Innovation

IFT FIRST Expo to offer discussions on AI, GLP-1s, food safety and more

Fri, 05 Jun 2026 00:00:00 -0400

The IFT FIRST Annual Event and Expo returns to Chicago from July 12-15, showcasing innovations in food science. This year features scientific programming within the expo hall, Ignite Sessions for professional development, and keynotes addressing pressing industry challenges.

Dairy Foods launches its first Health and Wellness issue

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 06:00:00 -0400

Welcome to Dairy Foods' first Health and Wellness issue, focusing on dairy's revival, particularly cottage cheese and yogurt. Delve into recent trends, consumer preferences, and insights from industry reports, highlighting how dairy is adapting to meet the evolving needs of today’s health-conscious consumers.

Automation drives health, safety, and growth in cheese operations

Thu, 28 May 2026 10:25:00 -0400

From automated reverse packaging systems and hygienic conveyors to advanced vision inspection technologies, automation is helping cheese plants operate with greater predictability in an increasingly challenging production environment.

Gelatys opens 30,000-square-foot production facility

Wed, 27 May 2026 13:47:06 -0400

Built on a 1.5-acre site, the Fort Myers, Fla., facility investment represents more than a manufacturing expansion; it's the operational foundation Gelatys is building to support national grocery growth, fuel differentiated frozen-novelty innovation and solidify its position as the defining brand in a category it pioneered.

Dairy checkoff introduces “Body by Cheese"

Wed, 27 May 2026 09:55:16 -0400

The lighthearted campaign designed to connect cheese with fitness, wellness and snacking occasions. At the center of the effort is the Parm Bar, a 2-ounce block of domestically produced parmesan packaged in a protein-bar-inspired wrapper that highlights cheese’s protein benefits in a modern way.

Frios’ E-2 visa program bringing in successful franchisees

Wed, 27 May 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Frios Gourmet Pops’ Mobile, Ala., facility, located near Interstate 65 and spanning some 21,000 square feet, can employ up to 25 people based on time of year and product demand. Upon visiting the facility, it is clear that the company can expand its operations significantly.

IDDBA commences search for next CEO

Wed, 20 May 2026 13:46:31 -0400

The incoming president and CEO will be responsible for providing strategic and operational leadership for the nonprofit, which connects retailers, manufacturers, distributors, and suppliers.

The keys to high-protein dairy formulations

federd@bnpmedia.com (David Feder RDN) — Wed, 20 May 2026 00:00:00 -0400

The evolution of flavor modulation in dairy highlights the challenge of maintaining indulgent taste and smooth texture while integrating high-protein and functional ingredients. As consumer preferences shift, formulators are turning to layered systems of flavor builders and modulators for innovative solutions.

How Frios Gourmet Pops delivers happiness

Mon, 18 May 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Frios Gourmet Pops, based in Mobile, Alabama, has a straightforward mission: to deliver moments of happiness. Their franchisees are known as “Happiness Hustlers.” For CEO Cliff Kennedy, who has held this position for eight years, creating these moments often involves evoking childhood memories, which is reflected in many of their flavor offerings.

IDFA CEO Dykes to retire at end of 2026

Fri, 15 May 2026 13:01:50 -0400

IDFA’s Executive Council officer group is forming a committee to support the process for selecting the association’s next president and CEO while Dykes continues to serve in his role through the end of 2026 to support a smooth and thoughtful leadership transition.

Halo Top innovation turns cell phones on "Do Not Disturb" while enjoying a frozen treat

Mon, 11 May 2026 12:24:41 -0400

Blending technology with indulgence, the Silent (à la) Mode Spoon is a typical food-safe spoon that doubles as a tool that silences your phone and delivers the perfect bite-sized scoop for enjoying Halo Top ice cream, uninterrupted. The enhanced utensil features a discreet NFC (Near Field Communication) chip that simply and safely connects to your device. The chip is compatible with most smartphones, including iPhone and Android devices.

IFF opens Vanilla Innovation Center

Mon, 11 May 2026 09:11:04 -0400

Located in Madagascar, near vanilla growing areas and post‑harvest processing activities, the 650‑square‑meter center brings together lab analysis, extraction, scent and flavor creation, and application development in a single site.

How dairy foods can deliver healthy snacking experiences

Fri, 08 May 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Discover the benefits of nutrient-dense dairy snacks! From portable yogurt and protein-rich spreads to savory cheeses, these flavorful options provide balanced energy and health benefits. Embrace strategic snacking for a healthier lifestyle with convenient, tasty dairy choices.

Cottage cheese sales top $2 Billion

Wed, 06 May 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Cultured dairy is booming, led by soaring yogurt and cottage cheese sales, according to Circana data. Sour cream and cream cheese showed mixed results, though several brands posted standout gains across key cultured dairy segments.

Kemps debuts Protein+ Milk

Tue, 05 May 2026 15:12:00 -0400

Made with real dairy milk sourced from DFA family farms, Kemps Protein+ delivers 13 grams of protein per serving — 50% more than regular milk – along with 50% less sugar. The milk is ultra filtered to concentrate protein, while reducing sugar, resulting in a rich, creamy taste, the company said.

AI to be major focus at IFT FIRST Expo

Tue, 05 May 2026 07:17:11 -0400

The Artificial Intelligence Keynote, “Designing with Intelligence: Practical AI for Faster, Smarter, Safer Food Innovation,” is taking place Wednesday, July 15, from 9:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. CT, and will feature Alon Chen, CEO and Co-Founder of Tastewise,

Episode 64 – Why is dairy perfect for GLP-1 consumers?

Fri, 01 May 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Jacqueline Van Schaik, global lead nutritionist, Fonterra, joins Dairy Foods for episode 64 of the “Let’s Talk Dairy” podcast. During this podcast, she discusses GLP-1s and dairy.

Ever.Ag introduces agentic AI and Ag decision engine

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 14:56:52 -0400

Everett is arriving first for dairy processing customers, where Ever.Ag has deep roots and a highly established software suite.

Functionality and flavor innovation take center stage at IDFA Ice Cream and Cultured Innovation Conference

Fri, 24 Apr 2026 14:25:26 -0400

From protein optimization and reduced sugar to “swicy” flavors and novel formats, IDFA’s 2026 conference highlights how frozen and cultured dairy processors are delivering more value for consumers.

ADM shares what’s driving flavor and ingredient customization

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 06:00:33 -0400

At its global flavor headquarters in Erlanger, Ky., ADM explores ingredient reformulation and key trends like natural colors and flavors, sodium and sugar reduction and clean-label ingredients.

Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams names former Ben & Jerry's exec as new CEO

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 11:06:36 -0400

David Stever brings more than 25 years of leadership experience in consumer-packaged goods. As CEO and chief marketing officer of Ben & Jerry’s, he led the business through transformative growth while strengthening the brand, expanding innovation, and increasing its global relevance.

Honoring Women Leaders Shaping the Dairy Industry – Part 2

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0400

For the fourth consecutive year, Dairy Foods is proud to highlight and celebrate ten fascinating women who share how they overcame adversity when a project started out badly, ways their company/brands are adapting to shifting consumer trends and economic pressures, lessons they learned, and more. Check out Part 2 of our two-month feature.

McKinsey: Cost management and volume growth top dairy processor priorities

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 12:03:09 -0400

The industry continues to cope with a challenging operating environment, defined by persistent cost inflation, labor constraints, input volatility, and rising uncertainty around trade and regulation.

So you want to start an ice cream business?

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Ice cream attracts bold entrepreneurs—but it’s unlike any other food business. From formulation to distribution, success hinges on mastering its frozen nature, costs, and supply chain. Here’s what every newcomer needs to know before diving in.

Sweet and savory flavors and inclusions shine at 2026 IDFA Innovative Ice Cream and Cultured Dairy Contests

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 10:00:18 -0400

This contest, co-sponsored by Dairy Foods magazine and held during IDFA’s Ice Cream & Cultured Innovation Conference, brought more than 300 dairy professionals to the Sunshine State this week to sample and celebrate the next wave of dairy creativity.

A new era and brand evolution for Maola Local Dairies

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0400

A new CEO and major expansions in lactose-free milk and plant capacity highlight Maola Local Dairies' evolution, a farmer-owned cooperative in Herndon, Va., with nearly 800 member farms and over 1,000 employees.

What are today’s biggest dairy flavor trends?

Fri, 10 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0400

What’s next in dairy flavor innovation? From tiramisu and chai spice to sweet heat and global citrus, emerging trends blend comfort with creativity—offering processors fresh opportunities to captivate consumers and drive growth through bold, unexpected profiles.

Butterfinger, Baby Ruth and 100 Grand ice cream bars are introduced

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 10:32:36 -0400

Wells Enterprises and Ferrero North America intend to bring candy bar texture to real ice cream.

Dairy Farmers of America debuts new cottage cheese brand MULU at Walmart

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 17:14:31 -0400

MULU offers18 grams of complete protein per half-cup serving.

Van Leeuwen and Guinness team for ice cream at Whole Foods Market

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 14:50:14 -0400

The collaboration reinforces Van Leeuwen’s position as a leader in culturally relevant flavor innovation - bringing together high-quality ingredients with unexpected, buzzworthy partnerships.