Articles by Prepared Foods Editorial Staff

Creations Foods USA Inc. and Get Real Foods LLC, dba REAL Cookies, completed a strategic merger to form a vertically integrated CPG platform dedicated to healthier snacking across North America. The combination brings together scalable manufacturing capabilities with award-winning cookie brands built around simple ingredients and indulgent taste.

Reported results included improvements in overall cognitive performance, working and episodic memory, faster reaction time, improved PROMIS sleep-related impairment, a 7.5-year reduction in estimated brain cognitive age, and favorable changes in physiological stress markers (reduced resting heart rate and increased heart rate variability).

Leveraging its wide-ranging portfolio of ingredients derived from natural sources paired with science-backed health and wellness solutions, ADM will highlight how brands can effectively reformulate to fulfill the needs of consumers today.

De La Calle kicked off the new year with the launch of Strawberry Citrus, a new fermented soda blending strawberries and citrus for a crisp, refreshing profile. The debut coincides with the brand’s new Frutas campaign, reinforcing its focus on fruit-forward flavor and modern interpretations of Mexican soda culture.

Rise Baking Company appointed Mark McNeil as chief executive officer, succeeding Brian Zellmer after five years of transformational growth. McNeil brings more than 30 years of leadership experience across retail, foodservice and manufacturing, most recently serving as CEO of Shearer’s Foods.

Bloom Nutrition introduced Bloom Clear Protein, a clear whey protein isolate and collagen blend designed to deliver performance and beauty benefits without the heaviness of traditional shakes. The light, fruit-forward format targets consumers seeking higher protein intake in low-sugar, low-fat beverages that fit modern wellness routines.

Veracity introduced Metabolic Power Protein, a plant-based protein formulated to support lean muscle as a driver of metabolic health. Enhanced with the patented MyoVera ingredient, the product is designed to improve protein use while supporting energy, satiety and long-term metabolic strength.

Silk expanded its plant-based beverage portfolio with Silk Protein, a refrigerated option delivering 13g of complete plant protein per serving. The launch taps into growing interest in diversified protein sources while pairing higher protein with lower sugar, fiber, calcium and vitamin D.

Hormel Foods Corporation appointed Domenic Borrelli executive vice president of retail, effective Feb. 23, 2026. He joins the company from Danone North America, where he led Beverage Creations across coffee creamers, ready-to-drink coffee and premium waters.

Snickers Ice Cream is expanding its portfolio with Ice Cream Minis, bringing big flavor and multi-textural appeal to a bite-sized format. The five-SKU lineup taps portion control, snacking and brand collaboration trends.