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Stay updated with the latest news and developments in the cold foods industry, including innovations, market trends, mergers, product launches, and company updates.

]]> https://www.refrigeratedfrozenfood.com/rss/2655-industry-news en-us NFRA Names Winners of 2026 Penguin Pitch Contest The emerging brands contest spotlights foods reshaping the frozen and refrigerated aisles through innovation, flavor and purpose.

]]> http://www.refrigeratedfrozenfood.com/articles/104483 Tue, 09 Jun 2026 06:00:00 -0400 https://www.refrigeratedfrozenfood.com/articles/104483-nfra-names-winners-of-2026-penguin-pitch-contest Penguin Pitch Logo.png The association’s top honor—Grand Prize and Emerging Brand of the Year—was awarded to Folkland Foods Potato Tots, recognized for its clean ingredients and bold branding. IFT Slates Conversation on Policy & the Future of Food Attendees will gain a clear summary of the key policy themes driving current congressional action on food oversight, a practical view of how GRAS reform and food chemical review could change the ingredient landscape, as well as why additives, dyes, and ultra-processed foods remain central in the science vs. perception debate.

]]> http://www.refrigeratedfrozenfood.com/articles/104463 Fri, 05 Jun 2026 12:00:00 -0400 https://www.refrigeratedfrozenfood.com/articles/104463-ift-to-host-free-community-conversation-on-what-the-latest-food-policy-debates-mean-for-the-future-of-food ift-logo.jpg IFT Chief Science and Technology Officer, Brendan Niemira, PhD, and IFT VP of Science and Policy, Anna Rosales, RD, will not only break down the policy trajectory emerging from the hearing, but they will also engage attendees in thoughtful discussions around the real-world implications of these proposed regulatory changes and will dive into what the food science community can do to prepare How Fresh Foods Are Rewriting the Rules of Brand Loyalty National brands generated a 17% higher "fair price" perception versus store brands across the Fresh categories studied, reinforcing the role brands play in driving confidence and perceived value.

]]> http://www.refrigeratedfrozenfood.com/articles/104464 Wed, 03 Jun 2026 12:30:00 -0400 https://www.refrigeratedfrozenfood.com/articles/104464-how-fresh-foods-are-rewriting-the-rules-of-brand-loyalty Acosta_Group_Shopper_Community__Fresh_Insights.jpg Freshness or quality ranked as the top stated driver of choice for Fresh shoppers overall, followed closely by price and trusted brands. The study also found that nearly half of shoppers report typically purchasing a mix of national and private labels in Fresh categories, reinforcing that consumers increasingly view the two as complementary rather than competing choices. However, when shoppers were forced to make trade-offs between products, the role of brand became more pronounced, particularly in categories where quality or consistency can feel harder to judge. Teton Waters Ranch Builds Frozen Momentum with Clean-Label Burger Patties rodriguezk@bnpmedia.com (Kelley Rodriguez) Teton Waters Ranch is launching raw burger patties made from 100% grass-fed beef, emphasizing transparency and animal welfare. Recently awarded second place in a contest, the frozen patties aim to minimize food waste while delivering robust flavor.

]]> http://www.refrigeratedfrozenfood.com/articles/104462 Mon, 01 Jun 2026 00:00:00 -0400 https://www.refrigeratedfrozenfood.com/articles/104462-teton-waters-ranch-builds-frozen-momentum-with-clean-label-burger-patties Stream Realty Partners Debuts Manufacturing, F&B and Distribution Platform The platform represents the evolution of the firm’s program management capabilities, which have expanded significantly in scope, client base and service delivery over the past four years. 

]]> http://www.refrigeratedfrozenfood.com/articles/104444 Fri, 29 May 2026 06:00:00 -0400 https://www.refrigeratedfrozenfood.com/articles/104444-stream-realty-partners-debuts-manufacturing-f-and-b-and-distribution-platform AI validation The Manufacturing, Food & Beverage, and Distribution platform brings together a multidisciplinary team focused on aligning capital, people, and property to enable clients to scale faster, operate more efficiently, and make long-term decisions with greater confidence. Mini Melts and Magnum Ice Cream Team to Expand Distribution The companies aim to enhance accessibility to premium frozen treats while creating new, engaging consumer experiences in high-traffic locations.

]]> http://www.refrigeratedfrozenfood.com/articles/104452 Wed, 27 May 2026 12:00:00 -0400 https://www.refrigeratedfrozenfood.com/articles/104452-mini-melts-and-magnum-ice-cream-team-to-expand-ice-cream-distribution frozen novelty This partnership leverages Mini Melts USA's proven expertise in frozen vending infrastructure, operations, and distribution, combined with The Magnum Ice Cream Company's portfolio of iconic brands and products.  McCain Foods' Inaugural 'Spud Report' Reveals Fries Unite Us Surveying more than 12,000 people across 11 countries, the report explores how people eat, share and enjoy potatoes and fries in everyday life.

]]> http://www.refrigeratedfrozenfood.com/articles/104436 Tue, 26 May 2026 12:15:00 -0400 https://www.refrigeratedfrozenfood.com/articles/104436-mccain-foods-inaugural-spud-report-reveals-fries-unite-us McCain Foods McCain Foods Limited is one of the world's largest manufacturers of frozen potato products and a global leader in prepared appetizers and snacks. The company has major production, retail and corporate operations around the world, employs approximately 22,000 people, operates 49 production facilities on six continents. IDDBA Launches Search for Next President & CEO The incoming president & CEO will be responsible for providing strategic and operational leadership for the nonprofit, which connects retailers, manufacturers, distributors and suppliers.

]]> http://www.refrigeratedfrozenfood.com/articles/104431 Wed, 20 May 2026 12:00:00 -0400 https://www.refrigeratedfrozenfood.com/articles/104431-iddba-launches-search-for-next-president-and-ceo iddbalogo.jpg Reporting to a 27-member Board of Directors, the President & CEO will oversee an organization with a staff of 21 based in Madison, Wisconsin. Key responsibilities include leading the continued evolution of IDDBA’s flagship annual tradeshow—a best-in-class industry event—and strengthening the organization’s visibility and industry impact. Pete & Gerry’s Unveils ‘Protein Preferences’ Report Highlighting Eggs According to the company’s new “Protein Preferences: The Egg Came First” report, more than 4 in 10 Americans say they are more focused on protein than they were five years ago, signaling a sustained evolution in eating habits.

]]> http://www.refrigeratedfrozenfood.com/articles/104428 Wed, 20 May 2026 05:00:00 -0400 https://www.refrigeratedfrozenfood.com/articles/104428-pete-and-gerrys-unveils-protein-preferences-report-highlighting-eggs P&G_Still_0725_FamilyShot1_DC_V02 (2).jpg As part of this mindset shift, eggs are gaining renewed attention as a reliable, everyday protein source. Nearly two-thirds of Americans say they eat eggs weekly specifically for their protein content, reinforcing their role as a staple in the modern protein routine. FreshEdge Names Saber CFO http://www.refrigeratedfrozenfood.com/articles/104443 Fri, 15 May 2026 12:00:00 -0400 https://www.refrigeratedfrozenfood.com/articles/104443-freshedge-names-saber-cfo freshEdgelogo.jpg FreshEdge now operates more than 1.3 million square feet of warehouse space across 35 facilities with a fleet of more than 1,100 trucks. Courtesy FreshEdge. Ajinomoto Foods North America Names Gardner President and CEO Gardner brings more than 35 years of food industry experience to the role. 

]]> http://www.refrigeratedfrozenfood.com/articles/104424 Thu, 14 May 2026 04:00:00 -0400 https://www.refrigeratedfrozenfood.com/articles/104424-ajinomoto-foods-north-america-names-gardner-president-and-ceo Gardner Headshot.png Prior to being appointed to the role of president and CEO, Dave Gardner served as AFNA's chief supply chain officer, leading manufacturing and end-to-end supply chain operations across the company's eight U.S. production facilities.  Parts Town Uses AI-Powered Predictor to Minimize Downtime PartPredictor analyzes real-world data from millions of successful technician repairs to find the OEM parts most commonly used for specific equipment issues. 

]]> http://www.refrigeratedfrozenfood.com/articles/104415 Wed, 13 May 2026 04:00:00 -0400 https://www.refrigeratedfrozenfood.com/articles/104415-parts-town-reimagines-ai-powered-partpredictor-to-minimize-downtime Generic-Images5.jpg Starfrost Launches Next-Gen Hybrid Tunnel Freezer The Starfrost Hybrid Tunnel Freezer combines advanced engineering, exceptional energy efficiency and a strong focus on hygiene, making it the ideal solution for today’s fast-paced food production environments. 

]]> http://www.refrigeratedfrozenfood.com/articles/104413 Tue, 12 May 2026 06:00:00 -0400 https://www.refrigeratedfrozenfood.com/articles/104413-starfrost-launches-next-gen-hybrid-tunnel-freezer STARFROST logo.jpg Despite its reduced size, the system retains full flexibility and can freeze or chill a wide range of food products, including small and delicate items such as raw minced meat, seafood and cooked proteins. The compact build allows food processors to maximise valuable factory floor space without compromising output. Top of the Freezer: R&FF’s Best New Retail Products rodriguezk@bnpmedia.com (Kelley Rodriguez) From BFY proteins to globally inspired treats, these companies are redefining frozen.

]]> http://www.refrigeratedfrozenfood.com/articles/104399 Fri, 08 May 2026 12:30:00 -0400 https://www.refrigeratedfrozenfood.com/articles/104399-top-of-the-freezer-r-and-ffs-best-new-retail-products Best New Retail Products of 2026 After a month of voting in March, the top three were crowned. Our overall winner – My/Mochi – also is featured on an episode of the From the Cold Corner podcast. Inside the Innovation with My/Mochi rodriguezk@bnpmedia.com (Kelley Rodriguez) Dubai Chocolate Style Mochi ice cream named first-place winner in Refrigerated & Frozen Foods’ Best New Retail Products contest.

]]> http://www.refrigeratedfrozenfood.com/articles/104420 Fri, 08 May 2026 00:00:00 -0400 https://www.refrigeratedfrozenfood.com/articles/104420-inside-the-innovation-with-my-mochi Hussmann Adds A2L Refrigeration Systems, Merchandisers Hussmann is first to market in North America for outdoor distributed A2L refrigeration systems as well as the first refrigeration company to offer a complete store solution from compressorized systems, condensing units, evaporators and condensers to a broad range of merchandising case options. 

]]> http://www.refrigeratedfrozenfood.com/articles/104395 Mon, 04 May 2026 13:25:25 -0400 https://www.refrigeratedfrozenfood.com/articles/104395-hussmann-adds-a2l-refrigeration-systems-merchandisers Generic-Images5.jpg FreshRealm Files Chapter 11 Bankruptcy, Ending Contract with Blue Apron The meal kit company said it will market and pursue a sale of its remaining business and operations.

]]> http://www.refrigeratedfrozenfood.com/articles/104386 Tue, 28 Apr 2026 14:44:50 -0400 https://www.refrigeratedfrozenfood.com/articles/104386-freshrealm-files-chapter-11-bankruptcy-reaches-agreement-with-blue-apron FreshRealm_Logo.jpg FreshRealm has filed customary "first day" motions with the court that will allow the business to continue operating without interruption, including the production, fulfillment and delivery of fresh meal products for its partners nationwide. These motions also seek approval to ensure that employees, vendors, and suppliers are paid for goods and services provided after the filing date in the ordinary course of business, subject to court approval where required. Winn-Dixie Partners with Relocalize on Ice Microfactory By producing ice directly at its distribution center, Winn-Dixie can reduce transportation-related greenhouse gas emissions by up to 90% while delivering fresher, high-quality products to customers. 

]]> http://www.refrigeratedfrozenfood.com/articles/104384 Mon, 27 Apr 2026 12:00:00 -0400 https://www.refrigeratedfrozenfood.com/articles/104384-winn-dixie-partners-with-relocalize-on-ice-microfactory The_Winn-Dixie_Company_Earth_Day_2026.jpg The milestone was marked with a ceremonial ice ribbon cutting, celebrating a step forward in sustainability and efficiency.  Chef Robotics Announces Automated Produce Packing Produce packing has historically been difficult to automate. 

]]> http://www.refrigeratedfrozenfood.com/articles/104369 Mon, 27 Apr 2026 05:00:00 -0400 https://www.refrigeratedfrozenfood.com/articles/104369-chef-robotics-physical-ai-models-can-automate-produce-packing Chef Robotics.jpg Chef’s robotic systems, proven across 83 million servings at enterprise food manufacturers, accommodate hundreds of SKUs with fast, frequent changeovers that take less than a minute. Fortifi Acquires Deighton Manufacturing The acquisition reflects Fortifi's broader strategy to offer complete, full-line solutions that serve the needs of food processors of all sizes.

]]> http://www.refrigeratedfrozenfood.com/articles/104380 Sun, 26 Apr 2026 05:00:00 -0400 https://www.refrigeratedfrozenfood.com/articles/104380-fortifi-acquires-deighton-manufacturing Cold Chain Ops Land O’Frost Promotes Howard to SVP of Operations In her new role, she will lead the company’s operations, focusing on accelerating innovation, including deepening integration between manufacturing plants and planning teams.

]]> http://www.refrigeratedfrozenfood.com/articles/104375 Fri, 24 Apr 2026 04:00:00 -0400 https://www.refrigeratedfrozenfood.com/articles/104375-land-ofrost-promotes-howard-to-svp-of-operations LatestHeadlines.jpg For 80th Celebration, Milo’s Tea Searches for ‘Superfans’ What began in 1946 as a burger restaurant in Alabama has grown into America's No. 1 selling refrigerated tea, sold in all 50 states at 60,000+ locations

]]> http://www.refrigeratedfrozenfood.com/articles/104371 Thu, 23 Apr 2026 12:00:00 -0400 https://www.refrigeratedfrozenfood.com/articles/104371-for-80th-celebration-milos-tea-searches-for-superfans Milos_2026_NewItems_3gallonsandglasses_FINAL (1).jpg Over the past year, Milo's has expanded its portfolio with new offerings including Zero Sugar Lemonade and Fruit Punch, meeting evolving consumer tastes while staying true to the real ingredients and fresh-brewed quality that have defined the brand since 1946. The brand is also offering limited-edition flavors to excite fans through the seasons, like the recent launch of Blackberry Sweet Tea, which is available through May with new flavors dropping later this year. lemon_sweet_tea.jpg Made in the U.S. and sold nationwide, Milo's is the No. 1 selling refrigerated tea and the fastest–growing lemonade brand in America, according to the latest Nielsen data. Milos_Jug_Club.jpg Through June 30, fans across the country are invited to share their personal stories and traditions for the chance to be named Founding Members of the Milo's Jug Club. Jeni’s Ice Creams Taps Former Ben & Jerry's CEO Stever as Top Exec As chief executive and CMO of Ben & Jerry’s, he led the business through transformative growth while strengthening the brand, expanding innovation and increasing its global relevance.

]]> http://www.refrigeratedfrozenfood.com/articles/104364 Wed, 22 Apr 2026 11:40:52 -0400 https://www.refrigeratedfrozenfood.com/articles/104364-jenis-ice-creams-taps-former-ben-and-jerrys-ceo-stever-as-top-exec David Stever Headshot.jpg As chief executive and CMO of Ben & Jerry’s, he led the business through transformative growth while strengthening the brand, expanding innovation, and increasing its global relevance.  Amy's Kitchen Names Schiefer CEO The move marks a planned milestone in a multi-year leadership transition as co-founder Andy Berliner transitions to executive chairman.

]]> http://www.refrigeratedfrozenfood.com/articles/104361 Wed, 22 Apr 2026 09:05:00 -0400 https://www.refrigeratedfrozenfood.com/articles/104361-amys-kitchen-names-schiefer-ceo Paul Schiefer Headshot.jpg Schiefer, who has served as president since 2023, brings more than two decades of experience across nearly every area of the business, from his early days as a manufacturing intern to leading international expansion, sustainability initiatives, and enterprise-wide transformation. Under his leadership as President, Amy's delivered its strongest gross margin performance in a decade and improved profitability by 60%. Rich Products Releases First Responsible Business Report The report brings together decades of purpose-driven actions and initiatives into a clear framework to drive accountability, transparency and long-term value for its associates, customers and communities.

]]> http://www.refrigeratedfrozenfood.com/articles/104358 Wed, 22 Apr 2026 06:00:00 -0400 https://www.refrigeratedfrozenfood.com/articles/104358-rich-products-releases-first-responsible-business-report rich's logo.jpg Rich's set a goal to reduce emissions intensity from its operations by 25% by 2025, compared to a 2016 baseline. The company is exceeding that goal, with a 34% reduction achieved through 2024, and is actively developing its science-aligned target for 2026. Mason Dixie Foods Expands Senior Leadership Team Rob Leibowitz, a veteran CPG operator who spent nearly 21 years at Mars, Inc. and Brent Chu, formerly CFO at La Colombe Coffee Roasters and Insomnia Cookies, have both joined Mason Dixie.  

]]> http://www.refrigeratedfrozenfood.com/articles/104354 Tue, 21 Apr 2026 10:00:00 -0400 https://www.refrigeratedfrozenfood.com/articles/104354-mason-dixie-foods-expands-senior-leadership-team MasondixieBfastGroup.jpg Mason Dixie Foods is one of the fastest-growing frozen comfort food brands in the U.S. Mason Dixie Foods are available at over 6,000 retailers including Whole Foods Market, Costco, Sprouts, Giant, Harris Teeter and more. Duravant Rebrands Matthews Automation as Pyramid Pyramid is a leading provider of Warehouse Execution System (WES) and Warehouse Control System (WCS) software.

]]> http://www.refrigeratedfrozenfood.com/articles/104339 Sat, 18 Apr 2026 07:00:36 -0400 https://www.refrigeratedfrozenfood.com/articles/104339-duravant-announces-pyramid-as-new-company-name-following-acquisition-of-matthews-automation-solutions Duravant logo.jpg The transition to the Pyramid name will strengthen how the organization works with customers, integrators, and partners. Pyramid will continue to implement systems as it has in the past—drawing on its expertise in controls, warehouse execution software, and light-directed fulfillment systems—alongside trusted partners, integrators, and Duravant operating companies. Join R&FF for a Linkedin Live: Unveiling 2026 Best New Retail Products Winners The May 8 announcement will include a preview of the May eMag and see which three cold companies take home gold, silver and bronze!

]]> http://www.refrigeratedfrozenfood.com/articles/104206 Fri, 17 Apr 2026 12:00:00 -0400 https://www.refrigeratedfrozenfood.com/articles/104206-join-r-and-ff-for-a-linkedin-live-unveiling-2026-best-new-retail-products-winners Best Retail Products A special LinkedIn Live event, unveiling the winners of R&FF’s annual Best New Retail Products Contest, is slated May 8. Tune in to see which three cold companies take home gold, silver and bronze! Swaggerty's Farm Boosts Sausage Production at Expanded Tennessee Facility A 50,000-square-foot addition supports continued growth. 

]]> http://www.refrigeratedfrozenfood.com/articles/104335 Tue, 14 Apr 2026 12:00:00 -0400 https://www.refrigeratedfrozenfood.com/articles/104335-swaggertys-farm-expands-sausage-production-at-expanded-tennessee-facility Swaggerty_s_Farm_Product_Line_for_Expansion_2026.jpg With the new expansion to the production facility, Swaggerty’s Farm is expanding sausage production capacity while continuing the tradition of quality behind every product. Logisnext Americas Opens Customer Experience Center in Texas By providing hands-on experiences and engagement, the company is equipping customers and dealers with the knowledge, tools and expertise needed to adapt to an evolving marketplace.

]]> http://www.refrigeratedfrozenfood.com/articles/104333 Tue, 14 Apr 2026 04:00:00 -0400 https://www.refrigeratedfrozenfood.com/articles/104333-logisnext-americas-opens-customer-experience-center-in-texas Photo Credit - Logisnext Americas 3.jpg The new Customer Experience Center represents Logisnext Americas’ dedication to strengthening customer and dealer partnerships through continued investments in education, training, and development initiatives.