Americas: More than half of US consumers are concerned about genetically-modified foods, says report
More than half of US consumers express some level of concern about genetically-modified organisms (GMOs). When asked to describe GMOs, many primary grocery shoppers are unclear and reiterate that it’s genetically altered sometimes in a favorable way while at other times in an unfavorable way, according to recently released food market research by The NPD Group. “GMO’s have been an issue...
Americas: WILD Flavors acquires natural aroma chemical supplier
WILD Flavors, Inc. has acquired Alfrebro, LLC, a manufacturer of natural extracts and aroma chemicals, advanced proprietary technologies, and expanded processing capabilities. With this positioning, WILD will further its development position and product lines to expand not only into unique flavors, extracts, and aromas for the food and beverage market, but also to strengthen its Health and Wellness focus and...
Asia Pacific: IFF to invest $50M in Indonesia
International Flavors & Fragrances Inc. (IFF) said it plans to invest over $50 million in its flavors operations in Jakarta, Indonesia. The investment will include a creative center on the existing site that will primarily support IFF’s customers in Indonesia, which is expected to be completed by the fourth quarter of 2014. The company will also build a new manufacturing facility...
Europe: EFSA’s assessment on aspartame concludes sweetener is safe at current levels of exposure
Aspartame and its breakdown products are safe for human consumption at current levels of exposure, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) concludes in its first full risk assessment of this sweetener. To carry out its risk assessment, EFSA has undertaken a rigorous review of all available scientific research on aspartame and its breakdown products, including both animal and human studies. “This...
Europe: SPX to establish powdered infant formula plant in France for export to China
SPX Corporation has been awarded a contract valued in excess of $50 million from Synutra France International, a subsidiary of Synutra International Inc. The contract is to establish a powdered infant formula processing plant that will utilize SPX Flow Technology process systems to convert milk and other ingredients into high quality powdered infant formula and other whey protein powdered products...
Europe: Printpack wins Label of the Year at UK Packaging Awards
UK-based company Printpack was awarded first prize in the Label of the Year category at the UK Packaging Awards held in London on November 13, 2013. Printpack’s winning entry was with Coca-Cola Enterprises’ Share-a-Coke labels, produced in partnership with three digital printers. Coca-Cola’s campaign objective was to offer consumers personalized bottles and print 150 names on 500ml and 375ml bottle labels. With...
Asia Pacific: Barry Callebaut begins production in new, relocated factory in Japan
Barry Callebaut said it has completed the move of its Japan’s chocolate factory from Amagasaki to Takasaki, as announced in June 2012. The new and larger facility, which was officially inaugurated today, offers an initial annual production capacity of 22,000 tons of chocolate and compound products. The total amount invested is CHF 18.5 million ($19.4 million). Situated in the Gunma Prefecture,...
Americas: Researchers see more nutritional benefits in organic milk
A team led by a Washington State University (WSU) researcher has found that organic milk contains significantly higher concentrations of heart-healthy fatty acids compared to milk from cows on conventionally managed dairy farms. While all types of milk fat can help improve an individual’s fatty acid profile, the team concludes that organic whole milk does so even better. The study is...
Asia Pacific: Region must prepare for catastrophic increase in fragility fractures, says report
New report shows ageing populations and urbanization will drive increase in osteoporosis and related fractures; health authorities must take action now to reduce future costs and disability. A new report launched by the International Osteoporosis Foundation (IOF) shows that osteoporosis is a serious problem throughout the Asia Pacific, with the number of fracture sufferers to rise dramatically in the coming...
Europe: Givaudan recognized as top performer in climate change survey
Givaudan has been recognized as a top, ‘A-band’ performer in the CDP’s 350 Climate Change 2013 Report for Germany, Austria and Switzerland. The CDP, previously known as Carbon Disclosure Project, ranks companies on how they measure, disclose and manage climate related risks and opportunities – this year at the request of 722 investors. The ‘A-band’ recognizes the progress Givaudan is making...