Unilever’s Wall’s expands handheld ice cream range with trio of new products

April 13, 2024

Unilever‘s Wall’s has unveiled a trio of new products under its Twister, Cornetto, and Guuud frozen treat brands, just in time for the warmer months.

Wall’s is broadening its Twister range with the introduction of Twister Berry-licious, touted by the company as the first ice cream in the market to naturally tint tongues blue. This non-HFSS sweet berry-flavored ice lolly is crafted with real fruit juice and devoid of artificial flavors or colors.

Rhiannon Lines, the handheld marketing manager at Unilever for Wall’s, remarked, “The beloved Twister is renowned for its distinctive shape and inventive flavor blends. It’s perfect for parents and caregivers seeking tasty, guilt-free ice creams for kids to savor as a treat. Ice cream embodies both fun and flavor, and what could be more delightful than a delicious treat that naturally turns tongues blue?”

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Unilever’s latest Cornetto innovation, Cornetto Soft Stracciatella and Caramel, is hailed as their “most indulgent Cornetto yet.” This iteration boasts delectable stracciatella and caramel toppings and sauce, paired with a novel crunchy cocoa wafer cone, marking a first for the brand.

Lines remarked, “Cornetto Soft was crafted to bring the joy of soft ice cream to households. This luxurious new Cornetto Soft recipe provides a convenient option for consumers to indulge themselves, ideal for the increasingly popular sofa snacking trend.”

Amidst the ongoing quest for healthier dessert options, Guuud, the Greek-style yogurt ice cream brand, is embracing the trend with the introduction of three fresh flavors: salted caramel, sweet and sour passionfruit, and fruity raspberry. With just 68 calories per stick, this yogurt-style ice cream line complies with HFSS regulations.

Lines wrapped up by stating, “Guuud plays a vital role in our strategy to make ice cream a year-round option. With this brand, we’re introducing fresh occasions for enjoying ice cream throughout the year, presenting a perfect alternative to traditional yogurt. Whether savored on-the-go, as a mid-afternoon treat, or as a luxurious post-dinner indulgence on the sofa, Guuud is crafted to open up new avenues for frozen delights.”

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Retail food inflation eases to 8.52% in March 2024 as prices of pulses and oils decline marginally

SnackTeam

April 13, 2024

Retail food inflation eased slightly to 8.52% in March 2024 from 8.66% in the previous month, driven by a sequential decline in the prices of pulses, edible oils, and spices, alongside a high base effect. Conversely, key items such as cereals, milk, meat, and vegetables witnessed an uptick in prices on a month-on-month basis.

The consumer food price index (CFPI) for the previous month showed a modest sequential increase of 0.16%. In March 2023, the annual food inflation stood at 4.73%.

Vegetable inflation reached 28.34% in March, marking a decrease from the 30.25% recorded in February 2024. Meanwhile, annual retail price growth for potatoes surged to 41% last month, a significant rise from the 12.38% seen in February 2024. Notably, potato inflation had remained negative between February 2023 and January 2024.

Last month, retail onion inflation surged to 36.88%, up from the 21.87% increase recorded in February 2024. Conversely, tomato prices saw a slight decrease in their year-on-year growth, rising by 32.52% last month compared to the 41.83% rise in February 2024.

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Milk and dairy product prices saw a 3.38% increase last month compared to the previous year, reflecting a marginal decrease from the 3.86% rise in February 2024. Additionally, pulse inflation witnessed a slight decline to 17.71% in March from 18.9% in February 2024, while the arhar variety experienced a notable price increase of 33.54%.

Aditi Nayar, Chief Economist at ICRA, anticipates that food and beverages inflation will continue to exceed the 7% threshold in April 2024. She highlighted concerns about the potential exacerbation of the seasonal rise in perishable prices due to an impending heatwave, underscoring the importance of a favorable monsoon in 2024 to mitigate food inflation pressures.

The overall inflation in cereals increased to 8.37% last month from 7.6% in February 2024, primarily driven by the rise in wheat prices.

Wheat inflation climbed to 4.74% last month, compared to a mere 2% increase in February 2024 and a substantial 12% surge in July 2023. This shift can be attributed to improved supplies, facilitated by the open market sales conducted by the Food Corporation of India. Notably, the corporation has achieved a significant milestone, selling a record 9.6 million metric tons of wheat through weekly e-auctions this fiscal year.

Retail rice prices increased by 12.69% last month, a slight uptick from the previous month. To enhance domestic supplies, the government has implemented measures such as prohibiting exports of white rice and imposing a 20% export duty on par-boiled rice.

Last month, inflation in the meat and fish category increased by 6.36%, slightly higher than the 5.24% rise recorded in February 2024. Specifically, chicken prices surged by 8.53% due to elevated feed costs, compared to a 5.69% increase in February 2024.

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Mustard oil and refined oil prices experienced sharp declines of 15.12% and 17.96% respectively last month compared to the previous year, resulting in an overall decrease of 11.71% in the inflation rate within the oils and fats category.

Inflation in the ‘spices’ category last month stood at 11.4% year-on-year, marking a decrease from 13.51% in February 2024. Jeera (cumin seeds) prices saw a 50% increase last month, following an 89.83% rise in January 2024 compared to the previous year. Experts anticipate a further decline in jeera inflation with the arrival of robust crops.

Aplós revolutionizes refreshment with new line of functional alcohol-free canned cocktails

SnackTeam

April 13, 2024

Aplós, the beverage brand, has unveiled a series of ready-to-drink alcohol-free cocktails that are both functional and infused with natural botanicals and adaptogens.

Aplós Cocktails strives to provide the elegance and functional benefits of traditional cocktails, minus the drawbacks of alcohol. Their concoctions feature blends of natural, functional ingredients to achieve this aim.

Made with Aplós’s distinctive non-alcoholic functional spirits, Arise and Calme, these cocktails are debuting in two tantalizing flavors: Ume Spritz and Chili Margarita. They’re non-GMO, vegan, and gluten-free, with no added sugar and just 30 calories per can.

Ume Spritz combines the refreshing essence of ume plum, oroblanco grapefruit, white tea, and sea buckthorn with Aplós’ alcohol-free Calme spirit. Calme, infused with broad-spectrum hemp, offers a soothing and uplifting experience.

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The Chili Margarita fuses mandarin, Persian lime, orange habanero, sea salt, and Aplós’ Arise spirit. Arise, enriched with a blend of adaptogens such as suntheanine, moringa, l-choline bitartrate, ginseng, and vitamins B3 and B12, is crafted to enhance mood, promote cognitive function, and increase energy levels.

Emily Onkley and David Fudge, the co-founders of the brand, remarked, “Eighty percent of our customers have shared that they’ve significantly cut back on their alcohol consumption and are continuously seeking innovative, functional cocktails. Our goal was to craft the finest non-alcoholic cocktails available, and we’re confident that we’ve achieved just that.”

They further emphasized, “As our industry rapidly expands, with millions seeking alternatives to alcohol, our mission remains steadfast: to develop intricate flavor profiles that rival the artisanal cocktail experience, all without the aftermath of a hangover or any detrimental health effects.”

The cocktails are packaged in sets of four 8.5 fl oz cans, priced at $24 as suggested retail. Aplós beverages are conveniently accessible online for direct consumer purchase, as well as at handpicked cocktail bars globally and retail outlets throughout the US.

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Arctic Coffee takes chill factor up a notch with new RTD iced coffee variants

SnackTeam

April 13, 2024

Arctic Coffee, a UK-based chilled coffee brand, has enriched its selection by introducing a new high-protein caramel latte and a 1-liter mocha carton.

Additionally, the brand is unveiling a larger 1-liter carton of mocha iced coffee. These new offerings are crafted at Crediton Dairy, a dairy farm located in Devon, UK, and the proud owner of Arctic Coffee.

Arctic Coffee noted that the recent product developments were spurred by consumer demand for more budget-friendly and convenient ready-to-drink beverages, especially with coffee shop drink prices currently reaching record highs.

The freshly launched Arctic Coffee Hi-Protein Caramel Latte offers a delightful blend of caramel and chilled coffee. Packed with 15g of protein and only 125 calories per carton, it’s also low in fat and free from added sugars.

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Abigail Kelly, Head of Marketing and Insight at Crediton Dairy, expressed, “Coffee shops have long been the pioneers of indulgent and adventurous coffee flavors. In a period where consumers seek compelling reasons to spend, innovation becomes pivotal in maintaining brand relevance. Our aim was to introduce similarly enticing and diverse options to supermarket shelves, catering better to the preferences of shoppers.”

Continuing, she emphasized, “Shoppers aren’t just seeking nutritional indicators and trendy flavors; they crave indulgence. The mocha flavor remains relatively scarce in the market, with few options delivering on the rich, indulgent chocolate experience. We’re poised to revolutionize that.”

The freshly introduced iced coffees are now accessible for purchase at leading UK retailers, priced at £1.15 and £2.20, respectively.

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McCain Foods completes acquisition of Strong Roots, strengthening position in growing market for sustainable frozen foods

SnackTeam

April 13, 2024

McCain Foods has finalized the acquisition of Strong Roots, an Irish plant-based frozen food manufacturer.

The acquisition comes in the wake of McCain and Strong Roots forming a strategic partnership in 2021, buoyed by a $55 million investment.

Strong Roots emphasizes genuine food that is both beneficial for the planet and people. Their array of vegetable-centric dishes, including meals, sides, and snacks, complements McCain’s current portfolio. This partnership ensures improved global access to high-quality, sustainable food for customers and consumers worldwide.

Through the acquisition, McCain anticipates broadening the reach of the Strong Roots brand into additional regions. This expansion aims to provide a wider array of eco-friendly, vegetable-focused products, catering to the growing demand from consumers seeking healthier, natural, and uncomplicated meal options.

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Jillian Moffatt, regional president of McCain GB and Ireland, expressed, “This investment reinforces McCain’s dedication to environmentally conscious food, allowing us to broaden our range of healthier choices produced, processed, and delivered sustainably. With a shared vision and values, we are thrilled to advance the global expansion of the Strong Roots brand.”

Peter Dawe, McCain Foods’ chief growth and strategy officer, remarked, “Our collaboration with Strong Roots since 2021 exemplifies our commitment to future investment and portfolio diversification, aligning with shifting consumer preferences. We are eager to enhance growth, extending access to natural, uncomplicated meals and ingredients across retail and foodservice sectors.”

Samuel Dennigan, founder and CEO of Strong Roots, emphasized, “Our collaboration with McCain has fueled significant growth, and this step forward will allow Strong Roots to uphold its commitment to sustainability while driving innovation to introduce delightful, vegetable-centric products to a broader global audience.”

Under the leadership of CEO Charlotte Turton, Strong Roots will continue to operate as a separate entity. Founder Samuel Dennigan will collaborate with the team to drive continued portfolio innovation and brand expansion.

The specific terms of the agreement remained undisclosed.

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Indian coffee growers rejoice as robusta prices hit historic high of INR 10,080 per 50 kg bag

SnackTeam

April 13, 2024

India’s coffee industry is experiencing a windfall as robusta coffee bean prices skyrocket to an unprecedented INR 10,080 per 50 kg bag as of Friday. This price hike represents a historic high since the establishment of coffee estates in the Western Ghats region during the 1860s by the British.

While Arabica coffee, known for its creamy layer in a shot, has exhibited a relatively stable pricing trend, robusta prices have typically fluctuated between INR 2,500 to INR 3,500 per 50 kg bag for almost 15 years.

The spike in robusta coffee prices has brought a sense of relief and happiness to coffee farmers, particularly those with smaller farms who predominantly grow robusta because of its lower production expenses in contrast to Arabica. These farmers have grappled with various challenges over the past decade, including unpredictable rainfall, crop damage caused by wildlife, and escalating input and labor expenses.

G Nithin, a coffee cultivator in Chikkamagaluru, shared his excitement, saying, “I could hardly believe it, not even in my wildest dreams, that prices would hit the INR 10,000 milestone.” Nithin had already offloaded a portion of his inventory expecting prices to climb even higher.

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As per Nanda Belliappa, chairman of the Codagu Planters Association, the rise in robusta coffee prices can be explained by the fundamental principles of supply and demand. Factors like reduced coffee output in leading robusta-producing nations because of unfavorable weather conditions and shifts in cropping patterns have played a role in this boon for Indian growers.

Insiders at the Coffee Board of India also point to the price surge being linked with significant robusta coffee producers like Vietnam and Indonesia diversifying into more lucrative crops such as dragon fruits and avocados. Moreover, there’s a rising demand for coffee in the cosmetics sector.

Karnataka alone accounts for 70% of India’s total coffee production, with Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and other districts contributing 83% of the total. However, Karnataka’s coffee plantations have had difficulties recently. Due to declining profits and a labour scarcity, many farmers have sold their land to real estate developers or turned it into tourist attractions.

Somaiah, a coffee farmer, highlighted, “There’s a significant shortage of skilled workers to manage the estates, along with a sharp rise in labor expenses.” Planters have increasingly turned to migrant laborers from Bengal and Assam, who bring expertise from their work in tea estates.

Additionally, wildlife encroachment presents a substantial risk to coffee plantations, as elephants, bisons, monkeys, and giant squirrels cause damage to crops while seeking food and water.

Despite these obstacles, the upsurge in robusta coffee prices provides a ray of hope for Indian coffee growers, indicating a possible revival for the industry following years of hardship.

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Ministry directs e-commerce platforms to remove Bournvita and similar beverages from ‘health drinks’ category

SnackTeam

April 13, 2024

The Ministry of Commerce and Industry has issued an advisory to e-commerce entities, instructing them to exclude all beverages, including Bournvita, from the classification of ‘health drinks’ on their websites and platforms.

The Ministry, in a notification dated April 10, stated that the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR), a statutory body established under Section (3) of the Commission of Protection of Child Rights (CPCR) Act, 2005, after conducting an inquiry under Section 14 of the CRPC Act 2005, has determined that there is no specific definition of a ‘health drink’ under the FSS Act 2006, as per the rules and regulations submitted by FSSAI and Mondelez India Food Pvt Ltd.

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The advisory comes in the wake of an investigation by the NCPCR, indicating that Bournvita exceeds the acceptable sugar levels.

Earlier, the NCPCR pressed the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) to take action against companies that violated safety standards and guidelines by marketing power supplements as ‘health drinks’.

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According to the regulatory body, the term ‘health drink’ lacks a specific definition in the country’s food laws, and presenting a product as such violates regulations.

Earlier this month, the FSSAI also instructed e-commerce platforms to refrain from categorizing dairy-based or malt-based beverages as ‘health drinks’.

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The discussion surrounding the potential health concerns of Bournvita first surfaced when a YouTuber criticized the powdered supplement in a video, pointing out its high sugar content, cocoa solids, and harmful additives. The video implied that these ingredients might present notable health hazards to children, potentially including an increased risk of cancer.

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Caribbean conglomerate ANSA McAL to launch Carib beer in India next year

SnackTeam

April 13, 2024

ANSA McAL, a Caribbean conglomerate, is set to launch its renowned Carib beer brand in India next year.

The Trinidad and Tobago-based company is collaborating with local distiller Globus Spirits for a venture in India.

Globus ANSA, a new venture, is set to produce Carib within the country. ANSA McAL said it is planning to introduce Carib in India in January.

According to a company representative, “trial brewing will commence in July/August.” “Three trial runs will be conducted by our quality team while collaborating with Globus to choose an appropriate brewery. If all goes well, we plan to introduce Carib in India by January 2025.”

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Globus Spirits’ business encompasses a range of products, including sanitizer, CO2, bioethanol, and consumer spirits brands.

The company operates three consumer spirits distilleries located in Rajasthan, West Bengal, and Haryana.

ANSA McAL announced that Carib will first be available for purchase in the state of Uttar Pradesh.

“We are enthusiastic about the growth potential in the country. Over the past few years, we have been closely studying the Indian market, gaining insights into its key players and brands,” stated the spokesperson.

In a separate statement upon announcing the venture, ANSA McAL CEO Anthony Sabaga III expressed confidence, stating, “We believe our partnership will enable us to meet the increasing demand for premium beverages by enticing consumers with our unique products.”

In a filing with the stock exchange, the publicly listed Globus Spirits stated that the “primary goal” of the “jointly owned venture” is to produce and distribute beer in India, with an “initial emphasis” on Carib.

The spokesperson from ANSA McAL suggested that the companies aim to develop a variety of brands for sale in India.

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“Our first priority is to introduce Carib beer. Nevertheless, we are lucky to have a wide variety of products that we think will appeal to the Indian market,” the spokesman said.

“Our primary focus will be on the Carib brand.” However, we are still open to exploring more third-party brands in the future,” they stated.

ANSA McAL’s Carib enterprise operates four breweries: one in Trinidad and Tobago, another in Grenada, a third in St. Kitts and Nevis, and a fourth in the US. The company distributes beers and RTDs in over 30 countries.

During the initial nine months of Globus Spirits’ fiscal year 2024, it recorded revenue of INR 18.2 billion ($218.3 million), with one-third originating from its consumer business.

Despite a 2% decline in volumes, the revenue generated by Globus Spirits’ consumer business increased by 6% during the nine-month period.

The company, renowned for brands such as Governors’ Reserve whisky and Snoski vodka, estimated its consumer sales to be 11 million cases. Additionally, its bulk alcohol sales were estimated to be around 160 million liters.

Globus Spirits also operates an RTD division named Bored Beverages, established in 2020, featuring brands like Not Out.

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Milk consumption in Germany sees further decline in 2023, cheese exports reach record high

SnackTeam

April 13, 2024

Milk consumption in Germany experienced another decline in 2023, as indicated by government data.

Preliminary data released by the Bundesinformationszentrums Landwirtschaft (BZL) indicates that the per capita milk consumption in Germany dropped to under 46kg in 2023, down from 46.1kg in 2022, marking a continuation of the previous year’s record low.

In the same period, the production of drinking milk decreased by nearly 1%, totaling approximately 4.2 million tons compared to the preceding year.

Per capita cheese consumption declined from 24.6kg to 23.8kg, marking a reduction of over 3%.

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Nevertheless, cheese production rose to 2.66 million tons in 2023 from 2.64 million tons in 2022, driven by increasing exports.

In 2023, Germany achieved a record-breaking export of cheese, totaling 1.41 million tons, marking a 6.6% increase compared to the previous year.

The dairy cow population saw a 2.5% decrease in 2023, amounting to around 3.7 million animals.

As per the BZL, butter consumption has also seen a decline in Germany.

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The per capita consumption of butter, milk fat, and milk fat products dropped by 1.4% to 5.6kg in the country.

Butter production experienced a nearly 4% decline last year, while the overall production of the “butter, milk fat, and milk fat products” category saw a slight increase of 1.8% to 481,000 tons.

Earlier this month, the BZL reported that meat consumption in Germany reached a new record low in 2023.

Consumption decreased by 0.8% year-on-year to 51.6kg, setting a new record low for the country, following a decline to 52kg per person in 2022.

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Taco Bell introduces refreshing Agua Frescas beverages in California!

SnackTeam

April 13, 2024

Taco Bell has introduced a fresh beverage line called Agua Frescas, available exclusively at one location in Irvine, California.

Enhanced with authentic fruit chunks and crafted with a green tea foundation, the drink debuts in flavors like Strawberry Passionfruit, Peach Mango, and Dragonfruit Berry.

The Agua Frescas collection is available in a 16oz cup size, priced at $3.99.

Customers have the option to place their orders in person at the 2222 Barranca Parkway location.

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The exclusive collection will be accessible until late May 2024 or while stocks last.

Taylor Montgomery, the Chief Marketing Officer of Taco Bell, expressed, “Our aim is to make our beverages as iconic as our food.”

“Our new Agua Refrescas will aid us on our journey to establish Taco Bell a beverage destination. They are the perfect, vibrant pairing with anything our fans desire from Taco Bell.”

Following recent trials of Coffee Chillers and Churro Chillers in Southern California, Taco Bell is actively exploring new additions to its beverage menu with this initiative.

Drawing inspiration from Mexican flavors, Coffee Chillers and Churro Chillers were exclusively featured as limited-time menu items at the Santa Margarita Parkway store in Mission Viejo and the Barranca Parkway store in Irvine.

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The Coffee Chillers were served in a 16oz cup, featuring a flavored base, filled with blended iced coffee, and topped with a layer of cold foam.

The Churro Chiller was also offered in a 16oz cup, featuring a flavored base, filled with a blended sweet shake, and topped with cold foam and churro crumbles.

The Sweet Vanilla Churro Chiller also sported a purple hue.

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