Chinese beef firm refocuses priorities

Restaurants, rather than meat counters, are the road to profits for a major Chinese beef processor, which operates high-end outlets across Beijing.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1VcO7nn

DNA seaweed authentication test launched in UK

UK bulk seaweed ingredient supplier Seaweed & Co has teamed with Geneius Laboratories to develop a DNA-based seaweed certification test after working together for five months.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1MEzyrb

First food crime report published by FSA

The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has published its first assessment of the threat of crime to the UK food and drink sector.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1RNpjQp

Stevia passes muster with EU for approved use in mustard

The European Commission has approved the use of stevia as a sweetener in mustard in Europe, a decision welcomed by manufacturers as an opportunity for new product development.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1RPUiP1

Painted olives, monkey meat & fertiliser sugar: Europol's global food fraud crackdown

From olives painted with blue copper sulphate to monkey meat and sugar laced with fertiliser, Europol and Interpol have seized 10,000 tonnes of fake food in their biggest global operation to date.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1RNpjA0

Nano 3D structure of food could lead to reduced costs and waste

3D images of food produced at a nano level promise to save on food industry costs and reduce food waste as a result of faulty production, according to a study’s authors.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1RPUiOZ

Adams Foods takes on Ornua name

UK-based Adams Foods and Adams Food Ingredients have changed their names to reflect their parent company, Ornua.  

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1RNphbp

Coca-Cola HBC tracks shifts in consumer preferences

Health and wellness continues to be a priority for consumers, while evolving market dynamics are changing the way people shop, says Coca-Cola Hellenic Bottling Company.   

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1RPUiOR

Sprouted grain snack opportunities: flavor, free-from and Europe

They are still niche – and not cheap to work with – but sprouted grains are set to continue to grow in importance to the snacks industry.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1RNphbe

Painted olives, monkey meat & fertiliser sugar: Europol's global food fraud crackdown

From olives painted with blue copper sulphate to monkey meat and sugar laced with fertiliser, Europol and Interpol have seized 10,000 tonnes of fake food in their biggest global operation to date.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1MWuYzt

Brazil to unlock US beef market

Brazil is expected to export its first shipments of fresh beef to the US by mid-2016, despite the fact it has not yet secured access to the US market, according to a report from Rabobank.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1X0bLlT

Hilton Food Group buoyed by strong profits

Multinational meat packing business Hilton Food Group has reported strong profit growth for 2015, but analysts have questioned if the business can maintain results against the backdrop of Brexit.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1UFmc10

Ireland’s ABP eyes Polish meat processor

Irish meat giant ABP Food Group has unveiled plans to acquire the assets of Polish beef processor Sklodowscy-Tykocin sp z o o.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1X0bLT3

Where did that foreign body come from?

Honeywell ZSim2 emulation software

Honeywell Sensing and Productivity Solutions has released ZSim2 emulation software that facilitates fast barcode label printing and simplifies printer upgrades.

The software platform is compatible with the Zebra ZPL II printer command language. Available on most Honeywell printers, the software is designed for easy installation and configuration. It prints labels that are virtually identical to those printed by other devices, according to the company.

The software includes emulation tools to improve printing capabilities like font matching.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1pNgZ9R

Kollmorgen SFD3 single servo cable system with digital resolver

The Kollmorgen SFD3 (Smart Feedback Device; 3rd Generation) single servo cable system combines single-cable technology with robust resolver feedback.

The digital resolver technology can simultaneously transfer motor ID and temperature data and it requires two wires instead of the customary four wires for resolver feedback. One cable and feedback combination is suitable for all applications, both conventional and high-end. It is suitable for use with Kollmorgen’s AKMH Stainless Steel IP69K Food Grade compliant servo motors. Due to the high interference resistance, data can be transferred safely within one cable.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/22RCTdK

Atlas Copco Z Series variable speed drive compressor

The Atlas Copco Z Series variable speed drive compressor has an in-built air drying system and energy recovery.

The addition of variable speed drive technology provides savings in electrical power of up to 35% compared to standard oil-free air compressors, according to the company. Coupled with the unique heat of compression adsorption dryer, the compressor is able to provide Class Zero, clean, dry compressed air for use in food processing applications.

The compressors are sized from 15 to 315 kW and are available as air cooled or water cooled (from 30 kW). Energy recovery systems can be used with the water-cooled versions, which allow up to 94% of the applied electrical energy to be recovered as heat for processing, effectively enabling the use of input energy twice.

For more information, click here.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1pNgZ9M

Assurance GDS Cronobacter test

Cronobacter, also known as Enterobacter, is an opportunistic pathogenic bacteria responsible for foodborne illness. Cronobacter is able to survive in desiccated states for extended periods of time, which means that it can be a problem in powdered dairy products.

As Cronobacter is known to cause severe complications in infants, such as sepsis, enterocolitis and meningitis, it is important to screen for this organism in infant formulas. Traditional methods for detection include culturing, which can take 3–5 days and involves multiple steps and a high degree of expertise.

The Assurance GDS (Genetic Detection System) offers a Cronobacter species result in 26 h for infant formula, powdered milk and environmental samples. The GDS is a highly sensitive, highly specific PCR platform for pathogen screening. The method for Cronobacter is a simple one-step enrichment, followed by amplification and detection in the thermal cycler.

The system is suitable for use in most processing plants and laboratories.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1pNh1P0

Kyoei KKS-621WT double sausage link cutter

The Kyoei KKS-621WT double sausage link cutter uses complex light sensor technology to provide speed, precision and efficiency.

The compact design allows users to integrate the machine into existing sausage production lines to cut links of sausages such as frankfurters, hot dogs and wieners. The machines are safe and hygienic, can be disassembled without tools and are easy to maintain.

The system completely removes the links of sausage with diameters of 12–35 mm and can also be customised to meet specific requirements. It is suitable for all types of casings — natural, cellulose or collagen — and can include an optional slitting device to put slits in one side or both sides of the sausage to improve shelf appeal.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/22RCSXp

Philippines unveils action plan to transform into agribusiness hub

The Philippines government has laid out a blueprint for the country to become a regional agribusiness hub by 2022 through a comprehensive national industrial strategy.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1MDHMQd

Singapore’s first food manufacturing complex signs its first tenants

Food manufacturers will soon have the opportunity to secure premises at Singapore’s first food hub as the government-backed project signed its first tenants.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1RzJcs3

Shock tactics used in latest Thai diabetes awareness campaign

The Diabetes Association of Thailand has taken a shocking approach in its latest awareness campaign by using images of confectionery to create a frightful picture of infections and festering wounds on limbs.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1MDHMzU

Study: Tropical ecosystems pay the price for underpriced agriculture

While international trade may generate economic benefits to agricultural exporters in the tropics, a groundbreaking study by National University of Singapore researchers reveals that benefits from trade cannot compensate for the loss of forests and ecosystems in those countries.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1RzJ9MC

Unsanitary conditions alleged at Native American Enterprises

A civil complaint has been filed against Native American Enterprises (NAE) seeking to close it due to food safety concerns.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/234gZRr

Research round-up: Food-grade coatings and TDLAS

We often don’t take into account the work behind something or take it for granted when it is there and it works. Why does it work and how – there is a good chance it is due to research. FQN takes a look at some recent examples.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1qliZGH

Romer Labs targets soy detection

Romer Labs has launched a soy test kit to protect brands and consumers from accidental soy contamination.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/234gZRo

An herb to watch: Ashwagandha science growing consumer recognition and sales

Sales of Ashwagandha are booming as the pressures of modern life push consumers to seek out natural solutions to problems like stress, leading suppliers tell NutraIngredients-USA. But what’s next for this Ayurvedic herb? 

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1Uu4UDB

New frontiers: Japan’s origin chocolate sector ripe for innovation, says Tachibana

Tachibana & Co hopes to diversity Japan’s chocolate sector by offering cocoa origins beyond Ghana.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1WZchk6

Omega-3 doesn't help male muscle builders: Study

Fish oil supplementation makes no difference to muscle growth in healthy, young men who weight train with whey protein, a study has concluded.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1Uu4SeR

Beef imports rise as China’s growth cools

China’s official beef imports surged by more than 50% last year as a government crackdown on grey market meat bolstered formal trade figures, according to a new report.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1WZciVi

Garden of Life refreshes brand as Salmonella outbreak grows

Salmonella illnesses linked to Garden of Life RAW Meal Organic Shake & Meal Products have reached 27 from 20 states.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1M292ba

Interpol assists in uncovering illegal fishing investigation

Six people have been arrested and a further 13 are under investigation after a Spanish investigation into illegal fishing.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1ZMowT1

FDA makes funding available to help with produce safety rule

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has made up to $19m available in fiscal year 2016 to support states with the produce safety rule.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1M29039

Great Basin Scientific gets FDA clearance for Shiga Toxin Direct Test

Great Basin Scientific has been granted clearance from the US Food & Drug Administration (FDA) for its Shiga Toxin Direct Test.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1ZMowSX

Diversey Care makes food safety management digital

Diversey Care, a division of Sealed Air, has launched a digital food safety management platform to help firms boost safety and quality of operations. 

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1M29037

Recalls: Pest contamination and glass

Food recalls for a week in March 2016 came from Australia, Germany, New Zealand, Austria, Denmark, Belgium, Netherlands, Sweden, Finland, Luxembourg and England.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1ZMowST

Automation/schmautomation: where is Industry 4.0 in the meat industry?

Country of origin labelling gets the go-ahead

The states and territories have given the green light to the federal government’s reforms to country of origin food labelling, giving Australian consumers clearer and more meaningful information about the products they buy.

The Deputy Prime Minister and the Minister for Agriculture and Water Resources, Barnaby Joyce, and the Minister for Industry, Innovation and Science, Christopher Pyne, congratulated their state and territory colleagues for passing the reforms.

“This is an issue that has vexed governments on both sides for many years and today is a major breakthrough Australians have long been waiting for,” Pyne said.

“The new food labelling system will provide Australian consumers with the clarity they deserve, without imposing an overly onerous burden on businesses.”

Many foods found on Australian retail shelves will be required to include a kangaroo in a triangle logo to indicate the food is made, produced or grown in Australia. The new system will also include a bar chart, indicating the proportion of Australian ingredients.

“Australian consumers should be able to trust that claims such as ‘Made in’ and ‘Product of’ are applied consistently — and the new system will ensure that’s the case,” Joyce said.

“Australians want to know whether the product is from our nation or another, and if a mix of the two, what proportion is from our nation.”

Vegetable industry body AUSVEG welcomed the agreement, with CEO Richard Mulcahy describing it as “an encouraging step forward”.

“After many years of campaigning for effective reforms that eliminate ambiguous and deceptive labelling terminology, AUSVEG is pleased that the state departments have maximised the opportunity to come together and support the federal government’s proposed reforms.

“Market research has shown that Australian consumers are desperate for a clearer indication of where the food they are buying comes from, as confusing statements such as ‘Made from local and imported ingredients’ left them none the wiser about a product’s real origin,” said Mulcahy.

“Although the proposed system does not offer a complete solution to these issues, AUSVEG recognises that it is an encouraging step forward to provide consumers with more transparent, informative labelling on the foods they buy.”

With the introduction of the reforms, the enhanced country of origin labelling requirements will move from the Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code to Australian Consumer Law.

Minister for Small Business and Assistant Treasurer Kelly O’Dwyer said the government has provided the ACCC with additional funding of $4.2 million over five years to undertake compliance and enforcement activities in relation to the new requirements.

The reforms will be introduced from 1 July with labels expected to appear in retail outlets later this year.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/233DVjB

Pouches, shelf life drive aseptic packaging growth

Ebro EBI 330 single-use transport data loggers

VWR International has available Ebro Single Use EBI 330 data loggers for monitoring the temperature of food and other temperature-critical products during the transportation process.

The single-use data loggers EBI 330-T30 (-30°C to +60°C) and EBI 330-T85 (-85°C to +50°C) are an extension to the EBI 300 family.

The data loggers, incorporating USB plug and automatic PDF generation, enable temperature control and documentation in the food industry according to EN 12830 as well as the transport monitoring of medicine, blood plasma and other pharmaceutical products. The loggers are suitable for situations where return of multi-use loggers to the sender is either difficult or impractical because of effort and cost.

The data loggers can be ordered preconfigured or can be configured by the user. The push of a button starts the logger at the place of departure and the product will measure until the memory is full or until the data logger is connected to the USB port of a PC at the destination. The data loggers generate a PDF report with all important measurement data without the need for additional software.

The 80 x 28 x 12 mm data loggers save up to 6000 measurement values and can be used for up to 100 days. The loggers have flexible configuration options, including sample rate, alarm limits, language and measuring units. A red flashing LED shows the exceeding of the limit.

The devices are waterproof (IP65) and come with a robust housing to withstand most harsh conditions. A batch calibration certificate is available on demand.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1onpuqV

Food tech company invests in metal additive system for spare parts

Additive Industries has announced the sale of a metal additive Beta system to Kaak Group, a Dutch food tech company specialising in integrated automated bakery systems.

“We will use metal additive manufacturing to produce parts for our dough-handling equipment and foresee an important role for 3D metal printing in our future global spare parts supply chain,” said Kaak CEO Lodewijk van der Borg.

Additive Industries has now closed its Beta program and has effectively sold out its MetalFAB1 systems, available in this phase three months after its market launch at the end of 2015. In parallel to the execution of the MetalFAB1 Beta program, Additive Industries will start preparing for series production.

“We expect the first series machines to leave our factory before the end of this year,” said Daan Kersten, co-founder and CEO of Additive Industries.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1UDTpK4

GS1 Australia upgrades product recall portal

GS1 Australia has launched a new version of its electronic product recall notification management system.

GS1 Australia’s Recall service is an online portal that streamlines the management of product recalls by enhancing the speed, efficiency and accuracy of the recall process.

Initially launched for the food and beverage industry in 2011, the Recall online portal was rolled out to the healthcare sector in 2013 and the general merchandise and apparel industry in 2014.

The enhanced version has been developed in response to user feedback, offering new features including a more intuitive interface and improved functionality to streamline the recall of products and protect the reputation of affected brands.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1MCNjqi

Two men convicted for illegal fish imports

The discovery of live fish in baggage at Adelaide Airport has led to two men being convicted for illegal fish importing.

South Australian business owner Huy Truong was convicted for hiring convicted fish importer Kwok Weai Alex Chang to smuggle 176 exotic fish across the Australian border in February 2015.

Australian Border Force (ABF) Commander Rachel Houghton said that the conviction was a result of a joint investigation between the ABF, Primary Industries and Regions South Australia, the Department of the Environment and the Department of Agriculture and Water Resources.

“ABF staff discovered live fish worth $235,000 in Chang’s baggage at Adelaide Airport on 2 February 2015 and this triggered a wider investigation to find Truong,” Commander Houghton said.

“Truong has been sentenced to nearly three years’ imprisonment and released on a two-year good behaviour bond, while Chang received almost three years in prison when he was sentenced last year.”

Commander Houghton said the action taken by the ABF to combat the international trade in rare animals would protect our delicate natural wildlife from the devastating impact of foreign diseases and predators.

“Illegal importers don’t think of the animal’s safety and wellbeing during transport — in this case, a large number of the fish did not survive the journey.”

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1MCNh1u

ProPak Asia 2016 to feature Australian Pavilion

Australia’s packaging and processing industry is set to receive a boost, with an Australian Pavilion to be featured at the ProPak Asia 2016 exhibition.

ProPak Asia is an international processing and packaging trade event for Asia’s expanding food, drink and pharmaceutical industries, which will be held 15–18 June in Bangkok, Thailand.

The Australian Pavilion has been launched by the Australian Packaging and Processing Machinery Association (APPMA), which identified a need to help Australian manufacturers and distributors to showcase their products and companies to the Asian market in an affordable way.

Confirmed pavilion participants include: HMPS, Adaptapack, Rhima, Confoil, Accupack, the APPMA and the Australian Institute of Packaging (AIP). Outside of the pavilion other APPMA member companies such as tna, Heat and Control and Fibre King will also be exhibiting at the show.

ProPak Asia 2016 has six dedicated zones: DrinkTechAsia, FoodTechAsia, Lab&TestAsia, PackagingMaterialsAsia, PharmaTechAsia and PrintTechAsia, to highlight growing demand from these sectors.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1RLTBzX

MHP set to boost production and improve poultry welfare

Ukraine poultry processor MHP has set a number of ambitious goals for 2016, including an increase in production capacity at its Ukraine facilities.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/232KJ0R

Beef imports rise as China’s growth cools

China’s official beef imports surged by more than 50% last year as a government crackdown on grey market meat bolstered formal trade figures, according to a new report.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1MCdtJI

European Investment Bank visits growth-seeking Dunbia

Officials from the European Investment Bank have visited Dunbia in Northern Ireland, with the meat producer keen to establish whether the EU bank can “support” the pork business in the future.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/232KJ0M

DuPont gains pathogenic testing approval

DuPont’s Bax System X5 has won AFNOR certification meaning European companies and food safety officials  may be able to easily adopt the system to test for salmonella and E.coli. 

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1MCdtto

Pictures of big portions lead to overeating, study warns

Images featured on food packaging can influence portion sizes that cause consumers to overestimate appropriate serving sizes, a study has discovered. 

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1pLnM3F

A sustainable breakthrough? Dutch dietary advice cuts meat by almost half

The Dutch have slashed recommended meat consumption by almost half, citing both health and environmental reasons in what has been hailed as "a breakthrough" by sustainable food experts.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1MC6IYt

UnfairTrade: Name and shame unsustainable products, says researcher

Food and drink companies should adopt negative labelling on less sustainable products if they want to encourage customers to choose more eco-friendly alternatives, according to a Wageningen University researcher.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1pLnM3B

Cocktail of lime, stevia and β-glucans could open up opportunities for fruit beverages

A trio of lime, stevia and β-glucans could open up opportunities for fruit based beverages that have an increased nutritional value yet are low in sugar, say Danish researchers. 

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1MC6IYl

Food firms should ‘help to fix supply chain’

A dysfunctional supply chain is threatening the future of many farms in Scotland, and food manufacturers can help fix it, according to Allan Bowie, president of National Farmers Union Scotland.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1pLnLNk

Valio announces new $190m dairy snacks factory

Valio is set to open a new €170m ($190m) dairy snack factory in Herajoki, north of the Finnish capital Helsinki, in 2017.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1MC6HDJ

Interpol-Europol busts dodgy weight loss supplements in massive global fraud fight

A global crack down on food fraud coordinated by Europol and Interpol across 57 nations has captured a South Korean-based racket selling contaminated online weight loss food supplements.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1ZLbcOH

Bandesur and AIMPLAS to develop microwave resistant foamed packages

AIMPLAS, Plastics Technology Centre and Spanish company Bandesur have joined forces to develop a polypropylene (PP) tray resistant to microwave heating and a biodegradable and compostable foamed polylactic acid or polylactide (PLA) tray.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/21TMJGe

‘Significant progression’ as Del Monte Foods converts to non-BPA packaging

Hot on the heels of Campbell Soup Company’s announcement that it is switching to BPA-free lined cans by 2017, Del Monte Foods, has revealed this week it is converting to non-BPA linings.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1VTB5vx

Aldi and Happy Shopper snacks recalled over production hygiene fears

A raft of baked and snacking products sold by businesses including retailer Aldi and wholesaler Booker in the UK have been recalled over fears they were produced in unhygienic conditions.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/22OJQML

‘It should not come as a surprise consumer activists are growing impatient with brands’

Comments have been flooding in from consumer groups and industry associations following the announcement that Campbell Soup Company will switch to BPA-free lined cans by 2017.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1Sx9q0y

DSM’s Pack-Age opens up new markets for natural crust cheeses

DSM’s new Pack-Age is a moisture-permeable cheese membrane that can be used to pack and preserve natural crust cheeses.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1qiN3D1

Ancient genes analysed to protect modern wheat

Scientists in Queensland have been undertaking research into ancient wheats in a bid to ensure the crop’s future.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1M08vq6

Survey suggests blokes should man up and swap barbie for kitchen

Australian men are being called to ditch the takeaway and start cooking meals at home after a recent survey found one in four needed to “man up in the kitchen”.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/21TvCo3

Chinese corporation invests in microalgae research in South Australia

A global Chinese agribusiness group will work with Australian academics to expand a microalgae and marine bioproduct development centre in Adelaide.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1M08t1y

New app is latest attempt by government to bring technology to farmers

India’s agriculture minister has launched a mobile app to provide farmers with information relating to best cultivation practices, resource conservation, and new varieties of crops and farm machinery.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/21TvC7E

India’s dairy segment grows despite global slump

India has bucked the trend shown by the globally depressed dairy sector, and is expected to witness significant growth this year.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1M08v9H

Bangladesh gets new regulator to oversee revised food safety law

Bangladesh’s new food safety regulator will commence operations in April with a brief to prevent the production and sale of adulterated food items, the country’s food minister has announced. 

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/21TvEMD

Bangladesh gets new regulator to oversee revised food safety law

Bangladesh’s new food safety regulator will commence operations in April with a brief to prevent the production and sale of adulterated food items, the country’s food minister has announced. 

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1pKtymb

ELAP HLS linear wire encoder for packaging equipment

The ELAP HLS linear wire encoder provides a number of pulses proportional to the linear displacement of the wire. The inside spring controls the return of the wire to the starting position. The transducer consists of a bidirectional incremental rotary encoder operated by means of a wire-reel mechanism; the wire is manufactured of stainless steel covered with nylon.

The encoder is suitable for industrial applications which require high accuracy and measuring lengths. It has a high IP rating against environmental agents and is available with strokes ranging from 1000 to 12,000 mm, resolutions ranging from 0.04 to 1 mm and push-pull or line driver output signal.

The types HLS-S, HLS-M and HLS-L differ for mechanical size and measuring stroke. Typical applications include X-Y tables, oil/air pressure cylinders, packaging equipment, woodworking machines, marble and sheet-working machinery. The device complies with CE standards.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/21Tn4NW

Changing conversation around Ayurveda leading to massive growth for herbal products

Disillusionment with allopathic medicine among Americans is driving interest in Ayurveda and other herbal supplements, says Amy Keller, Director of Education and Training at Organic India.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/230BAGh

South Korea hit with bird flu outbreak

Just one month after securing its bird flu-free status, South Korea’s Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs has confirmed bird flu has been detected near the country’s capital, Seoul. 

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1UU3dz4

Agr International: ‘Southern Asia is one of the fastest growing packaging markets’

Agr International, which develops and manufactures laboratory and on-line testing/quality control devices for containers and similar products, has opened a Service Center in Bangkok, Thailand.   

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/230BAGb

Voice-controlled calorie counter may aid people in losing weight

A spoken-language app that makes calorie counting easier has been developed by researchers, who believe the technology could prove useful for those struggling to lose weight.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1SvBqSk

Brain places energy needs over sweet taste: Mouse data

Given the choice between eating something calorific with an unpleasant taste and more pleasant tasting food that is calorie-light, the brain places energy needs first, a study has shown.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1V3aVFO

Detectamet Detect and Trace sequential laser engraving

Detectamet’s Detect and Trace system offers laser-engraved, sequentially numbered products to create an audit trail that can be used as part of HAACP.

Laser engraving is available on a range of detectable products, including pens, scoops, scrapers and safety knives. Detectable products can be engraved from 1–50, 1–100, 1–250 or 1–500 as standard.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1pJmWob

Kaeser M 350 portable compressor

Kaeser’s Mobilair M 350 portable compressor comprises a Mercedes Benz engine and a Kaeser rotary screw compressor block with Sigma Profile rotors to provide compressed air delivery with minimal emissions and fuel consumption.

The viscous fan clutch controlled via Kaeser’s Sigma Control Mobile can cut fuel consumption by up to 5%, according to the company. The control system matches power to actual compressed air demand, enhancing both compressed air availability and fuel efficiency.

Options include: availability with various pressures; a stationary version; and specialised equipment for use in refineries. Air treatment components can be added to provide cool, dry, technically oil-free air of various classes.

The portable compressor is available in four pressure stages between 8.6 bar (flow rate 34 m³/min) and 14 bar (flow rate 24 m³/min).

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1UBhkdf

Minister mulls tobacco-style health warnings on food packaging

Packaged foods containing high levels of fat, sugar or salt could be forced to display health warnings similar to those on cigarette packets if a suggestion by India’s consumer affairs minister gains traction.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1MRwJhb

Study: Just 1 in 5 Australians consume enough omega-3

The vast majority of Australians fail to meet the recommended daily intake for long-chain omega-3, largely due to the nation’s preference for meat over fish, according to research by the University of Wollongong’s School of Medicine.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/25vmv1s

Made FOR China: Probiotic firm takes up UK export challenge

Welsh probiotic company Cultech will use a free-trade deal to tap into the Chinese market, export ambitions that fall instep with the UK government’s plans to switch from ‘Made in China’ to ‘Made for China’.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1MRwLpb

Voice-controlled calorie counter may aid people in losing weight

A spoken-language app that makes calorie counting easier has been developed by researchers, who believe the technology could prove useful for those struggling to lose weight.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/22ZG7bX

What’s hitting the shelves? Coffee brewed in maple water, acai juice with chia, and alcoholic root beer

From new cold-pressed juices in the US to the alcoholic root beer category in Australia, we take a look at some of the new products reaching beverage aisles across the globe this month. 

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1UB5qzY

Enardo 850/950 Series wirelessly monitored storage tank safety valves

Emerson Process Management has introduced the Enardo 850/950 series of wirelessly monitored pressure vacuum relief valves (PVRVs) that provide safety and emissions control by managing the pressure in storage tanks.

A PVRV opens and closes in response to pressure fluctuations — caused by changes in temperature, liquid level or both — to ensure that safe pressure levels are maintained. However, because PVRVs are located on the top of storage tanks, they are difficult to monitor. The wireless solution enables immediate response to prevent problems related to safety, emissions and the quality of a tank’s content.

For more information, visit http://bit.ly/1pIVxm6.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1LYnzEM

Non-invasive measurement of bacteria levels in packaged ready meals

Are microorganisms the new tool in the kitchen?

Chefs are creating entirely new flavours by harnessing the ability of bacteria and fungi to biochemically transform their growing environments into tasty small molecules.

The creative role of microorganisms in modern cuisine has been featured in an article published in the journal Nature Microbiology. Arielle Johnson, a flavour chemist and head of research at MAD, a food culture non-profit organisation with a close relationship to the restaurant noma, in Copenhagen, writes that fermentation — loosely defined as the transformation of food by microorganisms — has been used to preserve food for thousands of years. However, she suggests the current artisanal food microbiology movement stems from a renewed “appreciation for old techniques and their reinterpretation in the kitchen”.

Renowned restaurants such as noma and Momofuku in New York have transformed their kitchens into makeshift fermentation laboratories, providing a new cooking tool enabling chefs to work with bacteria, fungi and algae to transform ingredients and create new flavours.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1UTldcR

Flowcrete takes food safety floor message to Europe

UK manufacturer of resin flooring, Flowcrete UK, will embark on a tour of Europe’s food and drink trade shows to highlight why good flooring is important to maintaining food safety and preventing contamination.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1MQtYgc

Premium Brands acquires C&C Packing

Canadian food company Premium Brands has bought meat supplier C&C Packing in a deal worth around CA$146m.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1V1CI9L

South Korea hit with bird flu outbreak

Just one month after securing its bird flu-free status, South Korea’s Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs has confirmed bird flu has been detected near the country’s capital, Seoul. 

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1V1qZIr

Full access to Peru an ‘opportunity’ for US meat

Peru’s removal of safety net trade barriers can help boost volume exports of beef to the South American state, according to the US Meat Export Federation (USMEF).

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1RFnUeJ

Brain places energy needs over sweet taste: Mouse data

Given the choice between eating something calorific with an unpleasant taste and more pleasant tasting food that is calorie-light, the brain places energy needs first, a study has shown.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1ojUIzj

Doctors may encourage moderate dark chocolate consumption after latest health links: Researchers

Healthcare professionals may recommend moderate dark chocolate consumption after daily chocolate eating was tied to reducing heart disease risk factors, claim the authors of a cross-sectional study.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1VRM74r

AG Barr focuses on lower sugar drinks after tax plan

Scottish soft drinks company AG Barr says it will focus on lower sugar products to adapt to changing consumer tastes and the chancellor’s proposed sugar tax.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1ZINZfX

Agr International: ‘Southern Asia is one of the fastest growing packaging markets’

Agr International, which develops and manufactures laboratory and on-line testing/quality control devices for containers and similar products, has opened a Service Center in Bangkok, Thailand.   

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1pHTQFH

Campbell Soup Company to switch to non-BPA lined cans in 2017

Campbell Soup Company has announced it will move to cans which do not use Bisphenol A (BPA) linings by the middle of 2017.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1qerdAx

Increasing tide of research floating all Ayurvedic boats, exec says

Increasing research is helping to bake a bigger pie for all Ayurvedic companies, said Natreon CEO Sanni Raju.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1pHPf6p

Vietnam: Nor Feed to capitalize on shift away from antibiotic growth promoters

French plant extracts producer, Nor Feed, says its new alliance in Vietnamese will strengthen its presence in Asia.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1MyLPgK

A.G. Barr shrugs off sugar tax worries

Soft drinks company A.G. Barr says a combination of brand strength and ongoing product reformulation will minimize the financial impact of the UK’s sugar tax on its business.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1qeixKv

Happiness factor: Emotional benefits are top chocolate sales drivers, says Mintel

Chocolate has been tied to improved brain function, enhanced energy, and other health benefits, but confectioners will be better served by leveraging chocolate's emotional connections, according to a recent report by Mintel.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1ojlK9W

New Product Round-up March 2016: Popchips Ridges, Mondelēz Good Thins and Vogel's gluten-free buns

BakeryandSnacks presents a round-up of product launches, relaunches and innovations that caught our eye in March.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1V0Dtjl

Why manufacturers should tell 'a story about food'

Telling a good story about the provenance of food and drink products could benefit manufacturers, Mintel's David Jago told the innovation conference New Frontiers in Food and Drink

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/25tYBDr

Have you registered for Fine Food Queensland 2016?

Only two weeks to go! Fine Food Queensland opens in Brisbane in just under a fortnight, showcasing some of Australia’s great producers and talents.

From sustainable packaging to baking secrets, and from large-scale catering to niche products such as edible insects and little-known bush tucker, this year’s show will highlight producers and businesses in the food and hospitality industries.

The Talking Food Stage will be packed with experts discussing topics that affect every aspect of the industry — sustainability, food trends, technology and social media — as well as expert advice on staffing and management. Meanwhile, the baking and pastry stages and the barista competition will showcase the best of their categories in entertaining sessions and contests.

Local and regional producers and products will be a focus of the event: Fresh Produce Lane will highlight some of Queensland’s regional fare, including Aqua Botanical water sourced entirely from fruit and vegetables, and Ugly Duck Preserves, a boutique food business creating preserves from fruit that cannot be sold due to cosmetic imperfections or oversupply.

On stage, local talents such as Urbane Restaurant’s Andy and Alejandro will share their insights into how to make business sustainable. Reality TV stars from MKR and Restaurant Revolution will also participate, discussing trends such as food trucks, pop-ups and taking food from the kitchen to the street.

Fine Food Queensland will run from 10–12 April at the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre. For free entry, register online at finefoodqueensland.com.au before 5 pm on Friday, 8 April.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/25tv396

RACA International spray-drying atomising nozzles

Tecpro Australia has available RACA International spray-drying atomising nozzles. The nozzle’s orifice, whirl chamber and top plate are available in tungsten carbide to avoid rapid wear and performance degradation, while the body is made from AISI 316 stainless steel.

Designed for atomising high-viscosity liquids with values up to several thousand centipoises, the nozzles are suitable for use in countercurrent spray dryers and in systems where multiple nozzle lances are used. The nozzles are available in four different thread sizes using female British Standard Parallel Pipe (BSPP) threads.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1qcHKou

Bulla launches fairy bread ice-cream

Bulla has developed three new ice-cream flavours: Fairy Bread, Cookies & Cream and Cookie Crumble.

The flavours have joined the Lamington, Coconut Ice and 100s and 1000s range from the dairy producer.

The Fairy Bread variety features vanilla ice-cream dipped in a white choc coating and covered in colourful sprinkles. Cookies & Cream is created with cookie-flavoured ice-cream dipped in a white choc coating and covered with chocolate cookie pieces. Cookie Crumble is available in a variety pack of strawberry and chocolate-flavoured ice-creams, dipped in a chocolate coating and covered with biscuit pieces.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1oikPXj

NZ abandons potato push

The horticultural body representing Australian potato growers has welcomed a decision by Potatoes New Zealand not to pursue market access for fresh potatoes into Australia.

AUSVEG lodged objections on behalf of the Australian potato industry to the import of New Zealand fresh potatoes for processing in Australia, citing concerns about the ramifications that a potential incursion of the tomato-potato psyllid — Liberibacter spp complex could have on the domestic industry.

“We are extremely relieved that the New Zealand potato industry has withdrawn its application to export fresh potatoes into Australia,” said AUSVEG CEO Richard Mulcahy.

“The threat of the Tomato-potato psyllid entering Australian potato farms is highly significant, as the pest is not yet present in Australia and it often carries the bacterium that causes Zebra chip disease, which can significantly reduce the yield and health of potato crops and render potatoes unsaleable.”

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1oikPXf

Plant-based protein from the sea

Tofu, tempeh and seitan are the best-known alternative protein sources, but the ocean is home to others that are just as nutritious and palatable. An article recently published in Food Technology magazine highlights three of these.

Algae-derived proteins

Algae are categorised into two forms. Macroalgae are seaweeds visible to the naked eye that grow in oceans, lakes, rivers and ponds. Microalgae are single-cell organisms that can only be seen with the aid of a microscope and mostly occur in fresh and marine water.

Both microalgae and macroalgae are nutrient-dense with varying amounts of vitamins A, C and E, folate, calcium, iodine, iron, omega-3 fatty acids, carbohydrates, protein and a variety of other nutrients. The protein content of macroalgae ranges from 3% to 50%, while microalgae’s protein content can be as high as 70%.

Super seaweeds

Red seaweed such as nori — commonly used to wrap sushi rolls — tends to have the highest protein content; 100 g of nori contains up to 50 g of protein. Nori has an amino acid profile similar to that of peas or beans, contains a high amount of omega-3 fatty acid and is a good source of vitamin B12.

Duckweed

Duckweed, the smallest flowering plant in the world, has protein content of up to 45%. People in Laos, Thailand, Vietnam and parts of Africa have been eating various duckweeds for centuries.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1SswddN

Ultibend lifts productivity with all-electric tube benders

Ultibend Industries, a manufacturer of stainless steel tube fittings for food and beverage processing systems, has boosted its productivity with two all-electric tube bending machines that automate the bending of tube fitting shapes such as elbows and U-bends, in sizes from ½ to 4″ in diameter.

Ultibend’s original hydraulically powered tube bending machines were the heart of their business, but offered only a very basic level of machine and operator control. The company sought to replace them with more flexible, all-electric machines using servomotor-controlled bending.

Unison was selected as the supplier of the customised solution, which has given Ultibend the manufacturing platform to support substantial future growth, including into the USA and other new export markets.

Based in Wellington, New Zealand, Ultibend is known for the high functional quality of its tube fittings, which means that bends are highly uniform. The new machines combine the existing manufacturing techniques with the enhanced productivity of all-electric machine architecture.

The Unison machines speed the bending due to the inherently greater control of motion that’s possible inside the software-controlled, all-electric machine architecture. The software gearbox is able to control and coordinate several axes simultaneously, avoiding the delays of a more mechanical machine such as the latency in response of a slave axis.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1ohXYuW

Global packaged food market set for downturn

Emerging market slowdowns are having a knock-on effect on the global packaged food market, according to market analyst Euromonitor, which has downgraded its growth forecast for the next five years. “It’s understandably of a concern to many in the industry."

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/22NVCn2

Garden of Life refreshes brand as Salmonella outbreak grows

Salmonella illnesses linked to Garden of Life RAW Meal Organic Shake & Meal Products have reached 27 from 20 states.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1ZBDlHU

Global packaged food market set for downturn

Emerging market slowdowns are having a knock-on effect on the global packaged food market, according to market analyst Euromonitor, which has downgraded its growth forecast for the next five years. “It’s understandably of a concern to many in the industry."

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1MHwTaK

Whistle stop tour: Protein global

Western Europeans are numero uno when it comes to per-capita protein consumption; bread is surprisingly the most popular protein medium; and protein has well and truly invaded the healthy snacking category.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1UN0nfi

Sugar “unacceptably high” in children’s juices & smoothies and should be reduced, researchers argue

Parents embracing fruit juices, juice drinks and smoothies for their children because they perceive them as a healthier alternative to sugary sodas is misguided, based on new research that found nearly half of these products marketed to children meet or exceed the daily recommended maximum sugar intake.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1UN0oQu

High protein diet has 'intriguing' double benefit of weight loss & improved sleep: Study

Consuming a high-diet protein while dieting may improve sleep in overweight and obese adults, according to a new research.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1PuODGq

High protein diet has 'intriguing' double benefit of weight loss & improved sleep: Study

Consuming a high-diet protein while dieting may improve sleep in overweight and obese adults, according to a new research.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/22K32I5

Meat substitutes market set to top €3.57 billion by 2016

Heightened health concerns over the consumption of meat as well as increased environmental awareness are likely to fuel the growth of the  global meat substitutes market to over $4 billion (€3.57 billion) by next year, according to market analysts.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1UMMKwD

The rise of the 'invisible ethical': Why consumers want sustainability throughout the supply chain

From non-GMO glycerine-based solvents to sustainably sourced hydrocolloids, more and more companies are seeking ethical certification for 'invisible' ingredients – but what’s fuelling this demand when consumers probably don’t even notice?

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/22K3035

Genetic alterations stops obesity onset in mice, study shows

Tinkering about with the genetic make-up of female mice can stop them gaining weight despite being fed on a high-fat diet, a study has demonstrated.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1UMMKwu

Larger serving sizes on food packs could reduce intake & fight obesity

Larger serving sizes on a food’s packaging encourage people to eat less, US researchers have found, as consumer groups in Europe put pressure on policymakers to help food manufacturers set realistic portion sizes.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/22K302W

Rare plant compound subject of novel industrial-scale production method

A method to recreate a rare class of plant-derived chemical compounds has the potential to be produced on an industrial scale for the food and flavour industries.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1UMMHkp

Salt, damned lies and statistics? UK's reformulation success challenged

The UK’s food industry is congratulating itself on the success of voluntary salt reduction after a government survey shows average salt intake has fallen, but the figures are being questioned by public health campaigners.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/22K2ZvZ

MEPs intensify pressure for origin labelling

Another vote from Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) has put further pressure on the European Commission to act on mandatory origin labelling for meat, dairy and processed products.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1UMMH3Z

Industrial potential for method that mass produces natural preservatives

Food innovation company TOP BV and Phytonext have put the finishing touches on a research method that produces natural preservatives on an industrial scale. 

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/22K2ZvT

Meat substitutes market set to top €3.57 billion by 2016

Heightened health concerns over the consumption of meat as well as increased environmental awareness are likely to fuel the growth of the  global meat substitutes market to over $4 billion (€3.57 billion) by next year, according to market analysts.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/22zuGLg

Interpol assists in uncovering illegal fishing investigation

Six people have been arrested and a further 13 are under investigation after a Spanish investigation into illegal fishing.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1VLkA4y

FDA makes funding available to help with produce safety rule

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has made up to $19m available in fiscal year 2016 to support states with the produce safety rule.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1Zy8YSF

Chinese firm announces meat expansion in Kazakhstan

Chinese firm Rifa Holding Group plans to pump $200m into the production of beef, lamb and meat processing in several regions of Kazakhstan between now and 2020.  

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1RAcHZJ

Great Basin Scientific gets FDA clearance for Shiga Toxin Direct Test

Great Basin Scientific has been granted clearance from the US Food & Drug Administration (FDA) for its Shiga Toxin Direct Test.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/21JBC2I

Denmark loses place as top EU pork exporter

Something is rotten in the state of Denmark. The Scandinavian state, once Europe’s top pork exporter, has been overtaken by Germany and Spain as the leading exporters of pork to non-EU markets.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1XR81n0

BSE-infected cow dies in France

A cow with bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) has died in France, making it the third detected case of the fatal virus in Europe since 2015, according to the French government.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1UofcVS

Turkey plans emergency response test to foot-and-mouth disease

On Monday 28 March, Turkey’s government and veterinary health bodies will stage a full-size simulation of a foot-and-mouth outbreak to test how the country would handle an outbreak.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/22yHjWV

Genetic alterations stops obesity onset in mice, study shows

Tinkering about with the genetic make-up of female mice can stop them gaining weight despite being fed on a high-fat diet, a study has demonstrated.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1PtZss5

Farmers praise German retailer's British lamb policy

The National Farmers Union (NFU) has praised German discount chain Aldi’s policy of selling exclusively fresh British lamb this Easter, ahead of a farmers’ protest about low prices in London yesterday (March 23).

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1UKZiED

EBRD and FAO supporting Georgia dairy sector

The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) are joining forces to support Georgia’s dairy sector.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1o9wCqX

Diversey Care makes food safety management digital

Diversey Care, a division of Sealed Air, has launched a digital food safety management platform to help firms boost safety and quality of operations. 

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1pKse3a

Recalls: Pest contamination and glass

Food recalls for a week in March 2016 came from Australia, Germany, New Zealand, Austria, Denmark, Belgium, Netherlands, Sweden, Finland, Luxembourg and England.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1o9wCqT

Larger serving sizes on food packs could reduce intake & fight obesity

Larger serving sizes on a food’s packaging encourage people to eat less, US researchers have found, as consumer groups in Europe put pressure on policymakers to help food manufacturers set realistic portion sizes.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1VKwv2I

Whistle stop tour: Protein global

Western Europeans are numero uno when it comes to per-capita protein consumption; bread is surprisingly the most popular protein medium; and protein has well and truly invaded the healthy snacking category.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1RzZ7FN

The rise of the 'invisible ethical': Why consumers want sustainability throughout the supply chain

From non-GMO glycerine-based solvents to sustainably sourced hydrocolloids, more and more companies are seeking ethical certification for 'invisible' ingredients – but what’s fuelling this demand when consumers probably don’t even notice?

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1Udz8uf

Fact: Americans don’t 'get' fat

US consumers are confused about trans fats and how much of the hydrogenated fatty acid can be consumed in an average diet, according to a new study.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1XQvSTS

BRF buys Argentina meat processor Calchaquí

One of Brazil’s largest meat firms BRF has acquired the Argentinian pork business Alimentos Calchaquí, according to an investment bulletin published by BRF.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1UdslAI

Yum! linked to KKR talks over sale of China division

Fast-food giant Yum! Brands, owner of KFC, Taco Bell and Pizza Hut, is rumoured to be in early negotiations with US equity firm KKR over the sale of a minority stake in its Chinese division. 

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1VJTR8w

Cuba - a ‘window of opportunity’ for EU pork

Cuba has opened its market to a range of US food imports and the Spanish-speaking country has been tipped to be an unlikely saviour of Europe’s beleaguered pork sector, according to the European Meat and Livestock Trading Union (UECBV).

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1XQr68J

No fish left behind: EU discard policy floats interest in novel protein sources

EU policy on fishing waste has helped incentivise efforts to turn discarded species into novel sources of protein and other nutraceutical ingredients.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/21J9mNI

Policy expert slams 25-year Food and Farming Plan

The government’s forthcoming 25-year Food and Farming Plan has been slammed for its failure to address key issues of sustainability and described as a missed opportunity and “doomed to be irrelevant within five years” by a leading food policy expert.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1RzKbY3

‘We’ve come a long way but more to be done’, says head of food crime unit

Intelligence about food criminals is in short supply and crimes are often undetected or unreported, according to the first assessment of its type in the UK.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1q4feFy

Brexit should not affect amount of food fraud – NSF

Brexit should not affect standards of food safety and quality or the amount of fraud in the system, according to NSF International.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1RzKbHG

Malaysia to propose Asean-wide food safety certification

Malaysia intends to push for a common food safety certification system among fellow Asean member states to drive global competitiveness.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1UcrK2h

Certification, effort of ethics and the Island Life journey

There is no questioning the market appeal of ethically based products. Companies increasingly seek to source raw materials that have been endorsed by any one of a number of certifying bodies, predominately in the sphere of sustainability. 

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1PtaduH

Splenda CEO blasts ‘flawed’ Ramazzini research: ‘Sucralose does not cause cancer’

Sucralose “is safe and does not cause cancer, despite what you may have seen in some headlines,” Ted Gelov, the CEO of Splenda brand owner Heartland Consumer Products Group, has insisted in an open letter blasting what he argues is “flawed” data from an Italian institute linking the high-intensity sweetener to leukemia.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1RmVgyG

Asian tastes: Out with the old, in with the new trends

Jane Barnett, Mintel's head of insight, looks at some of the most pressing current consumer trends in Asia-Pacific while bidding a not-so-fond farewell to the nutritional villains of the last year.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1RAGqI7

Ayurveda awareness spreads through North America, but do locals understand it?

Ayurveda practitioners notice an increasing trend of North Americans looking to the ancient South Asian medicinal practice after dissatisfaction with conventional Western medicine.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1pzGpaJ

Typical vegan diet lacks key nutrients; supplements can help: Study

Vegans are often nutrient-deficient due to unbalanced protein sources and a low intake of berries, fruits and nuts, a Finnish study has found.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1RAGqI6

Fonterra profits more than double

New Zealand dairy cooperative Fonterra has announced its first half results for the six months ending January 31, 2016.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1pzGong

Mondelēz, Nestlé, Mars and Lindt pledge to use 'sustainable cocoa' for Australian-made chocolate

Australia’s leading chocolate companies such as Mondelēz, Nestlé, Mars and Lindt have all pledged to source only “sustainable” cocoa for domestically manufactured goods, says the Australian Industry Group.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1RAGrvD

Molson Coors fined for river pollution

Molson Coors Brewery (UK) has been fined £100,000 and ordered to pay costs of more than £30,000 for polluting a river.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1UbbX3M

QS reveals Salmonella round robin test results

The majority of QS-approved laboratories passed a Salmonella round robin test, said QS Qualität und Sicherheit.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1PsBNZh

Stricter and expanded BPA regulation proposed in Europe

Regulation on the use of bisphenol A (BPA) in Europe could be strengthened by 2017.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1UbbYVx

Consumer attitudes key in health and wellness segment

Research by DuPont Nutrition & Health has identified six core consumer groups according to health and wellness attitudes.

The research was based on data collected from more than 14,000 consumers across 22 countries and is designed to help manufacturers develop and market products related to health and wellness, a category growing nearly twice the rate of traditional foods and beverages.

In addition to demographic and geographic data, the study includes information on health concerns, brand influences, attitudes and usage, lifestyle choices and parenting style, with the final segmentation resulting in six core consumer groups:

1. Health Helpers. This segment represents 9% of consumers. Top health concerns include tiredness and muscle tone and they are more likely than the average consumer to sacrifice taste and convenience — and pay a premium — for foods with health benefits.

2. Weight Strugglers. 12% of consumers are weight strugglers who want products that help them to lose weight and avoid food-related guilt. As well as obesity, their major health concerns include tiredness and heart disease, and they are slightly more likely than the average consumer to pay more for foods with health benefits.

3. Health Wise. The single largest segment (28%), health-wise consumers learn about healthy foods that will make them feel well and perform at their peak. This is the group that is most likely to sacrifice taste and convenience for health benefits and is most likely to be vegetarian. Top health concerns include tiredness and stress and they are more inclined than the average consumer to seek ‘free from’ labels and look for familiar ingredients.

4. Taste Driven. 19% of us want tasty, convenient food that fits into our busy lives.

5. Good Life. The palate comes first for 9% of consumers, who like to eat healthily as long as it tastes good and don’t mind paying a little more for the privilege.

6. Just Food. The remaining 23% don’t understand what all the fuss is about. They just want easy, cost-effective food.

“83% of global consumers consider diet and nutrition important to wellbeing, which is greater than wealth or physical fitness,” said Greg Paul, global marketing director, Consumer Segments at DuPont Nutrition & Health. “We have become increasingly proactive about our health, yet well-defined and decidedly varied segments still exist. Consumers portray diverse behaviour depending on their place in the spectrum of health and wellness. The importance of learning the demands of each segment is critical to understanding what motivates food purchase behaviour.”

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1WKbzqQ

SICK GLARE sensor for glossy surfaces

SICK’s GLARE sensor recognises and differentiates objects on the basis of their gloss in order to control production processes. The sensor analyses the spatial distribution of reflected light using Delta-S technology, which allows the sensor to determine the gloss level of flat object surfaces and to differentiate between objects of differing gloss levels.

The measurement result is transmitted to the process controls either via two digital switching outputs or IO-Link. Several operating modes are available, making the sensor suitable for a range of applications.

The combination of intelligent signal evaluation algorithms, the multisensor arrangement and sensitivity adjustments ensures increased operational safety in industrial applications. The sensor’s IO-Link interface enables the product to be integrated into the machine controller, featuring automatic, process-oriented configuration and online diagnostics.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1WKbzqN

Kids get a whole day's sugar hit in one juice

The UK’s recently announced ‘sugar tax’ is promoted as a weapon against child obesity. It specifically targets soft drinks, while milk-based and pure fruit juices are exempt. But a new study has found the sugar content of fruit drinks, including natural fruit juices and smoothies, is “unacceptably high”, with smoothies among the worst offenders.

The research, published in the online journal BMJ Open, found that almost half the products assessed contained at least a child’s entire daily recommended maximum sugar intake of 19 g (almost five teaspoons).

Increasing public awareness of the detrimental effects of sugar-sweetened drinks has prompted many parents to opt for seemingly healthier fruit juice and smoothie alternatives, but these products contained the highest sugar levels of the drinks analysed by the study.

The researchers assessed the content of ‘free’ sugars in fruit juice drinks, 100% natural juices and smoothies marketed specifically to children. ‘Free’ sugars refers to glucose, fructose, sucrose and table sugar, which are added by the manufacturer, and naturally occurring sugars in honey, syrups, fruit juices and fruit juice concentrates, but not the naturally occurring sugars found in whole fruits and vegetables, which the body metabolises differently and which act to curb energy intake.

The sugar content ranged from 0–16 g/100 mL, with the average 7 g/100 mL. But sugar content was significantly higher in pure fruit juices and smoothies.

Among the 158 fruit juice drinks analysed, the average sugar content was 5.6 g/100 mL. This rose to 10.7/100 mL among the 21 pure fruit juices tested and to 13 g/100 mL among the 24 smoothies assessed.

However, 85 juice drinks, or more than 40% of the total sample of products, contained at least 19 g of free sugars — a child’s entire daily maximum recommended amount.

Meanwhile, 78 products contained non-calorific sweeteners, such as aspartame. While safe, health experts believe that a reduction in the overall sweetness of products is required for children’s tastebuds to become accustomed to less sugar in their diets, according to the researchers.

Current dietary guidelines recommend that a serving of fruit juice/drink/smoothie should be no more than 150 mL, but only six of the products assessed matched this portion size.

Based on their findings, the researchers make several recommendations:

• Fruit juices/juice drinks/smoothies with a high free sugar content should not count as one of the UK Government’s ‘five a day’ recommendations, as is currently the case.
• Fruit should preferably be eaten whole, not as juice.
• Parents should dilute fruit juice with water or opt for unsweetened juices, and only allow these drinks during meals.
• Portion sizes should be limited to 150 mL/day.
• Manufacturers should stop adding unnecessary amounts of sugars, and therefore kilojoules, to their fruit drink/juice/smoothie products — and if they can’t do this voluntarily, the government should step in with statutory regulations.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1Mn2nIq

SICK LUTM luminescence sensor

The SICK LUTM luminescence sensor features a miniature housing combined with an IO-Link function. The sensor is suitable for all applications where fluorescent marks need to be detected in confined spaces.

Enhanced system sensitivity enables the sensor to detect the relevant marks even when the level of luminescence is low.

This mini sensor can be set using a straightforward teach-in method. The IO-Link function enables enhanced diagnostics and visualisation of sensor parameters as well as rapid format changes. An increased switching frequency of up to 6 kHz makes the sensor suitable for high machine production capacities.

The technology is used in applications such as the presence monitoring of labels and package inserts in the pharmaceutical industry, detection of invisible marks in the luxury segment of the food and beverage industry and the detection of luminescent marks for positioning of labels in packaging.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1o7NI8z

Vikan Ultra Safe Technology brushware

Vikan’s Ultra Safe Technology (UST) brushware products are secure, safe and hygienic cleaning tools for the food and beverage industry. The filament retention system is moulded as an integral part of the brush, effectively making it a one-piece brush and eliminating the risk of loose filaments, which can lead to product rejection, recalls and waste.

Manufactured without the use of non EU Food Contact approved resins, the brush head pattern makes the brush easy to clean and dry and improves cleaning efficiency, reducing the risk of product rejection or recall due to contamination from microbes/bacteria, foreign bodies, cleaning chemicals or allergens.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/1Mn2l3r

Flexicon TIP-TITE dust-tight mobile drum tipper

Flexicon’s TIP-TITE mobile drum tipper allows dust-free transfer of bulk materials from drums into process equipment and storage vessels.

Ready to plug in and run, it is mounted on a mobile frame with floor jacks for stable operation.

A hydraulic cylinder raises the drum carriage, which seals the drum rim against a discharge cone, after which a second hydraulic cylinder tips the carriage-hood assembly and drum, stopping at a predetermined dump angle of either 45, 60 or 90° with a motion-dampening feature.

As the assembly approaches its fully tipped position, the outlet of the discharge cone mates with a gasketed receiving-ring inlet fitted to existing process equipment or to the lid of an optional hopper with integral pneumatic, tubular cable or flexible screw conveyor, creating a dust-tight seal.

Once the discharge cone is seated against the gasket, a pneumatically actuated slide gate valve opens, allowing material to enter the receiving vessel.

The unit accommodates drums from 114 to 208 L, weighing up to 340 kg and measuring 91 to 122 cm in height. An optional pneumatically actuated vibrator on the discharge cone promotes complete evacuation of non-free-flowing materials.

The drum tipper is available constructed of mild steel with durable industrial finishes, with material contact surfaces of stainless steel or in all-stainless steel finished to food, dairy, pharmaceutical or industrial standards.

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Double recognition for Printpack

Printpack has been recognised by two industry associations at recent award ceremonies.

The Flexible Packaging Association (FPA) has awarded Printpack a Silver Achievement Award for Technical Innovation for its work in solving the challenge of applying photochromic ink to a flexible film. Printpack’s application allows for photochromic ink to be hidden within standard graphics and remain invisible until exposed to sunlight. The innovation provides brand owners with a new way to interact with their customer base.

Printpack has also received a Silver Award for Wide Web Flexographic Printing from the Flexographic Technical Association (FTA) at the 2016 Excellence in Flexography Awards. Winners were determined during a three-day competition where 30 judges evaluated hundreds of print samples on a wide set of criteria, including sharp images, tight registration, consistent repeats, proof-to-print matching and attention to detail.

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Abandoned meat to be destroyed

The Philippine government has approved the disposal of 171 containers of pork that were abandoned at the Bureau of Customs at Manila International Container Port (MICP).

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US cattle industry looks to the future with new board appointment

America’s National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) has welcomed Kendal Frazier as its new chief executive officer. 

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Russian retailers call for legalisation of up to 1% foreign DNA in meats

Russia’s Association of Retail Trade Companies has appealed to the government to legalise the content of foreign DNA in meat products at a level not higher than 1%, according to a spokesperson from the organisation Svetlana Chebareva.

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Tyson Foods – moving away from protein

Multinational food processor Tyson Foods’ transition from a meat provider to a branded food company has made it a financially “stronger” outfit ready for growth, according to the business.

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‘We’ve come a long way but more to be done’, says head of food crime unit

Intelligence about food criminals is in short supply and crimes are often undetected or unreported, according to the first assessment of its type in the UK.

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Rare plant compound subject of novel industrial-scale production method

A method to recreate a rare class of plant-derived chemical compounds has the potential to be produced on an industrial scale for the food and flavour industries.

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Top hot cross buns - new consumer study ranks 10 own-label treats

Consumers have spoken – the perfect hot cross bun offers a complex blend of tastes and textures, and has ‘a good shine on top’.

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MEPs intensify pressure for origin labelling

Another vote from Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) has put further pressure on the European Commission to act on mandatory origin labelling for meat, dairy and processed products.

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Hochwald baby and infant food facility officially opened

German dairy company Hochwald has inaugurated its new facility for the production of demineralized whey powder.

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Nescafé Coffee Center opens in China

Nestlé has opened its Nescafé Coffee Center in Yunnan, China, which will focus on research and development as well as providing training opportunities. 

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Brexit should not affect amount of food fraud – NSF

Brexit should not affect standards of food safety and quality or the amount of fraud in the system, according to NSF International.

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Salt, damned lies and statistics? UK's reformulation success challenged

The UK’s food industry is congratulating itself on the success of voluntary salt reduction after a government survey shows average salt intake has fallen, but the figures are being questioned by public health campaigners.

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UK sugar tax: The big questions

The UK has announced a tax on sugar-sweetened beverages. But how hard will it hit the industry? How effective will the tax be at tackling childhood obesity? And could the tax be extended to other food categories? We take a look at the big questions surrounding the tax.

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US plans to modernise meat inspection

US government agency the Food Safety Inspection Service (FSIS) has requested millions of dollars from Congress to develop a rigorous, science-based method to improve its meat inspection capabilities. 

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DNA testing reveals nothing fishy about MSC ecolabeled products

More than 99% of Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) ecolabeled products were found to be correctly labeled, according to DNA test results from the organisation.

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Policy expert slams 25-year food and farming plan

The government’s forthcoming 25-year food and farming plan has been slammed for its failure to address key issues of sustainability and described as a missed opportunity and “doomed to be irrelevant within five years” by a leading food policy expert.

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Industry body slams ‘misguided’ article on complementary medicines

A recent editorial published in the Medical Journal of Australia that attempted to dismiss the benefits of complementary medicines was “misguided”, according to the industry’s representative body.

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Mondelēz partners in Melbourne hub for research into SE Asian markets

The Asia-Pacific arm of Mondelēz has collaborated with Melbourne University to open a food research hub to learn about consumer behaviour in Asean markets.

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Cadbury leads all categories as Australian chocolate consumption rises

Chocolate consumption in Australia is on the rise, according to market research that found that the proportion of Australians chocoholics has increased from 65% to 69% between 2013 and 2015.

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Baby of the family is least likely to be breastfed

A family’s youngest child is most likely to miss out on breastfeeding, according to an Australian study that also found that a woman’s education level and the number of children she has also affect its likelihood.

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Seafood capital rides high on tuna's back

The small South Australian fishing town of Port Lincoln has boat loads of evidence to support its claim as the seafood capital of Australia.

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Sekar Laut to bring Indonesian crackers to US ready-to-eat snacks market

Indonesian business Sekar Laut is seeking a US manufacturer to help launch its crackers as a ready-to-eat snack in the American market. 

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Omega-3 neglected in malnutrition product formulations: Researchers

Omega-3 content is a neglected issue when formulating products to combat severe acute malnutrition in children, say international researchers.

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Saboro brand marks Mahindra & Mahindra entry into dairy

The Agri Business sector of Indian multi-national Mahindra & Mahindra, has announced the launch of its first branded dairy products - Saboro.

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Kyrgyzstan eyes China as an export market

Chinese meat processors are being courted for investment by a leading destination for the country’s meat exports. 

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AgResearch studies could help NZ sheep milk industry

The second Sheep Milk NZ industry conference was held in Palmerston North, New Zealand recently, with more than 200 people attending.

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DNA testing reveals nothing fishy about MSC ecolabeled products

More than 99% of Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) ecolabeled products were found to be correctly labeled, according to DNA test results from the organisation.

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Guest Article: Fish speciation analysis

In the food industry brand protection has always been important, particularly since the horsemeat scandal.

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Food among most intercepted in WCO operation

Foodstuffs were among the largest categories of products intercepted during a World Customs Organization (WCO) operation in the Asia/ Pacific (A/P) region.

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Intel : Tech world remembers legendary Intel CEO Andy Grove

(4-traders.com) March 22--Intel's definitive leader, longtime chief executive Andy Grove, died Monday at age 79. Grove helped create the landscape of Silicon Valley during his 11 years running Intel and he was remembered fondly by his Oregon colleagues and by the tech world at large. Here are some highlights: RIP Andy Grove, took @intel & its microprocessors...
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BANK OF JAPAN : Miniature castle built with bill fragments worth 500 mil. yen

(4-traders.com) The Bank of Japan's Oita branch has created a miniature castle using fragments of old banknotes worth some 500 million yen ($4.46 million) as an exhibit to mark the resumption Tuesday of public tours following a one-year hiatus due to disaster-preparation building works. The 1.4-meter tall castle, including a stonewall made of polystyrene...
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Verizon Communications : BRIEF: Eugene call center will close in May, lay off 275

(4-traders.com) March 22--A call center that opened in Eugene less than a year ago plans to close the facility on May 19 and lay off all 275 employees. Firstsource is an Indian company that provides business management services. The Eugene Register-Guard newspaper reported Saturday that the facility had apparently been serving as an outsourced call center for...
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ExOne : posts losses for fourth quarter, all of 2015 (BRIEF)

(4-traders.com) March 22--The ExOne Company today reported better than expected results for the fourth quarter, but a wider loss for all of 2015. The North Huntingdon 3-D printing company said it lost $1.2 million, or 8 cents per share, in the fourth quarter. Revenue rose 3 percent to $16.2 million. Analysts had forecast the company would report a loss of 13...
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WELLING HLDG : test ND

(4-traders.com) (Microsoft Word - 2443452453632) Testing Document Welling Holding Limited issued this content on 22 March 2016 and is solely responsible for the information contained herein. Distributed by Public, unedited and unaltered, on 23 March 2016 02:58:31 UTC Original Document:...
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Programmed Maintenance Services : Results of 2016 General Meeting

(4-traders.com) Microsoft Word - 2016 03 23 GM Results FINAL ASX Release 23 March 2016 Manager Companies Company Announcements Office Australian Securities Exchange Level 4, Stock Exchange Centre 20 Bridge Street SYDNEY NSW 2000 ...
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Fosun : INSIDE INFORMATION – ANNOUNCEMENT IN RELATION TO A POSSIBLE IPO OF IRONSHORE INC.

(4-traders.com) f84cdea1-378f-4ff0-a5f1-815597ab787c.pdf Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited and The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited take no responsibility for the contents of this announcement, make no representation as to its accuracy or completeness and expressly disclaim any liability whatsoever for any loss howsoever arising from or in...
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ECA Export Council of Australia : How do we drive export growth in Australia?

(4-traders.com) Trade is a key driver of jobs, innovation and long-term prosperity for Australia. Increasing trade and investment is absolutely crucial to unlocking Australia's future economic growth. As of 2013 there were approximately 45,000 exporters that exported $318.5 billion worth of goods and services. ...
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Dairy Farmers of Canada : DFC Statement on the Budget

(4-traders.com) Back to news listingMarch 22, 2016 - Ottawa Today's budget can only be described as disappointing. Today's budget can only be described as disappointing. With nothing in the throne speech, and very little in the budget related to agriculture, the government is sending a strong signal to the people who...
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The Navy's New $4.4 Billion Ship Is A Big, Shiny Waste Of Money

The Navy's largest and costliest destroyer was sent out to sea Monday for final trials before its delivery to the military.

The future USS Zumwalt features an angled hull that looks like a hybrid of something out of Soviet Russia and a James Bond movie.

Staff from Bath Iron Works, the Maine shipyard that built the destroyer, and Navy crew members will be on board during the trials for testing and to help prepare the ship for delivery.

Once this round of trials is complete, the Navy will begin its own testing, determining the ship's capabilities in different sea conditions, including extremely rough waters.

"We go to find the most miserable places in the ocean and drive at various sea stages," Rear Adm. Peter Fanta, director of surface warfare, told The Associated Press.

However fancy it may look, the USS Zumwalt's development has been anything but smooth. The 600-foot ship will cost at least $4.4 billion, according to AP -- more than twice the cost of the Navy's current Arleigh Burke class of guided missile destroyers.

When the ship was originally proposed in the early 1990s, the Navy ordered 32 of the destroyers. As costs soared, commanders hacked the order down to three. At one point, they tried to kill the program entirely.

Now, the Navy is starting development of an entirely new destroyer -- slated for completion in the 2030s -- and is building updated Arleigh Burke destroyers in the meantime.

The Zumwalt's design is a far cry from destroyers past. Its sloped "tumblehome" hull supposedly makes it harder for radar to detect, it needs a smaller crew for operation, the deck can accommodate more aircraft, and it features two massive guns with incredible attack power and accuracy. 

Some current and former Navy officials have called into question the seaworthiness of the ship, claiming the new hull shape leaves it vulnerable to rolling over in certain conditions. Defense experts have said it's vulnerable to submarine attacks and will be of little use for current naval needs. 

Now that one of the ships is complete, trials and an inspection by the Navy are all that remain before the USS Zumwalt's commissioning. 

If all goes well, the USS Zumwalt will be commissioned in October, reports USNI News. It will be stationed in San Diego.

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HIKARI TSUSHIN : For the Nine Months Ended December 31, 2015 Consolidated Financial Results

(4-traders.com) １ For the Nine Months Ended December 31, 2015 Consolidated Financial Results Company Name : Hikari Tsushin Inc Stock Exchanges on which the Shares...
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Asian Pay Television : APTT Instructions to CDP

(4-traders.com) This information is a general description of the Macquarie Group only. Before acting on any information, you should consider the appropriateness of it having regard to your particular objectives, financial situation and needs and you should seek independent advice. No information set out above constitutes advice, an advertisement,...
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Asian Pay Television : Disclosure of Change in Interest of Trustee-Manager

(4-traders.com) This information is a general description of the Macquarie Group only. Before acting on any information, you should consider the appropriateness of it having regard to your particular objectives, financial situation and needs and you should seek independent advice. No information set out above constitutes advice, an advertisement,...
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Yes, Robert Kardashian Really Suspected O.J. Simpson Was Guilty

To the public, O.J. Simpson's defense attorney Robert Kardashian represented his friend's longtime image as a lovable celebrity. But, behind the scenes, the lawyer wasn't sure his friend was so innocent. Playing Kardashian, David Schwimmer breaks down in a kitchen scene with his ex-wife Kris Jenner, portrayed by Selma Blair, after sheepishly admitting the defense might have won Simpson the case in Tuesday's episode of "American Crime Story: The People v. O.J. Simpson."

"I just have to sit there until it's over, and then he's out of our lives forever," he says of his friend. (Jenner, meanwhile, never believed Simpson's tale.) The soapy scene dramatizes Kardashian's real-life feelings toward the former football star, which he explained in a 1996 interview with Barbara Walters on ABC's "20/20."

Kardashian told Walters how evidence presented by the prosecution caused him to seriously consider whether his friend murdered his ex-wife, Nicole Brown Simpson, and her friend Ron Goldman. The presence of blood, thought to belong to O.J. and the two victims at the crime scene, on the infamous leather gloves and in O.J.'s Bronco particularly troubled him.

"I have doubts," Kardashian told Walters. He explained, "I wake up in the middle of the night. I'm so conflicted because of that blood evidence." Failing results of a polygraph test that O.J. took also "devastated" the lawyer.

Watch Part 1 of the interview:

Kardashian wasn't the only one on O.J.'s side of the aisle with suspicions, he told Walters. "Maybe the majority" of the defense team questioned their client's innocence, he said, adding, "but they were professionals." A.C. Cowlings, who drove the Bronco in the infamous low-speed chase, was also conflicted by the blood evidence, Kardashian said.

Additionally, he didn't truly believe his team's main defense. Throughout the case, O.J.'s Dream Team of high-paid lawyers tried to suggest that Los Angeles police officers were part of a conspiracy to frame him for murder. But a conspiracy of that nature, Kardashian said, would be "impossible."

Watch Part 2:

After the trial, Kardashian admitted his friendship with O.J. wasn't the same -- and would never be again. Further, if he had known he and his family would receive death threats, he'd never have involved himself in the case.

Kardashian died in 2003, eight weeks after receiving a diagnosis of an aggressive form of esophageal cancer. 

"American Crime Story: The People v. O.J. Simpson" airs on FX Tuesdays at 10M 

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