Innovation

Long Weekend is modernizing instant soup using freeze-dried technology as it positions itself as a better-for-you convenient meal option.

This week on the podcast, Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous and senior reporter Lukas Southard discuss WILDE Brands’ expansion into crackers made with chicken breast, the discontinuation of Lionel Messi’s sports drink brand, a functional beverage startup tackling menstrual symptoms, and David Protein’s sequel to last year’s seafood stunt.

David Protein, the bar brand founded by RXBAR creator Peter Rahal, is expanding its line of wild caught fish with Cod 2, a canned cod product intended to complement the flash frozen filet line it launched last year.

Mauna Loa jumps on the pickle flavor craze with a new roasted macadamia nuts offering. Little Sesame unveils a refreshed line of hummus.

The Israeli startup today announced the launch of Perfecta Premium Plant-Based Meat, a line of products using a proprietary process designed to mimic the complex textures of traditional animal protein.

This week on the podcast, Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous and senior reporter Lukas Southard discuss the acquisitions of Brainiac and Van’s, Target’s expansion in hemp drinks, and Beyond’s big bet in beverages.

When Beyond Meat announced in January that it had developed its first ever beverage product, a protein drink line called Beyond Immerse, it was a move that appeared to come out of left field.

This week on the podcast, Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous and senior reporter Brad Avery discuss the stateside debut of Gymkhana Fine Foods, a premium Indian sauce brand with fine-dining roots and fresh capital. The duo also details the launch of a functional beverage highlighting colostrum as a key benefit. Additionally, Monica outlines the acquisition of mocktail maker St. Agrestis by The Wine Group, and Brad talks about productivity drink startup Neutonic’s latest funding round.

Award-winning musical artist Carrie Underwood is expanding her health and wellness app business fit52 into a CPG-aligned platform company with the launch of HiNote, a nutrition brand aimed primarily at female consumers.

Baba’s is betting it can break through the crowded hummus category with authentic positioning, passed-through-generations Palestinian family recipes, bold flavor innovation and a broad ambition that reaches beyond dips.