New signs of confidence in Numico
Dutch group Numico, now focusing on babyfood and clinical nutrition, has the potential to be among the fastest growing companies in consumer staples, say analysts at Goldman Sachs.
Archives for December 19, 2003
Grape juice to regain youth
Grape juice significantly improved short-term memory and some neuro-motor skills such as coordination and balance in preliminary research on animals, presented last month.
Folate researchers gather at first conference
Europe's first international conference on folates, taking place in Poland early next year, is expected to shed new light on folate bioavailability in foods and help understand how to boost consumption of this essential vitamin.
Food labeling needs overhaul to help reduce obesity
The FDA should change food labeling laws to allow for accurate comparative claims in order to help consumers choose healthier diets, said the US Federal Trade Commission in a letter to FDA this week.
Vitamin maker agrees to settle in price-fixing case
German chemicals firm Merck KGaA, one the vitamin manufacturers involved in the price fixing allegations, has reached a settlement and is co-operating with the plaintiffs, reported the New York Times today.
Parent power - the rise of childhood obesity
The lifestyles of today's parents, which has created the booming market for unhealthy convenience foods, are partly to blame for the rise in childhood obesity, suggests a new report. But a backlash against junk food and the food industry in general...
Health Canada reviews comfrey products
Health Canada is advising consumers not to use products containing the herb comfrey until it has carried out a review of products on the market.
Wholegrain health claim clears FDA procedure
Food marketers in the US can now make a claim referring to the beneficial actions of wholegrains on reduction of heart disease risk, following an application from Kraft Foods.
Scientific support needed to tap probiotics potential
Experts meeting at a symposium on probiotics this autumn said that further scientific support is needed to explore the strong potential for health benefits of these bacteria.
Rye may add prebiotic properties
The rye grain, and rye bran in particular, is rich in dietary fibre and also contains a significant fructan concentration, which may have important prebiotic properties, suggests a new publication.