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Meiji Co., a Japanese food major, is investing $28m to expand production of its Hello Panda snack brand in the US. The expansion is part of Meiji's 2026 Vision plan to target international growth, with a goal of generating $1.12bn in sales outside Japan by fiscal 2026. Hello Panda, a chocolate cream-filled biscuit, has seen tripled sales in the US since 2017, prompting the need for increased production capacity to meet growing demand. [Extracted from the article]

Raymundo's Food Group, a US-based desserts manufacturer, has been acquired by Lakeview Farms, a company owned by UK investment firm CapVest. Raymundo's specializes in Hispanic-inspired refrigerated puddings and sweet snacks, operating an 84,000 sq ft manufacturing facility. The acquisition is seen as a strategic move to expand Lakeview Farms' snack offerings and Hispanic-inspired food products. [Extracted from the article]

Unilever has reported third-quarter volume growth driven by its 'power brands' despite reduced price increases. The company exceeded analysts' expectations for sales, volume, and pricing, and is on track to spin off its ice cream business by the end of next year. Unilever's turnaround Growth Action Plan aims to cut costs and streamline operations, with a focus on its core brands for growth. The company's performance in both developed and emerging markets has been positive, with analysts viewing it as the beginning of a multi-year turnaround story. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the growing category of allergen-free food in the UK, which has become intertwined with the broader free-from food offerings. It explores the potential confusion for retailers and consumers as these categories expand rapidly, encompassing products tailored for individuals with specific food allergies or intolerances. The market is evolving with increased competition, innovation, and consumer interest, driven by factors such as health concerns, dietary preferences, and the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic. The outlook for the allergen-free food industry is optimistic, but there are concerns about the authenticity of some products and the need for clarity amidst the expanding range of claims in the market. [Extracted from the article]

Belgian company Greenyard has responded to rumors of a potential takeover of Dutch company The Fruit Farm Group, as reported in a Belgian newspaper. Greenyard clarified that there is currently no news regarding any merger or acquisition. The Fruit Farm Group, established in 2014, operates in several countries and focuses on regenerative farming, producing various fruits. Greenyard's recent acquisitions include a plant-based ice cream business in Belgium and an Italian vegan ice cream manufacturer. The company reported a rise in net sales in the first quarter and a significant increase in sales in the previous financial year. [Extracted from the article]

Workers in the German confectionery industry, particularly in Hannover, have engaged in a walkout due to ongoing disputes over pay, despite agreements being reached in other regions. The Food, Beverages and Catering Union (NGG) has negotiated pay deals with the industry body in various parts of the country, but disagreements persist in areas like Hannover. Strikes have occurred in cities such as Lübeck, Hamburg, and Berlin, with the union pushing for shorter collective agreements and fairer pay terms. Negotiations are ongoing at regional levels, with concerns raised about the lack of progress in certain regions like Lower Saxony and Bremen. [Extracted from the article]

Tyson Foods is currently under investigation by the US Department of Labor for allegedly employing children as young as 11 at its facilities in Arkansas. The investigation was prompted by two separate anonymous tip-offs received over the summer, one of which involved children as young as 11 to 13 discussing their employment at the Green Forest plant. The DoL is looking into whether Tyson has violated the Fair Labor Standards Act, with concerns raised about minors potentially working in hazardous conditions. This investigation follows a previous probe into Tyson and other meat producers for child labor issues, where Tyson was not found in violation of labor laws. [Extracted from the article]

Australia's top grocers, Woolworths and Coles, are being investigated for allegedly importing cheap canned tomatoes, which local growers claim undermines competition. The Australian government's Anti-Dumping Commission is reviewing a complaint by local canned tomato business SPC, which accuses the supermarket chains of selling Italian tomatoes at lower prices than domestically-produced ones. SPC is seeking the imposition of dumping measures to address the issue. The investigation is ongoing, with a final recommendation expected by March 19 next year. [Extracted from the article]

The UK's Vegan Food Group (VFG) has sold a manufacturing facility in Germany to the New Originals Company, a tofu specialist, as part of a strategic move to focus on expanding operations at its larger facility in Lüneburg. The deal includes the transfer of assets, brands, and production capabilities, with VFG planning to maintain a commercial relationship with New Originals for distribution across Europe. Despite selling the German facility, tofu remains an important product category for VFG, with new product launches planned for Q1 2025. [Extracted from the article]

Unilever has settled a lawsuit with social media platform X, owned by Elon Musk, in which X claimed that Unilever and other major companies conspired to boycott the site, causing it to lose revenue. X dismissed its claim against Unilever, but the claims against other defendants remain pending. The terms of the settlement have not been disclosed. Unilever has stated that X has committed to meeting their responsibility standards to ensure the safety and performance of their brands on the platform. [Extracted from the article]

Unilever has sold its Russian subsidiary and its operations in Belarus to Arnest Group, a local manufacturer of perfume, cosmetics, and household products. The sale includes all of Unilever's business in Russia, including its four factories, as well as its business in Belarus. Unilever's assets in Russia, including its ice-cream brands, were valued at between Rbs35bn and Rbs40bn ($394m and $449m). The decision to sell comes amid public pressure for consumer-goods companies to withdraw from Russia and Belarus due to their involvement in the Ukraine crisis. [Extracted from the article]

Italian manufacturer Probios is launching a venture-capital arm called Probios Ventures to support start-ups in the better-for-you food and nutrition sector. The initiative aims to back companies operating in the healthy food, food-tech, and wellness sectors. Probios plans to provide not only capital but also strategic expertise, mentorship, and access to its global network of partners and suppliers. The company's goal is to become a strategic partner for start-ups that share its values and are ready to revolutionize the food sector. Applications can be made through the dedicated Probios Ventures website. [Extracted from the article]

Simulate, the company behind the Nuggs faux-chicken nuggets brand, has been acquired by Ahimsa Companies, a plant-based investor. The financial terms of the deal have not been disclosed. Simulate gained popularity through its social media campaigns and was available in over 5,000 retail locations. Concerns about the company's future arose when its products disappeared from grocery stores. Ahimsa, which previously acquired the plant-based ready-meals brand Wicked Kitchen, aims to build a portfolio of plant-based food brands through mergers and acquisitions. The CEO of Ahimsa praised Simulate's technology and expressed excitement about bringing it to the market. [Extracted from the article]

Rizo Lopez Foods, a US cheesemaker, has been forced to cease production at its California facility due to a listeria outbreak. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) conducted an investigation into the outbreak, which was linked to fresco- and cotija-type cheeses manufactured by Rizo Lopez. The investigation identified 26 illnesses across 11 states, including two deaths and four cases of pregnancy loss. Rizo Lopez Foods voluntarily recalled its entire inventory of dairy products and will need to correct violations to resume production. [Extracted from the article]

Fast-food giant McDonald's has filed a lawsuit against major meat processors in the US, including Cargill, JBS, Tyson Foods, and National Beef, accusing them of colluding in a price-fixing cartel. McDonald's claims that this alleged action forced them to pay inflated prices for meat. The company is seeking monetary damages and a court order to end the alleged price-fixing scheme. Other companies, including retailers Target and Kroger, as well as cattle ranchers, have also made similar claims against the meatpackers. [Extracted from the article]

US investment firm One Rock Capital Partners has acquired a stake in Lewis Brothers Bakeries, the third-generation baked goods manufacturer. The size of the investment and stake have not been disclosed. Lewis Bakeries, known for brands such as Bunny Bread and Butternut, is the largest wholesale bakery in Indiana and employs around 2,000 people across its five bakeries. One Rock plans to pursue acquisitions and partnerships with the bakery business, while Lewis Bakeries sees the investment as a vote of confidence for future growth. [Extracted from the article]

Saudi Arabian company Almarai has acquired the food and beverage business of Jordanian conglomerate Hammoudeh for SR263m ($70.1m). The acquisition was made through Almarai's subsidiary, Teeba Investment for Developed Food Processing Company. Hammoudeh Food Industries, the food and beverage manufacturing arm of the Hammoudeh conglomerate, has a range of products including dairy, juices, poultry, and eggs. Almarai stated that the acquisition strengthens its position in Jordan and aligns with its growth strategy to maintain sustainable growth in core markets and geographies. [Extracted from the article]

France-based agri-food investor Unigrains has made its second investment in a month, this time backing Spanish ready-to-eat food producer Ñaming. The investment was made through Unigrains' Iberia arm and marks their first investment in the region. Ñaming, which generated a turnover of €40m ($43.8m) in its last financial year, offers a range of ready-to-eat products including sandwiches, snacks, salads, wraps, yogurts, cut fruit, smoothies, and desserts. Unigrains plans to support Ñaming's development as an "active minority shareholder" alongside the company's CEO and Italy's DeA Capital Alternative Funds, its majority shareholder. [Extracted from the article]

Conagra Brands, a US food group, experienced a 10% drop in its share price after reporting disappointing financial results for Q1 of fiscal 2025. The decline in sales was attributed to consumers opting for cheaper private-label alternatives instead of Conagra's brands. The company also faced manufacturing disruptions in its Hebrew National hot dog business, resulting in a $10 million loss in quarterly profits. Despite the setback, Conagra remains optimistic about its future performance and has reaffirmed its outlook for net sales in fiscal 2025. [Extracted from the article]

Badia Spices, a US-based food group, has sold a majority stake in the business to Panama-based investor Bia Foods and US banking and investment group BDT & MSD Partners. The size of the stake and financial details were not disclosed. Badia Spices, founded in 1967, is known for its spices but also offers a range of other products. Bia Foods was established in 2017 by Grupo Mariposa and has made several acquisitions in the food industry. BDT & MSD was formed in 2023 and combines the family office of tech entrepreneur Michael Dell with a merchant bank run by Byron Trott. [Extracted from the article]

The European Union (EU) has decided to delay the implementation of its new deforestation regulations in response to pressure from agri-food bodies and overseas politicians. The regulations, aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and biodiversity loss, would require companies selling cocoa, coffee, palm oil, and other products in the EU to prove that their supply chains do not contribute to deforestation. The European Commission (EC) has granted companies an additional 12 months of "phasing-in time" due to claims that the original timetable was unworkable. The EC also plans to provide additional guidance and support for stakeholders in preparation for the implementation of the regulations. [Extracted from the article]

Japanese seafood company Nissui Group has purchased a facility in France to meet the growing demand for tapas-style seafood products. The facility, acquired through Nissui's subsidiary Miti, will be used to manufacture tapas products such as octopus, squid, and sardines. Nissui aims to develop tapas as a key part of its business, selling in France and neighboring countries. This acquisition is part of Nissui's larger strategy to expand its international operations and become a global leader in fried seafood. [Extracted from the article]

A large-scale port strike in the US has shut down 36 ports from Maine to Texas, affecting 68% of containerized exports and 56% of imports for the nation. The strike, which is the largest of its kind in 50 years, is a result of failed negotiations between the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) union and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) employer group over new contracts and demands to stop port automation projects. The strike has halted the flow of about half the nation’s ocean shipping, impacting various sectors including the food industry, particularly fresh fruits and vegetables, soybeans, soybean meal, chilled or frozen meat, and eggs. The disruption and increased shipping costs could threaten jobs, lead to price increases, and stoke inflation. The food industry has expressed deep concern and urged the parties to resume negotiations. The strike's duration is uncertain, but it is expected to be resolved within a week due to the growing domino effects and potential shortages on supermarket shelves. President Biden has expressed support for the union, calling for a fair contract that reflects the workers' contribution to the economy. The pressure is on the USMX to improve its offer, but whether they will scale back automation plans remains uncertain. [Extracted from the article]

German porridge maker 3Bears is looking to expand its business with the help of footballer Harry Kane. Kane, who has a minor stake in the company, will act as a brand ambassador and appear in marketing campaigns. 3Bears is already sold in major supermarket chains in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, and is now planning to launch in the UK and other markets. The company was founded by Caroline and Tim Nichols in 2016, and Caroline believes that porridge can become popular in Germany due to increasing interest in diet and health. [Extracted from the article]

The Italian competition authority, Autorita Garante della Concorrenza e del Mercato (AGCM), is investigating crisp manufacturers Amica Chips and Pata over allegations of price coordination. The investigation was prompted by a whistleblower report. AGCM stated that the companies may have coordinated price proposals for the sale of chips to large-scale retail chains. The investigation includes inspections at the companies' premises and the involvement of the Special Antitrust Unit of the Guardia di Finanza. The retail chains implicated in the case are believed to include Esselunga, Carrefour, Aldi, and Lidl. [Extracted from the article]

Applied Nutrition, a sports-nutrition company based in the north of England, has confirmed its plans to go public on the London Stock Exchange. The company will publish a registration document and offer shares to both institutional and retail investors. Applied Nutrition, founded in 2014, sells a range of products including nutrition supplements, energy drinks, and protein cookies. The company has experienced strong growth and recorded revenue of £86.1m in the year ending July 2024. [Extracted from the article]

French dairy company Danone has announced plans to return to selling dairy products in India. The company will launch a three-year program to work with farmers in Punjab, aiming to equip over 5,000 smallholder dairy farmers with sustainable farming methods and knowledge. This initiative is expected to increase milk yields, boost farmer incomes, and improve cattle welfare. Danone had previously focused on nutrition products in India but now plans to expand its presence in the country's dairy market. The company will partner with the BAIF Development Research Foundation to deliver the farmer program. [Extracted from the article]

General Mills and Ahold Delhaize are partnering to reduce emissions through regenerative agriculture. The companies plan to invest in supporting farmers in adopting regenerative farming practices to improve soil health and decrease greenhouse gas emissions. They will work with the Ecosystem Services Market Consortium (ESMC) to estimate emissions and verify reductions. General Mills aims to advance regenerative agriculture on one million acres of farmland by 2030. The collaboration will initially focus on implementing regenerative agriculture management on over 70,000 acres of farmland in Kansas and Saskatchewan. [Extracted from the article]

The Brazilian competition regulator, the Brazilian Administrative Council for Economic Defense (CADE), has fully approved the sale of processing assets from Marfrig, a major meat company, to Minerva, a local peer. However, CADE has imposed a condition that Minerva must sell a plant in order for the deal to proceed. The transaction, valued at 7.5 billion reais ($1.3 billion), includes the purchase of 11 Marfrig cattle slaughter and deboning units in Brazil, as well as units in Argentina and Chile. The deal is expected to be completed by the end of next month. [Extracted from the article]

Farmers and meat traders are joining industry trade bodies in urging the EU to delay its planned deforestation law. The proposed legislation, set to take effect on December 30th, requires companies selling cocoa, coffee, palm oil, and other products in the EU to prove that their supply chains do not contribute to deforestation. However, 28 organizations, including Copa-Cogeca, which represents 22 million farmers in the EU, have issued a joint statement calling for a delay, citing legal and market uncertainties. The US government has also requested a postponement of the law's implementation. [Extracted from the article]

The Simunye Workers Forum (SWF), a union representing workers at a confectionery factory owned by Premier FMCG in South Africa, has raised concerns about safety at the facility. The SWF claims that casual workers brought in to replace striking permanent employees have been injured due to being asked to handle dangerous machinery without proper training. The union also alleges that Premier FMCG has provided bunk beds for the casual workers to sleep on in crowded and unsanitary conditions. Premier FMCG denies these claims and states that it is in compliance with health and safety requirements. The strike at the factory began on August 19th over pay disputes. [Extracted from the article]

CK Snacks, a US salty snack manufacturer, has acquired Axium Foods, another local snack company, in an undisclosed deal. The acquisition strengthens CK Snacks' product portfolio and positions both companies for growth in the snack-food market. CK Snacks specializes in extruded, fried, and baked products, popcorn, and party mixes, while Axium Foods specializes in tortilla chips, corn chips, and other snacks. Both companies will continue to operate from their respective locations. The founders of Axium Foods expressed excitement about the partnership, stating that CK Snacks shares their dedication to quality and innovation. [Extracted from the article]

Hershey, the US confectionery and salty snacks company, has carried out job cuts as part of its restructuring plan announced in February. The company is laying off around 200 employees, which represents about 1% of its total workforce. However, Hershey is also adding new jobs in areas such as technology and data science. The job cuts are aimed at generating savings and investing in automation, with the company aiming to save $300 million by 2026. Hershey's net sales have recently declined, with consumers reducing discretionary spending. [Extracted from the article]

French company Danone is seeking to acquire Lifeway Foods, a US-based kefir maker in which it currently holds a 23.4% stake. Danone has made an official bid to take full control of Lifeway, offering $25 per share in cash, which represents a 59% premium to Lifeway's average price over the last three months. The bid comes as Lifeway has been embroiled in a family dispute over control of the business, with the largest investors calling for a change in leadership. Lifeway reported record annual sales of $160 million in 2023, driven by higher volumes of its branded drinkable kefir. [Extracted from the article]

The European Commission plans to challenge China's anti-subsidy investigation into EU dairy products at the World Trade Organization (WTO). The EU believes that China's investigation is based on questionable allegations and insufficient evidence. This move comes after China launched an anti-dumping investigation into certain pork and pig by-products from the EU. The EU's action represents the first step in WTO dispute settlement proceedings, and if a satisfactory solution is not reached, the EU may request a panel to decide on the investigation. [Extracted from the article]

Courchesne Larose Group, a Canadian supplier of fruit and vegetables, has acquired Veg-Pak Produce, a local peer, in a strategic move to establish itself as a major player in Canada's two largest markets. Veg-Pak, a value-added wholesaler and processor of fresh produce, will operate as an independent business division within Courchesne Larose Group while retaining its name, branding, and leadership. The acquisition is seen as an opportunity for both companies to enhance customer service and drive growth in their respective markets. [Extracted from the article]

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has filed a lawsuit against Woolworths and Coles, the country's two largest supermarket groups, for allegedly misleading consumers. The ACCC claims that the grocers breached Australian consumer law by making misleading claims on hundreds of common supermarket products. The allegations involve products sold at regular long-term prices that remained the same for at least six months before being subject to price rises and then placed in promotional campaigns at prices higher than the regular price. The ACCC is seeking penalties, costs, and other orders, as well as community service orders for the supermarkets to fund a registered charity. Woolworths and Coles have stated that they will review the claims and defend the proceedings. [Extracted from the article]

Danone and Ajinomoto Group have partnered to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in Danone's milk collection network. They will use AjiPro-L, a supplement added to cow feed, which has been shown to decrease nitrous oxide emissions from manure by approximately 25%. When combined with a methane-reduction additive, the supplement can amplify the effect by approximately 30%. The companies plan to use the supplement at Danone's own farmers in Egypt and Morocco, as well as contracted farmers in Spain, Brazil, and the US. This partnership is part of Danone's efforts to achieve zero net carbon emissions by 2050. [Extracted from the article]

Tyson Foods, a major US meat company, is being sued by the Environmental Working Group (EWG) for allegedly making unsubstantiated environmental claims about its products, a practice known as greenwashing. The lawsuit accuses Tyson of falsely claiming it will be net-zero by 2050 and marketing its industrial beef products as "climate-smart." The EWG is calling on Tyson to retract its misleading statements and be held accountable for violating consumer protection laws. This is the second lawsuit of its kind this year, with JBS, another meat giant, also facing similar allegations. [Extracted from the article]

Italian manufacturer Gruppo Tonazzo, which has a history dating back 136 years, has announced that it will stop producing meat-based products and instead focus on plant-based alternatives under its Kioene brand. The decision comes after the company experienced growth in its plant-based brand and aims to contribute to the protection of the planet and promote a conscious diet. The company's existing plants will shift their focus to creating plant-based products, and employees in the meat division will be offered the opportunity to continue working for the company. [Extracted from the article]