Nestlé Waters enrages US shock jock Glenn Beck

Nestlé Waters North America is under fire from high-profile US shock jock Glenn Beck, who rubbished the company’s Pure Life water and its PET bottle on his radio show Monday....

Metropoulos, Apollo see ‘significant potential for renewed growth’ for Twinkies, Ho Hos, Zingers

Hostess Brands has chosen a joint $410m offer from two investment firms — C. Dean Metropoulos & Co. and Apollo Global Management LLC — as the lead bid for Twinkies...

News in brief

Kraft appoints Deanie Elsner to new role of chief marketing officer

Kraft Foods Group has appointed Deanie Elsner to the newly created role of chief marketing officer, reporting directly to chief executive, Tony Vernon.

Hershey: ‘With Air Delight we’re building a new concept, but we’d like the brand to succeed’

Hershey gained market share in every category in the fourth quarter but admits it is still struggling to excite US consumers with Air Delight - the aerated chocolate range it...

‘Sweet tooth’ and bitter supertasting linked to metabolic syndrome risk

Having a sweet tooth or being a ‘supertaster’ for bitter flavors may put people at reduced risk of developing metabolic syndrome, but being both may not be so good, suggests...

Global adoption of Shieltron microwave packaging

Global adoption of groundbreaking Shieltron microwave packaging is happening across the course of 2013, according to Shieltronics, the company behind it.

Special Edition: Protein Rich Foods: The Next Generation

Functional improvements drive demand for milk proteins

Continued development of new functional properties of casein and whey proteins will drive growth in their use and innovation in their applications in the coming year, said dairy experts.

diageo h1 2013 results

Diageo CEO bowled Cuervo ball, but hints at 'exciting' 2013 tequila entry

Diageo CEO Paul Walsh says he was ‘somewhat disappointed’ by the breakdown of talks to acquire the Jose Cuervo tequila brand, but hints his firm may make an ‘organic entry’...

Diageo faces struggle to make United Spirits pay: Analyst

The potential upsides in Diageo’s potential acquisition of a majority stake in India's United Spirits (USL) are clear but achieving acceptable profitability from the business may be tricky, according to...

Special edition: Protein-rich foods: The next generation

Cost and supply benefits are 'icing on the cake' for soy proteins

After a few years of difficult market conditions, the soy protein market is enjoying ‘dynamic growth’, but what does the future hold for this ingredient, and what kind of impact...

In-home breakfast consumption has driven yogurt growth – research

Increasing in-home breakfast consumption and the popularity of yogurt among young adults has driven the product’s dramatic growth in the US over the last decade, market research firm the NPD...

Big interview: Drew Harrington and Amanda Klane, co-founders, Yasso

Get him to the Greek! The meteoric rise of Yasso

It’s a runaway success story that will either inspire budding entrepreneurs across the nation or have them seething with jealousy... But it’s hard to think of a better example of...

News in brief

Cyvex Nutrition achieves self-affirmed GRAS for blackcurrant extract, 'one of the most potent berry extracts on the market'

An independent panel of experts has determined that Cyvex Nutrition’s Euro Black Currant extract is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in a wide range of functional foods and...

Produce and poultry top sources of foodborne illness, finds report

Produce was linked to almost 50% of foodborne illnesses and poultry to more deaths than any other commodity over a decade, according to a US Centers for Disease Control and...

Coke and Pepsi shifting bottling assets to build brands in 2013: Rabobank analyst

The Coca-Cola Company and PepsiCo are looking to shift bottling assets onto strong franchise partners in order to refocus in house efforts on brand building and marketing.

ConAgra seals Ralcorp deal to create $18bn CPG powerhouse

Shareholders at Ralcorp have approved a mega-deal to combine Ralcorp with ConAgra Foods to create a one of the largest packaged foods companies in North America, with annual sales of...

Award Winners

ISM innovations: tangy tastes, stevia almonds and yodelling wafers

The International Sweets and Biscuits Fair (ISM) has chosen the most innovative new products at this year show.

Hostess picks next two stalking horse bidders for Drake's and additional bread brands

Hostess Brands has selected stalking horse bidders for its Drake's snack cake brand and for its Sweetheart, Eddy's, Standish Farms, and Grandma Emilie's bread brands.

Special edition: Protein-rich foods: The next generation

US pea protein market ‘ready to explode’

For a long time in the shadow of soy as a plant protein source, pea protein is establishing itself in food and beverage applications, with the US market set to...

Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Draws Advocacy Fire

Coke stresses US health ‘mission’ after AND draws advocacy fire

The Coca-Cola Company tells BeverageDaily.com it is fully committed to improving US health by partnering groups such as the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (AND), after an advocacy report claimed...

Tate & Lyle launches open innovation platform: 'We want to send out a signal to the market'

From food ingredients that reduce the blood glucose response to food intake, to natural high-potency sweeteners, digestive health and weight management ingredients, and plant-based ingredients that can mask bitter flavors…

FDA: Brominated vegetable oil (BVO), is safe, so removing its interim status is ‘not a priority’

While brominated vegetable oil (BVO) has been sitting on a list of food additives “permitted on an interim basis pending further study” for decades, it is not in ‘regulatory limbo’...

Steviva Brands: New stevia syrup is ‘magic bullet’ beverage sweetener

Steviva Brands has launched a new stevia-based syrup blend designed to replace high fructose corn syrup (HFCS) in beverages, and claims it is a no added sugar ‘magic bullet’ for...

Foodborne disease outbreaks topped 1,500 in two years, reports CDC

Foodborne disease outbreaks led to more than 1,500 outbreaks and 23 deaths in two years, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

PepsiCo cuts flame retardant BVO from US Gatorade but not Mountain Dew

A 16-year-old student is claiming victory after PepsiCo announced it will remove emulsifier Brominated Vegetable Oil (BVO) from Gatorade in the US, but the firm says it will continue to...

Evolving tool helps quantify sustainability of food

A longstanding diagnostic tool called Lifecycle Assessment (LCA) is increasingly being used to look at the sustainability bona fides of food products, according to a leading third-party certifier.  Using the...

News in brief

Health Canada gives green light to Frutalose dietary fiber from Sensus

Health Canada has issued a letter of no objection to Sensus regarding the classification of its Frutalose chicory root fibers as a source of dietary fiber in nonstandardized foods.

McCormick CEO: We didn’t see as many new product launches from customers last year as we’d typically expect

Spices and seasonings giant McCormick says it is encouraged by the strong pipeline of new products that food manufacturers it supplies are developing this year, but admits that it had...

ACC slams Californian plan to list BPA as developmental toxicant

A move by a Californian public health agency to list bisphenol A (BPA) as a developmental toxicant has been called “scientifically unjustified” by the American Chemistry Council (ACC).

Kyowa Hakko benefits from Champion Sports' strategic shift

The recent boost in sports nutrition product launches is benefiting functional food ingredient suppliers, among them Kyowa Hakko, whose Sustamine ingredient is featured in a new beverage offering from Champion...

Hostess gears up for Feb 28 auction for Wonderbread et al and says Drakes deal is close

Hostess Brands Inc. has won permission from the bankruptcy court to sell most of its bread brands at auction on February 28, and says it will submit plans to sell...

Special edition: Protein-rich foods, the next generation

Selling protein to boomers (without talking about muscle wastage…)

As any self-respecting baby boomer will tell you, getting old is something that happens to other people, and being told you’re not as sprightly as you once were is not...

Coke CEO Muhtar Kent: ‘No I don’t use Facebook, but 57m fans make me proud’

Coke CEO Muhtar Kent admits he doesn’t use Facebook, but is ‘really proud’ that his company has surpassed the 57m fan mark on Facebook.

Dr Pepper ‘stands by’ Mott’s for Tots immune support claims despite legal action

Dr Pepper Snapple Group says it ‘stands by’ immune support claims made on packaging for its Mott’s for Tots beverage brand, after a US-wide class action was launched against it...

Special edition: Protein-rich foods, the next generation

From Chobani to Special K: Are we on the cusp of a protein renaissance?

Protein, so trend watchers - and opportunistic protein suppliers - keep telling us, is red hot right now, for all ages and both sexes, covering weight management, healthy aging, sports...

Danone juice JV with Chiquita dogged by ‘mismanagement’: Industry source

With rumors emerging that Danone is selling its 51% stake in its fruit juice JV with Chuiquita Brands International, one industry source told BeverageDaily.com that the French firm was likely...

Patent Watch

Mondelez flexible gum packaging allows consumer tailoring

Kraft snacks spin-off Mondelez has filed a patent for a flexible gum package that allows consumers to buy and carry the amount of gum they require.

Yogurt-driven NY rule change will risk human health - green coalition

A coalition of environmental groups has slammed New York Governor Andrew Cuomo’s plans to support the state’s growing yogurt industry by easing regulations on large-scale dairy farming operations.

Snacking on Super Bowl ideas with Euromonitor

Super Bowl 2013 snackfest: Chips to dip, bigger packs and flavors to pair with hot wings and beer…

With Super Bowl 2013 just a ball’s throw away, beefed up pack sizes, ridged potato chips for easy dipping and well-paired flavors for hot wings, beer and pizza are set...

Organic grocery chain CEO bans products marketed to kids with cartoon characters: 'I think that kind of marketing is sleazy...'

A Washington D.C. area organic food store chain has pulled all products from its shelves that are marketed directly to children via the inclusion of images of cartoon characters from...

News in brief

Unilever CEO: 'Magnum is one of the greatest success stories in the history of consumer goods'

Sales of upmarket ice cream brand Magnum have almost doubled to more than €1billion in the four years since Paul Polman took the helm at Unilever, making it “one of...

Carbon neutral by 2020: Cargill sets 'ambitious' green targets for Truvia

Cargill has set ‘ambitious’ carbon neutral by 2020 targets for Truvia, as it puts sustainability is at the core of the stevia sweetener business.

Opponents to Bloomberg’s soda ban say it shouldn’t kick in until legal action is resolved

Lawyers for plaintiffs in the beverage and restaurant industries plan to file a formal request for an injunction to prevent Mayor Bloomberg from implementing his ban on super-size sodas until...

From non-GMO to Gluten-Free: Sales of natural products with third party certifications surge in 2012

Sales of natural products featuring third party certifications surged in 2012, according to new data from SPINS, with non-GMO project verified products leading the charge (+18%), followed by Fair Trade...

Beyond omega-3s: Next generation of algae products offer promise of new breed of bioactives targeting cholesterol, the auto-immune system and inflammation

Research conducted by Health Enhancement Products (HEPI) could pave the way for a completely new breed of algae-based bioactive food and feed ingredients offering novel approaches to achieving healthy cholesterol,...

US highlights food fraud perils

Seafood, clouding agents and lemon juice are the latest categories targeted by food fraudsters flagged up by the US Pharmacopeial (USP) Convention’s Food Fraud Database.

Energy drink adverse events rate ‘appears low in the population of consumers’: ISSN position paper

The rate of adverse events for energy drinks and shots ‘appears low in the population of consumers’, but caution is still needed for the products, particularly for select population groups,...

Kellogg and General Mills defend themselves against January anti-GMO campaign

Cereal giants Kellogg and General Mills have both defended the use of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in their breakfast cereals in response to a January anti-GMO campaign against them.

Special edition: Protein-rich foods… the next generation

Could algae be the next big thing in the protein market? Part one: Solazyme Roquette Nutritionals

Much has been written about the potential of proteins such as pea and canola as firms seek alternatives to dairy and other carbon-intensive - and increasingly pricey - animal proteins....

Special edition: Protein-rich foods… the next generation

Could algae be the next big thing in the protein market? Part two: Aurora Algae

Protein has never been hotter - at least that’s what the market researchers tell us - and vegetarian proteins in particular are top of the pops right now.

Dairy Farmers of America agrees to $156.8m milk price fixing settlement

Dairy Farmers of America (DFA) has agreed to pay $158.6m to settle a 2007 lawsuit that alleged it conspired with Dean Foods and others to suppress raw milk prices across...

Frito-Lay v Pringles: Two snack titans on Facebook

PepsiCo and Kellogg lead the global snacks market with Frito-Lay and Pringles, but who fares better in the realms of Facebook and why does this matter?

News in brief

Callebaut to use RSPO-certified palm oil for compounds and fillings

Barry Callebaut has announced that it is switching to Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO) certified palm oil for compounds and filling at most plants.

International survey flags up packaging concerns

Consumers have raised significant concerns about plastic food packaging in response to a survey covering the US, India and Sweden conducted by Innventia.

Proposed Chicago energy drink ban littered with legal errors, lawyer says

A proposed ban on energy drinks in Chicago is riddled with factual and legal errors, according to an attorney active in the dietary supplements business.

News in brief

Kraft enters sports nutrition market with new MiO Fit water enhancer variant

A new electrolyte-enhanced extension of Kraft’s MiO liquid water enhancer will debut in a 30-second commercial during Super Bowl XLVII.

Canola oil secures GRAS status in infant formula after Danone petition gets green light

 Canola oil is now generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use as an ingredient in infant formula marketed in the US following a successful application from Danone Trading B.V. ...

Seven things soda makers should do to tackle obesity…

While cynics might not be persuaded by Coke’s new ads promoting the role it is playing in tackling obesity, the soft drinks industry is increasing efforts to help consumers make...

Bloomberg’s super-size soda ban hearing set for tomorrow morning

Oral arguments in a lawsuit brought against New York City's health board over Mayor Bloomberg’s super-size soda ban will be heard at 10am tomorrow morning (Jan 23), the American Beverage...

CAT Squared launches mobile food safety software

US software firm CAT Squared has partnered Janam Technologies to launch food safety data analysis software that can be used with a handheld mobile device for added convenience.

Cocoa economy in ‘critical state’, says Mars sustainability chief

The chocolate industry is behind in tackling some cocoa supply issues and must work more closely to avert shortages, according to Mars’ head of sustainability.

Trial Greek yogurt as high-protein school lunch option, politicians urge

The inclusion of Greek yogurt in the National School Lunch Program could save money, while providing students with a high-protein meal option, two leading US politicians have claimed

RM Foods boosts profits through new software

US firm RM Foods has boosted profits by cracking down on data accuracy through implementing Sage ERP X3 enterprise resource planning software.

Monster Beverage Corporation: Alarmist DAWN report is highly misleading

Monster Beverage Corporation has blasted a recent government report on drug-related ER visits that describes energy drinks as 'dangerous', as “highly misleading”.

Ex-striking Hostess union says it will support and work with bidders

The president of Hostess Brands' BCTGM workers union has said its members are looking to support and work with well-capitalized bidders.

Chobani confirms then denies Canada pull-out

Greek yogurt giant Chobani has confirmed, then denied, that it is pulling out of Canada “for the time being” following the postponement of its nationwide launch in the country....

BPA ban close for baby food containers in Maine

The US state of Maine is a step away from banning the use of food contact material bisphenol-A (BPA) in infant formula cans and baby food jars and lids.

Legislators seek info from energy drink manufacturers

Two US senators and a member of the House of Representatives have sent letters to 14 energy drink companies seeking information about their products.  The letters ask the companies to...

Big interview: Scott Lerner, founder and CEO Solixir

Solixir CEO: The secret to a successful start-up, slapping consumers in the face, and the rule of six…

If you’ve trudged around any industry trade shows recently, you’ve probably seen your fair share of prototype product concepts targeting the key ‘need states’ created by ‘modern life’: Wake up!...

News in brief

Yoplait targets tweens with Pro-Force Greek yogurt

Yoplait is expanding its portfolio in the fast-growing Greek yogurt sector with a new product targeting tweens.

Food industry to Congress: We're still paying over the odds for sugar...

While US refined sugar prices have dropped since last summer and sugar producers claim the nation is “swimming in sugar”, food manufacturers say prices are still “far above historical norms...

Phosphorus footprint? Shifting dietary habits are complicating a sustainable supply, warn researchers.

Increased use of phosphorus in food products since the 1960s is now putting pressure on the sustainable supply of the essential mineral, warn researchers.

Canadian milk supplier in the dark over delayed Chobani construction plans

Dairy Farmers of Ontario (DFO) has been offered no “further details” of Chobani’s Canadian manufacturing plant construction plans - despite being lined-up to supply the Greek yogurt giant’s proposed new facility....

Wondering about Wonder Bread? ‘Brand equity is the best thing going for it by a long shot’, says analyst

Brand equity is the best thing Wonder Bread has going for it by a long shot and future business strategies should hinge on this, an analyst says.

Bolthouse Farms mulls entry into ‘completely new product categories’ as it bids for bigger slice of fresh food market

There is a huge untapped opportunity to drive growth in the US chilled prepared food market with innovative new products offering freshness and convenience, says Bolthouse Farms.

Analysis: POM Wonderful FTC ruling

Attorney: FTC Commissioners’ ruling on POM Wonderful is ‘truly astonishing’, ‘abusive’ and ‘unlawful’

While the headlines yesterday could be summarized as ‘FTC one, POM zero’, legal experts say the 54-page opinion from FTC Commissioners on the FTC’s false advertising case vs POM Wonderful...

Could creaminess help carbs match protein for satiating power?

High-protein and high-carbohydrate food and beverages may produce similar satiety responses if the perceived thickness and creaminess are equal, says a new study by Danone.

News in brief

Kung Pao launches chili chocolate bar with crowdfunding

US firm Kung Pao Chocolate has taken an unconventional approach to launching its new chili chocolate bar by asking consumers for financial support.

US ‘on the road’ to becoming major global dairy exporter - USDEC

The US dairy industry is on the road to becoming a “consistent global dairy supplier” after maintaining its export market share in 2012, the US Dairy Export Council (USDEC) has claimed....

Researchers turn sugar beet into biodegradable packaging

US scientists are hailing sugar beet pulp as a potential source of biodegradable thermoplastic packaging.

Mondelez accuses Kellogg of cookie pack copying

Mondelez has initiated legal action against Kellogg in the US for allegedly infringing its patent on resealable cookie packaging.

DAWN report on energy drinks and ER visits: Correlation is not causation, but ‘something is going on here’

A new report on drug-related Emergency Room (ER) visits has raised fresh questions over the safety of energy drinks, but has been criticized by beverage makers for drawing conclusions that...

‘The secret’s out!’ Muscle Milk maker targets active women with Evolve with CLA

CytoSport, Inc., maker of Muscle Milk, has launched a new protein shake containing BASF’s CLA (conjugated linoleic acid) for women with active, healthy lifestyles.

COMING TOGETHER OR FALLING APART? COKE'S ANTI-OBESITY ADVERT DIVIDES OPINION

Academic Nestle slams Coke for ‘astonishing chutzpah’ on obesity

Leading food nutrition academic Marion Nestle tells BeverageDaily.com that she considers Coke’s new anti-obesity advertising drive ‘Coming Together’ an ‘astonishing act of chutzpah’.

US popcorn beats downturn with premium and healthy variants, report

The US popcorn sector has been resilient to a pinched and health-focused economy and is now fuelled by premium-priced healthier variants, according to a new report.

Obscenely caloric options still standard fare at America’s biggest foodservice chains

Many of America’s biggest foodservice chains are still routinely selling obscenely caloric products that are laden with calories and swimming in saturated fat, sodium and sugar, according to the Center...

Dr Pepper extends TEN calorie crusade in ‘uncharted’ US soda space

Dr Pepper Snapple (DPS) is extending its TEN soda platform by introducing low calorie versions of five of its top soft drinks brands this month, and insists that Dr Pepper...

US COMMODITIES CORNER

Dairy prices down, but US market looking 'healthy' - Part two

In part two of his December 2012 US dairy commodities breakdown, MilkPrice blogger John Geuss gives DairyReporter.com the latest on whey, cheese and butter prices, as well as the "positive" impact of...

News in brief

Ganeden moves lab to headquarters near Cleveland

Ganeden Biotech has moved its state-of-the-art laboratory to its headquarters in Mayfield Heights, OH, the company announced yesterday. 

Pharrell Williams: Diageo’s ‘critical and avoidable mistakes’ killed Q Qream dream

Pharrell Williams claims he created Q Qream liqueur “to celebrate the beautiful, independent and sophisticated women of today”. However, the dream went sour after partner Diageo did not keep to...

Junk food linked to 40% rise in childhood asthma and eczema, say scientists

Eating more than three portions of junk food each week could lead to an increased risk of childhood asthma and eczema, say researchers.

Multiple Organics grew at home by connecting to farmers across globe, exec says

Ingredient wholesaler Multiple Organics has announced an expansion into its first company-owned warehouse and headquarters facility in Hercules, CA, not far from its previous home base in San Rafael. But...

Energy drink sales: Pre-Christmas boost for Red Bull, while Monster loses momentum

While sales of energy drinks in US convenience stores surged in 2012, the pace of growth has been slowing, says Morgan Stanley.

Post Foods snaps up natural cereal specialist Attune Foods

Post Foods has acquired natural and organic cereal maker Attune Foods for an undisclosed sum.

US COMMODITIES CORNER

Dairy prices down, but US market looking 'healthy'

US dairy commodity prices dropped in December 2012, but low inventories and high exports have left the market still looking "healthy." US commodities expert and MilkPrice blogger John Geuss gave...

Chobani’s Canadian launch on hold as external ‘circumstances’ delay plant build

Greek yogurt giant Chobani has been forced to postpone its nationwide launch plans in Canada after external “circumstances” led to a delay in its plans to build a manufacturing facility in the...

Shredded lettuce identified as source of E.coli outbreak

Canadian officials have identified shredded lettuce as the likely source of an E.coli outbreak which has sickened at least 26 people.

Drought, ethanol hangovers only blemishes on Cargill's second quarter earnings

Cargill has reported a more than 300% increase in year-over-year second quarter net earnings, from $100 in 2012 to $409 million in 2013.  The only blemishs on the earnings report...

Big interview: Eric Schnell, founder MetaBrand; co-founder I AM Enlightened nutrition, Healthy beverage Co (Steaz teas)

Shot in the arm: The secret to success in shots... without going head to head with 5-Hour Energy…

Want to get a slice of the action in the shots category? Build a brand with a compelling story or ‘mission’, and formulate a product that delivers a discernible effect...

News in brief

ConAgra gets thumbs up for Ralcorp deal from Canadian Competition Bureau

ConAgra Foods has received a 'no-action letter' from the Canadian Competition Bureau confirming that the Commissioner of Competition does not intend to challenge its $6.8bn acquisition of private label food...

Mondelez develops bitterness masking using vitamin E

Mondelez International has developed a method to cover unpleasant bitter tastes in confectionery products using a vitamin E compound.

Cutting the fat: Limiting omega-6 during pregnancy may be key to healthy baby weight

Limiting the intake of omega-6 polyunsaturated fats plus boosting the intake of omega-3 fatty acids during pregnancy could lead to a healthier baby with less fat and more muscle, say...

Flowers Foods emerges as first stalking horse bidder for Hostess Brands' assets

Georgia-based Flowers Foods has emerged as the first ‘stalking horse’ bidder for assets from bankrupt baker Hostess Brands.

Flawed Harvard study unfairly criticizes whole grain stamp, and proposes bizarre alternative, says Whole Grains Council

A Harvard study questioning the value of the Whole Grain stamp is badly flawed and criticizes the scheme for “failing to do something it was never designed to do”, says...

New innovation models are needed to boost the functional food NPD processes

Industry must evolve away from traditional NPD processes if it is to succeed in developing new and innovative functional food products, warn researchers.

Saffron Road launches first non-GMO prepared entrée in US

The first Non-GMO Project verified frozen food entrée in the US will hit store shelves by the end of the month under the Saffron Road brand.  It was a complicated,...

Ocean Spray expands global reach with first international acquisition

Ocean Spray has made its first international acquisition with the cranberry processing business of Cran Chile, providing the cranberry giant with a strategic South American location and increased capacity.

Report reveals ‘explosion’ of gluten-free items on limited service restaurant menus

While the meteoric growth of gluten-free retail products is well-documented, new research from Technomic shows that there has also been an “explosion of gluten-free items” on menus at limited service...

Cutlery choice could affect food enjoyment, study suggests

The way in which people interact with food – including the utensils they choose – could affect how foods are perceived and enjoyed, according to a new study published in...

Bimbo Bakeries to tighten grip on Northeast US with Pennsylvanian plant

Bimbo Bakeries has splurged out $75m on land to build a bakery plant in Pennsylvania as it continues to invest heavily in securing a stronger grip on the Northeast region...

New egg white replacer to benefit gluten-free formulators, says Penford Ingredients

Penford Ingredients has developed an egg white replacer that cuts costs, improves quality and plugs non-allergenic requirements in gluten-free bakery formulations, it says.

‘We’ve launched world’s first probiotic coffee’: Tipton Mills

Tipton Mills claims to have launched the world’s first probiotic coffee, which uses a new probiotic developed by Ganeden Biotech, and says one serving contains 10 times as many cultures...

Energy drinks and RTD coffee are fastest growers in US vending market

Energy drinks and ready to drink coffee are the fasting growing products in the vending market - although they still represent a relatively small chunk of the market - according...

Supply-demand imbalance escalating natural antioxidant market: F&S

A demand-supply imbalance has escalated the prices of natural antioxidants as food preservatives, leading to a trend to blend antioxidants to satisfy consumer demand for natural, says a new report.

Nestlé quiet on Pfizer Nutrition-driven Latin American assets sale rumour

Nestlé has refused to comment on reports that it is working with financial advisory group Rothschild to sell more than $1bn of Latin American assets in an effort to win...

Average price per volume for energy drinks dropped 7.6% in 2012

While the price per volume of many ‘center of store’ food products rose in 2012, the average price per volume for energy drinks dropped 7.6% in 2012 vs 2011 across...

News in brief

What’s in Kraft’s innovation pipeline for 2013?

While Kraft’s 2013 innovation pipeline is dominated by line extensions - rather than blue sky innovation or entirely new product formats - it refreshes pantry staples with bolder flavors and...

Industry Voices: Healthy Choc Chief

Functional ingredients and chocolate the perfect match, says Good Cacao CEO

Good Cacao CEO talks to ConfectioneryNews.com about boosting the appeal of healthy chocolate, the functional ingredients to look out for in 2013 and challenges in formulation.

Too many eco-labels could hinder uptake, says Organic Monitor

A proliferation of eco-labels could have adverse consequences, as food manufacturers question the value of certification schemes in light of a fragmented market and multiple fees, according to Organic Monitor.

Dairy sector is next for dehydration technology

Dairy processing firm Gay Lea Foods is testing Radiant Energy Vacuum (REV) dehydration technology from Canadian company EnWave to create dried dairy products.

Protecting against label claims lawsuits

Labels provide information to consumers, and unfortunately, to class action lawyers, too. Suits over false advertising based on label claims are an ever-rising threat.  For companies seeking to shield themselves...

Pepsi v. Coca-Cola: Soda heavyweights wage Facebook war

Increasingly, the Pepsi v. Coke cola fight is raging within the social media space, as well as in factories and between brands in stores. But who is delivering that Facebook...

Hot chocolate tastes better in an orange cup: study

Recent research shows that the color of beverage containers influences consumer enjoyment, with results indicating that orange and dark-cream colored cups enhanced the flavor, sweetness and aroma of hot chocolate.

That’s a wrap! Flaxseed could boost omega-3 content of rice paper

Adding flaxseed to rice paper – the wrapper used to make Asian spring rolls – may not only boost the omega-3 and fiber content, but also enhance taste and texture,...

New Mexico GMO labeling bill heads for state legislature

New Mexico has joined Washington and California to become the latest US state asked to consider mandatory labeling for foods containing genetically engineered ingredients.

AquaBounty Technologies CEO: Opponents have ‘consistently and intentionally misrepresented the facts’ on GMOs

The boss of AquaBounty Technologies - which has spent years waiting for the FDA to decide whether to approve its genetically engineered (GE) salmon - says the tortuous process “has...

Hold the soda? Study links carbonated drinks to depression while coffee is tied to lower risk

Fizzy drinks and fruit squashes are linked to an increased risk of depression, according to new research that also suggests coffee could reduce risk.

Health, portability and convenience are key in breakfast NPD, says Mintel

New product development in the breakfast foods segment must be defined by health, portability and convenience to target key consumer needs in a snowballing US market, Mintel says.

Quantifying the fat: Different detection methods have conflicting results

Three main methods to determine fat levels in bakery show up conflicting results in the same commercial samples, say researchers who warn that measurement and labelling of fat may be...

POSITIVE HEALTH NEWS FOR CARBONATES

Not gettin’ far with that gastric bezoar? Grab a Coke…

Coke drinking is an effective first-line treatment to dissolve ‘gastric bezoars’ or indigestible masses that form in the stomach after foreign material accumulates there, according to a new Greek study.

Washington GMO initiative easily clears signatures bar, gets strong poll support

Supporters of a Washington State ballot initiative that would require GMO labeling have turned in more than 340,000 signatures to the secretary of state’s office, well in excess of the...

News in brief

Comax Flavors’ 2013 trend predictions: Unusual combinations, experimentation and bolder, gutsier flavors

Consumers will be looking for “bolder gutsier flavors” and unpredictable flavor combinations this year, according to Comax Flavors.

Fresh fruit is the top snack food in America

While 35% of US adults are obese , Americans are more likely to reach for fresh fruit when they get the munchies than ever before, according to a new report on...

Listeria blamed for US smoked salmon recalls

Listeria monocytogenes contamination continues to drive a wave of US smoked salmon recalls.

US dairy co-operatives slam Congress ‘dairy cliff’ deal

Dairy Farmers of America (DFA) and Land O’Lakes have slammed Congress’ recent decision to extend the government’s current milk-buying programme.

Onion skin waste ups antioxidant activity in bread, finds study

Onion skins that are normally consigned to waste bins could be used to up antioxidant activity in wheat bread without affecting consumer appeal, according to researchers.

Hostess: We expect to establish up to six stalking horse bidders for Twinkies et al

Bankrupt Twinkies and Wonder Bread maker Hostess Brands says it expects to establish up to six ‘stalking horse’ bidders for its iconic bakery brands when bids are presented to the...

Gut feelings: Targeting intestinal taste receptors could help battle obesity, say researchers

Targeting taste sensors in the gut could offer the food industry with a ‘new road’ to battling obesity, say researchers.

Majority of caffeine-containing supplements have inaccurate labels, claims study

Fewer than half the caffeine supplements sold on military installations accurately list the amount of caffeine they contain, according to a new study.

Beverage firms must ‘redefine age’ to boost 2013 growth: Leatherhead Food Research

Food and beverage companies need to ‘redefine’ the concept of age in 2013 to seize specific growth opportunities presented by older consumers, according to Leatherhead Food Research.

The wait is over for new FSMA rules. .. but questions remain over ‘unfunded mandate from Congress’

News that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has finally unveiled two long-awaited proposed rules under the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) has been welcomed by food safety experts, although...

Monell gets $1million to tackle unanswered questions of salt taste perception

A $1million gift to the Monell Chemical Senses Center is aiming to deepen our understanding of salt taste detection and perception, and help the food industry achieve success with reduced...

NDIs, GMPs, FSMA: The regulation scene in 2013

GMPs, NDIs and FSMA will top the list of most-frequently mentioned acronyms in the regulatory sphere for dietary supplements and functional food ingredient companies in the coming year, industry experts...

News in brief

PureCircle predicts significantly reduced losses in H1, 2013

Stevia specialist PureCircle expects sales in the first half of fiscal 2013 (six months to Dec 31, 2012) to surge 80% to $27.3m.

Analyst: Ditching Skippy continues to skew Unilever towards faster-growing emerging markets

Offloading Skippy peanut butter - which still generates the majority of its $370m annual sales in the mature US market - will continue to skew Unilever’s portfolio towards faster-growing emerging...

Pricey US sugar threatens small confectioners, says Kimmie Candy

Small and medium sized US confectioners are coming under increasing threat from foreign firms that are able to secure sugar supplies at less than half the going rate in the...

Rev7 branded degradable gum exits US as maker seeks licensees

Rev7 makers Revolymer has decided to stop selling branded gum in the US to avoid conflicting with its efforts to license the degradable gum base used in the product to...

Exclusive interview

Food shoppers are women, marketers are men: Houston, we have a problem…

It is well known that most food shoppers are women, but does the food industry get that in its marketing? Not really, says female marketing expert, author and CEO of...

FTC: Snacks marketed to kids showed ‘minimal or no improvements in nutrition from 2006 to 2009’

While there were small nutritional improvements in most foods marketed to children from 2006 to 2009, snacks promoted to kids “showed minimal or no improvements” while cereals targeting young people...

New USP standards will help stevia formulators cut costs, improve accuracy

New testing standards for steviol glycosides and caffeine announced by the United States Phamacopeial Convention (USP) will help the formulators of products containing those ingredients cut costs and improve efficiency,...

News in brief

Late-night snacking popular in the US

Snacking occasions in the US occur more frequently in the afternoon, evening and late-night hours, according to the Hartman Group.

Americans are eating 10g less fat per day than they did in the late 1970s

On average, Americans are eating 10g less fat per day today than they were in the late 1970s, according to new research.

General Mills’ agreement to change Fruit Roll-Ups labeling is a ‘step in the right direction’, says CSPI

General Mills has taken a ‘step in the right direction’ as it agrees to improve its Fruit Roll-Up labeling in light of a class action lawsuit, the Center for Science...

Diet and depression: New studies should follow CVD research models, researchers argue

Future studies into diet and depression should follow the research models used by those investigating how dietary factors affect heart disease risk, say researchers.

Saputo completes $1.45bn Morningstar acquisition

Saputo has completed its $1.45bn acquisition of Dean Foods’ Morningstar dairy division – a move the Canadian dairy giant hopes will help to expand its US manufacturing and distribution footprint.

Couple of players: Hugh Heffner-powered Playboy sues PlayBev over energy drinks

Playboy Enterprises is suing former US licensee Play Beverages for alleged trademark infringement and claims the firm and co-defendant CirTran are ‘irreparably harming the energy drink category itself’.

beveragedaily.com predictions for 2013: part one

Killer chords that could rock the beverage industry in 2013: Part 1

If the beverage world were a band poised on the brink of super stardom, here are some of the killer chords and rollickin’ riffs that could shake up the scene...

Big interview: Ryan Black, founder and CEO, Sambazon

Surfing, super fruits and social justice: Sambazon and the genesis of an Amazonian super food empire

Want a dictionary definition of 'high-achiever'? Meet Ryan Black, a former NFL player and surfer who went on holiday to Brazil in his early 20s in search of waves and came...

Hormel Foods to acquire Skippy peanut butter from Unilever

Unilever has struck a deal to sell its Skippy peanut butter business to Hormel Foods for approximately $700m.

Innophos expands nutraceutical footprint with Triarco acquisition

Innophos Holdings has expanded its nutraceutical capabilities with the acquisition of privately held ingredient manufacturer Triaco Industries, the company announced Wednesday.

New Canadian caffeine limits part of growing pressure on energy drink sector

The energy beverage sector had a lively 2012, marked by a high-profile wrongful death suit against Monster Beverage Co., some high-profile negative press and even higher-profile attacks from a pair...

Energy drinks, coffee and bottled water: The top performers in the center of the store

While volumes (unit sales) of all the other core ‘center of store’ categories declined in 2012, volumes of energy drinks, bottled water and coffee climbed strongly, according to Symphony IRI Group.

Gazpacho could help to lower blood pressure, says study

Regular consumption of cold gazpacho soup can help to battle high blood pressure and cut heart disease risk, say researchers.

Too much food can kill you? Overeating and obesity now a bigger global problem than lack of food

Chronic diseases linked to obesity and overconsumption of food are now a bigger global healthcare burden than illness and disease caused by malnutrition, according to the most comprehensive disease report...

News round-up

E.coli investigation concluded and Sunland food facility registration restored

An E.coli investigation in Canada has ended with no identified source and Sunland Inc., has had its food facility registration restored after its peanuts were linked to salmonella, in this...

News in brief

Budweiser takes Black Crown…to US drinkers

AB InBev plans to breathe new life into Budweiser by releasing a stronger version of the beer in 2013, which it claims will offer US drinkers a more distinct flavor...

Scientist salutes study showing lower satiety for fructose vs glucose drinks

Beverages high in fructose produce smaller increases in satiety hormones and associated feelings of satiety compared to drinks sweetened with the same amount of glucose, according to a new US...

US Congress backs deal to avert ‘dairy cliff’

US Congress has cleared a bill that will extend the government’s current milk-buying programme - effectively preventing a steep increase in the price of dairy products.

Almendra promises to shake up stevia market with purity levels ‘unmatched in the marketplace’

A new player in the stevia supply market promising purity levels “unmatched in the market place” says it will be in a position to start supplying commercial quantities of extracts...

Smart Balance changes name to Boulder Brands

Heart healthy spreads and gluten-free giant Smart Balance has changed its name to Boulder Brands.

Formulating the next generation of energy products: Sustained energy and natural claims… without the sugar rush

Unit volumes of energy drinks were up a whopping 18.7% in 2012 - a staggering achievement given that unit sales of consumer packaged goods across all outlets slumped 0.3% over...

News in brief

Hershey and Mars in TGI’s top 10 US brands

Hershey and Mars are among the top 10 consumer goods brands in the US, according to a survey by Global TGI.

USDA explores faster E.coli detection method

A new real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) system offers a “promising method” for testing for shiga toxin-producing E.coli (STEC) in food samples, according to the US Department of Agriculture (USDA)....