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Referring ‘natural’ claims issue to FDA would be 'futile’ says judge in suit vs General Mills

In an order that will be read carefully by those following ‘natural’ labeling lawsuits, a California judge has rejected an argument routinely made by defendants - that the FDA has primary jurisdiction when it comes to judging whether ‘natural’ claims are deceptive.

Plant-based protein craze drives renewed interest in peanut flour

While peanut flour has been around for years, recent interest in protein - particularly the plant-based variety - has sparked renewed interest, particularly in the nutritional bars market, according to one leading supplier.

Drug, club and foodservice: The next big growth opportunities for gluten-free?

Drug stores, club stores and the foodservice market could be the next big areas of opportunity for gluten-free, according to Boulder Brands, which owns two of the biggest names in the sector: Udi’s and Glutino.

Boomers or bust: Is the $10bn US breakfast cereal market in a state of terminal decline?

On paper at least, boxed breakfast cereal ticks all the right boxes. It’s quick, great value for money, and nutritious - the perfect recession-proof food. 

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Dow AgroSciences unveils new R&D facility at Indianapolis HQ

Dow AgroSciences has opened a new biotechnology research center at its Indianapolis headquarters.

In developed Western countries, sorghum is more familiar as an animal feed grain

Sorghum: The next big gluten-free grain?

Leading scientists have hailed sorghum as a highly nutritious and cost-effective gluten-free grain, but said industry use remains nascent.

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Post Holdings will close Modesto, CA, plant by September 2014

Cereal maker Post Holdings says it will close its Modesto, California plant - which employs approximately 140 employees - and transfer production to other facilities, by September 2014. 

Food-grade sorghum confirmed safe for celiac sufferers - backed with genetic and biochemical evidence

Sorghum is celiac-safe: Study

The cereal grain sorghum is a safe food for consumers with celiac disease and therefore ideal for gluten-free formulations, new research finds.

US fiber gap fueled by consumer confusion on whole grains...

RTE cereals can help close ‘chronic’ US fiber gap: Study

Only one in ten US consumers gets the recommended amount of fiber, but fibrous whole grain ready-to-eat (RTE) cereals can boost daily intake by around 14%, a new study finds.

Big Interview: Terry Howell, director of business development, Suntava

The color purple: Suntava launches mission to elevate purple corn to superfood status

Purple is hot (well, so says Dr Oz). From purple carrots, potatoes, tomatoes and cauliflower to blackberries, grapes, blueberries and cabbage, a deep purple hue is usually a good sign that fruits and veg contain a healthy dose of beneficial phytonutrients. 

News in brief

Glanbia Nutritionals launches whole egg replacement ingredient from WPC and flax

Glanbia Nutritionals has launched a new ingredient to replace whole eggs in bakery applications as firms seek alternatives in the face of steep price increases in the egg market.

Buckwheat additions expands ancient grain gluten-free options, says ConAgra Mills

Puffed and toasted ancient grains plug unique texture and flavor demands, says ConAgra Mills

Puffed and toasted ancient grains fulfill consumer demands for unique texture and flavor in baked goods and snacks, says developer ConAgra Mills.

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30% of US adults trying to cut down on gluten, claims NPD Group

Almost a third (30%) of American adults say they are trying to reduce or exclude gluten from their diets, according to The NPD Group , which conducted a consumer survey in January 2013.

Environmental Working Group, Organic Voices form GMO labeling coalition

The Environmental Working Group (EWG) and Organic Voices, the group behind the Just Label It campaign, have announced a new collaboration to advocate for the labeling of foods containing genetically modified ingredients and to highlight the benefits of organic foods.

Big interview: Ingrid Hirstin Lazcano, CEO, Andean Dream

Ancient grains, Andean dreams and space food: How one quinoa cookie firm hit the big time

A technical paper produced by NASA in 1993 observes: "While no single food can supply all the essential life sustaining nutrients, quinoa comes as close as any other in the plant or animal kingdom.”

Horizon Milling and ConAgra Mills to join forces to create Ardent Mills: ‘We will bring some hybrid vigor’ says VP

A major new player in the flour milling industry will emerge later this year following the merger of ConAgra Mills and Horizon Milling (a joint venture between Cargill and CHS) to create a new company called Ardent Mills.

Snacks/sweets are key online opportunity categories for new online grocery shoppers: Hartman Group

The move online is not moving as quickly for grocery e-tailing as for other industries, but products likes snacks and sweets are a key opportunity sector for attracting first time shoppers. 

Dakota Speciality Milling says it is currently investigating its processing and equipment
Flour recall hits major US brands

Knock-on effect: US flour recall sifts through industry

A US flour and grain blend recall has hit major brands including Frito-Lay and Mondelez and forced widespread precautionary recalls on snacks, cereal and biscuit products.

Kamut International: ‘We believe our ancient wheat can become a culture and not a fad’

With some of the nation’s biggest organic brands already among its customers, Kamut International is anticipating even more growth as it expands the science behind its ancient grain to target heart health, diabetes and sport nutrition.

Pringles transforming Kellogg into global snack player, CEO says

The Pringles acquisition is helping Kellogg become a global player in snacks, CEO John Bryant said in presentation at the CAGNY meeting recently.