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Carrefour Teams With Electronics Retailer CompuMe i2 In Persian Gulf Region

May 19, 2011: 11:56 PM EST

European supermarket chain Carrefour has contracted with UAE-based electronics retailer CompuMe i2 to offer high-tech products like mobile phones, computer tablets, laptops and accessories to Carrefour Express customers in the Emirates. CompuMe i2 plans to open small concession shops in eight of the 15 Carrefour Express stores in the UAE. According to the regional operations manager for CompuMe i2, the partnership with Carrefour gives the electronics retailer an opportunity to expand into the lower-spending market while it targets the high-spending sector via its relationship with Virgin Megastores.

Rory Jones, "Carrefour to team up with IT retailer in the Gulf", The National, May 19, 2011, © Abu Dhabi Media

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Rising Prices Hurt Low- And Moderate-Income Consumers The Most

May 19, 2011: 12:49 AM EST

Rising prices for gas, meat, dairy and produce are eroding the spending power of average shoppers who patronize retail stores like Target and Walmart. But the Associated Press reports that high fuel and food prices are little more than an annoyance for rich shoppers, who have returned to pre-recession splurging patterns. Stores like Saks Fifth Avenue and Nordstrom that cater to affluent shoppers are rebalancing their inventories to adjust to the trend. But stores like J.C. Penney, Walmart, etc., continue to offer discounts to induce low- and moderate-income shoppers on tight budgets to spend more. Faith Hope Consolo, chairman of retail leasing and marketing at Prudential Douglas Elliman, said: “The average shopper isn’t in the game, except for necessities.’’

Anne D’innocenzio , "Rich splurging, others scrimping, report says", Boston Globe, May 19, 2011, via Associated Press, © The Associated Press/Globe Newspaper Company

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Walmart Strengthens Marketing Relationship With Hispanic Family Media Firm

May 19, 2011: 12:38 AM EST

In an effort to better reach Hispanic mothers and families with young children, Walmart announced a marketing and media relationship with Hispanic family media company, Todobebe, Inc, encompassing the Todobebe, Viva La Familia and Blogs de Mamas properties. Todobebe’s own market research has found that more than 90 percent of Hispanic moms with children under the age of five want more information on health, safety, food, child behavior and products. The relationship with Walmart will include relevant content integrations across all Todobebe platforms. One example is the "Soluciones para Mama" segment sponsored by Walmart on the weekly TV show, ¡Viva La Familia!, on Univision Network. Walmart first joined with Todobebe in 2003 to launch of the first TV show for Spanish-speaking parents in the U.S.

"Walmart and Todobebe Team up to Offer Year-Round Integrated Content for Hispanic Moms and Families", News release, Walmart, May 19, 2011, © Walmart

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Aggressive ‘Brand Stewardship’ Behind Success Of Largest U.S. Companies

May 17, 2011: 12:52 AM EST

An analysis of U.S. consumer goods companies find that brand stewardship and brand portfolio strategy lie behind their enduring success, underscoring the multi-billion dollar valuations given to brands. Brand diversification is seen as a core success strategy along with the ability of companies to leverage brand strength in distribution and other fields. The list of companies studied includes Procter & Gamble, which controls 48 ‘major brands’ including Gillette, Tide, and Pampers; Johnson & Johnson, with 35 major brands, including Band-Aid and Tylenol; PepsiCo, which owns 34, including Pepsi and Frito-Lay, and Mars, which owns 26, including M&M's, Snickers, and Orbit.

Douglas A. McIntyre, Charles B. Stockdale, Michael B. Sauter, "The American Companies With The Most Valuable Brands", 24/7 Wall Street, May 17, 2011, © 24/7 Wall St.

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Opposition To GM Crops Expressed At Organic Seed Exchange Festival In Greece

May 15, 2011: 08:49 AM EST

About 5,000 people attended a festival in northeastern Greece to exchange seeds and voice opposition to genetically modified crops. European countries are under pressure from American GM producers such as Monsanto who argue that European bans on GM products violate global trade rules. The European Union has approved only two GM-crops: a maize strain for animal feed and a potato for paper-making. Popular disapproval of genetically modified crops has delayed decisions on a long list of others. On display at the festival were organic tomato roots and seeds to grow organic courgettes, beetroots, melons, watermelons and herbs. A total of 4,000 plant types were distributed to organic growers and supporters.

"Greeks mobilize to protect endangered seeds", France 24, May 15, 2011, © AFP/France 24

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Are Functional Foods In Fact “Functional”?

May 14, 2011: 09:45 AM EST

Do functional foods really provide the health benefits their manufacturers promise? The New York Times explores the issue, asking whether the millions of dollars spent by millions of consumers on foods and beverages that claim to lower cholesterol, help the heart and the waistline, improve digestion, etc., really do any of that. Functional food sales hit $37.3 billion in the U.S. in 2009, a 32 percent increase from 2005. Federal regulators have begun to police the claims of big food producers. Multimillion-dollar settlements were reached with Wrigley and Dannon. The companies defend their claims, of course, but nutrition experts say functional foods are not about health, “they are,” as nutrition professor Marion Nestle says, “about marketing.”

Natasha Singer, "Foods With Benefits, or So They Say", New York Times, May 14, 2011, © The New York Times

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General Mills Launches Informational Web Site For Gluten-Free Lifestyle

May 12, 2011: 07:41 AM EST

General Mills has made a available a Web page – GlutenFreely.com – providing information on living a gluten-free lifestyle. Besides information, the site offers more than 400 gluten-free products from a variety of manufacturers as well as resources such as recipes. The site has insights on how to navigate grocery stores and restaurants, and other tips and tricks. Dunveiled in support of National Celiac Awareness Month, the site was developed in partnership with the University of Maryland Center for Celiac Research, the University of Chicago Celiac Disease Center, and General Mills Bell Institute of Health and Nutrition.

"GlutenFreely.com serves as one-stop shop for gluten-free community", Press release, General Mills, May 12, 2011, © General Mills

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Cosmetic And Skincare Market Is Improving, But Shoppers Remain Frugal

May 12, 2011: 03:53 AM EST

Market researcher Mintel says the recession had a dampening effect on the cosmetic and skincare market, as women backed off “splurge” purchases and spent more time comparison shopping and looking for sales. The market is improving but the frugality trend continues. In 2009, 33 percent of shoppers surveyed said they only made replacement purchases of color cosmetics and avoided splurging, but that figure dropped to 27 percent in 2010. Mintel says women spend a lot of time on the Internet researching prices and products and continue to purchase most of their cosmetic and skincare products at mass merchandisers and drug stores, because of the wider array of branded products and competitive pricing.

"Cosmetic and skincare market showing slow improvements", News release, Mintel, May 12, 2011, © Mintel Group Ltd.

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Kellogg Launches Gluten-Free Version Of Rice Krispies

May 11, 2011: 05:33 AM EST

Kellogg announced that it is launching a gluten-free variety of its Rice Krispies breakfast cereal for people with celiac disease and gluten sensitivity. The new product, which will be available in stores nationwide beginning in June, will be made from whole brown rice instead of barley malt, which is the source of gluten in the original Rice Krispies cereal. Kellogg said each serving of the gluten-free version contains 120 calories, less than a gram of sugar, a gram each of fat and fiber, three grams of protein and 190 milligrams of sodium. The cereal is fortified with several vitamins and minerals.

"Kellogg Brings a Family Favorite Back to the Table for Gluten-Sensitive People With Launch of Rice Krispies® Gluten Free Cereal", Press release, Kellogg, May 11, 2011, © Kellogg

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Kraft Foods Launches Twitter Campaign For Jell-O Pudding

May 8, 2011: 05:48 AM EST

Kraft Foods plans to launch a Twitter-based marketing campaign for its Jell-O pudding brand. MDC Partners' CP&B designed the "Mood Monitor" social-media marketing campaign to send coupons to Twitter users who tweet messages that include ":(", the Twitterverse's symbol for a frown face, and requires users to reply with ":D", the symbol assigned by the marketer for "pudding face" – the smile brought on by eating pudding. Kraft will only turn on the program when smiley faces on the U.S. section of Twitter fall below the 51% average. Kraft unveiled the campaign with a television commercial showing a father trying to hide his "pudding face."

E.J. Schultz, "Turning the Frown Upside Down: Kraft's Jell-O Plans Twitter Mood Monitor", AdAge, May 08, 2011, © Crain Communications

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Food Safety Problems Plague China Again

May 7, 2011: 11:24 AM EST

Two years ago China reacted swiftly to the melamine-contaminated milk scandal that sickened thousands of children: the government threatened, raided and arrested – even executed – disreputable food processors. But efforts by the government to enforce a tougher food safety law are falling short, The New York Times reports, as “a stomach-turning string of food-safety scandals this spring” has provided evidence of a continued problem. The media have reported on recycled buns, fake eggs, pork contaminated with drugs, pork sold as beef after being soaked in borax, rice contaminated with the heavy metal cadmium, arsenic-laced soy sauce, etc. And without a strong consumer lobby to voice its concerns, consumers feel helpless. Government officials meanwhile, though admitting embarrassment, say the situation is improving.

Sharon LaFraniere, "In China, Fear of Fake Eggs and ‘Recycled’ Buns", New York Times, May 07, 2011, © The New York Times Company

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Pfizer Targets Obesity Problem In Young Children With New Child Nutrition Products

May 6, 2011: 09:00 PM EST

Noting that 43 million children under age five were overweight in 2010, Pfizer has launched a new range of child nutrition products – infant and follow-on formulas, and “growing-up milk” – “developed to meet the changing nutritional and feeding needs of young children.” The GOLD range of products provides nutrients needed for health, growth and development in growing children, the company said. The GOLD range provides older infants and young children with 100 percent of the U.S. Daily Reference Intakes of vitamin A, iron, iodine and zinc, recommended levels of vitamin D, less protein to support healthier rates of growth, and the soluble fiber oligofructose to promote gut health.

"Pfizer Launches New Advanced GOLD Range of Early Child Nutrition Products", Press Release, Pfizer Nutrition, May 06, 2011, © Pfizer

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Children’s Food/Beverage Market On Verge Of Major Growth Phase

May 5, 2011: 11:44 AM EST

The children’s food and beverage market is emerging from the recession and is “on the brink of a breakthrough,” according to market researcher Packaged Facts, which forecasts 40 percent growth through 2015, thanks in part to the better-for-you products trend. The kids’ food and beverage market spans a wide variety of product categories – frozen foods, dairy products, beverages, cereal, etc. – that are linked by three criteria: a taste kids love, nutrition kids need, and entertainment kids want. According to Packaged Facts, retail sales of children’s foods reached $10 billion in 2010, up 25 percent from five years ago. The largest segment was frozen foods ($2 billion), which accounts for 23 percent of the market. Beverages and dairy products were the next largest segments.

"Kids' Food and Beverage Market to Grow 40% by 2015", Press release, Packaged Facts, May 05, 2011, © Packaged Facts

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European Research Project Hopes To Gain Insights Into Impact Of Diet On Aging

May 5, 2011: 04:43 AM EST

How can diet help guarantee that people stay healthy as they move into old age? A new EU-funded research project aims to find that out by studying 1,250 Europeans over the age of 65 from all over Europe, along with 125 people recruited for detailed analysis. The study will look at immunological markers of aging and the impact of the Mediterranean diet on immunity in old age. Though people are living longer – six years longer on average since the 1980s – people over the age of 60 often live with poor health and disabilities. The five-year project, called NU-AGE, is examining new dietary strategies to address the specific needs of Europe’s elderly population. The knowledge gained will be used to design foods especially for elderly consumers.

"Not only living longer, but living healthier - a new EU-funded project on diet and healthy ageing", Press release, International Food Research, May 05, 2011, © International Food Research (IFR)

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Weight Problem Of Many Immigrants To U.S. May Be Linked With Desire To “Fit In”

May 3, 2011: 01:10 PM EST

Though cheap, convenient and fatty fast foods are usually blamed for the increased weight of immigrants to the United States, a more subtle factor may be the desire of immigrants to “fit in,” researchers have found. In other words, immigrants to the U.S. choose typical American dishes to show that they belong and to prove their “American-ness.” For the study, Asian-American and white college students were asked questions that essentially tested whether they felt insecure about their “American-ness.” A question about English speaking skills, for example, prompted three-fourths of Asian-Americans to mention a typical American food as their favorite. But only 25 percent of Asian-Americans who had not been asked if they spoke English chose those foods.

Sapna Cheryan, et al., "Fitting In but Getting Fat: Identity Threat and Dietary Choices among U.S. Immigrant Groups", Psychological Science , May 03, 2011, © Association for Psychological Science

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Mothers Voice Strong Antipathy Toward Use Of Antibiotics In Animals Raised For Food

May 3, 2011: 11:56 AM EST

Eighty percent of 804 American mothers who responded to an online poll commissioned by the Pew Campaign on Human Health and Industrial Farming said they were concerned about giving antibiotics to animals produced for meat and poultry. Forty-two percent of the responders, all of whom were registered voters and mothers of children aged 16 and younger, said they were “very concerned” about the practice. In response to the poll findings, the Pew Campaign launched a grassroots movement of mothers working to preserve the effectiveness of antibiotics for their children and families. More than three-quarters of those polled favor federal regulations that would allow antibiotics to treat sick animals, but would eliminate the use of antibiotics to promote growth.

"How American Moms In An Internet Study View Antibiotic Use In Food Animal Production", Press Release/Presentation, The Pew Charitable Trust, May 03, 2011, © The Pew Charitable Trust

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Children Who Eat Family Meals Eat Healthier Foods, Have Less Risk Of Being Overweight

May 2, 2011: 11:46 AM EST

U.S. researchers have found that children and teens who eat with their families a minimum of three times a week are less likely to be overweight or have other nutritional health problems than other children. The researchers looked at data from 17 recent studies that examined eating patterns and child nutrition among 182,000 children between the ages of three and 17. Five of the studies that assessed the link between family meals and nutrition found children who ate with their families three times a week were 24 percent more likely to eat healthier foods and maintain healthy eating habits, the researchers found. Other benefits: a reduction in the odds for overweight (12 percent), eating unhealthy foods (20 percent), and disordered eating (35 percent).

Amber J. Hammons, PhD and Barbara H. Fiese, PhD, "Is Frequency of Shared Family Meals Related to the Nutritional Health of Children and Adolescents?", Pediatrics, May 02, 2011, © American Academy of Pediatrics

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Africa's Burgeoning Middle Class Presents A Compelling Marketing Opportunity

May 2, 2011: 11:52 AM EST

Though 61 percent of Africa's population still lives on less than $2 a day, 34 percent are considered part, however, tenuously, of the continent's middle class - 313 million people - and they represent an attractive marketing opportunity for investing countries and companies that are willing to risk the often dangerous political atmosphere. That fact has not gone unnoticed by multinational appliance makers, telecommunications companies and retailers. For example, the U.S. ambassador to South Africa reported recently that Africa has more mobile-phone subscribers than the entire U.S. population. According to a report by the African Development Bank, 21 percent of Africans are well-established in the new middle class, spending between $4 and $20 a day, often on nonessential items.

PETER WONACOTT , "A New Class of Consumers Grows in Africa_05-03-11", Wall Street Journal, May 02, 2011, © Dow Jones & Company, Inc

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Indianapolis “Food Deserts” Served By Grocery Stores On Wheels

April 28, 2011: 03:07 AM EST

To make it a little easier for less mobile consumers to shop for healthy fruits and vegetables, Indiana University Health introduced a "Garden on the Go" service that parks a truck carrying fresh produce in lots in mostly poor neighborhoods around Indianapolis. Green BEAN Delivery, which delivers groceries to about 2,000 homes and apartment complexes a week, will supply the trucks and the produce for the year-round program. Trucks make three stops day, four days a week, mostly in neighborhoods designated as "food deserts" because they are packed with convenience stores and fast food restaurants but few grocery stores.

Erika D. Smith, "Smith: Trucks to bring produce to city's 'food deserts'", Indystar, April 28, 2011, © Indystar

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Mobile Shopping Is A Growing Phenomenon

April 27, 2011: 12:03 PM EST

Marketers take notice: mobile phones are becoming increasingly important as "shopping partners" for consumers and are having a growing impact on how people buy and on what they buy, according to William Rosen of Arc Worldwide. Smartphone use has risen dramatically in recent years with the result that half of adults aged 18 to 64 in the U.S. are active mobile shoppers, using phones to compare products, evaluate prices, and even complete transactions. An Arc Worldwide survey of mobile shoppers found that though heavy-use shoppers comprise only 20 percent of the total, they account for 80 percent of the purchases. Light mobile shoppers with the most growth potential? Those who love their phones but just aren't into shopping yet.

William Rosen , "Soon All Shoppers Will Be Mobile Shoppers", Advertising Age, April 27, 2011, © Crain Communications

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Four Out Of Five Americans Consider Themselves “Weight Conscious” – Survey

April 27, 2011: 04:59 AM EST

Eighty percent of men and women aged 18 and older – 186 million Americans – consider themselves “weight conscious”, and half of these want to lose weight, according to a November 2010 survey of 1,203 males and females sponsored by the Calorie Control Council. Weight loss methods most frequently cited were: cutting back on foods high in sugar, eating smaller portions, consuming low-calorie or sugar-free foods and beverages and exercising. Least often cited methods included meal skipping, diet pills and restrictive weight loss diets. "Many have taken the first step – admitting they want to lose weight for overall better health," says Beth Hubrich of the Calorie Control Council, and half of those surveyed said they wanted to lose at least 10 pounds.

"Survey: Most Americans are Weight Conscious", Press release, Calorie Control Council, April 27, 2011, © Calorie Control Council

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Though Most Americans Are Nutritionally Aware, Older Adults Are More Likely To Take Action

April 27, 2011: 04:25 AM EST

U.S. adults surveyed by Harris Interactive say they are very health-conscious and aware of basic nutrition facts when buying foods and beverages, but do not necessarily apply the knowledge to their purchasing behavior. According to Harris, whose data came from 2,379 adults surveyed online in March, healthy food choices are more likely among more mature Americans aged 66 and older, perhaps because they are more likely to be on restricted diets. Three quarters (76 percent) of Matures have a diet restriction, compared to 58 percent of Baby Boomers, 50 percent of Generation Xers, and 51 percent of Echo Boomers (aged 18-34). “The action/awareness gap is even more pronounced when comparing the youngest and oldest generations,” Harris says: 32 percent of Echo Boomers restrict their sugar intake, compared to 67 percent of Matures.

"Most Americans Are Health-Conscious, But Behavior Varies By Age", Press Release, Harris Interactive, April 27, 2011, © Harris Interactive Inc

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"Open Innovation" Drives P&G's Product Development Success

April 26, 2011: 12:31 PM EST

"Open innovation" has been the key to Procter & Gamble's growth over 175 years from a candle- and soap-making operation to a $24 billion, 300-brand multinational business. Open innovation involves extensive use of partnering to complement internal technology development. The concept was formalized a decade ago into a cultural component known as "Connect+Develop" (C+D). CEO A. G. Lafley urged P&G to source half of its innovation from non-P&G firms with a view toward mutual interest and benefit. The partnerships that evolved developed many successful P&G products, including Swiffer, Tide and Mr. Clean eraser. Writing in Blogging Innovation, Deborah Mills-Scofield lists eight key lessons P&G has learned about innovation in its long history. At the top of the list? "Drive from the top:" commitment from top management is essential.

Deborah Mills-Scofield , "P&G’s Lessons from a Century of Open Innovation", Blogging Innovation, April 26, 2011, © Blogging Innovation

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New USDA Child Nutrition Program Rules Support Farm-To-School Programs

April 26, 2011: 02:55 AM EST

The USDA has begun implementing final child nutrition program rules that encourage use of local farm products in school meals. The new rules allow schools to give preference to unprocessed locally grown and locally raised agricultural products as they purchase food for the National School Lunch, School Breakfast, Special Milk, Child and Adult Care, Fresh Fruit and Vegetable, and Summer Food Service programs. A key provision of the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010, the rules aim to strengthen farm-to-school programs across the country. The rule supports the agency's “Know Your Farmer, Know Your Food” initiative that stresses the need for a reconnection between producers and consumers.

"New USDA Rule Encourages the Purchase of Local Agricultural Products for Critical Nutrition Assistance Programs", Press release, USDA Office of Communications, April 26, 2011, © USDA

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Color-Coded Eco-Rating System For Household Cleaners Debuts At Whole Foods

April 21, 2011: 10:38 PM EST

Whole Foods Market has introduced a tiered, color-coded rating system for household cleaning products to help shoppers make eco-friendly choices. The Eco-Scale System rates household cleaners as red (unacceptable), orange, yellow or green according to specific environmental and sourcing standards applied to each product. The company said it will work with vendors to evaluate every product in its cleaning category. Products will have to meet a new baseline orange standard by Earth Day 2012 to be sold in Whole Foods stores. Products rated red will not be sold, the company said. Though the federal government does not require ingredients to be disclosed on household cleaner labels, the new rating system does.

"Whole Foods Market pledges a clean sweep by 2012", News release, Whole Foods Market, April 21, 2011, © Whole Foods Market IP, L.P.

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Older Americans Less Passionate About Environmental Issues – Survey

April 20, 2011: 11:37 PM EST

Americans are taking definite steps – such as turning off lights in unoccupied rooms and recycling – toward protecting the environment and conserving energy, but there is less enthusiasm for activities like purchasing eco-friendly products, and marked skepticism about issues like global climate change, according to a national survey conducted by L’Oreal and ORC International. The survey found that younger people tend to be more ardent about environmental issues and actions, though the attitudes and behaviors of older Americans are shifting gradually. The survey found that 96 percent of Americans turn off lights in unoccupied rooms and 93 percent recycle, but only 25 percent purchase validated eco-friendly products. And forty-five percent of Americans older than 55 say they are unconvinced about climate change.

"2011 Sustainable Living Survey Fielded by L'Oréal USA Reveals Changes in Attitudes, Behavior and Consumption Are Slow to Come", Press release, L'Oreal, April 20, 2011, © 3BL MEDIA, LLC

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Seventh Generation Launches Green Sweepstakes

April 19, 2011: 02:25 AM EST

Household and personal-care products company Seventh Generation says that instead of celebrating Earth Day this year, it is “honoring the planet and its many gifts” by offering savings coupons and a sweepstakes whose top prize is a $10,000 green home makeover. The prize also includes cleaning supplies for the winner’s whole community. The company will provide the winner’s community 1,000 Healthy Home Starter Kits valued at $55 each “to help paint the whole town ‘green.’" The company is also offering money-saving product coupons to help consumers “save money as they save the world around them.”

"Seventh Generation Makes a Clean "Sweep" of Earth Day", Press release, Seventh Generation, April 19, 2011, © Seventh Generation

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Johnson & Johnson Sponsors Free Youth Sports Safety Clinics

April 18, 2011: 02:49 AM EST

In response to a national survey finding that few parents are confident that coaches of sports teams are adequately trained to identify and prevent injuries, Safe Kids USA and Johnson & Johnson are sponsoring a youth sports safety campaign to educate parents, coaches and league organizers in safety skills. More than 3.5 million children are treated for sports-related injuries each year, half of which are preventable. Only 29 percent of parents feel coaches are able to detect symptoms of, or prevent, sports injuries. A majority did feel that their youth athletes took safety precautions, such as wearing proper equipment. More than 100 free sports safety clinics will be conducted nationwide from April through the summer, funded by Johnson & Johnson.

"Safe Kids USA and Johnson & Johnson Aim to Help Parents and Coaches Protect Young Athletes On and Off the Field", Press release, Johnson & Johnson, April 18, 2011, © Johnson & Johnson Services, Inc.

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Campbell Adds New Varieties To V8 Line

April 14, 2011: 08:58 PM EST

Campbell Soup Company announced it is expanding its V8 fruit and vegetable juice line with two new V8 V-fusion beverages. Concord Grape Raspberry and Concord Grape Raspberry Light juices blend grape juice with apple, raspberry, sweet potato, carrot and other juices. Campbell says an 8-oz. glass of either juice provides a full serving (1/2 cup) of both fruit and vegetables. Currently available only in 46-oz. bottles, the products will be sold in 8-oz. cans beginning in July at most U.S. grocery, mass merchandise, convenience and club stores. The company also said it is expanding the V8 V-fusion juice varieties available in 8-oz. cans to include Strawberry Banana Light and V8 V-fusion + Tea Raspberry Green Tea.

"The Makers of V8 Juice Expand Line of V8 V-Fusion(R) Vegetable and Fruit Juices", Press Release, Campbell Soup Company, April 14, 2011, © Campbell Soup Company

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Illinois House Passes Ban On Trans Fats In School Vending Machines, Restaurants, Etc.

April 13, 2011: 10:33 AM EST

The Illinois House has passed legislation that would ban trans fats in foods served in restaurants, movie theaters, cafes, bakeries and school vending machines. Foods likely to be affected by the ban include French fries, onion rings, popcorn shrimp, pies, cakes and fried chicken. The ban, if approved by the Senate and signed by the governor, would take effect in 2013 (2016 in school cafeterias). California is the only other state to enact such a ban, though more than a dozen jurisdictions, including New York City, have implemented similar bans on trans fats, which have been shown to increase levels of bad cholesterol (LDL), reduce levels of good cholesterol (HDL), and increase the risk of heart disease, stroke and type 2 diabetes.

Monica Eng and Julie Deardorff, "llinois takes step toward banning trans fats - Bill that cleared House would take effect in 2013", Chicago Tribune, April 13, 2011, © Chicago Tribune Newspaper

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Canada’s Oversight Of Food Safety System Is Deemed Lax

April 13, 2011: 11:27 AM EST

An editorial in the Canadian Medical Association Journal warns that Canada’s government sectors and private industry are not doing enough to protect consumers from foodborne illnesses. Regulation and oversight of food safety are lax and need to be strengthened. Key problems include inadequate surveillance systems, poor food traceability from “farm to fork,” and a lack of incentives to keep food safe throughout the food chain. "Private and public oversight of food safety should be reformed to ensure sufficiently uniform practices across the country,” the authors write. Though food can never be made completely sterile and risk free, there are measures that can be taken to prevent unnecessary deaths from food contamination.

Ken Flegel MDCM MSc, et al., "Food in Canada: Eat at your own risk", Canadian Medical Association Journal, April 13, 2011, © Canadian Medical Association

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Parents Say They Provide Kids A Healthy Home Environment, Except For The Junk Food

April 13, 2011: 10:25 AM EST

A survey by the YMCA finds that 62 percent of parents admit their kids aged 5 to 10 years old eat junk food one to four days a week, while only 14 percent say their kids eat at least five fruits and vegetables a day. Despite these admissions, 89 percent of the parents surveyed rate themselves good to excellent at creating a healthy home environment for their children. But, they say, a lot of distractions make it more difficult to provide a healthy diet. Distractions include social networks, computer games, TV and cell phones. Nearly half of the parents say their children are parked in front of the TV for at least two hours a day five or more days each week.

Nanci Hellmich, "Survey: Kids lack exercise, healthful foods", USA TODAY, April 13, 2011, © USA Today, a division of Gannett Co. Inc

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Apple Consumption Reduces Biomarkers For Cardiovascular Disease

April 12, 2011: 10:00 AM EST

A U.S. study has found that eating 75 grams of dried apples a day for a year led to a reduction in so-called bad (LDL) cholesterol, an increase in HDL (good) cholesterol and an average weight loss of 3.3 pounds among 160 postmenopausal women. Earlier animal studies had shown that apple pectin and polyphenols improved lipid metabolism and lowered production of pro-inflammatory molecules. The study randomly assigned the women to two groups: one that ate dried apples daily and one that ate dried prunes every day. Analysis of blood samples found that the apple-eating women experienced a 23 percent decrease in LDL cholesterol and a lowering of other biomarkers for cardiovascular disease. The weight loss benefit may be a result of eating apple pectin, which contributes to satiety, researchers guessed.

"‘Apple a Day’ Advice Rooted in Science", Experimental Biology 2011/ASN, April 12, 2011, © Experimental Biology 2011/ASN

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Substituting Healthy Choice Meals Leads To Weight Loss, Sense Of Well-Being – Studies

April 12, 2011: 09:33 AM EST

ConAGra Foods recently reported on the results of two 30-day clinical studies it sponsored in which participants ate 10 frozen control-portion Healthy Choice meals a week instead of their normal meals. In one study participants ate Healthy Choice meals for lunch, in the other for dinner, while also walking for exercise. According to the researchers, participants lost an average of six pounds and reduced waistlines by an inch. Though they ate fewer calories, participants “significantly improved the quality of their overall diets by increasing dietary fiber, reducing saturated fat intake by 50 percent, and by consuming 30 percent less cholesterol and sodium,” according to ConAgra. Other benefits reported: increased sense of well-being, more energy and feeling healthier.

"New Research Shows Portion-Controlled Frozen Meals Can Support Weight Loss, Improve Dietary Quality", Press Release, ConAgra, April 12, 2011, © ConAgra

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Companies Form Joint Venture To Market Stevia In Europe After Official EU Approval

April 12, 2011: 09:51 AM EST

As they await the European Union’s approval later this year of natural sweetener stevia, German sugar supplier Nordzucker and Malaysian stevia producer PureCircle have formed a joint venture to sell stevia in Northern and Eastern Europe. The equally-owned venture, NP Sweet, will be headquartered in Denmark, where development and marketing of “steviasucrose” sweeteners will be managed. U.K. consultant firm Zenith International says stevia has enjoyed a “meteoric rise in popularity” since it’s approval as a sweetener in the U.S. in 2008. The company says stevia’s global market value is $285 million. The European Food Safety Authority ruled last year that stevia is safe to use in foods and beverages.

Richard Clarke, "New joint stevia venture ready for European approval", Functional Ingredients, April 12, 2011, © Penton Media Inc

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Selenium Deficiency Is Associated With Age-Related Diseases And Conditions

April 12, 2011: 09:48 AM EST

Sufficient intake of the essential mineral selenium, found in edible plants in the U.S. but more rare elsewhere in the world, might help ward off age-related conditions such as immune dysfunction, cardiovascular disease and cancer, an analysis of the mineral has found. The analysis was designed to test the “triage” theory of Dr. Bruce Ames, which provides a basis for determining the optimum intake of individual vitamins and minerals by measuring long-term insidious damage associated with aging. The theory explains why diseases associated with aging may be unintended results of mechanisms developed during evolution to protect the metabolism from swings in vitamin and mineral availability. The analysis found that age-related diseases and conditions are associated with modest selenium deficiency, which could be a “causal factor,” researchers said.

"New Analysis of Essential Mineral Selenium Supports CHORI Scientist's Theory: Modest Vitmain/Mineral Deficiencies May Increase Age-Related Disease", News Release, Children's Hospital & Research Center Oakland, April 12, 2011, © Children's Hospital & Research Center Oakland

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Brown Bread Sales Up In U.K., As White Bread Sales Falter

April 11, 2011: 10:41 PM EST

A recent flood of seeded bread products has driven U.K. brown bread sales up, Kantar Worldpanel reports. The market researcher attributes the increase in seeded bread products, which are up six percent over last year, to changes in consumer use of bakery. More people are eating breakfast away from home, there is growing interest in alternative bakery products such as muffins and crumpets, and the recession seems to have dampened interest in mainstream staples like white bread. Brown and whole meal bread sales rose 6.1 percent in the year ended March 20, while sales of white bread dropped 1.4 percent, though some bakeries report a rebound in white bread sales in recent months.

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Consumers Fooled By “Halo Effect” Of Organic Label

April 10, 2011: 05:21 AM EST

A researcher at Cornell University has found a “halo effect” when consumers judge sensory characteristics of foods labeled organic: the label seems to persuade people that because a food is organic it must be tastier and lower in calories. She conducted a double-blind, controlled trial in which she asked 144 subjects at a mall to compare what they thought were conventionally and organically produced foods. All products were organic, but labeled "regular" or "organic." Participants rated each food for 10 attributes, including taste, perception of fat content, calories, price, etc. The subjects said they preferred almost all of the taste characteristics of the organically-labeled foods, though they were identical to the conventionally-labeled counterparts. The "organic" foods were also perceived as lower in calories and higher in price.

"The health halo effect: Don't judge a food by its organic label", Press release, Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology, April 10, 2011, © FASEB

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Wrigley Launches Calcium-Fortified Chewing Gum In Pacific Market

April 6, 2011: 07:07 PM EST

The Wrigley Company has introduced in Australia a calcium-fortified sugar-free chewing gum formulated to deliver 10 percent of the recommended daily intake of calcium. Extra Professional Calcium, which follows the introduction of Extra Professional and Extra Professional White sugar-free chewing gum, is the first fortified gum approved the Pacific market, according to the company. Chewing two pieces for 20 minutes provides about 80 grams of calcium. The Extra Professional product range has accounted for a 16.1 percent share of gum in national grocery channels and a 15 percent share of gum in national convenience channels, the company said. The launch of the new gum will be supported by integrated marketing and communications campaigns across Australia and New Zealand.

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Women, Older People Are The Most Eco-Conscious, Global Market Study Finds

April 7, 2011: 04:23 AM EST

Women and older consumers across the world are generally more environmentally conscious overall, a new study from market researcher Synovate has found, while young people are the least eco-conscious. The study, which looked at “green” behavior globally, also found that the way people feel about the future, their family, and their country aren’t very important factors in determining green habits. Synovate asked 22,000 people in around the worldt about their recycling habits, purchase of ecological products, purchase of organic foods, etc. Women ranked higher than men across all green behavior categories, and people aged 56-65 years old ranked highest in recycling and buying ecological products. People 46-55 years old were more likely to buy organic food. Lowest green scores among age groups? Young people aged 16-25 years old. Data from the study were also broken down by country.

"Synovate survey reveals latest green habits and consumption across the world", Press release, Synovate, April 07, 2011, © Synovate

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P&G Launches Digital Magazine Offering A Showcase For Its Beauty Brands

April 6, 2011: 12:39 AM EST

Beauty Recommended is the title of a free monthly digital magazine being launched by Procter & Gamble to arouse interest in its portfolio of beauty products and provide a forum for women to offer opinions on beauty products. Magazine content will feature P&G’s beauty brands Olay, Max Factor, Pantène and prestige brands, as well as partner brands like Chanel. The content mix will also include editorial features, interactive videos and click-to-buy opportunities from partner retailers. The new magazine is the result of P&G research that found that 92 percent of women feel the beauty industry has turned a deaf ear toward them.

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Walmart Takes It On The Chin In Social Media Comments

April 6, 2011: 01:19 AM EST

The group of disgruntled Walmart employees whose sex bias lawsuit has reached the U.S. Supreme Court aren’t the only ones with complaints against the retailing giant. Unhappy Walmart customers and employees have registered 9,985 negative opinions about the company within the last three months on Twitter and Facebook, according to Amplicate, an online opinion collating resource. Negative comments on Walmart range from poor working conditions and low salaries to low quality products and poor customer service, Amplicate says. Positive opinions account for 34 percent of the ratings, well below the 47 percent average for all U.S. department stores. Amplicate says Walmart has held the bottom position in the Top 20 U.S. Department Stores for the last six months, while Costco holds down the number one spot.

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New Policy Would Require Withholding Of Food Products Pending Test Results

April 5, 2011: 07:35 PM EST

The U.S. Department of Agriculture is proposing that its Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) be allowed to withhold meat and poultry products from the market until FSIS test results for harmful substances are received. According to the USDA, if the new requirement is enacted, the amount of unsafe food that reaches store shelves – and the number of food recalls – will be reduced. Currently, FSIS can request – but not require – that tested product samples be held until test results are available. FSIS inspects billions of pounds of meat, poultry and processed egg products annually and believes that 44 of the most serious recalls between 2007 and 2009 could have been prevented had the proposed procedure been in place.

"USDA Announces Proposed Test and Hold Requirement for Meat and Poultry Products", News release, USDA, April 05, 2011, © USDA

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Coca-Cola’s PlantBottle Beverage Packages Available Nationwide

April 4, 2011: 07:17 PM EST

Coca-Cola’s 100 percent recyclable plant-derived packages for Dasani and Odwalla are now available in the U.S. The new PlantBottle packaging for single servings of Odwalla is made from up to 100 percent plant-based materials with high-density polyethylene (HDPE) plastic. HDPE plastic is created using only ethylene, which is derived from 100 percent renewable sugarcane-based ethanol. Bottles for Dasani are made with up to 30 percent plant-based materials. According to Coca-Cola, in 2010 more than 2.5 billion PlantBottle packages were available across nine countries, a number that is expected to double to more than five billion PlantBottle packages in more than 15 countries.

"The Coca-Cola Company's New PlantBottle® Packaging On Store Shelves Nationwide Today!", Press Release, Coca-Cola, North America, April 04, 2011, © Coca-Cola

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Henkel’s Search For New Product Ideas Extends Beyond N. America

April 4, 2011: 01:45 AM EST

German home care and cosmetics firm Henkel says it is expanding its Innovation Partnership Program beyond North America and will accept new product ideas that have been patented (or patent applied for) from independent inventors and small businesses and suppliers worldwide. Ideas can be for any of the company’s global business sectors, including laundry and home care, cosmetics/toiletries or adhesive technologies. Technology acquisition director Debra Park says “innovation plays a key role in our success” and “partnerships with independent inventors … fuels our advancement.” Henkel’s brand include Dial soaps, Purex laundry detergents, Right Guard antiperspirants, got2b hair gels, and Loctite adhesives.

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“Better For You” Becomes The Watchword Of PepsiCo’s New Product R&D

April 4, 2011: 06:57 AM EST

After reorganizing its R&D organization two years ago, PepsiCo has focused on development of products with “better for you” natural and healthy ingredients that nevertheless take into account aroma, flavor, mouthfeel and consumer preference. In addition to its goal of reducing added sugar in products by 2020, the company hopes to create innovative breakthrough products in areas like fruits, vegetables, grains, dairy and functional nutrition. The R&D team is taking more of an internal development approach to new products – though still accepting ideas from vendors – and is exploring human health, sensory science, packaging and material science, and processing technology in its quest to create high-quality, good tasting products with nutritional benefits.

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Food Companies Can Expect A Spate Of Class Action Suits Over Health Claims

April 1, 2011: 07:45 PM EST

High-profile food companies that make strong, but possibly questionable, health claims for their products should brace themselves for a deluge of class action lawsuits from consumer lobby groups. Legal experts told NutraIngredients that companies should expect an “explosion” of suits similar to the one targeting General Mills over its claims of digestive health for Yo-Plus yogurts. The suit was recently allowed to proceed by the Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals despite the company’s efforts to torpedo it. Part of the litigation problem may be aggressive lawyers looking for settlement opportunities with big companies. Dannon and Wrigley, for example, both settled class action challenges related to health claims for products. But perhaps the real root cause is overeager food company marketing departments with a penchant for health claim hyperbole.

Elaine Watson, "Class action lawsuits set to ‘explode’ in health claims arena", NutraIngredients USA, April 01, 2011, © William Reed Business Media

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Food Shoppers Battle Rising Prices With An Array Of Cost-Saving Tactics

March 31, 2011: 10:17 PM EST

American consumers are not taking the rising costs of food lying down, according to a Harris Interactive survey commissioned by Coupons.com. Ninety-five percent of those surveyed said they are employing at least one tactic for saving money when food shopping. Coupon use is the most popular activity – mentioned by 72 percent of adults. Seventy-one percent – and especially college graduates – said they compare unit prices to offset rising costs. The education factor was significant, the survey found. Adults who are better educated are much more likely to use coupons, compare unit prices and buy in bulk. And women are more likely than men to use coupons and comparison shop, according to Coupons.com.

"Rising Food Prices Are Hitting Home And Americans Are Fighting Back By Shopping Smarter", Press Release, Coupons.com, March 31, 2011, © Coupons.com

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New Nestlé Factory In Germany Expected To Double Production Of HA Infant Formula

March 31, 2011: 08:58 PM EST

Nestlé Nutrition has opened a 23,000 square-meter factory in Biessenhofen, Germany, that will double production of hypoallergenic (HA) infant formula under brands such as Alete and Beba. Officially Nestlé supports breast feeding because breast milk is the “most nutritionally sound first food for babies,” but notes that its HA infant formula is clinically proven to significantly reduce the risk of allergic reactions to milk among babies who cannot breast feed. HA infant formula is based on 100 percent whey protein that is broken down to reduce the allergenicity of protein in cow’s milk. The new factory includes a 23 meter-high state-of-the-art “spray tower,” thermal insulation and a new cooling system that will promote efficient use of energy and water.

"Nestlé opens hypoallergenic infant formula factoryNestlé opens hypoallergenic infant formula factory in Germany in Germany", Press release, Nestlé, March 31, 2011, © Nestlé

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“Natural” Food Sales Remain Strong, Despite Lack Of Precise Definition Of The Term

March 31, 2011: 10:18 PM EST

The meaning of “natural” food may vary from shopper to shopper, and the term may not be strictly defined by the USDA except in the case of meat and poultry, but “natural” is definitely a desirable quality among consumers. Sales of foods labeled natural and organic increased by more than a billion dollars between 1999 and 2006 as consumers associated natural with healthy. Food manufacturers are taking advantage of the trend – and the lack of government standards – and are using the term liberally on packages. Retail grocers in turn have begun to devote more aisle space to products labeled natural, but are mainly leaving it up to the manufacturers to tell them which products qualify.

Jenny Rogers, "What's a 'natural' food? Whatever the manufacturer says it is", TBD, March 31, 2011, © Allbritton Communications Company

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