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Monday, December 01, 2008 Tea is less damaging on teeth than soda
12/01/2008-Researchers at Temple Univ. School of Dentistry compared green and black tea to soda and orange juice in terms of their erosive effect on human teeth. An accelerated in vitro test was used to monitor how short- and long-term exposure to these fluids affected the topography and morphology of the coronal segments of the human dentition. This 20-week test used vinegar and water as active and passive control fluids. Thirty-six human premolars were selected at random and immersed in the fluids (the four trial beverages and the two control fluids) at room temperature. Results showed that the vinegar has the highest erosive effect on human enamel, while orange juice and soda fall within the middle range. The lowest degree of erosion occurred with black tea, green tea and water. However, even with the tea, long-term exposure induced low-grade damage, primarily to the cervical enamel. In addition, the tea, particularly the black tea, displayed enamel staining. As the study states: “In view of the countless systemic and dental health benefits of brewed tea and its minimal potential for erosion of human enamel, this beverage should be encouraged as a substitute for acidic drinks.” The study was published in General Dentistry. 2009 food price estimates decrease
12/01/2008-The falling cost of energy means that food price estimates for 2009 have gone down, according to an article in Reuters. The U.S. Dept. of Agriculture (USDA) has lowered its food inflation rate forecast for 2009 by 0.5%, reflecting lower prices for meats, eggs, dairy, and cereal and baking products. Beef, pork, and poultry estimates for 2009 were lowered and are now expected to each rise 3%. The forecast for dairy was reduced to an increase of 2.5%, while the rise for cereal and bakery items was cut to 3%. Despite the new forecast, it is looking like 2009 will be the third straight year that food prices rose by at least 4%. Currently, prices are expected to rise 5.5% for 2008, marking the largest increase in two decades. Melamine found in U.S. infant formula
12/01/2008-According to an article by the Associated Press, traces of melamine have been detected in some brands of U.S. infant formula. Previously undisclosed tests show that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) detected melamine in a sample of one popular formula and the presence of cyanuric acid, a chemical relative of melamine, in the formula from a second manufacturer. Additionally, another formula maker told the AP that in-house tests had detected trace levels of melamine in its formula. These three companies—Abbott Laboratories, Nestle, and Mead Johnson—manufacture more than 90% of all infant formula produced in the U.S. According to Stephen Sundlof, Director of the FDA’s Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, the melamine found is “in the trace range, and from a public health or infant health perspective, we consider those to be perfectly fine.” However, this differs from the impression that the FDA’s Oct. 3 statement had on the general public: “FDA is currently unable to establish any level of melamine and melamine-related compounds in infant formulas that does not raise public health concerns.” The FDA says that it couldn’t set an acceptable level because it hadn’t had enough time to understand melamine’s effects on infants’ kidneys. Melamine is the chemical found in Chinese infant formula that has been blamed for killing at least three babies and making thousands of others ill. However, the concentrations of melamine in those cases were particularly high, as much as 2,500 ppm, while the concentrations in the U.S. samples were 10,000 times smaller—the equivalent of a drop in a 64-gal trash bin. EFSA finds xylitol chewing gum reduces tooth decay
12/01/2008-The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has approved a health claim that chewing gum sweetened with 100% xylitol reduces the risk of tooth decay. The claim was submitted by LEAF Int., Leaf Holland and Leaf Suomi Oy to EFSA’s Panel on Dietetic Products, Nutrition, and Allergies. Five studies were presented investigating the effects of chewing gums sweetened with 100% xylitol as compared to no treatment in children. Although the Panel noted some limitations of the studies, the higher number of studies and the consistency of the results led the Panel to determine that a cause and effect relationship has been established between the consumption of xylitol-sweetened chewing gum and the reduction of the risk of tooth decay in children. The scientific justification of the claim is related to the consumption of 2–3 g of chewing gum sweetened with 100% xylitol at least three times per day after meals. The same claim put forth that pastilles sweetened with at least 56% xylitol also reduced the risk of tooth decay. However, due to the weakness of the three studies presented, the Panel determined that a cause and effect relationship was not established in this case. Wednesday, November 26, 2008 Villa Enterprises opens test kitchen
11/26/2008-Global restaurant franchisor Villa Enterprises has opened Villa Fresh Food Lab, its new test kitchen located at the company’s headquarters in Morristown, N.J. The facility serves as the company’s research and development center for flavor exploration, menu development, taste testing, etc. for Villa quick service restaurant brands (Villa Pizza, Villa Fresh Italian Kitchen, Banana’s, Green Leaf’s, and South Philly Steaks and Fries), as well as its full service restaurants located in the New York metro area. “What’s unique about Villa enterprises and the Villa Fresh Food Lab is that we can pull from our 44 years of culinary expertise across the breadth of our restaurant brands, both full and quick service,” explained Villa Fresh Food Lab Corporate Chef Travis Young. USDA tracks dissemination of parasite
11/26/2008-The U.S. Dept. of Agriculture’s Agriculture Research Service (ARS) has found that human travel led to the dissemination of the parasite Trichinella spiralis. Trichinella spiralis can be found in the muscle tissue of a wide range of mammals and can infect humans who consume undercooked meat contaminated with the parasite. While it is no longer a threat to the U.S. food supply, the problem persists in some European countries. Scientists at the ARS Animal Parasitic Diseases Laboratory in Betsville, Md. used Trichinella DNA collected from 28 countries on four continents to evaluate potential links between parasite hosts, geographic distribution and species diversity. Although T. spiralis is believed to be 20 million years old, the scientists were surprised to find that parasite samples from Europe, North Africa, and the Americas could be grouped into a single “Western” strain of the parasite. This suggests that the T. spiralis found in Europe first evolved after the domestication of swine. According to the scientists, “settlers on their way to the New World and elsewhere traveled with swine for food, and some of these pigs were infected with T. spiralis.” Thus, the team concluded that human travel was the primary source of disseminating T. spiralis throughout the New World. Cereal for breakfast leads to healthier habits
11/26/2008-A new study shows that eating cereal for breakfast is associated with healthier eating and increased physical activity throughout the day. The study, “Consumption of breakfast cereal is associated with positive health outcomes,” looked at evidence from the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute Growth and Health Study, which recruited 2,379 girls age 9–10. The purpose of the study was to examine three possible explanations for the documented association between cereal consumption and positive health outcomes. The results showed that cereal eaten at breakfast provided more fiber, iron, folic acid, and zinc and less fat, sodium, sugar, and cholesterol, compared with the nutrients in foods eaten during other breakfasts. In addition, eating cereal for breakfast appeared to facilitate milk consumption (leading to increased calcium intake) and to displace fats/sweets, quick breads, soda, and meat/eggs as breakfast foods. Along with this, it led to increased consumption of fiber and carbohydrates and decreased consumption of fats throughout the day. Finally, eating cereal for breakfast led to greater physical activity during the day. As the study concludes, “cereal consumption as a part of a healthy lifestyle may play a role in maintaining adequate nutrient intake and physical activity among girls.” The study was published in Nutrition Research. Top Thanksgiving foods
11/26/2008-The NPD Group, a market research company, has listed the top Thanksgiving meal foods consumed. They are: 1. Turkey Interestingly, only 30% of households will actually prepare a turkey on Thanksgiving Day, but 82% of consumers eat it. In addition, the consumption of pumpkin pie on this holiday will make it the second most popular pie in America for the year. Apple pie is number one because people eat it more often. Transporting broiler chicken spreads bacteria
11/26/2008-A study conducted by researchers at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health found increased levels of bacteria on surfaces and in the air inside cars traveling behind trucks that carry broiler chickens. Typically, broiler chickens are transported in open crates on the back of flatbed trucks with no barrier to prevent release of pathogens into the environment. The study was conducted on the Delmarva Peninsula—a coastal region shared by Maryland, Delaware, and Virginia, which has one of the highest densities of broiler chickens per acre in the U.S. The researchers collected air and surface samples from cars driving two to three car lengths behind the poultry trucks for a distance of 17 miles. The cars were driven with the air conditioners and fans turned off and with the windows fully opened. Air samples collected inside the cars showed increased concentrations of bacteria (including antibiotic-resistant strains) that could be inhaled. The same bacteria were also found deposited on a soda can inside the car and on the outside door handle. The strains of bacteria collected were found to be resistant to three antimicrobial drugs widely used to treat bacterial infections in people. The study’s findings support the need for further exposure characterization, and attention to improving methods of biosecurity in poultry production. The findings are published in the Journal of Infection and Public Health. Tuesday, November 25, 2008 USDA requests comments on genetically engineered corn
11/25/2008-The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) is seeking public comment on a petition to deregulate corn genetically engineered to produce a microbial enzyme that facilitates ethanol production. The petition for deregulation was submitted by Syngenta Seeds, owned by Syngenta AG of Basel, Switzerland. Comments must be submitted on or before Jan. 20, 2009. Once the comment period is over, APHIS will deregulate the genetically engineered crop as long as it can conclude that the organism does not pose a plant pest risk. If deregulated, the product could be transported and planted without the requirement of permits or other regulatory oversight by APHIS. According to APHIS, “the scientific evidence indicates that there are unlikely to be any environmental, human health, or food safety concerns associated with the GE corn.” Jian Joins D.D. Williamson 11/25/2008-D.D. Williamson, Louisville, Ky., has hired He Jian, Ph.D., to its Science and Innovation team. The new food science position was created to add strength to Science and Innovation efforts and manage increased demand from customers for application projects. Jian received his Ph.D. in Food Science & Technology from Ohio State Univ., where he studied anthocyanin properties. Kellogg expands, funds Battle Creek revitalization
11/25/2008-According to an article in the Battle Creek Enquirer, Kellogg Co. has announced plans to build a 122,500-sq-ft building in downtown Battle Creek, Mich. It will enable the company to relocate approximately 680 employees who currently work in the city’s Porter Street office complex. While the building plan is still contingent on securing local and state incentives, it is expected to be operational in late 2010. This expansion has sparked the beginning of a complete redevelopment of downtown Battle Creek by economic development firm Battle Creek Unlimited (BCU). The $85 million proposed plan will include physical improvements to the downtown landscape and also focus on making the city a national leader in food science. As a part of this, the plans include creating a food science and technology development and commercialization program in which BCU will collaborate with area educators and employers to establish internship programs that will allow area students the opportunity to increase their awareness of career options available locally. In addition, the W.K. Kellogg Foundation has approved up to $35 million to fund the various components of the plan. “We’ve sat here and been watching Grand Rapids re-invent itself in the area of health care and Kalamazoo re-invent itself with pharmaceuticals,” said Jim McHale, Kellogg Foundation Senior Vice President for programs. “This is an opportunity for the greater Battle Creek area to re-invent itself.”
Sabra Dipping Co. plans for new facility
11/25/2008-Sabra Dipping Co., a joint venture between PepsiCo and Strauss Group, has announced plans to open a plant in Richmond, Va. The $61 million facility is expected to start production in mid-2010, and will facilitate further production and development of the company’s refrigerated dips and spreads. “Strauss continues to invest in the refrigerated dips and spreads market under the growing health and wellness trend, together with PepsiCo, our strong strategic partner in the U.S. Sabra Dipping Co., which continues to grow at a strong rate, has become a leading company in North America,” said Giyora Bar Dea, CEO of Strauss North America. “Given the success and high potential of this activity, Strauss and Frito-Lay, a business unit of PepsiCo, have decided to continue investing in Sabra Dipping Co. and establish a state-of-the-art plant that would utilize the most advanced production technologies available today.” Half of Americans losing trust in food supply
11/25/2008-According to a recent national food safety and labeling poll conducted by Consumer Reports National Research Center, American consumers are concerned about food safety, and they want the government to inspect the food supply more frequently. While 73% polled currently regard the overall food supply as safe, 48% said their confidence in the safety of the nation’s food supply is slipping. Currently, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) inspects domestic food production facilities once every five to 10 years, and foreign facilities less frequently. Two-thirds of respondents said the FDA should inspect domestic and foreign food-processing facilities at least once a month. Additionally, eight in 10 consumers strongly agree that when food safety problems arise, the FDA should disclose to the public the location of retailers who sold the potentially harmful food, including fish, produce, and processed foods, as the U.S. Dept. of Agriculture (USDA) is currently required to do for meat. On Nov. 19, the USDA’s National Organic Standards Board approved standards that would allow organic fish farmers to use wild fish as part of their feed mix provided it did not exceed 25% of the total. Yet, 93% of Americans agree that fish labeled as organic should be produced by 100% organic feed. Finally, while the FDA recently proposed allowing meat or milk products from cloned or genetically engineered animals to be sold without labels, 94% of those polled believe that meat and dairy products from cloned animals should be labeled as such. As Urvashi Rangan, Ph.D., Senior Scientist and Policy Analyst at Consumers Union explained, “The American public wants to know more about their food, where it comes from, how safe it is, and will vote with their dollars to support highly meaningful labels.” Monday, November 24, 2008 Probiotics research grants available
11/24/2008-The Global Probiotics Council (GPC), a committee formed by Groupe Danone and Yakult Honsha Co. Ltd., announced the availability of two grants for the second annual Young Investigator Grant for Probiotics Research (YIGPRO). Each grant will provide $50,000 over one year, and this year the grant focus is on the role of probiotics and gastrointestinal microbiota in health and disease. The grants are designed to contribute to the advancement of probiotics and gastrointestinal microbiota research in the United States and to attract promising, young researchers into this field of study. The deadline for applications is Feb. 10, 2009. “Groupe Danone and Yakult Honsha are committed to benefiting human health by advancing research on probiotics,” said Sven Thormahlen, Executive Vice President R&D, Danone Research. “We established the GPC to raise awareness of probiotics and their health benefits through science-based education.” Researchers applying for the grant must be interested in understanding the health benefits of probiotics and the relationship among probiotics, gastrointestinal microbiota, and the body. Symrise grows dairy flavor business
11/24/2008-Symrise Flavors, Teterboro, N.J., has formed a strategic business alliance with First Choice Ingredients of Germantown, Wis. The relationship is designed to secure and grow Symrise’s dairy flavor portfolio, particularly in enzyme modified diary (EMD) flavors. EMD flavors are important to product segments such as snacks, savory, dairy, and prepared foods. Symrise’s goal is to better leverage the fermentation competencies into other lipid- and protein-based substrates to further expand its portfolio of natural fermentation-derived flavor offerings. “After our acquisition of the Chr. Hansen Flavor and Seasoning business, it became clear that we would benefit from working with First Choice Ingredients as our strategic partner,” explained Matthias Guentert, President of Symrise Flavor & Nutrition North America. “Doing so would allow us to ensure a flawless supply of the acquired dairy flavors to our customers, and also enhance our dairy team by adding the Milwaukee group to our staff.” General Mills to expand Albuquerque plant
11/24/2008-According to an article in the New Mexico Business Weekly, General Mills is planning to invest $100 million in an expansion of its existing Albuquerque, N.M., plant. The facility currently employs about 190 people, but the new addition will add about 160,000 sq ft and employ 60. The addition will focus on manufacturing snack products. New Mexico Business Weekly article
PepsiCo to invest up to $3 billion in Mexico
11/24/2008-PepsiCo Inc., Purchase, N.Y., has announced plans to invest up to $3 billion in Mexico in the next five years to grow its beverages and food brands Sabritas and Gamesa. Approximately $2 billion of the investment will be spent on manufacturing, marketing, and R&D for the company’s foods businesses. The remaining $1 billion will be spent on marketing and advertising activities for Pepsi’s beverages over the next three years. With more than 40,000 employees in Mexico, PepsiCo is among the largest employers in the country. “For the last 100 years, Mexico has been a key market for PepsiCo, and today's news is the latest proof that we will continue to invest for growth here,” said PepsiCo Americas Foods CEO John Compton. “From the jobs we provide to the economic impact we have in the economy and through agriculture, PepsiCo's businesses in Mexico have developed great consumer loyalty to their brands—built through decades of investment.” The investment follows news earlier in November that the company will invest $1 billion in China over the next four years. USDA seeks nominations for biotech committee
11/24/2008-The U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service is requesting nominations for people to serve as members of the Secretary’s Advisory Committee on Biotechnology and 21st Century Agriculture (AC21). AC21 has two goals: to examine the long-term impacts of biotechnology on the U.S. food and agriculture system and USDA; and to provide guidance to USDA on pressing issues, identified by the Office of the Secretary, related to the application of biotechnology in agriculture. There are currently 20 members on the AC21 and the committee’s charter allows for flexibility to appoint up to a total of 25 members. Members serve terms of up to two years and can be reappointed to serve up to six consecutive years. Written nominations must be received by fax or postmarked on or before Dec. 21. Members will be selected by the incoming Secretary of Agriculture. Friday, November 21, 2008 Proposition 65 regulatory update
11/21/2008-The State of California’s Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA) is in the process of updating and improving the regulations that implement and interpret Proposition 65. As part of that effort, OEHHA formed a stakeholder work group to provide input concerning a possible regulation to provide guidance for food retailers on how to provide warnings for exposures to listed chemicals in foods. Based on the input received from the work group, OEHHA has developed a framework for a potential “safe harbor” regulation for exposure to listed chemicals in foods sold at the retail level. OEHHA has put together an outline of the basic components of a regulation that would address the main areas where guidance is needed. While not in the final form, the OEHHA is providing it to the public to get feedback. The main areas where guidance is needed are: 1. Clarify food retailer and manufacturer responsibility for providing warning materials to consumers. OEHHA has scheduled a public workshop on December 3 to discuss the drafted outline. All comments received at the workshop and in writing by January 16, 2009 (extended from the previous deadline of December 17) will be considered, after which the OEHHA will schedule another public workshop. All comments received at the second workshop or in writing will be considered as the regulatory language is re-drafted and a formal regulatory proposal developed. OEHHA expects to initiate a formal regulatory process by June 2009.
Controversy on labeling farmed fish organic
11/21/2008-On Nov. 19, the U.S. Dept. of Agriculture’s National Organic Standards Board approved standards that would clear the way for farmed fish to be labeled organic, according to an article in the Washington Post. Under the approved standards, organic fish farmers would be able to use wild fish as part of their feed mix provided it did not exceed 25% of the total and did not come from forage species, whose numbers have declined due to the increase in fish farms. These standards serve as the basis for regulations to be issued by the Agriculture Dept. Many activists have questioned why up to 25% of fish feed could be made up of non-organic material, while all other animals certified as organic must eat 100% organic feed. “What we think is at stake is not just the integrity of a standard for fish but the whole organic standard and consumer confidence in it,” said Patty Lovera, Assistant Director for the advocacy group Food & Water Watch. Contaminated meat may be causing illness
11/21/2008-According to a MSNBC article, a Univ. of Arizona scientist has found that more than 40% of 88 samples of retail packaged meats tested positive for Clostridium difficile (C. diff). Nearly 30% of the contaminated samples of ground beef, pork, turkey, and summer sausage were identical or closely related to a super-toxic strain of C. diff blamed for growing rates of illness and death in the U.S. C. diff has been known as a common bug usually associated with easily treated diarrhea. One of the more powerful strains, NAP1, produces about 20 times the toxins of ordinary strains. In worst cases, C. diff infection can destroy the colon and lead to blood poisoning and death. However, specialists from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) say that the connection between the presence of C. diff bacteria and infection in humans has not been established and there’s not enough evidence to warrant public alarm. Also, scientists don’t know when C. diff exposure sparks infection in people, or how much of a dose is necessary to cause infection. Further research is needed to clarify the link between C. diff and infection in humans. NutriSystem and Schwan’s Home Service to develop frozen foods 11/21/2008-NutriSystem, a provider of weight management products and services, has signed an agreement with Schwan’s Home Service for the development and distribution of frozen foods under the NutriSystem brand, according to an article on CNNMoney.com. This alliance will create NutriSystem Select, NutriSystem’s first frozen food offering in its portfolio of weight loss programs. The new line is expected to launch in the first quarter of 2009. IFT debuts Web Exclusive on Natural & Organic Foods 11/21/2008-Are you looking for information on the natural and organic foods industry? Then visit a special page on the IFT Web site where you’ll find a plethora of resources on the natural and organic food and beverage marketplace, including market data and trends, regulatory news and information, consumer attitudes and buying habits, formulation tips, labeling, suppliers of natural and organic ingredients, and new food and beverage products. Thursday, November 20, 2008 FDA sends inspectors to China
11/20/2008-The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has opened its first overseas office in China to guard against contaminated animal feed, counterfeit drugs, toys made with lead paint, and dairy products containing melamine, according to an article in the Washington Post. This comes as a result of China’s growing role as an exporter to the U.S. and the recent food safety scares originating from the country. Most recently, melamine-tainted dairy products and animal feed from China killed four Chinese infants and sickened thousands, prompting last week’s FDA directive that all Chinese foods made with milk be detained at U.S. ports unless importers certify them melamine-free. The FDA contingent in China will have at least eight American employees, in addition to Chinese hires, in three offices in Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou. The aim is to work more closely with Chinese regulatory agencies to set quality standards and to educate companies and their distributors.
Salmonella Saintpaul report provides recommendations
11/20/2008-A recent report released by the Produce Safety Project (PSP), an initiative of The Pew Charitable Trusts at Georgetown University, provides an in-depth review of the public record of the Salmonella Saintpaul outbreak of 2008. The report, entitled “Breakdown: Lessons to be learned from the 2008 Salmonella Saintpaul outbreak,” calls for preventive safety standards for fresh produce, reform of the public-health system’s organization and outbreak response, and establishment of unified risk communication plans. According to the PSP, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) needs to use its existing statutory authorities to establish mandatory and enforceable safety standards for fresh produce. It is noted that the FDA has already used existing authorities to put in place preventative safety standards for seafood in 1995 and for juice in 2001. In addition, the PSP sees the need for organizational reforms throughout the public health system for a more coordinated outbreak response. The report raises questions about how timely and effectively data was shared between public health agencies and if it contributed to a delayed identification of jalapeno and Serrano peppers as a vehicle for Salmonella Saintpaul. Finally, the PSP expresses the need to have established and unified risk communication plans in place before an outbreak. According to the report, from the beginning of the outbreak, public-health communication to the media and the public was disjointed and confusing. Keenan and IFT Members receive CIFST Friendship Award
11/20/2008-During the 14th World Congress of Food Science and Technology’s opening ceremony on Oct. 20, the Chinese Institute of Food Science and Technology (CIFST) presented its inaugural Friendship Awards to industry professionals who have fostered growth in China’s food industry. Among the recipients is IFT Executive Vice President Barbara Byrd Keenan for her contributions to advancing the relationship between IFT and CIFST. Five other IFT members also received the award: • Mary Schmidl, former IFT President (2000–2001)
DSM Food Specialties expands yeast extract facility
11/20/2008-DSM Food Specialties, Delft, the Netherlands, has expanded its production facility in Delft and increased capacity by 35%. Operational since October, the expansion allows the company to meet the rising demand for yeast extracts. “Our improved facility will house new, state-of-the-art equipment that can successfully convert all our on-site grown yeast into extracts and will provide us the flexibility to produce new products. This will allow us to meet increasing customer demand for natural yeast extracts,” said DSM Food Specialties Business Unit Director of Savoury Ingredients Fedde Sonnema. NSMA names Sonntag President
11/20/2008-The National Seasoning Manufacturers Association (NSMA) has named Tim Sonntag President for a two-year term. He was appointed the position at the 2008 NSMA Annual Meeting held during the IFT Annual Meeting & Food Expo in New Orleans on July 1. Sonntag is the Vice President of Quality and Technical Services for Wixon, Inc., St. Francis, Wis., where he has worked for more than 22 years. In addition, Sonntag is the chairperson of the American Spice Trade Association’s (ASTA) Government Relations Committee, a member of the American Society for Quality (ASQ), and a member of the Institute of Food Technologists (IFT). Wednesday, November 19, 2008 IUFoST inducts new Fellows
11/19/2008-During the 14th World Congress of Food Science and Technology, held Oct. 19–23, in Shanghai, the International Union of Food Science and Technology (IUFoST) inducted 25 new Fellows to the International Academy of Food Science and Technology (IAFoST)—a group of elected food scientists and technologists who collectively form a pool of scientific expertise in food science and technology from which IUFoST may draw non-aligned expert advice on scientific matters. Thirteen of the new Fellows are IFT Members: • Charles Bamforth, Department Chair, Food Science & Technology, University of California, Davis, USA In addition, IUFoST announced Luis Fernandez as President-Elect, term beginning Oct. 2008. He is a Professional Member of IFT. Fernandez has extensive industry experience previously with Danisco, Rhodia Food, DuPont Protein Tehcnologies and Sanofi Bio Industries. Currently, he works for Cargill as Applications Technology Leader for Europe-Middle East-Africa. 14th World Congress of Food Science and Technology
New mad cow case in Canada
11/19/2008-The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) confirmed a new case of bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) in a seven-year-old dairy cow from British Columbia on Nov. 17. “The animal’s birth farm has been identified, and an investigation is underway,” the agency said in a press release. “The CFIA is tracing the animal’s herdmates at the time of birth and examining possible sources of infection. The age and location of the infected animal are consistent with previous cases detected in Canada.” The case was detected through the national BSE surveillance program, which the agency said has been “highly successful in demonstrating the low level of BSE in Canada.” Canada remains a Controlled Risk country for BSE, as recognized by the World Organization for Animal Health. Accordingly, this case should not affect exports of Canadian cattle or beef. Canadian Food Inspection Agency
Nestle opens R&D center
11/19/2008-Nestle Foodservices has opened a new customer innovation campus in Solon, Ohio, housing 67,000 sq ft of offices, conference rooms, culinary laboratories, and test kitchens. The facility is dedicated to the development of culinary food solutions for the away-from-home business, one of Nestle’s four strategic growth areas. According to the company, consumers are spending more on away-from-home food and beverages, a trend which is set to continue. Additionally, the $20 million center will be inviting chefs and executives to learn more about key consumer trends and to collaborate on the development of customized menu and food solutions. While the facility currently employs 30, this number is expected to grow to around 100. Protient opens new research and applications center
11/19/2008-Protient, Inc., St. Paul, Minn., has opened a new 8,300-sq-ft industry research and applications center in Eagan, Minn. The center, which cost over $1 million to complete, includes an applications lab, chemical lab, sensory lab, processing room, sample storage and preparation area. In addition, the facility will house the company’s R&D and quality departments. “The new center is key to providing specific application support. It is a great resource and offers us more flexibility when developing functional ingredient solutions to our customers,” said Protient Vice President of Technologies Ewan Ha. Thanksgiving dinner to cost more
11/19/2008-According to the American Farm Bureau Federation’s (AFBF) 23rd annual informal price survey of classic items found on the Thanksgiving dinner table, the average cost of this year’s feast for 10 is $44.61, a $2.35 price increase from last year’s average of $42.26. The main contributor to the overall increase in the cost was the price of a 16-lb turkey, which has risen by 9 cents/lb from 2007. “Food prices rode the energy price roller coaster up during the first half of 2008, and as the year winds down, energy prices have moderated somewhat but food prices have not come down,” explains AFBF economist Jim Sartwelle. However, despite the recent retail price increases, Sartwelle says American consumers have enjoyed relatively stable food costs over the years, particularly when adjusted for inflation. In fact, the real dollar cost of the Thanksgiving dinner has declined more than 8% since 1988. Tuesday, November 18, 2008 IFT DC Section addresses product traceability
11/18/2008-The Institute of Food Technologists DC Section hosted a webcast on Nov. 17 on Produce Food Safety and Traceability, featuring speakers from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and United Fresh Product Association. Given this summer’s outbreak of Salmonella Saintpaul in produce, Stephen Sundlof, Director of the FDA’s Center for Food Safety & Applied Nutrition, discussed the importance of improving product traceability. Currently, it could take anywhere from one to four weeks for a food contamination to be discovered, during which time distribution of the food continues, exposure continues, and more people get sick. In addition, due to inconsistencies in the industry for product traceability, it is sometimes very difficult and time consuming to trace a product back to the source. Sundlof expressed the desire to build more sophistication into the food tracing system in order to allow for rapid and earlier tracing, especially when multiple products may be implicated. Some of the attributes Sundlof described as necessary to facilitate this speed are: 1. A unique identifier that allows for connectivity Of course, there are challenges to face in reaching this more sophisticated tracing method. There are the technological barriers, the cost of implementation and maintenance, and the need for the system to be international. Most of all, however, Sundlof articulated that we are only as strong as the weakest link, and for any system to succeed, it is necessary to have the entire food industry’s support. New Food Processing Education Web Site
11/18/2008-Joe Regenstein, Professor, Food Science at Cornell University, and Daryl Lund, Emeritus Professor, University of Wisconsin, Madison, have established a section on Cornell University’s Web site featuring educational training video clips of the food processing industry. The site, www.vft.foodscience.cornell.edu, enables teachers to find relevant video clips (from 5 to 30 sec) showing unit operations and general overviews of food processing facilities. These clips are searchable and users can store clips for later review or class sharing. All videos have been supplied by the food industry and have been reviewed and edited. In addition, model active learning materials featured on the site suggest ways that instructors can use the site to optimize learning by engaging their students. Three active learning models have been developed. The first model is a PowerPoint-based detailed flowchart of a poultry processing plant with meta-links to the video clips. The other two models involve meta-links embedded within the text of a chapter and an outline on poultry processing written by Dan Fletcher, Chair, North Carolina State University. Cornell Virtual Food Science Field Trips
Tree Top acquires Sabroso
11/18/2008-Tree Top Inc., Selah, Wash., has completed an agreement for an undisclosed amount to purchase Sabroso Co., Medford, Ore. Sabroso is a processor and seller of single-strength and concentrated fruit purees, and supplier of dried fruit flakes and fruit preparations. It has manufacturing facilities in Medford and Woodburn, Ore., and Oxnard, Calif. Tree Top is a grower-owner cooperative known for its Tree Top brand of juices, applesauce and other fruit products. Tree Top also owns and operates Northwest Naturals, LLC, Bothell, Wash., which specializes in juice formulation and juice concentrate sales to the beverage industry. The acquisition aims to leverage all three product portfolios to provide the most extensive product support to all customers. However, each company will continue to operate their day-to-day business as normal. Of the acquisition, Tree Top Ingredient and Foodservice Sales Senior Vice President Tom Hurson said, “This agreement is great news for all three companies. It provides an expanded product portfolio, increased research and development capacity, industry leading fruit processing knowledge and technology, and decades of successful grower relationships.” New IFT Foundation Vice President
11/18/2008-The Institute of Food Technologists (IFT) has named Robert A. Vitas Vice President of the IFT Foundation. In this role, Vitas will work to connect people, resources, and information to raise the standard of food science and technology in the world. Vitas earned his Ph.D. in political science at Loyola University of Chicago and is a Visiting Scholar at Northwestern University. In addition, as a Certified Fund Raising Executive, Vitas has worked in nonprofits and foundations for most of his professional life, including the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and the Great Books Foundation. He was co-chair of the Association Forum of Chicagoland’s Foundation and Development Shared Interest Group, a member of the Editorial Content Working Group, and currently serves on its Professional Practices Committee. He has published four books and more than 24 articles, chapters, and reviews in his field.
Study confirms soy protein lowers cholesterol
11/18/2008-A new meta-analysis conducted by Solae LLC, St. Louis, reconfirms that soy protein can lead to a reduction in blood cholesterol levels. Studies conducted over 10 years ago showed that soy consumption led to a lower incidence of heart disease, which led to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) approval of the health claim in 1999. However, in 2006, the American Heart Association’s (AHA) Nutrition Committee published a retraction of their year 2000 recommendations that highlighted soy protein as one of the dietary recommendations for the reduction of CHD risk, stating that the evidence for the recommendation “was minimal.” Recently, the FDA announced its intention to reevaluate the health claim and existing data on the relationship between CHD and soy protein. Solae’s research team reviewed and ranked more than 150 studies using the FDA’s 2007 evidence-based review guidance for scientific evaluation of health claims. Forty-six studies were deemed of high or moderate quality and were included in the final meta-analysis. The analysis found reductions in total cholesterol of 9.54 mg/dL and reductions in LDL cholesterol of 7.12 mg/dL (which is about 4% and 5%, respectively). Results showed significant reduction in blood cholesterol for individuals who had high and normal blood cholesterols. According to Solae, this new body of evidence justifies maintaining the currently approved health claim for soy protein and CHD risk reduction.
Wednesday, November 12, 2008 2008 Farm Act: Where will the money go?
11/12/2008-The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Economic Research Service has published an article on how the 2008 Farm Act will be implemented. “The Food, Conservation, and Energy Act of 2008 (Farm Act), enacted into law in June 2008, will govern the bulk of Federal agriculture and related programs for the next 5 years,” the report states. “The Act’s 15 titles include administrative and funding authorities for programs that cover income and commodity price support, farm credit, risk management, conservation, export promotion, international food assistance and agricultural development, domestic nutritional assistance (including food stamps), rural development, agriculture and food sector research, accessibility and sustainability of forests, agricultural and rural renewable energy sources, and beginning and socially disadvantaged farmers and ranchers.” The article also states that more than “two-thirds of Farm Act-related spending will not go to farmers in fiscal years 2008–17, but to food and nutrition programs to help low-income Americans purchase food, and provide food to programs that serve children and the elderly. Less than a third of the funding (spending) in the legislation will benefit farmers through commodity programs, crop insurance, and conservation programs. The remainder (1 percent) goes to all of the other programs, such as trade promotion, farm credit, research, and energy programs. These and other USDA programs are also funded in part by annual appropriations and other legislation.” Philadelphia to require nutrition menu labeling
11/12/2008-Philadelphia has become the latest U.S. city to require food establishments to list calories on their menus. Philly joins New York and Los Angeles in its move to make caloric information available to restaurant patrons. The city council approved an ordinance that requires food establishments with 15 or more outlets to list the total number of calories, saturated fat, trans fat, carbohydrates and sodium in foods and beverages for sale. Restaurants that fall under the ordinance must comply by January 1, 2010. Ordinance (PDF Download) Thursday, November 06, 2008 Slimmer Twinkies hitting shelves
11/06/2008-Hostess launched a 100-calorie snack pack version of the iconic Twinkie. The snack packs will be called “Twinkie Bites” and will be available nationwide beginning Monday. The original Twinkie is 150 calories. In addition to the Twinkie Bites, Hostess also plans to add strawberry cupcakes to the 100-calorie snack line.
Low amounts of caffeine risky during pregnancy
11/06/2008-A new study finds that even consuming one cup of coffee daily could put pregnant women at a higher risk of having an underweight baby. Researchers in the United Kingdom found that pregnant women who drank from 100 to 199 milligrams of caffeine every day (the equivalent of one to two cups of coffee) had a 20 percent increased risk of giving birth to a baby with low birth weight compared to women who consumed 100 milligrams or less per day. For those who consumed 200–299 milligrams, the risk increased to 50 percent. The study found that the source of the caffeine didn’t matter. The findings appear in the British Medical Journal. Wednesday, November 05, 2008 NWFPA event to highlight navigating in changing times
11/05/2008-The 95th Annual NW Food Manufacturing & Packaging Exposition and Convention will feature a series of sessions and workshops designed to provide food processing company attendees with the latest information on trends and developments impacting their industry. The event will take place Jan. 18- 21, 2009, at The Oregon Convention Center in Portland, Ore. Workshops will cover industry topics, including energy and the environment, government affairs, food safety, and others. The Exposition also provides a venue for leading food processing industry suppliers to feature their products and services to this highly targeted group of food processor company decision makers. For more information, visit www.nwfpa.org.
Tuesday, November 04, 2008 Fonterra opens Chicago technical center
11/04/2008-New Zealand-based dairy co-operative Fonterra Inc. recently celebrated the grand opening of its Chicago Technical Center (CTC) near O’Hare International Airport. The $2.4 million facility houses advanced processing equipment, sample analysis lab, and an ingredient supply area. Utilizing the scientific innovations from Fonterra’s R&D hubs in New Zealand, the CTC and its 15-person technical staff will enable U.S. and Canadian customers, partners, and scientists to formulate retail and foodservice products using the company’s functional dairy proteins and specialty ingredients. Recently, Fonterra USA launched several products for the North American market. These include PowerProteins for improved functionality and flavor in bars, clear whey-based ingredients for beverages, specialty milk protein concentrates designed to improve yield and texture in cheese and yogurt, and several hydrolysates for pediatric nutrition products. Fonterra is the largest dairy exporter and fifth largest dairy in the world.
Friday, October 31, 2008 IFT members appointed to Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee
10/31/2008-Agriculture Secretary Ed Schafer and Health and Human Services Secretary Mike Leavitt today announced the appointment of 13 nationally recognized experts to serve on the 2010 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee. IFT members Roger Clemens and Joanne Slavin were among the appointees. Clemens has extensive experience in functional foods and technology with a special emphasis on probiotics and prebiotics. He has expertise in toxicology and food safety, as well as knowledge of food processing and the food industry. Slavin is an expert in carbohydrates and dietary fiber. Her research expertise focuses on the impact of whole grain consumption in chronic diseases, such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes, as well as the role of dietary fiber in satiety. The new Committee will advise the Secretaries on any nutritional and dietary revisions necessary to the existing Dietary Guidelines. Following their review of the scientific literature; listening to and receiving public comment; and deliberating in open forums, the Committee will prepare an advisory Report that will be submitted to the Secretaries of Agriculture and Health and Human Services and used in setting the 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. As mandated by Congress, the Dietary Guidelines are reviewed for revision every five years. The first Committee meeting will be October 30-31, 2008, in Washington, DC. To learn more, visit www.dietaryguidelines.gov.
FDA announces food additives permitted in animal feed
10/31/2008-The U.S. Food and Drug Administration amended the regulations for food additives permitted in feed and drinking water of animals to provide for the safe use of methyl esters of conjugated linoleic acid (cis-9, trans-11 and trans-10, cis-12 octadecadienoic acids) as a source of fatty acids in swine diets. This action is in response to a food additive petition filed by BASF Corp. The rule is effective October 29, 2008. Written or electronic objections and requests for a hearing must be submitted by December 29, 2008. PepsiCo to buy Spitz International
10/31/2008-PepsiCo will acquire Canadian sunflower and pumpkin seed maker Spitz International Inc. Spitz will continue its Canadian operations in Bow Island and Medicine Hat, Alberta, and will report into Frito-Lay North America. The acquisition will support Frito-Lay’s plans to participate more broadly in the nuts and seeds category. Spitz complements Frito-Lay’s growing portfolio of healthier snack options, such as this year’s introduction of True North nut snacks.
Thursday, October 30, 2008 FDA responds to BPA Subcommittee report
10/30/2008-In light of the critical findings of the Bisphenol A (BPA) Subcommittee Report, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration said it will revisit its recent BPA safety assessment, which the subcommittee said was inadequate. “The FDA agrees that, due to the uncertainties raised in some studies relating to the potential effects of low-dose exposure to bisphenol A, additional research would be valuable,” reads the agency’s statement. “The FDA is already moving forward with planned research to address the potential low-dose effects of bisphenol A, and we will carefully evaluate the findings of these studies.” McDonald’s announces new burger
10/30/2008-McDonald’s Corp. plans to replace its dollar-menu double cheeseburger with a new burger called the McDouble. The new product is like a double cheeseburger but includes only one slice of cheese instead of two. The double cheeseburger with two slices of cheese will still be available, but will likely increase to $1.19. The company is attributing the burger swap to rising commodity costs, forcing it to cut the extra slice of cheese from the dollar menu.
Chinese melamine scare moves to eggs
10/30/2008-Some Chinese grocery stores such as Wal-Mart removed some eggs from store shelves after tests in Hong Kong detected melamine, the toxic chemical that has sickened thousands of babies. Wal-Mart stores in China pulled the Select brand of eggs produced by China’s Dalian Hanwei Enterprise Group. The company has issued a recall for the eggs. Discovering melamine, a plasticizer that has been found in powdered infant formula and other products containing milk-based ingredients from China, in eggs raises concerns about how far the contamination has penetrated China’s food chain. In Hong Kong, tests found melamine in eggs at nearly twice the legal limit for food. Based on these findings, Hong Kong officials have decided to begin testing Chinese meat imports as well. Friday, October 24, 2008 CoFE'09 to highlight sustainability of food processes
10/24/2008-The 2009 Conference of Food Engineeering (CoFE'09) will cover a broad scope of issues related to food engineering both theory and practice. CoFE'09 will take place in Columbus, OH, April 5-8, 2009. The plenary sessions include themes on the role of engineers in delivery of health and wellness, sustainability of food processes, and in sensors and process control. The oral and poster sessions will cover advances and new developments in Food Rheology, Transport Phenomena in Food Processing, Mathematical Modeling of Process Operations, Reaction Kinetics, Frozen Foods, Dehydration Technologies, Biotechnology and Biocatalysis, Water Relations in Foods, Extrusion Processing, Thermal Processing , Alternative Thermal Processes, Nonthermal Processing, Nanotechnology Applications in Foods, Food Process Waste Management and Byproduct Utilization, Sanitary Design, Food Engineering for Space Applications, Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Safety, Food Safety and Security, Food Engineering Education, and Case Studies. November 1, 2008 is the deadline for submitting an abstract for this conference. To submit an abstract, or to learn more, visit: www.cofe09.org.
Wednesday, October 22, 2008 Kids’ food allergies on the rise
10/22/2008-The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says food allergies are on the rise in American children. The CDC released results of the first federal study of the issue, finding that 3 million kids have food allergies. The report states that in 2007, 1 in 26 children had food allergies, which is up from 1 in 29 ten years ago, an 18-percent increase. Experts are unsure whether the increase is due to higher rates of peanut allergies, which doubled, or the fact that children are taking longer to grow out of some allergies to eggs and milk. More vigilance by parents and doctors could also be the reason for the increased statistics. Food Allergy Among U.S. Children: Trends in Prevalence and Hospitalizations Washington DC Section to host meeting on produce food safety
10/22/2008-The IFT DC Section will host a meeting and live webcast on Produce Food Safety and Traceability on November 17, 2008 from 1:30 p.m. – 3:15 p.m. CST. In conjunction with IFT’s Washington, D.C. Section Meeting, this webcast will feature an update on the current status of the recent tomato/pepper food safety episode, presented by Dr. Robert Tauxe, Deputy Director of the CDC Division of Foodborne, Bacterial and Mycotic Diseases. In addition, Dr. Stephen Sundlof, Director, Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, will present an update on the FDA Traceability Activities and Programs, as well as industry response on the tomato/pepper episode given by Dr. David Gombas, Senior Vice President Food Safety and Technology at United Fresh Produce Association. To register, go to https://www.ift.org/cms/?pid=6003. For the full agenda, go to: www.ift.org/sections/washingtondc/.
Tuesday, October 21, 2008 Tropical plant may affect obesity
10/21/2008-Morinda citrifolia, better known in North America as “noni” juice, has a folklore reputation as an anticancer agent. However, results of a new study show that M. citrifolia may be effective in fighting obesity. Researchers looked at the efficiency of M. citrifolia as an inhibitor of lipoprotein lipase (LPL), which inhibits the deposition of lipids into human tissue, acting as an anti-obesity agent. Tests indicated that the results demonstrated by the leaf and fruit extracts may be caused by synergistic effects of catechin with other phytochemicals present in the samples. This is supported by literature, which reported that the synergistic effects of several flavonoids were better than that shown by a single flavonoid. The researchers concluded that noni juice may modify triglyceride metabolism and provide a natural product for use as a weight control agent. Thursday, October 16, 2008 Red wine, peanuts may benefit liver
10/16/2008-A new study finds that resveratrol, a substance found in grapes, berries, red wine and peanuts, prevented fat accumulation in the livers of “alcoholic” mice. New guidelines double vitamin D for kids
10/16/2008-The American Academy of Pediatrics issued a clinical report that calls for doubling the amount of vitamin D it recommends for infants, children and adolescents. The report recommends all children receive 400 IU a day of vitamin D, beginning in the first few days of life. The previous recommendation, issued in 2003, called for 200 IU per day beginning in the first two months of life. The change comes after reviewing new clinical trials on vitamin D and the historical precedence of safely giving 400 IU per day to the pediatric population. Clinical data show that 400 units of vitamin D a day are effective in both preventing and treating rickets. The bone-softening disease is preventable with adequate vitamin D, but dietary sources of vitamin D are limited and it’s difficult to determine a safe amount of sunlight exposure to synthesize vitamin D in a given individual. The greatest risk for rickets is in exclusively breastfed infants who are not supplemented with 400 IU of vitamin D a day. Adequate vitamin D throughout childhood may also reduce the risk of osteoporosis. In adults, new evidence suggests that vitamin D plays a role in the immune system and may help prevent infections, autoimmune diseases, cancer and diabetes. “We are doubling the recommended amount of vitamin D children need each day because evidence has shown this could have life-long health benefits,” said Frank Greer, MD, FAAP, chair of the AAP Committee on Nutrition and co-author of the report. “Supplementation is important because most children will not get enough vitamin D through diet alone.” Prevention of Rickets and Vitamin D Deficiency in Infants, Children, and Adolescents (PDF download) 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
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