Bold and urgent action required on obesity – that means a sugar tax, say UK MPs

lundi 30 novembre 2015

A report by health select committee MPs has called for bold and urgent action on child obesity, which includes a sugar tax - but industry has slammed the report as displaying a "worrying lack of understanding".

Bold and urgent action required on obesity – that means a sugar tax, say UK MPs

Legally defining sustainability: Edible palm oil must follow in biofuel footsteps

Voluntary measures and government targets are great – but it is legislation that will push European palm oil users to true sustainability. The food sector could learn a lesson or two from biofuel here.

Legally defining sustainability: Edible palm oil must follow in biofuel footsteps

More headaches for "less meat" messaging

Want to promote products with less meat or meat alternatives? Steer clear of environmental messages and focus on health, say researchers.

More headaches for "less meat" messaging

Russia imposes trade sanctions on Turkish food products

The Russian government has imposed sanctions on food imports from Turkey in protest after a Turkish jet shot down a Russian warplane, stepping up the unofficial sanctions of last week.

Russia imposes trade sanctions on Turkish food products

Bold and urgent action required on obesity – that means a sugar tax, say UK MPs

A report by health select committee MPs has called for bold and urgent action on child obesity, which includes a sugar tax - but industry has slammed the report as displaying a "worrying lack of understanding".

Bold and urgent action required on obesity – that means a sugar tax, say UK MPs

Legally defining sustainability: Edible palm oil must follow in biofuel footsteps

Voluntary measures and government targets are great – but it is legislation that will push European palm oil users to true sustainability. The food sector could learn a lesson or two from biofuel here.

Legally defining sustainability: Edible palm oil must follow in biofuel footsteps

More headaches for "less meat" messaging

Want to promote products with less meat or meat alternatives? Steer clear of environmental messages and focus on health, say researchers.

More headaches for "less meat" messaging

‘Mamma mia!’ Italian researchers say ‘si’ to probiotic pasta

Italian researchers have developed a functional pasta rich in polyphenols and fortified with probiotic strain Bacillus coagulans.

‘Mamma mia!’ Italian researchers say ‘si’ to probiotic pasta

Russia imposes trade sanctions on Turkish food products

The Russian government has imposed sanctions on food imports from Turkey in protest after a Turkish jet shot down a Russian warplane, stepping up the unofficial sanctions of last week.

Russia imposes trade sanctions on Turkish food products

Innova's top ten trend predictions for 2016

samedi 28 novembre 2015

Innova's top ten trend predictions for 2016

Chinese market open for UK organic dairy imports

A British organic dairy cooperative has broken into the one of the world’s most lucrative markets after being awarded the UK’s first licence to export organic products to China.

Chinese market open for UK organic dairy imports

What’s better for blood glucose levels, sushi or ice cream? It depends who you are, say researchers

vendredi 27 novembre 2015

Blood glucose levels vary widely across individuals even for the same food, say researchers who have developed an algorithm to calculate the ‘right’ diet – paving the way for mass personalised nutrition and casting doubt over the usefulness of universal dietary guidelines.

What’s better for blood glucose levels, sushi or ice cream? It depends who you are, say researchers

Cocoa ‘a sad story’: Farmers need insurance as human cost of industry overlooked, says Cacao for Change

Cocoa farmers operate in a chocolate supply chain that perpetuates poverty and bear the bulk of the risk, claims Cacao for Change as it proposes an alternative model.

Cocoa ‘a sad story’: Farmers need insurance as human cost of industry overlooked, says Cacao for Change

Innova's top ten trend predictions for 2016

Innova's top ten trend predictions for 2016

Chinese market open for UK organic dairy imports

A British organic dairy cooperative has broken into the one of the world’s most lucrative markets after being awarded the UK’s first licence to export organic products to China.

Chinese market open for UK organic dairy imports

32 firms pull out of FiE in wake of Paris attacks

Around 32 of 1400 exhibiting companies (3%) have pulled out of the industry event Food Ingredients Europe (FiE) next week in Paris following the city’s fatal attacks, despite efforts from the organiser to up security.

32 firms pull out of FiE in wake of Paris attacks

Commission clears Solina acquisition

jeudi 26 novembre 2015

The European Commission has cleared the acquisition of French ingredient supplier Solina by private investment company Ardian.

Commission clears Solina acquisition

Food for thought: What we learnt at Food Matters Live

After three days of debates, seminars and demonstrations at Food Matters Live, there are major challenges and themes the industry needs to reflect upon - we've rounded up some of the most compelling.

Food for thought: What we learnt at Food Matters Live

WHO report hits already-falling bacon and sausage sales

Three consecutive weeks of double digit falls in UK sales of bacon and sausages provide tangible evidence that the processed meat cancer scare has had an impact on consumer shopping choices, says market research firm IRI.

WHO report hits already-falling bacon and sausage sales

Is 'robust and transparent' research possible when industry and scientists collaborate?

The European food industry has published voluntary research principles to ensure robust and transparent science – but questions remain over how they will be put in place and enforced.

Is 'robust and transparent' research possible when industry and scientists collaborate?

A carbon tax on meat is not a complete turn-off to consumers: report

Consumers are more receptive to a carbon tax on meat or the removal of subsidies for livestock farmers than politicians believe, according to new research.

A carbon tax on meat is not a complete turn-off to consumers: report

Bright blue water: Smart-chimp moves spirulina from supplement section to beverage aisle

The bright blue color of smart-chimp’s water – created by the inclusion of spirulina extract – keeps the beverage in consumers’ minds long after the last sip, according to the brand’s co-founder.

Bright blue water: Smart-chimp moves spirulina from supplement section to beverage aisle

Commission clears Solina acquisition

The European Commission has cleared the acquisition of French ingredient supplier Solina by private investment company Ardian.

Commission clears Solina acquisition

Food for thought: What we learnt at Food Matters Live

After three days of debates, seminars and demonstrations at Food Matters Live, there are major challenges and themes the industry needs to reflect upon - we've rounded up some of the most compelling.

Food for thought: What we learnt at Food Matters Live

WHO report hits already-falling bacon and sausage sales

Three consecutive weeks of double digit falls in UK sales of bacon and sausages provide tangible evidence that the processed meat cancer scare has had an impact on consumer shopping choices, says market research firm IRI.

WHO report hits already-falling bacon and sausage sales

Campden BRI opens consumer test centre

Campden BRI has opened a consumer test centre in Leamington Spa, UK, to support new product development and provide consumer research on food and drink products.

Campden BRI opens consumer test centre

‘Europe needs innovation’: Kerry

mercredi 25 novembre 2015

Irish dairy giant Kerry has called for more innovation in the dairy sector, saying Europe needs it more than ever to counter a flat macroeconomic environment and dropping milk prices.

‘Europe needs innovation’: Kerry

‘Think outside the shake’: Protein Pow takes protein home baking to supermarket shelves

UK start-up Protein Pow has secured a host of retail listings including Tesco for its home-baking nutrition powders.

‘Think outside the shake’: Protein Pow takes protein home baking to supermarket shelves

A carbon tax on meat is not a complete turn-off to consumers: report

Consumers are more receptive to a carbon tax on meat or the removal of subsidies for livestock farmers than politicians believe, according to new research.

A carbon tax on meat is not a complete turn-off to consumers: report

Is 'robust and transparent' research possible when industry and scientists collaborate?

The European food industry has published voluntary research principles to ensure robust and transparent science – but questions remain over how they will be put in place and enforced.

Is 'robust and transparent' research possible when industry and scientists collaborate?

Incredible organic? More studies needed to substantiate health effects

More research is needed to establish the health and nutritional credentials of organic foods, say agricultural MEPs.

Incredible organic? More studies needed to substantiate health effects

French brands pipped to the post with private label veggie range

French retailer Carrefour has launched what it claims is France's first private label range of vegetarian products - which could spur other brands to occupy this relatively undeveloped space, says a market analyst.

French brands pipped to the post with private label veggie range

UK hint at 'challenging' junk food policy puts industry on the defensive

The UK government appears ready to ditch an industry-led, voluntary approach to tackling obesity for something “more challenging,” the Deputy chief medical officer hinted last week.

UK hint at 'challenging' junk food policy puts industry on the defensive

Indonesia is burning - but how responsible is the palm oil industry?

Indonesia’s forests are being ravaged by forest and peatland fires that are sparking a public health and environmental crisis – but how responsible is the palm oil industry?

Indonesia is burning - but how responsible is the palm oil industry?

Add seaweed to food to improve heart health, Danish researchers urge industry

Food manufacturers should add seaweed to help combat cardiovascular disease and related conditions, according to researchers.

Add seaweed to food to improve heart health, Danish researchers urge industry

Incredible organic? More studies needed to substantiate health effects

More research is needed to establish the health and nutritional credentials of organic foods, say agricultural MEPs.

Incredible organic? More studies needed to substantiate health effects

‘These are conscious meal replacements’: Snacking becoming the norm

There’s a “macrodynamic shift” happening in how we eat as a culture, according to a report from The International Dairy-Deli-Bakery Association, and snacking has become a part of daily life.

‘These are conscious meal replacements’: Snacking becoming the norm

French brands pipped to the post with private label veggie range

mardi 24 novembre 2015

French retailer Carrefour has launched what it claims is France's first private label range of vegetarian products - which could spur other brands to occupy this relatively undeveloped space, says a market analyst.

French brands pipped to the post with private label veggie range

Is ‘Syndrome X’ treatable with food?

Inflammation is an immune system response to counter injured or stressed body parts and zones – a good and necessary thing – but contemporary diets and lifestyles have overheated the mechanism resulting in a host of chronic health issues. So goes our contemporary understanding of what is sometimes called ‘metabolic syndrome’ or ‘Syndrome X’…

Is ‘Syndrome X’ treatable with food?

Indonesia is burning - but how responsible is the palm oil industry?

Indonesia’s forests are being ravaged by forest and peatland fires that are sparking a public health and environmental crisis – but how responsible is the palm oil industry?

Indonesia is burning - but how responsible is the palm oil industry?

Food retailers to shun ‘wasteful’ ‘Black Friday’

Online food retailer Approved Food has backed Asda in its decision to shun ‘Black Friday’, which it warned could add to the UK’s food waste problem.

Food retailers to shun ‘wasteful’ ‘Black Friday’

UK hint at 'challenging' junk food policy puts industry on the defensive

The UK government appears ready to ditch an industry-led, voluntary approach to tackling obesity for something “more challenging,” the Deputy chief medical officer hinted last week.

UK hint at 'challenging' junk food policy puts industry on the defensive

Healthy innovation from British start-ups: Cauliflower porridge, cinnamon water and quark

lundi 23 novembre 2015

Is cinnamon water set to steal coconut water's crown, can quark ever rival Greek yoghurt and will cauliflower rice really replace oats for a healthy breakfast porridge? FoodNavigator met up with the product developers who think so.

Healthy innovation from British start-ups: Cauliflower porridge, cinnamon water and quark

Palm oil producer launches peatland protection project in Indonesia

A palm oil producer’s pledge to rehabilitate peatland in Indonesia will provide momentum for industry-wide change, it says.

Palm oil producer launches peatland protection project in Indonesia

Navigating global differences in food regulation

The EU's work to help countries benchmark and harmonise regulation is worth its weight in gold, says regulatory attorney Kevin Kenny, but it's still a confusing landscape for food manufacturers.

Navigating global differences in food regulation

Small suppliers ‘main casualties’ of price war

The supermarket price war has hit small food manufacturers hardest, squeezing profit margins by more than a third, according to law firm EMW.

Small suppliers ‘main casualties’ of price war

Gelatine is more than just a texturiser: Rousselot

Gelatine should be seen as a functional ingredient for use in ‘better for you’ products, according to gelatine supplier Rousselot.

Gelatine is more than just a texturiser: Rousselot

Healthy innovation from British start-ups: Cauliflower porridge, cinnamon water and quark

Is cinnamon water set to steal coconut water's crown, can quark ever rival Greek yoghurt and will cauliflower rice really replace oats for a healthy breakfast porridge? FoodNavigator met up with the product developers who think so.

Healthy innovation from British start-ups: Cauliflower porridge, cinnamon water and quark

Unraveling the cocoa code: Barry Callebaut discovers undetected polyphenols as it develops ‘cocoa atlas’

Barry Callebaut has found previously undiscovered cocoa polyphenols as it works with Bremen-based Jacobs University to crack the commodity’s molecular code.

Unraveling the cocoa code: Barry Callebaut discovers undetected polyphenols as it develops ‘cocoa atlas’

Navigating global differences in food regulation

The EU's work to help countries benchmark and harmonise regulation is worth its weight in gold, says regulatory attorney Kevin Kenny, but it's still a confusing landscape for food manufacturers.

Navigating global differences in food regulation

Diet soda: A key to weight loss?

Low energy sweeteners commonly used in diet sodas may help with weight loss, says a University of Bristol study, adding that confusion among consumers between sweeteners and sugar needs to be addressed.

Diet soda: A key to weight loss?

Palm oil producer launches peatland protection project in Indonesia

A palm oil producer’s pledge to rehabilitate peatland in Indonesia will provide momentum for industry-wide change, it says.

Palm oil producer launches peatland protection project in Indonesia

‘Doing it for the kids’ drives desire for natural nutrition

samedi 21 novembre 2015

Parents are more likely to seek out ‘natural’ food and drinks than consumers without children highlighting a growing opportunity for formulating with natural ingredients, suggests study.

‘Doing it for the kids’ drives desire for natural nutrition

Consumers getting to know their carbs: BENEO study

Consumers are starting to differentiate between carbohydrate types as more than 50% of participants making a distinction between ‘good’ and ‘bad’ carbs in a 5000-strong study shows – with important implications for industry.

Consumers getting to know their carbs: BENEO study

Am I being manipulated? Inside multisensory eating experiences

Research into multisensory eating experiences shows how closely entwined the senses are. But if food companies use sight, sound, texture and smell to make their products 'taste' better, are they manipulating consumers?

Am I being manipulated? Inside multisensory eating experiences

Loud and proud: EU handouts to help European agri-food products stand out

Over 30 trade-association led campaigns promoting everything from olive oil to fresh meat have been named the recipients of the latest round of EU funding for agri-food products.

Loud and proud: EU handouts to help European agri-food products stand out

UK makes sustainable palm oil strides – but will it make its 100% certified target by 2015?

UK palm oil imports were 72% sustainable in 2014 – up from 55% in 2013, according to an annual progress report from the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA).

UK makes sustainable palm oil strides – but will it make its 100% certified target by 2015?

'This is a seminal moment for food safety and flavours,' say smoke flavour innovators

Using a patented molecular filtration technique, UK company Besmoke says it can create smoke with an improved flavour profile – and without the carcinogens.

'This is a seminal moment for food safety and flavours,' say smoke flavour innovators

New guidance to prevent free-from faux pas

Concern over misuse of the term ‘free-from’ in relation to allergens in food products and a need for greater standardisation of manufacturing practices has led the British Retail Consortium (BRC) and the Food and Drink Federation (FDF) to produce new guidance.

New guidance to prevent free-from faux pas

Dutch start-up bags DSM funds for immune ingredient ‘shelved’ by Unilever

vendredi 20 novembre 2015

Dutch start-up Nutrileads has secured seed financing from four investors including DSM, which it plans to use to develop an immunity ingredient previously developed by Unilever.

Dutch start-up bags DSM funds for immune ingredient ‘shelved’ by Unilever

Three changes food industry must make to boost health

Food and drink manufacturers must make three changes across their businesses to help boost the health of consumers, according to consumer group Which?

Three changes food industry must make to boost health

‘Doing it for the kids’ drives desire for natural nutrition

Parents are more likely to seek out ‘natural’ food and drinks than consumers without children highlighting a growing opportunity for formulating with natural ingredients, suggests study.

‘Doing it for the kids’ drives desire for natural nutrition

Sweet Green Fields CEO: We are finally getting close to solving the stevia taste challenge

Not so long ago, pundits were predicting that the high-purity stevia extracts market would be worth a billion dollars as manufacturers ditched artificial sweeteners and embraced ‘all-natural’ alternatives. 

Sweet Green Fields CEO: We are finally getting close to solving the stevia taste challenge

Consumers getting to know their carbs: BENEO study

jeudi 19 novembre 2015

Consumers are starting to differentiate between carbohydrate types, with more than 50% of participants in a new quantitative study making a distinction between ‘good’ and ‘bad’ carbs.

Consumers getting to know their carbs: BENEO study

Loud and proud: EU handouts to help European agri-food products stand out

Over 30 trade-association led campaigns promoting everything from olive oil to fresh meat have been named the recipients of the latest round of EU funding for agri-food products.

Loud and proud: EU handouts to help European agri-food products stand out

EFSA revaluates novel synthetic oligosaccharides: ‘May cause mild gastrointestinal symptoms’

Doses of lacto-N-neotetraose and 2'‑O-fucosyllactose in foods and supplements for children aged 1-10 years could mean intakes linked to mild gastrointestinal symptoms in adults, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) said in a second novel food evaluation.

EFSA revaluates novel synthetic oligosaccharides: ‘May cause mild gastrointestinal symptoms’

Testing method confirms almond in paprika, not mahaleb

DNA testing and mass spectrometry have been used to confirm almond in paprika and not mahaleb which was found in cumin as part of earlier nut and spice-related recalls.

Testing method confirms almond in paprika, not mahaleb

Two-year count down for insect novel food approval

Producers of food-grade insects will submit a novel food application as soon as the new regulation passes into force, the International Platform of Insects for Food and Feed (IPIFF) has pledged.

Two-year count down for insect novel food approval

Am I being manipulated? Inside multisensory eating experiences

Research into multisensory eating experiences shows how closely entwined the senses are. But if food companies use sight, sound, texture and smell to make their products 'taste' better, are they manipulating consumers?

Am I being manipulated? Inside multisensory eating experiences

UK makes sustainable palm oil strides – but will it make its 100% certified target by 2015?

mercredi 18 novembre 2015

UK palm oil imports were 72% sustainable in 2014 – up from 55% in 2013, according to an annual progress report from the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA).

UK makes sustainable palm oil strides – but will it make its 100% certified target by 2015?

New guidance to prevent free-from faux pas

Concern over misuse of the term ‘free-from’ in relation to allergens in food products and a need for greater standardisation of manufacturing practices has led the British Retail Consortium (BRC) and the Food and Drink Federation (FDF) to produce new guidance.

New guidance to prevent free-from faux pas

Vitamin C infant claim to drive consumer confidence: Nutritionist

An EFSA-approved health claim relating to infant immune system function will spread consumer confidence, a nutritionist says, although a pro-breast milk feeding group warns the claim could be abused.

Vitamin C infant claim to drive consumer confidence: Nutritionist

'This is a seminal moment for food safety and flavours,' say smoke flavour innovators

Using a patented molecular filtration technique, UK company Besmoke says it can create smoke with an improved flavour profile – and without the carcinogens.

'This is a seminal moment for food safety and flavours,' say smoke flavour innovators

FoodNavigator at #FoodMattersLive 2015

FoodNavigator is in London for Food Matters Live. If you can't be here - or even if you are but can't be everywhere at once - here's what's going on, in tweets.

FoodNavigator at #FoodMattersLive 2015

Strong pulse: UN’s International Year of Pulses targets trade boost

The United Nations (UN) is promoting the nutritional benefits of pulses through a year-long initiative.

Strong pulse: UN’s International Year of Pulses targets trade boost

Industry welcomes EU novel foods revision

The revised European Union novel foods regulation will stimulate innovation and give consumers more sustainable, affordable food choices, says industry trade group, FoodDrinkEurope.

Industry welcomes EU novel foods revision

Strong pulse: UN’s International Year of Pulses targets trade boost

mardi 17 novembre 2015

The United Nations (UN) is promoting the nutritional benefits of pulses through a year-long initiative.

Strong pulse: UN’s International Year of Pulses targets trade boost

Extra security at FiE in wake of Paris terror attacks

Extra security measures will be taken at a major food ingredients trade show in Paris next month, as the city shows defiance in the wake of deadly terrorist attacks.

Extra security at FiE in wake of Paris terror attacks

Soya milk better with phytosterols & inulin for LDL cholesterol: Study

Phytosterols and inulin added to soya milk has a more beneficial effect on low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol than soya milk alone, according to a study. 

Soya milk better with phytosterols & inulin for LDL cholesterol: Study

Soy milk better with phytosterols & inulin for LDL cholesterol: Study

Phytosterols and inulin added to soy milk has a more beneficial effect on low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol than soy milk alone, according to a study. 

Soy milk better with phytosterols & inulin for LDL cholesterol: Study

Industry welcomes EU novel foods revision

The revised European Union novel foods regulation will stimulate innovation and give consumers more sustainable, affordable food choices, says industry trade group, FoodDrinkEurope.

Industry welcomes EU novel foods revision

FoodNavigator at #FoodMattersLive 2015

FoodNavigator is in London for Food Matters Live. If you can't be here - or even if you are but can't be everywhere at once - here's what's going on, in tweets.

FoodNavigator at #FoodMattersLive 2015

Mérieux NutriSciences sets sights on combatting olive oil fraud

Mérieux NutriSciences has developed a method to help fight against olive oil adulteration.

Mérieux NutriSciences sets sights on combatting olive oil fraud

Will chewing gum recover from sticky patch? Technavio releases five-year forecast

Market research firm Technavio has unveiled its predictions for the global gum market up to 2019.

Will chewing gum recover from sticky patch? Technavio releases five-year forecast

Finnish children’s dietary intake of heavy metals falling but still high

lundi 16 novembre 2015

Many Finnish children are exceeding safe intake levels of heavy metals from food and drinking water, although exposure is falling, says a new study from the Finnish food safety authority, Evira.

Finnish children’s dietary intake of heavy metals falling but still high

FiE 2015 preview: Innovation scanner

With over 1000 companies exhibiting at Food Ingredients Europe in Paris from 1 to 3 December, FoodNavigator takes a sneak preview at just some of the companies that will be there and the products they will be showcasing.

FiE 2015 preview: Innovation scanner

UK opens door to adverts targeting obese in wake of public health crisis

The UK's Committee of Advertising Practice (CAP) has changed rules to allow firms to target obese adults for the first time with ‘responsible lifestyle weight loss programmes’. 

UK opens door to adverts targeting obese in wake of public health crisis

Italy investigating olive oil fraud allegations

Italy’s antitrust agency is investigating seven olive oil producers due to concerns about the quality of products supposed to be the ‘extra virgin’ variety.  

Italy investigating olive oil fraud allegations

Glanbia buys US protein bar maker for €200m

Irish dairy and ingredients giant Ganbia is acquiring Californian protein bar specialist thinkThin for $217m (€200m), as it boosts its bar presence.

Glanbia buys US protein bar maker for €200m

Finnish children’s dietary intake of heavy metals falling but still high

Many Finnish children are exceeding safe intake levels of heavy metals from food and drinking water, although exposure is falling, says a new study from the Finnish food safety authority, Evira.

Finnish children’s dietary intake of heavy metals falling but still high

€4.5m supplement project targets malnutrition in Kenyan children

Malnourished children in Kenya are to receive nutrition supplements as part of a UNICEF-backed programme.

€4.5m supplement project targets malnutrition in Kenyan children

Glanbia buys protein bar maker for €200m

Irish dairy and ingredients giant Ganbia is acquiring Californian protein bar specialist thinkThin for $217m (€200m), as it boosts its bar presence.

Glanbia buys protein bar maker for €200m

Are chocolate bars really getting smaller? Researchers compare historic packaging

An online marketing company has analyzed scans of vintage bars to discover if the most popular chocolates in the Western World have been shrinking.

Are chocolate bars really getting smaller? Researchers compare historic packaging

FiE 2015 preview: Innovation scanner

With over 1000 companies exhibiting at Food Ingredients Europe in Paris from 1 to 3 December, FoodNavigator takes a sneak preview at just some of the companies that will be there and the products they will be showcasing.

FiE 2015 preview: Innovation scanner

Oatvita makes big satiety and prebiotic claims, but can it back them?

Claimed health benefits that include increased satiety and balancing of intestinal flora are only partly supported by European Commission regulations, suppliers of the oat-based ingredient say.

Oatvita makes big satiety and prebiotic claims, but can it back them?

Can 'healthier' sausages fortified with berry antioxidants reduce cancer risk?

samedi 14 novembre 2015

Could sausages fortified with antioxidants reduce the occurrence of colon cancer – and bring meat out of the negative spotlight after a WHO report classed processed meat as carcinogenic?

Can 'healthier' sausages fortified with berry antioxidants reduce cancer risk?

Glyphosate is unlikely to cause cancer, says EFSA

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has concluded that glyphosate, a herbicide used on food crops, is unlikely to cause cancer and recommends raising safety levels.

Glyphosate is unlikely to cause cancer, says EFSA

Trading up: can a shift from quantity to quality lift meat market malaise?

Whilst seafood sales are going swimmingly, the chilled processed meat category is under pressure globally, although volume declines could be tempered by value gains, says Euromonitor International.

Trading up: can a shift from quantity to quality lift meat market malaise?

Transforming acacia gum from invisible ingredient to sustainable superfood

Acacia gum seems to have it all – manufacturers say it’s clean-label, organic, sustainably sourced and provides income in developing countries. So why is industry not doing more to promote this?

Transforming acacia gum from invisible ingredient to sustainable superfood

The state of the health and wellness market in 2015

vendredi 13 novembre 2015

Is organic still selling? Does the 'natural' trend mean fortified/functional food is now passé? And why are consumers turning their noses up at better for you (BFY) offerings? Ewa Hudson, head of health and wellness research at Euromonitor International, tells us what the state of the health and wellness market is in 2015. 

The state of the health and wellness market in 2015

Novel food regulation to be written into EU law books

A vote this week from the European Council means the updated novel food regulation will soon be written into EU law books.

Novel food regulation to be written into EU law books

Glyphosate is unlikely to cause cancer, says EFSA

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has concluded that glyphosate, a herbicide used on food crops, is unlikely to cause cancer and recommends raising safety levels.

Glyphosate is unlikely to cause cancer, says EFSA

Are chocolate bars really getting smaller? Researchers compare historic packaging

An online marketing company has analyzed scans of vintage bars to discover if the most popular chocolates in the Western World have been shrinking.

Are chocolate bars really getting smaller? Researchers compare historic packaging

Trading up: can a shift from quantity to quality lift meat market malaise?

Whilst seafood sales are going swimmingly, the chilled processed meat category is under pressure globally, although volume declines could be tempered by value gains, says Euromonitor International.

Trading up: can a shift from quantity to quality lift meat market malaise?

Can 'healthier' sausages fortified with berry antioxidants reduce cancer risk?

Could sausages fortified with antioxidants reduce the occurrence of colon cancer – and bring meat out of the negative spotlight after a WHO report classed processed meat as carcinogenic?

Can 'healthier' sausages fortified with berry antioxidants reduce cancer risk?

Transforming acacia gum from invisible ingredient to sustainable superfood

jeudi 12 novembre 2015

Acacia gum seems to have it all – manufacturers say it’s clean-label, organic, sustainably sourced and provides income in developing countries. So why is industry not doing more to promote this?

Transforming acacia gum from invisible ingredient to sustainable superfood

Oceana finds fishy fraud in Brussels

Almost a third of seafood was mislabelled in Brussels with economic reasons the main driver behind the fraud, according to Oceana.

Oceana finds fishy fraud in Brussels

EU misspent €6.3bn in 2014

The EU misspent €6.3bn in 2014 overall, according to a report from the European Court of Auditors that called for change. 

EU misspent €6.3bn in 2014

Junk food dominates marketing landscape in Scotland: study

Nearly three quarters of the food and drink marketing seen by children in Scotland is for junk food, according to new research that the Scottish Government will use to push for stricter UK-wide advertising rules.

Junk food dominates marketing landscape in Scotland: study

EU brings in mandatory origin labelling for food from Israeli settlements

Food produced in Israeli-occupied territories, considered illegal under international law, must be clearly labelled as such in EU countries - a decision that has provoked strong opposition from Israel.

EU brings in mandatory origin labelling for food from Israeli settlements

Orange crush: Carrot waste finding fibre future

A new fibre ingredient derived from carrot waste pulp offers a level of water absorption that is unlikely to be improved on, its producer says.

Orange crush: Carrot waste finding fibre future

Junk food dominates marketing landscape in Scotland: study

Nearly three quarters of the food and drink marketing seen by children in Scotland is for junk food, according to new research that the Scottish Government will use to push for stricter UK-wide advertising rules.

Junk food dominates marketing landscape in Scotland: study

EU brings in mandatory origin labelling for food from Israeli settlements

Food produced in Israeli-occupied territories, considered illegal under international law, must be clearly labelled as such in EU countries - a decision that has provoked strong opposition from Israel.

EU brings in mandatory origin labelling for food from Israeli settlements

Orange crush: Carrot waste finding fibre future

A new fibre ingredient derived from carrot waste pulp offers a level of water absorption that is unlikely to be improved on, its producer says.

Orange crush: Carrot waste finding fibre future

Microbiota influences impact of dietary strategies for blood sugar: Study

People with better control of blood sugar after eating barley kernel bread also have a different balance of microbes in the gut, a new study in Cell Metabolism reveals.

Microbiota influences impact of dietary strategies for blood sugar: Study

Symrise reports record growth and profits, confirms full year outlook

mardi 10 novembre 2015

Symrise said strong demand in all regions has significantly boosted earnings, as it reported a 29% rise in sales for the first nine months of 2015.

Symrise reports record growth and profits, confirms full year outlook

New tool detects lactose content in seconds

Novozymes has launched a tool to quickly detect the lactose content of milk, allowing producers in emerging markets without costly lab equipment to tap into the free-from trend. 

New tool detects lactose content in seconds

Stevia extraction is no barrier to scalability: PureCircle

Stevia extracted from the leaf can be scaled up to compete with other methods – and is more in line with consumer perceptions of stevia’s naturalness, say researchers and industry.

Stevia extraction is no barrier to scalability: PureCircle

Symrise reports record growth and profits, confirms full year outlook

Symrise said strong demand in all regions has significantly boosted earnings, as it reported a 29% rise in sales for the first nine months of 2015.

Symrise reports record growth and profits, confirms full year outlook

Stevia extraction is no barrier to scalability: PureCircle

Stevia extracted from the leaf can be scaled up to compete with other methods – and is more in line with consumer perceptions of stevia’s naturalness, say researchers and industry.

Stevia extraction is no barrier to scalability: PureCircle

New tool detects lactose content in seconds

Novozymes has launched a tool to quickly detect the lactose content of milk, allowing producers in emerging markets without costly lab equipment to tap into the free-from trend. 

New tool detects lactose content in seconds

Premier sales up due to ‘innovation and investment’

Premier Foods’s first quarterly increase in branded sales for two years is due to “innovation and investment”, claims the manufacturer.

Premier sales up due to ‘innovation and investment’

Study questions association between junk food and obesity, points finger at total calories consumed

Demonizing unhealthy food as the primary cause of weight gain may be off-track, suggest researchers who found consumption of fast food, sweets and salty snacks alone may not be the harbinger of obesity it often is made out to be. 

Study questions association between junk food and obesity, points finger at total calories consumed

Kraft Heinz executives outline 3-prong plan for growth despite sliding Q3 profits

The recently formed Kraft Heinz company is off to a rocky start with sliding profits and more layoffs and facility closures recently announced, but the company has a three-prong plan for future growth, executives said Nov. 5 during the firm’s third-quarter earnings call. 

Kraft Heinz executives outline 3-prong plan for growth despite sliding Q3 profits

Zero calorie sweetener could cause weight gain without increasing calories: Animal data

lundi 9 novembre 2015

Intake of the zero calorie sweetener saccharin could promote weight gain without increasing caloric intake or changing insulin resistance, according to new research in rats.

Zero calorie sweetener could cause weight gain without increasing calories: Animal data

Is nitrite free processed meat possible for the mass market?

While no single substitute for nitrite can replace all of its functions, a combination of emerging technologies and plant-based ingredients could be used to reduce or completely replace nitrite in processed meats, say researchers.

Is nitrite free processed meat possible for the mass market?

Zero calorie sweetener could cause weight gain without increasing calories: Animal data

Intake of the zero calorie sweetener saccharin could promote weight gain without increasing caloric intake or changing insulin resistance, according to new research in rats.

Zero calorie sweetener could cause weight gain without increasing calories: Animal data

Is nitrite free processed meat possible for the mass market?

While no single substitute for nitrite can replace all of its functions, a combination of emerging technologies and plant-based ingredients could be used to reduce or completely replace nitrite in processed meats, say researchers.

Is nitrite free processed meat possible for the mass market?

The curious case of energy drinks & hypokalemia

The medical case study of a man rushed to intensive care with severe potassium deficiency has brought the issue of energy drinks and hypokalemia back into the spotlight.

The curious case of energy drinks & hypokalemia

Signature plans to open 20 bakeries in India

Signature International, which already has a production facility built to European standards in the city of Nashik  200 miles north of Mumbai has plans to build 20 flatbread manufacturing plants across the Indian subcontinent within the next five to 10 years.

Signature plans to open 20 bakeries in India

Chocolate market to exceed $26bn by 2018: Packaged Facts

The chocolate market will exceed $26bn in the US by 2018, according to a recent report.

Chocolate market to exceed $26bn by 2018: Packaged Facts

Obesity-promoting foods? Study digs in to association between specific foods and weight

samedi 7 novembre 2015

A number of specific foods including potato chips, refined grains, processed meats, and soda are all associated with excess weight gain, finds new research.

Obesity-promoting foods? Study digs in to association between specific foods and weight

Medical experts and industry slam study linking sugary drinks to heart failure

A study suggesting men consuming two or more sugary drinks per day are more likely to suffer heart failure does not provide conclusive evidence, say medical professionals while industry calls it 'unhelpful'.

Medical experts and industry slam study linking sugary drinks to heart failure

Consumers are being misled by meat labelling, says consumer group

Colours to make meat appear fresher than it is, unauthorised preservatives 400 times over the thresholds and other animal species sold as veal – a report claims consumers are routinely misled by food companies.

Consumers are being misled by meat labelling, says consumer group

Food price index rises on back of bad weather: FAO

Major food commodity prices rose in October, spurred by weather-driven concerns about sugar and palm oil supplies, according to the UN Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO).

Food price index rises on back of bad weather: FAO

Obesity-promoting foods? Study digs in to association between specific foods and weight

vendredi 6 novembre 2015

A number of specific foods including potato chips, refined grains, processed meats, and soda are all associated with excess weight gain, finds new research.

Obesity-promoting foods? Study digs in to association between specific foods and weight

Food price index rises on back of bad weather: FAO

Major food commodity prices rose in October, spurred by weather-driven concerns about sugar and palm oil supplies, according to the UN Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO).

Food price index rises on back of bad weather: FAO

The camera never lies: Micro-cameras improve dietary reporting accuracy

Equipping participants with micro-cameras would improve the accuracy of dietary intake assessments and strengthen confidence in results, researchers behind a pilot study have said. 

The camera never lies: Micro-cameras improve dietary reporting accuracy

Medical experts and industry slam study linking sugary drinks to heart failure

A study suggesting men consuming two or more sugary drinks per day are more likely to suffer heart failure does not provide conclusive evidence, say medical professionals while industry calls it 'unhelpful'.

Medical experts and industry slam study linking sugary drinks to heart failure

Obese paradox? People needing more vitamin E are getting less

Obese people are absorbing less vitamin E when they actually require more to help counteract the effects of metabolic stress, say researchers.

Obese paradox? People needing more vitamin E are getting less

Kraft Heinz job cuts fuel UK fears

Fears of job losses following the merger of Kraft and Heinz appear to have been realised, as the food giant announced factory closures and job cuts in North America.

Kraft Heinz job cuts fuel UK fears

Consumers are being misled by meat labelling, says consumer group

Colours to make meat appear fresher than it is, unauthorised preservatives 400 times over the thresholds and other animal species sold as veal – a report claims consumers are routinely misled by food companies.

Consumers are being misled by meat labelling, says consumer group

ScenoProt project will boost local protein production for real sustainability

jeudi 5 novembre 2015

ScenoProt, a six year Finnish project will bring together scientists, consumer specialists and product developers with one aim: developing self-sufficiency in protein production for global sustainability.

ScenoProt project will boost local protein production for real sustainability

Industrial potential: UK team produce beneficial phenolic compounds in tomatoes

Just one tomato could provide the same amount of resveratrol as 50 bottles of red wine or the same amount of genistein as 2.5kg of tofu, say researchers.

Industrial potential: UK team produce beneficial phenolic compounds in tomatoes

'Everything in moderation' advice could lead to poor metabolic health

The long standing recommendation of ‘everything in moderation’ may actually result in lower overall diet quality and may have negative impacts on metabolic health, say researchers.

'Everything in moderation' advice could lead to poor metabolic health

ScenoProt project will boost local protein production for real sustainability

ScenoProt, a six year Finnish project will bring together scientists, consumer specialists and product developers with one aim: developing self-sufficiency in protein production for global sustainability.

ScenoProt project will boost local protein production for real sustainability

'Everything in moderation' advice could lead to poor metabolic health

The long standing recommendation of ‘everything in moderation’ may actually result in lower overall diet quality and may have negative impacts on metabolic health, say researchers.

'Everything in moderation' advice could lead to poor metabolic health

French food industry launches public consultation to end 'le food-bashing'

French industry group, ANIA, is asking the public's opinion on what it wants from manufacturers and retailers in a bid to bridge the gap between consumers and industry and counter the culture of ‘food-bashing’.

French food industry launches public consultation to end 'le food-bashing'

Industrial potential: UK team produce beneficial phenolic compounds in tomatoes

Just one tomato could provide the same amount of resveratrol as 50 bottles of red wine or the same amount of genistein as 2.5kg of tofu, say researchers.

Industrial potential: UK team produce beneficial phenolic compounds in tomatoes

Dairy Crest becomes ‘key corporate target’: analysts

Dairy Crest is a prime takeover target as the sale of its troubled dairies to Müller nears completion, according to leading analysts.

Dairy Crest becomes ‘key corporate target’: analysts

French food industry launches public consultation to end 'le food-bashing'

French industry group, ANIA, is asking the public's opinion on what it wants from manufacturers and retailers in a bid to bridge the gap between consumers and industry and counter the culture of ‘food-bashing’.

French food industry launches public consultation to end 'le food-bashing'

Nutress and Azelis link in Benelux algae supply deal

A distribution partnership between Dutch firm Nutress and Azelis aims to increase supply of algae food products across Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg (Benelux).

Nutress and Azelis link in Benelux algae supply deal

Palm oil demand growth offers opening for niche certified producers

Global demand for certified sustainable palm oil will double in five years, growing from 5.3m tonnes in 2014 to 11m by 2020, predicts Rabobank.

Palm oil demand growth offers opening for niche certified producers

Making food safer globally: Mars partners with FAO

mercredi 4 novembre 2015

Mars has signed a partnership agreement with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations (UN).

Making food safer globally: Mars partners with FAO

Spanish watchdog upholds 'questionable' sugar claim

A Spanish advertising watchdog has upheld a ‘no added sugar’ claim for a dessert containing sweetened chocolate – a questionable interpretation and clear breach of EU law, warn food lawyers.

Spanish watchdog upholds 'questionable' sugar claim

Just one ‘junk food’ snack can trigger signs of metabolic disease

A single high calorie snack could be enough to trigger signals of metabolic disease, according to new research investigating the short term effects of diet.

Just one ‘junk food’ snack can trigger signs of metabolic disease

FAO and WTO aim to improve small-scale producer access to international markets

Helping small-scale farmers and producers in developing countries to access the global marketplace can help to boost nutrition and development, say the UN Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) and the World Trade Organisation (WTO).

FAO and WTO aim to improve small-scale producer access to international markets

Barry Callebaut sees profits fall despite sales growth

Barry Callebaut lowers its growth outlook and predicts a challenging year ahead as high cocoa prices and high finance requirements hit 2014/2015 profits - despite solid sales growth.

Barry Callebaut sees profits fall despite sales growth

Older consumers need tailored food products, say researchers

It's not just taste and texture perceptions that change for older consumers but their social experience of food too - yet research is lacking and food manufacturers are missing out as a result, say Dutch scientists.

Older consumers need tailored food products, say researchers

Nomad completes Findus acquisition

Nomad has completed its acquisition of Findus becoming the largest frozen food in Western Europe, it announced yesterday.

Nomad completes Findus acquisition

EFSA hands over names attached to expert comments

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has handed over details of which working group members made what changes to a draft document on pesticides following a European Court of Justice (ECJ) ruling – but it will be keeping EFSA staff details to itself.

EFSA hands over names attached to expert comments

Spanish watchdog upholds 'questionable' sugar claim

A Spanish advertising watchdog has upheld a ‘no added sugar’ claim for a dessert containing sweetened chocolate – a questionable interpretation and clear breach of EU law, warn food lawyers.

Spanish watchdog upholds 'questionable' sugar claim

Just one ‘junk food’ snack can trigger signs of metabolic disease

A single high calorie snack could be enough to trigger signals of metabolic disease, according to new research investigating the short term effects of diet.

Just one ‘junk food’ snack can trigger signs of metabolic disease

FAO and WTO aim to improve small-scale producer access to international markets

Helping small-scale farmers and producers in developing countries to access the global marketplace can help to boost nutrition and development, say the UN Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) and the World Trade Organisation (WTO).

FAO and WTO aim to improve small-scale producer access to international markets

Barry Callebaut sees profits fall despite sales growth

Barry Callebaut lowers its growth outlook and predicts a challenging year ahead as high cocoa prices and high finance requirements hit 2014/2015 profits - despite solid sales growth.

Barry Callebaut sees profits fall despite sales growth

Food manufacturing Oscars: Meet the 2015 winners

Congratulations to all the winners and finalists in the 2015 Food Manufacture Excellence Awards (FMEAs), staged last night at the Lancaster hotel in central London.

Food manufacturing Oscars: Meet the 2015 winners

Food and drink focus for child obesity strategy

Product reformulation, an advertising ban and restrictions on promotions are expected to be the main focus of the government’s childhood obesity strategy.

Food and drink focus for child obesity strategy

FOOD VISION USA, the highlights: From DNA diets and mass customization via 3D printing, to 'old school' deal tactics

 If you didn't make it to Chicago last week for the inaugural Food Vision USA event, you missed a truly awesome ensemble of industry experts covering everything from our nutritional needs on a manned mission to Mars to the challenges facing small food brands trying to raise capital. Delegates also heard that Chobani has "screwed up" from time to time, but has learned from its mistakes to build a business generating more than $1.5bn in less than a decade. Here are the highlights...

FOOD VISION USA, the highlights: From DNA diets and mass customization via 3D printing, to 'old school' deal tactics

Nomad completes Findus acquisition

mardi 3 novembre 2015

Nomad has completed its acquisition of Findus becoming the largest frozen food in Western Europe, it announced yesterday.

Nomad completes Findus acquisition

Tougher fines for most serious food crimes

Businesses found guilty of corporate manslaughter and the most serious food crimes will face tougher fines under new guidelines published today (November 3).

Tougher fines for most serious food crimes

Older consumers need tailored food products, say researchers

It's not just taste and texture perceptions that change for older consumers but their social experience of food too - yet research is lacking and food manufacturers are missing out as a result, say Dutch scientists.

Older consumers need tailored food products, say researchers

Food business starters should be hungry for knowledge

Young people starting their food business careers should hungry for knowledge about the roles they’ve taken on and slip a “finger in lots of pies”, according to the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) boss Jane King. 

Food business starters should be hungry for knowledge

California Almond Board accuses media of skewing its sustainability record

lundi 2 novembre 2015

Media attention has focussed on the unsustainabilty of California's almond industry, with issues ranging from water overuse during drought and pesticide harm to bees during pollination - but this is unfair says the California Almond Board. 

California Almond Board accuses media of skewing its sustainability record

French retailers unveil alternative nutrition label

French retailers have unveiled an alternative 'simplified' nutrition label which rivals the five-coloured label and banishes the red traffic light that they cast as discriminatory against certain foods.

French retailers unveil alternative nutrition label

California Almond Board accuses media of skewing its sustainability record

Media attention has focussed on the unsustainabilty of California's almond industry, with issues ranging from water overuse during drought and pesticide harm to bees during pollination - but this is unfair says the California Almond Board. 

California Almond Board accuses media of skewing its sustainability record

Foiling over-packing: Nestlé project aims to reduce environmental impact of chocolate wrappers

Nestlé has begun a project to explore whether it is over-packing chocolate and can move to lighter packaging options.

Foiling over-packing: Nestlé project aims to reduce environmental impact of chocolate wrappers

French retailers unveil alternative nutrition label

French retailers have unveiled an alternative 'simplified' nutrition label which rivals the five-coloured label and banishes the red traffic light that they cast as discriminatory against certain foods.

French retailers unveil alternative nutrition label

Porridge's prebiotic potential previewed by Nordic researchers

Eating a bowl of porridge oats a day could alter gut microbial functions, according to Scandinavian researchers who have tipped the ingredient as a possible prebiotic.

Porridge's prebiotic potential previewed by Nordic researchers

Scottish campaign to cut food poisoning and waste

Food Standards Scotland (FSS) has launched a campaign to improve consumer understanding of food labels in a bid to reduce food poisoning cases and food waste.

Scottish campaign to cut food poisoning and waste

Tate & Lyle launch Middle Eastern recipes with a healthier twist

Tate & Lyle launched a menu of Middle Eastern recipes with a healthier twist at Gulfood Manufacturing, in Dubai last week (October 27–29) to tackle the growing number of consumers in the region who are concerned about rising obesity levels.

Tate & Lyle launch Middle Eastern recipes with a healthier twist