Prepared Foods Editorial Staff

Lorge, an 11-year company veteran, helped grow Simple Mills from startup to a national brand with distribution in more than 30,000 stores. Smith, who founded the company in 2012, is stepping down to focus on family and philanthropic interests.

CAULIPOWER is adding high-protein single-serve pizzas and bowls to its frozen lineup, pairing portion control with gluten-free, preservative-free formulations. With up to 21g of protein and a full cup of veggies per bowl, the launch targets growing demand for convenient, nutrient-dense freezer meals.

B&G Foods has divested its Green Giant US frozen vegetable line to Seneca Foods, continuing its strategic exit from shelf-stable and frozen vegetable categories. The deal includes the Yuma, Ariz., manufacturing facility, while B&G retains its Mexico operations and enters a co-pack agreement with Seneca.

Global ingredient supplier highlights high-performing natural pigments derived from fruits and vegetables for food, beverage and nutraceutical applications.

GELITA’s collagen and gelatin solutions enable high-protein bars, sugar-reduced gummies and targeted nutrient delivery. The portfolio helps formulators overcome texture, stability and shelf-life challenges.

Greater Than is repositioning hydration around how women’s bodies actually work, blending coconut water, plant-based fiber and essential vitamins into a nutrient-dense elixir. With new 12oz sleek cans and a 2026 national retail rollout, the brand’s GoddessLand platform reframes hydration as daily nourishment, not just performance.

True Citrus is expanding into functional wellness with three powdered drink mixes formulated to support cravings control, immunity and clean energy without sugar or artificial sweeteners. Available exclusively online, the Non-GMO, vegan and gluten-free line blends plant-based actives, prebiotic fiber and electrolytes to turn water into a daily health ritual.

AIDP announced the passing of founder and CEO Edward Lee, PhD, a longtime advocate for science, transparency and innovation in the ingredient industry. Senior vice president of R&D Dr. Jennifer Gu will step into the CEO role, continuing Lee’s vision for AIDP and ThreoTech, including the global expansion of Magtein.

Like Air has partnered with Freestyle Snacks to launch Spicy Dill Pickle Puffcorn, building on its popular dill flavor with a fiery twist inspired by snacking pickles. The limited-edition drop, available online and via TikTok Shop, underscores both brands’ Shark Tank roots and focus on better-for-you, flavor-forward snacks.

Food and beverage company speakers include as many as 11 representatives from Mondelez International, Danone, Hormel Foods, Kellanova, Dawn Foods, Gallo, Keurig-Dr. Pepper, Niagara Bottling, and WK Kellogg Co.