Newsfeed: April 2017

Sunday, 30 April 2017

Mérieux Foundation oversees construction of Laos food safety lab

The Mérieux Foundation has overseen construction of a food safety laboratory, in Vientiane, Lao PDR (Lao People’s Democratic Republic).

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2plPCXi

Scientist develops laser system to scan peeled potatoes for toxic compounds

Scientist Lien Smeesters from B-PHOT Brussels Photonics Team at the University of Brussels has partnered with Tomra Sorting Solutions to develop a sensor that scans peeled potatoes for toxic chemicals.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2qnD4Nx

Hemp for human food consumption finally gets the green light in Australia and New Zealand

Hemp foods are finally set to hit Australian plates after regulators approved legislation legalising low-THC hemp for human consumption as a food.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2qjpCgm

Could antibiotic-resistant gene bacteria on cows transfer to create MRSA?

A previously unknown gene in Macrococcus caseolyticus, a harmless bacterium naturally found on the skin of dairy cows, has been found to confer resistance to all beta-lactam antibiotics, including the last generation of cephalosporins used against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA).

The bacterium can spread to milk during milking and has also been found in cheeses and other products made from raw milk.

Now scientists at the Institute of Veterinary Bacteriology of the University of Bern are postulating that this gene could quite conceivably transfer from M. caseolyticus to S. aureus, turning this bacteria into a hazardous MRSA which is known to cause difficult-to-treat infections in hospitals.

Acquired methicillin resistance in bacteria is associated with genes mecA, mecB or mecC. However, none of these genes were present in the M. caseolyticus strains — they carried the novel resistance gene mecD.

The discovery has now been published in the Scientific Reports, a journal of the Nature Publishing Group.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2oWD8BU

Agru Coolsafe piping and fitting system

Coolsafe is a pre-insulated double containment piping and fitting system specially designed to optimise the entire secondary cooling cycle by reducing energy and installation costs.

As a result of the system’s innovative installation procedure, conventional butt or electrofusion welding techniques can simultaneously weld both the inner and outer pipe quickly and safely, forming a leak-proof system. Other features include low pressure loss, high energy efficiency, UV and corrosion resistance, a high temperature range of -30 to +60°C, no incrustations and no condensation.

Made from high-grade PE 100, installation is safe and quick as no hot works or lagging is required. The system is also easy to install in tight spaces due to its low weight (30% less than metallic piping systems, according to the company) and reduced outside diameter.

The system is suitable for mixed consumer/production spaces such as breweries, wineries, cold storage, commercial refrigeration and cooling applications in commercial buildings. All of the components are moulded and insulated to strict tolerances in accordance with international standards ASTM D2837 and DIN 8077. A complete range of fittings is available.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2oZx0JY

Silikal food-grade flooring system

The Silikal flooring system is a heavy-duty, hygienic and easy-to-clean flooring system. It can be made slip-resistant to prevent slips and falls, making it suitable for use in both wet and dry surface areas. It has also been certified as food-safe by reputable organisations such as HACCP International and Canadian Food Inspection Agency.

The flooring system can be used in areas subject to high mechanical abrasion, forklifts load and chemical attack. Its high compressive and flexural strength make the system suitable for use in the food industry as it can withstand constant punishment and heavy-duty traffic.

The floor cures with full mechanical and chemical resistance in less than 2 h. Installation can be completed overnight with zero or minimum downtime. The flooring will even cure within 2 h in temperatures below zero, down to -25°C. It is thus suitable for areas subject to extreme temperature, such as outdoor areas and cold storage.

Due to its non-porous nature, water, dirt and bacteria rest on the surface and are unable to penetrate the Silikal floor, making it hygienic and easy to clean. The floor can also be applied over existing ceramic tiles, meaning installation can be completed in a higher turnaround time.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2qtWOya

Pallet movements predict slowing retail turnover

Since 2011, pallet movement data from CHEP has been used by the AFGC and CHEP as an indicator of Australian Bureau of Statistics Retail Trade Data.

The 25th edition of the AFGC CHEP Retail Index has pointed to a return to slowing retail turnover growth in 2017. In January, the previous Index predicted that the upturn in retail turnover growth experienced in late 2016 would not be sustained into early 2017. This situation appears to be playing out, as caution in the Australian and global economy remain factors limiting retail growth.

The latest Index predicts year-on-year growth of 2.6% for the month of March 2017 and 2.8% for the March 2017 quarter, slowing to 2.4% in May 2017 and 2.6% in the June 2017 quarter.

Notwithstanding this, the overall economic outlook for 2017 is of cautious optimism, with a modest improvement in economic indicators, including population, jobs and wages growth considered likely to emerge later in 2017.

Australian Food and Grocery Council Acting Chief Executive Officer Dr Geoffrey Annison said: “Slow jobs and wages growth coupled with the continued housing boom, especially in Sydney and Melbourne, is resulting in a cautious approach to discretionary spending persisting over the coming months. It is pleasing to see, though, that signs of recovery are appearing in some categories, such as food and apparel, and that retail spending should increase in the latter part of the year as the economy strengthens.”

CHEP Asia Pacific President Phillip Austin said: “Supported by latest pallet data from CHEP, the Index has proven to be a reliable lead indicator for ABS retail trade data since its first edition in May 2011. This edition of the Index reminds us that, although the retail environment remains challenging, it also represents an opportunity for supply chain participants to continue to work together to devise solutions that improve efficiency and reduce waste.”

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2pvM0jK

Flowcrete Australia Flowfresh antimicrobial-enhanced polyurethane floors

Flowcrete Australia supplies high-performance polyurethane (PU) resin coatings for food facility floors that have been designed to take on the challenges of the industry.

According to the company, fit-for-purpose, trowel-applied PU resin systems have several benefits over roller-applied epoxy coatings within intensive food and beverage plants. When compared to alternative materials, a thick PU finish is said to provide a facility with hygienic, functionality and regulatory advantages for an extended period of time.

The lifespan of a PU resin system is said to be roughly double that of an epoxy’s, clocking in at 10 years compared to epoxy’s five. This durability stems from the increased wear, abrasion and impact resistance properties of a thicker PU system.

These hard-wearing properties are essential, as busy food plants will inevitably subject the floor to physical impacts, point loading and traffic from heavy equipment. These factors could eat into the floor finish, and if the coating is too thin then this could result in hard-to-clean cracks appearing in the finish — which increases the risk of unwanted bacteria and microbes multiplying out of the cleaning regime’s reach.

Polyurethanes also boast resistance to corrosion, inorganic alkalis, organic alkalis and solvents. In contrast, epoxy resins can only offer a limited resistance to the organic acids that are found in a large quantity of food and drink produce.

Another key factor is the heat, cold and thermal shock tolerance of a polyurethane system, which can tolerate up to 120°C. This thermal shock resistance is beneficial in food and beverage facilities, where extreme temperature changes often occur on a daily basis.

PU floors can even incorporate antimicrobial additives into the resin build-up of the floor itself. Installing a floor with an additive like this means that bacterial growth is inhibited even in between wash cycles, as dirt, grime and contaminants that fall on the floor will be exposed to the bacteria-killing properties of the bactericidal agent.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2pybMpN

McCain's Belgian subsidiary chooses US$9 million worth of kit

Lutosa, a subsidiary of McCain Foods, is adding significant new capacity for frozen French fries to its production facility in Leuze-en-Hainaut, Belgium. Scheduled to start up in 2018, Lutosa’s new line is expected to increase production while improving efficiencies and profitability by meeting product quality objectives and increasing yields.

The optical inspection and material handling equipment for the line will be supplied by Key Technology and will include VERYX digital sorters.

“We appreciate the confidence that McCain has placed in all of our Key equipment and especially our new VERYX family of sorters. The variety of the systems we’re supplying to Lutosa showcases our complete range of capabilities and our exceptional ability to deliver complete, integrated solutions,” said Jack Ehren, president and CEO of Key Technology. “Most of the Key equipment going into the new line will be engineered and supplied from our two European operations in Belgium and the Netherlands.”

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2oND6RW

From functional products to fortification: How the UN's Sustainable Development Goals can boost business outcomes

Tapping in to the UN’s Sustainable Development goals (SDGs) through fortification, functional products and reformulation can offer the food industry substantial growth opportunities – but more needs to be done to secure private sector financial investment.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2oYjBlq

Hemp for human food consumption finally gets the green light in Australia and New Zeland

Hemp foods are finally set to hit Australian plates after regulators approved legislation legalising low-THC hemp for human consumption as a food.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2oMy08q

Breakthrough in treating high BOD wastewaters

For any food processing company, biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) can represent a costly challenge when managing its liquid trade waste. High BOD can be expensive to discharge and cause rapid erosion of infrastructure such as sewers and pipes.

Maximising microbiology

Microorganisms are Nature’s best recyclers and decomposers and used in most wastewater treatment systems.

Executive Chairman at BioGill, John West, stated, “Our concept is to create the perfect, oxygen rich environment so the microorganisms can perform at their best, consuming pollutants from the wastewater.”

The breakthrough BioGill Towers are above ground biological bioreactors which are proving particularly effective in reducing soluble nutrients such as BOD, COD and nitrogen, as well as fat, oil and grease.

The technology is also an ideal performance boost for existing wastewater treatment plants, with excellent results recorded in the Philippines and the Middle East.

Save on energy use

Conventional submerged wastewater systems aerate the waste-water to provide oxygen for the microorganisms. This aeration process is inefficient, energy hungry and expensive.

BioGill technology takes a more innovative approach. Heat generated by the biofilm creates natural convective air flow inside the unit, so no powered aeration or energy hungry blowers are required.

“From confectionery producers, breweries, wineries, dairies and meat processors, across Australia, Asia and North America, our bioreactors are reducing the nutrient load in wastewater and helping producers meet environmental targets,” said John.

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Sweet success

A multinational confectionery company, based in regional NSW, was facing increased discharge fees for its high-sugar wastewater. Nine BioGill bioreactors were then retrofitted to the existing treatment plant to boost performance.

Operating since 2015, the average BOD discharge is now 284 mg/L from an influent BOD of 2,330 mg/L and well within the compliance standards from the local water authority.

By reducing BOD onsite, the company benefits from significant savings in discharge fees and helps protect the local environment and waterways.

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More and more food & beverage producers are seeking low energy, low cost biological water treatment solutions. To learn more about reducing pollutants in wastewater, please contact BioGill on P: + 61 2 8543 2200 or E: info@biogill.com.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2qlB6ND

Eriez Xtreme RE7 Tube Circuit

The Eriez Xtreme RE7 Tube Circuit has advanced rare earth permanent magnet technology resulting in a product that is 13 to 40% stronger than other magnets in head-to-head pull tests performed by The Pennsylvania State University (Penn State).

When looking at which commercial tube magnet most effectively removed dangerous ferrous metal and weakly magnetic contaminants from process flows, Penn State concluded that the pull force of the Xtreme RE7 Tube Circuit was substantially stronger than that of any magnets from the other 13 companies tested. Eriez’s magnet was also among the best performers in terms of magnetic flux density.

The Xtreme RE7 magnet circuit is available in all Eriez tubes, grates and liquid line traps used in food, plastics, pharmaceutical, mining, foundry, chemical and other applications. The magnet is claimed to surpass previous models with greater holding force and improved separation efficiency. For customers in the process industries, the increased power of the Xtreme RE7 has a direct and positive impact on product purity and plant productivity.

For more information: http://bit.ly/2qllrhk.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2pjTIiH

Spraying Systems Co AutoJet food safety systems

Meat and poultry processors all have a common goal, and that is to ensure the highest level of food safety possible in their operations. Spraying Systems Co has developed a range of AutoJet food safety systems that minimise the possibility of contamination while also often extending the shelf life of the products.

The AutoJet food safety systems ensure exact application and uniform coverage of antimicrobials and sanitisers to enhance product safety with minimal waste. The systems consist of an AutoJet spray controller and PulsaJet automatic spray nozzles fitted with UniJet spray tips in food-grade materials. They are suitable for spraying antimicrobial agents on bagged whole muscle products, formed products, fresh meats, packaged poultry and sliced meat products and can be used for effective and repeatable sanitising of conveyors and surrounding equipment.

Benefits of the systems include their ability to allow for numerous volumes of antimicrobial and sanitising agents to be used on a single conveyor line and the systems can be easily incorporated into existing product lines.

According to the company, the systems have been proven to effectively control the prevalence of pathogens and they are able to be incorporated into existing HACCP plans.

For more information: http://bit.ly/2qlrAKm.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2pjuMYu

M-Series C.I.P spray nozzles

M-Series C.I.P spray nozzles are designed to provide high-quality tank cleaning results at low operating pressures.

As a direct replacement for spray balls in standard pressure applications, the M-Series rotating action utilises flow-step technology — concentrated streams of higher impact liquid delivering more efficient distribution, greater impact and faster C.I.P cycles. This means less wastewater and chemical treatment costs, saving time and money.

The M-Series rotating tank washer makes spray balls virtually redundant. The typical spray balls found in storage tanks are mostly inefficient and costly to operate. This is because they require large volumes of water and chemical just to reach, wet and cover the tank interior. With inefficient reach, the wetting, washing and rinsing performance is severely compromised, resulting in excessively long wash times. Poor impact efficiency also compounds this problem.

Patented self-cleaning features of the M-Series tank washer have allowed for major improvements towards trouble-free operation. This is achieved via a special bearing system that allows typical fluctuations in water pressure to purge any obstructions away from the bearing surfaces. Competitive washers can readily allow obstructions to jam within the bearing surfaces and impede rotation. No lubrication is required other than the cleaning fluid itself and there are no ball bearings to lock-up, corrode or break down.

Features include self-cleaning, therefore addressing the problems of clogging and loss of impact at high pressures associated with other tank washers; increases cleaning efficiency, leading to shorter cleaning cycles and thus reducing operational costs; uses less water; can be used for portable and fixed applications; and available in various materials.

Applications include dairy and beverage storage tanks, freezer tunnels, wine tanks and any storage vessel.

For more information, visit http://bit.ly/2qlnguT.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2pjrNPI

Sormac Pulstar flotation washer for leafy vegetables

The Sormac Pulstar flotation washer for leafy vegetables has a 20% lower water capacity than the previous version of the product, leading to a considerable daily saving in water consumption. It also means that less time is spent on filling and emptying.

By constantly injecting air through alternately operating sections of the air pipes, the peristaltic system ensures that the dwell time of the leaves in the washer is consistent. If desired, this can be programmed for up to 2 min. In the case of mixed salad leaves, it also ensures that the different types of leaves are thoroughly mixed, saving the need for an extra mixing drum.

The process parameters, such as the dwell time for different products, can be easily automated because the washer is equipped with two frequency-driven pumps.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2pjxIEw

Saturday, 29 April 2017

Plastic bits cause recall of 60 tonnes of poultry

Foster Poultry Farms is recalling 131,880 pounds (60 tonnes) of frozen, ready-to-eat breaded chicken patties after US shoppers reported discovering pieces of clear plastic packaging in the products.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2qqrY9S

US grass fed beef brand boosts sales channels

PRE Brands has expanded its US grass fed beef to New England in Shaw’s and Star Market outlets and online at Jet.com and has added 1/3 lb. hamburger patties to its lineup.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2oK69Wf

Plastic bits cause recall of 60 tonnes of poultry

Foster Poultry Farms is recalling 131,880 pounds (60 tonnes) of frozen, ready-to-eat breaded chicken patties after US shoppers reported discovering pieces of clear plastic packaging in the products.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2pv4e7e

US grass fed beef brand boosts sales channels

PRE Brands has expanded its US grass fed beef to New England in Shaw’s and Star Market outlets and online at Jet.com and has added 1/3 lb. hamburger patties to its lineup.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2qpdMxK

Food robotics market value set to rise

The value of the global food automation industry is expected to hit $2.5bn by 2022, according to a new study.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2pv853Z

China pork retailer nears deal with Metro

Retail giant Metro and pork retailer Yutu are nearing a deal that would enable China-based Yutu to boost distribution across Asia through stores operated by Germany-based Metro.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2qppSa1

Trump’s biggest tax cut in US history thrills meat sector

The US government plans to cut taxes for big and small businesses in the largest reform since the Reagan era – and the meat industry is pleased that the death tax will be repealed.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2pvg2q9

Brazil meat scandal: limited damage to pork

Brazil is continuing to grow its pork exports and even the recent meat corruption scandal had little to no impact on rising volume trade, Rabobank has claimed.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2qppU1D

Friday, 28 April 2017

Austrian start-up taps into fermentation trend with umami-packed seasoning

With its umami-packed, fermented seasoning made from locally-sourced, organic lupin and oats, Austrian start-up Genusskoarl is bringing to the market its "soy sauce adapted to European tastes".

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2qg1atv

Game on: Four industry giants pledge to use French nutrition logo

France's official - but voluntary - nutrition label has its first takers as retailers Intermarché, Leclerc and Auchan as well as meat, seafood and ready meal manufacturer Fleury Michon commit to its use on their products.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2pdfcO4

Saturated fats don't increase heart risk? Fat chance, say critics

Saturated fat does not clog up arteries nor increase the chance of a heart attack, according to a team of doctors whose views have triggered a wave of criticism.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2qg2AEq

EU food sector unprepared for droughts set to hit palm oil, soy & cocoa

Europe’s food industry could be left exposed to supply shortages and rocketing prices as climate change increases the risk of droughts in key commodity-producing countries.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2pdnXaX

Glanbia's patent-pending powder process removes need for lecithin in drinks

Glanbia has developed BevEdge, a patent-pending technology that allows manufacturers to remove lecithin from protein powders and beverages, cleaning up the ingredient list and removing a potential allergen.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2qfQ6Nb

Energy drinks trigger ‘life threatening’ heart activity, study suggests

The consumption of caffeinated energy drinks results in significant changes to heart function and blood pressure when compared to other drinks containing the same caffeine content.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2pdnrcT

MSC's 2020 strategy: One fifth of seafood certified sustainable by 2020

The Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) wants to see 20% of global fish and seafood certified sustainable by 2020, according to the strategy plan it released on its 20^th anniversary.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2qfLExP

Some like it hot: Cayenne pepper curbs appetite and boosts satiety

Adding to cayenne pepper to food can curb hunger, increase satiety and reduce cravings for salty food - but it increases the desire to eat sweet and fatty foods, Danish researchers have found.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2pdpI8d

Early introduction of vegetables can result in less fussy kids

Offering vegetables to babies early on can help reduce food fussiness in toddlers, according to a new study carried out in the Netherlands.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2qfYFaA

Smells like teen spirit? Different age groups have specific food smells - and that's important for tailored NPD

Vanilla is associated with children, roasted nuts with seniors and floral notes with adults, and the findings will provide "a deeper understanding" for tailoring new product development (NPD) to age groups, according to a recent study.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2pdeKPL

Nestlé departs UK for Poland taking 300 Blue Riband jobs

Nestlé is to move production of its Blue Riband chocolate brand from the UK to Poland with a loss of around 300 jobs.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2qfZKPB

€220m EU investment injection for Mediterranean food projects

The EU will invest €220 million in water and food projects in the Mediterranean area as part of the PRIMA programme.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2pdf2X3

Irish minister lays out seven-point plan for food and drink industry after Brexit

The Irish minister for agriculture has presented a new seven-point Brexit plan for the food and drink industry, highlighting the country’s particularly precarious position as the UK’s neighbour and chief trading partner.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2qfXkAE

Game on: Four industry giants pledge to use French nutrition logo

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2qf2PCv

EU low-cal diet industry "could fold" if rules rubber stamped, warns trade body

New rules on low calorie diets could wipe out manufacturers and distributors of weight loss programmes in Europe, according to an industry trade body which is urging regulators to seek a compromise agreement.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2pq6BWI

China pork retailer nears deal with Metro

Retail giant Metro and pork retailer Yutu are nearing a deal that would enable China-based Yutu to boost distribution across Asia through stores operated by Germany-based Metro.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2pGTfbO

Chickpeas suspected source of hummus taste issues

Hummus was removed from shelves in some UK supermarkets and recalled by a Swedish company due to ‘taste issues’.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2qnGfEf

Saturated fats don't increase heart risk? Fat chance, say critics

Saturated fat does not clog up arteries nor increase the chance of a heart attack, according to a team of doctors whose views have triggered a wave of criticism.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2pcQLjK

EU food sector unprepared for droughts set to hit palm oil, soy & cocoa

Europe’s food industry could be left exposed to supply shortages and rocketing prices as climate change increases the risk of droughts in key commodity-producing countries.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2pcxuPt

Knauer osmometer for quality control of aqueous samples

Knauer has launched an osmometer for quality control of aqueous samples.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2pcnSo7

Trump’s biggest tax cut in US history thrills meat sector

The US government plans to cut taxes for big and small businesses in the largest reform since the Reagan era – and the meat industry is pleased that the death tax will be repealed.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2pGcVMR

Food robotics market value set to rise

The value of the global food automation industry is expected to hit $2.5bn by 2022, according to a new study.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2ppzjau

Austrian start-up taps into fermentation trend with umami-packed seasoning

With its umami-packed, fermented seasoning made from locally-sourced, organic lupin and oats, Austrian start-up Genusskoarl is bringing to the market its "soy sauce adapted to European tastes".

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2oEXF2R

Brazil meat scandal: limited damage to pork

Brazil is continuing to grow its pork exports and even the recent meat corruption scandal had little to no impact on rising volume trade, Rabobank has claimed.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2oSDQ3U

Seegene seeks wider adoption of real-time PCR

Seegene is developing second-generation real-time PCR technology which it has patented in the US and Europe.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2pasXNJ

Pair who sold turkey as halal lamb jailed

Two men who supplied turkey described as halal lamb have been found guilty of conspiracy to commit fraud and jailed for five years.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2oPmUuh

Minister unveils pro-industry plan to fight diabetes in Singapore

Singapore’s minister of state for health has revealed a new business-first approach to encourage healthier food development as part of a three-pronged “war on diabetes”.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2qdC12Q

Thursday, 27 April 2017

Ishida DACS checkweigher and CEIA metal detector systems

Pre-assembled and available with a common reject conveyor, the combination of the Ishida DACS checkweigher and the CEIA metal detector systems delivers high inspection performance to maximise efficiency and save floor space.

The checkweighers inspect the accuracy of upstream filling and casepacking by verifying correct product weight or count, eliminating underweights and protecting profits by eliminating product overweight giveaway. The DACS-G multirange weighing capacity allows one checkweigher to satisfy a wide variety of product sizes and speed requirements. The CEIA metal detectors can meanwhile precisely detect all ferrous and non-ferrous metal contaminants, including stainless steel.

Both machines are mounted on a single, easy-to-clean frame, with software that lets the user control the metal detector and checkweigher from one control panel. Three-zone rejectors allow good product to pass while diverting metal contaminated and improper weight product each to different locations. Defective product can be removed using a single reject conveyor, saving on floor space. There are several rejectors to choose from, including arm, air or push-plate rejectors.

Set-up and operation are simple and include multiproduct memory for fast changeovers and a variety of systems for dry or IP69K washdown environments. The Ishida DACS checkweigher and the CEIA metal detector systems can be integrated with Ishida tray sealers, X-ray inspection, bag seal checkers and other packaging equipment.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2oOJ9R8

PAR SureCheck Advantage food safety IoT device

The PAR SureCheck Advantage is a handheld food safety IoT solution designed for food quality and task management. The product features the latest in Intel architecture, allowing for the integration of multiple functions in an all-in-one handheld device.

The unit provides increased operational efficiencies with its integrated temperature probe, barcode scanner and RFID infrared temperature readers. It ensures hazard analysis and critical control points (HACCP) compliance and has been shown to improve operational efficiencies by 60% compared to traditional pencil and paper, according to the company.

Suitable applications include grocery stores, restaurants, convenience stores, food distribution and food manufacturing.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2qdKHJo

Glanbia's patent-pending powder process removes need for lecithin in drinks

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2pEFRoy

Energy drinks trigger ‘life threatening’ heart activity, study suggests

The consumption of caffeinated energy drinks results in significant changes to heart function and blood pressure when compared to other drinks containing the same caffeine content.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2pnqCNH

MSC's 2020 strategy: One fifth of seafood certified sustainable by 2020

The Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) wants to see 20% of global fish and seafood certified sustainable by 2020, according to the strategy plan it released on its 20^th anniversary.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2pEWMam

Some like it hot: Cayenne pepper curbs appetite and boosts satiety

Adding to cayenne pepper to food can curb hunger, increase satiety and reduce cravings for salty food - but it increases the desire to eat sweet and fatty foods, Danish researchers have found.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2pnAs2d

NIZO and PSE set up Centre of Excellence

NIZO, the Dutch food and nutrition contract research organization, and Process Systems Enterprise (PSE), a UK advanced process modelling company, have announced the formation of the Centre of Excellence (CoE) for food product and process modeling.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2pEGfmV

Early introduction of vegetables can result in less fussy kids

Offering vegetables to babies early on can help reduce food fussiness in toddlers, according to a new study carried out in the Netherlands.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2pnsAxw

BioGX expands in Europe through subsidiary

BioGX has established European operations in Amsterdam, Netherlands as it targets growth in the region.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2qcWZBw

Rising sales ease pressure on Finnish meat producer

Finland-based meat processor Atria has reported an upturn in first-quarter sales thanks to improved conditions across the food supply chain.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2qjSYI6

Global beef prices tipped to drop this year

International beef prices are set to experience varying levels of decline this year, largely driven by one of the world’s biggest beef importers, the US, according to Informa.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2pqQwCp

US beef producer sells cattle farms to raise investment capital

Cargill will sell its two remaining cattle feedlots to Omaha-based Green Plains, as the US meat producer exits the cattle feeding business.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2qk3lM3

China braced for boom in online food sales

Online food sales in China could double in the next decade, thanks to a massive upsurge in smartphone shopping, research firm IGD has claimed.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2pqPZQN

Romanian meat business aims at retail expansion

Romanian meat company SuperStar Com Srl plans to open at least 10 retail stores this year, adding them to its existing chain of 23 outlets.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2qk3kHZ

Ukraine poultry company sees strong export growth

In the first quarter of 2017 Ukraine’s largest poultry processor MHP exported 49,150 tonnes (t) of poultry, 60% more than during the same period of the last year, the company’s press service has revealed.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2pqLxS9

Tyson Foods in sandwich mega deal

US-based Tyson Foods has agreed to acquire sandwich-maker AdvancePierre Foods in a $4.2bn deal that will expand the giant meat processor’s market share in prepared foods.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2qjPPbl

Japan’s meat appetite breaks records

Japan’s meat consumption broke new records in the 2016 fiscal year (April 2015 to March 2016) according to recent data, with projected year-on-year growth set to be the fastest in five years.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2pqKTUS

Digital shift may boost EU organic meat imports

Organic meat importers may be boosted by digital certification system, which the European Commission says will make the EU “a global leader in traceability" and the collection of reliable organic trade data.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2qk3jnp

Perdue confirmed as US agriculture secretary

America’s meat trade has reacted warmly to news that Donald Trump’s pick for agriculture secretary, Sonny Perdue, has finally been confirmed by the US senate.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2pqMDgR

Conagra completes takeover of meat snacks brand

Packaged Foods produced Conagra Brands has completed its acquisition of meat snacks and sunflower seeds maker Thanasi Foods for an undisclosed sum.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2qk2gUn

Magnet found in sausage mix sparks recall

Florida-based Uncle John’s Pride has issued a recall for over 63 tonnes (t) of ready-to-eat smoked meat and chicken sausages after a magnet was found in a product mix.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2pqzUdM

Vaccination tackles lumpy skin disease in SE Europe

Mass vaccination of cattle succeeded in containing lumpy skin disease in south-eastern Europe in 2015-16, according to the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2qjTA07

Hong Kong AI warning as human case now critical

Hong Kong has issued a bird flu warning, confirming that the condition of a man stricken by the disease in Jilin Province, north east China, is now critical.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2pqKT7k

Better testing fuels US meat pathogen reports

Reported US infections linked to pathogens Yersinia and Shiga toxin-producing E.coli, commonly contaminating meat products, grew in number in 2016, but experts blamed better testing, not more people becoming sick.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2qjMb12

France prepares response after China lifts meat import ban

European and French meat industry organisations are preparing to respond to China’s decision to lift its embargo on French exports of de-boned beef for animals.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2pqKRMK

Australia’s DemoDAIRY starts winding-up process

DemoDAIRY at Terang, in southwest Victoria, Australia, is starting the process of winding up the cooperative after it says all options to remain open have been exhausted.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2pDDtyb

Japan’s meat appetite breaks records

Japan’s meat consumption broke new records in the 2016 fiscal year (April 2015 to March 2016) according to recent data, with projected year-on-year growth set to be the fastest in five years.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2pmu37x

Global beef prices tipped to drop this year

International beef prices are set to experience varying levels of decline this year, largely driven by one of the world’s biggest beef importers, the US, according to Informa.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2oB78rZ

China braced for boom in online food sales

Online food sales in China could double in the next decade, thanks to a massive upsurge in smartphone shopping, research firm IGD has claimed.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2qaXNEn

Rising sales ease pressure on Finnish meat producer

Finland-based meat processor Atria has reported an upturn in first-quarter sales thanks to improved conditions across the food supply chain.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2qc0Izy

US beef producer sells cattle farms to raise investment capital

Cargill will sell its two remaining cattle feedlots to Omaha-based Green Plains, as the US meat producer exits the cattle feeding business.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2oQb8Rq

Recalls: Arsenic, aflatoxin and allergens

Food alerts have been made by USA, England, Australia, New Zealand, Hong Kong, Canada, Czech Republic, Netherlands, Austria, Finland, Sweden, Slovakia, Belgium, Germany, Denmark and Switzerland.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2pDpR64

Wednesday, 26 April 2017

Which temperature sensors are best for your application? Chamber v room monitoring

STALAM Radio Frequency (RF) defrosting technology

STALAM Radio Frequency (RF) defrosting technology can rapidly generate heat volumetrically within the product, so defrosting is achieved within minutes rather than hours or days — even for large product blocks or directly inside packaging used for storage (carton boxes, polyethylene bags, etc).

The heating process is uniform and controlled, resulting in a reduction of drip losses. It also offers flexibility in production schedules and is suitable for the tempering, thawing and softening process for a wide range of products including meat, fish, seafood, vegetables, fruit and dairy products.

Traditional defrosting methods introduce a number of difficulties directly related to the heat transfer mechanisms: slow process (hours, sometimes days); bacteria growth in the product; high drip loss; deterioration of the product surface; and batch processing (handling costs, risk of breakage, bruising and other damages to the product due to such handling). The drawbacks of these conventional defrosting methods can be avoided with the STALAM RF machines.

The product is placed on the machine’s conveyor belt and is transferred through the RF unit (tunnel), passing between upper and lower metallic plates (electrodes). When the RF generator applies high-frequency alternating voltage between these plates, the dipolar water molecules of the frozen product will vibrate and rotate in an attempt to align themselves according to the fast-changing opposite plates polarities. This phenomenon causes intermolecular friction, which will in turn generate heat rapidly and uniformly within the whole product mass regardless of its size, weight, shape and thermal conductivity.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2oO20N6

Early birds can register now for GS1 Supply Chain Week 2017

GS1 Australia’s Supply Chain Week 2017 (SCW 2017) will give supply chain professionals and business owners the opportunity to partake in an interactive learning experience while they explore how GS1 standards can drive business efficiencies and reduce costs.

Held in both Melbourne and Sydney from 5–14 September, the event will bring together industry experts who will share their insights into supply chain trends, new concepts and emerging technologies across multiple sectors.

Keynote speakers and their topics will include:

Cameron Webb, General Manager Supply Chain Solutions at Woolworths Group, on how supplying a supermarket retailer today is evolving from what it once was;
Maggie Zhou, Managing Director Australia & New Zealand at Alibaba Group, on unique identification in online marketplaces; and
Michael Kilgariff, Managing Director at the Australian Logistics Council, on the foundation for end-to-end visibility in the new transport and logistics landscape.

SCW 2017 delegates unfamiliar with GS1 will have the opportunity to attend GS1 overview sessions in the morning. There will also be networking drinks at the end of each day.

For registrations or further information, visit the SCW 2017 website.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2qgRQ83

Smells like teen spirit? Different age groups have specific food smells - and that's important for tailored NPD

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2pB03HK

Nestlé departs UK for Poland taking 300 Blue Riband jobs

Nestlé is to move production of its Blue Riband chocolate brand from the UK to Poland with a loss of around 300 jobs.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2pjYbQV

€220m EU investment injection for Mediterranean food projects

The EU will invest €220 million in water and food projects in the Mediterranean area as part of the PRIMA programme.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2pARE7o

Irish minister lays out seven-point plan for food and drink industry after Brexit

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2pjKl0T

Food and drink drives ‘good start’ for Novozymes

Enzymes and food biotechnology giant Novozymes saw a 3% growth in sales in the first quarter of 2017, driven by strong performances in Food & Beverages and Bioenergy.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2pB6nPG

Coca-Cola to cut 1,200 jobs after fizzy drink sales fell 1%

Coca-Cola says it will cut approximately 1,200 jobs after global carbonated drink sales fell 1% in the quarter to March 31.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2pjLYLT

Carbon dioxide in F&B production — know your risks

Learn about the risks of CO₂ exposure within food and beverage processing. Understand the guidelines and regulations for CO₂ levels in working environments. Discover how CO₂ is measured in breweries and wineries.

Download this white paper to ensure you are working safely with CO₂.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2pAWaT7

Neogen launches raw pork detection test

Neogen has developed a test to detect raw pork in meat and environmental samples.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2qfkE0H

Tetra Pak goes digital for quality issue resolution

Tetra Pak is using advanced analytics to predict potential problems instead of reacting to them.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2owZLSl

Ukraine poultry company sees strong export growth

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2q84XvQ

Soylent recalls shipments of Soylent 1.8 powder over undeclared allergen

Soylent is voluntarily recalling 890 boxes of its Soylent 1.8 powder because it may contain undeclared milk, says the company, which had hoped to stay out of the spotlight after a rocky few months marred by recalls of version 1.6 of its powdered beverage and food bar and a public squabble with a supplier.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2q6a9gK

RSPO issues first ever RSPO Next palm oil certification

The Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO) has issued its first RSPO Next certification, a stricter voluntary add-on, to Colombian-based agribusiness Daabon Group.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2q5SQN3

Potential feed link in dioxin contamination scandal in Taiwan

The spotlight is on animal feed in a probe by Taiwanese authorities investigating an incident where eggs were found to have been tainted by dioxin.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2owzqnu

Fiji looks at irradiation to open up fruit and veg exports

Fiji has proposed a project to support irradiation to help increase exports of fruits and vegetables to international markets.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2owsPJo

US and Australia recognise food safety systems as comparable

Australia and the US have signed a bilateral food safety recognition agreement after five years of work.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2q61jzJ

Japan’s meat appetite breaks records

Japan’s meat consumption broke new records in the 2016 fiscal year (April 2015 to March 2016) according to recent data, with projected year-on-year growth set to be the fastest in five years.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2piJ7TH

Romanian meat business aims at retail expansion

Romanian meat company SuperStar Com Srl plans to open at least 10 retail stores this year, adding them to its existing chain of 23 outlets.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2qeyVL7

Tyson Foods in sandwich mega deal

US-based Tyson Foods has agreed to acquire sandwich-maker AdvancePierre Foods in a $4.2bn deal that will expand the giant meat processor’s market share in prepared foods.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2qeqPBY

Diabetes in Asia: Food and nutrition industry action an economic and social imperative

Asia’s food and nutrition companies risk turning their backs on a vast potential market if they fail to innovate and reformulate to provide products to help fight the war on diabetes.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2oLkkXg

Life Sciences a ‘blueprint’ for future food standards - Deloitte

Companies will tackle food safety and supply chain quality in the future through cross functional teams that use specialist knowledge and integrate risk identification and management across operations, according to Deloitte.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2p3qxjE

Scientists create printed transistors for interactive smart food labels

Scientists at AMBER (Advanced Materials and Bio-Engineering Research) at Trinity College Dublin have created printed transistors from 2-dimensional nanomaterials for the first time.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2oKU4fG

FDA culls huge number of foreign food facility registrations

In its latest cleanup of its food facility registration database, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has culled an eye-opening 28% of existing registrations. The biggest drops happened in overseas sites.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2p3s1dU

Algae and insects: How to feed 9bn people a nutritious diet by 2050

Algae can become the world’s first ‘real superfoood’ and, along with edible insect products, help feed the growing global population in a more sustainable and nutritious fashion.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2phFH3l

Authorities ‘fully alert’ to wanghong food risks

Shanghai’s food watchdog has been clamping down on the sale of wanghong—or food endorsed by high-profile bloggers and celebrities on the internet.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2q6PSL8

NIZO and PSE form a centre of excellence for food product and process modelling

Dutch food and nutrition contract research organisation NIZO and UK-based Process Systems Enterprise have announced the formation of the Centre of Excellence (CoE) for Food Product and Process Modelling.

The CoE will provide a single point service that combines mechanistic product and process modelling tools with industry-leading food characterisation techniques and semi-industrial scale pilot facilities, by integrating NIZO’s expertise, pilot facilities and experience in food characterisation and modelling with PSE’s gPROMS modelling platform and unit operation model libraries.

The integrated software and services solutions will result in better designed and operated processes with less variability, leading to better product quality, lower energy use and hence CO₂ footprint, and more flexibility when dealing with varying raw ingredients.

Over and above the manufacturing benefits, the ability to combine models and experimental data to provide accurate prediction enables food and beverage organisations to explore the formulation and manufacturing decision space rapidly and effectively to accelerate design decisions.

PSE provides the gPROMS FormulatedProducts modelling suite for optimising the formulation and manufacture of formulated products, including food and pharmaceuticals, using high-fidelity process and material models of unit operations such as crystallisation and spray drying combined with product performance models.

PSE pioneered the systems-based pharmaceutics approach increasingly being adopted by major pharmaceutical companies and now being applied to food and nutrition.

NIZO, originally formed by the Dutch dairy industry but now a private and independent company, develops processes and products for food and health companies worldwide.

By applying science and technology expertise in proteins, bacteria and processing at laboratory scale and in its food-grade processing centre in Ede, the Netherlands, NIZO’s research helps customers create competitive advantage through development of novel products and production processes.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2pksEAi

Sphere Foods Perfect Red natural red food colouring

For many years, processors have searched for a natural, organic replacement for producing a red food colourant. Sphere Foods’ Perfect Red, available in a crystal form, is useful across a wide spectrum of food products.

The product is a crystal, not a dust or liquid, so it is easy to use and mess-free. It has a five-year shelf life from date of manufacture and does not need refrigeration during transport or storage. There are multiple colours for use in beverage and food products.

Highly concentrated and completely soluble, the crystal is said to provide greater colour stability than other natural products and does not precipitate out of product. This gives a longer finished product shelf life — up to three times longer than other comparable product, according to the company. It is free of sulfur dioxide and does not contain carriers, meaning it is low in sugars and calories. The supply is said to be as stable as the product itself.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2oKIbq2

Temperature Technology TempReport Electronic Monitoring System

With the TempReport Electronic Monitoring System from Temperature Technology, all-important temperatures are displayed directly on the user’s screen: from cooking and cooling to storage and transport.

Set-up is easy: just install the program and position the loggers. The user chooses the intervals for the rate of logging, updates and data downloads. Data loggers may be operated remotely through the internet if Wi-Fi is available and a cloud subscription is enabled.

Users don’t have to remember to download the loggers, as this happens as programmed. The data arrives in the user’s database, sent from wireless T-TEC data loggers with large memories. The process is then complete.

When dealing with alarms, TempReport can send emails. The gateway can have relay output to a wired alarm and send signals to a back-end system. SMS can also be arranged.

The system is highly secure. Logs are kept in the data logger memories, so even if mains power fails, logging goes on. Logs are stored in the user’s PC. All readings stay in-house and in the user’s central storage.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2oKPiyC

Campylobacter doesn't like the cold

A patented rapid chilling process has been found to help poultry processors and retailers reduce Campylobacter contamination.

Campylobacter, a very common cause of food poisoning, is prevalent in fresh poultry. Now, extensive trials followed by a full commercial installation have shown that Air Products’ Freshline SafeChill system can achieve significant results in reducing Campylobacter. This outcome has been verified by an independent laboratory.

The automated intervention system uses super-chilled air to reduce Campylobacter on poultry carcasses after evisceration.

The Freshline SafeChill system can be used alone to reduce Campylobacter presence in poultry or in combination with other interventions to ensure security of treatment depending on the levels of Campylobacter contamination.

For processors, the technology can be easily integrated into existing production lines and offers flexibility in the treatment programs based on the factory’s needs and the level of contamination of the poultry. The system is modular, can operate three shifts a day and supports current and future production line speeds. The treatment time lasts 30 to 50 seconds and maintains the quality of the poultry meat and skin at all times.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2q45coM

Food fraud still rife in Europe as €230 million worth of fake food seized

Tuesday, 25 April 2017

Save Food Packaging Award winners showcased at Interpack 2017

The Australian Institute of Packaging (AIP) will be at Interpack 2017 from 4–10 May, where it will display the Save Food Packaging Award winners for Australia and New Zealand.

The AIP will be located in the World Packaging Organisation (WPO) area within the Save Food Pavilion, a key attraction of Interpack 2017. The WPO and its members are supporting the SAVE FOOD Initiative — a joint initiative of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), Messe Düsseldorf and Interpack.

In order to support SAVE FOOD, the WPO has added the Save Food Packaging Awards to the WorldStar Awards, honouring packaging solutions that distinguish themselves for reducing food losses and waste. The AIP will showcase winners including Fresh Technologies Ltd & Sealed Air Food Care for Fressure and Cryovac Freshness Plus, Woolpack Australia for Woolcool, DON KRC for Cryovac Darfresh Vacuum Skin Packaging, Botanical Food Company for Gourmet Garden Herbs & Spices, SPC Ardmona for SPC ProVital Easy-Open Portion Control Fruit Cup and HealthShare NSW for My Food Choice.

Other WPO country members who will be showcasing innovative food packaging designs and concepts will include Argentina, Austria, Brazil, China, Croatia, Czech Republic, Finland, Germany, India, South Africa, Spain, the Netherlands, the UK and the USA. The APO (African Packaging Organization) and the APF (Asian Packaging Federation) have also confirmed their participation.

The AIP invites everyone to come and visit the pavilion and see how many innovative designs are coming out of Australia and New Zealand. The institute has also been announced as the host of the 2018 WorldStar Awards, to be held on 2 May 2017 at the Marriott Hotel, Surfers Paradise.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2qd4816

Ingestible sensors pass human trials

At Digestive Disease Week, to be held in Chicago in May, RMIT researchers will announce the successful completion of phase one human trials of ingestible capsules. These ingestible smart capsules, the size of a vitamin pill, journey through the gut and measure gas levels in the gastrointestinal tract.

The ingestible technology has demonstrated several thousand times more sensitivity to gut gases than alternative techniques and has the potential to revolutionise the prevention and diagnosis of gut disorders and diseases.

“Currently, one of the only methods for diagnosing gut disorders, such as malabsorption of carbohydrates, irritable bowel syndrome and inflammable bowel disease, is to measure hydrogen concentrations in the breath,” said the pill’s co-inventor, Distinguished Professor Kourosh Kalantar-zadeh.

“However, breath tests are mired by a lack of sensitivity and specificity and are unable to provide the necessary gold standard for diagnosis.”

Co-inventor Dr Kyle Berean said: “Ingestible sensors also offer a reliable diagnostic tool for colon cancer, meaning that people won’t have to undergo colonoscopies in future.”

A key finding from the initial trials was just how safe the new technology is.

“Smart pills are harmless and there is no risk of capsule retention,” Berean said.

An added advantage is that the capsules can be synched with smartphones, meaning results are easily accessible by users and doctors online.

The potential applications from this technology are profound.

“The sensors allow us to measure all the fluids and gases in the gut, giving us a multidimensional picture of the human body,” Kalantar-zadeh said. “Gas sensing is just the beginning.”

The human trials were undertaken in collaboration with colleagues from Monash University, who have since been praised by Kalantar-zadeh.

“We have been lucky to have Monash medical academics helping us on this journey,” he said. “Without their input, we would not be able to proceed.”

A paper by the Centre for Advanced Electronics and Sensors (CADES) research team outlining the future of ingestible sensors has been published in the April issue of ACS Sensors.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2qcMlHd

Experts dismiss new study showing dangers of BPA

New research shows exposure to Bisphenol A (BPA) in pregnant mice can disrupt the immune system and lead to multiple sclerosis in infancy, but experts say the chemical poses no risk to humans.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2q4OFUi

MEPs vote to end cross-border bias in online shopping

Shopping for specialty foods could become easier after an EU committee voted to lift restrictions preventing retailers from selling products online to consumers living in another member state.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2pgt8VR

RSPO issues first ever RSPO Next palm oil certification

The Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO) has issued its first RSPO Next certification, a stricter voluntary add-on, to Colombian-based agribusiness Daabon Group.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2q577fA

From take-over fears to taxes, sustainability to social media marketing: FoodNavigator reader survey results are in

The results of the FoodNavigator survey are in, and it's no holds barred as our readers reveal their hopes, fears and pet peeves about the food industry from squeezed margins, sugar taxes, the demise of traditional marketing and the threat of take-over from private equity firms.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2pgA8SR

Top public nutrition adviser faces criticism after receiving money from chocolate industry

A spate of recent reports have accused a top member of Scotland’s food standards agency of bias after revealing her financial ties to a major chocolate firm - is the junk food industry meddling with objective scientific research?

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2q50uKb

GALLERY: Mintel on super soups and how to shake up a saturated and mature market

With unusual ingredients (think sea buckthorn, cacao nibs and 'ugly' vegetables), convenient packaging and a focus on minimal processing, manufacturers can shake up the saturated and mature prepared soup market, says Mintel.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2pgzy7C

Plant protein may prove a more effective diabetic defence: Study

Consuming protein from plants rather than meat greatly reduces chances of type 2 diabetes, new research shows.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2q50kCO

Rogue one: Liver immune cells turn to dark side in the face of obesity

Being overweight and following a high-fat diet appears to reprogram virus-fighting immune cells into disease-promotors in a discovery that sheds light as to why the liver produces an excess of glucose in diabetics.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2pgAPva

Data protection and quality management essential for food industry security

The volume of data in the food industry is on the rise, from e-commerce to supply-chain information - and with the EU's data protection regulation set to come into force next year, suppliers and manufacturers need to start devising a strategy, writes data-security expert Rainer Seidlitz.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2q4Pdtm

Experts dismiss new study showing dangers of BPA

New research shows exposure to Bisphenol A (BPA) in pregnant mice can disrupt the immune system and lead to multiple sclerosis in infancy, but experts say the chemical poses no risk to humans.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2pgehLl

MEPs vote to end cross-border bias in online shopping

Shopping for specialty foods could become easier after an EU committee voted to lift restrictions preventing retailers from selling products online to consumers living in another member state.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2q4TQDM

FDA culls huge number of foreign food facility registrations

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2pgyjVR

RSPO issues first ever RSPO Next palm oil certification

The Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO) has issued its first RSPO Next certification, a stricter voluntary add-on, to Colombian-based agribusiness Daabon Group.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2q4Pa0A

From take-over fears to taxes, sustainability to social media marketing: FoodNavigator reader survey results are in

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2pgpPOG

Operation Opson: Counterfeit alcohol tops list

Nearly 26 million litres of fake alcohol has been seized as part of an INTERPOL-Europol operation.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2q51Jcx

Experimental dairy farm opens in Catalonia

A new experimental dairy farm has been opened in Spain.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2pgykZV

Manning Impex ups Asian offering for UK market with seaweed snacks

UK-based importer and distributor Manning Impex has added Tao Kae Noi seaweed snacks to its Asian snack portfolio.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2q4Hsnl

Robotic burger flipper for commercial kitchens

Would you like some C. difficile with your lunch?

Authorities ‘fully alert’ to wanghong food risks

Shanghai’s food watchdog has been clamping down on the sale of wanghong—or food endorsed by high-profile bloggers and celebrities on the internet.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2q4pAsE

Indian plant central to Naturex drive to boost emerging markets

Having first gained a foothold in India with its acquisition of Roha in 2012, Naturex has cemented its position in the local fruit and vegetable powders market by being ahead in drum-dry technology.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2otxf3I

India sees 1000% beer growth in six years

Having seen substantial growth since 2011, India’s beer market is expected to reach volumes of nearly 470bn litres by the end of this year—a near thousand-fold increase since 2011.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2pg3xMI

FDA culls huge number of foreign food facility registrations

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2pfGCRU

Sainsbury’s removes a number of Houmous products after complaints over the taste

Supermarket chain Sainsbury’s has temporarily removed a number of Houmous products from its stores due to a ‘taste issue’.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2p1UOPP

Operation Opson: Counterfeit alcohol tops list

Nearly 26 million litres of fake alcohol has been seized as part of an INTERPOL-Europol operation.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2qbACsw

Kimberly-Clark Professional addresses allergens and hand hygiene

Kimberly-Clark Professional has launched an industrial cloth and a system that uses behavioural science to improve worker hand hygiene.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2pwDG6y

Fiji looks at irradiation to open up fruit and veg exports

Fiji has proposed a project to support irradiation to help increase exports of fruits and vegetables to international markets.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2qbrXGr

US and Australia recognise food safety systems as comparable

Australia and the US have signed a bilateral food safety recognition agreement after five years of work.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2pwsmXQ

Conagra completes takeover of meat snacks brand

Packaged Foods produced Conagra Brands has completed its acquisition of meat snacks and sunflower seeds maker Thanasi Foods for an undisclosed sum.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2phVXDB

Magnet found in sausage mix sparks recall

Florida-based Uncle John’s Pride has issued a recall for over 63 tonnes (t) of ready-to-eat smoked meat and chicken sausages after a magnet was found in a product mix.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2q1DdWO

Perdue confirmed as US agriculture secretary

America’s meat trade has reacted warmly to news that Donald Trump’s pick for agriculture secretary, Sonny Perdue, has finally been confirmed by the US senate.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2pi3GBp

Digital shift may boost EU organic meat imports

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2p1bw1Q

Wave Industries Hawk-Eye 800 data logger

The Hawk-Eye 800 is a professional, user-friendly solution for both local and remote process monitoring, control and data recording. It has been designed for small to medium applications.

It has the following hardware features: eight configurable analog inputs; four derived inputs; four digital inputs; eight relay outputs; two isolated analog outputs; a rugged IP65 enclosure; an in-built, 10.6″, high-resolution, full-colour touch screen; and Wi-Fi connection.

The product is supplied in three versions that can be tailored to the user’s exact requirements: the Hawk-Eye 800 Bronze version, which is for monitoring, recording, alarming and reporting only; the Hawk-Eye 800 Silver version, which also includes two PID and two on/off controllers; and the Hawk-Eye 800 Gold version, which includes four PID controllers and four on/off controllers as well as full PLC capability.

The device can be applied to hundreds of applications and is easily configured as a food temperature safety system. It will send intelligent alarm messages to any number of email recipients as soon as a parameter moves outside its allocated limits for a configurable period or returns within the allowable limits.

It will also email and save daily scheduled reports in csv format, saving on labour and ensuring records are free of human error. Those reports can be analysed using Excel or Wave Industries’ own user-friendly software, which produces a graph and can save it in any photo format. Users can log into the device securely and operate it just as though they were on-site.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2os2OLx

Urschel TranSlicer 2510 Cutter

The TranSlicer 2510 Cutter, from Urschel, represents the largest footprint of the TranSlicer line of cutting machinery. Suitable for leafy vegetables, applications include romaine, iceberg, kale, radicchio, cabbage, spinach, celery, cucumber, eggplant, honeydew, rock melon and leek.

The product features several interchangeable 635 mm-diameter cutting wheels (slicing, crinkle slicing, shredding and julienne) to produce a full range of slices, shreds and julienne cuts at the highest capacities found in the TranSlicer line. An optional static hold down assembly is available for feeding assistance.

The device accepts firm products up to 171 mm in diameter and leafy-type products up to 203 mm in diameter. To accommodate different types of products, the machine offers a choice between three feed belt configurations: primary belts only, primary and secondary belts, or full-length primary belts. The machine operates via a variable frequency drive (VFD). The feed zone is completely separate from the mechanical zone to promote sanitation.

The replaceable feed belt guide eliminates the need to replace an entire assembly. Optional overlapping belt guards, belt lead-ins and belt slide extensions assist with positive product feed and increased yield.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2oIqwiw

Monday, 24 April 2017

Protein power: Consumers in emerging Asian markets increasingly understand the benefits

Consumer understanding of the nutritional benefits of protein is soaring in Asia, according to research from NZMP, the ingredients brand of New Zealand-based dairy manufacturer Fonterra.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2pfUC00

Childhood obesity in India 'biggest threat to future generations'

India will have the second largest childhood obesity problem by 2025 in what has been described as “the greatest threat to future generations.”

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2pZipPD

Taste, habits, price and availability: Why young Singaporean adults aren’t eating whole grains

Food manufacturers and health officials have to overcome significant barriers to encourage the consumption of disease-fighting whole grains among young Singaporean adults, a new study has found.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2pfXoCp

Most Chinese ‘fake news’ stories involve food safety

Most fake news stories in China concern food safety, according to a online verification team set up by Tencent.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2pZcvOF

Hong Kong AI warning as human case now critical

Hong Kong has issued a bird flu warning, confirming that the condition of a man stricken by the disease in Jilin Province, north east China, is now critical.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2pZ2ZOn

Top public nutrition adviser faces criticism after receiving money from chocolate industry

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2oFkrDC

GALLERY: Mintel on super soups and how to shake up a saturated and mature market

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2opan5B

Plant protein may prove a more effective diabetic defence: Study

Consuming protein from plants rather than meat greatly reduces chances of type 2 diabetes, new research shows.

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Rogue one: Liver immune cells turn to dark side in the face of obesity

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Data protection and quality management essential for food industry security

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How to reduce sugar scientifically and creatively in confectionery

Soluble dietary fibers, dextrins and added vanilla can help manufacturers cut sugar beyond reducing portion size, writes Leatherhead Food Research’s head of microscopy.

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Fake olive oil in Brazil, Czech’s check honey and Spanish seizures

We are back with what will be a monthly round-up (GFSI and Pittcon got in the way!) from food safety agencies wider than the English-speaking ones.

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Vaccination tackles lumpy skin disease in SE Europe

Mass vaccination of cattle succeeded in containing lumpy skin disease in south-eastern Europe in 2015-16, according to the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).

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Better testing fuels US meat pathogen reports

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France prepares response after China lifts meat import ban

European and French meat industry organisations are preparing to respond to China’s decision to lift its embargo on French exports of de-boned beef for animals.

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Cargill JV opens $100m oilseed plant in north China

Cargill has opened an oilseeds processing plant in northern China that it has built in partnership with New Hope and Hebei Bohai Investment Group.

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Home-based treatment with local therapeutic food helps tackle child malnutrition in India: Trial

Locally prepared ready-to-use therapeutic food is the best option for tackling severe acute malnutrition among Indian children, a trial has found.

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Fizzing with ideas: Indian start-up mirrors changing face of retail

Five years ago, three university friends decided to take a break from their blue-chip jobs and do something very different in the food industry. What they have achieved since then says as much about about the changing face of Indian retail and food consumerism as it does about their ability to spot and then capitalise on a lucrative niche.

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Fore! Golf ball pieces prompt McCain Foods recall

McCain Foods USA has recalled hash browns that may be contaminated with golf ball materials.

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Food labs looking to make better use of resources - Agilent

To understand the food safety and quality landscape we sent a Q+A to several companies to discuss highlights of 2016 and to predict what this year could bring.

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Nutrition regulations likely will languish under Trump, but enforcement for food safety will increase

After eight years under the Obama Administration of a “whole lot of fun” for nutrition policy advocates, the next four years under the Trump White House likely will feel like a “swinging pendulum” to the far other extreme, according to a prominent food and drug lawyer.

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CDC revises tracking of foodborne illness trends

Changes in use of tests that diagnose foodborne illness pose challenges to monitoring and disease prevention, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

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Frito-Lay recalls potato chips due to Salmonella concerns

Frito-Lay is recalling some potato chips in the US and Canada due to possible Salmonella in the seasoning.

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Sunday, 23 April 2017

TCM heritage and modern innovation: Firm secures sales success through supplement and functional food expansion

Harnessing the heritage of Traditional Chinese Medicine with modern supplement and functional food trends can help Chinese companies boost growth at home and across Asia – providing it is backed by sound science.

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Cooperating food trucks

Food trucks are the fastest-growing sector in the restaurant industry, generating approximately $850 million in revenue in 2015, according to the Rice University study ‘Competition of a Different Flavor: How a Strategic Group Identity Shapes Competition and Cooperation’.

The study, published in Administrative Science Quarterly, focuses on 41 gourmet food trucks in Houston which were found to cooperate extensively and engage in friendly competition to promote the group members’ excellence and uniqueness.

Based on a qualitative analysis of prototypical members of Houston’s gourmet food truck market, the researchers found that members cooperate to help each other meet the central tendencies of the group, such as tasty food and good ingredients, reliable business practices around cleanliness and legal matters, and mobility in terms of truck location and social media. The researchers said members support each other, for example, by fixing each other’s trucks, running errands, donating supplies and volunteering on other trucks.

The researchers also found that members compete to strive for the ideal tendencies of the group — the attributes of members held in highest regard — such as having the best food, most reliable business practices or greatest mobility.

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Foodservice trends in 2017

Here are some key findings from Euromonitor International’s 2017 edition of Consumer Foodservice, which is now available.

China and emerging regions driving growth

In 2016 total foodservice value sales grew by 4.6%, with similar expected growth for 2017. With the exception of the US market, value growth is buoyed by emerging markets. Over the next five years, consumers are expected to spend nearly twice as much on foodservice in China as the US. The Chinese market will remain central to many corporate global growth strategies.

Chicken the preferred fast food

The strongest performing format in 2016 was chicken fast food, which grew 8% by value to reach US$65.6 billion in total global sales. As a menu offering, chicken enjoys universal appeal and, unlike more regional-specific items such pizza or burgers, chicken can be found on menus in all world markets and is highly adaptable to local consumer preferences.

Coffee, anyone?

Specialist coffee shops were the second fastest growing format in 2016 by value. The specialist coffee shop format continued to perform well in all world regions — evidence of the format’s increasingly universal appeal — but specialist coffee shops have become particularly attractive to consumers in emerging markets. In Latin America and Asia Pacific, where the format grew fastest, demand for specialist coffee shops is driven by a consumer base with greater access to disposable income who can afford the relative luxury of specialty beverages.

Tech-driven chains pressure top players for share of global foodservice

Technology has become an integral part of global growth strategies, and the fastest growing global chains have also become leaders in tech-driven foodservice. With an effective mobile strategy, a popular rewards program and modern payment options, Starbucks, for example, grew 11.6% by value in 2016 to close the gap with leading operators McDonald’s Corp, Yum! Brands Inc and Restaurant Brands International Inc. No company in the top 10 global rankings grew faster than Domino’s Pizza Inc, which grew 13.9% by value in 2016 and continued to grow its share of the global market. Domino’s Pizza continued to invest in technology that enhances the convenience in ordering, preparation and delivery — all aspects of the modern foodservice experience that consumers in all world markets increasingly prefer.

Convenience stores and fast food

Convenience stores’ fast food grew 6.1% by value in 2016. Posting US$18.8 billion in 2016 foodservice sales, Japan-based Seven & I Holdings Co Ltd (7-Eleven) overtook Doctor’s Associates Inc (Subway) to become the world’s fifth largest foodservice company by value in 2016. The foodservice offerings at convenience stores continue to improve as operators increasingly look to foodservice to attract customers. With a blend of on-trade and off-trade offerings at value-oriented prices that appeal on variety and convenience, convenience stores are becoming the foodservice format that modern consumers need. Modern convenience stores increasingly offer more healthful menu offerings and in-store dining options.

New concepts in consumer foodservice

During this edition of the research, analysts in all 54 countries were asked to submit the most interesting and most relevant new restaurant concepts in their market. These new concepts will form the basis of two new global briefings that seek to uncover the most important foodservice trends emerging across global markets. The typical global consumer leads an increasingly modern, urban, digitally connected lifestyle, and restaurants are learning how to provide a modern experience that consumers need, as well as one that suits consumers’ evolving dining preferences. Ranging from vegan comfort food street stalls in Finland to food parks in the Philippines, this year’s new concepts highlight how novelty and innovation in all forms are critical to the greater foodservice experience that consumers seek.

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Nutrition label readers choose 'better' food

Nutrition label readers are a special bunch. Although they eat pretty much the same amount of food as non-nutrition-label readers, they choose better, higher quality foods.

“Research has often concluded that people who use nutrition labels eat better. But we don’t necessarily talk about what better means,” explained Brenna Ellison, a professor of agriculture and consumer economics the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.

To examine the relationship between label use and food selection, servings and consumption, Ellison and Mary J Christoph of the University of Minnesota combined survey and photographic data of the lunch plates of college students at two different university dining halls. Food selection, servings and consumption were assessed using digital photography, a method with strong reliability for validating portion sizes compared with weighing food and visual estimation.

“In terms of measuring and evaluating the plates, we had students who built their own plates because it was a self-serve dining environment,” Ellison said. “Diners were only eligible if they were just sitting down to eat. It couldn’t be someone who was halfway through their meal, which would misrepresent what they were eating and skew the results.”

Based on the meals assessed, the quantity of foods served and consumed were roughly similar between the two groups. There were, however, distinct differences in the types of foods plated and consumed within MyPlate food categories between those who tended to read nutrition labels and those who didn’t, the researchers found.

The results indicate that a greater proportion of nutrition-label users selected more fruits, vegetables and beans, and fewer potatoes and refined grains, compared with non-label users. In addition, fewer label users selected fried foods and foods with added sugars, Ellison said.

“We find that it’s more about the types of food rather than the quantity of the food,” Ellison said. “The amount of food between label users and non-label users was roughly the same amount. It’s the differences in quality that are more prevalent than the sheer amount of food selected.”

Using digital photography also provided a more objective assessment of food selection, servings and consumption compared with self-reporting because “you don’t have to rely on students remembering how much of each food they ate”, Ellison said.

“That’s one big advantage to this study. Another one is that diners did not interact with our data collectors until after their plate was built. So our data collection methods shouldn’t have affected what they chose. For example, people weren’t picking more salad because they knew there was going to be a picture taken of their plate.”

Participants were further surveyed on sociodemographic and behavioural variables such as gender, body mass index, exercise frequency and nutrition education to better assess the possible link between label use and food selection, servings and consumption, according to the paper.

Examining nutrition labels is often recommended by doctors and dietitians to improve food choices, but choice does not always translate to consumption. Furthermore, evidence on the effectiveness of labels is mixed and few studies can identify how labels actually influence behaviour, Ellison said.

“Previous research has focused on portion control for weight loss or weight management — generally eating less. But more recent research indicates this may not be the most effective message. By eating less, consumers may feel deprived, or even ‘hangry’, which can make it difficult to sustain long-term dietary behaviours,” she said. “Newer research indicates that eating less of certain types of foods, rather than all foods, may matter more.”

Although the results show label users eat differently than non-users, the implications of the research suggest there may be a need for greater consumption of fruit, vegetables, beans, whole grains and low-fat dairy among both groups.

In addition to posting labels, Ellison said dining facilities may want to increase offerings of nutrient-dense foods (whole grains and vegetables, for example) or consider product reformulations that creatively incorporate these foods to encourage healthy eating behaviours.

But Ellison warned that the study’s findings should still be cautiously interpreted, as the conclusions are based on only one meal.

The research paper ‘A Cross-Sectional Study of the Relationship between Nutrition Label Use and Food Selection, Servings, and Consumption in a University Dining Setting’ will appear in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

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Viscon Matrix storage system

The Viscon Matrix storage system is a fully automated system to store, sort and further handle products like pallets and similar sized articles. These different loads can even be handled at random within the same system.

The system operates with innovative wireless satellites instead of traditional chain-driven storage lanes or telescope movements. Vertical conveyors distribute the load to the required levels. Every level contains at least one horizontally moving shuttle, which transports the load to the required storage lane. The shuttle carries a self-powered satellite device that runs on rails in the storage lanes for loading and unloading pallets. Viscon’s fully integrated in-house software ensures efficient routing and comes standardised or custom made.

The storage system has many advantages compared to products like stacker cranes (AS/RS systems), including: a 70% increase in storage density, according to the company; 24/7 capacity; high performance, due to simultaneous orders on each individual layer; a compact design that ensures optimal use of the user’s building area; low maintenance, due to a minimal amount of driven components; safe access, by moving components to one side; and control software which can be integrated seamlessly. It is flexible and functional in temperatures as low as -30°C.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2ojzC9l

ACO Polycrete drainage channels

To prevent the contamination of harmful bacteria, a range of hygienic stainless steel channels has been designed by ACO Polycrete to meet stringent industry requirements.

The deep-drawn bodies enable complete drainage, thereby eliminating stagnant wastewater, smells and microbial growth. The designs incorporate large radii in the channels to ensure ease of cleaning.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2pTYhOK

Join the Australian Pavilion at Anuga FoodTec 2018

Held every third year in Cologne, Germany, Anuga FoodTec is a monster show where the food and beverage industry meets with international suppliers to learn about the latest developments in food processing, food packaging, food safety, food ingredients, services and solutions.

In 2015, 1500 exhibitors showcased their products and services to 45,000 trade visitors from 139 countries — yes, it’s that big!

Interested? Now you can join a group of Australian companies involved in food and beverage processing and packaging, ingredients, logistics and support services in the Australian Pavilion at Anuga FoodTec 2018. Join this group to boost your export opportunities, establish new business contacts and deepen existing relationships.

The organisers are offering an all-inclusive participation package and will lead you through the process from registration to follow-up.

Email the organisers now for more information.

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Friday, 21 April 2017

British retail consortium releases ‘Brexit Tariff Roadmap’

The British food industry will face a serious hike in prices unless a tariff deal is struck, says trade association British Retail Consortium (BRC).

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DuPont health & nutrition president on mega mergers, start-up successes and new product launch plans

Despite its recent mega mergers and billion-dollar business deals, DuPont is still very much focussed on collaborating with start-ups. “Not everything has to be invented in our labs,” its nutrition and health president Matthias Heinzel tells FoodNavigator.

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Sunday, 30 April 2017

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