FDA Deadline Passes for PFAS in Food Packaging; Chinese Scientists Develop Edible Coating to Extend Fruit Shelf Life
Key Takeaways
- FDA's PFAS food packaging deadline passed; Hershey faces lawsuits; EU ban set for August 2026.
- Chinese scientists created edible coating extending fruit shelf life 2.5x, reducing carbon emissions by 90%.
- Marubeni Corp. acquired Bubbies Ice Cream to capitalize on mochi ice cream's low-calorie appeal.
- Plant-based sector trends: hybrid products, private label growth (6.8% between 2022-2024), fungi alternatives.
- Low-sugar/functional soda segment grows; PepsiCo acquired Poppi ($1.95B); Coca-Cola launched Simply Prebiotic.
Top Stories
FDA deadline passes for PFAS in food packaging.
As of July 1, 2025, the FDA's deadline for using PFAS-based grease-proofing agents in food packaging has passed, leading to increased scrutiny. Hershey faces lawsuits over PFAS in wrappers, while the EU has set a ban on PFAS in food-contact packaging by August 2026.
Chinese scientists create edible coating to extend fruit shelf life.
Chinese scientists developed an edible, washable coating that extends fruit shelf life by up to 2.5 times, reducing moisture loss and slowing microbial growth. The protein-based coating, tested on 17 fruit types, costs 9 cents per kilogram and reduces carbon emissions by up to 90% compared to refrigeration.
Marubeni Corp. acquires Bubbies Ice Cream.
On July 1, 2025, Marubeni Corp. acquired Bubbies Ice Cream, a mochi ice cream maker, to capitalize on the low-calorie appeal of mochi ice cream in the U.S. market. Bubbies, founded in 1985, has developed over 20 flavors of mochi ice cream.
Plant-based sector trends: hybrid products, private label growth.
The plant-based sector in 2025 is evolving with trends like hybrid meat and dairy products, private label growth, and fungi-based alternatives. Private label options are rising, with a 6.8% growth in plant-based categories between 2022 and 2024.
Low-sugar and functional soda segment experiencing rapid growth.
The low-sugar and functional soda segment is experiencing rapid growth, fueled by consumer demand for healthier options. PepsiCo acquired Poppi in May 2025 for $1.95 billion to expand its presence in functional beverages, and Coca-Cola launched “Simply Prebiotic” in February 2025.
Industry Insights
AINIA develops healthier, sustainable fat structures.
On July 1, 2025, AINIA announced new fat structures to replace ingredients like butter and palm oil, improving nutritional profiles and reducing environmental impact. The project, supported by the Conselleria d'Innovació, Indústria, Comerç i Turisme de la Generalitat Valenciana and the EU, transforms liquid vegetable oils into solid fats using proteins.
Oatly focuses on consumer education to revitalize plant-based milk sales.
Oatly is focusing on consumer education, ingredient technology, and partnerships with the coffee industry to revitalize plant-based milk sales, which decreased by 4.4% in 2025 to $2.9 billion. Oatly's Barista Edition is a popular product, and the company sees opportunities in the coffee market.
Veganz Group AG establishes Mililk FoodTech GmbH for plant-based milk alternatives.
On June 30, 2025, Veganz Group AG announced the establishment of Mililk FoodTech GmbH, a new company focused on plant-based milk alternatives, in preparation for strategic investments expected in Q3 2025. Strategic investors are anticipated to invest between €10 million and €20 million, with Veganz retaining a majority stake.
Evolving expectations for protein snacks.
Consumers are seeking clean-label ingredients, reduced sugar, added fiber, and an enjoyable eating experience in protein snacks. GOFOS™, a sweet prebiotic fiber, offers a balance of sweetness and health benefits, supporting gut health and sugar reduction in protein bars.
CarobWay to unveil carob-derived prebiotic fiber CarobBiome™.
CarobWay will unveil CarobBiome™, a carob-derived prebiotic fiber, at IFT First 2025 in Chicago from July 14-16. CarobBiome is a naturally derived prebiotic ingredient with polyphenols, containing 85% fibers and suitable for various applications.
Migros to restructure private label portfolio.
Migros is restructuring its private label portfolio, planning to eliminate one-third of its own brands and introduce a new umbrella brand. The goal is to strengthen its own brand and offer customers more clarity on the shelves.
New on the Menu
Taiwan Tobacco and Liquor Corporation launches alcohol-based instant noodles.
Taiwan Tobacco and Liquor Corporation (TTL) has launched alcohol-based instant noodles, including Hua Tiao Chicken Noodles, blending beverage expertise with ready-to-eat innovation. The noodles incorporate Hua Tiao wine, Chinese herbs, and meat chunks.
Nestlé Toll House debuts new cookie dough flavors.
On June 30, 2025, Nestlé Toll House debuted two cookie dough flavors: Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough and Everyday Sugar Cookie Dough Tub. The Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough retails for $4.99, and the Everyday Sugar Cookie Dough Tub retails for $8.99.
Sugar Bowl Bakery debuts Chocolate Brownies.
On June 30, 2025, Sugar Bowl Bakery debuted Chocolate Brownies at select Costco locations in Los Angeles and the Bay Area. The individually wrapped, bite-size brownies are made with real chocolate chips and butter.
Taylor Chip launches first-ever Protein Cookie.
On June 30, 2025, Taylor Chip launched its first-ever Protein Cookie at the Summer Fancy Food Show. The cookie, created by Doug and Sara Taylor, contains 30 g of protein and 17 g of collagen, is under 400 calories, and is sweetened with honey and coconut sugar.
Papa John’s launches new vegan pizza in the UK.
Papa John’s has launched a new vegan pizza in the UK, developed with La Vie, featuring La Vie’s vegan ham, spicy jackfruit pepperoni, and melty Sheese, priced at £12. This addition is part of Papa John’s Vegan Works range.
Safety First
UK FSA raises concerns about Dubai chocolate.
The UK’s Food Standards Agency (FSA) is concerned that Dubai chocolate imported to the UK may not fully declare ingredients or clearly mark allergens. The FSA highlights the 14 regulated allergens, the same as those regulated by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).
Seasonal Produce
North Bay Produce launches domestic organic blueberry season.
North Bay Produce is launching its domestic organic blueberry season in July 2025, with produce sourced from British Columbia, Washington, and Oregon. The company expects an abundant crop with excellent flavor and size due to optimal growing conditions.
Trending Flavors
Discussion on food & beverage trends.
Pat and Bret discuss the latest food & beverage trends, including spritzes, and share an interview with John Burns Paterson of Frankies Nashville. They attended a summer aperitivo event at Eataly, where various spritzes were served.