Product development in the food and beverage sector is a dynamic and rich space. New products are added to supermarket shelves across Europe after years of R&D, and often, trial and error.
What innovations were the most popular this week? When will they be launched?
Crispy Vegan Bacon Strips
Squeaky Bean, a vegan plant-based meat alternative that uses bacon as a flavouring agent, has introduced crispy bacon-style strips to its UK range.
This new range of ready-to-eat products promises to offer a salty and sweet taste with a crunchy texture.
The launch, which Squeaky Bean calls a “first to market”, builds on the company’s position as a leader in plant-based innovation. It follows other recent launches such as Chorizo Style Sausage for Cooking, Beechwood Smoked Salmon Slices and Chorizo Style Sausage for Cooking.
These crispy bacon-style pieces are designed to satisfy the bacon cravings of vegans and other vegetarians.
Research shows that bacon is the food vegans and vegetarians miss the most. “There is no ready-to-eat plant-based bacon yet that compares to its meat counterpart,” says Jen Herbert, marketing director at Squeaky Bean.
Recommended retail price: 2.75 PS
Available : In selected Sainsbury's stores in the UK from 25th September
Picture : Squeaky Bean
Allergen-free and rich in vegetables
Children's food specialist Flourish By Kirsty's is to launch a new range of ready-to-eat meals that are rich in vegetables and allergen-free.
Mini meals are designed for children with food allergies or intolerances. They also help parents make mealtimes more convenient and nutritious.
Two major UK retailers will carry all three products, Ocado and Morrisons.
There are a variety of dishes including pasta bolognese, chicken and corn pie and cottage pie.
Kirsty Hnshaw, Founder of Flourish By Kirsty's said: "My journey to a free diet began many years ago after my son was first diagnosed with food allergies and intolerances. I know how difficult it is."
Flourish was created to help families enjoy healthy and delicious meals for their children without compromising on taste.
PVC: 200g meal – PS 2.50
Available : Morrisons and Ocado in the UK
Picture : Floruish
Orange chocolate without orange
British Christmas chocolate classic Terry's has launched a new variation of Terry's Chocolate Milk. It's one more in a series of three for this festive season.
This is the brand's first milk chocolate product and follows the mint version which sold out last Christmas.
Lorene Decam, Senior Marketing Manager at Terry's, said: "We are always balancing innovation with the core of our brand." Our research revealed a purchase intent of 90 % Non-Terry's customers are showing strong interest in the product, which is a sign of growth ahead for the holiday season.
Most brands start with a simple version, but Terry's is different. We want to capture the 40 percent of chocolate that is plain, but in the Terry's format and with its unique tradition. "There is a huge growth opportunity for both the brand and the category."
PVC: PS2.00
Available : Major retailers will begin carrying the product in September, and all stores should be able to carry it by October.
Picture : Terry's
Water cans are causing a sensation
Radnor Splash has launched three new water flavours in a can format. This follows a pre-listing in several major UK retailers.
The new cans are expected to make an impact with consumers. They were previously available in 250ml Tetra bottles without straw, 500ml plain caps and sports caps, as well as 1.5L recycled bottles.
These three flavors, Apple & Raspberry and Strawberry, are all made with sparkling spring water.
Simon Knight, Managing Director of Radnor Hills, said: “Radnor Splash is one of the most successful brands in our portfolio and we are delighted to offer consumers this convenient new canned version.”
Our new line of canned products is sugar-free, low in calories and available in three flavors that are our best sellers.
Ahead of its launch, the range has been pre-listed with foodservice distributors Brakes and Bidfood as well as Youings Universal Product Solutions and Dunsters Farm.
Sold : Packs of 24 x 330 ml
Available : Various food service distributors
Picture : Radnor Hills
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