Breaking News on Food Processing & Packaging

Weekly comment

Temporary workers and corporate responsibility

As ever more food companies find themselves in the position of having employed migrants who were mistreated by illegal labour providers, it may be time for firms to start taking more responsibility for the temporary workers many of them rely on.

Barentz and Sander confirm joint venture

Distributors Barentz Europe and Ernst Sander are officially launching their joint venture, called Barentz-Sander, this week, with an eye to bringing a bigger portfolio of ingredients to the tricky Swiss market.

Tetra Pak US launches renewability seal

The US arm of global packaging firm Tetra Pak this month launched a new logo that is designed to demonstrate the company's green credentials on its packaging.

US regulators to consult public over E. coli concerns

The US department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) will next month look into solutions to significantly reduce the presence of E. coli O157:H7 in raw meat stocks following recent scares.

Neptune granted krill oil patent, opposition remains

A composition and matter patent granted to Canadian supplier Neptune Technologies & Bioresources for its omega-3 and antioxidants boosted krill-based ingredients last year has been validated by the European Patent Office.

Study highlights Canadian pulse cultivar differences

A new study sheds light on the healthy and functional properties of pea, lentil and chickpea flours, using different cultivars grown in Canada under the same environmental conditions.

Compound dryer designed for energy efficiency

A recent development in compound dryers for metallic beverage packaging can allow processors to reduce floor space and improve energy efficiency in their production lines, according to its manufacturer.

Murrays launches eco-packaging for poultry

Murray's Chickens, one of the largest organic firms in the US, claims to be the first poultry company in the country to switch to environmentally-friendly packaging without polystyrene or foam trays.

Apples may help ward off colon cancer

Apple pectin and polyphenol-rich apple juice have an anticarcinogenic effect on the colon, encouraging the production of suspected chemopreventative metabolite butyrate, say researchers.

Mintel's new club promotes packaging innovation

Mintel Research Consultancy is launching a packaging innovation club for businesses involved in the fast moving consumer goods (FMCG) packaging industry.

JBS expansion would damage US meat industry, claims group

The acquisitions planned by a major US beef packager - JBS Swift - will have far-reaching effects on the nation's meat packaging industry, according to industry members that have voiced opposition to the deals.

Drink makers divided over Diageo pregnancy labels

The Alcohol industry remains divided over calls by the UK arm of Diageo for the country's government to introduce mandatory health warnings for pregnant women on drinks packaging.

Microwave pipe technology enables uniform food heating

A manufacturer of microwave technologies claims to have developed a more efficient tube-based heating system for aseptic liquid and semi-liquid food products.

Transfresh heads for Turkish market

US-based Transfresh is planning to launch its berry preservation systems on the Turkish market next month, a move the company hopes will lead to the technology being used in high-end European markets.

Mars: Sterol chocolate reduces cholesterol levels

An industry sponsored, peer reviewed study has found consuming chocolate containing plant sterols and cocoa flavanols can lower cholesterol and blood pressure levels.

Aseptic film improves safety of bag-in-box packaging

Arena Products is responding to the increasing pressures for manufacturers to ensure food safety by adding aseptic-filling capabilities to its Air-Evac Bag-in-Box packaging.

Key Technology launches higher volume sorter

US processing equipment group Key Technology will launch a new high volume sorter for fruit and vegetable processors to speed up their processing operations, it revealed today.

Tiny hairs could explain apple storage issues

Researchers from the UK have identified tiny hairs between the cells in Fuji apples - a trait they believe could have implications for storage of late-harvested fruit.

Retailer deems union meat label attacks 'misleading'

UK-based retailer Marks & Spencer (M&S) claims that recent criticisms of its meat sourcing and labelling policies by a leading workers' union in the country are misleading.

Meiji recalls GM sweetener in Japan

Japan's leading chocolate maker Meiji Seika has recalled a range of confectionery products, after it was discovered that they contained a novel sweetener made with an unapproved genetically modified enzyme.

US processors alerted over fruit scare

US food processors have been warned by the country's food safety body against using cantaloupes shipped from a Honduran grower and packager, over concerns of a potential salmonella risk.

Dual testing no longer needed for US rice

Rice imported from the United States no longer needs to be tested for the presence of GM material both at the point of export and on arrival in the EU, following an amendment to emergency measures following the 2006 contamination incident.

New temperature device launched for cold storage

A new data logging device provides regular updates on the temperature of a cold food product when it is in storage or transit, the manufacturer claims.

Cargill launches food safety programme with China

US food and agriculture company Cargill is to establish a joint food safety management training programme with China's Quality, Inspection and Quarantine Service (AQSIQ).

Weekly comment

Calm crucial for energy products

Energy drinks are a runaway success but extreme marketing and product formulation has the potential to cast a shadow over the multi-billion dollar global industry.

Hansa Heeman partners Sidel for new plant

Soft drinks group Hansa Heeman has extended a partnership with a long-term processing and packaging supplier in constructing a new bottling plant to meet its specific needs in the still and carbonated water segment.

Exploited workers found at major UK food firms

The UK Gangmaster Licensing Authority (GLA) this week alleged that a gangmaster was exploiting workers he supplied to three UK food firms - British Bakeries, Thorntons and Florette.

Dairy industry rubbishes 'junk food' ban

Dairy industry players have called for a reassessment of how their products are perceived under the UK's nutrient profiling system, ahead of a government debate next month on extending advertising restrictions based on the scheme.

Gleditsia triacanthos shows promise for new hydrocolloid

Gleditsia triacanthos seeds from the Americas could present a new source of hydrocolloids for the food industry, says a new study that investigated their functional properties depending on extraction methods.

Fazer to build new Russian bakery

The Fazer Russia group this week said it has signed an agreement to build a new bakery in Leningrad, as part of the company's ongoing plans to increase its presence in the Russian market.

Traffic light scheme advances onto menus

The UK Food Standards Agency has reported the Yo! Sushi will be the restaurants to use its traffic light scheme - intended for food manufacturers - on menus, indicating progress in raising awareness for the healthier eating message.

Air conditioners designed for corrosive processing

A new range of air conditioning systems designed to specifically cool food processing equipment have been adapted to offer improved corrosion protection in both internal or external environments, their manufacturer claims.

Campina to step up focus on low fat dairy

Dairy company Campina said it will increase investments into products geared towards the growing health and wellbeing trend on the back of significant success of its low fat products in 2007.

New no-spill caps set for global launch

A new sealing device for liquid containers extends the product's shelf life, preserves freshness and reduces waste, its manufacturer claims.

Applied Biosystems expands food testing presence

Applied Biosystems is to start supplying its pathogen testing kits directly to the food processors and testing laboratories, a move the company says is part of its commitment to ensuring food safety.

US seminar to focus on packaging legalities

A one day seminar to be held in Chicago will address legal issues for managers in the food and beverage packaging industry, including food safety, sustainability, food contact material developments and nanotechnology.

New interest in barley raises technical issues

Barley has great potential to regain its former popularity in food, says a new review, but there are some knowledge gaps about its functional properties for processing and product development.

Consumption database enables reliable risk assessment

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has launched an online database that pools food consumption levels from member states to allow for more exact exposure assessments.

Iodine fortification mandatory for NZ bakers

Bakers in New Zealand will now by law have to fortify bread products with iodine, as regulators in the country attempt to boost consumption of the essential nutrient.

Firms urged to involve employees in green schemes

The UK's Carbon Trust is calling for companies to involve employees in helping reduce carbon emissions, claiming that inclusive cost effective schemes can save up to 20 per cent on energy bills.

FSA examines salt reduction in premium bread

The UK Food Standards Agency (FSA) is currently expanding its research on salt reduction to premium bread products, which may help manufacturers find a replacement solution when the results are published later this year.

Illnesses linked to leafy greens on the rise, study

Outbreaks of foodborne illnesses linked to pathogens on leafy vegetables have increased faster than rates of consumption, indicating that contamination during production and processing is on the up.

BASF initiative helps ensure food safety, measures sustainability

BASF has developed a tool for its customers in the food industry which affords detailed information on the composition of products and manufacturing methods, including levels of sustainability achieved in production.

FDA plans wider foreign inspection approach

The US Food and Drug administration (FDA) is seeking permission from the Chinese government to install eight full time FDA officials in the country, as part of plans to improve monitoring of exported food manufacturing across the globe.

Study supports encapsulation in synbiotic ice cream

A new study has reported that probiotic bacteria used in synbiotic ice cream had 30 per cent higher survivability in storage when encapsulated in calcium alginate than 'free' probiotics.

Weekly comment

Allergen-free: time for clarity

Claiming 'free from' is not a light statement to make. Lives depend on it. As scientific progress questions the validity of such claims, it is time to establish exact guidelines and communicate these to people for whom ingredients are a matter of life and death.

Study finds glass bottling produces similar carbon emissions to PET

A study published by WRAP suggests that the bottling of Australian wine in the UK using light glass bottles with a high recycled content produces roughly the same CO2 emissions during production and transportation as PET bottling.

Packager targets condiment innovation

A leading food-packaging group says it is moving to develop its products to meet more specific industry requirements like multi-sized goods with longer shelf life.

New evidence for diacetyl, lung disease risk

Diacetyl - a chemical used in butter flavouring - damages the lungs of mice when inhaled over a period of three months, according to a new US study.

New proposal for global, legal junk food ad ban

A new code that would restrict the marketing of unhealthy foods to children has been proposed by two international lobby groups who claim the food industry is failing to self-regulate, especially in developing countries.

Castleberry plant closed over safety fears

Castleberry, the US-based food company linked to botulism-tainted food last summer, has now been temporarily closed by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

More people likely to accept nano than GM, say researchers

Foods produced using emerging nanotechnology are less likely to come up against consumer hurdles than genetically modified foods since they do not involve tinkering with genes, and therefore have a greater perception of naturalness, says a new paper.

FSIS acts on US meat scares

The recall of over 143,000,000 pounds of raw and frozen meat products by a California meat processor in February is forcing the US regulatory authorities to act and reassure the public about the safety of the US food supply.

Consumers would spend more on greener goods - survey

European consumers will generally consider paying more for environmentally friendly manufactured products, though encouragement may be needed to make good on their promises, according to a new survey.

Wheat disease threatens global crops

A new strain of a major fungal disease in wheat is now wiping out crops across Africa and Asia, sparking fears that manufacturers will be forced to pay even more for the vital commodity.

Tray sealer tweaked for eel renaissance

Packaging Automation has adapted its PA182 tray sealer for one of the UK's leading eel manufacturers, as sales of the delicacy shoot up in the UK.

Wrigley gives gum a makeover

Wrigley will rework the packaging and flavour portfolio of its US gum products in an attempt to boost sagging sales in the area, the company announced yesterday.

Processor concern over German biotech ruling

Recent amendments to Germany's biotech laws will allow the country's food processors to make use of a "without biotech" label on their products, despite some concerns that such claims are misleading, says a new report.

Budget supports SMEs but falls short on curbing prices

The UK Food and Drink Federation (FDF) welcomes the Chancellor's vow to limit regulatory burdens and assist SMEs, but regrets its shortcomings concerning green issues and food prices.

BfR helps develop database for improved risk assessment

The German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR) has set up a project to support the development of a European Food Consumption Concise Database, which will draw together data from member states.

TNA brings distribution and filler innovations to Interpack

Two innovative new packaging machines from TNA are set to make their debut at Interpack next month: a transfer and distribution system and an automatic inserter.

Healthier products rely less on commodity ingredients

Canny formulation of structured emulsions like spreads, dressings and mayonnaise can enable manufacturers to meet two objectives: delivering healthier products and reducing high-cost commodities, according to a Unilever R&D expert.

Milk prices slowing EU dairy herd decline

The current high prices for raw dairy milk being paid by processors and consumers is encouraging Europe's dairy farmers to better meet growing demand for the product, according to a new report.

Eureka status for rapid food pathogen test

An ultra-rapid multiplex food pathogen test being developed for meat producers by RnA Assays and UK-based Alaska Food Diagnostics has been awarded EUREKA status.

Green group calls for halt on nanotechnology

Environmental group Friends of the Earth (FOE) has called for a moratorium on the use of nanotechnology in the food chain, claiming insufficient research has been carried out into its effect on human health and the environment.

Introduction of cloned animals concerns interest groups

The US Center for Food Safety (CFS) has issued a statement supporting legislation being introduced at federal and state level to protect consumers against an unregulated introduction of cloned animals, their off-spring and products into the food chain.

FSA consults with industry on Chinese GM rice rules

UK-based processors are being consulted over plans by the country's Food Standards Agency for mandatory testing of Chinese rice imports over fears of contamination from unapproved Genetically Modified Organisms (GMO).

Pectin, whey encapsulate vitamins for beverage

Encapsulating water-soluble ingredients in a whey protein-pectin complex could extend their use in acidic beverages, suggests new research from Canada.

Danisco strengthens presence in India's budding markets

Ingredients company Danisco is responding to growing markets in India with the opening of two new manufacturing units focusing on functional systems and enzymes.

Foreign food workers to face 'unfair' tax

New taxation laws in the UK will leave foreign workers with an unfair tax bill and their employers with a 'nightmare' of financial paperwork, according to one of the country's trade associations.

The importance of quality assurance

Naturex talks about the importance of sourcing quality-assured ingredients, and the measures a company should have in place to ensure it meets the highest standards.

Blowtorched sheep safety testing moved forward

The legal fate of an ethnic delicacy known as smokies - sheep meat with the skin blow torched directly onto it - could be decided sooner than anticipated, the UK Food Standards Agency has said.

Weekly comment

Warning signs: reconsidering shock tactics

Here's a possible new marketing angle for food and beverage manufacturers: "Food can kill".

Natural trans fats not as bad as industrial-produced: study

Trans fatty acids are not created equal, according to the results of the European-wide TRANSFACT study, with natural sources not sharing the detrimental health effects as their industrially-produced counterparts.

Scientists must communicate more on foods risk, says FSA

A snapshot survey of consumer perceptions of food risk in the UK indicates that many people are way off the mark, prompting the FSA to seek out constructive ways of engaging with the public over concerns.

New computer model may improve fruit storage

A computer model has been developed to improve the long-term storage of fleshy fruit under controlled atmospheres, according to a report published by researchers at the Catholic University of Leuven in Belgium.

DMV launches non-hydrogenated cappuccino foamer

DMV International is launching a new non-hydrogenated foamer ingredient for use in instant cappuccino and hot beverages with a healthier profile.

Cryovac promises training for microwave food processors

Packaging firm Cryovac has established a training programme for manufacturers of microwave and convenience foods.

Health and green issues driving drink packager growth

European demand for beverage packaging machinery will continue to rise due to industry demands for more environmentally sustainable, energy efficient and health focused products, according to a new report.

Soil Association launches air organics debate part 2

The Soil Association yesterday launched a second round consultation to decide how to implement its new policy saying organic produce must only be air-freighted if it meets ethical trade standards.

Krones shows green credentials through Enviro label

Krones is launching a new Enviro label for its packaging machines that meet certain environmental criteria, and an Energy Passport detailing products' energy consumption figures.

FDF urges Chancellor to support food and drink industry

The UK Food and Drink Federation (FDF) is urging the UK Chancellor of the Exchequer, Alistair Darling, to support the food and drink industry in his first budget.

Packaging firms face future financial squeeze

A new report warns that the future remains challenging for European packaging firms, as rising input and transportation costs will continue to weigh down on the industry.

CAT scan technology offers dairy development potential

A UK-based imaging specialist is quite literally hoping to get a better look at dairy formulation, by expanding its scanning technology to aid processors working in the industry.

Tetra Pak to expand processor training

Tetra Pak, a global manufacturer of food processing and packaging systems, says it hopes to expand a training scheme designed to educate users of its processing technology to be more efficient.

Mango to offer fibre boost for cookies

Extracts from mangos are a rich source of antioxidants and dietary fibre and can easily be used in bakery products to boost public consumption, suggests new research.

Aseptic fillers target improved production speed

Two new aseptic filling machines can reduce the processing time required by dairy manufacturers for using multiple small-volume carton packages, their manufacturer claims.

California bill to curb chemicals in grease-proof packaging

A bill that would ban the use of food packaging containing perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), is working its way through the California legislature.

UK baby milk industry wins labelling battle

Infant and follow-on formula manufacturers will not have to re-label their products until 2010 after the English High Court upheld a legal challenge brought by the Infant and Dietetic Foods Association (IDFA) against the government.

Polyphenols may be the key to low acrylamide bakery

Manufacturers of bakery products looking to reduce levels of acrylamide can tap into a range of solutions, but polyphenols may be the most promising, suggests a new review.

Air Products expands into Thailand

UK firm Air Products today announced the opening of a new technology centre in Thailand, as the company looks to market its food freezing expertise to Asian manufacturers.

EFSA highlights need for flavour intake data

More accurate intake data is required for a number of flavouring substances, says the European Food Safety Authority, as the standard model for estimating consumption levels was found to be inconsistent with information provided by industry.

Nestle report focuses on corporate responsibility

A new report, released yesterday by Nestle, outlines the steps the company claims to have taken to make a positive social and environmental impact.

Cloetta Fazer changes controversial packaging

Nordic confectioner Cloetta Fazer has changed the wrapping on its liquorice, following criticism that the caricature of a black person perpetuates a negative racial stereotype.

UK shoppers turn to higher welfare chicken, report

UK consumers appear to be increasingly buying chicken meat from producers employing higher animal welfare standards, according to a new survey.

Live cells adapted for food-pathogen testing

US researchers claim to have developed a time efficient testing technology that can locate food-borne pathogens in thousands of samples at a single time.

Black tea compounds may protect against diabetes

Compounds in black tea may be able to mimic insulin and help prevent diabetes, suggests new research from Scotland.

Kosher firm fails on food safety

A new report accuses Agriprocessors, the largest kosher meat firm in the US, of violating food safety laws and failing to protect consumers from the risk of E.coli and mad cow disease.

Confectioners face even higher cocoa prices

The price of cocoa continued to hit record highs on the stock market in January, increasing by an average 4.6 per cent on the London and New York stock exchanges.

Weekly comment

The great food price smash-and-grab

While the world's media is bemoaning rising food prices, the French government is sniffing around the food industry for signs of gleeful profiteering. If it is right, the long-term losses of the nouveau cher will be far greater than the handful of centimes gained.

US lawmakers demand further food safety measures

US lawmakers are demanding further food safety measures following concerns over the recent recall of over 143,000,000 pounds of raw and frozen meat products by a California meat packer.