Breaking News on Food & Beverage Development - Europe US edition

Acrylamide not linked to breast cancer in women: Study

Dietary intakes of acrylamide are not related to increased risks of breast cancer, says a new study from Harvard.

Enhanced microencapsulation for probiotic strains reported

Double encapsulation of bacterial strains with potential probiotic activity may enhance the shelf-life and offer protection against harsh stomach conditions, says a new study.

Sustainability Roundtable to reduce green label overload

The priority of the new Sustainable Consumption and Production (SCP) Roundtable is to reduce the confusing array of different labels and statements appearing on food packages but fostering agreement on scientific assessment of environmental impact.

Study finds one size fits all when dieting

Fad diets that focus on protein, fat or carbohydrate content are all the same when it comes to losing weight as a reduced-calorie diet can be successful no matter what macronutrients it is made up of, a new study has concluded.

Contracts hamper CSM response to price changes

Ingredient firms may lack flexibility in the face of fluctuating raw material prices, which can leave them lumbered with contracts at prices less favourable than spot market prices.

News in brief

Arla dissatisfied with 2008 results

Arla has reported profits of DKK 556m for 2008 – DKK 350m below budget – due to pressure on the milk market from the economic crisis.

Barry Callebaut welcomes new cocoa anti-depressant link

Barry Callebaut is a step closer to boasting about the antidepressant properties of cocoa on its product labels after a study funded by the company found that it could have a mood-lifting effect.

Chaucer sees freeze dried future for snacks, nutrition

Chaucer Foods is seeking to extend the use of freeze dried ingredients into new snack and nutraceutical concepts, leveraging the technology’s ability to preserve flavour, colour and nutrient content in a range of foodstuffs.

News in brief

Barentz to distribute for Ashland in Netherlands

Barentz is to distribute Ashland’s food ingredients in The Netherlands as of April 1, building on a relationship between the two firms in other industries.

Heart study may raise pressure to cut acrylamide levels in snacks

Too much snacking on potato chips may increase the risk of hardening of the arteries, and raise the risk of cardiovascular disease, says a joint Polish-Swedish study.

Climate change makes seeds ‘crown jewels’ of diversity

Crop and climate experts are emphasising the need for crop diversity to protect food security in the face of climate change, as the Svalbard Global Seed Vault celebrates its first anniversary.

Scientific roadmap needed to tackle food insecurity

The Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC) said it s to publish a list of priorities to tackle the challenges of delivering sustainable food security and the scientific advances needed to overcome them.

Brussels quells fears from German bakers on salt levels

The Commission is not prohibiting any bread and has no intention to regulate the salt level in bread, says EU spokesperson in a bid to stem reports that German bread is under attack from 'Brussels'.

Givaudan unveils sensory approach to salt reduction ingredients

Flavour giant Givaudan is using new sensory validation techniques to measure how salt impacts on aspects of taste, and is using this as the basis for new ingredients.

New alternatives to modified starches and fats target dairy desserts

UK-based ingredients supplier Ulrick and Short has extended its range of starches and fat replacers for use in dairy desserts, custards and fruit compotes.

News in brief

Banana proposal 3 years too late for Latin America

A new EU proposal to lower tariffs that Latin American banana producers have to pay looks set to be rejected, as a better deal was proposed last July but subsequently withdrawn.

Amino acids against acrylamide – choice is critical for effects: Study

Using amino acids to compete with, and reduce, the sources of acrylamide should focus on the common additive cysteine, according to results from Belgium.

Kerry steps up Eastern European presence in Dera deal

Kerry has agreed to the acquisition of the savoury flavourings business Dera Holding NV in order to pursue its drive into markets in Eastern Europe and the Middle East.

Find time for tea to slash stroke risk: Study

Drinking three or more cups of green or black tea a day may reduce the risk of stroke by 21 per cent, says new research from UCLA.

ABF trading update shows sugar and ingredients growth

The sugar and ingredients divisions of Associated British Foods (ABF) are expected to show good growth backed favourable foreign exchange rates when its interim results are announced in April.

Mushroom extract shows promise for meat preservative

An extract from the edible mushroom Flammulina velutipes may prolong the shelf-life of tuna meat, while also stabilising the colour of the meat, suggests new research from Japan.

Half of all consumers ignore food labels

About half of consumers never read the nutrition label before purchasing pre-packaged food, according to a new survey which adds weight to the Guidline Daily Amounts (GDA’s) debate.

Falling commodity prices to ease food prices later rather than sooner

The increase in food prices around the globe will ease later rather than sooner, as benefits of falling commodity prices take time to trickle through the chain.

Carotenoids from annatto, paprika may reduce off-flavours in emulsions

Extracts from paprika, annatto and marigold, rich in antioxidant carotenoids, could significantly reduce the spoilage due to oxygen of model oil-in-water emulsions, says new research from Greece.

More work needed on organic legislation says EU agriculture head

Mariann Fischer Boel, member of the European Commission responsible for Agriculture and Rural Development, said the organic food sector needs the support of good legislation, which would help build consumer awareness and trust.

Weekly comment

Turning the key on new food technologies

Consumer concerns about a synthetic growth hormone used in milk production have prompted two leading food producers in the United States – General Mills and Dannon – to reformulate their dairy product lines. It is a decision that will have immediate implications on the dairy market as a whole, but could also mark a turning point in the use of new technologies in food production in general.

Study gives light at the end of the peanut allergy tunnel

Gradual exposure to peanut may put an end to peanut allergy, if results of a small study from Cambridge are followed by similar positive results.

Agri MEPs on board with some industry labelling concerns

A vote on the proposed food information legislation by the European Parliament’s Committee on Agriculture and Rural Development (Agri) this week found sense in abolishing the 3mm rule and national schemes, but has stirred new industry concerns on country of origin labelling.

Global organic supply grows to match demand

The amount of land dedicated to organic produce is growing due to government backing and market forces, opening up opportunities particularly in developing countries, according to a new report.

Competition causes concern in retailer-manufacturer dealings

The CIAA has expressed its concerns over the alleged abusive practices by retailers in their dealings with food manufacturers, as high food prices in 2008 put firms under pressure.

Nordzucker, Danisco negotiate new sugar deal price

Nordzucker will buy Dansico Sugar for DKK5.45bn, a renegotiated price following the divestment of one plant to Cosun for competition reasons.

News in brief

Cranberry group seeks 'cran'sparency

Three European cranberry extract suppliers have formed a new association with the explicit aim of clarifying standards governing the manner in which proanthocyanidins (PACs) content is communicated to consumers.

MEPs reject inclusion of food in Eco-label amendments

European Commission proposals to include food products in an extended Eco-label scheme have been rejected by MEPs this week.

Swiss firm claims to crack tooth-friendly drink conundrum

A new beverage is claiming to be the first ice tea that can safeguard the health of teeth, thanks to the use of isomaltulose in place of sucrose and an aseptic process that prevents bacteria without the need for acids.

Nestle uncowed by economic outlook

Nestle expects to carry on seeing growth in earnings over 2009 despite the global recession, using its strong 2008 results as a springboard for growth.

UN calls for Green revolution to prevent food crisis

A major change is needed in the way food is produced, handled and disposed of in order to feed the world's rising population and protect the environment as prices are expected to remain volatile, according to a new UN report.

News in brief

Naturex Foundation progress in Morocco, Peru

Naturex has reported the first benefits of the Naturex Foundation, flagging up social contributions in Morocco and Peru.

News in brief

Cosun sees benefit in Anklam acquisition

Cosun is expecting its Suiker Unie business to gain a stronger position in northwest Europe’s sugar market with the acquisition of the Danisco Sugar facility in Anklam, Germany.

Sponge-bacteria may yield food-grade pigments, say researchers

Food-grade pigments may be obtained by fermenting bacteria sourced from sponge, according to preliminary studies from India.

DSM turns record profit ahead of ‘uncertain’ year

“A year of stark contrasts” as DSM board chairman, Feike Sijbesma called it, has seen DSM turn a near €1bn profit but left the Dutch ingredients giant unable to make a forecast for this year as the economic crisis sets in.

Dispatches from FDF labelling debate

What consumers make of food labels

Recent research has shed new light on how consumers understand food labels - and use them to inform their shopping decisions. But questions still remain over what will make them switch to healthier food choices.

Givaudan flavour sales led by snacks

Givaudan’s sales may have dipped in 2008 but double digit growth in its snacks segment helped to bolster its flavour division.

Cosun saves Nordzucker-Danisco deal

Cosun has agreed to buy part of Danisco Sugar business to satisfy antitrust conditions on the transaction, but Nordzucker and Danisco are today in discussions over the final price.

Coconut-palm oil blend could offer trans-fat free shortenings for bakery: Study

A blend of oils from coconut and palm could produce a plastic fat for use as a shortening in bakery products as a trans-fat replacer, says new research from India.

EFSA cans cranberry health claim

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has issued a negative opinion to global cranberry leader Ocean Spray for an article 14 health claim relating consumption of cranberry and urinary tract infection (UTI) in women.

Chr Hansen makes new culture blends for mozzarella

Chr Hansen has developed a new collection of freeze-dried cultures for use in pasta filata cheeses like mozzarella and provolone, which are billed as bringing cost savings to cheese makers and optimising consistency between vats.

New National Starch range to withstand processing rigours

National Starch Food Innovation has extended its Novation range of functional native starches with the launch of two new products that are instant, clean-label and said to stand up to the stresses of intense formulation processes.

Doehler targets Middle East innovation with new Dubai centre

Doehler has opened a new applications centre in the Middle Eastern hub of Dubai, in a bid to tap the high-growth market and aid development of products to suit local tastes.

Weekly comment

Changing the tune on GM

The GM debate at times seems much like the Hokey Cokey (or Pokey, if you’re US-based). There’s been a lot of putting in, some putting out, and quite a lot of shaking things all about, but as of yet, there hasn’t really been a turnaround and definitely no ra, ra, ra!

Metabolic syndrome ups salt sensitivity in Chinese: Study

New research connecting metabolic syndrome to greater sensitive to the effects of salt intake on blood pressure in Chinese people could lead to the development of less salty dishes, new food labelling, and a re-education of taste buds.

Private label trend reduces the power of brands

The switch to private label over branded food is gathering pace in the recession, according to an index compiled by a UK newspaper, which may tighten the squeeze on branded goods manufacturers.

Calls for stricter meat product origin labelling

A bid to change the law for country-of-origin labeling of meat is to be launched in the UK by the Conservative Party which, if successful, would affect processed foods containing as little as 10 per cent meat.

News in brief

CIAA takes GDA info to Parliament

The CIAA will be discussing nutrition labelling directly with MEPs this week, with a stand and nutritionists corner at the European Parliament.

Study links higher dairy consumption to teen weight loss

Adolescents eating higher amounts of dairy goods, within the recommended daily guidelines, generally have lower levels of fat to those with a reduced intake, says a new study.

Cemoi has 'big ambitions' for industrial choc markets

Media-shy Cemoi, France's number one chocolate maker, ramps up its image with a new logo, new products and a clear drive to become the number two industrial chocolate supplier in Europe.

News in brief

Organic trade fair honours high value Danish market

The organic trade fair Biofach has hailed Denmark as its ‘country of the year’, as organics account for 6 per cent of food spending there.

Fructose-sweetened drinks again raise questions in obesity-related study

Drinking fructose-sweetened beverages with meals may cause bigger rises in blood levels of triglycerides in obese people after the meal, says a new study.

More reformulation on the cards, predicts RSSL

Food reformulation is expected to gather pace as the credit crunch hits home, predicts Reading Scientific Services (RSSL), which has seen an increase in enquires from customers seeking cheaper alternatives to costly inputs.

Dispatches from FDF labelling debate

What labelling scheme(s) should Europe allow?

Debate is heating up about the best way to present nutrition information on food labels throughout the EU as lawmakers hammer out the details of new legislation. The Food and Drink Federation gives a view from industry.

Roquette concept aims to add value to sweetener

Roquette is re-naming its bulk maltitol sweetener as SweetPearl, and is offering additional services to add value for customers – for no extra cost.

Dispatches from FDF labelling debate

Rapporteur retains role for industry labelling schemes

The EU Parliament rapporteur on the proposed food information regulation does see a place for nutrition labelling schemes chosen by manufacturers and retailers – but not for national schemes propounded by Member State governments to run alongside the Europe-wide system.

Sports drinks scratching surface of mainstream potential - Powerade

Sports drinks may be breaking through the niche beverage wall, but their future will lie in meeting a variety of consumer trends across the entire beverage market, says the senior brand manager of Powerade.

Dispatches from FDF labelling debate

Labelling law costs for SMEs raise concerns

The proposed food information regulation would pose big problems for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) if adopted in its present shape, said speakers at the FDF labelling debate – despite the Commission having carried out an impact assessment.

Unilever in supply standoff with major retailer

Tension between Unilever and a major supermarket chain has resulted in the de-stocking of 250 of the manufacturer’s products because it was making strict demands over what the retailer should sell.

Tesco boss hints at GM backing

Tesco chief executive Sir Terry Leahy has signalled that the retailer is willing to back genetically modified (GM) foods, saying consumer attitudes have changed and it has a vital part to play.

News in brief

Eggs not dangerous for heart health: Study

Concerns over egg consumption and cholesterol increases are unfounded, according to new findings from British researchers.

Phosphorus additives pose ‘hidden’ danger to kidney patients

Patients with kidney disease may be at danger from a ‘hidden threat’ of phosphorous additives found in processed and fast foods, says a new study from the US.

UK food and drink sales resist recession pressures (so far)

While the recession bites in the UK, and consumers tighten their belts, food and drink retail sales were up 5.1 per cent, on a like-for-like basis from January 2008.

Carbery coy over DSM rennet battle outcome

Carbery today declined to confirm whether a court dispute with DSM, which alleged that rennet supplied through the Netherlands-based company was ‘defective’, has been settled.

FSA encourages consumers to buy low sat-fat products

The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has today launched a £3.5m advertising campaign to encourage consumers to reduce their intake of saturated fat and change the way they shop and eat.

Snack Size Science: Crystal balls and salt crystals

FoodNavigator's Snack Size Science brings you the week's top science. This week Nestle gives us a glimpse of the future with its research into hydrogels to deliver flavour and nutrients to food, and salt is back in the headlines with Swiss worries and Purac’s solutions.

Sensus highlights cost-benefit gains for inulin-enriched bread

The cost-benefit ratio for including gut health promoting inulin in bread formulations could bring added-value gains for bread-makers, delegates will hear at a forthcoming industry conference.

Organic an answer to Africa’s woes and tight global supply

Africa needs to grow and export more organic produce to help tackle issues of food security and sustainability and help meet global demand which continues to grow, according to a UN agency report.

Fragrant olive may offer red pigment for formulators

Seeds of the Osmanthus fragrans plant may offer a novel red colour for food formulators, and tap into the growing demand for natural colours, says new research from China.

M&S wins teacake tax row

UK retailer Marks & Spencer has won a protracted legal battle against the VAT office that had classified its marshmallow teacakes as chocolate biscuits.

Sourcing and sales role for Martin Bauer in Singapore

Martin Bauer has set up a subsidiary in Singapore to give its tea-sourcing activities a boost, and to build the Asian market for its products.

Weekly comment

No room for functional foods gloom

Last week’s withdrawal of a high-profile functional food in France is disappointing for the company concerned and maybe for the healthy/functional foods industry, but you may be led to think differently if you happen to be a reader of the UK broadsheet, The Financial Times.

EFSA reveals milk protein safety conclusions

A new European review of the safety of proteins used in milk and dairy product formulation has found no link between their consumption and an increased risk to health, which could bring an end to an historic dispute.

New polishing agent brings shine to chocolate-coated cereal flakes

German ingredients firm Alfred Wolff rolls out a one-step polishing agent for chocolate-coated cereal flakes to meet the industry's need for improved surface shine and protective coatings.

High salt intakes in Switzerland may lead to federal action

A salt strategy to involve collaboration with food manufacturers is underway in Switzerland, as evidence mounts the Swiss population is consuming levels above current recommendations.

AB Enzymes in new distribution deal with Barentz

AB Enzymes has become the latest ingredient company to sign an agreement with Barentz which will now become its preferred distributor in Europe for its Baking and Food & Specialties divisions.

Danisco deal brings MCC to hydrocolloid range

Danisco has entered a partnership with a leading manufacturer of microcrystalline cellulose (MCC), allowing the firm to expand its range of hydrocolloid ingredients.

News in brief

Basque food research opens doors on new tech centre

The Basque Marine and Food Research (AZTI-Tecnalia) has inaugurated a new technological centre, with aims to establish a “vanguard of food research in Europe”.

News in brief

Three-ton order for fat replacer shows Z Trim’s global demand

A European food manufacturer has placed an order for three tons of non-GMO oat Z Trim from international distributor DKSH, as demand for the fat replacer increases around the world.

Consumers cannot be king in a sustainable world

Depending on the consumers to drive the food system down a more sustainable route is misplaced as government, food manufacturers and other industry players need to take the wheel, according to a new report.

Nestle explores thermogel emulsions for flavour, nutrient delivery

Self-assembled emulsion droplets encapsulated in carrageenan-based gels may one day be able to deliver flavours and nutrients in food, says preliminary research from Nestle.

Protein maker extends dairy commitment with solid launch

Protein manufacturer Proliant continues to push ahead with its re-entry into the dairy sector through the global launch of a new ingredient it says can provide added value in food formulation, whilst cutting costs compared to other dairy solids.

Frutarom completes acquisition of UK flavour group

Frutarom has finalized its acquisition of the UK flavour and fragrance company Oxford, which brings it one step closer to its goal of being a $1bn group by 2012.

Alternatives and innovation sought with Danisco enzymes move

Danisco says it is will be shifting its UK-based brewing enzymes operations to Denmark as part of a global shake up of the group’s beverage business designed to strengthen innovation in the segment.

Kellogg’s ‘wholesome’ ads misleading, says ASA

The UK’s Advertising Standards Agency (ASA) has upheld complaints that adverts for Kellogg’s ‘wholesome’ cookies were misleading and implied that the snacks were healthier than they actually are.

Purac builds science for salt replacer in meats

A potassium lactate and sodium diacetate mix may reduce the sodium chloride content by 40 per cent, and significantly increase shelf-life, says a new study from Purac.

FMC alginate reshuffle creates largest western production site

FMC BioPolymer is to consolidate its alginate manufacturing at its plant in Norway, making this the largest production facility in the western world for the ingredients.

FSA lists products free of Southampton colours

The UK’s Food Standards Agency (FSA) has published a list of food products that have been voluntarily reformulated to remove six food colours associated with hyperactivity in young children.

Flavanol-boosting chocolate to double in 2009, projects Barry Callebaut

While industry observers and stakeholders continue to speculate on whether chocolate is, or is not, 'recession-proof', Belgium's Barry Callebaut expects the number of consumer products containing its health and wellness Acticoa chocolate to double in 2009.

Drinking yoghurt sector slows

Sales of drinking yoghurt are showing signs of a struggle as growth slowed down in Europe at the end of last year, according to a new market report.

Edible fungus additive could eliminate grapefruit side effects: Study

Adding an edible mushroom-like fungus to grapefruit juice may help to reduce the serious side effects that can occur when people taking certain prescription drugs drink grapefruit juice.

Weekly comment

Nut so good - tainted US food system needs revamping

E. coli in ground beef, melamine in infant formula, and salmonella in peanut butter - what is next? Isn’t it about time the slices of the US food safety pie were taken back from the multiple federal agencies involved and surveillance placed under one roof?

Beta-glucan-rich fat replacers pass taste test for cookies: Study

Hydrocolloids containing beta-glucan could be used to replace fat in cookies and peanut spreads, according to a new study from the US and Korea.

Function and flavour merge in new strategic alliance

The flavour company Fromatech has merged with Food Ingredients & Specialities to offer customers function and taste solutions rolled into one, along with a new partnership to help it expand outside of Europe.