OSI agrees poultry deal for US$45m

The government in central China is reporting that OSI has agreed to buy out full control of the joint venture poultry breeding and processing firm it runs in Henan province.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2dkfVX3

OSI agrees poultry deal for US$45m

The government in central China is reporting that OSI has agreed to buy out full control of the joint venture poultry breeding and processing firm it runs in Henan province.

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

Instinctif Partners help firms get ‘recall ready’

Instinctif Partners has launched two tools to measure a business’ ability to respond to a product recall or operational crisis.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2dxS2i8

Oceana finds support for seafood traceability requirements

Oceana has found 83% of Americans support new requirements to eliminate seafood fraud.

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

Slovakia has compromised on standards since joining EU - officials

Slovakia has had to compromise on or lower food safety standards post accession to comply with EU regulations, according to officials.

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

State funding helps Cornell expand food safety capacity

A Cornell University center is to expand commercialization capabilities with $1m in state funding.

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

Meridian expands technology license to animal, food and water testing

Meridian Bioscience has amended a license agreement with Eiken Chemical Co. to expand to animal, food and water testing.

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

Magic move? Tesco targets wintery Brits with vitamin D mushrooms

Tesco has launched vitamin D2-enriched mushrooms in the UK, a move that could help Britons deficient in the nutrient, dieticians say.

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

Instinctif Partners help firms get ‘recall ready’

Instinctif Partners has launched two tools to measure a business’ ability to respond to a product recall or operational crisis.

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

Zambeef expecting higher profits following sales spike

Africa’s Zambeef expects full-year profits to be “materially higher” than previous estimates after beef, pork, dairy and feed operations enjoyed a spike in volume growth.

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

EU agriculture chief plans major beef drive

The European commissioner for agriculture and rural development, Phil Hogan, has confirmed Brussels wants to place a “bigger emphasis” on beef over the next three years.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2cRf8NY

Thai chicken farmers stamp out slavery and abuse

Over 400 poultry farmers supplying Thai chicken exporter CP Foods have pledged to stamp out abuse and exploitation of workers through the implementation of an anti-forced labour programme.

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

Tyson Foods investment creates 350 US jobs

Tyson Foods will invest $27m to expand production output at its beef and pork processing plant in Iowa, US, leading to the creation of 350 jobs.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2cRfu71

Zambeef expecting higher profits following sales spike

Africa’s Zambeef expects full-year profits to be “materially higher” than previous estimates after beef, pork, dairy and feed operations enjoyed a spike in volume growth.

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

Thai chicken farmers stamp out slavery and abuse

Over 400 poultry farmers supplying Thai chicken exporter CP Foods have pledged to stamp out abuse and exploitation of workers through the implementation of an anti-forced labour programme.

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

Tyson Foods investment creates 350 US jobs

Tyson Foods will invest $27m to expand production output at its beef and pork processing plant in Iowa, US, leading to the creation of 350 jobs.

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

Pedon pulse pasta rides Europe's protein wave

Dutch consumers' first impression of Pedon's red lentil pasta may have been lacklustre but the Italian pulse processor is unworried as it rides Europe's triple trend wave for healthy protein, flavoured pasta and sustainable pulses.

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

EU agriculture chief plans major beef drive

The European commissioner for agriculture and rural development, Phil Hogan, has confirmed Brussels wants to place a “bigger emphasis” on beef over the next three years.

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

Switzerland and Canada expand organic trade deal

The Swiss and Canadian governments have recognised the equivalency of their organic standards for multi-ingredient processed products.

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

Slovakia has compromised on standards since joining EU - officials

Slovakia has had to compromise on or lower food safety standards post accession to comply with EU regulations, according to officials.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2cGssX4

Hidden lobbying could go unchecked under poor EU transparency proposals, says watchdog

Industry lobbying activities could continue to go “unchecked” with insufficient Commission proposals for a new mandatory transparency register, according to transparency watchdog Corporate Europe Observatory.

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

Biocontrol MVP ICON ATP result tracking

Rapid cleaning verification technologies are widespread throughout the food and beverage industry. A popular method involves detection of ATP as an indicator for product residues remaining on a surface after cleaning, but many systems are not capable of collecting or analysing the data.

The Biocontrol MVP ICON, available from AMSL Scientific, comes packaged with dashboard software which allows users to save data onto the instrument and eliminate the need for recording results manually. This information is then synched to the dashboard database for tracking, trending and reporting.

By identifying trends and problem spots, cleaning regimes can be modified accordingly, saving labour and chemicals and preventing contamination. Over the long term, by identifying trends and fixing problems, it is possible that the overall amount of testing can be reduced. The technology therefore can reduce costs while providing essential information about the effectiveness of a cleaning program.

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

Tecpro conveyor cleaning products and services

Food and beverage manufacturing can be a dirty, sticky business. Often manual conveyor cleaning is undertaken to ensure hygiene protocols are attained. However, effective conveyor cleaning is achievable by installing the correct spray nozzles for the job.

Tecpro Australia offers a wide range of spray nozzles suitable for every situation, plus technical consultants and engineers to provide advice and custom-designed spraying systems — including spray bars and manifolds — for any application.

An automated conveyor cleaning system should provide uniformed cleaning across the entire conveyor, as well as efficient water usage. Planned positioning of spray nozzles is required for optimal results. Other factors to consider include available water pressure and flow rate, nozzle size, droplet size and spray pattern.

Food manufacturers who need to remove soil from fresh produce prior to processing or packaging have different needs to processed food manufacturers wanting to remove sticky residues or food scraps from the conveyor.

For more information, click here.

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

Atlas Copco ISO 2200 certified oil-free Z compressors

Atlas Copco’s oil-free Z compressor production facility in Antwerp, Belgium has received ISO 22000 certification to confirm its systems provide safe products for the food and beverage industry.

With compressed air being a key piece in the manufacturing process of food and beverage products, producers can have peace of mind knowing their compressor was made in a clean and safe environment.

The company also offers transparency, with a documented food safety management system in place.

Derived from the ISO 9001 quality certification, ISO 22000 is aimed at any organisation in the food and beverage industry that wishes to implement systems that consistently provide safe food products. The standard demonstrates an organisation’s ability to control food safety hazards.

For more information: http://bit.ly/22RCRCE.

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

Exair small 316SS Cabinet Coolers

Exair’s small 316 Stainless Steel Cabinet Cooler Systems keep electrical enclosures cool with -7°C air while resisting heat and corrosion that could adversely affect the internal components. The wear, corrosion and oxidation resistance of Type 316 stainless steel assures long life and maintenance-free operation. Cooling capacities up to 550 Btu/h are suitable for small electrical enclosures and heat loads. Models with higher cooling capacities up to 5600 Btu/h for NEMA 12, 4 and 4X enclosures are also available.

The cabinet coolers circulate chilled air throughout the enclosure to prevent high temperature malfunctions. They mount through a standard electrical knockout while maintaining the NEMA 12, 4 or 4X rating of the enclosure. Systems include an automatic drain filter separator to ensure no moisture passes to the inside of the electrical enclosure. An optional thermostat control minimises compressed air use and keeps the enclosure at ±1ºC of the temperature setting. A side-mount kit is available when space restrictions prevent mounting on the cabinet top.

Available from Compressed Air Australia, coolers are available with cooling capacities of 275 and 550 Btu/h and are UL Listed and CE compliant. There are no moving parts to wear out. Applications include cooling control panels used in food processing, pharmaceuticals, foundries, chemical processing and other corrosive locations.

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

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2cQF1xi

Gualapack Group PepUp flexible pouch

PepUp is an innovative, flexible, one hand use and self-closing pouch from Gualapack Group Italy.

Available in three forms — small flat bottle 40 to 200 mL, flat bottle 20 to 500 mL and ultimate stand-up pouch 100 to 500 mL — the pouch can be produced with different laminate structures, making it suitable for both food and non-food products. Food uses include waters, juices and beverages, yoghurts and dairy snacks, wine and premix, snacks, sauces and dressings. Non-food markets include health and beauty, home and car care and industrials.

The pouch is safe to use as it has no sharp or cutting edges and a transparent option is available. It assists in eliminating product waste, is ultralight and compact, and recyclable versions are available. It is suitable for use in venues such as concert halls and stadiums as well as for all outdoor activities.

Unique and differentiating on shelf, the 360° high-quality print in matt or gloss makes a visual impact.

Suitable for postal delivery, it offers efficient logistics and a low cost per unit. High-speed filling options are also available.

For more information, click here.

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

C.D.C. ends probe into flour recall

Agency says a total of 63 people in 24 states were infected

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

Edible crickets can be reared on food-by products, study says

Concerns over using crickets as a sustainable alternative to meat may be eased as a study has shown that weeds and food by-products could work as single ingredients to successfully rear this insect.

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

Glyphosate opinion: EFSA says new data disclosure allows closer scrutiny

EFSA is to release the raw data used in the recent EU safety evaluation of glyphosate, saying the move is part of its commitment to open risk assessment.

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

How important is checkweighing? Do you really need it?

Free seminar on sustainable packaging at Foodtech Packtech

The Australian Institute of Packaging (AIP) will host a free seminar on 'Understanding Sustainable Packaging Innovations & Trends' during Foodtech Packtech.

To be held on Wednesday, 12 October from 11.00 am to 12.30 pm, the seminar will feature three sustainable packaging experts: James Romhany, National Sales Manager, Confoil NZ Ltd, Anthony Peyton MAIP, Director, GreenChip and Dr Carol Lawrence PhD FAIP, Director, 3SustainAbility.

Topics to be discussed include:

• Consumer sentiment towards plastics and foam: pulp and dualpak as alternatives to replace CPET and polystyrene.
• Understanding environmental implications of film and paper labels and save food waste initiatives.
• Fresh sustainability initiatives for designers and marketers.

At the end of the session the three speakers will conduct an interactive question and answer session. The seminar is free to attend. To find out more click here.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2cZN34H

CSIRO's contribution to global food security

CSIRO’s work on predicting Australia’s agricultural future is gaining international attention, with its author invited to present at the 50th birthday celebrations for a key global player in food security.

The International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (known as CIMMYT by its Spanish acronym) is the organisation that catalysed the ‘Green Revolution’, improving crop yields and food security. This year marks CIMMYT’s 50th anniversary, with celebrations taking place in Mexico.

In attendance will be Dr Steve Hatfield-Dodds, leader of CSIRO’s integration science and modelling work, who will present the 2015 Australian National Outlook at a conference themed: ‘Turning research into impact: past, present and future.’

CSIRO’s outlook linked nine national and global models to provide an integrated analysis of economic activity, agriculture and food, energy, water, land use, biodiversity, material flows and climate change.

“The aim of the outlook was to find and explore the ways Australia could navigate through interconnected future challenges, to better meet the needs of a growing national and global population,” Dr Hatfield-Dodds said.

“These challenges are not unique to Australia, and CIMMYT can see how the flexible integrated approach demonstrated by CSIRO can help identify and test options for reducing poverty and improving food security across diverse developing world contexts,” he said.

While CIMMYT is best known for supplying the world with hardier and higher-yielding wheat and maize varieties, the best science estimates this is only likely to contribute about half of the productivity gains needed to meet future food demands, with the remainder needing to come from more productive and efficient farming systems, such as precision maize and wheat farming, with efficient use of soil, water and fertiliser.

“In Australia, the outlook told us that for agriculture to thrive, we need to focus our efforts on innovative technologies, enabling infrastructure, and meeting and developing new markets for agrifood exports,” Dr Hatfield-Dodds said.

“Most importantly, the outlook highlighted the need for continuing agricultural productivity increases to meet greater demand globally and that higher food and energy costs were likely,” he said.

The outlook also revealed significant opportunities for reducing carbon emissions, promoting voluntary conservation and diversifying farm incomes.

While it warned of future challenges for agriculture in the face of climate change, it showed that with the right choices, sustainability and economic growth can be partners rather than competitors.

“With the outlook, we have shown how analysing interactions across different sectors can help identify new opportunities, unlocking previously unrecognised potential and improving risk management,” said Dr Hatfield-Dodds.

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

New model assesses true level of Aussie obesity—with startling results

One in six Australian women and a tenth of men will be severely obese by 2025, while more people are overweight now than are not, new modelling has found.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2dv3yq1

PureCircle begins work to double stevia production capacity

Natural sweetener major PureCircle will build a new processing plant that will double its capacity to produce a proprietary stevia leaf extract. 

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

Meat industry will benefit from digital, says Commission

The meat and livestock sector will see many advantages from robotics in the future, a European Commission official has said in a debate in Brussels on the digital future of farming. 

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2dnY8zN

Marfrig: halting deforestation ‘critical’

Meatpacker Marfrig said halting deforestation and fighting slave-like labour conditions was “critical” to its strategy in Brazil as an independent audit praised the company.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2cZ7u1K

Meat sales continue to rise in Japan

Japanese meat consumption is growing so quickly it has pushed domestic per capita fish consumption to its lowest level since the 1960s, according to 2015 figures from Japan’s ministry of agriculture, forestry and fisheries. 

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

China ends trade ban on Italian pork

China has lifted its 17-year-old trade ban on Italian pork imports, in place since 1999 over swine vesicular disease (SVD) concerns.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2cZ8faV

Pig laws set for post-virus epidemic shake-up

The African swine fever (ASF) epidemic in eastern Europe may trigger sweeping reforms in the pig industry, as conventional methods of fighting the disease have been ineffective. 

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2dnXd2w

Caviness Beef Packers recalls meat over E.coli link

Texas meat processor Caviness Beef Packers has recalled close to a tonne of boneless beef products that US health officials fear could be contaminated with E. coli.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2cZ93fV

Marfrig celebrates as first Brazilian beef arrives in US

Brazilian meatpacker Marfrig has hailed the “incredible” news that its beef has arrived in the US, less than two months after the two nations lifted an historic trade ban.

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

Ireland: Origin Enterprises profits fall 26%

A solid performance in Eastern Europe was not enough to halt a 25.7% drop in pre-tax profits for Ireland’s agri-service group Origin Enterprises.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2cZ7tuI

Adams Farm Slaughterhouse recalls meat products after E.coli scare

Adams Farm Slaughterhouse, a Massachusetts-based company, has been forced to recall beef, veal and bison products by US health officials, due to a possible E.coli contamination.

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

Czech beef and poultry production growing despite rising imports

The Czech Republic’s beef and poultry meat production is on the rise, but its meat market remains dominated by imports from EU member states, according to the Czech Statistical Office (CZSO).

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2cZ7ZZj

Food trends: Why beef and pork is about to get cheaper

Beef and pork prices in the US are expected to drop by more than 10% in the next nine years, according to US government meat projections.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2dnY7vJ

Meat industry will benefit from digital, says Commission

The meat and livestock sector will see many advantages from robotics in the future, a European Commission official has said in a debate in Brussels on the digital future of farming. 

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

Nestlé tops influential sustainability index, but industry scores are below par

Nestlé is the top-rated food and beverage company in the Dow Jones Sustainability Index (DJSI) – its score of 92 out of 100 was more than double the sector average (39).

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

Time to cap trans fats in Europe, ENVI politicians tell Commission

Health and food safety politicians today backed a motion for a resolution to protect the health of Europeans by setting legal limits on the use of artificial trans fats.

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

Strategic task force to help insect firms navigate novel food regulation

The International Platform of Insects for Food and Feed (IPIFF) wants workable and consistent rules for insect producers across the EU and is setting up a strategic task force to help manufacturers navigate their way through EU regulation.

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

Danish Food Cluster grows 'entrepreneurial ecosystem' to ferment food innovation

The CEO of the Danish Food Cluster - and two members - tell FoodNavigator of their mission to make the Danish food industry a by-word for entrepreneurial and tech innovation.

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

Marfrig: halting deforestation ‘critical’

Meatpacker Marfrig said halting deforestation and fighting slave-like labour conditions was “critical” to its strategy in Brazil as an independent audit praised the company.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2cYY0DF

Meat sales continue to rise in Japan

Japanese meat consumption is growing so quickly it has pushed domestic per capita fish consumption to its lowest level since the 1960s, according to 2015 figures from Japan’s ministry of agriculture, forestry and fisheries. 

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

China ends trade ban on Italian pork

China has lifted its 17-year-old trade ban on Italian pork imports, in place since 1999 over swine vesicular disease (SVD) concerns.

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

Time to cap trans fats in Europe, ENVI politicians tell Commission

Health and food safety politicians today backed a motion for a resolution to protect the health of Europeans by setting legal limits on the use of artificial trans fats.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2d8ST5A

Recalls: Clostridium botulinum, bread contamination and E. coli

Food recalls and alerts for the end of September have been notified by England, Ireland, Australia, Canada, Czech Republic, USA, Austria, Germany, Norway, Sweden, Netherlands, Belgium and Denmark.

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

New baking enzyme being mulled by the Australia-NZ regulator

The antipodean food regulator has sought public consultation on an application to allow the use of a new enzyme as a processing aid.

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

Survey reveals the extent of sub-par Australian diets

Australia's biggest ever diet survey has confirmed that the vast majority of Australians have poor eating habits.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2dusr9V

Recalls: Clostridium botulinum, bread contamination and E. coli

Food recalls and alerts for the end of September have been notified by England, Ireland, Australia, Canada, Czech Republic, USA, Austria, Germany, Norway, Sweden, Netherlands, Belgium and Denmark.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2duq2f7

Danish Food Cluster grows 'entrepreneurial ecosystem' to ferment food innovation

The CEO of the Danish Food Cluster - and two members - tell FoodNavigator of their mission to make the Danish food industry a by-word for entrepreneurial and tech innovation.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2cO1mf1

What does Greenpeace's palm oil report mean for IOI & RSPO?

Greenpeace's damning report on Malaysian palm oil supplier IOI, just one month after its membership of the Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO) was renewed, could be damaging for the certifier, according to one sustainability consultant.

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

Logistics Hall of Fame recognises historic milestones

The founders of the postal system, the inventors of the barcode and the conveyor belt, and the pioneers of parcel and express logistics are among 13 logisticians inducted into the Logistics Hall of Fame in 2016.

“The new members complete the timeline of milestone achievements in logistics and illustrate how logistics has made life better and safer over the course of time,” said Anita Würmser, executive jury chairperson of the Logistics Hall of Fame.

The earliest logistics milestone dates back to the year 1490, with the creation of the first cross-border communication system. The new inductees include creators Franz von Taxis (Tasso) (1459–1517) and his nephew Johann Baptista von Taxis (Tasso) (1470–1541).

Henry Ford (1863–1947), founder of the Ford Motor Company, and Ransom Eli Olds (1864–1950), founder of Oldsmobile, were recognised for the invention of conveyor belt production. In 1903, Olds developed a simple form of ‘flow production’, the so-called ‘progressive assembly line’ for the Oldsmobile. Ten years later, Henry Ford introduced a system of automated conveyor belt production known as the ‘moving assembly line’. It then took just 93 minutes to build a Model T, and the car suddenly became affordable.

US entrepreneur James E Casey (1888–1983) is recognised as the inventor of parcel services. He founded the American Messenger Company, later to become United Parcel Service — UPS for short — in Seattle in 1907.

Americans Norman Joseph Woodland (1921–2012), George Laurer (1925–) and Bernard Silver (1925–1963) are being honoured for the invention of the barcode. It was Woodland who originally had the idea for the striped marking to label products. Together with Silver he developed the predecessor technology of the barcode in 1949 — which became a success when retailers and manufacturers in the United States agreed on the Universal Product Code (UPC) designed by IBM engineer George Laurer. On 26 June 1974, a checkout assistant scanned the first product bearing this barcode at a supermarket checkout in Ohio — a 10-pack of chewing gum. The barcode has revolutionised logistics, and automatic shipment tracking, modern warehousing practices and many other logistics innovations would have been unthinkable without it.

Freight forwarder and IRU President Lothar Raucamp (1905–1985) is being honoured as one of the most important advocates of the cooperative idea in logistics. When he set up Kravag in 1950 as a mutual insurance association, he secured the future of thousands of transport companies.

Gerhard Schäfer (1924–2015) is the only intralogistics expert to join the ranks of the world’s most famous logisticians. The market launch and series production of the stackable ‘storage fix-box’ developed jointly by the Schäfer brothers under the lead management of Gerhard Schäfer in 1953 is considered a milestone of intralogistics. The stackable boxes with a viewing hole at the front marked the beginning of modern storage container logistics.

Entrepreneur Horst Mosolf (1928–2015) was a pioneer of vehicle logistics and inventor of specialised automotive transport. Among other things, he commissioned the construction of the first double-decker wagon in 1959.

Frederick W Smith (1944–), founder and CEO of Fedex, is considered the inventor of express services and of the goods hub in the field of air transport. According to an oft-repeated anecdote, he only founded the company in 1971 so that he could prove to his professors that it really was possible to reach any location in the world within the space of 24 hours.

Peer Witten (1945–) is a pioneer of internet trading and modern logistics. As logistics director at the Otto Group, he not only built Hermes into a successful parcel distribution organisation from the mid-80s onwards, but initiated a series of innovations that set the trend in the market and subsequently served as a benchmark for internet trading. Alongside the early introduction of virtual information and service platforms as well as environmental management systems in warehousing, these innovations above all included new delivery services, such as delivery on all workdays, 24-hour delivery service or freely selectable time windows.

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

Strategic task force to help insect firms navigate novel food regulation

The International Platform of Insects for Food and Feed (IPIFF) wants workable and consistent rules for insect producers across the EU and is setting up a strategic task force to help manufacturers navigate their way through EU regulation.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2dGH34S

Mastic and mojito: Innovating in the Middle East’s ‘reshuffled’ gum market

Lebanese company Master Chewing Gum & Candies has introduced a gourmet gum brand in unconventional flavors such as mojito as it looks to seize on the Middle East’s changing gum market.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2dd55Sh

Nestlé tops influential sustainability index, but industry scores are below par

Nestlé is the top-rated food and beverage company in the Dow Jones Sustainability Index (DJSI) – its score of 92 out of 100 was more than double the sector average (39).

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2cY6xXq

Best Sanitizers puts the boot into sanitation with scrubber series

Best Sanitizers has launched boot scrubber equipment to support footwear sanitation.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2cY4X81

Krone tackles micro-organisms while on the move

Krone has launched a disinfection system for refrigerated trailers in addition to classical vehicle cleaning with water and chemical agents.

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

Mastic and mojito: Innovating in the Middle East’s ‘reshuffled’ gum market

Lebanese company Master Chewing Gum & Candies has introduced a gourmet gum brand in unconventional flavors such as mojito as it looks to seize on the Middle East’s changing gum market.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2cDBU8E

Healthy growth forecast for fish and seafood market

The global fish and seafood market has grown steadily, registering a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.8% between 2011 and 2015, according to data from research company MarketLine, whose analysis shows that market values have increased in all regions.

Global growth is primarily driven by Asia–Pacific and South America as the swelling middle classes begin to buy more expensive products through the organised retail channel. However, the US is still the single largest market.

“The US is the largest market by value for fish and seafood, accounting for 13.9% of global revenues. Value increases, while lower than in many other countries, have been driven by increased health awareness, as US public health bodies recommend eating two pieces of fish a week. Such advice is not unique to the US, and improved health consciousness is set to help the market globally in the mid to long term,” said MarketLine analyst Nicholas Wyatt.

The global market is forecast to grow at a CAGR of 3.9% between 2015 and 2020, once again aided by increased health consciousness and the desire for quality seafood among newly affluent consumers.

Volumes are growing at a slightly slower pace than values, demonstrating the impact of increased values in developing markets. The difference in growth rate between volume and value is greater in Asia–Pacific than it is on a global scale, providing further evidence that premium products are propelling the market in that region.

“The future looks bright for the fish and seafood market, but producers must pay attention to sustainability issues. Responsible fishing is key to the future health of the market. Overfishing or disease spread by overcrowded caging, as has been seen before in Chile, can create damaging health issues that rock consumer confidence,” added Wyatt.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2d6J9J4

Healthy food start-ups: secrets for success

Start-ups that launch snacks or beverages with a ‘free-from’ positioning have the best chance of success, a research project by New Nutrition Business (NNB) has found.

Analysing 151 businesses founded between 2002 and 2013 in the UK, USA and Australia, the project explored what makes a healthier food start-up fail – or prevail.

NNB’s major finding is that snack and beverage start-ups are the most resilient in the healthier foods market, as the products are easier to adapt to changes in demand and preferences.

Snacks are an entrepreneur’s best bet with a 64% success rate, and if they add a free-from message, the success rate rises to 88%. These results reflect the presence of two consumer trends — snackification and free-from — which consistently feature in NNB’s annual 10 Key Trends reports.

While beverages come in at a modest second with 56% of the ventures still on the market, they are the category most successful at breaking into the mass market. However, a look at the distribution of successful start-ups according to the benefit platforms reveals that kids’ beverages are bringing down the average. When these are stripped out, the beverage category in fact achieves higher success rates than snacks.

Dairy is a high-risk category, and the only group where failure exceeds success, with 57% of start-ups no longer present on the market.

Launching a kids’ product also faces particular obstacles. “Anyone venturing into the kids’ segment needs to bear in mind the double consumer challenge they face: to please the ‘consumption’ consumer, the children, as well as the ‘buying’ consumer, the parents,” said Joana Maricato, senior market analyst at New Nutrition Business.

The research indicated that the combination of benefit and product category has an influence on the success rate. “For example, in beverages, energy was one of the benefits with the highest success rates, while for dairy this was the case for the high-protein platform,” Maricato said.

Certain benefits alone make a product stand out. “There seem to exist benefits that are related with success across categories, such as free-from, which was associated with high success in both snack and beverages,” Maricato added.

Managing expectations regarding success is another important tip entrepreneurs can draw from the analysis. “Only 60% of successful start-ups made it to mass market. But mass market presence is not the only way to succeed. Start-ups can thrive while remaining in smaller, niche segments, where premium prices are often easier to obtain,” Maricato said.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2dtgMU1

Loma Systems X5c X-ray Inspection System

Loma Systems’ compact X5c is an X-ray system suitable for food manufacturers looking to upgrade their product inspection technology. It’s also suited to smaller production lines and is up to 50% shorter in length than Loma’s X5 X-Ray Inspection System.

The system performs detection of a wide variety of contaminants including ferrous, non-ferrous, stainless steel, glass, ceramic, calcified bone, stone and dense plastic.

The X5c suits end-of-line, packaged goods and incorporates an automatic product learn wizard which eases the switchover of multiple products during operation.

The system can also be combined with Loma’s CW3 checkweigher to provide a combination X-ray and checkweighing system.

The lead-free inspection system is compact, typically requiring less space than a conventional metal detector, requiring 1800 mm including auto-rejection, 1000 mm without. It includes a 300 mm-wide inspection window with no product blind spots and can perform product integrity inspection including counting and missing items.

Typical packing rate is 150 packs/min, with product weights up to 6 kg. Rejection options include air blast, pusher, carriage retract, diverter, sweep arm and signal only for third-party rejection systems.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2d8HF4j

Boost elderly protein intake by improving taste and convenience, study suggests

Improving protein consumption in the elderly may be a matter of improving taste, convenience and affordability as a study sets out a series of strategies designed to boost intake in this demographic. 

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2dsKi0P

More cocoa growing needed in Madagascar to lift vanilla market sustainability, say executives

Introducing more cocoa farming to Madagascar is key for a sustainable vanilla market, say Barry Callebaut and Prova on the launch of their new partnership.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2cCR26j

What does Greenpeace's palm oil report mean for IOI & RSPO?

Greenpeace's damning report on Malaysian palm oil supplier IOI, just one month after its membership of the Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO) was renewed, could be damaging for the certifier, according to one sustainability consultant.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2duVI3H

Boost elderly protein intake by improving taste and convenience, study suggests

Improving protein consumption in the elderly may be a matter of improving taste, convenience and affordability as a study sets out a series of strategies designed to boost intake in this demographic. 

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2d63XR3

Ecolabel market to grow by 66%, and will become more powerful than regulation, say Danish researchers

The number of eco-labels could grow by 66% in the next 15 years as their power and influence becomes much great than regulation, according to new research carried out in Denmark.

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

More cocoa growing needed in Madagascar to lift vanilla market sustainability, say executives

Introducing more cocoa farming to Madagascar is key for a sustainable vanilla market, say Barry Callebaut and Prova on the launch of their new partnership.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2d63Bdt

Lab demonstrates commitment to Asia Pacific - Eurofins

Eurofins Scientific has opened a microbiology testing laboratory in Singapore for food and beverage retailers and manufacturers.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2d5fSPg

Lab demonstrates commitment to Asia Pacific - Eurofins

Eurofins Scientific has opened a microbiology testing laboratory in Singapore for food and beverage retailers and manufacturers.

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

Caviness Beef Packers recalls meat over E.coli link

Texas meat processor Caviness Beef Packers has recalled close to a tonne of boneless beef products that US health officials fear could be contaminated with E. coli.

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

Marfrig celebrates as first Brazilian beef arrives in US

Brazilian meatpacker Marfrig has hailed the “incredible” news that its beef has arrived in the US, less than two months after the two nations lifted an historic trade ban.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2dah4zQ

Ireland: Origin Enterprises profits fall 26%

A solid performance in Eastern Europe was not enough to halt a 25.7% drop in pre-tax profits for Ireland’s agri-service group Origin Enterprises.

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

Pig laws set for post-virus epidemic shake-up

The African swine fever (ASF) epidemic in eastern Europe may trigger sweeping reforms in the pig industry, as conventional methods of fighting the disease have been ineffective. 

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

Neogen develops test protocols to detect yeast and mould in various yogurt types

Neogen has developed test protocols to analyse yogurts for any kind or type of yeast and mould.

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

IFCN says 40% fewer dairy farms in Western Europe by 2026

According to IFCN Monitoring, the world milk price has increased by 35% to a level of about $30/100 kg milk since June 2016.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2drwF22

What does Greenpeace's palm oil report mean for IOI & RSPO?

Greenpeace's damning report on Malaysian palm oil supplier IOI, just one month after its membership of the Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO) was renewed, could be damaging for the certifier, according to one sustainability consultant.

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

Ecolabel market to grow by 66%, and will become more powerful than regulation, say Danish researchers

The number of eco-labels could grow by 66% in the next 15 years as their power and influence becomes much great than regulation, according to new research carried out in Denmark.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2d9FsDu

Stealth carrots: How veggies are finding victory in F&B

Carrots might look dull compared to trendy super fruits and leafy vegetables, but the humble vegetable is in demand as a subtle but powerful nutritional boost, as consumers seek to increase their vegetable intake. 

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

Bickford’s craft distillery is banking on brandy resurgence

Making brandy cool again and appealing to millennials with a growing appreciation for boutique spirits are the goals of a new distillery opened by a leading Australian beverage company.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2d9Us2s

Courts gag campaigner after ‘toxic’ Capilano honey remarks

A victorian beekeeper who accused a leading Queensland honey manufacturer of selling “toxic” foreign products has been gagged by the courts ahead of legal action.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2dD0Emu

Courts gag campaigner after ‘toxic’ Capilano honey remarks

A victorian beekeeper who accused a leading Queensland honey manufacturer of selling “toxic” foreign products has been gagged by the courts ahead of legal action.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2dri9XM

US beverage industry pours cash into fighting sugar taxes and warning labels

Analysis has revealed the three biggest members of the USA’s soda (soft drink) lobby — the American Beverage Association, Coca-Cola and PepsiCo — have spent at least US$67 million since 2009 to defeat taxes and warning labels in 19 cities and states.

The Center for Science in the Public Interest analysed lobbying and ballot initiative disclosure reports, revealing an additional annual spend of US$14 million at the federal level. There, the public health objectives of the industry association and two companies have included opposition to a federal soda excise tax, the newly released and updated Nutrition Facts label with a line for added sugars, and the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, which proposed a quantitative limit — 12 teaspoons a day — for added sugars.

Spending by ‘Big Soda’ rose from around US$1–5 million a year in the early 2000s to a peak of US$40 million in 2009 when Congress considered a soda tax to pay for healthcare reform.

“There is no better way to understand the public health importance of soda taxes and warning labels than to see how much money Big Soda is willing to spend to oppose them,” said CSPI Health Promotion Policy Director Jim O’Hara.

In 2014, Big Soda spent more than US$2.4 million in an unsuccessful attempt to defeat a soda tax in Berkeley, California, and US$9.2 million in San Francisco, where a soda tax ballot initiative won 55% of the vote but failed to garner the two-thirds required.

In the first half of 2016, more than US$1.3m was spent to oppose soda-tax ballot measures in San Francisco and Oakland, California. According to one news report, the industry has reserved more than US$9 million in television advertising for the final weeks of the San Francisco campaign, where a second vote scheduled for November requires only majority support to pass.

2016 has also seen the industry pour more than US$9.3 million into a failed attempt to defeat a 1.5-cent per ounce soda tax adopted by the Philadelphia City Council. The city was blanketed with more than US$9 million in industry-funded television and radio advertising and other paid media, outspending public health advocates by a ratio of 4 to 1.

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

S$3.2bn and 38,000 jobs: The direct value of food manufacturing to Singapore revealed

Singapore’s food manufacturing industry chips in S$3.2bn to the City State’s GDP, according to a new report, although productivity levels in the sector are found to be slightly below the national average.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2d9D0eF

Market update: Indian herbs and spices

Delayed monsoon rains in the main growing regions of India, allied with steady demand from China, have supported chilli prices recently. 

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2dkjk64

Coca-Cola to train 350k grocery students with emphasis on food safety

Coca-Cola University aims to train 350,000 students how to run groceries and convenience stores by the end of next year.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2cKKZ2G

Doubling of processed food sales behind Indian packaging growth

India’s packaged food sales have doubled to US$51.5m in the five years from 2010, while the value of the food and beverage packaging market has reached US$16bn, according to a recent study.

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

Probiotics to help drive 44% rise in APAC functional foods market by 2026

The functional food ingredients market in Asia Pacific is being tipped to rise from $2.85bn at the end of 2016 to $5.04bn in 2026 with probiotics projected to be the fastest growing segment over the forecast period 

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

DuPont's Asia nutrition boss: Dow merger will make us faster, flexible and more efficient

In the first of a two-part interview, DuPont’s Asia president for health and nutrition Dr Li Yongjing discusses the initial turbulence created by the ongoing merger with Dow, and explains why he believes the new relationship will make the firm better equipped to deal with Asia’s fast-moving emerging markets.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2deL5io

Pakistan: UK-funded fortification programme targets women & children

A £48m (€55m) five-year, large-scale fortification programme is being rolled out this month in Pakistan in a bid to combat malnutrition in women and children.

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

Vinamilk signs strategic cooperation with DSM

JSC Vietnam Dairy Products (Vinamilk) has signed a strategic cooperation with nutrition company Royal DSM, to apply international standards on nutrition powdered milk products for children and consumers in Vietnam.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2d8LBzB

Turkmenistan brewer Berk Group extending into potato chips market

Berk Group, a brewer in former soviet republic Turkmenistan, has secured a loan to expand into the potato chips market.

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

Governments invest in on-farm food safety

The governments of Canada and Manitoba are to invest $1.2m in 275 on-farm food safety and animal welfare projects.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2d30Ut0

LRQA expands FSMA-based training

LRQA has expanded its food safety training courses to offer FSMA Preventive Controls Qualified Individual (PCQI) for Human Food FSPCA training.

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

Females in Food

Just launched, Females in Food is a powerful and influential collective for female food and beverage artisans, innovators, business leaders and entrepreneurs across the globe.

The member-based organisation is dedicated to empowering women in the food and beverage (F&B) industry by ensuring they have the resources they need to excel and grow themselves and their businesses.

The collective is open to all women in F&B, whether they are executives, producers, entrepreneurs, chefs, brewers, stylists, manufacturers, educators or anyone else in between. It’s a place where they can find new ways to connect, learn, be inspired and support each other.

Females in Food founder Chelsea Ford says she is passionate about creating a place where commercial advice can be shared, further education offered and professional connections fostered in order to build the profile and buoy women in F&B — a challenging but highly rewarding sector of the market.

“I’ve worked in the food and beverage industry for over 25 years and I’ve seen firsthand how difficult it can be for women to excel,” said Ford.

“It’s not only that it’s a heavily male-dominated industry, it also takes really hard work to be a successful entrepreneur, and that can sometimes be a very lonely existence.”

Ford said over time her vision had become very clear — she wanted the Females in Food collective to build the profile of, and in turn shape a better future for, women in the industry.

“I want to be in a world where women are empowered to create opportunities for themselves and support each other to promote collective success,” she said.

“Since our prelaunch via social media in July 2016, Females in Food has attracted interest from women across a range of occupations within the food and beverage industry and from around the world.

“Our membership is now live at http://bit.ly/2d2y8Zr and already we have a solid list of people who have registered interest about joining our collective.”

Why not consider joining?

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

Acrylamide regulations won’t reduce exposure, say campaigners as draft EU proposals are leaked

The European Commission’s proposed new regulation on acrylamide is “meaningless” and won’t make any difference to consumers’ exposure to the substance, say campaigners.

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

Investors worth $1.25trn urge industry to switch to sustainable plant proteins

A group of investors worth $1.25 trillion (€1.1 trn) in assets are urging 16 food companies to accelerate the switch to sustainable, plant-based proteins.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2d2f39X

Consumers check labels for 'Australian made'

Research has revealed that ‘Australian made’ is now the third most looked for statement on product labels, with the top two being price related.

The finding, highlighted in research conducted by Colmar Brunton, was welcomed by the Australian Made Campaign (AMCL), with chief executive Ian Harrison saying it proves that Australian consumers want to buy genuine Australian produce.

“The finding that an ‘Australian made’ claim ranks second behind price factors in the information shoppers are looking for clearly establishes that they want to know where their food is coming from and where their products are made. Primarily, they want to buy Australian made and Australian grown,” Harrison said.

Recent changes to country of origin food labelling in Australia will make discovery of provenance easier for shoppers, giving them a better understanding of how much of their food is sourced locally.

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

OVEN Industries 5R9-350 field configurable temperature controller

OVEN Industries has available the 5R9-350 field configurable temperature controller.

The open board temperature controller is designed with a proportional integral control algorithm to provide precise control to thermoelectric (Peltier effect) modules.

The controller can be set up for heat or cool and can run ramp and soak profile. Pulse width modulation controls the power level in the thermoelectric module at a base frequency of 2.5 kHz; output stage is high resolution.

Accessories available are digital display, keypad, sensors and cable.

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

CHEP's retail pallets take gold and silver at industry awards

Supply chain solution provider CHEP has won gold and silver for two of its customer solutions at the 2016 POPAI Marketing at Retail Awards.

The winning products were the Retail Display Pallet and the Retail Modular Pallet. The innovative pallets are a ‘one-touch’ solution, where the same packaging is used for transportation, retail display and storage of products, removing multiple product handling requirements and streamlining the transport process from the manufacturer to the retail floor, without further packing or unpacking.

As part of the award submission, CHEP presented a case study with Tru Blu Beverages to demonstrate how they work together to build better supply chains.

“Both platforms are designed to move products seamlessly from the manufacturer to the retail floor, as an innovative one-touch solution fully stocked and ready to go, while also removing the need for one-way cardboard packaging and minimising transport resources, including a reduction in fuel,” said CHEP Director of Strategy and Marketing for Australia and New Zealand Justin Frank.

Around 65% of retail supply chain costs are incurred in the short distance from the loading dock to supermarket shelf display.

“Together, with the movement from the distribution centre, it is commonly known as the ‘last mile’ and is the current battleground for innovation in the quest to gain efficiency, reduce environmental impact, improve on-shelf availability and promote sales,” said Frank.

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

G. Mondini robotic picking head system for frozen steak

G. Mondini has released a picking head system for the robotic loading of crust-frozen steak.

The system offers processors advantages in labour reduction, consistent placement and capacity without compromising on hygiene

The system is fully washdown capable and utilises a hygienic picking head design that takes advantage of the Bernoulli Vacuum principle, resulting in a ‘no suck back’ effect.

The picking system uses the Adept Quattro s650HS parallel robot, which is USDA accepted for meat and poultry processing. The four-arm design, control algorithms and large work envelope make the overhead-mount robot suitable for smooth-motion, high-throughput applications. The robot is powered by compact controls and embedded amplifiers, which reduces the cycle time and improves the footprint efficiency.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2dq7F6A

Sodexo receives top ranking on palm oil scorecard

Food service and facilities management company Sodexo has received a score of nine out of nine from the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) on its Palm Oil Buyers Scorecard.

The ranking, which assesses the progress of companies towards being a responsible user of palm oil, reflects Sodexo’s undertaking to improve its practices regarding sourcing sustainable palm oil and in raising awareness — within the supplier community, its sourcing teams and with clients and customers — about the importance of sourcing certified sustainably produced palm oil.

“The need for sustainable practices in the palm oil industry has become increasingly urgent, especially considering the devastation in Indonesia this past year due to toxic haze that has been linked to palm oil and paper production. Raising environmental standards across the entire global supply chain is both an economic and ethical responsibility. At Sodexo, we select and source products that support the development of a sustainable palm oil industry and work with suppliers and producers that share the same level of commitment to conducting business responsibly,” said Neil Barrett, Sodexo Group SVP Sustainable Development.

Where sustainable palm oil cannot be sourced, the company purchases GreenPalm certificates to reward palm producers for working in a sustainable and responsible way.

Palm oil is now the most widely used vegetable oil on the planet, accounting for 65% of all vegetable oil traded internationally, and its use is expected to double by 2020.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2d25lEm

Aust. Government pledges $5 million food and nutrition innovation challenge

The LAUNCH Food challenge gives innovators, entrepreneurs, organisations and individuals an opportunity to put forward innovative solutions for improving global health outcomes through better nutrition. The program is seeking solutions with the potential to transform food systems and the behaviours they drive to promote health and prosperity for all people while respecting the planet’s resources.

The Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade’s (DFAT) InnovationXchange, and the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), are behind the global call for innovations.

At the announcement of the challenge the Hon Julie Bishop MP, Australian Minister for Foreign Affairs of Australia, said, “Through LAUNCH Food — a partnership with USAID — we will be gathering the best and brightest ideas, putting $5 million into this challenge so that we can come up with ideas that can actually be turned into reality and can make a different, a positive difference to lives of people around the world.”

Changing cultural norms and the globalisation of the world’s food supply is shifting the way people act and eat, resulting in high levels of impaired development, non-communicable diseases and avoidable deaths rising out of the dichotomous challenges of under-nutrition and over-nutrition, particularly in lower income countries.

About half the children in countries close to Australia are suffering the effects of under-nutrition while paradoxically, obesity leading to chronic disease burden is at epidemic levels. For the first time the current generation will have a shorter life span than the previous generation.

LAUNCH Food (part of the LAUNCH innovation platform) aims to create a worldwide coalition of committed innovators and thinkers focused on identifying innovations with the potential to transform food and nutrition systems in a variety of contexts worldwide, while respecting the planet’s resources.

The challenge will give participants the opportunity to have their proposals reviewed by a world-class network of industry pioneers, government organisations, investors and innovation experts. Winning innovations will be funded through the platform.

In its first year, LAUNCH Food is calling for supply- or demand-side innovations that will ultimately impact people’s food choices, whether in the home, market, street, restaurant or community.

A network of experts and key players from across the food landscape will select top applications for participation in the LAUNCH Food experience. These solutions could take the form of products, programs, technologies, services, business and delivery models, alternative modes of production, financial instruments or new development approaches.

LAUNCH is looking for a balanced portfolio of innovations (game-changing, early-stage prototypes) and solutions (post-pilot solutions with the potential to scale within 2 years) that address supply, demand or both, but offer impact at the level of an individual’s personal consumption.

To be considered for the LAUNCH Food challenge, submissions must address one or more of the following:

Food production

• Supply chain infrastructure and practices across the value chain (harvesting, storage, processing/drying/manufacturing, transport, marketing), including food wastage
• Food and food technology
• Production processes and efficiency
• Models of economic incentivisation
• Financial products or services that drive how and where food is produced
• Nutrition-sensitive and climate smart agriculture, including horticulture, aquaculture and livestock
• Harnessing data to understand the supply of and demand for nutritious food
• Growing more (and a more diverse range of) nutritious food
• Decoupling price and quality so that nutritious food is not always the most expensive option

Food consumption

• Empowering and incentivising people to change their eating and feeding behaviour
• Reinforcing positive and nutritious cultural and social practices
• Educating around the needs of humans and the value of food
• Improving people’s understanding of what is and is not healthy
• Helping people make better food and feeding choices
• Helping reinforce and reward good food and feeding choices
• Food messaging and marketing; creative consumer engagement
• Labelling and packaging
• Using food data to drive understanding and behaviour change

Applications will be evaluated on:

• Potential for improving health outcomes
• Technical feasibility and practicality of use
• Pathway to scale
• Sustainability of the innovation/solution
• Evidence of potential for application in lower-income and underserved communities and/or developing markets and countries
• Strength of project team and leadership

The challenge is open for anyone to apply. Responses from academics, companies (small or large), entrepreneurs, inventors, non-profit organisations, research institutions, national laboratories, government agencies, social enterprises and funders are welcome. Cross-discipline and cross-geography teams are highly encouraged to apply.

Submissions for LAUNCH Food are due Wednesday, 16 November 2016 — interested applicants can find out more or share their submissions at launch.org/food. Winning innovators will be announced in February 2017.

Any questions?

Email the LAUNCH Food team: foodchallenge@launch.org

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

University launches first gluten-free dining hall

A US university has become the first in the country to establish an entirely gluten-free dining hall on its campus.

Kent State University restructured its Prentice Café after administrators noticed rising numbers of students with gluten intolerance.

An estimated 3 million Americans suffer from coeliac disease, a genetic autoimmune disorder that affects the digestive process, while many others choose to restrict their gluten intake as a personal preference.

To make college life easier for students who need or prefer gluten-free foods, all menu items at Prentice Café are gluten-free.

“Students’ needs have always been our top priority,” said Rich Roldan, director of university dining services at Kent State. “Students have enough to worry about — they should not have to worry about their food being safe to eat. It is important they can eat in a safe environment, which is why we decided to make Prentice Café a gluten-free dining location.”

Prentice Café earned certification from the Gluten-Free Food Services Certification Program, a food safety program offered through the Gluten Intolerance Group, a non-profit organisation dedicated to empowering the gluten-free community through consumer support, advocacy and education.

In addition to every item being gluten-free, the menu at Prentice Café also features a variety of vegan and vegetarian dishes, as well as foods that support a healthy lifestyle.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2dqw3cm

FSSAI releases new e-commerce regulations for public consultation

A newly drafted policy by India’s food regulator will hold all e-commerce entities responsible for the quality of food they serve to customers. 

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2dB85dJ

Tongan field school breaks new ground for young farmers

More than 20 farmers from ‘Eua Island in Tonga recently graduated from the first school in the Pacific to teach young farmers how to grow and sell more food with certified training.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2d87v4G

Greenpeace activists block IOI palm oil at Rotterdam port

Greenpeace activists are blocking palm oil imports from Malaysian trader IOI at Rotterdam harbour in protest at the firm's involvement in forest destruction, peatland fires and use of child labour.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2dB9ktr

Australian confectionery industry rejects claims it is snubbing star labeling

The AI Group has disputed claims from consumer group CHOICE that its confectionery members are ignoring the country’s health star labeling system.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2d8aJVw

FDA action against fish and soup firms for food safety concerns

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has taken action in two different cases over food safety concerns.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2dB7RDl

Detained foodstuff doubles but decrease for beverages

EU customs authorities seized an estimated five million more counterfeit items in 2015 than the previous year, according to figures from the European Commission.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2d88ge3

Nestlé Health Science founding chief retires after 40 years

Luis Cantarell, who headed up €500m+ food-pharma crossover research centre Nestlé Health Science when it launched in 2010, is retiring after 40 years at the Swiss food giant.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2cB0oUQ

Investors worth $1.25trn urge industry to switch to sustainable plant proteins

A group of investors worth $1.25 trillion (€1.1 trn) in assets are urging 16 food companies to accelerate the switch to sustainable, plant-based proteins.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2cAG0mD

Czech beef and poultry production growing despite rising imports

The Czech Republic’s beef and poultry meat production is on the rise, but its meat market remains dominated by imports from EU member states, according to the Czech Statistical Office (CZSO).

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2ddq081

Food trends: Why beef and pork is about to get cheaper

Beef and pork prices in the US are expected to drop by more than 10% in the next nine years, according to US government meat projections.

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

Greenpeace activists block IOI palm oil at Rotterdam port

Greenpeace activists are blocking palm oil imports from Malaysian trader IOI at Rotterdam harbour in protest at the firm's involvement in forest destruction, peatland fires and use of child labour.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2d7gWkB

Acrylamide regulations won’t reduce exposure, say campaigners as draft EU proposals are leaked

The European Commission’s proposed new regulation on acrylamide is “meaningless” and won’t make any difference to consumers’ exposure to the substance, say campaigners.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2dA7PeU

Beta-glucan & fibre: Golden oldies in 2016?

Simple, recognisable nutrients like beta-glucan and fibre should be on the menu when targeting a new wave of active and positive seniors, say experts.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2d7habz

Adams Farm Slaughterhouse recalls meat products after E.coli scare

Adams Farm Slaughterhouse, a Massachusetts-based company, has been forced to recall beef, veal and bison products by US health officials, due to a possible E.coli contamination.

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

Greenpeace activists block IOI palm oil at Rotterdam port

Greenpeace activists are blocking palm oil imports from Malaysian trader IOI at Rotterdam harbour in protest at the firm's involvement in forest destruction, peatland fires and use of child labour.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2d6P81G

Too much gluten may trigger coeliac disease in babies

High gluten intake before the age of two carries coeliac disease risk, researchers say, challenging coeliac development links with breastfeeding and age.

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

Brewers add ingredient & nutrition info in Europe

By the end of 2017, more than half the beer brewed in the EU will carry ingredients and nutrition information, according to The Brewers of Europe. 

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2d76utv

Detained foodstuff doubles but decrease for beverages

EU customs authorities seized an estimated five million more counterfeit items in 2015 than the previous year, according to figures from the European Commission.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2dp55xS

Thai poultry firm threatens to sue NGO

A chicken supplier in Thailand may open a lawsuit against a non-governmental organisation (NGO) over alleged claims of human trafficking. 

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2d3JkIr

US picks WTO 'feed' fight with China

The US has challenged China through the World Trade Organization (WTO) regarding government support of wheat, corn and rice. 

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2dp3OHb

Fonterra profits up 65%

New Zealand’s Fonterra Co-operative Group has announced a 65% increase in net profit after tax to NZ$834m ($604m) for the financial year ended July 31, 2016.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2d3JAXS

Infant formula intake and protein guidelines queried in Southeast Asia

There is concern about the considerable variance in the recommended consumption levels of infant formula and follow-on formula in Asia and questions over the amount of protein they are required to contain, an international conference has heard.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2dp5ikt

Coca-Cola opens manufacturing plant in New Zealand

Coca-Cola Amatil has unveiled its Keri juice manufacturing plant: the largest in New Zealand and with the ability to produce 800,000 bottles a day. 

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2d3KAeM

Too much gluten may trigger coeliac disease in babies

High gluten intake before the age of two carries coeliac disease risk, researchers say, challenging coeliac development links with breastfeeding and age.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2doIFB8

Global ID Group snapped up by private equity firm

The Global ID Group is to be acquired by a private equity firm for an undisclosed amount.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2d6T0xV

Global ID Group snapped up by private equity firm

The Global ID Group is to be acquired by a private equity firm for an undisclosed amount.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2cyRv9k

ASI Food Safety to use ReposiTrak platform

ASI Food Safety is to use the ReposiTrak platform to schedule and conduct audits, finalize corrective actions and issue audit certificates.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2do2poF

SGS deal boosts official inspection capability

SGS has acquired the assets and license of John R. McCrea Agency, Inc. (McCrea), a designated inspection agency licensed by the US Department of Agriculture.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2cyh4rg

Thai poultry firm threatens to sue NGO

A chicken supplier in Thailand may open a lawsuit against a non-governmental organisation (NGO) over alleged claims of human trafficking. 

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2cHp2l6

Brain response to fat could determine future path in tackling obesity, study says

Consuming a meal high in fat appears to reduce the brain reward response — a finding that has future implications in the reformulation of low-fat foods and the fight against obesity.

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Biozoon's 3D printed smooth foods target Europe's elderly

3D printing and the right choice of texturiser are key to creating visually appealing smooth foods that can be eaten by seniors who cannot chew, says German company Biozoon.

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

Is all fair in love & war, logos & lobbying? France begins nutrition label trial

Amid cries of conflicts of interest and fierce industry lobbying, France will test out four different nutrition labels for a trial period to see which is the most efficient in encouraging healthier food choices.

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Social media meltdown as Nestlé withdraws Toffee Deluxe from Quality Street

Nestlé has received a deluge of protests on social media after withdrawing Toffee Deluxe from its UK Quality Street collection, but denies the candy has gone for good.

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Brain response to fat could determine future path in tackling obesity, study says

Consuming a meal high in fat appears to reduce the brain reward response — a finding that has future implications in the reformulation of low-fat foods and the fight against obesity.

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

Biozoon's 3D printed smooth foods target Europe's elderly

3D printing and the right choice of texturiser are key to creating visually appealing smooth foods that can be eaten by seniors who cannot chew, says German company Biozoon.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2d1CbZi

Is all fair in love & war, logos & lobbying? France begins nutrition label trial

Amid cries of conflicts of interest and fierce industry lobbying, France will test out four different nutrition labels for a trial period to see which is the most efficient in encouraging healthier food choices.

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

SternMaid starts work on new plant

German ingredients manufacturer SternMaid has started construction of its new production plant.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2d1AY43

Analytik Jena sets up joint application center

Analytik Jena and the Fresenius University of Applied Sciences are to create a joint application center for customers for teaching and research.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2dneeH0

Thai poultry firm threatens to sue NGO

A chicken supplier in Thailand may open a lawsuit against a non-governmental organisation (NGO) over alleged claims of human trafficking. 

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Big rise in EU pork exports

The strong growth of EU pig meat exports, particularly to high-margin markets China and Hong Kong, is lifting the troubled sector out of its oversupply crisis.

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

Russia challenges WTO pork ban verdict

The Russian government has launched an appeal against the World Trade Organization’s (WTO) ruling that the Kremlin’s ban on EU pork products is illegal.

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Lobby group calls for switch from meat to plant-based protein

Investors managing $1.25trn in assets have called on 16 food companies to shake up the global meat supply chain, citing environmental and health concerns over factory farming.

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Canada’s Olymel investment creates 30 jobs

Pork processor Olymel will pump millions of dollars into its Quebec factory to improve production and efficiency, leading to the creation of more than 30 jobs.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2dn6UQe

Big rise in EU pork exports

The strong growth of EU pig meat exports, particularly to high-margin markets China and Hong Kong, is lifting the troubled sector out of its oversupply crisis.

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

Russia challenges WTO pork ban verdict

The Russian government has launched an appeal against the World Trade Organization’s (WTO) ruling that the Kremlin’s ban on EU pork products is illegal.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2cQC1yG

Lobby group calls for switch from meat to plant-based protein

Investors managing $1.25trn in assets have called on 16 food companies to shake up the global meat supply chain, citing environmental and health concerns over factory farming.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2deO4Jn

Canada’s Olymel investment creates 30 jobs

Pork processor Olymel will pump millions of dollars into its Quebec factory to improve production and efficiency, leading to the creation of more than 30 jobs.

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

Analysis of Italian E. coli O26 outbreak and HUS potential

Infections with Shiga toxin 2-producing E. coli (STEC) O26 have a high probability of progressing to haemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) and represent an emerging problem in Europe, according to an outbreak report.

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

How supplements can filter out the negative effects of Blue Light

Studies suggest that, over time, exposure to the Blue Light could cause serious long-term damage to our eyes and sleep patterns.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2deBA4C

Calls for Asian sugar tax as Kiwi review awards poor marks to Mexico

The World Health Organisation has asked countries on the west side of the Pacific to consider imposing a tax on all soft drinks in a bid to tackle rising rates of obesity. 

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2cQqi2W

Chinese preliminary decision on anti-dumping duties a ‘disappointment’ - US trade groups

China is bringing anti-dumping duties of 33.8% against the US for sales of DDGS, claiming damage was done to the domestic market. 

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DSM raises prices for vitamin C produced in China

DSM said it is to increase prices for the vitamin C forms it produces in China by a minimum of 10% for non-contracted business.

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China penalizes US DDGS suppliers

China's Ministry of Commerce has decided to impose anti-dumping duties on distiller's dried grains (DDGs) from the US, according to Xinhua news agency.

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

Seven sickened by E. coli O157 in outbreak linked to beef

A multistate outbreak of Shiga toxin-producing E. coli O157:H7 (STEC O157:H7) infections has been linked to Adams Farm Slaughterhouse.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2d3Nldw

Analytik Jena sets up joint application center

Analytik Jena and the Fresenius University of Applied Sciences are to create a joint application center for customers for teaching and research.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2cFBOR1

Deaths reported in Lagos cholera outbreak

Six people have died from a cholera outbreak in a Nigerian city, according to local media .

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2d3xFqN

Blue Bell Ice Cream recalls 2,000 cartons of ice cream due to second Listeria scare

Blue Bell Ice Cream issued a voluntary recall of 2,000 cartons of its chocolate chip cookie dough and Cookie Two Step ice cream in 10 states due to possible Listeria contamination from its third party ingredient supplier Aspen Hills.

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

Dramatic rise in Pacific Islands diabetes cases questioned due to ‘methodological errors’

High reported rates of type 2 diabetes in some Pacific Island nations have been called into question after Australian researchers found deficiencies in the methods used to test for the disease - a finding which may have wider global implications.

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Successful beverage packages combine individuality plus efficiency

Health and wellness concern drives pure ingredient growth

Market research company Euromonitor International has released its latest research on ingredients, revealing that 1.2 billion tonnes of pure commodities were used in food and drink applications in 2015, an increase of 2% since 2014.

The growth is linked to the ongoing health and wellness trend within the global food and drinks market. Attitude to health continues to evolve in the Americas and Western Europe, where naturally healthy foods are growing at a faster rate than fortified/functional products.

“Clean labels remains a dominant trend in food and drinks, and is set to become more important in beauty and personal care,” said John Madden, head of ingredients at Euromonitor International.

Euromonitor also predicts greater pressure to simplify on-pack information, delivering honest, simple messages that consumers can understand.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2dcQ9Wg

Flexicon Wide-Inlet Bulk Bag Filler

The Wide-Inlet Bulk Bag Filler from Flexicon allows rapid filling and passage of large, moist or dense chunks and semisolid materials into open or duffle-top bulk bags.

The unit features powered height adjustment of the cantilevered fill head to accommodate all popular bag heights, pneumatically adjustable bag hooks, a roller conveyor, automated vibratory densification/deaeration deck and load cells with automated controls.

Material passes through a hopper equipped with a slide gate valve positioned above the filler, and through the filler’s inlet chute that tapers from 660 to 508 mm² before discharging into an open-top bulk bag.

A vibratory deaeration deck activated at timed intervals during the filling cycle densifies the bulk material, stabilising the bag.

When load cells signal that the bag is approaching target weight, a controller shuts the slide gate valve, releases the bag straps and activates a powered roller conveyor to remove the filled bulk bag from the filling area.

Constructed of carbon steel with a durable industrial finish, the system is suitable for sludge-like materials, disparate-sized scrap, mulch, stone, coal, wood pellets and other bulk material containing pieces, chunks, agglomerates, clumps and other materials too large or non-free-flowing for conventional bulk bags and fillers. The unit is also available in stainless steel for filling of potatoes, cassavas, turnips and similarly sized crops.

The company also offers Twin-Centrepost bulk bag fillers for low-volume, low-cost filling applications and Swing-Down bulk bag fillers that lower and pivot the fill head to the operator at floor level for safe, rapid bag connections.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2cvsv2V

Coldline Living VISION multifunctional blast chiller

Coldline Living’s VISION commercial blast chillers can perform multiple functions, including blast chilling, shock freezing, proving, thawing, storage and chocolate crystallisation/holding.

With an adjustable temperature range from -40 to 35°C, humidity from 40 to 95% and ventilation intensity from 30 to 100%, chefs can set the right type of cold for each type of food.

Using only specific processes according to the nature and quantity of each product respects their original characteristics and eliminates bacteria that determine the risk of food poisoning. The chiller is suitable for a wide array of functions, including freezing fish, cooking frozen meat straight away, deep freezing cured meats, storing fresh pasta, ice-creams and deep freezing seasonal fruit pieces, while avoiding cold burns or frost formation.

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

Labelling the "Australian-ness" of food — a review of the new country of origin food labelling system 2016

FAO tackles antimicrobial resistance

The increased use — and abuse — of antimicrobial medicines in both human and animal health care has contributed to an increase in the number of disease-causing microbes that are resistant to medicines traditionally used to treat them.

The significant risk to human health posed by antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and its connection to and impact on agriculture was discussed at a high-level UN event on 21 September in New York. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) has pledged to help countries develop strategies for tackling the spread of antimicrobial resistance in their food supply chains.

Action plan

In addition to public health risks, AMR has implications for both food safety and food security and the economic wellbeing of millions of farming households across the globe. FAO’s Action Plan on Antimicrobial Resistance highlights four key areas for action in the food and agriculture sphere:

• Improving awareness of AMR issues among farmers and producers, veterinary professionals and authorities, policymakers and food consumers.
• Building national capacities for surveillance and monitoring of AMR and antimicrobial use (AMU) in food and agriculture.
• Strengthening governance related to AMU and AMR in food and agriculture.
• Promoting good practices in food and agricultural systems and the prudent use of antimicrobials.

The organisation is aiming to help governments put in place national strategies for tackling AMR and AMU in their food and agricultural sectors by mid-2017.

AMR in food and agriculture

With demand for animal-sourced food products projected to grow steadily over the coming decades, FAO predicts the use of antimicrobials will continue to rise. An international study published by the US National Academy of Sciences estimated that two-thirds of the forecast future expansion of antimicrobial usage is expected to occur within the animal production sector, with use in pigs and poultry set to double.

FAO believes the fundamental way to address AMR in food and agriculture is to ensure that farm and food systems adhere to best practices for hygiene, biosecurity and animal care and handling.

Another key need is the lack of a global, standardised approach to data used to track the use of antimicrobials in livestock. The UK-government’s O’Neill commission report found that only 42 countries have such systems in place. Risks from AMR in agriculture are higher in countries where laws, regulations and monitoring systems are weak.

Ongoing work

The FAO-WHO Codex Alimentarius Commission, which sets international food quality and safety standards, has laid the foundations for food safety control authorities to tackle antimicrobial resistance in food via a range of standards on AMR, veterinary drugs and their residues, food hygiene and animal feed. Codex recently established a dedicated AMR task force.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2cE7o1M

FSANZ calls for submissions on a new processing enzyme

Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) is seeking submissions on an application to allow a new enzyme, known as Oryzin, to be added to the Food Standards Code as an approved processing aid.

FSANZ Chief Executive Officer Steve McCutcheon said Amano Enzyme Inc had submitted the application for approval of the enzyme, derived from A. melleus, which has a long history of safe use overseas as the production organism for a number of processing aids.

“Oryzin is intended for use in baking and aids in the processing of dairy, egg, meat and fish products. It can also be used for processing yeast and proteins and may result in improved flavour and digestive properties,” he said.

“After reviewing the available data, FSANZ has determined that there are no public health or safety issues associated with the use of Oryzin and that its use is technologically justified.”

The closing date for submissions is 6 pm, 2 November 2016.

Read more about it via http://bit.ly/2dbmQ2B

Building more supermarkets won't solve the obesity crisis

An analysis has challenged the notion that obesity rates can be reduced by improving access to supermarkets offering healthy food, finding that the bulk of soft drinks and junk foods are purchased in supermarkets.

The findings challenge the ‘food desert’ hypothesis, which posits that a lack of access to supermarkets and grocery stores in some communities worsens the obesity crisis by restricting access to healthy foods.

The study, published in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition, looked at data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey of 4204 adults who reported their daily food intake in two, non-consecutive 24-hour periods in 2011 and 2012.

The analysis found that nearly half (46.3%) of adults consumed sugar-sweetened beverages and 88.8% ate discretionary foods such as cookies, pastries, ice-cream, cakes, popcorn and candy on any given day.

Sugar-sweetened beverages add an average 891 kJ/day to the diet, the researchers found, while discretionary foods added an average of 1836 kJ/day, with the largest portion of both products coming from supermarket shelves.

“More than half of the sugar-sweetened beverages and two-thirds of discretionary foods are purchased in supermarkets and grocery stores,” said University of Illinois kinesiology and community health professor Ruopeng An, who led the study.

“Supermarket purchases of these items are about two to four times as large as all the other sources — fast-food restaurants, full-service restaurants, convenience stores, vending machines and other locations — combined.”

The food desert hypothesis has led the US government to spend almost US$500 million since 2011 to improve access to supermarkets and grocery stores in underserved communities. States and municipalities have offered financial incentives to build new grocery stores or to increase the amount of fresh food available in convenience stores and petrol stations, for example.

“It is true that supermarkets also are the largest source of healthy food,” An said. “But we can’t be naïve and think that people only purchase healthy food from supermarkets. They also buy all this junk food from supermarkets and grocery stores.”

Adding fruit and vegetables improves the diet, An said, but for obesity prevention, it is only helpful if people replace junk food with healthy food.

“We don’t see from our data that the presence of a supermarket has a preventive effect on people’s obesity or their junk-food intake.”

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Kidney patients slash medicine costs by eating fruit and veg

A study has shown that adding more fruits and vegetables to the diet of people with kidney disease improved blood pressure and cut medication expenses nearly in half.

Diseased kidneys are less able to eliminate acid from the body, which can create abnormally high acid levels in the blood — a condition called metabolic acidosis. People with kidney disease are often treated with sodium bicarbonate to neutralise this excess acid. Because many fruits and vegetables naturally reduce acid after they are digested, metabolic acidosis can also be treated by increasing those fruits and vegetables in the diet.

In the study, which was presented at the American Heart Association’s High Blood Pressure 2016 Scientific Sessions, researchers compared blood pressure control in patients who received acidosis treatment via sodium bicarbonate or fruits and vegetables to patients who did not receive acidosis treatment. Acidosis treatment was intended to cut the acid load on the kidneys by half. All patients (36 in each group) were treated with medications to reduce their systolic (upper number) blood pressure to less than 130 mm Hg.

Researchers found that after 5 years, the average systolic blood pressure was lower (125 mm Hg) in the fruit and vegetable group than in patients receiving sodium bicarbonate (135 mm Hg) or no acidosis treatment (134 mm Hg).

By the end of the study, daily doses of blood pressure drugs were lower in the fruit and vegetable group than in patients receiving sodium bicarbonate or no acidosis treatment, with the average 5-year drug cost for maintaining blood pressure nearly halved in the fruit and vegetable group ($79,760) compared with the sodium bicarbonate ($155,372) or no treatment groups ($152,305).

“It was remarkable that we achieved better blood pressure control using fewer drugs and without forcing people to change their diet completely. Instead, we provided food for the entire family so they could add fruits and vegetables to what they normally eat. This was important because many of these patients lived in neighbourhoods without access to fruits and vegetables through local food banks or grocery stores,” said Nimrit Goraya, MD, study author and program director for nephrology at Baylor Scott & White Health in Temple, Texas.

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