Chex Touts New Recipes For Its Snack Mix Favorite December 9, 2009: 03:02 AM EST The fact that half of all Chex cereal is sold in the last three months of the year speaks volumes about why General Mills is touting new microwaveable recipes for its ubiquitous Chex mix snack. The company recently sponsored a recipe contest won by the inventor of Buffalo Chex Mix, a spicy version inspired by Buffalo chicken wings, according to this New York Times article. The original recipe for Chex mix combined the cereal with peanuts, pretzels, etc. But the new ones are more exotic: Chai Crunch captures the flavor of the tea with cinnamon, cloves and dried orange peel. ANDREW ADAM NEWMAN, "Chex, Already a Ubiquitous Holiday Party Snack, Trots Out New Recipes", The New York Times, December 09, 2009, © The New York Times Company

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Unilever Exec Discusses Indian Food Industry Trends, Priorities, Challenges December 9, 2009: 03:09 AM EST A Hindustan Unilever exec told a food industry meeting in India recently that sustainable sourcing, return-to-nature (recycling), organic farming, healthy processed foods, natural flavors and consumer convenience were the main trends in the health food market. His company’s priority is to take advantage of innovations in health and wellness food products to enhance health, meet families’ nutrition requirements, promote physical and mental well-being, and use fewer additives and artificial ingredients. Key challenges in India to food makers in India, he said, include regulatory issues, the supply chain, lack of consumer communication, and building trust and credibility. Hasan Mulani, "Experts discuss innovations and trends in food & beverage sector", FnBNews.com, December 09, 2009, © Food & Beverage News

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Spice Compounds Show Potential For Breast Cancer Treatment December 8, 2009: 07:41 AM EST Chemotherapy does not affect breast cancer stem cells that fuel the growth of tumors, which is why cancer recurs and spreads. Eliminating the cancer stem cells, researchers say, is the key to controlling cancer. Now laboratory research has found that the dietary compounds curcumin, derived from the spice turmeric, coupled with black pepper-derived piperine, decreased the number of cancer stem cells when applied to breast cells, without any toxic affect on normal breast cells. The curcumin-piperine solution used was 20 times stronger than what is consumed through diet. Scientists plan a clinical trial to determine safe tolerance levels in patients. Madhuri Kakarala, Dean E. Brenner, et al., "Targeting breast stem cells with the cancer preventive compounds curcumin and piperine", Breast Cancer Research and Treatment, December 08, 2009, © Springer

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Selenium Supplement Found To Suppress Development Of New Colon Polyps December 6, 2009: 10:46 AM EST An Italian study of 411 people aged 25 to 75 who had already had benign polyps called adenomas removed from their colon found that those who took a daily supplement of the antioxidant selenium with various vitamins were 40 percent less likely to develop new adenomas. Though only a small proportion of polyps develop into cancer, as much as 70 to 80 percent of colorectal cancers stem from adenomas, which are common in people aged 60 or older. The researchers said they observed the benefit of the selenium supplement through 13 years of follow up. Luigina Bonelli, M.D., "Antioxidant Compound Reduced Incidence of Colorectal Metachronous Adenomas", Presentation, Frontiers in Cancer Prevention Research Conference, December 06, 2009, © American Association for Cancer Research

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Unilever Recalls Canned Slim-Fast Products Because Of Bacterial Contamination December 3, 2009: 08:56 AM EST The discovery of bacterial contamination has led Unilever United States to launch a nationwide recall of all Slim-Fast ready-to-drink products in cans, regardless of flavor, best-by date, lot code, or UPC number. The products are packaged in paperboard cartons containing four, six or twelve 11-oz.steel cans. The voluntary recall, in cooperation with the FDA, was prompted by discovery of Bacillus cereus, a bacterium, which may cause diarrhea and possibly nausea and/or vomiting. The probability of serious adverse health consequences, however, is remote, the company said, adding that it is identifying and correcting the production issue that led to the problem. "Unilever Conducts Nationwide Voluntary Recall of Slim-Fast® Ready-to-Drink Products in Cans Due to Possible Health Risk", Unilever United States, December 03, 2009, © Unilever

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New Chocolate Nutrition Bar Features Anti-aging Antioxidant From Red Grapes December 3, 2009: 10:50 AM EST U.S. gourmet nutrition bar maker ResVez has introduced a product containing an antioxidant found in red grapes that research has shown to have a variety of anti-aging benefits. The company says its new dark chocolate Winetime Bar will contain as much of the antioxidant resveratrol, which apparently activates genes associated with longevity, as 50 glasses of wine. The high-fiber 50g bar packs 190 calories and is made with a special resveratrol formulation plus an extract from premium French grapes. The bar, whose retail price is $2.99, also contains dates, almonds, cranberries, noni, pomegranates, goji berries, acai, mangosteens and blueberries. "Nutrition bar containing resveratrol hits the market", Independent.co.uk, December 03, 2009, © Independent.co.uk

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In False Advertising Case, Court Finds Store Brand Infant Formula As Nutritious As National Brand December 2, 2009: 04:58 AM EST A federal jury agreed with store brand infant formula supplier PBM Products, LLC, that Mead Johnson & Co. engaged in false advertising when it suggested that PBM’s products, which cost about half of national brand Enfamil formula, do not provide the same nutrition. The jury award of $13.5 million in damages is “one of the largest damages awards ever for a false advertising case,” PBM said in a statement. Mead Johnson’s ads had stated that "there are plenty of other ways to save on baby expenses without cutting back on nutrition" buy purchasing PBM’s infant formula. "Mead Johnson, Maker of Enfamil, Loses Multi-Million Dollar False Advertising Case Against Store-Brand Infant Formulas ", Businesswire, December 02, 2009, © Business Wire

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Unilever Builds European Personal Care Business, While Trimming Food Business December 2, 2009: 05:30 AM EST Unilever, which according to this Financial Times article sees personal care as a key area of expansion, is apparently ready to downsize its European food business with the sale of its US$1.1 million frozen food business known as Findus Italy, which makes ready meal versions of several Italian dishes. Private equity owned frozen food rivals Birds Eye Iglo and the Findus Group seem to be the main suitors in the deal, the Times says. Unilever recently acquired Sara Lee’s European personal care business as well as salon hair care brands from the Toni & Guy chain. Martin Arnold and Jenny Wiggins, "Unilever to offload Italian frozen food unit", The Financial Times Limited , December 02, 2009, © The Financial Times Limited

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China Approves GMO Rice, Corn As Safe To Grow And Use December 1, 2009: 02:40 AM EST China, which produces 31 percent of the world’s rice and 20 percent of the corn, has approved home-grown, genetically modified strains of the two staples that will yield pest- and herbicide-resistant crops to boost food supplies. The country had only approved GMO cotton for large-scale production, according to this Bloomberg report, but potential water and farmland shortages are forcing a re-evaluation of policy. According to a market researcher, trial planting, marketing and public acceptance of the crops are necessary before mass-production and commercialization take place. Nevertheless, the Chinese agricultural ministry called it “an important achievement for domestically researched GMO technology.” Feiwen Rong , "China’s GMO Rice, Corn Approval May Boost Food Supply (Update2) ", Bloomberg News, December 01, 2009, © Bloomberg L. P.

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ConAgra’s Reorganization Of Sales And Marketing Function Is Paying Dividends December 1, 2009: 04:46 AM EST ConAgra Foods has spent five years roping in the 100 separate company sales and marketing groups to create a single integrated consumer-centric organization, and the change is paying off, the company says. Four functions that had been more loosely connected were brought together: shopper analytics, category leadership, shopper marketing, and in-store marketing. With three-fourths of that staff in the field working with account teams, the results have led to increased sales volume and profits. This CPG Matters article describes how the new approach led to a successful retail launch strategy for a line of non-refrigerated convenience meals. James Tenser, "Integrated Customer Marketing Paying Off for ConAgra Foods ", CPG Matters, December 01, 2009, © CPGMatters

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Hershey Promotes Bliss Chocolate Line With National Essay Contest December 1, 2009: 04:26 AM EST The Hershey Company has broadened its Bliss chocolate candy line with the introduction of Bliss White Chocolate with a “meltaway” center. The company is promoting the chocolate line with a national "Share the Bliss" essay contest based on the New York Times best-selling book “The Necklace.” The new dome-shaped white chocolate confection is available in 8.6 oz. lay-down bags at mass, grocery and drug stores nationwide. Introduced in 2008, the Bliss Chocolate line includes milk and dark chocolates, as well as four varieties with “meltaway” centers. "The Hershey Company Debuts Indulgent New Hershey's Bliss White Chocolate with a Meltaway Center", Hershey/Business Wire, December 01, 2009, © The Hershey Company/Business Wire

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Delivery Of Five Key Healthy Ingredients Presents Golden Opportunity For Food Industry November 23, 2009: 08:04 AM EST Food, beverage, and supplements makers take heed: a golden market opportunity exists, according to this Functional Ingredients article. Parents are concerned about obesity and diabetes, are thinking “less-sugary, less-salty, natural and organic” as they choose foods for their kids. They also want “condition-specific“ products (for immunity, energy, etc.). Companies that can deliver better-for-you foods and drinks containing some of the five key science-based ingredients should thrive. The magic ingredients include dairy calcium and potassium, vitamin K2 from dairy, vitamin D, probiotics, and lipids. This article surveys the science behind these healthy additives and how food companies can take advantage. Todd Runestad, "Nutrition that nurtures", Functional Ingredients , November 23, 2009, © Penton Media, Inc.

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EFSA Lowers Acceptable Intake Levels Of Three Food Colors November 12, 2009: 07:03 AM EST Citing a U.K. study that linked mixtures of certain food colors and the preservative sodium benzoate with hyperactivity in children, the European Food Safety Authority’s additives panel reduced the acceptable daily intakes (ADIs) of three of six food colors commonly used in soft drinks, bakery products and desserts. The ADIs of Quinoline Yellow, Sunset Yellow FCF and Ponceau 4R were all lowered. A fourth, Tartrazine, might bring about intolerance reactions like skin irritation in some people, but evidence on it and the remaining two colors, Azorubine/Carmoisine and Allura Red AC, was not conclusive enough to warrant ADI changes. "EFSA updates safety advice on six food colours", European Food and Safety Authority, November 12, 2009, © EFSA

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Coke’s Solution To Sagging Sales? Back To The Old Contour-Shape Bottle November 12, 2009: 05:25 AM EST Sales of sodas – what Coca-Cola calls “sparkling beverages" – are on the decline in North America, thanks to tough competition from teas, energy drinks and juices. That’s not a good trend for Coca-Cola, whose financial health depends on its soda business. To revive sales, the company has carefully studied shopping psychology at a secret research facility. Finding that half of shoppers’ buying decisions are almost instantaneous after entering a grocery aisle, the company’s marketers believe the key is attracting attention by evoking a happy Coke memory. Their solution? A new plastic two-liter bottle with that old familiar contoured shape. Melissa Lee, "CNBC: Coke looking for the next real thing", CNBC, November 12, 2009, © msnbc.com

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Glanbia Unveils Array Of Chilled Beverage Prototypes For Functional Beverage Industry November 6, 2009: 02:50 AM EST Translating “key market trends into commercial new products,” Glanbia Nutritionals, a nutritional ingredient provider and division of Ireland’s Glanbia plc, unveiled an array of functional chilled beverage prototypes at a recent industry exposition. The products include a 200-calorie protein shake for muscle recovery, a whey-based beverage for “rapid mass gain,” a flax-whey smoothie packed with omega-3s and whey protein, a high-protein tea-flavored beverage, and a milk protein isolate-based meal replacement shake. The company credits its customer research and collaboration facility in Idaho for the innovative prototypes. Glanbia Nutritionals, Inc. , "Glanbia Nutritionals Offers More Than Ingredients for Nutritional Beverages", NPI Center, November 06, 2009, © GLANBIA NUTRITIONALS

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Getting Enough Quality Sleep Correlates With Healthier Diet, Study Concludes November 6, 2009: 03:04 AM EST Adequate sleep – but not experiences at work – is a strong predictor of healthy food choices and better health, according to a new U.S. study of 542 men who put in long hours on irregular shifts in the trucking industry. The findings suggest that adequate sleep somehow mediates the effects of the workplace on healthy food choices. There is a link to chronic disease, the researchers said, because inadequate or poor sleep correlates with weight gain, diabetes, etc. “Sleep adequacy, by enhancing [healthy] dietary choices, is one means by which workplace factors may influence chronic disease risk," the researchers said. Orfeu M. Buxton, PhD, Lisa M. Quintiliani, PhD, et al., "Association of Sleep Adequacy With More Healthful Food Choices", American Journal of Public Health, November 06, 2009, © American Public Health Association

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E.Coli From N.Y. Ground Beef Suspected In Deaths, Illness In Northeast U.S. November 2, 2009: 08:26 PM EST Ground beef produced by a farm in western New York State is suspected as the source of E. coli that caused the deaths of two people and may be responsible for illness in 28 others. Fairbank Farms voluntarily recalled 270 tons of ground beef, though it stated that there was no scientific proof that the bacteria came from its products. However, an epidemiologist in New Hampshire, where one of the deaths occurred, said even though the products recalled were well past their shelf date and no longer available, there was still danger from beef that may have been frozen. GARDINER HARRIS, "E. Coli Kills 2 and Sickens Many; Focus Is on Beef", The New York Times, November 02, 2009, © The New York Times Company

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Price Of Chicken Wings Expected To Remain Higher Than Boneless Breasts In 2010 November 2, 2009: 05:09 AM EST With demand for chicken wings expected to outstrip production in 2010 and beyond, the price of wings, especially boneless wings, is likely to stay higher than boneless, skinless breasts for the foreseeable future, according to chicken industry experts. Big foodservice operations – including 7-Eleven and Pizza Hut’s Wing Street – are adding wings to their offerings, fueling the possibility that production of wings could increase by as much as 2.5 percent. In the future? One expert told Meatingplace to look for more processors providing boneless wings, and perhaps even wings from chickens fed an organic diet: all-vegetable, no antibiotics. Meatingplace Editors , "Chicken wings still on the rise, NCC says", Marketing & Technology Group, November 02, 2009, © Marketing & Technology Group

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Energy Drinks Flying Off The Shelves, Despite Questions About Effects On Health November 2, 2009: 01:14 AM EST Sales of energy drinks targeted at 18- to 24-year-olds and powered by caffeine, taurine, and sugar – criticized widely as unhealthy – more than tripled from 2004 to 2009, according to data from market researcher Mintel. New product launches, meanwhile, some claiming health benefits, more than doubled. In the same timeframe, drinks promising low, no, or reduced calories grew slightly or remained steady. Already grabbing a share of the energy drink market are new “better-for-you” beverages aimed squarely at the over-35 crowd. They promise a safe, natural, organic or sugar-free energy boost. Ingredients include antioxidants, green tea, B vitamins, etc. Joysa Winter, "Energy drinks are hot, but healthy?", Functional Ingredients, November 02, 2009, © Penton Media, Inc

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Kidney Disease Associated With Diets High In Artificially Sweetened Drinks And Sodium November 2, 2009: 06:16 AM EST White women whose diets include high levels of sodium or artificially-sweetened beverages are more at risk of kidney problems, according to two studies presented at a recent medical conference. Researchers examined the health histories of 3,000 Caucasian women who were part of a nurses study. Consuming two or more servings a day of artificially sweetened soda doubled the chances of kidney function decline, they found. The researchers were careful to note that they found no link between intake of sugary drinks and kidney disease, and that their findings did not apply to men, or to women of other ethnicities. Julie Lin & Gary Curhan , "Diets High In Sodium And Artificially Sweetened Soda Linked To Kidney Function Decline", ScienceDaily, November 02, 2009, © ScienceDaily LLC

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Should European Food Makers Be Required To Clarify Omega-3 Sources In Products? October 30, 2009: 02:40 AM EST Scientists have known for some time that the long chain omega-3 fatty acids found in certain fish are more beneficial to heart health than omega-3s found in plants. But so far in Europe and the U.S., food makers have not been required to make a distinction between the two sources on their product labels, though scientists in seven countries think they should to avoid misleading consumers. The debate over the issue will come to a head in January 2010 when European legislators will decide whether to stiffen the omega-3 food labeling requirements of a three-year-old law. Tara Kelly, "The Omega-3 Battle: Which Margarine Is Healthier?", Time , October 30, 2009, © Time, Inc.

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Consumers Needn’t Panic About Fructose Because Of Hypertension Study October 30, 2009: 04:19 AM EST Reducing consumption of processed foods and beverages that contain high fructose corn syrup may help prevent high blood pressure, according to an unpublished U.S. study. Researchers who analyzed the health histories of adults with no prior hypertension found that those who ate or drank more than 74 grams a day of fructose (roughly 2.5 sugary soft drinks) had an 87 percent greater risk for blood pressure levels of 160/100 mmHg. (Normal is 120/80 mmHg.) But the U.K.’s NHS Knowledge service said people should not panic about fructose, which is found in fruit and is important for a balanced diet. "Killer sweetener claim doubtful ", NHS Knowledge Service, October 30, 2009, © NHS Knowledge Service

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Healthy Choice Meals Shown To Lower Pre-Diabetic Risk Factors In Study October 27, 2009: 08:09 AM EST A 24-week study of people with pre-diabetic conditions, such as being overweight and sedentary, who ate ConAgra’s Healthy Choice meals as part of a healthy lifestyle improved pre-diabetic risk factors. Participants lowered their blood glucose and insulin levels and experienced improvements in insulin sensitivity, according to cardiologist Dr. James Rippe, who led the study. Treatment of Type 2 diabetes places a burden of about $132 billion a year on the American economy, Rippe said. ConAgra says its Healthy Choice meals are lower in calories, saturated fat and sodium compared to a typical American meals. "New Research Shows Healthy Choice(R) Meals Can Help Curb Pre-Diabetes", Businesswire, October 27, 2009, © ConAgra Foods, Inc.

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FDA GRAS Ruling Will Expedite Development Of Foods Containing Omega-3 Soybean Oil October 26, 2009: 07:56 AM EST Thanks to a recent ruling by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Monsanto Company will continue working with Solae, LLC, to develop foods containing a new stearidonic acid (SDA) omega-3 soybean oil. The FDA ruled that the oil is Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) for its intended use. Companies hope to meet burgeoning consumer demand for healthy omega-3s by incorporating them into more and more food and beverage products. Monsanto said its new plant-based omega-3 oil “can play an important role in helping food companies achieve this objective.” Monsanto and Solae agreed to develop and market omega-3 products in 2007. "World's First SDA Omega-3 Soybean Oil Achieves Major Milestone that Advances the Development of Foods with the Enhanced Nutritional Benefits", Monsanto, October 26, 2009, © Monsanto Company

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Unilever Says It Will Gradually Terminate Use of “Smart Choices” Logo On Food Products October 26, 2009: 06:48 AM EST Responding to warnings to food manufacturers from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration that it planned to crack down on inaccurate food nutrition labels, Unilever PLC said it would gradually eliminate use of the year-old “Smart Choices” logo on its food and beverage offerings. The logo was jointly created by food makers such as Kellogg, Kraft, and General Mills as a response to the growing obesity epidemic in the U.S. But critics among consumer advocacy groups have complained that because of lax administration, the logo was applied to many questionable foods, including frozen sweets and sugary cereals. "Unilever to phase out Smart Choices labels", Associated Press, October 26, 2009, © Forbes.com LLC™

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Daily Consumers Of Raisins And Other Dried Fruit Found To Have Better Eating Habits October 26, 2009: 12:38 AM EST Scientists examining U.S. data compiled between 1999 and 2004 on adults over age 19 have linked consumption of at least one-eighth of a cup of raisins or dried fruit per day with generally better eating habits and nutrient intake and, in the case of dried fruit, with lower body weight measures. Overall diet quality was significantly better statistically among dried fruit consumers as measured by a standardized government tool. They also consumed less fat and alcohol, ate more total fruit than non-consumers, more whole fruit, whole grains and other food groups recommended by the USDA. "Raisin and Dried Fruit Consumption Associated With Better Overall Diets", PR Newswire, October 26, 2009, © PR Newswire Association LLC.

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All-Natural Turkey, Thy Name Is Martha Stewart October 23, 2009: 05:37 AM EST Just in time for Thanksgiving, Martha Stewart’s company has partnered with Plainville Farms to introduce a Martha Stewart brand of all-natural vegetarian-fed, antibiotic-free turkeys, both fresh and frozen. Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia (MSLO) is also allying with baked goods and pasta companies to lend her name to natural offerings in those categories. Industry observers say the MSLO partnership with Hain’s Arrowhead Mills, which offers a well-established natural/gourmet line of baking mixes, seems a good fit. But the alliance with dried pasta maker DeBoles is less well-founded. Martha Stewart is “not particularly associated with pasta,” says a branding expert. Karlene Lukovitz, "Martha Stewart, Hain Partner On Natural Foods ", MediaPost News, October 23, 2009, © MediaPost Communications

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Cocoa Found To Reduce Heart Disease-Related Inflammation October 23, 2009: 01:24 AM EST A diet featuring daily intake of unsweetened cocoa powder reduced inflammatory markers associated with heart disease in a one-month Spanish study of 42 men and women whose average age was 70 and were at high risk of cardiovascular disease because of smoking, high blood pressure, etc. Inflammatory markers cause white blood cells to adhere to artery walls causing atherosclerotic plaques. The diet included 1.4 oz. of cocoa mixed with skim milk. A control group drank only skim milk. But, an expert cautioned, cocoa should be “a part of a healthful eating plan, not a magic bullet for reducing inflammation." Maria Monagas, Nasiruddin Khan, et al., "Effect of cocoa powder on the modulation of inflammatory biomarkers in patients at high risk of cardiovascular disease", American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, October 23, 2009, © American Society for Clinical Nutrition

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ConAgra Touts Nutritious Vegetable Content Of Manwich October 23, 2009: 03:49 AM EST ConAgra has decided to publicize what was apparently a long-held secret – namely, that its Manwich brand contains a full serving of vegetables and is therefore more nutritious than people once thought. The company learned in consumer focus groups that hardly anyone was aware of the veggie content of Manwich, which has always been pitched as more of a meal than a sandwich. New, longer television advertising spots will reflect the change in strategic positioning, that “Manwich is not only fun, but nutritious as well," a ConAgra executive said. Aaron Baar, "ConAgra Ads Tout Manwich's Veggie-ness ", MediaPost News, October 23, 2009, © MediaPost Communications

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Fetuses, Newborns Found To Be At Much Greater Risk From Food-Borne Pathogen October 23, 2009: 01:31 AM EST Analyzing data from lab animal tests, scientists have found that listeriosis, a rare but often fatal bacterial infection among the elderly, fetuses or newborns, and individuals with compromised immune systems, may be occurring after exposure to much lower doses than once thought. Pregnant women who consume foods such as soft cheeses containing one million cells of Listeria monocytogenes – not 10 trillion cells, as thought previously – face a 50 percent chance that their fetus or infant will die. Scientists say the data do not suggest a new epidemic, but do confirm that Listeria is still a major public health problem. Denita Williams, Jennifer Castleman, et al., "Risk of Fetal Mortality After Exposure to Listeria monocytogenes", Risk Analysis: An International Journal , October 23, 2009, © John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

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Snack Scientists Seek The Perfect – Healthy – Oil For Frying October 23, 2009: 01:10 AM EST With consumers demanding healthier fried foods, snack scientists and processors are taking a closer look at oils used in frying to find those that contain no saturated fats, but maintain stability and flavor during the cooking process. Palm oil is a possibility because it has no linolenic acid, an unsaturated fatty acid, and only 10 percent polyunsaturated fats. Likewise, high-oleic canola oil is a bit more stable, and low-linolenic soybean oil is somewhat cheaper. On the technology horizon: a less-complicated method of oil extraction known as expeller-pressing that results in oils with natural antioxidants but without the trans fats. R.J. Foster, "Checking the Oil for Snacks", Food Product Design, October 23, 2009, © Virgo Publishing, LLC.

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Omega-3 Supplement Did Not Ease Depression In Heart Patients Taking Sertraline October 21, 2009: 05:48 AM EST A placebo-controlled U.S. clinical trial found that enhancing sertraline antidepressant therapy with omega-3 fatty acid supplements did not improve depression in coronary heart disease patients after 10 weeks. The findings contradict earlier experimental results. In the study, published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, 122 heart disease patients suffering from severe depression received 50 mg of sertraline a day. Randomly selected patients also received 2 grams of omega-3 fatty acids a day, while the rest received corn oil capsules. The researchers found that depression symptoms in the placebo and omega-3 groups improved over time at comparable rates. Robert M. Carney, Ph.D.; Kenneth E. Freedland, Ph.D., et al., "Omega-3 Augmentation of Sertraline in Treatment of Depression in Patients With Coronary Heart Disease", Journal of the American Medical Association, October 21, 2009, © American Medical Association

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High Protein Diet Shrinks Brains Of Mice In Alzheimer’s Study October 21, 2009: 01:58 AM EST Mice fed a high protein diet were found to have smaller brains, according to an international study whose main purpose was to test the effects of a low-calorie, low-fat diet rich in vegetables, fruits, and fish on the progression of Alzheimer’s disease. The research team tested four different menus on a mouse model of Alzheimer’s. Unexpectedly, the brains of the mice fed a high protein/low carb diet were five percent lighter than the others. The researchers were not sure whether the loss of brain mass was associated with Alzheimer’s-type plaque in the brains. Steve Pedrini , Carlos Thomas , Hannah Brautigam , James Schmeidler , Lap Ho , Paul Fraser , David Westaway , Peter St George Hyslop , Ralph N Martins , Joseph D Buxbaum , Giulio M Pasinetti , Dara L Dickstein , Patrick R Hof , Michelle E Ehrlich, et al., "Dietary composition modulates brain mass and amyloid beta levels in a mouse model of aggressive Alzheimer's amyloid pathology", Molecular Neurodegeneration 2009, October 21, 2009, © BioMed Central Ltd unless otherwise stated. Part of Springer Science+Business Media.

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South African Government Says No To Genetically Modified Potatoes October 20, 2009: 03:01 AM EST An application by a South African group to supply genetically modified potatoes to farmers was rejected by the government. The Agricultural Research Council’s SpuntaG2 potato is engineered with a gene from a bacteria that kills a common crop-damaging pest known as the tuber moth. Restaurants and food retailers were opposed to the GM potatoes because they fear negative consumer reaction. Some opposed to the application said tuber moths were not as bad a problem for farmers as the lack of water and fertilizer, while others said it is still not known whether genetically modified foods are safe for human consumption. Tamar Kahn, "Government rejects ‘super spuds’", Business Day, October 20, 2009, © BDFM Publishers (Pty) Ltd.

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Pilot Program That Taught Nutrition To Grade Schoolers Paid Off, Study Finds October 19, 2009: 11:46 PM EST A pilot study that sent registered dietitians into three public elementary schools to teach nutrition showed promising results, according to the American Dietetic Association. For example, thirty-one percent of students in the pilot schools reported eating a vegetable with school lunch, after they had reported not eating a vegetable with school lunch before the study. This compared with 17 percent of students from two control schools. The study was conducted in the Kansas City, Mo., area over a 14-week period among fourth-, fifth- and sixth-grade students. Several nutrition education programs involving nutrition counseling and physical education games were tested. "American Dietetic Association Foundation’s Healthy Schools Partnership Shows Positive Results in Influencing Healthful Diet Choices among Grade School Students", American Dietetic Association, October 19, 2009, © American Dietetic Association (ADA)

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If Mom Is Eating A Healthy Diet, The Kids Are, Too, Study Finds October 19, 2009: 04:56 AM EST When the diet of the adult female in a household with children follows U.S. government dietary guidance, most of the kids are eating just as well, according to a new NPD Group marketing study. But the study also found that moms’ attitudes toward nutrition often don’t fit with what they’re eating. In fact, 75 percent of new mothers and 65 percent of experienced moms said they shop for nutritious food, but don’t necessarily eat those foods. Another odd discrepancy: two-thirds of mothers felt they were very knowledgeable about nutrition and eating, but only half ranked their children very knowledgeable. "NPD Finds Moms' Eating Habits and Nutritional Knowledge Influences What Their Kids Eat", The NPD Group, October 19, 2009, © The NPD Group

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Demand For Peanut Butter Buoys Peanut Sales Despite 2008 Salmonella Outbreak October 19, 2009: 06:05 AM EST The slump in sales of peanuts caused by last year’s national salmonella outbreak that killed nine people turned out to be short-lived, thanks apparently to America’s devotion to peanut butter as a food staple. Sales of peanuts for peanut butter bounced back in 2009 to their pre-outbreak strength, though sales for processed snacks remained down during the year ended July 31. The quantity of peanuts used to make peanut butter reached 1.1 million pounds, beating the previous record of one million pounds, according to the U.S. Dept. of Agriculture. “Peanut butter manufacturers are running wide open," said one peanut farmer. "Peanut Products Rebound after Health Scare", The Associated Press & CBS News, October 19, 2009, © The Associated Press

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Maintaining Flavor While Changing Food Formulas To Save Money Is Tricky, But Doable October 19, 2009: 02:05 AM EST Formulating existing or new food products to save money can be tricky, especially when trying to maintain flavor and functionality. This Food Product Design article explores a range of ideas for finding ingredient combinations and flavor substitutions that save money. For example, use a honey flavor rather than expensive honey; use dairy flavors to replace expensive ingredients like milk powder, buttermilk powder or sour-cream powder. Starches and gums add mouthfeel and texture when costly ingredients have been reduced. Other tips: consolidate ingredients and build volume with suppliers to boost savings, and use custom blends for production efficiency. Cindy Hazen, "Ingredient Economics", Food Product Design, October 19, 2009, © Virgo Publishing, LLC.

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As Recession Grinds On, Food Marketers Should Emphasize Value, Innovation October 19, 2009: 12:47 AM EST The recession has spawned some interesting behavioral changes among U.S. food buyers, according to this Adweek overview of consumer research findings. Leading the list, of course, is the concern over the price of groceries: a Synovate survey found nearly two-thirds of respondents saying groceries were overpriced. Concerns about price pushed consumers toward private labels, cheaper frozen foods, and less healthy foods generally. Microwaving rather than cooking at home surged. Industry experts, seeing products like “better for you” foods rebounding after the recession, nevertheless urge marketers to forge an emotional bond with consumers, stress value and innovation. Mark Dolliver , "A New World for Grocery Shoppers", Adweek, October 19, 2009, © Nielsen Business Media

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Labeling Of Food’s Health Benefits Found Important To Europeans October 19, 2009: 02:23 AM EST Health and wellness continue to be important to European consumers, according to research from Tate & Lyle, which also found that consumers are willing to spend more on foods whose health benefits are clearly described on product labels. A poll of 1,565 consumers in five countries found that 53 percent often check product nutritional information, while 57 percent look at the ingredient list on the package to determine whether a product is healthy. Reduced fat and sugar content were important to half of those polled, while 80 percent would pay more for products promising improved cardiovascular health or help controlling cholesterol. "Tate & Lyle unveils latest European consumer research findings", Tate & Lyle, October 19, 2009, © Tate & Lyle

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Cutting 100 Calories A Day Has Many Benefits, ConAgra “Awareness” Campaign Pledges October 18, 2009: 02:56 AM EST ConAgra has launched an “awareness” campaign with the pledge that eating 100 fewer calories a day as part of a healthy lifestyle can improve health, improve productivity, and cut healthcare costs. Research sponsored by the company (published in the American Journal of Health Promotion) showed that a small reduction in calorie intake could reduce the number of cases of diabetes, heart disease, cancer, and other diseases associated with obesity. The company suggested substituting one of its Healthy Choice meals for a take-out lunch, Egg Beaters for eggs, and SmartPop popcorn as a whole grain, calorie-controlled, sodium-controlled snack. "Conagra Foods Introduces 100 Calories Less Pledge", ConAgra Foods, October 18, 2009, © ConAgra Foods, Inc.

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Low-Fat Yogurt Fortified With Protein And Fiber Reduces Appetite October 17, 2009: 06:53 AM EST A low-fat dairy product enriched with protein and fiber can significantly reduce short-term appetite, new French and British research has found. In controlled laboratory studies, healthy women were fed a mid-morning snack of either the control (regular yogurt) or a low-fat yogurt enriched with eight grams of protein and 2.9 grams of fiber. The scientists recorded subjective factors like hunger, fullness, desire to eat and prospective consumption throughout the morning. Two hours later, the researchers measured food intake at lunch. “The test product reduced subjective appetite compared to the control,” the scientists concluded. And the women ate less. Anne Lluch, et al, "Short-term appetite-reducing effects of a low-fat dairy product enriched with protein and fibre", Food Quality and Preference, October 17, 2009, via Food Quality and Preference, © Elsevier B.V.

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ConAgra Says Cutting Salt Content Of Its Foods Is A “Serious” Goal October 15, 2009: 11:03 PM EST Responding to consumer demands for healthier foods, ConAgra Foods said it plans to eliminate eight million pounds of salt from its foods, which include the Healthy Choice frozen dinners, by 2015 – a total of 20 percent of the salt content. It has already cut salt by two million pounds since 2006, including 27 percent of the salt content of Kid Cuisine frozen meals. A 2008 market research survey found that 41 percent of shoppers said they are using low sodium products once a week or more. “We’re taking this very seriously and we’re acting upon it,” a ConAgra exec said. Duane D. Stanford, "ConAgra Sets ‘Lead Dog’ Goal to Cut Food Salt by 20%", Bloomberg, October 15, 2009, © Bloomberg L.P.

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Connecticut Launches Probe Into The Selection Criteria Of Dubious “Smart Choice” Label October 15, 2009: 11:34 AM EST Connecticut’s attorney general has begun an investigation into the underlying standards of the “Smart Choice” nutritional food label, as well as the role of the food industry in developing the label. Richard Blumenthal asked how it was possible that sugary cereals like Froot Loops and Frosted Flakes are a smart choice food, while other nutritionally stronger breakfast cereals are not. Likewise, Lipton beverages are labeled a “smart choice” while other beverages are not. Concerned about “potentially misleading and deceptive labeling of nutritional value,” Blumenthal has asked for selection criteria information from the Smart Choices Program and from food manufacturers. "Attorney General Investigates "Smart Choices" Food Labels That Endorse Mayonnaise and Sugary Cereals", Connecticut Attorney General's Office, October 15, 2009, © State of Connecticut

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Will Kraft Sell Maxwell House Line To Raise Cash For Cadbury Deal? October 16, 2009: 02:12 AM EST Kraft, faced with a November 9 deadline to either make a formal bid for Cadbury or abandon the $9 billion deal for six months, is considering selling its Maxwell House coffee line to Sara Lee to raise cash to enhance the offer, sources told the New York Post. Kraft spokesmen would not comment on speculation regarding a Maxwell House divestiture, except to say that the company doesn’t need a divestiture to fund a Cadbury deal. A Sara Lee investor, meanwhile, told the Post a Maxwell House acquisition would fit nicely into the company’s strategic plan. Josh Kosman, "Kraft may 'drop' Maxwell House", New York Post, October 16, 2009, © NYP Holdings, Inc.

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Burcon Awarded U.S. Patent Allowances For Canola-Based Food Processing Ingredients October 15, 2009: 09:27 AM EST The U.S. Patent Office has awarded patent allowances for technologies related to the production of canola protein-based food ingredients from Canada’s Burcon NutraScience Corporation. Burcon’s Puratein is described as a cruciferin-rich canola protein isolate with emulsification and thickening properties useful in making dressings, sauces, meat substitutes, baked goods, and protein bars. Supertein is a napin-rich canola protein isolate made of albumin proteins whose solubility and foaming properties make it useful for beverages, candies, desserts, and protein bars. The company, which also makes a soy protein isolate, says securing the patent allowances is critical to its commercialization strategy. "Burcon Receives three Notices of Allowance from the United States Patent and Trademark Office", Newswire, October 15, 2009, © CNW Group

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Compound Produced In Red Grape Skins May Have Positive Impact On Diabetes October 15, 2009: 06:26 AM EST When acting directly by injection on certain brain proteins called sirtuins, a polyphenol compound known as resveratrol may offer some protection against diabetes, new U.S. research in obese and diabetic mice has found. Insulin levels in placebo mice rose, while levels in mice given resveratrol, which is produced in red grape skins, dropped and were halfway to normal after the study period. All tested animals ate a high-fat diet. Researchers said findings support their theory that the brain plays a vital role in mediating the beneficial effects of resveratrol. In addition, sirtuins may have other beneficial outcomes. Giorgio Ramadori, Laurent Gautron, et al., "Central Administration of Resveratrol Improves Diet-Induced Diabetes", Endocrinology, October 15, 2009, © The Endocrine Society

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Cognis CLA Product Wins Approval For Use In Chinese Market October 14, 2009: 11:20 AM EST German nutritional ingredients supplier Cognis said that China has okayed its safflower-derived conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) product Tonalin as a “novel food” for use in functional foods and beverages. Tonalin, also used in dietary supplements, has potential applications in milk and yogurt products, fruit juices, soy milk, and meal replacement beverages and bars, according to the company. Tonalin was tested in a skimmed milk product in a placebo-controlled trial in which “a significant reduction of body fat mass in overweight subjects” was found. The company said the results showed CLA has promise as a beneficial food supplement. "Cognis first company to achieve Novel Food approval for CLA in China ", Cognis, October 14, 2009, © Cognis

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Australia Requires Iodine Fortification In Bread October 9, 2009: 12:44 AM EST With iodine intake found to be inadequate among 43 percent of Australians and New Zealanders, the Australian government has mandated iodine fortification in bread to ensure that the population is getting enough of the essential nutrient. Pregnant women who do not get enough dietary iodine risk reduced mental performance in their children. The government says the new requirement will reduce inadequate iodine consumption to less than 5 percent. The required increase is safe, and approximates the iodine level found in a large glass of milk. Australia also recently mandated fortification of bread with folic acid to prevent spina bifida. "Essential nutrient iodine to be added to bread in Australia", FSANZ, October 09, 2009, © Food Standards Australia New Zealand

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Your Dad’s Meat-And-Potatoes Meal Has A Whole New Look These Days October 9, 2009: 01:47 AM EST Restaurant chefs have long known that coupling a great protein entrée with the right starchy side dish – rice, potatoes, or pasta – often boosts sales of the entrée. Consumers have caught onto the role of starchy side dishes as well, buying lots of long-storing frozen and quick-prep retail sides where excellent flavor is critically important. Starchy sides offer a perfectly satisfying balance of plate presentation, flavor delivery and mouth feel both in restaurant dishes and speed-scratch home foods. This Food Product Design article takes a close look at today’s innovative approaches to finding and preparing potatoes, grains, and pastas. Keith Darling, "Starch on the Side", Food Product Design, October 09, 2009, © Virgo Publishing, LLC.

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