chocolate fermentation from unpredictable craft to reliable science

Precision microbial control transforms chocolate fermentation from unpredictable craft to reliable science

Researchers have identified the key microbial communities and environmental factors that control cocoa bean fermentation, developing a synthetic starter culture capable of reliably producing fine-flavour chocolate characteristics under laboratory conditions. The breakthrough could transform chocolate production from an unpredictable process to a standardised, science-driven industry.

grapes get superfood status

Grapes earn superfood status in peer-reviewed research analysis

Leading resveratrol researcher Dr John M. Pezzuto presents compelling scientific evidence that fresh grapes warrant superfood classification alongside Mediterranean diet staples, citing over 1,600 bioactive compounds and extensive clinical trial data supporting cardiovascular, neurological, and metabolic health benefits.

Gonmisol has entered an exclusive partnership with Mumbai’s K. Patel Phyto Extractions

Gonmisol secures exclusive European rights for Ayurvedic extracts

Barcelona-based Gonmisol has entered an exclusive partnership with Mumbai’s K. Patel Phyto Extractions to distribute scientifically validated Ayurvedic botanical extracts across European markets, with initial focus on women’s health and metabolic wellness applications.

GNT launches certified organic pink food colouring from sweet potatoes

GNT has introduced EXBERRY Organics Brilliant Pink, a plant-based food colouring concentrate derived from purple sweet potatoes. The new organic-certified ingredient is designed for heat-resistant applications including beverages, confectionery, and dairy products, supporting clean labelling requirements across multiple food categories.

CarobWay debuts CarobBiome prebiotic fibre

CarobWay launches CarobBiome prebiotic fibre at IFT FIRST 2025

Swiss food technology company CarobWay has introduced CarobBiome, a carob-derived prebiotic fibre designed to deliver gut and metabolic health benefits whilst minimising digestive discomfort. The ingredient was launched at IFT FIRST 2025 in Chicago in July.

The Novella laboratory ©Novella

Novella partners with Metaphor Foods for cell-based natural preservatives

Israeli biotech Novella and Australian ingredient innovator Metaphor Foods have formed a strategic partnership to develop cell-based natural preservatives. The collaboration will utilise Novella’s proprietary AuraCell plant cell technology to create antioxidant and antimicrobial compounds for clean-label food applications across the Asia-Pacific region.

dsm-firmenich unveils receptor-based maskers for plant protein applications

Swiss-Dutch nutrition company launches ModulaSENSE® maskers targeting molecular-level sensory challenges in Vertis™ CanolaPRO® formulations. The receptor-based technology addresses bitterness, astringency, and licorice notes in ready-to-mix beverages and protein bars.

Meala partners with dsm-firmenich to commercialise texturising pea protein

Biotechnology-derived pea protein ingredient consolidates multiple functional components into single clean-label solution for meat alternatives. Partnership enables European market access whilst addressing consumer demand for simplified ingredient lists and enhanced nutritional profiles.

Stefan Klebert, CEO of GEA

GEA secures contract for world’s largest integrated dairy facility in Algeria

GEA Group has secured one of its largest contracts to date, worth €140-170 million, to construct the world’s largest integrated dairy farm and milk powder production facility in Algeria. The project, developed in partnership with Qatari dairy producer Baladna and the Algerian Government, aims to significantly enhance Algeria’s food security through domestic milk powder production.

Minebea Intec’s Dymond X-Ray application

Minebea Intec highlights critical dairy safety gaps as 400 products recalled

The dairy industry faces mounting pressure as nearly 400 products were recalled worldwide during the first quarter of 2025, with microbiological contamination, unlabelled allergens, and physical foreign bodies driving the crisis. Minebea Intec, a leading industrial weighing technology manufacturer, has outlined comprehensive prevention strategies targeting critical production vulnerabilities.