French plant-based cheese producer Jay & Joy has acquired fellow vegan cheese brand Les Nouveaux Affineurs and secured investment from E2M, enabling it to double production capacity. The deal positions Jay & Joy to meet growing consumer demand for dairy-free alternatives while strengthening its place in the European plant-based cheese market. Les Nouveaux Affineurs is known for its fermentation-based approach to vegan cheese, which aligns well with Jay & Joy’s artisanal techniques. By integrating expertise and ramping up production, Jay & Joy aims to compete more aggressively with both traditional dairy producers and emerging vegan competitors. This investment also supports the company’s broader ambition to expand distribution across France and internationally.

PlantBaby has launched Kiki Milk, a plant-based, non-dairy milk formulated specifically for children. Designed as a nutrient-dense alternative to traditional dairy, Kiki Milk is made with organic oats, sprouted pumpkin seeds and hemp seeds, offering essential healthy fats, protein and minerals for growing kids. The formula avoids common allergens such as soy and refined sugars, making it accessible for a broad range of dietary needs. As demand for functional plant-based nutrition rises, PlantBaby sees Kiki Milk as an opportunity to fill a gap in the children’s beverage market, where dairy milk has long dominated.

Heritable Agriculture, a startup spun out of Alphabet’s X, the Moonshot Factory, has launched with the goal of enhancing crop resilience and nutrition through AI-driven biotechnology. The company applies machine learning to plant genetics, identifying naturally occurring traits that improve yield, drought resistance and nutritional value. By accelerating plant breeding without relying on genetic modification, Heritable Agriculture aims to boost global food security in a climate-stressed world. Investors and food system experts see this as an approach to ensuring long-term agricultural sustainability.

Ferrero has announced its acquisition of protein snack company Power Crunch, known for its high-protein wafer bars. This move allows Ferrero to expand its presence in the health-focused snacking sector, diversifying beyond its traditional confectionery products. The acquisition aligns with Ferrero’s strategy to meet growing consumer demand for convenient, protein-rich snacks. The deal is expected to close in the coming weeks, though financial terms were not disclosed.

Hindustan Unilever has agreed to acquire beauty startup Minimalist for approximately $342 million. Minimalist, backed by Peak XV, is recognized for its science-driven, transparent approach to skincare, offering products that emphasize efficacy and clean formulations. This acquisition enables Hindustan Unilever to strengthen its position in India’s fast-growing beauty market, particularly among consumers seeking ingredient-focused skincare solutions. The deal reflects a strategic move to cater to the increasing demand for minimalist and effective beauty products.

American Exchange Group has acquired Urban Skin Rx, a skincare brand known for its focus on diverse skin tones and inclusive beauty solutions. This acquisition adds to American Exchange Group’s expanding portfolio of skincare brands, following previous acquisitions of NatureWell, TXTUR, Found Active and Indie Lee. The move underscores the company’s commitment to offering a wide range of beauty products that cater to a diverse, global consumer base. Financial details of the transaction were not disclosed.

Indian direct-to-consumer skincare brand Foxtale has raised $30 million in a Series C funding round led by Japanese cosmetics giant KOSÉ Corporation, which acquired a 10% stake in the company. The investment includes plans for a joint venture to explore new business opportunities in India, leveraging Foxtale’s local market knowledge and KOSÉ’s global research and development expertise. The funding will support Foxtale in expanding its market presence, enhancing R&D capabilities and driving product innovation.