CDC: Outbreak a reminder bacteria in microbiology labs can sicken workers
An outbreak of Salmonella has highlighted the risk associated with working in microbiology laboratories, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Archives for July 30, 2017
Mooovin' away from 'bargain-bin' UK: Raising livestock standards post-Brexit
Campaign groups have hailed Brexit as a historic opportunity to reshape food and farming systems to raise food-farming standards and finally bury the tag of “bargain-bin Britain”.
Nestlé ‘strongly committed’ to confectionery outside US as segment declines continue
Nestlé’s confectionery business has continued to decline in the first half of 2017, but it says it remains committed to the segment.
Does Europe need a legal definition of natural food?
With the US considering a legal definition of ‘natural’ food, does Europe need one too? It would increase clarity for a complex concept, but defining 'degrees of naturalness’ for origin, ingredients and processing may be better, say the researchers of a...
Green tea polyphenol EGCG counteracts obesity and cognitive decline caused by Western diet
There is "compelling evidence" that EGCG from green tea could improve memory impairment, brain insulin resistance, and obesity caused by a high-fat and high-fructose diet, researchers have claimed.
Amazon’s acquisition of Whole Foods Market could help push more shoppers to ecommerce
Only 9% of US consumers currently buy groceries online, but the Amazon/Whole Foods deal already is generating incremental interest in buying egroceries, according to a new consumer survey.
Food entrepreneurs get their own reality show
Production is underway on a new reality web series that will cover food start-ups.
Japanese frozen beef tariff rise causes US rift
Japan’s decision to increase its tariffs on imported frozen beef imports has caused anger in the US.
Will a qualified health claim for soybean oil give it a new lease of life?
Just days after approving a qualified health claim extolling the heart-healthy benefits of macadamia nuts, the FDA has approved a similar claim about soybean oil in a move petitioner Bunge says will provide clarity for consumers bombarded with confusing...
Real Oyster Cult takes the intimidation and safety risks out of oysters with front door delivery
The mail order oyster company Real Oyster Cult launched last May out of equal parts desire to deliver to consumers the freshest tasting oyster experience and a need to address food safety risks that threaten public health and commercial viability of...
Salmonella sickens 350 in five countries with link to poultry products
More than 350 Salmonella Enteritidis cases have been reported from five EU countries since 2014 with health officials admitting they still don’t know the source of infection.
EU pig production increases but farmgate prices remain steady
The number of pigs being produced within the European Union seasonally has been increasing. Citing data from the European Commission, Quality Meat Scotland (QMS) forecasts that this will continue to rise towards the backend of the year.
China direct
Consumers now look for healthier and premium products, survey finds
Chinese consumers have become more selective in their spending this year due to pressures at work and tightening household budgets.
SCIENCE SHORT
Probiotics offer prospect of cheap, eco-friendly nanoparticles
The use of probiotics for the biosynthesis of metallic nanoparticles (MNPs) may offer a cheaper, more eco-friendly alternative to previous production methods, says a new review.
Good Food Institute, NMPF, to FDA: Give the industry some clarity on plant ‘milk’ labeling
The FDA – which has continued to maintain radio silence over plant-based ‘milk’ labeling despite mounting frustration from stakeholders – should clarify its position in the face of increasing commercial, legal and political pressure, says the Good Food...
AFCO deal will create F&B business segment - Zep
Zep Inc is to purchase AFCO for an undisclosed amount with the deal expected to close in August.
Parisian steakhouse opens with promise to serve better value meat
Italian restaurant group Big Mamma has opened its first steakhouse, Pink Mamma, reportedly selling t-bone and tomahawk steaks up to three times cheaper than its competitors do.
Sanyuan and Fosun to acquire St- Hubert healthy-spreads company
Beijing Sanyuan Foods Co. (Sanyuan) and Fosun Group (Fosun) have agreed to jointly acquire Brassica TopCo and PPN Management, the controlling shareholders of St- Hubert.
Starbucks buys back its eastern China operation in record deal
In the biggest single transaction in its history, Starbucks’ American parent has bought up the remaining shares in its eastern China joint-venture. The deal now brings all stores in the country under its control.
North Korea faces worst food shortage since famine of 2001
North Korea will face its worst drought in over 15 years if rains do not improve soon, the Food and Agriculture Organisation has warned.
Scotch whisky sector calls for a trade deal with India
The Scotch whisky sector wants a reduction in the 150% tariff that India imposes on imports of its products in any bilateral trade deal the UK seeks following Brexit in March 2019.