Breaking News on Food & Beverage Development - Europe US edition

Member states agree on minimum vitamin and mineral levels

A working party drawing up levels for supplements and fortified foods have reached a "general agreement" that the lowest levels should be 15 per cent of the recommended daily allowance (RDA) - but questions remain on maximum levels.

Cut waste to secure food supply, says food peer

Radical changes consumer behaviour, especially in rich countries, is crucial to averting a crisis in food supply in the coming decades, attendees at the City Food Lecture in London heard this week.

Nanostructures tested as beta-carotene carriers in beverages

Beta-carotene, used in foods and beverages as colourants and health ingredient, can be stabilised by novel nano-scale carriers, suggests innovative research from Germany.

States ask EFSA for more guidance on GM assessment

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) is working with member states to update risk assessment guidance for genetically modified organisms (GMOs) to bring it in line with scientific progress and provide more in-depth advice.

Labelling proposal could harm single market, warns industry

Food industry groups are concerned that the European Commission's proposal on food labelling, which leaves the way open for national voluntary schemes to co-exist alongside EU requirements, will damage the single market.

Pomegranate juice boosts sperm quality: study

Regular consumption of pomegranate juice may enhance the quality and mobility of sperm, suggests a new study with male rats.

Mandelson expects commodity hike Doha benefits

Growing global concerns over sharp increases for food and commodity prices could have significant benefits in helping to establish free trade, the EU commissioner for trade has said.

Soy isoflavone linked to blood pressure improvements

Genistein, an isoflavone from soy, may stimulate the expression of an enzyme linked to better blood flow, suggests a new animal study that my have implications for high blood pressure in humans.

Commission calls for stricter, standardised labelling

The European Commission will vote on legislation to introduce mandatory regulations for food and drink labelling across Europe, putting an end to the current inconsistency.

Omega-3 formulation issues need fast resolution: study

The increasing formulation and fortification of foods with different types of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) could be further enhanced by better understanding of how to protect them from oxidation, states a new review.

Sucros Oy seeks further Finnish beet supplies

Danisco subsidiary Sucros Oy is calling for more sugar beet suppliers in Finland, claiming that EU sugar reforms have reduced the number of its current growers by an unprofitable 43 per cent.

Germany enables easier GM cultivation

New legislation passed in Germany on Friday has paved the way for increased biotech innovation and easier cultivation of genetically modified (GM) crops.

Roundtable targets EU allergen policy revamp

A roundtable discussion on allergen legislation to be held next month in Italy could spell the end of "may contain" warnings on food labels, according to one of its organisers.

Bamboo leaves again show anti-acrylamide potential

Using an antioxidant-rich extracts from bamboo leaf and green tea could reduce the formation of acrylamide in an asparagine-glucose model system heated by microwave, according to a new study.

ASA warns GM ban retaliation

The American Soybean Association has warned there could be "massive retaliation" on Europe if the bloc does not speed up a system for approving GM crops.

Hydrocolloids' health benefits extended

Hydrocolloid ingredients commonly used as gelling agents, emulsifiers and stabilizers may also have benefits for diabetics, suggests new research from the Dow Chemical Company.

Raisio sharpens focus with share swap

Finnish food group Raisio and Swedish firm Lantmännen have dissolved joint ownership of a number of food businesses, which the firms hope will drive focus and profitability.

Salt reduction and labelling efforts need to go further

Reformulation in the food industry reduced British salt intake by 2,000 tonnes last year, says research, but specialists insist consumption continues to exceed recommendations.

Cadbury to protect Ghanaian chocolate production

Cadbury today launched a fund to aid its cocoa suppliers in Ghana, after research suggested that average production in the region is now 40 per cent lower than the potential yield.

Weekly comment

Probiotics, friend or foe?

The headlines are sensationalist: twenty-four people have died in a probiotic trial. Therefore, probiotics may be fatal. Throw those yoghurt shots away!

Scientists explore potential of maize-starch for flavours

Flavour compounds with a low solubility may form complexes with high-amylose maize starch, offering innovative encapsulation and cost-saving benefits, says a new study.

Thriving enzyme industry drives up Novozymes sales

Europe's baking and brewing industry pushed Novozymes food enzymes sales up by 6 per cent last year, according to financial results released today.

Healthy food cost impacts kids choices: study

Researchers from the UK have identified some of the main barriers to young people adopting a healthy lifestyle, including the cost of healthy foods, hunger satisfaction, taste, and peer pressure.

Microalgae extracts beat synthetic antioxidants for food: study

The microalgae Chlorella vulgaris could be a rich source of extractable antioxidants, and provide potent alternatives to synthetics like butylhydroxyanisole (BHA) and butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), suggests new research form Spain.

Dutch patients die after taking probiotics

Twenty-four patients taking part in a trial procedure to treat acute pancreatitis with probiotics have died.

BASF expands GM activities in competitive Asia Pacific

European restrictions on genetically modified (GM) crops have driven BASF Plant Science to intensify biotech cooperation activities in Asia Pacific with an agreement with China's National Institute of Biological Sciences (NIBS).

Industry and world leaders discuss beating poor nutrition

Improving worldwide nutrition was brought to the international forefront at the World Economic Forum last night.

UK to spend ₤372m to combat obesity curve

The UK government unveiled the first steps it will take in its national strategy to fight obesity, earmarking £372m for the cause. Steps include addressing food issues, as well as increasing education and encouraging physical activity.

Food law progress expected with the Slovenian presidency

The food industry can expect to see progress in novel foods regulation, the Food Improvement Agents Package (FIAP) and the labelling regulation during Slovenia's presidency of the European presidency, according to an advisor.

Bitter taste discovery could lead to palatability boost

American and Japanese researchers have identified how peptides in food activate human bitter taste receptors, data that could have implications for the food industry and food formulators.

Nestle looks to self-assembling structures for low-fat products

A simple structured emulsion system could correct for flavour imbalances in reduced and low-fat products, scientists at Nestlé Research Center (NRC) have reported.

Danisco acquisition strengthens focus of core ingredients

Danisco is to acquire an ingredients division of Associated British Foods to boost growth and extend its European customer base.

Industry consequences of rising prices - report

As the food versus fuel battle continues to rage, increasing competition for prices may prompt a consumer shift towards supermarket own-brand products instead of branded goods, according to a report by Frost & Sullivan.

UK foods to follow single labelling system

The UK government will say today that the nation must adopt a single, consistent food labelling system.

EFSA issues new advice on listeria

Europe's food safety watchdog has issued updated advice on reducing the risk of the food-borne bacteria listeria, urging food manufacturers to watch out for contamination during packaging, preparation and storage of food.

Alginate encapsulation could expand probiotic applications

Encapsulating probiotic bacteria in alginate-coated gelatin microspheres could protect the friendly bacteria against the harsh conditions of the stomach and upper intestine, allowing for greater delivery of these value-added ingredients, suggests new research.

Pomegranate peel could be edible oil antioxidant: study

Extracts from pomegranate peel can stabilise sunflower oil and protect it form deterioration associated with heating, suggests a new study from Pakistan.

Cost crises compounds organic milk lull

Organic milk production in the EU market could become increasingly constrained during 2008, as rising feed costs are forcing some farmers to quit the market, says an industry expert.

Outsourcing pushes up Barry Callebaut sales

Barry Callebaut reported increased sales volume for the first quarter of this fiscal year as a result of a mounting trend for food manufacturers to outsource their chocolate needs.

Euro GM reluctance could hit beer innovation

As the EU debates retaining national bans on genetically modified (GM) crops, one industry expert believes that failure to adapt could grant foreign rivals using the technology an upper hand, not least in terms of brewing a good beer.

Weekly Comment

Exotic fruits or local berries? You choose

As consumer demand for exotic superfruits increases, so will the impact of transport on the environment. But as policy makers and green campaigners devise more ways of monitoring greenhouse gases, who will win the environmental tug of war?

Grape seed extract is natural antioxidant for chicken

Polyphenol-rich extracts from grape seed has potential as a natural antioxidant in chicken meat, and could reduce the pro-oxidative effects of salt, suggests new research.

Scotland kicks off food policy debate

The Scottish government has published a new discussion paper setting out its vision for the country's food supply and industry, which will help set the agenda for its first ever national food policy.

Review supports soy's weight management potential

A new review taking in animal, human populations, and clinical trials supports the potential role of soy protein to reduce cholesterol levels, and aid weight loss.

FMC trims calories and costs in frozen desserts

FMC BioPolymer has adapted its range of Gelstar products for Europe's frozen desserts market, to cut costs and fat content without compromising on the body and creaminess.

EFSA seeks experts for two new panels

The European Food Safety Authority has started seeking experts to sit on its two new panels on food additives, flavourings, processing aids and food contact materials, following the decision to split the existing Additives and Food Contact Materials panel in two.

Cloning animals for food not ethical, says EU body

Using cloned animals for production of food such as meat and milk is not justified, say experts on ethics reporting to the European Commission.

M&S caters for quality tastes - conveniently

Marks & Spencer's decision to launch its first ever range of ingredients for home cooking taps into some of the key consumer trends in food: convenience and a desire to know what is in the food we eat.

New research boosts vitamin A content in maize

Researchers have identified the genetic markers in corn that are associated with high levels of vitamin A, providing a simple and cost-effective way to cultivate maize rich in the nutrient.

Cargill targets Middle East with new texturizing presence

Cargill is stepping up its sales capacity in the Middle East with a new base in Dubai for Texturizing Solutions that will allow it to collaborate more closely with customers in the region.

The simpler the better for food labelling, says study

Simple front-of-pack nutritional labelling and endorsement by health organisations are most efficient in informing consumers, according to a new Unilever study.

Trans-fats harm may extend to prostate: study

Increased intakes of trans-fatty acids may increase the risk of non-aggressive prostate tumours by about 100 per cent, suggests new research from Harvard.

Cargill meets hydrocolloid challenges with investment

Cargill is continuing its long-term investment in its hydrocolloids business with a €3m investment in its factory in Baupte, France, which is aimed at improving productivity and maintaining the highest quality standards.

Butter replacement launched for low fat baking

A new tapioca-based ingredient used to replace butter in cakes, breads and pastries cuts the fat content of the product by up to ninety-seven per cent, the manufacturers claim.

Suiker Unie consolidates Dutch sugar production

Cosun's Suiker Unie is to close its sugar factory in Groningen, The Netherlands, as part of measures to reduce production in line with the new sugar regime.

Novel whey protein to boost formulation options

A modified whey protein concentrate (mWPC) combined with calcium could enhance the control of food formulations, especially under cold processing conditions, says new research.

High compliance with new UK ad rules, says ASA

The UK's Advertising Standards Agency (ASA) has reported a compliance level of 99.2 per cent with the new content rules on advertising food and drinks products aimed at children.

No nano in organic foods, says UK certifier

The use of nanomaterials has been banned from organic foods by the UK's Soil Association, the leading certifier of organic products in the country.

Chr Hansen offers flexible soft cheese cultures

Chr Hansen has developed four new cultures to produce optimum acidification and texture for soft cheeses and allow manufactures to bypass the costly bulk starter method.

Plimsoll predicts exciting activity in UK food sector

Most of the UK food manufacturing sector is well equipped to deal with anticipated economic fall-out this year, according to a new analysis from Plimsoll Publishing, with a flurry of mergers and acquisitons on the cards.

Nestle explores probiotics' impact on metabolism

Strains of probiotic bacteria can affect metabolism, says a new study from Nestle and Imperial College London that could help the development of new probiotic products tailored for individuals.

Cyclodextrin tested for flavonol protection to add value

The flavonols quercetin and myricetin, compounds associated with significant health benefits, can be encapsulated in beta-cyclodextrin (beta-CD), researchers have reported.

Germany plans allow GMOs in food labelled non-GM

The German ruling coalition has agreed to allow foods containing certain GM additives or using GM processing aids to still be labelled as non-GM if there is no alternative, in a bid to encourage use of non-GM labels.

Aviko acquisition permits European potato expansion

Aviko will be acquiring potato processing company Eurofreez and potato trader Seru & Annoot in its bid to boost its market share in Europe.

Sudzucker struggles with sugar, but special products deliver

The Sudzucker group has reported a 18.3 per cent increase in sales for the first nine months of its year thanks to special products and fruit preparations, while sugar was responsible for a big drop in operating profit.

Weekly comment

How natural is 'natural'?

The refusal by regulators to provide a formal definition of the term 'natural' will ultimately lead to confusion for consumers and a legal headache for manufacturers.

New novel foods rule could reduce delay

Changes to the European novel food regulation could bring the waiting time for approval down from around three years to just one, according to European Advisory Service.

Danisco deal to take new calorie-free sweetener to Japan

Danisco has entered into a license agreement for its anhydrofructose technology with Japan's Nihon Starch Co, the first such deal aimed at bringing the new calorie-free sugar to market.

Consolidation will prompt growth in natural ingredients

A spate of acquisitions by larger natural ingredients companies indicates consolidation in the market place mirroring that of the industry at large, say industry experts, helping them gain weight to cater to the needs of large clients.

Europe stalls again on ending GM restrictions

The European Commission has been given yet more time to bring member states in compliance with trade obligations on GM crops after failing to meet Friday's deadline, the same day France extended its GM ban.

Acrylamide linked again to female cancer risks

A high dietary intake of acrylamide may increase the risk of breast cancer, according to new research published this week.

Danisco bags British ice cream patent

Danisco has obtained a patent in Great Britain for a dairy replacement technology aimed at both the cost and health concerns of ice cream makers.

Global Sweeteners buys out sorbitol JV partner

Chinese corn-based sweeteners producer Global Sweetener Holdings has taken a new step towards its aim of becoming a leader in the Asian and worldwide markets for corn sweeteners by buying out Mitsui's share of their sorbitol joint venture.

Concerns raised by sorbitol weight loss reports

Excessive intake of sorbitol, a widely used sweetener in "sugar-free" products such as chewing gum and sweets, may lead to weight loss and diarrhoea, German doctors report.

Clean label Ezimoist improves sausage succulence

Ulrick & Short has developed an additive-free phosphate replacer to maintain moisture in sausages in response to increasing pressures for food manufacturers to provide clean label products.

Flagging meat origin can mark out from commodities, says EBLEX

Retail prices of beef and lamb sold specifically as English in Great Britain have been sustained rises over the past four years, according to EBLEX - data said to show the sense in letting consumers make an informed choice.

Young's and Findus united amid market challenges

Young's Seafood and Findus will form a unified structure under their private equity firm owner CapVest to form a stronger organisation to deal with rising raw material costs.

Edible antifreeze to offer ice cream advances

Tasteless and edible antifreeze proteins could prevent the formation of ice crystals in ice cream, and maintain the smooth, silky texture, reports research from the US.

Barry Callebaut completes Japanese acquisition

Swiss-based Barry Callebaut today announced the completion of a deal to acquire production facilities from Japanese company Morinaga, only one day after the inauguration of the company's manufacturing plant in China.

Superfruit taste, health will over-ride sourcing worries

The superfruits trend is set to endure for the long term, according to a Datamonitor analyst, as consumers will prioritise their own health over environmental concerns like food miles and carbon footprint.

More support for lycopene's prostate benefits

Lycopene may show benefits against benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH), a condition said to affect more than half of all men over the age of 50, suggests a new study from Germany.

Vietnam pepper plant opens for business

Indian spice processor Vallabhdas Kanji Limited (VKL) has started commercial shipments from its new pepper plant in Vietnam; it claims the new facility makes it the only processor in the main pepper-producing countries with steam sterilisation capabilities.

France one step closer to extending GM ban

The French government declared yesterday that it is willing to apply an EU measure to implement a long term ban on genetically modified (GM) crops if a scientific panel decides their safety is questionable.

Science boosts asparaginase efficacy for acrylamide cuts

Using the asparaginase enzyme to treat French fries could reduce the formation of acrylamide by 60 per cent, a joint Chilean-Danish study has reported.

Industry progress sparks structural change at Leatherhead

Leatherhead Food International has put in place a new structure for its research services, basing them around three platforms that have major relevance for the food industry today: nutrition, food innovation and food safety.

Record hikes for New Zealand dairy exports

New Zealand's reputation as a low-cost dairy exporter is further under threat from growing worldwide demand, according to official national statistics released yesterday.

High-fibre banana powder offers health and wellness options

A fibre-rich powder from banana powder could boost the fibre content and nutritional content of food, report researchers from Mexico and Venezuela.

Naturex buys Berkem's Actifs Innovants

France's Naturex has bought the active ingredients division of compatriot Berkem - its second strategic acquisition in three weeks and one that will open up major new sales channels for Berkem's science-backed ingredients.

Eurogerm acquisition enables Spanish expansion

French manufacturer of ingredients for flour, bread and cereals Eurogerm has acquired Spanish counterpart LEAG with the intention of increasing its presence in Spain and Latin America.

Glanbia predicts positive year as milk markets evolve

Glanbia expects to report a positive performance for 2007 driven largely by its food ingredients, global nutrition businesses, and increased demand for dairy products on the global scence.

Celery extracts offer flavour-enhancing properties

Volatile extracts from celery can enhance the flavour of chicken soup, and could offer novel flavour enhancers for food formulations, suggests new research.

Frubella makes juice-infused fruits for UK market

UK snack and cereal makers have a new source of juice-infused dried fruits, as Polish ingredients firm Frubella has signed a deal with JO Sims to take its range into the high-potential market.

Weekly comment

Back to tap: bottled water's enviro-woes

It looks set to be a vintage year ahead for Chateau Eau De Source Public - or as it is more humbly known, tap water - as consumers find themselves encouraged to shun the mineral variety of the product to reduce packaging waste.

French government to debate GM policy

France's environmental policy will be discussed in a hearing at the Senate tomorrow in the lead up to a vote on whether or not to extend the country's temporary ban on genetically modified (GM) crops.

PureCircle secures sweet new deal for stevia

PureCircle has secured an extension to its agreement with Cargill to supply its stevia-derived Reb-A until mid-2010, helping to ensure availability for what is tipped to be the next big thing in sweeteners.

Plant sugar study could lead to more CO2 intake

Scientists in the US have shed light on how sugars are transferred from a plant's leaves to other parts of its structure, findings that could enable genetic engineering in the future to help plants cope with climate change.

Wild prepares to go public with new CFO

Wild is putting together an experienced team in preparation for its planned initial public offering, tapping Symrise's CFO to take it through the process.

Health, safety and food origin main issues for UK policy

The UK government has set in motion a review of food policy and strategies with the publication of an analytical study on current and emerging food trends.

Organic beef prices too low to support growth, cut food miles

Prices paid to Britain's organic beef producers are too low, claims organic certifier the Soil Association, hampering growth of local food production and leading to higher food miles.

Senomyx and Firmenich unite for cooling taste innovation

Senomyx and Firmenich have entered into a partnership to develop novel flavor ingredients that provide a cooling taste effect.

Third of people choose low fat food to stay trim

Low fat food products are most popular when attempting weight loss, according to a survey looking at weight management across 13 countries worldwide.

Industry prepares to fight junk food ad watershed

As phase two of the UK's new rules on TV advertising of unhealthy foods targeted at children came into effect this week, the food industry is preparing to lock horns with campaigners over a 9pm watershed.

Tate & Lyle invests in edible films market

Tate & Lyle Ventures and Scottish Enterprise hope to prosper from the emerging market for dissolvable and edible films as a delivery mechanism for active ingredients, with the acquisition of BioFilm Limited.

Beta-cyclodextrin tested for encapsulation

Extracts from plant essential oils (terpenes) can be stabilised by encapsulation in the polysaccharide beta-cyclodextrin and modified starch, suggests new research from Greece.

Soy ice is moving mainstream, says Danisco

Danisco is predicting that soy ice will move out of the dairy intolerance niche and into the mainstream and has developed a concept that overcomes some of the common problems in developing this kind of product.

Wine polyphenols may reduce effect of fatty food: study

Polyphenols from wine may reduce the negative impact of high-fat foods, according to a small study from Israel that suggests a role in the formulation of healthier food products.

Novel alginate-pectin beverage shines as satiety booster

A beverage containing alginate-pectin and calcium forms a stable gel in the stomach and boosts the feeling of fullness, report researchers from the University of Buffalo in collaboration with McNeil Nutritionals.

Tate & Lyle completes Mexican sugar sale

Tate & Lyle has completed its sale of its Mexican sugar business, removing itself from volatile commodity markets and allowing it to refocus on value-added ingredients.