September in review: Kraft Heinz spin-off, Nestlé CEO exit, Mars’ €1B EU push

In September, Kraft Heinz confirmed its spin-off into two separate companies, Nestlé appointed a new CEO, and Mars revealed significant investments into its EU operations.

A multilateral agreement aimed at tackling illegal, unregulated, and unreported fishing came into focus, while a study found critically endangered sharks sold in US grocery stores.

FrieslandCampina Ingredients opened a new center in Singapore, Tetra Pak targeted protein supply chain challenges, and Arla Foods Ingredients showcased its Protein Soda at FI Asia 2025.

We look back at the biggest stories this month.

Kraft Heinz confirms spin-off into two separate companies

The Kraft Heinz Company revealed plans to separate into two independent, publicly traded businesses by the second half of 2026, following unanimous approval from its board of directors. The move, structured as a tax-free spin-off, is designed to give each company a sharper focus, reduce complexity, and “unlock long-term shareholder value.”

Nestlé names Philipp Navratil CEO after Freixe exit

Nestlé’s board appointed Philipp Navratil as CEO after the immediate departure of Laurent Freixe, who was found to have breached the company’s code of business conduct. The board ordered an investigation into an undisclosed relationship between Freixe and a direct subordinate, overseen by chairman Paul Bulcke and lead independent director Pablo Isla, with support from external counsel.

Unlocking cocoa potential: Nestlé taps fermentation and upcycles fruit parts to transform waste into flavor

Nestlé told us about its novel technique to boost cocoa fruit yields by up to 30% and unlock the “untapped potential” of the pulp, placenta, and pod husk — parts that are largely unused during chocolate production. The patented method helps farmers get more yield and value from cocoa, mainly as climate change affects production and increases prices.

Endangered shark meat on sale in US grocery stores, flags new research

A new study revealed that critically endangered sharks are being used for steak cuts and sold in US grocery stores. Despite bans and regulations, meat from shark species at risk of extinction, like great hammerhead and scalloped hammerhead, is “commonly available for sale” in the country.

FrieslandCampina Ingredients unveils Singapore hub to accelerate functional food innovation in APAC

FrieslandCampina Ingredients has launched a new application center in Singapore to boost the supply of its ingredient solutions in the evolving Asia-Pacific (APAC) markets, including Japan, Korea, Australia, New Zealand, and Southeast Asia.Mars will invest €1 billion in its EU operations by 2026, upgrading factories, boosting sustainability, and expanding innovation as EU regulators review its $36 billion Kellanova acquisition.

Tetra Pak exec: Protein boom, food processing and adapting to industry challenges

Tetra Pak told us how it is examining its protein supply chains at a deeper level to see how it could alleviate some of the industry’s wider pressures. Millions of health-conscious consumers face the same dilemma each day: they need more protein, but supermarket product lists are often riddled with unfamiliar names, preservatives, and high levels of salt and sugar.

Mars invests big in EU operations as regulators resume Kellanova acquisition probe

Mars announced plans to invest €1 billion (US 1.18 billion) into its EU operations by the end of 2026 as it seeks EU approval for its US$36 billion acquisition of Pringles maker Kellanova. EU antitrust regulators are investigating the deal amid concerns that it could give the American multinational too much negotiating power with retailers and lead to price hikes for consumers.

Global trade agreement targets harmful fishing subsidies

A new multilateral agreement under the World Trade Organization, aimed at phasing out harmful fisheries subsidies and enhancing the sustainability of marine resources, entered into force. The UN FAO welcomed the agreement, saying it aligns with its measures to tackle illegal, unregulated, and unreported fishing.

Food Matters Live Rotterdam: AI, sensory, and personalization take center stage

Food Matters Live brought its first edition to Rotterdam, Netherlands, at the Ahoy Convention Centre, following the success of its UK and Irish events over the past decade. The interactive event addressed the future of sustainable food nutrition through the lens of hands-on product development.

Fi Asia 2025: Arla Foods Ingredients highlights new protein soda

Fi Asia 2025 set the scene for Arla Foods Ingredients to showcase its latest high-protein solutions. The company told us about its Protein Soda, which taps into the “better-for-you” soft drinks trend with its specialty whey protein ingredient, Lacprodan BLG-100.