Food Industry News, Insights, and Education for the CPG Community

This week, the podcast team explores an antitrust lawsuit centered around protein bar David’s acquisition of its supplier Epogee. Next, the hosts look toward regulatory headwinds in hemp drinks and why there are signs of optimism despite retail setbacks. Finally, the team looks at candy maker Joyride’s new $30 million funding round before discussing the future of plant-based cheese.

The USDA has granted three new waivers restricting candy and soda from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Programs.

Snack startup Doosra has refreshed its branding to speak to its Indian roots without leaning into tropes while positioning the brand better for trial in retail.

While sustainability initiatives are often an inherent part of modern mission-driven brands, a recent report suggests that what’s on the outside isn’t resonating with consumers like it used to.

Lembas, which describes itself as an artificial intelligence-powered peptide discovery company, aims to offer a more accessible alternative to high-priced injectables sold under brand names like Ozempic, Mounjaro and Wegovy with its first solution, GLP-1 Edge.

The Small Business Administration (SBA) under the second Trump term does not seem to be signaling support for its core constituents: small businesses.

Next-gen pasta sauce slinger Sauz announced today the closing of a $12 million funding round led by CAVU Consumer Partners, with participation from existing investors such as Coefficient Capital, Palm Tree Crew and Strand Equity.

Super Bowl champion-turned-entrepreneur Tom Brady is going deeper into CPG with the launch of GOAT Gummies, exclusively available on Gopuff.

Wholesale distributor UNFI is shipping on a “limited basis” in the wake of last week’s cyberattack, executives said during an earnings call today to discuss third-quarter financial results.

CPG talent recruitment business unveiled a new slate of leadership of its own today, naming Rob Ganjon to succeed founder Josh Wand as CEO after 17 years in the role.

They say it’s what’s on the inside that counts, but that’s only half true – at least when it comes to canned food.

The J.M. Smucker Co. announced sales were down to $2.1 billion in Q4, a decline of 3% year-over-year as sweet snack sales stagger.

The online grocery space is booming – up 27% year-over-year to reach $8.7 billion in total sales in May – but not all segments are performing at an equal pace.

In an industry where cash is hard to come by, but insights and experts are plenty, one expert makes a case for part-time hiring as a strategy to scale up.