Articles by Prepared Foods Editorial Staff

Bel Group has appointed Peter McGuinness as CEO of Bel North America, bringing seasoned leadership in scaling purpose-driven food brands. The move signals Bel’s focus on accelerating innovation, manufacturing capacity and sustainable growth across the US and Canada.

Like Air has teamed up with Copper Cow Coffee to introduce a Vietnamese coffee–flavored puffcorn as a limited-edition online-exclusive. The collaboration highlights how co-branded flavor innovation and social commerce are shaping faster, consumer-led product development.

Turkey Hill and Entenmann’s have partnered to launch two new ice cream flavors inspired by classic baked goods. The collaboration highlights how brands are leveraging familiar desserts and cross-category partnerships to drive indulgence and consumer appeal.

Kroger is growing its Simple Truth Protein portfolio with 24 new items, bringing the line to more than 110 offerings. The expansion underscores rising demand for affordable, clean-label protein formats designed for everyday wellness and performance.

Waterloo Sparkling Water is expanding its lineup with two new flavors and the return of Lemon Italian Ice following strong consumer demand. The additions reinforce the brand’s focus on bold, authentic flavor with zero calories, sugar or sweeteners.

The FDA is giving food companies more flexibility to label products as containing “no artificial colors” when petroleum-based dyes are not used. The move, paired with new approvals for beetroot red and expanded spirulina use, supports industry efforts to shift toward naturally derived color alternatives.

Kraft Natural Cheese is expanding its snack lineup with Protein Cheese Sticks designed for on-the-go, protein-forward eating. Available in Mild Cheddar and Pepper Jack, each stick delivers 17g of protein with half the fat of traditional varieties.

Charcuterie Artisans has unveiled a new Innovation Center designed to help brands and retailers develop, scale and differentiate charcuterie offerings. Backed by a $12 million investment, the expansion positions the company to meet rising US demand for premium, story-driven meats across retail and foodservice.

RECOVER 180 is expanding its organic hydration lineup with the launch of Tropical Ice and Orange Cream. The new flavors reinforce the brand’s focus on clean, functional hydration for athletes and active consumers seeking better-for-you alternatives to traditional sports drinks.

Danone’s Oikos and Light + Fit brands are expanding yogurt’s role as a snackable treat with the launch of REMIX, a mix-in line pairing creamy bases with layered, indulgent textures. The launch reflects growing consumer interest in desserts that deliver both enjoyment and functional nutrition, including high protein and controlled calories.