PLANTA queen

© PLANTA
Company News

Planta Files for Chapter 11 Bankruptcy Protection Amid Declining Consumer Spending

Plant-based restaurant chain Planta, along with its parent company CHG US Holdings and 17 affiliates, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection on May 12, 2025, in the US Bankruptcy Court for the District of Delaware. The company cited the need to restructure its operations and reduce costs, amid declining consumer spending on dining out in the US. Steps to improve financial stability According to The Street, the bankruptcy filing by CHG US Holdings reported assets of between $50,000 and $100,000, with liabilities ranging from $10 million to $50 million. Planta described the filing as a strategic move to streamline operations and improve its financial standing, according to a statement published by Reuters. Planta operates 18 locations across major cities such as New York, Chicago, Los …

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Planteneers UPF

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Interviews

Planteneers on UPFs: All Ultra-Processed, All Unhealthy?

“Precision Wellness” is one of the current top trends, according to Innova Market Insights. The focus is on healthy nutrition, including gut health, ideally personalized to the individual needs of consumers. But what is “healthy nutrition”? By what criteria are foods classified as healthy? Health organizations like the German Nutrition Society, the World Health Organization, and America’s FDA derive their nutrition recommendations first and foremost from the content of macro- and micronutrients, sugar, and salt in foods. Another classification scheme currently being widely discussed is the NOVA system, which categorizes foods exclusively based on their degree of processing. This four-stage system differentiates between unprocessed or minimally processed foods, foods with processed ingredients, processed foods, and ultra-processed foods or UPFs. According to nutrition experts this last …

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Bolt Threads

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Business Wire

Bolt Projects Holdings Reports Q1 2025 Financial Results

In the first quarter of 2025, Vegan Silk Technology Platform revenues grew nine-fold year-over-year to $0.2 million, with gross margins at breakeven despite shipping only modest amounts in the period For full year 2025, Vegan Silk Technology Platform revenues are projected to reach at least $4.5 million, supported by multi-year supply agreements and customer expansion For full year 2026, Vegan Silk Technology Platform revenues are projected to reach at least $9.0 million, reflecting a growing customer base and successful product adoption Bolt’s goal remains to achieve long-term, sustainable profitability through revenue growth, operational efficiencies, and cost of goods sold reductions BERKELEY, Calif.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–#biobased–Bolt Projects Holdings, Inc. (“Bolt,” “Bolt Projects” or the “Company”) (Nasdaq: BSLK), which develops and produces innovative biomaterials for the beauty and personal …

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Investments & Finance

Canadian Food Innovation Network Backs Student-Led Projects with $50K in Foodtech Funding

The Canadian Food Innovation Network (CFIN) has awarded a total of $49,982 to five student-led food technology ventures through its NextGen Food Innovators program. The funding supports early-stage food innovations that address key issues such as food safety, waste reduction, and sustainability in the Canadian food sector. The NextGen Food Innovators program is designed to support students developing food technologies that have clear commercial applications. The program helps advance innovations from early-stage research to market-ready solutions, focusing on intellectual property-driven projects with real-world potential. Since its inception, CFIN has provided over $20 million in funding to various foodtech ventures across Canada, promoting innovation in the food sector. Dana McCauley, CEO of CFIN, stated, “Canada’s food sector needs bold thinkers who can turn new ideas into …

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Heura receives funding from European Investment Bank

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Investments & Finance

Heura Secures €20M From the European Investment Bank, Expects to Reach Profitability in Q4 2025

Spanish plant-based brand Heura has secured €20 million in funding from the European Investment Bank (EIB). The capital will enable the company to accelerate its mission of expanding beyond plant-based meat, developing a new generation of products with improved nutritional density in mass-consumption categories. Heura says the funding demonstrates significant institutional support for its model, which is driven by science, sustainability, and health. The news comes after Heura opened an Innovation Hub in Barcelona’s 22@ district this January. At the time, the brand announced plans to register six new patents over the following nine months. “This financing agreement with Heura is a clear example of how the EIB is stepping up its support for companies that are at the forefront of the bioeconomy sector, driving …

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selection of legumes

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Facts & Figures

Ingredion Improves Full-Year Outlook Following Strong Q1 Results

Ingredion, a global provider of ingredient solutions for food and beverage manufacturing, has reported strong financial results for the first quarter of 2025. Q1 reported and adjusted operating income increased by 30% and 26% respectively compared to the prior year period. Reported and adjusted earnings per share (EPS) were $3.00 and $2.97, compared with $3.23 and $2.08 in Q1 2024. Full-year reported EPS is now expected to be in the range of $10.93 to $11.63, while adjusted EPS is predicted to be in the range of $10.90 to $11.60. Ingredion notes that its Texture & Healthful Solutions segment saw a 34% increase in operating income in Q1; this was driven by strong sales volume across all geographies, especially for clean-label solutions. The segment previously experienced …

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Bunge soy protein

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Protein

Bunge Introduces New Soy Protein Concentrates and Expands Production Capacity

Bunge has introduced a new line of soy protein concentrates at IFFA, set to launch this fall, designed to address common challenges in the plant-based protein sector. The new concentrates are intended to offer a clean taste, neutral color, and cost-effective solution for food manufacturers. The soy protein concentrates, produced in Bunge’s new facility in Morristown, Indiana, are part of the company’s strategy to enhance its plant-protein offerings. The Morristown facility, which is nearing completion, is set to become the largest food-grade plant protein production site globally. Bunge has invested $550 million in this state-of-the-art facility, which is expected to provide significant scale to its operations. The soy protein concentrates will feature around 70% protein content and 17% fiber on a dry-basis, with both non-GMO …

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T. Hasegawa

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Ingredients

New Technology by T. Hasegawa Gives Vegan Foods the Flavor Profile of Animal Proteins

Flavor manufacturer T. Hasegawa has announced the launch of PLANTREACT, a natural flavor technology that is said to replicate the complex taste of animal proteins in plant-based foods. PLANTREACT uses fermentation and advanced reaction flavor techniques —such as Maillard reactions and enzymolysis — to provide authentic chicken, beef, pork, and milk profiles in fully vegan applications. The technology aims to address consumer demand for better-tasting plant-based proteins. All the flavors are heat stable, ensuring a consistent taste regardless of cooking processes. They also allow manufacturers to maintain clean label guidelines, and are available in a range of delivery systems including liquid and dry paste. The proprietary technology was developed over a six-month period through T. Hasegawa’s “Bridge to Tokyo” program, which combines the R&D expertise …

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Indiana state house

Photo by Steven Van Elk on Unsplash
Cultivated Meat

Indiana Enacts Two-Year Ban on Cultivated Meat, Set to Begin in July 2025

Indiana has enacted a two-year ban on the sale, production, and labeling of cultivated meat, a decision signed into law by Governor Mike Braun on May 6, 2025. The moratorium, which will take effect on July 1, 2025, and remain in place until June 30, 2027, comes as part of House Bill 1425. The law prohibits the sale of lab-grown meat unless it adheres to strict labeling requirements, including a clear statement that the product is an “imitation meat product,” according to Indiana Ag Connection As defined by the bill, cultivated meat refers to animal protein grown from stem cells in a laboratory, designed to replicate the look, taste, and nutritional profile of conventional meat. Under the new law, any company misbranding such products could …

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First Bight Ventures

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Manufacturing & Technology

BioWell Assumes Control of Texas BioTechnology’s Pilot Facility to Address Biomanufacturing Gaps

BioWell, a nonprofit accelerator based in Houston, has officially assumed control of the Texas BioTechnology pilot facility in Richmond, Texas. The 33,000-square-foot plant is now the largest publicly accessible industrial biomanufacturing facility in the US, offering critical resources for scaling up biotechnological processes. With 13,000 liters of fermentation capacity, the facility provides contract development and manufacturing services, along with advanced laboratory spaces and bioprocessing equipment. Veronica Breckenridge, founder of BioWell and First Bight Ventures, commented on the strategic importance of the new partnership, noting that the facility offers an operational platform to support startups, research institutions, and industry leaders in biomanufacturing. Breckenridge stated, “Our involvement in this initiative comes at a pivotal moment. The National Security Commission on Emerging Biotechnology (NSCEB) recently published a comprehensive …

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Kate Farms

© Kate Farms
Investments & Acquisitions

Danone Acquires Majority Stake in Plant-Based Formula Company Kate Farms

Danone has reached an agreement to acquire a majority stake in Kate Farms, a US-based producer of plant-based, organic nutrition products. The acquisition, which is expected to enhance Danone’s specialized nutrition portfolio, will see the integration of Kate Farms’ products, including formulas for everyday consumption and those designed for tube feeding, into Danone’s existing offerings. Shane Grant, Deputy CEO of Danone Group, explained the strategic fit between the two companies. “Kate Farms is complementary to our specialized nutrition offerings, which we believe will allow us to reach more consumers and patients and bring a high-quality new standard of care to people with a wider variety of health needs,” he stated. While the financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed, the acquisition follows a strong …

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Violife

© Violife
Business Wire

The Votes Are In: Violife Elected Canada’s Favourite Dairy Free Cheese

Violife is officially the country’s #1 dairy free cheese brand,* dethroning long-standing category leader after just four years in-market TORONTO–(BUSINESS WIRE)–It’s been a busy election season for Canadians, but when it comes to taste, one clear winner swept the polls — by capturing a third of all dairy free cheese sales, Canadians have spoken: Violife is the country’s #1 dairy free cheese brand!* After just four years in the Canadian market, Violife has unseated the category-leading incumbent, proving that taste, texture, and versatility wins votes. “This landmark victory is a testament to the power of unparalleled taste and exceptional texture. In this season of heated competition, we’re honoured that Canadians have voted with their wallet and entrusted us with their tastebuds,” says Meryem Leyoussi, Commercial …

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Tesco plant-based meat sales

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Retail & E-Commerce

Tesco Says It Is Unlikely to Meet Target of Increasing Plant-Based Meat Sales by 300%

In 2020, major UK supermarket chain Tesco set an ambitious target to increase its plant-based meat sales by 300% by 2025. But in a new sustainability report, the retailer has acknowledged that it is now “highly unlikely” to meet this goal, following the slowdown in sales of meat alternatives in recent years. Compared to the baseline year, 2018, plant-based meat sales were up 130% by the year 2021/22. However, this declined to 94% for 2024/25, indicating a fall in sales. Despite this, there is still interest in plant-based products — Tesco says it has seen a growing emphasis on protein diversity, with consumers turning to whole foods such as lentils, chickpeas, beans, nuts, seeds, and tofu. Increasingly, shoppers are seeking out veg-led dishes; these now …

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© No Meat Factory
Fairs & Events

Daiya, No Meat Factory & Other Plant-Based Companies Recognized at FABI Awards 2025

The National Restaurant Association Show has revealed the winners of its annual Food and Beverage (FABI) Awards, which honor exceptional and innovative products shaping the future of the industry. There are several plant-based products among the awardees again this year, including: “The cutting edge of food and beverage innovation” The winners will be showcased at the National Restaurant Association Show, which takes place from May 17-20 in Chicago. FABI Judge Becky Davis will give a demonstration of the standout awardees at The Culinary Experience Stage, and tasting sessions will take place at The Tasting Zone on three occasions — Saturday from 1:00-2:30 p.m., Sunday from 1:15-2:45 p.m., and Monday from 10:45-11:45 a.m. Last year’s winners included Plant-based Meat Bites by Black Sheep Foods, the Beyond …

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Daisy Lab bovine lactoferrin

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Fermentation

Daisy Lab Announces Major Breakthrough in Production of Bovine Lactoferrin Through Precision Fermentation

New Zealand-based precision fermentation company Daisy Lab has announced a major milestone in its work to produce bovine lactoferrin. After just over a year of research, Daisy Lab says it can now produce multiple grams per litre of bovine lactoferrin in a yeast host. This reportedly opens the door to the commercial-scale production of bioidentical lactoferrin for applications such as infant formula, functional foods, supplements, and nutraceuticals. Lactoferrin is described as a rare, bioactive protein with antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and immune-boosting properties. In cow’s milk, it occurs naturally at concentrations as low as 0.02–0.2 grams per litre, but Daisy Lab’s technology allows for much higher yields. As a result, precision fermentation-derived lactoferrin could offer a more sustainable, consistent, and abundant supply of the ingredient, with no …

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Foodiq

© Foodiq
Manufacturing & Technology

Foodiq Eyes Global Growth with Funding to Scale its MLC Technology for Dairy-Free Products

Foodiq, a Finnish food technology company, has raised significant investment to support its expansion into Asia and North America. The funding will enable the company to advance its proprietary Multi-Layer Cooker (MLC) technology and hire additional talent to accelerate its global growth. The funding will allow Foodiq to further develop its technology and expand its presence in key global markets, capitalizing on the growing demand for sustainable and localized food production solutions. At the heart of Foodiq’s growth strategy is the MLC technology, a food processing platform designed to streamline the production of dairy-free products. The MLC system is versatile, capable of producing a wide array of dairy and dairy-style alternatives, such as fermented yogurts, puddings, spreadable cheeses, and ready-to-serve soups and sauces. The technology’s …

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Revo Foods

© Revo Foods
Investments & Finance

Revo Foods Launches Crowdfunding Campaign, Already Exceeding €1.2 Million in Support

Revo Foods has launched a crowdfunding campaign on FunderNation to support its growth and expansion in the plant-based protein market. As of the latest update, the company has already raised €1.2 million from nearly 60 investors. The crowdfunding campaign comes on the heels of a strong sales performance. In March, Revo Foods reported its highest sales volume to date. However, the company acknowledged that the broader alternative protein sector is facing challenges in gaining mainstream consumer adoption. Despite the difficulties, Revo Foods remains committed to refining its messaging and reaching a wider audience. “We haven’t yet made our products compelling enough for mainstream consumers to make the switch to sustainable food options. But that’s no reason to give up. It’s a reason to push harder,” …

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Investment Climate Podcast

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Investments & Finance

Investment Climate Podcast: Matt Wampler of ClearCOGS, How to Get Funded in 2025

In this podcast series, Alex Shandrovsky interviews investors about benchmarks for funding Alt Proteins in 2025 and uncovers the investment playbooks of successful Climate Tech CEOs and Leading VCs. Podcast Host Alex Shandrovksy is a strategic advisor to numerous global food tech accelerators and companies, including alternative proteins and cellular agriculture leaders. His focus is on investor relations and post-raise scale for agrifood tech companies. This podcast is syndicated through our media partners; Foodtech Weekly and Vegconomist. Episode 29: ClearCOGS In this episode, Matt Wampler, co-founder and CEO of ClearCOGS, shares the gritty, real-world journey of building a predictive analytics platform that helps restaurants reduce food waste—and the uphill battle of raising capital in an industry most investors don’t want to touch. From reframing objections …

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family buying grocery

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Studies & Numbers

YouGov Shopper Intelligence Publishes European Retail Landscape Report

38 percent of Germans prefer to buy private label products and do their shopping at discount stores. In Austria, the figures are 36 percent and 28 percent, respectively. These and other findings are provided by the current  European Retail Landscape Report from YouGov Shopper Intelligence, which examines the retail landscape in 16 European countries. The report offers valuable insights for manufacturers and retailers looking to analyze and optimize their expansion strategies. Discounters on the rise The crisis-related increase in the cost of living in recent years has led to significant growth in discount stores. This growth is significantly stronger in countries such as Hungary, Serbia, and Romania than in Austria, Germany, or the Netherlands. Higher inflation and the significantly higher share of food expenditures in general household spending are likely …

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HelloFresh future foods campaign

© HelloFresh
Food & Beverage

Seaweed Noodles & Food Grown on Clothing: Campaign Reveals What Brits Could Be Eating in 2050

A new campaign launched by global meal kit company HelloFresh in partnership with scientists from the University of Oxford has predicted what British diets could look like by 2050. Some notable trends include: “We’ll need to eat a diet lower in animal products” The way food is produced, bought, and prepared could also change by 2050. Some alterations may include: “Our diets will probably look different in 2050, but perhaps not in the way that people might think,” said Dr Joseph Poore, Climate Scientist at the University of Oxford. “Climate change will mean that a broader range of drought and heat-resistant crops will need to be cultivated, some of which our ancestors would have grown. We’ll also need to eat a diet lower in animal …

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Most Read in the Last 30 Days

The field of vegan news has grown enormously in recent years, making it increasingly important for decision-makers to keep track of the dynamic scene. While the mass of vegan news certainly does not determine its quality, the increasing coverage of vegan issues in mainstream media highlights the lasting impact that veganism has on our society and the future of the food industry.

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The relevance of vegan news is especially evident in google data, as vegan google searches increased by 47% in 2020, reaching a popularity almost twice as high as in 2015.

While the overall vegan newsfeed is steadily expanding in response to the growing interest, several sub-reporting media have been formed to cover different issues connected to a vegan lifestyle. Most importantly, vegan food sites, recipe sites, and vegan business sites are shaping the vegan news landscape, with the latter underlining the immense economic potential of the vegan industry.

Vegan News About Food

For publishing, perhaps more than any other industry, it is necessary to capture and reflect social change, with the press ramping up coverage of plant-based issues in response to the rising success of vegan lifestyles. Vegan news mostly focus on the positive effects of a vegan diet, addressing human health, animal welfare and the planet. Therefore, vegan food news is one of the strongest sectors in vegan reporting.

vegan news about food
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Because concerns about the health-ramifications of a meat-rich diet are rising sharply, vegan food news is a crucial news branch in which plant-based foods and recipes are discussed. In particular, vegan food news channels carry the message that there are a lot of vegan food options on the market, saving animals’ lives.

If plant-based products as a whole were seen as a brand, it is safe to say that the brand awareness of plant-based products is increasing year by year. In 2021, more vegan alternatives were launching than ever before, opening a giant market supported by the passion for a healthy vegan diet.

However, the key players in the search for a vegan turnaround are the stakeholders within the industry, including established companies and startups that are gradually expanding their plant-based portfolio. At this pivotal point, the need for another vegan news category has formed, the vegan business news.

Vegan Business News

Vegconomist is an online magazine that specializes in vegan business news and is geared towards a B2B audience. Created by Peter Link in 2018, vegconomist shares news from all over the business world, including vegan hotspots like the UK, Germany, and the United States, but also Asian countries and the African continent.

Vegconomist is now available in four languages, with each site having a different focus based on the language region. While the English-language page is internationally oriented, the German, French and Spanish pages each have a regional focus.

global vegan news
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Furthermore, vegconomist provides a newsletter that decision-makers and anyone looking to know more about vegan brands, new products in the growing plant-based meat and dairy market, as well as investments and market trends, can sign up for to receive emails containing the latest vegan business news.

If you don't want to miss out on any vegan business news, you can sign up for the vegconomist newsletter here.