Kraft Foods, Northfield, Ill., unveiled Boca Essentials, a new line of vegetable- and grain-based patties that offer a source of “complete protein” for meatless meals.

At the conclusion of the Refrigerated Foods Association's annual conference and tabletop display, Steve Loehndorf, president of Reser’s Fine Foods, was named the new president of RFA.

H.J. Heinz Co., Pittsburgh, Pa., and Kraft Foods Group, Inc., Northfield, Ill., entered into a definitive merger agreement to create The Kraft Heinz Co., what is said to be the third largest food and beverage company in North America.

Smithfield announced a realignment of its organization and key senior management appointments to unify all independent operating companies, brands, marketing and the more than 48,000 global employees under one corporate umbrella.

Sean Connolly, former CEO of The Hillshire Brands Co. prior to its sale to Tyson Foods, was named new chief executive officer of ConAgra Foods, replacing Gary Rodkin.

Steve Davis stepped down as chief executive officer and director of Bob Evans Farms, effective immediately.

Kraft Foods, Northfield, Ill., announced plans to cease bacon operations at its Kirksville, Mo., plant, consolidating bacon production to its Coshocton, Ohio, facility.

Kraft Foods’ PHILADELPHIA brand now includes Bacon Cream Cheese Spread, a savory breakfast spread that combines fresh milk and real cream with real Oscar Mayer bacon.

Kraft Foods, Northfield, Ill., announced plans to make a $100 million investment at its Springfield, Mo., cheese plant.

Kraft Foods Group named George Zoghbi to the newly created position of vice chairman, operations, R&D, sales and strategy.