We use our own and third-party cookies to optimize your experience on this site, including to maintain user sessions. Without these cookies our site will not function well. If you continue browsing our site we take that to mean that you understand and accept how we use the cookies. If you wish to decline our cookies we will redirect you to Google.
Already have an account? Sign in.

 Remember Me | Forgot Your Password?
<<23242526272829303132>> Total results:1906 References Per Page:

Global Personal Care Leaders Seek To Duplicate China Success In India

July 22, 2010: 03:08 AM EST

After their success in China, global skincare brands now have their eyes focused on India’s skincare market, which grows 20-25% yearly. High-end vendor L’Occitane’s 51:49 joint venture deal with Kolkata-based Beauty Concepts illustrates this point. L’Occitane, however, is not alone, as Germany-based Beiersdorf, owner of the Nivea brand, aims to make China and India, along with Brazil and Russia, primary drivers of its planned sales expansion, while L’Oreal, which acquired British brand The Body Shop, is also working hard to expand its business in India. Hindustan Unilever Ltd. (HUL) controls the skincare market in India, where a fast growing middle class is flexing its purchasing strength and a growing mall culture has raised brand awareness. Local players including Dabur and Piramal Healthcare, however, are also doing their best to protect their shares of the market.

Anumeha Chaturvedi , "A Passage to Chindia ", Business Today, July 22, 2010, © India Today Group
Domains
TrendSpotter
Cultural Mixing
Geographies
Worldwide
EMEA
Asia-Pacific
Europe
China
India
Germany

Fish And Omega-3 Fatty Acids Cut Risk Of Metabolic Syndrome In Men

July 22, 2010: 09:55 AM EST
Korean researchers reported that frequent consumption of fish and omega-3 fatty acids was significantly associated with a lower risk of metabolic syndrome among men, but not among women. The data were compiled from questionnaires completed by 3,504 men and women aged 40-59 years who did not have cardiovascular disease or metabolic syndrome – factors such as excessive abdominal fat that increase the risk for coronary artery disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes. During a three-year follow-up period, it was found that significantly fewer men who ate fish daily developed metabolic syndrome compared to those who ate fish less than once a week. The risk of developing metabolic syndrome was cut in half among men who ate the most fish. No similar association was found among women in the study, however.
Inkyung Baik, PhD, Robert D. Abbott, PhD, J. David Curb, MD, PhD, Chol Shin, MD, Ph, "Intake of Fish and n-3 Fatty Acids and Future Risk of Metabolic Syndrome", Journal of the American Dietetic Association, July 22, 2010, © American Dietetic Association
Domains
TrendSpotter
Vitality & Better Living
Geographies
Worldwide
Asia-Pacific
South Korea

Local Cincinnati Ice Cream Company Goes National

July 21, 2010: 10:57 AM EST
Move over Haagen Daaz and Ben & Jerry’s. Cincinnati, Ohio-based ice cream maker Graeter’s is coming to town, the newest entry in the superpremium ice cream category. Founded in 1870 and family-run for its entire existence, Graeter’s has modernized just about every facet of its operations – except the taste of its product – to boost production and move nationwide by way of the Kroger’s retail chain. To compete in the superpremium category, and claim a bigger share of the $25 billion U.S. frozen dessert market, it has had to ensure it uses only the highest quality natural ingredients, including at least 14 percent milkfat. It also recently opened a state-of-the-art $11 million processing plant, hired new management and sharpened its marketing strategy.
Laura Baverman , "New facility helps Graeter's go national", Cincinnati.com, July 21, 2010, © Cincinnati Enquirer
Domains
TrendSpotter
Vitality & Better Living
Geographies
Worldwide
North America
United States of America

Coffee Drinking Has Numerous Health Benefits, Experts Report

July 20, 2010: 08:58 PM EST
Scientists reported on the numerous health benefits of drinking coffee at the recent IFT annual meeting. Studies have shown that regular coffee drinking can reduce the risks of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and Alzheimer’s, they said. The health-promoting benefits of coffee stem from its ingredients, which include caffeine, various bioactive compounds, chlorogenic acid, minerals, and antioxidants, according to a scientist. Other studies found that drinking coffee does not increase the risk of stroke or mortality. Another panelist reported on studies indicating that women who drink coffee tend to have higher cognitive function, better memory, and less cognitive decline with aging. A Finnish study of men and women found that drinking as much as five cups of coffee a day cut the risk of Alzheimer’s by 65 percent.
"Drinking Coffee Regularly Reduces Disease Risks", IFT Live, July 20, 2010, © IFT
Domains
TrendSpotter
Vitality & Better Living
Geographies
Worldwide
North America
United States of America

Food Industry Must Address “Higher-Level” Concerns Of Consumers

July 20, 2010: 08:53 PM EST
Food industry experts speaking at the recent IFT annual meeting acknowledged the bad press food processing has gotten in recent years. But while they stressed that obesity is not the only problem facing the world, they also warned that taking a defensive posture against critics is a mistake. Instead of saying processed foods aren’t harmful, the food industry needs to address the “higher-level” concerns of consumers, especially longevity/wellness and weight/health. Tomorrow’s food system, in addition to being “science- and technology-based,” one expert said, has to be focused on consumer needs and desires and must “assure the health and wellness of consumers, preserve the environment and natural resources, and be sustainable.”
Mary Ellen Kuhn, "Changing the Conversation About Processed Foods", IFT Live, July 20, 2010, © IFT
Domains
TrendSpotter
Vitality & Better Living
Geographies
Worldwide
North America
United States of America

New Food, Beverage Introductions On The Rise Again, Mintel Says

July 20, 2010: 11:14 AM EST
Data presented at the recent Institute of Food Technologists (IFT) annual meeting by market researcher Mintel shows that new food and beverage product introductions in the U.S. have increased about 15 percent over the second half of 2009. According to IFT, the increase indicates that the impact of the recession is leveling off and food manufacturers are innovating to meet consumer demand. Driving the increase this year has been new “treat foods” (Greek yogurt, pretzel M&Ms), as well as foods that make it easier to create restaurant-type food at home (specialty mayonnaise, spice collections), a Mintel representative said. Organic offerings topped out at 12 percent of new products in 2008, and since then dropped to about seven percent, largely from smaller companies or private label organics.
Mindy Weinstein, "On the Upswing: First Half of 2010 Showing Increase in New Food and Drink Products", News release, Institute Of Food Technologists, July 20, 2010, © Institute Of Food Technologists
Domains
TrendSpotter
Innovation & New Business Models
Geographies
Worldwide
North America
United States of America

High-Fat Diets Reduce Seizures In Children With Absence Epilepsy

July 20, 2010: 11:22 AM EST
A U.S. study of children with absence epilepsy has found that more than 70 percent who were treated with high-fat diets (ketogenic and modified Atkins) experienced half as many seizures. Many of the patients experienced a 90 percent reduction in seizures. Absence epilepsy, which usually begins in childhood, is a condition in which patients have multiple daily “absent” staring spells. If the condition develops in adolescence, it can lead to more serious generalized seizures. The investigators recommend that physicians who are wary of the strict high-fat ketogenic diet discuss the Atkins diet with patients. Their advice is based on observations of 21patients with absence epilepsy treated with either high-fat diet at Johns Hopkins Children’s Hospital, and on a review of all studies on the subject published between 1922 and 2008.
Laura B. Groomes, Paula L. Pyzik, et al., "Do Patients With Absence Epilepsy Respond to Ketogenic Diets?", Journal of Child Neurology, July 20, 2010, © Sage Publications
Domains
TrendSpotter
Vitality & Better Living
Geographies
Worldwide
North America
United States of America

ESA Says Snack Producers Are Ready To Standardize The Portion Size

July 20, 2010: 10:11 AM EST
The European Snack Association says snack producers in each of the 27 EU states have agreed to standardize on 30 grams as the size of one portion for nuts, crisps and pretzels. The standard size would help ensure that consumer snack eating patterns are considered along with dietary recommendations on calorie intake per portion. According to the ESA, snacks between meals should comprise up to 15 percent of a balanced diet that includes 2,000 kcal a day. The food industry is focusing on portion sizes for packaged foods as a tool in healthier eating and combating obesity; some nutritional labeling systems, such as guidance daily amounts (GDAs), are based on portion size. The ESA also suggested that snack packs containing more than one portion should clearly inform consumers.
ESA, "Savoury Snack Industry Positions July 2010 - Portion Rationale", Position Paper, European Snack Association, July 20, 2010, © ESA
Domains
TrendSpotter
Vitality & Better Living
Geographies
Worldwide
EMEA
Europe
United Kingdom
Denmark
France
Germany
Norway
Spain
Sweden

Iced Tea Puts People At Risk Of Kidney Stones, Physician Warns

July 20, 2010: 10:37 AM EST
A urologist at Loyola University (Illinois) warns that drinking large amounts of iced tea puts people at risk of kidney stone formation, a common, very painful urinary tract disorder that affects 10 percent of Americans. The main reason is that iced tea contains high concentrations of oxalates, chemicals that encourage kidney stone formation. Hot tea also contains oxalates, but people are less likely to drink large amounts of it. The summer is a particularly risky time, because people often drink iced tea to counter the dehydration caused by sweating. Men face quadruple the risk of developing kidney stones, especially once they reach their 40s. “For many people, iced tea is potentially one of the worst things they can drink,” said one scientist.
Dr. John Milner, " Iced Tea May Raise Your Risk of Painful Kidney Stones, Urologist Warns", News release, Loyola University, July 20, 2010, © Loyola University
Domains
TrendSpotter
Vitality & Better Living
Geographies
Worldwide
North America
United States of America

New Kellogg Cereals Promise Fiber, Antioxidants

July 20, 2010: 08:46 AM EST
Kellogg Company has unveiled a line of cereals that promise fiber and the antioxidant vitamins C and E. FiberPlus Antioxidants cereals, available in Berry Yogurt Crunch and Cinnamon Oat Crunch, are available now in grocery stores nationwide, the company says. Kellogg last June announced that most of its U.S. ready-to-eat cereals will be “at least good sources of fiber” by the end of 2010. Adding antioxidants to cereals follows on the heels of the company’s introduction of the FiberPlus Antioxidants Bar product family.
Kellogg Co., "KELLOGG COMPANY INTRODUCES DELICIOUS NEW KELLOGG'S FIBERPLUS™ ANTIOXIDANTS CEREAL", Kellogg Co. press release, July 20, 2010, © Kellogg Co.
Domains
TrendSpotter
Vitality & Better Living
Geographies
Worldwide
North America
United States of America

Owning Its Bottlers Will Make PepsiCo’s Shift To Healthier Beverages Easier

July 20, 2010: 09:26 AM EST
PepsiCo’s $7.8 billion acquisition of its two largest bottlers is proving to be an astute strategic move for a variety of reasons. The most important of these is the flexibility the bottling operations give the company as it implements a plan to market more nutritious food products. According to new CFO Hugh Johnston, the company’s long-term plan includes growing its nutrition product sales from $10 billion to $30 billion a year, while trimming fat, sugar and sodium content and maintaining flavor. Healthier ingredients are only part of the story, however: convenient packaging is important, too. An industry analyst notes that as American consumers move from soda to healthier drinks, “owning its bottlers should allow Pepsi to … react quickly to shifting consumer tastes."
Andrea Tse , "Best in Class: Pepsi's Plan for Global Domination", TheStreet, July 20, 2010, © TheStreet.com, Inc
Domains
TrendSpotter
Vitality & Better Living
Geographies
Worldwide
North America
Asia-Pacific
Latin America
United States of America
China

Research Finds Ethylcellulose Plus Lecithin Boost Flowability Of Fat-Reduced Chocolate

July 20, 2010: 10:09 AM EST
Blending ethylcellulose polymer surfactants with lecithin provides an efficient way to increase the viscosity of molten reduced fat chocolate, researchers at the U.K.’s University of Nottingham and Nestlé research center have found. The mixture stabilizes emulsion and lipid-based dispersions and offers a workable alternative to highly concentrated lecithin. Surfactants coat sugar and cocoa particles dispersed in fat such as cocoa butter to boost the viscosity of molten chocolate, which is necessary for successful processing and optimal mouthfeel in fat-reduced chocolate. Ethylcellulose did not improve flow by itself, but combined with lecithinit significantly enhanced fluidization and dispersibility of sucrose particles.
T-A.L. Do, J.R. Mitchell, B. Wolf and J. Vieir, "Use of Ethylcellulose Polymers as Stabilizer in Fat-based Food Suspensions Examined on the Example of Model Reduced-fat Chocolate", Reactive and Functional Polymers, July 20, 2010, © Elsevier B.V.
Domains
TrendSpotter
Vitality & Better Living
Geographies
Worldwide
EMEA
Europe
United Kingdom

Blackcurrant Seed Oil Could Reduce Risk Of Eczema In Young Children

July 19, 2010: 07:57 AM EST
Mothers who took blackcurrant seed oil (BCSO) supplements from pregnancy through breastfeeding reduced the prevalence of the chronic skin disorder known as atopic dermatitis (eczema) in their children, according to a study in Finland. Eighty-two percent of the parents were prone to atopic disorders, making the children at high-risk for atopic dermatitis. The BCSO supplements were continued until the children were two years old. Researchers said the BCSO supplements were well tolerated; the prevalence of atopic dermatitis in the BCSO group was significantly lower than in the control group at the age of 12 months. “[BCSO] could therefore be one potential tool in the prevention of atopic symptoms when used at an early stage of life,” the researchers concluded.
Linnamaa, P. , Savolainen, J.; Koulu, L. ; Tuomasjukka, S. ; Kallio, H. ; Yang, B.; Vahlberg, T.; Tahvonen, "Blackcurrant seed oil for prevention of atopic dermatitis in newborns: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial", Clinical & Experimental Allergy, July 19, 2010, © Blackwell Publishing Ltd.
Domains
TrendSpotter
Vitality & Better Living
Geographies
Worldwide
EMEA
Europe
Finland

Tate & Lyle Unveils First European Polydextrose Line In The Netherlands

July 16, 2010: 10:48 AM EST
Food and industrial ingredients supplier Tate & Lyle said it has fully commissioned its new STA-LITE Polydextrose line in a new facility in Koog, The Netherlands, to meet the growing demand for functional food ingredients. The facility is unique in Europe and provides a shorter supply chain and reduced costs for food and beverage makers. Available as a liquid and powder, STA-LITE Polydextrose is a low calorie (one kcal/gram), bulking agent used to provide body and texture in reduced calorie, no added sugar and/or high fiber foods. According to the company, polydextrose is also a soluble fiber with prebiotic properties. It is well tolerated, has a low glycemic response, is clean tasting and easy to use, enabling manufacturers to develop healthier versions of foods and beverage products.
Tate and Lyle, "Tate & Lyle announces the full commissioning of the first European Polydextrose line", Press release, Tate and Lyle, July 16, 2010, © Tate and Lyle
Domains
TrendSpotter
Vitality & Better Living
Geographies
Worldwide
EMEA
Europe
United Kingdom
Netherlands

Study Sheds Light On Why Low-Calorie Diet Slows The Aging Process

July 16, 2010: 10:58 AM EST
A British study in mice shows that a low-calorie diet slows the aging process because it has a beneficial effect on cell senescence, the point when a cell is no longer able to replicate. Scientists found that fewer senescent cells accumulated in the livers and intestines of the mice as the animals aged. They also found that the protective ends of chromosomes, known as telomeres, of the mice were better maintained despite their aging. The fact that the adult mice consumed a restricted diet for only a short time indicates that the benefits of a very low calorie diet can be gained at any time. It can lead to a longer lifespan and reduced incidence of age-related diseases, even if the diet is adopted later in life, the researchers concluded.
Chunfang Wang, Mandy Maddick, , "Late-onset, short-term dietary restriction reduces cell senescence in mice", Presentation, British Society for Research on Ageing Conference , July 16, 2010, © BBSRC
Domains
TrendSpotter
Vitality & Better Living
Geographies
Worldwide
EMEA
Europe
United Kingdom

Kids Who Watch TV Are Bombarded By Ads For Junk Food

July 15, 2010: 03:55 PM EST
Research groups in 11 countries who studied television food advertising found that kids were exposed to high volumes of ads that used child-oriented persuasive techniques to push unhealthy foods. Each group recorded programming between October 2007 and March 2008 from three channels most watched by children. Food ads comprised 11 - 29 percent of the advertising. “Noncore” foods (packed with undesirable nutrients or energy) were featured in 53 - 87 percent of the ads. The rate of noncore food ads was higher during children's peak viewing times. And most of the ads that featured persuasive marketing were for noncore foods. The researchers said their findings support calls for regulation of food advertising during children's peak viewing times.
Bridget Kelly MPH, et al., "Television Food Advertising to Children: A Global Perspective", American Journal of Public Health, July 15, 2010, © American Public Health Association
Domains
TrendSpotter
Vitality & Better Living
Geographies
Worldwide
North America
EMEA
Asia-Pacific
Latin America
United States of America
Canada
Europe
China
Brazil
United Kingdom
Germany
Italy
Spain
Sweden
Greece

Molecular Measurements Show How Cranberry Juice Battles Urinary Tract Infections

July 15, 2010: 10:25 AM EST
New research sheds light on the molecular basis of cranberry juice’s ability to ward off urinary tract infections caused by E. coli bacteria. The researchers found that the virulent form of E. coli bacteria is covered with small hair-like projections known as fimbriae that attach themselves to urinary tract cells. An infection results when enough of the bacteria accumulate. Exposure to cranberry juice, however, reduces the ability of the bacteria to attach to urinary tract cells. The researchers measured the mechanical forces of the attachment of E. coli to urinary tract cells and documented how the force of attachment is reduced in the presence of cranberry juice cocktail. The findings have implications for developing new antibiotic drugs and infection-resistant materials for invasive medical devices, the researchers said.
Yatao Liu, Paola A. Pinzón-Arango, Amparo M. Gallardo-Moreno, Terri A. Camesano , "Direct adhesion force measurements between E. coli and human uroepithelial cells in cranberry juice cocktail", Molecular Nutrition and Food Research, July 15, 2010, © Worcester Polytechnic Institute
Domains
TrendSpotter
Vitality & Better Living
Geographies
Worldwide
North America
United States of America

Studies Prove That Most Popular Weight Loss Supplements Don’t Work

July 15, 2010: 11:12 AM EST
A wide variety of popular weight loss supplements tested in two placebo-controlled human studies found no evidence that any of them helped people slim down and more than a placebo. The studies, presented at the International Congress on Obesity in Stockholm, Sweden, found that fake supplements did about the same as the popular supplements sold in pharmacies and health food shops. One study tested nine popular supplements, including LCarnitine, polyglucosamine, cabbage powder, guarana seed powder, bean extract, Konjac extract, fiber pills, sodium alginate formulations and selected plant extracts against a placebo. A second study reviewed the similar findings of other research on nine supplements, including chromium picolinate, Ephedra, bitter orange, conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), calcium, guar gum, glucomannan, chitosan and green tea.
IASO, "New research finds no evidence that popular slimming supplements facilitate weight loss", Press release, conference of the International Association for the study of Obesity (IASO), July 15, 2010, © IASO
Domains
TrendSpotter
Vitality & Better Living
Geographies
Worldwide
North America
EMEA
Europe
United Kingdom
Germany
Sweden

IASO Urges Tougher European Restrictions On Marketing Junk Food To Children

July 15, 2010: 10:58 AM EST
A study that looked at how European countries are regulating marketing to children found that two-thirds of the 53 countries in the region have official policies on advertising unhealthy food to children, a significant increase from five years ago when similar research was conducted. However, according to the International Association for the Study of Obesity (IASO), most countries depend heavily on self regulation by the food industry. The IASO report urges tougher controls on advertising junk food to children on the Internet, in videos and games, and direct mobile phone marketing. The food industry says it has already made a number of concessions and no more are needed, but consumer and health groups argue that this stance is an attempt to preempt stronger regulation.
The PolMark Project, "The PolMark Project Policies on Marketing food and beverages to children", Final project report, Executive Report, July 15, 2010, © The PolMark Project
Domains
TrendSpotter
Virtual Life & Technology
Vitality & Better Living
Geographies
Worldwide
EMEA
Europe
Sweden

FTC Gets Nestlé Subsidiary To Drop Health Claims For Kids’ Probiotic Drink

July 14, 2010: 02:22 PM EST
The Federal Trade Commission’s first case challenging advertising for probiotics has ended with a settlement in which a subsidiary of Nestlé S.A. has agreed to stop making “allegedly deceptive advertising claims about the health benefits of BOOST Kid Essentials.” Nestlé HealthCare Nutrition, Inc. will no longer claim that the drink will reduce the risk of colds, flu, and other upper respiratory tract infections unless the claim is approved by the FDA. Those claims “just didn’t stand up to scrutiny,” an FTC official said. BOOST is a nutritional drink for children ages one to 13. The probiotics are embedded in a straw. Nestlé HCN also agreed to stop claiming that BOOST will reduce children’s sick-day absences unless the claims are backed by two human clinical studies.
Karen Mandel, "Nestlé Subsidiary to Settle FTC False Advertising Charges; Will Drop Deceptive Health Claims for BOOST Kid Essentials", News release, Federal Trade Commission, July 14, 2010, © Federal Trade Commission
Domains
TrendSpotter
Vitality & Better Living
Geographies
Worldwide
North America
United States of America

Diet Supplement Maker To Pay $5.5 M Fine For False Health Claim Ads

July 14, 2010: 04:17 PM EST
A major marketer of dietary supplements will have to pay $5.5 million to settle Federal Trade Commission charges that it falsely advertised that its supplements could help people lose weight and treat colds and other illnesses. The money will be used to pay refunds to customers who purchased Accelis, nanoSLIM, and any Cold MD, Germ MD, and Allergy MD product sold over the Internet or at retail stores. The settlement also requires Iovate Health Sciences and two affiliated Canadian companies to stop making deceptive health claims about those products in television ads, Internet websites, and magazine ads. Some of the ads also made false and unsubstantiated claims that the products’ effectiveness was clinically proven.
Federal Trade Commission, "Federal Trade Commission, Plaintiff v. Iovate Health Sciences USA, Inc.", FTC File No. 072 3187, July 14, 2010, © Federal Trade Commission
Domains
TrendSpotter
Vitality & Better Living
Geographies
Worldwide
North America
United States of America
Canada

Five Fast Food Giants Significantly Cut Trans Fats In Oils

July 14, 2010: 01:19 PM EST
New research that takes a first look at trans fat trends in major fast food restaurants has found that several of the biggest chains seem to be responding to health concerns. Specifically, McDonald's, Burger King, Wendy's, Jack in the Box and Dairy Queen have significantly decreased trans fats in cooking oils, according to the U.S. study. Using a Univ. of Minnesota database that catalogs the nutritional values of 18,000 foods, the researchers analyzed trans fat and saturated fat levels in french fries from the five chains. McDonald's, Burger King, and Wendy's significantly cut trans and saturated fatty acid composition of fries between 1997 and 2008. Potential future marketplace shifts include changes to sodium and energy content of fast food items, researchers said.
Lisa Harnack, Ph.D., et al., "Study Finds Fast Food Chains Have Significantly Decreased Trans Fats In Cooking Oils", Presentation, National Nutrient Database Conference, July 14, 2010, © Univ. of Minnesota School of Public Health, Nutrition Coordinating Center
Domains
TrendSpotter
Vitality & Better Living
Geographies
Worldwide
North America
United States of America

“Western” Diet Doubles Risk Of ADHD Diagnosis In Adolescents

July 14, 2010: 11:28 AM EST
An Australian study has found a link between attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in adolescents and the so-called “Western” or junk food diet comprising fast foods, sugary snacks, and processed, fried and refined foods. The study looked at the dietary patterns of 1,800 adolescents from the long-term Raine Study and classified diets into “healthy” or “Western” patterns. ADHD had been diagnosed in 115 of the adolescents. The researchers found that a diet high in Western pattern foods more than doubled the risk of an ADHD diagnosis, compared with a diet low in the Western pattern. As to specific foods, the ADHD diagnosis was linked with a diet of fast foods, processed meats, red meat, high-fat dairy products and candy.
Amber L. Howard, Monique Robinson, Grant J. Smith, Gina L. Ambrosini, Jan P. Piek, Wendy H. Oddy , "ADHD Is Associated With a ‘Western’ Dietary Pattern in Adolescents", Journal of Attention Disorders, July 14, 2010, © Sage Publications
Domains
TrendSpotter
Vitality & Better Living
Geographies
Worldwide
Asia-Pacific
Australia

Governments Are Cracking Down On Junk Food Ads Targeting Children

July 13, 2010: 12:42 PM EST
Public health officials have argued for many years that marketing calorie-packed food and drinks to children contributes to the global obesity epidemic. Their efforts seem to be succeeding, as an increasing number of governments around the globe are implementing restrictions. But a lot of work still needs to be done, according to a leading expert on the issue. Tim Lobstein says most countries do not address advertising to children by the calorie content or other nutrient quality of the food product. And they have mostly ignored marketing channels beyond broadcast advertising. Also, although the food industry seems willing to curb ads targeting children, “there's chaos” and “a lot of contradiction in what industry is offering."
Tim Lobstein, "Progress made in addressing food marketing to children, but challenges remain", Presentation at the International Congress on Obesity (Stockholm, Sweden), July 13, 2010, © International Association for the Study of Obesity
Domains
TrendSpotter
Vitality & Better Living
Geographies
Worldwide
North America
EMEA
Asia-Pacific
Latin America
United States of America
Europe
Middle East- Africa
Malaysia
South Korea
Thailand
Brazil
Chile
United Kingdom
South Africa

Kashi Offers New Resource For Natural Foods Enthusiasts

July 13, 2010: 01:26 AM EST
Kellogg subsidiary Kashi Company has launched a Web search tool designed to help natural food fans find natural goods and services in their community. The Natural Nearby search tool and accompanying map, found on Kashi.com, provide relevant listings and word-of-mouth recommendations on leisure activities, food, consumer goods, health and beauty, and services. The site is interactive – consumers can add listings and personal favorites – to grow the database, the company said, adding that it hopes the resource will make it “a little easier for people to embrace and live a more natural lifestyle.” Also available on Kashi’s site is the Kashi Yearbook, created to commemorate its 25th anniversary.
Kashi, "Kashi Company Announces New Natural Lifestyle Initiatives", News release, Kashi Company, July 13, 2010, © PR Newswire
Domains
TrendSpotter
Sustainability
Virtual Life & Technology
Vitality & Better Living
Geographies
Worldwide
North America
United States of America

Increasing Numbers Of Foodborne Diseases Traced To Restaurant Salsa, Guacamole

July 12, 2010: 01:42 PM EST
Research conducted by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has found that nearly four percent of the restaurant-associated foodborne disease outbreaks between 1998 and 2008 were traced to contaminated salsa or guacamole, a rate that is double that of the ten prior years. Salsa and guacamole often contain diced raw produce, such as hot peppers, tomatoes and cilantro, all of which have been involved in past outbreaks, the CDC said. The agency began monitoring foodborne disease outbreaks in 1973, but no salsa- or guacamole-associated outbreaks were reported before 1984. Eighty-four percent of the 136 outbreaks occurred in restaurants and delis. CDC said that inappropriate storage times or temperatures and food workers were frequently cited as the sources of contamination.
Magdalena Kendall, "Salsa and guacamole increasingly important causes of foodborne disease", Presentation, International Conference on Emerging Infectious Diseases, July 12, 2010, © Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Domains
TrendSpotter
Fear & Security
Vitality & Better Living
Geographies
Worldwide
North America
United States of America

Overwhelming Majority Of Americans Want To Give FDA Food Recall Powers

July 12, 2010: 10:29 AM EST
Eighty percent of Americans want the Congress to empower the U.S. FDA to recall food that is potentially dangerous to health and safety, according to a poll conducted by the Consumers Union. Centers for Disease Control figures show that 76 million Americans each year are sickened, 325,000 hospitalized, and 5,000 die from consuming contaminated food, but the FDA inspects less than a quarter of all food facilities each year and has no power to recall dangerous food. The FDA Food Safety Modernization Act has passed the House but is stalled in the Senate. The legislation also requires the FDA to inspect all high-risk food processors at least once a year, CU said. “Americans want Congress to make our food safe now,” said a CU official.
Consumers Union, "Support for Congress acting immediately to pass legislation to provide the FDA broader authority to recall food", National poll results, July 12, 2010, © Consumers Union
Domains
TrendSpotter
Fear & Security
Vitality & Better Living
Geographies
Worldwide
North America
United States of America

FieldFresh Food Venture Hopes To Crack India’s Top Ten List

July 12, 2010: 03:05 AM EST
A 50-50 joint venture between Bharti Ventures and Del Monte Pacific is looking to become one of the top ten food and beverage companies in India by 2014, with help from Del Monte’s supply chain expertise. FieldFresh Foods is targeting sauces, juices, Italian cuisine and packaged fruit, market segments worth a total of $857 million and growing by 20 percent a year. The venture has already seen good market penetration – its products are now available at 20,000 retail outlets in 25 cities – but it faces tough competition from Nestle, Hindustan Unilever, ITC, Heinz, Parle Agro and Dabur. To speed things along, FieldFresh is spending $64 million on a food processing plant in Tamil Nadu and on fruit and vegetable research.
Arunima Mishra , "The Del Monte difference", Business Standard, July 12, 2010, © Business Standard Ltd.
Domains
TrendSpotter
Virtual Life & Technology
Vitality & Better Living
Geographies
Worldwide
Asia-Pacific
India

Elderly Who Lack Vitamin D Are At Severe Risk Of Cognitive Decline

July 12, 2010: 10:11 AM EST
Elderly adults who lack sufficient vitamin D in their blood are at greater risk for cognitive problems related to thinking, learning and memory, according to a U.S. study. Participants in the six-year study who were severely deficient in vitamin D were 60 percent more likely to have substantial cognitive decline and 31 percent more likely to experience declines on a test measuring executive function. Forty percent to 100 percent of older U.S. and European adults lack vitamin D, a problem also linked to fractures, various chronic diseases and death. According to the researchers, Vitamin D seems to help prevent deterioration of brain tissue by playing a role in development of nerve tissue, maintaining calcium levels, or clearing of brain plaque-causing beta-amyloid associated with Alzheimer’s disease.
David J. Llewellyn, Ph.D., et al., "Vitamin D and Risk of Cognitive Decline in Elderly Persons", Archives of Internal Medicine, July 12, 2010, © American Medical Association
Domains
TrendSpotter
Vitality & Better Living
Geographies
Worldwide
North America
United States of America

U.S. Senator Urges FTC Probe Of Beverage Companies Promoting Teen Drinking

July 12, 2010: 10:49 AM EST
U.S. Senator Charles E. Schumer is urging the U.S. Federal Trade Commission to investigate certain beverage companies whose alcoholic drinks “seem explicitly designed to attract underage drinkers.” The letter to FTC Chairman Jon Leibowitz calls for a probe of drinks that appear to be marketed to underage teens in packaging that deliberately resembles non-alcoholic energy drinks. The labels are deceptive enough to fool both parents and law enforcement, Schumer says. “Popular drinks such as Four Loko and Joose look nearly indistinguishable compared to energy drinks, yet contain up to 12 percent alcohol per volume, two to three times the amount of alcohol in one can of beer.” Schumer urged the FTC to examine marketing practices and take enforcement actions if warranted.
Charles E. Schumer, "Schumer Calls On Ftc To Investigate Companies That May Be Promoting Underage Drinking", News release, Sen. Charles Schumer, July 12, 2010, © Charles E. Schumer
Domains
TrendSpotter
Vitality & Better Living
Geographies
Worldwide
North America
United States of America

Healthy Beverages Continue To Be Major Focus Of Innovation, Sales At Campbell

July 12, 2010: 01:52 AM EST
Top executives at Campbell Soup Company told investors that the company’s long-term growth plans are based on healthy beverages, baked snacks and simple meals. Sales growth in these categories will be driven by increased innovation, including wellness, and higher levels of marketing support, according to CEO Douglas Conant. Campbell President Sean Connolly said the company will build on the success of the V8 V-Fusion juices by launching three new varieties of it plus tea products. The company will also enhance the V8 juice line with new products, such as sweet carrot juice and lower sodium spicy hot V8 juice, and introduce “a new, more contemporary package design.” Campbell's U.S. V8 portfolio accounts for $1 billion in annual retail sales.
Campbell Soup, "Campbell Steps Up Investments in Baked Snacks and Healthy Beverages; Highlights Plans for Simple Meals", Campbell Soup press release, July 12, 2010, © CSC Brands, L.P.
Domains
TrendSpotter
Vitality & Better Living
Geographies
Worldwide
North America
EMEA
Asia-Pacific
United States of America
Canada
Europe
Australia
China
France
Germany
Belgium
Russia

Changes May Be In Store For U.K.’s Food Standards Agency

July 12, 2010: 01:00 AM EST
Newly installed British Health Secretary Andrew Lansley denied rumors that he planned to abolish the Food Standards Agency (FSA), but acknowledged that a review is being conducted and it’s possible some of the FSA’s responsibilities could be shifted to other departments. "Before the election I made perfectly clear that in my view the diet and nutrition responsibilities of the Food Standards Agency should form part of a more integrated public health service," Lansley said. Labor party officials have said they believe the food industry is pushing for major changes at FSA because of its advocacy of so-called “traffic light” labeling on food products. The red-amber-green labels would warn consumers about salt, sugar and fat content. Lansley has said FSA’s advocacy of traffic-light labeling as an anti-obesity measure is counter-productive.
Stefan Wermuth, "Government denies it will abolish food watchdog", Reuters, UK, July 12, 2010, © Thomson Reuters
Domains
TrendSpotter
Vitality & Better Living
Geographies
Worldwide
EMEA
Europe
United Kingdom

India’s Top Food Companies Put A Healthy Spin On Their Product Ads

July 12, 2010: 01:12 AM EST
Big food companies in India are turning up the volume on health-related messages in advertising and on packages. McDonald’s, KFC, Nestle, Hindustan Unilever, PepsiCo and Coca-Cola – all sensitive to increasing public and government demands for healthier foods – are positioning their products as part of a “healthy lifestyle.” McDonald’s India, for example, will unveil a global “balanced active lifestyles” program over the next year that includes nutritional information, broader menu choices and promotion of physical activity. Unilever’s Indian unit is working on a global salt reduction strategy while PepsiCo promises to get sugary drinks out of schools by 2012. And Coca-Cola hopes to list nutrition data products by 2011.
Ratna Bhushan,ET Bureau, "Food majors go for image makeover to stay healthy", Times of India, July 12, 2010, © Bennett, Coleman & Co. Ltd
Domains
TrendSpotter
Vitality & Better Living
Geographies
Worldwide
Asia-Pacific
India

Will “Gluten-Free” Foods May Suffer Same Fate As Other Fad Diets?

July 12, 2010: 12:53 AM EST
Sales of gluten-free food products will grow to $4.3 billion by 2014, according to Datamonitor. But the industry researcher cautions that the gluten-free trend may suffer the fate of other fads, such as low- or no-carb diets, and endure a rapid decline. The U.S. market for gluten-free products is expected to grow by $500 million in the same period, giving it 53 percent of the world market. The market is buoyed by celebrity endorsements and sales to people who have been diagnosed with a gluten allergy and to those who follow a gluten-free diet without such a diagnosis. But because the gluten-free diet is “somewhat of a ‘vogue diet’ … it is possible that long-term growth will be negatively impacted,” Datamonitor says.
Natural Product Insider, "Gluten-Free Growth May Not Last", Natural Product Insider, July 12, 2010, © Virgo Publishing, LLC
Domains
TrendSpotter
Vitality & Better Living
Geographies
Worldwide
North America
EMEA
Asia-Pacific
United States of America
Europe
Japan
United Kingdom
France
Germany
Italy
Spain
Sweden
Russia

New Germicidal Wipe Kills 35 HAI-Causing Pathogens

July 12, 2010: 03:37 AM EST
Kimberly-Clark Professional has introduced a germicidal wipe with “a new chemistry” that cleans and disinfects environmental surfaces quickly. According to the company, KIMTECH One-Step Germicidal Wipe kills MRSA in 30 seconds and C. difficile spores in six minutes. Other environmental surface disinfectants require 10 minutes, according to the company. The greatest surface cleaning challenge facing infection control and environmental services professionals is maintaining proper contact times to kill the largest number of pathogens that cause healthcare-associated infections (HAIs), a company surveyu found. KIMTECH combines peracetic acid and hydrogen peroxide with a proprietary wiper treatment that keeps the solution active over time, allowing it to kill 35 different organisms. The pre-moistened wipe is dispensed as ready-to-use individual sheets.
"Kimberly-Clark Professional Launches KIMTECH* One-Step Germicidal Wipe to Kill Organisms That Cause HAIs", News release, Kimberly-Clark, July 12, 2010, © PR Newswire Association LLC
Domains
TrendSpotter
Fear & Security
Geographies
Worldwide
North America
United States of America

Grocery Shoppers Have Spoken: Sales Of Wheat Bread Overtake White

July 9, 2010: 05:07 AM EST
U.S. supermarket sales of wheat bread, especially “wheat with whole grain” bread, have overtaken sales of white bread for the first time, closing a four-year $200 million gap, Nielsen LabelTrends reports. The trend was particularly strong in the year ended June 12, 2010. Supermarket sales of white bread plunged 6.6 percent to $1.9 billion, while wheat bread sales climbed 0.8 percent to $1.99 billion. Sales of breads made from other grains, including rye, oat, multi-grain, pumpernickel, etc., all slipped as well. Consumers are also losing interest in “wheat without whole grain,” whose sales dropped 2.6 percent. Despite the claim by “one iconic brand of white bread” that its product contains as much fiber as 100 percent whole wheat, “a demand shift has already occurred within the bread category.”
Supermarket Guru, "Wheat Bread Sales Surpass White for First Time", Facts, Figures & the Future Newslette, July 09, 2010, © Phil Lempert/Consumer Insight, Inc.
Domains
TrendSpotter
Vitality & Better Living
Geographies
Worldwide
North America
United States of America

Chinese Government Seizes 76 Tons Of Dairy Products Contaminated With Toxic Melamine

July 9, 2010: 05:53 AM EST

The Chinese government, embarrassed by food-safety violations in the 2007 and 2008 melamine cases and determined to prevent them in the future, has implemented comprehensive changes in food inspection procedures that includes new rules and a streamlined food regulation bureaucracy. The new program seems to be working. Food inspectors in Qinghai Province in Western China recently impounded 76 tons of milk powder and other raw dairy products and finished goods tainted with as much as 559 times the legal levels of the toxic industrial chemical melamine. The confiscated products had somehow avoided a national recall of dairy foods after the 2008 debacle. Melamine is added to food products because it mimics protein in food quality tests, making foods then seem more nutritious.

MICHAEL WINES, "Tainted Dairy Products Seized in Western China", The New York Times, July 09, 2010, © The New York Times
Domains
TrendSpotter
Fear & Security
Vitality & Better Living
Geographies
Worldwide
EMEA
Asia-Pacific
China

USDA Says Food Assistance Program Is Reaching The Neediest Americans

July 9, 2010: 01:24 PM EST
Sixty-seven percent of all families eligible in fiscal year 2008 for the U.S. Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as the food stamps program, participated, up from 66 percent the year before, according to the USDA. Eighty-six percent of children eligible for SNAP benefits participated in 2008. The largest of the USDA’s 15 nutrition aid programs, SNAP helps poor people buy fruits, vegetables and whole grains. It currently serves 40 million low-income people. The program is also linked with other benefits. Schools can use SNAP certification information to enroll children to receive free school meals without any added paperwork. USDA said the amount of benefits delivered in proportion to total benefits if every eligible household participated – called the benefit receipt rate – also increased in 2008.
USDA Food and Nutrition Service, "Trends in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Participation Rates: 2001 to 2008", USDA report, July 09, 2010, © USDA
Domains
TrendSpotter
Vitality & Better Living
Geographies
Worldwide
North America
United States of America

FDA’s New Safety Rules For Large-Scale Egg Producers Take Effect

July 9, 2010: 12:37 PM EST
The FDA hopes that its new rules enforcing safety standards for large-scale egg producers will make a dent in the large number of illnesses and deaths caused by eating eggs contaminated with Salmonella bacteria. The new requirements, which impact about 80 percent of egg producers, went into effect on July 9. The producers are required, for example, to adopt contamination prevention measures and to use refrigeration during egg storage and transportation. Illness caused by Salmonella bacteria in eggs is a serious public health problem, FDA said, with 79,000 illnesses and 30 deaths reported last year. By employing the safety measures, producers would reduce Salmonella enteritidis infections from eggs by nearly 60 percent, the agency said.
FDA, "New Final Rule to Ensure Egg Safety, Reduce Salmonella Illnesses Goes Into Effect", News release, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, July 09, 2010, © FDA
Domains
TrendSpotter
Vitality & Better Living
Geographies
Worldwide
North America
United States of America

Obama’s Food, Health Officials Report Progress In Campaign To Ensure Food Safety

July 9, 2010: 12:22 PM EST
Top Obama Administration agriculture and health officials report progress among the various federal food safety agencies in their efforts to implement the President’s food safety initiatives. The Food Safety Working Group had recommended a public health-focused approach to food safety grounded in prioritizing prevention, strengthening inspection and enforcement, and improving response and recovery. The USDA, for example, has issued draft standards and guidance on salmonella in poultry and eggs and produce safety. It has also begun a verification testing program for beef bench trim and has issued draft guidelines on ways to control E. coli on the farm. The Health and Human Services Dept. has launched a Web portal where industry and public health officials can report that a food might be harmful to health.
HHS Press Office, "Federal Agencies Announce Progress in First Year of Implementing Food Safety Working Group Recommendations", News release, U.S. Dep’t. Of Health and Human Services, July 09, 2010, © U.S. Dep’t. Of Health and Human Services
Domains
TrendSpotter
Fear & Security
Vitality & Better Living
Geographies
Worldwide
North America
United States of America

Binge Drinking Causes Long-Term Disruption Of Genes Involved In Bone Formation

July 9, 2010: 01:12 PM EST
A U.S. study has found long-lasting disruptions in hundreds of genes involved in bone formation in rats that were injected with large amounts of alcohol. According to the researchers, the findings should serve as a warning to teenagers about the long-term effects of binge drinking on bone development, including an increased risk of fractures and osteoporosis. Binge drinking is defined as a woman having at least four drinks or a man having at least five drinks on one occasion. In the study, rats received injections of alcohol that resulted in a blood alcohol level of 0.28. Researchers found long-lasting disruption of about 300 bone-related genes in rats exposed to acute binge drinking and about 180 bone-related genes in rats exposed to chronic binge drinking.
John Callaci, Ph.D., Kristen Lauing and Phillip Roper, "Long-Term Modulations in the Vertebral Transcriptome of Adolescent-Stage Rats Exposed to Binge Alcohol", Alcohol and Alcoholism, July 09, 2010, © Medical Council on Alcohol
Domains
TrendSpotter
Vitality & Better Living
Geographies
Worldwide
North America
United States of America

OTA Blasts Time Magazine For “Misleading” Consumers On USDA Egg Quality Research

July 9, 2010: 12:19 AM EST
The Organic Trade Association criticized an article in Time magazine (“Organic Eggs: More Expensive, but No Healthier”) for misleading consumers by misinterpreting a USDA-sourced journal article reporting on the quality of chicken eggs derived from various sources. The article published in the journal Poultry Science “includes no reference to certified organic eggs and says nothing about nutritional value,” the OTA said in a letter to Time. The USDA researcher measured brown and white egg sizes, among other things, but made no statements about nutritional values, healthiness, etc. “The headline drawing broad health conclusions from a quality measure misinterprets what USDA scientists are saying and confuses consumers,” OTA said.
Barbara Haumann, "OTA: Egg research findings inaccurately peg organic in media reports", Press Release, OTA, July 09, 2010, © OTA
Domains
TrendSpotter
Vitality & Better Living
Geographies
Worldwide
North America
United States of America

Plant Compound Luteolin Is A Powerful Anti-inflammatory Agent

July 8, 2010: 04:17 PM EST
U.S. researchers have found that six natural plant compounds – luteolin, quercetin, chrysin, eriodicytol, hesperetin, and naringenin – target an enzyme known as TBK1 that is associated with inflammation, which increases the risk of cancer, heart disease and diabetes. Each of the six compounds inhibits to some extent TBK1's ability to activate a specific biochemical signal that, if unimpeded, leads to formation of gene products known to trigger inflammation. The researchers found that luteolin, a known anti-inflammatory compound found in celery, thyme, green peppers, and chamomile tea, was the most effective inhibitor of TBK1. Foods rich in quercetin include capers, apples, and onions. Chrysin is from the fruit of blue passionflower. Oranges and other citrus fruits are good sources of eriodicytol, hesperetin, and naringenin.
Daniel H. Hwang, "Cancer-Fighting Roles of Intriguing Plant Compounds", Agricultural Research, July 08, 2010, © Agricultural Research Service (USDA)
Domains
TrendSpotter
Vitality & Better Living
Geographies
Worldwide
North America
United States of America

European Lawmakers Are Firmly Opposed To Marketing Food Products From Cloned Animals

July 8, 2010: 03:09 AM EST
The European Parliament is not backing down from its opposition to meat and milk products from cloned animals. On July 7 it voted to exclude such food from a draft European Union regulation on novel foods. The legislators also asked for a moratorium on sales of food derived from cloning. The vote is a strong signal to the European Commission and EU member states who want to regulate the sale of "novel foods," but have not taken a firm stand on cloned animal food products. A complete ban on cloned animal food would put the EU into trade conflicts with less restrictive countries, especially the U.S. So-called nanofoods are also a bone of contention. The Parliament asked for a moratorium on their use until they could be proven safe.
EurActiv, "Parliament calls for EU ban on cloning for food", Press Release, EU, July 08, 2010, © European Union
Domains
TrendSpotter
Fear & Security
Vitality & Better Living
Geographies
Worldwide
North America
EMEA
Latin America
United States of America
Canada
Europe
Brazil
Argentina

U.S. FDA Seeks Input On Implementing Restaurant Nutrition Labeling Law

July 8, 2010: 01:29 PM EST
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has asked for public input on how best to implement a new federal law requiring that nutrition data be posted on menus at fast-food and other chain restaurants, and vending machines. The new law, enacted in March, sets new federal labeling requirements for food sold at certain restaurants, coffee shops, delis, movie theaters, bakeries, ice cream shops, and vending machines. Restaurants that are part of a chain with 20 or more locations selling substantially the same menu items have to list calorie content information on menus and menu boards, including drive-through menu boards. If customers ask for it, restaurants have to provide detailed nutrition information, such as calories, fat, saturated fat, etc. Comments will be accepted for 60 days after July 7.
FDA, "FDA Seeks Public Comment on New Federal Menu Labeling Requirements", News release, U.S. Food & Drug Administration, July 08, 2010, © FDA
Domains
TrendSpotter
Vitality & Better Living
Geographies
Worldwide
North America
United States of America

Weight Is The Key Concern For 70 Percent Of Americans

July 8, 2010: 01:52 PM EST
A large majority of Americans (70 percent) are concerned about their weight, and an even larger majority (77 percent) are trying to lose or maintain their weight, according to a survey by the International Food Information Council Foundation. Yet, despite advice from everywhere, including the highest levels of government, Americans still don’t quite understand the “calories in” and “calories out” dynamic and how it affects weight. Only 19 percent say they keep track of calories. Strategies for losing weight, the survey found, include changing the amount of food eaten (69 percent), changing the type of foods eaten (63 percent), and exercising (60 percent). Sixty-five percent say weight loss is the main reason they adopted a healthy diet and 16 percent say they are making their diet healthier to maintain weight.
International Food Information Council Foundation, "2010 Food & Health Survey Consumerr Attitudes Toward Food Safety, Nutrition, & Health", IFIC Report, July 08, 2010, © IFIC Foundation
Domains
TrendSpotter
Vitality & Better Living
Geographies
Worldwide
North America
United States of America

Fish Oil Supplements Associated With Reduced Breast Cancer Risk In Large Study

July 8, 2010: 12:58 PM EST
A large U.S. study of postmenopausal women with no history of breast cancer found that regular consumption of fish oil supplements rich in omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA reduced the risk of breast cancer. A questionnaire asking about use of non-vitamin, non-mineral “specialty” supplements was completed by more than 35,000 women. Six years later, 880 women reported they had breast cancer. Fish oil supplements were associated with a 32 percent reduction in breast cancer risk, particularly invasive ductal breast cancer, the most common form. However, the lead researcher cautioned against inferring any recommendations from the study. “Without confirming studies specifically addressing this,” she said, “we should not draw any conclusions about a causal relationship.”
Theodore M. Brasky, Johanna W. Lampe, John D. Potter, Ruth E. Patterson and Emily White, "Specialty Supplements and Breast Cancer Risk in the VITamins And Lifestyle (VITAL) Cohort", Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention, July 08, 2010, © American Association for Cancer Research
Domains
TrendSpotter
Vitality & Better Living
Geographies
Worldwide
North America
United States of America

OTA Urges Greater Emphasis On Organic Foods In U.S. Dietary Guidelines

July 8, 2010: 03:23 AM EST
Draft dietary guidelines from the USDA and Dept. of Health and Human Services should be revised to encourage American shoppers concerned about exposure to toxic chemicals to look for the USDA Organic label on products, the Organic Trade Association (OTA) said in testimony before an advisory committee that is writing a new version of the guidelines. The organization criticized statements in the draft guidelines that say organic and conventional foods have similar nutritional value and contributions to human health. “These conclusions are neither grounded in current science nor relevant to the mandate of the dietary guidelines,” an OTA official said. She also noted that the guidelines offer advice that conflicts with the President’s Cancer Panel regarding ways to reduce environmental cancer risk by minimizing exposure to pesticides and chemical fertilizers.
Barbara Haumann, "OTA: Dietary Guidelines need to take stronger stand on organic foods", Press Release, Organic Trade Association, July 08, 2010, © Organic Trade Association
Domains
TrendSpotter
Fear & Security
Vitality & Better Living
Geographies
Worldwide
North America
United States of America

High Prices, Lack Of Knowledge, Keep Many Women Shoppers From Buying Organic Deli Meat

July 8, 2010: 03:45 AM EST
An online survey of women who regularly purchase deli meat for their children found that 45 percent would choose organic meats for their kids if knew the benefits of buying organic. The survey, sponsored by natural and organic meat/cheese producer Applegate Farms, basically revealed that women shoppers don’t really understand terms like organic, conventional or natural. For example, 36 percent of the women surveyed either weren’t sure, or believed organic and natural deli meats are the same thing. But higher prices seem to be the deciding factor for shoppers: forty-nine 49 percent cited price as the reason they don't buy organic deli meat. Twenty-six percent said they didn’t buy organic because they couldn’t find organic deli foods in their local grocery stores.
Applegate Farms, "Survey Says: Moms Looking for More Guidance on Organic Deli Meat", PR Newswire, July 08, 2010, © PR Newswire
Domains
TrendSpotter
Fear & Security
Vitality & Better Living
Geographies
Worldwide
North America
United States of America

European Food Industry Is Staggered By EFSA’s Health Claim Rulings

July 7, 2010: 04:51 AM EST
Rules adopted in 2006 by the European Food Safety Authority to protect consumers from scientifically unproven health claims have left the food industry in turmoil. About 80 percent of 900 claims examined – 4,637 were submitted – have been rejected by the EFSA as “unsubstantiated, exaggerated or untruthful." The EFSA rejected, for example, claims that green tea is an antioxidant, and is good for blood pressure, cholesterol levels, bones, teeth and eyesight, and claims that cranberry juice can reduce the risk of urinary tract infection in women. Product names might have to be changed as well: “Slim Fast” might be considered an unsubstantiated health claim. The rulings have angered manufacturers in the U.K., who predict that the rules could push shoppers to buy products from “less reputable “sources.
Neil Bowdler, "EU health food claims law begins to bite", BBC News, July 07, 2010, © BBC
Domains
TrendSpotter
Vitality & Better Living
Geographies
Worldwide
EMEA
Europe
United Kingdom
<<23242526272829303132>> Total results:1906 References Per Page:
>> <<
Developed by Yuri Ingultsov Software Lab.