fooddive.com·Feb 9, 2026
Dutch beverage giant Refresco is acquiring plant-based food and drink maker SunOpta for $1.1 billion, a move that will enhance Refresco's North American presence and expand its reach into the better-for-you category.
The acquisition of SunOpta by Refresco for $1.1 billion highlights a strategic move to strengthen presence in the fast-growing plant-based beverage sector and expand into foodservice in North America. For someone tracking foodtech and alternative proteins, this signals a pivotal opportunity to explore partnerships or innovations in plant-based product development, especially in better-for-you categories that are gaining traction in the market.