Japanese Shoppers Turn to Old Favorites as Recession Deepens July 8, 2009: 05:11 AM EST Old food favorites are holding their own in the recession in Japan, prompting companies to defer new product launches and try to boost sales of the “standby” items. Nostalgia and the sense that standbys represent value for money and safety appear to be behind the trend. A Cabinet Office survey shows that 44 percent of respondents said their household income dropped from the year before, and 55 percent expect their income to decrease further. Norio Tomono, a professor of behavioral economics at Meiji University, said, "At a time when anxiety is rampant due to recession and other reasons, people tend to choose products carefully. In doing so, they mostly buy products whose quality has long been established and which are seen as less risky." "'Old standby' products defying economic recession in Japan_07-09-09 ", Kyodo News, July 08, 2009, © Kyodo News International

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Whole Foods Markets Joins Non-GMO Project July 7, 2009: 10:49 AM EST Whole Foods Market’s private label products will be verified by the Non-GMO Project to show they meet defined standards for the presence of genetically modified organisms. The Non-GMO Project’s Product Verification Program (PVP) is the first in the US to scientifically test products against the standards. Organic producers are required by law to meet Federal standards, but there are no labeling requirements. The Non-GMO Project is a collaboration of manufacturers, retailers, processors, distributors, farmers, seed breeders and consumers. The Natural Grocery Company, The Big Carrot Natural Food Market and Good Earth Natural Foods were early partners in the scheme, which now includes Eden Foods, Organic Valley, Lundberg Family Farms, Nature’s Path Organic and United Natural Foods, Inc. "Whole Foods Market® Partners with Non-GMO Project to Label Company’s Private Label Food Products Using New Third-Party Standard", Whole Foods, July 07, 2009, © Whole Foods Market IP, L.P.

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UN/WHO Panel Issues New Food Safety Standards Covering Carcinogens, Bacteria Contamination July 7, 2009: 08:56 AM EST A commission created jointly by the UN and the World Health Organization recently adopted new standards for improving food safety. The 30 standards target carcinogenic ingredients, such as the chemical acrylamide produced in cooking carbohydrate-rich foods, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in food smoking, and Ochratoxin A in coffee. They also cover bacterial contamination in follow-up formulas for older infants and listeria monocytogenes, which can cause a fatal disorder, in ready-to-eat food. “The standards and guidelines … will make a positive impact on the lives of people around the world,” said the panel’s head. "More Than 30 New Food Safety Standards Adopted", WHO, July 07, 2009, © WHO

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Survey Finds Healthy And Convenient Still Hot Buttons In Food Buying July 7, 2009: 09:13 AM EST Though often mutually exclusive, healthy foods and convenient foods are at the top of the list of consumer purchasing priorities, according to a recent NPD Group survey. Sweet and savory snack sales will grow by 16 percent, the group predicts, and take-home meals bought at restaurants will grow 20 percent. Growth in low-calorie foods will be solid, and organic food sales are expected to expand by 41 percent. Data for the survey was collected from about 5,000 consumers Stacy Straczynski, "Convenience, Health Drive Food Sales", BRANDWEEK, July 07, 2009, © Nielsen Business Media

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Whole Foods Puts Seal of Approval on Foods Containing Non-GMO’s July 7, 2009: 02:41 AM EST Whole Foods Market, Inc. is joining several other natural food grocers in partnering with the non-GMO (genetically modified organisms) Project. The grocer expects to put the newly certified products on its shelves by the end of the year. The product verification program is the United States’ first scientific testing system that assures food products meet a defined set of standards for GMOs. Federal law requires organic food producers to comply with certain non-GMO standards, though non-organic food producers have no such dictum. As much as 75% of processed food in the US contains GMOs. Approximately 59% of Americans are unfamiliar with the issue. "Whole Foods adopts new verification standard for private label products_07-08-09", New Mexico Business Weekly, July 07, 2009, © American City Business Journals, Inc.

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Report Highlights Increasing Obesity Rate in US July 6, 2009: 10:20 AM EST Adult obesity rates increased in 23 US states and decreased in none over the past year, says the sixth annual F as in Fat: How Obesity Policies are Failing in America, 2009 report, released July 1, by the Trust for America's Health (TFAH) and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (RWJF). Thirty percent or more of the children in 30 states are also now obese or overweight. Elizabeth Pivonka, a registered dietitian and CEO of Produce for Better Health Foundation (PBH), says that Americans do not eat enough fruit and vegetables, one of the keys to weight loss. Jeffrey Levi, Serena Vinter, Liz Richardson,Rebecca St. Laurent and Laura M. Segal , "F as in Fat: How Obesity Policies are Failing in America, 2009", Trust for America's Health (TFAH) and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (RWJF), July 06, 2009, © Trust for America's Health

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New Stats Show Obesity Problem Worsening In U.S. July 6, 2009: 08:40 AM EST New data from a health watchdog group show a steady, and alarming, increase in obesity rates in the United States. The Trust for America’s Health found that not a single state could claim a drop in obesity since last year, while 23 saw an increase. Especially disturbing: nearly a third of children in 30 states are obese or overweight, along with two-thirds of adult Americans. The remedy? Eat more fruits and vegetables, TAH says, adding, “All product forms count - fresh, frozen, canned, dried, and 100 percent fruit and vegetable juice." "Fruits & Vegetables Important to Combating Obesity, American Obesity Rates Climb Again - New Reports", Nutrition Horizon, July 06, 2009, © CNS Media BV

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Xylitol Syrup May Prevent Cavities in Toddlers July 6, 2009: 09:41 AM EST Studies show that Xylitol syrup, a naturally occurring sweetener, can restrict the decay of baby teeth. If it occurs early, tooth decay may remain prevalent throughout life. Exposure of 8 grams two to three times daily during tooth eruption could prevent up to 70% of tooth decay. The use of Xylitol is seen to be a cost effective prevention of tooth decay in at-risk populations. "Sugar substitute may prevent cavities in toddlers", Reuters , July 06, 2009, © American Medical Association

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Caffeine Boosts Memory in Mice with Alzheimer’s July 5, 2009: 09:36 AM EST New research from the University of South Florida adds weight to the possibility that caffeine could help improve memory in people “destined to develop Alzheimer’s disease”. The researchers, led by neuroscientist Gary Arendash, found that 500 milligrams of caffeine (equivalent to five 8-oz cups of coffee) “reversed memory issues in mice bred to develop Alzheimer-like symptoms”. In a news release, Arandesh said the findings suggested that caffeine could be a viable treatment for established Alzheimer’s disease. The research was conducted on mice bred to develop the disease, and there was no evidence that caffeine improves memory in normal mice. Kevin McKeever, "More Evidence That Caffeine Can Jolt Memory", HealthDay News, July 05, 2009, © Journal of Alzheimer's Disease

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Legislators, Advocates Seek Tighter Regulation Of Federal Organics Law July 3, 2009: 10:21 AM EST US Department of Agriculture enforcement of the national organics law needs to be tightened or the term “organic” will become meaningless, advocates and legislators argue. According to a Washington Post article, the organics market has grown into a $23 billion giant because of huge demand for organic products coupled with lax USDA enforcement of federal law. Consumers are left wondering whether so-called organic products really are produced in a “green” way and are free of pesticides and other toxic substances. USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack says he wants control tightened. "That term, 'organic,' needs to be pure," he says. Kimberly Kindy and Lyndsey Layton, "Purity of Federal 'Organic' Label Is Questioned", Washington Post , July 03, 2009, © The Washington Post Company

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Experts Warn Consumers: “Probiotics” Isn’t A Well-Defined Term Yet July 3, 2009: 08:42 AM EST Scientists do agree generally that foods like yogurt containing probiotics – the so-called “good bacteria” – have a beneficial effect on the digestive and immune systems. That has led food makers to begin adding probiotics in a wider array of foods, including granola bars, fruit juices, and baby formula. But food industry and other experts warn that the term “probiotics” is bandied about somewhat carelessly by manufacturers. Consumers need to read labels closely to see what they’re buying. Even a Dannon yogurt spokesman acknowledges: “We see a lot of confusion.” Julie Deardorff, "Just how friendly are those probiotics in your food?", The Seattle Times, July 03, 2009, via Chicago Tribune, © The Seattle Times Company

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General Mills Responds to Demand for Gluten-Free Mixes July 2, 2009: 10:57 AM EST General Mills is developing a “narrow but deep” customer base for its new Betty Crocker gluten-free mixes for brownies, cookies and cakes. President of baking products Ann Simonds said that a $5 million business meeting an “unmet need” can now be successful, whereas previously “you needed a $50 million idea to make the business model work”. The secret is targeted marketing, online and using toll-free numbers, advertising in niche magazines, and taking part in product-related events. For its new gluten-free mixes, General Mills paid Google for product links, and sent samples to bloggers who write about Celiac disease, motherhood and related issues. The company plans to launch more than 50 products in the first half of the current fiscal year. Ilan Brat , "For General Mills, Wheat-Free Items Are Tricky to Make, Cheap to Market", Wall Street Journal, July 02, 2009, © Dow Jones & Company, Inc

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Horizon Drops “Organic” in Favor of “Natural” July 2, 2009: 10:26 AM EST Organic milk producer Horizon is launching non-organic products for children with a “natural” label rather than “organic”. This follows a switch by Dean/Whitewave company Silk soybean products to conventional rather than organic beans, again under a “natural” label. The term “natural” has no regulatory meaning, but most consumers assume it means “organic”. Retailers tend to charge the same premium price for both. Article author Marion Nestle says Horizon is now “in essence creating a new product category, 'natural dairy products', that will directly compete with certified organic farmers and the marketers they partner with”. Marion Nestle, "Largest U.S. Organic Food Brand Abandoning Organic Dairy", The Daily Green , July 02, 2009, © Hearst Communications, Inc

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Dairy Products: Economical And Healthy Food Choice, Nutrition Researchers Say July 2, 2009: 10:57 AM EST Eating dairy products is not only a good nutritional dietary choice, it is also an economical one, according to scientists who contributed a supplement on the subject to a nutrition journal. Three to four daily servings of milk, cheese and yogurt deliver nine necessary nutrients in a way that is easy on the pocketbook. Major health benefits of dairy foods include child nutrition, bone and cardiovascular health, and weight maintenance. They are also a good source of calcium, potassium and magnesium, those key minerals Americans never seem to get enough of. "New Science Review Examines Multiple Health Benefits of Dairy Foods", Nutrition Horizon, July 02, 2009, © CNS Media BV

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Daily Consumption Of Lots Of Whole Grains Wards Off High Blood Pressure, Study Finds July 1, 2009: 07:38 AM EST Eating a lot of whole grains daily helps reduce the risk of hypertension, according to a U.S. study. Researchers examined the health histories of 31,684 men ages 40 to 75 without hypertension, cancer, stroke or heart disease beginning in 1986. After 18 years, 9,227 developed high blood pressure. But men in the top fifth of whole grain consumption (averaging 52 grams a day) were 19 percent less likely than the men in the bottom fifth (averaging 3 grams a day) to develop hypertension. “These findings have implications for future dietary guidelines and prevention of hypertension,” the researchers concluded. Alan J Flint, Frank B Hu, et al., "Whole grains and incident hypertension in men", The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, July 01, 2009, © The American Society for Clinical Nutrition

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Coupon Fraud On The Rise As Recession Continues July 1, 2009: 03:05 AM EST Coupon industry watchdog Coupon Information Corp. (CIC) reports coupon fraud has surged from nine cases in 2007 to 93 cases since 2008, a trend expected to rise as the recession continues. Major consumer product manufacturers revealed in a survey that redemption of counterfeit coupons is costing them millions of dollars in losses. A dog food manufacturer alone reported over 2700 coupons redeemed for the 250 coupons it issued for a free bag of dog food. CIC met with manufacturers in Washington, D.C. last week to bolster their efforts to curb coupon fraud. The National Retail Federation, however, said retailers have limited choices in controlling coupon usage. Kate Zhao , "Retailers and Manufacturers Fight Coupon Fraud_07-01-09 ", Wall Street Journal, July 01, 2009, © Dow Jones & Company, Inc

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Industry More Open to Limits on Junk Foods in Schools June 29, 2009: 09:06 AM EST There may be a climate change in the food and beverage industries regarding controls over the sale of junk food in school vending machines, according to the Washington Post. The American Beverage Association says the issue is complex, and needs comprehensive solutions, but that it is willing to play its part in attempts to combat childhood obesity. Behind the industry’s shift in attitude is a preference for a single set of national rules rather than a plethora of state regulations; the growing ability of many of the big companies to produce healthier products for vending machines, meaning the products can be switched without necessarily hitting the bottom line; and experience that suggests schools can switch to healthier foods without seeing declines in revenues. Both Houses are considering Bills that would set new standards for foods in schools. Jacob Goldstein, "Why Industry May Back Limits on Junk Food in Schools", Wall Street Journal, June 29, 2009, © Dow Jones & Company, Inc

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Recession-Caused Change In Consumer Attitude Spells Loss For Companies June 26, 2009: 01:47 AM EST As the recession drags on, consumers have become more conscientious about their purchases, carefully considering how much they are paying for goods and holding off buying new supplies until their pantry is empty. They are now more receptive to bargains, coupons, and free samples, which translate to savings, and increasingly patronize private labels over more expensive brand names. This has adversely affected sales performance of many companies, forcing them to cut jobs and come up with low-priced goods. With the consumer attitude change, companies are trying to create products that will entice consumers back to spending. William McComb, chief executive officer of Liz Claiborne Inc., calls the phenomenon the “savvy shopper syndrome”. Paul Waldie, "The pantry recession", The Globe and Mail, June 26, 2009, © CTVglobemedia Publishing Inc

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Nuts Linked to Lower Rates of Heart Problems in Women with Type 2 Diabetes June 26, 2009: 11:09 AM EST Frequent nut and peanut butter consumption could help women with type 2 diabetes reduce their risk of heart problems, according to a research study based on the long-running Nurses’ Health Study, carried out by Tricia Li and colleagues of Harvard Medical School and Harvard School of Public Health. The researchers found that eating more nuts was associated with higher levels of physical activity and lower smoking rates, and with higher intakes of polyunsaturated fat, red meat, fruits and vegetables, and total energy. Women who ate five or more servings of nuts a week had a 44 percent decreased risk of a cardiovascular disease event or heart attack compared to women who “almost never” consumed them. "Peanut butter 'good for the heart'", NHS Choices, June 26, 2009, © American Society for Nutrition

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Less is More, as Retailers Cut Back on Variety June 26, 2009: 02:40 AM EST Retailers are cutting back on variety, particularly on the number of different brands of the same item. Walgreen Co, for example, is cutting its range of superglues from 25 to 11,and Wal-Mart has slashed its range of tape measures from 24 to 4. Experts say that, over the next year or so, retailers will cut their ranges by at least 15 percent. This is expected to pose challenges for manufacturers used to constantly making slight changes to their products to keep them in the public eye. Retailers are trying to make shopping simpler for increasingly budget-conscious customers sticking to familiar products. Making more room for house brands is also on their agenda. ILAN BRAT, ELLEN BYRON and ANN ZIMMERMAN , "Retailers Cut Back on Variety, Once the Spice of Marketing_06-26-09 ", Wall Street Journal, June 26, 2009, © Dow Jones & Company, Inc

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Marketers Need to Watch Consumer Strategies June 25, 2009: 07:12 AM EST Marketers need to tap into strategies being adopted by consumers if they are to keep their market share, according to UK Media agency Arena BLM. Its second “Crunchonomics” report, released in April, shows that people are beginning to blame the government for the way it is handling the crisis, and renewing trust in institutions, particularly banks. Despite this, 39 percent of the people surveyed said the economy would get worse. Consumer strategies identified in the report include reducing purchases of non-food items, suggesting a reduction in impulse buying. Food sales were up. More than 50 percent are considering own-label food and grocery products, brand loyalty is being questioned, and price is becoming more important. Joe Fernandez , "Consumers are slowly learning how to cope_06-25-09", Marketingweek.co.uk, June 25, 2009, © Centaur

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Online Marketing Expanding in China to Counter Recession June 22, 2009: 03:23 AM EST Online advertising is taking off in China as marketers look for ways to boost the profile of brands and products in a tight economy. China has more than 300 million internet users, 100 million of them online gamers. Online advertising revenue reached $2.5 billion in the past year, according to an iResearch Inc report in February. Companies such as Coca-Cola, Unilever, Intel and Nike are increasingly associating their products with online games, and taking advantage of new websites that encourage interaction between consumers and producers. Zhu Shenshen and Ding Yining, "New online tactics target consumers", Shanghai Daily, June 22, 2009, © Shanghai Daily Publishing House

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Brands Lose “Loyalists” as Consumers Seek to Cut Costs June 22, 2009: 02:34 AM EST Most brands lost more “loyalists” than they gained last year, because of the recession, says a study from Catalina Marketing and the CMO Council. More than half of consumers switched brands from 2007 to 2008, the study shows. Several factors seemed to influence people to stay loyal. Brands with strong advertising and marketing support; brands that contribute to home-prepared meals; brands that dominate their categories, and superpremium brands held on to more customers than others. The cost of defections can be high: Coke Classic revenue dropped 6 percent because of defections, while P&G's Cheer detergent dropped 19 percent. The study did not show if people were switching to rival brands or to private labels. Jack Neff , "Package-Goods Brands Lose Loyalists in Recession", AdAge.com, June 22, 2009, © Crain Communications

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Food Scientists Set Out to Make Us Eat More June 22, 2009: 10:01 AM EST A former FDA chief who tackled big tobacco has turned his attention to how the food industry manipulates us to eat more. His new book, “The End of Overeating: Taking Control of the Insatiable American Appetite” (Rodale), describes how food manufacturers create foods in a way that “taps into our brain circuitry and stimulates our desire for more”. Food scientists “work hard to reach the precise point at which we derive the greatest pleasure from fat, sugar and salt,” he says. But he “isn’t convinced that food makers fully understand the neuroscience of the forces they have unleashed”. His book offers practical advice for combating the desire to eat more. TARA PARKER-POPE, "How the Food Makers Captured Our Brains ", NY Times, June 22, 2009, © The New York Times Company

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Stevia Wars Heat Up as Cumberland Enters National Arena June 19, 2009: 11:34 AM EST Stevia Extract In The Raw is ramping up marketing for its stevia sweetener as the major players, PepsiCo and Coca-Cola, roll out new products in the wake of FDA approval of the natural product as a sweetener for health reasons. In a $2 million advertising campaign in women’s magazines, Stevia Extract In The Raw’s parent, Cumberland Packaging Corp, is pushing its product as “the purest national” brand in a veiled swipe at its key competitors, Truvia and Purevia. The campaign is the company’s first major launch since achieving nationwide distribution for its product. Elaine Wong, "Sweetener Competition Heats Up", Brandweek, June 19, 2009, © Nielsen Business Media

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Corn Flakes with Honey Aimed at Hispanics and 55-Plus June 18, 2009: 09:38 AM EST Kellogg has added 100-percent natural honey to its 100-year-old Corn Flakes cereal product to attract the over-55 market and Hispanics. The market for honey-sweetened products grew by 7.5 percent last year, according to Mintel. The 55 and up age group and Hispanics are “loyal consumers” says Susanne Norwitz, director of brand PR at Kellogg. The new packaging “evokes the familiar original Corn Flakes brand” with the added line “With a Touch of Honey" printed in both English and Spanish. The launch will be backed by an ad campaign. It is five years since Kellogg put significant dollars into marketing the brand. Lindsay Gordon, "Kellogg Adds Honey to Target Hispanics", Brandweek, June 18, 2009, © Nielsen Business Media

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PepsiCo Plans Aggressive Push for Lifewater Range June 18, 2009: 10:29 AM EST PepsiCo is launching an aggressive marketing campaign for the two new zero-calorie flavors in its SoBe Lifewater range. Lifewater is sweetened with PureVia, a stevia extract, and contains antioxidant vitamins C & E, essential B vitamins and herbal ingredients. The two new flavors are Acai Fruit Punch and Mango Melon, adding to the three already in the range. Social media such as Twitter and Facebook will be used in the marketing campaign, as well as more conventional tools such as sampling, advertising and events. "PepsiCo's SoBe Lifewater to Introduce Two New Zero-Calorie Flavors ", Reuters, June 18, 2009, © PRNewswire

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Teens, Young Adults Short on Calcium, Study Finds June 18, 2009: 04:26 AM EST Teens and young adults need to be drinking more milk to boost their calcium intake, according to researchers from the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis. The researchers found that young people cut down on dairy consumption as they enter their 20s, when they need calcium the most. More than half the men and two-thirds of the women in the age group consumed less than the daily recommended level of calcium in high school and the years immediately after. Calcium, protein and vitamin D are considered to be essential to reducing the risk of osteoporosis and other conditions later in life. Kevin McKeever , "Teens, Young Adults Need More Milk", HealthDay News, June 18, 2009, © U.S.News & World Report LP

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Consumer Acceptance Key to Stevia Success, says Industry Expert June 17, 2009: 10:40 AM EST Consumer perception is the biggest obstacle to market growth for stevia, says Simon Bentley, a consultant with UK consultancy LMC International. It is still largely unproven in the market place, although big players such as Coca Cola, Pepsi and Cargill are now using it. Stevia has a low caloric value, and is suitable for diabetics because it does not raise blood sugar levels. But less refined products can have off tastes. Bentley said that refining production capacity was still only a few thousand tonnes a year. David Brough, "Challenge for stevia sweetener is to woo consumers", Reuters, June 17, 2009, © Thomson Reuters

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Weight Watchers Releases New Chocolate Dessert June 18, 2009: 09:20 AM EST Weight Watchers is appealing to chocolate lovers who also have an eye on their waistlines by releasing a new Rich Chocolate Dessert that costs only one Weight Watchers’ point. Made under license by Yoplait, the dessert contains dark Belgian chocolate and has a rich, creamy texture. The weight-loss company’s chilled yogurts and desserts are growing at 2.2 percent a year, are worth £54 million and have 21 percent value share in the sector in the UK market. "Weight Watchers Launches Rich Chocolate Dessert ", Food Ingredients First, June 18, 2009, © CNS Media BV

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Trends Point to Convergence of Conventional and Natural June 16, 2009: 11:30 AM EST The conventional food and beverage market may be going natural, if recent signals add up to a trend. In early June, USDA deputy secretary Kathleen Merrigan announced that “organic” would be integrated across all agencies within the department. This was followed by a media release after the Institute of Food Technologists show in Anaheim stating that "nutrition, environmental health and food safety" are coupled in consumer's minds, namely through the word sustainability. Lynn Dornblaser of Mintel International Group in Chicago, says that 40 percent more people say they are more concerned about the environment than they were a year ago. Food is almost now “a political button” says Sylvia B Rowe, president of SR Strategy LLC in Washington, DC. Kimberly Lord Stewart, "Is the conventional food and beverage market going natural?", Functional Ingredients, June 16, 2009, © Penton Media, Inc

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Calcium Might Not Be a Help in Weight Loss June 16, 2009: 04:37 AM EST Doubts have been raised over calcium supplements for weight loss, following a recent study by the National Institute of Health, reported in the Annals of Internal Medicine. Overweight subjects who took supplements over two years showed no appreciable weight loss. One limitation of the study was the absence of a high-dairy calcium diet – some research has indicated that such a regime helps weight loss – and most of the subjects were women. Kristina Fiore, "Calcium Not Helpful for Weight Loss", MedPage Today, June 16, 2009, © MedPage Today, LLC

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Price Stops Americans Buying Healthier Foods June 16, 2009: 10:45 AM EST Almost half of American consumers don't want to spend more on healthy foods, largely because of the cost, according to a survey by the United Soybean Board. However, nine out of 10 say nutrition is important when buying food. Packaged Facts says retail sales for functional foods totaled $31 billion in 2008, up from $27 billion in 2006. The soybean survey found that more than 80 percent of Americans see soy as being healthy, with soymilk the most popular form. "Cost Cuts into Sale of Healthy Foods but Soy Stays Strong", Nutraceuticals World, June 16, 2009, © Rodman Publishing

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Tropicana Gives to Kids’ Food Program to Boost Fruit Consumption June 16, 2009: 11:28 AM EST Tropicana is playing its part in June’s National Fruit and Vegetable Month by donating up to 250,000 servings of Tropicana Pure Premium 100 percent orange juice to the USDA to be distributed in the national Summer Food Service Program for kids and the School Breakfast Program. Andy Horrow, chief marketing officer for Tropicana Products Inc, a division of PepsiCo Inc, said that a majority of orange juice drinkers “are unaware that 100 percent orange juice contributes to their daily fruit intake”. Most children consume only half or less of the recommended fruit servings, according to a 2006 study in the Journal of the American Dietetic Association. "Tropicana Launches 'Get Your Fruit On!' Campaign to Help Narrow the Gap in the Nation's Fruit Consumption", PR Newswire, June 16, 2009, © PR Newswire Association LLC

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Red Yeast Rice Supplement Cuts Cholesterol June 15, 2009: 09:48 AM EST Red yeast rice may help to lower bad cholesterol. In a controlled study, participants who took 1,800mg of red yeast rice supplements daily for 12 weeks showed a 27 percent drop in LDL cholesterol. Only two patients on the trial reported muscle pains associated with pharmaceutical statins. Dr. Daniel Rader, a lipid specialist at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine and an author of the study, said he was surprised at the result. Dr. Christopher Cannon a cardiologist at Boston's Brigham and Women's Hospital, said the supplement works in the same way as statins, by lowering the amount of cholesterol made by the liver, but in a gentler way. JOHN MCKENZIE, "Red Yeast Rice Helps Reduce Cholesterol", ABC News, June 15, 2009, © ABC News Internet Ventures

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Italian Study Backs Heart Benefits of Whole Grains June 15, 2009: 05:01 AM EST An Italian study has added weight to the claim that wholemeal wheat foods help to control cholesterol levels. People who consumed wholemeal wheat products for three weeks reduced both total and “bad” cholesterol levels compared with a group eating refined grains, according to research team leader Rosalba Giacco. Eating whole grains could help reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases and type-2 diabetes, the researchers said. The research team came from Italy’s National Research Council (CNR), Federico II University (Naples), Barilla G&R F.lli. SpA (Parma), and the University of Parma. Stephen Daniells, "More support for heart healthy wholegrains", Bakery and Snacks, June 15, 2009, © Decision News Media

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Vitamin D Increase Related to Increased Weight Loss June 15, 2009: 12:47 PM EST A small study has shown a link between vitamin D levels and losing weight. Researchers at the University of Minnesota found that people who showed incremental increases in both a precursor form of vitamin D and an active form lost more weight. Lead author Dr. Shalamar Sibley, an assistant professor of medicine at the University of Minnesota, said that “a more controlled trial” is needed to determine if vitamin D supplementation would have similar effects. The report does not say how or why vitamin D levels increased in the study subjects, but 750 calories were deducted from their diet each day. Jeannine Stein, "Could vitamin D be a key to successful dieting?", LA Times, June 15, 2009, © Los Angeles Times

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US Food Industry Gets Creative over Snack Options June 15, 2009: 10:22 AM EST With snacking an established part of American life, the types of foods offered are changing. Consumers want to add healthier ingredients, according to a report from The NPD Group. Among their demands are fruit and vegetables, but manufacturers have to be more creative because these are perishable. Freeze-drying is making a comeback, while more attention is being paid to healthy snacks for children. Seasonings are being used on nuts and seeds while dips and sauces are being expanded. Different types of grain are also being offered. Donna Berry, "The New Age of Healthy Snacking ", Food Product Design, June 15, 2009, © Virgo Publishing, LLC

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Snacking Undergoes Revival as Consumers Seek Healthy Options June 15, 2009: 11:13 AM EST Snacking is here to stay, says Harry Balzer, vice president, The NPD Group, publisher of the “Snacking in America 2008” report. Snacks account for 21 percent of all meals, the report says, making them the “fourth meal of the day”. But there have been changes in the type of foods being marketed as snacks. Snackers are looking for “added fiber, vitamin and mineral fortification, heart-healthy and digestive-health formulas” as part of their drive to eat healthier foods. Freeze-dried fruit snacks are making a comeback, with added nuts, seeds and whole grains. More products are also being developed to appeal to children. Donna Berry, "The New Age of Healthy Snacking", Food Product Design, June 15, 2009, © Virgo Publishing, LLC.

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Fortified Foods May Not Deliver Full Benefit June 15, 2009: 10:24 AM EST Fortified foods are increasingly popular, and they’ve been on the scene since at least 1924. But do they deliver on their promises? "Nutritionally enhanced foods are essentially just a different way of getting some of the benefits of a vitamin supplement. Studies show both do the job," says Sheldon Hendler, M.D., Ph.D, co-author of "The Physician's Desk Reference for Nutritional Supplements." Marion Nestle, author and professor of nutrition, food studies and public health at New York University, says "Processing destroys nutrients, and the more processing there is, the more destruction you get. Fortification adds back some nutrients, so overall you're better off with a processed fortified food than a processed unfortified one. But a whole food is always going to be superior." Many fortified foods actually deliver very small amounts of the nutrients, and Ms. Nestle recommends taking a multivitamin instead. Sara Reistad-Long, "Fortified Foods: How Healthy Are They? ", Wall Street Journal, June 15, 2009, © Dow Jones & Company, Inc

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More Americans Grow Their Own Food in the Recession June 15, 2009: 09:59 AM EST More Americans are growing their own vegetables and other food as the recession bites and they have to cut down on food bills. Seed nurseries across the nation report a huge rise in sales of up to 75 percent over 2008. Part of the increase is due to disease outbreaks such as E.coli and salmonella. Many of the customers are in their 20s and 30s and almost all are men. Wal-Mart Stores reports an increase in seed sales of up to 30 percent, matched by rises in seed-starting supplies and herbs. Adrian Higgins, "Demand For Vegetable Seed On The Rise", Washingtonpost.com , June 15, 2009, © The Washington Post Company

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New Distillates Add Honey Flavor without Calories June 15, 2009: 05:45 AM EST Treatt has launched two new honey flavors for use in beverages, dairy and other applications. Honey Treattarome 9802 has a mild flavor and “dark smoky back-end notes”, and 9804 is “light and floral with delicate top notes”. The flavor and fragrance ingredient supplier has two other honey distillates on the market, as well as peppers, tamarind, fruit and sugar flavors. The water distillates are made from fresh US honey and can be added directly at the bottling plant. They have no calories or nutritional value. Jess Halliday, "Treatt launches honey distillates for low-cal treats", Food Navigator, June 15, 2009, © Decision News Media

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Cinnamon Under Scrutiny for Digestion and Arthritis June 12, 2009: 11:00 AM EST Cinnamon is coming under scrutiny as researchers probe its historic reputation as a spice that confers health benefits on consumers. Researchers led by Joanna Hlebowicz at Malmo University Hospital in Sweden say that cinnamon may slow down the digestion process, allowing the body more time to break up carbohydrates, with a beneficial effect on blood-glucose concentration. Another study conducted in Copenhagen suggests that cinnamon mixed with honey can reduce arthritis pain. Neither study is conclusive, but the results are such that the medical community is calling for more work to be done. Sheryl Walters, "Cinnamon is the Wonder Spice for Health and Wellbeing ", NaturalNews , June 12, 2009, © Natural News Network

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Sodium May Be Bad, But Are The Alternatives Better? June 12, 2009: 09:41 AM EST Excessive salt intake is generally regarded as undesirable, given its links to cardiovascular disease (CVD), the leading cause of death worldwide. Raised blood pressure accounts for about 49 percent of all CVD cases, and 30 to 50 percent of people with high blood pressure are known to be salt-sensitive. Table salt (sodium chloride) is the most common source of salt in the human diet, but a large number of common food ingredients also contain salt. Research suggests that a balance of salt and potassium in the diet is beneficial, and many salt substitutes are based on this. However, some people, particularly those with kidney disease, should avoid these substitutes. There are also potential health issues with other alternatives, such as magnesium, monosodium glutamate (MSG) and L-lysine. Christina Fitzgerald, "Shaking Out Sodium Replacement Facts ", Food Product Design, June 12, 2009, © Virgo Publishing, LLC

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New Trends in Low-Carb Diets Show that Old Wisdom Is not Always the Best June 12, 2009: 08:30 PM EST Conventional thinking about the links between cognitive function, vitamin intake, obesity, carbohydrate intake and calorie consumption and other common dietary factors should not be taken for granted when considering healthy eating, as seven new research studies show. One of the studies examines the "eco-Atkins" diet – and despite all the intricate details, shows that the traditional Atkins diet definitely works. Vitamin D is shown to be linked to better memory and is effective in guarding against skin diseases. Jimmy Moore, "7 riveting new diet and health research studies for you to think about", Examiner.com, June 12, 2009, © Clarity Digital Group LLC d/b/a Examiner.com

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Dried Tomato Peel Boosts Lycopene in Hamburgers June 12, 2009: 09:49 AM EST Adding dry tomato peel (DTP) to hamburgers may enrich them with lycopene and provide a new use for a byproduct from the tomato industry, according to a study published in Meat Science. The study looked at the effects of adding varying amounts of DTP to both raw and cooked meat, and determined “the maximum DTP concentration compatible with good sensory acceptability and high-lycopene content”. The DTP “increased the color parameters of raw and cooked hamburgers and modified all textural properties probably because of the presence of fiber”. "Tomato Peel Enriches Hamburger Nutritional Profile ", Food Product Design, June 12, 2009, © http://www.foodproductdesign.com/news/2009/06/tomato-peel-enriches-hamburger-nutritional-profile.aspx

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GSK Boosts Horlicks Brand in India with Product Launches June 12, 2009: 12:32 PM EST GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Healthcare (GSKCH) is planning to launch 8-10 new products from its flagship Horlicks brand in India in the next 12-18 months. GSKCH Executive Vice President (Marketing) Shubhajit Sen said that the aim is to build the brand without “diluting its positioning as a family nourisher”. The latest product is a toddler biscuit, Junior Horlicks Biscuits, following the launches of a cereal bar (Horlicks NutriBar) and ready-to-drink milkshake Horlicks Chill Dood earlier in the year. However, the company has decided to stop the expansion of Horlicks vending machines. India accounts for two-thirds of global Horlicks sales. Writankar Mukherjee, "GlaxoSmithKline to expand its Horlicks brand", Economic Times, June 12, 2009, © Bennett Coleman & Co. Ltd

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Folate Supplementation Linked to Health Benefits June 12, 2009: 11:27 AM EST Mandatory fortification of flour and pasta with folate in Canda has reduced the prevalence of neural tube defects in new-born babies by about 9 percent, say researchers form McGill University, Montreal. There have also been “modest” reductions in congenital heart disease. But an editorial published with the research findings queries whether or not there might be more effective means of targeting women of child-bearing age, arguing that the incidence of congenital heart disease may increase for other reasons as the population becomes more obese. "Folate fortification law linked to decreased heart defects", Modern Medicine, June 12, 2009, © Advanstar Communications, Inc

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Plant Sterols Work Best in Small Doses Taken Often June 11, 2009: 05:15 AM EST Plant sterols have more effect on cholesterol levels if they are taken in small amounts several times a day, say researchers from the University of Manitoba. Daily consumption of 1.5 to 3 grams of phytosterols/stanols in several small doses can reduce total cholesterol levels by 8 to 17 per cent, they say. A single daily dose had no effect on LDL levels. Other research has found no significant differences between sterols or stanols, or fat-based or non fat-based, and dairy or non-dairy food formats. Many margarines contain plant-based sterols and stanols. Stephen Daniells , "Sterol margarines: Low-doses best for heart health, says study", Nutra-ingredients, June 11, 2009, © Decision News Media

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Support Gathers for Restaurant Labeling Law June 11, 2009: 04:23 AM EST Legislation to require restaurants to display nutritional information on menus or display tags at buffets and salad tables is being backed by a bipartisan group of lawmakers, restaurant chains and consumer advocates. The legislation, introduced by Sen Edward Kennedy (D, Mass) would make it mandatory for chains with 20 or more restaurants to display information on calories and, on request, data on fat, sugars, sodium, cholesterol and carbohydrates. The food industry favors federal legislation over a raft of differing state requirements. JANE ZHANG, "Pact Is Set for Calorie Lists on Menus ", The Wall Street Journal, June 11, 2009, © Dow Jones & Company, Inc

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