In 1994, Danny Stepper began his career stocking Coca-Cola shelves at a Food 4 Less in Pacoima. Over the years, he built a beverage empire, culminating in the organization of a significant industry event in Manhattan Beach, which attracted 1,300 leaders from the beverage sector. This gathering has been likened to the "Davos of Beverages," highlighting Stepper's influence in the industry.

Keurig Dr Pepper reported strong momentum in its U.S. refreshment beverages segment for Q1. The company completed the acquisition of JDE Peet's on April 1. Additionally, Keurig Dr Pepper reaffirmed its guidance for 2026, maintaining expectations for constant currency net sales and adjusted earnings per share (EPS). The results reflect the company's strategic growth initiatives and ongoing commitment to its financial targets.

COCOBOD and a Swiss delegation have strengthened their partnership to enhance cocoa juice production in Ghana. This collaboration aims to improve the processing and marketing of cocoa juice, tapping into its potential as a value-added product. The initiative seeks to leverage Swiss expertise and technology to boost local production capacities, thereby providing economic benefits to cocoa farmers and contributing to the overall cocoa sector's growth.

Josie Beverages has announced the launch of its new line of adaptogen energy drinks, which combine sparkling water, caffeine, and adaptogens. The drinks are designed to provide a refreshing beverage option while promoting wellness. This product launch reflects the growing trend of incorporating functional ingredients into beverages, catering to consumers seeking both energy and health benefits in their drink choices.

Researchers from the UF Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) have identified three beneficial microorganisms that may assist in combating citrus greening disease in Florida. These microorganisms could potentially enhance the health and resilience of citrus trees affected by the disease. The findings offer a promising avenue for addressing the ongoing challenges posed by citrus greening, which has significantly impacted the citrus industry in Florida.

Unifrutti Group has expanded its operations in Europe by acquiring a new 990-acre citrus farm in Sicily. This acquisition increases Unifrutti’s total land in Italy to approximately 1,700 acres. The identity of the individual or entity behind the transaction has not been disclosed. This expansion reflects Unifrutti's ongoing commitment to enhancing its presence in the European citrus market.

The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) has expanded the quarantine area for the Mexican Fruit Fly in California, specifically in La Mesa. All detections of the pest have been reported on residential properties. This action aims to control the spread of the Mexican Fruit Fly, which poses a threat to local fruit crops and agricultural integrity in the region.

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

Europe's low and no-alcohol market is experiencing rapid growth, driven by innovations that replicate the warmth associated with traditional alcoholic beverages. Key ingredients such as piperine, niacin, and dihydrochalcones are being utilized to enhance the taste and mouthfeel of these products, contributing to their increasing popularity among consumers seeking alternatives to alcohol. This trend reflects a significant shift in beverage preferences across the region.

Prebiotics are indigestible carbohydrates that resist breakdown by human intestinal enzymes and selectively enhance the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. They offer various health benefits, including improved digestive health, enhanced immune function, and potential metabolic advantages. The incorporation of prebiotics into beverages is gaining attention, providing functional properties that can improve overall health while meeting consumer demand for products that support gut health and wellness.

Citrus spp. essential oils have been investigated for their anticancer potential against various human cancer cell lines. The study highlights that conventional cancer treatments, including chemotherapy and radiotherapy, are commonly used but can lead to significant toxicity and adverse effects. The research suggests that Citrus essential oils may offer alternative therapeutic options, warranting further exploration of their efficacy and safety in cancer treatment.

KOSÉ Corporation's official website provides detailed information about the company, including its global brands, research and innovation efforts, and sustainability initiatives encompassing corporate social responsibility and environmental activities. The site also features career opportunities and a variety of corporate content. Notably, KOSÉ has discovered the inhibitory effects of “Citrus Aurantium Tachibana Peel Extract” on melanin production and transfer, highlighting its research advancements.

Citrus peel wastes, rich in phenolic compounds (PCs), are valuable for various applications. However, the process of industrial essential oil extraction involves thermal processing, which can significantly impact the concentration, stability, composition, and biological activities of these compounds. Understanding these effects is crucial for optimizing the recovery and utilization of phenolic metabolites from lemon, mandarin, and orange peels in food science and technology.