If the Wicked: For Good trailer has you counting down the days until the much-anticipated sequel lands (hurry up, November!), we’ve got just the thing to tide you over: whip up some magical pink and green recipes while streaming the first film.
Spending lots of time outdoors this summer? Here’s another idea: grilled pizza. Yes, even Jamie Oliver is doing it—and we’ve got the details so you can, too.
And while you’re in the kitchen (or lounging between meals), catch up on the latest in vegan news. This week, we’re covering nutrition updates, a new Aldi launch, and even a McDonald’s plant-based surprise.
Fake Meats LLC acquires Vegan Essentials from PlantX
Vegan Essentials is under new ownership. Steven and Kim Skaff, the duo behind Fake Meats LLC, acquired the popular online grocery store from PlantX last year. Known as a one-stop shop for plant-based products, Vegan Essentials is now independently owned and operated once again. One of the founders of Vegan Essentials, Ryan Wilson, said in a statement: “We’re happy to see Vegan Essentials in the hands of Steven and Kim. Their passion and experience give us great confidence in what’s ahead, and we’re thrilled to know it’s in the hands of people who truly care about a plant-based lifestyle, who offer exceptional service.”
Revive Collagen
First-of-its-kind Revive Collagen Vegan launches in 400 US stores
Collagen drinks brand Revive Collagen has partnered with The Vitamin Shoppe to offer its vegan collagen in more than 400 stores. The brand’s liquid vegan collagen is unique, as it was scientifically formulated to mimic human type 1 collagen. “We’re thrilled to expand our retail footprint through this exciting partnership with The Vitamin Shoppe,” said Samantha Faiers, co-founder of Revive Collagen, in a statement. “This launch makes our category-defining vegan collagen even more accessible to wellness-conscious consumers looking for results they can see—and feel.”
Tom Brady’s vegan gummies are now available on Gopuff
Goat Gummies, Tom Brady’s line of vegan, organic gummies, are now available to buy exclusively from Gopuff. The new gummies from the former quarterback are available in three flavors: Sweet Rush, Sour Burst, and Tropic Fusion. “Goat Gummies hit that sweet spot: they taste amazing and come in several delicious flavors, plus they’re made with real ingredients,” Brady said in a statement. “I’ve had a blast creating this new line of snacks with Gopuff and can’t wait for the world to try them.”
Sambazon launches pre-topped, no-sugar-added açaí and smoothie bowls
Açaí brand Sambazon has launched a new line of convenient, pre-topped frozen açaí and smoothie bowls, now available at major retailers across the US, including Target, Sprouts, and Publix. The bowls come in three flavors: Açaí Berry Blend, Açaí Raspberry Blend, and Mango Dragon Fruit Blend. “We’re always striving to offer an açaí option that suits every customer’s preference and need,” said Vicki Isip, Sambazon’s Chief Marketing Officer, in a statement. “While our existing bowls cater to those who love to customize, our new fruit-topped bowls provide ultimate convenience. It’s the perfect option for new customers looking to try an açaí bowl without the prep work.”
AG1
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Global nutrition company AG1 partners with Costco
Nutrition company AG1 has partnered with Costco, marking its first expansion into brick-and-mortar retail. Known for its multi-supplement drinks containing gut-friendly bacteria, multivitamins, and functional mushrooms, AG1 is now making its debut on store shelves. “This retail partnership marks a significant strategic milestone in our business,” Kat Cole, CEO of AG1, said in a statement. “With Costco’s commitment to quality and its unrivaled dedication to members and their experience, we’re proud to take our first step onto shelves with them.”
Dr. Bronner’s chocolate is now owned by Magic Chocolate Inc
Dr. Bronner’s is best known for its multifunctional soap products, but it also has a line of ethical chocolate bars, too. Well, it used to, because the brand has now transferred ownership of its chocolate line to Swiss chocolate brand Magic Chocolate Inc. “We realized to truly scale demand for our regenerative organic cocoa farmers, our chocolate line needed a steward that’s fully dedicated to the chocolate business,” said David Bronner, Dr. Bronner’s CEO, in a statement.
Aldi launches vegan heavy whipping cream
Shortly after the news broke that Trader Joe’s had discontinued its dairy-free whipping cream, Aldi stepped in to save the day. Per Instagram account Big Box Vegan, the grocery store chain’s Friendly Farms line now offers its own Dairy Free Heavy Whipping Cream Alternative. Big Box Vegan noted that the ingredients are the same as the Trader Joe’s version.
McDonald’s
McDonald’s brings back jackfruit burger in Netherlands locations
McDonald’s plant-based offerings in the US have been underwhelming—but in Europe, customers enjoy far more options, including the McPlant. Now, in the Netherlands, McDonald’s has brought back the Meatless McKroket, made with PrimeJack Jackfruit. This marks the second time the limited-time item has appeared on the Dutch menu. “It’s back, and we couldn’t be happier,” said Inez Van Oord, co-founder of Fiber Foods Group, which helped develop the burger.
French brand launches plant-based Icelandic skyr
French dairy-free brand Atelier Dessy has launched a plant-based version of skyr in two flavors: raspberry and mango passionfruit. Skyr, a traditional Icelandic dairy product, is similar to yogurt but technically classified as a fresh cheese. It’s known for its thick, creamy texture and high protein content. Now, thanks to Atelier Dessy, French consumers can enjoy all the qualities of skyr in a completely plant-based format.
Denver’s first vegan sushi restaurant to open second location
Wellness Sushi, Denver’s first all-vegan sushi restaurant, is expanding with a second location in Boulder, CO. The new outpost will serve many of the brand’s popular menu favorites, including All Krab Oshi, Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice, and Smoky Sake Rolls. Keep an eye on its social media for more updates.
Kellanova launches plant-based high-protein bars
Kellanova, the multinational company formerly known as Kellogg’s, is launching new plant-based, high-protein bars under its Rxbar brand. Available in Strawberry Peanut Butter and Vanilla Peanut Butter, the bars are gluten-free, made with just six ingredients, and pack 18 grams of protein each. “We saw a clear gap in the category and knew we could deliver a superior option,” said Eileen Flaherty, brand marketing director at Kellanova. “Consumers don’t want to settle for bars that promise protein but fall short on taste or transparency. We’re here to offer both.”
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Charlotte is a VegNews editor and writer based in sunny Southsea on England's southern coast.
