Really. 2026 Is Going To Be BANANAS!

› juice news

🎧 Inside Poppi’s Early Playbook and Moves That Led to a Big Exit

Poppi, a BFY soda brand, was acquired by PepsiCo for $1.95 billion, with its founders discussing the strategies that led to this significant exit in a 2023 interview. The brand's focus on taste, cultural relevance, and strong performance in both online and retail channels were highlighted as key factors in its success.

• Poppi positioned itself as a disruptor in the beverage market by reclaiming the term "soda."

• The founders emphasized the importance of aligning product development with cultural trends.

• The acquisition by PepsiCo underscores the growing interest in healthier beverage options.

The strategies and market positioning discussed in this interview reflect broader trends in the juice and beverage sectors, particularly the increasing demand for innovative and health-oriented products.

A Bold New Chapter for Iconic Brand Schweppes

Schweppes has unveiled a refreshed brand identity featuring a new design and the iconic Skittle bottle, aiming to cater to contemporary social occasions with its straight drinking flavors. This rebranding is part of a strategy to reinvigorate the brand's presence in the beverage market.

• The new look is designed to resonate with modern consumers and enhance brand visibility.

• The introduction of straight drinking flavors indicates a shift towards convenience and ready-to-drink options.

• The use of the classic Skittle bottle aims to evoke nostalgia while appealing to a younger audience.

This rebranding initiative reflects broader trends in the beverage market, where brands are adapting to changing consumer preferences for convenience and visual appeal.

Recess CEO Discusses Building a Leading Relaxation Beverage Brand

Recess CEO Ben Witte discusses the company's focus on mental wellness in a stressful world, highlighting the positioning of their relaxation beverages as alternatives to wine for evening consumption. This strategy aligns with a growing consumer trend towards healthier relaxation options.

• Recess aims to capture the market for relaxation beverages as consumers increasingly prioritize mental wellness.

• The brand is positioning its products as a healthier alternative to traditional evening drinks like wine.

• The emphasis on relaxation reflects broader trends in the beverage industry towards wellness-oriented products.

This development underscores the evolving landscape of the beverage market, where mental wellness and relaxation are becoming key selling points for new products.

Commission Proposes Looser EU Rules on Recycled Plastic in Beverage Bottles

The European Commission has proposed relaxed regulations on the use of recycled plastic in beverage bottles to promote new chemical recycling initiatives, despite ongoing concerns about potential greenwashing. This move is part of a broader strategy to enhance sustainability within the beverage industry.

• The proposal seeks to stimulate investment in innovative recycling technologies.

• Concerns about greenwashing may impact consumer perception and trust in recycled products.

• The changes could influence compliance costs and operational practices for beverage manufacturers.

The proposed regulatory changes may significantly affect the beverage market, particularly in the context of sustainability and consumer expectations regarding recycled materials.

DrinkPAK Partners with Bellwether District to Produce 3 Billion Canned Beverages Annually

DrinkPAK has become the first tenant at Philadelphia's Bellwether District, a site previously used as an oil refinery, where it plans to produce 3 billion canned beverages annually. The move marks a significant development in the region's manufacturing capabilities.

• DrinkPAK is expanding its operations to the East Coast with this new facility.

• The Bellwether District is part of a redevelopment project aimed at revitalizing industrial areas in Philadelphia.

• The production capacity of 3 billion canned beverages per year indicates a strong demand in the beverage market.

This expansion highlights the growing investment and capacity in the beverage manufacturing sector, which could impact supply chains and market dynamics in the juice and beverage industries.

Beverage Makers Develop Next Generation of Weight Loss Products

The beverage industry is seeing a growing focus on weight management formulations, driven by the increased use of GLP-1 drugs and rising obesity trends. This shift is prompting manufacturers to innovate and develop new products aimed at weight loss.

• Beverage makers are responding to the demand for weight loss solutions by creating next-generation products.

• The convergence of obesity trends and pharmaceutical advancements is influencing product development in the beverage sector.

• GLP-1 drugs are becoming a significant factor in shaping consumer preferences for weight management beverages.

This trend highlights the evolving landscape of the beverage market as companies adapt to consumer health concerns and the demand for functional products.

India's Water Scarcity Poses Risks for Beverage Giants

India's ongoing water scarcity poses significant challenges for beverage companies operating in the region, potentially impacting production and supply chains. Foreign firms are particularly affected by the intersection of water management issues and regulatory complexities.

• Foreign beverage companies in India face heightened risks due to water shortages.

• The regulatory environment remains complicated, complicating operational stability.

• Water management practices are becoming increasingly critical for sustainability in the beverage sector.

Understanding the implications of water scarcity is vital for stakeholders in the beverage industry, as it could affect production capabilities and market dynamics.

What’s the Deal with Banana Water?

Banana water is being introduced in supermarkets as a new beverage option, positioned as an alternative to traditional sports drinks, akin to a modern take on coconut water. This product aims to capitalize on the growing trend of functional beverages that offer hydration and nutritional benefits.

• Banana water is marketed as a healthier alternative to conventional sports drinks.

• The drink is positioned similarly to coconut water, appealing to health-conscious consumers.

• It reflects the increasing demand for innovative and functional beverage options in the market.

The introduction of banana water highlights the evolving landscape of the beverage market, particularly in the functional drink segment.

Beverage Chain with 45,000 Locations Worldwide Opens First U.S. Store

A beverage chain with 53,000 locations globally has opened its first store in the United States, expanding its offerings that include ice cream, pure tea, fruit tea, milk tea, and freshly brewed coffee. This marks a significant milestone for the brand as it enters the U.S. market.

• The beverage chain is well-established internationally, indicating strong brand recognition and consumer demand.

• The diverse product range appeals to various consumer preferences, potentially attracting a wide customer base in the U.S.

• The opening of the first U.S. store may signal a trend of international beverage brands expanding into new markets.

The entry of this beverage chain into the U.S. market could influence competition and consumer choices within the juice and beverage sectors.

Saudi Tax on Sweetened Drinks: What You Need to Know

Saudi Arabia has implemented a new tax on sweetened beverages, which may influence consumer purchasing behavior regarding sugary drinks. This tax aims to address health concerns associated with high sugar consumption.

• The tax is expected to impact sales of sugary beverages in the region.

• It reflects a growing trend among governments to regulate unhealthy food and drink options.

• Consumers may shift towards healthier alternatives in response to increased costs.

This development could affect sales dynamics in the juice and beverage market, particularly for products high in sugar.

How Label-less Packaging Could Transform Beverage Supply Chains

The shift towards label-less packaging, driven by sustainability and digital technology, is transforming supply chains for major beverage brands such as Coca-Cola and Evian. This innovative approach aims to enhance efficiency and reduce environmental impact in the beverage industry.

• Sustainability initiatives are prompting beverage companies to explore label-less packaging solutions.

• Digital technology plays a crucial role in implementing and managing label-less systems.

• Major brands like Coca-Cola and Evian are leading the way in adopting these changes.

The trend towards label-less packaging could significantly impact the operational strategies and environmental practices within the juice and beverage markets.

› citrus news

Lemon Pricing Crisis Drives Limoneira's Revenue Down 20%

Limoneira experienced a significant decline in net revenue, reporting a 20 percent decrease for fiscal year 2025, attributed to a pricing crisis in the lemon market. This downturn highlights the challenges faced by citrus producers amid fluctuating market conditions.

• Limoneira's revenue drop reflects broader issues within the lemon pricing landscape.

• The company's financial results may impact investor confidence and future growth strategies.

• Fluctuations in lemon prices could influence supply chain dynamics and pricing strategies in the juice and beverage sectors.

The decline in Limoneira's revenue underscores the volatility in the lemon market, which can have ripple effects on the juice and beverage industries reliant on citrus ingredients.

Florida Citrus Industry Rebounds with New Technology After Years of Decline

Florida's citrus industry is seeing a resurgence due to the implementation of new technologies following years of decline caused by canker and citrus greening, a disease that significantly impacted orchards across the state.

• The revival is attributed to advancements in agricultural technology aimed at combating pest-related issues.

• The industry had faced significant challenges over the past years, affecting production and profitability.

• Improved crop management practices are contributing to the recovery of Florida's citrus production.

This revival in the Florida citrus industry highlights potential positive shifts in the supply chain for juice and beverage markets reliant on citrus products.

Undeclared Varietal Blends in Juices Risk Citrus Fruit Supply Chain

Undeclared varietal blends in citrus juices are raising concerns within the Sicilian citrus supply chain, which is vital to the region's agriculture. Stakeholders emphasize the need for transparency and adherence to good production practices to mitigate risks associated with these issues.

• The Sicilian citrus supply chain is crucial for local agriculture and economy.

• There is a call for improved transparency among operators in the juice production process.

• Undeclared varietal blends could undermine consumer trust and affect market stability.

This issue highlights the importance of transparency in the juice and beverage market, which can impact consumer confidence and regulatory compliance.

Florida Citrus Industry in Crisis Due to Invasive Predator Spread

The Florida citrus industry is currently confronting a significant crisis due to the spread of an invasive predator. Researchers are actively developing strategies to combat this threat and support the struggling sector.

• The invasive species poses a serious risk to the health of Florida's citrus trees.

• The Florida citrus industry has been facing challenges for an extended period, exacerbating the current crisis.

• Research initiatives are underway to devise effective countermeasures against the invasive predator.

This situation highlights ongoing vulnerabilities in the citrus market, which could impact juice and beverage supply chains.

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

› research

Identification of Novel Regulators of Sugar Accumulation in Citrus sinensis

The study identifies novel regulators of sugar accumulation in sweet orange (Citrus sinensis) through transcriptome analysis and Weighted Gene Co-expression Network Analysis (WGCNA). Understanding these regulators is crucial as sugar content significantly impacts the taste, quality, and commercial value of sweet oranges.

• The research highlights the importance of sugar content in determining the quality of sweet oranges.

• Transcriptome and WGCNA methodologies were employed to uncover new regulatory mechanisms.

• Findings may contribute to enhancing the commercial value of sweet oranges through improved sugar accumulation.

This research is relevant to the juice and beverage market as it addresses factors influencing the quality and taste of a key citrus fruit used in various products.

Can Plastic Mulching Improve Soil Conditions and Reduce Water Stress in Citrus Crops?

Research indicates that plastic mulching can improve soil physical conditions and enhance water use efficiency in citrus crops, particularly in Brazil where short dry spells during the rainy season are becoming more frequent. The study focuses on the effects of plastic mulching on soil quality, root systems, and photosynthetic performance of citrus plants.

• Plastic mulching has the potential to mitigate water-related stress in citrus crops.

• The study evaluates its impact on soil physical quality and root systems in various Inceptisols.

• Enhanced water use efficiency could lead to better overall plant health and productivity.

The findings highlight the importance of innovative agricultural practices, such as plastic mulching, in addressing water conservation challenges within the citrus market.

Pulsed Electric Field-Assisted Copigmentation Enhances Anthocyanin Stability in Pomegranate Juice

The study investigates the use of pulsed electric field-assisted copigmentation with endogenous phenolic acids to improve the chemical stability of anthocyanins in pomegranate juice. This method aims to enhance the quality and shelf-life of the juice by stabilizing its color compounds.

• The research highlights a novel approach to enhance anthocyanin stability, which is crucial for maintaining the visual and nutritional quality of pomegranate juice.

• The use of pulsed electric fields represents an innovative technology in food processing that could lead to improved product formulations.

• Endogenous phenolic acids play a significant role in the copigmentation process, potentially influencing the flavor and health benefits of the juice.

This research may impact the juice market by offering new methods to improve product stability and quality, which are essential for consumer acceptance and market competitiveness.

Sustainable Phalsa Juice Processing: Ultrasonication for Nutraceuticals and Thermosonication for Microbial Safety

Research highlights a sustainable approach to phalsa juice processing using ultrasonication to enhance nutraceuticals and thermosonication for ensuring microbial safety. This method aims to improve the quality and nutritional value of fruit juices while minimizing degradation during pasteurization.

• Ultrasonication can enhance the extraction of nutraceuticals from phalsa fruit, potentially increasing its health benefits.

• Thermosonication offers a method to ensure microbial safety without the adverse effects associated with traditional pasteurization.

• The study emphasizes the importance of sustainable processing techniques in the juice industry.

The findings of this research could influence processing methods in the juice and beverage markets, particularly in enhancing product quality and safety.

Design of Fruit Harvesting Robot System Based on a Reachability and Inverse Reachability Map

A new fruit-harvesting robot system has been developed, enhancing harvesting efficiency through the use of Reachability and Inverse Reachability Maps. The system employs YOLOv5 for precise fruit location detection and incorporates camera calibration for improved accuracy.

• The robot system aims to optimize fruit harvesting processes, potentially reducing labor costs and increasing yield.

• YOLOv5 technology allows for real-time object detection, which could enhance operational efficiency in agricultural settings.

• The integration of advanced mapping techniques may lead to broader applications in the automation of agricultural tasks.

The introduction of such robotic systems could significantly impact the juice and beverage industries by improving the efficiency of fruit sourcing and harvesting.