Green Monday, Hong Kong’s plant-based social enterprise, has partnered with FamilyMart Taiwan to roll out Omnipork instant meals across 3,600 locations in Taiwan. The Omnipork Instant Meal Cup under the Mom’s Cuisine series comprise Korean-style Braised Omnipork Noodlesand the Stir-fry Thai Basil Omnipork with Rice priced at TWD 49 (USD 1.63) each.
Green Monday founder and CEO David Yeung said: “Introducing plant-based instant cup meals in partnership with FamilyMart will allow Taiwanese [residents] to enjoy healthy meals more conveniently,” adding that he believes the partnership will “bring about a new wave of healthy, convenient and eco-friendly diet trends.”
We had a chance to taste the Korean-style Braised Omnipork Noodles in Taipei. The frozen meal cup had to be microwaved before they could be consumed. Omnipork had the meat-like texture but you would notice it was pork. The overall taste was pretty good. A 4/5 from us at Mini Me Insights.
What it means for instant noodle companies? The new Omnipork Instant Meal Cup demonstrates the possibility for instant noodle makers to start considering incorporating plant-based meat into instant noodle in the near future.
March 24, 2020, Singapore – Janice Wong Singapore has launched a new monthly subscription box filled with hands-on activities and sweet treats, conveniently delivered to your doorstep. With many working remotely or now staying at home, the box service is the perfect way to connect with customers and offer something new and playful for the whole family to enjoy.
Each month, customers will receive a surprise box filled with Janice Wong’s much-loved signature products, as well as new and exclusive items not yet available in stores. Janice Wong Singapore has also partnered with Optimo Foods, who specialise in New Zealand products, to offer a range of nutritious treats to complement each monthly offering.
Also included is Janice Wong’s latest initiative, “Bake at Home with Janice Wong”. Bake at Home with Janice Wong cultivates the imagination and creativity by allowing customers to replicate Janice Wong Singapore treats such as chocolate nut spreads and cakes at home. Each box includes a recipe card and everything you need to put together your culinary creations. To inspire creativity, each subscription also includes a set of five Janice Wong chocolate paint jars, two brushes and edible paper and edible chocolate crayons.
Birthday surprises and special “frozen delights” will be featured so that customers can enjoy and sample Janice Wong’s famous array of delicious ice cream flavours. Subscriptions start at a minimum sign up of six months at S$35 per month and half year subscriptions at S$210.
24 March 2020 – At HEINEKEN Malaysia, the health and safety of people is our top priority. We have responded to the outbreak of COVID-19 by ensuring our employees are kept informed regularly while implementing preventive measures on travel and personal hygiene, in line with guidance from World Health Organisation and Malaysia’s Ministry of Health.
In accordance with the Government’s Movement Control Order, our employees are working from home until 31 March 2020. Our Sungei Way Brewery has suspended operations and we have received approval from the authorities to allow a minimum number of workers to be on site to ensure the safety and integrity of the brewery during the stipulated period.
As for the impact, it is expected that the mandatory closures and restrictions on movement pursuant to the Order and the overall effect that COVID-19 has on the retail sector and the market in general, among other things, will in aggregate have a significant impact on the Company’s operations and business during this period. However, given the evolving circumstances, it is not possible for the Company to quantify or determine the extent of the impact on its business and financial position. The Company will continue to monitor the evolving situation and undertake appropriate measures to mitigate the impact from the current situation.
Roland Bala, Managing Director of HEINEKEN Malaysia, said: “We are living in unprecedented times, our first priority is the safety, health and wellbeing of our people, suppliers, customers, and consumers. At the same time, we commit to continue engaging the Government to support their efforts in addressing the COVID-19 crisis whilst ensuring we mitigate the impact to our industry.”
The Company will make the necessary announcement on any material developments relating to the above matter, as and when appropriate.
To celebrate the arrival of summer, Wall’s Thailand has made available the new Calippo Mocktail ice lolly in squeeze pack. The mocktail comes in Margarita flavour. We expect this mocktail flavoured ice lolly to be introdroduced in other markets in Southeast Asia soon.
Carabao Group, the world’s leader in the beverage industry, teams up with Vuthithorn “Woody” Militajinda, Thailand’s A-list TV personality and trendsetter in healthy living, and revolutionizes vitamin C drink with the launch of a new joint venture, A Woody Drink, that produces healthy drink with world class technology. The firm is launching its first product, Woody C+ Lock, that comes in lemon flavor and C+ Lock innovation to help lock 200% vitamin C in the bottle. The specially designed green tinted bottle with screw cap is proven to help preserve the vitamin C and prevent it from breaking down by light and air. Woody C+ Lock aims to make consumers feel good and look good with the company’s belief in a huge success of Woody C+ Lock.
Mr. Sathien Setthasit, Chief Executive Officer of Carabao Group Public Co. Ltd or CBG, reveals that, “Healthy living is a big trend, and that inspires the exponential growth of healthy food and beverage industry. Woody and I had the chance to meet and discuss the opportunity of creating a beverage that benefits everyone and at the same time reflects Woody’ unique character. We both agreed that it should be a functional healthy drink that caters to the healthy living trend that is currently a big movement worldwide. Woody C+ Lock also appeals to Woody’s image as the trendsetter in healthy lifestyle.
“Carabao admires Woody’s determination to always do the best and introduce an alternative choice for healthy living for the consumers. We believe in Woody’s potential to represent Woody C+ Lock that he carefully created and as a public figure whose healthy lifestyle interests the majority of the consumers.”
Vuthithorn Militajinda or Woody, Thailand’s top TV personality and producer, says that, “I never had the chance to own a product before, and deep down I’ve always wanted to launch something that benefits a lot of the people for once in my life. And I want this product to be of the best quality. It has always been my commitment that if I set my mind on something, I will give it my best. I then met with Sathien Setthasit who ignited this idea which led to this functional healthy vitamin C drink, Woody C+ Lock, that is suitable for consumers of all ages. Especially now that we are facing the threat of flu pandemic and virus infection that affects respiratory system, we should drink more functional healthy drink, particularly vitamin C drink that boosts immune system.”
Mr. Sathien Setthasit and Woody together developed functional healthy drink, Woody C+ Lock, with Thailand’s first innovation of green tinted bottle that locks the properties of vitamin C in the bottle away from the light that accelerates the breaking down process of the vitamin. The bottle is also filled with nitrogen then locked with special cap to secure the vitamin from exposure to the air. We believe that Woody C+ Lock will refresh, nourish and bring good health to our consumers every day.
Woody C+ Lock will be available from convenient stores such as CJ Supermarket, 7-Eleven and others nationwide at 15 baht per bottle by the end of March. With marketing strategies, full online and offline promotion campaigns on both product and Woody channels and promotional activities, the company firmly believes in a huge success of Woody C+ Lock.
PepsiCo Thailand has rolled out two new flavours to celebrate Lay’s 25th anniversary in the country. The two new intense flavours are Mala Barbeque and Seaweed Gochujang Sauce. Each pack is priced at THB 30.
We have seen new variations of mala flavour including mala + salted egg and mala xiangguo (stir-fry mala). The launch of Lay’s potato chips in mala barbeque flavour showcases how mala flavour can be combined with barbeque flavour to create a new flavour profile.
Thai Glico has introduced a unique Pocky stick that comes with the cooling effect for summer. We have seen Lay’s Thailand launching Lay’s Cooling Sensation snacks with two flavours Icy Lemon and Melon Bingsu back in early 2019. The cooling effect comes from phenylalanine.
Watermelon is a popular summer treat. The limited edition Pocky Watermelon Flavour is priced at THB 20 per pack at 7-Eleven.
More snacking categories are now embracing cooling effect to provide a new dimension to the eating experience.
Extraordinary grants by the Carlsberg Foundation, the New Carlsberg Foundation and the Tuborg Foundation to support scientific, economic and human efforts in response to the global COVID-19 epidemic
COPENHAGEN, 19 March 2020 – The Carlsberg Foundation, the New Carlsberg Foundation and the Tuborg Foundation are targeting extraordinary grants that can mobilise and support researchers, art museums and civil society in the scientific, economic and human efforts at a time when society is challenged by the COVID-19 epidemic.
The Carlsberg Foundation, one of the three foundations, granted DKK 60 mil (MYR 38 mil) to three internationally relevant coronavirus projects comprising collaborations between the University of Copenhagen, Aarhus University, the Serum Institute, the Technical University, and Roskilde University.
The three foundations in the Carlsberg family seek to help mitigate the challenges associated with the global COVID-19 epidemic. It is in the DNA of foundations to take responsibility when people and society are met with serious challenges. A total of DKK 95 mil (approximately MYR 60 mil) will be donated.
The Carlsberg Foundation, which fosters and supports ground-breaking research into an informed future, granted DKK 60 mil (MYR 38 mil) to three internationally relevant coronavirus projects:
DKK 25 mil (MYR 16 mil) donated to a scientific group of internationally renowned virus researchers in a collaboration between the University of Copenhagen, Aarhus University and the Serum Institute.
DKK 25 mil (MYR 16 mil) donated to a social science and humanities group of behavioural researchers who, in a collaboration between the University of Copenhagen, Aarhus University and the Technical University, will research into how we as a society handle epidemics most effectively.
DKK 10 mil (MYR 6 mil) donated to an interdisciplinary group at Roskilde University that will research the resurrection, spread and cessation of historical epidemics. The three projects will pave the way for new, global insights into behaviour, prevention, diagnosis and treatment for COVID-19 preparedness and future epidemics.
Professor Flemming Besenbacher, Chairman of the Carlsberg Foundation, commented: “COVID-19 is developing exponentially right now, so we are pleased that we have in a short time been able to mobilise a collaboration between a number of the world’s leading researchers to contribute to solving the enormous challenges we face. Carlsberg’s founders J.C. and Carl Jacobsen and the Carlsberg Foundation have historically helped when communities have been in crisis., and we now need science more than ever to help solve these issues and think long-term.”
Professor Flemming Besenbacher, Chairman of the Carlsberg Foundation: “COVID-19 is developing exponentially right now, so we are pleased that we have in a short time been able to mobilise a collaboration between a number of the world’s leading researchers to contribute to solving the enormous challenges we face.
The New Carlsberg Foundation, which supports the arts, is donating DKK 30 mil (MYR 19 mil) to restart crisis-affected art museums in Denmark. Many art museums are temporarily closed on
instructions from the authorities in connection with COVID-19, and the New Carlsberg Foundation has decided to provide funding to art museums for the implementation of programs that will draw guests back to museums when they reopen.
Christine Buhl Andersen, Chairman of the New Carlsberg Foundation, commented: “Museums form an important part of cultural and business life, and on behalf of the New Carlsberg Foundation, we would like to support their efforts so the art museums can reopen and hopefully resume their essential role in society.”
The Tuborg Foundation, which supports young people’s commitment to a sustainable future, donated DKK 5 mil (MYR 3 mil) to an emergency pool for civil society youth organisations to launch activities targeted at people who are particularly affected by COVID-19. The Foundation will also monitor the need for assistance in those parts of the business sector that are severely affected by the current situation, for example music venues which the Tuborg Foundation has a tradition of supporting.
Anne Marie Skov, Chairman of the Tuborg Foundation, said: “We want to give young people the opportunity to make a difference for the vulnerable people who are currently particularly affected by the epidemic. We have a very special civil society in Denmark, and from the Tuborg Foundation we want to give young volunteers the means to lift the specific tasks that many people can benefit from in this urgent situation.”
With these extra donations, the Carlsberg family foundations want to signal its support to stakeholders and partners in its surrounding that are doing a big difference to mitigate the effects of the pandemic and build better resilience for the future.
Singapore, 23 March 2020 – Deadfall at Barbary Coast announces new lunch hours and evening promotions, taking measures to protect their team and guests alike with responsible service. With increasing stay at home notices and social distancing recommendations having a serious impact on venues in Singapore and beyond, these initiative were designed to support service staff, while still emphasising responsible service standards.
With the new lunch menu on offer, guests can now enjoy the hearty comfort food they’ve grown to love from the neighbourhood bar throughout the day. Lunch is available from 11 am – 3 pm on weekdays through the takeout window and for dining in at limited outdoor tables and bar seating. Combining favourite dishes from the evening offerings with new creations by Deadfall’s talented chef, the menu provides an exciting new lunch offering near the CBD. Perfect for sharing or solo dining alike, the offerings also include a “secret menu” available upon request.
Start with the Jalapeno Poppers with house cream cheese, chives and smoked tartar (S$9), or go for a lighter option with Red Snapper Ceviche comprised of fresh red snapper, house Tiger’s Milk, romaine lettuce, red onion, mango and fried plantain (S$13 / $14 as a wrap). The famous Deadfall Nachos are available with chilli con carne (or vegetarian “carne”), fresh toppings and bottomless queso for dine-in customers (S$12).
The menu also features a selection of sandwiches, including the Cubano Style Pork or Chicken Sando with a choice of smoked pork shoulder or pulled chicken, dressed with coffee BBQ sauce and fresh Granny Smith slaw (S$12 breadless / S$15 on bread). The popular TTW Sando is available with a selection of smoked ham or beef pastrami on a tater tot waffle, chef’s sauerkraut, smokey cheddar and salsa roja (S$15). For the ultimate comfort food, indulge in the DF Grilled Cheese with fermented heirloom tomato jam, house-smoked butter and four kinds of cheese (S$12).
In addition to Deadfall’s colourful cocktail offerings and affordable beer and wine, new non-alcoholic options are also available during lunch. Pair any dish with the refreshing Kaffir Lemon Iced Tea or House-made “Cola”, each available at S$2.50.
As a nod to this challenging, ever-changing time for hospitality venues, Barbary Coast now offers special rewards to thank their loyal customers for continuing to support the bar, responsibly. Guests can enjoy a free Chicken Croquette or Mini Cheese Toasty Bite with the purchase of any cocktail, Monday through Thursday from 5 – 7 pm. Then from 7 pm onwards, all patrons at Deadfall will receive a warm welcome with a complimentary draft Pilsner (200ml) upon arrival.
Barbary Coast has also introduced new safety and hygiene measures, including banning all staff from wearing any jewellery below the elbow and keeping sleeves rolled up to ensure and encourage effective hand washing. As always, staff are required to wash their hands regularly; each table, bar top and chair in the venue is also immediately disinfected after use. Respecting the recommendation for social distancing, Barbary Coast has reconfigured its seating to ensure a greater distance between all guests. Tables and bar seats have been removed and distanced in Deadfall, with expanded outside seating and further distancing between individuals and groups.
Additional promotions will follow for Barbary Coast Ballroom, upstairs at the dual-concept venue – watch this space.
In Indonesia, coffee chain Kopi Guyu has tapped into the latest craze Dalgona with two new series Dalgona Latte and Dalgona Chizu.
Dalgona is latest coffee trend, which has become viral on TikTok. Dalgona (달고나) or ppopgi (뽑기) is what the South Korea calls its spongy toffee candy made with melted sugar and baking soda. Dalgona was popular in South Korea in the 70s and continues to be a nostalgic treat.
As part of the social distancing campaign by the Seoul Metropolitan government, citizens are encouraged to stay at home and use social media instead of meeting people in person. Dalgona is one of the trends that has emerged among South Korean forced into social isolation. At the time of writing, the hashtag #달고나커피 has 86,163 posts. The most viewed Dalgona coffee video on YouTube has 3.2 million views. Making Dalgona at home and sharing it on Instagram has become a popular thing to do during the current period of social isolation following the COVID-19 outbreak.
Dalgona coffee is milk topped with a thick layer of coffee foam that is made by vigorously mixing instant coffee, sugar and water as described by VICE.com.
The Dalgona coffee phenomenon shows how consumers bored of being confined to their home are finding new hobbies including creating or following food recipes and sharing them online.
Oriental Kopi Holdings Berhad, which operates a chain of cafes under the Oriental Kopi brand, has revealed interesting financial information ahead of its planned...
