Walmart is an early pioneer in the social commerce space and is always testing and learning in new channels, including shoppable livestreams, with the goal of better serving customers by meeting them when and how they want to shop. 

In its fourth year, the 2022 Real California Milk Excelerator advances innovation in its truest state: open. As one of the biggest dairy competitions in the world, the program sought early-stage applicants with high-growth potential that create a 50% cow’s milk-based product or working prototype.

 In July, the Mind Blown Crab Cakes, Dusted Shrimp and Scallops became available nationwide at all Sprouts Farmers Market locations, marking the brand’s first national distribution.

In recognition of its breakthrough status as the first plant-based bacon to harness techniques providing the genuine flavor and texture of bacon, Thrilling Foods Bakon™ has been awarded a US Patent, with other US and international patents pending.

The Master Services Agreement consists of research and development and scale-up phases, with Willow generating revenues from both research fees and milestone payments. If successful, and the partnership proceeds to commercialization, both parties anticipate entering into a license agreement to share in the economics of the delivered product. 

The Upcycled Food Association, and its affiliated 501(c)(3), The Upcycled Food Foundation, announced that Angie Crone, UFA’s head of programs and member services, will become CEO of both organizations. Turner Wyatt, UFA’s co-founder and current CEO, will transition to strategic advisor, as the non-profit marks an important milestone and matures from a start-up business into its next phase of growth. 

Solina established a presence in the US for the first time in 2021 with the acquisition of Asenzya, a Wisconsin-based provider of custom dry seasoning solutions for the food industry.

With OREOiD, a cookie can be easily and quickly customized by operators who choose the crème filling, fudge dip and sprinkle colors, followed by their one-of-a-kind message and artwork. 

The early stages of the pandemic disrupted this rhythm, and just as eating patterns were returning to pre-pandemic normalcy, food inflation set them on end again, reports The NPD Group in its recently released 2022 edition of Eating Patterns in America. 

Operators report that frozen foods offer solutions to many of the operational challenges they face in light of the ongoing supply chain and labor market disruptions.