Beth Kaiserman

In outlining plans to build around better-for-you and plant-based products during recent quarterly earnings calls, several prominent CPG brands signaled they expect both trends to continue gaining steam.

Last week Rep. Anthony Brindisi (D-NY) and Rep. Roger Marshall (R-KS.) proposed the Real Marketing Edible Artificials Truthfully Act (Real MEAT Act) to Congress, which would establish strict guidelines against labeling alternative proteins as “meat.” Although the meat versus plant-based battle isn’t new, up until now, legal action on the matter has happened only at the state level — this is the first federal bill addressing the subject.

For Mike’s Mighty Good, the goal has always been simple: consumers deserve instant soup options that are closer to restaurant quality. Inspired by the uptick in ramen restaurants, Mike’s set out to bring a similar experience and taste profile to busy consumers. Since launching in 2017, shoppers seem to have spoken (or slurped): the brand is in over 9,000 stores, including a recent entry into 3,000 CVS locations.

The USDA yesterday added its interim final rule for the U.S. Domestic Hemp Production Program to the Federal Register. As the guidelines are implemented, hemp industry leaders reacted with a mix of relief, excitement and hope for a future of regulated cannabis food and drink products.

Upcycled banana and plantain snack brand Barnana has transitioned from being founder-led with the hiring of Al Multari as its CEO. Multari joined the Barnana team last month. Barnana co-founder Caue Suplicy told NOSH Multari brings clarity and focus to the brand as it works to expand its sustainability efforts and widen its portfolio in the coming year.

The White House has approved the USDA’s long awaited federal rules to guide hemp production. A draft of the U.S. Domestic Hemp Production Program guidelines was published today on USDA’s website, and once published in the Federal Register on Thursday, public comments will be open for 60 days.

FDA advises on upcoming labeling changes, Hershey talks protein plays in its Q3 earnings call, Beyond Sausage hits Pizza Hut and more in this week’s Checkout.

To feed the rising demand for plant-based foods, tofu pioneer House Foods America Corporation is increasing its production by 50%.

For Italian food brand Rao’s, clean-label isn’t a new concept. After seeing success in sauce, the company is steering toward new categories, expanding its homestyle cooking with a new line of jarred soups and frozen entrees.

Kroger simplifies labeling, plant-based brand Lightlife grows distribution and more in this week’s Checkout.