rescheduling from Schedule I to Schedule III under the Controlled Substances Act. This shift is based on FDA, HHS and NIH findings showing credible scientific support for marijuana’s use in treating pain, nausea, vomiting and anorexia related to medical conditions.
Brands that balance nostalgia with innovation will win. Consumers are craving foods that feel familiar but deliver something new. Brands that help people reconnect with the past—while creating products future generations will remember—are best positioned to lead.
According to the report, dark sweet cherry will be a standout flavor in 2026 due to its striking deep red color, intense sweetness and impressive versatility. With a complex flavor profile described as “juicy, rich and tart,” dark sweet cherry is a nostalgic favorite for many North American consumers familiar with varieties such as Chelan, Sweetheart, Lapin, Stella, Bing and more.
Eat Happy Kitchen’s full spice blend lineup is now on shelves at all 28 Gelson’s Markets, marking continued growth for the clean-label brand. The expansion follows new national placements and recent category additions, including pasta sauces and Cheese Bites.
Honoring the pioneering spirit of founder Wolfgang “Wolf” Ludwig, the Center will be a destination where science, creativity, and artisan talent come together to advance how food is made safely, naturally, and to the highest quality standards.
Maple syrup is used by more than one-third of adults, with its use growing especially among younger consumers. This increase reflects a greater trend toward ingredients consumer recognize, and the desire for sweeteners that deliver both flavor and natural associations when compared to standard white granulated sugar.
As people worldwide navigate instability and digital overload, shared eating and drinking occasions are becoming a joyful way to come together, express identity, and feel grounded. This shift is transforming the look and feel of food and drink, putting color at the center of experiences that feel more social, expressive, and emotionally resonant.
GHOST has introduced a cinnamon-flavored protein cereal designed to merge nostalgic taste cues with higher protein content. The launch highlights continued category interest in hybrid products that pair familiar flavors with functional nutrition.
Crafted from simple plant-based ingredients, Versaterra is non-GMO compliant, allergen-friendly (‘Big 9’), and free of saturated fat. It offers an excellent source of protein, a good source of fiber, and the convenience of being shelf-stable and easy to hydrate.