PepsiCo announced the call for applications for the 5th annual Greenhouse Accelerator program, this year with a focus on breakthrough innovations and technologies that improve the aging process through wellness and health management.

CP Kelco, a global leader of nature-based ingredient solutions, is excited to announce the Phase II launch of a new test kitchen in its popular virtual experience: www.cpkelco.com/virtual.

Clif Bar & Company announced the hiring of Rizal Hamdallah as the company’s first-ever chief innovation officer, effective Nov. 23, 2020. Hamdallah joins Clif Bar as the energy bar pioneer pursues a bold new plan to expand their company and grow its positive impact on humanity.

Earlier this year, MFI began managing the next edition of PROCESS EXPO®. Now, as part of a joint venture, FPSA’s longevity within the industry will be supplemented by the expertise of event management, marketing and sales provided by MFI.

To accelerate innovation and drive further growth within the plant-based foods market, AAK AB (publ.) has joined the MISTA innovation platform, based in San Francisco.

As part of ongoing efforts to increase the availability of sustainably sourced ingredients, Cargill will become one of North America’s first large-scale suppliers of segregated palm oil certified by the Roundtable for Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO). Beginning December 2020, all palm oil production from the company’s Charlotte, North Carolina refinery will be solely dedicated to providing the sustainably sourced product.

Benestar Brands, LLC, a portfolio company of Highlander Partners, L.P., announced the acquisition of Miller Baking Company, the manufacturer of Pretzilla branded soft pretzel bites and buns. Headquartered in Milwaukee, Pretzilla is a pioneer in fresh soft pretzel bread and is a leading brand and manufacturer in the growing category.

The transaction will create a partnership between Crave Better Foods and Josh Hochschuler and Steve Gill, the founders of Iris Brands and Talenti Gelato & Sorbetto. The terms of the combination are not being disclosed.

The launch is in response to the recent National Organic Program (NOP) ruling requiring manufacturers of organic foods and beverages to incorporate "organic certified" flavors whenever available.  

TreeHouse Foods announced that it has signed a definitive agreement to acquire the majority of the US branded pasta portfolio of Riviana Foods, a subsidiary of Ebro, for $242.5 million in cash.