Kellogg Upset over Restriction on Children's Advertising in UK March 27, 2009: 09:25 PM EST Kellogg has joined the chorus of criticism against the Food Standards Agency in the UK, regarding its rules on food advertising during children's TV shows. The agency wants a restriction to stay that prohibits foods high in salt, sugar or fat from being advertised even if they have a high protein content – known as the "protein cap." The food industry says the FSA has ignored its own technical panel, which advised that the cap should be removed. If the restriction was lifted, additional foods such as some breakfast cereals could be advertised to children. Gemma Charles, "Kellogg criticises Food Standards Agency", marketingmagazine.co.uk, March 27, 2009, © Haymarket

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Dairy Crest Cuts JV with Yoplait March 27, 2009: 08:02 AM EST Dairy Crest has ended a joint venture with Yoplait early, selling its 49 percent holding in Yoplait Dairy Crest to its partner for $90 million. Dairy Crest will continue to distribute Yoplait products in the UK until March 2010. The joint venture was expected to continue at least until 2012 but Dairy Crest now wants to focus on its own butter and cheese lines. Fiona Ramsay, "Dairy Crest sells off Yoplait stake for £63.5m", marketingmagazine.co.uk, March 27, 2009, © Haymarket

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Symposium Reports Health Benefits of Soy Products March 27, 2009: 05:21 AM EST Research presented at the eighth International Soy Symposium in Tokyo from November 9-12, 2008, supports the view that soyfoods can play a part in promoting heart and bone health. A meta-analysis of a number of high or moderate quality studies showed that soy protein can reduce total and/or LDL (bad) cholesterol levels by about 5 percent. This is about the same effect as soluble fiber. Mark Messina, Ph.D., author of the report and professor of nutrition at Loma Linda University, says, "Integrating a variety of heart-healthy foods – like soy, beans, nuts and certain vegetables - together into a healthy lifestyle are really the best approach to heart health." Other research presented at the Symposium suggested that postmenopausal women with signs of bone-mass loss given a soy extract experienced increases in spinal and hip bone mineral density, while women given a placebo experienced 12 and 8 percent declines. "New Report in the Journal of Nutrition Shows Soy is Beneficial for Heart and Bone Health", Nutrition Horizon, March 27, 2009

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A New Fruit Juice for Diabetics Could be Available in a Year March 26, 2009: 04:11 AM EST New from Chinese scientists is a vegetable juice low in calories and sugar, aimed at diabetics and those with pre-diabetic conditions. The drink was highlighted at the latest National Meeting of the American Chemical Society. It uses lactic acid-producing bacteria (often called probiotics) to remove sugar but retaining the nutritional content of the raw materials. The juice is made from pumpkin, balsam pear, onion and carrots. The study used LAB to reduce the sugar content by converting carbohydrates into lactic acid by fermentation. This increases the juice's acidity, lengthening its shelf life by inhibiting growth of other bacteria. The juice also contains a diabetic-friendly sugar substitute, called xylitol. One researcher said that it could be ready for the market in a year, but still needs more testing. Michael Bernstein, "Nutritious new low-sugar juice targeted for diabetics, individuals with high blood sugar", Eureka Alert, March 26, 2009

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Economic Downturn Impacting Gourmet Store Sales March 25, 2009: 03:08 PM EST Earlier signs that upscale grocery stores might fare relatively well in the recession have been replaced by indications that, according to one gourmet grocery store owner, “frugal is in”, which means consumers choosing store brand rather than just trading down from restaurant food to high-end retail options. A consultant working with the Food Marketing Institute found that the recession could have an effect on consumer shopping habits that will endure longer than the economic downturn, and research firm Information Resources Inc. says that some consumers are reducing costs by not buying expensive organic food and luxury items. The National Association for the Specialty Food Trade Inc. said sales of specialty food rose in 2008 but turned down in the fourth quarter. Also affecting the gourmet stores are the improvements that traditional supermarkets have made to their meat and produce sections. "Upscale Grocery Stores Lose Customers to Kroger, Wal Mart", Business Torrents, March 25, 2009, via Technology Marketing Corp. , © Business Torrents

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Online Shoppers Seek Bargains, Compare Prices, Gain Confidence March 25, 2009: 02:33 PM EST Consumers are going online to research purchases as a strategy to combat the recession, says the March Consumer Behavior Report from PriceGrabber.com. The largest percentage (40 percent) say they are spending more time comparing prices. More than a quarter are searching for coupons, and a quarter also say they are spending more time shopping online. Most consumers are focused on spending smarter, with 91 percent of online shoppers saying they feel more confident about purchases after researching prices. Many of them (71 percent) say they will continue their recession savings strategies permanently. Big-ticket items are still on their radar if the price is right, and searching for deals is important to consumers. Sara Rodriguez, "Economic Climate Shifts Consumers Online", PriceGrabber: Consumer Behavior Report, March 25, 2009, © PriceGrabber

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Soda Drink Consumption Linked to Risk of Heart Disease in Women March 24, 2009: 05:25 AM EST Sugary drinks such as soda can increase the risk of coronary heart disease in women, according to a new study led by Simmons College Nutrition Professor Teresa Fung. Women who drank two or more servings a day were 35 percent more likely to suffer from heart disease than those who had one or no drinks a day. Researchers found that a number of factors were related to higher consumption of soda beverages, including smoking, lower levels of physical activity, higher body mass index, and consumption of more energy, saturated and trans fats, and less alcohol, fruit, and vegetables. The study was published in the April edition of the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition and was based on data from the Nurses’ Health Study. "Sugary Drinks are Bad for Your Heart", Simmons College, March 24, 2009, © Simmons College

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New Products from Weight Watchers March 24, 2009: 08:13 AM EST Thirteen new products from Weight Watchers are being rolled out. The items include sweet baked goods (chocolate brownie with real chocolate chips, banana nut muffin, peanut butter soft cookie, and petite bagels); frozen novelties (an ice cream candy bar, giant mint ice cream cone, giant mint ice cream sandwich, two-pack cups in cookies and cream and peanut butter varieties); and cheese (natural reduced-fat medium cheddar, Swiss and pepper jack slices, and reduced-fat pepper jack slices). Supporting the launch is an online and print campaign. Karlene Lukovitz, "Weight Watchers Adds 13 New Products", Media Post, March 24, 2009, © MediaPost Communications

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Consumer Body Warns Consumers against Online Acai Scams March 24, 2009: 01:19 AM EST US consumer group, Center for Science in the Public Interest, is telling consumers not participate in free trials for diet products based on the superfruit acai. CSPI says there is no evidence that acai meets claims that it helps people lose weight, and there have been many complaints that consumers, once signed up, are unable to stop recurring charges on their credit cards. CSPI recommends that any consumers unable to resist the marketing of acai should use pre-paid cards with low credit limits, or some other means of protection against the scammers. Other claims for acai include energy enhancement and detoxification, and there is little or no scientific evidence for these either. "Web-Based Acai Scams Targeting Dieters", Nutraceutical World, March 24, 2009, © Rodman Publishing

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FDA Adds More Weight-Loss Products to “Tainted” List March 23, 2009: 01:01 AM EST The FDA has added more weight loss products to its list of those it says are tainted with undeclared, active pharmaceuticals. The list now includes 72 products. The March 23 list adds Herbal Xenicol, Slimbionic and Xsvelten, and includes the ingredients fenproporex, fluoxetine, furosemide and cetilistat. Previous lists named sibutramine, bumetanide, phenytoin, rimonabant and phenolphthalein in other over-the-counter (OTC) weight loss products. The agency issued its first warning on December 22, 2008, and a second on January 8. Some of the products are marketed as dietary supplements and are promoted on websites, retail stores and beauty salons. They carry claims such as “herbal” and “natural”, but the FDA says they contain “potentially harmful” ingredients not listed on labels or in advertisements. It is seeking product recalls and may take other enforcement action, and is warning consumers to stop taking the products and seek medical advice. "FDA Expands List of Tainted Weight Loss Products", Nutraceuticals World, March 23, 2009, © Nutraceuticals World

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Parents Looking for Authenticity in Their Kids' Food March 23, 2009: 10:25 AM EST A new survey suggests that parents are increasingly looking for food that will benefit their kids. The report by Just Kid Inc., a kids-focused research firm in Connecticut, found that 86 percent of parents surveyed saw "healthy and nutritious" as the important attribute for food, but also that moms were less interested in sophisticated ingredients than in basic, simple benefits, such as fresh and nutritionally-balanced foods. Traditional nutrients like calcium and protein were ranked near the middle, and some of the trendier nutrients, like Omega-3s, were ranked lower. Amy Henry, managing director of research and strategy for Just Kid, said that moms want more authentic forms of health linked closely to the food, and are seeking to make kids appreciate the food, not just the packaging and promotions. Shara Rutberg, "Parents seek authentic snacks", Natural Foods Merchandiser, March 23, 2009, © New Hope Natural Media

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Antibody Added to Yogurt Combats Stomach Ulcers March 22, 2009: 03:35 AM EST Japanese researchers have developed a yogurt that helps to control gastritis and stomach ulcers caused by the Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) bacteria. Study coordinator Hajime Hatta, Ph.D., a chemist at Kyoto Women's University in Kyoto, Japan, developed an antibody to H. pylori by using the same techniques used to make vaccines. This antibody was then harvested from chicken eggs and added to yogurt. After four weeks of treatment with the yogurt, subjects who had tested positive for H. pylori had lower levels of bacterial activity. H. pylori is easily treated with antibiotics and acid suppressants, but many people in the world do not have ready access to these treatments. The yogurt is now on sale in Japan, Korea and Taiwan, and the study may open doors to the US market. Hatta warns that people allergic to eggs should not eat the yogurt. Michael Bernstein, "Clinical trial backs use of special yogurt to fight stomach ulcer bacteria", Eureka Alert, March 22, 2009

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UK's Foods Standards Agency Draws Criticism from Industry March 20, 2009: 09:20 PM EST The Food and Drink Federation in the UK has attacked the country's Food Standards Agency for its refusal to alter an important part of the nutrient profiling model used to determine what products can be advertised to children. The FSA is to recommend retention of the protein cap, which prevents foods with high levels of fat, salt or sugar being called 'healthier' because of their protein content. Without the cap, some additional products, such as some breakfast cereals and crisps, could be advertised on children's TV. The FSA's recommendation to health ministers on the matter is contrary to the findings of an independent panel. Gemma Charles, "Food industry attacks Food Standards Agency policy on ads during children's TV", marketingmagazine.co.uk, March 20, 2009, © Haymarket

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Sugar Returns To Favor As Manufacturers And Consumers Avoid Corn-Syrup March 20, 2009: 10:51 AM EST After three decades in which high-fructose corn syrup had been gaining on sugar in the American diet, reaching level in 2003, the tide has turned. Department of Agriculture data shows that in 2007 American adults ate an average of 44 pounds of sugar in 2007, compared with 40 pounds of high-fructose corn syrup, and the trend looks set to continue in sugar's favor. Responding to consumer concerns, suppliers are switching to sugar, such as Log Cabin syrup, a 120-year-old brand from Pinnacle Foods Group, which announced earlier this month it had stopped using high-fructose corn syrup. The Corn Refiners Association argues consumers are being duped by misleading marketing claims and flawed science, but they face an uphill battle. Kim Severson, "Sugar Is Back on Food Labels, This Time as a Selling Point", New York Times , March 20, 2009, © New York Times

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UK Probiotics Ramp up; More Products, Higher Sales March 20, 2009: 05:38 AM EST Probiotic and health food companies in the UK are intensifying their marketing while expanding the range of products. Some are even offering money back guarantees if consumers are not happy, with Müller UK and Danone leading the charge. According to Müller, the functional yogurts and yogurt drink markets have sales of $600 million, with yogurt drinks accounting for just over half. Warburtons is active in the bakery sector and Prestat is offering chocolate that is said to be high in antioxidants. Even Mars is selling a chocolate containing a high proportion of flavanols. Gaelle Walker, "Health wise", Thegrocer.co.uk, March 20, 2009, © William Reed Business Media Ltd

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2008 Nutraceutical Drinks Sales Up 9% To 3.7 Billion Liters March 18, 2009: 05:41 AM EST The 2009 Global Nutraceutical Drinks report estimates that sales of nutraceutical drinks - which claim to deliver specific benefits such as beauty, weight management and stress relief - grew by 9% to reach 3.7bn liters in 2008. North America is the largest market, with 47% volume share, followed by Japan with 37%. The authors expect sales to reach 5.6bn liters by 2013. The report, prepared by Zenith International, highlights how innovation and growth has been boosted by the arrival of major beverage multinationals Nestlé, Coca-Cola, Danone and PepsiCo. "GLOBAL: Nutraceutical sector on the rise in '08 - statistics", just-drinks.com, March 18, 2009, © just-drinks.com

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Research Sheds Light on How Low-GI Food Suppresses Appetite March 18, 2009: 04:23 AM EST Low-GI (glycemic index) foods are generally known to reduce appetite, but little was known about how this happens. Research undertaken at Kings College London and unveiled at the annual Society for Endocrinology BES meeting in the UK showed that low-GI (low glycemic index) food increases production of a gut hormone (GLP-1), which suppresses appetite and leads to a feeling of satiety. Researcher, Dr Reza Norouzy, said: “Our results show for the first time the direct effect of a single GI meal on gut hormone levels. We already know that the hormone GLP-1 and a low GI meal independently lead to suppression of appetite. This study builds on these findings by providing a physiological mechanism to explain how a low GI meal makes you feel fuller than a high GI meal.” "Scientists Discover Why A Low GI Meal Makes You Feel Full", ScienceDaily, March 18, 2009, © ScienceDaily LLC

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Toronto Researchers Show Link Between Gut Health and Stress March 18, 2009: 05:01 AM EST Preliminary research carried out by a Toronto-based research team suggests that particular strains of probiotics may help to reduce stress and anxiety in people suffering from chronic fatigue syndrome. The study found that anxiety symptoms in subjects taking Lactobacillus casei strain Shirota (LcS, Yakult Honsha, Tokyo, Japan) were lower than in a control group. The study was funded by Yakult Honsha. Other studies have reported changes in intestinal microflora of CFS patients, with lower levels of Bifidobacteria and higher levels of aerobic bacteria. A Venket Rao et al, "A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot study of a probiotic in emotional symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome", Gut Pathogens , March 18, 2009, © Rao et al licensed to BioMed Central Ltd

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Parents and Children Seeking Out Healthier Snacks March 16, 2009: 10:46 AM EST Parents and children are making their snack consumption choices healthier. A survey by Mintel International found that children and teens are sensitive to healthy eating messages and are choosing foods with healthful ingredients, with over a third saying they try to eat foods rich in vitamins and nutrients, 25% said they sought out foods low in fat and 22% look for foods low in sugar. Separate research by The Hartman Group indicates that consumers look for snacks with high fiber, whole fruits and less sugar. "Snack sales healthy at drug, healthy snacks even stronger", Drug Store News, March 16, 2009, © Drug Store News

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UK Government Scrapes Home on Watchdog’s Scorecard March 11, 2009: 09:27 PM EST UK consumer magazine Which? has given the government and private sector a rating of about 55 percent on 12 demands it made in 2004 to encourage families to eat healthier food. The demands covered a range of issues, from prioritizing nutrition policy, restricting television advertising, reducing fat, sugar and salt in foods, and launching “a hard-hitting, innovative government campaign to change eating habits”. In a second report, the magazine says that families are making “unhealthier” food choices as the recession bites. It says that 60 percent of adults in the UK say they would buy more fruit and vegetables if they were cheaper, while 56 percent said that price “is now more important” in their food choices. Three-quarters said they thought the government could do more to promote healthy eating, despite the “Change for Life” initiative. Ed Kemp, "Which? calls on government to give families incentives to eat healthily", marketingmagazine.co.uk, March 11, 2009, © Haymarket

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Study Sheds Light on Compulsion to Sprinkle Salt on Chips March 12, 2009: 05:16 AM EST Salt in the diet may have “drug-like” qualities, says Professor Kim Johnson at the University of Iowa. Working with rats, he found that eating salt put them in a better mood, and sparked cravings similar to drug addiction. Salt is essential to help fluids pass through the body, but too much can be bad news, contributing to raised blood pressure, heart disease and other ailments. Not getting enough salt, on the other hand, may cause depression. Prof Johnson’s study found that changes in the rats’ brain activity when they were denied salt were the same as when they were denied drugs. Jon Swaine, "Salt 'may be drug-like mood enhancer', says study", Telegraph.co.uk, March 12, 2009, © Telegraph Media Group

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UK Recession is Discouraging Healthy Eating, Says Which? March 11, 2009: 05:49 AM EST A study by UK consumer group Which? found that the recession has persuaded many Britons to abandon healthy eating in order to focus on price. 76% of respondents believed the government ought to make it easier for consumers to choose healthier food. Which? is urging manufacturers and retailers to promote healthy options and make it easier for consumers to identify healthy foods. The British Retail Consortium countered by saying that the report instead undermined healthy eating, claiming that retailers have been in the vanguard of promoting healthy eating, and added that the UK Food Standards Agency's 'Low Income Diet and Nutrition Survey' found no "significant" link between diet and income. BRC says that retailers have promoted fresh produce and also re-formulated products to reduce salt and remove fats, for example, and are working with the government on initiatives like the '5-a-day' fruit and vegetable campaign. "UK: Credit crunch “hitting waistlines” - Which?", just-food.com, March 11, 2009

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Scientists Question The Basis Of "Superfruit" and "Superfoods" March 11, 2009: 01:05 AM EST In recent years pomegranates, blueberries, goji berries and açaí have been termed superfruit, standing out for high levels of antioxidants, vitamin C and fiber. But some scientists are scornful, seeing the terms 'superfruit' and 'superfood' as marketing inventions with little meaning. For instance, Stephen T. Talcott, associate professor of food chemistry at Texas A&M University said "Superfruit is a marketing term; most scientists don’t use it", pointing out that all fruits "have nutrients and photochemicals that give you energy." Abby Ellin, "Food Claims Raise Questions", The New York times, March 11, 2009, © The New York times

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Acai No Longer Flavor of the Month March 11, 2009: 01:13 AM EST Debate over the benefits of acai products is heating up, with both scientists and consumers lining up on both sides of the “is it good for you?” argument. Several celebrities, including Oprah Winfrey and Rachel Ray, have distanced themselves from health claims, and even the maker of a successful range of products containing acai, Dr. Nicholas Perricone, “is looking into claims made by companies using his image to market products he does not endorse”. Stephen T. Talcott, associate professor of food chemistry at Texas A&M University, says there is no scientific research to support claims that acai contributes to weight loss. Two studies published in the September 2008 Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry indicated that the antioxidants found in acai berries were absorbed by the body, but were not large enough to prove health benefits. Consumers are complaining about being ripped off by online free trial offers, saying they’re being charged for the products even after they canceled the trial, and some say they didn’t lose weight while taking the product. The Center for Science in the Public interest is advising people not to take part in online "free trials" of acai, and Connecticut Attorney General Richard Blumenthal says he will begin investigations into the complaints. ABBY ELLIN, "Pressing Açaí for Answers", The New York Times, March 11, 2009, © The New York Times Company

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High Salt Levels Inhibit Blood Flow Mechanisms March 11, 2009: 03:28 AM EST A new joint US-Chinese study provides the first direct evidence that high salt intake is linked to high blood pressure (hypertension). Research from the University of Kentucky Medical School and Taishan Medical College, showed that high salt levels in the blood could “significantly” suppress the action of nitric oxide synthase (NOS), an enzyme linked to maintaining healthy blood flow. NOS produces nitric oxide, which enables muscles around blood vessels to relax, boosting blood flow and reducing blood pressure. The study “clearly indicates the importance of lowing salt intake,” says lead author Xiang-An Li, an assistant professor at the Kentucky Pediatric Research Institute. Sodium is necessary to healthy bodily function, as are other metal ions, including potassium, magnesium and calcium. Dr Li says it would be interesting to find out if these ions also inhibit NOS action. Stephen Daniells, "Scientists lift the lid on salt’s hypertensive power", Food Navigator, March 11, 2009, © Decision News Media SAS

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Salt-Loving Americans Put Own Lives at Risk March 11, 2009: 05:18 AM EST Americans eat about twice as much salt per day as they should, and cutting it by about 10 percent would dramatically reduce the number of deaths and cases of heart disease, says researcher Dr. Kirsten Bibbins-Domingo, an assistant professor of medicine and epidemiology at the University of California, San Francisco. Using a computer model, her team of researchers found that cutting one gram of salt a day form the average American diet would result in 250,000 fewer new cases of heart disease and more than 200,000 fewer deaths over a decade. Many health organizations recommend intake of no more than 5 or 6 grams a day. The average American eats 9 to 16 grams, 50 percent more than in the 1970s. Processed food is the big culprit in the high intake – comparatively small amounts of salt are added at the table or when people cook their own food, says Bibbins-Domingo. The food industry could achieve huge health results with virtually undetectable cuts in salt levels in their products, either by regulation or voluntarily, she says. Steven Reinberg, "Slight Cut in Salt Intake Would Mean Fewer Heart Attacks, Deaths", HealthDay, March 11, 2009, © ScoutNews

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Appropriations Bill Includes Disputed Measure on Food Advertising March 11, 2009: 01:08 AM EST A wide-ranging appropriations bill signed by US President Barack Obama March 11 includes provisions for a government study on whether or not it should set standards for marketing foods to children under 18. The study’s two co-sponsors, however, are at odds over the age set in the measure. Sen. Sam Brownback, R-Kan., says the study should be limited to children under 12. A spokeswoman for Tom Harkin, D-Iowa, indicated that he was happy with the 17-year age limit. A target of July 15, 2010 has been set for completion of the study. The proposal has been welcomed by the the Center for Science in the Public Interest, but the advertising industry, food manufacturers and food industry associations have expressed concerns about it. Many already support a voluntary scheme to limit advertising to children under 12. Ira Teinowitz, "FTC Could Set Standards for Food Marketing Aimed at Teens", AdAge.com, March 11, 2009, © Crain Communication

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Spice Brand Schwartz Seeks to Highlight Healthy Benefits March 10, 2009: 05:44 AM EST Schwartz, the McCormick-owned dominant spice brand in the UK, is shifting its marketing approach to emphasize the health and nutritional benefits of its herbs and spices. Its new print, digital and PR campaign - 'The Secrets of Spices' - includes a microsite and stresses the antioxidant properties of its products and how its herbs and spices can be used as part of a healthy balanced diet. The campaign is built around ten popular flavorings with specific information on each one, for instance, how cinnamon can stimulate the respiratory and circulatory systems, while basil can act as a relaxant. Alex Brownsell, "Schwartz to push healthy benefits", Marketing, March 10, 2009, © Haymarket

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Chinese Studies Boosts Hopes for Salt Substitutes March 9, 2009: 03:55 AM EST A new Chinese study backs the belief that salt can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. The study, by researchers from the Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, and Ningxia Medical College, showed that a lower-sodium salt substitute improved peripheral and central systolic blood pressure and reduced central pulse pressure, but did not benefit diastolic blood pressure. Arterial health markers also improved. The researchers used a blend of 65 percent sodium chloride, 25 percent potassium chloride, and 10 percent magnesium sulfate in place of 100 percent sodium chloride in their trials. The study is seen to boost support for the salt replacer market, which is gathering momentum as concerns rise over the role of salt in cardiovascular disease. Earlier this year a Harvard Medical School study suggested that risk of heart disease was 24 percent higher in people with higher salt intakes. Stephen Daniells, "Salt replacers improve heart health: Study", AP-Foodtechnology.com, March 09, 2009, © Decision News Media SAS

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Aging Population Turns To Supplements To Maintain Eye Health March 9, 2009: 05:30 AM EST In a preventative strategy, aging consumers are using supplements to enhance their nutrition intake to avoid some diseases. High on the list of concerns is eye health, which Frost & Sullivan claim has become a primary concern for the food industry. In a new report, European Eye Health Ingredients Market, Frost & Sullivan estimate that the market had sales of $43.4 million in 2007 and estimates this will reach $87.4 million in 2014. Consumers are concerned about eye-diseases such as glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration, cataracts and childhood blindness and have been using products high in antioxidants, notably lutein, beta-carotene, zeaxanthin, astaxanthin and bilberry. Frost & Sullivan, "Frost & Sullivan: Ageing Population and Availability of Preventative Medicines Propels Growth of European Eye Health Ingredients Market", March 09, 2009, © Frost & Sullivan

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Quaker Oats Lines Under One Marketing Umbrella March 9, 2009: 07:55 AM EST Quaker Oats’ suite of breakfast and snack products is being rebranded under one communications umbrella, with the tagline “go humans go”. Quaker owner PepsiCo wants to stress the health-giving qualities of the company’s key ingredient – wholegrain oats. The marketing and advertising campaign employs television, print, online and “out-of-home extension advertising” to promote the message that Quaker oats "help power the bodies and minds of humans and inspires people to be their best". Television ads began screening in prime time slots and cable channels on March 16, with print ads scheduled to begin this month (April). "PepsiCo rebrands Quaker", just-food.com, March 09, 2009

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Wellness Benefits Key to Yogurt Growth March 9, 2009: 05:53 AM EST Yogurt is proving to be a front-runner with a lot of staying power in the race to develop innovative new functional foods. The dairy product has been in use for at least 4,500 years, and its benefits have long been known. But it is proving to be the ideal vehicle for many current trends in adding wellness benefits to food. Yogurt is a natural carrier for pre- and probiotics, omega-3, conjugated linoleic acid, fruit, and added proteins such as whey and soy. New manufacturing and processing techniques are overcoming some of the taste and texture problems associated with adding functionality to the product, opening doors to even more innovation. “Good for you” yogurts will continue to drive growth, says Daphne Mazarakis, founder and president, Tula Foods. “Consumers already associate yogurt with health, so the idea that we can bring them a yogurt with another promising health benefit is credible.” Kimberly J. Decker , "Yogurt Trends", Food Product Design, March 09, 2009, © Virgo Publishing

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Hansen Launches Its Self Beauty Elixir That Promises Health Benefits March 6, 2009: 07:43 AM EST In a bid to tap the trend in functional beverages, Hansen has launched a low-calorie, functional, ready-to-drink beverage - Self Beauty Elixir - that contains vitamins, minerals and botanical extracts. The company claims that the drink will "promote and support healthy skin and overall wellness". It should be available in mass retailers, drugs stores and major supermarkets from spring in three flavors, Tropical Bliss, Blushing Berry and Pink Lemonade. "US: Hansen rolls-out Elixir ‘beauty’ beverage", just-drinks.com, March 06, 2009, © just-drinks.com

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Sensing the Presence of Sugar Key to Aging Process March 5, 2009: 03:12 AM EST A paper published in the journal PLoS Genetics explains how Université de Montréal scientists found that the presence of calories is not the important element in the aging process, but the extent to which cells sense them. There are two elements to calorie intake: taste and digestion. Cell sensors detect the presence of sugar glucose, for example, and molecules in the cell break it down, converting it to energy. Some thought the by-products in this process caused aging, but this study shows another possible cause, using yeast cells, which age much like human cells. The team found that the lifespan of yeast cells rises when glucose in the diet was reduced, but also found that: (a) cells that couldn’t consume glucose were still sensitive to the aging effects of glucose; and (b) eliminating the glucose sensor significantly increased lifespan. "Over-consumption of sugar linked to aging", Nouvelles.com, March 05, 2009, © UdeMNouvelles

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EU “Agrees in Principle” to Unilever Plant Sterol and Fatty Acid Claims March 2, 2009: 09:14 PM EST Unilever says that it has “heard informally” that the EU Standing Committee on the Food Chain and Animal Health has approved in principle its claims that plant sterols help reduce cholesterol and ALA/LA (a-linolenic acid and linoleic acid) assist children's growth and development. The Committee has apparently asked the European Food Standards Authority to develop conditions of use for the claims. Unilever says it will apply the claims in the near future. "EU: Brussels poised to OK Unilever health claims", just-food.com, March 02, 2009, © just-food.com

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New Methods for Isolating Plant Pigments March 2, 2009: 01:25 AM EST The anthocyanin group of plant pigments is catching the eye of researchers because of its anti-cancer properties, cardiovascular protection and other benefits such as vision and memory enhancement. But the problem is that the pigments are broken down after consumption in food sources, which makes it difficult to track the process of absorption and accumulation. Ingredient suppliers are trying to improve functionality and stability. Food Ingredient Solutions of New Jersey says there has been success in beverage shelf life for more than one year using stable anthocyanins from sources like purple potatoes. While in California, InterHealth Neutraceuticals is using berry extracts to obtain anthocyanin functionality. Sharon Palmer, "Coloring the Anthocyanin Age", Food Product Design, March 02, 2009, © Virgo Publishing

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Mood Foods Poised to Realize Potential as Recession Deepens March 1, 2009: 05:48 AM EST Mood foods may be the next big thing as the economic recession continues to affect people’s mental health. Economic woes are a leading cause of anxiety and depression in today’s world, and many people find they can’t afford a regular therapy program. This opens opportunities for the increasing range of remedies targeted at mood disorders such as anxiety, which are often exacerbated by lack of sleep. Products that promise to promote relaxation are poised to expand as people become increasingly aware that good sleep is as important to health as food and exercise. Dietary supplements and functional foods that have “mood-lifting” properties are ideally placed to benefit from the rising demand, particularly for people with milder symptoms. Promising advances are being made across the spectrum of products available, including vitamins and minerals, fatty acids, amino acids and proteins, herbs and botanicals, carbohydrates, and specialty ingredients. Products will have to be science-based and fast-acting to be successful. Rebecca Wright & Dilip Ghosh, "The Mood Health Market", Nutraceuticals World, March 01, 2009, © Nutraceuticals World

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Report Suggests Fructose Metabolism May Increase Food Intake, Obesity March 2, 2009: 01:36 AM EST In a review of prior studies, researchers at The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine determined a link between the consumption of fructose and increased food intake, which may contribute to a high incidence of obesity, and Type 2 diabetes. In the brain, malonyl-CoA has a critical role in monitoring energy balance gauged through glucose levels. But the researchers find fructose has the opposite effect of glucose on the malonyl-CoA signaling system, effectively encouraging food intake. The researchers argue that the fact that fructose metabolism by the brain increases food intake and obesity risk raises health concerns about high fructose sweeteners, especially by youth. Daniel Lane et al, "Effect Of Glucose And Fructose On Food Intake Via Malonyl-Coa Signaling In The Brain.", Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications, March 02, 2009, © Elsevier

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Probiotic Protein Bar March 1, 2009: 08:00 AM EST Max Muscle Sports Nutrition, based in California, is offering a probiotic protein bar, that the company claims is the first of its type in the US. Developed in conjunction with Ganeden Biotech of Ohio, the bar contains the patented GanedenBC30, a form of the strain bacillus coagulans. The company says the strain survives harsh manufacturing processes and remains shelf stable without refrigeration. "Probiotics Muscle in on Protein Bars", FoodProcessing.com, March 01, 2009, © Food Processing

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Health Claim Rule Threatens Smaller Functional Food Processors March 1, 2009: 09:18 PM EST The future of a host of smaller functional foods companies is at risk because the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) is too strict over the definition of health claims, says Cantox Health Sciences of Canada. The company says many products contain ingredients with promising benefits, but which cannot be promoted because EFSA rules state that only products with proven effects can be advertised as being healthy. The company says that smaller companies do not have the money to spend on research to prove their claims. About 80 percent of claims put forward to EFSA for approval have been turned down, according to Cantox. "Claims regime threatens functional sector", Functional Ingredients , March 01, 2009, © Penton Media

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Kraft Partners with Drug Company to Develop Bioactive Food Ingredients March 1, 2009: 07:38 AM EST Kraft Foods Global Inc. is teaming up with Minneapolis-based drug company Medisyn Technologies Inc. to develop bioactive ingredients for food. David Land, president of Medisyn, explains the company’s approach: “Rather than going on a fishing expedition, you create a rational approach by identifying a market need and intelligently working toward fulfilling that need.” The aim is to identify the specific properties required, find the compounds with those properties, and then look for sources in nature. He says the result is a significant reduction in development time. Kraft says it underlines its strategy of complementing internal R&D efforts with external collaboration, and alliances like this help it to get to market quicker. Land says that trends show opportunities in fighting weight, diabetes, cholesterol, osteoporosis and high blood pressure, but it has also been working in areas such as mental health, including anxiety and mental focus. Diane Toops, "Kraft Foods Global Thinks Outside the Box with Bioactive Ingredients", FoodProcessing.com, March 01, 2009, © Food Processing

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Prevention Trend Key to Future for Antioxidants March 1, 2009: 05:36 AM EST Antioxidants and products that promote immune system health as a means of preventing illness and disease are becoming more important as the health care system continues to focus on disease treatment and economic conditions worsen. Antioxidant sales reached more than $3 billion in 2007, continuing their overall growth of around 6 percent, according to Nutrition Business Journal (NBJ). Non-vitamin antioxidants ticked upwards by 11 percent, and antioxidants from fruit and vegetables achieved 21 percent growth. The top five best sellers remained the same as in 2006, with the exception that CoQ10 kicked Vitamin E out of second spot, demoting it to No.3. Traditional antioxidants such as selenium and Vitamins C and E showed low or even negative growth, allowing relative newcomers such as pomegranate, goji and acai to shine. These and other superfruits, with their high levels of anthocyanin, are poised to join carotenoids in the race for supremacy, alongside some tried and true favorites, such as blueberries and cranberries. Fruit and vegetable juice blends are beginning to make their presence felt as companies attempt to combine the best of the trend toward more natural, whole foods. Antioxidants are also finding their way into nutricosmetics (also known as cosmeceuticals), and CoQ10 and resveratrol continue to hold their ground. Food companies are also keeping up with the trend for consumers to want evidence that antioxidants actually work, and to know what the specific benefits are, by turning to clinical studies and scientific tests to back their claims. Sean Moloughney, "The Evolution of Antioxidants", Nutraceuticals World, March 01, 2009, © Rodman Publishing

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Mango Seed Extract Sheds Pounds from Research Subjects March 1, 2009: 02:59 AM EST African mango (Irvingia gabonensis) may help people to lose weight and cut cholesterol levels by inhibiting production of body fat. An extract from the mango seeds has been shown in a recent study to affect genes and enzymes that govern metabolism. Researchers at the University of Yaounde in Cameroon found that a group of overweight people fed the extract for 10 weeks lost on average 28 pounds each, a result described as “significant”. They also showed declines in LDL (“bad” cholesterol) and blood sugar levels. The group did not follow any other special diet, and was instructed to keep to their normal exercise levels. The research was partly funded by Gateway Health Alliances, Inc., which provided the Irvingia gabonensis extract. "Fruit extract shows promise as weight-loss aid", Canada.com, March 01, 2009, © Reuters

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Stevia Processors, Sellers see Much Sweeter Future March 1, 2009: 04:28 AM EST Stevia extract Rebaudioside A processors are very optimistic about the industry's future, following GRAS approval by the FDA and expected approval by the European Union. Malaysia's PureCircle is quadrupling the capacity of its stevia extraction plant in China to more than 4,000 tons and doubling its Malaysian plant to 2,000 tons as well as investing in Kenya and Paraguay. GLG is increasing capacity in China from 5,000 tons to 41,000 tons and developing new strains. Merisant of Chicago is banking on its PureVia tabletop sweetener to revive its fortunes. The company says Reb A sales could take up half of the $1.6 billion world sweetener market, compared with 2 percent at the moment. Richard Clarke, "Reb-A to spark sweetener revolution?", Functional Ingredients, March 01, 2009, © Penton Media, Inc.

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Tesco cuts prices on over 3,500 items February 27, 2009: 07:15 PM EST Summary from the snapshot Britain's two biggest supermarket groups, Tesco and Asda, went head to head with price cuts on thousands of everyday products, stepping up the battle to attract shoppers hit by the economic downturn. Britain's two biggest supermarket groups, Tesco and Asda, went head to head with price cuts on thousands of everyday products, stepping up the battle to attract shoppers hit by the economic downturn. "Tesco cuts prices on over 3,500 items", Guardian, February 27, 2009, © Guardian

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Count Calories to Lose Weight February 26, 2009: 06:25 PM EST Counting calories is the key to losing weight, according to a two-year study funded by the National Institutes of Health. Frank Sacks, principal investigator in the study, and a professor of cardiovascular-disease prevention at Harvard School of Public Health, says the study “goes against the idea that certain foods are the key to weight loss," and sends a positive message to people. “It gives people a lot of choices to find a diet they can stick with." But Arthur Agatston, a Miami cardiologist who created the South Beach Diet, which focuses on food selection, says "Measuring your food is not going to work in the long term.” Commenting on the research, Martijn Katan, a nutrition researcher at Amsterdam's VU University, said that participants had difficulty keeping weight off toward the end of the study. "Evidently, individual treatment is powerless against an environment that offers so many high-calorie foods and labor-saving devices," he said. Jennifer Levitz, "Calorie Counters Have it Right, Diet Study Says", Wall Street Journal, February 26, 2009, © Dow Jones & Company, Inc

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header - Women increasingly drawn to social media February 26, 2009: 02:15 PM EST The number of women attracted to the world of social networking has grown by a massive 53% in just 12 months, according to research by consumer magazine publisher IPC. The number of women attracted to the world of social networking has grown by a massive 53% in just 12 months, according to research by consumer magazine publisher IPC. The number of women attracted to the world of social networking has grown by a massive 53% in just 12 months, according to research by consumer magazine publisher IPC. Ben Bold, "Women increasingly drawn to social media", Brand Republic, February 26, 2009, © Haymarket Media

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Fiber on the Move in US February 25, 2009: 04:41 PM EST Fiber is on the move in the US, according to new figures from Datamonitor. The proportion of new products claiming to be high in fiber rose from 5.2 percent in 2006 to 6.3 percent in 2007, says Datamonitor’s Product Launch Analytics. PepsiCo, Kraft, Campbell Soup, Kellogg, and Dannon are among multinationals launching high-fiber products, ranging from bars, cookies, chips and bread to drinks and yogurt. Some of the products also contain omega-3. While few of these products are making weight-related claims at the moment, it’s only a matter of time before companies start touting grains as a means of helping people to feel full for longer, cutting down the amount they eat. "Food Makers Pump Up Fiber Contents", QSR Magazine, February 25, 2009, © Journalistic Inc

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Whole Foods Commits To Sustainable Palm Oil February 24, 2009: 04:17 PM EST In an boost for the Rainforest Action Network's campaign to end unsustainable palm oil production, Whole Foods Market signed on, expressed concern about for current practices and called for a change in the US market. Palm oil is used widely in many cosmetic and consumer goods and unsustainable practices are blamed for deforestation in Indonesia, Malaysia, Papua New Guinea and the Amazon rainforest. Whole Foods Market joins 37 other food, cosmetic and consumer goods companies and two organic palm oil suppliers who have signed a Rainforest Action Network (RAN) pledge to seek more sustainable ways of sourcing palm oil. "Whole Foods Market® Supports End to Unsustainable Palm Oil", Rainforest Action Network, February 24, 2009, © Rainforest Action Network

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Obesity Contributes to Childhood Allergies February 23, 2009: 10:58 AM EST Obesity may contribute to allergies in overweight children, say researchers from several institutes in North Carolina and Colorado. Using data on 4,000 children from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2005-2006, the researchers found a strong correlation between overweight and obesity and allergic reactions to a range of foods, including eggs, milk and peanuts. Children in the study were more than 50 percent more likely to be allergic to milk, and 25 percent more likely to have other allergies. The study also found that systemic inflammation may play a role in allergies. Lead author Cindy M. Visness said there was nothing conclusive about the findings, but they added weight to the need to maintain normal body weight. Cynthia M. Visness, et al, "Association of obesity with IgE levels and allergy symptoms in children and adolescents: Results from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2005-2006", Elsevier Inc, February 23, 2009, via Elsevier Inc, © American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology

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