Prepared Foods Editorial Staff

Darigold and Actus Nutrition have entered into a strategic partnership designed to expand opportunities in specialty dairy ingredients. The agreement includes Actus assuming operations of Darigold's milk protein facility in Jerome, Idaho, and a long-term arrangement for Darigold to produce whey ingredients for Actus at its Sunnyside, Wash., facility, connecting member milk supplies to growing specialty ingredient markets.

Polar Joe has expanded its Café Series with the launch of Polar Joe Espresso, an unsweetened protein coffee designed for consumers seeking customizable coffee beverages with added nutrition. The ready-to-mix product delivers 20g of protein and approximately 110mg of caffeine per serving while maintaining the brand’s focus on clean-label formulation and high-protein performance.

Land O Lakes has reintroduced its Every Little Thing Butter Spread at select Kroger stores following strong consumer interest in its initial limited release. Inspired by everything bagel seasoning, the spread combines garlic, onion, poppy seeds and hemp seeds with a creamy butter base, offering consumers a convenient way to add flavor and texture to everyday foods.

Mars has appointed Kemal Cetin as global chief digital & information officer for its snacking business, effective Aug. 3. His experience in digital transformation and business agility is expected to support innovation, decision-making and the integration of Kellanova brands.

LaClare Creamery introduced Ube Goat Cheese, blending the sweet, nutty flavor of the popular purple yam with the tangy profile of its Original Goat Cheese. The launch reflects continued interest in globally inspired ingredients and offers consumers a versatile option for both sweet and savory applications.

OSULLOC is bringing added functionality to the growing matcha category with the launch of Matcha Plus, a line of powdered beverages formulated with ingredients targeting beauty, digestive health and focus. Available in Glow, Gut Ease and Awareness varieties, the products reflect continued consumer demand for convenient beverages that combine wellness benefits with premium tea experiences.

Clif Builders is expanding its protein bar portfolio with the launch of a White Fudge Oreo-flavored variety inspired by the popular sandwich cookie. The gluten-free bar delivers 20g of plant-based protein and carbohydrates to support post-workout recovery while reflecting continued demand for indulgent flavors in functional nutrition products.

A new survey from the International Food Information Council found that consumers are actively engaging with nutrition information and prefer front-of-package labels that provide a balanced view of food and beverage products. The findings come as policymakers continue evaluating front-of-package labeling approaches and suggest shoppers want information about both nutrients to limit and nutrients to encourage when making purchasing decisions.

Late July is tapping into consumer demand for bold flavor mashups with the launch of Pickle Lemonade tortilla chips. The limited-time offering blends the tangy taste of dill pickle with bright lemon notes, highlighting how snack brands are leveraging trend-driven flavor combinations to appeal to adventurous Gen Z and Millennial consumers.

Dr. Brown's has launched Electrolyte Solution, a hydration beverage formulated to help replenish fluids and electrolytes during illness, travel or heat exposure. Made with coconut water, sea salt and four essential electrolytes, the ready-to-drink product is designed for children ages 1 and older while also appealing to family-wide hydration needs.