Future Food Quick Bites: Veganuary Launches, Hospital Caps & A Ted Talk

In this week's Future Food Quick Bites, a variety of new plant-based products and launches have been announced, coinciding with Veganuary. From Starbucks introducing a brown sugar oat milk cortado and a vegan Spicy Falafel Pocket to plant-based ice cream flavors from Salt & Straw and vegan chicken burgers by TiNDLE Foods and PLNT Burger, the sustainable food industry is abuzz with new offerings. Additionally, partnerships with vegan influencers, dairy-free brands introducing new products, and collaborations like the Hawaiian Vegan Pizza from Papa Johns and La Vie are showcasing the growing trend towards plant-based options.

On the business side, companies like Violife and Sundial Foods are rolling out new campaigns and products, while others like Motif FoodWorks and Nestlé-backed Sundial Foods have faced closures or restructuring. Policy and research developments include the use of biodegradable, plant-based theatre caps in NHS Scotland hospitals to reduce single-use plastic waste and a study by University of Exeter researchers on the impact of going vegan in January. The Future of Food Ted Talk by director Andy Jarvis highlights the importance of a positive approach to sustainable food solutions.