Harrisburg University of Science and Technology and The Hershey Company are joining forces to develop a sensory science and consumer research program at the school’s campus located in downtown Harrisburg, Pa. The initiative includes creating a research laboratory where the University will conduct consumer taste tests on a range of confectionery products, including Hershey’s chocolate. Consumer insights obtained from the lab’s research will guide product development efforts.

Allied Bakeries’ brand Kingsmill is set to launch a new range of seeded loaves with designs created by 1HQ. Consumer analysis found that many mums want their family to eat seeded bread, but find it hard to choose a loaf with the texture they all like, especially as some kids don’t like bits. This has driven the creation of a new range of three loaves each with a different level of texture so they’re perfect for all the family.

This summer, Cadbury, the official sponsor of the upcoming London Olympic and Paralympic Games 2012, announced a massive campaign entitled ‘Spots v Stripes’ for the UK to promote its involvements into the international sports event. Back then, the company launched a website dedicated to the promotion and announced that it would kick off both online and offline activities. As part of the national movement, the brand released 100 GPS-activated balls in the UK and encouraged participants of the campaign to help the balls travel across the country.

A range of processed food, drink and alcohol manufacturers as well as fast food companies are collaborating with the UK Department of Health to develop a government policy on obesity, a problem which mainly roots in improper eating habits. The companies, which teamed up for working on the paper, are McDonald’s, KFC, PepsiCo, Kellogg’s, Unilever, Mars and Diageo.

Colourful M&M‘s candies have lost their dear fellow, Red, In Canada and are now asking residents of this country to help spot him in the City of Toronto (its digital version). The character got into the virtual space on November 4 (the sad story of how Red jumped into the digital dimension is told in a video), and the volunteers of 13 years of age or older are challenged with a task to drag him back within a month.

This month sees the launch of the new Penhaligon’s Christmas gift collection, designed by the jkr agency. The gift boxes, which are based on the theme of anthropomorphic animals, deliver a bespoke gifting solution for the boutique perfumer. Briefed with delivering eccentricity and decadence, the new collection creates a fantasy world in keeping with the brand’s charismatic charm. Each range tells a story, from an afternoon tea party through to music and discovery.