December in review: EUDR revision, Barry Callebaut spin-off speculation, UK caged farming reform

In December, the European Parliament formally adopted a delay and revision to the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), while EU trilogue negotiations on restricting meat-related terminology for plant-based products collapsed.

Barry Callebaut reportedly explored separating its cocoa division from its chocolate business, and Unilever completed its Magnum ice cream spin-off.

Food Ingredients First looked at UK and US retailer analyses to understand how emerging consumer trends, including GLP-1 use and concerns about ultra-processed foods, influence purchasing behavior.

We look back at the biggest stories from December.

Unilever completes Magnum ice cream spin-off as shares begin trading

The Magnum Ice Cream Company debuted as a standalone business in December following completion of its separation from Unilever, creating the world’s largest independent ice cream company, with brands including Ben & Jerry’s, Cornetto, and Wall’s.

EU Commission approves Mars’ US$36B Kellanova deal

The European Commission gave the final green light for the Mars and Kellanova merger with “unconditional approval.” The combined snacking business is expected to generate around US$36 billion in annual revenues, with a portfolio that includes nine billion-dollar brands.

dsm-firmenich reveals top 2026 flavor as consumers seek calm and revitalization

“Frosted Star Anise” was crowned by dsm-firmenich as its Flavor of the Year for 2026. This flavor draws from Pantone’s Color of the Year 2026: “Pantone Cloud Dancer,” a white hue that inspired dsm-firmenich to elevate both an ingredient and a feeling as its anticipated 2026 winning flavor. Together, these emotional indicators reflect a growing global desire for calm in an increasingly fast-paced world.The world’s largest chocolate maker reportedly explored separating its cocoa and chocolate businesses.

EU “meaty” label ban talks collapse into prolonged regulatory limbo

European trilogue negotiations on restricting meat-related terminology for plant-based products collapsed without agreement, pushing any final decision into 2026 under Cyprus’ EU presidency. The failure marked a significant setback for the European Parliament’s October vote to ban terms like “burger,” “sausage,” and “steak” from plant-based labels.

GNT’s “Gather Together” report highlights how color can guide global F&B design

Consumers increasingly seek connection and comfort in shared food and drink experiences, according to GNT Group. The company spotlighted color as a tool for brands to engage with consumers, as its new “Gather Together” report highlighted how natural, plant-based shades can help brands shape products that are social, expressive, emotionally resonant, and reflect emerging shifts in consumer behavior.

PepsiCo formalizes restructuring plan as key investor pushes SKU cuts and price reductions

PepsiCo reached an agreement with activist investor Elliott Investment Management to cut its US product lineup by 20% and reduce prices on core brands, formalizing a broader restructuring that includes the Frito-Lay plant closures.

Supermarket food trends: What’s driving consumer purchasing decisions?

The growing use of GLP-1 and push for more protein and fiber, as well as rising concerns over ultra-processed foods, is reshaping the grocery shopping landscape. These consumer trends are emerging as crucial influencers for changing volumes, food choices, and purchasing decisions. We explored supermarket analyses from UK grocer Waitrose and US giants Whole Foods, Kroger, and Walmart.

K-food research reveals how to boost kokumi flavor acceptance

Researchers at Jeonbuk National University in South Korea explored the impact of different seasonings on the flavor perception of Doenjang soup and found that certain ingredients enhance overall flavor harmony, while others intensify specific flavor notes like umami or saltiness, influencing consumer acceptance.The EU Parliament formally adopted a further delay and revision to the EUDR.

Inside ofi’s first comprehensive sustainability roadmap for spices

F&B ingredient supplier ofi launched Spice Maps, its first comprehensive sustainability strategy for spices, alongside the annual Nut Trails impact report. Together, these frameworks demonstrated the company’s efforts to establish resilient and sustainable supply chains for two of the world’s fastest-growing ingredient categories.

EU Parliament approves Deforestation Regulation delay and revision

The European Parliament formally adopted a further delay and revision to the EUDR, meaning large companies and operators will have until December 30, 2026, to comply, and small and micro-enterprises until June 30, 2027.

After the spike: Cocoa’s volatile new norm forces structural industry shift

The world’s largest chocolate maker, Barry Callebaut, reportedly explored separating its cocoa division from its chocolate business, marking what could be a structural break in the industry between manufacturing and commodity trading that would reshape how the sector manages supply chain risk.

EU Biotech Act: Approval pathways for precision fermentation eased despite restrictions on novel foods

The European Commission’s Biotech Act promised to expand the regulatory guidance available to companies bringing precision fermentation ingredients to market, but excluded novel foods from a parallel scheme designed to foster collaboration between regulators, industry, and academics.

UK government pledges to reform cage farming and livestock slaughter

The UK government announced plans to phase out colony cages for laying hens and farrowing crates for breeding sows by 2030, alongside comprehensive reforms to pig stunning methods and new welfare standards for farmed fish and poultry.