Breaking News on Food Processing & Packaging

UK proposes CO2 labelling for products

In a bid to push processors and other manufacturers to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions, the UK government yesterday unveiled a proposal to put "carbon footprint" labels on all products.

EU report examines difference in minimum wage

A report outlining the wide differences in minimum wages across the EU, indicates the comparative advantages of setting up operations in one or another member state.

Agora's suppliers deliver to single point

Food processors supplying Agorà, one of Italy's largest retailers, will now have a single point of delivery for their products.

Danone spills details on Chinese Evian scare

Danone revealed yesterday that five containers of its Evian bottled water have been detained in China after failing quality control testing.

EU's chemicals law comes into effect

Europe's groundbreaking law requiring manufacturers and others to ensure that the chemicals they use are registered with a new regulator, comes into effect tomorrow.

Water treatment system cuts costs and risks

A new water treatment system can help food processors reduce costs and meet water safety regulations, its manufacturer claims.

Private BSE testing on hold following appeal

A federal court ruling allowing a meat processor to conduct its own tests for bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) is on hold following an appeal by the US Department of Agriculture (USDA).

Minimal processing increases produce pathogen risk, says study

Reduced processing of vegetables is more likely to lead to more pathogens being haboured in produce, according to a university study published this month.

Stanleco's moves indicate biodegradable market shakeup

Major setbacks for UK-based Stanleco over the past year serve as a warning that the road to riches in the bio-degradable and recyclable packaging market is not yet paved with gold.

Premium cocoa gets supply chain boost

Agricultural group Bioversity International has begun a new project on sustainable and organic farming - designed to benefit both producers of gourmet single-origin chocolate and cocoa farmers in Nicaragua.

Rivals increase pressure in Alcan takeover saga

Metals group Alcoa's proposed $33bn (€24bn) hostile takeover bid for rival Alcan is facing increasing opposition from a growing number of suitors who may themselves enter the race for the group.

UK injury rate highlights problems in worker safety

Despite the UK's efforts to improve worker safety in food and drink processing plants, the sector's injury rate remains twice that of the construction industry.

Stored goat's milk can make the grade, says study

Goat milk stored under refrigerated and sanitary conditions meets grade A standards for up to five days, according to a recent university study.

ERP software helps integrate order-to-cash process

A new version software designed for the food supply chain offers more functions to help integrate order-to-cash processes with external systems.

Fresh health fears hit benzoate in soft drinks

Common preservative sodium benzoate, widely used in soft drinks and other foods, is again at the centre of health concerns after research emerged linking it to cell damage.

Air hoist redesigned to EU safety standards

Ingersoll Rand has redesigned its oil-less air hoist to meet EU workplace safety standards aimed at preventing explosions.

Depositing system helps candy-makers tap into sugar-free market

Processing manufacturer Baker Perkins has developed a new depositing system specifically for sweet-makers targeting the healthier end of the market.

Ecolean continues Chinese sustainability cooperation

Swedish packager Ecolean is to extend its cooperation with Chinese dairy group Sanlu to improve sustainability in its packaging.

Temperature sensor built for rugged use

A new rugged temperature device is designed for high moisture environments, where the sensor is subject to continuous freeze and thaw cycles.

Slim metal detector ideal for small spaces

A new metal detector, designed for high speed packaging systems, is thin enough to fit into small spaces, its manufacturer claims.

Country-of-origin labeling is anti-import, claims industry body

Calls to implement mandatory country-of-origin labeling (COOL) are irresponsible, because the legislation is an anti-import law and not a food safety program, according to an influential US meat industry body.

Additive designed to strengthen biodegradable PLA

A new additive on the market can improve the performance of a biodegradable polymer used for food packaging, its manufacturer claims.

Bird flu infects two people in UK, tests confirm

Two people have been infected with the bird flu virus that has caused an outbreak on a farm in North Wales, tests have confirmed.

Court upholds decision ending Germany's packing monopoly

The European the Court of First Instance has upheld a European Commission ruling that ended monopolistic practices in the collection of packaging waste in Germany.

Packaging alliance cuts sourcing times

Packaging firm tna has joined forces with potato snack processing group Kiremko to broaden the remit of both firms and turn the businesses into a single processing and packaging powerhouse - reducing sourcing/procuring times for clients and offering a more comprehensive service.

Resin reduces shrinkage on film labels says manufacturer

A resin for shrink film labels can eliminate the "smiley face" distortions found in other competiting products, its manufacturer claims.

Processors called to arms in anti-biotic resistance battle

Food processing must play a role in preventing the evolutionary shifts that lead to bacterial antibiotic resistance, according to new research from the US.

World's processed cereals should all be fortified, expert

In the interest of global public health the world's cereals should be fortified with iron, says the senior nutritionist of a US-based non-profit health organisation.

FSA tightens cheese hygiene rules

Cheese processors in the UK have been handed tougher guidance on hygiene, following EU claims that the country's food safety authority was not doing enough to protect consumers.

Unilever eyes job cuts in France

Unilever is planning to cut up to 200 jobs in France in an effort to rebuild its business in the country.

Sauce cap boasts recycling potential

The manufacturer of a new headstand cap for sauce bottles claims its product is not only convenient but also good for the environment.

Researchers target Campylobacter phage

UK and Canadian researchers yesterday said they have joined forces to develop bacteria that can destroy Campylobacter, a pathogen responsible for millions of cases of food poisoning worldwide.

Lightweight pallet cuts costs, claims manufacturer

A new lightweight pallet on the market can help processors cut their transport costs and improve hygiene, according to its manufacturer.

Bulk wine imports slash carbon emissions, study

Wine firms can significantly reduce their carbon footprint by importing wine in bulk and bottling it in lighter glass, a new study from the UK says.

Tester determines oxygen permeability

A new machine can help processors test the barrier properties of packaging to ensure food products maintain their stated shelf life.

Bioactive paper packaging under development

A new bioactive packaging paper under development is designed to detect and kill any pathogens that are present in a food product.

Shipments to supermarket must use temperature device

US retailer, Albertsons, now requires its suppliers to use temperature monitoring devices on perishable food shipments to its distribution centers, which could force processors to invest in the technology.

Nanotechnology needs more regulation and funding

Regulations to oversee nanotechnology are needed to protect human health and the environment, according to a new report.

Barry Callebaut goes green with new biofuel energy source

Swiss chocolate firm Barry Callebaut is joining the ranks of environmentally-friendly businesses as it looks to 'greener' ways of powering its processing facilities in Wieze, Belgium.

Tracking system leverages existing Wi-Fi networks

A new tracking system leverages existing Wi-Fi technology to locate products and objects throughout the supply chain.

Module inspects sealing surface of glass bottles

A new machine attachment is designed to inspect the inside sealing surfaces of glass bottles for damage.

Companies face criminal penalties for illegal labour

The European Commission has proposed a series of sanctions - including criminal prosecution - against companies that continually break illegal labour laws.

Spray system can reduce chemical reliance

A new food contact surface cleaning system uses both ozone and antibacterial sprays to maintain hygiene in processing plants.

Processors, packagers prepare for new chemicals law

Packagers and manufacturers are gearing up for the EU's new regulation on chemicals, which comes into force 1 June.

Looking for reporter with engineer, food technologist background

Decision News Media is looking for a person with a background in mechanical engineering or food technology who would like to enter journalism as a full time career.

EU approves packaging size liberalisation

Companies will have the freedom to choose the size of packaging they use for most of their products under a new directive passed yesterday by EU member states.

New oxygen barrier film to enter biodegradable market

A new oxygen barrier film designed to offer a biodegradable alternative to existing packaging materials is undergoing testing as it moves towards commercialisation.

Nut consumers favour freshness

Consumers prioritise freshness and taste over appearance when it comes to selecting peanut products, according to a new UK study commissioned by the American Peanut Council (APC).

Machine provides multiple sleeving options

A new machine offers packagers a range of sleeving options, which can be used to improve container security and increase consumer appeal.

Cost cutting to influence packaging machine purchases

Cost cutting and a drive toward greater efficiency will lead manufacturers to demand more from their packaging machinery suppliers, according to an industry survey.

Cattle industry calls for country-of-origin labeling

The US cattle industry has called on Congress this week for funding to immediately implement mandatory country-of-origin labeling (COOL) for meat and produce.

Expanding US ethanol market provokes food price surge

Soaring corn prices due to the expanding US ethanol market have already driven US retail food prices up by $14 billion over the last year, claims a study by the Iowa State University Center for Agriculture and Rural Development.

Tetra Pak to produce caps in Russia

Sweden-based Tetra Pak will produce caps in Russia in a bid to move its supply chain closer to customers.

Weekly comment

Masterfoods and the vegetarianisation of food

Masterfoods' U-turn over its plan to reformulate its famous confectionery brands using animal-derived whey sets a precedent that will prevent any other food manufacturer from flying in the face of the global trend towards the vegetarianisation of our food.

Regulator steps up unlicensed labour investigations

The UK authority charged with regulating the temporary labour market has stepped-up investigations to find unlicensed operations.

UK to unveil new vocational qualifications to processors

A UK master-plan for a raft of 16 new vocational qualifications in food manufacturing will be unveiled to employers on 6 July.

Europeans weigh nanofood risks with benefits

Europeans are willing to buy foods produced, processed or packaged using nanotechnology techniques so long as they perceive the benefits, according to new research.

EU countdown to bird flu amendments continues

The European poultry industry has just six weeks left to prepare itself for new proposals designed to prevent the spread of H5N1 avian influenza into the food chain, the European Commission has warned.

Package pulls apart for convenience

A new confectionary packaging design allows consumers to pull it apart like a Christmas cracker and reveals one end of the product.

Ultrasonic spray dryer reduces overspray

A new range of spray dryers use a non-clogging ultrasonic atomising nozzle, which reduces overspray that can cause atmospheric contamination, the manufacturer claims.

UK waste reduction guide designed to help industry

A new UK guide designed to help retailers and processors cut down on packaging waste serves as an example for other EU companies.

Rising meat, grain prices put squeeze on supply chains

It may be a lucrative time for farmers, but the continuing boom in grain and meat prices will put the squeeze on plant managers to find ways to cut costs out of their supply chains.

Buhler develops flexible chocolate technology

Switzerland-based machinery manufacturer Buhler has developed a new cold stamping process to help chocolatiers increase production times, efficiency and flexibility without compromising on chocolate shell quality.

Melamine risk is very low for humans, says USDA

The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) has approved meat from swine fed on rations supplemented with pet food scraps containing melamine.

1,300 food incidents investigated in UK last year, says report

Over 1,300 food safety incidents were investigated by the UK Food Standards Agency (FSA) last year, according to a report published yesterday.

Bulgarian packager plans glass expansion

Bulgarian group Drujba is expected to undergo major expansion within its production capabilities over the coming year as part of moves to consolidate its position within Europe's glass packaging market, say news reports in the country.

Total Processing & Packaging Exhibition

Film targets biodegradable market

With the launch of an oil-based biodegradable film Natural Flexible has added to its portfolio, through which it hopes to conquer the emerging market.

Machine combines case packing and erecting

Combining two specialist functions into one is never easy, however two British companies say they have managed to put case packing and erecting into one compact machine.

Campina re-jigs dairy for added value future

Dutch dairy co-operative Campina has said it will close one factory and sell off another in order to free up more funds for added value cheese and milk, two sectors set to grow strongly in the EU.

Dairy Crest to shut milk facility

More consolidation is looming in UK dairy, after Dairy Crest said it may close its milk bottling and production factory in Totnes.

Future nanopackaging market worth billions, says study

As worldwide sales of nanotechnology-related products approached the $1bn (€739m)mark last year, the food packaging industry could be worth as much as $30bn (€22bn), according to a new study.

Coca-Cola settles in benzene lawsuit

Coca-Cola has reformulated two of its soft drinks in the US to halt a lawsuit alleging they may contain the cancer-causing chemical, benzene.

Pea protein seen as promising microencapsulator

Researchers in Brazil have identified pea protein as a possible novel encapsulator after results showed the protein capable of encapsulating vitamin E at high concentrations.

FDA to test food ingredients for melamine

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) said it will begin to inspect food manufacturing facilities and test protein ingredients following the recent news that the chemical melamine may have entered the human food chain.

Additive toughens biodegradable plastic, manufacturer claims

DuPont has launched a new polymer additive that strengthens bio-based polylactic acid (PLA) resin used for food and drink packaging.

Reusable containers to drive rigid packaging demand, says report

Larger, high-value, reusable containers will drive demand for rigid packaging by 3.5 per cent each year, reaching $6.6bn in 2011, according to a new report.

New technologies on display at UK exhibition

Emerging technologies such as radio frequency identification and the latest food industry equipment will be on display at a four-day exhibition beginning tomorrow in Birmingham.

FAO looks to organics for food security

Leading proponents of the benefits of organic agriculture put their heads together last week to discuss how organic methods could help preserve food security for the future.

Tna offers snack makers user-friendly bagging line

Packaging and processing giant tna is set to unveil a fully integrated packaging line - allowing snack makers to concurrently monitor several aspects of the production process - at the upcoming trade show Snackex.

Bottled water bad for environment, says report

Bottled water, one of the world's fastest growing beverages, faced fresh criticism this week for contributing towards increased packaging that ends up in landfill sites.

No split for food division says Unilever

The chairman of Unilever has this week hit out at claims that the group may divide into two separate entities for food and personal care production to boost its operations.

Industry needs to wake up to adulterated bilberry extracts

Bilberry extracts mixed with mulberry or black bean skins are reported to have hit the Japanese market and elsewhere, duping the industry into creating cheaper alternatives and undermining quality.

Milk bottle trial finds recycling best practice

A best practice for recycling plastic milk bottles - found to perform identically to those made from virgin resin - could reduce packaging waste sent to landfill sites, according to a government-funded recycling agency trial.

Indian scientists explore alternative edible oil sources

Scientists from India's Indian Institute of Technology have reported the potential of bahera as a novel source of edible oil to help the country make up its short-fall in supply.

Opinions split as FDA closes cloning comment period

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is set to process a multitude of opposing comments on its proposal to introduce products from cloned animals into the nation's food chain, which reveal that industry, scientists and consumers remain split on the controversial issue.

Microwave technology targets meat preparation

A new microwave tempering system can significantly enhance safety and performance within meat processing, its manufacturer claims.

Cryovac aims at convenience with vacuum packaging

A new type of self venting film packaging can be put directly in the microwave without the need to puncture the film.

Euro Freeze prosecuted for selling illegal meat

Euro Freeze (Ireland) has received a £13,000 (€19,000) fine after being prosecuted in a UK court for illegally putting false health certificates on meat products.

Premier on track with RHM integration

The UK's largest food processor, Premier Foods, has reiterated its financial expectations for the coming year.

EU customs agreement to cut out the paperwork

A new EU customs agreement in the making will cut out the paperwork and reduce the costs of importing and exporting goods, according to officials.

New technology makes beer green

Australian brewer Fosters is doing its bit to go green by adopting a new brewing technology that produces energy via waste products.

Biodegradable plastic to be produced from sugarcane

Metabolix yesterday said it had signed an agreement with Australia's sugar industry to produce biodegradable plastics from cane.

Arsenic, mercury levels in baby food below limit, says regulator

Baby food processors are breathing easier today after the UK industry regulator released a study showing that levels of arsenic and mercury in their products are below legal limits.

New seal system promises sustainability

With its latest seal technology, Ceetak hopes to meet the growing industry demand for reduced food packaging waste.

Anti-corrosive jackets designed to protect sensors

Banner Engineering has now put its sensors in jackets, allowing them to be used in wet and corrosive environments.

Regulators investigate China imports for melamine

EU regulators are investigating whether the banned chemical melamine has made its way into Europe's food and feed supply chain from China.

Politicians raise acrylamide scare in Holland

Politicians in Holland have called on government to set maximum consumption limits for acrylamide, potentially leading to legislation that would force processors to reduce the potential carcinogen in their products.

Analyser monitors oxygen levels in real time

A new analyser does the job of monitoring oxygen levels in food packages without having to take samples directly from the finished product.

New technology promotes green brewing

Australian brewer Fosters is doing its bit to go green by adopting a new brewing technology that produces energy via waste products.

Texture analyser helps improve quality

A new system that measures the texture of food could provide processors with results to improve the shelf life and taste of products, its manufacturer claims.

Weekly Comment

Ingredients for cheap?

As recent incidents of food contamination demonstrate, the cheapest source for ingredients may not turn out to be so cheap after all.

Rank consolidates ownership of SIG

Switzerland-based SIG gets a new board of directors today, as New Zealand investment group Rank Group Holdings consolidates its ownership of the company.

Air-conditioner offers round-the-clock protection

A new range air-conditioners offers processors continuous protection against air-borne contaminants, even when cooling operations are not in use, claims the manufacturer.

Alcoa makes bid for Alcan

Alcoa today announced $33bn (€24bn) hostile bid for Alcan in a move to consolidate two of the world's largest aluminium suppliers to the beverage and packing industries.

Imports irradiated abroad to increase

More irradiated products from abroad will become available to US processors following the arrival of the first shipment of mangoes treated in India.

Spining potato peeler improves yield and quality, manufacturer claims

A new potato peeler uses a centrifugal chamber to improve product control, which helps processors increase yield and reduce cleaning costs, its manufacturer claims.

Artificial 'snot' improves sensor smell say researchers

Artificial snot costing just a few extra euros greatly improves the performance of electronic odour sensors, according to new research.

Efficiency wrapped up in new labeller, says manufacturer

Sidel has launched a new machine that it claims will speed up the labelling of glass, plastics and metal containers.

News caps reduce error rate

A new range of closures reduces errors in the capping of beverages and other food products, according to the manufacturer.

UN researchers examine chlorine use in food manufacturing

An international research project will help set global standards controlling the use of active chlorine in food production and processing.

Commission rethinks hygiene amendment proposal

A European Commission proposal to exempt small businesses from part of the bloc's main hygiene rules has been sent back to the drawing board.

Neckbanders add tamper safety to drinks at high speed

A new range of high-speed shrinkbanders can add tamper evident wrapping to the necks of beverage containers with reduced changeovers, its manufacturer claims.

Tetra Pak invests millions in new research centres

Sweden-based Tetra Pak will invest €32.6m in two new centres in Lund to develop new processing and packaging equipment for food and drink manufacturers.

Gas makes the difference in chocolate processing

The type of gas used in making chocolate can have a dramatic effect on taste and texture, say researchers from Nestlé.

Shake sterilisation technology licenced in US

A shaking machine to rapidly sterilise canned foods while minimising a loss of quality is now available for sale in the US.

Cartoner performs three functions in one

A new modular system - designed to form, fill and close trays and cartons - eliminates the need for three machines, its manufacturer claims.

Sensor provides multiple hygiene readings

A new handheld sensor that provides multiple environmental conditions in a single report helps processors comply with food safety regulations, its manufacturer claims.

EU funds nano packaging research

UK supermarket chain Sainsbury's is part of an EU-funded project to develop biodegradable packaging using nanotechnology.

Whey proteins used to create biodegradable packaging

Whey produced by the dairy industry could have added value as a prime ingredient in the next wave of biodegradable packaging and other materials, according to new research.

EFSA seeks cloned animal studies

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has called on industry and other groups to submit scientific information as part of its review on cloned meat.

How Arla side-stepped the EU feta ruling

EU laws to protect regional foods do not necessarily spell the end for copycat products, as Arla Foods has shown with its Danish 'feta' cheese brand.

RFID standard passes shipping test

A new international standard for radio frequency identification technology (RFID) has passed the first test, according to the results of a pilot project tracking containers between Hong Kong and Japan.

FDA instructs inspectors to detain Chinese ingredients

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has ordered inspectors to detain foods from China if they suspect the imports are contaminated with the banned chemical melamine.

US to Japan beef export inspections to ease

Entire shipments of US beef to Japan will no longer be inspected if meat processing plant inspections satisfy visiting officials.