Eshbal Functional Food Acquires Majority Stake in Dare to Be Different Foods

Eshbal Functional Food Inc. has announced its second acquisition this month (and third in the last two months), with the signing of a binding letter of intent to acquire a majority interest in U.S.-based Dare to Be Different Foods (D2BD).

The Vancouver, B.C.-based gluten-free and health-focused foods producer entered into the agreement with D2BD effective July 3, 2025, and it will acquire a 55% interest in the New York-based processor of foods made from broccoli and cauliflower, including crusts, crisps, gnocchi and other items.

Additionally, to further emphasize its desire to expand its North American business, Eshbal named Avi Markus its chief commercial officer for North America. Markus brings more than 25 years of experience in CPG and BFY food brands, the release noted.

Previously, he served as senior vice president, North America-Retail at Else Nutrition, and he co-founded and launched the Nourishteam and BEON Energems brands earlier in his career. He is a partner at The Matzo Project, and Markus also worked in senior brand management and marketing roles at Unilever Canada and Shoppers Drug Market.

These moves follow Eshbal’s acquisition of Gluten Free Nation earlier this month and Israeli baker Swonder Bread in June. In April, a reverse-takeover of Eshbal was completed by Hakken Capital Corp. of Vancouver.