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JULY ISSUE 2024 COVER IMAGE Jennifer Garner, John Foraker and Cassandra Curtis, Co-Founders of Once Upon a Farm PUBLISHER MICHAEL POLITZ Michael.Politz@fbmagazine.com DIRECTOR & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF LAUREN KANE Lauren.Kane@fbmagazine.com SOCIAL MEDIA CONTENT MANAGER SHELBY POLITZ Shelby.Politz@fbmagazine.co DIRECTOR OF PROGRAMMATIC SALES BARB ROGERS Programmatic@fbmagazine.com ACCOUNT MANAGERS SUSAN GOLD Susan.Gold@fbmagazine.com AMANDA DAY Amanda.Day@fbmagazine.co LENORE O’MEARA Lenore.Omeara@fbmagazine.co ELEINA MAHGEREFTEH Eleina@fbmagazine.co

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS MICHAEL POLITZ STEPHANIE BLITZ

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS LAUREN MCINDOO LENORE O’MEARA DEBBIE HALL ELEINA MAHGEREFTEH SUSAN GOLD SHELBY POLITZ ETHAN BALSAMO RYAN SLATTERY

We honor and remember the support of Chef Kerry Simon, Gary Cantor, Robin Leach, Chef Paul Prudhomme, & Gary Coles

Food & Beverage Magazine® is owned and published electronically by Beautiful People, LLC. Copyright 1995-2016 Beautiful People LLC. All rights reserved. Food & Beverage Magazine® and distinctive logo are trademarks owned by Beautiful People, LLC. “fb101.com” is a trademark of Beautiful People, LLC. No part of this electronic magazine may be reproduced without the written consent of Food & Beverage Magazine. Requests for permission should be directed to: Lauren.Kane@fbmagazine.com. The information contained has been provided by such individual, event organizers or organizations. The opinion expressed in each article is the opinion of its author, organization or public relation firm. Food & Beverage Magazine is not affiliated with any other food and beverage or hospitality publication.

PAGE 5

COVER FEATURE

Contents July 2024 Inside this issue Page 5

Celeb Cover Feature

Once Upon A Farm

Page 15

Food News

Harken Sweets

Page 17

Industry Tips

The Secret Ingredient to Staying Private

Page 23

Industry Tips

Page 27

Chef Highlight

Navigating M&A Growth in F&B: Ensuring Supply Chain Efficiency and Integration Post-Merger Pasque and Stellar Jay in the Populus Hotel

Page 33

Editor’s Top Pick

Health-Driven Products

Page 59

Brand Cover Feature

Two Rivers Coffee

Page 3 | Food & Beverage Magazine v July Issue 2024

PAGE 33

PAGE 15

PAGE 59

PAGE 23

July Issue 2024 v Food & Beverage Magazine | Page 4

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July Issue 2024 v Food & Beverage Magazine | Page 6

... there was a brand that revolutionized childhood nutrition Broccoli, cauliflower, spinach, and even kale— getting your little ones to eat and love their veggies has never been easier. Thanks to Once Upon A Farm’s one-of-a-kind recipes, eating healthy never tasted so good! As a leader in the baby food category, this brand has earned the trust of consumers and positively impacted countless lives. Accomplishments such as these require having all the right ingredients, including the right people.

three, Jennifer Garner, to create the next generation childhood nutrition company. Since its inception in 2015, this brand with humble beginnings and visions of grandeur is now sold in more than 13,000 stores nationwide with a growing product portfolio of organic, farmfresh snacks and meals for babies, toddlers, and big kids. Just like the Once Upon A Farm products, the partnership was formed in a very organic way.

The Once Upon A Farm story began with a mother’s desire to feed her baby the very best food without having to sacrifice taste or convenience. Cassandra Curtis couldn’t find what she was looking for at her local supermarket, so she began creating her own recipes and selling the first cold-pressed baby food at retail.

Foraker had been working with Annie’s for a long time and taking the lead on that business in the US. It was a predominantly kid-focused brand known for its mac n’ cheese, cookies, and crackers. Through many years of research, Foraker got to know what was going on in the households of consumers that had little ones — making it clear that the products in the baby aisle were not meeting their needs. The fact that an individual could buy fresh food for their pet but not for their infant was pretty unbelievable.

“It really started with my own personal dilemma in the kitchen. I was making my baby’s food from scratch and as a working mom, finding the time to plan, shop, chop, blend, and freeze proved to be a real challenge,” said Curtis. “I so badly wanted to be able to just go to the store and buy something fresh and convenient that were like these amazing recipes I was making at home.”

Curtis eventually joined forces with industry legend and former Annie’s CEO John Foraker and actress, philanthropist, and mom of

Page 7 | Food & Beverage Magazine v July Issue 2024

In 2017, Foraker’s search for a company that was making headway in this particular market led him to discover the amazing products Curtis was making at Once Upon A Farm. It didn’t take long for Foraker to recognize the amazing opportunity that existed and he made the decision to become one of the company’s largest investors, doing everything he could to help the brand become a success.

“Our mission is to drive systemic change in childhood nutrition for a happier, healthier and more equitable world. Very few companies get to where we are in this space despite lots of brilliant people trying,” said Foraker. “I’m most proud of the fact that we built a really strong brand that consumers trust and that is making their lives better — and we’re just getting started.”

July Issue 2024 v Food & Beverage Magazine | Page 8

Around that same time, Garner and her manager were searching for a business opportunity to join in the early stages. They had been looking for a while when a friend mentioned Once Upon A Farm. After the initial conversation it was a no-brainer. Garner immediately recognized how these products offered a solution to a struggle she experienced with her own children when they were younger. And seeing Foraker’s name on the angel investor list only solidified her gut instinct that this was a business worth backing. After one call it was decided that the three of them would join forces to take Once Upon A Farm to the next level.

As a co-founder and chief brand officer of Once Upon A Farm, Garner is fully immersed in the company and its mission. Whether she’s working with the sales and marketing teams, taste testing new products, or enhancing community engagement — Garner truly cares and takes part in it all.

“When it comes to raising the level of nutrition for all kids, our hearts come first. It’s great that families are able to purchase Once Upon A Farm products from Whole Foods but making those same products accessible to

“I so badly wanted to be able to just go to the store and buy something fresh and convenient that were like these amazing recipes I was making at home.” - said Curtis.

Page 9 | Food & Beverage Magazine v July Issue 2024

children living in food deserts is even greater,” said Garner.

“We want to ensure that nutrition is heading in the right direction for kids across America.”

This speaks to the fact that while most companies pride themselves on their unique selling points, Once Upon A Farm sets themselves apart with their unique selling priorities. Their unwavering commitment to sourcing USDA Certified Organic and NON-GMO Project verified ingredients has made them the first baby and kids food brand to receive the Clean Label Purity Award. What this means is that when Once Upon A Farm’s products were tested for the presence of over 400 different contaminants including heavy metals, chemicals, pesticides, and other toxins, Clean Label Project determined they met their highest purity standard.

However, it’s about more than what’s not in the food — the quality of ingredients that are being used is equally as important. Once Upon A Farm recipes are free from preservatives, added colors or flavors, refined sugars, or words that are impossible to pronounce. The company consistently delivers the highest quality and taste by partnering with trusted organic farms, including Garner’s family farm. Keeping in mind that the world is constantly evolving, Once Upon A Farm makes sure to re-evaluate their process based on the latest studies in order to

continue creating products that meet or exceed current requirements. When you have something mom and dad feel amazing about and kids love, you know it’s a winner.

“The consumer response has been absolutely phenomenal from the very beginning. When I first started out sampling at farmer’s markets or making deliveries out of my van, parents were so appreciative,” said Curtis. “They loved that we had incorporated veggies into every product and found a way to make it taste great. It was the convenience without compromise they had been looking for all along.”

The very first product that Curtis created in her kitchen was the green kale and apple fruit and veggie blend.

The initial recipe and iteration of that blend is the same one used today and it happens to be the best selling product in the entire Once Upon A Farm portfolio. A number of the current SKUs are the original ones Curtis made for her daughter, proving that tasty nutrition stands the test of time.

With all the beneficial attributes, what matters most is that kids love Once Upon A Farm, which makes parents love it even more. And as they continue to innovate

July Issue 2024 v Food & Beverage Magazine | Page 10

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and develop new products, the brand has proven its innate knack for identifying opportunities and challenges begging to be overcome.

It always made perfect sense for someone to tackle the dry baby food market and to make sure it’s as low as possible in lead, sugar, preservatives, colors, etc. Staying true to their reputation, the company delivered a delicious solution with the introduction of Once Upon A Farm Organic Baby & Toddler Pantry Snacks, which includes Fruit & Veggie Puffs, Coconut Melts, and Tractor Wheels™ Toddler Soft-Baked Bars.

As pioneers in the kids fresh snacking space, the company released their Refrigerated Oat Bars around the same time. These first of its kind bars are made with real fruit and veggie, fueled with 100% whole grain oats and drizzled with a no-added sugar icing that is a whole new level of yummy. Parents have quickly realized they can’t go wrong with any of the three delicious varieties: Strawberry, Banana Chocolate and Apple Cinnamon.

And last but not least, they have most recently added a line of new A2/ A2 whole milk shakes and smoothies made with organic grass-based dairy. With the intention of filling the gap that exists in the current overly sweetened dairy products for kids, these no-sugar added creamy pouches of goodness come with countless benefits.

“A2/A2 milk is becoming increasingly important as parents are finding it’s easier for their children to digest than regular milk, which has an A1 dairy protein,” said Curtis. “Parents are also really looking for ways to

“When it comes to raising the level of nutrition for all kids, our hearts come first. It’s great that families are able to purchase Once Upon A Farm products from Whole Foods but making those same products accessible to children living in food deserts is even greater,” said Garner.

July Issue 2024 v Food & Beverage Magazine | Page 12

ensure their kids are getting the many nutritional benefits for growth and development offered by dairy products such as Vitamin B12 and calcium…our milk shakes and smoothies make achieving that goal easier.”

Everything Once Upon A Farm does keeps little ones and their parents in mind. As business partners and fellow entrepreneurs, Curtis, Foraker, and Garner have many things in common with one of the main ones being their passion for making a positive impact on a larger scale. So it should come as no surprise that they were the first fresh baby food brand made available for the WIC™ program. Actively working to gain authorization in additional states, their values have continued to fuel actions, including their A Million Meals program in partnership with the non-profit Save the Children.

Together, they’ve pledged to distribute 1,000,000 nutritious meals to children in food-insecure communities across America.

Once Upon A Farm has a great partnership with Save The Children. Garner has been working with that organization since 2008 and has been a board member for most of that time. The organization serves kids who are growing up in poverty, live in underserved communities or completely lack access to resources for nutritional food. Garner recalled the humbling experience she had while in Central Valley California. One of the local food bank employees came to

Page 13 | Food & Beverage Magazine v July Issue 2024

ask Garner if she knew that Once Upon A Farm was feeding babies up and down the entire valley. Realizing the only fresh fruit and vegetables these children get is because of the company Curtis, Foraker, and Garner had worked so hard to build was the most incredible feeling.

“Our mission is to drive systemic change in childhood nutrition for a happier, healthier and more equitable world. Very few companies get to where we are in this space despite lots of brilliant people trying,” said Foraker. “I’m most proud of the fact that we built a really strong brand that consumers trust and that is making their lives better — and we’re just getting started.”

Without a doubt, new products and categories are in the future for Once Upon A Farm as they continue to pave the way for what’s possible in the baby and kid food industry. It will be everything consumers have come to know and love about the brand, only with a wider reach. At the end of the day, Once Upon A Farm is driven by their belief that every child deserves a happier and healthier ever after.

To learn more about the Once Upon A Farm story and mission, check out their site.

Looking to purchase any or all of the Once Upon A Farm products? Visit their online store.

Inspiring flavors that elevate your menu.

JUNE 23-25, 2024 • JAVITS CENTER • NYC Register at specialtyfood.com using code FNB24.

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CLASSIC CANDY REIMAGINED WITH DATE CARAMEL

Sweets Expands Retail Presence with Walmart Launch

REIMAGINED WITH PREBIOTIC DATE CARAMEL

New SuperFood, Plant-Based Candy Bar Offers Hero Products at Walmart Checkstands Nationwide

Page 15 | Food & Beverage Magazine v July Issue 2024

"We've been overjoyed by the consumer and retailer response thus far, and we are thrilled to announce our partnership with Walmart to launch nationwide in the Checkout aisle!,” - said Founder and CEO, Katie Lefkowitz.

Finally, a superfood-infused candy bar that is 100%

coating reminiscent of something you’d see in a classic

plant-based with no sugar added. Harken Sweets is an

candy bar, and chose to utilize dates—AKA “nature’s

upstart confectionary brand, which boasts unmatched

candy” because they’re high in antioxidants, fiber, and

taste that’s non-GMO, plant-based, vegan chocolate

important minerals like magnesium and potassium—

made from dates and oat chocolate. Their two core

which have a natural sweetness and gooey texture,

flavors, The Crunchy One and The Nutty One, will now

making them the perfect alternative for a sugar-free,

be available in-store at checkout aisles and at Walmart.

plant-based treat. The bars are also available in KeHE,

com.

UNFI, ShopRite, Fairway, Gourmet Garage, McCaffrey’s, PopUp Grocer, Better Health Markets, and direct-

“We’ve been overjoyed by the consumer and retailer

to-consumer. The brand’s move into Walmart is the

response thus far, and we are thrilled to announce

natural next step, serving as a catalyst and amplifying

our partnership with Walmart to launch nationwide

Harken’s commitment to furthering holistic wellbeing

in the Checkout aisle!,” said Founder and CEO, Katie

and making healthier alternatives more accessible to

Lefkowitz. “Our goal is to provide healthy, simpler

consumers.

alternatives for our childhood-favorite candy, and make those options accessible to all of our consumers

Harken Sweets aims to reimagine the nostalgia of the

on retail shelves nationwide.”

chocolate bars that consumers grew up eating with ingredients that are nutrition-dense and healthy for

The brand was born when Katie Lefkowitz, former

you. One candy bar is 150 calories or less and boasts

COO of Caulipower and lifelong Snickers fanatic, had

an excellent source of Prebiotic Fiber with no added

to look for other options due to health concerns and

or artificial sugars. Both bars feature a salted caramel

gut health issues. After finding none that measured

date center and a creamy, oat chocolaty coating.

up, she began to create a truly milk-style chocolaty

140-150 Calories

No Sugar Added

Plant-Based

13G Prebiotic Fiber

Woman Owned

To learn more about Harken Sweets, please visit our website or Instagram.

https://harkensweets.com July Issue 2024 v Food & Beverage Magazine | Page 16

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The Secret Ingredient to Staying Private

How an ESOP Can Preserve and Enhance Your Brand Legacy

Page 17 | Food & Beverage Magazine v July Issue 2024

When a business owner considers their succession options, they usually assume their best option is to either transfer ownership to reliable family members or sell to a third party, such as a competitor or private equity. However, an alternate sale option is an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP).

What is an ESOP?

in a sale to a competitor. For selling shareholders,

An ESOP is a qualified employee benefit retirement

liquidity while retaining the opportunity for future

plan that allocates company stock to employees

value realization. Moreover, certain tax deferral

over time. Our free whitepaper describes more

opportunities may exist for eligible selling

of the transaction mechanics, but key benefits of

shareholders. But for many business owners, a

the ESOP transaction can provide significant

the ESOP include a structure that preserves the

key determinant is the substantial retirement

management & employee base, the culture, and

benefit and wealth creation opportunity

the seller’s legacy. In addition, an ESOP provides

provided to the employees who have helped

a new tax advantage for the company. In a 100%

build and grow their business.

Ƌ՞İ̻ͅ‫_ڑ‬ƋŀŶ‫΃ͅʹͣڑ‬Ɇʹ΃ͅɤջ‫ڑ‬Ǹ company pays no federal or state (in most states) corporate income tax. This tax advantage empowers the company reinvest its

ESOPs in Action

profits into the business, pay down debt and invest

Companies such as Clif Bar and New Belgium

in growth.

Brewing epitomize the transformative impact of ESOPs. When Clif Bar announced the ESOP

The ESOP structure avoids the operational

program in 2010, the sellers said they “wanted to

disruption and/or consolidation which can result

create a company where we would want to work.”

July Issue 2024 v Food & Beverage Magazine | Page 18

Navigating Private Equity

Adding, “Employee ownership is one more way we could run a different kind of business: one that inspires a team of people to make the kind of delicious, nutritious food we’d like to eat, and that strives for a healthier, ˰̇ͅɤ‫ʹͣ΃ͣ ڑ‬Ǹʧ˷Ǹȿ˓ɤ‫ ڑ‬Ψ̇ͅ˓ɒռկ‫ ڑ‬Å˷‫ ڑ‬ԐԎԐԐջ‫ ڑ‬I˓ʧʅ‫ ڑ‬AǸͅ‫˓̇ͣ ڑ‬ɒ‫ ڑ‬ʧʹͣɤ˓ʅ‫ ڑ̇ʹ ڑ‬ģ̇˷ɒɤ˓ɪύ‫ڑ‬ International for $2.9 billion.

While private equity ՄŶ_Յ remains a viable option for business owners, its short-term investment horizon and cost-focused strategies may not align with the long-term vision of certain businesses. With a typical investment horizon of Ԓ՞Ԕ years, PE can provide immediate value to its investors by rationalizing costs in target companies. Cost centers from employee headcount to vendors to raw materials will be evaluated – particularly in the era of heightened inflationary pressures.

New Belgium Brewing implemented an ESOP in 2000 and expanded the structure to be 100% ESOP-owned in 2012. When the company sold to Japan’s Kirin Holdings in 2019, it provided significant retirement balances to its employees, letting them share in the company’s success.

A recent study found that ESOP-owned foodcompanies and their employees experienced key advantages in workforce retention, benefits, retirement security, and firm performance when compared to non-ESOP food companies. Other research has discovered that productivity improves by ԓ՞Ԕٜ on average in the year an ESOP is adopted, and that 91% of ESOP workers feel they can live comfortably in retirement compared to only 49% of non-ESOP retirees.

ESOPs are common in a number of food industry sectors, especially supermarkets. ESOP-owned supermarket companies include Publix, with over 220,000 employees; Winco, with over 20,000; Brookshire Brothers, with over 16,000; and Houchens with over ԏԔջԎԎԎռ Schreiber Foods, with over 9,000 employees, is one of the largest private-label dairy manufacturers in the world; KeHe Foods, with over ԔջԎԎԎ‫ڑ‬ɤ˰̻˓̇ζɤɤͣջ‫ڑ‬ʧͣ‫˷̇ڑ‬ɤ‫̇ڑ‬ʅ‫ʹڑ‬ʔɤ‫˓ڑ‬Ǹͅʊɤͣʹ‫ڑ‬ʅ̇​̇ɒ‫ڑ‬ distributors. ESOPs are found in a number the largest convenience store chains, including Wawa, Stewarts Shops, and PDQ.

In 2021, PE funds acquired a record 786 food and beverage manufacturers worth $32 billion, according to the Wall Street Journal. The food industry is generally considered recession-resistant and less susceptible to economic downturns than other sectors, making it an attractive investment for PE firms seeking stable returns. But those acquisitions faced challenges due to increased labor costs, supply chain disruptions, and inflationary pressures. PE funds use a significant amount of debt to pay for their acquisitions: debt which was heavily impacted by increased interest rates. Since 2021, PE appetite for food & beverage has subsided and the ESOP has returned as a resilient alternative: ensuring continuity and stability amidst evolving market dynamics.

For many business owners, determining the best exit strategy can be a complex and stressful challenge. Owners should engage with an ESOP expert to carefully walk them through the process and to understand their full range of options. Doing so will unlock value for all parties while ensuring a strategic and equitable path forward for employees.

Carter Smith Carter Smith is a Vice President with ButcherJoseph & Co.’s investment banking team. He has been involved in a variety of transactions including mergers and acquisitions, valuation advisory, and leveraged recapitalizations. His investment banking experience includes engagements for a broad range of industries including manufacturing, business services, industrial, and construction.

Carter has been recognized as a Best in Business: BEST M&A Provider (Top 5) in St. Louis by the readers of Small Business Monthly and as an Emerging Leader by The M&A Advisor.

Carter is a Director of the DESSH Foundation, a 501(c)(3) that supports patients with DeSanto-Shinawi Syndrome (DESSH): building awareness for the newly discovered condition and supporting its medical research. He also sits on the Advisory Board of the Show-Me Institute, a 501(c)(3) dedicated to advancing liberty with responsibility by promoting market solutions for Missouri public policy.

After completing secondary education at Eton College in Berkshire, England, Carter earned a Bachelor of Arts in biology from Princeton University. He also holds a Master of Business Administration degree in entrepreneurship and marketing from Washington University’s Olin School of Business.

AREAS OF EXPERTISE

w w w w

Page 19 | Food & Beverage Magazine v July Issue 2024

Sale transactions to strategic or financial buyer _˰̻˓̇ζɤɤ‫̇ڑ‬Ψ˷ɤͣͅʔʧ̻‫ͅʹڑ‬Ǹ˷ͣǸɆʹʧ̇˷ͣ‫ڑ‬Մ_ƋŀŶͣԼ Advisory Board Member of The Missouri Center for Employee ‫ ڑڑ‬ŀΨ˷ɤͣͅʔʧ̻‫ڑ‬ՄģŀI_ŀՅ IǸ̻ʧʹǸ˓‫ ڑ‬ɒΤʧͣ̇ͅζ‫ڑ‬ՄTɤȿʹ‫ڑ‬԰‫΃́_ڑ‬ʧʹζԼ Key Sector Focus Manufacturing Business Services

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Navigating M&A Growth in F&B:

Ensuring Supply Chain Efficiency and Integration Post-Merger Geoff Coltman,

Senior Vice President of Catena Solutions

Page 23 | Food & Beverage Magazine v July Issue 2024

The food & beverage (F&B) industry has always been

As companies secure more deals and look to

a dynamic and rapidly evolving sector, characterized

combine the merged entities, while the deal itself

by

is undoubtedly top of mind, it is crucial for F&B

shifting

changes

and

consumer

preferences,

technological

regulatory In

leaders not to overlook the importance of having

recent years, the industry has witnessed significant

advancements.

comprehensive, real-time visibility into their supply

transformations, driven by the need for companies

chains to ensure seamless integration and mitigate

to stay competitive in an increasingly complex

risks. It is essential to recognize the challenges

marketplace. One of the key transformations

that come with integrating newly acquired entities

has been the rise in mergers and acquisitions

and how they will impact their supply chain since

(M&A) as organizations seek to maintain their

production disruptions and delays, compliance

competitive edge. With M&A activity in the F&B

issues and improper employee communication can

industry increasing by 6.5% to 212 deals in the last

all derail a successful merger or acquisition. Once a

fiscal quarter of 2023, organizations are beginning

deal is finalized, real-time visibility into a company’s

to notice M&A interest is once again rising as the

supply chain is important to mitigate these issues

sector continues to experience a strategic shift. The

before they arise. This visibility allows companies

recent uptick in M&A activity reflects a broader trend

to make quick, informed decisions, limit disruptions

of companies reshaping their strategies to prioritize

and identify potential risks before they escalate.

growth through acquisitions. As we enter the second

However, as companies prepare to potentially

half of 2024 and look ahead to 2025, we can expect

increase their M&A activity and now think about

M&A activity and trends to continue to evolve, with

their supply chains, there are a few considerations

companies seeking innovative ways to enhance their

to keep in mind to achieve successful results post-

competitive edge.

merger.

It is essential to recognize the challenges that come with integrating newly acquired entities and how they will impact their supply chain since production disruptions and delays, compliance issues and improper employee communication can all derail a successful merger or acquisition.

July Issue 2024 v Food & Beverage Magazine | Page 24

System and Process Integration Companies must integrate their supply chain systems and processes to ensure the success of a merged entity and, ultimately, optimize operations. However, the integration process is complex and demands meticulous planning, so companies need to take the right steps to prepare. These steps involve assessing existing systems, standardizing processes, standardizing and integrating master data, fostering collaboration, providing training and managing change effectively.

Additionally, utilizing advanced tools and technologies can help facilitate seamless integration, ensuring smooth data flow and process alignment across the combined supply chain. Tools like planning software, data integration solutions and collaboration platforms

streamline

the

integration

process,

facilitating

seamless communication and coordination. By following these steps and leveraging appropriate technologies, companies can enhance operational efficiency, responsiveness, and overall competitiveness in the marketplace.

Change Management Strategy When a company acquires another, employees from both sides experience significant transformation and potential disruption in their day-to-day routines. Effective supply chain change management is paramount to navigating the complexities of integration smoothly as it can help mitigate resistance. Managing change can also help to minimize disruption to operations and maximize the potential collaboration of the combined entities.

Overall, providing ample time for employees to process the news and being transparent about the impact on their work builds trust and relevance. Strategies such as transparent communication, involving employees in the integration process and providing training programs are crucial for securing employee buyin and facilitating smooth transitions. By prioritizing change management, F&B companies can mitigate resistance, maintain morale, and ultimately achieve successful integration postmerger or acquisition.

The F&B industry is set for continued transformation through M&A activity, and as we enter the second half of 2024, it’s imperative that the industry prepare itself and its supply chains for potential activity. This involves assessing current capabilities, enhancing flexibility and building resilience into operations. By proactively addressing these considerations, companies can position themselves for successful M&A outcomes. With the right strategies and expert guidance, companies can navigate this complex landscape and emerge stronger, more competitive and better equipped to meet the demands of the future.

Page 25 | Food & Beverage Magazine v July Issue 2024

Mental Health Education for Restaurants and Food Services 80% of employees in restaurant and food service industries report feeling burned out.

Create healthier and more engaged employees with Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) at Work for Restaurants, from the National Council for Mental Wellbeing.

Let’s talk

MHFA.org/Workplace Trusted by leading companies nationwide.

MHFA at Work for Restaurants offers industry-specific visuals, statistics and scenarios to teach employees how to recognize and respond to factors, signs and symptoms of mental health or substance use challenges associated with the restaurant industry.

July Issue 2024 v Food & Beverage Magazine | Page 26

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Nature-Inspired Culinary Ventures Come Alive at Pasque and Stellar Jay in the Populus Hotel Populus, the nation’s first carbon positive hotel, proudly announces Ian Wortham as Executive Chef for its two new culinary ventures: Pasque and Stellar Jay. Opening this summer in Denver, Populus has gained national recognition for its distinctive aspen tree-inspired architecture

by Studio Gang and its innovative approach to sustainability – both of which will be thoughtfully reflected within its newly revealed dining experiences.

Page 27 | Food & Beverage Magazine v July Issue 2024

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Pasque, located on Populus’ “forest floor”, will serve as a buzzing

all-day dining destination, serving breakfast, lunch, dinner, and bar menus comprised of seasonally driven, nature-based cuisine.

Its warm and natural ambiance, inspired by the elegant Colorado Pasque wildflower, will provide an inviting space for guests

to connect and savor dishes that celebrate the region’s finest

ingredients. Featuring an array of vegetable forward dishes and regionally sourced proteins from the land and sea, complemented

by classic cocktails and family-owned wines, the menu will highlight the earth’s bounty and let the ingredients speak for themselves.

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“Pasque and Stellar Jay are inspired by the elegance and beauty of nature,” - says Chef Ian Wortham

July Issue 2024 v Food & Beverage Magazine | Page 28

Stellar Jay, located on the open-air rooftop “canopy” of

“Pasque and Stellar Jay are inspired by the elegance and

Populus, will offer a vibrant dining experience with bold shared

beauty of nature,” says Chef Ian Wortham. “We’re proud to

plates and ingredients transformed by the power of the open

create food that not only celebrates the flavors, aromas, and

flame. The restaurant, a playful nod to the Steller’s Jay bird and

artistry of our natural world, but makes you feel good knowing

the stellar experience afforded at the new venue, will feature

it is sourced and prepared thoughtfully.”

a blend of indoor and outdoor seating, allowing diners to be immersed in the breathtaking views of Denver’s skyline and the

Aligned with Populus’ carbon positive approach, which

Rocky Mountains. The menu will elevate fresh ingredients with

sequesters more carbon than it emits throughout its lifetime

live-fire cooking, from wild game to classic meats and seafood

to leave the planet in a better place, both restaurants are

to fresh produce. Cocktails will be equally lively and bright,

designed with sustainability at the forefront. Chef Wortham

making it an ideal spot for social gatherings and celebrations.

and the team will work with local or family-owned companies over large conglomerates to make sure that all ingredients are

Chef Wortham, renowned in Colorado for his imaginative,

the outcome of profound care, thoughtfully created by experts

ingredient-driven food, previously worked as the Chef de

who know and respect the land. To combat food waste, Populus

Cuisine at Frasca Food and Wine in Boulder, the Executive Chef

will be the first restaurant in downtown Denver to utilize unique

of Tavernetta in Denver, and at various hotels within Aparium

“Food Cycling’’ technology from BioGreen360, which diverts

Hotel Group’s award-winning portfolio, including Kansas City’s

100% of food waste away from landfills and into all-natural

Crossroads Hotel, and Denver’s Clayton Hotel & Members

compost to be distributed to and used by local farmers. This

Club, a MICHELIN One Key hotel. Chef Wortham’s culinary

cycle takes the food from farm to table in sourcing, then back

philosophy, heavily influenced by his transformative travels in

from table to farm with composting, establishing a circular

Italy and Europe, will emphasize a nature-based approach by

solution for food waste.

utilizing the freshest ingredients in harmony with the seasons and championing local producers. Joining Chef Wortham is

Pasque and Stellar Jay will open this summer along with along

Curtis Landrum, Populus’ Director of Food and Beverage.

with a Coffee Bar and walk-up window, flexible lounge and

The duo previously worked under Colorado’s renowned

event spaces, a private dining room, and Populus’ 265 modern

Frasca Hospitality Group and together at Denver’s acclaimed

guest rooms – all of which are managed by Aparium Hotel

Tavernetta and have reunited to bring their extensive culinary

Group, a pioneer in the lifestyle hospitality industry.

and hospitality talents to Pasque and Stellar Jay.

“We’re proud to create food that not only celebrates the flavors, aromas, and artistry of our natural world, but makes you feel good knowing it is sourced and prepared thoughtfully.”

- says Chef Ian Wortham

Page 29 | Food & Beverage Magazine v July Issue 2024

July Issue 2024 v Food & Beverage Magazine | Page 30

YOU STEP INTO YOUR KITCHEN EACH DAY READY TO START ANEW. PREP THE STATIONS. REVIEW THE SCHEDULE. FIRE UP THE STOVETOP. EACH ACT CARRIED OUT WITH PURPOSE. YOU’VE CURATED A MENU, CREATED A SPACE AND BUILT A REPUTATION. AS A CHEF AND RESTAURANTER, YOUR FOOD IS YOUR IDENTITY. AS YOU BEGIN COOKING, YOU REACH FOR THE INGREDIENTS THAT WILL BRING IT ALL TO LIFE. MAKE SURE THOSE INGREDIENTS ARE MADE WITH A SIMILAR SENSE OF PURPOSE — TO PROVIDE THE BEST FLAVORS WHILE DOING GOOD FOR THE WORLD.

MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN YOUR KITCHEN. MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN THE WORLD.

Creating great food is all about where you start — with quality ingredients that taste delicious and give back.

With Frontier Co-op®, it literally starts from the ground up — working with farmers across the globe to provide responsibly sourced products that benefit both the planet and the people who live on it. What began with two people and a clear mission has grown to a global presence. It goes beyond simply farming herbs and spices and cultivating soil; it’s about bettering the communities in which they’re grown and nurturing the land. And through that commitment, ensuring every product you use is pure and of the highest quality.

from Sri Lanka or the versatility of Kumaon black tea harvested along the majestic Himalayans, there is never a doubt that you’re cooking with the finest. And with their array of offerings, you can buy a pinch or a pound to suit your needs.

Invigorate your menu, find new inspiration and support a brand committed to good flavors and doing good, works.

IT DOESN’T GET BETTER THAN THIS.

EVERY CHEF DESERVES THE BEST.

YYour patrons expect the best, looking forward to authentic food that’s all your own. Exceed their expectations with distinctive flavors from Frontier Co-op.®

The dishes and drinks you serve begin as a curated combination of ingredients — hand selected to produce the aromas, tastes and textures people love.

Make an experience out of every bite and sip when you elevate your dishes and drinks with fresh, pure and sustainably sourced spices, herbs, teas, extracts and seasoning blends. Frontier Coop® sources from around the world to bring the best to your restaurant. Each of their seasonings carries a story, and every spice has substance.

Take your flavors to the next level.

Whether it’s robust organic turmeric, cardamom and allspice from Guatemala, the sweetness of Fair Trade Ceylon cinnamon

Responsibly sourced products from Frontier Co-op® bring distinction and authenticity to everything you create — from signature sauces and mouth-watering entrées to decadent desserts and crafted beverages. Enhance all your menu items while enriching the Earth.

EXCEPTIONAL FLAVOR. RESPONSIBLY SOURCED.

This has always been about more than food.

The best meals carry meaning, bringing us together around what matters. That’s especially true when those meals begin with responsible sourcing that helps people and the planet. Cooking with Frontier Co-op® guarantees that everything on the final plate is served with a sense of pride and purpose, delivering on a promise.

When you choose authentic, responsibly sourced spices from a brand that aligns with your values and fuels your creativity in the kitchen, you make a difference — one flavorful meal at a time.

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1

Editor’s Top Pick: Health-Driven Products

B.T.R. NATION Ashley Nickelson created B.T.R. NATION after watching both of her parents battle rare forms of cancer and seeing endless snacks that claimed to be “better-for-you” in the hospital. She set on a mission to create truly clean, transparent, & low in sugar snacks, with a % of all proceeds going towards cancer research and awareness. The Superfood Nut Butter Bar in Cinnamon Cookie Dough Energy tastes like a cinnamon roll & cookie dough had a baby. With 8g of plant protein, 150 calories, NO added sugar, NO sugar alcohols, NO stevia, 7g fiber, Maca, cordyceps & cinnamon for energy, Non-GMO Project Verified, gluten-free, soy free, no junk! REAL ingredients & Registered Dietitian approved. B.T.R. NATION products are both Registered Dietitian & doctor-approved, instilling confidence about what you’re eating. Committed to the highest quality of ingredients, B.T.R. products exclude gluten, dairy, soy, whey, corn, rice, GMO’s, artificial and natural flavors, sugar alcohols, stevia, inflammatory additives like maltodextrin, gums, fillers, and anything you can’t pronounce.

Bay State Milling Company Bay State Milling Company’s HealthSense® High-Fiber Wheat Flour was awarded the prestigious Heart-Check Certification from the American Heart Association in 2024. Made from a unique varietal of non-GMO, high-amylose wheat, HealthSense harnesses the natural power of wheat in a flour that has 10x the fiber plus the versatility, taste, and texture of traditional white flour. More than 95% of Americans are fiber deficient – getting less than half the daily recommended amount to optimize gut, immune and cardiovascular health – and HealthSense offers an easy option for people to increase their daily fiber intake. HealthSense® High-Fiber Wheat Flour is available for food service and commercial manufacturing.

2 Brekki

3

Made with only the best ingredients, including ancient grains, almonds, oats, chia seeds, almond milk, and organic coconut nectar, Brekki offers a nutritious and convenient option for everyone. Available in a variety of delicious flavors such as Original, Vanilla Cinnamon, Dark Chocolate, Bananas + Maple Brown Sugar and Cold Brew Coffee, there’s a flavor to satisfy every palate. Each container is rich in fiber and provides 7 grams of protein, making it a perfect choice for a healthy breakfast, mid-day snack, or light meal. With Brekki, enjoying a nutritious and delicious meal is as easy as peel, stir, and enjoy!

July Issue 2024 v Food & Beverage Magazine | Page 34

Editor’s Top Pick: Health-Driven Products

4

Cadence™ Cadence™ is a first-of-its-kind performance brand harnessing the power of salt for performance and hydration. Founded in 2024 by Ross MacKay and George Heaton, the mission of Cadence™ is to bring the highest quality, science-backed ingredients and formulas to those that need them most: from world class athletes to leaders in business. The optimisation focus of all Cadence™ formulas is hydration, with salt as the core ingredient of all product innovations. A previously demonized compound, Cadence™ aims to change the narrative around salt, through its science-backed utilization in products to yield the highest return for consumers in physical and mental caliber. With zero carbohydrates, zero sugar, and no caffeine, Cadence provides a hydrating solution that can be used at any point in the day. Cadence is available in a refreshing Citrus Flavor.

Cedar’s Foods Cedar’s Foods, a family-owned Mediterranean brand, offers a range of authentically crafted and tasty products perfect for any occasion. One standout is their Spicy Pepper Feta Dip – Tyrokafteri, an icon of Greek cuisine that brings the perfect amount of spice to your meal. This dip combines the creamy texture of feta with a spicy kick, making it an essential addition to any summer spread. Cedar’s commitment to highquality, fresh ingredients and zero preservatives ensures every bite is both delicious and wholesome.

5 Copper Moon Coffee

6 Page 35 | Food & Beverage Magazine v July Issue 2024

Copper Moon Coffee’s Swiss Water® decaf coffee is great for when you love coffee, but don’t want the caffeine. It is decaffeinated naturally using the Swiss Water® process.

Copper Moon Coffee starts with small batches of USDA Organic Certified coffee beans, using the elements of water while monitoring both time and temperature until the coffee is 99.9% caffeine-free.

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Editor’s Top Pick: Health-Driven Products

Evo Hemp Bars Evo Hemp Bars are made from a delicious combination of cashews, protein crisps, and the world’s most nutritionally complete superfood, hemp seeds. With 12 grams of protein and 5 grams of fiber per bar, Evo Hemp Bars pack a nutritious punch to fuel your day! Gluten-free and vegan, the bars are available in 5 tasty flavor combinations, including new Matcha Latte, Cookie Dough, Brownie Chip, Lemon and Birthday Cake.

Four Sigmatic Four Sigmatic’s new line of five Organic Instant Teas powered by functional mushrooms and adaptogens offer a delicious and simple way to add focus, calm, immunity, positive mood, and gut support to your daily routine. Four Sigmatic’s Happy Gut Organic Instant Tea – which helps support gut health and digestion – is made with ginger, lemon, turkey tail mushrooms, yacon and probiotics without added sugar, stevia or artificial flavors. Happy Gut is offered in a unique, easy-to-prepare, multi-serve format without tea bags or sachets, and can be enjoyed hot or cold.

8 Good Culture

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Good Culture’s Certified Organic Cottage Cheese, LowFat Classic 2% is made with milk from pasture-raised cows on family farms, and with no artificial ingredients, gums, stabilizers, thickeners, or carrageenans. Not only does this cottage cheese deliver superior flavor, but it’s also high in protein with 14g per serving, contains live and active cultures, and features soft, small curds. In addition to an elevated texture experience, this offering is formulated with taste and nutrition at the forefront. Enjoy it on your favorite toast, in pasta sauce, and much more!

July Issue 2024 v Food & Beverage Magazine | Page 36

Durable & Reliable Maintain meal freshness and integrity with Clover™ hinged containers

Clover™ delivers convenience and efficiency from your restaurant to the customer’s front door. With a vented lid and durable design, Clover™ helps preserve meal presentation and provides ease in portability.

Scan the QR Code to [ view Clover™ in action! ]

Available in various sizes to meet your business needs.

Stackable

Leak resistant

Genpak

®

Vented Lid

Microwavable

Recyclable*

Made in USA

www.genpak.com *Check with your local municipality

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Editor’s Top Pick: Health-Driven Products

Goode Health The Goode Health Ultimate Superfood Nutrition Shake stands out amidst the myriad of green shakes and smoothie supplements available on the market as it is clinically proven to improve vascular health, inflammation, cholesterol level, and stress in as little as two weeks. The precisely formulated combination of nutrient-rich superfoods, plant protein and prebiotic fiber contains no fillers, sugar, or saturated fats maximizing the nutrients you get while minimizing the calories.

The smoothie blend is available in three flavors: Moroccan Chocolate, Vanilla Spice, or Unsweetened. Additionally, customers have the option to customize their blend with up to four different superfood boosts targeting immune support, metabolism, vascular health, and/or recovery.

GORGIE GORGIE’s product stands out from the rest with its emphasis on not only being a better looking energy drink, but better for you and with benefits too! GORGIE’s products are erythritol, sucralose and aspartame-free. Each can of GORGIE contains the perfect amount of 150mg green tea caffeine, 0g of sugar, L-theanine, Biotin, B6 and B12! The Sparkling Paradise Punch combines the right amount of fruit punch flavor and fizz.

11 HOIST

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Staying hydrated can improve brain function, mood and mental state. It also prevents dehydration symptoms like fatigue and lightheadedness. This is why it’s crucial to make hydration a daily priority, especially during the height of summer and soaring temperatures. This is why HOIST offers its unique and performance-driven hydration formula. Its isotonic, scientifically-balanced blend of carbohydrates, electrolytes and water allows for swift electrolyte recovery and fluid replenishment. The HOIST formula is so effective, it’s one of three electrolyte sources approved for use by the U.S. Department of Defense. Whether in bottles, powder sticks or liquid pouches, HOIST delivers IV-level hydration whenever needed. Pay attention to thirst signals and choose HOIST to stay hydrated and move at peak health, especially during the scorching summer months.

July Issue 2024 v Food & Beverage Magazine | Page 38

Editor’s Top Pick: Health-Driven Products

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Jovial Foods Crafted in Italy using time-honored production methods, Jovial Foods Organic Gluten-Free Brown Rice Fusilli offers a gluten-free option that rivals traditional pasta in taste & texture. Not only does Jovial Foods’ Brown Rice Fusilli deliver superior flavor, but it also provides a wholesome choice with 57g of whole grains per serving.

Free from grains, gluten, gums, & lectins, its firm texture holds up beautifully with various sauces, making it a versatile & nutritious option for culinary creations, like healthy one-pot pastas. In addition to an elevated texture experience, Jovial Foods’ pastas are certified glyphosate-free by The Detox Project. This product is a healthconscious option made with only one organic ingredient, brown rice flour. The Brown Rice Fusilli is pressed with bronze dies, a technique passed down through pasta artisans, allowing sauces & oils to cling to the pasta. Jovial Foods takes pride in slow-drying the pasta at low temperatures, ensuring an elevated flavor.

Joydays Joydays’ mission, driven by founder Amy Cohn’s personal health journey, is to revolutionize the food industry by offering delicious, accessible snacks that support blood sugar balance and foster positive habit changes without stigmatizing consumers. We are witnessing a major shift in the food landscape, focusing more on specific health and medical concerns rather than general “healthy” options. Chronic conditions affect a vast majority of the population, yet contemporary brands often overlook these market segments.

Notably, 51% of the US population has prediabetes or diabetes, with a 95% increase in Type 2 Diabetes among youth in the past 15 years. In food deserts, convenient, blood sugar-friendly snacks are scarce, forcing people to choose indulgent options. With about 20% of meals consumed in cars, there’s a need for better on-the-go choices. Inspired by insights from 3000 individuals with diabetes, Joydays collaborates with dieticians, doctors, and chefs to create snacks that don’t spike blood sugar.

15 Page 39 | Food & Beverage Magazine v July Issue 2024

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Juiced Gelato “Juiced Gelato”—the first “cold-pressed” gelato crafted from farm-fresh, organic produce, without added sugar or dairy. Developed in collaboration with Italian Gelato Expert Cristiano Rossi, this innovative product combines the creamy texture of traditional gelato with the vibrant flavors of Juice Generation’s iconic cold-pressed juices. With flavors like Supa Dupa Greens, Get Your Green On, Citrus Super C, and Spicy Lemon, plus unique creations like Celery, and Carrot-AppleBeet, Juice Generation’s newest innovation is the perfect treat for summer that also reflects the brand’s passion for wellness and health-centric indulgences. They’ve also crafted Crunch Cones, made from upcycled, organic coldpressed juice pulp, combined with chickpea and lentil flours, to create a sustainable and delicious twist on a traditional ice cream cone.

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Editor’s Top Pick: Health-Driven Products

Karma Discover the next level of digestive health, immune support, and hydration with Karma Probiotic Water. This groundbreaking beverage delivers a powerful 2 billion active probiotic cultures—over 10 times the amount found in typical yogurt. The secret? Karma’s patented PushCap technology. Unlike other probiotic drinks where active ingredients degrade over time, Karma’s innovative design guarantees maximum nutritional benefits with every sip by isolating the shelf-stable BC30 strain and vitamins until activation. Free from artificial colors, flavors, sweeteners, and preservatives, and enriched with six essential vitamins, Karma offers a delicious and dependable way to support your digestive and immune systems.

Available in five refreshing flavors, Karma Probiotic Water is nonGMO, gluten-free, lactose-free, vegan, and kosher.

Kencko kencko is a on-the-go instant smoothie brand that makes replicating your favorite smoothies effortless! No blender or frozen fruit needed –- just a nifty packet and the complimentary bottle to enjoy anytime, anywhere. With wellness and sustainability at its core, kencko’s smoothies are packed with fruit and vegetables, offering a boost to your daily diet while also being kind to the planet through eco-friendly packaging and reduced food waste. The brand’s Greens collection is a pick-me-up packed with vitamin C to support skin health and immunity plus gut-friendly fiber that contributes to a flourishing gut-microbiome. Ingredients include organic pineapple, banana, apple, kiwi, spinach, kale, ginger, and apple fiber. Each kencko smoothie is made from at least 200g of fresh, organic produce, and contains 2.5 of your recommended five daily cups of fruits and vegetables.

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17 Mood Bars Inspired by her patients, psychiatrist Carly Snyder realized she could fill a hole in the nutritional market armed with her understanding of physiological changes and resulting mood fluctuations. Dr. Carly’s goal was travel-friendly 100% plantbased, organic, kosher, and gluten-free snack bars created from functional, whole food ingredients with nutritional and physiological benefits formulated with a dream team of highly knowledgeable specialists. Three mood-enhancing flavors: NOURISH, to replenish iron and fiber, stimulating metabolism, promoting energy and focus; AWAKEN, to clear mental haze and remedy low energy, a natural boost without the buzz and SOOTHE, to ease tension, naturally calming the body back to baseline.

July Issue 2024 v Food & Beverage Magazine | Page 40

Editor’s Top Pick: Health-Driven Products

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NOVA NOVA’s Breakthrough is a holistic CBD and adaptogenic mushroom wellness drink mix made to improve performance, mood, focus, and energy. Each drink mix is Fruit Punch Flavored (7 packs per box) and contains 5mg Broad-Spectrum Premium CBD made from organicallygrown hemp, and PeakO2®, an certified-organic blend of U.S grown adaptogenic mushrooms including cordyceps, reishi, king trumpet, shiitake, lion’s mane, rhodiola, and turkey tail with each presenting their own unique benefits like immune support and cellular health.

Breakthrough is also gluten-free, vegan and contains NO THC! Breakthrough nutrient-packed ingredients are also backed by clinical trials with 34 international patents, allowing it to work faster and longer with up to 10x absorption versus other delivery methods.

Breakthrough is also NSF Certified for Sport®, meaning it’s been scientifically tested safe to protect athletes and helps consumers make more knowledgeable decisions when choosing supplements.

Odyssey Odyssey provides a delicious, first-of-its-kind sparkling mushroom ready-to-drink beverage with unique flavor SKUs. Odyssey supports sustained energy without the crash with its mushroombased ready-to-drink beverage and is formulated with a groundbreaking blend of 2750mg of Lions Mane and Cordyceps and contains no added sugar or preservatives. Odyssey’s Passionfruit Orange Guava Core Sparkling Energy Drink contains 85mg of green tea caffeine for lasting vitality. The Passionfruit Orange Guava flavor is a tasty twist of tangy and tart tropical fruits to brighten each day!

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Olio Piro Olio Piro is a premium cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil, imported fresh from Tuscany, that offers more than just exquisite taste. With its bold flavors and exceptional levels of antioxidants and polyphenols, Olio Piro infuses your dishes with a harmonious blend of green olive fruit, fresh-cut grass, and peppery finish, and a wealth of health benefits, including cardiovascular support, anti-inflammatory properties, brain support, and enhanced longevity.

Page 41 | Food & Beverage Magazine v July Issue 2024

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Editor’s Top Pick: Health-Driven Products

OLIPOP Launched in 2018, OLIPOP created the first healthy alternative to soda with only 2-5 grams of sugar and 9 grams of fiber.

OLIPOP is non-GMO, paleo, vegan, and gluten-free and the brand’s Ginger Ale flavor provides the perfect elevated blend of citrus and mild spice for a better-for-you Ginger Ale option.

PowKids Raising powerful kids! Formulated by a Registered Dietitian and Chemist, PowKids was designed specifically for children to help kids get the nutrients they need for their growing bodies, according to their age. Available in two varieties, including Clear Protein in Passionberry and Chocolate, each protein powder is made with organic ingredients, boasts 18g grass fed whey protein, and contains no added sugar. In addition, each protein powder contains added choline to foster brain development perfect for keeping your kids fueled during the day! It’s simple, just add 1 scoop per 4-6oz of your choice of milk or juice. Shake until dissolved and enjoy!

24

23 REBBL REBBL Smoothie Starter™ transforms morning rituals, offering consumers an organic and convenient base to create nutrient-dense smoothies in seconds — without the mess.

With just the simple additions of ice, fruit, or greens, users can quickly and seamlessly blend up a protein-packed and gut health-supporting smoothie to fuel their day. Offered in Coconut Milk and Oat Milk liquid base varieties, Smoothie Starter™ delivers 20 grams of plant-rich protein to kickstart the day and features amplified benefits through postbiotics to support gut health. One 32 oz. bottle makes four smoothies.

July Issue 2024 v Food & Beverage Magazine | Page 42

Editor’s Top Pick: Health-Driven Products

Snack less guiltier.

Wait, can a tortilla chip that is plant-based AND a good source of protein still be loaded with the kind of taste that belies its goodness?

You bet it can. Our restaurant-styled tortilla chips only taste indulgent. So go ahead, snack away. Share away. And best of all, put the guilt away. Keep it Simplyfied.

Page 43 | Food & Beverage Magazine v July Issue 2024

*Hint of Lime, 15oz bag, only.

Available at:

*

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Editor’s Top Pick: Health-Driven Products

Recess Zero-Proof Recess Zero Proof is a line of full-flavored craft mocktails for alcohol-free moments and social connection, designed to bring consumers’ experience from replacement to enhancement and help them feel calm, cool and collected.

Watermelon “Mojito”: classic mojito mint joins forces with juicy watermelon flavor to deliver a refreshing take on a timeless classic Zero-Proof’s functional blend includes guayusa, a nootropic that provides a balanced boost and adaptogens like L-theanine & lemon balm providing Recess drinkers with an uplifting experience for social occasions. Each Zero-Proof can has 25 calories or less, 5g of sugar or less, is sweetened with agave, and made with real fruit.

Rise & Puff “We have food at home” has always been a parents’ favorite line when passing a drive-thru but, sometimes, nothing hits the spot quite like Taco Bell. If you’re trying to cut down on your favorite fast foods, affiliate-friendly brand Rise & Puff offers 10 delicious gourmet quesadillas which are all 300 calories or less and ready to eat in only 5 minutes!

Created by a James Beard Award-winning chef, Rise & Puff quesadillas are made from only clean and natural ingredients. No unpronounceable junk included.

27

26 Sidekick Soda Sidekick Soda offers a refreshing alternative to traditional soft drinks and alcoholic beverages, all crafted with approximately half the daily recommended dose of apple cider vinegar, and New Zealand honey. Sidekick Soda Mango is fruity and has a sweet tangy flavor. This little soda is the fun, energetic and sharp-witted sidekick that will take you for a walk on the wild side and always keep things exciting.

July Issue 2024 v Food & Beverage Magazine | Page 44

Editor’s Top Pick: Health-Driven Products

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SimplyProtein SimplyProtein’s Crispy bars are a delicious, protein-packed and plantpowered bar made with simple, vegan ingredients, and are glutenfree, non-GMO and kosher certified. With 13g of protein, and 2g of sugar, these bars are designed to be the simple, honest go-to fuel for everybody on the go. SimplyProtein Crispy bars are available in three delicious flavors: classic Peanut Butter Chocolate, zesty and tart Lemon Coconut and decadent Dark Chocolate Almond. SimplyProtein Crispy bars are available in 4 & 8 packs. A tasty snack you can feel good about. Keep it Simplyfied.

Sodee Pop

Finally - a clean, alternative to mainstream soda that parents can offer their children and feel guilt free about! Created by a mom and nurse who cares what we put in our bodies, Sodee Pop does not contain high fructose corn syrup, dyes or artificial colors (the root beer is clear), or chemical preservatives. Orange Fizz is the ultimate fizzy delight for kids! Quench their thirst with this blend of sweet, smooth and bubbly organic orange juice and carbonated water packed into every 8oz. can. With a bright burst of flavor in every sip, Orange Fizz is the perfect treat for young taste buds seeking a refreshing adventure. Root Beer is a fizzy beverage that’s as pure as it is delicious! Imagine the classic root beer flavor you love, now in a pristine, transparent form! That’s right.... It’s clear! Say goodbye to artificial dyes and coloring because this clean soda brings all the flavor without any added extras, just carbonated water and organic root beer flavor.

30 Page 45 | Food & Beverage Magazine v July Issue 2024

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SunnyGem SunnyGem Almond Oil is an unrefined, cold-pressed and 100% virgin cooking oil made from a blend of the finest California almonds. The cold-press helps preserve the nutritional value and flavor so every bottle is packed with nutrients like vitamins E, B and flavonoids. In addition to being gluten-free, non-gmo, vegan and kosher, it’s also rich in monounsaturated fats. The low medium smoke point of 425F makes it a great choice to sauté, marinate, bake, dress, or finish dishes. The mild nutty and toasty flavor adds just a touch of sweetness without overpowering natural flavors.

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Editor’s Top Pick: Health-Driven Products

Sunshine Provisions Sunshine Provisions is the South Florida-based fine food purveyor that has earned praise from chefs and foodies alike for its premium chef-quality cuts, seafood, poultry, charcuterie, and pantry goods. Let Sunshine Provisions make your gift shopping easy with online ordering, overnight/ expedited delivery throughout the U.S., and a wide variety of Hand-Selected Premium Packages. This Summer, grab Sunshine Provisions’ Grill & Chill Pack (2pc) Racked Cooked Carsons Baby Back Pork Ribs, 2lb Chicken Wings, 4lb CBS Blend Burgers, (4pc) ¼lb Local Beef Hot Dogs, and 2.5lb Mild Italian Sausage Links.

Sweet Loren’s Sweet Loren’s is plant-based, non-GMO, free of the top allergens (including eggs, gluten, dairy, peanuts, and tree nuts), and uses no sugar substitutes. Sweet Loren’s offerings span across a range of grocery classics including the brand’s beloved breakfast biscuits. Sweet Loren’s Cinnamon Sugar Breakfast Biscuits make life sweeter with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar. Sweet Lorens’ Cinnamon Sugar Breakfast Biscuit is better-for-you than it’s traditional predecessor and is perfect for busy mornings or as a sweet snack any time of day.

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32 That’s it.

Introducing That’s it. Pina Colada Blends Energy Bar. Energize your day with this fruit-forward mini bar made with clean, natural energy. Skip the sugary energy drinks and opt for our healthier alternative, crafted from REAL fruit. Each bar delivers the kick of a shot of espresso and contains just 70 calories. Made with only 4 organic ingredients, including caffeine from premium coffee, these bars are free from the top 12 allergens (except coconut), non-GMO, soy-free, gluten-free, plant-based, and Kosher.

Enjoy the tantalizing flavors of pineapple and coconut, perfectly blended in every bite. Treat your taste buds to fruit bursting with energy with That’s it. Pina Colada Blends Energy Bars!

July Issue 2024 v Food & Beverage Magazine | Page 46

What Drives Healthy Behaviors?

Students Speak Out! New GENYOUth Insights reveal: In addition to household income, key predictors linked with healthy eating among youth include:

Feeling knowledgeable about nutrition and healthy eating Eating school breakfast Being surrounded by people who care about good nutrition Getting information about nutrition at school Being active in physical education class and over summer breaks Getting encouragement from teachers Eating family meals on a regular basis

National nonprofit GENYOUth prioritizes youth voices in driving change.

Through original research, including Gen Z's health concerns, we inspire action and engage stakeholders to ensure all children thrive through access to nutrition and physical activity. For the latest GENYOUth Youth Insights Report Click Here

Editor’s Top Pick: Health-Driven Products

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Three Wishes Three Wishes, the family-owned and woman-run better-for-you breakfast brand, is thrilled to announce its first ever line extension with the addition of grain-free granola, available now! Born from the team’s quest for a grain-free and nutrient dense granola cluster cereal add-in, Three Wishes’ R&D quickly pivoted to a full line extension following the roaring results from several rounds of taste testing.

Three Wishes Granola follows the brand’s ethos of being high in protein, low in sugar, and gluten- and grain-free. Utilizing nutritional ingredients like almonds, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, monk fruit, and real maple syrup, the granola is as chock-full of flavor as it is healthy ingredients. Enjoyable as a convenient snack straight from the bag, in a bowl of milk, or layered in a decadent breakfast parfait, Three Wishes Granola draws on the brand’s commitment to making nutritious and nostalgic foods for children of all ages.

True Story Foods For busy consumers looking for quick and convenient protein solutions, True Story Foods has introduced Protein Toppers diced chicken. Offering a full serving of protein (15 grams), the fullycooked diced chicken is a great shortcut if you’re looking to add chicken to pastas, wraps, quesadillas, salads, soups and more. It’s also an easy way to cut meal prep time in half. Available in three flavors—Oven Roasted, Roasted Garlic, and Teriyaki Sesame, Protein Toppers are produced with the True Story promise of humane raising, no antibiotics ever, and the use of only all-natural ingredients consumers find in their own kitchens. Protein Toppers are now available at Misfits Market, Fresh Thyme, New Seasons Market, Pete’s Market, Lassens, and many independent grocers.

36 Page 49 | Food & Beverage Magazine v July Issue 2024

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UNREAL Founded in 2010 by two brothers, searching for candy made with real ingredients, UNREAL is built on nostalgic, indulgent snacking that sets a new standard for ingredients and taste. All of UNREAL’s products are made with simple, organic ingredients and up to 51% less sugar than outdated, legacy brands. Launched earlier this year, UNREAL’s latest innovation, Dark Chocolate Covered Almonds, contain only two ingredients - nuts and chocolate - so consumers can finally ditch the high sugar content and mile-long ingredient lists. UNREAL’s Chocolate Covered Almonds were formulated so consumers don’t have to worry about weird waxy coatings or messy cocoa dust while on-the-go; they’re poppable, craveable, real-ingredient goodness that feels like a treat and satisfies like a snack.

Editor’s Top Pick: Health-Driven Products

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Waterdrop Waterdrop has revolutionized the beverage industry with the world’s first Microdrink: a conveniently-sized sugar-free hydration cube that dissolves in water and enriches it with natural extracts and essential vitamins. Thanks to conscious packaging, waterdrop reduces plastic consumption and CO2 emissions by 98% compared to traditional single-use plastic bottles. The plastic that houses each hydration cube to ensure freshness and flavor is fully recyclable—the plastic contained in a single cap of a traditional bottle is equivalent to 10 Microdrink blisters. Its best-selling collection? Iced Tea. Made with real tea, waterdrop’s Raspberry flavor is packed with sweetness and meets subtle floral undertones.

Wildbrine Wildbrine’s Korean Style Kimchi is a gluten-free, vegan delight that offers all the rich, spicy flavors of traditional kimchi without fish sauce, sugar, or MSG. Wildbrine’s innovative recipe includes Korean peppers, sea veggies, and ginger, fermented to enhance natural flavors and health benefits. Kimchi is renowned not only for its bold taste but also for its significant health advantages. It’s low in calories and fat yet rich in vitamins, minerals, and probiotics that support digestive health and boost immune function. The capsaicin in red pepper also aids in weight management and cholesterol control, while antioxidants in the ingredients reduce inflammation and exhibit anti-aging effects. Wildbrine’s Korean Style Kimchi is an excellent food choice for maintaining overall health and vitality, making it a perfect fit for any health-conscious diet.

39 Page 51 | Food & Beverage Magazine v July Issue 2024

38

Yoggies Responding to the popularity and demand of its award-winning Probiotic Yoggies – by consumers and retailers -- Nature’s Garden revisits the trail mix category through the expansion of its Yoggies line. LemonBerry and Mixed Berry Probiotic Yoggies will now be incorporated into its newly launched Trail Mix Snack Packs, sold as an 18 count multi-pack, containing 1 oz pre-portioned snack packs.

Each serving contains 3 grams of prebiotic fiber. Yoggies are real fruit pieces coated in creamy yogurt and infused with 2 billion live probiotic cultures via a patented microencapsulation system. Nature’s Garden’s probiotic strain --CFU Lactobacillus Rhamnosus GG – is sourced from the industry market leader. This high-end strain, coupled with its unique delivery system, ensures that live probiotic cultures arrive to the gut unharmed. This promotes beneficial bacteria, which regulates gut balance and inflammation, and helps to boost immunity, as well as provide a multitude of other health benefits. Yoggies are certified gluten-free, non-GMO, do not contain corn syrup or artificial ingredients, and feature recyclable packaging.

Editor’s Top Pick: Health-Driven Products

– Hippocrates, Ancient Greek physician

July Issue 2024 v Food & Beverage Magazine | Page 52

PRECISION MATCHMAKING SEAMLESSLY ALIGNING BUYERS WITH IDEAL SUPPLIERS

Brands like yours from around the world presenting products to a global audience of buyers from on premise operators, off-premise retail accounts, as well as distributors and importers through pre-scheduled, guaranteed meetings.

30 YEARS OF EXCELLENCE:

MAKING CONNECTIONS THAT MATTER

ON & OFF PREMISE ADULT BEVERAGE SESSION September 15 - 17, 2024

Hilton Lake Las Vegas Resort & Spa Henderson, Nevada

For more information contact: Amanda Tomsik Director of Foodservice & Adult Beverage atomsik@ECRM.MarketGate.com or call 440-528-0474

INDUSTRY LEADERS • TRENDS • BEVERAGE • CUISINE • CHEF • RESTAURANT • HOSPITALITY

®

!"#$%&'&(

MUSIC MATTERS TO YOUR CUSTOMERS NEW STUDY CONFIRMS MUSIC CAN INCREASE REVENUE AND BUILD CUSTOMER LOYALTY

89%

OF MILLENNIALS SAID THAT GOOD MUSIC MAKES A MORE MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE

NEARLY

86%

70%

WOULD RECOMMEND THE ESTABLISHMENT IF THEY ENJOY THE MUSIC

86%

WOULD RETURN TO AN ESTABLISHMENT IF THEY LIKED THE FEATURED LIVE MUSIC

80%

OF MILLENNIALS SAID THAT HAVING NO MUSIC NEGATIVELY IMPACTS THEIR EXPERIENCE

SAY THAT MOST OF THE RESTAURANTS AND BARS THEY FREQUENT HAVE MUSIC PLAYING

IF GOOD MUSIC IS PLAYING FOR MORE INFORMATION ON HOW TO OBTAIN A BMI MUSIC LICENSE, PLEASE VISIT WWW.BMI.COM/EDE

NEARLY 80% WILL STAY LONGER

NEARLY 60% WILL BUY MORE FOOD OR DRINKS

70% MILLENNIALS 63% GEN X 56% GEN Z

BAR AND RESTAURANT OWNERS WEIGH IN

“

CHECK AVERAGE TENDS TO GO UP 5 TO 10% JUST BECAUSE PEOPLE ARE GETTING THAT 2ND OR 3RD DRINK. REVENUES HAVE JUMPED ALMOST 25% ON THE NIGHTS THAT WE HAVE LIVE MUSIC. -BRIAN BREWERY OWNER, COLORADO AND UTAH

”

“

WITH LIVE MUSIC (…)

THERE WERE MORE LIQUOR SALES, AND THAT’S A 75% PROFIT MARGIN. -THOMAS OWNER, FAMILY ITALIAN RESTAURANT ATLANTA, GA

”

“

THE MORE UPBEAT, THE BETTER CHANCE FOR AN UPSELL, THE BETTER CHANCE THEY WANT TO STAY A LITTLE LONGER.

-CHRISTOPHER VINEYARD OWNER AND TASTING ROOM OPERATOR LOS ANGELES, CA

”

TO VIEW THE COMPLETE SURVEY, VISIT https://www.bmi.com/pdfs/publications/2023/bmi-value-music--research-analysis.pdf * A QUANTITATIVE ONLINE STUDY BY BMI AND NATIONAL RESEARCH GROUP (NRG) WAS ANSWERED BY 1,000 NATIONALLY REPRESENTATIVE PEOPLE AGE 21+ WHO REGULARLY VISIT EDES (AT LEAST 3X PER MONTH). TO REPRESENT THE B2B PERSPECTIVE, NRG CONDUCTED SIX IN-DEPTH-INTERVIEWS WITH OWNERS, OPERATORS AND MANAGERS OF BARS AND RESTAURANTS.

JULY ISSUE 2024 COVER IMAGE T o ivers o ee PUBLISHER MICHAEL POLITZ Michael.Politz@fbmagazine.com DIRECTOR & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF LAUREN KANE Lauren.Kane@fbmagazine.com SOCIAL MEDIA CONTENT MANAGER SHELBY POLITZ Shelby.Politz@fbmagazine.co DIRECTOR OF PROGRAMMATIC SALES BARB ROGERS Programmatic@fbmagazine.com ACCOUNT MANAGERS SUSAN GOLD Susan.Gold@fbmagazine.com AMANDA DAY Amanda.Day@fbmagazine.co LENORE O’MEARA Lenore.Omeara@fbmagazine.co ELEINA MAHGEREFTEH Eleina@fbmagazine.co

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS MICHAEL POLITZ STEPHANIE BLITZ

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS LAUREN MCINDOO LENORE O’MEARA DEBBIE HALL ELEINA MAHGEREFTEH SUSAN GOLD SHELBY POLITZ ETHAN BALSAMO RYAN SLATTERY

We honor and remember the support of Chef Kerry Simon, Gary Cantor, Robin Leach, Chef Paul Prudhomme, & Gary Coles

Food & Beverage Magazine® is owned and published electronically by Beautiful People, LLC. Copyright 1995-2016 Beautiful People LLC. All rights reserved. Food & Beverage Magazine® and distinctive logo are trademarks owned by Beautiful People, LLC. “fb101.com” is a trademark of Beautiful People, LLC. No part of this electronic magazine may be reproduced without the written consent of Food & Beverage Magazine. Requests for permission should be directed to: Lauren.Kane@fbmagazine.com. The information contained has been provided by such individual, event organizers or organizations. The opinion expressed in each article is the opinion of its author, organization or public relation firm. Food & Beverage Magazine is not affiliated with any other food and beverage or hospitality publication.

!"#$% &$'()%$

Page 3 | Food & Beverage Magazine v July Issue 2024

July Issue 2024 v Food & Beverage Magazine | Page 4

Two Rivers Coffee is elevating the coffee pod experience through a new partnership with Kellanova Ready to Embark on a Unique Coffee Pod Journey?

Discover the Unparalleled Experience of Two Rivers Coffee In the ever-evolving world of coffee, few

with Kellanova to create a breakfast-inspired

brands have managed to blend innovation with

delight—Eggo Waffle flavored coffees. This

fun flavors as seamlessly as Two Rivers Coffee.

collaboration, brokered by Beanstalk and Tucker

Established in 2012, this family-run coffee

Brand, perfectly combines the comforting

roaster was a pioneer in the burgeoning coffee

taste of freshly toasted Eggo waffles with the

pods market. They distinguished themselves

rich, aromatic notes of premium coffee.

with small-batch craft roasting and a wide array of flavors, aiming to dominate the pod

This delightful fusion of two breakfast favorites

market with their expertise and variety.

promises to redefine the morning routine, giving busy adults the boost they need to get

Two Rivers Coffee has a history of successful

their kids out the door or a nostalgic moment

partnerships with iconic food and beverage

to savor. Eggo Coffee combines the irresistible

brands, resulting in beloved products like

taste of freshly toasted, golden Eggo waffles

Junior Mints hot chocolate, Cella’s chocolate

with the rich, aromatic notes of premium coffee.

cherry

Stone

Now mornings will be even easier, letting

Creamery flavored coffee. Now, they have

parents embrace small wins with Eggo waffles

taken a significant step forward by partnering

for the kids and Eggo Coffee for themselves

flavored

coffee,

and

Cold

Page 5 | Food & Beverage Magazine v July Issue 2024

July Issue 2024 v Food & Beverage Magazine | Page 6

“Many of us have fond memories of eating Eggo waffles throughout our childhood, and now, there’s a whole new way to indulge in a taste of that nostalgia--with an added boost of caffeine--thanks to our Eggo Coffee...” said Sam Blaney, “Many of us have fond memories of eating Eggo waffles

The Eggo Coffee collection includes five delicious flavors:

throughout our childhood, and now, there’s a whole new way

Maple Syrup Eggo, Vanilla Eggo Coffee, Cinnamon Toast Eggo,

to indulge in a taste of that nostalgia--with an added boost

Blueberry Eggo, and Chocolate Chip Eggo. These amazing

of caffeine--thanks to our Eggo Coffee,” said Sam Blaney,

coffee will be available in Keurig-compatible cups and ground

director of marketing for Two Rivers Coffee. “Inspired by

bagged coffee by mid-August, just in time for National Waffle

classic Eggo waffle flavors and the rich taste of Two Rivers

Day on August 24 and the back-to-school season, providing a

coffee, each cup is infused with a unique flavor that pairs

delightful solution for busy mornings.

perfectly with your favorite breakfast. We are sure this will fly off supermarket shelves and cannot wait for fans to get a taste

Beyond their innovative flavors and strategic partnerships,

soon.”

Two Rivers Coffee remains committed to sustainability. Since December 2019, they have been producing 100% recyclable

Page 7 | Food & Beverage Magazine v July Issue 2024

pods, demonstrating their dedication to eco-friendly practices. CEO and founder Eugene Schriber emphasizes, “We pay premium prices for our coffee beans to ensure that our coffee comes from fair and renewable sources. Many of our products are Fair Trade certified, guaranteeing fair prices, sustainable farming practices, and community development.”

Speaking with farmers and pickers gives them extra insight and guidance for each type of bean they roast.

Behind every cup of Two Rivers Coffee lies a tale of dedication and passion. The company has been committed to sustainability from the outset. They visit coffee farms to forge relationships with growers and utilize mills that use eco-friendly practices. Two Rivers Coffee believes that its focus on sustainable practices at the farm level help make both financial and agricultural stability a reality for growers and their families. “This is just one of the reasons that many of our products are Fair Trade certified. Being Fair Trade certified means our beans are sourced responsibly, guaranteeing fair prices, sustainable farming practices, and community development,” says Mr. Schriber. Their commitment to these principles is unwavering, reflecting a deep respect for the people and environments involved in their supply chain.

We pay premium prices for our coffee beans to ensure that our coffee comes from fair and renewable sources.

July Issue 2024 v Food & Beverage Magazine | Page 8

Two Rivers Coffee’s extensive portfolio, which includes over

range. Ready to explore a world of flavors? Look no further

250 different flavors, has made them a leading destination for

than Two Rivers Coffee. With over 300 tantalizing flavors

flavored coffee, cocoa, and teas. Their meticulous approach

and a commitment to quality that’s second to none, they’re

to flavoring ensures that each product authentically reflects

not just brewing coffee; they’re crafting an experience.

the original taste of its brand partners.

Discover the world of Two Rivers Coffee at As they continue to expand their flavor offerings and enhance

www.tworiversdirect.com and prepare to embark

their commitment to sustainability, Two Rivers Coffee invites

on a flavor-filled journey like no other.

coffee aficionados to explore their diverse and delightful

Page 9 | Food & Beverage Magazine v July Issue 2024

Two Rivers Coffee’s extensive portfolio, which includes over 250 different flavors, has made them a leading destination for flavored coffee, cocoa, and teas. Their meticulous approach to flavoring ensures that each product authentically reflects the original taste of its brand partners.

July Issue 2024 v Food & Beverage Magazine | Page 10