Inactivity Not Driving Obesity Epidemic January 8, 2009: 04:49 PM EST Physical activity may not be a major player in maintaining healthy weight, suggest the authors of a study comparing women from Chicago and Nigeria. Researchers from Loyola University Health System and other centers compared the two groups, and found that they burned about the same amount of energy through physical activity – 760 calories a day in Chicago, and 800 a day in Nigeria. The Chicago women averaged 184 pounds in weight, and the Nigerian 127. "Decreased physical activity may not be the primary driver of the obesity epidemic," said Loyola nutritionist Amy Luke, Ph.D, one of the study authors. Colleague Richard Cooper, Ph.D., chairman of the Department of Preventive Medicine and Epidemiology, notes that people burn more calories when they exercise, but they compensate by eating more. Diet was the most likely factor in the weight difference, the researchers found. The Nigerian women consumed more fiber and carbohydrates, and less fat and animal protein than the Chicago group, whose diet was 40 percent to 45 percent fat and high in processed foods. "Researchers: Physical Activity May Not Be a Key Factor to Obesity Epidemic", Nutrition Horizon , January 08, 2009, © CNS Media BV

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Body Conditions Food & Nutrition Women's Health Other Women's Health Dieting & Weight Control Other Food & Nutrition Obesity Geographies Worldwide North America EMEA United States of America Middle East- Africa Nigeria

Slow Eating Benefits Young Adults January 6, 2009: 04:53 PM EST “Slow down and eat” appears to be the key message to take away from a recent study of young adults. The research on 18-25 year olds shows that eating alone or on the run may result in less healthy food choices. Investigators from the School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, found that eating with friends and family was associated with eating more healthful foods, and with higher intakes of calcium and fiber among males. “Eating on the run" was linked to higher consumption of soft drinks, fast food and fat, and with lower intake of several healthful foods among females. "Young Adults Need to Make More Time for Healthy Meals", January 06, 2009, © Elsevier Health Sciences

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Body Conditions Kid's Health Other Kid's Health Dieting & Weight Control Obesity Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

4% Exposed to Drug Clash Risk January 5, 2009: 05:02 PM EST About 4 percent of Americans aged 57 to 85 are at risk of complications arising from drug interactions, according to research published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, funded by the National Institutes of Health and the University of Chicago. The study looked at use of over-the-counter (OTC) medications and supplements as well as prescription medicines. The survey found that people often use prescription and non-prescription medicines together. Nearly a half (46 percent) of the people surveyed used both prescription drugs and OTC medicines at the same time, and more than a half (52 percent) used prescription medication and dietary supplements together. Overall, 1 in 25 older adults risked serious drug interactions, the study found. For men aged 75 to 85, it was as high as 1 in 10. The survey found no evidence of concurrent use of contraindicated prescription medicines. "Mixing Medications Puts Older Americans at Risk", Nutraceuticals World, January 05, 2009, © Nutraceuticals World

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Food & Nutrition Pills & Supplements Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

Obesity Factor in Ovarian Cancer January 5, 2009: 04:56 PM EST Obese women who have never used menopausal hormone therapy are at higher risk of developing ovarian cancer than similar women of normal weight. The mechanism is thought to be hormonal. The finding comes from a review by a team led by Dr Michael F. Leitzmann of the National Cancer Institute of data from nearly 95,000 women aged 50 to 71, 303 of whom had ovarian cancer. Obesity was associated with an 80 percent increase in the risk of the disease among women who had not taken hormones after menopause. There was no link between the cancer and woman who had ever used hormones. Overweight postmenopausal women produce more estrogen, which may stimulate the growth of ovarian cells and play a role in the development of ovarian cancer. The risk was also higher in overweight postmenopausal women with no family history of ovarian cancer. "Study Links Obesity to Elevated Risk of Ovarian Cancer", Nutrition Horizon , January 05, 2009, © CNS Media BV

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Conditions Women's Health Ovarian Cancer & Cancer Prevention Obesity Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

Third-Hand Smoke Danger to Children January 2, 2009: 05:05 PM EST Particles of heavy metals, carcinogens and even radioactive materials that cling to smokers’ hair and clothing, and to cushions and carpeting, pose a risk to children’s health, say doctors from MassGeneral Hospital for Children in Boston. Known as “third-hand smoke”, the particles can be picked up and ingested by children. They linger long after second-hand smoke has cleared from a room, vehicle or other enclosed space. Dr Jonathan P. Winickoff, lead author of the study and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School, said “third-hand smoke is what one smells when a smoker gets in an elevator after going outside for a cigarette, or in a hotel room where people were smoking”. Among the substances in third-hand smoke are hydrogen cyanide; butane; toluene; arsenic; lead; carbon monoxide; and polonium-210 (the highly radioactive carcinogen that was used to murder former Russian spy Alexander V. Litvinenko in 2006). Eleven of the compounds are highly carcinogenic. Roni Caryn Rabin, "A New Cigarette Hazard: ‘Third-Hand Smoke'", New York Times, January 02, 2009, © New York Times

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Body Conditions Kid's Health Other Kid's Health Other Body Cancer & Cancer Prevention Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

Overweight People Have More Headaches December 9, 2008: 05:34 PM EST Overweight people are 1.2 to 1.4 times as likely to suffer from headaches, say Dr. Earl S. Ford and colleagues at the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta. They studied 7,601 adult men and women aged over 20 years who took part in the 1999 to 2002 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. About 15 percent of the men and 28 percent of the women reported they had severe headaches or migraines during the previous three months. About 35 percent of the study groups were overweight, 30 percent were obese, and 33 percent were in the normal weight range. About 2 percent were underweight and showed a two-fold higher prevalence of headache. The researchers say the small number of underweight people in the study made it difficult to conduct more analysis on this group. The results took into account other possible causes of headaches, such as gender, ethnicity, smoking, alcohol use, physical activity, diabetes and cholesterol levels. More work is needed to determine if obesity is causally related to the development of headaches, Ford said. "Obesity May Raise Headache Risk", Reuters, December 09, 2008, © Thomson Reuters

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Body Conditions Other Body Obesity Other Conditions Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

Dermatologists Issue Vitamin D Advice December 4, 2008: 05:39 PM EST Get your vitamin D from nutritional sources and dietary supplements, not from direct exposure to UV radiation. This is the advice from the American Academy of Dermatology in a recent position statement and media release. "Vitamin D is essential for optimal health, and the medical literature supports safe ways to get it – a healthy diet which incorporates foods naturally rich in vitamin D, vitamin D-fortified foods and beverages, and vitamin D supplements," said dermatologist C. William Hanke, MD, MPH, FAAD, president of the American Academy of Dermatology. "And, according to the medical literature, unprotected exposure to UV radiation from sunlight (natural) or indoor tanning devices (artificial) is not safe. Individuals who intentionally expose themselves to UV radiation for vitamin D are putting their health at risk for developing skin cancer." The Academy also recommends that people seek medical advice about safe options, and that physicians should follow the National Academy of Sciences Institute of Medicine guidelines for vitamin D. Clinical trials have not yet unequivocally established the amount of vitamin D needed to decrease the risk of certain cancers or other chronic conditions, but the Academy advises that individuals with known risk factors for vitamin D deficiency should consider a higher dose. The Academy recommends avoiding tanning beds and taking steps to protect yourself from UV exposure when you are outdoors. Stay in the shade whenever possible, wear sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat, long sleeves, pants and sunglasses. The position statement may be viewed at http://www.aad.org under the Featured Items section. "American Academy of Dermatology Issues Position Statement on Vitamin D", December 04, 2008, © 2008 PR Newswire

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Choline May Help Reduce Breast Cancer December 2, 2008: 05:45 PM EST Pregnant mothers who eat foods containing choline, such as eggs, reduce the chances that their babies will later develop breast cancer, say biologists from Boston University. The study is the first to link choline consumption during pregnancy to breast cancer, and to identify possible choline-related genetic changes that affect breast cancer survival rates. Pregnant rats were divided into three groups, and fed diets containing standard amounts of choline, no choline, or extra choline. Female offspring were then treated with a chemical that causes breast cancer. All the treated offspring developed the cancer, but those whose mothers had a high-choline diet developed slower-growing tumors than the others. The slow growing tumors had a genetic pattern similar to the pattern in breast cancers of women who are considered to have a good prognosis. The fast-growing tumors were similar to those seen in women with a more aggressive form of the disease. The researchers say that the genetic changes may result from the way that choline affects modifications of the DNA within the mammary gland of fetuses as they develop in the womb. "Eating Eggs When Pregnant Affects Breast Cancer in Offspring", December 02, 2008, © CNS Media BV

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Conditions Women's Health Breasts Cancer & Cancer Prevention Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

Generics As Good As Brand-Name Drugs December 2, 2008: 05:52 PM EST Low-cost generic drugs to lower blood pressure and combat stroke or heart problems are just as effective as brand-name drugs, say Harvard researchers. Lead author Aaron S. Kesselheim, MD, of Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, says, “We found no evidence that brand-name drugs are superior to generic drugs in terms of the clinical outcomes”. The Harvard researchers reviewed data from more than 47 studies conducted from 1984 to 2008. The FDA was authorized to approve generics in 1984, and since then they have become widely available. But both doctors and patients are often reluctant to use them, partly because there’s a perception that “more expensive” equals “better.” Patrick Sauer, "Study: Brand-Name Heart, Blood-Pressure Drugs Not Superior to Generics", December 02, 2008, © 2009 Health Media Ventures, Inc.

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Body Heart & Cardiovascular Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

Lallemand and Biostime Form New Probiotics JV To Target China November 27, 2008: 07:14 PM EST Lallemand SAS and Biostime Inc have extended the partnership they formed in 2000 with a new joint venture to market probiotics in China. Biostime France is based in Blagnac (France) and equally owned by French probiotics maker Lallemand SAS and Chinese marketer and distributor Biostime Inc. Lallemand specializes in research, development and production, while Biostime distributes to 15,000 outlets in China. The two companies launched “Biostime Probiotic Sachet for Children” in China after it was registered there in 2002. Sales have grown 20 percent a year since then, and are expected to reach 100 million sachets in the near future. The companies now plan to market adult and senior products. "Lallemand and Biostime Launch Probiotic JV in China", November 27, 2008, © FLEXNEWS

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Body Food & Nutrition Kid's Health Other Kid's Health Digestive Pills & Supplements Geographies Worldwide EMEA Asia-Pacific Europe China France

Valensa International and Parry Nutraceuticals Create New Force in Natural Products Market November 26, 2008: 07:23 PM EST Indian and American companies have combined to market “the next generation of high-performance nutritional products from plant-derived sources for the condition-specific dietary supplement, functional food and fortified beverage sectors”. Valensa International (Orlando, USA), the vehicle of a 48 percent strategic stake held by E.I.D. Parry (India) Ltd in U.S. Nutraceuticals, has joined forces with Parry Nutraceuticals (Division of E.I.D. Parry (India) Ltd) to market a range of products, including omega-3 essential fatty acids (ALA, EPA and DHA); phycocyanins and carotenoids including astaxanthin, lycopene, lutein, and zeaxanthin. The two companies already co-market astaxanthin and Valensa's patented SpiruZan, a Spirulina/Astaxanthin product. Both companies are committed to making sustainable natural products, and focus on natural ingredients made using environmentally responsible technology. Together they combine expertise in botanical material sourcing, formulation, product development and marketing of products for health and nutrition. "Valensa International and Parry Nutraceuticals Join Forces in the Global Natural Products Marketplace", MarketWatch, November 26, 2008, © PR Newswire

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Unilever Seeks Divorce over Hoodia November 14, 2008: 07:27 PM EST Unilever is discussing terminating a development agreement with Phytopharm to create a drink-based format using hoodia extract. The company is not satisfied with the results of clinical studies. The two companies signed a license and joint development agreement in December 2004. Unilever says the product is not suitable for its portfolio, while Phytopharm believes that pre-clinical and clinical data justify further work in the areas of obesity, and pharmaceutical and veterinary applications. Hoodia extract has been shown to reduce caloric intake in overweight subjects. Phytopharm says it will seek other partners. "Phytopharm in Talks with Unilever to End Hoodia Extract Pact,", November 14, 2008, © CNS Media

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Body Conditions Food & Nutrition Dieting & Weight Control Pills & Supplements Obesity Geographies Worldwide EMEA Europe United Kingdom

UK Govt Launches Obesity Campaign November 11, 2008: 07:47 PM EST More than 12,000 grassroots organizations, including the British Heart Foundation and the Fitness Industry Association, have signed up to the UK government’s $413 million anti-obesity Change4Life initiative. Companies including Kellogg's, ITV, Asda, Tesco and PepsiCo have also signed up. The drive to tackle obesity includes price cuts on healthy food from Tesco and Adsa, a national health campaign on ITV, and Pepsi stars featuring in fitness advertisements. The government is also in talks with companies including BSkyB, Kraft and Unilever about joining the initiative, working through the Advertising Association. Health secretary Alan Johnson says the aim is to “create a lifestyle revolution that will help families to eat well, move more and live longer”. Mark Sweney, "Government Unveils Details of £275m Anti-Obesity Push", November 11, 2008, © Guardian News and Media Limited 2008

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Optiva Gets Heart Health Tick November 10, 2008: 07:29 PM EST Kellogg has gained the endorsement of UK cholesterol charity Heart UK for its Optiva cereal brand. It plans to spend $1.71 million on a UK marketing campaign to gain a larger share of the market, and has introduced a new variety, containing oat flakes, hazelnuts and almonds. Kellogg has invested $30 million in the brand since it was launched in August 2006. Optiva is available in Sainsbury's and Morrisons in the UK, and is targeted at the aging population increasingly concerned about cholesterol and heart health. "UK: Kellogg, Heart Charity in Optivita Push", November 10, 2008, © just-food.com

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Body Aging Heart & Cardiovascular Geographies Worldwide EMEA Europe United Kingdom

Halt Called to Vitamin E and Selenium Supplements Trial, Possible Risk October 28, 2008: 05:47 PM EST Vitamin E and selenium do not prevent prostate cancer and may in fact pose a risk to users, forcing the government to stop part of a major study. The SELECT trial involved more than 35,000 men age 50 and older taking one or both supplements or dummy pills. Early data show that slightly more people taking vitamin E alone were getting prostate cancer, and slightly more users of selenium on its own were getting diabetes. The National Cancer Institute says that the link could be coincidental and that there’s no proof there is a risk from the supplements. Previous smaller studies have suggested the two supplements could be beneficial. The men’s health will be tracked for a further three years. "Study: Supplements Useless for Prostate Cancer", MSNBC, October 28, 2008, © The Associated Press

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Conditions Food & Nutrition Men's Health Other Men's Health Prostate Pills & Supplements Cancer & Cancer Prevention Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

Rice Blamed for Infant Allergies, Seen To Be Worse Than Than Cow's Milk October 28, 2008: 05:44 PM EST Rice can cause more allergies in infants than soy or cow’s milk, say Australian researchers. Until now rice has been considered a low-allergy food, but the research at Sydney's The Children's Hospital at Westmead shows that the cereal triggers food protein-induced enterocolitis syndrome (FPIES) in more infants than either cow or soy milk and resulted in treatment with an intravenous drip more frequently. The study of 31 infant-allergy cases was conducted over 16 years. Rice is often the first solid food introduced into an infant’s diet. They say increased consumption of rice in Australia may be a factor. FPIES doesn't occur in babies fed exclusively on breast milk. Simeon Bennett and Carey Sargent, "Rice May Cause Worse Infant Allergies than Cow's Milk (Update1)", October 28, 2008, © Bloomberg

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BPA Protects Cancer from Treatment October 9, 2008: 05:50 PM EST Bisphenol A (BPA) may protect cancer cells from chemotherapy, according to a study done at the University of Cincinnati. Lead researcher Nira Ben-Jonathan said that BPA does not increase cancer cell proliferation, but acts by “protecting existing cancer cells from dying in response to anti-cancer drugs, making chemotherapy significantly less effective”. The researchers exposed human breast cells to levels of BPA found in the blood of human adults. BPA is widely used in food and beverage containers, and studies have shown it can migrate into the contents. Previous studies have indicated that high levels could cause cancer. BPA is approved as safe for use in food and drink containers by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), the UK Food Standards Agency (FSA) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The plastic and food industries assert that it is safe. Tara Parker-Pope, "Plastic Chemical May Interfere With Chemotherapy", New York Times, October 09, 2008, © New York Times

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Good Fats Help Curb Appetite October 8, 2008: 05:59 PM EST Unsaturated fats play a key role in making people feel full, says a study from University of California Irvine. Researchers led by Daniele Piomelli, the Louise Turner Arnold Chair in Neurosciences, found previously that oleoylethanolamide (OEA), a compound derived from fat, regulates hunger and body weight. Their latest work found that oleic acid, an unsaturated fatty acid, stimulates production of OEA. Unsaturated fats are in foods such as avocados, nuts and olive oil. The previous studies showed that increasing OEA levels can reduce appetite, produce weight loss and lower blood cholesterol and triglyceride levels. The National Institutes of Health, New York Obesity Research Center, the Skirball Institute of Biomolecular Medicine and the Italian Ministry of Research supported the study. "UC Irvine Study Shows How Fatty Foods Curb Hunger", October 08, 2008, © Flexnews

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Red Wine Cuts Lung Cancer Risk October 7, 2008: 05:55 PM EST Smokers can cut their risk of lung cancer by up to 60 percent if they drink red wine, according to a study done by Dr C. Chao and colleagues at California’s Kasier Permanente Department of Research and Evaluation. The researchers reported that the risk of lung cancer dropped on average by 2 percent with each glass of red wine drunk per month. Amongst ever-smokers (more than 100 cigarettes in their lifetime) with a pack-year history (the number of packs of 20 cigarettes smoked per day multiplied by the number of years smoked) of at least 20 years, this figure rose to 4 percent. The most dramatic results were found in people who smoked and drank at least one glass of red wine a day – risk dropped by 60 percent when compared to other smokers. There was no clear association between drinking other types of alcohol and risk of lung cancer. More work is needed to identify the compounds in red wine that may be responsible for the effect, but the researchers note that red wine contains high levels of flavonoids and resveratrol, a compound that has previously been linked to health benefits. The study was done using data from 78,168 men who took part in the California Men’s Health Study (CMHS), set up to investigate the causes of various types of cancer. "Red Wine May Lower Lung Cancer Risk", ScienceDaily, October 07, 2008, © ScienceDaily

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Conditions Cancer & Cancer Prevention Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

Calories Trigger Desire to Eat More October 3, 2008: 06:03 PM EST A new study on mice by the University of Wisconsin-Madison has cast some light on why eating too many calories may affect food intake and weight gain. Researcher Dongsheng Cai and colleagues found that high calorie or energy intake leads to metabolic inflammation, a condition that may be behind many chronic, obesity-related metabolic disorders. The high-fat diet fed to mice led to over-nutrition, which in turn stressed a cell compound called the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), activating a protein complex called IKKbeta/NF-kappaB, specifically in neurons in the hypothalamus. This led the mice to increase their energy consumption, while suppressing the protein helped them maintain normal food intake and body weight. The researchers note that more work has to be done to build on “these very preliminary findings”. Stephen Daniells, "Caloric Overload May Disrupt Brain Functions: Study", FoodNavigator, October 03, 2008, © Decision News Media

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CRN at Odds with FDA over Combos October 1, 2008: 05:38 PM EST Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN) president and CEO Steve Mister has taken Bayer’s side in a dispute with the FDA over Heart Advantage, a combination of aspirin and phytosterols that fits somewhere between an over-the-counter (OTC) medicine and a dietary supplement. The FDA has issued a warning letter stating that the entire product is a drug, maintaining that its twin claims – that aspirin keeps the blood flowing and phytosterols help to lower bad cholesterol – “may be interpreted by the consumer as medical advice”. Bayer says it stands behind both claims and that neither is intended to replace medical advice. Mister says the CRN “continues to believe that combination dietary supplement-OTC drug products have a useful and important role to play in integrated healthcare and wellness”, and urges the FDA to help companies “maneuver the regulatory challenges”. CRN says the agency has scope under the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA) and the US Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act to approve such combinations. "Council for Responsible Nutrition says that Supplement-OTC Drug Products Play Important Role; FDA says Otherwise", Functional Ingredients, October 01, 2008, © Penton Media, Inc.

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Body Food & Nutrition Heart & Cardiovascular Other Food & Nutrition Pills & Supplements Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

Organics Not More Nutritious October 1, 2008: 06:11 PM EST Organic foods are not nutritionally superior to conventional foods, says Susanne Bügel, PhD, lead researcher and associate professor, Department of Human Nutrition and Centre for Advanced Food Studies, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Copenhagen. Dr Bügel and her colleagues found that there was “no evident trend towards differences in element content of foodstuffs or diets due to the use of different cultivation systems, and differences between harvest years exceeded those seen between cultivation methods.” They also found no significant differences in the retention of [nutritional] elements in rats fed diets derived from different cultivation systems examined the study. The study looked at the effects of three different cultivation systems on major and trace elements in a range of dried foods, and the retention of these elements by rats fed these foods. The absence of pesticides in the organic produce may confer some benefits, the researchers noted. Organic producers’ associations have criticized the study. Joanna Cosgrove, "Organic—Not Healthier?", Neutraceuticals World, October 01, 2008, © Neutraceuticals World

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Food & Nutrition Organic & Natural Geographies Worldwide EMEA Europe Denmark

African-Inspired Flavours for Beverages Get Popular September 29, 2008: 02:21 PM EST African flavors for beverages are coming onto the market, partly to counter consumer boredom. The drive has been led by the baobab fruit, which has been given novel foods approval for use in Europe. Baobab pulp is said to have an antioxidant activity about four times that of kiwi or apple pulp. Symrise has launched its African Inspirations, including a range of alcoholic drinks, while Treatt has launched two new flavors of African origin, Tamarind and Rooibos. Rooibos has built up a strong following for its superior antioxidant content. Symrise cited emerging markets as having a very positive effect on its first half results. European, Africa and Middle Eastern sales were up from $240 million to $245 million and Asia Pacific from $81 million to $86 million. South America saw a small dip. Sarah Hills, "Beverage Ingredients Follow Taste of Africa Trend,", foodnavigator.com, September 29, 2008, © Decision News Media SAS

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Cadbury Recalls Products Made In China Due To Melamine Worries September 29, 2008: 01:40 PM EST Cadbury has recalled the 11 chocolate products manufactured at its Beijing plant because of the melamine scare. Ten of the products are exported only to Taiwan and Hong Kong and one to Australia. China represents about 0.5 per cent of group revenue. San Lu, the Chinese firm at the center of the crisis, is 43 per cent-owned by New Zealand’s Fonterra. Lindsey Partos, "Cadbury Recalls All Chocolate Products Made at Beijing Plant", FoodQualityNews, September 29, 2008, © Decision News Media

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New Findings on Gastric Illness September 26, 2008: 12:52 PM EST Nearly all campylobacteriosis cases appear to be caused by bacteria in animals farmed for meat, in particular chicken and cattle, says a study by US and UK researchers. The bacteria causes more gastroenteritis in the developed world than any other bacterial pathogen and EFSA says it was responsible for 175,000 cases in the EU in 2006. The study, in the journal PloS Genetics, found that in 57 per cent of the cases, the bacteria could be traced to chicken, and in 35 per cent to cattle. Wild animal and environmental sources accounted for just three per cent of the cases studied. EFSA warns that resistance to antibacterials in animals is rising, with salmonella and campylobacter in particular becoming increasingly resistant to antibiotics. "Farmed Meat Main Source of Campylobacteriosis: Study", MeatProcess, September 26, 2008, © Decision News Media

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Natreon in Aus, NZ September 26, 2008: 11:53 AM EST Natreon has signed a distribution agreement with Cell-Logic in Australia and New Zealand to sell its Capros, PrimaVie, Sensoril and Crominex 3+ nutraceutical ingredients in the two countries. Lorraine Heller, "Natreon Takes Functional Ingredients to Asia Pacific", APFoodTechnology, September 26, 2008, © Decision News Media	Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Food & Nutrition Pills & Supplements Vitamins Geographies Worldwide Asia-Pacific Australia New Zealand

Research Finds Splenda Lowers Gut Microflora, Increases Intestinal P-Glycoprotein September 25, 2008: 04:22 PM EST According to a study in the Journal of Toxicology and Environmental Health, Splenda may suppress beneficial bacteria in the gut and cause weight gain, even at consumption levels within FDA guidelines. A 12-week feeding study on rats suggests the sweetener also affects the expression of enzymes known to interfere with the absorption of nutrients and pharmaceuticals. The study was carried out by researchers from Duke University in North Carolina and co-sponsored by the Sugar Association. McNeil Nutritionals, the company behind Splenda, was quick to dismiss the study and draw attention to a number of other studies supporting the safety of the sweetener. It also questioned the methodology and the conclusions drawn by the researchers. M. B. Abou-Donia et al, "Splenda alters gut microflora and increases intestinal p-glycoprotein and cytochrome p-450 in male rats", Journal of Toxicology and Environmental Health, September 25, 2008, via PubMed, © Journal of Toxicology and Environmental Health

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Puzzle over Chinese Sucralose Patents September 25, 2008: 12:13 PM EST A new allegation of patent infringement has been made against Chinese sucralose manufacturers that have been cleared by the US International Trade Commission (ITC) of infringing Tate & Lyle’s patents. Changzhou Niutang and its American subsidiary, US Niutang, along with Guangdong Food Industry Institute/L&P Food Ingredient Co (GDFII/L&P) were named in the original T&L complaint. Bioplus life sciences says the Chinese companies do not appear to have their own patents and it is virtually impossible to make genuine sucralose without a patent. Bioplus is one of a small number of companies that have patented their own processes. Pharmed Medicare and Fusion Nutraceuticals have also registered patents, with Fusion using first-generation technology from T&L. The world high intensity sweetener market is worth $1.3 billion, with sucralose having the largest share of 36 percent. North America is the world’s largest market, where sucralose is the leader with a 48 percent share. Sarah Hills, "Patent Debate Rumbles on after Tate & Lyle Sucralose Ruling", FoodNavigator, September 25, 2008, © Decision News Media

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Food Inspection Center in China September 25, 2008: 12:09 PM EST China is setting up a food testing center near Hong Kong, in conjunction with the state of Oregon (US), to inspect products going to the US and, later on, other countries. The China-US Peace Food Inspection Center will offer third party sampling, testing and certification of agricultural and fishery products so that they meet standards required by the FDA. The center will also play a role in developing equivalent standards. Dominique Patton, "New Venture Aims to Ensure Safety of Chinese Exports", FoodProductionDaily, September 25, 2008, © Decision News Media

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Unilever Testing Center September 24, 2008: 01:44 PM EST In a press release, Unilever announced it has opened a development center for composite foods in Cisterna, Italy to produce restaurant-quality convenience foods. "Unilever R&D Opens Centre for Assembled Foods in Italy", AlphaGalileo, September 24, 2008, via AlphaGalileo Foundation, © Unilever	Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Body Food & Nutrition Better For You Other Food & Nutrition Geographies Worldwide EMEA Europe Italy

Healthy Mouth Means Healthy Body September 24, 2008: 04:28 PM EST Attention to flossing and tooth brushing can help to promote a good heart, says Dr Steve Kerrigan from the Royal College of Surgeons in Dublin, Ireland. The study adds to research that suggests that good oral care can help promote good all round health and ward off problems such as diabetes and even premature birth and arthritis. Bleeding gums and plaque build-up in tissue around bones supporting the teeth can allow bacteria to enter the blood stream, resulting in illness, he says. Several other studies have also indicated that poor oral health can contribute to other diseases, including narrowing of the arteries, one of the first symptoms of heart disease. Simon Pitman, "Good Oral Health Bodes Well for General Health", Cosmetics Design, September 24, 2008, © Decision News Media

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Cosmetics May Harm Teenage Girls, Study Says September 24, 2008: 04:24 PM EST The Environmental Working Group says it has data indicating that hormone-disrupting chemicals are finding their way from cosmetics into teenage girls. Tests of the blood and urine of 20 teenagers revealed 16 chemicals that may disrupt hormone levels. The girls in the sample used an average of more than 16 products per day. The EWG said the chemicals identified, which include phthalates, triclosan and musks, are associated with cosmetics and body care products. They mimic hormones and may cause effects at very low levels. Teenage girls are going through rapid development so their long-term health, particularly their reproductive health, could be at risk, according to EWG. It says it is “notoriously difficult” to find cosmetics that are free from suspect ingredients and that labels are often misleading. The Personal Care Products Council has attacked the study, saying the EWG chose to publish data that supports its agenda rather than provide a full picture of the scientific research. It says that companies are required by law to substantiate the safety of all products and ingredients before they are marketed. Rebecca Sutton, "Teen Girls' Body Burden of Hormone-Altering Cosmetics Chemicals", September 24, 2008, © Environmental Working Group

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Conditions Kid's Health Women's Health Teen Pregnancy Other Conditions Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

Study Finds Dried Plums Preserve Beef September 24, 2008: 04:32 PM EST A study in the December 2008 issue of Meat Science found that dried plums are an effective way to preserve ready-to-eat boneless meat roasts. The study by researchers at the University of Oriente in Venezuela and Texas A&M University also found that the dried plums had little effect on the taste, color and appearance of the meat. Interest is growing in plant-derived food additives as replacements for synthetic antioxidants like butylhydroxyanisole (BHA) and butyl-hydroxytoluene (BHT) to slow down the oxidative deterioration of food. Frost and Sullivan says the synthetic antioxidant market is in decline, while natural antioxidants, such as herb extracts (particularly rosemary), tocopherols (vitamin E) and ascorbates (vitamin C) are growing, pushed by easier consumer acceptance and legal requirements for market access. The research was funded by the California Dried Plum Board and Texas AgriLife Research. M. T. Nuñez de Gonzaleza et al, "Antioxidant properties of plum concentrates and powder in precooked roast beef to reduce lipid oxidation ", Meat Science, September 24, 2008, © Elsevier Ltd

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Food & Nutrition Other Food & Nutrition Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America Other

Healthy Agents Found in Brown Rice September 24, 2008: 12:55 PM EST The healthy compounds in pre-germinated brown rice are made up of sterol-like molecules known as acylated steryl-beta-glucosides (ASGs), says a joint US-Japanese study in the journal of Lipid Research. Soaking the rice in warm water induces germination, which stimulates rice enzymes to produce more nutrients. The researchers used silica gel column chromatography, mass spectrometry (MS) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) techniques to identify the compounds. Stephen Daniells, "Brown Rice Bioactives Identified by Researchers", NutraIngredients, September 24, 2008, © Decision News Media

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Body Food & Nutrition Better For You Whole Grains Geographies Worldwide North America Asia-Pacific United States of America Japan

Seaweed Granules Reduces Salt in Food September 23, 2008: 12:58 PM EST Seaweed might be able to reduce salt in food without affecting shelf life and taste, say UK researchers. Working with an Anglo-Norwegian company, Seagreens, the team found that besides maintaining the taste of the food, the seaweed granules reduce the prevalence of some micro-organisms. The granules are reported to contain about 3.5 percent sodium, instead of 40 per cent typically found in salt. The average daily salt consumption in the western world is between 10 and 12g. The UK's FSA recommends six grams a day. In the UK, Ireland and the USA, over 80 per cent of salt comes from processed food, 20 per cent from meat and about 35 per cent from cereals. Stephen Daniells, "Seaweed Granules May Replace Salt in Foods", NutraIngredients, September 23, 2008, © Decision News Media

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Body Food & Nutrition Better For You Other Food & Nutrition Geographies Worldwide EMEA Europe United Kingdom Norway

Green Seaweed Powder Might Increases Yield of Cooked Noodles September 22, 2008: 01:01 PM EST Green seaweed powder might be able to increase cooking yields of noodles, says a Taiwanese study. There is a problem with weakening of the noodles but the researchers say this might be overcome by adding other functional proteins. The study found that the water absorption added to yields but made the noodles softer and spongier. Seaweed is already used in a variety of products, which has led to a shortage from Asia and the Pacific and subsequent price increases. Stephen Daniells, "Seaweed Powder Could Give Noodles Formulation Boost", NutraIngredients, September 22, 2008, © Decision News Media

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Body Food & Nutrition Better For You Other Food & Nutrition Geographies Worldwide Asia-Pacific Taiwan

Clorox Tackles Allergens in Homes September 20, 2008: 09:33 PM EST Clorox Anywhere Anti-Allergen Fabric Spray can be used on any soft surface to alleviate allergies caused by cat and dog dander and dust mite matter. It is fragrance and dye-free, and Clorox recommends testing it in an inconspicuous spot first. Cincinnati allergist Dr. Jonathan Bernstein says “the spray may be useful as one intervention among many to ease allergy symptoms”, but adds “it is difficult to show that [anti-allergens] have health benefits.” Mary Beth Breckenridge, " Spray helps fight allergens", The Akron Beacon Journal, September 20, 2008, © The Akron Beacon Journal

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Conditions Asthma & Allergies Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

Start-Up Targets Teens September 20, 2008: 09:37 PM EST Product creator Carly Wertheim and a group of friends have launched a range of natural and organic body products aimed at teenagers. Teens Turning Green products are sold at Whole Foods and cost slightly more than an average bottle of shampoo or face wash. "Health, Beauty Industry Marketing Green Products to Teens", Channel 3000.com, September 20, 2008, © Channel 3000

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Food & Nutrition Kid's Health Teen Organic & Natural Geographies North America United States of America

Caffeine Content Causes Concern September 20, 2008: 04:35 PM EST The popularity of energy drinks is leading to more cases of caffeine dependence and negative health impacts, says lead researcher Chad Reissig in a paper published in the journal Drug and Alcohol Dependence. Reissig says that concerns over energy drinks stem from the potential adverse consequences of higher caffeine intake on consumers, particularly younger people. Energy drinks contain considerably more caffeine than conventional sources such as tea and coffee, and often their caffeine content is not specified on product labels. The study highlights a clinical syndrome known as caffeine intoxication as a particular concern, linking it to symptoms such as nervousness, anxiety, restless-ness, insomnia, gastrointestinal upset, tremors, tachycardia and psychomotor agitation. Some studies have also suggested that the symptoms of caffeine intoxication closely resemble those of other anxiety and mood disorders, according to the review. Caffeine withdrawal is another area of concern. The British Soft Drink Association (BSDA) says that energy drinks are safe for human consumption and are strongly regulated across Europe. C.J. Reissig et al, "Caffeinated energy drinks - A growing problem.", Drug and Alcohol Dependence, September 20, 2008, via National Center for Biotechnology Information

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Body Food & Nutrition Kid's Health Other Kid's Health Energy Pills & Supplements Geographies Worldwide North America EMEA United States of America Europe United Kingdom

Swiss Company Launches Products in US September 19, 2008: 09:41 PM EST Switzerland-based Jungbunzlauer has partnered with Viachem to manage a range of products including Sub4Salt, which it claims allows manufacturers to cut salt content by up to 50 percent without any loss in taste. Viachem will also manage Jungbunzlauer's citric acid esters Citrofol, sodium diacetate and sodium gluconate products, and new products to be introduced to the US. "New Deal to Drive Sales of Health and Calorie Control Products", FoodNavigator, September 19, 2008, © Decision News Media

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Body Food & Nutrition Heart & Cardiovascular Low-Carb Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

Re-think on Foreign JVs in China September 18, 2008: 01:48 PM EST China’s melamine scare is making the industry realize that food safety measures and precautions in foreign joint ventures have to be as thorough as in Europe. If an investment stake is too small, there might not be enough leverage to take action. In China, a joint venture is a legal entity, and has to operate under Chinese rules. International companies need to think very carefully about whether they trust the local structures. Danone ran into problems with Wahahah while Remy Martin, Fosters and Peugeot all regretted their joint ventures. "Choose Your Joint Venture Partner with Care", FoodNavigator, September 18, 2008, © Decision News Media

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Food & Nutrition Other Food & Nutrition Geographies Worldwide EMEA Asia-Pacific Europe Australia China Denmark France

Probiotics Help Fight Cancer September 18, 2008: 01:04 PM EST Probiotics have been linked to a change in lipids in the gut, leading to a possible reduction in cancer, hardening of the arteries and other diseases. Finnish researchers who studied 26 people for three weeks found that lactobacillus rhamnosus GG can be associated with a decrease in lipids commonly known as lysogpcho and SM. There was an increase in triacylglycerols lipids, says the report in the World Journal of Gastroenterology. Stephen Daniells, "Probiotic’s Gut Benefits Get "Omics" Boost", NutraIngredients, September 18, 2008, © Decision News Media

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Body Food & Nutrition Better For You Digestive Preventative Care Organic & Natural Geographies Worldwide EMEA Europe Finland

Food-Based Films Stop E. Coli September 18, 2008: 04:38 PM EST According to a study published in Journal of Food Science, a tomato-based film containing carvacrol, the main constituent of oregano oil, may be an effective way to control bacterial build-up on food, say researchers from the Agriculture Research Service (ARS) of the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Western Regional Research Center, Processed Foods. Their work shows that carvacrol in the film inactivates the virulent pathogen E. coli O157:H7. Other food-based films may have similar effects, the researchers say. Jane Byrne, "E. Coli Growth May Be Inhibited by Tomato-Based Edible Film", FoodNavigator, September 18, 2008, © Decision News Media

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Food & Nutrition Other Food & Nutrition Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

ALA Plays Key Role in Omega-3 Benefits September 17, 2008: 04:40 PM EST A daily 2.4 gram dose of ALA-rich flax oil is enough to raise overall levels of omega-3 fatty acids, suggests a new study. Researchers from the University of North Dakota and the University of Manitoba found that flax oil, rich in alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), could increase red blood cell levels of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosapentaenoic acid (DPA), but not docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). ALA has received significantly less study from scientists and less attention from consumers than the longer-chain EPA and DHA. The health benefits associated with ALA include cardiovascular effects, neuro-protection, a counter to the inflammation response, and benefits against auto-immune disease. It is the only form of omega-3 regarded as “essential” to the diet, according to a recent review by Aliza Stark and Ram Reifen from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem and Michael Crawford from London Metropolitan University. Stephen Daniells, "Dietary ALA Sufficient to Raise Omega-3 Levels, Says Study", FoodNavigator, September 17, 2008, © Decision News Media

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Food & Nutrition Other Food & Nutrition Pills & Supplements Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

Retailers Have Role in Promoting health September 17, 2008: 06:08 PM EST Manufacturers and retailers should work together to provide parents with information about healthier foods, says a report from IRI (Information Resources, Inc). There is an emerging market of health-focused parents, according to the report, called “Healthy Kids Report II: Implementing the Better-for-You Standard”. But “aggressive ‘healthy’ branding and labeling” is confusing people, the report says. It suggests that retailers should provide parents with the information needed to choose “better-for-you” products, and take measures such as segmenting them from other products. The report identifies mass marketing of food-related messaging as one of three factors underpinning the rise of childhood obesity. Less physical activity coupled with more sedentary entertainment such as video games complete the top three. "IRI Healthy Kids II Report Establishes New Healthy Eating Standards to Help Retailers", Reuters, September 17, 2008, © Reuters

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Food & Nutrition Other Food & Nutrition Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

FDA Expects Few Claim Notifications September 17, 2008: 03:57 PM EST In a Notice, the US Food and Drug Administration estimates that it will receive only one nutrient content claim notification and two health claim notifications per year. These would require 1,150 hours of agency time to process – 250 hours for the nutrient content claim, and 450 hours for each health claim. Food manufacturers wanting to market foods with label claims based on an authoritative statement of a scientific body of the US Government or the National Academy of Sciences need to notify FDA of the use of these claims 120 days before marketing their products. "Notification of a Health Claim or Nutrient Content Claim Based on an Authoritative Statement", Food and Drug Administration, September 17, 2008, © Food and Drug Administration

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Food & Nutrition Other Food & Nutrition Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

Allergen-free Infant Food With Omega-3 And 6 September 17, 2008: 11:59 AM EST Friesland Foods Kievit has launched an omega-3 (DHA) and omega-6 (ARA) encapsulated combination that can be incorporated into hypoallergenic infant formula. The company says this is the world’s first such product. The ingredient is starch-based and free of proteins and other milk-based allergens that are common in infant formulas. According to Friesland, hypoallergenic formulas account for up to 20 per cent of the infant formula market in Germany and the Netherlands, and are growing by 10 per cent each year. It is estimated that six per cent of newborn babies are allergic to milk proteins. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends minimal infant consumption of 40mg/kg/day for ARA and 20mg/kg/day for DHA. Shane Starling, "Omega-3 in Infant Formula World First", FoodNavigator, September 17, 2008, © Decision News Media

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Food & Nutrition Kid's Health Babies Breast Feeding Organic & Natural Geographies Worldwide EMEA Europe Germany Netherlands

New Worry over Plastic Packaging September 17, 2008: 01:07 PM EST A compound used in plastic packaging has been linked to heart disease, type 2 diabetes and liver enzyme abnormalities. UK scientists say their study found that 25 per cent of people with the highest levels of Bisphenol A (BPA) in their bodies were more than twice as likely to have heart disease and/or diabetes compared to the 25 per cent of the people with the lowest levels, says their report in the Journal of the American Medical Association. The researchers say BPA is present in more than 90 per cent of the US population and that more than 2 million tons of the compound are produced annually. The US National Toxicology Program expresses concerns over the potential for developmental toxicity for fetuses, infants, and children, based primarily on animal studies. EFSA is staying with its TDI of 0.05 milligram/kg body weight per day. The FDA says the chemical is safe in food packaging, although Wal Mart is among retailers that are thinking of removing bottles with the compound. Britain’s Food and Drink Federation (FDF) and the Soft Drinks Association (BSDA) say BPA has officially been approved for use and that bottled water and plastic soft drinks containers do not contain the chemical. Plastics Europe, which speaks for the industry, says there is no basis for health concerns while the American Metal Packaging Alliance (NAMPA) says the study provides no scientifically defensible evidence. Iain A. Lang, et al, "FDA backs BPA as study links it to heart disease, diabetes", Journal of American Medical Association, September 17, 2008, © American Medical Association

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Body Conditions Food & Nutrition Heart & Cardiovascular Other Food & Nutrition Diabetes Other Conditions Geographies Worldwide North America EMEA United States of America Europe United Kingdom

Zerose OK in China September 17, 2008: 12:31 PM EST China has allowed Cargill to sell Zerose erythritol sweetener with no restrictions on its applications. Erythritol sales in China rose to more than 320 tons in 2007, according to Euromonitor, and are forecast to rise to at least 635 tons in 2012. Zerose is non-glycemic and non-insulinemic. "Cargill Gets Chinese Seal of Approval for Erythritol Brand", FoodNavigator, September 17, 2008, © Decision News Media

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Body Conditions Food & Nutrition Dieting & Weight Control Pills & Supplements Diabetes Obesity Geographies Worldwide North America Asia-Pacific United States of America China

Campaign to Boost Folic Acid September 16, 2008: 05:02 PM EST The Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN) and the national Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies Coalition (HMHB) are running a campaign to promote awareness of the health benefits of folic acid. Code-named “Commitment”, the project aims to spread the word about the need for women to take a daily multivitamin containing 400 micrograms of folic acid. The message is being particularly targeted to women preparing to get married, the logic being that they may become pregnant “sooner than [they] think”. Folate, which is found in foods such as green leafy vegetables, chickpeas and lentils, has been linked to a reduced rate of a specific birth defect that affects the development of the spinal cord and central nervous system. All grain products in the US and Canada have been fortified with folic acid – the synthetic, bio-available form of folate – since 1998. The CRN is a supplement trade organization. Lorraine Heller, "Folic Acid gets Another Awareness Boost", APFoodTechnology, September 16, 2008, © Decision News Media

Domains HEALTH & WELLNESS Food & Nutrition Kid's Health Babies Pills & Supplements Whole Grains Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America