Grocers have a new competitor for prepared food dollars: gyms

Though many gyms have long sold protein powders, nutrition bars and juices, consumer desire for convenient nutrition is driving more savvy health clubs to add prepared meal offerings for their members. Some retailers are even getting in on the opportunity—earlier this summer, Hy-Vee announced a partnership with OrangeTheory fitness to open locations adjacent to some stores and integrate their training and nutrition services. Read more at FoodDive…

Hain Celestial is rewriting the ‘rules’ of corporate venture capital

The natural and organic food company launched a venture arm, Cultivate Ventures, in November. In addition to taking over management of six “underserved” brands in the company’s portfolio, it will also acquire complementary brands. In this interview with Cultivate Ventures CEO Beena Goldenberg, she says it’s especially interested in brands that are innovating in the perimeter of the store. Read more at AgFunder News…

Want to start a food business? Check out how this company crafted its culture, structure and offices

In this video, meet the cofounders of ghee manufacturer 4th & Heart and get a peek into the production facility. Read more at Entrepreneur…

The grocery industry confronts a new problem: Only 10% of Americans love cooking

Consumers now spend more on food from restaurants than from grocery stores, and a recent survey found that only 10 percent of consumers love to cook, while 45 percent are lukewarm about it and 45 percent dislike it. Read more at Harvard Business Review…

7-Eleven introduces local, restaurant-style meals

Convenience stores, too, are working on offering healthier prepared food options to consumers. Select 7-Eleven stores in four U.S. cities are launching heat-and-eat meals delivered daily to stores. Read more at PSFK…