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JIVA Technologies Joins Forces with Kale Coin ($KALE): A Wellness and Sustainability Cryptocurrency

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JIVA Technologies a trailblazer in building wellness communities and immersive environments, has announced a transformative partnership with Kale Coin ($KALE), a groundbreaking cryptocurrency tailored for the wellness sector. This joint venture aims to merge blockchain technology with sustainable living, creating a financial ecosystem that supports personal health and planetary well-being.

Reinventing Wellness Through Blockchain
Kale Coin stands apart as a wellness-centric cryptocurrency, designed to empower both individuals and businesses aligned with sustainability values. JIVA Technologies, alongside tokenomics experts at Smart Chain, will develop Kale Coin’s entire crypto ecosystem, ensuring it is practical, secure, and impactful.

The cryptocurrency will provide users with tangible benefits, including the ability to transact seamlessly at wellness-focused businesses such as plant-based restaurants and fitness centers. The partnership also introduces a gamified element, allowing users to earn Kale Coins by making healthy lifestyle choices—turning wellness into a rewarding experience.

“Kale Coin represents more than a digital currency; it’s a catalyst for positive change,” said Lorne Rapkin, CEO of JIVA Technologies. “This partnership allows us to bridge technology with values that matter most: community, health, and sustainability.”

Driving Social and Environmental Impact
Kale Coin is committed to making a difference beyond transactions. A portion of the ecosystem will directly support sustainability-focused charities, animal welfare initiatives, and eco-conscious organizations. This ensures that every Kale Coin transaction contributes to a broader mission of environmental stewardship and ethical impact.

By integrating blockchain technology, Kale Coin also aims to promote transparency and accountability, reinforcing trust among users and stakeholders. As an ERC-20 token compatible with EVM-based blockchains, Kale Coin will initially launch on decentralized exchanges (DEXs) such as Uniswap, with centralized exchange (CEX) listings planned in the future.

The project has attracted high-profile support, including from entrepreneur and celebrity influencer Nemanja Golubovic, founder of Kale My Name. Golubovic’s reach within the plant-based and health-conscious communities positions Kale Coin to attract a robust user base and key partnerships.

“We’re confident this collaboration will inspire a wave of positive action in the wellness space,” Rapkin added. “With Nemanja’s passion and JIVA’s expertise, Kale Coin will redefine what it means to live sustainably.”

Strategic Investor Outreach
To ensure the project’s success, JIVA Technologies has partnered with Departures Capital Inc., a marketing and investor relations firm. This six-month agreement, valued at $50,000 USD, will enhance public awareness and attract investor interest through digital campaigns, email outreach, and lead generation.

Scheduled to debut in early 2025, Kale Coin is set to pioneer a wellness-driven cryptocurrency movement. Its ecosystem will bring together individuals and businesses dedicated to sustainable living, offering tools and incentives to support healthier choices and environmental action.

This joint venture between JIVA Technologies and Kale Coin not only highlights the growing intersection of blockchain and wellness but also sets a standard for how technology can drive meaningful, community-oriented change.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s Leap into Personalized Wellness

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The celebrated Portuguese soccer star, has recently taken a strategic step into the wellness industry by investing in Bioniq, a UK-based personalized health technology company. This significant investment has elevated Bioniq’s valuation to $82 million, underscoring the robust growth trajectory of the wellness sector and the expanding interest in personalized health solutions.

Founded in 2019, Bioniq has positioned itself at the forefront of personalized supplementation, leveraging AI-driven analysis of blood biomarker data combined with self-reported health inputs to design tailored nutritional plans. This innovative approach ensures that each user receives a unique supplement formula that adapts over time to meet evolving health needs, supporting foundational nutrition.

Ronaldo’s Multifaceted Role: From User to Investor
Ronaldo’s involvement is not just financial; as a longtime user of Bioniq’s products since 2022, he brings both personal endorsement and valuable insight into athlete-focused product development. His comments reflect a deep commitment to health and longevity, emphasizing Bioniq’s potential to revolutionize health maintenance and performance optimization. He stated, “Backing Bioniq goes beyond just an investment opportunity—it’s about aligning with a shared vision for health, performance, and longevity”.
This move comes at a time when the wellness market, especially personalized supplementation, is seeing explosive growth. The U.S. alone accounts for over 60% of Bioniq’s sales, highlighting the significant global demand for customized health solutions. Bioniq’s expansion strategy now aims to strengthen its footprint across the U.S., Europe, and the Middle East.

A Vision for Global Health Optimization
The company’s cutting-edge, Swiss-made supplements incorporate a blend of up to 120 nutrients, delivered in unique prebiotic granules designed to maximize absorption. Bioniq’s approach also boasts partnerships with elite sports and health institutions and has become a trusted brand among top athletes globally, including champions in soccer, the NBA, and endurance sports.
With Ronaldo’s strategic involvement, Bioniq is poised to enhance its offerings and innovation, reinforcing its mission to provide precision health solutions tailored for individuals seeking peak performance. This partnership exemplifies the growing intersection of sports, health tech, and personalized wellness, signaling a new chapter for high-performance, data-driven nutrition.

SupplySide West 2024

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Hosted at Las Vegas’ Mandalay Bay from October 28-31, reaffirmed its status as the premier gathering for movers and shakers in the health and nutrition industry. With over 20,000 professionals converging and more than 1,500 exhibitors participating, the event was a bustling hub of innovation. From cutting-edge dietary supplements to advancements in functional foods, SupplySide West offered a comprehensive look at the industry’s future. This showcase was not just about numbers; it was a testament to the growing appetite for integrative health solutions and the robust network driving these advancements forward.
Key Ingredients: Pycnogenol 
This year’s spotlight shone brightly on Pycnogenol, the renowned antioxidant-rich extract from French maritime pine bark. With over 450 published studies, Pycnogenol continues to lead in natural health applications. Horphag Research, the producer behind this powerhouse ingredient, provided attendees with the rare opportunity to engage directly with their scientific team. Visitors gained insights into recent research emphasizing Pycnogenol’s benefits for cardiovascular health, inflammation reduction, and cognitive support. The ingredient’s versatility and efficacy were showcased through new data on its role in supporting microcirculation and combating oxidative stress, solidifying its place as an essential component in wellness solutions.
Key Sponsors and Industry Leaders
SupplySide West’s strength lies not only in its educational sessions and product showcases but also in its partnership with major industry players. DSM-Firmenich was among the top sponsors, presenting their advanced solutions in gut health and plant-based omega-3s. Their offerings underscored the shift towards holistic, sustainable health solutions. CJ BIO also stood out with its innovative vegan amino acid products and nutrition-focused solutions, highlighting the move towards plant-based wellness.

Other major sponsors like FrieslandCampina Ingredients showcased their comprehensive Biotis line, promoting gut and immune health through innovative protein and fiber solutions. Cargill, known for its extensive experience in specialized nutrition, introduced a new DHA algal oil as a sustainable alternative to traditional fish oil.

Industry Insights and Networking Opportunities
The event featured 135+ hours of educational programming that covered essential topics shaping the industry. This robust lineup included expert discussions on clean-label trends, sustainability, and the science behind functional ingredients. Sessions were tailored to empower industry professionals with practical knowledge and strategic insights.

SupplySide West 2024 demonstrated once again that it is more than just an exhibition—it is a cornerstone for learning, networking, and fostering relationships that drive the industry forward. The presence of scientific teams from prominent companies such as Horphag Research provided an interactive platform for deep dives into ingredient research and future product innovations. Attendees left with new partnerships and a wealth of information to integrate into their brands and product formulations.

OANDCon24

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OANDCon24 in Toronto this past weekend marked a key moment for the naturopathic community, delivering a wealth of education, networking, and practical insights. The conference featured notable experts like Dr. Tracey Teasdale and Dr. Eric Marsden, whose sessions emphasized cutting-edge integrative approaches to chronic and complex health issues. Attendees had the chance to explore new strategies that harmonize evidence-based medical practices with the philosophical tenets of naturopathy.

A significant part of the conference’s success was due to its Platinum Sponsor, Cyto-Matrix. As a trusted leader in professional-grade nutritional supplements, Cyto-Matrix’s support underscored the event’s focus on innovation and high-quality clinical solutions. The company’s commitment to providing health practitioners with science-backed, integrative products reflects the broader goals of OANDCon24: enhancing patient care through comprehensive and natural solutions.

Dr. Marsden’s insights into off-label medication practices exemplified this blend of traditional and alternative perspectives. His talk focused on off-label uses in areas like autoimmune and metabolic health, advocating for informed, safe practices that align with naturopathic values. Meanwhile, Dr. Verna Hunt’s interactive session brought a hands-on approach, teaching physical touch techniques that attendees could integrate into their daily practice.

IHR Magazine continues to play a crucial role in amplifying these developments within the integrative health sector. By spotlighting events like OANDCon24, IHR connects professionals with timely, relevant information that extends beyond the conference floor, enhancing community-wide expertise and fostering informed conversations.

Emphasized at the event were post-show best practices, such as evaluating lead quality, ROI calculations, and strategic follow-ups, which are essential for maximizing trade show outcomes and planning future participation. With this well-rounded approach, OANDCon24 once again positioned itself as a premier event for advancing naturopathic practice and education.

Brick-and-Mortar Revival: T&T Supermarket’s U.S. Debut

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T&T Supermarket, Canada’s largest Asian grocery chain, is set to mark its first U.S. store opening at The Marketplace at Factoria, located at 12620 SE 41st Pl, Bellevue, WA. Doors will open at 9:00 AM on Thursday, December 5th, 2024. Spanning an impressive 76,000 square feet, this store will not only be the largest Asian supermarket in the state of Washington but will also offer an unrivaled assortment of authentic Asian products, fresh produce, live seafood, an in-store Kitchen and Bakery, and an array of Asian beauty products.

Since its inception in 1993, T&T has been known for bringing a broad selection of Asian foods and unique grocery items to shoppers, establishing itself as a beloved brand with over 35 locations across Canada. Now, T&T is poised to extend its footprint, bringing its celebrated shopping experience south of the border to Bellevue. This move reflects the chain’s commitment to sharing the rich flavors and traditions of Asia with a broader audience while bolstering the post-pandemic revival of brick-and-mortar retail.

A Post-Pandemic Retail Renaissance
T&T’s expansion comes at a time when the retail landscape is redefining itself. After years of unprecedented challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the rapid surge of e-commerce, physical stores are experiencing a renaissance, valued not just for convenience but for community, culture, and experience. The upcoming Bellevue location epitomizes this shift, transforming grocery shopping into an engaging cultural event that invites customers to explore, discover, and taste.

Tina Lee, CEO of T&T Supermarkets, encapsulated the excitement: “We’re incredibly excited to open our doors in Bellevue and introduce U.S. shoppers to the T&T experience. From our fresh kitchen dishes to our one-of-a-kind bakery and exclusive private-label items, we aim to bring the rich flavors of Asia directly to the community.” This approach underscores the significance of grocery stores as vibrant spaces for cultural immersion, an aspect that the community has long craved post-pandemic.
The grand opening will feature an array of festivities, including cultural performances that celebrate T&T’s heritage and community connection. To further the excitement, the first 500 customers will receive free $10 T&T gift cards—a gesture that fosters early customer loyalty and creates buzz around the store’s debut.

Shoppers are also encouraged to download the T&T App and join the T&T Rewards Program, which offers points redeemable for gifts and exclusive discounts. From November 6th, 2024, early adopters of the app will benefit from unique deals such as up to 31% off at Haidilao Hot Pot in both Seattle and Bellevue, cementing T&T’s commitment to community and cross-business partnerships.

A 76,000-Square-Foot Haven of Asian Delicacies
The Bellevue store is designed to be more than just a grocery outlet; it’s a full-scale marketplace that embodies the richness and diversity of Asian cuisine and culture. At 76,000 square feet, the store will house:

Restaurant-Quality Dishes: The self-serve hot food bar will boast a variety of beloved Asian dishes such as Peking Duck and Papa Crispy Chicken, offering the quality of a restaurant with the convenience of a supermarket.
Freshly Made Street Food: Visitors can savor made-to-order items like Chinese crepes and Taiwanese-style rice rolls, giving a taste of Asia’s bustling street food scenes.
An Expansive Bakery: Featuring over 150 types of bread and 50+ desserts, including sought-after treats like Napoleon Portuguese Egg Tarts and Lava Mochi Puffs.
Exclusive Spirits Collection: With over 750 varieties of wines and spirits, specializing in Korean soju and Japanese sake, this will be the most extensive selection in any T&T location across North America.
Private Label Products: Shoppers will enjoy T&T-exclusive items, such as juicy pork soup dumplings (Xiao Long Bao) and green onion pancakes.
Beauty and Lifestyle Products: The store will carry a wide range of Asian beauty products, adding to its diverse offerings.

Reviving Retail with Experience and Community
The Bellevue T&T store is opening at a time when consumers are yearning for physical shopping experiences that connect them with their communities. This flagship U.S. location blends tradition, technology, and consumer-friendly services to create an environment where shopping is a cultural celebration, not just a transaction. T&T’s comprehensive offering—from its signature kitchen and bakery items to an impressive selection of exclusive products—positions it as more than just a store, but a destination that encourages exploration and engagement.

This expansion into the U.S. market highlights a broader trend where post-pandemic consumers are returning to stores that offer enriching experiences. T&T’s move underscores the idea that while online shopping has its conveniences, there’s unparalleled value in walking into a store filled with unique products, aromas, and the buzz of community life. For residents of Bellevue, December 5th will mark the arrival of a grocery shopping experience that combines tradition, innovation, and the warmth of a bustling marketplace.

T&T’s strategic entrance into the American market signals that the future of retail is not just digital but a harmonious blend where brick-and-mortar stores reclaim their role as cultural and social hubs. This flagship store promises to be a hallmark of this new era in retail, capturing the essence of community and culinary excitement, and paving the way for more such innovations in the industry.

Bodybuilding.com Welcomes Back Leading Supplement Maker Kaged

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Since 2015, Kaged has been formulating health-first, science-backed supplements to help its community lift heavier, live healthier, and become stronger. Kaged uses only the most well-researched ingredients at clinically-effective doses, offering a full spectrum of sports nutrition products—from pre-workouts to protein to greens. The brand prides itself on transparent labels, patented ingredients, incredible flavors and products free of artificial colors, flavors and GMO. The return of Kaged to Bodybuilding.com reunites a long-standing partnership.

“Since day one, Bodybuilding.com has supported us,” says Kaged CEO, Michael McClane. “We share values of transparency, education and the belief that a rising tide lifts all ships in health and fitness. We’re excited to keep helping Bodybuilding.com customers get the supplements they deserve.”

Bodybuilding.com will launch Kaged, featuring five key categories, including pre-workout, hydration, protein, greens, and creatine. Each category will feature flavors ranging from blue raspberry, mango, fruit punch, pink lemonade and more. The best part? Each of the Kaged products contains 1g of sugar or less. In an industry that’s rapidly demanding cleaner, healthier ingredients, Kaged promotes wellness above all.

“We are thrilled to announce the re-launch of Kaged on Bodybuilding.com,” said Head of Product Development for Bodybuilding.com, Steve Marada. “Known for its commitment to quality and innovation, Kaged sets a new standard in sports nutrition by delivering products that meet the highest standards of safety, efficacy and transparency. Just like Bodybuilding.com, Kaged shares the vision of pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in fitness and nutrition. We choose only those that meet our rigorous standards for quality and efficacy, and Kaged is a perfect fit. We look forward to growing alongside them as we continue to set the standard for excellence in this space.”

At Kaged, the mantra Never Stop Evolving drives every innovation. Chief Innovation Officer Brian Rand shares his excitement about the new Elite Series. “We are thrilled to relaunch Kaged on Bodybuilding.com with several new products. The Kaged Elite Series is formulated with the highest-quality, clinically researched ingredients available. This line is built for those who demand more, so it’s a perfect fit for Bodybuilding.com’s advanced customers.”

Food Smarts Simplified: Kroger’s New Nutrition Score

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Kroger Co. and Bitewell have launched an innovative nutrition scoring system, the FoodHealth Score, to guide customers in making healthier food choices. This collaboration introduces a streamlined way for Kroger shoppers to understand the nutritional value of products through a scoring metric ranging from 1 to 100. The score is based on comprehensive nutritional factors, including nutrient density and ingredient quality.

Customers can access these scores via Kroger’s digital platforms—both online and on the Kroger app—or by scanning UPC codes in stores. The system enhances shopping experiences by helping users align their purchases with health goals, offering insights into past purchases and overall trends. This service, part of Kroger’s OptUP program, exemplifies the company’s commitment to “Food as Medicine,” a concept they began promoting in 2017.

Jim Kirby, Chief Commercial Officer at Kroger Health, highlights the initiative’s role in promoting nutritional transparency and informed consumer decisions. Samantha Citro-Alexander, CEO of Bitewell, underscores the value of quick, clear nutritional information for decision-making in the grocery aisle.

This move further solidifies Kroger’s strategy to empower customers and enhance health outcomes through informed food choices

Odd Burger Announces Canadian Locations Update

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Odd Burger Corporation (“Odd Burger” or the “Company”) (TSXV: ODD) (OTCQB: ODDAF) (FSE: IA9) is pleased to announce that it is expecting to open 3 new franchised restaurant locations and 1 new franchised food truck within the next two months, bringing its total number of operational units to 21. The Company currently has 17 operational units in Canada including 10 franchised restaurant locations, 1 franchised mobile unit and 6 corporation restaurant locations.

The next location expected to open will be at 4549 Kingston Road in the community of Scarborough, Ontario. Construction is completed and the occupancy permit has been filed. The site is expected to open in early November 2024. Grand opening details will be announced on the Company’s social media accounts. The Company is expecting to open its second downtown Toronto location at 229 Church Street by the end of November 2024 once final inspections are complete and an occupancy permit has been issued.

The Company is pleased to announce it is expecting to open two more franchised units in the province of British Columbia. Construction is completed and final inspections are in progress at 2821 Main Street, Vancouver, BC. The Company will also be launching its first food truck in Vancouver, BC. Construction of the food truck is largely complete, and the truck is expected to be operating at select sites in and around Vancouver as well as various festivals and events. Both units are expected to open by December 2024.

Recent Openings Update

The Company is pleased to provide an update on its recently opened locations in Victoria, BC and Ottawa, ON. Both locations have had above-average sales since opening with sales on track to hit approximately $1,000,000 in annualized revenue at both locations. “This is a significant milestone and demonstrates the success the Company is having at increasing its average unit volume,” says James McInnes, CEO and Co-Founder of Odd Burger. “We are excited to continue to build our brand and grow across Canada with our franchise model.”

Optimum Nutrition Expands Product Line with New Flavors

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Optimum Nutrition (ON), a leader in sports nutrition and part of Glanbia Performance Nutrition, has introduced six new flavors across its acclaimed product range, reinforcing its dedication to high-quality taste and nutrition. These additions span ON’s Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein Powder, Gold Standard Protein Shake, AMIN.O. ENERGY, and Micronized Creatine Powder.

Innovative Protein Options to Enhance Workouts

ON’s Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein Powder now comes in two new, bold flavors. The Girl Scout Thin Mints™ flavor blends mint and dark chocolate, available in a 22-serving tub for $27.99. For coffee lovers, the Caramel Macchiato variant, delivering a smooth, sweet coffee profile, is sold in a 29-serving tub for $44.99.

The Gold Standard Protein Shake line expands with a Strawberry flavor, perfect for on-the-go consumption. Priced at $8.49 for a 4-pack and $23.99 for a 12-pack, this new addition ensures convenience meets quality.

New Twists in AMIN.O. ENERGY Flavors

Fitness enthusiasts looking for a pre-workout boost can now enjoy AMIN.O. ENERGY in Rainbow Sherbet and Peach Mango Tango flavors. With each serving providing 100 milligrams of natural caffeine, these options support energy and focus. The Rainbow Sherbet flavor, with its mix of raspberry, orange, and lemon-lime, is available in 30-serving tubs for $29.99. The Peach Mango Tango flavor, blending sweet and tart fruit notes, will launch in November 2024 at select retailers.

First-Ever Flavored Creatine Powder

ON’s Micronized Creatine Powder now includes a flavored version, Blueberry Lemonade. This new release, priced at $21.99 for a 60-serving tub, combines creatine’s muscle-strengthening benefits with a refreshing citrus-berry taste and is available at Walmart.

Jen Werle, Brand Director at Optimum Nutrition, noted: “As the world’s most trusted sports nutrition brand, we continue to innovate our portfolio with trend-forward flavor offerings to further excite the category, elevate industry standards, and appeal to consumers’ taste preferences. Whether consumers seek pre- or post-workout support to muscle recovery, an easy way to hit their daily protein goals, or simply need a boost of energy, Optimum Nutrition has a solution.”

Key Highlights:

Gold Standard 100% Whey: New flavors Girl Scout Thin Mints™ and Caramel Macchiato.
Gold Standard Protein Shake: Added Strawberry flavor.
AMIN.O. ENERGY: Enhanced with Rainbow Sherbet and Peach Mango Tango.
Micronized Creatine Powder: New Blueberry Lemonade option.
Conclusion

The launch of these new flavors underlines Optimum Nutrition’s proactive approach to diversifying its offerings and aligning with consumer taste trends. This expansion allows fitness enthusiasts to enjoy high-quality, tasty solutions tailored to their nutritional needs.

Canadian Organic Farming Receives $6.8M Boost to Lead in Sustainable Agriculture

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Investing in organic farming research is essential for advancing sustainable practices, addressing the sector’s unique challenges, and supporting the continued growth and competitiveness of Canadian organic products.

Today, Kody Blois, Member of Parliament for Kings–Hants, on behalf of the Honorable Lawrence MacAulay, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, announced up to $6,828,349 over 5 years to the Organic Federation of Canada (OFC) through the AgriScience Program – Clusters Component, an initiative under the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership.

This funding will allow the OFC to partner on research into the environmental benefits of sustainable farming practices and address challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss, soil health and water quality. The OFC will develop solutions to production challenges such as organic crop adaptability and pest management. These efforts will improve the performance of organic production systems, support economic growth and development, and improve sustainability in the sector.

The Government of Canada is committed to supporting research and innovation in the organic sector to ensure that Canadian organic producers continue to lead in environmental stewardship, while securing a strong economic future.

Quotes
“This investment will help our organic farmers manage environmental challenges and fine-tune their practices so they can keep delivering top-quality food, sustainably. It’s support like this that allows our organic sector to lead the way and reach even more customers here in Canada and around the world.”
The Honourable Lawrence MacAulay, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food

“With the funding announced today, the Organic Federation of Canada will be able to help advance research and address key challenges in organic farming. Canadian organic farmers, including those here in Nova Scotia, will have the support they need to keep producing high-quality, sustainable food, strengthening our organic sector and benefiting all Canadians.”  
Kody Blois, Member of Parliament for Kings–Hants, Nova Scotia

“The science that supports organic agriculture seeks innovative, ecologically sound solutions to production challenges that can serve all forms of agriculture. Maintaining biodiversity and soil health, reducing GHGs, using integrated approaches to pest management, and delivering economic benefits are all factors that guide the 14 research activities in field crops, horticulture and livestock production that will be carried out as part of the Organic Science Cluster 4. The Organic Federation of Canada, in collaboration with the Organic Agriculture Centre of Canada, would like to thank AAFC, and the funding partners and organic farms for their generous contributions and direct participation in the research being carried out by nearly 50 researchers from 10 Canadian universities and 13 research centers. A national knowledge transfer campaign will inform the agricultural industry on the benefits of our national research project.”
Jim Robbins, President of the Organic Federation of Canada