Weekly comment
Working at self-regulation
Self-regulation has become the mantra of food groups who argue that laws are not always necessary - but can industry be trusted when it has failed so spectacularly in the past?
Archives for May 1, 2006
'Mild' form of bird flu spreads in UK, worker infected
Two more farms in the Norfolk area of the UK are now under quarantine as the country battles a milder form of the avian influenza virus.
Cargill taps Thai tapioca potential
Cargill's finalised acquisition of a major Thai tapioca flour business in Thailand underlines its commitment to establishing a globalised ingredient-sourcing network.
Omega-3 could reduce neck and back pain
Supplements of omega-3 fatty acids could reduce the incidence of neck and back pain and eliminate the need for medication, says a small US study.
Connecticut governor pledges to back soda bill
State governor Jodi Rell has pledged to sign a bill that would make Connecticut the fourth US state to ban sales of sodas and other sugary beverages in state elementary, middle and high schools.
Ethical sourcing boosts M&A activity in food sector
Mergers and acquisitions in Europe's food sector bounced back last year, boosted by increased activity at the top end of the market and the growing influence of ethical sourcing, according to PricewaterhouseCoopers.
Convenience, food safety driving smart packaging market
The market for smart packaging for food and beverage products using such technologies as radio frequency identification (RFID) will grow to $8.8 billion in 2013 from the current $160m, according to a forecast report.
Bakkavor satisfies acquisitive appetite
Icelandic manufacturer Bakkavor has purchased two British food producers in as many days, securing its position as the UK's largest chilled foods supplier.
ADM appoints new CEO from oil business
Archer Daniels Midland (ADM)'s appointment of Patricia A. Woertz as the firm's new chief executive comes as the ingredient giant is investing heavily in alternative fuels.
US firm unveils ice cream vending machine
A newly developed vending machine in the US makes ice cream from scratch while you wait, shows how dairy firms are finding new ways to target consumer demand for convenience.
Frutarom targets Korean market with healthy plant extracts
Flavours and plant extracts firm Frutarom is investing in clinical trials in South Korea to tap into the strong growth of functional food and beverages in this market.
Tesco falls foul of Slovak government
The Slovak government has launched criminal proceedings against Tesco over allegations the retailer sold out-of-date meat products in Central and Eastern European (CEE) stores.