Breaking News on Food & Beverage Development - North America EU edition

Scientists develop sugar free dairy dessert

Two top scientists claim to have developed a frozen dairy dessert that contains no sugar, trans fats or lactose, heralding new opportunities for dairy firms to target consumer health trends.

Meta-analysis of cutting salt in kids to pile pressure on food industry

A new meta-analysis of clinical trials of the effect of salt reduction in children reports that a modest reduction in intake does have a significant effect on blood pressure.

Danisco raises US prices for brewing enzymes

Danish group Danisco has become the latest in a string of ingredients firms to pass on increased raw material and energy costs to the market, announcing today that it is to up the mark on its glucoamylase for the US brewing and portable alcohol markets.

Scientists create high protein, low fat tortilla

A team of food researchers has been awarded a patent for a new variety of tortilla targeting consumers eager for a low fat, low carb, soy-free version of the popular bread alternative.

Ethics: benefits environment, community and bottom line

Integrating social and environmental concerns into business practices ultimately benefits a firm's bottom line as well as the environment, according to the CEO of energy bar manufacturer Clif Bar.

Beta-cyclodextrin: potential for vanillin encapsulation?

Encapsulating vanillin in beta-cyclodextrin could improve the water solubility of the compound, as well as offering protection against oxidative degradation, suggests research from Greece.

USDA invests in food program research

The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) is to invest almost $2m in evaluating its food and nutrition assistance programs, in an effort to enhance these on the back of advice from external researchers.

KFC cuts trans fats as heart health battle wages on

A nationwide campaign to remove artery-clogging trans fatty acids from the US food chain received another significant boost today, after popular fast food franchise Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) announced it is to switch to non-trans cooking oil.

Food industry M&A's increase plant productivity, USDA report

Processing plants in eight major food industries became significantly more productive after being acquired, according to a new government report on mergers and acquisitions in the US food industry.

Weekly comment

A fair trade future

The world needs an independent trade watchdog to properly regulate the international food supply chain if we as a society are to truly create a more sustainable and ethical food market.

Loders Croklaan launches reduced saturate bakery shortening

A new trans-free, non-hydrogenated bakery shortening claims to allow manufacturers to reduce saturated fat by up to 30 percent, while still offering the same functionality as traditional shortenings.

Superfruits could wrestle gut health beverages from dairy

New Zealand's HortResearch is conducting research aimed at taking fruit and fruit-derived ingredients into the next generation of gut health drinks based on their prebiotic properties.

Distorted food supply, prices to blame for soaring obesity, says IOTF

The food and beverage industry must switch from "cheaper oils, starches and sugars" to a healthier and more nutritional focus, said the International Obesity Task Force, after startling new estimates were released about the rise of childhood obesity.

Nestlé backtracks after re-branding blunder

Swiss confectioner Nestlé has been forced to relaunch one of its signature European brands following the failure of its original re-brand.

CP Kelco to consolidate Canadian food business

Leading supplier of pectin and xanthan gum CP Kelco will next month consolidate its Canadian food business through an Ontario-based specialty chemical distributor, a move the firm says will not disrupt supplies to customers.

Bunge: third quarter results help recover first half loss

Oilseed processor Bunge has reported an encouraging start to its second half financial year, after adjustments to its South American business have allowed the firm to stabilize disrupted business in the region.

Researchers race to perfect first totally purple tomato

Research groups around the world are working on breeding truly purple tomatoes, packed full of anthocyanins, and reports suggest that such a finished fruit may only be a few years away.

Australia launches plan to cut trans fats

Australia's government will work with industry to reduce trans fatty acids in Australian food, it announced this week, despite figures that suggest intake of the fats among the population is within safe limits.

Convenience trumps health in American eating choices, report

Convenience remains the driving force behind consumer purchasing decisions, despite the increased emphasis placed on health in the past year, according to the latest Eating Patterns in America report.

CP Kelco raises prices across product range

Hydrocolloid firm CP Kelco is the latest ingredients firm to pass rising costs onto the market, announcing yesterday that it is to raise prices across all of its product ranges.

FDA opens dialogue over functional foods regulations

The FDA has signalled that it could adapt existing regulation to take account of the growing number of conventional foods marketed as 'functional foods category', starting with a public meeting in December.

New Nickelodeon deal promotes healthy kids' diet

Leading kids' entertainment brand Nickelodeon has made another move towards promoting fresh produce to children, announcing this month that its popular cartoon characters will feature on kid-friendly packs of fruit.

Strong Corn Products results prompt 'best year ever' forecast

Corn Products International has again reported strong growth, with its third quarter results reflecting a continued good performance from its North American business.

Fruit products demand continues to dip, says report

The stagnant US market for fruit products is expected to continue to decline marginally, despite industry efforts to spice up the category through ingredient and packaging innovation, according to a new report by Packaged Facts.

Supply resumes as cocoa strike ends

Disruption to cocoa supplies from the Cote d'Ivoire has ceased following suspension of strikes organised by the cacao growers' trade union Anaproci.

New fat replacer targets dairy goods

A new fat replacer from hydrocolloid firm Gum Technology has been designed specifically to interact with the milk proteins present in dairy goods, and claims to cut fat by up to 10 percent in milk-based products.

Maltodextrin, whey protein complexes: cheap alternative to gum arabic?

Maltodextrin and whey protein isolates can form complexes with "exceptional emulsification properties", and could offer industry an alternative to gum arabic, particularly for soft drink applications.

Report may require firms to reveal food marketing to kids data

Food and beverage manufacturers may soon be required to disclose detailed information on their marketing activities and expenditures targeted toward children and adolescents, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has said.

Bread consumption linked to cancer, study

Bread has become the latest food group hit by a health scare following the publication of a scientific study linking the consumption of bread to kidney cancer.

Cargill signs renewable energy agreement

Agribusiness giant Cargill has teamed up with a developer of biofuels in an initiative the firm claims will benefit its customers through helping them to manage their waste and their expenses.

DSM introduces animal-free lycopene beadlet form

DSM Nutritional Products is introducing a new formulation of lycopene suitable for the spectrum of specialist diets, giving its customers one ingredient suitable for dietary supplement, food and beverage applications.

Sea Buckthorn to join heart healthy juice club?

Scientists in India have reported a new extraction method for sea buckthorn berries giving a juice rich in vitamin C, polyphenols and flavonoids.

Probiotics and health to drive US yogurt market

A mature US yogurt market does not mean there is no room for growth, according to a new report, which identifies huge expansion possibilities particularly in the area of probiotic and prebiotic yogurt products.

FDA moves towards cloned meat, milk

An FDA risk assessment that is expected to declare meat and milk derived from cloned animals safe for the food supply is currently being reviewed by the government, and is due to be released by the end of the year.

Kids' views on food count, says NPD expert

More foodmakers should do research with children before developing new products, says a sensory research expert.

Fluoride water gets tooth decay claim

A bottled water containing fluoride in the US can now state it helps to prevent tooth decay, the country's food safety regulator has said, opening up both opportunities and debate.

New cost-effective hydrocolloid gum production method reported

Researchers from India, in collaboration with Kraft Foods, have proposed a simple, cost-effective method of galactomannan esters derivatives that are "useful as functional food ingredients."

AHA heart health mark grows on whole grain claims

A heart healthy food stamp from the American Heart Association (AHA) is being increasingly relied on by consumers, according to the AHA, which says that growing participation rates are a sign of the success of its heart-check mark.

Hershey enters organic chocolate market

US confectionery company Hershey has extended its foothold in the premium chocolate sector with the purchase of Dagoba organic chocolate company.

IFF splits business into flavors, fragrances units

International Flavors and Fragrances (IFF) is to separate its business into two different units in a bid to better reflect its flavor and fragrance operations, the company announced yesterday.

US clamps down on lemon juice imports

The US government has initiated antidumping duty investigations on imports of lemon juice from Argentina and Mexico, in response to an industry petition that claims these imports are harmful to the domestic lemon juice production.

Cereal bar growth to be driven by children, Hispanics, says Mintel

After the recent boom of cereal and granola bars in the US, sales of these products are expected to slow over the next few years, according to a new report. However, opportunities for growth still remain, particularly through targeting children and Hispanics.

Fruit, veg in schools increase with new nutrition policies

The recently implemented school wellness policies have started to have an impact on the types of foods children have access to during the day, with schools already offering more fruits and vegetables, according to a report issued this week.

Japan's elderly create market for special foods

Foodmakers offering products designed specifically for the elderly should look at exporting to Japan, a market with one of the fastest growing elderly populations, says the Australian export agency Austrade.

Transgenic tomatoes could cut allergic reactions

Tomatoes, genetically modified to produce 90 per cent less of the allergen, profilin, represents "a future trend in allergen avoidance," said the German researchers behind a new study.

Cocoa strike disrupts supply

Cote d'Ivoire cocoa growers have downed tools over pay disagreements, beginning a strike which could dramatically cut supplies to chocolate manufacturers.

Trans fats survey reveals consumer confusion

Trans fats remain a vague health risk for most American consumers, who will often not choose to avoid these at the expense of convenience, price and taste, according to new research.

Milk protein nanotubes offer encapsulation potential

The ability of the milk protein, alpha-lactalbumin, to self-assemble into nanotubes could offer the food industry with a novel and important ingredient for gelling and encapsulation.

Splenda receives new push in US

Leading sweetener brand Splenda is set to reinforce its presence in US consumer consciousness through a number of new marketing initiatives, including the launch of an official brand cookbook and the creation of a giant candy apple.

Wheat, corn, soy: higher prices and implications

Next year could see US agriculture focusing more on wheat and corn at the expense of other crops, according to a marketing expert, who examined the implications of higher crop prices on farmers and on farm policy.

Danisco launches 'novel flavour' salt replacer

Danisco has launched a novel flavour that it claims can reduce the salt in processed foods by 25 to 35 per cent, while retaining the original taste.

No allergy concerns over commercial enzymes, says study

A study of 19 different commercial enzymes used in the food industry concludes that there are no concerns regarding food allergy for these ingredients, states a study from Denmark.

Americans do not act on nutrition understanding, study

Food manufacturers need to continue making nutrition easier for consumers, according to a new study, which reveals that most Americans know how to manage weight gain but do not make the effort to implement changes.

OTA pushes for more government focus on organics

The US Organic Trade Association today released an ambitious plan designed to advance the nation's organic agriculture by petitioning the government to support an increased local, regional and national supply of organic food and fiber.

Disney implements nutrition guidelines for licensed kids' foods

The Walt Disney Company is preparing for a major turnaround in the types of foods it promotes to children, announcing yesterday the introduction of new nutritional guidelines for its licensed products.

Senomyx, Ajinomoto enter second flavor agreement

Flavor firm Senomyx has entered into a second research and commercialization agreement with Japanese food and pharma group Ajinomoto, a move designed to further the companies' development of natural flavor ingredients.

World Food Day

Film gives coffee firms a roasting on sustainability

Buying practices of the world's biggest coffee companies have come under renewed public scrutiny from a new film which explores the journey of coffee beans from plantation to cup. BeverageDaily.com took an early peek.

World Food Day

What the food industry can do

In a world of famine, the food industry has a lot to give.

Food labels remain primary reference for diet choices, survey

Most Americans use food labels and the government Food Pyramid to make informed diet choices, with a main priority being to follow a more nutritious diet, according to a new survey.

Organics to see "aggressive increases", says Mintel

The US organic market remains on track for strong growth over the next five years, according to a new report by Mintel, which claims that the increased availability of organic foods through mainstream channels is set to change the playing field.

Corn fibre gum could be effective alternative to gum arabic

A gum produced from corn fibre could offer a viable and profitable alternative to gum arabic as emulsifiers in beverages, if research from the US continues to produce positive results.

PepsiCo spurred on by healthier drinks

PepsiCo's new wave of healthier soft drinks, including Gatorade and Aquafina, helped the group to shrug off declines in its trademark Pepsi cola to increase sales by 13 per cent in the third quarter.

New US snack report confirms need for healthier options

Snacking has become so commonplace in the United States that it is now a major source of nutrition for most Americans, according to a new report by Datamonitor, which reveals that children remain the most frequent snackers at a time when childhood obesity has never been higher.

USDA proposes fines for improperly labeled Child Nutrition goods

A US Department of Agriculture audit of the nation's Child Nutrition Labeling Program has found that products provided under the program have not been manufactured, labeled and inspected in accordance with regulations.

Sensient posts strong third quarter sales

Flavors company Sensient Technologies has reported a third consecutive quarter of strong sales growth on the back of good demand and price increases for its products.

School nutrition efforts look set to have lasting effect

As this week marks the 60th anniversary of the nation's school lunch program, a number of recent government, industry and health body initiatives could finally lead to US children having better access to nutritionally sound foods at schools.

Monsanto posts fourth quarter loss

Biotech giant Monsanto has seen profits dip in its fourth quarter, after a disappointing performance from its soybean and seeds business.

Too much fish linked to higher risk of premature birth

Eating too much fish during pregnancy is linked to high mercury levels in mothers and could put women at a higher risk of giving birth prematurely, report US scientists.

Kids' foods and beverages set to soar, says report

The US market for foods and beverages targeting children is set to continue to experience strong growth, on the back of an increased demand for products specifically designed to address child nutrition, according to a new report.

Canada invests in bioactive research center

In a show of institutional support for the nutraceutical industry, the Canadian government has announced a $2m Cdn plug for research into identifying plant, animal and marine compounds that can benefit health.

Chocolate companies team up on sustainable cocoa

Chocolate companies are uniting with the World Cocoa Foundation (WCF) to encourage sustainable cocoa production in West Africa and therefore strengthen the supply chain to Western manufacturers.

New science could combat cancer compound in nuts

US scientists have found a way to prevent the formation of the naturally occurring cancer-causing compound aflatoxin in nuts such as almonds, pistachios and walnuts, findings they hope will lead to the first environmentally friendly way to combat the toxin.

Americans recognize - but ignore - importance of breakfast, survey

Although most Americans agree in the importance of consuming breakfast, the majority of consumers say they do not have the time for it, according to a new survey.

Scientists expand potential of carrageenans

Carrageenans, mixed with glycerol and heated with fats, can form edible films and may open interesting developments for encapsulation of flavours, colours, and antioxidants, suggests new research from France.

New paper examines steps for organic conversion

Converting food production to organic may not be as difficult as some may think, according to a new paper that examines necessary steps in the conversion process.

Canola oil gets FDA heart health claim

Canola oil is gaining credence as an ingredient for food products aimed at supporting heart health, as the FDA has approved a qualified health claim on its potential to reduce the risk of coronary heart disease, owing to its unsaturated fat content.

Whole grains definition remains top concern for new WIC guidelines

Coming up with clear definitions for classifying the whole grain content of foods is a top priority for the AACC International Whole Grains Task Force, which will soon submit its comments to the USDA regarding the establishment of new WIC nutritional guidelines.

AACC recognizes global contributions to grains industry

The American Association of Cereal Chemists (AACC) International recently recognized a number of experts from around the world for their scientific and technical accomplishments that have advanced the field of grain science.

Mars moves to capitalize on growing market for healthy snacking

Growing consumer demand for healthy snacks has prompted candy giant Mars to launch its newly introduced flavonol-rich chocolate line in individual serving sizes, designed for sale at convenience stores.

Essential oils offer natural antioxidant alternatives for meats

Essential oils of sage and rosemary could offer a natural alternative for processed meats, slowing oxidative spoilage as well as imparting flavour and aroma, suggests a new study from Spain.

CSIRO stresses emerging importance of resistant starch

While the importance of fiber in the diet is well recognized, what is still not fully appreciated is the scale of opportunity for food manufacturers to address diet related public health issues through the use of resistant starch, according to Australia's national science agency.

Major firms pledge reformulation, new products for healthier schools

Five major US food manufacturers have joined an alliance designed to establish voluntary nutrition guidelines for snacks sold in the nation's schools. As part of the commitment, the companies have said they will reformulate certain products, as well as introduce new lines of healthier snacks for kids.

Symrise explores cheaper alternatives in bitter-maskers

Scientists at Symrise have reported the potential of benzyl amides as potential bitter-masking compounds for food and drink, research that may lead to cheaper alternatives for food scientists and formulators.

Campbell boosts sales with breast cancer support

US soup giant Campbell has this month changed the design of its iconic red and white cans in support of the National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, an initiative that has resulted in the doubling of its sales to its biggest retailer.

Weekly Comment

Is a trans fat ban a healthy solution?

Sometimes I just love eating fatty, greasy, unquestionably hazardous foods. But I don't like trans fats, that come as a by-product in some processed foods, and have been linked to high cholesterol and heart problems.

Cola drinks raise osteoporosis risk, study

Women who drink four or more cola beverages per week have a higher risk of developing the bone disease osteoporosis, finds a new study, landing another blow on fizzy drinks makers.

Canada approves GM yeast that combats cancer compound

Environment Canada has approved the import and manufacture of a genetically modified yeast variety that is designed to reduce the levels of the carcinogen ethyl carbamate, a compound that can naturally occur in fermented foods and beverages, such as wine, beer and bread.

New report examines benefits of outsourcing sales, marketing

The increasing trend by packaged goods firms to outsource their sales and marketing is expected to grow even further within the next few years, driven by the ability of external food brokers to find ways to reduce costs and improve marketing effectiveness, according to a new report.

Kraft expands health drive for kids

Kraft Foods has taken another step in the direction of health and wellness, introducing single serve healthy snack packs of some of its popular products, designed to appeal to the growing numbers of health-conscious American parents.

Omega-3 trade group to advocate EPA/DHA

In an effort to let consumers know not all omega-3s bring equal benefits, 12 ingredients makers - including Cargill, Ocean Nutrition Canada and Martek Biosciences - have joined forces to create the Global Organization for EPA and DHA Omega-3.

Three strategies for going whole grain

The major barrier for food manufacturers looking to produce commercially viable whole grain products is that they do not follow a clear enough formulation and marketing concept, according to a contract R&D firm, which has identified three main strategies for commercial success.

New study examines male-female diet divide

Women are more likely than men to try different diet plans in an effort to lose weight, and they also make greater efforts to limit sugar, carbohydrate and fat intake, according to a new study.

Further Chiquita reorganization designed to get firm back on track

Banana firm Chiquita has announced a number of organizational changes and new appointments in the latest move designed to strengthen its flagging business, hit in the past year by new EU banana import rules.

Sugar beet pectin: the future of omega-3 microencapsulation?

Microencapsulation of oil ingredients, like omega-3, with sugar beet pectin could provide an alternative to more traditional encapsulating agents like milk proteins and gum Arabic, says a German scientist.

WASH piles pressure on food makers to cut out salt

A global campaign against salt has been launched today with the stated aim of preventing over 2.5 million deaths a year.

Herb-infused oils enter US market as functional flavors

A new line of fresh herb-infused oils has been introduced into the North American market, designed to add flavor and functionality to a number of processed foods, including dressings, snacks and meat products.

New Gum Technology fat replacer targets dairy, baked goods

A new fat replacer from stabilizer firm Gum Technology Corporation claims to offer texture and moisture binding benefits to manufacturers of low- or no-fat products.

Cargill's Horizon Milling enters Canada with acquisition

Horizon Milling, a subsidiary of US agri giant Cargill, has strengthened its position in the Canadian bakery ingredients market through the recent completion of an agreement to purchase the grain-based foodservice and industrial businesses of Smucker Foods of Canada.

GM bacteria could naturally sweeten dairy

By adding a novel genetically engineered bacterial strain to dairy, the fermentation process is limited to converting lactose to glucose, a technique that could remove the need to add sweeteners to dairy products.

Sabinsa agrees to end US Genimax sales

Sabinsa Corporation has agreed to discontinue making or selling Genimax in the US as part of a settlement with Archer Daniels Midland over patent infringement of the agribusiness giant's proprietary soy isoflavone technology.

New study pushes for soda restriction in school vending machines

Restricting vending machine use or availability in schools is crucial in the nation's efforts to drive down soda-related obesity, according to a study published this month in the Journal of the American Dietetic Association.

WTO GM food ruling ignores safety question

The WTO has ruled that the EU's GM food ban was illegal, but has failed to uphold some of the charges levelled by the US, Canada and Argentina.

IFF develops reference base for salt reduction flavors

International Flavors & Fragrances has completed an internal program designed for sodium reduction, which provides the firm with a base of reference for its range of flavor systems for reduced salt applications.

New almond database documents the nut's sensory characteristics

A new sensory database for almonds claims to provide food formulators with a tool to understand the range and importance of all aspects of the nut's sensory characteristics.

Chiquita announces debt-reducing moves

Fruit supplier Chiquita is embarking on a number of debt-reducing initiatives, including the sale of its shipping fleet, as the firm struggles to find its feet after new EU banana import rules hacked at its profits.

Greater accuracy in allergy chocolate testing, study

Peanut allergy sufferers may soon be able to dig into dark chocolate without fear of hidden nuts, thanks to new research undertaken by US scientists.

Weekly Comment

China: a victim of trade wars?

If the Chinese government gives in to mounting international pressure to revalue its currency, it could spell the end of cheap exports, a move that many anticipate would have a knock-on effect on raw materials costs for the food industry. But China may prove to be a less ready victim of western bullying than some expect.

Orafti consolidates science for inulin, oligofructose

Science - consolidation and breakthroughs - took centre stage at the 5th Orafti Research Conference last week, as world-leading scientists convened to discuss prebiotics.

Soy database provides access to genetic info

US government scientists have launched a new online database that allows for the exploration of the soybean's genetic makeup, which makes it possible to compare current soybean genetic maps.