POMEGRANATE JUICE

A recent study by the journal of Pharmacological Research entitled ‘Effects of pomegranate juice on blood pressure: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials’ looked at the average systolic and diastolic blood pressure levels in those who were either drinking pomegranate juice or not drinking it. A meta-analysis of eight randomized placebo controlled studies (the gold standard in terms of investigational clinical research) found that drinking pomegranate juice reduced systolic blood pressure by nearly 5mmHg, and diastolic blood pressure by 2 mmHg.

USA

Juice It Up! the US based raw juice and smoothie bars chain announced same-store first quarter sales increased 5% over Q1 the previous year. This marks Juice It Up!’s fifth consecutive growth quarter, despite continuing declines throughout the US restaurant industry overall.

The increase is a result of a variety of factors, including continued demand by consumers wanting fresh and healthy ingredients, along with the launch of Juice It Up!’s brand new Cold Pressed Bottled Juice line. The line features six great-tasting flavours sold individually and available in Wellness packs, ideal for a one- to three-day cleanse. Also, attributing to the strong financials were the nine new franchised locations that opened in 2016 through Q1 of 2017, bringing the chain wide total to 89 units operating across California, Arizona, New Mexico, Oregon & Texas. Source: QSR

BRAZIL

Famiglia Zanlorenzi, the Paraná-based producer of wines and whole juice, has opened a new plant increasing its production capacity by 40%. The production unit at 5,000 sq.m. cost BRL40 million and is based at the existing site at Campo Largo, Paraná. With the capacity to process 15,000 bottles of juice per hour, total processing capacity will be increased to 55,000 bottles per hour. Famiglia Zanlorenzi will also start competing in the ready-to-drink tea market and other fruit juices. “With the increase in production capacity, it will be possible to dilute costs and work in retail with lower prices,” said Giorgeo Zanlorenzi, president of Famiglia Zanlorenzi and the founders’ grandson. Source: Valor International

USA.

Pressery, the Colorado based organic cold-pressed juice company has extended its product line to include sparkling drinking vinegars. The ingredients include water, cold-pressed juice (9-14%), coconut vinegar which adds a slight tang to the taste, and maple to add the sweetness. The initial three flavours are Blueberry Lemonade Strawberry Basil, and Lemon Ginger (which includes an interesting combination of citrus and spice). All come with USDA Organic certification and are packages in a 12oz. longneck clear glass bottle with a crown top. Source Bevnet