Garlic Inhibits Transformation Of Nitrates To Carcinogens March 1, 2010: 04:10 AM EST A new urine test developed at two U.S. universities has found that compounds in garlic and vitamin C slow a process (nitrosation) that converts nitrates from some processed meats into cancer-causing agents. (Nitrates are also found in vegetables, but previous research revealed that vegetable vitamin C reduces the chance that the nitrates become carcinogenic.) Scientists came up with a way to measure one biomarker in urine linked to cancer risk and another that measures garlic consumption. They then tested urine samples of participants in a small study and found an inverse relationship: people who consumed more garlic showed less nitrosation and were less at risk for cancer. The researchers said three to five grams of garlic worked as well as a 0.5-gram dose of vitamin C or a garlic extract supplement. Keary Cope, Harold Seifried, et al. , "A gas chromatography–mass spectrometry method for the quantitation of N-nitrosoproline and N-acetyl-S-allylcysteine in human urine: Application to a study of the effects of garlic consumption on nitrosation", Analytical Biochemistry, March 01, 2010, © Elsevier Inc.

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Baking Industry Should Look Closely At Leavening Agents To Reduce Sodium Content February 28, 2010: 03:25 AM EST Increasing health awareness and regulatory pressures have led the baking industry to search for cost-effective ways to reduce sodium content in their products. So far, the search has focused on curtailing salt and bicarbonates without sacrificing volume, texture, crumb structure and flavor. But leavening agents can also help decrease sodium content of baked goods while maintaining desirable attributes. New calcium leavening acids, like calcium acid pyrophosphate/monocalcium phosphate (CAPP/MCP), could replace commonly used sodium acid pyrophosphate (SAPP 28). CAPP/MCP contains no sodium (compared to 21% in SAPP), and exhibits a similar rate of reaction at the same cost. This would result in healthier baked goods with good taste and texture and a boost in calcium content – all with no increase in costs. John Brodie, "Making cakes worth their salt", Functional Ingredients Magazine, February 28, 2010, © Penton Media, Inc.

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Dannon Loses $45 M Class Action Suit Over False Health Claims For Two Yogurts February 26, 2010: 08:13 PM EST A U.S. judge has ruled in a class action settlement that Dannon’s health claims for two of its premium yogurts were unproven and therefore false and misleading. The judge ordered the French food company to pay consumers $45 million in damages. Labels and ads for DanActive and Activia promised that the products were “clinically and scientifically proven to regulate digestion and boost immune systems.” Based on those claims, Dannon charged 30 percent more for the products. But a disgruntled consumer disagreed, filing a suit that snowballed into class action litigation. The settlement requires Dannon to drop terms like "clinically" and "scientifically proven" and “immunity” from labels and ads, and emphasize that the yogurts are food, not treatments for medical conditions. Troy McMullen, "Dannon to Pay $45M to Settle Yogurt Lawsuit", ABC News, February 26, 2010, © ABC News Internet Ventures

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H&M Expands Commitment To Sustainability With Organic Skincare Products February 25, 2010: 01:16 AM EST Swedish clothing and cosmetics retailer H&M is expanding its commitment to organic products and sustainability with a new family of skincare offerings. Shower gel, body scrub, body lotion, hand cream and lip balm containing organic ingredients certified by Ecocert will begin appearing in the company’s 2,000 stores worldwide in March. Fragrances will be combinations of raspberry and melon or lavender and mint, while ingredients will include organic apple juice, sunflower and almond seed oils, jojoba and beeswax. The company says sustainability is a top priority: it plans to boost organic cotton use in its clothing lines by 50 percent a year until 2013. "H&M to launch organic skincare range", Premium Beauty News, February 25, 2010, © Premium Beauty News

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Walmart To Reduce Its GHG Emissions By 20 MN Tons By 2015 February 25, 2010: 01:11 AM EST In a mark of its commitment to sustainability goals, Walmart announced it is to remove 20 million metric tons of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from its global supply chain by the end of 2015, an amount estimated at 1.5x of the company’s total global carbon footprint over next five years. Walmart will work with a series of external advisors - PricewaterhouseCoopers, ClearCarbon Inc., the Carbon Disclosure Project and the Applied Sustainability Center (ASC) – in a detailed review of its processes and product lines. Part of the effort will involved estimating lifecycle GHC emissions for product categories and targeting the highest emitters. The company says it will work with suppliers to help achieve its goals. Fred Krupp, president of Environmental Defense Fund said that Walmart’s move “…transform a vast supply chain here at home, and around the world.” "Walmart Announces Goal to Eliminate 20 Million Metric Tons of Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Global Supply Chain", Walmart.com, February 25, 2010, © Walmart Stores

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Consumer Goods Companies and Online Ad Networks Target Green Moms February 25, 2010: 01:20 AM EST Consumer goods advertisers and marketers are increasingly targeting “green moms”, a consumer segment that The Social Studies Group has further broken down in to a number of subcategories: “super greens”, “mainstream greens”, “simple lifestyle mamas”, and other subcategories. Brand loyalty remains to some extent, but moms are willing to give up their usual brands to make more eco-friendly purchases. This trend has been picked up by online ad networks, which are creating verticals dedicated to the green sub-market generally and green moms in particular, who are seen as particularly interested in green issues, partly because they want to maintain the health of their children but also because they care about social issues. They are also seen as market influencers. It seems likely that more manufacturers will use these green-focused online ad verticals to communicate the green nature of their products, just like Clorox has for its Green Works natural cleaning products and detergents. It is promoting a "30 Days to Natural" challenge on green moms sites. Kate Kaye, "Marketers See Green in Growing 'Green Moms' Audience", ClickZ, February 25, 2010, © Incisive Interactive Marketing LLC

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Companies Have Been Wary Of Social Media, But They’re Catching On February 24, 2010: 04:02 AM EST Though the use of social media like Twitter and Facebook is not yet a core communications or marketing tool, it is catching on. Research by the UK’s Internet Advertising Bureau (IAB) finds that four-fifths of surveyed companies haven’t prioritized it in their communications strategy or used it in marketing campaigns. Only thirty-five percent of Fortune 500 companies have Twitter accounts, including four of the top five. (Exxon Mobil is the maverick.) Nevertheless, nearly 90 percent of brands recognize the importance of social media to their business and are boosting budgets accordingly. Marketers especially see the potential for research, and to drive awareness, engage consumers, and advocate causes. With proper leveraging, an IAB exec says, “social media has the potential to sit at the very heart of an organization.” Gordon MacMillan, "Social media not a core part of marketing for most", Brand Republic, February 24, 2010, © Haymarket Media

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Unilever To Leverage Social Media To Get Consumer Input On Brand Development, Innovation February 24, 2010: 03:12 AM EST Following a trial with Lynx Twist in the UK and the US, Unilever is planning to create a series of social networks across its brands to involve consumers in its product development process. The company hopes the sites will enable it to conduct market research, solicit and test development ideas with target groups. Unilever’s move highlights a broader shift by consumer goods companies to tap into social networks, both for marketing purposes, but increasingly to tap ideas and build bonds. David Cousino, a consumer marketing insights global category director at Unilever, said. “…the consumer has a voice as never before and brands need to listen more. Even if a brand doesn’t want to engage with consumers on that level, it will be forced to.” Charlotte McEleny, "Unilever to use social media to aid product development", New Media Age, February 24, 2010, © Centaur Communications Ltd.

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Hellmann’s Light Mayonnaise Goes 100% Cage-Free Eggs February 24, 2010: 02:01 AM EST Unilever has indicated that its Hellmann’s Light Mayonnaise in the US is going to use 100% certified cage-free eggs, with products now moving into stores. In time, Hellmann’s intends to shift all its mayonnaise products to cage-free eggs as a consistent supply becomes available. Unilever claims its move is the largest such arrangement to date in the package foods industry, representing 3.5 million pounds of eggs annually. All the eggs will be ‘American Humane Certified’ through a program administered by the American Humane Association (see http://thehumanetouch.org/). Press Release, Unilever, "Hellmann's(R) Launches New Light Recipe With 'Cage-Free' Eggs", PR Newswire, February 24, 2010, © PR Newswire Association LLC

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Study Suggests Potential Role For Niacin In Treatment Of Stroke February 24, 2010: 04:43 AM EST A new U.S. study has found that vitamin B3 (niacin) given to rats with ischemic stroke increased high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels, leading to development of new blood vessels and nerve cells and improved neurological function. Ischemic stroke – the third leading cause of death in the U.S. – happens when blood vessels clogged by fatty cholesterol deposits block blood flow to the brain. Niacin increases HDL-C levels and helps remove those fatty deposits. The researchers are now conducting clinical studies to determine whether an extended-release form of niacin can improve neurological function in stroke patients. If it works, a researcher said, “we're opening a whole new avenue of treatment for the leading cause of serious long-term disability in adults." Press Release, Henry Ford Health System, "Vitamin B3 shows early promise in treatment of stroke", Eurekalert!, February 24, 2010, © Eurekalert!

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Bitter Melon Extract Inhibits Growth Of Breast Cancer Cells February 23, 2010: 08:29 AM EST In laboratory tests, U.S. scientists used bitter melon extract to trigger a chain of molecular-level events that eventually slowed the spread of breast cancer cells and destroyed them. Bitter melon is a vegetable commonly found in China and India. The extract has been found in earlier studies to lower blood sugar and cholesterol levels and is used as a folk medicine in Asia to treat diabetes. Although the researchers caution that animal and human testing is necessary to determine the extract’s effectiveness in treating breast cancer, they nevertheless conclude that it “can be used as a dietary supplement for prevention of breast cancer.” Ratna Ray, Ph.D., Amit Raychoudhuri, et al., "Bitter Melon (Momordica charantia) Extract Inhibits Breast Cancer Cell Proliferation ", Cancer Research, February 23, 2010, © American Association for Cancer Research

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Agriculture Secretary Urges Swift Reauthorization Of U.S. Lunch, Nutrition Programs February 23, 2010: 10:44 AM EST Stressing the Obama Administration’s goals of reducing child hunger and “solving childhood obesity in a generation,” U.S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack told reporters at a press luncheon recently that Congress needs to quickly reauthorize national school lunch and breakfast programs as well as the Child Nutrition Act, the keystone legislation in Michelle Obama's Let's Move! Campaign. Vilsack said the administration’s top priorities in the campaign include: improved nutrition standards, better access to meal programs, more education about healthy eating, enhanced food safety and healthier school food. Other priorities, Vilsack said, focus on standards for competitive foods sold in schools, training of school cooks and better cafeteria equipment. "Agriculture Secretary Vilsack Presents Obama Administration's Priorities to Improve National School Lunch and Breakfast Programs", USDA, February 23, 2010, © USDA

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Rejuvenated MySpace Tests Ad Placements In User Communications February 23, 2010: 12:52 AM EST The recently repositioned and rejuvenated MySpace Web site – now focused on sharing entertainment-related info with friends – is taking advantage of the fact that its user base has started growing again. According to the new co-president, the site’s 70 million passionate fans can spread the word about bands, shows, videos, etc. And, thanks to its experimental “In-Stream” ad format, advertisers can also share their product information. In-Stream ads are placed in a user’s personal “stream” of communications with friends and other entertainment fans and then distributed virally around the user base. The program debuted on February 10 with offers of free music downloads from Coke and free product samples from Procter & Gamble. Mike Shields , "Coke, P&G Test MySpace 'In-Stream' Ads", Brandweek, February 23, 2010, © Brandweek

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Studies Discuss Global Sources, Health Benefits Of Dietary Fiber February 23, 2010: 09:04 AM EST In two new review studies published by the Institute of Food Technologists, researchers from India and Columbia delve into the global sources and applications of soluble dietary fiber as well as its many potential health benefits. In the Indian study, researchers discuss major soluble fibers such as oat fiber, barley, wheat, and resistant starch found in whole grains, produce, and beans, most of which can be incorporated into a wide variety of beverages, bakery goods, dairy products, and fruit- and vegetable-based products. The Columbian study discusses fiber as a functional food for reducing cholesterol, achieving gastrointestinal health, improving insulin response for diabetics, etc. R. Chawla and G.R. Patil; M. Viuda-Martos, M.C. L´opez-Marcos, et al., "Soluble Dietary Fiber; Role of Fiber in Cardiovascular Diseases", Comprehensive Reviews in Food Science and Food Safety, February 23, 2010, © Institute of Food Technologists

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Scientists Develop Cheaper, Greener Plastic For Food Packaging, Other Applications February 18, 2010: 06:57 AM EST Scientists have long sought a renewable, easily biodegradable plastic that could be produced cheaply and efficiently and used in food packaging, etc. Now scientists in the U.K. have come up with what could be the answer. Biodegradeable plastics do exist – polylactide is the best known – but production and disposal are energy intense and expensive. The new plastic uses a polymer made from sugars known as lignocellulosic biomass, derived from cheap non-food crops such as fast-growing trees and grasses. And, because the sugars are oxygen-rich, the plastic absorbs water and degrades to harmless products: consumers can toss them on a compost heap with other natural waste. EPSRC Press Office, "Compostable plastics have a sweet ending", Press release, February 18, 2010, via EurekAlert, © U.K. Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council

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Kellogg’s Increased Ad Budget, Plus Lower Ad Rates, Means Big Hike In Impressions February 18, 2010: 06:08 AM EST Taking advantage of what analysts refer to as “media deflation” – basically a drop in advertising rates – Kellogg Co. will continue to increase spending on ads in 2010. The company’s total ad spending in 2009 topped $1.1 billion globally – nine percent of $12.6 billion in sales – and should hit that level this year. The result of the “increased spending/reduced pricing mix,” according to this Media Post article, led to a double-digit increase in ad impressions in 2009 over 2008. The company expects the increase in impressions will be in the high single digits in 2010. Kellogg has also tripled spending in social media. David Goetzl, "Kellogg Increases 2010 Ad Spend, Triples Social Media", Media Post, February 18, 2010, © MediaPost Communications

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Americans Concerned About Food Safety Want Products Independently Certified February 18, 2010: 10:09 AM EST Noting that nearly half of all Americans are changing the way they shop for food because of worry over safety issues, an online survey conducted for Norwegian risk management services provider DNV found that food labels showing government inspection and safety traceability were not enough. Foods need to be tested independently, then certified and labeled as safe. The survey of 400 consumers, the first phase of a two-phase study, also found that a little more than 33% would pay a 30% premium for foods certified as safe. A DNV executive said the findings should prompt the food industry to work harder to adopt independent safety certification. The study’s second phase will ask food industry execs about the “business processes and various auditing schemes” they’re using to ensure food safety. "DNV and Michigan State University Release Initial Findings of US Food Safety", Det Norske Veritas (DNV), February 18, 2010, © Det Norske Veritas (DNV)

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New Yogurt Brand Fortified With Weight Management Ingredient CLA February 18, 2010: 07:31 AM EST Old Home Foods is launching a new yogurt brand in the U.S. that contains conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) for weight management. According to the company, Safflower Power Yogurt with Clarinol CLA (from Lipid Nutrition) offers the benefits of yogurt and CLA "which include reducing body fat and increasing lean muscle.” The yogurt, to be marketed first in Minnesota in early March, will come in eight flavors but contain no gluten or high-fructose corn syrup, at a cost of $0.83 per 6-oz. cup. The company says Clarinol CLA has been scientifically proven to reduce fat mass in the abdomen and thighs. "Yogurt with CLA for Weight Management Launched in US", Food Ingredients First, February 18, 2010

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Kellogg Predicts Kashi Brand Will Hit Billion-Dollar Sales Mark By 2015 February 17, 2010: 06:27 AM EST Kellogg Co. said recently that it expects sales of its Kashi brand of health foods to hit the billion-dollar mark over the next five years, putting it in the same sales league as Special K. No longer just a line of breakfast cereals, Kashi includes granola bars, cookies, frozen pizza, waffles and entrees, and is extending its marketing reach beyond moms in their forties to kids. Launched 25 years ago by an entrepreneurial couple and purchased by Kellogg in 2000, the brand has grown 31 percent a year since 2004, according to this Business Week article. That compares to five percent a year for Kellogg as a whole. Mark Clothier, "Kellogg Says Kashi May Grow to $1 Billion Brand in 5 Years", Business Week, February 17, 2010, © BLOOMBERG L.P.

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Rosemary Significantly Lowers Carcinogens Produced By Cooking Meat February 16, 2010: 11:09 AM EST Adding rosemary extract to ground beef decreases carcinogenic compounds caused by cooking, a U.S. study has found. Mutagenic compounds called heterocyclic amines (HCAs) form when meat and fish are grilled, pan-fried, broiled, or barbecued at high temperatures. The U.S. government has classified HCAs as carcinogens that increase the risk of certain types of cancers. Five rosemary extracts in different concentrations of water and ethanol were placed directly on both sides of ground beef patties cooked at different times and temperatures. All of the concentrations significantly decreased the levels of HCAs at both cooking temperatures, the researchers found. Kanithaporn Puangsombat and J. Scott Smith, "Inhibition of Heterocyclic Amine Formation in Beef Patties by Ethanolic Extracts of Rosemary", Journal of Food Science, February 16, 2010, © Institute of Food Technologists

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Hain Celestial Gives Vancouver Olympics Spectators Natural Food And Snack Choices February 17, 2010: 01:57 AM EST Hain Celestial Canada said recently that it has exclusive official supplier sponsorship rights in the natural and organic packaged grocery products category for the 2010 Winter Games in Vancouver, Canada. Maker of a variety of natural foods and snacks, the company is selling what it calls healthy alternatives, including organic soups, natural salty snacks, vegetarian hot dogs and chili at all venue concessions. Hain Celestial’s product line includes Celestial Seasonings, Terra Chips, Garden of Eatin', Health Valley, WestSoy, Earth's Best, Arrowhead Mills, MaraNatha, SunSpire, DeBoles, Gluten Free Café, Hain Pure Foods, Hollywood, Spectrum Naturals, etc. Press Release, Hain Celestial, Canada, "Hain Celestial's Natural and Organic Foods Fuel the Taste for the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games", PR Newswire , February 17, 2010, © Yahoo!

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Scientists Hope Colloids And Emulsions Hold Key To Engineering Healthier Foods February 17, 2010: 01:50 AM EST Scientists are getting closer to chemically engineering foods that might help fight diet-related diseases by reducing saturated fat, sugar and salt content without destroying flavor. British scientists, in particular, have been looking into using colloids and emulsions -- mixtures or suspensions of particles of different materials, such as oil and water, stabilized by emulsifiers. Mayonnaise is an emulsion, comprising oil and water stabilized by lecithin. Chemical engineers hope to restructure colloidal foods (e.g., mousses, soufflés, yogurts, etc.) to replace the fat particles with calorie-free substances like water, air or gels “while retaining the indulgent sensory properties.” This article surveys current work in areas like viscosity, “hairy” gel particles that provide a "full" feeling, water-in-oil-in-water emulsions, etc. "Engineering healthy foods", Institution of Engineering and Technology, February 17, 2010, © The Institution of Engineering and Technology

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Ketogenic Diet Curbs Epileptic Seizures Without Long-Lasting Side Effects February 16, 2010: 10:49 AM EST The high-fat ketogenic diet – the basis of the Adkins diet – not only reduced and in many cases eliminated seizures in epileptics, according to new U.S. research, it had no long-term detrimental side effects. The study involved 101 patients ages 2 to 26 years treated for a minimum of 16 months and for up to eight years between 1993 and 2008. The diet of high-fat foods and very few carbohydrates apparently triggers biochemical changes that eliminate seizure-causing short circuits in the brain’s signaling system. The diet is complicated, however, often difficult to maintain, and sometimes has temporary side effects: higher cholesterol, impaired growth and, rarely, kidney stones. Amisha Patel, Paula L. Pyzik, et al., "Long-term outcomes of children treated with the ketogenic diet", Epilepsia, February 16, 2010, © International League Against Epilepsy

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Georgia Conference Highlights Growth And Challenges Of Organic Farming February 16, 2010: 07:16 AM EST A recent conference sponsored by Georgia Organics celebrated the tremendous growth and future opportunities in organic and sustainable farming, but also shed light on some problems that need to be addressed. For example, the number of organic growers in Georgia has more than doubled in recent years, and certified organic acreage has increased 900 percent. But organic farming constitutes only one percent of total vegetable production and 80 percent of what Georgians spend on food every year goes to out-of-state producers. Other problems: getting locally-grown food products to market, complying with costly, burdensome safety regulations, and relying too heavily on nonrenewable energy sources. Melissa Link, "Conference highlights organic foods", Online Athens Banner-Herald, February 16, 2010, © OnlineAthens • Athens Banner-Herald

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How Lean Fish Is Fried Makes A Difference In Nutrient Intake February 16, 2010: 10:22 AM EST Pan frying lean fish like cod with sunflower oil may be more beneficial than using olive oil because it leads to a higher consumption of healthy omega-3 fatty acids, according to new research. Scientists in Spain pan-fried cod and salmon, a fatty fish, using olive oil and sunflower oil. Frying both types of fish in olive oil boosted the fat absorption rate more than frying in sunflower oil. The fat content of the cod increased significantly with both oils, but the salmon was hardly affected by pan-frying. Lastly, no matter what oil was used, the dietary supply of omega-3 in salmon was much higher. Diana Ansorena, Ainhoa Guembe, et al., "Effect of Fish and Oil Nature on Frying Process and Nutritional Product Quality", Journal of Food Science, February 16, 2010, © Institute of Food Technologists

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Colored Chickpeas Could Be The New Super-Legume February 16, 2010: 11:31 AM EST Researchers in Israel who studied 17 varieties of chickpeas found that colored chickpeas contain far more antioxidant compounds than the cream and beige varieties usually found on grocery shelves. The high-protein legume is grown in more than 37 countries and can be considered a functional food because of beneficial antioxidants such as polyphenols and flavonoids. The researchers separated chickpeas ranging from black, red, brown, green, rubiginous, gray, yellow, and beige into seed parts and ground them into a fine powder. Colored chickpeas were found to contain 13 times more polyphenols, 11 times more flavonoids and 31 times more antioxidant activity than the beige ones. Aharon Segev, Hana Badani, et al., "Determination of Polyphenols, Flavonoids, and Antioxidant Capacity in Colored Chickpea", Journal of Food Science, February 16, 2010, © Institute of Food Technologists

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Study Determines Consumer Flavor Preferences Among Green Teas February 16, 2010: 09:45 AM EST Green tea has experienced an amazing turnaround in popularity among U.S. consumers, thanks to its potential health benefits. In this U.S. study -- designed to provide guidance to green tea importers, tea shops, and beverage companies -- researchers sought to understand which flavor characteristics are preferred by Americans. Consumers, as well as an expert panel, tasted six commonly available loose leaf and bagged green teas from Japan, Korea, and China to determine acceptability. Turns out they liked the green teas with less intense flavor and less bitterness, preferred tea made brewed from tea bags (less bitter), and favored Chinese and Japanese teas. Jeehyun Lee and Delores H. Chambers, "Descriptive Analysis and U.S. Consumer Acceptability of 6 Green Tea Samples from China, Japan, and Korea", Journal of Food Science, February 16, 2010, © Institute of Food Technologists

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Multi-Colored Carrot Varieties Are Rich Sources Of Healthful Nutrients February 16, 2010: 10:45 AM EST Purple, red and other varieties of carrots provide nutritional benefits equivalent to the more familiar orange variety, new U.S. research has found. The phytochemical and fiber content are the main reasons that carrots are considered a “good for you” functional food. All varieties of carrots, for example, contain color-producing carotenoids, but each color variety offers a different beneficial nutrient. Red carrots contain the antioxidant lycopene, yellow carrots contain lutein, dark orange carrots have more concentrated beta carotene. “Understanding the bioavailability of carrot nutrients will help researchers determine how to best help a population in need,” researchers said. Sara A. Arscott and Sherry A. Tanumihardjo, "Carrots of Many Colors Provide Basic Nutrition and Bioavailable Phytochemicals Acting as a Functional Food", Comprehensive Reviews in Food Science and Food Safety, February 16, 2010, © Institute of Food Technologists

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Scientist Outlines Dietary Principles Of Cancer Prevention February 15, 2010: 02:32 PM EST An Italian scientist says in this interview that protection against cancer comes from eating a balanced diet and preparing food correctly. A diet featuring fruit and vegetables has been proven “through epidemiological data and observations” to protect against tumors of the lung, oral cavity, esophagus, stomach, and intestine. Oranges, garlic, cabbage, broccoli, etc., are among some of the most beneficial foods. Consume vegetables in season and grown “within zero kilometers” of your home, prepared with sharp knives, microwave ovens or steamers. And don’t forget a daily glass or two of wine, which has “all the active principals of fruit, especially polyphenols.” Prof. Attilio Giacosa, "Cancer: Balanced Diet As Best Form Of Prevention", Interview published on the Web site Cancer Prevention Focus, February 15, 2010, © Lippincott Williams & Wilkins

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Mars, Callebaut To Push For Uniformity Of Flavanol Content In Chocolate Products February 15, 2010: 05:39 AM EST Two global chocolate manufacturers have agreed to jointly advance a common and reliable standard for measuring flavanols in food and to boost uniform flavanol content in chocolate products. Mars Inc. and Switzerland’s Barry Callebaut said their agreement will promote “acceptance and availability” of foods containing flavanols. Numerous studies have found potential health benefits in cocoa’s flavanols. But the two companies debunked recent findings that the darker the chocolate the greater the cocoa and flavanol content. Cocoa is naturally rich in flavanols, a Mars executive said, but the key to retaining them in foods is meticulous processing. Without careful measuring and handling “throughout the manufacturing process, there is just no guarantee the product contains meaningful levels of the flavanols." "GLOBAL: Mars, Barry Callebaut push health benefits of chocolate", Just-food.com, February 15, 2010, © just-food.com

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Sara Lee’s Omega-3-Fortified Breads Target Moms With Pre-Teens February 15, 2010: 07:50 AM EST Sara Lee has added two new varieties of breads fortified with algae-derived docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), a type of omega-3 fatty acid, to its Soft & Smooth line and is pitching them to moms with young kids. According to the company, the Soft & Smooth Plus breads with DHA omega-3 support healthy brain development in children. The new varieties include whole wheat and “made with whole grain white.” The company says the 12 mg of DHA omega-3 in a two-slice serving provides 10 percent of the suggested daily amount for children ages one to 13 years. The DHA omega-3 nutrient is provided by Martek Biosciences Corporation. "Sara Lee Introduces New Sara Lee® Soft & Smooth® Plus Made with DHA Omega-3 Bread", Business Wire, February 15, 2010, © Business Wire

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Agriculture Needs To Change Dramatically As The Globe Warms, Population Grows February 11, 2010: 09:03 AM EST Comprehensive changes in how the world produces its food and fiber are needed to deal with the threatening prospects of climate change and population growth, U.S. scientists say in a report that warns of a "critical need to get beyond popular biases against the use of agricultural biotechnology." Also needed is more investigation of aquaculture’s potential and how to boost agricultural production in dry and salty areas. Global warming will change crop disease patterns and trigger powerful, periodic floods. But conventional breeding and genetic engineering can generate new varieties of existing food crops that can better adapt to environmental disturbances. Nina Federoff, Pamela Ronald, "Radically Rethinking Agriculture for the 21st Century", Science, February 11, 2010, © American Association for the Advancement of Science

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A Close Look At The Positives, Negatives, Myths, and Misconceptions Of Organic Foods February 11, 2010: 01:51 AM EST People concerned about whether they should make the switch to organic foods to ensure good health and prevent disease should keep in mind the fact that organic food has its positives, negatives, myths and misconceptions, according to this Biofuels Watch article. On the positive side are environmental gains, nutritional benefits from the avoidance of herbicides and pesticides, less use of unhealthy hydrogenated fats in processing, etc. Organic negatives include higher cost and faster spoilage of produce. Misconceptions: some chemicals are used in organic farming, and there is disagreement among scientists about health benefits and safety of organic foods. Amber Collins, "Organic food: Pros and Cons", Biofuels Watch, February 11, 2010, © BiofuelsWatch.com

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Baked Goods Industry Continues Search For Flavorful, Functional Substitutes For Gluten, Trans Fats February 11, 2010: 02:20 AM EST The search among food scientists in the bakery industry for perfect replacements for glutens, trans fats and salt continues unabated. But R&D in the areas of flavor and functionality have begun to pay off among so-called “second generation” ingredients and products. Bakery ingredients makers have formulated substitutes like natural gum blends for gluten and a variety of substitutes for solid fats that show potential in baking, depending on the application. The number of gluten-free baked products continues to increase – it's up to 10.4 percent of the total – and at least some food companies, notably General Mills, are paying a lot of attention to consumers looking to avoid digestive and other health problems associated with gluten. Dave Fusaro, "Trans Fats, Glutens Still Vex Bakers", Food Processing.com, February 11, 2010, © Food Processing

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Yet Another Study Confirms Dangers Of Energy Drink-Alcohol Cocktails February 11, 2010: 12:09 PM EST Echoing the results of other recent cautionary studies, new U.S. research based on interviews with 800 college-age adults exiting bars found that patrons who consumed energy drinks mixed with alcohol had triple the risk of leaving very drunk and were four times more likely to try driving home than patrons who drank alcohol only. Participants were interviewed, completed questionnaires, and took breathalyzer-type tests. Those who drank alcohol-laced energy drinks – 6.5 percent of participants – were three times more likely to be intoxicated (with a .109 BAC level) than alcohol-only drinkers. Energy-alcohol drinkers also left the bar later, drank longer, and ingested more ethanol. Dennis Thombs, Bruce Goldberger, et al., "Event-level analyses of energy drink consumption and alcohol intoxication in bar patrons", Addictive Behaviors (upcoming April 2010 issue), February 11, 2010, © Elsevier Ltd

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Beverage Industry Unveils Calorie Labeling Initiative February 10, 2010: 07:04 AM EST By the end of 2012, labels showing calorie content will be placed on the front of soft drink and other beverage containers, according to an initiative by beverage makers, including Coca-Cola and PepsiCo. At the urging of Michelle Obama, the Wall Street Journal reports, labels on drink containers up to 20 ounces will show total calories and multi-serve containers will show calories in a 12-ounce serving. Vending machines and fountain-drink equipment are included in the initiative. In addition, the beverage industry plans to continue cutting the calorie content of beverages by selling smaller portion sizes and more low-calorie drinks. JOHN KELL, "Pepsi, Coke Support Calorie-Labeling Effort", Wall Street Journal, February 10, 2010, © Dow Jones & Company, Inc.

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Strong Opposition Convinces India To Delay Commercialization Of GM Eggplant February 10, 2010: 06:24 AM EST Under pressure from eggplant growing states, environmentalists and health advocates, the Indian government has backed off plans to allow commercialization of a genetically engineered eggplant, overturning an earlier committee decision. The government said it has placed "a moratorium on the release" of the Bt Brinjal eggplant until "independent scientific studies establish, to the satisfaction of both the public and professionals, the safety of the product.” India will continue to apply biotechnology in agriculture, officials said – the country already produces genetically modified cotton. The GM eggplant contains Monsanto's Bt gene whose ultimate effect is to render the vegetable toxic to certain insects. KRISHNA POKHAREL, "India Halts Plan for Engineered Eggplant", Wall Street Journal, February 10, 2010, © Dow Jones & Company, Inc.

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Baby Boomers Not Afraid To Spend Money On Functional Foods February 9, 2010: 01:20 AM EST The aging baby boom generation has a thing about being healthy, if their food purchasing patterns during the ongoing recession are any indication. A new report on key trends in food, nutrition and health finds that baby boomers are willing to pay top dollar for functional foods that promise a healthy heart, digestion, or bones and joints, even if it means sacrificing expensive luxury goods. Among key trends reported by Julian Mellentin for 2010 are: digestive health (actually a “mega-trend”), health benefits that are also convenient, “feel the benefit” (most powerful marketing message), fruit and superfruit, weight management, and healthy snacking. "Boomers fuel fortunes of functional foods", NPI Center, February 09, 2010, © Penton Media Inc

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Survey Finds That Britain Eating Healthier Than Ten Years Ago February 9, 2010: 06:15 AM EST Britons are eating healthier than they were a decade ago, according to a national survey of dietary patterns. The Food Standards Agency survey found that people are consuming adequate fruits and vegetables, and less saturated fat, trans fat and added sugar than they were in 2000. Adult consumption of saturated fat dropped to 12.8 percent of food energy, still above the recommended 11 percent. Intake of trans fat fell to within recommended levels at 0.8 percent. However, the survey found, intake of added sugars among the British dropped to 12.5 percent of food energy, still above the recommended 11 percent. "National Diet and Nutrition Survey published", Food Standards Agency, February 09, 2010, © Crown copyright

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Vitamin D Consumption During Pregnancy May Decrease Child’s Risk Of MS February 9, 2010: 05:01 PM EST The risk of contracting multiple sclerosis (MS) among daughters whose mothers drank four glasses of vitamin D-rich milk a day was 56 percent lower than daughters whose mothers consumed less than three glasses of milk per month, according to a new U.S. study of nearly 36,000 nurses whose mothers answered a questionnaire in 2001 about their pregnancies. Over the 16-year study period, 199 of the nurses developed MS. "There is growing evidence that vitamin D has an effect on MS,” a researcher said. “The results of this study suggest that this effect may begin in the womb." Other good sources of vitamin D are fatty fish such as salmon and exposure to sunlight. Fariba Mirzaei, MD, et al., "Drinking milk during pregnancy may lower baby's risk of MS", resentation at the American Academy of Neurology's annual meeting (press release), February 09, 2010, via EurekAlert, © American Academy of Neurology

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Junk Food And Fast Food Restaurants Form The Bulk Of Movie Product Placements February 8, 2010: 06:54 AM EST The large number of junk food and fast food restaurant product placements in movies constitute a potent form of advertising that might be having a significant negative impact on children’s food choices, a new U.S. study has found. Researchers identified 200 movies that were top 20 hits between 1996 to 2005 that had brand placements for food, beverages, and retail restaurants. They found that 138 films (69 percent) contained at least one food, beverage, or restaurant brand. Most brand placements were for energy-dense, nutrient-poor foods, including candy, salty snacks, and sugary drinks. Fast food restaurants comprised two-thirds of the restaurant placements. Lisa A. Sutherland, PhD, et al., "Prevalence of Food and Beverage Brands in Movies: 1996–2005", PEDIATRICS, February 08, 2010, © American Academy of Pediatrics

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Limited TV, Adequate Sleep And Family Meals Help Lower Childhood Obesity February 8, 2010: 07:21 AM EST Preschool-aged kids are likely to have a lower risk for obesity if they follow one or more of three household routines: eating dinner as a family five nights a week, getting 10.5 hours of sleep a night and watching less than two hours of TV a day, according to a U.S. study of American four-year-olds. Those who lived in homes with all three routines had an almost 40 percent lower prevalence of obesity. Only 14.3 percent of the kids in the three-routine homes were obese, compared to 24.5 percent of the kids in households who followed none of the routines. Sarah E. Anderson, PhD, Robert C. Whitaker, MD, MPH , "Household Routines and Obesity in US Preschool-Aged Children", Pediatrics, February 08, 2010, © American Academy of Pediatrics

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Stress Management Program For Women Includes Online Advice, Aromatherapy February 9, 2010: 12:32 AM EST Johnson & Johnson is launching an online subscription-based and product shipment program for women looking for ways to cope with stress in their lives. The fairly expensive Upliv (Upliv.com) personalized stress management program – monthly fees plus shipping is $566 a year – includes an online stress analysis, weekly sessions teaching relaxation strategies, articles and homework tasks like writing about stress sources in a journal. The program also has a product component: after registering and every three months after that, the company ships Upliv toiletries with scents that “elicit relaxing and refreshing moods.” Shipments include body wash, body lotion and facial wash. ANDREW ADAM NEWMAN, "Stress Relief Online, Aromatherapy by Mail ", New York Times, February 09, 2010, © The New York TImes

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ALCAT Lab Extends Blood Tests To 130 Functional Foods And Herbs February 8, 2010: 06:17 AM EST The ALCAT Laboratory has extended the range of its ALCAT Test, used to measure white blood cell responses to foods, chemicals, herbs, etc., to include compatibility testing for 130 new functional foods and medicinal herbs. The blood tests determine sensitivity to substances linked to chronic inflammatory diseases, including migraines, digestive disorders, obesity, etc. The added functional foods are categorized in three groups: functional foods and medicinal herbs, female herbs and 30 male herbs. The first panel covers products like wheat grass juice and bee pollen, while the second two contain items found in male and female enhancement products. Test prices range from $120 to $1,100. "The ALCAT Laboratory becomes first to test for compatibility of functional foods and medicinal herbs", ALCAT Worldwide, February 08, 2010, © Cell Science Systems

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Beer Found To Be A Rich Source Of Silicon Needed To Prevent Bone Disease February 8, 2010: 08:01 AM EST Beers containing high levels of barley and hops are a significant source of dietary silicon, a key ingredient for increasing bone mineral density, according to U.S. researchers who studied commercial beer brewing to find the relationship between production methods and resulting silicon content. Silicon in beer is found as a soluble form of orthosilicic acid (OSA), which yields 50 percent bioavailability. Dietary silicon is important for bone and connective tissue growth, according to the National Institutes of Health, and moderate beer consumption may help fight osteoporosis, a disease of the skeletal system characterized by low bone mass and deterioration of bone tissue. Troy R Casey, Charles W Bamforth, "Silicon in beer and brewing", Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture, February 08, 2010, © Society of Chemical Industry

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Mediterranean Diet Reduces Risk Of Thinking And Memory Problems February 8, 2010: 02:53 PM EST People who follow a Mediterranean-style diet rich in fruit, vegetables and fish, but low in saturated fats, are less likely to experience brain infarcts: tiny areas of dead tissue linked to thinking and memory problems, according to a new U.S. study. The researchers examined the health profiles of 712 people, categorizing them according to how closely they followed the diet. Brain scans of those most closely following a Mediterranean-like diet were 36 percent less likely to have areas of brain damage than those who were least following the diet. The diet has already been associated with lower risk of Alzheimer’s. Nikolaos Scarmeas, MD, MSc, "Mediterranean Diet May Lower Risk of Brain Damage That Causes Thinking Problems", Presentation at the American Academy of Neurology’s annual meeting (press release), February 08, 2010, via Newswise, © American Academy of Neurology

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GM Crops Are Not The Wave Of The Future, Thanks To Negative Attitudes February 8, 2010: 08:06 AM EST Negative consumer attitudes globally toward foods produced from genetically modified crops have pretty much torpedoed the technology, according to a policy specialist for the Soil Association, a British organic food advocate. According to this Food Manufacture article, Peter Melchett instead touts production methods such as “marker-assisted breeding,” a technology that employs natural breeding. Because the long-term impact of more advanced GM technologies is unknown, marker-assisted breeding is a better option, “delivering better results quicker and is much safer and more predictable,” he said.Genetic modification, on the other hand, is “very hit and miss” and “old-fashioned.” Rod Addy, "Genetically modified crops are a ‘dead issue’", Food Manufacture, February 08, 2010, © William Reed Business Media Ltd

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Link Found Between Daily Soft Drink Consumption And Pancreatic Cancer February 8, 2010: 09:37 AM EST Increased insulin levels in the body from consuming sugary soft drinks seems to contribute to pancreatic cancer cell growth, Singapore researchers have found. In fact, consuming two or more soft drinks a week was linked to a near doubling of the risk of pancreatic cancer. Pancreatic cancer is rare, but deadly, with a 95 percent mortality rate five years after diagnosis. The study looked at health data on 60,524 men and women over 14 years. Scientists cautioned that the finding was based on relatively small numbers. No association was found between fruit juice consumption and pancreatic cancer. Noel T. Mueller, Andrew Odegaard, Mark Pereira, et al., "Soft Drink and Juice Consumption and Risk of Pancreatic Cancer: The Singapore Chinese Health Study", Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention, February 08, 2010, © American Association for Cancer Research

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Mommy Entrepreneurs Plug Gaps In Children’s Food Industry With Healthier Fare February 8, 2010: 02:31 AM EST Companies founded by entrepreneurial moms with innovative ideas for healthier foods and snacks for babies, toddlers and other kids have begun to make an impact on the children’s food industry, according to this Wall Street Journal article. In one case, their efforts created an entirely new food category: organic frozen baby food. Others have launched organic, high-fiber snacks, healthy fruit snacks, and baby foods packed in sterile pouches. It’s typical entrepreneurial behavior – finding and filling a need – except “they've learned about the need on the soccer field, at the bus stop, or in play groups," one expert says. DALE BUSS , "The Mothers of Invention ", Wall Street Journal, February 08, 2010, via Wall Street Journal, © Dow Jones & Company, Inc

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FDA Is Looking For Ways To Make Standard Serving Sizes Reflect Reality February 5, 2010: 01:15 AM EST There’s a serious glitch in the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s plan to get food manufacturers to put nutritional information on package fronts, according to this New York Times article: serving sizes that don’t reflect the way Americans eat. For example, do people really stop at the standard 150-calorie serving of Tostitos – six chips? Probably not. To fix that, the agency is looking at ways to adjust serving sizes for various foods so that nutrition information is less deceptive. “Ultimately, the purpose of nutrition labeling is to help consumers make healthier choices and we want to make sure we achieve that goal,” an FDA official said. By WILLIAM NEUMAN, "One Bowl = 2 Servings. F.D.A. May Fix That.", The New York Times, February 05, 2010, via The New York Times, © The New York Times Company

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