Conveyor design cuts cleaning costs, claims manufactuer

A seam free conveyor belt reduces the places where food can stick to while being processed, helping cut the costs and labour needed for cleaning and sanitation, claims its manufacturer.

Software automates food contaminant detection

An automated software system allows processors to detect food contaminants in their products, according to its developers.

EC president digs heels over agriculture concessions

There is no reason for the EU to put more agricultural concessions on the table at the WTO, according to current EC president Josef Proll.

Quest develops deep freeze flavour technology

Quest has developed a unique freezing technology that it claims captures the essence of true-to-fruit flavours.

Report calls for more emphasis on obesity reduction than food safety

Regulators should give greater weight to reducing obesity rates in comparison to increasing food safety, according to a new report.

Weekly Comment

Food industry must face its faults

The food industry must be honest if it is to convince consumers - and audiences - that it is not the corporate monster portrayed in the media.

Regulation, traceability drive demand for safety products

Regulation and the demand for better traceability throughout the supply chain is driving the search for better, more efficient food safety products in the US, according to a forecast report.

Service offers laser etching advice to food packagers

A masterbatch provider is offering a service to help packaging companies create clear, consistent laser marks on film, blow molded, and injection molded packaging.

Boycott legacy hits Arla comeback

Uncertainty continues to hang over Arla Foods in its key Middle East dairy market, after it said sales there have been slow to recover from a region-wide boycott against its...

Packaging coating keeps bugs away

A water-based coating for cartons could help keep insects such as German cockroaches and Indian meal moths out of the food chain.

Modus operandi harmonises procedures on chemical contamination

A document setting out procedures for managing chemical contamination in the food chain gives processors an overview of the traceability requirements they will have to follow under EU regulation.

Novel heat exchanger could improve sauce consistency

A heat exchanger using a different principle from conventional processing methods is being evaluated as a means of helping manufacturers improve the consistency of their sauces.

Belu launches biodegradable bottle in mineral water market

A UK mineral water company has launched the first corn-based biodegradable bottle in that country's market, linking its fund raising activities with environmentalism.

Software designed to cut losses in manual weighing operations

Software for manual weighing operations uses a wireless network to achieve the right balance for the fresh food sector.

Private equity rumour stalks Britvic

French private equity group PAI Partners is reported to be weighing up a bid for Britvic, as private equity rumours again stalk Europe's food and drink sector.

Academia links with private firm to develop fermentation methods

The University of Amsterdam is teaming up with a food research firm to boost its development of novel fermentation methods.

Alcoa wins award for hot chocolate packaging

Alcoa Packaging has been recognised for its printing work on Nestle's new Hot Chocolate Syrup Shrink Sleeve, currently available in the US.

Method combines ozone and ionization to kill pathogens

Transforming a method originally developed to decontaminate spacecraft could be new means of destroying pathogens in processing plants, according to scientists.

Notice outlines allergen law on meat ingredients

Meat processors will be required to put in place new federal procedures and labelling rules relating to potential allergens the next time they review their food safety systems, as required...

Machines target market's changing demands

Sartorius has released a number of machines and tools in demand by the food industry, including a metal detector for aluminium packaging, a USB stick for collecting data on the...

Barrier treatment machine handles 40,000 bottles an hour

A machine for applying barrier treatment to PET containers can handle up to 40,000 bottles per hour, making it the fastest of its kind in the world, its manufacturer claims.

UK processors benefit from positive productivity growth rate

UK food manufacturers have a productivity growth rate above the average for the whole economy, according to a new government report.

Unpasteurized OJ a possible vehicle for salmonella

Orange juice and other foods traditionally not associated with foodborne disease outbreaks could still be a source of disease, according to scientists.

Pilot machine produced for rapid shake sterilisation process

Satori Stocktec has became one of the first companies to produce a pilot machine companies can use to trial a new process for the fast sterilisation of canned foods.

Packaging machine reduces material use, manufacturer claims

A new thermoforming, filling and sealing machine for packaging cups and other containers can result in savings of up to 35 per cent in material costs, its manufacturer claims.

UK food ingredient analysis centre functional

Reading Scientific Services Ltd (RSSL) has reorganised several of its analytical services to create a specialist department dealing with functional ingredients.

UK food regulator finds 'gaps' in regulating nanotechnology

Gaps in regulating future uses of nanotechnology include those relating to particle size, to the use of nano versions of already approved ingredients, and to packaging, according to a UK...

Coca-Cola, Cadbury added to benzene lawsuits

Coca-Cola and Cadbury Schweppes have joined the list of beverage firms set to be sued in Florida over allegations their drinks contained benzene, 15 years after the industry first pledged...

Air cooler system cuts down on defrosting, manufacturer claims

A new spiral froster marries a compact design with a air cooler system that cuts down on defrosting times, its manufacturer claims.

'Carcass-to-cut' software tracks meat

A tracking software program is designed to help meat packing plants identify live animals, link them to individual cuts through to point of sale, and help companies better manage their...

Slow growth forecast for meat production, consumption

US red meat and poultry production in 2007 is projected to grow at a considerably slower rate than expected this year, while consumption is expected to increase marginally, according to...

UV method rids leafy vegetables of pathogens

A more effective way of cleaning vegetables such as leafy greens can dramatically reduce the risk of contamination, according to a Canadian research study.

Consultation begins on reforming subsidies for fruit, vegetables

The European Commission yesterday launched public consultation on reforming the market for fresh and processed fruit and vegetables, part of its attempt to wean the sector from about €860m worth...

Kraft sued over benzene in soft drink

Kraft Foods will face lawsuits in three US states over allegations that one of its drinks contained cancer-causing benzene above the legal limit for tap water, BeverageDaily.com has learned, as...

Pressure gauges meet demand for accuracy, hygiene

A new line of pressure gauges are engineered to meet stringent performance, material and hygiene demands within the food and beverage sectors, their manufacturer claims.

Single test can spot up to 600 viruses in hours

A single test for about 600 deadly viruses speeds up the process of spotting a food-related disease outbreak -- such as bird flu -- in hours rather than days.

Processors seek cost reductions through robotics

Small and mid sized companies in Europe's food and beverage sector are looking to use more robots in their production lines, according to a new study by Frost & Sullivan.

Weekly comment

Hacks v Lab-Rats: who's at fault for consumer confusion?

The relationship between journalist 'hack' and scientist 'lab-rat' must be developed if science is to get a fair deal in the press, and for consumers to be presented balanced and...

Avian flu hits Denmark's poultry; FAO questions world strategy

Denmark and Romania are battling fresh outbreaks of the lethal H5N1 strain of bird flu, which has spread to domestic poultry in the two countries.

Mackerel supply uncertain, price hikes could continue

Uncertainty in the supply of mackerel in the EU could lead to further price hikes this year.

FDA names and shames over benzene in soft drinks

Five US soft drinks were found containing the cancer-causing chemical benzene at levels above the legal limit for drinking water, America's food safety watchdog has announced, sparking calls for more...

Ultrasonic sensors take the measure of fluids, liquids

New ultrasonic sensors provide a means for food processors to gauge the amount of fluids or solids in containers.

Cereal and snack focus

Cereals and snacks at the forefront of the health revolution

Cereals and snacks are at the cutting edge of the healthy eating debate, as highlighted by this week's European Parliament Plenary vote and a high-level industry conference on meeting consumer...

Software pinpoints productivity problems

Software using real time operating data can help food and drink companies boost efficiency levels, its developer claims.

Package combines MAP film with steam cooking valve

Microwaveable packaging for steam-cooking food has been combined with modified atmosphere techniques to increase a product's shelf life.

Formula milk safe from cancer compounds, says FSA

Levels of the cancer-causing PAH compounds in infant formula milk on sale in Britain are below the limits set by the European Union and pose no health risk, says the...

Biosensor uses nanotechnology to spot the right smell

An electronic biosensor using nanotechnology techniques could help companies to develop the right smells for their foods, or to sniff out rotting ingredients in the receiving area.

Bakery company settles federal refrigerants suit

A third baking company made a settlement this week with the US government over its use of ozone-depleting refrigerants.

Online tool calculates gas mix for food packaging

An online tool is designed to help food processors select the best gas for modified atmosphere packaging (MAP).

Proposals consolidate, simplify bottled water laws

Proposed revisions to laws covering the bottled water sector would consolidate and clarify various regulations in existence across England.

UK facing milk production shake-up

More upheaval in Britain's dairy sector looms over the next few years as more than one in ten milk producers say they will leave the sector, according to a new...

Soy imports delayed as Argentina fights Monsanto over GM

Argentina's government joins a group of meat producers in Denmark in a court battle against Monsanto over genetically modified soy, one that has led to imported supplies being held up...

SABMiller shares struggle despite in-line results

Russia and China have spurred on SABMiller's beer sales over the last year, but shares struggled to recover after the brewer remained cautious on future profits in North America.

Bird flu prevention hampered by poor international coordination

Measures to prevent avian influenza in poultry flocks could be compromised by lax management, poor international coordination, and a lack of funds, according to researchers.

Growth in tinned meals presents new prospects, report

A new report by Mintel reveals that the canned meat and beans market in the UK has gathered momentum in recent years, something that could present an opportunity as food...

Machine turns whey into texture additive

A new machine allows dairy manufacturers to process whey into an ingredient they can use to improve the texture and taste of low-fat products.

Bowl-shaped cans designed for ready-to-eat market

Crown has launched bowl-shaped cans aimed at the single-serve food market in Europe and North America to meet the growing demand for ready-to-eat convenience products.

Prototype analyser detects meat pathogens within minutes

A hand-held analyser for detecting pathogens along the complete meat supply chain within minutes is being prepared for commercial application.

Bottle blow molder adapted for biodegradable plastics

With biodegradable becoming less of a buzzword and more of a reality in the packaging business, a machine maker has adapted a blow molder for use with corn-based plastics.

Automation: Processors concerned about investment return

UK processors fail to exploit automation and robotics handling, mainly due to concerns about the costs, return on investment and a shortage of trained engineers, according to an industry survey.

Weighers target demand for increased speed and hygiene

New weighers released for the European market indicate machine manufacturers are attempting to meet processors' demands for increased speed and hygiene on the line.

Simply change ingredients to reduce acrylamide, say researchers

Substitution of certain ingredients could reduce acrylamide content of finished products by as much as 70 per cent, say Swiss researchers.

Software designed to integrate with existing systems

A new software suite for food and drink plants allows information technology managers to upgrade and integrate their networks as operations grow, its developer claims.

Meat container beefed up with double walls

A plastic container for meat and poultry features a double-walled construction for greater strength.

Cheap imports and bird flu hits UK industry

At least one UK poultry processor plans to cut capacity and farmers are calling for higher payments as the industry is hit by bird flu and cheaper imports.

Greenhouse gas trading data points to problems

Preliminary data from the first year of the EU's greenhouse gas trading scheme has highlighted problems in the allocation of plant outputs and in the tracking of carbon dioxide (CO2)...

Food industry must tap consumer needs, says CIAA

The European food industry has announced that its bi-annual congress in Brussels will be firmly focused on meeting consumers needs.

Beer good for Europe, association argues

Europe's beer brewing sector contributes about €57.5bn to the continent's economy every year, according to a new study.

NutraIngredients.com wins food industry award

NutraIngredients.com has been named Website of the Year in the prestigious 2006 Business Food and Drink Journalism awards.

Industry targets health and pleasure as next wave

The EU's food industry has targeted research into products combining health and pleasure as the next step in meeting consumers needs.

Sticky foods get moving on modular belt

A modular belt is designed to move sticky foods such as pastries, candies, fruits, vegetables and frozen seafood.

Biotech booming, claims Ernst & Young report

The biotechnology sector is booming across the globe, with revenues of the worlds publicly traded biotech companies growing by 18 per cent in 2005.

Packaging format designed for ambient wet soup market

A new packaging format for ambient wet soups allows processors to offer consumers convenience in a cup.

Scientists urge transparency in nanotech safety testing

The UK's Royal Society has called for companies developing products containing nanoparticles to disclose how they are tested for safety.

Poultry company pays settlement over 'donning and doffing'

Poultry processors have been put on notice about their labour practices after one of their members agreed to a $1.24 million settlement for not compensating workers for time spent getting...

Container uses nanoparticles to extend shelf life

A plastic container that uses silver nanoparticles to keep foods fresher longer, points the way forward for processors looking to incorporate the technology into their packaging.

Test speeds up pathogen detection for dairy sector

An alternative to the traditional microbiological tests for ultra heat treated (UHT) and extended shelf life (ESL) dairy products speeds up assessments by over two days, according to its manufacturer.

Irish processor recognises R&D need

Following concerns that food and drink R&D investment across Europe has hit a low ebb, Irish meat manufacturer Dawn Farm Foods has pledged to spend 28m on research.

Money made available for training on hygiene laws

The UK's food safety regulator has made more money available for training businesses on the EU's new hygiene requirements.

Dual bakery line automates production

A twin lane indexing line fills and decorates a wide range of bakery items, such as desserts, celebration cakes, patisserie products, and puddings.

Nestlé rolls out smart label for Maggi brand

Nestlé will roll out a wider range of products using a smart label that indicates the remaining shelf life.

Majority of recalls preventable, says UK consultancy

The majority of food recalls around the world are caused by preventable problems, with poor allergen control and failure to follow international standards as the major culprits, according to a...

Sara Lee sees Q3 profits tumble

Yesterday American-owned Sara Lee reported a massive 77 per cent drop in third quarter operating profit from $189m last year to $42m in 2006, impacted by a vast portfolio cull.

Kraft and Premier Foods eye United Biscuits

US food giant Kraft is partnering with Britain's Premier Foods to launch a bid for United Biscuits, according to industry insiders.

Ombudsman blasts Commission on Germany's packaging law

The European Commission was lax in not taking further steps to make Germany comply with a court ruling against its packaging regulations for drinks, the EU's Ombudsman has ruled.

Heinz to move HP Sauce production to Holland

In a move emphasising the flight of many food manufacturers out of the UK, Heinz has decided to move production of the HP Sauce brand to Holland from its plant...

Weekly comment

Chasing down obesity

It is time to admit that society is fighting a part-time battle against the bulge, willingly lambasting soft drinks, burgers and chocolate, while shuffling silently away from a fairly dismal...

Federal regulator reviews Italy's aspartame study

The US food regulator says it is still investigating claims by researchers in Italy that aspartame causes cancer, despite a European finding that the study was flawed.

Mintel identifies major trends to impact food industry

New ingredients, health and portability are amongst trends that will impact the US food market within the next five years, according to Mintel, which presented its findings at the FMI...

Research projects map out food safety hotspots

A number of food safety and nutrition research studies up for funding by the UK regulator could result in new codes of practice or regulation for the industry.

Zip-Pak introduces colour to ensure hermetic seal

A colour indicator and a double seal are two of the latest developments Zip-Pak has introduced to its reclosable packaging.

Scribing laser coder operates at hot temperatures

Two new scribing laser coders can operate at temperatures up to 35°C reducing overheating problems, their manufacturer claims.

Water additive reduces pathogens in fruit, vegetables

A antimicrobial water additive has become the first of its kind to receive registration under the Environmental Protection Agency rules, according to the manufacturer.

Pre-wash cleaner designed for bio waste

A new pre-wash industrial cleaner can help cut costs for the beef and poultry industry, its manufacturer claims.

Aspartame safe for consumption, food agency concludes

The EU's food safety agency today said aspartame is safe for consumption, contradicting a scientific study by the Ramazzini Foundation that claimed the artificial sweetener caused cancer.

PepsiCo hit by benzene lawsuit

Lawyers have filed a lawsuit against PepsiCo in California, alleging one of its drinks may contain the cancer-causing chemical benzene, BeverageDaily.com has learned.

Deadly E. coli strain traced to Gilde slaughterhouse

A slaughterhouse partially owned by meat supplier Gilde was contaminated with a virulent strain of the E. coli bacteria that hospitalized about a dozen children and resulted in one death,...

Unilever reports flat operating profit

Operating profit was flat while sales rose only two per cent in real terms for Unilever, which said yesterday its profit rose six per cent in the first quarter of...

Close the door, buy a household steamer, save on costs

Closing the door, buying a household steamer, or using a slide rule may be all that small meat processors need to do to save on the costs of meeting hygiene...

Acquisitions help Numico tap new markets

Europe's largest infant nutrition firm Royal Numico has announced a record 43.5 per cent profit rise, boosted by acquisitions in Asian and Southern European markets.

Bacteriophage production begins in Netherlands

A Netherlands-based company will begin producing bacteria that can be used to kill pathogens in meat and cheese products.

Guidance: Communicating with immigrant workers

A guidance document on communicating with immigrant workers in the food and drink industry could help managers improve plant safety.

Food industry urges caution on biofuel promotion plan

A plan to increase biofuel production could lead to an increase in prices for agricultural ingredients, in particular rapeseed, the bloc's food industry association warns in a position paper.

Liquid dairy packaging uses gas additive

A packaging method that uses a gas additive could help prolong the shelf life of liquid dairy products, its developer claims.

Public sceptical of food safety measures, survey finds

Do media such as FoodProductionDaily.com and others overly hype food safety issues to the public?

Grind and pump combined to mash and puree foods

A new machine combines grinding and pump operations in one unit, potentially reducing the overall cost of solids reduction processes.

UK beef supply resumes filling gap in continental shortage

From today beef processors in the UK can resume export trade with the rest of the EU, potentially leading to lower prices on the continent.

Weekly comment

Working at self-regulation

Self-regulation has become the mantra of food groups who argue that laws are not always necessary - but can industry be trusted when it has failed so spectacularly in the...

Dry aging using vacuum-packaging provides savings

Dry aging beef in a vacuum-packaging bag can provide savings without affecting the quality of the product compared to traditional methods, according to a research study.

Convenience, food safety driving smart packaging market

The market for smart packaging for food and beverage products using such technologies as radio frequency identification (RFID) will grow to $8.8 billion in 2013 from the current $160m, according...

Ethical sourcing boosts M&A activity in food sector

Mergers and acquisitions in Europe's food sector bounced back last year, boosted by increased activity at the top end of the market and the growing influence of ethical sourcing, according...

'Mild' form of bird flu spreads in UK, worker infected

Two more farms in the Norfolk area of the UK are now under quarantine as the country battles a milder form of the avian influenza virus.

US firm unveils ice cream vending machine

A newly developed vending machine in the US makes ice cream from scratch while you wait, shows how dairy firms are finding new ways to target consumer demand for convenience.

More benzene lawsuits hit soft drinks firms

More lawsuits have been filed against soft drinks firms alleging their drinks were contaminated with the cancer-causing chemical benzene above America's legal limit for drinking water.

Infusion pump uses rotary device for accurate measurement

A new pump for the medical industry could also be used by the food sector to ensure the hygiene and the accurate measurement of liquids, its inventors claim.

Insert pack designed for foods with two components

Superfos has added a "two-in-one" insert plastic pack to its offerings, catering to foods that need to be mixed together by the consumer.