SOLVEAT has announced an investment-based joint development and commercial agreement with The Central Bottling Company, Ltd. (CBC Group) to develop functional beverages incorporating the startup’s patented botanical formulations. The long-term collaboration will focus on creating soft drinks targeting health categories including metabolic support and blood sugar control.

Milan-based Maia Ventures has announced the launch of its first fund totalling €55 million, targeting 20 to 25 early-stage companies developing technology and science-based solutions for the agrifood sector. The fund, which has already completed six investments, plans initial investments ranging from €0.5 to 1.5 million per company.

Researchers have used CRISPR/Cas9 technology to engineer Fusarium venenatum that produces myco-protein with superior nutritional properties and dramatically improved sustainability metrics. The break-through demonstrates how precise metabolic modifications can simul-taneously enhance protein quality and reduce resource consumption in alternative protein production, validated at industrial fermentation scale.

Crespel & Deiters Group has appointed Frank Kreß as its new chief financial officer, effective 15 October 2025. He succeeds Dr Inge Hohrath, who is leaving the company after three years at her own request.

ofi has published its Coffee LENS 2024 Impact Report, detailing progress towards 2030 sustainability targets across its global coffee operations. The report documents advances in climate action, farmer support programmes, and supply chain traceability during a year marked by significant market volatility and climate challenges.