Asia Food & Flavor Industry: Business News: October 16–31, 2026
October 16–31, 2026 | Asia-Pacific (excluding Australia and New Zealand) and West Asia
Strong sales at seasoning and prepared-food makers in China, Indonesia and Vietnam, and new beverage capacity in India and Thailand, were the clearest signals for flavor and ingredient suppliers this period.
This report covers 45 business developments published during October 16–31, 2026 that matter to food manufacturers, flavor houses, ingredient suppliers, beverage companies, foodservice businesses, distributors and food technology developers. It includes mergers and acquisitions, investments, factory expansions, financial results, partnerships, product launches and shifts in consumer demand. Each entry gives the country, the date and links to its sources.
Key developments for flavor and ingredient suppliers
- Seasonings and prepared foods: Anjoy Foods, Haitian Flavouring, Masan Consumer and Indofood CBP all grew sales (items 21, 22, 23 and 26).
- Beverages: Dongpeng's tea sales rose about 183% (item 27), Tata Consumer's ready-to-drink business grew 47% (item 19), and Varun Beverages grew revenue 33% while planning a US$221 million plant (items 16 and 24).
- New capacity: Nestlé broke ground on a THB 23 billion coffee complex in Thailand (item 13), and Malteurop inaugurated a 220,000-tonne malting plant in China (item 7).
- Fermentation and dairy alternatives: Brevel, Kinish and Andfoods advanced microalgae, rice-based dairy and fermented whipping cream (items 4, 5 and 35).
- Regional flavors in India: Quaker, MTR and Kurkure launched products built on traditional Indian flavors and formats (items 33, 34 and 36).
Table of contents
Key developments for flavor and ingredient suppliers
Mergers, acquisitions and investments
- 1. Indonesia's ESQ Capital invests in foodservice supply-chain platform Eresto
- 2. Burma Burma restaurant group files for an initial public offering in India
- 3. Thailand's Betagro acquires majority stake in digital food-supply platform Freshket
- 4. Israel's Brevel and India's Wave Group plan a large-scale microalgae fermentation plant
- 5. Japan's Kinish raises ¥490 million to expand rice-based dairy alternatives
- 6. India's Harajuku Tokyo Café raises US$3 million to expand restaurants and bakeries
- 7. Malteurop inaugurates its newly acquired 220,000-tonne malting plant in China
- 8. Saudi Arabia's Almarai enters red meat with a SAR 500 million investment
- 9. Dodla Dairy and Meadow India plan a dairy-ingredients joint venture
- 10. Japan's IntegriCulture secures ¥100 million for cellular agriculture
Factory and manufacturing expansion
- 11. Norel opens a 10,000-tonne feed-additives plant in Malaysia
- 12. Türkiye's Pınar starts puff pastry production at its Turgutlu bakery plant
- 13. Nestlé breaks ground on its THB 23 billion coffee complex in Thailand
- 14. Thailand's agri-food investment applications rise 59%
- 15. Malaysia's RT Pastry proposes RM22 million property purchase to expand bakery production
- 16. Varun Beverages plans a US$221 million beverage and snack plant in Maharashtra
Financial results and consumer demand
- 17. Indonesia's Fore Coffee grows revenue 53% and reaches 410 outlets
- 18. Philippines' RFM Corporation pays ₱600 million dividend and keeps funds for acquisitions
- 19. Tata Consumer grows quarterly revenue 14%, led by ready-to-drink beverages
- 20. Nestlé Malaysia's quarterly net profit rises 73%
- 21. China's Anjoy Foods grows revenue 18.4% on prepared-food demand
- 22. China's Haitian Flavouring grows nine-month revenue 4.3%
- 23. Vietnam's Masan Consumer posts its fastest quarterly growth in three years
- 24. Varun Beverages grows quarterly revenue 33% as its international business expands
- 25. Indofood grows nine-month sales 12% across its food businesses
- 26. Indofood CBP grows branded consumer food sales 15%
- 27. China's Dongpeng Beverage nearly triples tea-drink sales
New products, flavors and ingredient innovation
- 28. Milky Mist launches lactose-free milk with 25 grams of protein per pack
- 29. Taiwan's 85°C launches a 60-centimeter egg tart for sharing
- 30. Calbee launches its JagaRico potato snack in South Korea
- 31. China's YiKEDA presents premium tomato beverages to international buyers
- 32. Tropolite launches an all-purpose dairy cooking cream for professional kitchens
- 33. PepsiCo India takes Quaker into traditional protein snacks
- 34. MTR Foods adds eight Indian sweets aimed at modern snacking
- 35. Andfoods brings fermented black-gram whipping cream to Singapore foodservice
- 36. Kurkure launches South Indian-inspired Ribbon Pakoda
- 37. Clasado and Globofarm partner to distribute a prebiotic ingredient in India
- 38. Licious brings more than 80 ready-to-heat products under the Sizzl brand
- 39. Jollibee's Mang Inasal grows Philippine sales 13.2%
- 40. 7-Eleven Singapore launches Foodbar counters as ready-meal demand grows
- 41. Jollibee identifies more than 1,500 potential expansion areas in the Philippines
- 42. KFC opens its first Muse flagship in Dubai with new drinks and flavor options
Trade and international expansion
- 43. South Korean food makers present new products to international buyers at SIAL Paris
- 44. CJ CheilJedang targets ₩1.5 trillion in Hetbahn sales by 2028
- 45. Vietnam and China sign a preliminary deal for up to 200,000 tonnes of coffee
Mergers, acquisitions and investments
1. Indonesia's ESQ Capital invests in foodservice supply-chain platform Eresto
Announced October 16, reported October 29, 2026 | Indonesia | Venture investment, food tech and supply-chain software
Indonesian investment company ESQ Capital made a strategic investment in Eresto, which builds digital tools for food and beverage operators. Financial terms were not disclosed.
Eresto offers enterprise resource planning software, inspection management tools and QR-based product traceability. Its platform links slaughterhouses, suppliers, restaurants and consumers through shared operational data. The investment will fund product development, customer acquisition and commercial expansion, starting with foodservice businesses and supply-chain partners in Greater Jakarta and West Java.
Why it matters: Connected purchasing and inventory systems are changing how ingredient suppliers and distributors work with restaurants. For flavor companies, platforms like Eresto could eventually make distribution, product tracking and repeat ordering more efficient.
Source: ESQNews: October 29 report on the Eresto investment
2. Burma Burma restaurant group files for an initial public offering in India
October 17, 2026 | India | IPO filing, restaurant expansion and Asian cuisine
Hunger Pangs, parent company of the Burma Burma restaurant chain, filed draft documents for an initial public offering. The offering includes a fresh issue of up to ₹150 crore and an offer for sale by existing shareholders.
A substantial share of the proceeds will fund 27 new outlets. Burma Burma serves vegetarian Burmese cuisine, including noodles, fermented ingredients, distinctive seasonings and traditional beverages. Revenue has grown significantly, although the company continues to spend heavily on expansion and faces the profitability pressures common to growing restaurant businesses.
Why it matters: The filing shows investor appetite for differentiated, cuisine-focused restaurant brands in India. A larger network would need specialty sauces, Asian seasonings, fermented flavors, tea beverages and standardized ingredients that keep taste consistent across locations.
Source: Inc42: Burma Burma parent files for IPO
3. Thailand's Betagro acquires majority stake in digital food-supply platform Freshket
October 20, 2026 | Thailand | Acquisition, food tech and foodservice
Thai integrated food producer Betagro acquired a majority stake in Freshket, one of Thailand's leading digital food-supply platforms for hotels, restaurants and caterers. The investment, made through Betagro Ventures, marks a major step into food technology and digital distribution. Financial terms were not disclosed.
Founded in 2017, Freshket offers more than 10,000 products to over 20,000 foodservice operators, connecting producers and ingredient suppliers directly with commercial kitchens. The deal pairs Betagro's production and national logistics network with Freshket's digital ordering and delivery systems. Freshket plans to add more imported ingredients, including seafood, cheese, butter and Japanese food products, while improving cold-chain logistics and extending its service area.
Why it matters: Foodservice purchasing in Thailand is moving online. Digital platforms could become an important channel for selling sauces, seasonings, specialty ingredients and culinary solutions to restaurants.
Sources: Betagro: Acquisition announcement | DealStreetAsia: Deal coverage
4. Israel's Brevel and India's Wave Group plan a large-scale microalgae fermentation plant
October 21, 2026 | Israel and India | Food technology, alternative proteins and manufacturing investment
Israeli food-tech company Brevel is partnering with India's Wave Group to build a commercial-scale plant using Brevel's illuminated fermentation technology. The proposed plant in Uttar Pradesh will have about 300,000 liters of fermentation capacity, with a reported investment of US$10–15 million.
The plant will grow microalgae on byproducts from Wave Group's sugar operations. Brevel's process combines controlled fermentation with light to produce food ingredients, including its Purallis microalgae ingredient platform. By pairing existing industrial infrastructure and local feedstock with fermentation expertise, the partners aim to make production more commercially viable.
Why it matters: Microalgae and fermentation-derived proteins can shape the texture, nutrition and flavor of plant-based foods and beverages. The deal also shows large agricultural processors becoming infrastructure partners for new ingredient manufacturing.
Source: Vegconomist: Brevel and Wave Group's fermentation plant
5. Japan's Kinish raises ¥490 million to expand rice-based dairy alternatives
October 21–23, 2026 | Japan | Venture funding, food innovation and dairy alternatives
Japanese food-tech startup Kinish raised about ¥490 million (US$3.1 million) to commercialize its rice-based dairy alternatives. The company sells products under its Rice Creamery brand and is researching ways to produce dairy proteins, including casein, using rice-based biotechnology. Investors include Japanese corporate and venture capital firms focused on agricultural and food technology.
The funding will support product commercialization, expansion into the United States and further development of Kinish's ingredient platform.
Why it matters: Plant-based dairy alternatives often fall short of milk on flavor release, creaminess and functionality, and Kinish's technology aims to close that gap. New dairy-alternative bases create demand for custom flavors, masking systems, stabilizers and mouthfeel solutions.
Sources: Vegconomist: Kinish financing and US expansion | Green Queen: Kinish technology and funding
6. India's Harajuku Tokyo Café raises US$3 million to expand restaurants and bakeries
October 22, 2026 | India | Fundraising, Japanese-inspired foodservice and bakery
Japanese-themed dining company Harajuku Tokyo Café raised US$3 million in a pre-Series A round led by ZeroW, with participation from existing and new investors.
The company runs Harajuku Tokyo Café restaurants and Harajuku Bakehouse outlets, and the bakery business already brings in about one-third of revenue. It plans to open 10 more locations across Delhi NCR, Mumbai, Bengaluru and Chandigarh over the next two quarters, and to set up central kitchens in Mumbai and Bengaluru by December 2026. Management said revenue and store count have both doubled since the previous funding round.
Why it matters: Growth of Japanese-inspired food concepts in India could lift demand for matcha, sesame, red bean, fruit, custard and other bakery and dessert flavors. Central kitchens also open the door for suppliers of standardized ingredients and preparations.
Source: Inc42: Harajuku Tokyo Café funding
7. Malteurop inaugurates its newly acquired 220,000-tonne malting plant in China
October 23, 2026 | China | Acquisition, brewing ingredients and manufacturing
Malteurop, the malting subsidiary of French agricultural cooperative VIVESCIA, formally inaugurated the Chunlei Malting plant near Yancheng, Jiangsu province. The plant can produce about 220,000 tonnes of malt a year, which the company says is enough for two billion liters of beer. It is Malteurop's second plant in China, alongside its long-established operation in Baoding.
The plant runs on biomass and renewable electricity and is located to serve customers in China and export markets. Financial terms were not disclosed. The acquisition closed in summer 2026; October 23 marked its public announcement and the plant's inauguration.
Why it matters: Malt quality affects fermentation, sweetness, aroma, color and consistency in beer. The added capacity widens supply options for Asian brewers and producers of malt-based beverages.
Sources: Malteurop: Press release (PR Newswire) | World Grain: Plant details
8. Saudi Arabia's Almarai enters red meat with a SAR 500 million investment
October 27, 2026 | Saudi Arabia | Category expansion, packaged protein and investment
Almarai, one of the Middle East's largest food and beverage manufacturers, launched HABOOR, a prepacked beef brand that takes the company into red meat. The business is backed by an investment of about SAR 500 million.
Almarai plans to use its manufacturing, distribution and retail relationships to compete beyond its core dairy, bakery, juice and poultry businesses. The launch is part of a broader strategy to enter selected new food categories.
Why it matters: A large integrated manufacturer entering the market could change competition in the Gulf's packaged-protein sector. Depending on how the range develops, it could also create demand for meat-processing and preservation solutions, marinades, seasonings and convenience-food flavors.
Source: Almarai: HABOOR launch
9. Dodla Dairy and Meadow India plan a dairy-ingredients joint venture
October 28, 2026 | India | Dairy ingredients and joint venture
The board of Indian dairy producer Dodla Dairy approved plans for a joint venture with Meadow India Holdings to supply dairy ingredients to industrial customers. Dodla will own 40% of the venture and Meadow India Holdings 60%.
Dodla's management said the venture will help the company turn growing milk volumes into higher-value ingredient sales and build long-term supply relationships with food manufacturers.
Why it matters: More industrial dairy-ingredient supply in India could support new ice cream, dessert, bakery filling, nutritional beverage, confectionery and dairy flavor development.
Status: Board-approved proposal, subject to final agreements and other conditions. The joint venture is not yet operating.
Sources: Dodla Dairy: Investor disclosures | FinancialFilings: Dodla Dairy October 28 filing
10. Japan's IntegriCulture secures ¥100 million for cellular agriculture
October 30, 2026 | Japan | Venture funding and cultivated food technology
Japanese cellular agriculture company IntegriCulture announced a ¥100 million (about US$635,000) investment involving Niigata Venture Capital, as part of a wider fundraising.
The company develops technology for growing animal cells, with applications in cultivated meat, food ingredients and cosmetics. Its cell-culture infrastructure is designed to make production more accessible and scalable. The investment is tied to regional efforts to build a food-technology hub in Niigata, where companies and research institutions are developing new food-manufacturing capabilities.
Why it matters: Cultivated foods are still at an early commercial stage, but cultivation platforms could create future demand for growth media, functional ingredients and flavor systems. Cultured animal products may need specialized approaches to aroma and flavor consistency, which makes the field worth watching over the longer term.
Source: Green Queen: IntegriCulture funding and Niigata expansion
Factory and manufacturing expansion
11. Norel opens a 10,000-tonne feed-additives plant in Malaysia
October 16, 2026 | Malaysia | Manufacturing expansion, feed additives, flavors and sweeteners
Spanish animal nutrition company Norel officially opened a plant in Johor, Malaysia, with annual capacity of 10,000 tonnes. The investment amount was not disclosed.
The plant's four production lines serve poultry, swine, ruminant, aquaculture and pet food customers. Products include sodium butyrate, medium-chain fatty acids, essential oils, antioxidants, mold inhibitors, mycotoxin binders, pellet binders, flavors and sweeteners. Norel says producing in Malaysia will let it serve customers across Southeast Asia more efficiently, alongside its existing global network.
Why it matters: The plant serves animal nutrition rather than human food, but its essential oil, flavor and sweetener lines are relevant to the wider ingredient industry, particularly pet food palatability.
Sources: Engormix: Norel plant opening | Feed & Grain: Plant details
12. Türkiye's Pınar starts puff pastry production at its Turgutlu bakery plant
October 16, 2026 | Türkiye | Manufacturing expansion and bakery products
Pınar Entegre Et ve Un said its Turgutlu bakery plant has started production on a new puff pastry line. The company disclosed the milestone on Türkiye's Public Disclosure Platform on October 16.
The line completes the second and final phase of the plant's investment program. The company did not disclose the line's capacity or a new capital spending figure.
Why it matters: More industrial pastry capacity could create business for suppliers of fats, flour ingredients, bakery fillings, savory flavors and ingredients that improve texture and shelf life. Frozen bakery and foodservice customers need consistent performance through freezing, storage, baking and reheating.
Source: Public Disclosure Platform (KAP): Pınar production announcement
13. Nestlé breaks ground on its THB 23 billion coffee complex in Thailand
October 21, 2026 | Thailand | Factory construction, coffee and beverage innovation
Nestlé started construction of its House of NESCAFÉ Thailand complex at the Araya Industrial Estate in Samut Prakan. Nestlé first announced the THB 23 billion (about US$685–700 million) investment in July 2026; the groundbreaking is the new development.
The complex will make soluble coffee, coffee mixes and ready-to-drink coffee, and will include an automated distribution center and a Coffee Innovation Center for product and process development. Nestlé expects the project to create more than 500 jobs and to buy about THB 4.3 billion of local ingredients and materials a year. Operations are expected to start in late 2028.
Why it matters: This is a major investment in Southeast Asian coffee manufacturing. It could raise demand for coffee beans, dairy ingredients, sugar, beverage flavors and processing technology, and the innovation center may speed up launches tailored to regional tastes.
Sources: Nestlé Thailand: Media page | Khaosod English: Project details
14. Thailand's agri-food investment applications rise 59%
October 26–28, 2026 | Thailand | Investment pipeline, food manufacturing and ingredient supply
Thailand's Board of Investment reported that investment applications in agriculture and food reached THB 80.19 billion in January–September 2026, up 59% from a year earlier. The total covers 218 proposed projects in food manufacturing, beverages, animal feed, modified starches, natural extracts and other agricultural processing.
Applicants include Nestlé Thailand, Thai Inaba Foods, Siam Quality Starch, Siam Modified Starch and European Food.
Why it matters: The pipeline points to customer growth for flavor houses, starch suppliers, beverage ingredient makers and food-processing equipment providers. These figures are applications, not completed factories or committed spending, and projects may proceed on different schedules. The report did not break out totals by food category.
Source: eFeedLink: Thailand agri-food investment applications
15. Malaysia's RT Pastry proposes RM22 million property purchase to expand bakery production
October 29, 2026 | Malaysia | Manufacturing investment and bakery expansion
RT Pastry Holdings proposed buying two industrial properties in Seri Kembangan, Selangor, for RM22 million: an existing factory with offices and an adjacent vacant lot. The company plans to use the space to improve production flow, install equipment such as deck ovens and mixers, and support growth of its retail outlets.
According to its stock-exchange filing, the expansion could raise annual pastry capacity from about 2.55 million units to 2.80 million units. The company also accepted RM28.78 million in banking facilities, partly to fund the purchase.
Why it matters: Centralized bakery production for a growing retail network raises demand for fillings, creams, chocolate, fruit preparations and bakery flavors that keep quality consistent across outlets.
Sources: KLSE Screener: RT Pastry stock-exchange announcement | The Star: Factory expansion plans
16. Varun Beverages plans a US$221 million beverage and snack plant in Maharashtra
October 31, 2026 | India | Manufacturing investment, beverages and snacks
Varun Beverages, one of PepsiCo's major bottling partners, announced plans for an integrated food and beverage plant in Maharashtra, India.
The investment of about US$221.1 million covers a 125-acre site for carbonated soft drinks, packaged drinking water, dairy-based products and snacks. Carbonated beverage capacity is expected to reach about 50 million cases a year. The project is part of the company's plan to expand capacity and diversify its range as demand grows.
Why it matters: The plant could create substantial demand for beverage flavors, sweeteners, acidulants, stabilizers, emulsifiers, dairy ingredients and snack seasonings. Because it combines beverage and snack production, a single customer could buy across several ingredient categories. Item 24 covers Varun's third-quarter results.
Source: Food Business Middle East & Africa: Varun Beverages Maharashtra investment
Financial results and consumer demand
17. Indonesia's Fore Coffee grows revenue 53% and reaches 410 outlets
October 22, 2026 | Indonesia and Singapore | Financial results, coffee retail and bakery
PT Fore Kopi Indonesia reported revenue of about IDR 1.6 trillion for the first nine months of 2026, up 53.3% year on year. EBITDA rose 70.6% to IDR 342.2 billion, and net profit rose 49.7% to about IDR 90 billion.
The company opened more than 70 Fore Coffee stores during the period, beating its full-year target. Its network reached 410 locations: 388 Fore Coffee outlets in Indonesia, five in Singapore and 17 Fore Donut stores. Expansion into smaller Indonesian cities remains a priority. New doughnut and beverage ranges included Crumbs & Crunch and Layered Pairings.
Why it matters: Fore's results show strong demand for affordable premium coffee and bakery products. Its expansion could increase demand for coffee extracts, flavored syrups, dairy alternatives, palm sugar, bakery fillings and dessert flavors.
Sources: Fore Coffee: Nine-month results | IDNFinancials: Results analysis
18. Philippines' RFM Corporation pays ₱600 million dividend and keeps funds for acquisitions
October 23, 2026 | Philippines | Corporate finance and potential acquisitions
Philippine food and beverage manufacturer RFM Corporation declared a cash dividend of about ₱600 million, bringing its 2026 cash dividends to about ₱1.5 billion. Management said the payout does not limit its ability to pursue attractive acquisitions.
RFM operates in established Philippine packaged-food and beverage categories, where portfolio breadth, manufacturing capability and distribution strength shape competition.
Why it matters: RFM remains open to strategic acquisitions. For flavor and ingredient companies in the Philippines, consolidation among manufacturers could change purchasing arrangements, product development priorities and supplier relationships.
Status: Financial strategy update. No acquisition target or transaction was announced.
Source: The Philippine Star: RFM acquisition outlook and dividend
19. Tata Consumer grows quarterly revenue 14%, led by ready-to-drink beverages
October 26, 2026 | India | Financial results, beverages and packaged foods
Tata Consumer Products reported consolidated revenue of ₹5,661 crore for the quarter ended September 30, 2026, up 14% year on year. EBITDA rose 18% and group net profit rose 16%.
Growth businesses expanded 40% and made up 38% of the India business. Tata Sampann packaged foods grew 57% and ready-to-drink beverages grew 47%. The salt business grew 15%, and Capital Foods and Organic India together grew 15%, with stronger domestic performance. The company launched 22 products during the quarter across health, convenience and premium categories.
Why it matters: The results show strong Indian demand for convenient, branded, value-added products. Growth in ready-to-drink beverages and packaged foods is relevant to suppliers of tea flavors, beverage concentrates, botanicals, seasonings and functional ingredients.
Source: Tata Consumer Products: Quarterly results
20. Nestlé Malaysia's quarterly net profit rises 73%
October 27, 2026 | Malaysia | Financial results and food and beverage manufacturing
Nestlé Malaysia reported third-quarter net profit of RM197.51 million, up about 73% from RM114.04 million a year earlier. Revenue rose 5.3% to RM1.86 billion, helped by stronger domestic demand and lower input costs. For the first nine months, net profit rose 44% to RM557.64 million and revenue rose 6.7% to RM5.55 billion.
The company reported steady export demand for its Malaysian-made halal products and continued investment in digitalization, automation and productivity.
Why it matters: Lower costs and efficiency gains lifted profit far faster than revenue. Nestlé Malaysia's focus on local manufacturing and halal exports points to continued opportunities for ingredient and flavor suppliers in beverages, culinary products and confectionery.
Source: The Edge Malaysia: Nestlé Malaysia results
21. China's Anjoy Foods grows revenue 18.4% on prepared-food demand
October 29, 2026 | China | Financial results, frozen food and prepared meals
Chinese frozen-food maker Anjoy Foods reported revenue of RMB 13.46 billion for January–September 2026, up 18.4% year on year. Net profit attributable to shareholders rose 20.3% to about RMB 1.14 billion.
Frozen prepared foods brought in RMB 7.02 billion, up 24.0%, and frozen prepared dishes RMB 4.23 billion, up 16.1%. Frozen rice and flour products fell 3.3%. New retail and e-commerce sales grew 46.1%, and overseas revenue grew 29.3%. Bakery sales also rose sharply, partly because of an acquired subsidiary.
Why it matters: Anjoy's results point to growth in China's convenience-food market. Suppliers of savory seasonings, hotpot ingredients, meat and seafood flavors, sauces and ready-meal systems stand to benefit as customers expand these categories.
Sources: Sina Finance: Anjoy Foods quarterly report | Sina Finance: Anjoy product and channel performance
22. China's Haitian Flavouring grows nine-month revenue 4.3%
October 29, 2026 | China | Financial results, condiments and seasonings
Foshan Haitian Flavouring and Food, one of China's largest producers of soy sauce, oyster sauce and other condiments, reported revenue of about RMB 22.55 billion for the nine months to September 30, 2026, up about 4.3% from RMB 21.63 billion. Net income was RMB 5.38 billion, compared with RMB 5.32 billion a year earlier.
Revenue across its five main Chinese regions rose 3.56% in the first three quarters. Haitian had 6,768 distributors in those regions at the end of September.
Why it matters: Haitian is a bellwether for China's savory ingredients and condiment market. Steady growth in established seasoning categories matters to makers of umami ingredients, fermented flavors, savory bases, sauces and cooking solutions.
Sources: FinancialFilings: Haitian earnings release | MarketScreener: Nine-month results
23. Vietnam's Masan Consumer posts its fastest quarterly growth in three years
October 30, 2026 | Vietnam | Financial results, seasonings, convenience foods and beverages
Masan Consumer reported third-quarter revenue of VND 8,743 billion, up 16.3% year on year and its fastest quarterly growth in three years. Convenience foods grew 19.3%, seasonings 18.8% and bottled beverages 14%. International revenue rose 10.6%. Nine-month revenue reached VND 24,380 billion, up 14.6%.
The premium convenience-food range, including the Omachi brand, also grew. Masan credited stronger brands, new products and an improved distribution network.
Why it matters: Masan is a useful gauge of Vietnamese demand for seasonings, instant meals, noodles and beverages. Continued premiumization could benefit suppliers of savory flavors, spice blends, broth systems and differentiated beverage flavors.
Source: Masan Group: Masan Consumer trading update
24. Varun Beverages grows quarterly revenue 33% as its international business expands
October 30, 2026 | India | Financial results and beverage manufacturing
Varun Beverages reported consolidated third-quarter revenue of ₹6,815.59 crore, up 33.3% year on year. Net profit rose 13.5% to ₹830.59 crore. Higher volumes and operating leverage drove the results, while packaging costs weighed on profitability. The company declared an interim dividend of ₹0.50 per share.
Varun continues to expand its bottling and distribution operations across several international markets.
Why it matters: Sustained volume growth at a major PepsiCo bottler supports demand for concentrates, sweeteners, acidulants and stabilizers. Rising packaging costs may push customers toward more cost-efficient formulations. Item 16 covers the company's new Maharashtra plant.
Source: Food Business Middle East & Africa: Varun Beverages third-quarter results
25. Indofood grows nine-month sales 12% across its food businesses
October 30, 2026 | Indonesia | Financial results and food manufacturing
PT Indofood Sukses Makmur reported consolidated net sales of IDR 101.49 trillion for the first nine months of 2026, up 12% from IDR 90.98 trillion. Operating income rose 15% to IDR 20.80 trillion, and operating margin improved from 19.9% to 20.5%. Core profit rose 11% to IDR 9.37 trillion. Net income attributable to shareholders was broadly flat at IDR 7.87 trillion, partly because of foreign exchange losses on US dollar borrowing.
Indofood operates in branded consumer foods, flour milling, agribusiness and distribution, with businesses making noodles, dairy, snacks, seasonings and beverages.
Why it matters: Indofood is a broad indicator of Indonesia's packaged-food supply chain. As both a customer and a competitor across many ingredient categories, its performance matters for flour, edible oils, savory flavors and seasoning systems.
Source: FinancialFilings: Indofood earnings release
26. Indofood CBP grows branded consumer food sales 15%
October 30, 2026 | Indonesia | Financial results, instant noodles, seasonings and beverages
Indofood CBP Sukses Makmur, Indofood's branded consumer-food subsidiary, reported consolidated net sales of IDR 64.45 trillion for the first nine months of 2026, up 15% year on year. Operating income rose 7% to IDR 13.67 trillion and core profit rose 5% to IDR 8.04 trillion. Operating margin fell from 22.6% to 21.2% as raw material, packaging and logistics costs rose.
The company makes instant noodles, dairy, snacks, seasonings, nutrition products and beverages. Its Indomie brand is sold widely abroad and produced in several regions. Its figures are already included in Indofood's consolidated results (item 25) and should not be added to them.
Why it matters: Strong sales growth shows continued demand for branded convenience foods. Margin pressure gives the company reason to look for more cost-efficient ingredients and formulations that protect taste.
Source: FinancialFilings: Indofood CBP earnings release
27. China's Dongpeng Beverage nearly triples tea-drink sales
October 30, 2026 | China | Financial results, energy drinks and tea beverages
Chinese beverage maker Dongpeng Beverage reported revenue of RMB 18.60 billion for the first nine months of 2026, up 10.4% year on year. Net profit attributable to shareholders rose 10.2% to RMB 4.14 billion, although third-quarter profit fell 7.8%.
Tea beverages grew fastest, reaching about RMB 1.64 billion compared with RMB 579 million a year earlier, an increase of about 183%. Tea's share of principal business revenue rose from 3.44% to 8.82%. Energy drinks remained the largest category at RMB 12.78 billion, and electrolyte drinks contributed RMB 3.03 billion.
Why it matters: Dongpeng's diversification shows ready-to-drink tea gaining ground alongside energy and hydration drinks. Suppliers should watch demand for tea extracts, botanical blends, sugar-reduction systems and new refreshment flavors.
Sources: Sina Finance: Dongpeng Beverage financial report | Sina Finance: Dongpeng sales by category
New products, flavors and ingredient innovation
28. Milky Mist launches lactose-free milk with 25 grams of protein per pack
October 16, 2026 | India | Dairy, high-protein beverages and product launch
Indian dairy company Milky Mist launched High Protein Lactose-free Milk in a 250-milliliter pack containing 25 grams of protein. It is available through selected domestic channels, with wider distribution planned.
Milky Mist reports strong demand for its existing high-protein products, including paneer, Greek yogurt and skyr. The new milk targets consumers who want convenient protein without lactose.
Why it matters: The launch reflects growing Indian demand for high-protein dairy drinks that are easier to digest. These products pose formulation challenges in protein stability, mouthfeel, sweetness and off-notes, and leave room for flavored and functional variants.
Sources: Equitybulls: Milky Mist launch | Dairy Business: Launch coverage
29. Taiwan's 85°C launches a 60-centimeter egg tart for sharing
October 16, 2026 | Taiwan | Product innovation, bakery and desserts
Taiwanese bakery and café chain 85°C announced a 60-centimeter egg tart, on sale nationwide from October 19 at a promotional price of NT$158. The elongated tart wraps egg custard in layered Danish-style pastry, giving a crisp exterior and soft interior. It is aimed at gatherings, office treats and family occasions.
Why it matters: The launch shows how bakery chains can refresh a familiar product through format and presentation. Larger baked goods like this need premium custard and butter flavors, fillings and texture solutions that hold quality at a bigger size.
Sources: 85°C: Product announcement | 85°C: 2026 news archive
30. Calbee launches its JagaRico potato snack in South Korea
October 16–20, 2026 | Japan and South Korea | International brand expansion and savory snacks
Japanese snack maker Calbee is introducing JagaRico potato sticks, one of its flagship brands, in South Korea. The first product is JagaRico Salad Flavor in a 60-gram stand-up pouch, made in Japan and sold through Korean supermarkets and convenience stores at about KRW 2,900. Haitai Confectionery is supporting distribution.
Calbee is targeting consumers familiar with Japanese snacks, especially younger shoppers drawn to imported products and distinctive textures. The production process gives a crunchy first bite followed by a lighter texture.
Why it matters: The launch shows how Japanese snack brands can enter neighboring markets with familiar savory flavors, distinctive textures and local distribution partners. It is relevant to seasoning suppliers, potato ingredient producers and snack developers working on cross-border Asian flavors.
Sources: Calbee: Launch announcement (PR Times) | The Herald Business: Korean launch
31. China's YiKEDA presents premium tomato beverages to international buyers
October 21, 2026 | China | Beverage innovation, export development and vegetable-based drinks
Chinese agricultural technology company Qingdao Triumph Haofeng Smart Agriculture presented its YiKEDA beverage brand to international buyers at SIAL Paris 2026. The range includes 100% not-from-concentrate tomato juice and several tomato-water flavored drinks. According to the company, the flagship juice contains no added water, sugar, artificial flavors, artificial colors or preservatives.
The tomatoes come from the parent company's smart greenhouses in China. YiKEDA is already sold in Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, the United Kingdom and other markets, so the show was an export push rather than a first launch.
Why it matters: Vegetable-based drinks are moving beyond conventional fruit juice. Tomato's natural acidity and savory notes, along with lighter drink formats, give flavor makers a route beyond traditional sweet beverages.
Source: YiKEDA: Press release (PR Newswire)
32. Tropolite launches an all-purpose dairy cooking cream for professional kitchens
October 21, 2026 | India | Foodservice ingredients, dairy and culinary applications
Indian foodservice ingredient supplier Tropolite launched Flexi Royale, a dairy cooking cream for restaurants, hotels, quick-service chains, cloud kitchens and other commercial operators. It is designed to work across a wide range of dishes, from Indian gravies to international sauces, soups and baked dishes, and to perform consistently under different kitchen conditions. Tropolite positions it as a single product that simplifies purchasing and preparation.
Why it matters: Commercial kitchens want ingredients that deliver reliable texture and mouthfeel across varied menus. A versatile dairy base can help chains standardize cream sauces, savory seasonings, desserts and flavor profiles across locations.
Sources: NUFFOODS Spectrum Asia: Flexi Royale launch | FoodTechBiz: Professional kitchen applications
33. PepsiCo India takes Quaker into traditional protein snacks
October 22, 2026 | India | Snack innovation, protein and fiber
PepsiCo India extended Quaker beyond oats and breakfast cereals with Quaker Protein Ladooz and Quaker Protein Chikki Bites, which reinterpret popular Indian snack formats using oats and added nutrition. Launch flavors are Rose Dry Fruit Ladooz and Ragi Choco Chikki Bites.
The products cost ₹10 per pack and, according to the company, contain 12% protein and high fiber, with no artificial flavors or palm oil. The launch follows consumer research with Euromonitor International and the Indian Institute of Millet Research on protein and fiber preferences.
Why it matters: PepsiCo is adding nutrition to familiar local formats rather than introducing unfamiliar Western-style nutrition snacks. Flavor suppliers should watch for demand in rose, nut, chocolate, millet, roasted and sweet profiles for affordable everyday nutrition products.
Sources: IMPACT: Quaker launch | FNB News: Product and formulation details
34. MTR Foods adds eight Indian sweets aimed at modern snacking
October 23, 2026 | India | Confectionery, traditional flavors and product innovation
MTR Foods added eight products to its Indian sweets range, bringing it to 27. The new items pair traditional recipes with modern formats and ingredients, including Jaggery Ghee Mysore Pak, Jaggery Ghee Coconut Burfi, Ghee Dry Fruit Burfi and Mysore Pak Date Bites, which layers Mysore Pak with dates and dried fruit.
MTR is also widening its Gulab Jamun range with Dry Jamun, Kala Jamun and Kesar Badam Gulab Jamun. The products are sold through quick-commerce platforms and major retailers.
Why it matters: Familiar South Asian flavor combinations have strong potential in convenient packaged formats. Ghee, jaggery, coconut, dates, saffron, cardamom and nuts offer opportunities for suppliers developing authentic regional indulgence products.
Source: FoodTechBiz: MTR sweets expansion
35. Andfoods brings fermented black-gram whipping cream to Singapore foodservice
October 27–28, 2026 | Singapore | Alternative dairy, foodservice ingredients and fermentation
New Zealand food-tech company Andfoods entered Singapore's professional foodservice market with Andfoods Whip, a dairy-free whipping cream made from fermented black-gram protein. Lim Siang Huat distributes it locally in one-liter cartons. The company says it whips stably, tastes clean and holds its texture in Singapore's heat and humidity.
It can be used in desserts, bakery fillings, chocolate ganache, coffee toppings and cold-foam drinks, and several Singapore restaurants are testing or using it. Production is in Shanghai, supporting the company's wider plans in Asia.
Why it matters: Fermentation is improving the sensory performance of dairy alternatives. Ingredient developers should watch systems that reduce beany notes while delivering cream-like texture, especially for beverage toppings, pastries and premium desserts.
Sources: Green Queen: Singapore launch | Vegconomist: Product and distribution details
36. Kurkure launches South Indian-inspired Ribbon Pakoda
October 27, 2026 | India | Regional flavor innovation and savory snacks
PepsiCo India's Kurkure brand introduced Ribbon Pakoda, a packaged snack based on a traditional South Indian savory. It combines rice flour with urad dal, chana dal and moong dal, plus sesame, black pepper and Guntur chilli. The company says it is made with rice bran oil and contains no palm oil, artificial colors or artificial flavors.
The snack is sold through neighborhood stores in Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu in ₹10 and ₹20 packs, backed by regional-language marketing.
Why it matters: Regional authenticity is becoming important in India's mainstream snack market. Flavor suppliers have openings in local chilli varieties, lentil and roasted-grain notes, pepper seasonings and spice blends adapted for industrial production.
Sources: afaqs!: Kurkure launch | Indian Retailer: Ingredients and distribution
37. Clasado and Globofarm partner to distribute a prebiotic ingredient in India
October 28, 2026 | India | Ingredient distribution, prebiotics and functional nutrition
Clasado Biosciences signed a distribution agreement with Globofarm International to expand access to its Bimuno GOS prebiotic in India. The deal pairs Clasado's gut-health expertise with Globofarm's local distribution network, customer relationships and technical support.
Bimuno GOS is a galactooligosaccharide used in functional nutrition. The partnership initially targets India's pharmaceutical and nutraceutical markets and is also relevant to food and beverage makers developing digestive-wellness products. It is part of Clasado's strategy to grow in Asia-Pacific through local partners.
Why it matters: Wider access to specialty prebiotics could support new functional beverages, nutritional powders and supplements. Prebiotic formulations require careful balancing of sweetness, mouthfeel, serving size and taste, which creates room for collaboration with flavor houses.
Source: Clasado Biosciences: Globofarm distribution agreement
38. Licious brings more than 80 ready-to-heat products under the Sizzl brand
October 30, 2026 | India | Prepared foods, brand repositioning and convenience meals
Indian meat and seafood platform Licious launched Sizzl as the new name for its ready-to-heat range of more than 80 snacks, starters and meals, some ready to serve within minutes. The rebrand separates the convenience business from Licious's fresh meat and seafood operations. It launched with a large event in Mumbai featuring demonstrations, creators and tastings of items such as momos and kebabs.
Why it matters: Demand for protein-rich convenience food is rising in India. Prepared meat snacks create opportunities for marinades, smoke notes, spicy coatings, dipping sauces, regional flavors and heat-stable systems that hold up after reheating.
Sources: ETFoodWorld: Sizzl launch | Branding in Asia: Brand and product details
Foodservice and retail
39. Jollibee's Mang Inasal grows Philippine sales 13.2%
October 20, 2026 | Philippines | Foodservice performance and grilled foods
Jollibee Group said Mang Inasal, its Filipino grilled-food chain, grew systemwide sales 13.2% in the first half of 2026, after 15.6% growth in 2025. The brand has more than 600 restaurants serving dishes such as Chicken Inasal and Pork BBQ.
Takeaway, delivery, drive-thru and digital ordering supported growth, and off-premise sales grew at a higher double-digit rate. The chain is strengthening its marinating and grilling processes to keep quality consistent as it expands.
Why it matters: Demand for familiar Filipino grilled flavors remains strong. That supports opportunities in chicken marinades, barbecue seasonings, smoke and char-grilled flavors, dipping sauces and ingredients built for standardized foodservice production.
Sources: Jollibee Group: Mang Inasal results | Jollibee Group: News archive
40. 7-Eleven Singapore launches Foodbar counters as ready-meal demand grows
October 22, 2026 | Singapore | Convenience retail, ready-to-eat foods and foodservice
7-Eleven Singapore introduced Foodbar, an in-store food concept at 16 outlets, and released its 2026 Foodvenience Customer Study. Depending on the store, Foodbar offers customizable hot meals, snacks and bakery items. At selected stores, customers can build rice, noodle or pasta bowls with sauces, proteins and garnishes from S$4.50.
The retailer already sells more than 130 ready-to-eat products. In its survey of 1,020 convenience-store shoppers, 68% bought quick meals at least a few times a week, and 75% expected to rely on them more.
Why it matters: Convenience stores are becoming serious competitors in prepared food. That creates openings for shelf-stable sauces, culinary bases and ready-to-eat products with recognizable local flavors and consistent quality.
Source: 7-Eleven Singapore: Press release (PR Newswire)
41. Jollibee identifies more than 1,500 potential expansion areas in the Philippines
October 29, 2026 | Philippines | Foodservice expansion strategy
Jollibee Group's Philippine business has identified more than 1,500 potential trade areas for new restaurants from 2027 to 2030 across its Jollibee, Mang Inasal and Chowking brands. About 71% are outside Metro Manila, reflecting demand in provincial markets.
The group operated more than 3,500 Philippine restaurants as of the first half of 2026. Philippine systemwide sales grew 10% in both 2024 and 2025, from new stores and growth at existing ones. Future expansion will combine new stores with drive-thru, delivery, digital ordering and flexible formats.
Why it matters: The plan points to long-term demand growth for chicken seasonings, barbecue marinades, sauces, savory meal components and beverage ingredients. The 1,500 areas are potential opportunities, not confirmed openings, and depend on commercial and site assessments.
Source: Jollibee Group: Philippine expansion strategy
42. KFC opens its first Muse flagship in Dubai with new drinks and flavor options
October 30–31, 2026 | United Arab Emirates | Restaurant innovation, beverages and flavor customization
KFC unveiled its Muse restaurant concept in Dubai on October 30 and opened the two-story flagship at Jumeirah Beach Residence the next day. The restaurant features KFC's updated brand identity, digital experiences and new menu concepts.
It is also the UAE debut of KWENCH by KFC, a specialty drinks range with boba refreshers, Krunch Shakes, sparkling lemonades and iced coffees. KFC MIX'D lets customers customize chicken with sauces and finishing seasonings. KFC and regional operator Americana Restaurants plan to use the flagship to develop new customer experiences, and Seoul has been named as a possible future market.
Why it matters: Major quick-service chains are moving into customizable flavors and higher-value drinks. Beverage flavors, sauces, seasonings and texture innovation are central to that strategy.
Source: KFC: Muse flagship announcement
Trade and international expansion
43. South Korean food makers present new products to international buyers at SIAL Paris
October 20, 2026 | South Korea | International business, noodles, sauces and bakery
Samyang Foods, Nongshim, Ourhome, Samlip, Binggrae and Lotte Wellfood showcased new products and international growth plans at SIAL Paris 2026 in France. Samyang promoted its Buldak instant noodles alongside Tangle, a protein pasta brand. Nongshim introduced Shin Ramyun Rose, a creamy version of its signature spicy noodle, to European buyers. Samlip presented about 40 products, including Korean-style filled pancakes and cheesecake, and Ourhome highlighted its prepared-food capabilities and export plans. Senior executives attended to build ties with international distributors and retail buyers.
Why it matters: Korean food exports are expanding beyond spicy noodles into creamy, high-protein, bakery and prepared-food products. That creates demand for chili systems, creamy-spicy seasonings, fermented flavors, savory bases and versions adapted for overseas consumers.
Source: The Korea Herald: Korean food makers' international expansion
44. CJ CheilJedang targets ₩1.5 trillion in Hetbahn sales by 2028
October 21–25, 2026 | South Korea | International expansion and ready-to-eat foods
CJ CheilJedang set new growth targets for Hetbahn, its flagship ready-to-eat rice brand, at an event marking the brand's 30th anniversary. It aims to lift annual sales to ₩1.5 trillion by 2028, from about ₩1.18 trillion in 2025, and to raise the international share of brand sales from about 15% to 20–25%.
The plan focuses on overseas growth, particularly in the United States, and on multigrain, higher-protein and other nutritionally differentiated rice products at home. CJ's Jincheon plant makes about 280 million Hetbahn units a year, and its total South Korean capacity is about 700 million units.
Why it matters: International growth in prepared rice creates opportunities for suppliers of rice varieties, meal sauces, seasoning blends, ready-meal inclusions and complementary savory ingredients.
Sources: The Korea Herald: Hetbahn strategy | Maeil Business Newspaper: International expansion
45. Vietnam and China sign a preliminary deal for up to 200,000 tonnes of coffee
October 28, 2026 | Vietnam and China | Coffee supply and trade partnership
Vietnam's AgriChain Trading and Services signed a memorandum of understanding with China's Hainan Dongfang Pai Investment to supply up to 200,000 metric tonnes of Vietnamese green coffee over three years. The agreement was signed at the Autumn Economic Forum in Ho Chi Minh City.
AgriChain will organize the supply, and its Chinese partner will handle import and distribution. Robusta is expected to make up at least 70% of the volume and Arabica no more than 30%. The partners also plan origin tracking and independent quality checks, and may review the target volume after the first 12 months.
Why it matters: A supply relationship of this size could tighten links between Vietnam's coffee industry and China's beverage makers, roasters and coffee chains. It is relevant to coffee extract suppliers, ready-to-drink producers and flavor developers.
Status: Memorandum of understanding. Shipments are not guaranteed.
Sources: Tuoi Tre News: Coffee supply agreement | World & Vietnam Report: Partnership details
About this report
This roundup covers business news published October 16–31, 2026. Government policies, legislation, regulations, enforcement and regulatory approvals are excluded. Projects first announced earlier are included only when a new milestone, such as a groundbreaking or inauguration, took place during the period.
Several stories were left out because the underlying development fell outside the period: Advanced Packaging Company's beverage plant agreement in Oman (signed October 12), Oji Liquid Pak's factory project in Vietnam (announced before October 16), Herbalife India's botanical innovation initiative (launched earlier in October) and Kerry's Dubai innovation center (opened in November).
Some entries cover related businesses. Indofood and Indofood CBP (items 25 and 26) report overlapping figures, and Mang Inasal's results and Jollibee's expansion plan (items 39 and 41) come from the same group.
This is a curated selection of significant announcements identified through November 7, 2026, not an exhaustive record of every transaction or product launch in the region.