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The Weekly Sip is Food Dive’s column focused on the latest news in the rapidly changing and growing beverage sector. From inaugural product lines to big investments and controversial topics, this column aims to quench the thirst for developments in the category.
Pizza Hut introduces innovative tomato wine
A well-known chain restaurant is venturing into the world of alcohol with a unique beverage that complements a slice of pizza perfectly.
Tomato Wine by Pizza Hut, a collaboration with Kansas winery Irvine’s Just Beyond Paradise, is crafted from tomatoes and infused with basil. This tangy drink, enriched with a blend of herbs and spices, offers notes of tomato and toasted oak, creating a flavor reminiscent of a baked pizza crust. Described as similar to chilled white wine, the company aims to spark curiosity and enhance holiday pizza parties with this unconventional offering.
The wine is available for purchase for a limited time on the winery’s website.
Similar to brands outside the alcohol industry, limited-time launches have been used to generate buzz around products. In 2020, French’s Mustard collaborated with brewer Oskar Blues to create a beer inspired by the popular yellow condiment. Additionally, convenience store Sheetz introduced a beer infused with its glazed vanilla donut holes that same year.
Anheuser-Busch invests $14M in efficiency upgrades
Beer giant Anheuser-Busch is making strategic investments to streamline its manufacturing operations.
The renowned brewer, known for brands like Budweiser and Michelob Ultra, recently announced a $14 million investment in its Houston Brewery to enhance efficiency. This investment includes equipment upgrades, improvements to warehouse infrastructure, enhanced wireless connectivity, and the installation of air rinsers on production lines to reduce water consumption.
This latest investment follows a $22.5 million expenditure last year to enhance internal systems at the Houston facility and improve workplace safety.
Anheuser-Busch has allocated over $2 billion in the past five years to enhance its supply chain. Earlier this year, the company announced a $16 million expansion at its Los Angeles brewery to accommodate the growing demand for trendy ready-to-drink cocktails like Nütrl and Cutwater.
As part of its manufacturing strategy, the AB InBev-owned brewer is also focusing on closing less profitable plants. In a recent announcement, the company revealed plans to close a distribution facility in Medford, Massachusetts, and shift operations to a nearby wholesaler.
Pecan milk brand unveils plant-based coffee companion
A leading pecan milk producer introduces a new plant-based milk alternative designed for coffee enthusiasts.
PKN, known for its pecan milk products, has launched PKN Joy Barista, an innovative iteration of its flagship offering. This plant-based milk alternative boasts a rich, buttery flavor derived from roasted pecans and is crafted from sustainably sourced and upcycled pecans.
Laura Shenkar, CEO and founder of PKN, highlighted that PKN Joy Barista offers the perfect consistency for frothing in cappuccinos and lattes, enhancing the morning coffee experience without compromising on sustainability.
The PKN Joy Barista is now available for purchase on the company’s website and select stores.
Pecans, although less common in plant-based products compared to almonds, offer numerous health benefits such as protein, calcium, magnesium, and potassium. Rich in flavonoid antioxidants that combat inflammation and omega-3 fatty acids that can lower cholesterol levels, pecans are a nutritious addition to one’s diet.