Saturday, December 30, 2006
FDA seeks comments on safety of animal cloning
12/30/2006-The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued three documents on the safety of animal cloning -- a draft risk assessment; a proposed risk management plan; and a draft guidance for industry. FDA is seeking comments from the public on the three documents for the next 90 days. To submit electronic comments on the three documents, visit www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/oc/dockets/comments/commentdocket.cfm?AGENCY=FDA. Written comments may be sent to: Division of Dockets Management (HFA-305), Food and Drug Administration, 5630 Fishers Lane, Rm. 1061, Rockville, MD, 20852. Comments must be received by Apr. 2, 2007 and should include the docket number 2003N-0573. For more information, visit www.fda.gov/cvm/CloneRiskAssessment.htm.
Thursday, December 21, 2006
Anheuser-Busch launches gluten-free beer
12/21/2006-Anheuser-Busch has joined the gluten-free trend with its new sorghum beer, aimed at adults who experience wheat allergies or who choose a wheat-free or gluten-free diet. The new beer, called Redbridge, will be sold in stores carrying organic products and restaurants. Sorghum, the primary ingredient in Redbridge, is a safe grain for those allergic to wheat or gluten. It is grown in the United States, Africa, Southern Europe, Central America and Southern Asia. Sorghum beers have been available internationally for years and are popular in many African countries. Redbridge is a full-bodied lager brewed using imported Hallertau and domestic Cascade hops. It is brewed with sorghum and has a well-balanced, moderately hopped taste. “We set out to create a fine, hand-crafted specialty beer made without wheat or barley,” said Angie Minges, product manager, Anheuser-Busch. “We’ve made Redbridge nationally available to make sure adults who experience wheat allergies or who choose a gluten-free or wheat-free diet can enjoy the kind of beer that fits their lifestyle.” Redbridge contains 4.8% alcohol per 12-ounce serving. It will be available in 12-ounce, six-pack bottles. Redbridge is brewed at the Anheuser-Busch Merrimack, N.H., brewery.
Wednesday, December 20, 2006
POM Wonderful denounces hoax
12/20/2006-POM Wonderful, the popular produer of pomegranate juice, says it appears to be the target of a "cruel hoax" by the Animal Rights Milita, which has claimed to media that it contaminated bottles of POM Wonderful juice in several retail chains on the East Coast of the U.S. POM says it has found no evidence of contamination and has not received any complaints from consumers. The company also says its tamper-evident cap ensures that no product is damaged or contaminated, and consumers should check the cap before consuming. POM Wonderful said that in recent months, animal rights activists have pressured POM to sign a statement renouncing all animal research. POM refused. "Our research is helping to save human lives," a spokesman for the company said. "POM Wonderful is outraged by the boasts of the Animal Rights Militia," the spokesman said. "If it is a hoax, it is a form of blackmail. If actual contamination has taken place, with the intention of injuring innocent people, it is an act of terrorism. Either way, the Animal Rights Militia is trying to scare and intimidate innocent people. That is criminal behavior." According to a press release, POM said its priority is to improve human health through sound science. The company points to its funding of "more than $20 million on research performed at world-class universities", and says it "will not walk away from its contributions to advancing scientific knowledge. POM has no intention of diluting or hampering its research in order to satisfy violent extremists."
Healthier eating starts at home
12/20/2006-Eating at home leads to healthier eating, according to a recent survey released by the Food Marketing Institute (FMI) and Prevention magazine. According to the survey, nearly three in four shoppers (71%) believe the food they eat at home is healthier than meals consumed out. More than nine in 10 consumers prepare at least one home-cooked dinner from scratch every week, and more than half (68%) do it almost daily. Relatively few shoppers believe that grocery stores offer “many” healthy options in frozen entrees (16%), packaged foods (8%), or even ready-to-cook (10%) and prepared foods (12%). Survey responses also indicated that many consumers are striving to eat healthier, and are increasingly susceptible to diet fads. They are also buying more organic foods. Organic food purchases increased in virtually all the major categories: The chief motivation to buy organic foods remains the perceived nutrition value, cited by eight in 10 shoppers, and nearly two-thirds mentioned long-term health effects. Just over half listed the environmental impact of growing or producing these foods. The report is based on a telephone survey done in July 2006 of 1,000 adults responsible for their household's grocery shopping.
44% purchased organic fruits and vegetables in the past six months vs. 37% last year;
30% purchased organic milk or other dairy products vs. 23% last year;
29% purchased organic cereals, breads or pastas vs. 25% last year;
24% purchased organic meats or poultry vs. 17% last year;
24% purchased organic packaged foods (e.g., snacks and beverages) vs. 21% last year;
21% purchased organic eggs vs. 18%; and
16% purchased organic soups and sauces vs. 12% last year.
Biorigin partners with ABAC
12/20/2006-Biorigin, the food ingredients business unit of the Brazilian company Zillo Lorenzetti, has entered into an agreement with Swiss biotech company ABAC to develop new products to focus on "health and quality of life". The first fruits of the agreement are two new ingredient products: Polysorb for Biorigin's Animal Nutrition segment, and Mannovin, a flavor enhancer for wine. Two more products are in the pipeline and will be released soon, and other projects are also under development. Polysorb is a mycotoxin binder, intended for absorption of aflatoxin, zearalenone and T-2, for use in animal feed. Mannovin is the first product released by Biorigin for use in the enological market, and is intended to help meet common problems encountered during wine production. Biorigin is a natural food and feed ingredients company, and has produced and marketed a variety of yeast products. ABAC develops and markets advanced bioproducts.
Hormel buys Provena Foods
12/20/2006-Hormel Foods has acquired Provena Foods of Chino, Calif., for approximately $12 million plus the assumption of about $6 million in debt. The company anticipates annual sales of around $60 million. Provena Foods makes and distributes pepperoni and pasta to pizza makers and packaged food manufacturers. Provena products are sold throughout the U.S., but primarily in the western U.S. Provena was established in 1878. The deal includes two production locations; an 88,000 sq. ft. plant in Lathrop, Calif. -- Swiss American Sausage Co., and a 65,000 sq. ft. pasta plant in Chino, Calif. Each of these facilities will operate as wholly owned operations and report through the Hormel Foods Refrigerated Foods Division. “Our acquisition of Provena Foods further strengthens the capabilities within our Refrigerated Foods business segment,” said Jeffrey M. Ettinger, chairman of the board, president and chief executive officer of Hormel Foods. “We have the number one position in pepperoni at retail and a growing position in meat toppings and pepperoni products in foodservice. This acquisition will enhance that aspect of our business by providing additional production capacity.”
McDonald's trans fat issue
12/20/2006-In recent months, fast-food restaurants such as Wendy's and KFC have trimmed trans fats from their foods. New York City has banned trans fats from restaurants in the city, and Chicago and other cities may do the same. McDonald's, however, has yet to openly announce a retreat from trans fats. This Crain's Chicago Business article looks at how and when McDonald's may roll out trans fat-free fries. But the confusion doesn't seem to be hurting McDonald's business. Sales increased 10.5% in November, or 7.2% in constant currency.
Monday, December 18, 2006
Lettuce may have been cause of outbreak in Iowa/Minnesota
12/18/2006-According to a report in the Star Tribune of Minneapolis-St. Paul, Bix Produce Co. has been identified as the supplier of the E. coli-contaminated lettuce that sickened more than 20 people in Taco John's restaurants in Minnesota and Iowa. According to the report, state inspectors were in Bix's facility earlier this week and found nothing wrong with its procedures. The processing plant receives the lettuce, shreds it, cleans it with a chlorine solution and then bags it. For more, see the Star Tribune article.
Friday, December 15, 2006
Trend to smaller breakfasts
12/15/2006-They say breakfast is the most important meal of the day, but although most Americans eat breakfast, it's become smaller and faster. "More than half of our breakfast meals consist of just one or two items," said Dori Hickey, senior manager of product management for The NPD Group, which just released a new study on what Americans eat in the morning. She adds, "When we look at this by week part, we don’t see a marked difference between weekdays and weekends. And over time, the number of items included in breakfast meals has fallen, from 2.46 in 1985 to 2.17 today." Only 38% of consumers viewed their breakfasts as "full or complete". And 11% of the time, breakfast is a "beverage-only situation". Convenience and speediness are driving factors behind the smaller breakfast. In fact, the study found that the vast majority of food or beverage items consumed in the morning require no preparation or cooking. And when people do prepare or cook something in the morning, it typically takes under 10 minutes. Consumers aren’t spending much time eating breakfast either. More than half of all breakfast meals are consumed in 10 minutes or less, and the majority of the time consumers dine alone. The top ten choices for in-home breakfast meal items were, by percentage: Over the last twenty years, consumption of toast has declined from 26% to 13%, while convenience foods like granola and yogurt have increased slightly. And in the last ten years, eggs have seen a 2% climb (from 10% of in-home breakfast meals in 1996 to 12% in 2006). The study was conducted in two waves between March and July of 2006.
1) coffee (32%)
2) cold cereal (32%)
3) fruit juice (26%)
4) milk (16%)
5) bread (15%)
6) fruit (13%)
7) eggs/omelettes (12%)
8) hot cereal (9%)
9) bacon (4%)
10) hot tea (4%)
Del Monte launches new organic products
12/15/2006-This week, Del Monte Foods launched five new organic products: Del Monte Organic corn, green beans, and peas, as well as College Inn Organic beef and chicken broths. The organic category has grown 89% from 2001 to 2005, and industry experts expect organic products to continue growing at a rate of 18% annually through 2009. According to the company, they are working with domestic farmers to ensure the new organic offerings are grown under USDA organic standards. Del Monte sources organic corn, cut green beans, French-style green beans and sweet peas from local domestic growers across the United States. The organic produce is available in select retail stores now, and national distribution is expected in January 2007. College Inn Organic chicken and beef broths are available now.
Taco Bell E. coli outbreak is over
12/15/2006-The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says that the E. coli outbreak linked to Taco Bell restaurants in the northeast appears to be over, although additional cases from the outbreak period (Nov. 20 - Dec. 6) could still be identified. As of 12pm EST on December 14, the outbreak had affected 71 people, 53 of whom were hospitalized, and 8 of whom developed kidney failure. An ongoing investigation involves interviews of ill and well Taco Bell restaurant patrons about what food items they consumed. Public health investigators have identified a few ingredients that were consumed more often by ill persons than well persons and were statistically linked with illness: lettuce, cheddar cheese, and ground beef. This analysis also indicates that onions of any type are not linked to this outbreak. The investigators have also gathered additional information about the locations of involved restaurants, the patterns of distribution of food ingredients, and the characteristics and preparation of food ingredients. Evaluation of the data suggests that shredded lettuce consumed at Taco Bell restaurants in the northeastern United States was the most likely source of the outbreak. Because multiple Taco Bell restaurants were involved during the same time period, the contamination likely occurred before reaching the restaurants. Health officials and the restaurant chain are working collaboratively to learn more about the shredded lettuce to determine how it may have become contaminated. In a statement, Taco Bell said it has discarded food and re-sanitized all restaurants affected in the region. The company has also switched its produce supplier in New Jersey, New York, Pennslyvania, and Delaware, and has called on its suppliers to double the amount of testing on all ingredients served at its restaurants.
Thursday, December 14, 2006
ADM adds to presence in Asia
12/14/2006-Archer Daniels Midland Co. will contribute to its direct holdings in its Wilmar-related agriculture processing joint ventures in China to Wilmar International Ltd. in exchange for shares in WIL. WIL is a publicly-traded company on the Singapore Exchange Limited. WIL plans to acquire the worldwide oilseed-related assets of Wilmar Holdings Pte. Ltd. and merge with the Kuok Group, which will result in it becoming the largest agribusiness group in Asia. Upon combination of these assets, WIL will have assets in soy crushing, edible oil refining and packaging, palm plantations, palm refineries, biodiesel production, specialty fats, and oleochemical fatty acids throughout Asia. "ADM is pleased to become a significant shareholder in the largest agriculture processing business in Asia. This investment will complement our existing global agribusiness activities," said Patricia Woertz, ADM CEO and president. Upon completion of the transaction, ADM, through its direct and indirect holdings, will become the second largest shareholder in WIL. The Kuok Group consists of holdings in PPB Oil Palms Bhd., Kuok Oils and Grains Pte. Ltd. and PGEO Group Sdn. Bhd.
Nestlé to acquire Novartis nutrition business
12/14/2006-Nestlé has agreed to acquire the entire medical nutrition business of Novartis for a total amount of $2.5 billion. The move places Nestlé as a number two in the growing and profitable healthcare nutrition segment, where so far Nestlé played only a minor role. Through this acquisition Nestlé also strengthens its existing R&D capability, helping to accelerate the growth of the nutrition business. Novartis Medical Nutrition had sales of $950 million in 2006.
According to Nestle, geographically and with regard to the products, the business is complementary to their current healthcare nutrition and the combination of both offers a product portfolio covering all disease specific cases where special nutrition is needed. As a result of the acquisition, about 2,000 employees of Medical Nutrition with their specific know-how and expertise will join the Nestlé Group, thereby also boosting Nestlé's R&D research capability, as well as providing better access to medical institutions.
The transaction, which is expected to be completed during the second half of 2007, is subject to regulatory approval.
FDA says lettuce not green onions probable cause
12/14/2006-The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has narrowed its investigation of an outbreak of E. coli O157:H7 infections linked to Taco Bell restaurants in Northeastern states by focusing its efforts on finding the sources of shredded lettuce served at the stores. This new focus is based on the fact that three items -- shredded lettuce, cheddar cheese and cooked ground beef -- were implicated in a study conducted by the U.S. Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as the items most likely to have been the vehicles of pathogen (disease-causing agent) transmission in this outbreak. Based on a number of other factors, as well as food processing techniques used for cheese (pasteurization) and ground beef (cooking), lettuce is considered overall to be the single most likely source of the outbreak at this time. The information about items likely to have transmitted the pathogen in this outbreak comes from a CDC "case control" study, which involves interviewing ill and well Taco Bell restaurant patrons about what food items they consumed. By comparing foods consumed by ill and well persons, investigators can show statistical links to particular food ingredients. According to the FDA, this does not establish that these foods are the causes of the outbreak, but it does give clues as to where further investigation should focus to try to find hard evidence of the cause. Because of this, FDA investigators are further expediting review of Taco Bell records obtained from the firm in order to trace the distribution channels of the lettuce and identify the farm or farms where the lettuce was grown, as well as all firms and facilities that handled the product between harvest and delivery. FDA has no indication that lettuce or cheese served at any other restaurant, or lettuce or cheese sold in any other venue, is connected with this outbreak. The agency is aware of the outbreaks of E. coli O157:H7 at Taco John's restaurants in Iowa and Minnesota, and is monitoring these closely in cooperation with state health authorities. Based on available information these outbreaks do not appear at this time to be related to the Taco Bell outbreak. The number of new cases from the outbreak has declined substantially. For the latest details about these cases, see the CDC website at http://www.cdc.gov/ecoli/2006/december/120806.htm. More information about E. coli O157:H7 and the outbreak linked to Taco Bell restaurants on the East Coast is available at: www.fda.gov/oc/opacom/hottopics/EcoliOutbreaks/restaurants.html.
Wednesday, December 13, 2006
Red Lobster and Olive Garden to be trans fat free
12/13/2006-Darden Restaurants announced today that it has plans in place to switch to trans fat free frying oil at all of its 1,267 Red Lobster and Olive Garden restaurants in North America by the end of November 2007. More than 100 Red Lobster and Olive Garden restaurants across the country are already using the new canola oils. The action is the culmination of 18 months of testing and consumer feedback. "Our goal was to offer the healthful benefits of a zero trans fat oil while providing our guests with the great tasting food they deserve and have come to expect," said Clarence Otis, Darden's cairman and CEO. "Our balanced and disciplined process in making this change will have an enduring benefit for our guests." The new oils are zero trans fat and have a favorable combination of beneficial fatty acids - high in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats and low in saturated fat. Orlando-based Darden is the largest casual dining restaurant company in the world in sales and market share with annual sales in fiscal 2006 of $5.7 billion.
Tuesday, December 12, 2006
Taco John’s reports E. coli outbreaks
12/12/2006-Taco John's International, a Cheyenne, Wyoming-based restaurant chain, has had reported outbreaks of possible E. coli contamination in Minnesota as well as at a location in Iowa. "This afternoon we were notified by the Minnesota Department of Health that it was investigating the illness of several patrons who had eaten at our Albert Lea franchise during the same period as those who fell ill in Iowa," said Taco John's president and CEO, Paul Fisherkeller. "We don't know if this situation is the same as the one in Iowa, but we hope for the speedy recovery of anyone who has fallen ill and are cooperating fully with health departments in both states, while also conducting our own investigation." Taco John's International, based in Cheyenne, WY, operates and franchises more than 400 quick-service restaurants in 27 states. The company will be posting regular situation updates at its website, www.tacojohns.com.
FDA tests fail to confirm Taco Bell findings
12/12/2006-According to news reports, FDA officials said that their testing had failed to confirm preliminary findings by Taco Bell that some green onions in its restaurants were contaminated. Based on the results of a preliminary positive test, Taco Bell had removed green onions from its restaurants last week. "There’s nothing to implicate green onions right now," said Dr. David Acheson, chief medical officer for food safety at the federal Food and Drug Administration. "We have not ruled out any food ingredient. We haven’t ruled any in, and we haven’t ruled any out, and that includes green onions." According to the CDC, as of 12 PM (ET) December 11, 2006, 64 persons with illness associated with the Taco Bell restaurant outbreak have been reported to CDC from 5 states: New Jersey (28), New York (22), Pennsylvania (11), Delaware (2), and South Carolina (1).
Monday, December 11, 2006
DuPont to cut costs, jobs
12/11/2006-The agriculture and nutrition unit of DuPont has announced that it plans to close or streamline manufacturing units at 10 sites and cut about 1,500 jobs globally, reducing operating costs by about $100 million a year. The company is shifting from "low-growth areas" of nutrition and crop-protection to "high-value growth" areas such as plant genetics and biotechnology. Under the plan, DuPont will reinvest all of the savings into its seed business. These actions will help expand the company's competitive advantage in the seed market and increase the speed to market of seed products with next-generation biotech traits. In Latin America, total DuPont Agriculture & Nutrition sales exceeded the $1 billion mark for the first time in 2006 on the strength of gains in corn, soybean, crop protection, and soy protein products in Brazil and elsewhere. Excellent seed product performance and new crop protection product launches like picoxystrobin are driving growth in Brazil despite a difficult agricultural economy. Higher sales there will contribute to improved 2006 fourth quarter results compared to 2005. In addition, seed sales outside North America also passed the $1 billion milestone for the first time in 2006. On a side note, the company said it will try to grow the The Solae Company's SoleCina™ business, which enables food processors to convert a proprietary blend of vegetable and meat protein into a nutritious finished product.
Outbreaks induce calls for produce safety regulations
12/11/2006-In the aftermath of the E. coli O157 infection associated with eating produce from Taco Bell restaurants in six states, calls are increasing for more regulation for the safety of produce. The U.S. Center for Disease Control reports that 62 probable or confirmed cases of illness in six states have been associated with the Taco Bell outbreak. In the vast majority of the cases, individuals reported having eaten at a Taco Bell restaurant within seven days before onset of illness. A significant percentage of cases resulted in hospitalization. For more information on these cases, see the CDC website. Taco Bell Corp. had announced it was voluntarily removing green onions from its restaurants nationwide after preliminary testing by the firm indicated the possible presence of E. coli O157:H7 in green onion samples. The FDA, however, stated that tests to confirm that preliminary finding continue but have not yet been completed. In the interim, FDA continues to investigate the possibility that other food items served at the restaurants are the source of the pathogen. With a recent similar outbreak of E. coli in bagged fresh spinach, calls are increasing for more regulation of handling and guidelines for safety of produce. Currently, the F.D.A. relies on voluntary food safety guidelines such as the “Guide to Minimize Microbial Food Safety Hazards for Fresh Fruits and Vegetables.” The Western Growers group has called for a formal system of farm inspections, regulations of water and soil quality and sanitation, and even cease-and-desist orders for violations. For more, see the CFSAN website.
A variety of industry associations and trade groups have announced support for increased regulation. The United Fresh Produce Association, the Produce Marketing Association, and the Western Growers have voiced support for additional safety standards for the industry.
Taco Bell claims green onions source of outbreak
12/11/2006-On Dec. 9, Taco Bell Corp. announced that all ingredients have tested negative for E. coli 0157:H7, with the possible exception of green onions, which the company removed at all 5,800 restaurants this week. According to the company, independent scientific laboratory test results of more than 150 samples of all the ingredients served in Taco Bell restaurants concluded that no ingredient contained the E. coli bacteria. Samples from the entire menu were collected for testing from multiple restaurants in multiple states for testing by Certified Laboratories in Plainview, New York. Earlier preliminary test results of green onions were "presumptive positive" for E. coli, which prompted the company to immediately remove them from its restaurants as a precautionary move. It has no plans to sell green onions again. "We've taken this health issue very seriously and are extremely concerned for all those who are ill. Our company has moved quickly to safeguard the health of our customers and employees," said Greg Creed, president of Taco Bell Corp. The FDA and CDC are continuing their investigation and Taco Bell says the company will continue to cooperate. "After removing green onions from our restaurants, we believe that all of our other ingredients are perfectly safe based on our test results. We've been working around the clock, 24/7, with the FDA, CDC and local, state and federal health authorities to get to the root cause of this issue. It's important to note that about half of the U.S. adult population eats at Taco Bell at least once a month, so it's easy to understand how we might be considered associated with this illness," said Creed. "Given several E. coli outbreaks linked to produce in recent years, we believe there's a need for thorough review of the produce supply system in our country today. We need to review whether there should be better controls across the entire industry to assure safety at the farm level so that consumers know that their produce is perfectly safe – no matter where they purchase it – in a restaurant, supermarket or farm stand," Creed continued. "Taco Bell is committed to supporting an industry coalition including government regulators, competitors, suppliers, and other experts so we can develop improved guidelines and procedures to safeguard the produce supply chain and public health."
Friday, December 08, 2006
Changing the world with your food choices
12/08/2006-Can you really change the world with the choice of food products that you buy? This article from the
Economist looks at fair trade, organic, and locally sourced food products and makes the case that they may not achieve the aims that they claim.
Thursday, December 07, 2006
FAO: cereal prices surge to highest levels in decade
12/07/2006-Cereal prices, particularly for wheat and maize, have reached levels not seen for a decade, according to FAO’s latest Food Outlook report. Poor harvests in key producing countries and a fast-growing demand for biofuel production have driven up grain prices, while supply constraints have also dominated the rice economy, the report said. Global expenditures on imported foodstuffs in 2006 could reach a historic high of US$374 billion, over 2 percent more than the previous year’s level. Import bills for developing countries are anticipated to rise by almost 5 percent from 2005, mainly as a result of price increases rather than an increase in the actual volume of food imports. FAO anticipates that many countries will reduce purchases, not always in response to improved domestic supplies but rather because of high international prices. Moreover, higher energy costs may force many of the poorer developing countries to curtail expenditures on imported staples to sustain their fossil fuel needs. For more, see the
FAO’s latest forecast of world wheat output in 2006 stands at roughly 592 million tons, almost 33 million tons, or 5.3 percent, down from 2005. A turnaround is likely, however, with increased winter plantings and good growing conditions raising expectations for a strong rebound in 2007 harvests, FAO said.
FAO press release.
ReadyPac halts shipments of green onions
12/07/2006-Ready Pac, a Calif.-based produce company, has halted all shipments of green onions to Taco Bell, after a report from Taco Bell Corp. of a preliminary test for E.coli O157:H7 on green onions. "Even though the test results are not confirmed, we have taken every prudent precaution and immediately stopped production and shipments of all green onions," emphasized Steve Dickstein, vice president of marketing for Ready Pac. Green onions are only produced in a limited production run exclusively for Taco Bell in one section of the Ready Pac Florence, N.J. plant. "All raw and processed green onions have been removed from the plant as part of our precautionary measures." Ready Pac is working with Taco Bell, regulatory agencies, and industry experts to determine the root cause. Ready Pac fully cooperated with the FDA and local health officials during their visit today. All operations are continuing normally, except for the green onion line, which was previously discontinued. According to Ready Pac, the company purchases green onions from a reputable grower equally committed to food safety. Green onions are not used in any other product Ready Pac sells to either foodservice restaurants or for retail product distribution. "Again, the test results are inconclusive but we have taken these precautionary measures as we investigate the issues. Ready Pac will continue to take all necessary steps and will continue to fully communicate updates to our customers, consumers, suppliers, and the media," Dickstein added.
PepsiCo acquires New Zealand snack foods company
12/07/2006-PepsiCo Australia, the Australian business unit of PepsiCo International, announced today the acquisition of Bluebird Foods, New Zealand's snack market leader, for NZ$245 million (US$169 million; A$214 million). PepsiCo Australia comprises The Smith's Snackfood Company, Sakata Rice Snacks and Pepsi Beverages Australia. Established more than 50 years ago, Bluebird is one of New Zealand's most highly-regarded food brands. It has the leading position in major salty snack segments, including potato chips, corn snacks, extruded snacks, and multigrain snacks. It also is the leader in the fruit and snack bar segments. "We're delighted to be teaming up with Bluebird," said Alex Stevens, managing director of PepsiCo Australia, the PepsiCo International unit to which Bluebird's leadership team will report. "It is an outstanding business with excellent growth potential. I believe all our companies in the region will benefit by this new alliance, and I want to welcome all our Bluebird colleagues to PepsiCo." The transaction includes several market-leading brands, including Bluebird and Krispa, a distribution system, and two manufacturing facilities -- located in Auckland and Timaru. Bluebird employs approximately 600 people.
Bluebird is being purchased from Burns, Philp & Company. PepsiCo will assume control of the business in January.
Hershey lowers earnings expectations
12/07/2006-The Hershey Co. announced that due to a slower than anticipated improvement in U.S. marketplace trends and the financial impact related to the product recall and temporary plant closure in Canada, it has reduced its earnings expectations for 2006. "While we're seeing areas of improvement in the U.S. retail marketplace, particularly with selected new products and across key customers, the progress is below expectations," said Richard H. Lenny, chairman, president and CEO. "Further, the costs and business disruption associated with the product recall in Canada have placed additional pressure on the business. Therefore, we now anticipate net sales growth for 2006 to be slightly below our long-term 3-4 percent range and the increase in diluted earnings per share from operations to be in the mid-single digits. "Over the past five years, we've delivered strong financial performance through a combination of new products, superior retail execution, and solid expense control. We've expanded Hershey's leadership position within an attractive, on-trend category. In 2006, however, we haven't executed the types of competitively advantaged consumer and customer programs that are required to deliver superior sales and marketplace performance. This must and will change for 2007. "For 2007, revitalizing Hershey's iconic brands through increased consumer and customer support is a key priority. We're making progress in shifting our growth strategy from line extensions and new varieties to innovative platforms. These platforms capitalize on consumer insights, and thus represent more sustainable growth arenas, as evidenced by our success in dark chocolate and refreshment. This portfolio transformation will accelerate next year. In addition, we're pursuing opportunities in selected high potential global markets representing attractive sources of growth.”
Wednesday, December 06, 2006
Taco Bell removes green onions
12/06/2006-Today, Taco Bell(R) announced it has removed green onions at all of its restaurants in the U.S. The move is a precautionary effort following the recent E. coli outbreaks linked to its restaurants in New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania. Although tests are preliminary, the company says three samples of green onions were found to be presumptive positive for E.coli 0157:H7 by an independent testing laboratory hired by Taco Bell. State health officials are conducting their own testing. Yesterday, Taco Bell reopened the eight restaurants in Suffolk and Nassau counties in New York that they had closed for one day. The restaurants reopened based on the criteria developed and agreed to by local health departments. According to authorities, there have been no new cases of E.coli associated with the Taco Bell outbreak since November 29.
New potato-soy snack base
12/06/2006-Zumbro River Brand, Inc. has developed a snack base made from potato and soy flour. The base has protein levels between 18% to 45% and is low in fat, with what the company says is an appealing crunchy texture. The potato-soy snack can be produced in a variety of shapes. Because the base has a potato flavor, the product lends itself to a variety of flavors including barbeque, ranch, cheese, taco, or sour cream. For more information, see the Zumbro River Brand website at www.zumbroriverbrand.com.
D.D. Williamson receives Kosher award
12/06/2006-D.D. Williamson received the first annual Kosher Compliance Award from the Louisville Vaad Hakashruth for its outstanding commitment and adherence to Kosher guidelines and standards. “Observing all governmental and religious requirements has always been critical to our values and beliefs, so we are thrilled to receive this prestigious award,” said Ted Nixon, CEO. The Hebrew word ‘Kosher’ means fit or proper as it relates to kosher dietary law. It covers the ingredients, production techniques, and preparation of food in a very thorough and traceable way. Foods are kosher when they meet all criteria that Jewish law applies to food. “Beyond maintaining high standards of Kosher throughout the year, D.D. Williamson is also the world’s largest supplier of Kosher for Passover caramel color,” noted Avrohom Litvin, Kosher Administrator of the Louisville Vaad Hakashruth. “Kosher for Passover requires adherence to all of the Kosher standards and also prohibits use of any grain or legume source.”
The development of taste
12/06/2006-Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine have pinpointed a molecular pathway that regulates the development of taste buds and is required for hooking up the wiring of taste signals to the brain. Using genetically engineered mice, the scientists discovered that a signaling pathway activated by small proteins called Wnts is required for initiating taste-bud formation. They have also determined that Wnt proteins are required for hooking up the wiring of taste signals to the brain. The researchers demonstrated that blocking the action of Wnt proteins in surface cells of the developing tongue prevents taste-bud formation, while stimulating Wnt activity causes the formation of excessive numbers of enlarged taste papillae that are able to attract taste-related nerve fibers. “Unlike most surface epithelial cells, taste buds have characteristics of neurons as well as skin. Like other types of epithelial cells they turn over and regenerate, but they also express chemoreceptors and make synapses with neurons,” explained senior author Sarah E. Millar, PhD, associate professor in the Departments of Dermatology and Cell and Developmental Biology. Millar and her colleagues also studied how these developing taste buds become wired into the nervous system. In early tongue development, neurons enter the tongue epithelium and make synapses with taste bud cells. The study confirmed that taste buds produce signals that attract nerve fibers to them. When taste-bud development was prevented by blocking Wnt signaling, the nerve fibers did not enter the tongue epithelium. According to a press release, this study represents the first genetic analysis of taste-organ initiation in mammals. While these studies were performed in mice, the researchers believe that their findings will also hold true for understanding the basis of taste-bud development in humans. The study is published in the Nov. 26 issue of Nature Genetics.
Tuesday, December 05, 2006
IFT testifies to FDA on functional foods
12/05/2006-IFT believes a few changes to regulatory policies involving functional foods could provide very positive benefits to consumers and consumer health. IFT submitted its 2005 Expert Report, Functional Foods: Opportunities and Challenges, in testimony to an FDA Public Hearing on Functional Foods held today. The report recommends that product labeling be allowed to accurately reflect current scientific evidence. "Under existing regulatory policies, some food label claims cannot be factual and still accurately represent the science," testified IFT Expert Panel member Barbara Petersen, Ph.D. The IFT Expert Panel recommends that FDA prohibit functional food claims that rely on preliminary studies, and instead develop guidelines that protect consumers from limited scientific information of no meaningful value. The Expert Report also urges that the FDA not restrict the health effects of foods to the very limited concept of nutritive value, since the understanding of the interconnections between nutrition and other scientific disciplines is rapidly evolving. It recommends that the FDA apply instead a policy that health claim benefits for functional foods be based on "nutritive value or through the provision of a physical or physiological effect that has been scientifically documented or for which a substantial body of evidence exists for plausibility," Petersen said. Further, the IFT Expert Report recommended that FDA establish independent expert panels to make Generally Recognized As Efficacious determinations. These panels, fully disclosed, would be composed of scientists qualified to determine efficacy of the component under consideration. Panel reports would be submitted to FDA under a streamlined process similar to that used for Generally Recognized As Safe notifications. For more, see the Functional Food Testimony to FDA.
NYC bans trans fats
12/05/2006-News services report that the New York City Board of Health has voted to ban the use of artificial trans fats in restaurant food. The Board voted unanimously to require that all city restaurants remove artificial trans fat over the next 18 months. The final notice may be found at: http://www.nyc.gov/html/doh/downloads/pdf/public/notice-adoption-hc-art81-08.pdf. Major fast food chains such as Wendy's International Inc., which introduced a zero-trans fat oil in August, and Yum Brands Inc.'s KFC and Taco Bell have announced a switch to a zero-trans fat oil. McDonald’s Corp. has experimented with other oils but has not announced a switch. The proposed changes were supported by several national and local professional societies, academic institutions, and local hospitals and advocacy groups, including the American Medical Association (AMA), National Hispanic Medical Association (NHMA), American College of Cardiology (ACC), American Cancer Society (ACS), American Diabetes Association (ADA), American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), New York Academy of Medicine, Columbia University Medical Center, Harvard University, New York University, Institute for Urban Family Health, and Northern Manhattan Perinatal Partnership.
Monday, December 04, 2006
Sans named as new Silliker CEO
12/04/2006-Russell S. Flowers, Chief Executive Officer and President of Silliker Group Corp. (SGC), announced the appointment of Philippe Sans, Senior Corporate Vice President of bioMérieux, as the organization’s new CEO. Flowers was promoted to Chairman of the Board and Chief Scientific Officer (CSO) by the SGC board of directors. Both appointments are effective January 1, 2007. “As part of our ongoing global expansion, I am pleased to welcome Philippe to the Silliker organization,” Flowers said. “With over 22 years of experience in industrial microbiology, he brings an outstanding portfolio of international expertise and innovative leadership to his new role. As Chairman and CSO, I will focus on strategic growth opportunities, keeping SGC on the forefront of scientific developments, and working with professional associations and key customers.” With 41 locations in 13 countries, including recently opened operations in China and Switzerland, Silliker is the leading international network of ISO 17025 accredited food testing and consulting laboratories. Founded by John H. Silliker, an eminent microbiologist, Silliker will mark 40 years of serving the food industry in 2007. For more company information, log on to www.silliker.com.
ADM announces management appointments
12/04/2006-Michael Baroni has been named President-Specialty Food Ingredients division. Mr. Baroni joined ADM in 1982 and has held management positions in the Corn Processing and Specialty Food Ingredients divisions. He most recently served as Vice President-Protein and Food Additives for Specialty Food Ingredients. Mr. Baroni received a Bachelor of Science degree in business administration from Bradley University and an MBA from Illinois State University. He will report to Edward Harjehausen, Senior Vice President-Food and Feed Ingredients. Kevin Burgard has been named Vice President-Food Oils division with responsibilities for the management of Refined and Packaged Oils in North America. Mr. Burgard joined the Company in 1986 and has held various management positions both domestically and internationally. He received a Bachelor of Science degree in agricultural business and an MBA from Western Illinois University. He will report to Scott Fredericksen, President-North American Oilseed Processing division. Donald Black has been named Manager-Business Development for the Packaged Oils division and will relocate to New Jersey for the position. He joined the Company in 1994 and most recently served as Sales Manager-North American Packaged Oils division. Mr. Black has received a Bachelor of Science degree in organic chemistry and a Master of Science degree in food science from Fairleigh Dickinson University. He will report to Kevin Burgard, Vice President-Food Oils division.
Nutrition Point Ltd. acquires gluten-free foods company
12/04/2006-Nutrition Point Ltd, a UK and Ireland-based provider of gluten-free foods, has strengthened its position in the UK.
Nutrition Point's parent company, Dr. Schär, acquired the Coeliac Business for an undisclosed sum from baby food and clinical nutrition company Numico. The purchase includes two high profile gluten-free brands: Glutafin and Trufree.
Chris Hook, Managing Director of Nutrition Point said:
"This acquisition will not only reinforce our position as market leaders but the combined understanding and expertise of our brands will help expand ranges and develop high quality products. The Trufree products compliment our existing Dietary Specials range and will further strengthen our position in the growing Free From sector in UK grocery multiples.
Ulrich Ladurner, President of Dr. Schär GmbH described the deal as a "win win." Schär will add the Glutafin brand to its existing European portfolio - whilst Nutrition Point will concentrate on developing the Trufree and Dietary Specials range of products in the UK & Ireland.
Dr.Schär, based in Burgstall, South Tyrol, Italy is forecasting group sales of 100 million euros in 2007 as a result of the deal.
Premier Foods to acquire RHM
12/04/2006-British food manufacturer Premier Foods PLC said Monday it will acquire food producer RHM PLC in a share/cash deal valued at $2.44 billion. Premier owns brands such as Branston Pickle, a sweet pickled spread popular in Britain for sandwiches, and Quorn vegetarian meat-substitute products. RHM has several brands including Mr. Kipling cakes and other famous British brands. Premier purchased the U.K. and Irish business of Campbell Soup Co. this year.
Pilgrim's Pride and Gold Kist to merge
12/04/2006-Pilgrim's Pride Corp. and Gold Kist Inc. today announced that they have entered into a definitive merger agreement under which Pilgrim's Pride will acquire all of the outstanding shares of Gold Kist common stock for $21.00 per share in cash. The transaction, which was unanimously approved by the boards of directors of both Pilgrim's Pride and Gold Kist, has a total equity value of approximately $1.1 billion, plus the assumption of approximately $144 million of Gold Kist's debt. Together, Pilgrim's Pride and Gold Kist will create the world's leading chicken company in terms of production and the third-largest U.S. meat protein company by revenues. "This is a momentous day for both companies and for the chicken industry," said Lonnie "Bo" Pilgrim, chairman of Pilgrim's Pride. "We believe the combination of these two great companies will result in substantial value creation for our respective stockholders, employees, business partners and other constituencies." Pilgrim's Pride expects to achieve approximately $50 million of annualized synergies, primarily from the optimization of production and distribution facilities and cost savings in purchasing, production, logistics and SG&A. Pilgrim's Pride expects the acquisition will be accretive to the company's diluted earnings per share after the first full year of operations. Pilgrim's Pride believes that the combined company will have a strong financial position and substantial cash flow, enabling it to consistently reduce debt and return to historical debt levels. Pilgrim's Pride Corp. is currently the second-largest chicken producer in the United States and Mexico and the largest chicken producer in Puerto Rico. Pilgrim's Pride employs approximately 40,000 people and has major operations in Texas, Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia, Mexico, and Puerto Rico, with other facilities in Arizona, Florida, Iowa, Mississippi, and Utah.
Friday, December 01, 2006
Pruning prune pits
12/01/2006-Scientists with the Agricultural Research Service (ARS) in Albany, Calif., have invented an inexpensive approach that dried plum processors can use to help ensure no large pieces of a plum's pit remain inside the fruit. The new pit detector could be used as an inexpensive addition to processing lines already equipped with other detectors to find hidden pits or pit pieces. Using an algorithm that the scientists wrote, the computer determines whether the transducer's reading indicates the possible presence of a pit or pit piece. If the possibility exists, the signal processor instructs a sorter to remove the prune from the processing line, so it can be retested, hand-sorted or simply rejected. Agricultural engineers Eric S. Jackson, Ronald P. Haff, and Thomas C. Pearson developed and tested the technology for about 1-1/2 years before deciding it was ready for processors to try.
In the new system, dried plums, or prunes, are moved along a conveyor belt to a roller that gently presses them against the belt. Then, a device known as a force transducer, mounted underneath the conveyor belt and in line with the roller, detects the amount of resistance that the roller encounters. The transducer's reading is sent to a signal processor that is linked to a computer.
The accuracy rate is impressive: false positives occur less than one percent of the time.
Though so far tested primarily at laboratory speeds, the device could easily be ramped up to processing plant rates. And, it could likely be used to check other dried stone fruits such as apricots, cherries and peaches.
The scientists received a patent for their invention earlier this year. Some dried fruit processors have already shown interest in it.