iTi Tropicals Inc. (iTi), Lawrenceville, N.J., announced the opening of a new passion fruit production facility in Vietnam. The new facility, operated by passion fruit industry leader Quicornac, offers iTi customers greater flexibility in budgeting, expanded product offerings, stability of production, increased availability, diversity in applications and more. 

Shore Capital Partners announced it has completed a partnership with iTi Tropicals Inc. Founded in 1988, iTi has experienced tremendous growth under the leadership of President Gert van Manen and his world-class team.

U.S. honey demand reached an all-time high, according to the latest Sugar and Sweeteners Outlook report published by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). In a special article on the U.S. honey market, record-setting consumption of honey and made-with-honey products totaled 618 million pounds in 2021. The previous record was 596 million pounds in 2017.

Ingredient suppliers announce new mergers and acquisitions as well as solutions to support beverage formulations.

As consumer diets drive the need for clean label, gluten-free and functional ingredients, suppliers take the steps to make it easier for beverage-makers.

Ingredient companies are launching new application centers to keep pace with the demand for better-for-you products. A China-based company changed its name to HOWTAIN to reflect its global expanded footprint and commitment to sustainability.

Ingredients companies are bringing their natural, sustainably sourced tea and coffee solutions to Europe, and with sustainability top of mind, Chr. Hansen ranked No. 2 on a Global 100 sustainability list. 

Ingredient companies are broadening their operations by hiring new leaders and expanding their value-added services. 

B.T. Sweet launched Cambya, which is designed as a one-to-one drop-in for food and beverage applications.

T. Hasegawa USA will open a new plant to expand capabilities of sweet beverage flavors, while EverGreen Ingredients partnered with The Carbon Underground for a soil restoration initiative.