Weekly Comment

Training the salt of the earth

On International Labour Day, workers across the world will be raising a glass in honour of the salt of the earth.

Fluid bed dryer cuts energy costs, claims manufacturer

A new fluid bed dryer and cooler uses a fraction of the energy of a standard machine, claims its manufacturer.

Laser sorter scans products for chlorophyll

A new fluorescence-sensing laser sorter scans products for chlorophyll to identify and remove foreign matter from fresh and frozen vegetables.

UK wraps up skills training programme

The final stage of a skills training programme for food and drink workers in the UK has been completed, paving the way for its launch.

Digital refractometer improves concentration readings

A new digital refractometer can automatically scan liquids for concentration levels and offers the market leading measurement range, claims its manufacturer.

Alcoa to examine disposal of packaging business

Alcoa said this week it would examine disposal of its packaging and consumer units, which together generate $3.2 billion in revenues for the company.

Testing finds pet killer chemical in hogs

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has launched an investigation into whether a chemical thought to be responsible for a number of pet deaths has entered the human food chain.

Project will help olive producers reduce waste

Guidelines to help European olive oil processors reduce their waste are being developed by an EU-funded project.

New law would impose fees on non-compliant imports

New UK legislation would allow regulators to charge companies fees for additional costs incurred when imports of non-animal origin do not comply with food and feed laws.

New processing toxins linked with aging diseases

A new class of toxins produced when meats and cheeses are grilled, fried or broiled, can lead to a host of diseases associated with aging, say researchers.

Egg processors must meet new safety rules

From today, US egg products destined for the EU must come from premises operating with procedures based on international safety standards known as hazard analysis and critical control plan (HACCP)...

Sustainable coffee paper runs at high speeds

A new flexible paper provides coffee packagers with an environmentally friendly wrapper that can withstand high speed line speeds, its manufacturer claims.

Polyethylene film improves contaminant detection

A new polyethylene film has been developed that can be detected by metal detectors, reducing the risk of contamination in food processing, its manufacturer claims.

Europe to harmonise pesticide testing for cereals

The EU has issued plans to harmonise pesticide residue testing among member countries with a series of measures designed to improve the safety of food supplies.

Widespread use of illegal labour use uncovered in UK

A BBC undercover report has allegedly exposed further widespread use of illegal workers in the UK's agriculture and food processing sectors.

Italian fruit fraud robbed EC of 50m, claims OLAF

The European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) estimates that a major citrus fruit scam in Italy has defrauded the EU budget of up to €50m in EC aid for the processing of...

Packaging PFOAs found in newborns

A new study showing that perfluorooctanoate (PFOA) is showing up in newborn babies has again raised concerns about the chemical's use as a protective coating on some food packaging.

Special edition: Global food trade

Innovation as the key to EU food trade

With their domestic markets remaining generally stagnant, EU processors are turning more and more to international trade as a means of keeping their bottom lines healthy.

FDA food safety problems blamed on lack of funding

Years of under-funding and a lack of trained staff account for failings by the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) in preventing contamination outbreaks, legislators said yesterday.

Research examines improved safety for citrus supply

A group of research centres have banded together to examine ways of improving safety and quality along the supply chain for citrus products.

Amcor cuts aimed at European turnaround

Australian-based packager Amcor said yesterday it will exit plants in Western European in a drive toward greater cost efficiency.

Spiral oven speeds up production, company claims

A new spiral oven can help speed up production while reducing maintenance costs, the manufacturer claims.

Fish gelatin found to protect against moisture loss

Fish gelatin might become the latest packaging advance in helping extend the shelf life of frozen foods.

Fish processor escapes closure following agreement

A seafood processor has avoided closure followings its agreement with the national regulator to integrate required food safety procedures into its operations.

Form fill sealer's servos improve cycle speeds

A new horizontal form fill sealer (HFFS) uses servo motors, which reduces the need for compressed air and improves cycle speeds, its manufacturer claims.

DSM unveils novel antibiotics test for milk

A 'next generation' antibiotics test for milk, capable of saving dairy firms and labs time and money, will be launched by Dutch firm DSM this week.

Belt designed for fast cooling and draining

A new modular belt is designed to transport foods that need fast cooling and draining.

Gas sensor speeds up packaging tests

A modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) sensor just introduced in the UK market speeds up the process of testing that the correct mix of gasses have been used in a product.

Small businesses to get break under safety rules

The European Commission plans to exempt small businesses from part of the bloc's main hygiene rules.

Weekly Comment

Ditch the marketing madness

Marketing strategies - two words that incorporate everything from pseudo scientific research to shock value advertising campaigns. But shouldn't honesty be the best policy?

X-ray detects contaminants in cartons

A new x-ray inspection system can detect multiple contaminants in products being conveyed on belts, its manufacturer claims.

Cadbury charged in salmonella contamination case

Cadbury and some of its managers face prosecution for allegedly ignoring a case of salmonella contamination at one of the company's UK plants.

Metal detector designed for sausage processors

A new metal detector is designed specifically for sausage processors, providing a compact system that fits in tight spaces.

Joint effort results in new colour extrusion process

In a joint effort with one of its customers, Bühler claims to have developed a more efficient method of extruding multicoloured foods with a single machine.

Compostable plastic containers launched to meet demand

A new range of compostable plastic containers is designed for ready-to-eat foods.

Processors feel the pain from ethanol

Meat processors have petitioned legislators to take action over the rising input costs on meat and poultry packers and processors due to rising ethanol production.

Regulator says levying fees could harm independence

The EU's food safety agency has expressed reservations about a plan by the European Commission to make companies pay fees for risk assessments.

Bernard Matthews' bird flu payout criticised

The UK turkey producer at the centre of an avian influenza outbreak earlier this year is to be compensated nearly £600,000 (€885,000) despite receiving criticism in an official report published yesterday.

Software collects historical data from multiple plants

New software is designed to gather operating data from plants in multiple countries and collect it at headquarters.

EU launches study on Salmonella in pigs

The EU's food safety agency will assess the public health risks posed by the presence of Salmonella in pigs.

Sensor uses radar for substance measurement

A new measurement device uses radar to monitor levels of substances used in processing plants, its manufacturer claims.

New PET faster and cheaper to mould, says manufacturer

A new polyethylene terephthalate (PET) resin on the market is being promoted as faster and cheaper to mould.

Deaeration system improves beverage filling

A new system designed to reduce oxygen levels in beverages improves fillings speeds and can extend the shelf life of products, its manufacturer claims.

Changing demands driving evolution of food factories

The food factory of the future will be smaller than the massive production plants of today, with more automation and the flexibility to switch to new products at the push...

ADM develops low-carb, high-protein snack process

Ingredients firm Archer Daniels Midland (ADM) has developed a new method of manufacturing soy-based crisps - opening up further possibilities to the carb-free snack market.

New guidelines help UK producers plan food safety

The UK food regulator has published a guidance to help manufacturers improve the safety of their products and deal with contamination incidents when these occur.

Asia can make difference for Crown in 2007

Continued expansion in Asia and a 12.4 per cent rise in sales were the key highlights during the first quarter 2007 for international packaging group Crown.

Grain industry slammed for costly waste

Inefficiency in the UK cereals supply chain is costing the industry almost £1 million (€1.47m) a week and cereal manufacturers are partly to blame, according to a new report from...

Irish meat imports into UK breach BSE regulations, says report

Several batches of beef recently imported to the UK from Ireland were found to contain material banned under laws designed to prevent bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) from entering the supply...

Salmonella and E. coli illnesses up last year, says report

Increases in foodborne illnesses from salmonella and escherichia coli during 2006 could be due to outbreaks in previously unaffected food such as peanut butter and spinach, according to the findings...

Testing tools help keep beverages pathogen-free

Two new testing tools from Döhler are designed to keep pathogens and impurities from contaminating beverage filling lines.

Perspectives for Food 2030

EU research needs conference begins

About 150 experts are gathering here today in Belgium's capital city for a peak into the future of the food industry.

Transmitting environment sensor withstands depths

A new waterproof temperature and humidity sensor can take readings while submerged and transmit the results across a plant, its manufacturer claims.

Transition period suggested for fruit and veg reform

EU agriculture minister Mariann Fischer Boal is willing to consider a transition period for the adoption of EU fruit and vegetable reforms, according to reports, which would act as a...

Cargill patents new cocoa processing method

US based cocoa producer Cargill has developed a new method of processing cocoa which allows for reduced fat content and greater dispersibility in cocoa powder.

Falling coffee prices no cause for alarm, says ICO

Coffee prices fell again last month and are expected to continue dropping in April, the International Coffee Organisation has said.

Wastewater recycler uses combined technologies

A new treatment system integrates two technologies to recycle wastewater in plants, claims its manufacturer, helping food and drink firms to meet their environmental commitments.

Ice cream makers look to the skies

A dose of early summer sun and talk of another record-breaking heat wave around the corner has put the UK ice cream industry in a cautiously optimistic mood for 2007.

Arla joins rush to raise milk price

As Tesco again displayed its power in the UK food chain with another profits rise, dairy group Arla Foods joined a growing list of processors to raise farmgate milk prices.

Weekly comment

Food contamination: time for action

At a time when so many resources are being pumped into improving consumer health through food, it is pitifully ironic that more and more people are getting sick or dying...

Vision sensors offer unlimited inspection possibilities

Two new vision sensors can help ensure food and beverage packaging is defect-free with correctly positioned labeling, claims their manufacturer.

Scaled down disperser designed for batch testing

A new mixing disperser for foods allows processors to test out their formulas before scaling up to full production levels.

Ministers debate agriculture and fishery policies

A consistent EU-wide policy on eco-labelling for fish and a plan to end export subsidies for fruits and vegetables are some of the controversial topics up for debate at a...

Leatherhead forms food industry NanoWatch group

Leatherhead Food International is forming a new working group to investigate the use of nanotechnology in the food and drink industry, with particular emphasis on ingredients and hydrocolloids.

Understanding heat and chilling could boost flavour perception

Scientists from the University of Nottingham have reported that adding an ingredient that induces the sensation of cooling could boost the perception of fruit flavours, fundamental research that could have...

Device checks for tray sealing problems

France-based Luceo has developed an automated device to detect whether food particles are interfering with tray-pack seals.

Robot controller eliminates high cost cabling

A new robot controller is designed to eliminate high cost cabling and the need for environmental cabinets on processing and packaging lines.

Project to develop international testing standards

The EU has launched a €12m project to develop standards for analysing food safety and quality.

Regulator turns down hearing request on irradiation levels

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is sticking to its guns on setting a higher maximum limit on irradiation levels used to sanitize foods.

Energy, commodity price pressures to ease says S&P

A lesser increase in prices of energy and commodities compared with 2006 will ease the pressure on processors, according to a new report by Standard and Poor's.

Jar packaging boosted by trend for sweet-shop style candies

The trend for individually sold confectionery is boosting growth at UK packaging firm RPC Containers.

Researchers study E. coli in fresh produce

About $2m has been allocated to nine research teams to study the Escherichia coli O157:H7, in a bid to prevent the pathogen from infecting fresh produce.

Device cuts oxygen measurement time in half

A new device cuts oxygen measurement time in half for barrier polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles, according to the manufacturer.

Coatings protect bake-in packaging

US based packaging firm Michelman is set to unveil a raft of bake-in coating solutions for the bakery industry at trade fairs this year.

Ireland's egg industry declared Salmonella free

A regulatory effort to reduce Salmonella contamination throughout Ireland's food chain is beginning to pay off in the egg sector.

Standard customs declaration proposed for imported foods

The EU would create standard customs' documentation for imported food and feeds under current legislative proposals being discussed by member states.

Proposed safety regulations target packaging gases

Packaging gases and other additives used for prolonging the shelf life of foods are some of the substances targeted by proposed safety regulations passed yesterday by an EU parliamentary committee.

Investor acquires German candy maker

German equity investment company Arques has taken over confectionery firm van Netten in yet another example of private investors moving into the food industry sphere.

EU food R&D spend behind competitors

While overall spend on research and development is increasing, the EU food and drink sector as a whole remain behind their global counterparts, according to the lastest figures.

Pathogen study develops processing parameters

A scientific model relating pathogen survival to cooking temperatures and time can be used as a processing tool by manufacturers of ready-to-eat poultry products.

Food safety remains a priority for industry

Meeting and contributing to increased EU measures on food safety remains a priority for the industry, according to policies outlined by the bloc's industry association.

Weekly comment

You cannot judge a juice by its cover

Have you heard this one before? There are two blackcurrants, one has a high vitamin content and the other - well it doesn't.

Ethyl Carbamate in food, drink as dangerous as diesel

The attention of product developers is turning towards health risks posed by ethyl carbamate, a naturally ocurring substance in fermented food and beverage products that is now classed as dangerous...

A third of UK dairy farmers may quit, survey

Tesco may have waded in to rescue UK dairy farmers last week, but confidence in the sector is at its lowest point since 2004 and more producers intend to quit...

Polyester film offers protection with durability

A new transparent polyester film provides packagers with the barrier performance of competing films, while its strength reduces scuffing and abrasion, its manufacturer claims.

Crisp packing line boosts Walkers production

Crisp giant Walkers is set to receive new packaging technology this autumn, on the back of a successful contract with machinery firm Schubert UK.

Low friction guide reduces packaging line bottlenecks

A new beaded guide that can be fitted into processing and packaging lines allows multiple products to run side-by-side without bottle necks, while reducing damage, its manufacturer claims.

UK dairy summit to tackle environment issues

Growing concerns over the food industry's impact on climate change have prompted a dairy industry conference on farming and the environment in the UK.

Nitrogen testing could aid organic certification

Research into a nitrogen isotope-based testing system being pioneered in Britain could provide a vital new tool in ensuring valid organic certification for food and drink products.

Chocolatiers rejuvenate boxed chocs

UK luxury chocolate maker Elizabeth Shaw is set to join the growing number of premium confectionery manufacturers targeting the boxed chocolate niche with exotic flavours and single-origin sourcing.

Waste and taste concerns over Easter eggs

Consumer group Which? has placed retailers' own-label Easter egg brands above those produced by market leader Cadbury in taste tests conducted ahead of the lucrative holiday trading period.

Equipment washer lifts process cleaning

A new washing system lifts large vats used in meat and poultry processing into the cleaning chamber, then returns them to the plant floor ready for use, its manufacturer claims.

Convenience packaging to drive $8bn demand by 2011

US demand for packaging used for meat, poultry and seafood will exceed $8.1bn by 2011, partly driven by the trend towards convenience food, according to industry analysts.

Filling machine bags snacks fast, its manufacturer claims

A new vertical form, fill and seal machine is designed to package high density snacks into smaller bags at high speed, its manufacturer claims.

FDA proposes to relax labeling for irradiated products

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is proposing to revise its labeling regulations for irradiated foods, suggesting some irradiated foods could now be labeled as "pasteurized".

Snack brands slammed over secret sugars

UK consumer watchdog Which? has hit out at several snack and ready meal brands for their 'hidden' sugar content.

New analyser relieves pressure on drinks makers

The maker of a new analyser capable of monitoring carbon dioxide, nitrogen and oxygen claims it can help brewers and soft drinks firms step closer to perfection.

Project aims to tear strips off packaging problems

The effectiveness of tear strips used in cardboard packaging is being tested as part of a new project, which aims to market the findings later this year.

Palsgaard develops stress-resistant cake emulsifier

Danish ingredients manufacturer Palsgaard has developed a new instant cake emulsifier which safeguards cake quality throughout the stresses inflicted on batter during processing.

Tesco offers better deal to dairy farmers

Dairy industry leaders in the UK have welcomed an announcement from supermarket giant Tesco that it would pay more money to dairy farmers via new direct contracts.

Salmonella infects one in four chickens for meat

Salmonella infects one in four chickens in flocks reared for meat, according to European survey findings published yesterday.

Chocolate test ensures sugar consistency

Switzerland-based pharmaceutical company Metrohm has developed a test to determine the exact sugar content of chocolate - helping manufacturers ensure consistency on the production line.

New easy open seals close packaging dilemma

Two different packaging seals offer easier opening with security -- while one is designed for industrial and commercial use, the other meets increasing consumer demand, the manufacturer claims.

Bernard Matthews escapes bird flu prosecution

The UK poultry processor at the centre of the avian influenza outbreak earlier this year will not face criminal prosecution, the national food regulator has confirmed.

Salmon inspection can leap ahead with automated vision, claims study

Computer vision systems could automate salmon fillet sorting lines, reducing labour costs and increasing processing speed, according to a study by scientists in Norway.

Sweet wrapping test stops stickiness

Sticky, easily torn sweet wrappers could soon be a thing of the past thanks to a new test from Stable Micro Systems (SMS).

EU slices through butter mountain

Nearly all remaining butter stocks being held in the EU's intervention system will be sold off on the common market, member states have agreed.

Weekly comment

Wanted: testing for supplements

The dietary supplement industry needs an independent testing program that is recognizable to consumers in order to enhance the credibility of its products as well as encourage solid science and...

Unilever, Provexis collaborate for healthy products

The identity of the mystery multinational with which Provexis has been exploring new formats of its Fruitflow technology is unveiled as Unilever; and the two companies also plan to collaborate...

Pneumatic bottler offers simplicity with accuracy

A new soft drinks bottling system, which uses only two pneumatics functions, improves filling accuracy while reducing maintenance costs, its manufacturer claims.

US holds public meeting ahead of Codex

US food regulatory agencies have announced a public meeting to discuss the nation's draft positions ahead of the Codex food labeling meeting, which will be held at the end of...

Prodplast seeks partner in Romanian packaging

Romanian plastics firm Prodplast has begun searching for a partner it hopes will help it to step up production of polyethylene in the country's blossoming market for flexible food packaging.

Meat inspection consultation launched

The UK food regulator is asking for feedback on proposals to change meat inspections, including charging processors for services and delegating duties to private bodies.