The drink mixes market is experiencing growth driven by consumer demand for health and wellness benefits, alignment with lifestyle choices, and an expansion of flavor options. Experts indicate that consumers are seeking more than just hydration from these products, reflecting a shift towards beverages that offer additional functional advantages. This trend highlights the evolving preferences of consumers in the beverage industry.

A new regenerative farming programme has officially launched, with global drinks companies such as Diageo and Nestlé pledging their support. The initiative aims to assist businesses in implementing regenerative agriculture practices throughout their supply chains worldwide. This collaborative effort seeks to promote sustainable farming methods and enhance environmental stewardship within the beverage industry, reflecting a growing commitment to responsible sourcing and production practices.

The "beyond beer" or 'malternatives' market has evolved significantly, resembling a diverse assortment of options akin to a bowl of jelly beans. Previously, consumers faced limited choices, primarily straightforward flavors such as cherry, green apple, and orange. In the beverage alcohol sector, this included hard cider, wine coolers, and malt-based hard lemonade, indicating a shift towards a more varied and complex landscape in adult soda offerings.

A US judge has ruled that the USDA exceeded its authority by approving SNAP food restriction waivers in five states, which included bans on candy, snacks, and sugary drinks. This ruling effectively halts the implementation of these specific food restriction pilots while allowing other waivers to remain in effect. The decision reflects ongoing legal scrutiny regarding the USDA's regulatory powers concerning food assistance programs.

Suntory Beverage & Food GB&I (SBF GB&I), known for producing Ribena and Lucozade, has announced a £14.5 million investment to enhance its UK supply chain. This investment will be directed towards establishing a new, state-of-the-art blackcurrant processing facility. The move aims to strengthen the company's operational capabilities and improve the efficiency of its production processes in the UK market.

Coca-Cola is currently engaged in a federal appeals court case in Miami concerning a longstanding dispute with the IRS, which involves up to US$20 billion in taxes. This tax issue is related to transfer pricing practices between Coca-Cola's U.S. operations and its foreign affiliates for the years 2007 to 2009. The outcome of this appeal could significantly impact investor perspectives on Coca-Cola.

PepsiCo Beverages US CMO Mark Kirkham attributes a surge in brand engagement to an emphasis on organic social media, achieving a 20-year high. Collaborating with VaynerMedia, the company has quintupled its content output. Kirkham emphasizes the importance of trusting internal teams and leveraging social media algorithms to identify what resonates with consumers, enhancing the effectiveness of their modern soda marketing strategy.

Environmental groups have initiated a summer-long boycott of Worcester-based Polar Beverages in response to the company's opposition to the expansion of Massachusetts' bottle redemption program. The protest aims to draw attention to the company's stance on environmental sustainability and recycling initiatives. Activists are encouraging consumers to refrain from purchasing Polar Beverages products during this period to express their discontent with the company's position.

ShineWater has announced the nationwide expansion of its PAW Patrol kids' drink boxes to all Hy-Vee stores. The product is marketed as having zero sugar, bold flavor, and clean ingredients, positioning it as a healthier choice for families. This initiative aims to enhance the availability of ShineWater's offerings in the market, catering to health-conscious parents looking for nutritious beverage options for their children.

Jennifer Mann will depart from her role as Executive Vice President and President of North America at The Coca-Cola Company on August 1, 2026, concluding a 29-year career with the company. John Murphy will serve as interim president during this transition, while Mann will continue as a senior advisor until April 2027 to ensure a smooth handover and continuity in leadership.

Three Cents Pickle Soda exemplifies the growing trend of pickle-flavored beverages, transitioning from a niche novelty to a widespread consumer fascination. This soda features flavor notes of cucumber, earthy celery, and brine, appealing to those seeking unique taste experiences. The increasing popularity of savory flavors in drinks highlights a significant shift in consumer preferences towards bold and unconventional beverage options.

Brazil's Fundecitrus has initiated an awareness campaign titled "The Fruit of the Orange Tree Is the Progress" aimed at emphasizing the importance of collective efforts to combat citrus greening disease. This campaign seeks to educate stakeholders about the disease's impact and promote collaboration among growers, researchers, and the community to ensure the health and sustainability of the citrus industry in Brazil.

The Southern Hemisphere citrus season for 2026 is experiencing increased supplies and high-quality crops, despite challenges posed by adverse weather conditions. Growers are adapting to these weather-related issues while ensuring that the overall quality of the citrus remains strong. This season's developments indicate a positive outlook for citrus production in the Southern Hemisphere, highlighting resilience among growers in the face of environmental challenges.

Want to dive deeper in citrus? Coming in 2026: citrodex.com

The study presents a "green" nanofibrous hydrogel incorporating pineapple-derived bromelain to improve wound healing. This innovative material utilizes poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) while addressing concerns associated with toxic chemicals and energy-intensive processes. The hydrogel's formulation aims to enhance biocompatibility and efficacy in wound care applications, potentially offering a sustainable alternative in the biomedical field, particularly for treating wounds more effectively.

This systematic review evaluates the impact of consuming ascorbate-rich fruits and fruit juices on iron bioavailability among females aged 15-74 years and children. The analysis highlights the positive effects of these fruits on iron absorption, suggesting that incorporating such fruits into meals may enhance iron bioavailability. The study emphasizes the importance of dietary sources of vitamin C in improving iron status, particularly in vulnerable populations.

A cover crop was introduced to a volcanic sorriba citrus orchard in the Canary Islands and monitored over three years. Soil chemical analyses and microbial activity were assessed to understand how soil management influences the root endosphere and rhizosphere communities. The study highlights the significant role of cover crops in shaping the microbial diversity and health of citrus orchards in this unique environment.