CPG Week by BevNET & Nosh: Recent Episodes
Nosh
Welcome to CPG Week, the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the Nosh and BevNET teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
In this episode:
This week on the podcast, Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous and senior reporter Brad Avery break down a possible reprieve for hemp beverage makers, a high-profile sports drink acquisition backed by NBA star Victor Wembanyama, Kodiak's remarkable growth story under private equity ownership and the emerging wave of Christian-themed energy drink brands betting that faith can help carve out a niche in the increasingly crowded functional beverage market.
Show Highlights:
0:20 - Hemp beverages may have earned a temporary reprieve from upcoming federal restrictions after the U.S. Senate passed a continuing budget resolution over the weekend that extends the deadline until December 11.
2:20 - Hydration sports drink Barcode has been acquired by Axum Capital Partners, in partnership with investor and NBA star Victor Wembanyama.
5:30 - Kodiak has emerged as one of the fastest-growing brands in center store, more than doubling its business since private equity firm L Catterton acquired a majority stake in 2021.
7:30 - There's been an emergence of Christian-themed energy drink startups that are putting their faith front and center. Brands like Agape Energy, 4GVN and Praise Energy have all sought to use their religious faith as the basis for their businesses.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week's stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
This week on the podcast, Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous and senior reporter Lukas Southard discuss the collapse of one of the nation's largest beverage distributors, a closely watched false advertising dispute in the frozen novelty aisle, ongoing scrutiny surrounding regenerative dairy leader Alexandre Family Farm, Vita Coco's latest acquisition, and the launch of Nosh Impact 50, the inaugural list recognizing the people shaping the future of the packaged food industry.
Show Highlights:
0:20 - Republic National Distributing Company has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy after nearly selling off all its territories.
1:55 - The legal battle between frozen novelty rivals GoodPop and JonnyPops is heating up, with both companies asking a federal judge to resolve key portions of the case ahead of trial while arguing the other's false advertising claims lack the evidence needed to reach a jury.
3:55 - Alexandre Family Farm, one of the country's largest regenerative dairy brands, has dropped both its Regenerative Organic Certified and Certified Humane certifications while facing continued scrutiny over its animal welfare practices.
5:20 - Seeking to strengthen its leadership position in the global coconut beverage market, Vita Coco announced its acquisition of Copra Coconuts, a Thailand-based producer of super premium organic coconut water.
8:05 - The inaugural Nosh Impact 50 is live, highlighting the executives, entrepreneurs, investors, retailers, policymakers and ecosystem builders who are transforming the packaged food industry.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week's stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
This week on the podcast, Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous and senior reporter Lukas Southard discuss Utz Brands' $2.9 billion acquisition by Germany's Intersnack Group and Sèchey's decision to exit brick-and-mortar retail in favor of a technology platform. The hosts also chat about Final Boss Sour's $4 million funding round and Yerba Madre's leadership transition.
Show Highlights:
0:20 - Utz Brands has agreed to be acquired by Germany-based Intersnack Group in a transaction valued at approximately $2.9 billion. Monica digs into the details of the transaction.
3:05 - Non-alc retailer Sèchey is shuttering its retail store as it pivots the business into a tech platform for the adult beverage category. Lukas outlines the strategy behind the new direction.
5:10 - Gaming-themed candy brand Final Boss Sour has raised a $4 million funding round. Monica highlights the company's plans for the new capital.
6:40 - Yerba Madre is entering its next phase of growth with the appointment of board member Steve Lesnard as CEO. Lukas explains what's next for the yerba mate company.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week's stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
This week on the podcast, Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous and senior reporter Brad Avery examine four stories shaping the packaged food industry: the seed funding round fueling a drink mix startup's retail expansion, The EVERY Company's latest step toward commercializing precision-fermented egg white proteins, Welch's bid to disrupt the frozen sandwich category, and the FDA's push for greater transparency around caffeine content.
Show Highlights:
0:20 - Organic drink mix maker FAVE has raised a $1 million seed round led by Supernatural Ventures to support its retail debut and expansion plans. Monica shares details of the funding and go-to-market strategy.
3:20 - The EVERY Company has partnered with ADM for commercial-scale production of its signature precision-fermented egg white protein product. Brad explains what the partnership signals for the broader food industry.
6:30 Welch's entered the frozen sandwich aisle with its own take on Smucker's Uncrustables. Monica shines a light on the growing PB&J set – and how this offering stands apart from the competition.
11:40 - The Food and Drug Administration wants caffeine content to be loud and clear on food and beverage labeling. Brad breaks down why it's becoming a bigger priority for the agency.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week's stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
This week on the podcast, Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous and senior reporter Lukas Southard unpack Kroger's $1.65 billion deal to acquire Giant Eagle, Nutrabolt's reported initial public offering plans and two legal developments that could have ripple effects across the food industry: a proposed class action over protein labeling and the dismissal of a closely watched ultraprocessed foods lawsuit.
Show Highlights:
0:20 - Kroger has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire regional grocery chain Giant Eagle for $1.65 billion, marking the company's first major acquisition since its proposed megamerger with Albertsons collapsed in 2024. Monica breaks down what the deal means for the grocery landscape.
1:50 - Nutrabolt, whose C4 and Bloom energy drinks have over $1 billion in combined sales, has enlisted JP Morgan, Goldman Sachs and Bank of America to lead its initial public offering. Lukas explains why the timing could be right.
3:50 - The Only Bean is facing a proposed class action lawsuit alleging the dry-roasted edamame snacks producer misled consumers by overstating the usable protein content of its products and failing to comply with federal labeling requirements. Monica digs into the case.
5:55 - A Pennsylvania court dismissed a lawsuit against 11 major food and beverage manufacturers after finding the plaintiff failed to establish a causal link between ultraprocessed foods and his pediatric diabetes. Lukas explains why the ruling matters.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week's stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
This week on the podcast, Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous and senior reporter Brad Avery discuss the acquisition of organic candy maker YumEarth, a trademark case brewing between ready-to-drink coffee brand Rise and PepsiCo, fresh funding for protein ice cream startup Frozen One and a licensing deal that brings Four Loko into the intoxicating hemp beverage set. The hosts also chat about trends and new products at the recent Summer Fancy Food Show.
Show Highlights:
0:20 - Private equity firm ACON Investments has acquired a controlling stake in organic candy maker YumEarth, with global confectionery manufacturer The Fini Company coming on as a strategic partner. Monica details the deal.
2:10 - The trademark case of nitro cold brew brand Rise Brewing vs. PepsiCo is going to the Supreme Court of the United States after the court opted to hear a petition filed by Rise to overturn a lower court decision dismissing its case against Pepsi. Brad recaps the ongoing battle.
3:55 - High-protein ice cream purveyor Frozen One raised a $5.75 million seed round led by Brand Foundry Ventures, with participation from existing investor Supernatural Ventures as well as Abe Burns and Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter Ryan Tedder. Monica outlines what's next for the brand.
6:00 - Four Loko-maker Phusion Projects has licensed some of its brand assets to Chuck It LLC for use on intoxicating hemp beverages. Brad shares what is known so far about Nine Loko.
9:10 - The Summer Fancy Food featured a wide array of specialty food and beverage innovation, from a new twist on beer to spicy barbecue sauces. Brad reviews his observations from the event.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week's stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
This week on the podcast, Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous and senior reporter Lukas Southard discuss Algae Cooking Club's funding round and BRĒZ's strategic pivot, plus SmartSweets founder Tara Bosch's second entrepreneurial act and a legal battle between two electrolyte beverage makers.
Show Highlights:
0:20 - Chef-grade cooking oil brand Algae Cooking Club has secured $11.6 million in fresh funding. Monica shares the startup's plans for the new capital.
2:05 - BRĒZ is trying to reposition itself for long-term growth and adjust its strategy to shifting regulatory demands after a challenging 2025. Lukas shares highlights.
4:40 - Six years after selling better-for-you candy business SmartSweets, Tara Bosch has set her sights on another snack aisle staple: potato chips. Monica digs into the details.
7:25 - A trade dress lawsuit filed by the makers of Pedialyte has backfired after a U.S. district judge ruled that the brand's trade dress "lacks distinctiveness" and is not protectable. Lukas outlines the case.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week's stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
This week on the podcast, Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous and senior reporter Lukas Southard discuss how Nestlé USA nixed synthetic dyes across its food and beverage portfolio and why hydration brand LMNT is suing Oasis, a product ratings app. The hosts also break down new funding for collagen protein bar brand Stars + Honey and aguas frescas maker Bawi.
Show Highlights:
0:20 - Nestlé USA has completed the removal of artificial colors from its U.S. food and beverage portfolio. Monica outlines the changes.
3:20 - LMNT is suing product ratings app Oasis over claims its electrolyte powders contain "over seven times the legal amount of lead." Lukas unpacks the case.
6:25 - VMG Partners has taken a minority stake in collagen protein bar brand Stars + Honey. Monica shares details of the $24 million growth equity investment.
7:40 - Bawi, a better-for-you agua fresca brand, has closed a $6 million seed round. Lukas highlights the beverage maker's plans for the cash.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week's stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
This week on the podcast, Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous and senior reporter Brad Avery discuss why analysts are bullish on the meat snack category, plus a new premium coconut water brand founded by Tom Brady. The hosts also talk about the strategy behind Morinaga's acquisition of My/Mochi and an investigation into Celsius Holdings over marketing to minors.
Show Highlights:
0:20 - Jerky and meat sticks have emerged as one of the fastest-growing segments in packaged food. Monica highlights a new report detailing growth and future opportunities in the segment.
2:40 - NFL legend Tom Brady continues to push further into the beverage industry, announcing a collaboration with gopuff on a new line of premium coconut water. Brad spills the tea on Good Nut.
4:25 - Morinaga & Co.'s recent acquisition of mochi ice cream maker My/Mochi gives the company a ready-made vehicle in the fast-growing frozen snack category. Monica outlines the strategy behind the transaction.
6:05 - Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has launched an investigation into Celsius Holdings, Inc., alleging the Florida-based energy drink brand has improperly marketed Celsius and Alani Nu to minors. Brad breaks down the case.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week's stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
This week on the podcast, Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous and senior reporter Lukas Southard discuss Trek One Capital's acquisitions of Good Karma Foods and No Cow. The podcasters also highlight the latest funding announcements, including a new investment for a celebrity-backed supplement brand.
Show Highlights:
0:20 - Trek One Capital has acquired Good Karma Foods and No Cow. Monica explains more.
1:45 - Iced tea brand Ryl Tea raised $20 million in a Series C round, bringing its total funding to date to more than $42 million. Lukas shares details.
3:20 - Smash Foods has raised $5 million in equity investment, according to a Form D filed with the U.S. Securities Exchange and Commission. Monica outlines the brand's growth plans.
5:40 - VitaHustle, a supplement brand founded by comedian Kevin Hart, received an investment from Axum Capital Partners. Lukas discusses plans for the new funding.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week's stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
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.
Show Highlights:
0:20 - WILDE Brands, known for its chips made with chicken breast, egg whites and bone broth, is hatching a plan to create a broader protein snacking platform. Monica explains more.
2:35 - Soccer superstar Lionel Messi's sports drink brand Más+ By Messi is shutting down. Lukas shares what went wrong and provides an overview of the sports hydration category.
6:20 - The Cycle, a startup functional beverage brand now available nationwide in Sprouts, is making menstrual relief mainstream. Monica details the launch.
9:20 - David Protein is doubling down on its cod stunt with a new tinned variety dubbed Cod 2. Lukas shares the strategy behind the fishy new launch.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week's stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
This week on the podcast, Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous and senior reporter Brad Avery discuss Brami's new funding, Olipop's refreshed brand identity, Kettle & Fire's leadership transition, and Danone's plans to sell its stake in Lifeway Foods.
Show Highlights:
0:20 - Brami has raised $33 million in a funding round led by VMG Partners to support continued growth of its lupini bean products. Monica explains more.
3:05 - Olipop is unveiling its first major brand refresh since its launch in 2018, debuting an updated label design as part of a new marketing and creative initiative positioning it as "The feel good soda." Brad breaks it all down.
7:30 - Kettle & Fire announced a leadership transition as part of a broader push to scale the bone broth brand into a significantly larger wellness platform. Monica details the company's next phase.
11:50 - After its attempts to buy the company outright were rebuffed, Danone is preparing to exit Lifeway Foods, selling its stake in the U.S. kefir market leader. Brad outlines the sordid history between the two companies.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week's stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
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.
Show Highlights:
0:20 - Bel Group is strengthening its position in the better-for-you snacking space with the acquisition of Ingenuity Foods' cognitive health brands, Brainiac and Little Brainiac. Monica explains more.
2:15 - Target will add hemp-derived THC drinks to store shelves in over 300 stores across Texas, Florida and Illinois. Lukas details the expansion – and why it's a bold bet.
7:00 - The nation's largest egg producer, Cal-Maine Foods, will acquire certain assets of the Van's Foods business from Sara Lee Frozen Bakery. Monica breaks down the deal.
8:45 - 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. Lukas details the launch.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week's stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
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.
Show Highlights:
0:20 - Gymkhana Fine Foods is aiming to reframe Indian cuisine in the U.S. from takeout staple to premium everyday indulgence, backed by a $8.5 million Series A investment round. Monica details the brand's stateside launch.
3:30 - As the beauty and wellness worlds continue to converge, ARMRA is entering the ready-to-drink category with a shelf-stable colostrum soda designed to translate the brand's functional benefits into a mainstream beverage format. Brad breaks it all down.
5:25 - Brooklyn-based non-alcoholic beverage maker St. Agrestis, best known for its Phony Negroni line of bottled mocktails, has been acquired by The Wine Group for an undisclosed sum. Monica outlines the deal.
6:50 - Productivity drink startup Neutonic has secured $6 million in new funding as it seeks to accelerate its US retail presence with a move into national grocery stores slated for this summer. Brad explains more.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week's stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
This week on the podcast, Nosh senior reporters Brad Avery and Lukas Southard discuss the FMI's online grocery report, fresh funding rounds for frozen dessert brands, why Nestle is offloading Blue Bottle and details behind the new brand from Lemon Perfect's founder.
Show Highlights:
0:20 - Brad details a online grocery shopping report from FMI - The Food Industry Association and NielsenIQ, that projects ecommerce sales will hit $452 billion by 2028.
4:15 - Momentum in the high-protein frozen dessert set is heating up as a pair of brands secure new funding.
7:45 - The duo discusses why Nestle is divesting Blue Bottle Coffee to specialty roaster and retail chain Centurium Capital is representative of how the Swiss conglomerate is repositioning in consumer goods.
9:45 - Lemon Perfect founder Yanni Hufnagel is launching his second brand, POPWTR, after leaving day-to-day operations at the enhanced water lemon water brand.
13:45 - Brad and Lukas take the opportunity to be together in-person to taste test some protein sodas at BevNET headquarters.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week's stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
This week on the podcast, Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous and senior reporter Lukas Southard discuss how Gatorade is courting dehydrated non-athletes, Laird Superfood's acquisition strategy, the impact of GLP-1s on consumer purchasing behavior and what's happening in hemp.
Show Highlights:
0:20 - Gatorade is entering a "transformational new era" as it broadens its addressable audience beyond elite athletes and platforms with multiple tiers of hydration products.
2:45 - With help from its new majority investor, Nexus Capital Partners, Laird Superfood has made its second acquisition in less than six months, establishing itself as a buyer in the functional wellness set.
6:00 - How are GLP-1 drugs impacting CPG food and beverage? Monica dives into recent data from sales and marketing company Acosta Group, tracing purchasing trends.
9:45 - Lukas goes through the latest intoxicating hemp category news, including a legislative solution proposed by Sen. Rand Paul and how industry stakeholders are safeguarding against the impending November ban.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week's stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
This week on the podcast, Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous and senior reporter Brad Avery discuss Unilever's acquisition of Grüns, Suja Life's initial public offering, Ithaca Hummus' plans for category domination, and Mark Anthony Brands' purchase of Finnish Long Drink.
Show Highlights:
0:20 - Less than three years after launching, supplement gummy brand Grüns has agreed to be acquired by personal care and beauty multinational Unilever. Monica breaks down the deal.
2:20 - After submitting a draft registration statement last year, Suja Life Inc. has filed for a U.S. initial public offering, revealing total 2025 revenue of $326.6 million. Brad outlines the beverage maker's public market debut.
4:45 - Fourteen years in, Ithaca Hummus is rolling out its first major brand campaign, transitioning to olive oil formulations and refreshing its packaging. Monica shares more about the brand's broader push toward sustained category leadership.
6:55 - Mark Anthony Brands announced it has struck a deal to acquire the Finnish Long Drink, the popular gin-based, ready-to-drink canned cocktail. Brad explains why it's a solid fit in the White Claw owner's portfolio.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week's stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
This week on the podcast, Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous and senior reporter Lukas Southard discuss recent disruption at freeze-dried candy maker Sow Good, the new celebrity faces in supplement spaces, Khloud's expansion into a bigger salty snack set, and protein bars made with beef tallow.
Show Highlights:
0:20 - Freeze-dried candy manufacturer Sow Good is in a period of transition, following its latest recent leadership shakeup and liquidity push. Monica explains more.
2:25 - Star power is seemingly moving beyond spirits and into supplements, with David Beckham and Kylie Jenner among faces in the space. Lukas shares the latest.
4:30 - After conquering popcorn, Khloé Kardashian's functional snack brand is taking on a bigger, crunchier prize. Monica details the launch of Khloud Protein Chips.
6:20 - Prima, a new protein bar brand, is betting beef tallow will win wellness-driven shoppers. Lukas sheds light on the brand and its plans for retail.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week's stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
This week on the podcast, Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous and senior reporter Brad Avery unpack the McCormick-Unilever merger, Constellation Brands' purchase of HOP WTR, Create Wellness' fresh funding-fueled expansion, and Q Mixers' move into functional beverages.
Show Highlights:
0:20 - Following brief speculation, McCormick & Company will merge with Unilever's food division, bringing together such brands as Hellmann's mayonnaise and French's mustard. Monica details the deal.
3:05 - Non-alcoholic alternatives got a big win last week as Constellation Brands agreed to terms to acquire HOP WTR, the functional, beer-style sparkling water brand founded in 2020. Brad outlines the transaction.
4:05 - Create Wellness, a trailblazer of the creatine gummy set, is moving into powdered beverages with a $20 million investment. Monica breaks down the investment.
5:55 - The average consumer's relationship with alcohol has radically evolved over the last several years, and premium cocktail mixer brand Q Mixers is eager to evolve alongside them with its first functional innovation.
7:45 - Monica and Brad discuss this year's crop of April Fools' fakeouts.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week's stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
This week on the podcast, Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous and senior reporter Lukas Southard discuss Danone's acquisition of Huel, fresh funding for frozen dumpling maker Laoban, a potential merger in the condiment set, and the high cost of eating according to the new food pyramid.
Show Highlights:
0:20 - Danone has acquired British meal replacement brand Huel for a reported $1.1 billion. Monica breaks down the deal.
1:55 - Frozen dumpling brand Laoban has raised $7.2 million as it charts its expansion into other Asian food categories. Lukas explains more.
4:05 - Unilever is in talks to sell its food division to McCormick & Company, bringing together such brands as Hellmann's mayonnaise and French's mustard. Monica details the proposed transaction.
6:25 - The new Dietary Guidelines for Americans could increase grocery bills by 32% annually. Lukas outlines new research exposing the affordability gap in the recommendations.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week's stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
This week on the podcast, Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous and senior reporter Brad Avery discuss a class action lawsuit against David Protein, Bloom's entry into the crowded protein soda set, Bachan's post-acquisition plans, and George Clooney's near beer brand.
Show Highlights:
0:20 - A class action lawsuit filed in New York federal court claims David Protein significantly understates the calories and fat content in its protein bars. Monica unpacks the case.
5:20 - Bloom has launched its own protein soda, entering an increasingly competitive set. Brad shares his take on the booming category.
8:10 - What's in store for Japanese barbecue sauce brand Bachan's following its sale to the Marzetti Company? Monica breaks down the deal.
10:20 - George Clooney and the rest of the team behind tequila brand Casamigos are back at it with a new non-alcoholic beer startup. Brad details the launch.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week's stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
This week on the podcast, Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous and senior reporter Lukas Southard discuss the acquisitions of frozen dessert maker My/Mochi Ice Cream and next-generation sports drink brand Local Weather. The hosts also speculate about David Protein's entry into the ice cream category and singer Benson Boone's involvement with Caliwater.
Show Highlights:
0:15 - HI-CHEW parent company Morinaga is acquiring frozen dessert maker My/Mochi Ice Cream. Monica has the scoop.
2:05 - Blue Monkey Beverages has acquired next-generation sports drink Local Weather as it seeks to build a functional drink platform. Lukas outlines the deal.
4:45 - David Protein appears to be getting into the ice cream business, as teased with mobile billboards at Expo West. Monica shares what is known so far about the line extension.
7:55 - Caliwater has added Seattle-born, Grammy-nominated artist Benson Boone to its cap table, following singer Demi Lovato last March. Lukas details the partnership.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week's stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
This week on the podcast, Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous and senior reporters Brad Avery and Lukas Southard gear up for the annual trek to Anaheim for Natural Products Expo West. Listen in to learn about the brands, products and trends on our radar this year.
Show Highlights:
0:20 - The podcasters discuss what they are looking forward to checking out at Expo West. Lukas has his eye on the meat snack category and creatine creeping into new applications.
2:50 - Monica shares the themes she's tracking at the show, including global flavors, functional benefits and the evolution of familiar categories and new twists on pizza, candy and other everyday staples.
4:40 - Brad shares his hacks for conquering the Anaheim Convention Center in three days.
8:20 - The trio is excited to try new items from Spindrift, Mid-Day Squares, Evergreen, Like Air and more.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week's stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
This week on the podcast, Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous and senior reporter Lukas Southard discuss Kim Kardashian's new energy beverage venture, Hippeas' once-in-a-decade brand refresh, a class action complaint against functional iced tea brand Halfday Tonics, and new funding and distribution gains for Seth Goldman's Just Ice Tea.
Show Highlights:
0:20 - Reality-star-turned-entrepreneur Kim Kardashian has officially entered the beverage world, joining paraxanthine-powered energy drink UPDATE as a co-founder ahead of its national rollout to Walmart stores this spring. Monica details the partnership.
3:20 - After a decade in the market, chickpea-based snack brand Hippeas has made its most dramatic packaging design change yet. Lukas shares more.
4:45 - Functional iced tea brand Halfday Tonics has been hit with a proposed class action lawsuit, taking aim at the brand's stated "prebiotic benefits." Monica spills the tea.
7:10 - Speaking of tea, Just Ice Tea has closed a $9 million Series B funding round, backed by investors such as Total Wine & More co-founder Robert Trone, Taste Tomorrow Ventures, Polar Strategic Ventures and executives from New York DSD house Big Geyser.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week's stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
This week on the podcast, Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous and senior reporter Brad Avery discuss the latest development in Kraft Heinz's breakup plans, new funding and partnership for Patrick Mahomes-backed Throne Sport Coffee, a protein bar developed for mixed martial arts athletes, and what's next for Lance Collins' Accelerator Active Energy.
Show Highlights:
0:20 - Kraft Heinz has had a change of heart and will pause its efforts to split up into two separate companies. Monica explains why.
3:30 - Throne Sport Coffee, the functional beverage brand backed by Patrick Mahomes, has raised $10 million and is partnering with New York distributor Big Geyser to grow the business in the metro area. Brad details the company's plans.
5:50 - FoodStory Brands is bringing a new type of muscle to its portfolio through a new strategic partnership with UFC, the global mixed martial arts organization. Monica outlines what is known so far on the partnership.
7:30 - Accelerator Active Energy, the better-for-you brand founded by serial entrepreneur Lance Collins, is getting ready for a fresh charge as an independent brand this year. Brad highlights what's ahead.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week's stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
This week on the podcast, Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous and senior reporter Lukas Southard dig into the latest development surrounding the beleaguered maker of The Better Bagel, Barron Trump's involvement in a beverage startup and the recent departure of Impossible Foods' chief executive. The podcasters also review the impact of deflated cocoa prices on chocolate makers and consumers at the checkout.
Show Highlights:
0:20 - The Better Bagel drama continues. Easy Lunches & More, a specialized food delivery service that claims to be the "last retailer of Better Bagel," began shipping its own version of the product, called The Fit Bagel, in September after it was "ghosted" by BetterBrand. Monica spills the tea.
2:40 - President Donald Trump's youngest child, Barron, is entering the beverage business, per a recent form filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission by a pre-launch yerba mate brand. Lukas details what is known so far about the product and Barron's involvement.
4:10 - A little over a week after Peter McGuinness stepped down as chief executive of Impossible Foods, it was announced he has been appointed to lead U.S operations at global food company Bel Group, the owner of brands including Laughing Cow, Babybel and GoGoSqueez.
5:35 - The cocoa crisis appears to have abated, with prices dropping significantly from record highs last year. Lukas shares what this means for chocolate makers.
7:45 - Monica and Lukas discuss the most memorable ads that aired during the Super Bowl.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week's stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
This week on the podcast, Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous and senior reporter Brad Avery dig into the public relations crisis surrounding brands linked to prominent investor and advisor Peter Attia following recent revelations of his relationship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The duo also discusses the acquisition of Japanese-style barbecue sauce brand Bachan's, Hain Celestial's decision to divest its snack brands, and big moves by mushroom beverage makers.
Show Highlights:
0:15 - Japanese barbecue sauce supplier Bachan's announced that it has been acquired for $400 million by publicly traded food manufacturer The Marzetti Company. Monica shares details on the deal.
2:15 - Peter Attia, an investor in brands like David Protein, AG1 and Magic Spoon among others, was revealed to have had a close, yearslong relationship with disgraced financier and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Brad discusses the fallout.
5:35 - Beleaguered natural products giant Hain Celestial is getting out of the snack business as part of a larger overhaul.
6:35 - Adaptogenic mushroom energy drink brands are united in offering consumers a better-for-you lift. But whether or not to offer them a trip is becoming a different discussion.
8:00 - Tabasco's parent company is suing Stoli Vodka over similar packaging, and William Shatner stars in a Big Game ad for Kellogg's Raisin Bran.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week's stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
This week on the podcast, Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous and senior reporter Lukas Southard tackle the recent controversy surrounding cage-free egg producer Vital Farms, the latest updates affecting the hemp beverage industry, and a beverage maker's strategic expansion into functional gummy supplements. The hosts also highlight several recent funding announcements.
Show Highlights:
0:15 - Outdoor-access egg producers are taking heat online for the way they feed their hens, and the scrutiny has landed heavily on Vital Farms. Monica digs into the drama.
2:00 - Two legislative proposals are finding significant backing from hemp industry stakeholders. Lukas shares all the details.
4:05 - Monica highlights a handful of recent investments announced by a Snoop Dogg-backed ice cream brand, a dietitian-founded snack company, and a coconut water sports drink maker.
6:40 - Lucky Energy is expanding beyond beverages into the uber-popular functional gummy segment. Lukas outlines the strategy behind the launch.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week's stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
This week on the podcast, Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous and senior reporter Brad Avery discuss Beyond Meat's expansion beyond meat alternatives, Prime's foray into protein shakes, DayDayCook's exit from the U.S., and Chameleon Cold Brew's future under new ownership.
Show Highlights:
0:15 - Beyond Meat is expanding into the beverage category with a limited-batch protein drink. Brad shares all the details of the launch.
2:10 - Logan Paul's Prime is entering the protein shake set after its sports drinks and energy drinks suffered declines. Monica explains more.
4:00 - DayDayCook – the owner of Yai's Thai, Nona Lim and Omsom – has exited its U.S. operations and plans to focus on its bitcoin treasury strategy, abandoning earlier ambitions to become the "General Mills of Asian food."
6:40 - Chameleon Cold Brew has been sold to Next In Natural, after changing hands over the past decade including ownership by Nestle for a brief time.
9:20 - Jesse and Ben's fake protein fries stunt drove real results, and Spiked Ade sees opportunity for vodka in the sports drink aisle.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week's stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
This week on the podcast, Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous and senior reporter Lukas Southard discuss the new Dietary Guidelines for Americans, a leadership shakeup at Lemon Perfect, the acquisition of snacking platform The Good Crisp Company, and Koia's entry into the modern soda category. The podcasters also share highlights from the Winter FancyFaire show in San Diego.
Show Highlights:
0:15 - The Trump Administration has released the new Dietary Guidelines, which inverts the former food pyramid. Not everyone is happy with the new recommendations. Monica explains more.
2:10 - An investor-driven shakeup at Lemon Perfect has resulted in significant headcount reduction – including company leadership and several of its employees – and forced founder and board chair Yanni Hufnagel from any operational role at the company. Lukas details the beverage maker's challenges.
3:50 - The Good Crisp Company has been acquired by MPearlRock, an investment group formed by MidOcean Partners, Kroger and its data analytics platform, 84.51. Monica shares what's next for the snack brand.
5:25 - For a decade, Koia has positioned itself as an innovator in plant-based protein drinks. Now, the brand is bringing that focus to the Modern Soda set with its latest line launch: Koia Protein Pop. Lukas discusses the launch and category.
7:05 - Monica and Lukas highlight trends and standout products sampled at the inaugural Winter FancyFaire in San Diego.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week's stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
This week on the podcast, Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous and senior reporter Brad Avery discuss protein-packed launches for the new year: David's Bronze bars, Mel Robbins' energy shot, and more. The hosts also share details on a merger between Splendid Spoon and Mosaic Foods and Zico Rising's latest funding.
Show Highlights:
0:15 - David Protein has unveiled its latest "masterpiece": Bronze, a line of indulgent protein bars with a chocolate flavored coating. Monica shares all of the details of the new product launch.
3:25 - Protein continues to make a splash in functional beverages. Brad highlights the recent introductions of Pure Genius, a protein shot launched by self-help guru Mel Robbins, and the female-coded Gorgie Protein Energy.
6:05 - Splendid Spoon and Mosaic Foods have merged, signaling more consolidation in the meal delivery market.
7:45 - Coconut water brand Zico Rising raised $2.2 million of an expected $7 million funding round. Brad details what's next for the beverage brand.
8:40 - Khloe Kardashian's Khloud Protein Popcorn rolls out at Starbucks, and Mid-Day Squares drops its take on the peanut butter and jelly craze.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week's stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
This week on the podcast, Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous and senior reporters Brad Avery and Lukas Southard reflect on the top stories of the year, including the rising influence of the Make America Healthy Again movement on the food and beverage industry, the biggest merger moments, and notable highlights of hemp's uncertain future.
Show Highlights:
1:00 - Monica explores the impact of the Make America Healthy Again movement on the packaged food and beverage industry with many large manufacturers pleading to remove controversial ingredients from portfolios.
4:20 - Brad discusses the landmark deals defining the market this year, from PepsiCo's nearly $2 billion acquisition of Poppi to the restructuring efforts underway at leading conglomerates.
7:15 - Lukas highlights the latest developments affecting the use of cannabis in food and beverage formulations.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week's stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
This week on the podcast, Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous and senior reporter Brad Avery discuss a spate of funding news for a hot sauce brand, a hummus startup and a functional beverage company. The hosts also chat about what an executive order to reschedule cannabis could mean for the hemp drink market.
Show Highlights:
0:15 - Former NFL player Jason Kelce is backing hot sauce maker Hank Sauce. Monica discusses the deal.
3:15 - The parent company of GoodBelly and Cheribundi has raised $10 million in a funding round led by investment firm ECP Growth. Brad explains more.
3:40 - In other investment news, Gen-Z founded hummus brand Habiza secured capital from the newly formed Foodbeast Ventures.
5:55 - The White House has issued an executive order to reschedule cannabis. Brad explains what it could mean for the hemp beverage industry.
7:30 - The top candy trends of the year, plus a casket company dips into the energy drink market.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week's stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
This week on the podcast, Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous and senior reporter Lukas Southard discuss leadership changes at Coca-Cola and Kraft Heinz, Thrive Market's decision to drop alcohol, and what the apparent closure of Believer Meats means for the future of cultured protein.
Show Highlights:
0:15 - The Coca-Cola Company has announced a new leader to succeed James Quiney. Monica shares details of the succession plan.
1:20 - Kraft Heinz is also transforming its leadership team ahead of its planned spinoff. Lukas highlights the latest changes.
3:40 - Online grocer Thrive Market is eliminating its alcohol offerings and expanding its assortment of zero-proof options. Monica explains why.
6:50 - With the apparent shutdown of another cultured protein startup, the highly capitalized sector appears doomed. Lukas discusses the downfall of a previously promising player in the category.
9:15 - Brands are hopping on the advent calendar trend – and some really shouldn't. Plus, Zero Sugar Oreos are set to launch. Will consumers bite?
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week's stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
This week on the podcast, Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous and senior reporter Brad Avery discuss San Francisco's lawsuit over ultraprocessed foods, Anheuser-Busch's $490 million acquisition of BeatBox, Stockeld Dreamery's sale to Bettani Farms, and Ripple Foods' $17 million funding round.
Show Highlights:
0:15 - San Francisco has declared war on America's snack aisle, filing the nation's first government lawsuit against makers of ultraprocessed foods. Monica breaks down the case.
2:55 - Anheuser-Busch has acquired ready-to-drink alcohol brand BeatBox for $490 million. Brad explains what the deal means for the beer giant.
3:30 - Stockeld Dreamery's assets have been sold to Bettani Farms, the food tech entity formerly known as Climax Foods.
5:10 - Plant-based milk producer Ripple Foods closed a $17 million funding round, setting the stage to execute on its growth plans in the new year. Brad explains.
6:15 - Monica and Brad discuss highlights and takeaways from Nosh Live and BevNET Live.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week's stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
This week on the podcast, Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous and senior reporter Lukas Southard share highlights of Nosh Live and BevNET Live, held Dec. 4-5 and Dec. 7-9, respectively, in Marina del Rey, Calif.
Show Highlights:
0:15 - Monica kicks off the episode with a preview of Nosh Live 2025, highlighting sessions with the leaders of Khloud Foods, Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams and other breakout brands.
1:20 - Discussions at the two-day event will also touch on retailer decision making, a look at the state of startup funding, regional-to-national expansion and the art of collaboration in product development.
2:10 - Lukas discusses highlights of the BevNET Live agenda, which spans cannabis beverages, spirits and more.
3:15 - Speakers at BevNET Live include the founders of Poppi and leaders of Health-Ade, KetoneIQ, Hopwater, Celsius and more.
4:30 - Lukas previews a panel at BevNET Live that he will be moderating with representatives of buying collective INFRA.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week's stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
This week on the podcast, Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous and senior reporter Brad Avery discuss the bidding war drama surrounding the recently liquidated plant-based cheese brand Miyoko's Creamery. The podcasters also chat about cold-press juice maker Suja Life's plans for a public market exit and Once Upon A Farm's delayed public offering. Finally, the hosts look at a merger in the mocktail segment.
Show Highlights:
0:15 - Miyoko's Creamery has a new owner, and it's not Miyoko Schinner. Monica unpacks the bidding war – and subsequent drama – surrounding the vegan cheese brand.
3:05 - Suja Life is headed for a public market exit. Brad highlights the beverage maker's path to an initial public offering.
4:00 - Once Upon A Farm is forced to delay its debut on the stock exchange due to the protracted government shutdown.
5:05 - Adult non-alc beverage brand Proxies has acquired the assets of defunct mocktail maker Avec, with plans to use its recipes for a new canned drinks line slated to launch early next year.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week's stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
This week, the podcast explores the implications of the Congressional spending bill on the hemp beverage industry and why there is a silver lining to the defined timeline for product sales. Senior reporters Brad Avery and Lukas Southard also discuss Gopuff's big investment round and why there is so much synergy between energy drinks and fitness supplements. The podcasters conclude the episode with a taste test of new beverages and snacks.
Show Highlights:
0:20 - Hemp is facing an existential crisis after Congress passed its newest spending bill, putting a 365-day timeline in place for hemp-derived beverage sales to continue. Brad and Lukas discuss what stakeholders have been saying in the last week, what we might see moving forward with lobbying efforts and what could happen in the broader cannabis industry.
8:00 - Gopuff has secured a $250 million investment as it puts more resources behind its artificial intelligence technology that will make the online grocery delivery platform more efficient.
9:00 - Another fitness supplement brand, RAW Nutrition, is aiming to go deeper in energy drinks with its BUM Energy brand by adding significant industry experience to its team. Brad and Lukas discuss the trend of gym supplement brands finding a broad consumer base with energy drinks.
12:45 - For the first time in a long time, Brad and Lukas are in the same room recording so the two reporters decided to try new food and drink together and discuss how these samples represent some trends in their respective categories.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week's stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
This week on the podcast, Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous and senior reporter Lukas Southard chat about the acquisition of TreeHouse Foods, the regulatory outlook for hemp beverages, a new verification standard for non-ultraprocessed foods, and Lucky Energy's latest funding round.
Show Highlights:
0:15 - TreeHouse Foods is going private in a deal valued at $2.9 billion. Monica explains what's next for the private label food and beverage manufacturer.
1:45 - Hemp beverages could be sacrificed in a deal to reopen the federal government, as spending legislation moves through Congress that includes language effectively prohibiting such products. Lukas shares details and insight.
4:20 - A new verification program for non-ultraprocessed foods has debuted. Monica breaks down which ingredients are unacceptable under the Non-UPF Verified standards.
7:45 - Lucky Energy has landed $25 million in a Series B round led by Paine Schwartz Partners, with former leaders from Suja Juice joining its board.
9:15 - The podcasters weigh in on pickle-scented candles and female-coded energy beverages.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week's stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
This week on the podcast, Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous and senior reporter Lukas Southard chat about the acquisitions of Caulipower and Justin's by private equity firms, Keurig Dr Pepper's new $7 billion investment, and new funding for popped sorghum startup Cob.
Show Highlights:
0:15 - Caulipower has been acquired by its longtime private equity-owned co-manufacturing partner Urban Farmer. Monica breaks down the details of the deal.
2:40 - Keurig Dr Pepper announced $7 billion in new investment and offered nervous investors a confident appraisal of its much-scrutinized plan to separate its coffee and refreshment beverage businesses.
4:35 - Hormel has sold its ownership stake in Justin's to private equity firm Forward Consumer Partners. The hosts discuss what this means for the nut butter brand and its previous leadership.
6:55 - Game, set, match. Popped sorghum startup Cob netted $5 million in funding and added a tennis legend to its founding team.
8:20 - The podcasters discuss PepsiCo's new corporate logo and an unusual seasonal offering from Kraft Mac & Cheese.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week's stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
This week on the podcast, Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous and senior reporter Brad Avery talk about Recess' new funding round and leadership addition, a premium bourbon brand on the block, and new cash for Robert Downey Jr.'s coffee brand. The podcasters also discuss the closure of an alt-cheese maker and the surge in demand for gummy formats in supplements and in candy.
Show Highlights:
0:15 - Recess Drinks has closed a $30 million Series B round led by CAVU and other repeat investors and named a new leader. Brad breaks it all down.
1:50 - Pour one out for Four Roses? Japan's Kirin Holdings is looking to unload the bourbon brand for $1 billion. Monica explains.
3:40 - L.A. Libations' Taste Tomorrow Ventures has made a strategic minority investment in happy products, the coffee brand co-founded by CPG industry veteran Craig Dubitsky and actor Robert Downey Jr.
5:15 - Stockeld Dreamery, a venture-backed Swedish producer of plant-based cheese, has shuttered after six years in business. What went wrong?
6:25 - A fiber brand gets gummy. Speaking of gummies, the kids are low key obsessed. Trade show mascots… scarier than Halloween costumes? Discuss.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week's stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
This week on the podcast, Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous and senior reporter Lukas Southard discuss trends and new products featured at the NACS Show held Oct. 14-17 in Chicago. The event drew thousands of convenience store operators to view the latest offerings from food and beverage brands seeking to expand within the channel.
Show Highlights:
0:35 - Lukas dives into the latest trends in convenience store snacks, including protein bars with bonus benefits and new twists on meat sticks and jerky.
4:15 - Monica highlights new packaging formats and designs in the ready-to-drink coffee and bottled water categories seen on the show floor.
6:15 - What's brewing in the iced tea segment? Lukas spills the details.
9:00 - PepsiCo showcased big bets and subtle tweaks at the event ranging from new high-protein and lower-sugar offerings to its take on a prebiotic cola.
11:00 - Coca-Cola featured less innovation than its top rival – aside from the notable comeback of Mr. Pibb. Lukas shares insights from his tour of the booth.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week's stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
This week on the podcast, Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous and senior reporter Avery dig into Whole Foods Market's annual trends forecast and DayDayCook's shift away from its recent brand acquisitions to focus on bitcoin. The podcasters also discuss the potential of a new food processing technology and the legal battle brewing between Liquid Death and Death Wish Coffee.
Show Highlights:
0:15 - What trends are on tap for the year ahead? Whole Foods Market forecasts fiber, beef tallow and fine dining in the frozen aisle.
1:30 - DDC Enterprise Limited, which does business as DayDayCook, has raised a whopping $124 million in equity financing – but it doesn't seem likely that much, if any, of it will be put into the Hong Kong-based company's recent CPG acquisitions.
3:15 - The startup formerly known as Tender Food is expanding beyond plant-based meat alternatives into additional categories following a new $6.5 million funding round. Monica explains what's next for the company now known as Lasso.
5:55 - Why is Death Wish Coffee suing Liquid Death? Brad breaks it down.
7:40 - Pop-Tarts jumps on the protein trend, and "Saturday Night Life" spoofs near beer.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week's stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
This week on the podcast, Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous and senior reporter Lukas Southard dig into Walmart’s decision to remove synthetic dyes from its store-branded products. The team goes on to discuss how certain brands are repositioning in the plant-based cheese category, the abrupt closure of Nor-Cal Beverages and the data behind the high-protein craze.
Show Highlights:
0:15 - Walmart has announced it will remove all synthetic dyes from its many private-label brands. Monica explains why Walmart’s move aligns with how other big food companies are responding to calls for food ingredient transparency.
3:05 - Plant-based cheese ingredient provider Climax Foods has rebranded to Bettani Farms after raising $6.5 million in a Series A round. Along with its new name, Bettani Farms has appointed former Califia Farms CFO Sandeep Patel to lead the food tech company as it prepares for its next stage of growth.
4:45 - Unexpectedly, Manna Beverages shut down its California-based co-manufacturer, Nor-Cal Beverages. The sudden closure comes after rumors earlier this summer that Manna was seeking to divest the drink producer it acquired in 2023.
7:00 - It’s no secret that protein is all the rage in food and beverage. Monica and Lukas chat about a pair of exclusive Brightfield Group reports on the category for BevNET and Nosh.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
On this episode of CPG Week, Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous and senior reporter Brad Avery unpack Once Upon A Farm’s IPO announcement, a grocery retailer’s adoption of a food health scoring system, breakfast maker Seven Sundays’ step toward vertical integration, and Beckett Industries’ new food and beverage focused fund.
Show Highlights:
0:15 - Once Upon A Farm has filed for an initial public offering. Monica explains what this means for Jennifer Garner’s next-generation childhood nutrition brand.
3:35 - Grocery chain Hy-Vee has a new partnership with nutrition intelligence platform FoodHealth Company, becoming the first retailer to bring the color-coded, numerical nutritional score to its shelves. But will shoppers bite?
6:00 - Seven Sundays took a step toward vertical integration with the acquisition of its longtime manufacturer Birch Packaging. Monica details how the move positions the breakfast maker for explosive growth.
7:25 - Beckett Industries launched a $50 million venture capital fund that will target early-stage food and beverage businesses. Brad breaks it all down.
8:25 - Uncrustables bulks up, the Dew gets dirty, and the podcasters provide a peek at the Nosh Live lineup.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
On this episode of CPG Week, Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous and senior reporter Brad Avery unpack Once Upon A Farm’s IPO announcement, a grocery retailer’s adoption of a food health scoring system, breakfast maker Seven Sundays’ step toward vertical integration, and Beckett Industries’ new food and beverage focused fund.
Show Highlights:
0:15 - Once Upon A Farm has filed for an initial public offering. Monica explains what this means for Jennifer Garner’s next-generation childhood nutrition brand.
3:35 - Grocery chain Hy-Vee has a new partnership with nutrition intelligence platform FoodHealth Company, becoming the first retailer to bring the color-coded, numerical nutritional score to its shelves. But will shoppers bite?
6:00 - Seven Sundays took a step toward vertical integration with the acquisition of its longtime manufacturer Birch Packaging. Monica details how the move positions the breakfast maker for explosive growth.
7:25 - Beckett Industries launched a $50 million venture capital fund that will target early-stage food and beverage businesses. Brad breaks it all down.
8:25 - Uncrustables bulks up, the Dew gets dirty, and the podcasters provide a peek at the Nosh Live lineup.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
On this episode of CPG Week, Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous and senior reporter Lukas Southard discuss the most recent twist in Ben & Jerry’s battle with Unilever over its stance on the Gaza War, how Slate Milk has ridden the high-protein trend to a $23 million investment, SlimFast’s new owner and why one seasoned beverage industry executive thinks energy drinks need to grow up.
Show Highlights:
0:15 - Monica discusses why Ben & Jerry’s co-founder Jerry Greenfield has stepped down from his iconic frozen dessert brand and how this is the latest escalation between the brand’s founders and its parent company Unilever.
2:40 - Lactose-free chocolate milk and iced coffee brand Slate has closed a $23 million Series B round. Lukas explains why the brand has capitalized on the high-protein trend and its ability to draw in celebrity backers.
4:30 - SlimFast has been acquired once again. The diet shake brand’s new owner, Heartland Food Products Group, is an Indiana-based co-manufacturer that owns the low-calorie sweetener and drink mix brand Splenda.
8:15 - Mōcean is a new energy drink from the mind of former White Claw brewmaster Tony Vieira. The brand is launching this fall with a differentiated formulation that includes shiso leaf and echinacea for immunity benefits. Lukas explains how the brand is targeting adult consumers with its marketing strategy.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
In this episode of CPG Week, Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous and senior reporter Brad Avery analyze the evolution of private label from off-brand to on-trend. The podcasters also discuss recent examples of the protein craze in Wandering Bear’s new latte line and Brami’s lupini bean-based pasta. Additionally, the hosts dig into British mixer brand’s partnership with Molson-Coors and an interesting new innovation in the frozen aisle.
Show Highlights:
0:15 - Grocer retailers are beefing up private label assortments with a focus on protein, global flavors and premium positioning. Monica explains how consumer perceptions of store brands are changing.
3:15 - Cold brew coffee maker Wandering Bear is leaning into the protein craze. Brad highlights the strategy behind the latest launch.
5:00 - Can America’s obsession with protein drive mainstream adoption of the lupini bean. Italian food company Brami believes so.
6:30 - British mixer brand Fever-Tree is benefiting from its partnership with Molson-Coors. Brad breaks down the deal.
8:05 - Brad and Monica discuss functional ice cubes and the return of RC Cola (What? It never left?).
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
In this episode of CPG Week, Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous and senior reporter Lukas Southard discuss recent investments in Bloom Nutrition, Tost and Magic Mind, plus meal kit makeovers and marathon-friendly food and beverage brands.
Show Highlights:
0:15 - Nutrabolt has taken a majority stake in Bloom Nutrition, strengthening its position in categories including energy drinks and powdered supplements. Monica digs into the terms of the deal.
2:30 - Booze-free trailblazer Tost has secured over $1 million in bridge funding as it grows its distribution and targets on-premise opportunities with a new canned format.
5:05 - The meal kit market is in transition. Monica explains how Factor and Blue Apron are repositioning for today’s consumer needs.
6:40 - Magic Mind has raised $12.4 million of a nearly $16 million Series A round led by BFG Partners. Lukas breaks down what’s next for the wellness shot brand.
8:25 - Liquid Death goes up to 11, and a shoutout to runner-friendly food and beverage brands.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
In this episode of CPG Week, Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous and senior reporter Brad Avery dig into Kraft Heinz’s separation plans and PepsiCo’s increased investment in Celsius Holdings. The hosts also chat about Pepsi’s warning letter from an activist investor and Huel’s ready-to-drink foray into the red-hot greens category.
Show Highlights:
0:15 - Kraft Heinz is officially splitting up after nearly a decade as a combined global food company. Monica dishes up the details of the breakup.
3:00 - PepsiCo is doubling down on energy drinks, increasing its ownership stake in Celsius and aligning its Rockstar Energy brand with that business. Brad breaks it all down.
4:30 - Speaking of PepsiCo, one of its biggest investors has some notes. Elliott Investment Management is pushing for change at the food and beverage company.
7:45 - Huel has launched a ready-to-drink greens line for the retail channel. Brad explains the brand’s foray into the red-hot trend.
9:40 - The podcasters talk about a “King of the Hill” inspired barbecue rub and Travis Kelce’s investment in an organic sports drink brand.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
In this episode of CPG Week, Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous and senior reporter Lukas Southard discuss Keurig Dr Pepper’s post-acquisition plans for the JDE Peet’s business, new funding for yogurt maker Painterland Sisters and alt-protein producer The Better Meat Company, and the decision behind Spindrift’s exit from the beverage alcohol category.
Show Highlights:
0:15 - Keurig Dr Pepper is buying Netherlands-based coffee conglomerate JDE Peet’s for $18 billion. Lukas digs into the details of the transaction.
4:00 - Yogurt maker Painterland Sisters has closed a seven-figure funding round to support retail expansion. Monica discusses the brand’s trajectory.
5:10 - Spindrift is discontinuing its spiked seltzer line. Is it a sign of the sober-curious times?
6:10 - The Better Meat Company cooked up an oversubscribed $31 million Series A round to scale its mycoprotein ingredient and expects to compete with commodity ground beef.
7:15 - Lukas channels Clark Griswold on his European vacation, and Monica reports on the top trends at Newtopia Now.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
In this episode of CPG Week, Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous and senior reporter Brad Avery dig into the dual trends of clean labels and dirty sodas. The hosts also discuss a new AI-driven solution for food and beverage manufacturers and the stalling of a Silicon Valley darling.
Show Highlights:
0:15 - Saffron Road is introducing its “most ambitious brand refresh” in its 15-year history as it aims to align with today’s consumer trends, including the growing anti-seed oil sentiment and an insatiable appetite for protein.
3:20 - The Dirty Soda trend has officially broken TikTok containment and is now influencing restaurant and retail innovation. Brad highlights recent examples.
7:25 - Keychain has raised $30 million in Series B funding and is introducing an AI-powered operating system to streamline production for food and beverage manufacturers. Monica explains more.
8:45 - Soylent is struggling. Brad shares what the future may hold for the meal replacement brand.
10:15 - The hosts chat about protein-packed sauces, a decline in drinking and Newtopia Now.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
In this episode of CPG Week, Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous and senior reporter Brad Avery dig into an acquisition, an acquisition attempt and an acquisition target, as well as an artificial intelligence mishap.
Show Highlights:
0:15 - Daring Foods has been acquired by v2food with backing by Ajinomoto. Monica details why the plant-based poultry producer is a sizzling target in a fizzling category.
2:20 - Is the third time the charm? Danone has made yet another attempt to acquire kefir maker Lifeway Foods. Brad explains why this effort may be different.
5:05 - Is Bachan’s on the block? The Japanese barbecue sauce brand is reportedly testing the market for a sale. Monica shares insights on the business and category.
6:10 - Bang Energy founder Jack Owoc is in hot water with a Florida federal judge after submitting court paperwork generated by artificial intelligence and featuring imaginary legal citations.
8:45 - Graza is getting into glass, and the New York State Fair is getting into butter. Also, the hosts shout out beverage entrepreneur Kayla Castaneda for helping to create the canned aguas frescas category in the U.S.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
In this episode of CPG Week, Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous and senior reporter Lukas Southard talk through two legal battles facing Chobani’s La Colombe brand and Uncle Nearest Whiskey. The team also examines Doughlicious’ new investment round and Beyond’s decision to rebrand itself away from the “meat” alternatives. The duo wrap up with a discussion of this year’s Nosh Notables list released this week.
Show Highlights:
0:15 - Doughlicious announced a $5 million investment round this week. The money will go towards helping build out a U.S.-based manufacturing system as tariffs have prevented the U.K. brand from becoming profitable.
1:15 - Amid Danone’s third attempt to acquire Lifeway, the French dairy company is also suing Chobani again. This time, Danone is claiming La Colombe has committed trademark infringement of one of the Stok Cold Brew brand's SKUs.
2:30 - Beyond Meat is changing its name to refocus the brand away from being an animal protein alternative. The move is part of the company’s larger plan to bring consumers back to the brand after years of slumping sales.
4:00 - Uncle Nearest Whiskey is under fire as one of its creditors is calling for the distillery to be placed under the leadership of a receiver.
5:30 - On a lighter note, Monica and Lukas discuss breast milk ice cream, a High Noon and Celsius mix-up, and this year’s Nosh Notables.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
On the CPG Week podcast, Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous and senior reporter Lukas Southard discuss Keurig Dr Pepper’s acquisition of Dyla Brands, the legal drama surrounding veteran-owned Black Rifle Coffee Company, and formation of a new collective advocating for higher standards across the food system, and the challenges and triumphs of dehydrated fruit company BranchOut Food.
Show Highlights:
0:15 - Keurig Dr Pepper has acquired drink mix maker Dyla Brands. Monica shares details of the deal.
1:45 - Black Rifle Coffee Company has become a magnet for lawsuits, with at least seven cases involving the company filed between 2022 and 2024. Lukas digs into the legal drama surrounding this veteran-owned beverage company.
3:15 - GoodPop, LesserEvil and other better-for-you brands have banded together to establish the Good Food Collective to advocate for more transparency and higher standards in the industry. The podcasters discuss why that especially matters now.
4:25 - Dehydrated fruit and vegetable maker BranchOut Food recently shared details about the challenges it has faced in the past few years. Lukas offers highlights and insights from a recent interview with the company’s top executive.
6:20 - A Dr. Seuss classic comes to the canned meat aisle, a Frito-Lay snack brand inspires a line of savory cupcakes, and a whipped topping maker collaborates with a personal care brand.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
On the CPG Week podcast, Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous and senior reporter Brad Avery discuss the acquisitions of Tia Lupita and Health-Ade Kombucha, new directions for the biggest beverage makers, and how Hero saved the day when Whole Foods ended its supply agreement with BetterBrand.
Show Highlights:
0:15 - Mexican food brand Tia Lupita has been acquired by Vilore Foods, distributor of Jumex beverages and other Hispanic brands. Monica unpacks terms of the transaction.
1:30 - Coca-Cola is launching a line extension of its namesake soft drinks with cane sugar, and Pepsi announced plans to debut a prebiotic cola. Brad explains what these innovations mean for the market.
4:15 - Following the meltdown of low-carb bagel maker BetterBrand, Hero rose to the occasion, filling shelves with its take on the breakfast staple. Monica shares more details on how a competitor’s collapse benefited the better-for-you baker.
7:10 - Health-Ade Kombucha has sold to Generous Brands. Brad spills the tea on the deal.
8:30 - Forget battery-flavored chips and “Spaghett-cicles.” Liquid Death is entering the energy drink segment – with what it claims is a “sane” level of caffeine.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
On the CPG Week podcast, Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous and senior reporter Brad Avery discuss an unusual new product launch and continued consolidation among packaged food conglomerates. Then, Brad provides his top takeaways from the Hemp Beverage Expo.
Show Highlights:
0:15 - Catch of the day? Protein bar brand David started the week with a splash, announcing the launch of frozen, boiled cod. Monica shares the reel deal behind this fishy product extension.
3:25 - Ferrero Group has announced plans to acquire W.K. Kellogg Co. for $3.1 million, adding Frosted Flakes and other legacy brands to a portfolio that also includes Nutella, Butterfinger and Blue Bunny. Brad gives the scoop behind the potential deal.
7:00 - A decade after its merger, Kraft Heinz may be headed for splitsville. Monica unpacks why the beleaguered conglomerate is exploring a spinoff.
9:45 - Brad highlights all the insights he gathered at the Hemp Beverage Expo in Atlanta.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
On the CPG Week podcast, Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous and senior reporter Lukas Southard discuss the rise of Khloé Kardashian’s protein popcorn brand and the downfall of a co-manufacturer. Then, the hosts dig into the sale of a cult-favorite ice cream brand to unlikely buyers and the expansion of a bottled tea company into new snacking segments.
Show Highlights:
0:15 - Khloud Protein Popcorn is popping off. Monica explains how Khloé Kardashian’s snack brand is charting an expansion into thousands of retailers within months of its debut.
2:15 - The abrupt closure of a co-packer has left several brands scrambling. Lukas shares what we know so far about the sudden shuttering of Plants To Food.
3:35 - Monster Beverage executives have scooped up Rite Aid’s Thrifty Ice Cream brand (among other assets) in bankruptcy proceedings for a not-so-thrifty price of $19.2 million. What does this mean for the future of the business?
5:30 - Joe Tea is expanding beyond tea. Lukas highlights the brand’s new snack and beverage launches seen at the Summer Fancy Food Show this month.
7:10 - The podcasters talk about a touchdown-worthy cold plunge, the world’s first creatine cereal and a bridge too far for bacon.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
On the CPG Week podcast, Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous and senior reporter Lukas Southard discuss the rise of Khloé Kardashian’s protein popcorn brand and the downfall of a co-manufacturer. Then, the hosts dig into the sale of a cult-favorite ice cream brand to unlikely buyers and the expansion of a bottled tea company into new snacking segments.
Show Highlights:
0:15 - Khloud Protein Popcorn is popping off. Monica explains how Khloé Kardashian’s snack brand is charting an expansion into thousands of retailers within months of its debut.
2:15 - The abrupt closure of a co-packer has left several brands scrambling. Lukas shares what we know so far about the sudden shuttering of Plants To Food.
3:35 - Monster Beverage executives have scooped up Rite Aid’s Thrifty Ice Cream brand (among other assets) in bankruptcy proceedings for a not-so-thrifty price of $19.2 million. What does this mean for the future of the business?
5:30 - Joe Tea is expanding beyond tea. Lukas highlights the brand’s new snack and beverage launches seen at the Summer Fancy Food Show this month.
7:10 - The podcasters talk about a touchdown-worthy cold plunge, the world’s first creatine cereal and a bridge too far for bacon.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
On this episode of the CPG Week podcast, BevNET managing editor Martín Caballero joins senior reporter Brad Avery to talk about the ongoing impact of the UNFI cyberattack, investment in podcast-backed beverage brands, the rebirth of co-packer Joriki Beverages and what’s next for beer distributors after the Alani Nu acquisition.
Show Highlights:
0:15 - CPG brands are starting to prepare for the implications of UNFI’s cyberattack a few weeks ago. Brad discusses what Nosh has learned so far in talking with founders, stakeholders and experts.
1:30 - Marty describes the recent raise by influencer-backed cognitive beverage brand Neutonic. The hosts discuss why there appears to be a synergy between celebrity podcasters and the beverage business.
4:30 - Co-manufacturer Joriki Beverages is readying to reopen after the founder of Reed’s Ginger Beer, Chris Reed, acquired the recently-shuttered aseptic beverage production facility in Pittston, Pa.
6:30 - How are beer distributors approaching the potential loss of Alani Nu from their portfolios? The team discusses what they are hearing.
10:00 - On the lighter side, Brad and Marty talk about Star Wars-themed Coke cans and Taco Bell’s bet on beverages.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
On this episode of the CPG Week podcast, BevNET managing editor Martín Caballero joins senior reporter Brad Avery to talk about the ongoing impact of the UNFI cyberattack, investment in podcast-backed beverage brands, the rebirth of co-packer Joriki Beverages and what’s next for beer distributors after the Alani Nu acquisition.
Show Highlights:
0:15 - CPG brands are starting to prepare for the implications of UNFI’s cyberattack a few weeks ago. Brad discusses what Nosh has learned so far in talking with founders, stakeholders and experts.
1:30 - Marty describes the recent raise by influencer-backed cognitive beverage brand Neutonic. The hosts discuss why there appears to be a synergy between celebrity podcasters and the beverage business.
4:30 - Co-manufacturer Joriki Beverages is readying to reopen after the founder of Reed’s Ginger Beer, Chris Reed, acquired the recently-shuttered aseptic beverage production facility in Pittston, Pa.
6:30 - How are beer distributors approaching the potential loss of Alani Nu from their portfolios? The team discusses what they are hearing.
10:00 - On the lighter side, Brad and Marty talk about Star Wars-themed Coke cans and Taco Bell’s bet on beverages.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
On the CPG Week podcast, Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous and senior reporter Lukas Southard discuss the latest update on low-carb bread maker BetterBrand, a new investment for Momofuku Goods, IPO rumors for Jennifer Garner’s children’s food brand and why one frozen novelties maker is throwing in the towel on its kids’ drinks.
Show Highlights:
0:15 - BetterBrand’s founder Aimee Yang appears to be on the lam, after a number of suppliers and service providers have claimed Yang’s low-carb baked goods business owes them significant amounts of money.
3:00 - Restaurateur David Chang’s CPG brand Momofuku Goods has raised a new tranche of capital from previous investors. The $27 million investment comes after raising nearly $30 million in 2023 and will go towards supporting its retail expansion.
5:30 - Is Once Upon A Farm going public? Monica briefly explains what we know so far about the potential IPO for the kid nutrition brand.
6:45 - Lukas explains why frozen treat maker GoodPop is winding down its sparkling juice beverages as it refocuses on its core line of popsicles and ice cream bars.
8:45 - On a lighter note, the duo goes through how Mars is elevating the Snickers-eating occasion and Coors Light’s refrigerated tie concept before teasing the upcoming Summer Fancy Food Show.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
On the CPG Week podcast, Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous and senior reporter Lukas Southard discuss the latest update on low-carb bread maker BetterBrand, a new investment for Momofuku Goods, IPO rumors for Jennifer Garner’s children’s food brand and why one frozen novelties maker is throwing in the towel on its kids’ drinks.
Show Highlights:
0:15 - BetterBrand’s founder Aimee Yang appears to be on the lam, after a number of suppliers and service providers have claimed Yang’s low-carb baked goods business owes them significant amounts of money.
3:00 - Restaurateur David Chang’s CPG brand Momofuku Goods has raised a new tranche of capital from previous investors. The $27 million investment comes after raising nearly $30 million in 2023 and will go towards supporting its retail expansion.
5:30 - Is Once Upon A Farm going public? Monica briefly explains what we know so far about the potential IPO for the kid nutrition brand.
6:45 - Lukas explains why frozen treat maker GoodPop is winding down its sparkling juice beverages as it refocuses on its core line of popsicles and ice cream bars.
8:45 - On a lighter note, the duo goes through how Mars is elevating the Snickers-eating occasion and Coors Light’s refrigerated tie concept before teasing the upcoming Summer Fancy Food Show.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
This week, the podcast team digs into the disruption caused by a cyberattack on wholesaler UNFI’s information technology systems last week. Next, the hosts discuss Taste Tomorrow Ventures’ first food investment and why sour candy is whetting investor appetites lately. Finally, the podcasters highlight a soccer star's foray into the consumer packaged goods field and a beverage brand's latest partnerships.
Show Highlights:
0:15 - A cyberattack hobbled wholesale distributor UNFI last week, leaving many bare shelves at grocery stores across the country. Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous details the company’s recovery efforts and shares tips for brands affected by the disruption.
3:20 - L.A. Libations’ Taste Tomorrow Ventures invested in candy brand Better Sour. Senior reporter Brad Avery unpacks the reasoning behind the investment and how the startup plans to spend its new cash.
6:00 - Soccer legend David Beckham has launched a new snack venture targeting the overlooked market of youth sports. Monica highlights the brand’s go-to-market strategy and future product development plans.
8:00 - Speaking of soccer, Yerba Madre – the beverage brand formerly known as Guayaki – has kicked off some new sponsorship deals with football clubs and events. Brad details all the new marketing plays from the brand since unveiling its new identity earlier this year.
10:35 - Monica and Brad talk about a “hard seltzer that goes hard,” Liquid Death’s latest clapback, and dill pickle ramen noodles.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
This week, the podcast team explores an antitrust lawsuit centered around protein bar David’s acquisition of its supplier Epogee. Next, the hosts look toward regulatory headwinds in hemp drinks and why there are signs of optimism despite retail setbacks. Finally, the team looks at candy maker Joyride’s new $30 million funding round before discussing the future of plant-based cheese.
Show Highlights:
0:15 - Three brands are suing Peter Rahaal’s David brand for monopolizing the novel ingredient EPG.
2:00 - While Texas and other states institute new restrictions on intoxicating hemp beverages, startup brands are beginning to see more investor interest in backing the category. Senior reporter Lukas Southard explains how BRĒZ is platforming around function and “feeling good” to add new retail doors.
5:45 - Is better-for-you candy having a moment? Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous explains why the $30 million round raised by Joyride (formerly Project 7) proves there is a lot of opportunity in sour sweets.
7:00 - The Bel Group announced it will be shutting down its plant-based brand Nurishh last week. Lukas digs into what is happening in the vegan cheese set.
9:00 - In other news, Monica and Lukas talk mayo-themed weddings, marathon drinks and Once Upon A Farm’s new apparel line.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
This week, the podcast team discusses the merger of two legacy cheesemakers and the exit of a major beverage alcohol distributor from a key spirits market. Next, the hosts dig into the debut of digitally-native supplement brand AG1 in physical retail and explore why the news of an energy drink startup’s new investor brings fresh opportunities for its growth goals.
Show Highlights:
0:15 - Two cheese makers are having a pretty gouda week. Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous unwraps the details of Sartori’s acquisition of organic cheese and butter producer Rumiano.
1:30 - The country’s second-largest beverage-alcohol distributor, Republic National Distributing Company (RNDC), is shuttering its operations in California after losing several major suppliers. Senior reporter Lukas Southard explains what this could spell for the industry.
2:40 - AG1, formerly Athletic Greens, is making its first foray onto retail shelves. Monica shares why the supplement brand’s new Costco partnership is a big deal.
4:35 - InvestBev Group announced it was one of the investors in Lucky Energy’s latest $14.2 million round. Lukas explains how the private equity firm plans to support the beverage startup in a growing but competitive category.
6:30 - Mike’s Hot Honey partners with Burt’s Bees on lip balm, Hefty introduces birthday cake scented trash bags, and the founder of a premium spice company spotted his brand’s items in a popular television show.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
This week, the podcast team discusses big moves by protein bar startup David, plus industry reactions to the Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) Commission’s recent report on ultraprocessed foods, fermented foods maker Cleveland Kitchen’s recent capital raise, and a former slugger’s new spirits venture.
Show Highlights:
0:15 - Protein bar brand David has raised $75 million in a Series A funding round and acquired its ingredient supplier Epogee. Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous unpacks the startup’s massive moves less than a year since its launch.
2:55 - Senior reporter Brad Avery sheds light on the Make America Healthy Again Commission’s recent report targeting ultraprocessed foods as a key contributor to children’s chronic health issues, as well as various industry reactions to the findings.
4:15 - Cleveland Kitchen has raised $2.9 million in new funding. Monica shares how the fermented foods manufacturer plans to build on continued momentum in the year ahead.
6:00 - Brad explains why retired Hall of Famer David “Big Papi” Ortiz is launching a rum brand.
7:45 - Hear how Joyburst’s CEO turned a lawsuit into a sampling opportunity and which beverage brands are embracing a nostalgic summer flavor.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
This week, the podcast dives into a couple new acquisition deals, manufacturing and a hefty dosage of protein. Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous and senior reporter Lukas Southard go through the past week’s CPG industry news, covering Chobani’s expansion into frozen foods with its takeover of Daily Harvest, how one bone broth maker is betting on the category’s growth and why protein content continues to rise in the beverage industry.
Show Highlights:
0:15 - The podcast jumps into a pair of recent acquisitions this past week. First, Monica explains the sale of A Dozen Cousins to Verde Valle Foods. Next, Lukas describes what we know so far about Chobani’s newest acquisition, smoothie and plant-based meal maker Daily Harvest.
3:30 - The team digs into the bone broth category, discussing Austin, Texas-based Kettle & Fire’s new manufacturing plant, KettleWorks in Lancaster, Pa.
5:30 - Protein drinks continue their upward momentum. Lukas shares some of the insights from a story tracking how muscle mass-building beverages seem to have no ceiling and now cover multiple segments.
7:30 - On a lighter note, the team goes through the Kingsford and Miller Lite grilling partnership, boomers’ penchant for cannabis, MrBeast is getting meaty with Jack Link’s and yogurt maker Beny’s rebrand to Sourmilk.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
On this episode, the CPG Week podcast team digs into the declines of two prominent plant-based brands before discussing the acquisitions of Mary’s Gone Crackers and Kate Farms. Next, the hosts highlight the latest celebrity to launch a coffee brand. (Maybe a hot sauce would have been more appropriate?).
Show Highlights:
0:15 - The team kicks off the podcast discussing the downfall of mycelium meat maker Meati, who is reportedly selling for $4 million – after raising a total of $450 million during its lifespan. Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous provides a rundown of recent events that led to this point.
2:15 - Beyond Meat is also on the backburner. The plant-based patty purveyor recently secured $!00 million in debt financing after a particularly brutal quarter that saw U.S. retail and foodservice sales declining by double digits.
5:00 - Senior reporter Brad Avery unpacks the sale of gluten-free pioneer Mary’s Gone Crackers by a Dare Foods subsidiary. What does it mean for the company going forward?
5:55 - Danone has struck a deal for Kate Farms, a maker of plant-based baby formula. The French dairy giant expands its reach into a new segment of the market. Brad discusses why the acquisition is consistent with Danone’s recently stated goals.
6:55 - Red Hot Chili Peppers frontman Anthony Kiedis is launching a coffee business (and speaking at BevNET Live!), Mid-Day Squares co-founder Jake Karls can finally eat his brand’s products, and Pepsi is playing dirty in Coke’s backyard.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
On this episode of CPG Week, senior reporters Brad Avery and Lukas Southard walk through the biggest news items of the week. The reporters discuss Guayakí’s rebrand to Yerba Madre, how intoxicating hemp brands have leveraged DTC to grow and a pair of recent earnings reports showing a slow start to the year. Brad and Lukas finish up with a welfare check on Free Bird founder Jay Williams after a playfully disturbing post on LinkedIn.
Show Highlights:
0:20 - Say bye to Guayakí and hello to Yerba Madre. Brad runs through his recent conversation with Yerba Madre (formerly Guayakí) CEO Ben Mand about the rebrand and how it reaffirms the tea maker as the flagbearer for yerba mate in the U.S.
2:30—Lukas updates Brad on the most recent regulatory wins and losses for the intoxicating hemp beverage category. The two discuss how the category is growing online amid a push for closer alignment with beverage alcohol.
6:30 - Ghost has been sued by Mondelēz, which claims that the energy drink brand cannot use the trademarks for Sour Patch Kids, Oreo, Swedish Fish and Chips Ahoy after being acquired by Keurig Dr Pepper.
8:00 - Lukas runs through Celsius’ “slow start” to the year with its Q1 earnings. Brad chimes in with Black Rifle Coffee’s latest quarterly earnings, also representing lower revenue growth.
9:45 - On a lighter note, the duo discusses a comical post from Free Bird canned water’s founder Jay Williams about a recent run-in with McDonald’s Hamburglar.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
On this episode of CPG Week, senior reporters Brad Avery and Lukas Southard walk through the biggest news items of the week. The reporters discuss Guayakí’s rebrand to Yerba Madre, how intoxicating hemp brands have leveraged DTC to grow and a pair of recent earnings reports showing a slow start to the year. Brad and Lukas finish up with a welfare check on Free Bird founder Jay Williams after a playfully disturbing post on LinkedIn.
Show Highlights:
0:20 - Say bye to Guayakí and hello to Yerba Madre. Brad runs through his recent conversation with Yerba Madre (formerly Guayakí) CEO Ben Mand about the rebrand and how it reaffirms the tea maker as the flagbearer for yerba mate in the U.S.
2:30—Lukas updates Brad on the most recent regulatory wins and losses for the intoxicating hemp beverage category. The two discuss how the category is growing online amid a push for closer alignment with beverage alcohol.
6:30 - Ghost has been sued by Mondelēz, which claims that the energy drink brand cannot use the trademarks for Sour Patch Kids, Oreo, Swedish Fish and Chips Ahoy after being acquired by Keurig Dr Pepper.
8:00 - Lukas runs through Celsius’ “slow start” to the year with its Q1 earnings. Brad chimes in with Black Rifle Coffee’s latest quarterly earnings, also representing lower revenue growth.
9:45 - On a lighter note, the duo discusses a comical post from Free Bird canned water’s founder Jay Williams about a recent run-in with McDonald’s Hamburglar.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
No more blue tongues or Flamin’ Hot Cheetos fingers? On this episode, the CPG Week podcast dives into the recent FDA/HHS directive to remove synthetic food dyes from food and beverages. The podcast team discusses the feasibility of the plan and how it could complicate food manufacturing.
Show Highlights:
0:30 - Monica explains the Food and Drug Administration and Health and Human Services’ new directive for manufacturers to voluntarily phase out the use of eight synthetic food dyes by the end of 2026.
2:30 - The group discusses why the proposed timeline for banning these food dyes might be too aggressive for many larger food companies.
5:30 - Pivoting to natural sources will not only force consumers to adjust to a new visual norm but will require a heavy lift for supply chain sourcing.
9:00 - Even as industry groups debate the feasibility and necessity for the directive, the podcast team talks about how many countries and states have already started the process of phasing out these synthetic dyes in the interest of public health.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
On this episode, the CPG Week podcast team embraces its inner sweet tooth and talks indulgent treats. From competitors of Nerds and JELL-O, better-for-you versions of sugary favorites are popping up all over. The team discusses some of the trends driving these new category options before hearing about a new fruit bar from the founder of Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams.
Show Highlights:
0:30 - The team kicks off the podcast with a communal taste test of Rotten’s Gummy Cruncheez in honor of the upcoming Sweets & Snacks Expo next month.
4:30 - Senior reporter Lukas Southard talks about new plant-based jelly brand Oddball. The brand is attempting to seize market share from JELL-O by positioning as a low-sugar, better-for-you version of the jiggly fruit-based snack.
7:45 - Protein is one of the trends reporter Shauna Golden will be tracking when she heads to the Sweets & Snacks Expo. The team discusses how some of these trends are being incorporated into candy and indulgent treats.
10:45 - Freeze-dried candy is another category to watch with larger strategics starting to get into the set.
15:00 - From ice cream to fiber-rich fruit bars. Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous shared what she learned from a conversation with Jeni Britton (founder of Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams) about her new snack bar brand, Floura.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
This week, the podcast team is discussing a pair of funding rounds recently announced by functional beverage brands Culture Pop and Ryl Tea, with highlights from conversations with the businesses’ respective leaders about expansion plans. Next, the CPG Week hosts tackle the topic of vertical farming and the challenges startups are facing as funding dries up.
Show Highlights:
0:30 - Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous points out that this weekend marks a once-in-a-lifetime occurrence: Easter falling on April 20, also known as the stoner’s holiday, 4/20. The team muses on how to celebrate appropriately.
2:50 - Senior reporter Lukas Southard shares insights from his conversation with Culture Pop founder Tom First on the probiotic soda brand’s recent $15 million funding.
8:00 - Time for some Ryl news. Senior reporter Brad Avery explains how the maker of functional canned beverage brand Ryl Tea plans to use its new chunk of change.
13:55 - The team turns its attention to vertical farming, a concept that has struggled to live up to its own hype and the heaps of cash flowing into it early on. Lukas points to a pattern of overinvestment and underperformance across food technology in general.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
This week, the podcast team is turning its attention to how small brands are navigating tariff turmoil. The CPG Week podcast hosts talked with several food and beverage founders about the issues most pressing for their respective businesses amid the rapidly changing environment. From pulling back on trade spend to changing packaging solutions and tariff-related spring sales, emerging brands are getting creative in how they plan to survive a potentially protracted period of import taxes.
Show Highlights:
0:30 - Is Pirate’s Booty on its way back to its founder Rob Ehrlich? At the moment, the brand appears to be staying under Hershey ownership, but Ehrlich continues his nearly two-year campaign hinting that it will be back in the Vegan Rob’s portfolio.
4:15 - Tariffs are all the rage right now, but how are small food and beverage brands dealing with added costs? Senior reporter Brad Avery explained what Just Ice Tea founder Seth Goldman said about his company’s moves to ease the burden of new import taxes.
7:00 - The dynamic nature that tariffs have been announced to the public has caused not only uncertainty but also a fear that demand shock will cause prices to rise steeply.
10:30 - Packaging is a major concern for CPG entrepreneurs because much of it comes from China, which is facing over 100% tariffs currently. For many brands, pivoting to a domestic supplier is not available, leaving limited options to counter elevated costs.
14:00 - There are only so many ways to squeeze cost-savings out of a startup’s supply chain, especially when many of these costs are being felt weeks or months after orders were made.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
In this episode, the CPG Week team discusses industry and regulatory efforts to define and restrict ultraprocessed foods in the U.S. food supply. Spoiler alert: There’s a lot of gray area.
Show Highlights:
0:30 - Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous declares April Fools’ the worst day of the year. The group discusses a few of the best and worst brand pranks.
3:00 - Assistant managing editor-Newsletters Adrianne DeLuca details efforts by the Food Integrity Collective to develop guardrails around the designation of non-ultraprocessed food.
5:45 - Senior reporter Brad Avery cites the nutritional differences between raw potatoes and Pringles to explain the impact of processing.
8:45 - What policies are in the works at the state and federal levels to restrict ultraprocessed foods? The group discusses recently passed bans on certain food additives and why a state-by-state patchwork could create major headaches for food manufacturers.
14:20 - Brad and Adrianne point out the challenges that lie ahead for a largely deregulatory administration seeking to regulate ultraprocessed foods while conducting mass layoffs across the agencies involved.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
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In this episode:
On this episode, the CPG Week team discusses Bain & Company’s Insurgent Brands class of 2025. The group goes through similarities among new insurgent brands and how operators can derive successful growth strategies from Bain’s yearly list.
Show Highlights:
0:30 - It’s March Madness, so the podcasters chat about college hoops and Kellogg’s bracket challenge where a lucky contestant could win a year’s supply of one of the company’s cereal brands.
3:30 - Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous introduces how Bain classifies its Insurgent Brands list and what a scaling insurgent brand means.
7:15 - In many ways, the Insurgent Brands list is a temperature gauge of certain CPG categories and can be a bellwether of successful growth strategies.
8:45 - Eighteen of the brands in this year’s class of insurgent brands were also part of Bain’s emerging brands category. In total, there were 103 emerging brands this year.
11:00 – Monica and senior reporter Brad Avery point out that this list has grown over the years, showing not only trendsetting but also the pace of growth in many categories.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
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In this episode:
On this episode of CPG Week, the team unpacks PepsiCo’s unsurprising acquisition of better-for-you soda brand Poppi. The podcasters break down what is known so far and what might be on the horizon for the gut-health soda set as a result of the deal.
Show Highlights:
1:00 - Diving right in, the CPG Week team launches into PepsiCo’s acquisition of Poppi. What does the “Popsi” deal, as Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous calls it, mean for the category moving forward?
4:00 - The group discusses how this changes the trajectory of other soda strategics like Coca-Cola in the category.
7:30 - Senior reporter Lukas Southard flags how the deal could shift the category deeper into foodservice where competitor Olipop has been investing heavily.
10:15 - Can Poppi continue to be cool within a large beverage conglomerate’s system? The podcast team discusses why Poppi has succeeded in making itself one of the most recognizable brands in the better-for-you soda set and whether it can maintain that image.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
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We're launching something BIG at BevNET, NOSH, and Brewbound, and you're invited to be the first to see it! Introducing Nombase — a new digital community and directory built for the CPG world. Nombase connects CPG professionals with trusted industry partners, AI-powered insights, timely conversations, company announcements, and job opportunities — all in one place. Join us for an exclusive overview, product demo, and info on how to take advantage of what Nombase has to offer you.
In this episode:
Hot honey, hot pink totes and hot takes. The CPG Week team is back from Anaheim and ready to discuss all the new things they saw at the yearly Natural Products Expo West show. From bubbling trends to maturing categories, the podcast hosts discuss protein popping up in everything, meat snacks, a further distancing from seed oils, next-gen sodas and the surprising innovation tasted within the convention halls.
Show Highlights:
0:30 - BevNET has launched its latest platform, Nombase, a centralized hub for the CPG industry with resources like a directory of over 10,000 brands and partners, job boards and a new place to post important company announcements.
2:15 - The team jumps into its Expo West recap discussing “Big Kefir,” protein snacks and surprising (and unsurprising) brand collaborations.
9:30 - Senior reporter Brad Avery talks about saturation of the better-for-you soda set and his impressions of Perfy’s Pepperoni Pizza and Cherry Cola flavors.
12:00 - The CPG Week hosts share what they heard from stakeholders about the impact of tariffs, supply chain issues and inflation they are expecting this year.
16:30 - One hot take being echoed in the wake of Expo West was a lack of innovation on the floor. The podcasters share the best innovations they tasted including candy-flavored dates, new bao buns and instant scrambled egg cups.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
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In this episode:
The annual Natural Products Expo West trade show might spell tired feet and too much hand sanitizer for some, but it’s also one of the biggest events for new product unveils and a chance to take the temperature of the CPG industry. The podcast team discusses what they are looking out for at this year’s show.
Show Highlights:
0:45 - Along with treadmill weight-training and chugging kombucha, the CPG Week team talks about how they are preparing for this week’s big show.
3:30 - Senior reporter Lukas Southard will be checking in on meat snack makers while also checking out the new better-for-you snack brand Wild Fox Foods, launched by the founders of Kevin’s Natural Foods.
5:00 - Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous will be keeping an eye out for some of the trends the team has been tracking in the last year including GLP-1 companions and seed oil-free products.
6:30 - Amid an uncertain trade landscape, senior reporter Brad Avery will be tracking what brands are saying about looming tariffs.
For more ways to prepare, check out last year’s Unofficial Guide to Expo West:
- Surviving (And Thriving) at Expo West: An Investor’s Perspective
- The ABCs of Expo West
- How to Stay Healthy, Safe and Sane at Expo West
- Expo Etiquette: From Hawkeye to Hijack
- No Booth? No Problem: Backpacking at Expo West
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
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In this episode:
The CPG Week team discusses the launch of a new soda line from sparkling water maker Spindrift just a month after its sale to a private equity group. Then, the group digs into the details of Celsius Holdings’ $1.8 billion acquisition of competitor Alani Nu and examines how the deal could impact distribution in the energy drink category as well as what the sale spells for prior owner (and PRIME maker) Congo Brands.
Show Highlights:
0:30 - Pepperoni pizza soda – sip or spit? The group opines on Perfy’s limited-edition savory soft drink and why flavor novelty is a solid strategy for standing out in a crowded segment.
3:55 - And speaking of soda… Spindrift SODA is finally here. BevNET and Nosh senior reporter Brad Avery details the latest launch from sparkling water brand Spindrift just a month after its acquisition by Gryphon Investors.
7:40 - Celsius Holdings is set to acquire competitor Alani Nu for a cool $1.8 billion. Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous ponders how these two female-positioned beverage brands will benefit from the deal.
8:45 - Brad charts Alani Nu’s performance in the energy drink category compared to other emerging players.
9:10 - BevNET and Nosh senior reporter Lukas Southard questions how the deal will impact distribution, and Brad analyzes what the sale means for Alani Nu’s previous owner Congo Brands.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
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In this episode:
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is already making his mark on the food system just days after his confirmation as secretary of Health and Human Services. The CPG Week team discusses the big industry issues to watch during his tenure and some of the fallout already underway at the FDA.
While some of his ideas have pulled bipartisan support – like eliminating ultraprocessed foods and chemical additives from the food supply – these positions will put Kennedy in direct opposition with the interests of industry leaders and even that of the administration that selected him for the role.
Show Highlights:
0:30 - Could buying in Bitcoin protect chocolate makers amid the cocoa pricing chaos. BevNET and Nosh senior reporter Brad Avery explains why Mid-Day Squares is dabbling in cryptocurrency to secure its supply.
3:15 - BevNET and Nosh assistant managing editor Adrianne DeLuca shares why the head of FDA’s Human Foods program abandoned his post after just 18 months.
4:30 - Ultraprocessed foods are a hot button issue with Kennedy at the helm of the health department. Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous ponders how removing additives from the food supply could worsen already sky-high grocery prices.
7:30 - Raw milk has entered the chat. The group debates its origins and concerns about its safety.
10:30 - How are industry trade groups and leaders reacting to Kennedy’s appointment? It’s a bit mixed.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
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In this episode:
Who doesn’t want a personal vending machine in their garage? The CPG Week talks about poppi’s recent publicity stunt and the backlash that has ensued before exploring how the CPG industry is evolving with convenience stores.
A recent CoBank report highlighted how foodservice is making an impact with consumers in c-stores. The CPG Week team explores how the channel is offering fresh opportunities and new challenges to food and beverage brands.
Show Highlights:
0:30 - There have been a lot of opinions about poppi’s vending machine marketing campaign that launched during the Super Bowl last weekend. The CPG Week team gives its takes.
4:15 - Brad explains what he learned from a recent CoBank report about foodservice in the convenience channel. The group discusses how CPG brands are evolving with a shift in consumer buying behavior in the channel.
7:00 - How are next-generation brands adjusting strategy to better align with how consumers are using c-stores as food destinations as opposed to just a snack stop while filling the gas tank?
9:20 - Operating in the convenience channel is different than grocery retail. How are CPG operators prioritizing their distribution to meet a brand’s target audience? What does this mean for the larger food and beverage companies?
13:15 - The team discusses how the evolution of convenience stores towards better-for-you brands represents a recent shift in consumer behavior.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
Remember the U.S. craft distillers' consternation over a potential trade war? The CPG Week team is joined by BevNET Editor-in-Chief Jeff Klineman to understand how tariffs are impacting nearly all of the CPG industry after a whirlwind Monday paused the 25% import taxes on Mexican and Canadian products.
After a quick discussion about Super Bowl food and beverage choices, the group unravels how CPG brands from spirits to food makers to contract manufacturers are preparing for an uncertain future.
Show Highlights:
0:30 - This Sunday marks the annual February tradition of drinking beer and eating Buffalo wings while watching advertisements and famous musicians perform in the middle of a field (plus a bit of football). The group discusses whether they will be noshing on Kansas City BBQ or Philly cheesesteaks during the Super Bowl.
4:20 - Jeff explains why tariffs are an especially important topic for many U.S. CPG brands. He explains that it is not just concerning from a cost perspective but also impacts the long-term sales of American products abroad.
7:30 - It goes deeper than raw ingredient sourcing for many brands but reverberates in other aspects of manufacturing like the equipment and machine parts that U.S. suppliers buy from China, Mexico and Canada.
9:30 - Brad talks about how potential tariffs could impact U.S. producers with aluminum pricing which is largely sourced from China and Canada.
11:00 - How are international brands reacting to the looming trade war? Some Canadian startups are weighing moving operations to the U.S. Jeff shares insights from supply chain experts about how brands can adapt to a fluid import environment.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
It’s likely not news to anyone who has bought groceries in the last two years that food costs are up. Due to environmental issues, supply chain challenges, tariffs and demand, eggs have become a quintessential example of why costs at the checkout will likely continue to be higher than most consumers would prefer. Household staples like eggs, cocoa and coffee are quickly turning into nonessentials for many grocery shoppers as inflation continues to plague the industry.
Show Highlights:
0:30 - Do sour candy and pickles mix? Monica asks the team if they would “chew or spew” Van Holten’s expanded LTO partnership with Warheads candy.
3:15 - Why are eggs so expensive these days and how is it reflective of the broader topic of grocery inflation? The team dives into why eggs might be expensive forever.
6:30 - How will the high cost of eggs and other household staples cause ripple effects throughout consumer buying behavior? The podcasters explain why prices won’t likely fall but might stabilize.
10:00 - It’s not just eggs that have been on an expensive rollercoaster ride. Coffee, cocoa and many other commodity shortages are impacting how CPG brands and consumers are adjusting to dynamic prices.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
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In this episode:
In this episode, the CPG Week podcast team discusses the emerging trends spotted on the show floor at the final Winter Fancy Food Show and why the Specialty Food Association is replacing the long-running tradeshow with a new event next year. Then, the group talks about the adult non-alcoholic beverage category, including sales data and standout brands.
Show Highlights:
0:30 - Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous recaps the trends from the Winter Fancy Food Show and explains why the Specialty Food Association is retiring the event after a nearly five-decade run.
10:00 - Senior reporter Lukas Southard discusses his Damp January and shares NIQ data on the adult non-alcoholic beverage category.
11:45 - Senior reporter Brad Avery details his experience with the growing sober-curious movement and highlights a mass market retailer expanding its assortment of booze-free beverages.
13:50 - The group debates the pronunciation of a new celebrity-founded brand in the near-beer segment.
15:40 - The Surgeon General denounces alcohol as “one of the leading preventable causes of cancer.” Will this lead to a decrease in consumption?
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
In this episode, the CPG Week podcast team covers four acquisitions in food and beverage including Spindrift’s anticipated sale and the unexpected new owner of Simple Mills.
To start the show, the team discusses how the likely ban of TikTok will affect CPG brands. The group moves on to talk through recent acquisitions of Spindrift, Simple Mills, Sauer Brands and Yerbae. The podcast explains what these deals mean for the brands being acquired and how they fit into the portfolios of their new owners.
Show Highlights:
0:30 - With U.S. operations of TikTok likely to shut down on January 19, many CPG brands will lose an important platform for new customer acquisition. The team discusses what this means for emerging brands and how they might pivot.
4:30 - Senior reporter Brad Avery walks the group through Gryphon Investors’ acquisition of Spindrift and why this exit was a long time coming.
6:45 - Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous explains why better-for-you snack brand Simple Mills might be a good fit for baked goods and bread company Flowers Foods.
10:00 - Moving onto spices and condiments, senior reporter Lukas Southard gives an overview of Advent International’s purchase of Duke’s Mayo and Mateo’s Gourmet Salsa maker Sauer Brands from Falfurrias Capital Partners.
11:45 - Lastly, Brad goes through Safety Shot’s acquisition of sparkling caffeinated beverage brand Yerbae, explaining why the deal could breathe needed energy into the yerba mate drink maker.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
On this episode of CPG Week, the podcast dives into the revival of nostalgic beverage brands, the implications of California’s fight against ultra-processed foods and one beverage co-packer’s abrupt plant closure.
Odwalla is the latest beverage brand getting a reunion tour thanks to a legacy beverage maker. Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous and senior reporters Lukas Southard and Brad Avery discuss the strategy behind resurrecting failed brands with new value propositions. The team goes on to discuss what it means that California will be investigating the adverse health impacts of ultra-processed foods and synthetic dyes. The podcast wraps up with a briefing on what is known about the closure of Joriki Beverages’ Pennsylvania production facility.
Show Highlights:
0:30 - Slice, Jolt Cola and, most recently, Odwalla are all getting a chance to return to shelves after being discontinued. Brad explains Mexican beverage producer Grupo Jumex’s plan to bring back the former Coca-Cola-owned juice and smoothie brand.
5:30 - Do brands need to be revived or did they fail for a reason? The group discusses if nostalgia is enough to create lasting success and why there is momentum behind this resurrection trend.
9:00 - Lukas explains the recent executive order from California’s governor targeting ultra-processed foods. The CPG Week team discusses how the directive calling for state agencies to investigate ultra-processed products and synthetic food dyes will impact the larger CPG industry.
15:45 - Brad tells the team what he has learned so far about the sudden closure of a Pennsylvania co-packing facility owned by Canada-based Joricki Beverages.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
In this episode, the CPG Week team goes back through some of the trends they tracked in 2024 while looking ahead to predictions and issues to watch in the new year.
Kicking off a discussion on 2024 trends, senior reporter Brad Avery starts with an update on the energy drink category and its evolution over the past year. Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous explains how consumer interest in GLP-1 drugs has impacted food and beverage. Senior reporter Lukas Southard talks private label prioritization and how it relates to inflation.
The team goes on to look ahead with predictions about 2025 trends to watch, including an emphasis on seed oil-free products, consolidation, and the impact of tariffs and inflation on the CPG industry.
Show Highlights:
0:30 - Energy drinks continue to dominate the beverage category with renewed strength behind women-positioned options. This time last year, big CPG companies were wringing their hands over the impact of GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic or Wegovy, but 2024 brought a slew of brands positioned toward the opportunity in the weight-loss consumer group.
4:00 - Whether it’s Walmart’s bettergoods or Amazon Saver, private label is on the rise with no sign of slowing. The team discusses how retailers like CVS are bringing new energy with its new Well Market store brand and what it means long term for retail.
6:45 - It’s often difficult to make bold predictions for the coming year, but the CPG Week hosts discuss how a minor trend like no seed oils might bubble up in 2025 and how it aligns with a growing rancor about ultra-processed foods.
9:00 - The group also predicts a continuation of the M&A activity witnessed in 2024, how potential tariffs and inflation could impact the industry, and why Monica is calling 2025 the Year of Ranch.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
The CPG Week team is capping the year with a discussion about BevNET and Nosh Best of 2024 Awards, which were announced during the live events in early December. Senior reporter Lukas Southard reveals a behind-the-scenes glimpse of the selection process and explains why Olipop and Poppi were both celebrated as BevNET’s Brand of the Year. Next, senior reporter Brad Avery points to a few rising stars, including Nguyen Coffee Supply and Barcode. Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous wraps up the conversation with standouts of the Nosh Best of 2024 Awards, including Brand of the Year Good Culture and Best Marketing Campaign award winner Fishwife.
Show Highlights:
0:50 - Team Olipop or Team Poppi? Lukas highlights why – for the first time ever – two companies received BevNET’s Brand of the Year designation.
5:00 - Which adult non-alcoholic brands bubbled to the top? Brad and Lukas shine a light on several standouts, including Brez, Recess, Little Saints and Lapos.
9:15 - Brad and Monica examine the parallels between the BevNET Person of the Year and Nosh Person of the Year award winners, respectively, David Crooch of Ritual Beverage Co. and Miguel Garza of Siete Foods.
11:25 - Monica rattles off the winners of Nosh Rising Stars honors and explains why they stood out among a strong slate of nominees.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
Fresh off of BevNET Live in Marina del Rey, Calif., the CPG Week podcast team jumps right back into the big M&A stories of the week. Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous walks the group through the Kroger-Albertsons failed merger and the fallout from it. Then, the team goes on to talk about Mondelēz’s second attempt to acquire Hershey. Finally, senior reporter Lukas Southard describes frozen potato product maker Lamb Weston’s recent problems and potential acquisition suitors.
NOTE: This episode was recorded before news broke of Post Holdings’ acquisition of Potato Products of Idaho.
Show Highlights:
0:30 - The CPG Week team recap their favorite moments from BevNET Live Winter 2024, which wrapped up last week.
4:30 - Find out how the planned merger of Kroger and Albertsons finally fell apart, why it’s not too surprising and what happens now.
9:45 - For the second time, Mondelēz has made an offer to acquire Hershey, and once again the deal has been rejected. Monica explains what has happened so far and why it might not have been such a bad deal for the chocolate maker, which is facing steep cocoa prices.
12:45 - Lukas tells the team about frozen potato food maker Lamb Weston’s struggles with activist investors and a class action lawsuit – and why it is drawing the attention of potential acquirers.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
Nosh Live might have wrapped up last Friday in Marina Del Rey, Calif., after multiple days packed with great presentations, lively conversations and amazing networking opportunities. The CPG Week team sat down earlier in the week to chat about all their favorite moments from the two-day event. Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous and senior reporters Brad Avery and Lukas Southard talked about the Pitch Slam, the speakers and the new tattoos some team members got on their day off.
Show Highlights:
0:30 - The podcast kicks off with the hosts’ general impressions of the two-day conference including their love of Lexington Bakes brownies, POM Wonderful’s ingredient innovation and tattoos.
4:30 - The group talks about some of the Pitch Slam presentations. They discuss common themes in the brand pitches and some of the feedback founders received from the judges.
9:45 - The team discusses how there was a common theme running through many panels and on-stage content that spoke to platforming as well as when and how to bring innovation to market in a company’s lifecycle.
17:00 - The podcast finishes up with a quick chat about Lukas’ newfound appreciation for Erewhon’s exorbitantly priced smoothies.
About CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
It’s that time of year and the red-and-white is not in honor of Santa’s impending sleigh ride around the world. It’s time for BevNET Live and the CPG Week podcast team took some time out of preparing for both Nosh Live and BevNET Live to discuss some of the exciting speakers and panels taking place Dec. 8 and 9 in Marina Del Rey, Calif. Along with respective speaker discussions focused on retailing THC beverages and innovative marketing strategies, the team also talks about buying expensive Erewhon smoothies and getting tattoos.
For listeners looking to tune into either Nosh Live or BevNET, both events will be live-streamed online or available on-demand for Insiders.
About the CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
The CPG Week podcast has taken the week off to celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday.
Stay tuned next week for a teaser of Nosh Live on Dec. 5-6 and BevNET Live Dec. 8-10 in Marina Del Rey, California. Both events will be live-streamed online or available on-demand for Insiders.
About the CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
On CPG Week, the podcast team talks about Danone’s repeated attempts to acquire kefir brand Lifeway Foods and a pending lawsuit pitting an ice cream brand against its parent company.
The podcast begins with a conversation about Pizza Hut, tomato wine and why Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous has a soft spot for the pizza chain’s salad bar. The team goes on to discuss Danone North America’s offers to acquire kefir brand Lifeway Foods and how it relates to the family battle surrounding the company. Then, the hosts discuss a lawsuit filed by Ben & Jerry’s against its owner, Unilever.
Show Highlights:
0:30 - The group discusses the potential drinkability of Pizza Hut’s Pizza Wine launch and Brad’s love of banana pepper and pineapple-laden pies.
3:30 - Lukas explains the back-and-forth that has taken place in the last two months between Lifeway Foods and its minority shareholder Danone North America, which has offered two bids to acquire the kefir brand.
5:15 - Brad provides some background on the feud between Lifeway’s controlling family, the Smolyanskys.
7:15 - The team discusses why Lifeway Foods thinks Danone’s offers are undervaluing the probiotic dairy company. (Since recording the episode, Lifeway has rejected the second acquisition offer).
9:00 - Monica describes why Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream is suing its parent company Unilever and how it sets up a fraught conversation over business versus mission in relation to the war in Gaza.
About the CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
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In this episode:
On CPG Week, the podcast team talks about the impact of Hurricane Helene on North Carolina CPG businesses and a slate of small brands shutting down.
Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous and senior reporter Lukas Southard are joined by reporter Adrianne DeLuca this week in a conversation that begins with a look at how businesses are picking up the pieces after hurricane season. Then, the group walks through the most recent CPG business closures before a brief discussion about how inclusive hiring practices can build stronger workforces.
Show Highlights:
0:30 - The team talks about what they are excited for as they prepare for BevNET and Nosh Live in less than a month.
2:00 - It’s been about a month and half since Hurricane Helene devastated the southern Appalachia region. Learn how some CPG companies have tried to restart operations and rebuild their businesses after flooding, lack of utilities and downed trees impacted the local economy.
8:45 - Adrianne explains what happened at plant-based meat company No Evil and vertical farming operation Bowery Farms, which both announced they were closing recently.
10:30 - The closures also come as frozen treat maker Marco has shut down operations after a recall at its co-manufacturing facility created too many challenges to overcome. Monica goes on to compare these shutdowns to a recent report from SciFi Foods former founders called Graceful Exit.
13:00 - On a more positive side, Adrianne discusses her story about inclusive hiring practices implemented by some CPG companies.
About the CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
On CPG Week, the podcast team talks about Celsius’ aspirations to go vertical and a variety of smaller acquisitions across food that nod to trends in M&A markets.
The group starts by discussing Celsius’ acquisition of the brand’s manufacturing partner Big Beverage’s production facility. Then, the group goes on to dive into acquisitions across various food categories, from protein bars to pizza dough. They discuss why these deals represent a growing trend of scaling through consolidation.
Show Highlights:
0:30 - The team discussed beverage samples from House of Cha, Bear n’ Beaver and Magic Cactus.
4:30 - How do energy brands compete in an increasingly crowded category? Senior reporter Brad Avery explains why Celsius’ answer is vertical integration with the acquisition of Big Beverage’s North Carolina manufacturing facility.
7:30 - In the past week, senior reporter Lukas Southard wrote about two acquisition deals: FITCRUNCH was added to 1440 Foods’ portfolio and Pipcorn and Spudsy came together in a new entity called UpSnack Brands.
11:15 - Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous and Brad go over two other deals involving Del Real Foods and DeIorio Foods, respectively.
13:00 - The group discusses why these various deals show a trend in M&A markets. Monica shares how that relates to insight given in a recent CoBank report.
About the CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
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In this episode:
On CPG Week, the podcast team talks about Keurig Dr Pepper’s (KDP) acquisition of GHOST Energy, Olipop’s sports sponsorship ambitions and a look at Whole Foods Market’s Trend Forecast.
After briefly discussing Thanksgiving side dishes, the CPG Week team unpacks KDP’s nearly $1 billion deal to acquire GHOST. Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous and senior reporters Brad Avery and Lukas Southard discuss how this deal could change the energy drink category and distribution partnerships. The team moves on to Olipop’s growing portfolio of sports team partnerships and how it is becoming a formula for disrupting a category. Monica wraps up the show with a brief explanation of the Whole Foods 2025 trends list.
Show Highlights:
0:30 - Is lighting a candle scented as green bean casserole the best way to usher in the holiday season? The team debates Thanksgiving dishes and whether they should be part of Campbell’s new holiday-themed candle campaign.
1:45 - Brad explains why the news of KDP acquiring GHOST was somewhat surprising and how this fits into the beverage maker’s aim to build a suite of energy drinks and supplements.
4:45 - What does this deal mean for distribution in the energy category and the current appetite for bigger M&A deals?
7:30 - Prebiotic soda brand Olipop has lined up a series of sports partnerships with professional teams and in arenas and stadiums. The group discusses why these deals are becoming a common avenue for emerging brands to gain awareness while also testing the waters by going head-to-head with Big Soda strategics.
14:00 - What trends will shape 2025? Monica runs through Whole Foods Market’s list of predictions.
About the CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
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In this episode:
On CPG Week, the podcast team talks about a bubbling controversy in boba, Jack Owoc’s return to energy and an update from this year’s National Association of Convenience Stores’ (NACS) yearly conference.
This week, senior reporters Brad Avery and Lukas Southard were joined by BevNET managing editor Martín Caballero. The group starts the podcast talking about how actor Simu Liu sparked a viral conversation about cultural appropriation centered on bubble tea. The podcasters go on to chat about Jack Owoc’s new caffeinated beverage Ai Energy. Marty goes on to discuss some of the trends he was tracking at this year’s NACS show in Las Vegas.
Show Highlights:
0:30 - Boba takes center stage in a conversation about appropriation versus appreciation. Lukas explains why an episode of Canada’s “Dragon’s Den” television show with Simu Liu sparked the debate. Brad and Marty weigh in on why this is not the first nor the last time the team will discuss the issue.
8:30 - Brad details former Bang Energy founder Jack Owoc’s new AI-powered energy beverage.
11:00 - How is coffee blending into the energy category? Marty shares what he saw in this trend at this year’s NACS show and why it is telling of the ceiling in RTD coffee.
16:30 - Along with energy drinks, Marty also saw a lot happening in carbonated soft drinks at the show. He explains why better-for-you soda is driving innovation in the category.
About the CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
On CPG Week, the podcast team talks about how retaliatory tariffs are plaguing the export market for American craft distillers.
Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous and senior reporters Lukas Southard and Brad Avery are joined by special guest BevNET spirits editor Ferron Salniker to discuss a recent feature she wrote about how craft distillers have been pulled into a long simmering trade war. The group discusses the history of export taxes on American-made products, the impending reinstatement of various tariffs that impact liquor makers and what the potential impact could be on smaller producers.
Show Highlights:
0:30 - What does an espresso turkey-tini taste like? The group discussed their thoughts on the Thanksgiving-themed marketing campaign from Reynolds Wrap.
2:00 - As the presidential election comes to a head, both campaigns are talking about tariffs. Ferron explains why this conversation is especially important for the country’s craft distilling industry.
4:45 - Ferron explains how craft distillers are preparing for the tariffs to go back into effect in March 2025 and how it relates to a series of retaliatory tariffs that have rocked global exports of spirits among many other products unrelated to beverage.
10:15 - How does this relate to an overstock of American whiskey and the increased demand that has developed over the last decade? Ferron helps the team understand the complicated relationship between craft distillers and the economics of operating in the export market.
About the CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
On CPG Week, the podcast team talks about the PepsiCo acquisition of Siete Foods, uncertainty about the future of a low-carbohydrate baking company and some high-profile beverage industry leadership changes.
The podcast hosts jump into the biggest deal of the last couple of weeks: Pepsi announcing its intent to acquire Mexican American, grain-free food maker Siete. After discussing how Siete’s new potential owners might grow and change the brand, the CPG Week team tries to unravel rumors circulating around better-for-you baking company BetterBrand. Finishing up the podcast, senior reporter Brad Avery goes through the latest leadership changes at enhanced water brand Lemon Perfect and canned water maker Liquid Death.
Show Highlights:
0:30 - The group discusses one of the stranger Halloween-themed marketing stunts: an Airheads candy scented foot spray.
2:00 - Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous goes through what we know so far about the proposed acquisition of Siete Foods by snack and beverage strategic PepsiCo. The team walks through what this could mean for the brand and what it has come to represent to consumers.
7:30 - Senior reporter Lukas Southard explains the rumors surrounding BetterBrand and the conflicting signals Nosh has been hearing about its delays in deliveries.
12:20 - Turning to beverages, Brad walks the team through some leadership moves at insurgent drink makers Lemon Perfect and Liquid Death.
About the CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
On CPG Week, the podcast team talks about a number of lawsuits across food and beverage including another chapter in the PB&J wars and a couple deceptive labeling complaints for growing brands.
Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous kicked off the episode highlighting her hometown football team’s star athletes’ various food and beverage brands. The podcast hosts go on to talk about the bubbling battle between J.M. Smucker’s Uncrustables brand and emerging competitor Chubby Snacks. Then, senior reporter Lukas Southard explains why a three-year-old class action lawsuit against Flowers Foods’ Dave’s Killer Bread is back in the news, before the team discusses the latest lawsuit to hit better-for-you soda brand Poppi.
Show Highlights:
0:30 - Starting with the Kelce brothers’ Garage Beer brand and moving onto their “Kelce Mix” cereal in partnership with General Mills, the group talked about athlete-endorsed food and beverage and why electrolytes might not belong in RTD coffee.
4:00 - The team discusses the most recent lawsuit from J.M. Smucker aimed at Chubby Snacks and why it relates to “healthy” food labeling.
10:00 - Lukas explains what is happening with a multiyear class action lawsuit against Dave’s Killer Bread’s protein claims and why there seems to be more of these types of cases being brought against CPG brands. Hint: There’s one law firm throwing a lot of fuel on the fire.
12:15 - Brad relates this all to soda maker Poppi’s multiple deceptive labeling lawsuits leading to a discussion about how much these various lawsuits relate to the products’ perceived health benefits and how much that is driving sales.
About the CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
On CPG Week, the podcast team talks about Peter Rahal’s newest protein bar release, the PRIME and Feastables kid-focused Lunchly partnership, and how these two products relate to consumers' differentiated value demands from ingredients and nutrition.
Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous kicks off the podcast asking if senior reporters Brad Avery and Lukas Southard would try one of Peter Rahal’s new products: Hormbles Chormbles. Next, the group talks about Rahal’s other new brand, high-protein snack bar David. The team goes through some of the debate surrounding David’s ingredient list and how Rahal is taking a different approach to snack bars from his previous brand RXBAR. The podcast goes on to talk about a new entrant in kids lunch kits, Lunchly, which has paired influencer-led brands PRIME with MrBeast’s Feastables.
Show Highlights:
0:30 - What’s a Hormbles Chormbles, and how is it connected to the recently launched David protein bar?
3:15 - After teasing the well-publicized launch of RXBAR founder Peter Rahal’s return to the bar category with its 28-gram option David, the team talks about the conversation happening around the brand’s ingredients.
6:15 - The group goes on to discuss how this product seems to be focused on a target consumer who is prioritizing macronutrients like protein over clean label ingredient decks.
12:00 - Brad explains a new co-branded product entering kids lunch products, Lunchly. The group debates how influencer marketing is impacting this category and whether this is a release valve for brands needing a new product to drive growth.
About the CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
On CPG Week, the podcast team talks co-branding, energy drink and protein supplement licensing with sweets makers, and the evolution of cannabis in sports and recovery drinks.
Kicking off the podcast, Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous shares that she is a fan of the new Oreo and Coca-Cola co-branded products, leading to the group sharing what two CPG products they would like to see paired up. The topic leads to a conversation about energy drink maker C4’s announcement that it was partnering with Hershey’s on a line of co-branded products. The discussion of candy and indulgent flavors in fitness products carries over into what is happening in the cannabis-infused sports and hydration categories.
Show Highlights:
0:30 - Oreo-flavored Coke or Coke-flavored Oreos? There is something for everyone. The CPG Week hosts share their ideal co-branded products.
3:00 - Senior reporter Brad Avery discusses why Jolly Rancher-flavored energy drinks might be showing up in convenience stores soon thanks to the licensing partnership between Hershey and Nutrabolt’s C4 brand.
7:30 - The team chats about why indulgent and candy flavors seem to be doing so well in the sports performance category.
9:00 - What happened to CBD in hydration and recovery products? Senior reporter Lukas Southard tells the group about his feature on cannabis sports drinks and why there seems to be more low-dose THC popping up in the category.
About the CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
On CPG Week, the podcast team explores the uphill battle for industrial hemp food and beverage brands as individual states enact restrictions, a juice category merger and the growing snack portfolio of Our Home.
Before jumping into the week’s news, Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous gives senior reporters Lukas Southard and Brad Avery a pumpkin spiced quiz. Then, the group discusses the implications of California’s new regulations on the hemp industry. Next, Brad explains how the merger of Perricone Farms and Natalie's Orchid Island Juice Company provides synergies for both brands to grow. Finally, the podcasters take a look at Our Home’s recent additions to its portfolio and talk about why its shift into more conventional brands could be a smart move.
Show Highlights:
0:30 - To pumpkin spice or not to spice? Monica tests Brad and Lukas’ pumpkin spice knowledge with a quiz about past and present CPG products that have taken on the harvest season’s favorite flavor.
3:30 - Last Friday, California became the latest state to rein in the hemp-derived cannabinoid industry by issuing an executive emergency action restricting the sale of hemp-derived food and beverage. Lukas explains how this move is different from other states' approaches to regulation and what it means for the broader cannabis industry.
10:45 - In the juice category, two mid-sized companies have joined forces. Brad explains how the merger of Perricone Farms and Natalie’s Orchid Island Juice Company will bring value to both brands.
13:30 - Snack company Our Home is on a tear, acquiring Pop Secret from the Campbell Soup Company and ParmCrisps from Hain Celestial Group in about a week. The podcast team discusses how Our Home is positioning as a new snacking empire.
About the CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
On the episode of CPG Week, the team discusses the social chatter around Foxtrot’s reopening, insights from the first Newtopia Now and the state of the non-alcoholic wine category.
To kick off the episode, Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous and senior reporters Brad Avery and Lukas Southard discuss the reopening of the newly dubbed Foxtrot Café & Market and how some louder voices on social media are not thrilled about its return. Monica goes on to talk about a successful unveiling of New Hope Network’s Newtopia Now. The podcast finishes with Lukas explaining the challenges and successes in alcohol-removed wines and how it represents broader issues in adult non-alc.
Show Highlights:
0:30 - Foxtrot reopened this week and some of the discourse around its return has focused on former suppliers and employees still waiting for compensation from unpaid invoices and hours.
4:45 - Monica tells the team about her trip to Colorado for the inaugural Newtopia Now and the general reaction from exhibitors and attendees.
12:30 - While there has been innovation in the NA wine category it still remains one of the hardest alcohol-free beverage categories to get right. Lukas explains what he learned reporting about alcohol-removed wines.
About the CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
On the episode of CPG Week, the team conducts a wide-ranging, mid-year quiz related to some of the quirkier elements of the industry this year.
Joined by BevNET Editor-in-Chief Jeff Klineman, the podcast hosts — Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous and senior reporters Lukas Southard and Brad Avery — all came to the show with a trivia question to test each other’s news knowledge. The questions ranged from butter statues of famous athletes and food culture celebrity biopics to Pop-Tarts and “Brat Summer.”
Show Highlights:
0:30 - As Labor Day ushers in the unofficial end of school break, the group shares their personal favorite snacks of the summer with a nod to the impending “pumpkin spice” season.
3:30 - Jeff kicks off the quiz with a multiple-choice question addressing the overlap of food and professional sports.
7:15 - Monica’s question leads to a discussion of the announcement that Mars is acquiring Pop-Tarts maker Kellanova.
14:00 - Ushered in by Charlie XCX’s hit album “Brat,” Brad asks which sausage maker has capitalized on one of the summer’s biggest hashtag trends.
15:30 - Who is the latest food icon to be announced as the subject of a biopic? Spoiler: It's not Guy Fieri, but that might be the group’s favorite option for future biographical films.
About the CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
On this week’s podcast, the team digs into the latest investigative story on how one Small Business Administration (SBA) pandemic loan program has left many companies with few options to grow their businesses in a post-COVID environment.
Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous and senior reporter Brad Avery sit down with their colleague reporter Adrianne DeLuca to talk about her detailed story on the SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) and why it is causing a host of bureaucratic obstacles for CPG businesses.
Show Highlights:
0:30 - Snacks in space? Monica finds out what Brad would choose as his favorite astronaut food.
1:45 - Adrianne walks the team through the two most common loan programs offered by the Small Business Administration — Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) and the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) — and how each had a different structure of what was expected from the loanees.
5:20 - The complexities of what has developed since the early days of COVID has led to a bureaucratic nightmare for many small businesses who took the EIDLs.
11:30 - Is there a way out from under these loans? Adrianne lays out how there isn’t an easy solution to this complex issue and what the SBA is saying to help resolve the issue.
About the CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
On this episode of CPG Week, Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous and senior reporters Lukas Southard and Brad Avery talk about two different retailers’ returns from bankruptcy.
The CPG Week podcasters discuss how there is a differing consensus about the expected returns of Foxtrot and Boisson. While some suppliers seem ready to return to Foxtrot shelves, there appears to be more hesitancy among brands who’ve formerly worked with NA retailer Boisson. In other news, a different low- and no-alcohol retailer gets an endorsement from bev-alc private equity firm in the form of a capital investment.
Show Highlights:
0:30 - Are truffles overrated? HuffPost thinks so; the CPG Week team responds.
1:45 - For Foxtrot founder Mike LaVitola, its return is not a comeback so much as a “totally new company.” The CPG Week group looks at what it means for the next-gen convenience store to return to business both from a brand perspective and from a macro-industry angle.
6:00 - Alternatively, there appears to be some trepidation surrounding the return of non-alcoholic beverage retailer Boisson. Lukas runs through a recent BevNET story that dissected suppliers’ opinions about Boisson’s return in light of the unfinished business and unpaid bills that haven’t been completely addressed.
12:30 - Not all non-alc retailers are struggling to win over brands. Charleston, S.C.-based Sèchey landed investment from InvestBev last week. Brad details how the new capital is an approval of one company’s approach to growing in NA beverages.
About the CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
On this episode of CPG Week, the podcast team talks about “zombie brands,” a rumored mega-merger of snacks and sweets, a recap of earnings, and another lawsuit for PRIME.
Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous and senior reporter Lukas Southard are joined by BevNET managing editor Martín Caballero in a packed episode where they talk about the idea of zombie brands and how it relates to other CPG categories (and Steven Seagal movies?). The group also discusses a rumored acquisition of Kellanova brands by Mars and what this could mean for both food companies. Afterwards, the team goes on to review recent beverage company earnings reports and yet another legal case filed against Logan Paul’s PRIME beverage company.
Show Highlights:
0:30 - Nostalgia is in and the podcast hosts discuss what discontinued CPG products should make a comeback. They share their favorite long-lost items from bubbly beverages to one of the OGs of the bar category.
3:15 - After reading a recent story in Modern Retail focused on the increasing amount of “zombie brands,” the team discusses how this idea relates to alternative meats and its links to the influx of new brands that came out of the pandemic and have since stalled as investment has waned.
8:15 - What could it mean for Kellanova to be acquired by sweets maker Mars and what does this foretell for both companies? The CPG Week podcast jumps into the rumors swirling around these food giants' possible merger.
12:30 - Marty goes over recent earnings from Celsius and BellRing Brands with a look towards how the large strategics are utilizing their distribution networks to buoy revenue.
15:00 - PRIME is in more legal hot water after beverage manufacturer Refresco filed a $67 million lawsuit alleging Logan Paul’s brand backed out of a production deal. Marty goes through this latest suit and what it could mean for others in the energy and sports drink categories.
About the CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
On this episode of CPG Week, the podcast team teases their Nosh Notables honorable mentions, details the latest investment for a fast-growing food brand and discusses the different marketing approaches food brands are taking in the Ozempic Era.
Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous and senior reporters Brad Avery and Lukas Southard talk about Oats Overnight Series B round and how the brand has built a strong consumer base in ecommerce. The team goes on to dive into the Brightfield Group’s exclusive BevNET/Nosh Q2 Report: The GLP-1/Ozempic Craze and reflects on how food brands are marketing around the continuing demand for weight loss solutions related to GLP-1 drugs.
Show Highlights:
0:50 - The team shares their personal honorable mentions for Nosh Notables including a shoutout to Omsom’s founders, the creative mind behind Netflix’s “Unfrosted” and one of leading names in hot honey.
3:00 - Senior reporter Brad Avery talks about Oats Overnight’s recent $35 million investment announced this week. The company appears to be continuing its growth trajectory and resourcing its manufacturing and labor force with the new tranche of capital.
6:45 - Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous explains what was reported in the Brightfield Group’s Q2 dive into GLP-1 drugs and how consumers are responding to weight loss solutions in CPG. The conversation harkens back to previous podcast episodes where the team has discussed the growing trend towards weight loss products and how food and beverage brands are positioning around semaglutide drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy.
About the CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
On this episode of CPG Week, the podcast team talks expensive energy drink-themed accessories, IFT First and the latest legal quandary for Logan Paul’s drink brand, PRIME.
Senior reporter Lukas Southard was in Chicago last week for IFT First where he got an inside look at how trends are incubated by suppliers and tells his co-hosts about the innovative new products on display. Later in the show, senior reporter Brad Avery discusses the new lawsuit filed against PRIME and what it might mean for the company.
Show Highlights:
0:30 - What makes formal attire functional? According to 5-Hour Energy, its caffeinated cufflinks. Learn what Brad thinks about the energy drink’s most recent marketing campaign.
2:30 - Lukas explains what he learned at the Institute of Food Technologists’ yearly expo and how ingredient suppliers shape many of the food trends we see in the market. He explains how weight loss solutions, sweetener alternatives and plant-based ingredients were on full display.
5:50 - From fortified honey to baobab seed pod powder, Lukas tells the team about new products on display at the show before talking about how tracing, certifications and clinical studies were also highlighted at the show.
8:30 - PRIME is in legal hot water again. Brad talks about how the drink maker has raised the ire of the U.S. Olympic Committee and how it is another legal issue facing the insurgent hydration and energy brand.
About the CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
The CPG Week podcast team assembles an arguably strange but balanced breakfast of orange juice, regenerative rice and cottage cheese with the top topics of the week. BevNET and Nosh reporter Adrianne DeLuca shares her findings on the recent cottage cheese craze, senior reporter Brad Avery rehashes his conversation with the CEO of Tropicana Brands Group, and Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous reviews an exclusive report on food and beverage venture funding in the latest quarter.
Show Highlights:
0:30 - Don’t call it a comeback. The group discusses the curious revival of cottage cheese, thanks to some TikTok influencers and Good Culture’s efforts to modernize the category.
5:15 - Brad shares highlights of his conversation with Monica McGurk, CEO of Tropicana Brands Group, on how it aims to “operate like a $3 billion startup.”
8:40 - Monica offers a peek at the exclusive report on food and beverage venture funding compiled by FABID.
9:45 - Adrianne talks about Lotus Foods’ recent $22.5 million raise to expand its System of Rice Intensification process to more farms.
11:35 - Brad details plans for Alliance Consumer Growth’s new $160 million fund. Hint: Food and beverage brands are back in focus for the firm.
About the CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
Back from a long holiday weekend, the CPG Week podcast team got back to work with a quick quiz testing senior reporters Lukas Southard and Brad Avery on interesting new product launches. The team goes on to discuss the stories they wrote for the new series, Nosh Trendlines Report. The five-part series brought insight into recent developments within the CPG food industry focusing on topics like ingredients, retail distribution, operations, marketing and product categories.
Show Highlights:
0:30 - The group plays a quick game of Two Truths And A Lie: CPG Week edition, where Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous questioned her co-hosts with some real and fake product launches.
2:30 - Lukas kicks off a discussion of the new Nosh Trendlines Report series with an explanation of his story focused on production. The group discusses the pros and cons of self-manufacturing and why more emerging companies seem to be taking this route.
7:00 - Brad tells the team about the story he co-wrote with editorial assistant Shauna Golden that focused on the trend of healthspan versus lifespan.
10:00 - In Monica’s Trendlines story, she focused on how natural food brands are moving away from using seed oils and marketing their products around “healthier” oils derived from avocados or olives.
About the CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to cpgweek@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
The CPG Week team is taking a break from the studio for the Fourth of July holiday. Be sure to tune in next week for the latest food and beverage industry news, and in the meantime head over to BevNET and Nosh to read about a new hydration beverage brand, TikTok's entry into alcohol ads, and a special-edition series on the trends shaping the industry.
About the CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to podcast@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
In a jam-packed episode, the CPG Week podcast covers a lot of ground from cannabis to kava with a healthy recap of the Specialty Food Association’s Summer Fancy Food Show from earlier in the week.
To start, senior reporter Brad Avery explains the big news out of the cannabis industry as Curaleaf announced it was entering hemp-derived THC with edibles and beverages available in a new DTC store. Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous and senior reporter Lukas Southard review some of the innovative products and trends they saw in New York City this week at Summer Fancy Food. The team wraps up talking about kava beverages and why the category’s future seems to be intertwined with the slightly more controversial kratom ingredient.
Show Highlights:
0:30 - Curaleaf, marijuana cultivator and dispensary company, is moving into the hemp-derived THC market by launching a new DTC website: thehempcompany.com. Not only could this shake up the regulatory environment but is a statement by a leading cannabis industry stakeholder.
3:30 - Amid the cheese and hot sauce, Monica and Lukas discuss what they saw and tasted while wandering the aisles of the Summer Fancy Food Show. Lukas talks about a brand pairing savory biscuits with adult beverages while Monica snacked on the latest entrant in the freeze-dried trend.
7:10 - The team discusses how texture and experiential snacking are driving innovation by many brands across a multitude of categories including jerky, frozen desserts, sweets and convenience meals.
13:30 - Lukas explains what he learned while reporting on the kava category and why its future as a functional, non-alcoholic alternative is linked to another mood-altering ingredient, kratom.
About the CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to podcast@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
Fresh off of BevNET Live in New York City, the CPG Week team shared the best parts of the summer conference. The group goes on to talk bottled water after two category powerhouses, BlueTriton and Primo Water, announce plans to merge and create the largest producer in the country. In the second half of the show, Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous explains the Omsom’s acquisition by DayDayCook and what it means for how Americans consume Asian-inspired CPG brands.
Show Highlights:
0:30 - What happened at BevNET Live last week? Brad enjoyed trying new products like Uncle Waithley’s Ginger Beer, Lukas ate mushrooms and chatted with various hemp-derived THC brands like BRĒZ, Flyers and Upstate Elevator Supply Co., and Monica went on an expensive shopping spree with BevNET community director Melissa Traverse.
3:20 - Brad explains the implications of the proposed merger of bottled water giants BlueTriton and Primo. The group discusses how this might become not only the largest bottled water conglomerate in the country but also impact politics and policy through its scale.
6:15 - Missed the acquisition news for Omsom? The podcast team dives into how the Pham sisters created something special in their brand of cooking sauces and noodles and how it fits into DayDayCook’s aspirations of becoming the “General Mills of Asian food.”
About the CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to podcast@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
This week, the podcast team of Monica Watrous, Brad Avery and Lukas Southard is joined by BevNET and Nosh reporter Adrianne DeLuca to unpack UNFI’s recently implemented new supplier policy and some less-than-favorable industry reactions.
Show Highlights:
0:50 - Adrianne explains UNFI’s Simplified Supplier Approach (SSA), and she and Lukas share early industry reactions to the policy.
4:35 - Brad ponders whether this is simply a cash grab by the distributor. Who stands to benefit from the new flat rate?
5:50 - Monica reviews highlights from UNFI’s third-quarter earnings report.
About the CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to podcast@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
This week, the podcast team gets ready for BevNET Live in New York City by sharing what they are looking forward to at the summer conference. Then the CPG Week hosts jump into all the legal drama in the industry from the past week. Senior reporter Brad Avery shares the latest from the family power struggle over kefir brand Lifeway Foods. The group talks about gut health claims after Poppi is hit with a class-action lawsuit, and, lastly, the team wades into the claims that General Mills allowed a discriminatory workplace in one of its manufacturing facilities for over two decades.
Show Highlights:
1:40 - Brad explains the legal drama between family members at leading U.S. kefir maker Lifeway Foods and why the most recent development centers on a yet-to-be launched kefir brand created by the Lifeway CEO’s brother.
6:00 - Better-for-you soda maker Poppi has entered the “class action club” as it has been slapped with a lawsuit alleging that the brand’s “gut-friendly” claims are not backed by scientific research on prebiotic fiber benefits.
10:10 - The podcast team discusses the unsettling claims made against General Mills regarding an alleged decades-long environment of racism and discrimination existing at the food giant’s Covington, Ga., production plant.
About the CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to podcast@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
How does artificial intelligence fit into the CPG industry? Senior reporter Brad Avery walks the podcast team through A.I.’s impact on everything in food and beverage from product ideation and formulation to streamlining operations. Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous shares data on the granola segment and the CPG Week group discusses how recent product launches speak to enlivening a staple category. Lastly, the team examines the news that Suja Life has acquired the trademark for former Pepsi soda brand Slice.
Show Highlights:
0:30 - After reminiscing about the ‘90s era game show “Supermarket Sweep,” Monica quizzes Brad and Lukas on CPG trivia from the show (with a little help from BevNET CMO Mike Schneider).
5:20 - Brad talks A.I. machine-learning, how it is being implemented in CPG food and beverage, and why having a human touch is still important to brand-building.
10:30 - Monica shares what she found when looking more closely at the granola category.
15:00 - The team discusses the news that Suja Life has acquired soft drink brand Slice and might be relaunching it as a new functional, gut-health soda. The group goes on to throw out some other nostalgic beverage brands they would like to see resurrected.
About the CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to podcast@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
This week, the podcast team digs into the growing trend among major retailers to invest in new modern white label programs. The CPG Week crew discusses why retail chains from CVS to Walmart to Grocery Outlet are launching expanded private label programs and what these next-generation brands might mean for consumers and independent CPG businesses.
Later, the group dives back into the GLP-1 diet trend after the news that Nestlé is set to launch Vital Pursuit, a 12-SKU line of frozen meals specifically positioned toward semaglutide drug users and consumers looking to manage their weight.
Show Highlights:
0:30 - After sharing his pre- and post-half marathon food and drinks from this past weekend, senior reporter Lukas Southard finds out that Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous has been known to imbibe some interesting alcoholic beverages over the years running 25 marathons.
2:30 - The team dives into the recent slew of private label brands that have been launching this year with senior reporter Brad Avery explaining the new line that was announced by CVS.
4:10 - Monica shares what we know so far about Walmart’s new store brand bettergoods and how it aligns with other mass retailers moves in the category.
6:15 - The team discusses what this says about the changing formula for private label strategy in major retailers and how this exemplifies what has happened in grocery post-pandemic.
11:20 - Lukas goes through what we know so far about Nestlé’s expected Q4 release of a GLP-1 positioned frozen meal line. The group talks about how this is not the first – and likely not the last – weight management brand to come out of the “Ozempic Era.”
About the CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to podcast@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
What did the CPG Week team think of Netflix’s “Unfrosted” movie? The group dives into Jerry Seinfeld’s Pop-Tarts biopic and why it is a (partially) accurate portrayal of the R&D process of creating a CPG food product. Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous shares some of the latest snack trends as related to the Sweets & Snacks Expo happening this week. Senior reporter Lukas Southard goes on to unpack the unfolding cocoa pricing crisis and what that means for chocolate producers. Finally, senior reporter Brad Avery talks about the latest update from Foxtrot’s sudden dissolution and what happened at the asset auction.
Show Highlights:
1:40 - Monica takes the temperature of Brad and Lukas’ opinions of Netflix’s “Unfrosted” movie. They discuss their personal takes on the comedy centered on Pop-Tarts and discuss how the CPG industry is interpreting its representation of the R&D process in packaged food.
7:00 - In light of the Sweets & Snacks Expo happening this week, Monica talks about the latest trends in the categories released by the National Confectioners Association in conjunction with the food show.
8:10 - What’s happening with cocoa pricing, and how that might impact chocolate producer margins as waning supply continues to push pricing up? Lukas explains what has happened in the last six months and how food tech innovation might be a growing solution to the problem.
12:05 - Brad updates the team on the latest from the abrupt closure of Foxtrot including what happened at the asset auction for both Foxtrot and Dom’s Kitchen & Market.
About the CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to podcast@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
In a first for the CPG Week podcast, the team records all in-person. The group kicks off the roundtable discussing senior reporter Lukas Southard’s reporting on ketone beverages. The Nosh and BevNET team go on to talk about mergers, acquisitions and restructuring by first exploring the news of Bolthouse Farms splitting its agriculture segment from its CPG business.
Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous walks the team through the newest acquisition for snack maker Our Home and why scaling production capacity appears to be the focus for CPG brands presently. Senior reporter Brad Avery talks about the merger between two snack bar makers. The group finishes up the episode talking about the OWYN acquisition and another protein company’s new ownership.
Show Highlights:
0:40 - How do you celebrate the first CPG Week episode recorded in-person? Toast some ketone-enhanced beverages and debate the evolution of this niche category of functional drinks.
3:20 - It might seem obvious to restructure a company’s agriculture business from its CPG juice and salad dressing segments, so why did it take Bolthouse Farms over 10 years to do it? Senior reporter Lukas Southard explains the history and strategy behind the move.
7:30 - Our Home has added even more manufacturing muscle to its network with another new acquisition. What does this say about the better-for-you snack brand’s long-term ambitions?
10:00 - Brad explains the recent merger of two protein bar co-manufacturers and how it relates to The Simply Good Foods new addition to its portfolio. Monica relates it to the acquisition of legacy sausage maker Klement’s by Amylu Foods.
About the CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to podcast@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
In this episode, the CPG Week team is joined by BevNET and Nosh Editor-in-Chief Jeff Klineman, who shares some insights from his trip with senior reporter Brad Avery to the Beverage Forum conference in Los Angeles this week. The two discuss celebrity beverage brands, why industry stakeholders are high on next-generation drinks and how big companies are diversifying.
The group moves on to discuss how the recent news that marijuana is expected to be rescheduled by the Department of Justice could impact the cannabis industry. Later, Jeff explains what is happening at CPG credit provider Ampla and how it is impacting brands large and small.
Show Highlights:
0:35 - Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous kicks off the show asking if the team would live in a Skittles-inspired micro-apartment for a year.
2:00 - Brad and Jeff share their insights on what happened at Beverage Forum this week highlighting how celebrity culture is evolving in drinks and “lessons learned” from one big producer-distributor.
6:00 - Senior reporter Lukas Southard explains the latest news out of the federal government that marijuana will be downgraded to a Schedule III drug. The team debates what this could mean for the cannabis industry in terms of regulation and opportunity.
13:15 - Jeff shares his most recent story on the troubling signals coming out of fintech consumer brand lender Ampla and his thoughts on the repercussions throughout the CPG world.
About the CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to podcast@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
The CPG Week team dives into the sudden closure of Foxtrot and Dom’s Kitchen & Market stores. The group digs into this developing story, discussing possible factors of why Outfox Hospitality failed and ceased operations so quickly. The Nosh and BevNET editorial team unpacks what they know so far, what this means for the brands that sprung out of Foxtrot and Dom’s into wider distribution and hypothesizes on how this will be felt throughout the CPG world.
Later, reporter Adrianne DeLuca explains a new development in the Kroger-Albertsons merger plan and how all this grocery news relates to an uncertain future for retailers.
Show Highlights:
0:30 - Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous and senior reporter Brad Avery talk about Croc-Tail Party, the newly released Pringles-Crocs shoe collection.
1:40 - What happened at Outfox Hospitality, the umbrella organization that manages the Foxtrot and Dom’s Kitchen & Market grocery chains? Senior reporter Lukas Southard explains what developed early this week and what we know so far.
4:45 - What does this mean for CPG brands that have relied on retailers like Foxtrot to break into larger distribution? The team explains how these “next-generation” grocery chains are integral to emerging food and beverage companies gaining brand recognition among consumers.
8:45 - In other retail news, Kroger and Albertsons announced a new divestiture plan in its potential multi-billion dollar merger. Reporter Adrianne DeLuca updates the group on what was proposed and why this might still not be enough to satisfy the Federal Trade Commission’s concerns.
10:15 - Adrianne goes on to explain why this all relates back to a Jefferies webinar she reported on that covered the rocky future ahead for grocery retail.
About the CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to podcast@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
In this episode, the CPG Week team starts with an update from Momofuku’s chili crunch trademark dispute. The conversation focuses on what has transpired, the implications for Chang’s appeal to consumers and how this is representative of what it takes for a CPG brand to hold a trademark. The group moves on to talk about why canned water is positioned as a beer alternative for live events and how the Liquid Death-effect is bringing new brands to the category. Later, BevNET Editor-in-Chief Jeff Klineman talks about his recent story covering new CPG private equity firm Forward Consumer Partners and its acquisition of a premium cracker brand.
Show Highlights:
1:00 - Senior reporter Lukas Southard kicks off the podcast with an update about the headline-grabbing trademark dispute coming from David Chang’s Momofuku brand. The team unpacks what the recent developments say about public perception of celebrity chefs and how to navigate competition in a culturally significant category.
7:45 - The group discusses the growing trend of canned water marketing as a beer alternative and if this branding approach can draw consumer demand in on-premise locations like bars and live music venues.
12:40 - What drew new CPG private equity firm Forward Consumer Partners to buy artisanal cracker maker Firehook Bakery as its first acquisition? Editor-in-Chief Jeff Klineman explains why the pedigree of Forward Consumer Partners leadership might foretell the future of the cracker brand.
About the CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to podcast@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
The BevNET and Nosh team discusses three food news stories that have carried industry headlines in the past week. Senior reporter Lukas Southard explains why David Chang-founded Momofuku is getting blowback from other Asian-American brands over a trademark dispute involving chili crunch products. Next, senior reporter Brad Avery discusses an exposé that highlights the questionable innovation stream of Trader Joe’s private label program. Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous finishes the weekly roundup with a conversation around a recent investigative story from The Washington Post that examines how food conglomerates are paying registered dietitian influencers to push anti-diet messaging.
Show Highlights:
0:45 - Hear Brad and BevNET chief marketing officer Mike Schneider’s ode to legumes after accepting Monica’s challenge last week to create an original song about Bush’s Beans.
2:50 - Lukas dives into the chili crisp category and explains how a number of cease-and-desist letters from Momofuku are causing a stir among Asian-American, Pacific Islander CPG brands.
9:20 - All’s fair in love and private label, according to Trader Joe’s. Brad details a recent Taste story that claims the popular grocery retailer might use questionable tactics in its private-label product innovation.
13:45 - Monica discusses a Washington Post investigative piece that sheds light on how major food makers are paying registered dietician influencers to push anti-diet rhetoric.
About the CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to podcast@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
The Nosh and BevNET team bring on spirits editor Ferron Salniker to dive into why the adult non-alcoholic beverage category might be facing struggles as news broke that Boisson, one of the largest independent retailers of NA beverages, is closing its brick-and-mortar stores. The team talks about what this says about the category as a whole and what might come next as non-alc brands move into larger retail distribution.
Later, Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous and senior reporters Lukas Southard and Brad Avery discuss provocative branding in energy drinks and how finding a lane in the competitive category is forcing at least one player to rebrand itself.
Show Highlights:
2:00 - BevNET spirits editor Ferron Salniker joins the podcast to explain all that we know about the recent news that non-alcoholic adult beverage retailer Boisson has suddenly shuttered all its stores.
4:15 - The team discusses how the news reframes the non-alc category as the trend moves from niche to being carried among larger distributors and retail chains.
7:20 - Where does this leave the non-alc category and what does this foretell for the industry if one of its earliest adopters and largest independent retailers is having trouble? Ferron gives some insight into how the Boisson news is representative of how the category is growing as a whole.
11:15 - Lukas explains why Lucky F*ck Energy rebranding as just Lucky Energy is unsurprising but also speaks to how the attention economy and brands like Liquid Death have influenced other brands to increasingly push the envelope with edgy marketing campaigns.
About the CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to podcast@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
With April Fool’s Day fast approaching, Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous tests senior reporters Brad Avery and Lukas Southard to see if they can tell the difference between real CPG items and prank products that have shown up in marketing campaigns over the years. After the Prank Product Pop Quiz, the team discusses how allulose is being talked about as “nature’s GLP-1” and the gray area around that assertion, leading to a bigger conversation on the state of sweeteners highlighted by a New York Times exposé about sugar cane harvesters in rural India.
Show Highlights:
0:30 - Senior reporters Brad Avery and Lukas Southard test their knowledge of April Fool’s Day CPG products with a pop quiz from Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous.
6:00 - Monica talks about how allulose has become a hot topic in food and beverage as some brands are positioning it as a natural alternative to GLP-1 weight loss drugs.
7:15 - Lukas explains what he has learned about alternative sweeteners and appetite suppression drugs after talking to Supergut founder and CEO Marc Washington at Expo West.
10:30 - The team discusses why there doesn’t seem to be the perfect sweetener for CPG brands with perceived downsides to all options in the category from stevia to erythritol to cane sugar.
About the CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to podcast@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
This week, the Nosh and BevNET team discusses recent food and beverage funding news. In this capital-constrained environment, startups are tapping conventional options like investment firms as well as celebrities, consumers and distributors to rake in extra cash.
Show Highlights:
0:35 - Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous shares the latest twist in the Kellogg cereal drama. HumanCo founder and CEO Jason Karp filed an activist letter urging the company to follow through with its previously stated commitment to remove artificial dyes from such brands as Froot Loops sold in the U.S.
4:15 - Senior reporter Lukas Southard discusses snack pack maker Sunnie’s unique approach to securing funding, inviting some of its consumers to participate in its recent round.
7:25 - Senior reporter Brad Avery unpacks Liquid Death’s $67 million funding round that involved some of its distributors, as well as celebrities and investment firms.
9:15 - Monica dishes details of organic baby and toddler food company Serenity Kids’ $52 million Series B funding. Brad offers perspective on how an already profitable company can benefit from such a significant cash injection.
11:10 - Monica, Brad and Lukas highlight additional brands that have recently raised money.
About the CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to podcast@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
This week, the Nosh and BevNET team gear up for Natural Products Expo West, the so-called Super Bowl of the packaged food and beverage industry. With a special appearance for BevNET Editor-In-Chief Jeff Klineman, the group discusses their various strategies for the big show. What’s the best attack plan for hitting all the booths on a show planner? What items should (or should not) make it into an Expo backpack to stay prepared for long days on the floor? Learn how to keep an eye out for good “Expo Etiquette” and why you might spot a BevNET or Nosh team member interviewing this year’s celebrity-du-jour.
Show Highlights:
0:35 - Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous asks Editor-In-Chief Jeff Klineman how he prepares for Expo West. Senior reporters Brad Avery and Lukas Southard chime in on how they are planning for efficient trips to the Anaheim Convention Center.
6:30 - Jeff outlines helpful hacks for exhibiting brands seeking to capture a buyer’s attention on the show floor and why building pirate ship crow’s nests for spotting important people is frowned upon.
9:15 - Brad reflects on his celebrity interviews at previous Expos, including a particularly memorable conversation with a pop star about apple cider vinegar.
11:30 - Jeff, Brad, Monica and Lukas each share the trends they are watching at Expo West.
About the CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to podcast@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
This week, the Nosh and BevNET team talks about how a marketing campaign to boost cereal sales might be imploding for Kellogg’s and what it means for the greater food maker’s empire as it moves into a new era as Kellanova and WK Kellogg Co. Senior reporter Brad Avery takes the temperature of the performance energy category through the most recent quarterly reports of Monster and Celsius. The team talks about two plant-based companies’ financial losses and finishes up discussing Whole Foods Market’s new smaller-footprint store concept.
Show Highlights:
0:30 - Is cereal a viable option for dinner? WK Kellogg’s attempt to bring the breakfast staple to other day occasions has led to some unexpected social rancor. Senior reporter Lukas Southard explains how the recent outrage on social platforms over the “cereal for dinner” campaign is related to the first standalone earnings calls for both Kellanova and WK Kellogg.
6:20 - Senior reporter Brad Avery discusses what the most recent quarterly reports from Celsius and Monster tell us about the state of energy beverages and why workout enthusiasts are driving growth in the category.
8:20 - What’s the state of plant-based? Two of the biggest plant-based meat and beverage brands posted losses in their most recent earnings. Yet, it’s not all doom and gloom, Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous pointed out, as revenues were up for one company and stock prices soared for the other.
10:35 - The team talks about the news that Whole Foods Market is launching a smaller store concept (again). Is this a reaction to other small-footprint retailers like Foxtrot or Erewhon, or a play for juicing sales of its 365 branded products?
About The Podcast:
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to podcast@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
What’s it like to stay in a Eggo-themed pancake house in rural Tennessee? Why is the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) challenging the Kroger/Albertsons merger? What is yaupon? Why is Mason Dixie betting consumers want more clean comfort food? This week the BevNET and Nosh team dive into all these topics and more.
Show Highlights:
0:45 - It might look like the setting for a bad horror movie, but Eggo’s short-term rental “pancake house” marketing stunt is probably a satisfying place to spend a weekend.
2:20 - In the latest wrinkle in the potential mega-merger between Kroger and Albertsons, the FTC this week sided with nine attorneys general on the grounds that the deal would reduce competition in the grocery landscape. The team discusses the implications of the federal government’s involvement and why this will slow the possible merger down.
6:00 - Senior reporter Brad Avery explains why yaupon is one of the newest clean caffeine ingredients and how pre-launch beverage brand Sacred Energy is banking on its proprietary mix of the plant-based extract to carve out a niche in energy drinks.
10:00 - Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous tells the team about her recent conversation with Mason Dixie founder and CEO Ayeshah Abuelhiga on why the brand is going deeper on breakfast comfort food.
About the CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to podcast@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
This week the BevNET and Nosh team discusses Poppi acquisition rumors, the investment landscape, and consumer adoption of functional mushrooms.
Show Highlights:
0:30 - Monica starts the episode challenging Jeff and Brad to a hypothetical pistachio cracking competition that devolves into a semantical discussion about “nut meat.”
3:25 - Brad highlights prebiotic soda brand Poppi’s big week, which included a highly-watched Super Bowl ad and a Bloomberg article speculating about a Coca-Cola takeover.
7:00 - Why haven’t any of the biggest soft drink companies created their own version of Olipop or Poppi? Jeff draws comparisons to Coke’s short-lived, stevia-sweetened cola, and points out why large players are wary of snapping up small brands today.
9:00 - Monica notes probiotic soda brand Culture Pop’s recent $21 million funding and points to other beverage brands raising capital recently. Jeff shares what investors are looking for in potential targets.
11:15 - The team considers whether consumers understand functional mushrooms and shares examples of brands entering the space. Brad asks whether psychedelic imagery on packaging confuses shoppers.
15:05 - Jeff poses the question that should be on every product developer’s mind: What’s the next big health grail consumers are seeking, a la the antioxidant? “Is it prebiotic, psychedelic or adaptogenic?”
About the CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to podcast@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
This week the BevNET and Nosh team talk about Subway speed dating, cell-cultured meat’s many challenges, why unrealistic investment might be dragging down food tech companies, and why the alternative meat and dairy industry is a good comparison point for realistic market demand.
Show Highlights:
0:30 - Monica starts the episode asking Brad and Lukas how they feel about Subway’s recent Valentine’s Day speed dating stunt.
2:00 - After a series of stories in recent weeks explaining the struggles of the cell-cultured (or lab-grown) meat industry, Lukas kicks off the conversation highlighting his recent newsletter column exploring why the industry is falling short of its claims of creating a more sustainable food system.
5:05 - It all comes back to the money. Monica brings up some of the recent companies that have shuttered or had to restructure as a result of investment in the category drying up.
7:35 - Why has the industry fallen short of getting products to market? Brad makes comparisons to the failures of the plant-based food industry as a good example of how food tech struggles to gain market share.
9:45 - Does food tech’s challenge come from financing or from consumer adoption? The team debates how brand messaging plays a role but maybe less expensive food alternatives have an easier path to market.
About the CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to podcast@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
In the first episode of CPG Week, Nosh Managing Editor Monica Watrous and reporters Brad Avery and Lukas Southard sit down to discuss the various M&A deals seen so far in the first month of the year.
Show Highlights:
0:30 - The team discusses their various Super Bowl meal plans with Monica explaining what a “ham sandwich” translates to at her local bar.
3:15 - The first month of the year is in the books, and there have already been a lot of mergers and acquisitions. Lukas starts by explaining broadly what some industry watchers are expecting this year.
5:00 - Brad talks about how one publicly traded company is looking to become the “General Mills for Asian food.” Then, Monica talks about what Moosehead Brands has been cooking up with Beanfields and Caveman Foods.
7:00 - Finally the team dives into why a newly formed Texas-based investment vehicle with roots in the oil and gas industry decided to buy Alter Eco, Tessemae’s rebirth post bankruptcy and Our Home’s big manufacturing buy.
10:00 - Finishing up the discussion, Monica shares a couple insights from BevNET and Nosh Editor-in-Chief Jeff Klineman about what he is looking out for in M&A markets this year.
About the CPG Week
CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week’s stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to podcast@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
In a special dispatch from Las Vegas, Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous and reporter Adrianne DeLuca spoke with Specialty Food Association trendspotters Jenn de la Vega, chef and cookbook author, and Drexel University professor Jonathan Deutsch about the latest food and beverages on display at this year’s Winter Fancy Food Show.
Show Highlights:
2:30 - Global flavors have established a foothold in food and beverage. The group discusses innovation they saw with ingredients like yuzu and chilis as well as new formats of familiar products from bobas to sprayable soy sauce.
9:45 - Is the line between sweet and savory in snacking blurring? How might fermentation in food and drink be making its way into the mainstream? The group discusses some of the brands they tasted that were tackling these questions.
15:30 - Monica asks the trendspotters to name some of their favorite sips and bites from the show.
About the Nosh Podcast
The staff of Nosh.com takes listeners inside the business of natural, organic, sustainable and healthy food during the Nosh Podcast. Using interviews and discussion, the team illuminates the news, brands, people, trends, and money affecting the world of packaged food.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to podcast@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
On this week’s episode of the NOSH Podcast, NOSH editor Carol Ortenberg and reporters Lukas Southard and Adrianne DeLuca talk about Thanksgiving traditions and what to expect at NOSH Live. Then the trio dives into influencer disclosures on social media (or the lack thereof) after the FTC warned a group of registered dietitians who were paid to post by industry lobbying groups.
Show Highlights:
1:00 - Thanksgiving is here so the NOSH team talks about holiday traditions at the table, the hierarchy of dish delegation and how to keep it interesting when menu planning.
8:45 - With NOSH Live around the corner, the group runs down all of the great event speakers coming to Marina Del Rey on November 30 and the on-stage discussions that are in store.
13:30 - The team talks about how the FTC’s crackdown on influencers promoting the safety of aspartame is representative of the larger problem with influencer marketing and social media-derived medical advice.
About The NOSH Podcast
The staff of NOSH.com takes listeners inside the business of natural, organic, sustainable and healthy food during the NOSH Podcast. Using interviews and discussion, the team illuminates the news, brands, people, trends, and money affecting the world of packaged food.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to podcast@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
On this week’s show, NOSH editor Carol Ortenberg and the founder and CEO of Zack’s Mighty, Zack Gazzaniga, dive right into a corny discussion on the origins of Zack’s Mighty’s, and the special corn variety behind its unique taste and texture. The duo grind through the brand’s supply chain journey and how different audiences respond to the details of that sourcing story.
Show Highlights:
02:03: Building a tortilla chip that doesn’t break in guac starts with good corn. For Zack’s Mighty, that pursuit of the perfect corn had its founder venturing to different continents and through the 10,000 year history of the iconic cobs.
14:12: Growing a brand with a complex supply chain sometimes requires compromises. Zack talks through the choices he had to make and why these decisions have ultimately allowed the brand to scale.
15:49: How did consumers respond to the brand’s corn history lesson? Zack explains how the brand narrowed in on its best selling feature and dialed in its marketing messaging.
22:46: Profitability remains key and Zack explains why different steps along the company’s supply chain appealed to investors.
“If something is easy to make, then it's probably not that special. When something is hard, it just means that there's not an existing supply chain for that and I think that can help you be unique.”
-Zack Gazzaniga
About The NOSH Podcast
The staff of NOSH.com takes listeners inside the business of natural, organic, sustainable and healthy food during the NOSH Podcast. Using interviews and discussion, the team illuminates the news, brands, people, trends, and money affecting the world of packaged food.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to podcast@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
On this week’s episode of the NOSH Podcast, NOSH editor Carol Ortenberg and reporter Brad Avery chat about Orchard Valley Harvest’s “No Nut November” ad campaign, including the importance of knowing your target audience when taking a risk with marketing. Then the two muse over Getir’s acquisition of FreshDirect and what the future holds for grocery delivery. In the featured interview, Brazi Bites cofounder and CMO Junea Rocha shares how and why the brand expanded into the frozen waffle set and why building a successful food company involves more than just having a good product.
Show Highlights:
2:10 - Brad and Carol discuss Orchard Valley Harvest’s new provocative ad campaign and talk about the tenuous line brands must walk with risque marketing campaigns.
9:00 - What does the acquisition of FreshDirect by Getir mean for quick service delivery in the Northeast? Why was Ahold Delhaize willing to part ways with FreshDirect after purchasing it in 2021? These are the questions that Brad and Carol ponder while chatting about the grocery delivery deal.
12:50 - Brazi Bites co-founder Junea Rocha joins the podcast to explain how TikTok posts of consumers “waffling” the company’s Brazilian cheese bread ultimately led it to enter the breakfast category.
21:00 - Building a brand and launching a new SKU comes down to more than just having a good product. Rocha discusses how finding the right retailer who can put the product in the baskets of the target consumer is just as important to growth.
27:15 - Rocha talks about one of its less successful products and why sometimes a discontinued product can be just as helpful in moving a company forward as a home run.
“Our industry is very impatient…You can have a great product and get shelf space, but if it doesn't get discovered in time for you to drive the velocity that you need, then it's going to fall off the shelf the next year.”
- Junea Rocha, Brazi Bites cofounder and CMO
About the NOSH Podcast
The staff of NOSH.com takes listeners inside the business of natural, organic, sustainable and healthy food during the NOSH Podcast. Using interviews and discussion, the team illuminates the news, brands, people, trends, and money affecting the world of packaged food.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to podcast@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
On this week’s show, NOSH editor Carol Ortenberg and reporters Adrianne DeLuca and Brad Avery ponder Eminem’s new CPG venture, Mom’s Spaghetti, and discuss why yet another cannabis company is switching focus to the hemp-derived THC market. Later, Adrianne chats with Scott Marcus, CEO of Blue Zones Kitchen, to learn how, alongside Vital Farms founder Matthew O’Hayer and Blue Zones Guru/National Geographic Explorer Dan Buettner, the team translated a two decade-old diet and lifestyle into a new frozen CPG food line.
Show Highlights:
01:18: The NOSH team dishes out the details on Eminem’s new pasta sauce product Mom’s Spaghetti including the item’s lyrical inspiration as well as what audience and purpose we believe it may serve.
08:04: Cannabis companies are increasingly looking to hemp-derived THC as an alternate ingredient for intoxicating products. The team runs down news this week from TSUMo Snacks, the latest to throw in the towel and exit California’s difficult dispensary channel.
15:49: Where does one begin when evolving an established diet and lifestyle into a product? Scott explains why having a blueprint for creating the CPG food brand both simplified the process, and made it a riskier maneuver.
24:26: Scott discusses how his team’s experience at both large food corporations, and small, mission-driven startups informed how they approached building the business.
“Having a brand established, having food guidelines, in a way makes things very easy because we have the roadmap… But [it also] creates a little bit of risk because you're now translating a brand name that some people have known for years, and all of a sudden, we're a CPG product on the shelf.”
-Scott Marcus, CEO of Blue Zones Kitchen
About The NOSH Podcast
The staff of NOSH.com takes listeners inside the business of natural, organic, sustainable and healthy food during the NOSH Podcast. Using interviews and discussion, the team illuminates the news, brands, people, trends, and money affecting the world of packaged food.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to podcast@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
With Halloween on the horizon, this week NOSH editor Carol Ortenberg and reporters Lukas Southard and Adrianne Deluca kickoff the episode discussing their favorite sweets before moving onto marshmallows with the news that confection brand Smashmallow won a $21 million verdict in a dispute with its former equipment maker. The team also discusses changes to West African food brand Yolélé’s supply chain.
In our featured interview, Lukas hears from Circana’s Sally Lyons Wyatt about what is driving consumer buying behavior in the freezer aisle and subcategories seeing success.
Show Highlights:
1:00 - Just in time for Halloween, the group kicks off the podcast sharing their favorite sugary treats before discussing the $21 million verdict snack brand Smashmallow was just awarded in a suit over mallow-making equipment. The NOSH team rounds out the conversation talking about Yolélé’s separation from Woodland Foods.
13:05 - Circana’s EVP & Practice Leader Sally Lyons Wyatt joins the podcast to step into the freezer aisle with fresh data and insights about consumer trends in frozen food.
19:15 - Though inflation is playing a role in purchasing decisions across the store, Wyatt says the impact is more nuanced in frozen, with supply chains and product mix also playing a role.
24:45 - Lukas and Wyatt discuss why some of the consumers purchasing frozen the most often are also over indexing in restaurant spending.
30:45 - The two finish the interview delving into strategies that brands and retailers can use to capture a larger consumer base and drive more purchases in frozen food.
“Retailers need frozen and frozen CPG needs retailers…there's a whole host of things that natural-organic can do to find some fun ways to help consumers get speed-to-table.”
-Sally Lyons Wyatt, Circana EVP & Practice Leader, Client Insights
About the NOSH Podcast
The staff of NOSH.com takes listeners inside the business of natural, organic, sustainable and healthy food during the NOSH Podcast. Using interviews and discussion, the team illuminates the news, brands, people, trends, and money affecting the world of packaged food.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to podcast@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode:
NOSH editor Carol Ortenberg,Editor-in-Chief Jeff Klineman and reporter Lukas Southard kick off the podcast with a discussion about what to expect this winter at NOSH Live, before turning their attention to hot news in chili peppers and the difficulties natural brands sometimes face in the c-store channel. Later, Lukas talks with Wilde Brands founder and CEO Jason Wright about how the brand broadened its positioning via a branding change, and how that’s brought about new growth opportunities.
Show Highlights:
2:45 - The NOSH Team begins to prepare for NOSH Live in Marina Del Rey this winter by discussing some of the guest speakers and the 1-on-1 meetings with The Fresh Market, Kroger and Thrive Market.
5:00 - Pepper X set a new Guinness World record for the hottest chili pepper, and the team talks about if we’ll see it head to CPG. Then Jeff shares some of his insights from this year’s NACS convention in Atlanta.
18:10 - Sometimes small changes in branding can have a big impact. Wilde Brands CEO and founder Jason Wright joins the podcast to discuss the long road from meat bars to protein chips and how tweaking its positioning unlocked new consumers and retailer interest.
29:15 - How do you maintain investors buy in while juggling product, production and positioning changes? Wright explains that good relationships can only go so far, it takes a lot of self-assurance in one’s product to keep partners invested.
31:45 - Wright discusses why broadening Wilde’s retail channels and pack sizes has paid off.
"You can't build a pier, you need to build a bridge...The big game changer for Wilde was building the bridge to Protein Chips, where the customer immediately knew why they should eat it and what the benefit was."
-Jason Wright, Wilde Brands CEO and founder
About the NOSH Podcast
The staff of NOSH.com takes listeners inside the business of natural, organic, sustainable and healthy food during the NOSH Podcast. Using interviews and discussion, the team illuminates the news, brands, people, trends, and money affecting the world of packaged food.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to podcast@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
On this week’s show, NOSH editor Carol Ortenberg sits down with the Eat The Change team to discuss how the company has evolved its identity by rethinking its product lines. Seth Goldman, co-founder and CEO, and Sarah Shah, Head of Marketing talk through how the company evaluated its product mix, ultimately making a measured decision to discontinue one slow turner and revamp and reposition another.
Show Highlights:
01:56: Mushrooms were… so last year? Seth and Sarah shared how declining consumer interest in fungi, and the polarizing popularity of mushrooms, coupled with a product positioned for kids, made the animal-free jerky a tough sell.
11:33: Just because a product isn’t performing well, doesn’t mean it should be discarded. The duo talked through upcoming changes to their Carrot Chews line that aims to broaden its positioning and better explain the concept of a vegetable snack to consumers.
22:25: Deciding on whether to discontinue, reposition or keep pushing for a product can be complex and often, not a clear cut choice to make. Seth and Sarah talk through the key metrics they considered and how Seth’s Honest Tea days informed how they assessed the total addressable market.
“We know what direction we want to go, but we're going to follow whatever path the market leads us to get us there. We're not going to change our direction, but we're not going to follow a preset course – we're going to have to let the course evolve as we grow”
-Seth Goldman, co-founder and CEO of Eat The Change
About The NOSH Podcast
The staff of NOSH.com takes listeners inside the business of natural, organic, sustainable and healthy food during the NOSH Podcast. Using interviews and discussion, the team illuminates the news, brands, people, trends, and money affecting the world of packaged food.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to podcast@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
On the NOSH Podcast this week, editor Carol Ortenberg and reporters Adrianne DeLuca and Brad Avery discuss the U.S. government’s suit against Amazon, how CPG brands’ differing approaches to selling on the retail platform and dive into recent shake ups in meal kit delivery space.
Carol then goes completely nuts – during a chat with Nuts.com’s new CEO PJ Oleksak and chairman Jeffrey Braverman. The trio discusses how the nut empire was built, the ever-changing landscape for an ecommerce, DTC-based company and where the brand has grown since its original offerings in B2B.
In this episode:
2:00 - The Federal Trade Commission (FTC)’s antitrust lawsuit against Amazon leads the team to discuss the tightrope CPG companies must walk when utilizing the platform.
10:00 - What’s the state of meal delivery kits? Adrianne walks through the roughly $130 million sale of Blue Apron to the privately-held Wonder Group and Wellfull’s approach with its relaunch of Jenny Craig.
19:00 - Chief Nut, (a.k.a. newly appointed CEO) PJ Oleksak and Chairman (Chair Nut?) Jeffrey Braverman of Nuts.com joined Carol to talk about why paying $700k for a domain was worth it in the long run.
33:00 - The two executives dive into the impact of COVID on DTC companies and how to “keep it hungry” in ecommerce through diversification.
40:00 - Nuts.com has – at times – zagged when other ecommerce brands have zigged, opting to focus its strategy on in-house marketing and operations efforts rather than selling on Amazon or tapping TikTok.
“Our customers are obsessed. They’re evangelical. It’s a ‘if you know, you know’ brand but the reality is we don’t want it to be an ‘if you know’ brand. We need to invest in building the brand. ”
-Nuts.com CEO PJ Oleksak
“The reality is now that about 67% of product searches start on Amazon. Maybe we should be more open-minded to that.”
-Nuts.com founder Jeffrey Braverman
About the NOSH Podcast
The staff of NOSH.com takes listeners inside the business of natural, organic, sustainable and healthy food during the NOSH Podcast. Using interviews and discussion, the team illuminates the news, brands, people, trends, and money affecting the world of packaged food.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to podcast@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
This week on the NOSH Podcast, editor Carol Ortenberg and reporters Adrianne DeLuca and Brad Avery debrief from their trip to the final Natural Products Expo East including some approaches brands have taken to combat the rising costs of retail and Expo’s new replacement. Then, Brad sat down with Ronak Shah, the co-founder and CEO of flavored collagen brand Obvi, to discuss how his brand built a D2C-first model on the foundation of a very specific consumer demographic.
In this episode:
1:33: The team dives into New Hope’s announcement about Expo’s final act and what we’ll all be looking to see during next year’s inaugural Newtopia Next in Savannah, Georgia.
6:22: How are brand’s tackling the rising costs of doing business in retail? Some are looking beyond natural grocery, conventional and mass channels – and instead branching the business out to new areas, with lower overhead and higher margins.
14:15: Ronak Shah shares details about Obvi’s history which dovetails into a discussion of how the brand landed its focus on targeting a very specific age demographic of women in the Midwest.
36:55: Shah discusses Obvi’s first brand acquisition – Coffee Over Cardio – and how Obvi’s existing consumer base is helping drive the brand onward.
"We're taking the route of using our community to become our super women."
- Ronak Shah, co-founder and CEO of Obvi
About The NOSH Podcast
The staff of NOSH.com takes listeners inside the business of natural, organic, sustainable and healthy food during the NOSH Podcast. Using interviews and discussion, the team illuminates the news, brands, people, trends, and money affecting the world of packaged food.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to podcast@nosh.com.
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This week on the NOSH Podcast, editor Carol Ortenberg and reporters Adrianne DeLuca and Lukas Southard talk about top trends and new tastes they are on the lookout for at the last Natural Products Expo East. The team also discusses the approaches of two new CPG-industry backed investment funds that debuted this past week.
While the team travels to Philadelphia, this week we revisited a conversation from NOSH Live Winter 2022 featuring Thrive Market head of merchandising James Ren and Misfits Market senior director of grocery Brandie Miller who breaks down the unique operations of running an online grocery retail platform, merchandising tips and the role of a company mission plays in retail relationships.
In this episode:
1:30 - What is The NOSH Podcast team on the lookout for at Expo East? Adrianne is looking for more ancient grain use while Lukas is still focused on the plant-based category, particularly since some brands have closed their doors or reduced workforces in recent weeks.
7:15 - How are two new venture funds approaching CPG investing? Carol dives into the details on Unfold Ventures and Humble Growth’s respective theses and one of the firm’s founding partners has retooled his strategy for food industry investing.
10:55 - Ren and Miller share their opinions about working in ecommerce grocery and the unique value propositions for the respective business models.
17:10 - The ecom retail leaders explain how their respective companies pursue their mission’s for a more sustainable grocery industry and balance that with a unique consumer shopping experience – all the while helping brands succeed on their platforms.
23:50 - How does merchandising work in a digital store? What do ecommerce grocery buyers prioritize more so than brick-and-mortar buyers f? Miller and Ren discuss how the approach often differs online than in conventional and even natural channels.
“Something that makes us (Thrive Market) unique is we have a set of values that members can shop by whether thats dietary to sourcing.”
- James Ren, Thrive Market head of merchandising
“We’re here for when it's not perfect and we call that a way to access lost revenue that you otherwise wouldn’t see.”
- Brandie Miller, Misfits Market senior director of grocery
About the NOSH Podcast
The staff of NOSH.com takes listeners inside the business of natural, organic, sustainable and healthy food during the NOSH Podcast. Using interviews and discussion, the team illuminates the news, brands, people, trends, and money affecting the world of packaged food.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to podcast@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
On this week’s show, NOSH editor Carol Ortenberg, reporters Adrianne DeLuca and Lukas Southard, as well as editor-in-chief Jeff Klineman dive into all of the deal news this past week including J.M. Smucker’s acquisition of Hostess and Kroger/Albertsons’ initial store divestment plan. Then, the team also discusses news surrounding Pacqui’s One Chip Challenge.
Show Highlights:
01:02: What does Smucker want with Twinkies? Despite two bankruptcies in the past decade, Hostess brands has notched an impressive turnaround and the jelly maker believes the business will help its bottom line.
08:18: Since the Kroger/Albertsons merger was announced last October, experts and execs have cited the need for Albertsons to divest some stores in order to get in the good graces of regulators. Listen in to hear how the newly announced plan could impact the grocery landscape.
13:39: The Paqui One Chip Challenge is facing criticism after parents of a Massachusetts teen claim their son passed away as a result of eating the product. Paqui has already pulled the product from shelves, but the team discusses how the Amplify-owned brand may proceed in the weeks ahead.
“It's really hard to not sell a product unless it's age-gated in a regulatory sense. That means that the consumer is kind of signing their own release with their money… At the same time, this is tragic and the brand has to be really sensitive to the fact that you had a kid who ate this chip, whether or not it was [meant] for him, and he died.”
-Jeff Klineman
About The NOSH Podcast
The staff of NOSH.com takes listeners inside the business of natural, organic, sustainable and healthy food during the NOSH Podcast. Using interviews and discussion, the team illuminates the news, brands, people, trends, and money affecting the world of packaged food.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to podcast@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
This week on the NOSH Podcast, NOSH editor-in-chief Jeff Klineman, editor Carol Ortenberg and reporters Adrianne DeLuca and Lukas Southard give their hot takes on club store purchases and how better-for-you brands are strategically “dipping” into conventional to reach more consumers. In this week’s interview, Red’s Natural Foods CEO and founder Michael Adair shares the lessons he has gathered while operating the frozen snack and breakfast food brand for 14 years and how the clean label brand has found success sitting next to conventional products in the freezer case.
In this episode:
1:10 - The NOSH Podcast team discusses their opinions of club store shopping and some of their favorite products to grab in bulk.
7:55 - Are natural food brands seeing results from positioning themselves among conventional competitors? The NOSHers explore some brands that have tried the strategy. Jeff cautions that the strategy might not be as “conventional” as it seems.
15:45 - Red’s founder Mike Adair joins the NOSH podcast to talk about his journey in frozen and how he found that patience was his best weapon in building the clean label brand.
20:30 - Self-manufacturing might help a brand control its production and supply chain more efficiently but it comes with a number of other issues that co-packed brands don’t have to worry about. Adair discusses how Red’s move into self-manufacturing opened up new doors (and investment) but was not always the easiest road.
28:05 - It might not always be up to a brand but where on the shelf but which products a brand is placed next to can make a big difference in sales. Adair talks about what Red’s has learned about placement in the frozen category.
“One of the things that we're not afraid of is failing. The minute that you become too conservative in your innovation and the lanes in which you play, you can become stale pretty fast.”
-Mike Adair, Red’s Natural Foods CEO and founder
About the NOSH Podcast
The staff of NOSH.com takes listeners inside the business of natural, organic, sustainable and healthy food during the NOSH Podcast. Using interviews and discussion, the team illuminates the news, brands, people, trends, and money affecting the world of packaged food.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to podcast@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
On this week’s show, NOSH editor Carol Ortenberg, reporter Adrianne DeLuca and editor-in-chief Jeff Klineman waffle between the various ways gluten-free brands are cooking up new breakfast lines. They also discuss the impending auction of Cali’flour Foods and news that Perfect Day’s CPG arm has found a new home. Later, Carol sits down with Mia Medina, founder and CEO of Gather Brands, to discuss the current retail environment as well as opportunities and issues brands face as they scale distribution.
Show Highlights:
01:54: Will it waffle? According to gluten-free frozen breakfast makers that answer is a definitive ‘Yes.’ The team discusses new innovation strategies Banza and Brazi Bites are testing in the breakfast set.
09:03: The frozen aisle is red hot… with deals that is. What led two entrepreneurial brands to seek new ownership? For one, it was not a matter of choice and for the other, revenue growth may have been a key reason.
18:56: How does a non-traditional broker assess potential emerging brand partners? Mia Medina shares the different levers she looks at to determine when it's the right time to work with a startup food maker and what opportunities she sees ahead of them.
31:26: Deductions can be near-deadly to a young company and handling them in a timely fashion is an absolute necessity. Mia talks through the effective strategies she has seen in curbing chargebacks.
“A lot of retailers want to be first to market with local brands, some don't, and some actually really want to see a sales story that it's going to move once they put it on shelf. Knowing who those ones are that want to be first to market – that's the fun part.”
- Mia Medina
About The NOSH Podcast
The staff of NOSH.com takes listeners inside the business of natural, organic, sustainable and healthy food during the NOSH Podcast. Using interviews and discussion, the team illuminates the news, brands, people, trends, and money affecting the world of packaged food.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to podcast@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
On this week’s show, NOSH editor Carol Ortenberg chats with two recently minted NOSH Notables – Chris Lansing, CEO of Health Ade, and Miguel Leal, co-founder and CEO of Somos Foods. Reflecting on their decades in the industry, these two CPG executives share the advice (good, bad and even ignorable) that has shaped their leadership styles today and recount important lessons any emerging business builder can learn from.
Show Highlights:
06:12: Early experiences set the foundation for what comes next, including the development of these two CEO’s leadership styles. While Chris claims to bring clarity to her team, Miguel said he prioritizes calm. Find out why both believe it’s integral to develop your own approach.
11:53: How do you develop a cross-functional team and what’s the value? When it comes to CPG, Miguel and Chris said common goals are particularly valuable when it comes to motivation, but creativity is fostered when employees spanning a range of functions work together.
35:03: Within big companies you have politics, and within small ones you have personalities. Chris shares why this advice has stayed with her throughout her CPG career and how it continues to influence the way she approaches nearly every new project.
“Creating a vision that everyone can anchor to and see how all their work fits into it can add tremendous clarity to the organization. Ultimately, my job is to create an environment to allow people to be successful, to put just enough structure and just enough data [in place] and then strive for collaboration across all the groups… working towards achieving these goals.”
-Chris Lansing
“You have to find a leadership style that works for you…it's not only going to drive the success of what you do, but it's gonna make you a lot happier. [By] finding your place and finding what works, all the other stuff takes care of itself.”
-Miguel Leal
About The NOSH Podcast
The staff of NOSH.com takes listeners inside the business of natural, organic, sustainable and healthy food during the NOSH Podcast. Using interviews and discussion, the team illuminates the news, brands, people, trends, and money affecting the world of packaged food.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to podcast@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
This week on the NOSH Podcast, NOSH editor-in-chief Jeff Klineman, editor Carol Ortenberg and reporters Adrianne DeLuca and Lukas Southard discuss the recent acquisition of Sovos Brands by Campbells. Sunrise Strategic Partners’ Peter Burns and Coefficient Capital’s Franklin Isacson join Carol in the interview to talk about the current climate for investment in CPG food, their recent induction to the NOSH Notables list and explain why the investor-brand relationship should be treated like a marriage.
In this episode:
1:00 - Campbell’s buying up Sovos marks a major shift in the world of Big CPG. According to the NOSH team, owning multiple product tiers across a single category has been a successful strategy for Campbell’s in the past. How could this new relationship shape the sauce shelf?
19:15 - How does being on the investment side of the CPG food industry differ from being a founder or operator? Burns and Isacson weigh in on how investors think differently about building a successful brand and share insights about how their respective firms assess potential investments.
22:00 - There’s no doubt the current climate around venture investment is tough, but difficult investor-brand relationships can make things even trickier. Burns and Isacson give advice on how founders can help make their brands more attractive to potential investors and possible exits.
40:55 - Investors may not favor influencer-led brands, but the added celebrity doesn’t hurt. Hear why these two venture capitalists believe PRIME cannot be ignored but remain cautious around typing a brand too closely to its social media stars..
“Choosing an investor is very much like a marriage, for the most part these are long-term partnerships…it is very important that there is alignment.”
-Franklin Isacson, Coefficient Capital managing partner
“Good businesses will be able to go through the good times and the bad times… it's hard and you're going to have to grind. And if you don't know how to grind, you better learn fast.”
-Peter Burns, Sunrise Strategic Partners managing partner
About the NOSH Podcast
The staff of NOSH.com takes listeners inside the business of natural, organic, sustainable and healthy food during the NOSH Podcast. Using interviews and discussion, the team illuminates the news, brands, people, trends, and money affecting the world of packaged food.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to podcast@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
This week on the NOSH Podcast, NOSH editor-in-chief Jeff Klineman, editor Carol Ortenberg and reporter Lukas Southard discuss the recently published NOSH Notables 2023 List. Carol and Jeff explain their process for developing the list and how current industry trends are reflected by the executives selected and list categories.
In this episode:
1:07 - Lukas asks Carol and Jeff about the impetus for the project and the process for selecting the 50 notable individuals.
8:25 - The team discusses the list structure and why the categories of Backers, Connectors, Gatekeepers, Quarterbacks, Spark Plugs and Superheroes ended up being the framework for the Notables list.
11:00 - Jeff and Carol review some of the notable Notables on the list and why NOSH feels they deserve recognition for their impact on the CPG food industry.
16:25 - Jeff and Carol describe how inclusivity played a role in their decision making, sharing how diversity and representation were important in both the makeup of people and in CPG.
24:45 - The three discuss why among a list of 50 influential people in CPG the three familiar faces of Snoop Dogg, Barbie and Gum E. Bear made the list.
“It's how NOSH sees the industry and some of the key currents that run through it. To define places like leadership and connection, investment and encouragement, and innovation.”
-Jeff Klineman, BevNET Editor-in-Chief
About the NOSH Podcast
The staff of NOSH.com takes listeners inside the business of natural, organic, sustainable and healthy food during the NOSH Podcast. Using interviews and discussion, the team illuminates the news, brands, people, trends, and money affecting the world of packaged food.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to podcast@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
On this week’s show, NOSH editor Carol Ortenberg, reporter Adrianne DeLuca and editor-in-chief Jeff Klineman drum up some girl dinner alternatives and run down recent legislative and M&A news from the plant-based sector. Later, Adrianne chats with Tony’s Chocolonely Mission Guardian Anne-Wil Dijkstra about why the company put a new corporate structure in place to protect its mission. Dijkstra also provides advice about how emerging impact-driven brands can take steps to secure the success of their own mission.
Show Highlights:
01:05: Girl Dinner or Dad Bod Dinner? Hear the NOSH team’s take on the new TikTok trend, how it is showing up on e-commerce platforms and the opportunities they see for CPG brands to latch onto.
07:33: Between the introduction of the PLANT Act to Congress and the sale of Alpha Foods, plant-based industry news has been plentiful this week. The team runs through some highlights of the new legislation and key details about Alpha’s sale.
18:19: It's been two months since Tony’s Chocolonely implemented an independent, legally binding corporate structure to protect its mission to improve the cocoa supply chain. Anne-Wil explains the motivation behind that effort and how it will evolve as Tony scales its impact.
28:16: Open-sourced processes and ideas are also at the heart of the chocolate maker’s mission. Listen in to hear Anne-Wil’s take on when emerging brands should look to lock in their impact goals and why she believes they can do so even with limited resources.
“You need growth to inspire others – for that you need to have a commercially successful business case. It doesn't have to be “or”... Money is a means to go towards your vision. We need a world with profitable organizations that have a positive impact. That's how we change the world for the better.”
-Anne-Wil Dijkstra
About The NOSH Podcast
The staff of NOSH.com takes listeners inside the business of natural, organic, sustainable and healthy food during the NOSH Podcast. Using interviews and discussion, the team illuminates the news, brands, people, trends, and money affecting the world of packaged food.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to podcast@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
On this week’s show, NOSH editor Carol Ortenberg, reporters Adrianne DeLuca and Lukas Southard and editor-in-chief Jeff Klineman advocate for year-round pumpkin spice products and then run through some key trends surrounding grains and sugars spotted at recent trade show IFT First. The group also discusses Perfect Day’s presence at the show as well as recent changes to the company’s strategy.
Later, Adrianne chats with Chubby Snacks co-founder and CEO Dillon Ceglio about how the brand developed and evolved its production process. He explained that building the business, and working in it, had a positive impact on both team building and the bottom line.
Show Highlights:
05:20: How has regenerative agriculture helped generate a new wave of support for ancient grains? What sweeteners are shaking out to be the most versatile, and budget-friendly for brands? The team talks through insights gathered and ingredient trends observed at the IFT First show.
19:00: Precision fermentation company Perfect Day was also spotted at the show, which sparked a discussion about the recent news regarding the animal-free dairy producer’s CPG businesses. The team talks through how those changes fit into the broader landscape and strategy shifts often taken by tech and innovation-focused companies.
27:39: Dillon explains why the sandwich brand gravitated towards self-manufacturing and how developing its own production process gave them the ability to build towards automation.
36:31: Self-production also meant self-fulfillment in Chubby Snacks’ early days. Dillion shares the company’s tips and tricks, and why the team had to fight it out in their walk-in freezer with FedEx.
“We learned how to problem solve, very efficiently. We raised a decent amount of money, but [not] a lot so we had to make a little go a long way… We were forced to be in line working in the business with our staff and that went a long way in building rapport and trust … they gained a lot of respect for us and that respect went a long way.”
-Dillon Ceglio
About The NOSH Podcast
The staff of NOSH.com takes listeners inside the business of natural, organic, sustainable and healthy food during the NOSH Podcast. Using interviews and discussion, the team illuminates the news, brands, people, trends, and money affecting the world of packaged food.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to podcast@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
This week on the NOSH Podcast, Nosh editor Carol Ortenberg, Editor-in-Chief Jeff Klineman and reporter Lukas Southard sat down to talk about THC-infused snack brand knockoffs, CPG food products cashing in on popular entertainment properties (IE Barbie and Yellowstone) and the WHO’s ruling on artificial sweetener aspartame.
In the featured interview, Lukas speaks with Every Body Eat co-founders Trish Thomas and Nichole Wilson about how they strategize using inclusive innovation and how the strength of the business comes from its use of the “concept of mattering” in its production stream.
In this episode:
2:23 - Carol tells Jeff and Lukas what she picked up at the local grocery stores and ate while visiting Montreal. (Spoiler: There are words exchanged about bagels)
5:40 - The team discusses why products such as Trips Ahoy and Stoneos have found themselves in hot water with the FTC and FDA.
12:33 - Carol asks Jeff and Lukas about what they think of the recent CPG foods capitalizing on trending television show Yellowstone and movie release Barbie. Jeff and Lukas have a beef about a popular TV show’s signature dish.
19:30 - Jeff explains the potential impact WHO’s ruling on aspartame and why it might change the strategy for companies who already make or intend to release sugar-free products in the future.
27:05 - In the interview, Lukas sits down with the co-founders of allergen-friendly brand Every Body Eat to talk. CEO Trish Thomas and President Nichole Wilson explain how they define inclusive innovation and how they approach in-store growth
33:38 - Thomas and Wilson discuss how they prioritize being female founders and a Black-owned business when seeking investment.
41:50 - The two women share details about Every Body Eat’s production model and how the “concept of mattering” is used to empower their workforce.
“The team who understands that they matter understands that good ideas come from anywhere and sees their ideas become best practice. And [they] take our cost of manufactured goods down 50% in the span of a year, because they know that they're the ones that do it.“”
-Nichole Wilson, co-founder and president of Every Body Eat
About the NOSH Podcast
The staff of NOSH.com takes listeners inside the business of natural, organic, sustainable and healthy food during the NOSH Podcast. Using interviews and discussion, the team illuminates the news, brands, people, trends, and money affecting the world of packaged food.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to podcast@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
On this week’s show, NOSH editor Carol Ortenberg, reporters Adrianne DeLuca and Lukas Southard and editor-in-chief Jeff Klineman continue their food emojis crusade, while also highlighting some meal news from Tattooed Chef and Kevin’s. Later, Carol and Immi co-founder Kevin Lee talk through the brand’s approach to funding announcements, the leg up celebrity-backing has given its retail and marketing efforts and how the brand “embraced the cringe” to build community.
Show Highlights:
01:31: Jeff recounts his trip to Greece – which included many cephalopod meals and maybe a Pita Party upon return. The team then turns back to emojis with much debate over the origin and availability of these coveted digital creatures, and how the New York Times is trying to bring them on board.
10:28: The team talks through top headlines from the week spanning the sale of meal brand Kevin’s to the bankruptcy announcement from Tattooed Chef and how the different paths these brands took toward growth may have impacted their respective fates.
27:44: What is the value of publicly announcing a funding round? According to Lee, maybe not a lot. He shares insight on why he believes having to ride the media cycle wave doesn’t benefit early stage brands and why the team ultimately made the announcement post-seed stage.
48:17: Tweeting about a fundraise and your company’s valuation goes against Lee’s advice, but building the brand in a public way most definitely does not. Listen in to hear his argument for why every founder should “embrace the cringe,” and the benefit Immi has seen within its core community.
“You generally don't want to shine a spotlight on your fledgling startup when there are plenty of incumbents out there who would love to eat your lunch, and can probably build your product in a couple of months. There's also obviously the risk of inviting new entrants into the industry… and the last thing is – it's really just a distraction.”
-Kevin Lee
About the NOSH Podcast
The staff of NOSH.com takes listeners inside the business of natural, organic, sustainable and healthy food during the NOSH Podcast. Using interviews and discussion, the team illuminates the news, brands, people, trends, and money affecting the world of packaged food.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to podcast@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In a special dispatch from the World Business Chicago/Chicago Venture Summit, on this week’s NOSH Podcast Lukas talks to Midwest-based brands and investors about the advantages and challenges of being located in the middle of the country. Recorded in May, these executives share why Chicago’s proximity to manufacturing and distribution hubs can be a benefit in developing an inside-out nationwide growth strategy.
In this episode:
1:20 - What unique opportunity does the Windy City offer to CPG brands? Bluestein Ventures managing partner Ashley Hartman and senior associate Amira Khatib break down the Chicago-based firm’s investment strategy and discuss where it looks for innovation.
6:00 - Then, Annie Slabotsky and Morgan Lerner, the co-founders of banana bread mix company GoNanas, dive into the benefits a certain incubator program had on the brand’s community building efforts. The pair also highlight how its network of Midwestern investors and founders helped the company to create a successful brand.
15:05 - Monique Hypes, co-founder of regenerative tomato soup brand Tomato Bliss, explained how the company’s mission to improve soil health in Michigan has been its biggest strength in growing the brand in both foodservice and retail.
21:32 - How can a little Midwestern kindness can be used as a strength in the food industry? Audre Kapacinskas, principal at S2G Ventures, shared why the VC firm is focused on funding sustainable companies and why Chicago’s centrality provides CPG brands with a manufacturing boost.
“If you’re building a CPG brand today and you’re thinking about how to differentiate, I think Chicago – and the Midwest in general – presents a lot of opportunity with which you could explore some of those different levers to differentiate yourself with.”
“Generally in the Midwest, you have the typical Midwestern attitude of helpfulness and openness to collaborate than perhaps you would have in some of the more competitive markets.”
-Audre Kapacinskas, principal at S2G Ventures
About the NOSH Podcast
The staff of NOSH.com takes listeners inside the business of natural, organic, sustainable and healthy food during the NOSH Podcast. Using interviews and discussion, the team illuminates the news, brands, people, trends, and money affecting the world of packaged food.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to podcast@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
This week on the NOSH Podcast, NOSH editor Carol Ortenberg; reporters Lukas Southard and Adrianne DeLuca; and editorial assistant Shauna Golden discuss the team’s trip to the Specialty Food Association’s Summer Fancy Food Show. The foursome talk about spicy trends in condiments, the role wholesaling is playing for CPG brands and some shocking new products seen on the show floor.
In this episode:
3:17 - Carol and Lukas discuss the various versions of the chili crisp condiment seen throughout the show floor and what this means for growing the category across global food cultures.
7:00 - The team talks about how the viral YouTube show “Hot Ones” has been a boon to the hot sauce category, boosting sales for many brands who have been featured.
12:12 - Lukas tells the group about various brands who are diversifying their retail portfolio by entering the foodservice channel.
20:30 - Adrianne asks everyone what were some of the off-the-wall and/or innovative CPG products they saw at Fancy Foods last week including Whale Sperm tortilla chips, celebrity sauces and an instant gelato dispenser.
“Everybody has different strategies for how to put the power of social media to work for their brands.”
-Carol Ortenberg
About the NOSH Podcast
The staff of NOSH.com takes listeners inside the business of natural, organic, sustainable and healthy food during the NOSH Podcast. Using interviews and discussion, the team illuminates the news, brands, people, trends, and money affecting the world of packaged food.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to podcast@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
On this week’s show, NOSH editor Carol Ortenberg and reporters Adrianne DeLuca and Lukas Southard air grievances about the lack of natural product emojis, run down some ice cream deals from the past week and discuss the impact of pouched products on Stonyfield’s business. Later, Carol sits down with editor-in-chief Jeff Klineman to rehash key takeaways from BevNET Live last week, including how investors are assessing growth and how brands can use their online identity to generate insights.
Show Highlights:
01:26: As the NOSH team tackles its (new!) newsletter format, we all have become keenly aware how scarce natural products emojis are and plan to use this platform to change that...or at least score a pickle emoji. The team also gives the scoop on some sweet deals that were announced this week.
11:30: How have pouched yogurt products changed the trajectory of Stonyfield’s business? The answer lies in a small consumer group – think kiddie-sized – and a big investment that will expand its production facility to punch out 46 million pouches per year.
19:35: Over the past 18 months, how investors assess growth has continually evolved. Jeff explained how at BevNET Live, many investors said they no longer care for ‘growth at all cost’ mindsets and rather, value a well-maintained balance sheet.
26:28: Later, the discussion turns to the state of direct-to-consumer sales. Jeff highlights key takeaways from his talk with Nik Sharma, CEO of Sharma Brand, where a “detailed set of instructions” for developing an online presence that generates brand insights, stole the stage.
“[Retailer’s] are not just looking for new products for the shelves, they're looking for innovative products. They're looking for products that they can debut, but – this is the big divide – they're looking to share knowledge on how to succeed… But the basics remain… if you don't have the ability to do the run for product – you're not going to last very long.”
-Jeff Klineman
About the NOSH Podcast
The staff of NOSH.com takes listeners inside the business of natural, organic, sustainable and healthy food during the NOSH Podcast. Using interviews and discussion, the team illuminates the news, brands, people, trends, and money affecting the world of packaged food.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to podcast@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
This week on the NOSH Podcast, reporter Lukas Southard speaks with Justin Pearson, senior attorney at the Institute for Justice, about how and when the First Amendment and the Constitution protects brands against food labeling regulations. Pearson describes some of the food labeling cases he has tried, how the industry can protect truthful speech on food labels, and why it is important to fight against unfair legislation and regulation that targets food makers.
In this episode:
1:03 - Justin tells Lukas about why he believes that a new law in Texas regarding labels on alternative meat products is just another attempt to make it more expensive and difficult to operate in the state.
3:25 - Justin explains the difference between food labeling legislation enacted in state and federal governments as opposed to regulatory rules enforced by the FDA and USDA.
12:25 - Justin describes a case he fought addressing how skim milk is labeled, using it as an example of just how long it can take to undo regulatory restrictions by the government.
16:28 - Lukas asks Justin to describe the lawsuit the Institute of Justice has recently filed against the FDA and USDA in defense of a low-FODMAP food maker.
24:42 - Justin explains how he uses the First Amendment and the Constitution to protect food makers against unfair legislation and regulations.
“These cases really boil down to whether you're looking at the information in context or out of context. Thankfully, because the First Amendment is pretty well respected by the courts, what the precedent says is that you have to look at it in context.”
“The First Amendment does not allow the government to ban truthful, factual, verifiable speech.”
-Justin Pearson, senior attorney at the Institute for Justice
About the NOSH Podcast
The staff of NOSH.com takes listeners inside the business of natural, organic, sustainable and healthy food during the NOSH Podcast. Using interviews and discussion, the team illuminates the news, brands, people, trends, and money affecting the world of packaged food.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to podcast@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
On this week’s show, NOSH editor Carol Ortenberg and reporters Adrianne DeLuca and Lukas Southard chat about a recent move from Sonoma Creamery. The team also runs down some nutty news from Campbell’s and Orchard Valley Harvest. Later, Adrianne sits down with Neil Booher, VP of Crisis and Reputation Risk to learn how business leaders should navigate crises that enter the public eye.
Show Highlights:
06:27: Why did Sonoma Creamery cut its fresh cheese business? Adrianne walks through the historic brand’s recent move to shift focus to snacks and how that emerging strategy will play out on the innovation end.
09:21: Campbell’s Soup Company makes more than just soup, but no longer nuts. Lukas and Carol discuss the company’s sale of Emerald Nuts to private label player Flagstone Foods and spotlights a unique nut-centric advertising campaign by Orchard Valley Harvest.
22:20: In times of crisis clarity is key, but how do you maintain a position of clear communication during a crisis? Neil talks about the evolution of positions brand leaders should take when they find themselves combating controversial company headlines.
30:29: According to Neil, influencer partnerships led companies into uncharted crisis and risk management territory during the pandemic. Listen in for his tips on how to avoid landing on the top of a tabloid’s to-do list.
"The maximum often is ‘it's the tall blade of grass that gets cut.’ When it's an industry wide issue … [you have to weigh] what is the value of being out there and owning the issue publicly and the risks that go along with that are pretty significant.”
-Neil Booher
About the NOSH Podcast
The staff of NOSH.com takes listeners inside the business of natural, organic, sustainable and healthy food during the NOSH Podcast. Using interviews and discussion, the team illuminates the news, brands, people, trends, and money affecting the world of packaged food.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to podcast@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
This week the NOSH podcast team revisits some important lessons and stories shared during NOSH Live Winter 2022. In this episode, you’ll hear from Suzie York, founder and CEO of The Better Chocolate and Matt Clifford, CEO of CanDo. After previously founding Love Good Fats and Barnana, respectively, Yorke and Clifford have moved onto their second endeavors in the world of CPG. In a conversation with NOSH editor Carol Ortenberg the duo share how they applied certain learnings from their first businesses, the second time around.
Show Highlights:
03:00: Suzie discusses how she went from a first-time entrepreneur at age 50, to a second-time founder again at age 55. Matt then takes the mic to discuss why all founders should approach their business with a beginner’s mindset.
11:18: Matt jokes about the leap of faith Barnana took to get its first big retail break. Suzie shares how her experience at large multinationals taught her the playbook and walks through how those rules morph in the startup world.
18:39: The two founder’s trade tips from their past endeavors including approaches to team building, taking in investment and how the climate within the industry has changed for emerging brands.
“There's magic that happens when founders connect the dots, put a couple of things together and see what others don't see. Then, we're relentless. If you have a problem, you're gonna work through it. You want to keep all of that [energy] even though you have experience.”
-Suzie York
“So much of what we do here is luck. Right? I think it's dangerous when you try to figure out what is luck and what is skill. It's execution, and then the right time, right place and having humility.”
-Matt Clifford
About The NOSH Podcast
The staff of NOSH.com takes listeners inside the business of natural, organic, sustainable and healthy food during the NOSH Podcast. Using interviews and discussion, the team illuminates the news, brands, people, trends, and money affecting the world of packaged food.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to podcast@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
This week on the NOSH Podcast, Carol Ortenberg, Jeff Klineman, Adrianne DeLuca and Lukas Southard sit down to discuss celebrity branded coffee, a resolution to Miyoko Schinner’s battle with her former company and new (but veteran) leadership taking over Ben & Jerry’s. In the interview, Carol speaks with Jorge Gaviria, CEO and founder of Masienda, and its creative director Daniel Klein about how the company’s focus on video and storytelling has fueled new growth in customer acquisition and retail placements -- and led to several James Beard award nominations this year.
In this episode:
1:20 - The team starts the podcast with a conversation about celebrity-backed coffee brands in light of Millie Bobby Brown’s announcement that her cosmetics brand Florence By Mills had released branded coffee.
8:35 - Carol explains the recent update (and seemingly end) to the legal battle between Miyoko Schinner and her former vegan cheese brand.
10:50 - Lukas talks to the team about the leadership change at Ben & Jerry’s and what it says about the brand’s legacy and future in the premium ice cream category.
17:00 - In the interview this week, Carol spoke with CEO and founder of Masienda Jorge Gaviria, and the company’s creative director Daniel Klein about the company’s digital marketing strategy of focusing on film.
22:15 - Gaviria talks about how the brand’s change in content strategy to longer form videos helped build customer acquisition. 25:08 - Klein explains his journey with the company and how video became a big part of not only telling Masienda’s story but telling the story of scaling sustainability among farmers in Latin America.
34:00 - Gaviria discusses how the brand’s videos and D2C strategy has allowed Masienda to go nationwide in Whole Foods Market and establish its retail presence.
"This is a testament to how global of a culture we're in right now. Bad Bunny is the highest grossing artists of all time -- [and] he doesn't do interviews in English, he literally just speaks Spanish…The times have changed, and have really embraced this deeper dive into cultures that maybe don't reflect your own, but are fascinating and deserve representation."
-Jorge Gaviria, Masienda CEO and founder
"Masienda has always been a brand with a lot of integrity and beauty in the work that they do. And we try to make that clear also in the video that we present."
- Daniel Klein, Masienda Creative Director of Film and Video
About the NOSH Podcast
The staff of NOSH.com takes listeners inside the business of natural, organic, sustainable and healthy food during the NOSH Podcast. Using interviews and discussion, the team illuminates the news, brands, people, trends, and money affecting the world of packaged food.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to podcast@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
On this week’s show, NOSH editor Carol Ortenberg and reporters Adrianne DeLuca and Lukas Southard chat about viral candy trends, the U.S. Senate’s sweet tooth and how one CPG company is thinking about category expansion. Later, Carol sits down with Bain & Company VP of Consumer Products practice, Charlotte Apps, to discuss details from the firm's recent Insurgent Brands report.
Show Highlights:
01:22: The team talks about social media-driven sweets from ice cream wrapped fruit roll ups to freeze dried gummies. Lukas also shares some details and history surrounding the U.S. Senate's candy desk, which recently saw a changing of the guard.
10:24: Adrianne details some food trends she observed during a recent trip to London, including a vegan 3D printed steak, followed by Carol’s assessment of a recent category expansion from hot sauce maker Cholula.
17:58: Charlotte talks Carol through the methodology for assessing insurgent brands and the upward trajectory Bain has observed tracking this category of brands over the years. According to Apps, these brands often grow on increasingly accelerated timelines
28:03: Despite their premium positioning, Apps explains how insurgent brands typically exist across categories and details how their growth models often enable the business to capture wider-spread appeal.
"I think [for] many of these brands it's tempting to say they're riding a wave of consumer trends, and taking advantage of that...But really the ones that end up making it or or sustaining their growth, or really finding traction in the marketplace, are the ones that are not starting with the consumer trend -- they're starting with consumer need."
-Charlotte Apps
About The NOSH Podcast
The staff of NOSH.com takes listeners inside the business of natural, organic, sustainable and healthy food during the NOSH Podcast. Using interviews and discussion, the team illuminates the news, brands, people, trends, and money affecting the world of packaged food.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to podcast@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
This week on the NOSH Podcast, the team begins by discussing the strategies brands use to boost perception of their sales strength as well as possible risks with this approach. Then reporter Lukas Southard describes what he saw and heard on his trip to Chicago, where he attended Naturally Chicago’s Pitch Slam and the Chicago Venture Summit: Future of Food, before the team discusses the impact of SPACs in CPG.
In our featured interview FitJoy president Norman Taliaferro shares details surrounding the company’s recent $3.5 million fundraise, and the evolution of the company’s portfolio from protein bars to salty snacks.
In this episode:
05:05 - Carol, Jeff and Lukas talk about “retail refereeing” when brands encourage consumers to buy up products in order to appear in a strong position with category buyers and managers.
09:00 - Lukas tells Jeff and Carol about his trip to the Chicago Venture Summit last week and how the Midwestern CPG community is trying to gain recognition as a hotbed for food industry innovation.
17:45 - The team talks about SPACs in CPG food and how the current investment environment has impacted the landscape for “blank check” investment opportunities.
20:15 - Carol speaks with FitJoy president Norman Taliaferro about how the brand pivoted into a new and completely different category, its struggles to stay afloat during the pandemic, fundraising and new innovation.
“As everything goes in fundraising, it just takes twice as long as you think it will take.”
“Getting on shelf – as hard as it is – is the easiest part of the process.”
Norman Taliaferro, FitJoy president
About the NOSH Podcast
The staff of NOSH.com takes listeners inside the business of natural, organic, sustainable and healthy food during the NOSH Podcast. Using interviews and discussion, the team illuminates the news, brands, people, trends, and money affecting the world of packaged food.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to podcast@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
This week on the NOSH Podcast, NOSH editor Carol Ortenberg, Editor-in-Chief Jeff Klineman and reporters Lukas Southard and Adrianne Deluca discussed mayo preferences in dating, olive oil brand Graza’s squeeze bottle controversy and Whole Foods Markets redraws its regional maps.
Then, Lukas gets Ithaca Hummus’ founder Chris Kirby and the brand’s natural channel sales manager Aaron Wallace about how they strategized growing from regional to national distribution. The two gave advice about how to make the move as well as some cautionary tips about what a brand should or shouldn’t focus on when expanding its retail footprint.
In this episode:
06:05: Carol and the group debate if a person’s love (or hate in the case of Adrianne) of mayo belongs on dating apps.
08:38: Then, the NOSH team discusses the conversation about “copycat” culture in CPG that has erupted after olive oil brand Graza’s founder posted some inflammatory accusations about a competitor on LinkedIn.
16:18: Finally, Carol explains Whole Foods’ new regional maps and how that might impact the CPG food space.
21:19: For the interview, Lukas sat down with Ithaca Hummus to learn how to build an efficient national distribution model and how attention to detail can make a huge difference in being profitable as a brand grows.
“Buyers have a lot of brands on their desks and they don't have the attention to spend on your business like you should and, ultimately, the key word in that is – it's your business. It's our business, we need to own it and not them.”
-Aaron Wallace, Ithaca Hummus Sales Manager
About The NOSH Podcast
The staff of NOSH.com takes listeners inside the business of natural, organic, sustainable and healthy food during the NOSH Podcast. Using interviews and discussion, the team illuminates the news, brands, people, trends, and money affecting the world of packaged food.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to podcast@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
On this week’s NOSH Podcast, reporters Lukas Southard and Adrianne Deluca join NOSH editor Carol Ortenberg to consider Oatly’s new online marketing campaign, debate the implications of sesame seeds' new classification as a “Big 9” allergen and discuss Hershey’s decision to acquire two Skinny Pop co-packing facilities as the company puts more emphasis on its snacking portfolio.
Then, Carol hears from Coconut Cult CEO Ari Raz about how self-manufacturing might put increased pressure on a brand but in the end allows for more flexibility in production and the ability to remain true to core values.
In this episode:
1:35 - Adrianne explains Oatly’s new online tongue-in-cheek website and the team discusses the impact of self-effacing marketing campaigns.
4:12 - Lukas talks about how some companies are countering the FDA’s move in January to add sesame to the list of Big Nine allergens. Carol discusses the implications of companies adding an allergen to products that might not have previously contained it and how the allergen community is reacting.
9:43 - The team discusses Hershey’s move to acquire two production facilities from its Skinny Pop co-packer and the chocolate company’s focus on its snack portfolio.
16:40 - For the interview, Carol talks to yogurt brand The Coconut Cult’s CEO Ari Raz about co-packing versus self-manufacturing a product. Raiz discusses his change of heart when he took over the reins of Coconut Cult and shares news regarding new manufacturing capabilities.
“The process of being a self manufacturer went from being very scary, to extremely exciting. And now it’s going to become, as we continue to scale, a very lucrative operation for the brand.”
-Coconut Cult CEO Ari Raz
About the NOSH Podcast
The staff of NOSH.com takes listeners inside the business of natural, organic, sustainable and healthy food during the NOSH Podcast. Using interviews and discussion, the team illuminates the news, brands, people, trends, and money affecting the world of packaged food.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to podcast@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
On this week’s show, NOSH editor Carol Ortenberg and reporters Adrianne DeLuca and Lukas Southard chat about recent news from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) regarding functional food claims. Later, Adrianne sits down with Cynthia Cabrera, chief strategy officer at Hometown Hero CBD, and Bethany Gomez, managing director of The Brightfield Group to talk about the impact of hemp-derived THC has had on the CPG industry and how this unregulated space has contributed to consumer awareness of cannabinoid products.
Show Highlights:
07:17: The team breaks down recent news from the FTC, which saw nearly 700 businesses receive warning letters regarding their use of certain functional food claims, and the challenges functional brands could face in the future.
15:24: In the spirit of 4/20, the topic turns to hemp-derived THC compounds including Delta-8 and Delta-9. Cynthia and Bethany talk through the regulatory nuances that have allowed this subset of the hemp space to grow and how the rules vary from those governing marijuana businesses.
21:25: Cynthia and Bethany discuss the implications widespread distribution has had on these products and business and breakdown opportunities for growth – ranging from gas stations to grocery stores to e-commerce.
32:13: The duo then shares their expectations for the upcoming farm bill reauthorization and the conversation centers around ramifications of state level legislation, rather than federal law, that have impacted the overall market’s performance.
"Marijuana companies are not sure what to think about the whole hemp-derived THC space. Many of them are up in arms about it and really looking to view it as a threat and are combating against it, and others are viewing it as an opportunity."
- Bethany Gomez
"At the time [of the 2018 Farm Bill], nobody knew that a whole other industry could or would crop up -- that's the beauty of innovation. That's the beauty of an entrepreneurial market. They see an opportunity and they take it. The worst thing that could happen would be anything that tamps that down."
- Cynthia Cabrera
About The NOSH Podcast
The staff of NOSH.com takes listeners inside the business of natural, organic, sustainable and healthy food during the NOSH Podcast. Using interviews and discussion, the team illuminates the news, brands, people, trends, and money affecting the world of packaged food.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to podcast@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
On this week’s show, NOSH editor Carol Ortenberg sits down with President and CEO of Lesser Evil Snacks, Charles Coristine, to discuss how the brand approached raising funds as the fed lifted interest rates, what areas of the business Coristine prioritized during this economic uncertainty and why he expects the current operating environment to begin looking a little less bleak.
Show Highlights:
01:25: Charles breaks down the snack brand’s fundraising history while providing some insight on what areas of the business he focused on during its respective life stages and how he approaches raising primary and secondary capital for CapEx.
07:02: The conversation shifts as Carol and Charles discuss the operational changes he made to the business and how that impacted investor perspectives.
16:03: Charles shares his advice on assessing and determining your business’ valuation and how staying close to the mark can help the brand draw in return investment.
20:57: To close out the conversation, Carol and Charles chat about why you should root your budget in uncertainty rather than lofty aspirations and how he finds joy in the capital raise process once the dust has settled.
“As we focus on operational excellence, the nature of the brand is changing. A lot of what made us super successful at the beginning, isn’t what investors want us to focus on [now].”
- Charles Coristine, Lesser Evil President and CEO
About the NOSH Podcast
The staff of NOSH.com takes listeners inside the business of natural, organic, sustainable and healthy food during the NOSH Podcast. Using interviews and discussion, the team illuminates the news, brands, people, trends, and money affecting the world of packaged food.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to podcast@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode of the NOSH Podcast, the NOSH team gets fooled by CPG brands announcing fake products over April Fool’s Day weekend, sharing why they think some of these playful ideas should actually come to market. Then the team discusses the FDA’s recent food label announcements and how the agency is redefining how consumers understand “healthy” food claims.
In our featured interview, we hear from Grass Fed Foods CEO Jeff “Trip” Tripician about how mergers can help small businesses quickly scale to compete with conventional competitors. The conversation delves into the strategy to make grass fed beef, pastured meat and regeneratively-grown animal protein compete with commodity products.
In this episode:
1:00 - The team discusses some of the best (and worst) April Fool’s Day CPG products announced the past week.
8:20 - Adrianne explains the FDA’s recent announcements regarding healthy food labeling and the team talks about how the FDA is modernizing consumer’s understanding of nutrition.
22:05 - Lukas talks with Grass Fed Foods CEO Jeff Tripician about the merger of Teton Waters Ranch and SunFed Ranch, the economic benefits from consolidation among smaller companies and how grass fed meat is taking a lesson from organic foods’ playbook.
“The reason small companies merge is to become more resilient [to] derisk their businesses so that they can survive and try to do some good.”
- Jeff Tripician, CEO Grass Fed Foods
About the NOSH Podcast
The staff of NOSH.com takes listeners inside the business of natural, organic, sustainable and healthy food during the NOSH Podcast. Using interviews and discussion, the team illuminates the news, brands, people, trends, and money affecting the world of packaged food.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to podcast@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
In this episode of the NOSH Podcast, the NOSH team discusses the larger trend of chefs, restaurants and bakeries expanding into CPG, sharing recent funding and product examples. The team goes on to debate what the recent news in cell-cultured meat means for investment in the space and how it will dictate what companies survive and how quickly cultured proteins make it to market.
Then, Jeff and Carol sit down with TIG Brands founder Elliot Begoun and Chomps president and COO Liz Carter as the duo discusses how the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank’s has emphasized how CPG brands prioritize how they view working capital.
In this episode:
2:20 - Carol talks with the team about her dinner at New York City restaurant Per Se and the broader trend of chefs and bakeries launching CPG brands.
13:15 - The team discusses the juxtaposition of the news of the FDA’s approval of GOOD Meat and the announcement that cultured meat startup New Age Eats was officially ceasing operations. The team discussed what this means for the industry as a whole and how investment in the space will be key to the future of the industry.
22:20 - Jeff and Carol talk to Tig Brands founder Elliot Begoun and Chomps president and COO Liz Carter to discuss the role of working capital in light of the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank.
“Your capital strategy is as important as your go-to-market strategy, as your marketing strategy, as your organizational design. If you don’t have a capital strategy – a plan for fueling your business – then you’re really always going to be reactive. That’s dangerous in the best of times and probably devastating in these current ones.”
-Elliot Begoun, founder of Tig Brands
About the NOSH Podcast
The staff of NOSH.com takes listeners inside the business of natural, organic, sustainable and healthy food during the NOSH Podcast. Using interviews and discussion, the team illuminates the news, brands, people, trends, and money affecting the world of packaged food.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to podcast@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
On this week’s show, NOSH editor Carol Ortenberg, editor-in-chief Jeff Klineman and reporters Adrianne DeLuca and Lukas Southard chat about pickling and profitability before airing their opinions about the new names and structure of Kellogg Company. Later, Adrianne sits down with Marc Washington, founder and CEO of Supergut, and Greg Shearson, CEO of Cerebelly to hear why they believe the brands’ science-backed approach to functional food will be key to their longevity.
Show Highlights:
01:45: Jeff shares his post-Expo concerns about how many brands approach growth and walks the team through pros and cons of profitability. Later Carol sparks widespread disgust with her idea for a new CPG pickle product.
14:23: The conversation turns to Kellogg’s plan to split the company into two separate entities and turns to debate around the best name to call those new entities. Lukas shares some strong opinions and believes simplicity, in this case, would have been key.
29:31: Marc and Greg kick off the conversation insight into the difficulties of building a science-backed CPG brand from the ground up including the role funding plays and why this isn’t an approach that can be taken in later stages of growth.
36:51: Later, the two executives delve into the role of scientific evidence in the functional food space, and lack thereof, while sharing why they believe this point of differentiation for their brands not only sets them apart, but sets them up for longer term success.
“We're taking a differentiated approach here that creates a solid stable foundation, fundamentally based in scientific evidence. Having that foundation creates a moat and lasting staying power that isn’t as susceptible to the winds of shifting consumer demand.”
- Marc Washington, founder and CEO of Supergut
“In this category, the retailer interest is really palpable. They see our approach as a way to grow a category that's historically been very slow… we're creating an opportunity [for retailers] to take that to a dramatically different level and make the center of the store a growth arena.”
- Greg Shearson, CEO of Cerebelly
About The NOSH Podcast
The staff of NOSH.com takes listeners inside the business of natural, organic, sustainable and healthy food during the NOSH Podcast. Using interviews and discussion, the team illuminates the news, brands, people, trends, and money affecting the world of packaged food.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to podcast@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
NOSH editor Carol Ortenberg and reporters Lukas Southard and Adrianne DeLuca discussed what they saw, heard and tasted at Expo West 2023. The team talks about how the news of Silicon Valley Bank’s meltdown was received on the convention floor Friday and Saturday, how acquisitions announced during the event reflected broader trends in food and beverage manufacturing and the increasing desire by some brands to vertically integrate their supply chains.
In this episode:
1:05 - Adrianne tells Carol and Lukas about all the kelp and millet brands she talked to Expo.
2:50 - The team discusses how SVB’s sudden dissolution impacts the CPG food space and insights on how this may impact the industry longer term.
6:20 - Carol, Adrianne and Lukas talk about how the various acquisitions and strategic shifts announced at Expo West speak to broader trends in the industry.
11:15 - The team discusses how supply chains continue to be a topic of conversation among food producers. They then explore how nut suppliers are using their strengths in vertical integration to launch new, branded, packaged food products.
About the NOSH Podcast
The staff of NOSH.com takes listeners inside the business of natural, organic, sustainable and healthy food during the NOSH Podcast. Using interviews and discussion, the team illuminates the news, brands, people, trends, and money affecting the world of packaged food.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to podcast@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
On this week’s show, NOSH editor Carol Ortenberg, editor-in-chief Jeff Klineman and reporter Adrianne DeLuca talk about some notable, viral marketing campaigns as well as some tips, tricks and potential trends for Expo West. Later, Carol chats with Bobo’s CEO TJ McIntyre about the common missteps he believes brands make when they approach innovation and growth in tandem.
Show Highlights:
02:22: The NOSH team talks through how Three Wishes used a TikTok trend to promote their own rebrand as well as the ‘nepo babies’ that appeared in Silk’s plant-based iteration of the iconic Got Milk campaign.
06:34: The discussion then shifts toward Expo West and the team shares some handy supplier sorting strategies, how they intend to tackle the troves of booths and what they are looking out for on the floor this year (Hint: Adrianne wants to meet all the millet makers)
21:10: TJ reigns in brand expectations about launching new innovations. He also explains why he believes introducing a new product to work your way out of business and financial troubles is a big mistake.
36:19: What happens to your margins when rapid innovation is the near-term goal? TJ said in his experience, the business quickly ends up building off pennies instead of cash and long term, can lead itself right to extinction.
“If you're going to come out with new innovation and put it into another category, don't believe in your own hype that people are going to follow you there.”
-TJ McIntyre, CEO at Bobo’s
About the NOSH Podcast
The staff of NOSH.com takes listeners inside the business of natural, organic, sustainable and healthy food during the NOSH Podcast. Using interviews and discussion, the team illuminates the news, brands, people, trends, and money affecting the world of packaged food.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to podcast@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
On this week’s show, NOSH editor Carol Ortenberg and reporter Adrianne DeLuca are joined by two CPG executives and mission-driven brand leaders – Seth Goldman, CEO of Eat the Change and Jane Miller, CEO of Rudi’s Bakery – to discuss the departure of Miyoko Schinner from her namesake alt-dairy brand, Miyoko’s Creamery. The group discusses the macro challenges of being an outspoken founder figure, personal beliefs on the function and value of a mission-aligned board of directors and shares advice on approaching venture capital investment.
Show Highlights:
03:45: The discussion kicks off with a look into Seth's own professional experiences taking venture capital, how these two CEOs have navigated complex working relationships within executive teams and why holding regular, open and honest conversations with those at the top becomes especially important as the brand grows into its own.
08:05: Seth and Jane share their advice for fellow brand leaders on navigating the power dynamics that emerge when investment comes into play and how to ensure your stakeholders hold your company’s mission at heart.
15:19: The duo gets honest about the challenges entrepreneurs may face when scaling brands with a strong mission, complexities female founders face in this industry and explained why they believe a company’s founder should always be active in core decisions, serving as the guiding force and the brand’s champion throughout its lifecycle
25:50 Jane and Seth share their philosophy toward the function of a board and why this group of individuals should act as a support system and sounding board for a company’s leadership team.
“Everybody should be on the same side, which is assuming the best [and] trying to get the company to the same place. When you start to create that environment of ‘my board members’ versus ‘your board members,’ you're not going to get anywhere good.”
- Jane Miller, CEO of Rudi’s Bakehouse
"It's really valuable for [Miyoko's] vision to come to its fruition, for [her] to still be part of this…this is the visionary who created this brand and there's no more effective advocate [the board will] ever find...you've got to find a way to make her feel like she's part of this business… you want her to still be your advocate and champion."
- Seth Goldman, CEO of Eat The Change
About the NOSH Podcast
The staff of NOSH.com takes listeners inside the business of natural, organic, sustainable and healthy food during the NOSH Podcast. Using interviews and discussion, the team illuminates the news, brands, people, trends, and money affecting the world of packaged food.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to podcast@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
On this week’s show, NOSH editor Carol Ortenberg, editor-in-chief Jeff Klineman and reporters Adrianne DeLuca and Lukas Southard chat about the rise of cauliflower, its place on Chick-fil-a's menu and the veggie’s larger role in branded and private label CPG. Later, we hear from Ted Wright, CEO of word of mouth marketing agency Fizz to hear how the business of face-to-face conversation, and the practice of friendly recommendations, has fared for brand builders throughout the pandemic
Show Highlights:
01:58: This week the NOSH team takes on cauliflower. While in the land of social media it's sometimes negatively referred to as ghost broccoli, the once-despised dinner table veggie has taken the vegan, vegetarian and keto sets by storm and the team sets out to determine the root cause of Cauliflower's lasting popularity.
23:22: Ted talks through brand building activities at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic and how as consumer shopping habits shifted, certain products were able to shine and drive trial by properly executing word of mouth marketing tactics.
29:05: The age of influencers has not changed the playbook for Ted’s tried-and-true tactics either, he claims. Ted runs listeners through the proper use of influencers, how influencer impressions vary from true word of mouth tactics and why both methods are necessary for successful brand building.
“Conversation is the goal of all marketing in North America today. It is not broadcast. Nobody gives a bleeped out word about your ad… What they care about are stories that are authentic, interesting and relevant, that they can then share with their friends.”
-Ted Wright
About The NOSH Podcast
The staff of NOSH.com takes listeners inside the business of natural, organic, sustainable and healthy food during the NOSH Podcast. Using interviews and discussion, the team illuminates the news, brands, people, trends, and money affecting the world of packaged food.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to podcast@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
This week, NOSH editor Carol Ortenberg, editor-in-chief Jeff Klineman and reporters Brad Avery and Lukas Southard discuss the team’s thoughts on eating breakfast cereal as adults. The group goes on to discuss the success of Asian-American, Pacific Islander CPG food brands. In the featured interview, Lukas gathered Wildtype CEO and co-founder Justin Kolbeck, journalist Michael Grunwald and Steve Molino of Clear Current Capital to discuss what's happening in cell-cultivated proteins.
Show Highlights:
00:45 – Carol asks Lukas about his cereal-eating habits leading to the team’s discussion about eating the breakfast staple as an adult, what constitutes “sugar” cereal and is there really a market for functional products in the category.
10:45 – Brad talks about his recent story highlighting some of the recent successes experienced by AAPI food brands and why Americans are craving more authentic, regional varieties of Asian foods.
16:15 – In the wake of the FDA granting Upside Foods regulatory approval of its cultivated meat product, Lukas talked to Justin Kolbeck, Michael Grunwald and Steve Molino about where the cell-cultivated meat industry is going in 2023. The panel discusses the role of intellectual property in the industry, the pace of regulatory approval and what the future might hold for the nascent food tech category.
“We all need to think very creatively about how we move faster, because the competition isn't (conventional) meat and seafood companies. It's not other cultivated companies. It's not plant based. It's climate change.”
-Justin Kolbeck, CEO and co-founder of Wildtype
About the NOSH Podcast
The staff of NOSH.com takes listeners inside the business of natural, organic, sustainable and healthy food during the NOSH Podcast. Using interviews and discussion, the team illuminates the news, brands, people, trends, and money affecting the world of packaged food.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to podcast@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
On this week’s show, NOSH editor Carol Ortenberg, editor-in-chief Jeff Klineman and reporters Adrianne DeLuca and Lukas Southard dish out some hot takes on the condiment set and give an update on some recent divestments and sales resulting from supply chain struggles. Later, we hear from Adam Spriggs, founder of The Angel Group, to gain insight from the investor and brand expert on how companies should approach positioning and branding in order to grow and flex throughout their lifecycle.
Show Highlights:
02:10: This week’s topics get a bit saucy as the NOSH team shells out some controversial commentary and criticisms as they make their way down the condiment aisle including some lofty accusations against ketchup – is it a universal solvent or one-dimensional sauce?
10:32: The team then discusses the motives behind some recent divestments from big CPG players and how those actions compare to the supply network challenges facing Northeast organic dairy farmers.
19:45: Adam explains the oversight he sees many CPG entrepreneurs fall victim to and why he believes founders need to approach brand positioning with the mainstream consumers always in the back of their mind.
26:51: Later, Adam delves into how he analyzes a brand’s positioning and messaging strategies when assessing potential new investments, explaining that while a brand’s approach may always be rooted where it began, a founder has to be flexible to let that messaging evolve as the brand grows.
"Most CPG founders are innovating within echo chambers that are detached from the interests and comfort zones of the majority of shoppers...What we need more CPG entrepreneurs focusing on is just innovating within a sweet spot."
-Adam Spriggs, Founding Partner of The Angel Group
About the NOSH Podcast
The staff of NOSH.com takes listeners inside the business of natural, organic, sustainable and healthy food during the NOSH Podcast. Using interviews and discussion, the team illuminates the news, brands, people, trends, and money affecting the world of packaged food.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to podcast@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
NOSH editor Carol Ortenberg, BevNET Editor-in-Chief Jeff Klineman and reporters Adrianne Delucca and Lukas Southard took some time to discuss the uproar in the plant-based meat industry over the last week. In the wake of Bloomberg’s in-depth story “Fake Meat Was Supposed to Save the World. It Became Just Another Fad,” the NOSH team discusses why it has put big name brands like Impossible Foods on the defensive and has caused the industry to take a hard look at the successes, failures and what the future holds for the plant-based meat industry.
About the NOSH Podcast
The staff of NOSH.com takes listeners inside the business of natural, organic, sustainable and healthy food during the NOSH Podcast. Using interviews and discussion, the team illuminates the news, brands, people, trends, and money affecting the world of packaged food.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to podcast@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
On this week’s show, NOSH editor Carol Ortenberg, editor-in-chief Jeff Klineman and reporter Adrianne DeLuca discuss the ‘Pie-pline’ of Hubigs from New Orleans, elsewhere, and the changing climate around keto-branded foods. Later, we hear from John Johnson, senior counsel at law firm Shook, Hardy and Bacon, to delve into a recent report from the Reagan Udall Foundation, its implications on the U.S Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and potential solutions to systemic issues within the federal agency's human food program.
Show Highlights:
01:15: The NOSH team discusses Jeff’s favorite New Orleans delicacy, complete with a history lesson. Then the team gets into the recent sale of baking mix brand Birch Benders and what the move may mean for keto-claiming companies.
14:20: John explains that while the report highlighted many systemic issues the FDA has been grappling with for nearly a century, it failed to delineate between the two modes the agency operates within: day-to-day operations and crisis management. He suggests that if the agency wants to increase consumer confidence, it might be best to review its external communication plans.
19:44: Later, John aims to correct the narrative around the 2011 Food Safety Modernization Act, which many claim was supposed to lead the agency toward preventative operations rather than reactionary when it came to food safety actions like recalls.
“The deeper question [from the report] is how does the FDA effectively do its job, which gets to this metaphysical question of how does FDA know it's doing a good job in the food space? And the answer is an elusive concept of consumer confidence.”
- John Johnson, Shook, Hardy and Bacon
NOSH editor Carol Ortenberg, BevNET Editor-in-Chief Jeff Klineman and reporter Lukas Southard debate what is considered what food products should truly be called food technology, while others are perhaps just innovation. Jeff explains why the recent news of Oatly’s decision to move into a hybrid manufacturing structure with co-packer Ya YA foods is driving a discussion on social media over the merits of vertically- integrated production models. Later, Lukas interviewed Elohi Strategic Advisors founder Stephanie Lind to discuss the successes and failures of plant-based brands in foodservice.
In this episode:
1:00 - The NOSH team talks about their weekends and then unpacks what the term “food tech” actually means these days. They debate if the food tech industry is over-promising and under-delivering on innovation or if there is a need to set realistic expectations for its role in the greater CPG food space.
14:20 - Jeff discusses how Oatly’s move into a hybrid production model is creating a stir among industry leaders over vertically integrated versus horizontally integrated manufacturing.
17:35 - In this week’s interview, Lukas talks to Stephanie Lind about how foodservice could be a big winner (or pitfall) for emerging plant-based brands.
About the NOSH Podcast
The staff of NOSH.com takes listeners inside the business of natural, organic, sustainable and healthy food during the NOSH Podcast. Using interviews and discussion, the team illuminates the news, brands, people, trends, and money affecting the world of packaged food.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to podcast@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
NOSH editor Carol Ortenberg and reporter Lukas Southard discuss spending time and eating with family over the holidays. They then look back on the big stories of 2022 and how macro trends over the past year may provide insight as to what to expect in 2023. In this week’s interview, Carol talked to Coefficient Capital investor Natalie Borowski and Editor-in-Chief of The New Consumer Dan Frommer to discuss the most recent release of their ongoing Consumer Trends report.
In this episode:
0:50 - Carol and Lukas talk about celebrating with family and their respective holiday eating traditions.
5:45 - Lukas makes some predictions about the future of plant-based meats in the year to come.
9:00 - Carol discusses how the investment landscape is expected to tighten this year but the opportunity it could provide for innovative brands.
14:40 - Carol talks with Coefficient Capital investor Natalie Borowski and Editor-in-Chief of The New Consumer Dan Frommer about their fourth quarter Consumer Trends report, which examined consumer spending, perspectives and media habits in 2022 and how brands can use this data to plan for 2023.
About the NOSH Podcast
The staff of NOSH.com takes listeners inside the business of natural, organic, sustainable and healthy food during the NOSH Podcast. Using interviews and discussion, the team illuminates the news, brands, people, trends, and money affecting the world of packaged food.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to podcast@nosh.com.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
On this week’s show, NOSH editor Carol Ortenberg, editor-in-chief Jeff Klineman and reporter Adrianne DeLuca discuss the state of online subscription businesses as well as some recent snack deals. The team is then joined by another NOSH editorial team member, Shauna Golden, to help highlight key themes from a recent seminar hosted by Natural Products Consulting. Later, we hear from Andy Whitman, Managing Partner of Loft Growth Partners about the current investment landscape and what to keep in mind when pitching investors for your next raise.
Show Highlights:
01:34: The NOSH team discusses Blue Apron’s cash flow and funding issues, the state of Nestle’s Freshly business and why recent reports indicate the pandemic-induced subscription service boom may be declining. Carol and Jeff also discuss some recent notable deals in the snack space.
09:28 The discussion then turns to a recent seminar the team attended that took developing a sales strategy and financing your CPG business to a granular level. Shauna Golden joins to share some of her learnings from the three-day conference.
23:03: Andy runs through the current state of investing and why businesses should always be focussed on the fundamentals and balance growth with profitability rather than “growth at all costs.”
33:36: Later, Andy breaks down the five things any brand should keep in mind when pitching investors, including what you don’t need to tell them and how to approach the conversation from their perspective.
“Most businesses don't go out of business because they're terrible ideas, they go out of business because they run out of cash… If you understand what your cash needs are, you can understand what you need to finance and that keeps you out of the penalty box.”
- Andy Whitman
On this week’s show, NOSH editor Carol Ortenberg, editor-in-chief Jeff Klineman and reporter Adrianne DeLuca chat about the ever-growing plant-based alternatives space, including Adrianne’s first encounter with an Impossible Burger. Carol and Jeff also run through the implications of the recent sale of Popchips to the parent company of Real Foods From the Ground Up and how the deal is indicative of the changing financial markets. Later, we hear Jeff’s NOSH Live discussion with Emma Chamberlain, online creator and founder of Chamberlain Coffee, to learn how the social media star built the brand on her ethos of authenticity and transparency.
Show Highlights:
02:16: The NOSH team discusses the palatability of plant-based meat and cheese alternatives while highlighting some new cheese brands entering the space.
08:52: The discussion then turns to the potential impact of Velocity Snack Brand’s Popchips joining the portfolio of better-for-you snack platform Powered By Real Food From the Ground Up, parent company to Real Food From The Ground Up and You Need This.
20:45: Emma, Jeff and Chamberlain Coffee CEO, Chris Gallant, get honest about how the duo approached building the coffee brand’s identity without making it synonymous with the online creator.
33:19: As an active partner with brands outside of the food and beverage scene, Emma outlines what makes for successful brand-influencer relationships and cautions those who only value follower counts over a creator’s character and commitment to the product.
“Listening to what people want is crucial…because if you're not, there's so many opportunities that will be missed. But you also can't base every decision off of what everyone's asking for. What inspires me is, what do people want, that they don't even know that they want?” - Emma Chamberlain
On this week’s show, NOSH editor Carol Ortenberg and reporter Adrianne DeLuca run down NOSH Live Winter 2022, highlighting key themes and trends threaded through the discussions with industry experts. Later, we hear Carol’s NOSH Live discussion with Holly Adrien, Natural and Organic Innovation and Strategy Manager at Kroger, to learn how emerging natural product brands can strategize for success when pitching the grocery giant.
Show Highlights:
01:28: The NOSH team breaks down discussions from the conference including the various approaches to brand building and community, the shifting demands of natural and organic shoppers, and what categories are seeing a spike in better-for-you innovation.
19:30: Adrien kicks off the discussion with a look into how grocery buyers work to understand consumers at every level, when they harness both internal and external data for new in-store activations, and how they view the space for natural, organic and sustainable food.
28:08: Be realistic about distribution and have a plan to drive consumers into the store. Those aspects are key for a founder to differentiate its brand from everyone else on the shelf, according to Adrien. She said that strategy starts with how it pitches the brand to buyers.
“I’ve been having a lot more conversations with [brands saying] – ‘we don’t have to go everywhere.’ It is important to have someone that is that honest with themselves [and willing] to start small.” - Holly Adrien
This week, due to our NOSH Live event in Santa Monica, we're taking the week off, but you can still follow what we're up to by hitting the NOSH.Com livestream on Dec. 1 and 2, says Editor-in-Chief Jeff Klineman.
On this week’s show, NOSH editor Carol Ortenberg, Editor-in-Chief Jeff Klineman and reporter Adrianne DeLuca run down the shifting priorities and narrowing focus of large CPG corporations including B&G Foods, Kelloggs and Beyond Meat. Later, Adrianne sits down with Arturo Elizondo, co-founder and CEO of alternative egg protein food tech operation, The EVERY Company, to discuss his experience at the UN’s COP27 summit last week.
Show Highlights:
01:20: The NOSH team runs through a host of recent corporate restructurings including B&G which is seeking to divest snack brand Back to Nature and Beyond Meat’s shifting growth strategy.
06:13: Carol explains the cause of layoffs at merchandising firm Dirty Hands. The team then discusses the challenges of the plant-based protein category’s growth and how Jeff is honing a true flexitarian diet with his plant-based preferences.
16:45: Arturo runs through his key takeaways from COP27 including how leaders from around the world are approaching climate change mitigation, where government support is needed and how natural food brands can help implement and execute the goals of the conference.
24:36: Although plenty of climate change mitigating ideas, innovations and solutions were presented at COP27, Arturo outlines the path, and challenges ahead, for international leaders and food companies to have an impact.
“There's a lot of interest by [large] companies that want to be able to [say] they've committed and achieved something. Companies in our space can help them achieve those targets.. especially now that there are solutions – it's no longer a deficiency issue.”
- Arturo Elizondo
On this week’s show, NOSH editor Carol Ortenberg, Editor-in-Chief Jeff Klineman and reporter Adrianne DeLuca run down the shifting priorities and narrowing focus of large CPG corporations including B&G Foods, Kelloggs and Beyond Meat. Later, Adrianne sits down with Arturo Elizondo, co-founder and CEO of alternative egg protein food tech operation, The EVERY Company, to discuss his experience at the UN’s COP27 summit last week.
Show Highlights:
01:20: The NOSH team runs through a host of recent corporate restructurings including B&G which is seeking to divest snack brand Back to Nature and Beyond Meat’s shifting growth strategy.
06:13: Carol explains the cause of layoffs at merchandising firm Dirty Hands. The team then discusses the challenges of the plant-based protein category’s growth and how Jeff is honing a true flexitarian diet with his plant-based preferences.
16:45: Arturo runs through his key takeaways from COP27 including how leaders from around the world are approaching climate change mitigation, where government support is needed and how natural food brands can help implement and execute the goals of the conference.
24:36: Although plenty of climate change mitigating ideas, innovations and solutions were presented at COP27, Arturo outlines the path, and challenges ahead, for international leaders and food companies to have an impact.
“There's a lot of interest by [large] companies that want to be able to [say] they've committed and achieved something. Companies in our space can help them achieve those targets.. especially now that there are solutions – it's no longer a deficiency issue.”
- Arturo Elizondo
From the flavors of Thanksgiving in uncommon formats to priceless paintings covered in canned soup, the NOSH team talks about chaos in the food world. Then in this week’s interview NOSH editor Carol Ortenberg talks to Jason and Mia Bauer, founders of Crumbs Bakeshop, about relaunching the popular bakery brand and shifting it from a brick-and-mortar model to a CPG line of treats.
In this episode:
0:45 - Carol, Jeff and Lukas talk about making new Thanksgiving traditions around savory soda flavors, THC gravy and turkey ice cream.
5:53 - Lukas tells the team about the trouble Tyson’s recently appointed CFO, John Tyson, has found himself in after a wild night on the town in Arkansas.
8:05 - Jeff discusses how canned soup and fine art have found their way into the discussions on climate change.
10:20 - Carol explains how the cyberattack on Maple Leaf Foods might impact meat pricing in the coming months.
14:50 - Crumbs co-founders Mia and Jason Bauer talk to Carol about bringing the brand back from bankruptcy and the differences between running a CPG business as opposed to a retail baker shop.
About the NOSH Podcast
The staff of NOSH.com takes listeners inside the business of natural, organic, sustainable and healthy food during the NOSH Podcast. Using interviews and discussion, the team illuminates the news, brands, people, trends, and money affecting the world of packaged food.
On this week’s show, NOSH editor Carol Ortenberg and reporters Adrianne DeLuca and Lukas Southard discuss the possible business plans of Feastables founder and YouTube creator MrBeast and the reasons creators, influencers and celebrities are embracing the CPG industry. Later, Carol sits down with Charley Cummings, founder and CEO of newly FDIC-approved bank, Walden Mutual to dive into Charley’s plans for creating a digital bank that can be “means to an end” for a more sustainable, inclusive, locally-focused food system.
Show Highlights:
01:16: The NOSH team talks about this week’s top stories including an upcoming fundraise and potential billion dollar valuation for Feastables founder and Youtube creator, MrBeast. That kicks off a discussion around the impetus for athletes and chefs to become involved in CPG, and wraps up with the team’s thoughts on chef-created vegetable brand, Row 7’s recent rollout.
13:08: How a mutual bank differs from a traditional, institutional bank and the goal Charley has for building a system that supports its clients values and uplifts local agricultural and food businesses with each deposit.
20:38: What gaps Charley sees within the current lending infrastructure and how he plans to use Walden to support strong operators so that the underlying businesses have a chance to grow.
“There's been a lot of talk over the last five years around impact investment. There’s a core set of consumers looking to align their investment portfolio with their values.”
Charley Cummings
On this week's show, NOSH editor Carol Ortenberg, BevNET Editor-in-Chief Jeff Klineman and reporter Adrianne DeLuca discuss the latest news surrounding the Kroger/Albertsons merger, explain the challenges Instacart keeps having with going public and dive deep into some sea-faring food trends. Reporter Lukas Southard then sits down with Food and Beverage Investor Database (FABID) founder, Ryan Williams, to discuss the current investment climate and what brands should focus on before and after raising capital.
On this week’s show, NOSH editor Carol Ortenberg, BevNET Editor-in-Chief Jeff Klineman and reporter Lukas Southard discussed Nancy Pelosi’s favorite snack while in lockdown at the Capitol, more personnel shake-ups in the plant-based meat industry and how brand focus plays a big role in the growth success and failure for emerging food companies. Then Carol and Jeff sat down with retail experts John Maggiore and Errol Schweizer to talk about the implications of the biggest food business story of last week: Kroger’s announcement of its intent to acquire Albertsons, creating the largest supermarket chain in the country.
In this episode:
1:14 - Carol discusses what meat snack made a guest appearance during the Capitol Hearing on January 6.
3:10 - Lukas and the group talk about industry lay-offs occurring in the CPG food industry. Lukas reports on the news that Beyond Meat will be cutting another 20% of its workforce and Laird’s shutting down an Oregon production facility. The layoffs show that growing too quickly or not understanding a long term demand can force brands to restructure production models.
7:45 - Carol tells the team about her recent story revolving around Sweet Loren’s cookies bringing in a new president and how focusing growth in the right places to build a successful brand.
13:40 - Jeff and Carol host a panel discussion with CPG experts John Maggiore and Errol Schweizer to talk more about what the Kroger/Albertsons merger will look like for the grocery channel and what this means for emerging food brands.
About the NOSH Podcast
The staff of NOSH.com takes listeners inside the business of natural, organic, sustainable and healthy food during the NOSH Podcast. Using interviews and discussion, the team illuminates the news, brands, people, trends, and money affecting the world of packaged food.
New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to podcast@nosh.com.
This week, NOSH editor Carol Ortenberg along with BevNET Editor-in-Chief Jeff Klineman and reporter Lukas Southard chatted about what trends Jeff saw in his trip to Las Vegas for the National Association of Convenience Stores’ trade show. The team also reflects back on the anniversary of a major deal and delved into the shake-ups happening in plant-based meats. Later, Carol talked with Japanese barbecue sauce maker Bachan’s founder Justin Gill about fundraising and the advantages of covert brand-building.
In this episode:
01:10: BevNET Editor-in-Chief Jeff Klineman talks about healthy options entering the c-store space, mingling with brand mascots and the number of new products featuring caffeine coming to the convenience channel.
8:50: The team wishes RX Bar a happy five year anniversary on the company’s sale to Kellogg’s and discusses innovation through acquisitions.
11:55: Lukas discusses the dissolution of JBS’ Planterra Foods division and how the broader pullback in plant-based meats reflects the future of the category.
19:53: NOSH editor Carol Ortenberg spoke with Bachan’s founder Justin Gill about the brand’s recent capital raise as well as how the brand grew into a profitable omnichannel business. Carol asked about how the company kept a low profile amidst its successful growth.
On this week’s show, the team debriefs on its trip to Natural Products Expo East in Philadelphia and then sorts through the news around the White House and FDA’s evolving definition of “healthy.” NOSH editor Carol Ortenberg chats about Amazon’s first Prime Early Access Sale (or PEAS) with Chris Moe, the president and co-founder of the Amazon consulting group Cartograph. The two discuss how brands can utilize the ecommerce giant’s new day-long sale to build more visibility and velocity among potential consumers.
In this episode:
00:58: The NOSH team discusses trends they saw among food brands at last week’s Expo East, noing an emphasis on regenerative agriculture claims as well as product innovation versus rebranding and reinvention. Then NOSH reporter Adrianne DeLuca tries to sift through the FDA’s proposed new food label definition of “healthy”.
07:28: NOSH editor Carol Ortenberg chata with Cartograph’s Chris Moe about Amazon’s first Prime Early Access Sale happening on October 11. The conversation covers how some seasonal buying trends happen earlier than one might think and finding ways to reach new customers is one of the most important aspects of big ecommerce retail events.
This week, Kiva Dickinson, co-founder and managing partner of Selva Ventures joins the NOSH podcast team to break down how D2C has evolved from a pandemic-era must-have to an integral sales and brand development tool. The conversation dives deep into the expectations from investors and how they match up with reality as the industry lands firmly in an omnichannel world.
The staff of NOSH.com takes listeners inside the business of natural, organic, sustainable and healthy food during the NOSH Podcast. Using interviews and discussion, the team illuminates the news, brands, people, trends, and money affecting the world of packaged food.