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2018 was filled protein, plant-based innovation and, perhaps not surprisingly, lots of deals. But perhaps what readers paid most attention to was how those deals are paying off — namely RXBAR, which was acquired in 2017 for $600 million. Want a quick reminder of the whirlwind that was 2018? Here are the most read stories on NOSH over the past year.

In this episode, we explore trends that may shape the food and beverage industry in 2019 through the lens of our BevNET and NOSH editorial teams. We also sit down with HotShot Coffee founder Danny Grossfeld, who discussed the development of his innovative brand of heated, canned coffees and his memorable appearance on “Shark Tank.”

Paleo Powder founder Dustin Gersch built his seasoning company on the foundation of using clean ingredients to offer convenient flavor for consumers with dietary restrictions. Paleo Powder differentiates from other seasonings by focusing on lifestyle versus use case, offering a line of all-purpose seasonings that are suitable for the paleo, keto, and FODMAP diets.

CB Insights has dubbed 2019 “the year of getting closer to the consumer,” predicting that the next year will see brands and corporations seek a more direct connection with consumers through e-commerce platforms and personalization.

Puff producer Hippeas this week closed an $8 million round of funding from previous investors. Hippeas has previously raised $14 million, with the last round of $4 million closing earlier this year.

The former members of shared kitchen space Pilotworks were dealt another blow this week as Nursery, the incubator set to reopen in the space, ultimately decided to not move forward with its plans. Nursery founder Adam Melonas cited “conditions” found during pre-inspection.

Condiment company Sir Kensington’s is spicing things up with a new product line and sales channel. The brand, which was acquired by Unilever in April 2017 for $140 million, last week launched a spice kit that is sold direct-to-consumers via a microsite. Eventually the line may be sold in retail

Novamex has acquired Tio Gazpacho for an undisclosed sum, the company announced today, more than a year after the Hispanic-focused beverage marketer first invested in the drinkable soup brand. Primarily an importer of Mexican brands such as Jarritos and Mineragua, Novamex said in the announcement that it is focusing on becoming a growth platform for natural and organic beverages, such as the organic certified Tio Gazpacho.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced new mandatory disclosure requirements for labelling genetically modified foods that will take effect in 2020.

Simon Sacal, the founder of Solely, has worked to bring nutritious organic fruit jerky to market with the use of proprietary technology. The company launched a line of grab-and-go fruit snacks using simple, clean ingredients like banana, cacao, mango and pineapple, which are called out on the front of the package.