Lavva Original Yogurt

©Lavva

Company News

Lavva Plant-Based Yogurt Acquired by Next in Natural, Names Jeff Lichtenstein as New CEO

Dairy-free yogurt brand Lavva announces it has been acquired by its lead operating partner, Next in Natural, a New York-based business development studio. Through the partnership, Lavva is also appointing Jeff Lichtenstein as its new CEO, and adding several strategic investors to its team.  According to Lavva, Lichtenstein brings extensive experience in launching and scaling national CPG brands in the natural category. As the founder and CEO of Gourmet Guru (acquired by UNFI), Lichtenstein helped to launch such well-known brands as Chobani, Stumptown Coffee, and Hu.  “Lavva is what’s next in natural – delicious and nutritious plant-based products aligned with consumer demand for clean, whole food, functional, regenerative ingredients, and convenience,” says Lichtenstein. “Joining forces with these outstanding partners allows us to fortify the supply chain …

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AKUA Kelp Burger

© AKUA

Products & Launches

AKUA’s “Game-Changing” Kelp Burger to Hit US Grocery Stores

New York-based alternative meat company AKUA has teamed up with business development firm Next In Natural (NeNa) to bring its kelp-based burger to the retail market. “Harvesting kelp from clean waters as a regenerative carbon-reducing, plant-based superfood is a game-changer.” AKUA first launched what it claimed to be the first-ever plant-based burger made from kelp in May this year, though it has only been available to purchase online or at a select number of restaurants in the US. The burger is made of ocean-farmed seaweed, crimini mushrooms, pea protein, black beans, quinoa, and crushed tomatoes. AKUA Founder and CEO Courtney Boyd Myers said the firm was the “ideal partner” to help lead efforts to expand into grocery stores, pointing to NeNa’s experience with iconic brands …

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