All articles by Elizabeth Cooke

Elizabeth Cooke is a trainee reporter, specialising in thematic intelligence. She graduated with a degree in French and Philosophy from Oxford University in 2022.

Elizabeth Cooke

Signal: France legislates for early reopening of price negotiations

New laws to be imposed on large food manufacturers in France to start early price negotiations and disclose shrinkflation.

Signal: JBS pushes forward with fresh investment in cell-based meat

The cultured protein innovation centre is aimed at making production “more efficient” and “economically competitive”.

Signal: With Hostess, Smucker gambles on continued growth of indulgent snacks

Analysts are divided on the wisdom of J.M. Smucker’s acquisition of Twinkies owner Hostess Brands.

Signal: Tyson Foods deploys autonomous trucks in collaboration with Gatik AI

A dearth of truck drivers and supply chain talent sees Tyson Foods turning to autonomous “middle-mile” logistics.

Signal: Butternut Box to expand European presence with fresh funding

Butternut Box, the direct-to-consumer dog-food business, is gearing up for expansion in Europe.

Signal: Nestlé, DSM-Firmenich, Cargill lead way on plant-based meat patent applications

Nestlé, DSM-Firmenich and Cargill have been among the most active companies in plant-based meat innovation, data suggests.

Signal: corporate attention on private-label remains strong amid high inflation

Unilever and South Africa’s Tiger Brands have attributed low growth in some segments to the incursion of private labels.

Deal focus: Campbell Soup Co. aims to reinvigorate meals sales with Rao’s owner Sovos

The acquisition will fulfil Campbell’s objective of having a $1bn sauces business on board, but it may face challenges elsewhere.

Tweets of the week: UK border food checks and US EATS Act debate

The UK’s delayed border food checks and animal-welfare rules in the US have caused a stir.

Filings signal: Food sector annual filings show increased regulatory concerns

Company filings’ mentions of “regulations” within the food sector have increased year on year between 2016 and 2022.