Flavours Newsletter
Oct 2003 - What’s new in Flavours



Key Statistics
Coke more popular than Irn-Bru in Scotland
According to data, Coca-Cola has toppled Irn-Bru as the most popular product in Scotland. The soft drinks market value in this UK region is £525 million according to the latest AC Nielsen. Scotland used to be one of the few countries where an Irn-Bru kept Coke out of the Number One slot.
FOODNEWS, on Headlines from Mintel

Key Statistics
Cox loses out in battle of the apples
Sainsbury's sales figures have shown that the native Cox is now Britain's fourth favourite apple, coming behind foreign brands such as New Zealand's Braeburn (first) and Royal Gala (second) apples, and Golden Delicious (third) from the USA.
Daily Telegraph, on Headlines from Mintel

Key Statistics
Oktoberfest nears beer-drinking record
Participants in Germany's Oktoberfest drank the equivalent of six Olympic-sized swimming pools of beer during the two-week festival.
Some 6.3m people drank 10.7m pint, close to the event's record.
The Times, on Headlines from Mintel

Key Statistics
Women spend £670m on alternative therapy
Three quarters of British women adhere to yoga, acupuncture and other alternative therapies, spending an annual £670m on spiritual wellbeing.
"Spiritual spending" is one of the UK's biggest growth industries, according to a report published today by Virgin Money.
Daily Telegraph, on Headlines from Mintel

Key Statistics
Food for thought
By 2010, over 50% of food will be takeaway or eaten out.
Grocer.TodayAlerts.co.uk

Key Statistics
UK has one of the highest per capita consumption of cakes and biscuits
The UK has one of the highest per capita consumptions of biscuits in the world, with virtually 100% household penetration. And the total biscuit market is currently worth £1.7bn. The cake market isn't far behind, worth £1.25bn and growing by 5% by value year on year.
The categories are so successful that the problem for manufacturers isn't about attracting more munchers - it is about getting consumers to eat more of the sweet stuff, more often.
Convenience Store, on Headlines from Mintel

Key Statistics
Not from concentrate juice is driving growth in Europe
Not from concentrate juice (NFC) is fuelling growth in Europe. In terms of juice and juice drinks, Germany is the largest market with more than four billion litres or 30% of Europe. This is followed by the UK and France. In fact, these three take more than 50% of the market.
FOODNEWS, on Headlines from Mintel

Key Statistics
Americans Concerned About Bad Breath (USA)
The latest study conducted by breath strip makers has revealed that most Americans are seriously obsessed with having bad breath. At least 90% of individuals between the ages of 16 and 40 state that having bad breath is "the worst social mistake one can make." These individuals state that they constantly chew gum and mints to freshen their breath.
Chain Drug Review, on Headlines from Mintel

Key Statistics
America's Favorite Pies (USA)
According to NPD Group, America's favourite pies, in order, are as follows: Apple, Pumpkin, Cherry, Chocolate, Pecan, Peach, Blueberry, Sweet potato, Lemon Meringue, and Coconut custard.
Supermarket News, on Headlines from Mintel

Key Statistics
Britain's 'party pensioners'
Pensioners in Britain are having a great time, together spending £1.5 billion per month on travel, eating out and hobbies.
It's a far cry from the traditional image of old people sitting in front of the TV and taking it easy during their latter years.
The research, by Sainsbury's Bank, found that about 83% of Britons over the age of 50 have no intention of relaxing during retirement, even if it means spending their children's inheritance money
ananova.com, on Headlines from Mintel

International Developments
ASIA: Novel dairy products boom as Asians seek to prevent disease
New Zealand dairy leader Fonterra says sales of its colostrum and Stolle milk have risen significantly in key Asian markets, following the outbreak of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) earlier this year.
Stolle milk, obtained from cows which are immunised to induce the formation of antibodies in their milk, has seen a 50 per cent rise in sales in Taiwan, as consumers concentrate on boosting immunity levels to prevent disease.
Meanwhile sales of colostrum, taken from the first four milkings after calf birth from pasture-fed, non-immunised cows, are well above forecasted levels in China.
Foodnavigator.com
http://www.foodnavigator.com/news/news.asp?id=8451

International Developments
SCANDINAVIA: Drinks 'spelt' the right way
Product innovation continues in the Scandinavian non-dairy sector with a new line of organic cereal drinks launched this month to meet the growing tide for milk substitute products.
The novel range of cereal drinks, introduced under the Graindrops brand by the Norwegian company BioSophia, includes rice, oats, and spelt drinks. According to Organic Monitor, BioSophia is the first company to produce spelt drink as a dairy milk-substitute.
The cereal drinks produced according to the Koji process - an ancient Japanese fermentation process that is used to make Sake, Miso and Tamari - made an entrance in Norwegian retailers earlier this month and are expected to be rolled out to a number of European countries.
Spelt is an ancient grain with a slightly sweet, nutty flavour, believed to hail from 5000BC and first cultivated in Iran. Although not widely grown, spelt - that has bearded ears and spikelets - is favoured as a health food. The grain does contain gluten but it seems to be tolerated by most wheat-sensitive people.
Foodnavigator.com
http://www.foodnavigator.com/news/news.asp?id=8446

International Developments
THAILAND: EFSIS branch for Thailand
A UK-based inspection and certification service provider for the food business, EFSIS to open an office in Thailand. This is due to the growing concern on food safety locally and the trend to export more food products. The Thai government aims to keep food free of chemical contamination whether it was for local sales or export, and to raise the food sold locally to international standards. The company's services include accrediting food standards required by European member countries as well as international food standards.
FOODNEWS, on Headlines from Mintel

International Developments
LATIN AMERICA: Kola Real takes on Coca-Cola and Pepsi
Kola Real is emerging as an unlikely threat to both Coca-Cola Co. and PepsiCo Inc. in Latin America, a region where the two soft-drink giants enjoy some of their fattest global profit margins. Kola Real offers ultra-low prices that appeal to the region's poor majority. The brand has captured almost one-fifth of the Peruvian market and has made inroads into Ecuador and Venezuela. Now Kola Real is stirring things up in Mexico. Mexico is the world's 2nd-biggest soft-drink market after the US.
Wall Street Journal Europe, on Headlines from Mintel

International Developments
DENMARK & SWEDEN: V&S to expand Danish presence
The Swedish state-owned drinks producer Vin & Sprit is expanding into Denmark according to local press reports.
The company is to introduce new brands onto the Danish market including Renat and Carlshamns Flaggpunsch. It will also open a number of new stores, taking its total in the country to 50.
The move follows the increase in Swedish cross border shopping in Denmark after the Danish cut in alcohol taxes at the beginning of October. The stores are to be located on the Swedish-Danish borders in order to capitalise on the phenomenon.
Just-drinks.com
http://just-drinks.com/nd.asp?art=21023&dm=yes

International Developments
SWEDEN: Swedish food firm to add probiotic range
Leading Swedish food manufacturer Procordia Food is to launch a series of health-enhancing foods, it has announced, reaching a deal with compatriot BioGaia for use of its probiotic bacteria Lactobacillus reuteri in certain products on the Nordic market.
The company said it was logical step to increase its focus on one of the major trends currently driving consumer purchasing.
Foodnavigator.com
http://www.foodnavigator.com/news/news.asp?id=8547

International Developments
SPAIN: Sweet makers seek partners
Two of Spain's biggest confectionery producers are feeling the pressure of competition in the market and are actively seeking partners to help them survive in the increasingly cut-throat market.
Catalan group Agrolimen is looking for a buyer or a partner for its confectionery subsidiary Joyco, while the lollipop maker Chupa Chups, also based in Catalonia, is seeking partners for a Maxxium-style distribution agreement, according to reports in the Spanish press.
Foodanddrinkeurope.com
http://www.foodanddrinkeurope.com/news/news.asp?id=2970

International Developments
SWEDEN: Legal changes to benefit Swedish drinkers
The European Commission has told Sweden it must relax its laws concerning alcohol purchases from abroad, on the grounds that they currently constitute a barrier to trade. While the move will undoubtedly delight Swedish natives, one market set to reap the benefit will be Denmark - especially Carlsberg.
Under current state law, Swedish consumers are only allowed to bring alcohol into Sweden for their own use if they do so personally. In the event that Swedish individuals are unable to physically transport the product into the country themselves, their only option is to request 'Systembolaget', the national alcohol retail monopoly, to transport it into Sweden on their behalf. They are not allowed to request other intermediaries to do so.
just-drinks.com
http://just-drinks.com/nd.asp?art=21110&dm=yes

Retail & Company News
Relationship between supermarkets and food producers is worse than ever
According to a survey carried out for the Competition Commission, the relationship between supermarkets and food producers is worse than ever.
The survey of 500 suppliers says that a supposedly tough code of practice for supermarkets imposed almost 2 years ago by the competition authorities in an attempt to protect suppliers, has actually legitimised bully-boy tactics by the supermarkets.
Sunday Telegraph, on Headlines from Mintel

Retail & Company News
Northern Foods to merge Fox's and Elkes biscuit division
Just-food.com
http://just-food.com/nd.asp?art=55503&dm=yes

Retail & Company News
Dairy Crest sells juice plant
Dairy Crest has sold its chilled drinks business to Princes for £11m to focus on developing its spreads and flavoured milk. Dairy Crest said the sale of own label juice operations at Kidlington, Oxfordshire, would incur a one-off charge of £3m.
Grocer.TodayAlerts.co.uk
http://www.grocertoday.co.uk/article.asp?s=1&a=259091

Retail & Company News
Own-label set to stabilise
The share of own-label products within the UK grocery market is predicted to stabilise with a small rise to 39% by 2007, according to market analyst Research and Markets. Currently own-label products account for 38.5% of grocery sales. The market researcher said that it based its prediction on the opening of convenience-type outlets by retailers between 2003 and 2005.
Food Industry News, October 2003

Retail & Company News
Ice cream expansion
Richmond Foods is already one of the UK's biggest suppliers of the UK ice cream market following a licensing deal with Nestlé last year. Now it has strengthened its position even further with the acquisition of Oldfields. Richmond Foods has paid £3.95 million for Oldfields Ice Cream, the company which supplies ice cream in bulk to caterers in two-litre tubs.
Foodanddrinkeurope.com
http://www.foodanddrinkeurope.com/news/news.asp?id=2907

Retail & Company News
Gerber Trades in Glass Packaging
Gerber Products Co. has announced its plans to switch from glass to plastic packaging for its infant and toddler foods in an attempt to increase its revenues and please customers.
The company is investing $65 million in its Fort Smith plant to incorporate new equipment for the plastic packaging.
The new packaging will be available in 2005.
Food Institute, on Headlines from Mintel

Retail & Company News
Sainsbury sales down
Sainsbury has slipped further behind its supermarket rivals as it revealed a 0.2% decline in like-for-like sales including petrol for the second quarter.
Grocer.ToadayAlerts.co.uk
http://www.grocertoday.co.uk/article.asp?s=3&a=259525

Retail & Company News
Nisa launches new fascia aimed at the forecourt market
Nisa has launched Nisa Express, a fascia scheme specifically directed at the forecourt market. The fascia is currently being installed at a forecourt site in Wrexham.
Convenience Store, on Headlines from Mintel

Retail & Company News
Arla invests in the future (Denmark)
Arla Foods' board of directors has approved of the group's investment budget for the coming year. A figure of DK1.6 billion (€215m) has been agreed.
Dairyreporter.com
http://www.dairyreporter.com/news/news.asp?id=674

Retail & Company News
Cadbury to close two UK factories
Confectionery and soft drinks giant Cadbury Schweppes' main UK operating business, Cadbury Trebor Bassett, has announced its proposal to close two factories, in a move that will affect 555 employees.
The company plans to close the former Adams plant in Radcliffe, Greater Manchester and the Trebor plant at Brimmington Road, Chesterfield. Production will cease by the end of 2004, with both sites closing in March 2005.
Production will transfer from the Radcliffe plant, which makes Halls Mentholyptus and Soothers, to the Americas as more than 80% of the current plant's output is exported, mainly to that region.
The Chesterfield plant, which makes Black Jacks and Fruit Salads confectionery, is not operating to full capacity and the proposal is that production will be switched to other factories, including Sheffield, in the UK.
Just-food.com
http://just-food.com/nd.asp?art=55643&dm=yes

Retail & Company News
Maui Wowi To Go Global (USA)
Maui Womi, a smoothie company, is set to expand its business into International arenas. The company will sell franchises in Mexico, Canada, the UK, and Kuwait. The company expects sales to reach $75 million by the end of 2003.
Food Institute, on Headlines from Mintel

Retail & Company News
Arla on the Express track to UK growth
Arla Foods and Express Dairies have been given the go-ahead to merge their UK businesses after the Competition Commission found no evidence that the deal would adversely impact the liquid milk market.
Foodanddrinkeurope.com
http://www.foodanddrinkeurope.com/news/news.asp?id=2975

Retail & Company News
Bidders offer £25m for PJ Smoothies
The venture-capital unit of Unilever and Kerry, the Irish food group, are vying to buy fruit-drink maker PJ Smoothies. The bidders are believed to have offered £25m for the business.
Sunday Times, on Headlines from Mintel

Retail & Company News
Lucozade sales fizz for GSK
GlaxoSmithKline has posted a 22% jump in sales of its energy drink Lucozade for the third quarter. Group pre-tax profit for the period was up 20% at £1.69bn on a 9% rise in turnover to £5.47bn. Sales of nutritional healthcare products rose 11% to £174m, led by the rise in Lucozade sales. The group said that oral care sales were up 5% to £278m, boosted by the launch of Aquafresh Extreme Clean toothpaste in the US. However, sales of smoking control and gastro-intestinal products fell 10% and 8% respectively, due to own label competition in the US
Grocer.TodayAlerts.co.uk

Retail & Company News
Hibernia Foods in receivership
Speciality cake maker Hibernia Foods has ended in the hands of the receivers after failing to pay off a loan. Earlier it had sacked its CEO and CFO in a controversial reshuffle aimed at reducing its debt.
Foodanddrinkeurope.com
http://www.foodanddrinkeurope.com/news/news.asp?id=3036

Products & Brands
PJs' smoothies for kids
PJs is all set to launch two new additive-free fruit drinks in October. With growing parental concern over high sugar content in juices and overarching concerns about children's diets, it seems an appropriate time to introduce new young consumers to the burgeoning smoothie market.
Called FrooOties, PJs' new strawberry and orange flavoured pouch drinks are rolling out to all the major UK multiples until Christmas. The drinks are a blend of crushed fruit and juice with no other added ingredients and will be a combination of a smoothie and a juice.
Just-drinks.com
http://just-drinks.com/nd.asp?art=20922&dm=yes

Products & Brands
New pitch for Screamers
Coors Brewers with beer brands Carling, Worthington's, Grolsch and Caffrey's has redesigned its vodka shot range Screamers.
The new look, which comes in four, five and 10-packs is aimed to grab shoppers' attention. The packs are coloured according to flavour - red (strawberry), gold (chocolate honeycomb), blue (raspberry and pineapple), purple (rhubarb and custard), and green (pear burst).
Grocer.TodyAlerts.co.uk
http://www.grocertoday.co.uk/article.asp?s=2&a=259113

Products & Brands
Aquafresh mouthwash to be extended into the children's market
GlaxoSmithKIine is to extend its Aquafresh mouthwash brand into the children's market with the launch of Aquafresh Whoosh.
Source: Marketing Week, on Headlines from Mintel

Products & Brands
Dogs get a beefy drink
Pampered pooches can now be indulged with a beef-flavoured drink instead of plain old water thanks to a new product called Alpha Max. The new offering is positioned as a tasty and healthy alternative to water and is fortified with vitamins and minerals.
The Grocer

Products & Brands
Archers extended into wine
Diageo is throwing its Archers schnapps brand into the wine arena with the launch of a new sparkling line.
Archers Eden combines fruit schnapps and wine and comes in Berry Rose and Citrus White variants. Initially launched exclusively in Asda, Archers Eden is 5% abv and comes in a 70cl bottle, positioned in the sparkling wine fixture.
The Grocer

Products & Brands
WKD strength reduced to 5%
Beverage Brands is reducing the alcoholic strength of its WKD ready-to-drink brand to make it more competitive.
The move will see the range's spirit content drop from 5.5% to 5% abv with the duty saving being passed on to the trade rather than going back into the company, it promised.
Rivals Diageo and Bacardi-Martini cut the abvs if their brands earlier this year, bringing Smirnoff Ice, Archers Aqua and Bacardi Breezer down to 5% abv.
The Grocer

Products & Brands
Trendy low-carb ketchup from Heinz
H.J. Heinz taps into the growing low-carb trend in the United States with the launch of a low-carbohydrate version of its popular ketchup.
The new 'One Carb' ketchup is the latest in a line of product innovations within Heinz's $1.2 billion (€1.04bn) ketchup business in recent years that includes organic ketchup, and coloured versions aimed at children's plates.
Heinz's lower carb ketchup contains one gram of carbohydrates per serving - 75 per cent fewer carbohydrates than traditional Heinz Ketchup.
Foodnavigator.com
http://www.foodnavigator.com/news/news.asp?id=8497

Products & Brands
Fox's Confectionery making its debut in the children's sweets market
Fox's Confectionery is making its debut in the children's sweets market with Fox's Cubs.
Source: Marketing, on Headlines from Mintel

Products & Brands
Rachel's Christmas pudding yogurt
Rachel's Organic will release a Christmas pudding flavour yogurt this winter, the first in a series of seasonal live organic yogurts from the company.
Dairy Industries International, October 2003

Products & Brands
Barrie House Adds Seasonal Coffees
Barrie House is set to add its flavoured seasonal coffees for the 2003 Holiday season. For September and November, the company will make available its Pumpkin Pie, Gingerbread, and Eggnog varieties.
Vending Times, on Headlines from Mintel

Products & Brands
Milk ingredient to launch as energy-booster
New Zealand dairy company Fonterra has developed an energy bar prototype said to far exceed similar products on the market.
The product, developed by Fonterra's marketing and innovation team for New Zealand's 2003 TransAtlantic Rowing Challenge team, contains the firm's bioactive milk ingredients.
The formula on which the bar is based will form part of a product range aimed at a variety of consumers, including young children and the elderly, who would benefit from energy-dense products. The company revealed little detail about the formulation, but said the lipid-based formula means it packs almost double the energy of carbohydrate-based equivalents.
foodanddrinkeurope.com
http://www.foodanddrinkeurope.com/news/news.asp?id=2933

Products & Brands
Bacardi Breezer withdraws new bottles
A popular alcopop has been taken off the shelves over fears for safety.
The new 70cl bottles of Bacardi Breezer were recalled after breakages were reported, which resulted in cut fingers.
Ananova, on Drinks and beverages industry news
http://c.moreover.com/click/here.pl?e94061530&e=6327

Products & Brands
Innovative Adds CarbSlim Bites To Line
Available from Innovative Companies, Inc. is its CarbSlim Bites. The candy is said to look and taste like candy bites but contains no sugars and no net carbohydrates. The bites are packaged in a movie theatre-like box. The Caramel Chocolate Crunch and Peanut Butter Crunch varieties retail in GNC stores nationwide.
PR Newswire, on Headlines from Mintel

Products & Brands
Cantrell and Cochrane target UK with Magners
Magners cider is being tested in Glasgow for what Bulmers hope is a 3% or 4% lift in sales in the UK.
Bulmers Ltd is part of Cantrell & Cochrane Group. It is investing heavily in the Scottish launch. The product already sells well in
Northern Ireland and, it is claimed, has premier position.
According to research, in the Irish Republic 20% of people drink Bulmers and 11% claim it is the drink they have most often.
Irish Independent, on Headlines from Mintel

Products & Brands
Hain Celestial Introduces Carb Fit Line
Now joining Hain Celestial Group's line-up is Carb Fit, an array of low-carbohydrate foods. The line-up's products are said to be all natural and kosher. They do not contain trans-fat or hydrogenated oils, the company claims. The line-up will be featured in health food stores.
PR Newswire, on Headlines from Mintel

Products & Brands
McDonald's launching low-fat strawberry yogurt tubes
Fast food chain McDonald's is launching low-fat strawberry yogurt tubes called Yogurt Bursts as a permanent addition to its Happy Meal menu.
Marketing Week, on Headlines from Mintel

Products & Brand
Gums Return For Limited Time (USA)
For a limited time during Fall 2003, Black Jack-, Beeman's-, and Clove-branded gums will be re-launched onto the market. The gums are released every six to seven years.
Supermarket News, on Headlines from Mintel

Products & Brands
United Biscuits extending its Carr's brand into Carr's Deli
United Biscuits is extending its Carr's brand into Carr's Deli, a range of delicatessen-inspired crackers. The brand is being positioned as an alternative to bread. The range comprises Rosemary & Flaked Salt, Multiseed & Rye, and Pesto.
Marketing, on Headlines from Mintel

Products & Brands
7-Eleven Introducing Hot Beverage Bar
7-Eleven, Inc. is introducing its new hot beverage bar, consisting of new coffees, creamers, cocoa, cappuccino, toppings, flavour syrups, steamed milk mix, and sweeteners. The beverage bar allows for customers to create "more than 1,300 different hot beverage combinations."
morningnewsbeat.com, on Headlines from Mintel

Products & Brands
Horizon to Launch New Milk Flavours
Horizon Organic Holding Corporation is launching two new flavours of single-serve milk. Its new Orange Cream and Caramel flavours will be added to its already established line of Chocolate, Vanilla, Strawberry, and 2% Reduced Fat varieties.
Food Institute, on Headlines from Mintel

Products & Brands
Pepsi Vanilla Outdoes Vanilla Coke (USA)
According to results recorded in the four weeks of August through Labor Day, Pepsi Vanilla outsold Vanilla Coke in supermarkets, with Pepsi Vanilla ranked the 20th most-popular brand and Vanilla Coke ranking 23rd.
Food Institute, on Headlines from Mintel

Products & Brands
Kraft Adds Flavoured Cheeses (USA)
Joining Kraft's line of cheeses is its flavoured varieties. The extensions include Cheddar Bacon, Smoky Swiss & Cheddar, Pepper Jack, and Roasted Garlic.
Dairy Fields, on Headlines from Mintel

Products & Brands
Minute Maid Adds MiFruta Beverage Varieties (USA)
Minute Maid has introduces its MiFruita line. The line-up's flavours include Hibiscus, Mango Orange, Pineapple, and Strawberry. Each flavour will retail in 20-oz. plastic bottles in convenience stores.
PR Newswire, on Headlines from Mintel

Products & Brands
Sneak preview
Nestle has lifted the lid on the first products to come out of its five-year deal with cake manufacturer Memory Lane
The deal, which is certain to intensify the battle between Nestle and Cadbury in the cake category, was not expected to bear visible fruit until early next year.
Milkybar is going into a cake bowl to produce tubs of 15 mini muffins ands packs of nine cakes
The Rolo and Double Cream brands will also make their debut in big mini rolls and tubs of mini roll bites.
The Grocer

Products & Brands
Clipper's peace offering for children
Clipper is broadening its horizons with a health-positioned hot drink for kids.
Clipper Kidz-T is a blend of natural banana flavour, organic pineapple pieces and organic Honeybush and Redbush with a "naturally sweet" taste. It is free from gluten, caffeine and artificial sweeteners, and with Honeybush and Redbush both being pacifying, can be drunk any time of the day - including at night.
The Grocer

Products & Brands
VK's value alternative
GBL International is rolling out a new look vodka brand to capitalise on the success of its VK ready-to-drink range. VK Vodka will be launched as a value proposition to complement the premium VK Pure Vodka.
The Grocer

Products & Brands
Planet Hollywood set to launch ready meals
Restaurant chain Planet Hollywood is preparing to launch a frozen ready meals range in Sainsbury's supermarkets, beginning with the chicken crunch dish that has proven popular on its restaurant menus.
Daily Express, on Headlines from Mintel

Products & Brands
The official isotonic
Calypso Soft Drinks has signed an exclusive £250,000 deal that confirms Umbro Isotonic as the Official Sports Drink of The Football League. It is the only sports drink to be used by the players and officials of more than 50 clubs in the first, second and third divisions throughout the 2003/04 football season.
Calypso and Umbro combined their technical and marketing expertise, with the support of Belmay flavour company, to create Umbro Isotonic as a genuinely different sports drink in a segment of the UK soft drinks market currently worth £10,200 million a year.
Soft Drinks International, October 2003

Products & Brands
Lipton-Pepsi link growing
Unilever's Lipton tea brands and Pepsi's soft-drink bottling skills are combining in a joint venture selling primarily Lipton Iced Tea across Europe, the Middle East and Asia. The two have been partners in North America for 10 years and Lipton holds just over 10% of the ready-to-drink tea market. Lipton is the third-largest beverage brand behind Coca-Cola and Pepsi.
This is Money, on Drinks and beverages industry news
http://c.moreover.com/click/here.pl?e95386383&e=6327

Products & Brands
Leading Brands Introduces Soy2O (USA)
Leading Brands has announced the launch of its new Soy20 fruit flavoured water, which contains natural soy isoflavones. Isoflavones are said to lower cholesterol, reduce the risk of heart disease, protect against certain cancers, prevent bone loss, treat osteoporosis, and ease menopausal symptoms. Available flavours include Blueberry, Grape, Peach Mango, Strawberry Guava, and Lemon Green Tea.
Food Institute, on Headlines from Mintel

Products & Brands
Beverage Brands launches Kitsch
Beverage Brands is introducing Kitsch, a new sparkling perry drink to appeal to female RTD drinkers. Kitsch (7.5% ABV) is made from 90% pear and 10% apple juice, and comes in 250ml bottles.
Morning Advertiser, on Headlines from Mintel

Products & Brands
New yogurt varieties
Further building on its dairy products success Ocean Spray is to launch seven new yogurt varieties.
The range, to be launched in the UK includes a cranberry, blueberry and guarana blend, as well as cranberry, redcurrant and ginseng and cranberry, pink grapefruit and green tea. It will be launched with a £6 million advertising campaign to support the product range.
FOODNEWS, on Headlines from Mintel

Products & Brands
'Snapple Pie' hits store shelves (USA)
Beverage sales of soft-drink and juice makers tend to trail off into the fall season, after the summer rush, but drink maker Snapple has ripened an idea in an effort to counter the trend.
The company released a limited-edition drink Monday called "Snapple Pie," which encompasses the tastes associated with apple pie. The launch of the drink, which will be available from October through December, was set to coincide with the apple-picking and holiday seasons.
CNN, on Drinks & beverage industry news
http://c.moreover.com/click/here.pl?e96643929&e=6327

Products & Brands
Snapple Adds Kid-Friendly-Sized Juices (USA)
Snapple has added a smaller-sized version of its popular drinks, said to aid in the kick-off of the new school year. Available in the 8-fl. oz. varieties are the company's Snapple Apple, Snapple Fruit Punch, Snapple Kiwi Strawberry, and Snapple Lemon Iced Tea.
Vending Times, on Headlines from Mintel

Products & Brands
Allied Domecq, Goldkenn launch confectionery brand
UK-based drinks giant Allied Domecq has said it has entered into a worldwide licensing agreement with Swiss confectionery company Goldkenn to produce chocolate truffles with MUMM Champagne.
Just-food.com
http://just-food.com/nd.asp?art=55682

Products & Brands
Oak Leaf Adds Gumball Varieties (USA)
Oak Leaf has made available its Sour Cotton Candy and Paint Ball gumball varieties. The Sour Cotton Candy is available in Green Apple, Strawberry, Grape, Blueberry, and Cotton Candy flavours. Paint Ball gum is available in Ice Cream, Orange, Strawberry, Lime, and Tutti Fruitti.
Vending Times, on Headlines from Mintel

Products & Brands
Ocean Spray extending its yogurt range
Ocean Spray is to extend its yogurt range by adding fat-free and low-fat probiotic yogurts with natural plant extracts.
Marketing Week, on headlines from Mintel

Ocean Spray launches first probiotics
Ocean Spray is swelling the ranks of its yogurt portfolio with its first probiotic offerings and a new fat-free range.
The three probiotic Ocean Spray Plus newcomers contain natural plant extracts. All are low-fat and cranberry-based, with blueberry and guarana - claimed to boost energy, redcurrant and ginseng - to ease stress, and pink grapefruit and green tea - for a healthy heart.
The fat-free newcomers feature cranberry yogurt blended with blueberry, mango, melon or peach and are all sweetened with Sucralose.
The Grocer

Products & Brands
Boots launching vitamin strips
Boots is launching vitamin strips, which dissolve on the tongue. The inch-long, micro-thin vitamin strips follow in the footsteps of chewing gum maker Wrigley, which produces translucent peppermint-flavoured strips under the Wrigley's Extra Thin Ice brand; and Pfizer, which has teamed up with Cadbury Trebor Bassett to develop a Listerine-flavoured breath freshening non-gum strip.
Marketing Week, on Headlines from Mintel

Products & Brands
Dogsters Launches Frozen Dog Treats (USA)
Dogsters Healthy Treats has launched three new dog treats. Both Nutley, a peanut butter and cheese-flavored dessert, and Minte Kissably Fresh, natural and low-fat snow cups. Fun Cake, the company's third new product, is a cake made of molasses and topped with a soy-bacon-encrusted icing.
Supermarket News, on Headlines from Mintel

Products & Brands
Omaha Steaks Adds Pet Food Line (USA)
Omaha Steaks has added steak treats for cats and dogs to its line-up. They are said to contain 100% beef. The company states that the products are targeted to the owners of pampered pets.
Meat and Poultry, on Headlines from Mintel

Products & Brands
Mineral Mine Introduces Lip Gloss Varieties (USA)
Mineral Mine has made available three lip glosses for the Fall 2003 season. Café Rose, Crystalline, and Ruby all contain vitamin E, beeswax, and aloe vera.
Day Spa, on Headlines from Mintel

Products & Brands
New Ben & Jerry's flavour named via democratic process (USA)
An online contest to choose the name for a new flavour of Ben & Jerry's ice cream has resulted in a woman from Smithville choosing 'Primary Berry Graham'.
The new flavour features strawberry ice cream, strawberries and a thick graham cracker swirl,
Just-food.com
http://just-food.com/nd.asp?art=55764&dm=yes

Products & Brands
Sex Kola (USA)
Looks great and tastes even better! SEX KOLA has just introduced a new line of great-tasting energy kolas -- sweetened with Splenda and enhanced with the herbal "aphrodisiac" Yohimbe. But that's not even the best part: Sex Kola is carb free. That means you can count Sex Kola as part of your low-carb diet - so whether you drink Sex Kola by itself or mixed with your favourite cocktail beverage, when you're craving something wet, Sex Kola offers you a delicious no-carb kola that leaves you feeling frisky too.
Sex Kola comes in four varieties - Discipline Lemon Lime, Lust Lemonade, Randy Root Beer and Scream Orange Cream
BevNET.com, on Drinks and beverages industry news
http://c.moreover.com/click/here.pl?e97490012&e=6327

Products & Brands
Coke benefits from thirsty Europe
Europeans seeking refreshment from one of the hottest summers on record have enabled Coca-Cola to celebrate what would have otherwise been a disappointing set of third quarter results. European sales volume was up 9 per cent, a figure that has not been reflected elsewhere. Global volume rose by only 4 per cent, falling short of Coca-Cola's stated aim of consistently achieving 5 to 6 per cent annual volume growth.
Moreover, operating income declined 1 per cent in the third quarter. The company points to the negative impact of operating charges, increased stock-based compensation expense and a first quarter litigation settlement as contributing factors.
Nonetheless, heavy consumption, especially in France, Spain, UK and Italy has ensured a good showing on the continent. Germany also delivered positive growth of 4 per cent in the quarter, dispelling fears that the mandatory deposit law change would adversely affect soft drink operations in the country.
Beveragedaily news headlines
http://www.beveragedaily.com/news/news.asp?id=834

Products & Brands
Smirnoff gets a twist
Diageo has launched new flavoured versions of its stalwart vodka Smirnoff. Smirnoff Twist, which comes in Citrus, Raspberry, Vanilla and Orange variants, has been launched in Ireland and Northern Ireland accompanied by extensive in-store marketing support.
The company said it currently had no plans to introduce it in Britain because the flavoured market was too small.
Grocer.TodayAlerts
http://www.grocertoday.co.uk/article.asp?s=2&a=260777

Products & Brands
Energy gets into sweets
A former Masterfoods marketer has helped develop a new functional sweet which mimics the effects of energy drinks. Daryl Leigh has set up Berkshire-based Sweet Stimulation to market Xstals - packs of 25 energy-packed sweets.
Developed in Switzerland for energy-sapped snowboarders, the sweets containing caffeine and guarana are manufactured by Confunctionery - Xstals being the scientific shorthand for crystals.
The Grocer

Products & Brands
Pud Shooter
GBL International is launching a limited edition Christmas Pudding flavour of its Corky's range of vodka-based shooters. The spirit will be available in November and joins the current line-up, which includes Lime and Chilli, Apple Sour, Cherry, Toffee, Choc Mint, Liquorice and White Chocolate variants.
The Grocer

Products & Brands
Vegetable sauce for yoghurt
In Japan, Kagome is trying a more novel approach to get more vegetables into the diet. The company has introduced a dessert topping sauce in two varieties: one made with carrot and apple; the others with pumpkin and mango. The base recipes also use tomato, red bell pepper and lemon. Both sauces are intended for use on yoghurt, fromage frais, ice cream or pancakes.
Food & Beverage International, October 2003

Products & Brands
Cadbury considers low-sugar Dairy Milk
UK confectionery giant Cadbury Schweppes has said it is considering introducing a low-sugar version of its Dairy Milk chocolate.
Just-food.com
http://just-food.com/nd.asp?art=55798&dm=yes

Products & Brands
Au Bon Pain Adds Trans Fat-Free Muffin (USA)
Au Bon Pain has added trans fat-free muffin varieties to its line-up. Flavours include: Blueberry, Corn, Double Chocolate Chunk, Carrot Nut, Raisin Bran, Cranberry Walnut, Banana Walnut, Apple Spice, Low-Fat Chocolate Chunk, and Low-Fat Triple Berry. Each is sold in Au Bon Pain cafes nationwide.
PR Newswire, on Headlines from Mintel

Products & Brands
Masterfoods Testing CocoaVia
Masterfoods is currently testing CocoaVia, described as a cholesterol-lowering candy brand with cocoa flavanols. The product is said to be targeted to the health-conscious, in an effort to lure them back to chocolate.
Advertising Age, on Headlines from Mintel

Products & Brands
Odeon to sell alco-popcorn on Halloween
Alcohol flavoured popcorn is to be sold at late night screenings of The Texas Chainsaw Massacre on Halloween. Sambuca and Irish Cream flavoured popcorn will also be available at Odeon cinemas in Kingston-upon-Thames, Newcastle, Leicester, Glasgow, Southampton and Coventry. The chain says a standard box of the popcorn will contain less alcohol than a single liqueur chocolate.
In addition to alcohol popcorn, customers were asked what other flavours they'd most like to try. Among the favourites were fish and chips, pesto, vanilla and strawberry cheesecake flavours.
Ananova.com

Products & Brands
Beverage Brands gets its Kitsch off
Beverage Brands is looking to tighten its grip on the ready-to-drink category with the launch of a new perry-based concept.
The RTD specialist, home to the number two WKD brand, has launched Kitsch, a new concept designed to reinvigorate a "maturing" RTD sector.
Packaged in a striking 250ml bottle adorned with a garish leopard skin print, Kitsch is aimed at 18-35 year-old female wine drinkers looking for innovation in the RTD sector.
Brands newswire, from thepublican.com
http://www.thepublican.com/item/11232/11

Products & Brands
Halewood launches lager and spirit mix
Inventive spirits company Halewood is merging the premium packaged spirit and premium packaged lager sectors by mixing lager and spirits in the same bottle.
RedSquare Lager is a mix of vodka, premium lager and citrus inspired by young customers experimenting in pubs.
An unofficial cocktail of Smirnoff Ice and premium lager, poured in equal measure, has become known as the Turbo Shandy.
Brands newswire, from thepublican.com
http://www.thepublican.com/item/11077/11

Ingredients & Innovation
Flavour trends - health demands? Got it covered
The drive for healthier products has led to a wave of developments in low-fat, low-sodium coatings, with an emphasis on added flavour.
Savoury flavours suggested as being of particular interest are currently Caribbean, Southern, lemon pepper, pepper steak, lime & sweet chilli, wholegrain mustard and Jamaican. Other developments, as consumers tire of conventional Indian and Asian offerings include citrus tikka, lime balti and sweet pepper.
Food Manufacture, October 2003

Ingredients & Innovation
Genomics cracks bitter taste problem
Genomics, a growing area of the biotech landscape, is already starting to bear fruits for the food industry with the news that Dutch enzyme company DSM Food Specialities has successfully designed a way to eliminate the bitter taste associated with protein hydrolysates - enzymes used to break down proteins and render them more readily digestible.
Foodanddrinkeurope.com
http://www.foodanddrinkeurope.com/news/news.asp?id=2913

Ingredients & Innovation
Oh soy good! (USA)
Steady but un-sensational growth is earmarked for soy products in the US with market analysts predicting a 5.4 per cent rise year on year to $8.6 billion (€7.3bn) in 2007.
While food will dominate the market catching 90 per cent of the demand, the Freedonia Group predicts that industrial applications, which have lagged in past decades, are poised for a surge in growth.
According to the study, Soy Products & Markets, proven health benefits and a spate of new product introductions are expected to spur strong gains in soy-based beverages and nutraceuticals.
Foodanddrinkeurope.com
http://www.foodanddrinkeurope.com/news/news.asp?id=2932

Ingredients & Innovation
FSANZ sticks to guns on kava
Food Standards Australia and New Zealand is proposing to retain the ban on adding kava to foods, but not dietary supplements regulated under New Zealand regulations, and to keep the labelling statements related to public health.
The agency is asking for public comment on the regulation of the herbal, which has a long history of use in South Pacific communities, as it adopts changes to the Food Standards Code.
Kava regulation in Australia allows the herb to be used for 'traditional use' in the food supply (i.e. the raw, ground or dried root) but it cannot be mixed with other foods. It has also been allowed in complementary medicines as it is not prohibited in dietary supplements in New Zealand, and products can enter Australia from there via the Trans-Tasman Mutual Recognition Arrangement.
Nutraingrtedients.com
http://www.nutraingredients.com/news/news.asp?id=7914

Ingredients & Innovation
Fructose intolerance?
Food makers could one day face demand for fructose-free products as preliminary findings link the sugar found in fruits to a role in gastrointestinal disorders.
Nutraingredients.com
http://www.nutraingredients.com/news/news.asp?id=7926

Ingredients & Innovation
Florida at record low
Florida's grapefruit crop, despite excellent growing conditions, will go on record as one of the smallest for 15 years. A much larger potential crop was decimated by frost damage.
Despite this, the industry is confident export sales to Europe could be on the upturn and reach eight million cartons.
In sharp contrast to last year, the South African season has finished early, leading to a shortage, though fruit is of a good quality.
The Grocer

Ingredients & Innovation
Argentina for cherries
The Mendoza region of Argentina has been tipped by many importers as one of the next potentially big suppliers of cherries to Europe.
The region's stable climate means the sensitive crop faces minimal risks. And the season from late October to December fills a natural gap in supply calendar for many supermarkets aiming for year-round supplies.
The Grocer

Ingredients & Innovation
New US raspberries developed
New varieties of American raspberries with enhanced flavour are to be developed by a new partnership. BerryWorld, one of the industry's major distributors, has teamed up with UK grower Edward Vinson, the Hall Hunter Partnership, and US breeder Harry Swarz to form BerryWorld Plus. The venture is the latest in a series of links between marketers and breeders to develop exclusive new fruit for the multiples.
The plan initially is to develop US strains in the UK, but there are also plans to introduce them to Spain to achieve a longer season.
The Grocer

Ingredients & Innovation
The health factor
The trend in energy-giving chocolate continues with Cadbury's launch of a guarana-fortified Tempo product in South Africa.
The shortcake biscuit bar contains guarana, increasingly used in functional products, and caramel, and is coated in Cadbury Dairy Milk chocolate. The launch follows its Boost Guarana, available in the UK, and rival products including Milka Energy from Kraft Jacobs Suchard and Ritter Sport Guarana Crunch from Alfred Ritter.
Confectionerynews.com
http://www.confectionerynews.com/news/news.asp?id=377

Ingredients & Innovation
Experts call for more research on semicarbazide
Calls to food manufacturers to develop alternative methods for sealing jars of food were voiced by the UK FSA this week following a European scientific review on the presence of semicarbazide - a weak carcinogen - in foods.
Foodnavigator.com
http://www.foodnavigator.com/news/news.asp?id=8562

Ingredients & Innovation
Low glycemic index: sound nutritional concept or short-lived trend?
A leading article in Kennedy's Confection argues that the glycemic index can be a valuable tool for guiding consumer choice, but it requires a concerted effort from ingredient and product manufacturers, dieticians and retailers.
One of the main suggestions in the article is that the glycemic index could open up an interesting market. The concept of the glycemic index essentially means that many "diet" products could be repositioned as "low glycemic" products and would appeal to a significantly larger target group, given the right taste, quality, product characteristics, and packaging.
Kennedy's Confection, October 2003

Ingredients & Innovation
Smoke without fire, new rules on flavours
Europe has brought ventilation to smoke flavourings with the adoption of new rules that aim to harmonise substantially diverse legislation in the member states.
Smoke flavourings - produced by condensing fresh smoke in water, after which the condensed smoke is purified - are used to impart a smoky flavour to foods such as meat, fish or snacks. As a result of the purification process, the use of smoke flavourings is generally considered to be less of a health concern than the traditional smoking process.
"I am very pleased with the adoption of these safety provisions for smoke flavours," said David Byrne, European commissioner for health and consumer protection. "The aim of this legislation is to put consumer safety first while at the same time solving the problems of diverging national rules that manufacturers currently face in marketing their products."
A wide range of different smoke flavourings is produced from smoke condensates. The Scientific Committee on Food (SCF), the committee that advises the Commission on questions regarding consumer health and food safety, concluded that the existing number of smoke flavourings is based on only a limited number of commercially available smoke condensates. As a result, the committee concluded that toxicological evaluation should focus on these condensates rather than on the multitude of derived smoke flavourings.
Based on this advice, the new regulation establishes a procedure for the safety assessment and authorisation of smoke condensates. To apply for an authorisation of a smoke condensate, the producer will need to provide detailed information on the production method as well as the further steps in the production of derived smoke flavourings.
In addition, information will have to be provided on the intended uses in or on specific food or food categories, chemical specifications, toxicological studies and validated methods for sampling and detection.
The European Food Safety Authority will step in to carry out the scientific evaluation 'according to a transparent procedure within a specific timeframe', said the Commission which added that it alone will make a decision on each application based on the outcome of this evaluation.
The new rules enter into force 20 days after their publication in the Official Journal of the European Union. Member States have to apply the new rules within the next 18 months - by the beginning of 2005.
Foodnavigator.com
http://www.foodnavigator.com/news/news.asp?id=8534

Ingredients & Innovation
Price soars for soy
A recent round up from Goldman Sachs reveals that agriculture returns fell 0.7 per cent in September led by wheat and corn, with soybeans facing increasing price pressure.
Foodnavigator.com
http://www.foodnavigator.com/news/news.asp?id=8550

Ingredients & Innovation
EU to slash sweeteners in soft drinks
MEPs are set to push this week for a significant cut in the level of a popular soft drinks sweetener as a precautionary measure to protect young children.
The European Parliament is expected to vote for a reduction of the sweetener cyclamate from 400mg/l to 250mg/l in a move which has been strongly supported by food standards agencies and consumer rights groups.
But the crackdown, which is not based on scientific evidence showing sweetener health problems, is controversial within the drinks industry. The EU Confederation of Food and Drinks Industries (CIAA), argues that the reduction is "totally disproportionate and cannot be justified."
Cyclamate is one of the most popular sweeteners in Europe, used in a range of products particularly in Germany, the Netherlands, Spain and Austria. The UK Food Standards Agency (FSA) has been actively pressing Brussels to reduce permitted levels of cyclamate used in soft drinks and insiders admit privately that it would have welcomed an even lower threshold.
EU Politix, on Drinks and beverages industry news
http://c.moreover.com/click/here.pl?e96559499&e=6327

Ingredients & Innovation
More pears from US
A surge is predicted in the US pear exports after a reduction in the European crop this year. While estimates are up 13%, the EU harvest is expected to fall 10%, a reverse of the situation in 2001-2002.
The Grocer

Ingredients & Innovation
Sweeteners v sugar, the battle of the palate
Which do we prefer - the light or full-on version? Food scientists investigating sweeteners in soft drinks find the consumer palate might be perverse, preferring regular cola over its lighter sister, but non-plussed over orange drinks.
On the premise that sweetness quality must match the ideal quality of sucrose for full consumer acceptance, researchers from the department of Food Science & Technology at Reading University in the UK set out to improve the taste quality of sweetened foods and beverages.
The current intense sweeteners used in food and drinks are generally considered to possess slight off-tastes such as bitterness, chemical or metallic notes which can often leave a persistent after taste, claim the scientists. But in today's increasingly obese world, artificial sweeteners are a useful way to reduce energy intake from certain foods.
Four types of commercial soft drinks were evaluated: a regular and a light version of both an orange and a cola soft drink.
The scientists found that for orange soft drinks, regular was not significantly preferred over the light version in the tests. Regular cola soft drinks, on the contrary, were significantly preferred over their light equivalents. The awareness of the presence of a light soft drink did not influence the preferences in both cases, they report.
For soft drink manufacturers the results from this small study may throw up more questions than they answer. But they do indicate that research into consumer palate perceptions of soft drinks - and their lighter versions - might be better understood on a case by case basis, treating each drink independently, rather than on a blanket comparison across several varieties.
Nutraingredients.com
http://www.nutraingredients.com/news/news.asp?id=7999

Ingredients & Innovation
Sustaining the coffee world
As trading nations get to grips with globalisation in the 21st century the issue of sustainability is increasingly compounded for commodities on today's market.
Nowhere is this more evident than for coffee - arguably one of the world's most important cash crops, and vital to the livelihood of more than 25 million small coffee farmers.
After petroleum, coffee is one of the world's most important commodities. This single crop represents more than 20 per cent of export earnings for nine developing countries and accounts for more than half of all export earnings in four countries but the world coffee market is suffering, highlights an extensive report from the World Bank.
The report, which examined characteristics and trends of the sustainable coffee markets in 11 European markets, calls for environmental and social standards, improved governance structures, better communication channels, and price premiums for the coffee market to provide help to nearly a million coffee farmers.
Nutraingredients.com
http://www.nutraingredients.com/news/news.asp?id=7998

Ingredients & Innovation
Cloetta confident on cocoa prices
The Nordic region's leading confectionery maker, Cloetta Fazer, has said that it expects the price of cocoa beans, a key raw material for many of its products, to remain stable for the rest of this year.
Confectionery news headlines
http://www.confectionerynews.com/news/news.asp?id=398

Ingredients & Innovation
Cerestar ups low-cal sugar alcohol production
The market for sugar-free confectionery can only gain pace, keeping in step with an increased consumer demand for 'guilt-free' products spurred on by burgeoning rates of obesity and diabetes across the globe. Suppliers of natural sweeteners are feeling the impact of this phenomenon as the trend penetrates the sweetener market.
France-based polyol manufacturer Cerestar, now under the wing of US giant Cargill, is to expand production of isomalt at its plant in Krefeld, Germany to respond to growing demand, said the company, that entered the isomalt market in 1998.
In Europe a handful of polyols - sorbitol, xylitol, lactitol, mannitol, maltitiol and isomalt - have been approved by the Scientific Committee for Food (SCF) for use in foodstuffs and fall under the 'additives' label.
Foodnavigator.com
http://www.foodnavigator.com/news/news.asp?id=8629

Industry Initiatives
New ready-meals to come in edible bag
A new type of ready meal which comes in an edible bag is on its way to supermarket shelves.
Sainsbury's is preparing to start using the new type of packaging, which is made out of edible potato starch, for soups.
The packaging is designed to melt away when the food is cooked in boiling water, and manufacturer Stanelco insists that there are no ill effects or unpleasant aftertastes from consuming the product and that the food is on a par with any other top-quality ready meal.
Daily Express, on headlines from Mintel

Industry Initiatives
Children's breakfast habits
A study reveals girls need a bigger breakfast than boys to do their best at school. According to the study carried out by Ulster University's Dr Barbara Stewart, beans on toast is revealed as the ultimate brainy breakfast for girls while for boys, eating only toast left them with an appetite for learning. Boys regularly performed better on tests of attention and memory when they were a little hungry while girls reached their best only when their hunger had been satisfied.
Evening Standard, on Headlines from Mintel

Industry Initiatives
End of brand-slapping welcomed
The Royal Society for the Promotion of Health has welcomed the end of the practice that would allow health/nutrition charities and other health-based organisations to endorse food products. Article 11 of the European Commission's proposals on regulation of nutrition and health claims, currently under consultation, would prevent food manufacturers making an 'implied claim' about the health benefits of their product by making reference to 'the advice of doctors or other health professionals, or their professional associations, or charities".
The aim is for consumers to have the assurance, when they see a health claim, of knowing exactly what it means and how it is supported. The Society for the Promotion of Health is not against health claims being made, but it should be supported by proper scientific evidence. It is claimed "Brand-slapping" does nothing to benefit the consumer. It tells them little of what people need to know about eating a healthy and balanced diet.
Food Industry News, October 2003

Industry Initiatives
Cash rich, time poor Brits change nation's eating habits
Many Britons are earning more money than ever before - which means they generally work longer hours but also spend more time on leisure activities. All of which has altered the food and drink consumption patterns in the UK.
According to Datamonitor, Britain is increasingly becoming a nation of extremes, with the gap between the very rich and very poor, and the overweight and underweight, becoming wider every year - all of which has implications for the nation's food and drink industry
Foodanddrinkeurope.com
http://www.foodanddrinkeurope.com/news/news.asp?id=2908

Industry Initiatives
Fast-casual: the new dining trend from the USA
A new trend, fast-casual dining, a hybrid of fast-food and restaurant culture has crossed the Atlantic to take the UK by storm. Fresher and healthier than conventional fast-food, cheaper than full-service and flexible on price, it looks like fast-casual is here to stay.
Just-food.com
http://just-food.com/fd.asp?art=781&app=1&fotw=sct

Industry Initiatives
It's good to talk
New research indicates that fear of failure in new product development is causing tension between technical and marketing teams. A presentation by Ramesys, specialist IT Systems provider to the Institute of Grocery Distribution suggests failure to collaborate properly means the wrong decisions are often made.
Food Manufacture, October 2003

Industry Initiatives
McDonald's to Launch Nutrition Program
McDonald's restaurants in New York are launching a nutrition education program called "Real Life Choices" in 2004. The program will offer suggestions on how to make McDonald's foods more healthy.
morningnewsbeat.com, on Headlines from Mintel

Industry Initiatives
Holiday's "Hottest" Toys Revealed
According to consumer magazine Toy Wishes, the 12 "hottest" toys for the 2003 holiday season are as follows:
Barbie "Cook With Me" Smart Kitchen; Barbie of Swan Lake, Beyblade Remote Control Top with Launcher;
BTR (Built to Rule!); Care Bears Bedtime Bear Lullaby Friend; Hokey Pokey Elmo; Bratz Formal Funk Runway; Disco Leapster Educational Game System; LeapPad Plus Writing Learning System; McFlurry Maker; My Little Pony Celebration Castle; PowerTouch Learning System; Neopets Interactive Talking Neopets Plushies
(All of possible interest to food & drink manufacturers in these days of celebrity and toy endorsements)
Retail Merchandise, on Headlines from Mintel

Industry Initiatives
Probiotic potential held back by consumer communication gap
Limited consumer awareness threatens to restrain the development of probiotics markets, finds a new Frost & Sullivan report, yet in Europe the food ingredient is still set to more than triple in value over the next six years.
Nutraingredients.com
http://www.nutraingredients.com/news/news.asp?id=7932

Industry Initiatives
Japanese diet offers promise for Western women
Women could significantly reduce menopause symptoms within 12 weeks by changing to a Japanese diet and exercise plan, suggests a new study.
Previous research has linked the lack of menopause symptoms in Japanese women to their high intake of soy-derived phytoestrogens. But there has been little evidence to show that Western women who change to such a diet late in life can gain immediate benefits.
Foodnavigator.com
http://www.foodnavigator.com/news/news.asp?id=8599

Industry Initiatives
Teenagers stick to junk food
A new survey has found that teenagers predict that they will live on a diet of junk food until they reach 30 years old.
The Times, on Headlines from Mintel

Industry Initiatives
A road map to droplet shapes
Improving the texture of food products through a new emulsification technology is the focus of a recently launched EU-funded project that will concentrate in particular on low-fat products.
Under the aegis of Prof. Anne-Marie Hermansson at the Swedish institute, the SIK-Institutet för Livsmedel och Bioteknik, researchers have set to work to develop a new technology that improves food emulsion quality that will ultimately provide the manufacturer with better opportunities to design the emulsion characteristics with the final product use in mind - for example margarines, dressings, fermented dairy products or soft drinks.
Several factors - such as viscosity and the sensory characteristics - influence the quality of an emulsion. Consequently, the oil type, the temperature, emulsifiers, oil / water ratio, and the size and shape of the water droplets are important.
The objective of the EU project QLK1-2000-01543 (structure processing) is to develop a new emulsification technology that improves the texture of, in particular, low-fat products by micro-machining in combination with flow processing.
Foodnavigator.com
http://www.foodnavigator.com/news/news.asp?id=8604

Industry Initiatives
Researchers call for lower energy foods
Energy-dense fast foods and convenience meals increase the risk of obesity by encouraging unintentional over-eating, report scientists from the UK's Medical Research Council (MRC).
They called for more healthy options in fast food restaurants and better nutritional profiles of foods offered in supermarkets to convey the message to consumers.
Foodanddrinkeurope.com
http://www.foodanddrinkeurope.com/news/news.asp?id=3024

Industry Initiatives
Nestlé to launch nutritional products
International food giant Nestlé is planning to launch nutritional products, as consumer interest in healthier options gathers pace.
Although responsible for just 6% of sales, Nestlé has been investing 20% of its research and development spend into this area of its business, as it believes this is where future growth lies.
Mad.co.uk, on Headlines from Mintel

Industry Initiatives
It's a cold Christmas for innovation
Retail buyers would like to see more innovation from suppliers when it comes to Christmas products and promotions. According to a Grocer reader panel, 80% of buyers like to see more. According to a number of buyers, not enough suppliers understand or know how to innovate in ways that gain customers buy-in.
The Grocer

 

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