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Wednesday, October 15, 2008 Processed cheese designed to fit needs
10/15/2008-Researchers from the Univ. of Wisconsin and Morinaga Milk Co. studied ways to provide different textures and melting characteristics in processed cheese. They tried a variety of phosphate emulsifying salts, and found that higher pH values increased the degree of flow regardless of the type of emulsifying salt used. Other special effects could be produced by varying the salt used and manipulating pH. The pH-dependent functional behavior of processed cheese was strongly influenced by the type of emulsifying salt and its physicochemical properties, including its ability to bind calcium, the possible creation of crosslinks with casein, and casein dispersion during cooking. So defining the degree of flow and the final texture desired can suggest cheesemaking processes to a cheese supplier, and knowledge of exactly what a manufacturer is looking for in final product can help the cheese producer recommend the right product. FMC BioPolymer increases prices
10/15/2008-FMC BioPolymer will increase prices on all products by a minimum 15 percent for all products beginning November 1. The increase affects microcrystalline cellulose, carrageenan, alginates and PGA product lines across food/specialty, pharmaceutical and personal care markets. Surcharges implemented on carrageenan products earlier this year will remain in effect. Higher costs for strategic raw materials, processing chemicals and transportation, combined with the supply and demand dynamics, continue to be major factors contributing to the price increases. Tuesday, October 14, 2008 UC Davis opens Mondavi Institute
10/14/2008-On October 10, the University of California, Davis celebrated the grand opening of the Robert Mondavi Institute for Wine and Food Science. The 130,000-sq-ft complex—built at a cost of $73 million—houses the departments of Viticulture and Enology and Food Science and Technology, wine and food sensory lab and teaching theater, food innovation kitchen, and the administrative offices for the institute. The grand opening ceremony was held in the institute’s expansive courtyard, landscaped as a demonstration garden that includes olive and citrus trees, vegetables, and herbs. The courtyard faces a 12-acre teaching vineyard, which will be planted with grapevines this winter. Special guest for the grand opening was Margrit Biever Mondavi, wife of the late Robert Mondavi. In 2001, Robert Mondavi, a legendary California winemaker, gave $25 million to establish the wine and food science institute within UC Davis’ College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences. Robert Mondavi died this past May the age of 94. Clare M. Hasler, a member of IFT and Executive Director of the institute, acted as emcee for the event. The event also included a groundbreaking ceremony for the institute’s second building phase, which will include design and construction of two connected, one-story buildings totaling 32,000 sq ft. One building will house the small-scale Teaching and Research Winery; the other will be home to the Anheuser-Busch Brewing and Food Science Laboratory, which will include a brewery and pilot food-processing plant. Construction of the buildings, estimated to cost $16.5 million, is slated to begin in June 2009 with completion in July 2010.
Monday, October 13, 2008 FDA launches FIRST kit for food industry
10/13/2008-The U.S. Food and Drug Administration launched a food defense awareness training kit for food industry employees. The training targets these individuals because they can play an important role in helping to keep our nation's food supply safe, from the farm to the table. The "FIRST" tool kit focuses on five key points that industry and businesses can use to educate first line workers about the risks of food contamination. It also provides industry with measures to consider and implement to reduce these risks. The FIRST tool kit was produced in collaboration with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Wednesday, October 08, 2008 USDA issues alert for frozen, stuffed chicken products
10/08/2008-The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) issued a public health alert regarding a Salmonella outbreak in 12 states that may be associated with raw, frozen, breaded and pre-browned, stuffed chicken entrees. This public health alert was initiated after an investigation and testing conducted by the Minnesota Department of Health and Minnesota Department of Agriculture linked products such as chicken cordon bleu and chicken breast kiev with 32 illnesses in Minnesota and 11 other states. Although many of these stuffed chicken entrees were labeled with instructions identifying the product was uncooked and did not include microwave instruction for preparation, individuals who became ill did not follow the cooking instructions and reportedly used a microwave to prepare the product. FSIS reminded consumers of the importance of following package cooking instructions for frozen, stuffed raw chicken products and general food safety guidelines when handling and preparing any raw meat or poultry. Frozen, raw, breaded and pre-browned stuffed chicken products covered by this alert and similar products may be stuffed or filled, breaded or browned and therefore appear to be cooked. These items may be labeled “chicken cordon bleu,” “chicken kiev” or chicken breast stuffed with cheese, vegetables or other items. Companies turn to online communities for input
10/08/2008-There’s a growing trend among food companies to seek out customer input via online communities. Brandweek highlights the trend by taking a look at two recently launched word-of-mouth networks. General Mills quietly introduced “Pssst . . . ” (pssst.generalmills.com), a Web site that gives members of its online network information on new products. The site’s 100,000 members take a survey to determine product preferences. After registering, members share opinions, coupons and recipes via online blogs. They also have the opportunity to test new samples by mail. In a similar effort to build customer relations and gain feedback, Kraft introduced Kraftfirsttaste.com. Users share coupons and sample offers, as well as participate in member spotlight features, discussion boards and product review sections.
Yum Brands to post calories on menus
10/08/2008-Fast-food company Yum Brands Inc., which owns KFC, Taco Bell, Pizza Hut, Long John Silver’s and A&W All-American Food, has decided to voluntarily provide calorie information on menu boards in company-owned restaurants. The calorie totals will be determined according to individual servings. The company is encouraging franchisees to follow its lead by including the information on all menu boards. Around 4,000 of Yum Brands’ 20,000 restaurants are company-owned. It plans to phase in the information, beginning this year. California recently passed legislation requiring chains with at least 20 restaurants in the state to provide calorie information on menu boards. New York City has a similar law. Tuesday, October 07, 2008 USDA releases biofuels action plan
10/07/2008-The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), in conjunction with the Department of Energy (DOE), announced the release of the National Biofuels Action Plan (NBAP). The NBAP is an interagency plan detailing the collaborative efforts of Federal agencies to accelerate the development of a sustainable biofuels industry. The NBAP interagency activity will focus on seven key areas which include: sustainability, feedstock production, feedstock logistics and distribution infrastructure. "Federal leadership can provide the vision for research, industry and citizens to understand how the nation will become less dependent on foreign oil and create strong rural economies," USDA Secretary Ed Schafer said. "This National Biofuels Action Plan supports the drive for biofuels growth to supply energy that is clean and affordable, and always renewable." "The National Biofuels Action Plan is a strategic blueprint that shows us the way to meet the President's goal of meaningful biofuels production by the year 2022," DOE Secretary Samuel W. Bodman said. "And to do it in cost-effective, environmentally-responsible ways that utilize a science-based approach to ensure the next generation of biofuels that are made primarily from feedstocks outside the food supply that are produced sustainably." DOE has dedicated more than $1 billion to research, development, and demonstration of cellulosic biofuels technology through 2009. Additionally, since 2006, USDA has invested almost $600 million for the research, development and demonstration of new biofuels technology. National Biofuels Action Plan Factsheet
Thursday, October 02, 2008 British consumers ignore labels on treats and staples
10/02/2008-A British Food Standards Agency study found that many consumers ignore nutrition labeling when buying “indulgence” items or basic ingredients. The study found that consumers tend to ignore nutrition information on desserts and other items they buy knowing they are unhealthy, but wanting to treat themselves. They also ignore label information on basic items such as flour and butter, because they consider these items as necessary regardless of the nutritional value. The agency also said that for those who did consider label information when purchasing items, they often didn’t consider total fat content and other nutritional issues when combining those individual items to make a meal. The agency created a group of experts to determine the influence of different food labeling schemes in order to find one system that has the most impact on consumer decisions. Soybean crops threatened by disease
10/02/2008-Soybean farmers across the Southeastern U.S. continue to fight the Asian Soybean Rust outbreak, which could have far-reaching effects across the food industry. Plant pathologists are trying to stop the disease, which causes pustules to form on the leaves and kill them. Some farmers expect to see a 10 to 50 percent loss for this year’s yield. Although this year’s yield is at risk, scientists are more concerned about the impact on next year’s harvest if the disease continues unchecked. In addition to soy-based consumer products, soybeans are used in feed for livestock. A major blight on soy crops could have a ripple effect across the food industry, sending prices for meat, poultry and other related products even higher. A CBS affiliate in Tallahassee, Fla., takes a look at the disease and its impact on the food industry.
Tuesday, September 30, 2008 Country of COOL
9/30/2008-As the new Country of Origin Labeling (COOL) regulations are put into practice this week, a number of media outlets are covering the issues surrounding the new rules and what they mean for consumers. Although the COOL regulations help consumers determine where the foods they purchase come from, there are still some loopholes in the rules that could hinder their efforts. Bloomberg reports that consumer advocates say there are areas of the COOL rules that allow meatpackers to “blur the distinction between foreign and domestic meat.” Mixed vegetables and processed meat products (think spam) are exempt from the rules, prompting some lawmakers to call for more regulations. Wrigley shareholders approve Mars deal
9/30/2008-In a deal that will bring an end to the family-owned aspect of Wm. Wrigley Jr. Co., company shareholders approved a $23 billion proposal for Mars Inc. to buy the company. The deal will be financed in part by Warren Buffett and should be finalized in the beginning of October 2008. The combination of the two companies will create the largest candy maker in the world, a title previously held by Britain's Cadbury PLC.
FDA amends calcium health claim
9/30/2008-The Food and Drug Administration amended its labeling regulation authorizing a health claim on the relationship between calcium and a reduced risk of osteoporosis to include vitamin D. Under the new regulation, products can claim a connection between consuming calcium and vitamin D and reducing osteoporosis risk. The new rule also eliminates the requirement that the claim list sex, race and age as specific risk factors for the development of osteoporosis, as well as the requirement that the claim identify the mechanism by which calcium reduces the risk of osteoporosis and instead makes it optional.
Thursday, September 25, 2008 Unilever opens new global center in Italy
9/25/2008-Unilever opens new global center in Italy Unilever unveiled the Centre of Excellence Assembled Foods, a global product development center for composite food products such as meals, salads, snacks and bakery goods. The new facility, located in Cisterna, Italy, will bring together all Unilever’s know-how on complex food products. The center’s objective will be to keep developing changes in taste quality, naturalness and nutritional goodness through innovative products and process design. Feds probe food price fixing
9/25/2008-Federal investigators in the United States are probing allegations of price fixing in the tomato and the egg industries. An FBI is conducting a price-fixing investigation of the tomato industry that began in 2005, while the Justice Department is investigating price fixing in the egg industry. Federal prosecutors are also looking at the possibility of the same thing in the citrus industry. With food costs rising, authorities say cost pressures are leading some to engage in illegal activities. Federal law says competitors can’t collaborate to set prices, however antitrust exemptions are in place for small farm groups and cooperatives. Wednesday, September 24, 2008 FDA widens inspections of Asian food imports
9/24/2008-As the Chinese infant milk formula scandal continues, the U.S. government is taking precautions to ensure tainted products don’t reach consumers. The Food and Drug Administration has widened its inspections of food shipments arriving from Asia. In a statement, the FDA said it has “broadened its domestic and import sampling and testing of milk-derived ingredients and finished food products containing milk, such as candies, desserts and beverages, that could contain these ingredients from Chinese sources. Milk-derived ingredients include whole milk powder, non-fat milk powder, whey powder, lactose powder and casein.” More than 53,000 children have become sick and four have died after drinking infant milk containing melamine, an industrial chemical used to make plastics. Most of the victims hospitalized are under the age of two. China’s top food safety official has resigned amid the scandal. At least 18 people have been arrested for their roles in the contamination. Numerous countries are banning Chinese milk products, and companies such as Starbucks are dumping Chinese suppliers. USDA increases apricot assessment rate
9/24/2008-The U.S. Department of Agriculture increased the assessment rate established for the Washington Apricot Marketing Committee from $1.50 to $2 per ton for Washington apricots. The Committee is responsible for local administration of the marketing order regulating the handling of apricots grown in designated counties in Washington. Assessments upon handlers of apricots are used by the Committee to fund reasonable and necessary expenses of the program. The fiscal period for the marketing order begins April 1 and ends March 31. General Mills to expand international unit
9/24/2008-In an effort to fight off effects of the economic downturn in the U.S., General Mills plans to focus on expanding its international business. The company hopes by promoting products such as its premium ice cream brand Haagen-Dazs and its Old El Paso Mexican food line abroad will help the company ride out the current domestic financial crisis. The company expects recent fast growth in its international business to continue. Executives announced at its recent annual meeting that international sales doubled in 2008. Tuesday, September 23, 2008 Video: Label Reading 101
9/23/2008-Did you ever wonder what all that information on food labels really means? IFT staff scientist Sarah Davis, MS, RD, demonstrates how to: http://www.monkeysee.com/play/11507-reading-food-labels
Friday, September 19, 2008 Solvay increases price of sodium bicarbonate
9/19/2008-Solvay Chemicals, Inc. has increased the list and off-list prices for Animal Feed Grade, Industrial Grade, and USP Grades of BICAR™ Sodium Bicarbonate by $60 per ton. “This price increase is required to offset rapidly increasing manufacturing, transportation and raw material costs that have become a permanent part of our cost structure” states David Calvo, BICAR Sodium Bicarbonate Business Manager. Solvay Chemicals, Inc. services the North American sodium bicarbonate market from its Parachute, CO facility. The plant is ISO 22000 certified.
Gum Technology develops complete egg replacer
9/19/2008-Gum Technology is adding Coyote Brand® Baker’s 2 Egg Replacer to its line of all natural egg replacements. The newest addition was specifically designed to replace up to 100% of egg yolks and whites in baked goods. A similar egg replacement, Coyote Brand® Baker’s Egg Replacer replaces up to 50% of eggs in baked goods. Gum Technology’s R&D Chef Sarah Martin says, “Replace eggs, reduce your costs and boost the fiber content in your baked goods. Replacing eggs helps to cut production costs, eliminates one of the most common food allergens, and creates possibilities for better vegan baking.” The Baker’s 2 Egg Replacer product is comprised of sugarcane fiber, xanthan and guar gums. For more, visit www.gumtech.com Thursday, September 18, 2008 FDA to look at mandatory traceability system
9/18/2008-On the heels of the end of worst foodborne outbreak in history, lawmakers are looking to a mandatory traceability system in the U.S. According to a Reuters report, lawmakers said a mandatory program was not only overdue, but needed to restore consumer confidence. Many food processors and produce firms use traceability systems on a voluntary basis, but do so with no official performance standards. "It is the system that is broken," said Rep. Rosa DeLauro, chair of the House Appropriations subcommittee on agriculture. "You still do not have mandatory traceability, mandatory performance standards. You are looking for a needle in a haystack." DeLauro plans to introduce a new proposal that would create a separate safety agency within the Department of Health and Human Services to handle all food safety issues currently administered by FDA. "We are going down a road of examining what is going to work," said David Acheson, the Food and Drug Administration's associate commissioner for food protection. He told the subcommittee a mandatory program "would have an impact." Acheson said FDA does not believe it has explicit authority to mandate a tracking system, the Reuters article reports. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, an estimated 76 million people in the U.S. get sick every year with foodborne illness and 5,000 die.
Thousands sick, arrests made in China milk scandal
9/18/2008-New information continues to emerge about the contaminated Chinese baby formula, which is linked to the deaths of three babies and sickened thousands of others. Chinese milk producers have instituted massive recalls. This is the latest in a series of tainted Chinese product scandals, including one in 2004 that also involved baby formula. Updates on the timeline of this latest incident show that certain companies and government officials may have known about the contamination for some time before it was finally made public. Eighteen arrests have been made in connection with the scandal. According to reports, six of the detained are accused of sold melamine, the rest are milk dealers. Researchers link mad cow with gene mutation
9/18/2008-U.S. Department of Agriculture scientists believe a rare genetic mutation may be the cause of some instances of mad cow disease in cattle. Government scientists found the prion gene mutation in the cow that tested positive for bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) in 2006. The research indicates that the mutation is the same as one that occurs in humans who develop Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD), which suggets that BSE might occur spontaneously in cattle just as CJD occurs in humans. Although the mutation is rare in cattle, researchers believe it’s likely that it can be inherited. The findings were published in PLoS Pathogens. Sara Lee to acquire Cafe Moka coffee business
9/18/2008-Sara Lee Corp. announced that it has signed an agreement to acquire Café Moka, a family-owned coffee business located in the São Paulo, Brazil. Café Moka serves more than 4,000 small and medium retail customers through a direct distribution system. Café Moka’s total net sales in 2007 were approximately $65 million. "The company has a very well-established direct sales and distribution system for the growing small and medium trade segment, with ample expansion opportunities. The transaction also includes a green coffee processing plant, which will give us access to the coffee farmers in Brazil's main coffee growing state Minas Gerais and will help to advance our sustainable coffee program even further," said Frank van Oers, chief executive officer of Sara Lee's international beverage and bakery business. According a Sara Lee press release, Brazil is the number one coffee producing country in the world and the second-largest coffee consuming country. The transaction is expected to close in October 2008.
Concerns mount over BPA
9/18/2008-Results of a new study have reignited concerns about exposure to bisphenol A (BPA), which is used in many food and beverage containers and plastic products. The study linked the chemical to an increased risk for heart disease and diabetes. Researchers found that exposure to BPA was associated with cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes and liver-enzyme abnormalities in adults. The results, published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, mark the first time higher levels of BPA in the body have been tied to an increased incidence of disease. Nevertheless, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration maintained its position that BPA is safe at a hearing this week. The authors of the article did caution that further research is needed to confirm their findings. If anything, they say the results prove that the effects of BPA in humans need to be examined more closely. JAMA Abstract
Monday, September 15, 2008 AB Enzymes announces price increase
9/15/2008-AB Enzymes announced that most products will be subject to a price increase of up to 10%, effective immediately. Eric Marks, VP of Business Operations said “the announced price increases are necessary to cover part of the cost increases in raw materials, energy and overhead costs that have been incurred in recent months”. All prior contracts and commitments will be honoured and are unaffected by this price increase.
Friday, September 12, 2008 Broccoli: A lung-healthy veggie
9/12/2008-According to recent research from Johns Hopkins Medical School, a decrease in lung concentrations of NRF2-dependent antioxidants, key components of the lung’s defense system against inflammatory injury, is linked to the severity of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in smokers. Broccoli is known to contain a compound that prevents the degradation of NFRP. The findings were published in the September 16 issue of the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine. Researchers examined tissue samples from the lungs of smokers with and without COPD to determine if there were differences in measured levels of NRF2 expression and the level of its biochemical regulators, including KEAP1, which inhibits NRF2, and DJ-1, which stabilizes it. While clinical trials to date of antioxidants have been disappointing in improving the clinical course of patients with COPD, this study points to a possibility of benefit from restoring NRF2 levels in damaged lungs by reducing the action of KEAP1, which is an inhibitor of NRF2. “Future studies should target NRF2 as a novel strategy to increase antioxidant protection in the lungs and test its ability to decrease exacerbations and improve lung function in patients with COPD,” concluded Dr. Shyam Biswal. According to the American Thoracic Society, COPD is the fourth-leading cause of death in the U.S. and affects more than 16 million Americans. Thursday, September 11, 2008 KFC goes to great lengths to keep its secret
9/11/2008-For the first time in 68 years, Colonel Harland Sanders’ handwritten Original Recipe® for KFC chicken will temporarily be relocated to a secret, secure location. The relocation, according to the company, is necessary as KFC modernizes the safekeeping of the recipe. The move also comes as KFC launches its Original Recipe Boneless Chicken Strips, the first-ever line extension carrying the flavor of Sanders’ secret blend of 11 herbs and spices. “With our Original Recipe Strips, KFC is putting a first-ever modern twist on our historic Original Recipe,” KFC President Roger Eaton explained. “The addition of these new boneless strips to our menu will greatly complement the Colonel’s signature Original Recipe fried chicken in a form that fits consumers’ on-the-go lifestyle.” KFC has hired former New York City Police Detective Bo Dietl to consult on its security modernization project and oversee the temporary relocation of Sanders’ Original Recipe. "The concept of having a secret recipe is priceless and it provides KFC with a meaningful point of difference and a competitive advantage," said Ron Paul, president of Technomics. The recipe is so top secret that only 2 KFC executives know the 11 herbs and spices contained within the recipe. A third executive knows the combination to the safe and less than a handful of KFC employees know the identities of the three executives (who are not allowed to travel together on the same plane or in the same car). Priceless indeed. Lack of B12 may decrease brain volume
9/11/2008-A study published in Neurology investigates the relationship between markers of vitamin B12 status and brain volume loss per year over a 5-year period in the elderly. More than 100 community-dwelling volunteers ages 61 to 87 were assessed annually by clinical examination, MRI scans and MRI scans, and cognitive tests. In addition, blood was collected at baseline for measurement of plasma vitamin B12. Results of the study show that decreases in brain volume were greater among those with lower vitamin B12 levels. Researchers conclude that vitamin B12 status should be futher investigated as a modifiable cause of brain atrophy and of likely subsequent cognitive impairment in the elderly. Wednesday, September 10, 2008 National Food Safety Education Month
9/10/2008-September is National Food Safety Education Month and the theme of this year’s informational push aimed at public health professionals is “Be Food Safe.” The national program is the collaborative effort of The Partnership for Food Safety Education, Food and Drug Administration, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Food Safety and Inspection Service. By offering educational materials for varying audiences, organizers hope to reduce the 76 million cases of foodborne illness that occur each year. Friday, September 05, 2008 Wright Group unaffected by hurricane
9/05/2008-The Wright Group’s main manufacturing facility in remains fully operational despite Hurricane Gustav's path through south central Louisiana. “Our facility did not experience any manufacturing delays or shutdowns related to the storm” said S.L. “Sam” Wright, president & CEO. “We want to reassure our customers that they can continue to expect superior quality and complete customer support. Our thoughts are with our friends and neighbors as they recover from Hurricane Gustav.” The Wright Group is a global supplier of custom nutritional ingredient solutions to the functional food and nutritional supplement industries, and is headquartered in Crowley, Louisiana. For additional information, please visit www.thewrightgroup.net.
Wednesday, September 03, 2008 IFST addresses GM issue
9/03/2008-The Institute of Food Science & Technology issued a statement saying genetic modification can significantly improve the quantity and quality of the world’s food supply. The information statement on genetic modification and food provides definitions and explanations on the techniques involved in producing GM products. It also analyzes concerns and risks regarding the safety of such products, as well as the environmental, economic, ethical and legal considerations involved. IFST: Genetic Modification and Food (pdf download)
Maple Leaf halts exports to China
9/03/2008-As a result of the Canadian listeriosis outbreak that has linked 11 deaths to deli meat producer Maple Leaf Foods, the company has been forced to stop all exports to China. All Maple Leaf meat products currently available in China have also been quarantined. China’s General Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection and Quarantine plans to watch the situation closely and continue to take timely measures to remove tainted products from the Chinese food supply. Friday, August 29, 2008 Bottled water versus tap
8/29/2008-The Guardian takes a look at the rise in popularity of bottled water and how it compares to tap, investigating water purification processes. The paper notes that "bottled water is an outrageous success in the U.S., considering more than 89 percent of tap water meets or exceeds federal health and safety regulations . . . and where tap water regularly wins in blind taste tests against name-brand waters, and costs 240 to 10,000 times less than bottled water." The article explores questions about the safety of tap water and concerns about the environmental impact of bottled water. Starbucks to launch healthy breakfast options
8/29/2008-Starbucks is poised to reveal its top-secret breakfast menu redesign, which will feature new health-conscious options. The new menu is expected to include items that have fewer calories and more protein, fiber and fruit. The company plans to debut the new food line on September 3 at most of its 11,570 locations in the U.S. and Canada. The lunch and dinner menus will soon be revamped as well. Adding health value to finished products
8/29/2008-Functional ingredients and healthy developments According to Innova Market Insights, four of the top 10 trends in 2008 indicate how functional foods and beverages have entered into mainstream consumers' lifestyles: Going natural, condition-specific foods and beverages, novel functional applications and beauty foods. In the beverage category, immunity-enhancing waters are becoming commonplace. Other industry trends involve increased funding for research to fuel ingredient innovation for the functional food and beverage industry. One ingredient on the rise is whey protein, whose use has been popularized by studies showing it promotes satiety and lean muscle mass. Heart-healthy phytosterols are also finding their way into more mainstream products like nutrition bars. Overall, weight management continues to be a focus for functional foods and beverages. Food Technology article (pdf)
Wednesday, August 27, 2008 Sara Lee looks to make more bread
8/27/2008-In just seven years, Sara Lee Corp. has become a major player in the bread market. Despite these gains, the company needs to improve profitability in the area where its sales are growing fastest. With Wall Street watching, the company is banking on new technology and increased efficiencies to improve its numbers. The Chicago Tribune highlights the successes Sara Lee has had in the bread business and the obstacles it still has to overcome.
2008 Farm Bill comparison released
8/27/2008-The U.S. Dept. of Agriculture’s Economic Research Service (ERS) released a side-by-side comparison of the 2008 Farm Bill with previous legislation. In addition to key provisions and details by title, it includes links to related ERS publications and to analyses of previous farm acts. New features include a user's guide, an A-Z list of major provisions and a search function. ERS Comparison Report & Video: www.ers.usda.gov/farmbill/2008/. Monday, August 25, 2008 Deli meats linked to Canadian Listeria outbreak
8/25/2008-According to a report by ,The Canandian Press, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) says six deaths have been attributed to an ongoing outbreak of Listeria monocytogenes linked to tainted meat. Test results announced over the weekend confirmed the outbreak was the result of ready-to-eat meat produced by Maple Leaf Foods that was tainted with the Listeria bacterium. The recalled Maple Leaf brand deli meat was used in several ready-to-eat sandwiches that have been distributed through Safeway and TakeAwayCafé. The recall of tainted Maple Leaf products, originally involved 23 different meat products, now involves some 220 forms of meat. An agency spokesman says an additional six deaths are still under investigation, part of a total of 29 cases currently under investigation.
Friday, August 22, 2008 FDA approves irradiation for spinach, iceburg lettuce
8/22/2008-The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is amending the food additive regulations to provide for the safe use of ionizing radiation for control of food-borne pathogens, and extension of shelf-life, in fresh iceberg lettuce and fresh spinach. The amendement is approved at a dose up to 4.0 kiloGray (kGy). This rule is effective August 22, 2008. Submit written or electronic objections and requests for a hearing by September 22, 2008. The August 22, 2008 edition of the FDA Federal Register states that the action is in partial response to a petition filed by The National Food Processors Association on behalf of The Food Irradiation Coalition. Would you buy irradiated food?
Thursday, August 21, 2008 Imperial Sugar hit with third largest OSHA fine
8/21/2008-The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration cited Imperial Sugar Co. and two of its affiliates for dust explosion hazards at three of its plants, proposing penalties totaling $8.78 million. It is the third largest fine in the history of OSHA. The plants in question are located in Port Wentworth, Ga., and Gramercy, La. OSHA initiated the inspections after an explosion and fire on Feb. 7, 2008, at the Port Wentworth refinery that claimed the lives of 13 employees and hospitalized 40 others. Inspections of both facilities found evidence of large accumulations of combustible sugar dust in workrooms, on electrical motors, and on other equipment. The investigation also determined that officials at the company were aware of the conditions but took no action to reduce the hazards. The company has 15 business days to contest the citations and proposed penalties. IFT Press releases glycemic health book 8/21/2008-A new book from IFT Press entitled "Nutraceuticals, Glycemic Health and Type 2 Diabetes" focuses on the nutraceuticals that assist in preventing and managing prediabetes and type 2 diabetes. The book gives an overview of glycemic health and highlights the use of novel and upcoming nutraceutical ingredients such as bioactive peptides, traditional herbs from China, India and Mexico, resistant starches, cinnamon, chromium and others. Wednesday, August 20, 2008 Elanco to purchase cow supplement from Monsanto
8/20/2008-Elanco, a division of Eli Lilly and Company, has signed an agreement to acquire the worldwide rights to the dairy cow supplement, Posilac® (sometribove), as well as the product’s supporting operations, from Monsanto Company. Under the terms of the agreement, Lilly will acquire all rights to the Posilac brand, as well as the product’s U.S. sales force and its manufacturing facility in Augusta, Georgia. In return, Monsanto will receive a $300 million upfront payment, as well as contingent consideration. The transaction is expected to close near the beginning of the fourth quarter of 2008. “Global dairy demand is increasing, outstripping supply, and consumers are seeing rapidly rising prices,” said Jeff Simmons, president, Elanco. “With the purchase of Posilac, Elanco can enhance its overall product portfolio and work together with the industry to provide dairy farmers more options and give consumers affordable choices. Critically, we remain focused on the health and care of the cow in working with farmers to increase global milk supply. Sometribove is a recombinant bovine somatotropin (bST) product used for increasing milk production in dairy cows. The Food and Drug Administration approved its use in 1994.
GM debate heats up in Britain
8/20/2008-After Prince Charles asserted last week that genetically modified crops would lead to a global environmental disaster, Great Britain’s environment minister is challenging him to prove it. In an interview with the Sunday Telegraph, Phil Woolas said he’s waiting for opponents to GM foods to prove they are unsafe. Until then, he said the government plans to continue to investigate using such crops to help find solutions to the problems of hunger in developing countries. Although he’s grateful to the prince for raising doubts held by many people, Woolas told the paper that he believes it is his duty to pursue the issue. “Government ministers have a responsibility to base policy on science and I do strongly believe that we have a moral responsibility to the developing world to ask the question: can GM crops help?”
Monday, August 18, 2008 Hershey increases wholesale prices
8/18/2008-The Hershey Company announced increases in wholesale prices for its U.S., Puerto Rico and export chocolate and sugar confectionery lines. A weighted average 11 percent increase on the instant consumable, multi-pack and packaged candy lines is effective immediately. The price increase is said to offset a portion of increases in raw materials, fuel, and transportation. According to David J. West, President and Chief Executive Officer, "Market prices for ingredients such as cocoa, corn sweeteners, sugar and peanuts are up 20 to 45 percent since the beginning of the year. As such, in 2009 we expect our commodity cost increase to be more than double the 2008 increase." This is the second price increase for Hershey this year. In January, Hershey raised the wholesale prices of its domestic confectionary lines, inlcuding the company's standard bar, king-size bar, 6-pack and vending lines.
Friday, August 15, 2008 Visceral influences are roadblocks healthy eating
8/15/2008-The USDA's Economic Research Service has released a report that finds that individuals will eat more food and are significantly more likely to consume more calories if they extend the time between meals. The report, "Is Dietary Knowledge Enough? Hunger, Stress, and Other Roadblocks to Healthy Eating," presents a consumer demand model to illustrate how both long-term health objectives and immediate visceral influences, can drive individuals’ food choices. The report, using data from past survey, predicts that the influence of cognitive dietary information lessens when an individual is faced with factors such as long intervals between meals and eating away from home. Thursday, August 14, 2008 Tomato + mango = tommango
8/14/2008-GSB Flavor Creators has developed Tommango, a flavor blend of tomato and mango. The flavor debuted as a finished beverage flavored. The flavor can be used in beverages, marinades and dips. Tommango is part of the GSB All-Natural Tropical Fruit Flavors line. GSB Flavor Creators specializes in custom flavor creation, including Kosher and Organic Certifiable flavors. For more information, visit www.gsbflavorcreators.com. Wednesday, August 13, 2008 Minnesota companies take on food trends
8/13/2008-As more food companies focus on creating new products and devising innovative approaches to old ones, Minnesota is becoming a center of change. A recent feature by the Pioneer Press highlights the increasing influence of Minnesota companies within the food industry. Ted Labuza, a food-science professor at the University of Minnesota, said the companies are focusing on these top trends: food safety, foods that improve health and foods that fight obesity. Among the leaders in food safety, Labuza cited Hormel Foods’ use of ultra-high pressure for meat pasteurization. “We're talking about pressure that would crush a submarine,” he said. The process kills the pathogens while maintaining the integrity of the meat. On the healthy foods front, Cargill is working with stanol esters, natural compounds that keep cholesterol from being absorbed by the body. “At least 50 clinical studies have shown that using it can reduce your cholesterol 15 to 25 percent,” said Labuza, who speaks from personal experience. “I can testify to that, because it really worked.” Labuza said Cargill is also one of “about 18 different companies that came up with new and novel ways to make fats without trans fats in them.” FTC to look at Whole Foods-Wild Oats merger
8/13/2008-The U.S. Federal Trade Commission will hold full administrative hearings on the 2007 merger between Whole Foods Markets Inc. and Wild Oats Markets Inc. Monday, August 11, 2008 Wagner joins Mars Botanical
8/11/2008-Mars Botanical has announced the addition of Mary Wagner as General Manager and Chief Technology Officer. Based in Rockville, Wagner will be responsible for the management of the Mars Botanical business, including the continued development of a sustainable supply chain for high cocoa flavanol cocoa beans, as well as oversight for portions of the Mars, Incorporated global cocoa flavanol research and development portfolio. Most recently from E & J Gallo Winery, Wagner brings more than 25 years of food industry research and development, product innovation and quality assurance experience to Mars Botanical. It was the synergies in flavanol benefits that exist between grapes and cocoa, and the quality and quantity of the Mars flavanol research portfolio that first drew Wagner to the potential at Mars. “The opportunity to work on this leading edge science, bringing some of these learning’s to fruition for consumers while drawing on my previous flavanol experience, is what really energized me about this opportunity,” said Wagner. As a newly-created scientific division of Mars, Incorporated, Mars Botanical is dedicated to research and product development involving flavanols – naturally occurring plant compounds or phytonutrients found in cocoa, tea, wine, nuts and certain fruits and vegetables. Wagner previously was Chief Technology and Quality officer at E & J Gallo Winery where she was responsible for wine technology and process innovation, research and development, consumer research (both product and market) and quality and regulatory/compliance aspects of the business including sustainability. Prior to Gallo, Wagner spent four years as Chief Technology and Quality Officer at the Taco Bell Corporation. At Taco Bell, Wagner’s team was responsible for product innovations such as the Chalupa and Grilled Stuffed Burrito.
Friday, August 08, 2008 Ground beef recall linked to E. coli
8/08/2008-S&S Foods LLC. of California, is recalling approximately 153,630 pounds of frozen ground beef products because they may be contaminated with E. coli O157:H. The problem was discovered through a joint investigation by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service and the Virginia Department of Health (VDH), as well as product testing by the Virginia Department of Health. On July 31, the VDH announced an investigation into an outbreak of E. coli O157 infection at a Boy Scout reservation located in Goshen, Virginia. According to the VDH, approximately 84 camp attendees reported symptoms related to E. coli and 25 children have been lab-confirmed with E. coli O157 infection. A total of 8 scouts have required hospitalization. The frozen meat was intended for food service and institutional use and not for direct retail purchase. For more information, see the FSIS website. |