Australian Cereal And Bread Makers Agree To Cut Salt Content March 22, 2010: 03:59 AM EST Leading Australian cereal and bread makers have agreed with the government to reduce salt content in their products gradually over the next three to four years. Participants in a “dialogue” convened by government health authorities and a group representing the food industry settled on a sodium target of 400 milligrams per 100 grams for ready to eat cereals, breads, rolls and buns. Cereal makers Kellogg’s, Sanitarium, etc., set a target date of 2014, while bread manufacturers George Weston Foods, Goodman Fielder Baking and others agreed on 2013. An official of the industry group noted that George Weston had already removed 342 tons of salt from products since 2009, despite technical challenges, and other food companies were looking to reduce salt in “processed meats, soups, sauces and snack foods.” "AUS: Bread, cereal makers target reduced salt", Just-food, March 22, 2010, © just-food.com

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Food Industry Embraces Food Additives, Thanks To Scientific Advancements March 22, 2010: 04:14 AM EST The diversity and quantity of fortified food products have grown dramatically in the last five years, thanks to advancements in additive science that have solved problems like objectionable flavors and odors, and made formulation easier. Formulation now requires less effort thanks to new matrices. Spray drying, for example, produces a starch matrix that enhances the fat solubility of vitamins A,D, E and K in water- and juice-based foods. And lipid encapsulation has made possible better tasting, healthier meal-replacement bars. The trendiest additives in the last five years? Vitamins C and E, thanks to their recognized antioxidant – and possibly cancer-prevention – properties; biotin, which has become a common ingredient in hair and skin care products; and inulin, now regularly used in vitamin-mineral premixes to boost food fiber content. Vanessa Teter, "Food Fortification Trends", Natural Products Insider, March 22, 2010, © Virgo Publishing, LLC

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Natural Soups, 3-Ply Bath Tissue Top NRI’s Lists Of Successful ‘09 Product Launches March 22, 2010: 10:47 PM EST Despite an uncertain economy in which consumers paid very close attention to what ended up ion their shopping carts, many companies were able to successfully introduce new food and non-food products in 2009. Information Resources, Inc., kept track of them, compiling two top-ten lists ranked by sales. The biggest achiever in the food category was Campbell’s Prize Harvest line of “100 percent natural” soups, a marketing coup after the company finally figured out how to touch base with its primary demo. Filling out the top five winners in the food category were Bud Light Lime from Anheuser-Busch, Green Giant Valley Fresh Steamers, Arnold Select Sandwich Thins and Dreyer’s/Edy’s Fun Flavors ice cream. King of the hill in the non-food category? Georgia-Pacific’s Quilted Northern Ultra Plush, the first three-ply bath tissue introduced in the U.S. market. Elaine Wong and Todd Wasserman, "IRI's Top Launches of 2009", Brandweek, March 22, 2010, © Brandweek

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Despite Some Daunting Obstacles, Opportunities For Nutritional Product Marketers Are Plentiful March 22, 2010: 02:22 AM EST Opportunities abound for nutritional product marketers – some researchers forecast the functional food market to top $43 billion by 2013 – as consumers increasingly focus on the health benefits of the foods they consume. But marketers in the US and abroad face a number of challenges, external and internal, in getting their message across to those health-conscious consumers. These include pressures from ever more restrictive government regulators, consumer advocates, and environmentalists. Internally, functional food companies need to establish their position in the emerging industry by cultivating and educating niche-market customers. But before that happens, they need to educate themselves on the marketing opportunities provided by high-profile nutritional ingredients (antioxidants, fiber, omega-3s, probiotics, calcium, etc.). One such opportunity: the US FDA has been easing restrictions on product claims related to cancer risk reduction. Claudia Dziuk O’Donnell, "NUTRITIONAL Product Opportunities", Prepared Foods, Nutra Solutions, March 22, 2010, © BNP Media

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USAID And Coca-Cola Extend Partnership To Tackle Global Water Issues March 22, 2010: 04:30 AM EST The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) and Coca-Cola have added another $12.7 million to their joint investment in the Water and Development Alliance (WADA), an organization devoted to solving global water problems. WADA will use the new funding to help maintain eight new multi-year programs battling water-related challenges throughout sub-Saharan Africa. The additional money invested – the total is now $28.1 million since 2005 – WADA now supports 32 projects in 22 countries in Africa, Latin America, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia, according to the two organizations, which noted that more than a billion people worldwide lack safe drinking water and 2.6 billion lack access to basic sanitation. "THE COCA-COLA COMPANY AND USAID EXPAND GLOBAL WATER PARTNERSHIP", PR Newswire, March 22, 2010, © PR Newswire

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USDA Says Bush-Era Federal Organic Food Overseer Failed To Enforce Standards March 22, 2010: 03:04 AM EST The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Inspector General has severely criticized the National Organic Program (NOP), a unit of the Agricultural Marketing Service that ensures accurate labeling of organic food, for failure to enforce standards under the Bush administration. Between 2006 and 2008 the NOP did not respond quickly or effectively to investigations into five certified organic operations, including one that had marketed non-organic mint under USDA’s organic label for two years. In addition, the NOP allowed California to create a state organic program that, as of last November, failed to meet national requirements. The USDA stressed that NOP needed to improve administration, bolster control over certifying agents, better enforce regulations, resolve complaints quickly, and make sure organic products meet standards. just-food, "US organic food enforcement slammed", Australian Food News, March 22, 2010, © Australian Food News

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Carbery Unveils Food Ingredient That Blends WheyProtein And Omega-3 March 22, 2010: 02:55 AM EST After what it called “extensive development work,” Irish ingredients supplier Carbery has introduced a product combining whey protein concentrate (WPC) and omega-3 fatty acids with “good mouthfeel and texture.” The ingredient provides levels of EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid), DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and ALA (alpha-linoleic acid) that make foods eligible to use “source of” and “high in” omega-3 label claims in compliance with revised European Union regulations. The new ingredient -- part of Carbery’s Carbelec product line containing whey concentrates with up to 80 percent protein -- targets the meal replacement, clinical nutrition and low calorie diet markets, where “consumers need an easy way to meet daily nutritional guidelines and support health,” a Carbery executive said. Israeli researchers were the first to discover that whey protein could be a nano-vehicle for delivering DHA. Shane Starling, "Carbery Launches Whey-Omega-3 Blend", American Dairy Products Institute, March 22, 2010, © American Dairy Products Institute

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Microscopic Crystals Help UK’s Bakers Cut Salt Content, But Not Product Quality March 22, 2010: 02:47 AM EST The UK’s top baking companies are getting ready to launch new products with sodium levels slashed by as much as half – from 1.8 percent to .7 percent – thanks to microscopic salt crystals that have no impact on volume, texture or weight. Emanate, the company providing the tiny crystals, says the technology is based on the principle that the smaller the salt crystal, the greater the perception of salt, so less is needed. The company overcame technical hurdles – simply grinding the salt finer didn’t work because the crystals stick together – using an innovative process that alters crystal structure. Crystals become free-flowing hollow balls with a shelf-life of 18 months, an Emanate exec said. Bakers are satisfied with the result: new products, albeit more expensive, could hit store shelves in early 2011. Elaine Watson, "Bakers slash salt with ‘micro’ salt particles", Food Manufacture, March 22, 2010, © William Reed Business Media Ltd

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Americans Respond Better To Food Labels Suggesting “Natural” Ingredients March 22, 2010: 03:19 AM EST Labeling foods with the claims “antioxidant added” or “omega-3 added” fails to push the purchasing buttons of American shoppers, who seem to equate the term “added” with “less natural” and “more processed,” according to a new Decision Analyst survey. The label that resonates is “rich in:” 40 percent of American consumers were more likely to buy foods labeled, for example, “rich in antioxidants,” compared to 25 percent attracted by “antioxidants added.” The same held true for other ingredients: 27 percent preferred “rich in omega-3s” (19 percent chose “omega-3s added) and 25 percent preferred “rich in iron” (15 percent chose “iron added”). “Consumer perceptions and beliefs about ingredients, as well as nutritional information on food packaging, are important factors driving their purchase behavior,” the analyst added. "Foods Labeled As “Rich In Antioxidants” Resonate More With American Consumers Than Foods Labeled “Antioxidants Added,” According To A Nationwide Study By Decision Analyst", Decision Analyst, March 22, 2010, © Decision Analyst, Inc.

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Emerging Nutricosmetics Industry Moving Forward With Superfruit-Based Skin Care Formulas March 22, 2010: 04:07 AM EST The successful use of so-called superfruits in natural products has caught the attention of the personal care and beauty industries, where the phenomenon is known as “nutricosmetics” or “beauty from within.” Anti-aging and beauty products that are ingested rather than topically applied increasingly include superfruit-derived ingredients, whose benefits are supported by scientific research. One company, for example (derma e), is using formulas based on: pomegranates to help prevent wrinkling and reduce free radical damage; grape seed oils to improve sun-aged skin; and cranberry oils to fight free radicals and hydrate skin. An industry executive cautioned, however, that companies need to hold superfruit-based products to the same high quality standards as other personal care products: including “sustainable harvesting, identifiable and researched phytochemical profile testing, and quality assurance compliance.” Alissa Marrapodi , "Beauty Fruits—Superfruits for Skin Care", Inside Cosmeceuticals, March 22, 2010, © Virgo Publishing, LLC

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Common Food Ingredient From The Sea Acts As Super Dietary Fat-Absorber March 22, 2010: 03:38 AM EST A team of scientists at Newcastle University (UK) has found in lab experiments that a natural dietary fiber known as alginate (found in seaweed) can prevent absorption of fat better than most anti-obesity products currently on the market. Using an artificial gut to test the performance of more than 60 natural fibers, the researchers measured fat digested and absorbed, finding that the kelp fiber absorbed as much as 75 percent of fat. The food industry already uses small amounts of alginates in foods as thickeners and stabilizers. But the research team wants to find out whether adding seaweed fiber to foods like bread will actually promote weight loss while eating. An early encouraging result: a blind taste test found that alginate-based bread had better texture and richness than standard white bread. "Seaweed to tackle rising tide of obesity", Newcastle University, March 22, 2010, © Newcastle University

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Natural & Organic Products Europe Show Set For April 11-12 March 22, 2010: 03:15 AM EST More than 500 European manufacturers and suppliers of functional foods will be showcasing new products, brand improvements, and redesigned packaging at the Natural & Organic Products Europe show from April 11-12 at London’s Olympia. According to show organizers, a wide variety of innovative natural and organic products will be featured during the free two-day event. Among the expected highlights: a new concentrated organic beetroot stamina shot from James White Drinks; a homegrown, all natural chewing gum made with Black Mitcham peppermint from Peppersmith; artichoke tea from Natur Boutique; new organic and natural snacks from Infinity Foods; and Glee Gum, an all-natural, gluten-free chewing gum from Natural & Organic Products Europe. Registration information can be found at www.naturalproducts.co. "Functional Foods - Trade show highlights at Natural & Organic Products Europe 2010", CisionWire, March 22, 2010, © Cision

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Yakult Danone India Expands Door-To-Door Distribution Model To Mumbai March 20, 2010: 04:22 AM EST After successful testing in four Indian cities, probiotics health foods maker Yakult Danone India Ltd. has extended its global door-to-door distribution program known as the Yakult Ladies system to Mumbai and Pune. Yakult is a probiotic drink that contains bacteria (Lactobacillus casei strain Shirota) that purportedly benefit the digestive system. Under the distribution program, young women specially trained for door-to-door distribution deliver probiotic products to customer homes. They also educate customers in the health benefits of probiotics and provide free samples. The company’s marketing test involved 140 trained women in Delhi, NCR, Jaipur and Chandigarh. With the addition of Pune and Mumbai, that number is expected to more than double by the end of the year. According to the company, there are 80,000 Yakult Ladies around the world. "Yakult Danone India (P) Ltd. introduces its global distribution system ‘YAKULT LADIES SYSTEM’ in Mumbai ", Web Newswire, March 20, 2010, © Webnewswire

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USDA To Enforce 20-Year-Old Law Requiring Spot Testing Of Organic Foods March 19, 2010: 03:47 AM EST Bolstered by a doubled budget and staff, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Organic Program beginning in September will step up enforcement of a 20-year-old law requiring spot testing of organic foods for pesticide residues. First priority will go to growers with the highest risk of contamination, the agency said. A recent USDA auditor’s report revealed that the program under the Bush administration had been lax in enforcing organic testing rules, had failed to sufficiently evaluate independent certifiers of foreign organic operations, and had been slow to take action against marketers of falsely labeled foods. Tightened oversight – including surprise inspections of producers, processors and stores – was applauded by the organic food industry as “critical to … the long-term health” of the business because consumers would be assured that the organic label was accurate. WILLIAM NEUMAN, "U.S. Plans Spot Tests of Organic Products", New York Times, March 19, 2010, © The New York Times Company

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Current Nutrition Issues Present Opportunities – And Threats – To The Dairy Industry March 19, 2010: 01:37 AM EST The dairy industry could benefit significantly from – or be harmed by – today’s food and nutrition trends. It is critical to “educate” the public and health professionals about the health benefits of dairy in each instance, according to a dairy industry group. Some connections to health are easier to draw. On the issue of obesity, dairy is well-positioned because of low-fat milk. Likewise, dairy stands to benefit from research that is recasting the negative image of saturated fats, and examining the satiety-inducing effects of dairy-based protein, such as whey. But there are more ominous threats to the industry: efforts to trim sodium, fat and sugar content, or restrict their intake by school children; expansion of vitamin D fortification to other foods; and efforts to encourage increased consumption of plant-derived nutrients. "Food and Nutrition Issues Likely to Impact the Dairy Industry in the Next 1 to 3 Years", American Dairy Products Institute, March 19, 2010, © American Dairy Products Institute

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Chemical Found In Bananas Shows Potential As HIV Inhibitor March 19, 2010: 09:38 AM EST With new HIV infections spreading at a rate that outstrips the rate of new patients getting anti-retroviral drugs by 2.5 to 1, scientists around the globe are urgently searching for new methods of deterring the spread of the disease. Although discovery of an effective vaccine is thought to be years away, a ray of hope has appeared in the form of a chemical derived from bananas. BanLec, a variety of the compound lectin commonly found in plants, acts as a powerful HIV inhibitor because it stops chain reactions that lead to infections. Lab tests of BanLec found that the chemical was as potent as two current anti-HIV drugs. And that, researchers said, opens the door to the possibility that it may someday become a cheap ingredient of applied vaginal microbicides. Michael D. Swanson, Harry C. Winter, Irwin J. Goldstein and David M. Markovitz, "A Lectin Isolated from Bananas Is a Potent Inhibitor of HIV Replication", The Journal of Biological Chemistry, March 19, 2010, © American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

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Determined Organic Food Marketers Face Uphill Battle Overcoming Chinese Skepticism March 18, 2010: 10:55 PM EST Though taking different approaches to the problem, home-grown Chinese organic food entrepreneurs and big grocery chains are battling the same tough obstacle in the huge Chinese food market: skepticism about the price and authenticity of organics. France's Carrefour strategy is to spend money educating shoppers on health benefits, while Beijing Organic and Beyond Corp. is earning trust “one customer at a time” with quality products. But it’s a tough sell. Prospective customers haven’t forgotten recent news of milk tainted with melamine or toxic cowpeas. Organic food labels are often confusing to consumers (“non-polluting food,” “green food,” etc.). And the premium prices are frequently prohibitive: middle-income Chinese shoppers intrigued by the health benefits of organics still balk at prices three to five times higher than non-organic choices. Niu Shuping and Tom Miles, "Organic food sales a tough slog in China", Reuters, March 18, 2010, © Thomson Reuters

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Natural Products Industry Needs To Toughen Its Standards For Use Of “Natural” Label March 19, 2010: 04:30 AM EST The term “natural” – which unlike “organic” is not strictly defined by any federal or state agency – is being applied to so many questionable products that consumers should ignore it, says green advocate Dianne MacEachern. A voluntary standard developed by the natural products industry is a “step in the right direction,” she says, but it doesn’t go far enough. The Natural Products Association (NPA) standard says naturals cannot contain phthalates and formaldehyde or synthetic colors and flavors, nor can they be processed with harsh or toxic chemicals. But there are key problems: the standard is voluntary, it ignores a product’s life cycle, and was developed without input from consumers or independent scientists. Besides fixing those problems, a tougher NPA standard should ban antibacterials and be popularized via the media, MacEachern advises. Diane MacEachern, "The Problems with 'Natural' Products -- and How to Fix Them", GreenBiz.com, March 19, 2010, © Greener World Media - GreenBiz.com®

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Natural Food Colorings Offer An Array Of Health Benefits, But Aren’t For All Products March 18, 2010: 07:09 AM EST With the trend among health-conscious consumers toward “natural” food colors, food formulators need to be aware that 90 percent of today’s artificial colors can be replaced by naturals. Natural colors fall under FDA’s category of “exempt from certification” and many offer health benefits attractive to nutraceuticals consumers. In fact, the colorant in some fruits and vegetables is often the healthiest feature. Purple, blue and red veggies, for example, get their hues from anthocyanins, powerful antioxidants believed to help lower the risk of heart disease. Red, orange and yellow fruits and vegetables are colored by carotenoids, including lycopene, with strong antioxidant properties. When switching to natural colors, companies need to consider the priorities of their target audience, and be aware that some types of products may not be compatible with particular colors. R. J. Foster, "Naturally Colorful", Food Product Design, March 18, 2010, © Virgo Publishing, LLC

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Low-Fat, High-Carb Diet Has No Effect On Cholesterol Levels, Study Finds March 18, 2010: 03:51 AM EST A six-year U.S. study of nearly 3,000 post-menopausal women has found that a low-fat diet bolstered with complex carbohydrates has no effect on cholesterol levels, but is still a good way to lose weight. Researchers studied two sets of women: a control group and a group fed low-fat foods plus vegetables, fruit and grains. Though the diet didn’t affect cholesterol among non-diabetics, it pushed triglyceride levels higher (a sign of high cholesterol) among diabetic women whose levels were already high. Still, reduced consumption of saturated fats and trans fatty acids did lower the risk of heart disease, researchers said. But at least one skeptical dietary expert cautioned that studies based on participant reports of their adherence to diets are “notoriously inaccurate.” Barbara V Howard, J David Curb, Charles B Eaton, et al., "Low-fat dietary pattern and lipoprotein risk factors", American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, March 18, 2010, © American Journal of Clinical Nutrition

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Selenium Seems To Protect Elderly Men, But Not Women, From The Onset Of Diabetes March 18, 2010: 03:16 AM EST Does the trace element selenium promote, or prevent, the onset of Type II diabetes? Studies have provided conflicting evidence, some showing that selenium lowers the risk because of “insulin-like” activity and antioxidant properties, others indicating that selenium increases the risk and even boosts blood fat levels. A new study launched to resolve the conflicting results has found that high plasma selenium levels seem to protect against “dysglycemia,” a precondition of Type 2 diabetes, in elderly men, but not women. The study looked at data from a nine-year study of nearly 1,400 healthy men and women aged 59-71 years. During the study period, 127 new cases of diabetes developed. But men with high levels of selenium were 52 percent less likely to develop diabetes, a result not seen in women. Tasnime N Akbaraly, Josiane Arnaud, Margaret P Rayman, Isabelle Hininger-Favier, Anne-Marie Roussel, Claudine Berr and Annick Fontbonne, "Plasma selenium and risk of dysglycemia in an elderly French population: Results from the prospective Epidemiology of Vascular Ageing Study", Nutrition & Metabolism 2010, March 18, 2010, © BioMed Central Ltd

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EU Legislators Okay New Food Labeling Rules But Balk At “Traffic Light” Coding March 18, 2010: 01:53 AM EST A health and food committee of the European Parliament has approved a proposal to merge current EU food and nutrition labeling regulations into a new regulation that requires additional nutrition details. However, they rebuffed suggestions for a mandatory EU-wide color-coded labeling system comparable to the one used in the UK. A German opponent of “traffic light” labeling said color symbols lack “scientific background” and are “oversimplified” compared to label boxes containing nutrition data. Advocates of color coding, however, said the close committee vote indicates that the European Parliament should take it up again in the plenary session in May. Under the new regulation approved by the MEPs, key nutritional information – energy content, fat, carbohydrates, sugar, salt, proteins, fiber and transfats – has to be shown on the front of food packages. "EU lawmakers reject colour-coded system for food labels ", EurActiv, March 18, 2010, © EurActiv

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Solazyme Puts Algae To Work In Fuel Oil, Nutritional Ingredients, Cosmetics Markets March 18, 2010: 04:41 AM EST About 200 companies are trying to profit from the fact that algae can produce oil from sunlight and carbon dioxide, but one firm seems to be far ahead of the pack. Well-financed privately-held Solazyme is also well-diversified – thanks to genetic engineering and a tank-based production technology – delivering a wide array of algae-derived products in large volumes for three market segments: fuel oils, nutritional ingredients and cosmetics/nutraceuticals. The U.S. Navy is a major fuel customer. Food supplement makers are buying its protein-rich microalgae powder. Unilever has agreed to incorporate its algal oil in personal care products. Biofuels experts see a bright future for the company because, in an era of increasing environmental and foreign oil supply concerns, Solazyme’s fuels are U.S.-sourced and boast a carbon footprint better than diesel or gasoline. Marc Gunther, "Fuel, Vitamins, Soap Help Solazyme Algae Stand out from Pond Scum", GreenBiz.com, March 18, 2010, © Greener World Media - GreenBiz.com®

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Nano-Delivery Of Coconut Oil Compound Could Be Safer Acne Treatment March 17, 2010: 09:59 AM EST Lauric acid, found in both coconut oil and human breast milk, shows potential as a safer treatment for acne when carried by tiny "nano-bombs" to skin bacteria sites, new US research shows. The natural substance has a side benefit: it avoids the objectionable side effects like burning and inflammation of current acne treatments. Researchers developed a nano-scale delivery system that carries tiny lauric-acid-filled bubbles straight to acne-causing bacteria in the skin. Gold nanoparticles attached to the surfaces of the lauric-acid-filled nano-bombs (liposomes) prevent them from fusing and point them toward the acne-causing bacteria. When the liposomes reach the bacterial membranes, the gold nanoparticles drop off, freeing the liposomes to do their deadly work. Next step? "These nano-bombs are likely to be tested on humans in the near future," a researcher says. Dissaya Pornpattananangkul, Sage Olson, Santosh Aryal, et al., "Stimuli-Responsive Liposome Fusion Mediated by Gold Nanoparticles", ACS Nano, March 17, 2010, © American Chemical Society

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Childhood Asthma Added To The List Of Disorders Linked To Vitamin D Deficiency March 17, 2010: 10:05 AM EST Recent research into vitamin D has linked deficiencies to several diseases – including depression and autoimmune disorders – that have nothing to do with bones and joints. A new study adds to that research by suggesting that vitamin D deficiency may also be associated with asthma. African American children with asthma in the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area were much more likely to have low levels of vitamin D than healthy African American children, according to the study. Researchers measured vitamin D in the blood of healthy African American six-to-nine-year-olds and I six-to-20-year-old asthmatic children. Eighty-six percent of the asthmatic children had insufficient levels of vitamin D, compared to only 19 percent of non-asthmatics. The findings suggest that low vitamin D levels seriously affect child lung health much more than previously thought, researchers said. Robert J. Freishtat, MD, Sabah F. Iqbal, MD, Dinesh K. Pillai, MD, et al., "High Prevalence of Vitamin D Deficiency among Inner-City African American Youth with Asthma in Washington, DC", Journal of Pediatrics, March 17, 2010, © Elsevier, Inc.

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Cloves Seen As Potential Source Of Natural Antioxidant For The Food Industry March 16, 2010: 01:24 AM EST The shelf life of some foods, especially meats, is limited by lipid (fat) oxidation, which causes deterioration and loss of nutritional value and flavor. To combat this problem, the food industry has been using synthetic antioxidants, whose side effects cause “several undesirable disorders,” according to a study by Spanish scientists. The goal of their research was to find natural spice oil antioxidants that can be incorporated into food products to retard spoilage. Testing several spices associated with the Mediterranean diet, the researchers found that essential oils from cloves have the highest amounts of phenols, and worked the best at preventing oxidative activity. Other spices tested were oregano, thyme, rosemary, and sage, each of which exhibited at least some antioxidant properties. Manuel Viuda-Martos, Yolanda Ruiz Navajas, et al. , "Antioxidant activity of essential oils of five spice plants widely used in a Mediterranean diet", Flavour and Fragrance Journal, March 16, 2010, © John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

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A Few Top Food And Beverage Brands Quietly Shift From HFCS To Sugar March 15, 2010: 02:25 AM EST Thanks to a growing consumer preference for natural ingredients – and a narrowing gap in the prices of once-cheap high fructose corn syrup (HFCS) and sugar – leading brands Hunt’s ketchup, Gatorade, Wheat Thins and short-term “throwback” versions of Pepsi and Mountain Dew are now sweetened with sugar instead of HFCS. But marketers wary of alarming loyal buyers of corn syrup-based products are soft-pedaling the change. Gatorade plans a quiet campaign advising moms and others about the health risks of corn syrup. Wheat Thins vaunts “the benefits of whole grains,” and sugar-sweetened Hunt’s ketchup quietly joins a reduced sugar and organic “lifestyle range” of products. Meanwhile, as the HFCS industry battles bad press about corn syrup, the threat of state and federal taxation looms over all sugary products. Natalie Zmuda , "Major Brands No Longer Sweet on High-Fructose Corn Syrup", AdAge, March 15, 2010, © Crain Communications

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Functional Food Companies Can Benefit From The Emerging Personal ROI Trend March 15, 2010: 10:56 AM EST Growing insistence on extracting more emotional and social value from purchases – a “personal return on investment” – means that consumers these days are concerned about more than product cost and functionality. They are also concerned about fair trade, resource management and corporate social responsibility. Functional food producers should take note, because health-conscious consumers are not only increasingly aware of the cost and nutritional value of functional foods they purchase. They are also aware of environmental and social issues, and concerned about the social responsibility levels of companies they deal with. Are they, for example, committed to the principles of fair trade? According to Maryellen Molneaux, “opportunities exist for marketers of functional foods and beverages” who “promote value differential” and can help consumers increase their personal ROI. Maryellen Molyneaux, "Personal ROI on Functional Foods", Food Product Design, March 15, 2010, © Virgo Publishing, LLC

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Vitamin D Supplements May Actually Be Harmful To Blacks March 15, 2010: 04:15 AM EST Doctors normally prescribe vitamin D supplementation for patients at risk for osteoporosis (weak bones) or for diabetics at risk for atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries). But a new U.S. study of 340 black men and women with diabetes has found that low levels of vitamin D in black people are fairly normal and do not necessarily signify a deficiency. Supplementation, in fact, may actually worsen atherosclerosis. The study found that calcified plaque in the large arteries of black patients correlated positively with high levels of vitamin D circulating in the blood. Vitamin D levels are normally lower in blacks for two main reasons: darker skin pigmentation and consumption of fewer dairy products (and less dietary calcium). But despite that, blacks generally experience less osteoporosis and atherosclerosis. Lynne E. Wagenknecht, Dr.P.H., Kristen G. Hairston, M.D., et al., "Vitamin D, Adiposity, and Calcified Atherosclerotic Plaque in African-Americans ", Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism, March 15, 2010, © The Endocrine Society

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Calcium Supplementation Alone Does Not Protect Against Osteoporosis March 12, 2010: 09:14 AM EST For many years calcium has been a recommended dietary supplement for people age 50 and older at risk for osteoporosis, a condition that weakens bones, making them especially susceptible to fractures. But new research confirms that calcium alone is usually not enough to do the job. The study by U.S. and Swiss researchers emphasizes the importance of vitamin D’s ability to help the body put calcium to work. Examining data on 10,000 men and women aged 20 and older who took part in a national survey, the researchers found that correcting inadequate blood levels of vitamin D is more important than increasing dietary calcium intake for better bone mineral density. Unfortunately, calcium intake advice today is not tied to vitamin D status, the researchers said. Bess Dawson Hughes, Heike A Bischoff-Ferrari and Jean Mayer, "Therapy of Osteoporosis With Calcium and Vitamin D", Journal of Bone and Mineral Research, March 12, 2010, © Wiley-Blackwell

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PepsiCo Tests Greener Fertilizers To Reduce Tropicana’s Carbon Footprint March 11, 2010: 03:14 AM EST Concerned about the fairly large carbon footprint – thanks to nitrogen-based fertilizers – of its Tropicana orange juice, PepsiCo has contracted with two companies to develop greener plant foods. So far, they have come up with two possibilities that are being tested at one of PepsiCo’s Florida orange farms. Each reduces the need for natural gas during production. One, based on calcium, gets rid of nitrous oxide emissions entirely. The other is based on locally-sourced organic, renewable, emission-reducing raw materials like biofuels. PepsiCo will conduct a long-term study of the two green fertilizers to make sure crop yield isn’t hurt over the long run. If successful, and if PepsiCo implements the new fertilizers systemwide, they “could have a major impact on U.S. farming and the corporation itself.” Bryan Walsh , "Tropicana: Trying to Make a Greener Orange Juice", Time.com, March 11, 2010, © Time Inc

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Sugar Demand On The Upswing, Thanks To Trend Toward Natural Foods March 11, 2010: 02:45 AM EST The sugar industry says it’s on the comeback trail from the beating it took in the 1980s from high fructose corn syrup and artificial sweeteners. Sugar Association CEO Andy Briscoe points to several factors as the basis for burgeoning demand for sugar, including doubts about the safety of chemical-derived sweeteners, increasing interest in natural products, and better taste. Noting that sugar has become a “scapegoat for childhood obesity,” Briscoe challenges scientific studies based on scanty evidence that link sugar consumption with an array of health problems. In fact, the rise in obesity related health issues has come at a time when consumption of sugar has dropped 40 percent. At any rate, Briscoe sees a bright future for the sugar industry as global supply begins to catch up with the surging demand. "Sugar Usage Sees Strong Demand", ISC Newsroom, March 11, 2010, © Imperial Sugar Company

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Big Head Start Plus State Subsidies Drive Organic Farming Growth In Czech Republic March 10, 2010: 02:43 AM EST Despite problems like government red tape and higher production costs, organic farming and processing in the Czech Republic are growing steadily enough to be deemed a substantial success. The number of organic farms hit 2,689 in 2009, accounting for 400,000 hectares, or 9.38 percent of total farmland, according to industry researcher Bioinstitut. The country’s organic agriculture track record going back to 1980 gave it a head start over other EU states, of course, but a doubling of government subsidies between 2006 and 2008 was the major shot in the arm. And organic farmers have reason to be optimistic about their economic future: most supermarkets in Prague, for example, carry organic products. A side benefit: innovative farming methods are teaching lessons that could have a long-term environmental impact on the country. Philip Heijman , "Organic farmers seeing growth", Prague Post, March 10, 2010, © Prague Post, spol. s.r.o

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Neurology Expert Offers “Sound” Advice To Advertisers March 10, 2010: 11:57 PM EST According to neurology authority Martin Lindstrom, advertisers who ignore the powerful impact of familiar sounds – laughing babies, sizzling steaks, vibrating cell phones – on the human mind are missing a big opportunity. Lindstrom, author of the bestseller Buyology, found significant resonance among volunteers whose responses to those everyday sounds were carefully measured. The volunteers also responded to sounds associated with popular brands, including Intel, McDonald's and Home Depot. Lindstrom wrote in Fast Company that the sounds push a button in consumers’ minds, activating responses such as joy or hunger. A practical application? Playing recognizable sounds like percolating coffee, for example, in a grocery store breakfast food aisle. Once marketers become aware of “the power of sound,” Lindstrom wrote, “it will be used to increase brand recognition in increasingly sophisticated ways." Tom Ryan , "The Power of Everyday Sounds", Retailwire, March 10, 2010, © RetailWire LLC

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Provider Of Healthy Vending Machine Snacks Says Science Supports Its Successful Strategy March 9, 2010: 02:38 AM EST YoNaturals, a San Diego-based provider of more than 600 healthier vending machine snacks to schools, hospitals, health clubs, etc., says recent scientific findings support its strategy. School-age kids snacking on "salty, fatty and sugary treats" are consuming "empty calories" that cause weight gains that portend adult health problems such as obesity, according to two studies. The company, whose snack line contains less fat, salt and sugar than the usual fare offered in schools, says vending machine owner-operators, attracted by the stability of the vending machine business, are increasingly aware of the healthy snack trend as well. That fact, coupled with a careful machine placement strategy, has fueled YoNaturals’ “explosive growth” beyond the West Coast, the company says. "YoNaturals Calls for Healthier Snack Vending in Nation's Schools", Yahoo!, March 09, 2010, © Yahoo!

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Tiredness, Lack Of Time Keeping Canadians From Following Oral Hygiene Regimen March 9, 2010: 07:10 AM EST A Proctor & Gamble-sponsored study has found that only four percent of Canadians regularly adhere to the dentist-suggested daily routine of brushing, flossing and rinsing with antibacterial mouthwash. Time and tiredness were the main excuses for lax oral and dental care, the survey found. Though a large majority of Canadians (77 percent) are aware of the importance of regular dental checkups, and say they’d like a healthy-looking smile, about a quarter fail to see a dentist at least once a year, mainly because they can’t afford it, often because of a lack of dental insurance. Surprising finding from the survey: four percent of Canadians who don’t brush their teeth say they don’t know how to use a toothbrush. "Canadians admit to poor oral hygiene habits despite citing a healthy-looking smile as a health priority", Canada NewsWire, March 09, 2010, © CNW Group Ltd.

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Food Companies In UAE Target Growing Demand For Affordable, Healthier Choices March 9, 2010: 09:34 AM EST Though food shoppers in the United Arab Emirates have become more frugal – witness a 21 percent decline in pricier organics purchases in 2009 – they are also becoming more aware of health and nutrition and food-related health problems like diabetes, and are looking for healthier food options. Food companies are taking advantage of these trends, and of government concerns over obesity, by increasing their presence in the region. IFFCO, National Foods Company, Al Yasra Food and Al Ghurair Foods are all stepping into organic. Nevertheless, experts say changes in consumer perceptions of cost-versus-health-benefits of organic will come slowly. “It takes time for people’s habits to change, and gradually they will,” an industry consultant says. Armina Ligaya, "Food for a healthy craving", The National , March 09, 2010, © Abu Dhabi Media Company PJSC

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Increased Awareness Of Benefits Of The Healthy Little Blueberry Fuels Surge In Demand March 8, 2010: 02:52 AM EST The blueberry industry is enjoying a remarkable day in the sun as continued scientific reports of the superfruit’s health benefits fuel increasing consumer demand. Blueberries are packed with antioxidants and beneficial anthocyanins and phenolics that have been shown to relieve oxidative stress, especially in the brain. And they have another advantage – versatility, i.e., they can be eaten fresh and as an ingredient in dairy foods, baked goods, beverages, cereals and snacks. The total per capita consumption of highbush blueberries in 2008, both fresh and processed, was 26.6 ounces, up four ounces from 2007. If that trend held through 2009, the blueberry industry would have shipped as much as 45 million pounds more than the 220 million pounds shipped in 2008. Joanna Cosgrove, "The Bountiful Blueberry ", Nutraceuticals World, March 08, 2010, © Rodman Publishing

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Price Elasticity Of Junk Food Suggests Government Strategies In Obesity War March 8, 2010: 06:14 AM EST U.S. researchers who found that spending on junk food drops as prices rise suggest that taxing unhealthy foods and beverages may be one way federal, state and local governments could influence U.S. adults to eat a healthier diet. The researchers evaluated the diets of 5,115 young adults from 1985 through 2006 while tracking food prices. A ten percent price increase led to a seven percent decrease in soda calories, and a 12 percent decrease in pizza calories, consumed. In addition, higher soda or pizza costs were linked to lowered daily calorie intake, lower body weight and improved insulin resistance. An 18-percent tax on unhealthy foods would lead to significant overall weight loss and a lower risk of obesity-related diseases, the researchers concluded. Kiyah J. Duffey, Ph.D., Barry M. Popkin, Ph.D., et al., "Food Price and Diet and Health Outcomes: 20 Years of the CARDIA Study", Archive of Internal Medicine 2010;170(5):420-426. , March 08, 2010, © American Medical Association

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Moderate Drinking Found To Reduce Risk Of Obesity In Middle-Aged Women March 5, 2010: 06:41 AM EST Scientific evidence so far has not proven that drinking alcohol, with 196 calories in every ounce, is a risk factor for obesity. Now a new study suggests that, among normal-weight middle-aged women at least, drinking modest amounts of alcohol may actually reduce the risk of weight gain. U.S. researchers studied health data questionnaires from more than 19,000 women over age 39 with normal weight and followed them for 13 years. About 38 percent said they drank no alcohol; 53 percent drank up to 15 grams a day; three percent drank more than 15 grams. Over the 13 years, most women (on average) gained weight. But women who drank 15 to 30 grams of alcohol a day had the lowest risk of being overweight or obese – almost 30 percent lower than non-drinkers. Lu Wang, MD, PhD, et al, "Alcohol Consumption, Weight Gain, and Risk of Becoming Overweight in Middle-aged and Older Women", Archives of Internal Medicine 2010;170(5):453-461, March 05, 2010, © American Medical Association

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Nutrigenomics Set To Change Public Health, Food And Culinary Industries March 5, 2010: 01:24 AM EST In the next five to ten years, scientists in the emerging field of nutrigenomics may be able to customize diets for the prevention of disease by focusing on a person’s genetics, according to researchers. Nutrigenomics studies the effects of food on gene expression, or the process of “turning on” a gene to act in a certain way. It may be possible, the researchers say, to use food to prevent an individual's genes from expressing disease, a phenomenon that could change the future of public health and the food and culinary industries. Nutrients affect gene expression through transcription factors – biochemical entities that bind to DNA and either promote or inhibit transcription of genes. To succeed, nutrigenomics requires collaboration among geneticists, as well as professionals in public health, food science and culinary science. Koushik Adhikari, Denis Medeiros & Jean Getz, "Nutrigenomics and Public Health", Food Technology Magazine, March 05, 2010, © Institute of Food Technologists

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Grocery Manufacturers And Retailers Commit To New Sustainability Initiative March 4, 2010: 02:16 AM EST Building on the original 2005 Courtald Commitment, the British Government’s waste watchdog, Waste and Resources Action Programme (WRAP), has launched the second phase. The 28 founding signatories of Courtald Commitment 2 include manufacturers, like Unilever and Heinz, as well as retailers, such as Tesco and ASDA. The new initiative, with a 2012 deadline, is targeting three main areas for groceries: reducing the carbon impact of packaging by 10%, cutting household food and drink waste by 4%, and reducing product and packaging waste along the supply chain by 5%. WRAP claims that the first phase reduced packaging by some 500,000 tonnes between 2005 and 2009. Tesco has announced trials using plastic bottles for its store-brand spirits and lightweight glass wine bottles. The second phase extends the scope to the impact of product waste throughout the supply chain and to waste from households. In 2009, WRAP introduced the ‘Love food hate waste' campaign, designed to encourage a reduction in the £10bn of food households throw out each year. Joe Thomas, "Tesco, Unilever and Heinz among brands to pledge sustainability commitment", marketingmagazine.co.uk, March 04, 2010, © Haymarket

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ConsumerLab Finds Serious Problems With Certain Weight-Loss Supplements March 3, 2010: 09:33 AM EST New ConsumerLab reports on analyses of commercially-available chromium-based and other dietary supplements revealed the presence of the carcinogen hexalent chromium in three of six chromium supplements tested, as well as labeling and FDA compliance issues with the other products. ConsumerLab found that two 7-Keto DHEA supplements met quality requirements, but two other products contained as much as one-third less green tea than stated on the label. One unnamed supplement was also found to violate various (unspecified) FDA regulations. Among the stimulant-based supplements, ConsumerLab found that product labels were accurate regarding caffeine content, but warned that the caffeine levels were high enough to be a danger to health. The reports naming products and companies are available for purchase from ConsumerLab. "ConsumerLab Targets Weight Loss, Chromium Supplements", Natural Products Insider, March 03, 2010, © Virgo Publishing, LLC

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Survey Data Confirm Huge 30-Year Rise In Snacking Among U.S. Children March 2, 2010: 08:52 AM EST An increase in snacking on salty chips, candy and other junk food now accounts for as much as 27 percent of daily caloric intake among children in the U.S., putting them at risk for hypertension, heart disease and diabetes, according to a long-term study of eating patterns. Researchers examined data from national surveys of food intake among 31,000 children from 1977 to 2006. In an early survey (1977 to 1978), 74 percent aged 2 to 18 said they ate snacks. By 2003-2006, that number had soared to 98 percent. Children, including very young ones, still ate three meals a day, researchers found, but also snacked three times a day on “high calorie junk food.” The researchers recommend several remedies for parents, schools and lawmakers concerned about kids’ snacking habits. Barry Popkin, Ph.D., and Carmen Piernas, "Trends In Snacking Among U.S. Children", Health Affairs, March 02, 2010, © Project HOPE

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Martek Adds F. Rinaldi Sauces To List Of Foods Using Its Omega-3 Ingredient March 2, 2010: 02:54 AM EST Four varieties of American Heart Association-certified ToBe Healthy pasta sauces from Francesco Rinaldi are the latest foods – and the first pasta sauces in the U.S. – to contain omega-3 fatty acids from Martek Biosciences. A growing body of scientific evidence supports the view that long-chain omega-3 fatty acids (such as DHA) are essential for healthy brain and eye development, as well as cardiovascular health. Although some scientists say the most beneficial omega-3s come from fatty fish, Martek says its product is derived from microalgae, where fish get their omega-3s. life'sDHA is found in a variety of other foods, beverages and supplements, including 95 percent of infant formulas on the U.S. market, Martek says. "life’sDHA™ Featured in New Francesco Rinaldi ToBe Healthy Pasta Sauces", PRWeb, March 02, 2010, © Vocus PRW Holdings, LLC

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Jury Still Out On Whether Vitamin-Packed Skincare Products Treat Photoaging March 1, 2010: 06:06 PM EST Do vitamins really reduce the signs of sun-damaged skin? In a word, yes, but not necessarily when delivered in skincare products. According to a new U.S. study that examined the scientific literature, vitamins A, C, E and B3 prevent or reverse photoaging, the damage to skin caused by the ultraviolet radiation from the sun. But there is no solid evidence that these vitamins have any benefit when delivered in oral or topical skincare products. In skincare cosmeceuticals, vitamin C may actually dissolve when applied to the skin, one researcher noted. And no data support claims that vitamin C in skincare products improves skin wrinkling, discoloration and texture. “Consumers should understand … that skin care products with vitamins may not provide clinically meaningful improvement,” the researchers said. Jamie Zussman MDa, Jennifer Ahdout MDa and Jenny Kim MD, PhDa, b , "Vitamins and photoaging: Do scientific data support their use? ", Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, March 01, 2010, © American Academy of Dermatology

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Cereal Makers Target Health-Conscious Buyers With Nutrient-Packed Products March 1, 2010: 08:56 PM EST Cereal manufacturers hoping to attract health-conscious consumers are steadily increasing the nutritive value of their products. Market researcher IRI found that several of the 13 new breakfast cereals introduced in 2009 made grain claims (whole, all-natural, fiber) aimed squarely at the health-conscious, breakfast-at-home bunch. Kellogg’s, for example, boosted the fiber content of several popular children’s cereals with good results: Froot Loops sales soared 60 percent in 2009. The company also added fiber and antioxidants to its snack and breakfast bars and is “actively looking for ways to add more fiber to more products,” according to a spokeswoman. Drug stores are stocking shelves with premium cereals fortified with functional ingredients like antioxidant-rich berries and nuts, fiber, and vitamins because, they realized, a growing number of shoppers are willing to pay more for nutritious foods. Barbara White-Sax , "Manufacturers milk cereal sales with nutritional boosts", Drug Store News, March 01, 2010, © Drug Store News

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No Matter The Strategy, Cutting Sodium Content Would Save Billions In Healthcare Costs March 1, 2010: 04:20 AM EST Two strategies could save billions of dollars currently spent on treating heart attacks and strokes in the U.S.: voluntary sodium reductions by food companies and sodium taxation, according to scientists who used a computer simulation based on British data. Adults currently aged 40 to 85 years would suffer 514,000 fewer strokes and 480,000 fewer heart attacks over their lifetimes – saving $32 billion – if voluntary industry efforts reduced sodium intake by 9.5 percent. Sodium taxation itself would cut intake by six percent, saving $22.4 billion. The study also found that reducing salt content and taxing sodium would extend lifespans – by 2.1 million and 1.3 million years, respectively. Researchers cautioned about unintended consequences: “Sodium reductions may lead persons to consume more fats and sugars or simply more calories, leading to other health risks,” they said. Crystal M. Smith-Spangler, MD, et al, "Population Strategies to Decrease Sodium Intake and the Burden of Cardiovascular Disease A Cost-Effectiveness Analysis", Annals of Internal Medicine, March 01, 2010, © American College of Physicians

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Emerging Markets Will Boost Global Growth Of Sweet And Salty Snacks March 1, 2010: 04:33 AM EST The global sweet and savory snacks market will continue to grow, according to market researcher Euromonitor, but at a slower pace through 2014 (two percent a year compounded) than in recent years (three percent). Key trend: health and diet concerns in developed countries are pushing consumers toward snack bars and fresh food. Buoying the market, however, are surging sales in developing economies such as China and India, where consumers are increasingly embracing packaged snacks. Euromonitor spotlights three “hot areas” in the world market for snack makers through 2014: extruded snacks in India, both premium and economy varieties (sales will double); fruit snacks in the U.S. where consumers focus on health and flavor (30 percent hike in sales); and nut-based snacks in Brazil where consumers fret over cardiovascular health (25 percent sales growth). Francisco Redruello , "Global Sweet and Savory Snacks", Prepared Foods, March 01, 2010, © BNP Media

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Four Keys To Profitable Joint Ventures In China And India March 1, 2010: 03:53 AM EST As the economies of China and India continue to grow rapidly, multinationals are forced to navigate a variety of market challenges and government regulatory obstacles. Key problem: complex partnership rules bar controlling ownership of certain entities by foreign companies. So firms seeking to extend and deepen commercial relationships with the two economic giants must find ways to operate joint ventures profitably and maintain adequate strategic control. Drawing from examples of past JVs gone sour, this article tells how to structure and manage partnerships in China and India: separate JV operations into different components, each with a different partner; make sure partners agree with your strategic goals; retain the power to name key managers and to view operational info; and secure control of the “ecosystem:” companies that supply with parts or services. Anil K. Gupta and Haiyan Wang, "How to Avoid Getting Burned in China and India", Business Week, March 01, 2010, © Bloomberg L.P.

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