Breaking News on Food Processing & Packaging

EU proposal to allow chicken imports faces opposition

A European Commission proposal announced this week to lift a ban on chicken imports rinsed with chemicals has been met with opposition by MEPs.

Study links milk farm chemical input to nutrient kick

Lower input non-organic and organically produced milk has been found to contain significantly higher levels of beneficial fatty acids, vitamins and antioxidants compared to higher chemical use sources, a new UK study claims.

Fuel costs must be swallowed by manufacturers - hauliers

As truck drivers from around the UK gathered in London to protest against rising fuel prices this week, a leading haulage group claims that food manufacturers, and consumers should bare the brunt of rising costs.

Processor installs whey testing to aid customer development

Niro has installed it latest whey ingredient technology at its Copenhagen testing site in a bid to aid manufacturer development and marketing of new product compositions from the protein.

New resin can help processors achieve sustainability, says Nova

A new resin for use in high density polyethylene (HDPE) film packaging applications provides costs savings through higher moisture resistance and stiffness while using less film, its manufacturer claims.

Bottled water brands face point-of-use pressure

Despite their dominance within the market, Bottled water manufacturers are coming increasingly under pressure from point-of-use (POU) water suppliers amidst recent environmental criticism of the industry, according to a new report.

Ireland initiative helps reduce packaging

The Irish food industry and the Department of Environment have together launched a training initiative to achieve a reduction in packaging amid growing environmental concerns.

Food prices will fall but remain above average, OECD/FAO

The OECD and FAO have today released their Agricultural Outlook for 2008 to 2017: Food prices will come down as temporary factors are resolved, but longer-term factors will cause them to settle above past averages.

Equipment synergy ensures rapid sauce processing times, claim firms

Pursuit Dynamics and Air Products claim that a new cooperation amalgamating their respective cooking and chilling technologies into a single line production unit can reduce cold fill sauce production time.

Packager toasts Euro PET wine potential

Plasmax, a manufacturer of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottle coatings, says that while it has not yet made its latest size applications available in Europe, it expects growing potential for the product within the bloc.

Further uncertainty predicted for dairy markets

Global uncertainty over the price of milk and other dairy ingredients looks set to continue to compound processor fears, according to new findings published this week by UK association DairyCo.

Heavy borrowing and investment hurting UK firms, says study

Heavy borrowing linked to an ambitious investment strategy has left some of the largest UK food processors in severe financial difficulty, claims a new report.

New yeast extract helps cut salt in non-cheesy sauces

Synergy is introducing a new variant of its Saporesse lactic yeast extract, which is said to extend salt reduction possibilities to a broader range of food categories.

Wrigley takeover renews pressure on Hershey

Last month's surprise takeover of gum maker Wrigley by confectionery giant Mars has led to renewed speculation over the future of arch rival Hershey.

Heinz to use potato peels to help cut energy costs

US-based food producer Heinz has unveiled ambitious plans to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 20 per cent by 2015 by using energy generated from potato peel.

New sucralose supplier enters European market today

Food makers to see alternative supplies for sucralose as new manufacturer for this booming sweetener hits European markets for the first time, launching today in Amsterdam.

EU project to provide bacteria-testing systems for fruit

Researchers are close to completing their EU-funded work on developing an appropriate sensor system to screen for lactic acid-producing bacteria (LAB) in fruit juices.

Sodium benzoate removed from Diet Coke

Coca-Cola is phasing out the use of the controversial additive sodium benzoate in Diet Coke on the back of consumer demand for more natural products.

EU moves to restrict Ukrainian sunflower oil imports

The European Commission has set tough import standards for Ukrainian sunflower oil following the recent discovery that some products were contaminated.

Event to answer tough questions on biodegradability, says organisers

Tough questions on the central issue of biodegradability will be answered at a plastics packaging conference in Prague next month, claims the event organiser.

DMV makes global launch of non-HVO topping

DMV is formally launching its new vegetable-derived base for toppings, Aerion DP 90, on a global basis, billed it as a healthy alternative for dairy cream toppings that does not come with a compromise on taste and texture compromise.

Exter eyes geographical, product expansion in the mid-term

Dutch flavour firm Exter is considering investing in new production facilities in the US or Asia in the years to come, and may also expand its product offering to other ingredients that impact on savoury flavour.

Cost saving BASF plastic now suitable for blow moulding

BASF's tough and transparent styrene-butadiene copolymer can now be used as a cost-effective plastic for blow moulding, according to recent internal research.

Weekly comment

The GSK weight loss wake-up call

GlaxoSmithKline's petition to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to ban dietary supplements from making weight loss claims, has opened a cupboard and only the deluded would deny the presence of one or two skeletons rattling around in there.

New anti-theft tag for food packaging

A new anti-theft tag can be inserted into the packaging of moist, fresh products such as cheese and meat to reduce the percentage of stolen produce in retail outlets, according to developers Sealed Air Cryovac and Checkpoint Systems.

Make additive removal usual for hyperactive kids, says professor

Cutting out colours and preservatives from the diets of hyperactive children should be standard part of dealing with the disorder, says a professor who takes a more stringent view than the FSA following the Southampton study publication.

Hire deals boost business for UK equipment firm

The equipment hire facility from heat-sealing machinery supplier Packaging Automation is proving popular with both first-time users of tray sealing technology and food processors that are developing new product lines, claims the company.

Conveyor belt designed for hygiene needs

A new conveyor belt designed specifically for food manufacturing allows for more user-friendly maintenance without reducing the product's strength, its manufacturer says.

Process development targets dairy cholesterol cutting

A proprietary processing development for natural dairy-based ingredients can offer a lower cholesterol alternative to regular milk, while maintaining the same taste profile, according to its manufacturer.

Whey industry hoping for innovative future

Whey's days as being viewed as a simple by-product of food manufacturer appear to be over as the industry increasingly looks to tap into the potential health and functional benefits of the protein.

News briefs: Britvic results and glacial bottled water

This week, Britvic posts it half-year results and a Norwegian bottled water brand hits the UK market.

Sausage sensor designed for metal detection

A new metal detection technology for sausage manufacturing can ensure improved safety and quality within a product even in harsh meat processing environments, according to its manufacturer.

Paragon achieves green certification

Paragon Print and Packaging, which manufactures and supplies optimised permeable films for fresh and chilled food sectors, has been accredited with three responsible packaging certifications.

Ulrick & Short launches non-allergenic glaze for baked goods

Ulrick & Short's ready to use Eziglaze for bakery products offers a clean label alternative to egg- and milk-based ready-to-use glazes, and can help a baker's bottom line, according to the company.

Sugar and currencies blamed for Tate & Lyle profit drop

Tate & Lyle has reported an 11 per cent drop in pre-tax profits to £244m (c €307.3m) for full year 2008, a result of troubles in international sugar trading and inclement exchange rates.

Acquisitions pay off for Frutarom

Frutarom has seen the benefits of its seven acquisitions of 2007 on its profits in its Q1 results, and is pledging to keep profits on an even keel by adjusting selling prices in line with raw material costs.

Candy Expo highlights gourmet, premium and organic products

The All Candy Expo currently taking place in Chicago is highlighting gourmet, premium and organic products, which organisers say is the fastest growing segment in the confectionery and snack market.

Tetra Pak invests in Italian packaging materials plant

Tetra Pak is stumping up €26m for an upgrade of its Italian packaging materials plant that will significantly increase its printing and lamination capacity, and boost the quality and speed of its service.

US group denies wrongdoing amidst milk price uncertainty

A leading US dairy cooperative has denied any wrongdoing over allegations that it may be involved in price fixing for some of its products, as yet another country finds its dairy markets under scrutiny.

News briefs: UK food equipment manufacturers form US alliances

Two UK food processing and packaging equipment manufacturers, Wright Machinery and Double D Food Engineering, are to join forces with US companies to extend their global reach.

Show to address soft drink and beer supply issues

The challenges facing raw material sourcing across the beverage market will be on of the key focuses for the Drinktec 2009 trade show set to place next September in Munich, according to its organisers.

Trade deficit means UK to suffer under rising food costs

The UK is badly positioned to cope with rising food prices because of its trade deficit causing concerns of a recession, according to a report by Ernst & Young.

Robotics a solution to global challenge, says CenFRA

Robotics and automation will help food processors offset higher raw material and energy costs, claims the Centre for Food Robotics and Automation (CenFRA), as it prepares to open its new site in Doncaster, Northern England this week.

News briefs: FSA bakery action

This week, the UK's Food Standards Agency (FSA) announces a review of initiatives for salt reduction that could have a significant impact on baking, while one muffin manufacturer initiates a recall on some of its products over ingredient concerns.

Software systems target integrated distribution needs

A new software distribution system for food and beverage manufacturers combines the latest software and development tools with in-depth industry knowledge to improve operational efficiency, according to its manufacturer.

Danisco aims to adapt to US cultures

Danisco is expanding the range of yoghurt cultures available to its US customers in order to exploit impressive growth within the market.

Natural beverage quality certification extended

An international certification program for mineral water has been extended to allow manufacturers of natural functional drinks and mineral waters to support quality and safety claims on their labels, its developer says.

FDA throws Lifeway lifeline after line closures

Lifeway Foods, a major processor of cream cheese and seafood products, has been ordered by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to close down two of it production lines over alleged hygiene and labelling concerns.

Adhesive meets standard for biodegradability

BioTAK S100 adhesive, developed by UK company Berkshire Labels for its BioTAK label range, has been accredited with the biodegradable and compostable packaging standard EN13432, following a two-year testing period.

Institute proposes policies to tackle food prices

Tackling the global food crisis requires emergency measures, including a possible freeze on grain-based biofuels - and a longer-term strategy to secure supply for the future and establish global trade systems, says institute.

ADM Cocoa starts supply of organic chocolate ingredients in UK

ADM Cocoa has introduced new procedures in its cocoa facilities in the UK so as to be able to supply a new range of certified organic chocolate to its food industry customers.

Sonoco committed to cereal box innovation

US-based Sonoco says it is considering expanding its most recent developments in cereal packaging for manufacturers around the world.

Arla UK deal targets process push

European cooperative Arla Foods says it will form a new joint venture with its UK arm to step up investment in its processing operations within the country.

Bericap expands light weight plastic closure range

Bericap's range of light weight closures save their customers money and offer a greener alternative, according to the company.

Mars to tap gas emissions to power plant

Mars Snack Foods initiated a project this week that enables it to tap emissions from the city landfill to power two furnaces that create steam for the plant's operations in Waco, Texas.

Sustainability key to bottling line design, says Sidel

Sustainability issues are the drivers behind the new lightweight PET bottling line and robotic palletizing equipment from Sidel, claims the company.

Nitrate additives may protect stomachs from ulcers

Nitrites and nitrates, much maligned additives in processed and cured meats, may help protect the stomach from damage, suggests research from Sweden.

Legislative round-up

The UK's food agency highlights how industry could make cost savings in the event of food scares, and provides details about labeling of food allergens

Developing a sustainable food supply for Scotland

Striking the right balance between environmental, economic and social factors in developing a sustainable food supply was the focus of a symposium held in Edinburgh earlier this week.

Online tool launched to address wine maker carbon concerns

The Wine and Spirit Trade Association (WSTA) will next week launch a new online tool is says will allow the industry to better assess how much of environmental impact transportation has on their operations.

DuPont, Danisco join forces for non-food ethanol

A new joint venture by DuPont and Danisco aims to develop what could be the first large-scale non-food ethanol production, which could lighten the pressure of biofuels on the food industry.

Bakery industry event to focus on sustainability

Sustainability in the bakery industry will be the focus of an event to take place next month in the UK, which aims to bring together ingredients makers as well as manufacturers of finished products.

Software developed for beer keg protection

Brewers can now reduce the risk of having to replace lost, stolen and misplaced beer kegs that can significantly push up their costs, according to the manufacturer of a new traceability solution for the industry.

New time-saving environmental monitoring software

A new server-client software application targeted at the biotechnology and food manufacturing industries will make the job of input, storage and processing of environmental monitoring results easier and less time consuming, claims its developer.

News focus: The sustainable future of packaging

Green success requires sustainable consumers

In the final part of our series on major developments at this year's Interpack trade show in Dusseldorf, Germany, BeverageDaily.com examines the threats and challenges to non-renewable packaging like aluminium.

New label applicator offers optional RFID encoding

Weber has modified its label printer applicator for the food and drinks industry to ensure maximum flexibility and versatility for end users as well as offering optional radio frequency identification (RFID) technology encoding.

EFSA assesses turkey meat salmonella threat

About one third of EU turkey flocks designated for human consumption were found to contain some presence of salmonella between 2006 and 2007, according to new findings by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).

Rumours suggest no need for nano regulations

Forthcoming advice will be against establishing regulations specific to nanotechnology, suggest rumours circulating in the political press.

Premier recovers commodity costs through price rises

Premier Foods, the maker of Hovis bread, reports 'good progress' in recovering commodity inflation as price increases passed onto retailers offset high ingredient costs.

Consumer awareness of Fairtrade increases, says survey

Recent research commissioned by the Fairtrade Foundation suggests that the UK public is increasingly aware of Fairtrade chocolate.

Risk tool from Commission detects aflatoxin in food supply chain

European food industry must continue its crack down on food safety as the European Commission identifies six food alerts in just seven days.

Demand for sustainable packaging solutions boosting rPET

Post consumer recycled material (PCR) derived from recycled PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) bottles is fast replacing the polymer polypropylene in the rigid plastics packaging market, claims Finnish packaging firm Huhtamaki.

Multipurpose milk tester designed for high-speed analysis

The development of a new testing device for milk products allows for rapid analysis of a variety of different factors without compromising accuracy, according to its manufacturer.

Weekly comment

Innovation: the fast before the feast

Last week's Vitafoods trade show highlighted a drop in ingredient innovation with many companies placing the blame at the door of Europe's evolving health claims legislation.

Nordsons coating gauge proves popular with can makers

A new gauge for measuring the thickness of coatings on metal packaging was launched at last week's MetPack show in Essen, Germany.

Diamant to test biodegradability of plastic additive

Diamant is teaming up with leading bottling companies in North America to carry out further tests on the use of its oxo biodegradation technology in the manufacture of PET (polyethylene terephthalate) plastic bottles.

EU seeks further safety advice on GMOs

The European Commission remains cautious over genetically modified organisms (GMOs), returning to its safety advisors for a third time for a verdict on three biotech products.

Green trend will boost RFID uptake

The trend towards greener packaging that is more easily recycled could boost sales of radio frequency identification (RFID) technology, a global trade association has suggested.

News focus: The sustainable future of packaging

Labels still a sticking point for bioplastics

In the second part of our look back series on major developments at this year's Interpack trade show in Dusseldorf, Germany, BeverageDaily.com examines the importance of reforming labelling on bio-packaging to the industry.

Wrigley Poland adopts pallet tracking solution

Wrigley Poland has adopted a WI-FI RFID pallet tracking solution designed to optimise the efficiency of the production process by reducing losses in time and material.

MEPs vote for ban on unnecessary colours for kids

Sweeteners and colourings in food aimed at children should be banned, while additives ought to be used in other products only if they provide an advantage to the consumer, said the EU Environment Committee.

FDA looks to improve safety with 1,300 new staff

The US Food & Drug Administration (FDA) is beginning a multi-year hiring scheme that could ease strain on its ability to react in times of crisis, though the initiative does not likely go far enough for detractors both within and outside the agency who say it is dangerously under funded.

Brussels hosts long anticipated GM debate

The approval process of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and the future of three GM products are up for discussion today by the European Commission.

DSM launches integrated approach to egg industry

Dutch food ingredients company DSM is stepping up its focus on the egg industry, promising reduced costs for companies that use its full range of products packaged in an integrated 'Total Concept'.

News briefs: Green packaging initiatives

Pepsi reduces plastic in 500ml non-carbonated beverage bottle, Earthcycle expands its fresh produce compostable packaging line and the Reusable Pallet & Container Coalition changes its name to Reusable Packaging Association.

News focus: The sustainable future of packaging

The coming of age for bio-based plastics

In the first part of a look back at major developments at this year's Interpack trade show in Dusseldorf, Germany, BeverageDaily.com examines the challenges facing the emergence of bioplastics in consumer packaging.

Label maker co-operation seeks traceability boost

A supplier of sensory labels designed for use on food and other consumer goods says it will team up with a traceability provider in a bid to offer processors heightened safety during distribution.

Pregnancy group call for BPA labels over bottle fears

The use of Bisphenol A (BPA) in bottles and other food packaging continues to stir controversy, with calls this week from a UK-based pregnancy charity for mandatory labelling of the chemical when present in packs.

Create makes true-to-life ginger flavour

Create Flavours has launched the first in a new range of natural 'fresh' spice flavours - ginger that is said to replicate the warm, authentic taste of the real spice.

Packaging chemicals found in breast milk, says study

Chemicals found in food packaging and other products appear to be transferred by nursing mothers to their babies via breast milk, researchers have found.

EU, Ukraine take action against contaminated sunflower oil

All necessary measures have been taken to remove the contaminated Ukrainian sunflower oil imported into Europe in recent weeks from the market, says the European Commission.

Weekly comment

Adjusting to Mars' centre stage ambitions

While in the Hollywood stratosphere, it seems that you are not anyone these days unless you're a duo, in the glamorous world of food manufacture, the team-up route to success may not be quite as simple.

BioGaia tie-up brings new twist to Life Top Cap

Swedish probiotics supplier and technology developer BioGaia has signed a deal with one of the world's biggest cap makers to bring its Life Top ingredient-delivering cap to market.

Peanut allergy gone within five years?

Genetically modified plants or immunotherapy may eliminate allergies to peanut within five years, suggests a prominent scientist from Duke University.

Merck warned by FDA over vaccine plant failings

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has sent Merck & Co a warning letter saying it has failed to correct a number of manufacturing deficiencies at its main vaccine manufacturing plant in West Point, Pennsylvania.

Citrus essential oils could be anti-fungal additives for food

Essential oils from citrus like mandarins and lemon could be natural anti-fungal agents for food, tapping into the search for natural alternatives to synthetics, suggests new research from Spain.

Suppliers express concern about climate change regulations

The vast majority of large suppliers fear the impact of greenhouse gas regulations on their businesses, according to a survey by the Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP).

EFSA to review BPA advice on the back of US, Canadian concerns

EFSA has undertaken to review its previous advice on safe levels of bisphenol A (BPA) in food packaging and provide updates on its deliberations, following new assessments from Canada and the US.

Fritsch flags new filler for baked goods

Fritsch launched its new filling machine for baked goods at Interpack this week, with design innovations including an integrated control cabinet and improvements on accuracy and hygiene.

Drink pouches opened up for wider food pack push

While most famous for producing the pouch packaging of its parent company's Capri Sun fruit drinks, Wild Indag is continuing to work on extending the packaging for use in various food applications, targeting environmental and convenience benefits.