Breaking News on Food Processing & Packaging

EFSA opinions give Monsanto new Euro confidence

The European Food Safety Authority has issued positive opinions on the safety of Monsanto’s MON 810 corn trait and Roundup Ready 2 corn product, giving the firm confidence that Europe could become more accepting of genetic modification.

Review finds no effect of soy on testosterone

A review of 15 studies into the influence of soy proteins or isoflavones on male hormones has found no evidence of an estrogen-like effect.

E.coli contamination confirmed in Nestle dough

Nestle USA has expressed concern and regret after US food authorities finally confirmed the bacterium E.coli H7:157 had been detected in its Toll House refrigerated cookie dough.

Tetra Pak announces global launch of chilled liquid dairy products carton

Tetra Pak has announced the global launch of a carton for chilled liquid dairy products that it says is cost effective, facilitates stackability and boasts user-friendly features for consumers.

Key packaging, paper and forestry companies rack up huge losses on recession woes

A global cluster of the top 100 companies from the packaging, paper and forest industry saw their collective returns slump from profits reaching $14bn in 2007 to a record loss of $8bn in 2008.

FDA complaint filed for Bayer selenium cancer claims

In the next episode of the recent selenium saga, a formal complaint was yesterday filed with the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requesting that the agency seize stocks of Bayer vitamins for making misleading prostate cancer health claims.

Animal fats linked to pancreatic cancer: Study

Researchers have linked high intake of fat from red meat and dairy products with increased risk of pancreatic cancer, in a study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute.

Global food safety drive hitting smaller companies, developing nations - UN

Food companies in developing countries may face being squeezed out of the market by the proliferation of public and private food safety standards, a report by the United Nations will spell out this week.

High phthalate levels correlated with low birth weight in newborns, says study

Exposure to certain phthalates in the womb could be linked to low birth weight, according to researchers in China.

JBS-Swift expands beef recall on E.coli fears

US-based company JBS-Swift Beef Co has expanded its recall of beef to over 421,000 pounds (191 tonnes) due to possible E.coli 0157:H7 contamination after reports linked 18 illnesses to consumption of its meat.

Weekly comment

Confusion reigns in cosmeceutical name game

The term cosmeceutical has always been controversial, but the blurring boundaries between the worlds of nutrition and cosmetics are highlighting divisions that neither industry can ignore.

News in brief

Plainview recalls two years’ worth of milk products

Plainview Milk Products Cooperative of Minnesota has issued a recall of all the instant nonfat dried milk, whey protein, fruit stabilizers, and gums that it has manufactured over the past two years, due to possible salmonella contamination.

EFSA questions safety of mineral forms

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has issued negative safety opinions on forms of calcium, magnesium, iron, chromium and selenium for use in food supplements.

EU loses patience with UK over differences in irradiated food regulations

European Union officials have issued a second warning to the UK over its failure to come into line with rules governing imports of irradiated food from third countries.

Toxic chemical in plastic pallets could be leaching into food, says group

The use of plastic pallets containing the chemical decabromodiphenyl ether (Deca) that are used to ship, cool and store fruit and vegetables should be halted on safety grounds, a US environmental organisation has said.

New UK packing guide provides companies with legal and best practice advice

The UK Food Standards Agency (FSA) has issued a comprehensive new guide that helps food packaging companies comply with legislation as well as providing advice on best practice.

News in brief

EC agrees to explore GM opt-out proposal

The European Commission has agreed to draw up a list of options for further discussion after 11 countries urged that individual nations be allowed to opt out of growing genetically modified (GM) crops.

Consumers sue Nestle, but FDA still baffled

One week on from Nestle’s recall of its Toll House cookie dough, the source of an E. coli strain that has sickened 69 people across 29 states still has FDA officials baffled, but lawsuits have already been filed.

Water inefficiency costing UK food and drink companies up to ₤160,000 a day - report

Food and drink producers in the UK may be pouring up to ₤160,000 a day down the drain by failing to maximise the potential for water efficiency, according to Envirowise.

Taxing new plastic would increase use of recycled material, says chemist

Taxing virgin PET is one of the best ways to get companies to move over to using recycled material for plastic packaging, according to a green chemist.

Bar product distribution station increases plant efficiency, says company

Flexibility, cost effectiveness and ease of access for cleaning and maintenance all mean the latest distribution station from Sigpack Systems is designed to boost overall plant efficiency, said the company.

Coke opens two plants as part of $2bn Chinese investment

Coca-Cola has opened two bottling plants in central and western China as it attempts to cope with booming demand across one of its largest and fastest growing markets.

Young nano scientist scoops €10,000 DSM award

Alexandra Teleki, PhD, yesterday won the southern section of DSM’s annual science awards for young European scientists, claiming a €10,000 prize above 11 other finalists for her nanotechnology research.

Use of bisphenol A threatening companies' shareholder value, says investor coalition

A coalition of investors has warned the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) that continued use of bisphenol A (BPA) in packaging may threaten the shareholder value of food and beverage companies.

Consumer confidence in food manufacturers plunges, says survey

New research from the United States suggests that consumer confidence in food companies has plummeted after less than one in five said they trusted firms to develop and sell healthy products.

News in brief

Nestle joins group to sponsor bioplastics research for food packaging

Nestle has signed up to a joint venture to sponsor research into bioplastics with the aim of developing materials adapted to the food packaging segment on a large scale

Sainsbury’s to ditch cereal boxes as part of packing reduction drive

UK supermarket Sainsbury’s has unveiled plans to scrap cereal boxes in favour of plastic bags in a bid to cut down of food packaging.

Transparency meeting: What’s behind FDA enforcement, asks industry

Enforcement action by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is a key area where more open communication with industry is necessary, the agency will hear today during a public meeting on transparency.

FSA to investigate anecdotal aspartame reactions

The UK’s Food Standards Agency (FSA) is seeking individuals who believe they have suffered a reaction to aspartame to take part in a pilot study.

New EU regulation on authorising food from cloned animals sparks heated debate

EU chiefs have been criticised for approving a draft regulation on food from cloned animals that could “keep options open” for its eventual authorisation in the region, claimed opponents.

New filling head for carbonator filler

Improved capacity and flexibility are the benefits claimed for the new FT104X counter-pressure filling station from Armfield.

Organic dairy brand launches UK’s first recycled yogurt pot

The first fully recyclable dairy pots have been launched by Rachel’s, a leading UK premium organic dairy brand.

New high speed printing system promises production boost for HFFS lines

Increased production throughput and positioning versatility to minimize changeovers are claims made by the manufacturers for a printing system for horizontal-form-fill-seal (HFFS) and IV forming machines.

News in brief

EU extends radiation checks on food tainted after Chernobyl

Plans to extend radioactivity checks on food imported from areas affected by the Chernobyl disaster because of ongoing nuclear contamination have been announced by the European Union.

US food industry enlisted in the battle to curb obesity

Top US nutrition experts together with health organizations and leading doctors have joined forces to ask President Barack Obama to combat obesity by creating a Presidential Commission on Healthy Weights, Healthy Lives.

Maple Leaf backs food safety overhaul after Canadian listeria probe

Maple Leaf Foods, the Canadian company responsible for last year’s listeria crisis that killed 22, has backed recommendations from a parliamentary committee to overhaul the country’s food safety system.

New screw cap for edible oil industry

Designed specifically for the edible oil industry, the SK 110/37 screw cap closure improves the safety and sealability of big mouth PET containers, claims its manufacturer Bericap, based in Germany.

Nestle USA recalls all raw dough products on E.coli contamination fears

Nestle USA has issued a voluntary recall of its Toll House refrigerated cookie dough amid fears that it may be contaminated with the bacteria E.coli 0157:H7.

EU proposal for national opt-outs on GM crops

A proposal to allow individual countries in the European Union to opt out of growing genetically modified (GM) crops is to be tabled this week at a top-level meeting at the European Commission.

EU omega-3 levels must be higher, say UK academics

It will be too easy for omega-3 bearing functional foods to make content claims under a proposed amendment to European nutrition and health claims rules, according to UK researchers.

Credit squeeze key concern for food makers, OECD report

Prices for key commodities used by food manufacturers may have eased since their peaks last year, but the cost of cereals and vegetable oils in the near term will remain far higher than pre-2008, projects the OECD.

Thin wall packing performance boost as Borealis upgrades plant

Converters of thin-walled packaging will be able to increase line speeds as well as cut back on material and energy consumption thanks to improvements at its Austrian plastics plant, said Borealis

BPA causes reproductive health defects at levels currently considered safe - study

Bisphenol A (BPA) causes significant reproductive health effects at levels equivalent to or below the dose that that has been thought not to produce any adverse results, new research has said.

Plastic and paperboard big winners in China beverage packing growth

Rising income levels in China will fuel a robust growth in demand for beverage containers in the country over the next three years, a recent report has said.

News in brief

ConAgra processing plant to reopen in August

The ConAgra food processing plant devastated by an explosion earlier this month will not resume production until August while its packaging section will be shuttered until further notice, the firm revealed.

UK drive to recycle non-bottle household plastic packing launched

A new multi-million pound scheme to kick start the recycling of non-bottle household plastic packaging has been launched in the UK by the Waste & Resources Action Programme (WRAP).

Dairy growth highlights future packaging challenges: Report

Dairy product sales in the US have continued to rise during 2008, defying higher prices for consumers and creating a number of challenges and opportunities for packagers in the future, according to a new report.

Husky targets quicker, lighter closure process

A beverage packaging manufacturer claims its latest development in high output closures can ensure more rapid processing without comprising quality or consistency.

MRSA infected foods safe to eat, says EFSA

The superbug meticillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is able to infect food but eating or handling tainted produce does not present an increased health hazard to humans, a new report has said.

RPC Group posts ₤7.7m loss on financial crisis and high polymer prices

RPC Group has cited the global recession, record high polymer prices and implementation of a sweeping rationalisation programme as major factors behind it posting a net loss of ₤7.7m in 2008/09.

EFSA approves calcium forms for supplements use

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has found some calcium, magnesium and potassium forms are bioavailable and safe for use in food supplements.

News in brief

Processing firm to cut 95 jobs as demand shifts

Meat processor 2 Sisters Food Group has announced it is to cut almost 100 jobs at a plant in Scotland.

Organizations oppose new food safety bill

The Food Safety Enhancement Act has been broadly welcomed by industry but a group of organizations has issued a letter to the relevant committee voicing strong opposition to several of the bill’s provisions.

UK listeria cases soar as over 60s ignore “use by” dates

Incidents of listeria in the UK have doubled over the past decade as research reveals elderly people are more likely to expose themselves to the bacteria by eating food beyond its “use by” date.

Attorney general slams companies over apparent plot to blur BPA dangers

A host of packaging and food giants have been condemned by a leading US law official for apparently plotting to use deceptive and illegal fear tactics to blur the truth about the dangers of bisphenol A (BPA).

High Tech Food Processors Win IFT Innovation Awards

Three out of four companies which won an Innovation Award at the Institute of Food Technologists’ Annual Meeting and Food Expo in Anaheim, California, were recognized for their food processing inventions.

Summit shows EU health claims change not coming, says ERNA

Shane Starling met with Patrick Coppens, the secretary general of the European Responsible Nutrition Alliance (ERNA), after the European Food Safety Authority’s (EFSA) article 13.5 and 14 health claim stakeholders meeting on Monday in Brussels.

Wild looks to maximise chocolate-fruit filling potential

A supplier of fillings for confectionery goods says that it is can now allow manufacturers to maximise fruit content in their chocolate products without compromising functionality or regulatory approval.

Food safety rules and costs threaten nano science benefits

Over restrictive federal regulation of nano science should not be allowed to strangle the benefits the technology could bring to food safety, quality and availability, warns William Norwood, president nanoAgri Systems.

Tetra Pak to seek immediate talks with government after Chavez counterfeiting threat

Tetra Pak has said it will seek immediate talks with the Venezuelan Government after the country’s president threatened to counterfeit its packaging goods in a bid to save money.

News in brief

Viterra says acquisition to strengthen food processing presence

Viterra has said its takeover of a Manitoba canola crusher will boost its position in the domestic food processing industry.

CoQ10 may boost sperm quality: Study

Supplements of co-enzyme Q10 (CoQ10) may improve the motility and density of sperm in infertile men, according to a new study using Kaneka’s ingredient.

Bunge shuts salmonella-tainted canola plants

Bunge has closed two canola meal processing plants in Canada after the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) found shipments to the US were contaminated with salmonella, the company said on Friday.

EFSA reviews guidance on transport of edible fats and oils

The European Food Safety Authority has reviewed the criteria for the bulk transport of edible oils and fats and made two recommendations for change.

Weekly comment

IFT '09: In defence of trade shows

As the dust settles on another IFT the absence of several big players has left some questioning the relevance of trade shows in the 21st Century.

Chavez threat to disregard 'capitalist' patents could hit Tetra Pak

Packaging companyTetra Pak could become the next corporate giant to suffer at the hands of Venezuelan president Hugo Chavez after he questioned the validity of patented products.

Big hopes for EFSA’s big health claim day

Shane Starling reports from the European Food Safety Authority’s (EFSA) much anticipated industry stakeholders’ meeting about health claims in Brussels today.

European Commission to give 4-methylbenzophenone the ‘all clear’

The chemical 4-methylbenzophenone (4MBP) poses no long-term health risk at currently reported levels and is likely to be given the all clear by the European Commission (EC).

Affordable wet environment checkweight to boost ROI, says firm

An affordable checkweight designed specifically for smaller packaging lines for wet environments that enhances return on investment (ROI) has been developed, said its manufacturers.

Questions and confusion as “best before” label debate intensifies

Industry experts and the UK food safety watchdog have been assessing and clarifying the implications of the government’s much-discussed announcement to overhaul the food labelling date system.

Fee compromise eases US food safety bill to next stage

The bill designed to overhaul the failing US food safety system took a major step forward this week after a compromise over industry fees was reached.

No risk in short term from 4-methylbenzophenone, says EFSA

The short-term consumption of breakfast cereals contaminated with previously reported levels of the 4-methylbenzophenone (4MBP) poses no risk to human health, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has said.

News in brief

Global flu pandemic declared

The first global flu pandemic of the century was declared yesterday after the World Health Organisation held an emergency summit.

Radical proposals to overhaul India food processing sector tabled

Sweeping plans to revamp the Indian food processing industry have been put forward in a bid to boost the sector and attract foreign investment.

Industry says creativity key to ensuring soft drink-sustainability

Representatives of the UK soft drink industry claim that ‘creative’ innovation across the industry is keeping manufacturers on track to meet their sustainability goals, though more must be done in the future.

New studies link BPA to heartbeat and fertility problems

Fresh research linking bisphenol A (BPA) to heart beat disorders and fertility problems have added to the growing weight of opinion questioning the safety of the chemical.

Asia and UHT milk to lead strong growth in aseptic packaging

The global market for aseptically packed products is forecast to climb steeply to 2013 both in terms of pack numbers and volume with strongest growth forecast in Asia, according to a newly published report.

‘Credit card’ snack process combines health with shape appeal

A new process to create credit card-shaped snacks has gathered significant interest from the food industry as it provides a novel format for healthy snacks, according to its manufacturer Baker Perkins.

Tic Tac turns it back on polystyrene in recycle push

In a bid to play up sustainability in its operations Ferrero is relaunching its Tic Tic line of packaged mints in the US to make use of more readily recyclable materials.

Dispatches from IFT

HFCS: Controversial or just misunderstood?

High fructose corn syrup (HFCS) is no different from table sugar (sucrose) and that the public cannot be expected to understand differences between the sweetener and "pure" fructose, says Dr James Rippe from the Rippe Lifestyle Institute.

Copper safe in supplements, says EFSA

Copper oxide can be safely used in food supplements, a European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) panel has found after reviewing the nutrient.

Dispatches from IFT

Antioxidant methods vital for ensuring health benefits: Expert

The implied health benefits of antioxidants are strong in the minds of consumers. Stephen Daniells talked to Covance’s Darryl Sullivan, associate director, scientific affairs on what tests are available, where we stand on cell-based tests, and what industry needs to do to ensure the antioxidant integrity of its products.

Dioxins in food chain linked to breastfeeding problems

Dioxin exposure through the food chain during pregnancy could explain why some women have trouble breastfeeding or produce too little milk, new research suggests.

Call for companies to pay towards packaging disposal costs

UK packaging companies and retailers should be forced to contribute towards the £100m annual cost of disposing of excess packing, the Local Government Association (LGA) has said.

News in brief

Explosion at ConAgra food plant kills 2, injures scores

Two workers have died and dozens were injured after an explosion at a ConAgra food processing plant in the United States.

UK plan to scrap ‘best before’ food labels dismissed by industry group

UK Government proposals to overhaul its food labelling system in a bid to help slash the ₤10bn worth of food wasted annually have been rubbished by a food industry body.

IFT Awards focus on food safety and technology

Scientists and academics who focused on improving food safety were among those celebrated with Achievement Awards at the Institute of Food Technology Annual Meeting and Food Expo, Anaheim, California.

Laser sorter set to boost detection of aflatoxin

A new laser sorter that makes aflatoxin-contaminated products easier to detect and reduces yield loss has the potential to revolutionise the processing of a wide range of crop plants, claims its manufacturer.

Burps and pack waste inform dairy giants’ eco-plans

Fonterra and Stonyfield Farm are this month outlining eco-commitments they claim can, or are already, improving their operational sustainability through focuses such a cutting packaging waste or cow burps respectively.

Omega-3 science review supports DRI for heart benefits

A comprehensive review of studies on the benefits of omega-3 consumption has led scientists to recommend the establishment of a Dietary Reference Intake (DRI) for EPA and DHA to reduce the risk of heart disease.

Companies urged to do more as UK unveils new packaging strategy

A major reduction in food packaging, a rethink on how it is measured and a call for greater investment by packing companies to increase recycling are part of a strategy unveiled today by the UK government.

Nanoscience to boost food safety, quality and shelf life

Nanotechnology promises big benefits for food safety, quality, and shelf life provided the challenges it brings can be overcome, delegates were told at the Institute of Food Technology's annual conference at Anaheim, California.

Weekly comment

A big day for European health claims

Next Monday, June 15, is a big day for the European healthy foods and food supplements industries. Let’s call it Big Monday. Or J15.

Call to shun degradable additives in food packaging

Food and beverage companies should avoid using degradable additives in PET packaging until four key questions can be answered, warns the National Association for PET Container Resources (NAPCOR).

Dispatches from IFT

FDA: we can handle nanotech safety

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) already has sufficient authority to assess the safety of nanotechnology - but its regulation is not all to do with size, says Dr Annette McCarthy of the FDA.

New enhanced film resins can extend product shelf life

Outstanding moisture barrier performance, improved strength and the ability to extend product shelf life are claims made for two new high density polyethlyne (HDPE) resins for use in food packing films.

News in brief

Connecticut bans BPA from 2011

The US state of Connecticut has signed into law a bill banning the use of bisphenol A (BPA) from baby bottles and infant food containers.

Consumer packaged goods companies show resilience in recession

The consumer packaged goods (CPG) industry in the US has shown resilience in the current recession and significantly outperformed the rest of the market in 2008, according to a report released this week.

Cost-efficient option for PET hotfill application

Affordability in terms of beneficial effects on operating costs, material savings and price per bottle are key advantages of a new PET hotfill process, according to the manufacturer.

Canadian cheese recall justified after listeria outbreak but inspection process criticised

A Canadian regional government acted correctly in launching a mass recall of cheese during a listeria outbreak last year but has faced stinging criticisms over its food inspection regime.

FDA backs proposal for US industry fees to fund food inspections

A contentious proposal to compel US food manufacturers to contribute towards safety inspection costs took a step forward yesterday after the Food and Drug Administration signalled its backing for the idea.

Valve control heads eliminate air bleed, cut energy and waste

The use of three new valve control heads can boost efficiency and allow processors in the food, beverage and pharmaceutical industries to make energy and waste reductions, Burkert Fluid Control Systems has said.

Lightweight foamed PET process boosts performance of bottles and jars

Enhanced performance capabilities and a broader range of container aesthetics are two benefits claimed for outputs from a new lightweight foamed polyethylene terephthalate (PET) blow molding process.

News in brief

Bemis takeover of South American rigid packing operations

Bemis Company, Inc has bought out the South American rigid packing operations of Huhtamaki Oyj, a global manufacturer of consumer and specialty packaging.

New tear tape promises easy opening for biscuit packs

A new tear tape launched by UK firm Payne is designed to make it easier for consumers to open packets of roll-wrap biscuits.

Neogen signs multi-million food safety deal with China

Neogen Corporation has announced it has signed a multi-million pound partnership agreement with the Chinese Government to research food safety issues specific to the country.

High-speed portion classifier for poultry products

High-speed in-motion sizing, a wide variety of parts distribution and a design to aid easy access to components are advantages claimed for a poultry portion classifying machine by its manufacturer.

FDA announces BPA safety review

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has said it is reviewing its advice that bisphenol A (BPA) is safe for use in baby bottles and food containers, pledging to announce its findings within weeks.

Meet Our New Owners

Don’t miss this video interview with Robert Marr, chief operating officer of William Reed Business Media, which recently acquired Decision News Media, publisher of FoodProductionDaily.com.

Weekly comment

Economic depression a stimulus for fresh business

The economic recession is biting across the globe, and bleeding casualties litter all industries, but now is not the time to cower. Those willing to spend may provoke a stimulation of their business that could set them up for years, if not decades, to come.

European safety watchdogs reaffirm belief in safety of BPA

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and the UK Food Standards Agency (FSA) have no plans to re-examine their advice on bisphenol A (BPA) despite mounting concern in the United States over the substance.

UK packaging firms hit by global recession

Debt restructuring and redundancy announcements from two UK packing firms this week provided further proof of the severity of the current economic headwinds facing the packaging industry.

Antifreeze gelatin proteins boost ice cream structure: Study

Collagen peptides produced from bovine gelatin may stop ice crystal formation in supercooled ice creams, opening up possible new innovations to formulators, suggests new research.

Industry body’s anger over claims of BPA whitewash campaign

The North American Metal Packaging Alliance (NAMPA) has condemned reports that it was involved in a top level meeting to revamp the image of bisphenol A (BPA) by using a pregnant woman to talk about the benefits of the substance.

News in brief

China's new food safety law comes into force

Chinese authorities have said its new food safety law, which comes into effect today, will help prevent the food contamination incidents that have caused so much damage to the reputation of its domestic producers.

Industry concern as EU confirms authorisation scheme for active and intelligent packaging

The European Commission has adopted a regulation on active and intelligent packaging that confirms it is to introduce an authorisation scheme for substances used in food packing.

FoodProductionDaily.com acquired by William Reed Business Media

Decision News Media, publisher of FoodProductionDaily.com, FoodNavigator.com, FoodNavigator-usa.com and 15 other websites serving the international food, nutrition, pharmaceutical and cosmetics industries, has been acquired by the leading UK business-to-business publisher William Reed Business Media.

Snap on sleeve design targets bulk powder benefits

A global supplier of bulk powder process systems claims to have devised a new solution to existing flexible fitting designs that it says can improve sanitation and reduce leakages during production.