Innovation

Sunflower seed snack brand Smackin’ has prioritized flavor innovation and manufacturing control to position for long-term growth.

With its U.S. expansion in motion, Canadian confections manufacturer Mid-Day Squares is planning to triple the output capacity of its Montreal production facility over the next year.

This week on the podcast, Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous and senior reporter Lukas Southard chat about the acquisitions of Caulipower and Justin’s by private equity firms, Keurig Dr Pepper’s new $7 billion investment, and new funding for popped sorghum startup Cob.

Popped sorghum brand Cob has closed a $5 million seed round led by tennis legend Novak Djokovic, as it positions itself as a healthier alternative to popcorn.

Gigantic Candy has returned with refreshed packaging and an updated take on its better-for-you candy line; Tusol Wellness expands into protein bars.

This week on the podcast, Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous and senior reporter Brad Avery talk about Recess’ new funding round and leadership addition, a premium bourbon brand on the block, and new cash for Robert Downey Jr.’s coffee brand. The podcasters also discuss the closure of an alt-cheese maker and the surge in demand for gummy formats in supplements and in candy.

JonnyPops has launched a freeze-dried innovation as it uses its manufacturing capabilities to scale further in conventional grocery.

The freeze-dried candy trend got another big sign of approval from the major sweets producers at the National Association of Convenience Stores (NACS) show in Chicago last week.

Legacy meat snack brands showcased simple formulations, grass-fed beef options and premium-positioned products at NACS last week.

In this reviews roundup, we nosh on Local Style’s Chicago-inspired potato chips and JIMMYBAR! creatine-packed protein bars.