Articles by Prepared Foods Editorial Staff

Smithfield Foods has agreed to acquire Nathan’s Famous in a $102-per-share cash deal valued at approximately $450 million. The move gives Smithfield permanent ownership of the brand it has licensed since 2014, unlocking new retail and foodservice growth.

Magic Spoon is broadening its modern breakfast portfolio with protein-packed pastries and a marshmallow cereal inspired by classic favorites. The launches reinforce protein’s role in driving breakfast innovation while meeting on-the-go lifestyles.

Mars Food & Nutrition North America has appointed Lauren Larsen as chief customer officer to lead US sales strategy. Larsen brings 18 years of CPG experience to drive growth across rice and ready meal categories.

The American Egg Board introduced its first Founders Cohort to help food and beverage startups scale egg-based innovations. The virtual program delivers hands-on guidance across marketing, R&D, supply chain and fundraising.

Heluva Good! and Grillo’s Pickles are teaming up on a bold, briny dill pickle dip designed to capture consumer demand for mashup flavors. The limited-time offering pairs craveable creaminess with Grillo’s signature fresh dill taste.

The FDA is requesting industry and stakeholder input on gluten labeling and cross-contact in packaged foods. The move signals potential future regulatory action to improve transparency and consumer protection.

Cargill earned a 2026 BIG Innovation Award for embedding advanced technologies into real-world operations, delivering ROI, waste reduction and emissions cuts at scale. The honor underscores how data-driven innovation is reshaping food security, sustainability and efficiency across the value chain.

Breyers is rolling out Sundae Swirls, a new ice cream line designed to deliver the full sundae experience straight from the freezer. The 48oz tubs feature extra-thick sauce swirls, indulgent mix-ins and flavors inspired by classic desserts.

Premier Protein is entering the baking and breakfast space with new Muffin Mixes and Microwavable Muffin Cups developed with Hometown Food Company. The launches extend the brand’s protein-first strategy into convenient, everyday formats designed for at-home and on-the-go eating.

Walmart Inc. announced a slate of executive leadership appointments as incoming CEO John Furner reshapes the company’s executive council. The moves elevate leaders across growth, ecommerce, international and warehouse club businesses to drive the future of retail.