DDW acquires KleurCraft portfolio from SVZ International B.V.

DDW, The Colour House, announced that it recently acquired the KleurCraft portfolio of coloring foods, custom formulations, and related technology from SVZ International B.V., which will allow it to strengthen its color solutions across multiple hues.

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Maple Leaf Foods streamlining organization

Canada-based Maple Leaf Foods will eliminate 400 salaried positions in a streamlining move designed to support organizational growth and cut costs.

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No change in preferred sweetness after low-sugar diet

Individuals who completed a three-month low-sugar diet experienced no lasting change in their preferred levels of sweetness, although foods did taste sweeter to them, according to a recent study authored by researchers at the Monell Center that was published online ahead of print in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.

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Parabel secures farmland to produce LENTEIN

Parabel announced that it signed a lease in Fellsmere, Fla., for 450 acres of land to grow water lentils, the source for the company’s LENTEIN protein ingredient.

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Taylor Farms Pacific recalls celery for E. coli risk

Taylor Farms Pacific is recalling a variety of celery products because they could potentially contain E. coli 0157:H7.

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Publisher’s Platform: Time for More Criminal Prosecutions in Food Poisoning Cases?

It has been a busy past several weeks for public health investigators (and lawyers) and uncomfortable (and sometimes deadly) for food poisoning victims, as well as for the management of several companies. Here are just a few of the outbreaks hitting the news:

Salmonella Cucumbers: As of Nov. 18, 2015, 838 people infected with the outbreak strains of Salmonella Poona have been reported from 38 states.

The number of ill people reported from each state is as follows: Alabama (1), Alaska (17), Arizona (129), Arkansas (13), California (232), Colorado (19), Connecticut (1), Florida (1), Hawaii (1), Idaho (24), Illinois (9), Indiana (5), Iowa (7), Kansas (2), Kentucky (1), Louisiana (5), Maryland (1), Minnesota (40), Missouri (14), Montana (16), Nebraska (8), Nevada (16), New Hampshire (1), New Mexico (32), New York (6), North Dakota (8), Ohio (3), Oklahoma (13), Oregon (22), Pennsylvania (2), South Carolina (10), South Dakota (3), Texas (42), Utah (58), Virginia (1), Washington (25), Wisconsin (43), and Wyoming (7).

Four deaths have been reported from Arizona (1), California (1), Oklahoma (1), and Texas (1). On Sept. 4, 2015, Andrew & Williamson Fresh Produce voluntarily recalled all cucumbers sold under the “Limited Edition” brand label during the period from Aug. 1, 2015, through Sept. 3, 2015, because they may be contaminated with Salmonella.

E. coli Chipotle: Forty-five people infected with the outbreak strain of STEC O26 have been reported from six states. The majority of illnesses have been reported from Washington and Oregon. The number of ill people reported from each state is as follows: California (2), Minnesota (2), New York (1), Ohio (1), Oregon (13), and Washington (26).

The epidemiological evidence available to investigators at this time suggests that a meal item or ingredient served at Chipotle Mexican Grill restaurants in several states is a likely source of this outbreak. The investigation has not identified what specific food item is linked to the illnesses.

E. coli Costco Chicken Salad: A total of 19 people infected with the outbreak strain of Shiga toxin-producing STEC O157:H7 have been reported from seven states. The majority of illnesses have been reported from western states. The number of ill people reported from each state is as follows: California (1), Colorado (4), Missouri (1), Montana (6), Utah (5), Virginia (1), and Washington (1).

The epidemiological evidence available to investigators at this time suggests that rotisserie chicken salad made and sold in Costco stores is a likely source of this outbreak. The Montana Public Health Laboratory tested a sample of celery and onion diced blend collected from a Costco location. Preliminary results indicated the presence of E. coli O157:H7. Laboratory testing is ongoing to isolate the E. coli bacteria and then determine the DNA fingerprint. The celery and onion diced blend was supplied to Costco by Taylor Farms Pacific Inc. and was used to make the Costco rotisserie chicken salad eaten by people sickened in this outbreak.

Could a person in a “position of responsibility or authority in a firm” face criminal sanctions in connection with these outbreaks? Perhaps. Should they? That is a debate to have. It would make me nervous if I sat in a position of authority with one of the companies above or one of their suppliers.

By way of background, Congress passed the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FDCA) in 1938 in reaction to growing public food safety demands. The primary goal of the Act was to protect the health and safety of the public by preventing deleterious, adulterated or misbranded articles, including food, from entering interstate commerce.

Under section 402(a)(4) of the Act, a food product is deemed “adulterated” if the food was “prepared, packed, or held under insanitary conditions whereby it may have become contaminated with filth, or whereby it may have been rendered injurious to health.” A food product is also considered “adulterated” if it bears or contains any poisonous or deleterious substance which may render it injurious to health. Chapter III of the Act addresses prohibited acts, subjecting violators to both civil and criminal liability.

Felony violations include adulterating or misbranding a food, drug, or device, and putting an adulterated or misbranded food, drug, or device into interstate commerce. Any person who commits a prohibited act violates the FDCA. A person committing a prohibited act “with the intent to defraud or mislead” is guilty of a felony punishable by years in jail and millions in fines, or both. The key here is whether it is an intentional act.

A misdemeanor conviction under the FDCA, unlike a felony conviction, does not require proof of fraudulent intent, or even of knowing or willful conduct. Rather, a person may be convicted if he or she held a position of responsibility or authority in a firm such that the person could have prevented the violation — prevented the tainted product from entering interstate commerce. Again, unlike a felony, a misdemeanor charge is a crime with no intent. Convictions under the misdemeanor provisions are punishable by not more than one year, or a fine of not more than $250,000, or both.

Here are four recent cases where prosecutors brought criminal charges. The first three were misdemeanor charges and the last was a felony charge:

• In 2012, Eric Jensen, 37, and Ryan Jensen, 33, brothers who owned and operated Jensen Farms, a fourth-generation cantaloupe operation in Colorado, presented themselves to U.S. marshals in Denver and were taken into custody on federal charges brought by the U.S. Attorney’s Office with the Food and Drug Administration’s Office of Criminal Investigation. According to the six-count indictment, Eric and Ryan Jensen unknowingly introduced adulterated (Listeria-tainted) cantaloupe into interstate commerce. The indictment further stated that the cantaloupe was prepared, packed and held under conditions which rendered it injurious to health. The outbreak sickened more than 147 people in 28 states, killing more than 33 of them, in the fall of 2011. The Jensens faced up to six years in jail and $1,500,000 in fines each. They eventually pleaded guilty and were sentenced to five years of probation.
• In 2013, Austin “Jack” DeCoster and his son, Peter DeCoster, both faced charges stemming from a Salmonella outbreak caused in 2010 by their Iowa egg farms. The Salmonella outbreak ran from May 1 to Nov. 30, 2010, and prompted the recall of more than a half-billion eggs. And, while there were 1,939 confirmed infections, statistical models used to account for Salmonella illnesses in the U.S. suggested that the eggs might have sickened more than 62,000 people. The family business, known as Quality Egg LLC, pleaded guilty in 2015 to a federal felony count of bribing a USDA egg inspector and to two misdemeanors of unknowingly introducing adulterated food into interstate commerce. As part of the plea agreement, Quality Egg paid a $6.8-million fine and the DeCosters paid $100,000 each, for a total of $7 million. Both DeCosters were sentenced to three months in jail. They are appealing the jail sentence.
• In 2015, ConAgra Foods agreed to plead guilty and pay $11.2 million in connection with the shipment of Salmonella-contaminated peanut butter linked to a 2006-07 nationwide outbreak that sickened more than 700 people. ConAgra signed a plea agreement admitting that it unknowingly introduced Peter Pan and private label peanut butter contaminated with Salmonella into interstate commerce during the 2006-07 outbreak.
• In 2014, former Peanut Corporation of America owner Stewart Parnell, his brother and one-time peanut broker, Michael Parnell, and Mary Wilkerson, former quality control manager at the company’s Blakely, GA, plant, faced a federal jury in Albany, GA. The 12-member jury found Stewart Parnell guilty on 67 federal felony counts, Michael Parnell was found guilty on 30 counts, and Wilkerson was found guilty of one of the two counts of obstruction of justice charged against her. Two other PCA employees had earlier pleaded guilty. The felony charges of introducing adulterated food into interstate commerce, “with the intent to defraud or mislead,” stemmed from a 2008-09 Salmonella outbreak that sickened 714 people and left nine of them dead. Stewart Parnell was sentenced to 28 years in prison, and Michael Parnell was sentenced to 20 years in prison. Mary Wilkerson was sentenced to five years in prison. All three are appealing their convictions and sentences.

So, are the producers of cucumbers, chicken salad or burritos (or ingredient suppliers) likely to face criminal prosecution? Perhaps not, given the recent history of no prosecutions in similar cases. Here are four outbreaks where no charges have been brought, at least not yet:

• Glass Onion E. coli Outbreak: A total of 33 persons infected with the outbreak strain of E. coli O157:H7 were reported from four states. The number of ill persons identified in each state was as follows: Arizona (1), California (28), Texas (1), and Washington (3). Thirty-two percent of ill persons were hospitalized. Two ill persons developed hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), but no deaths were reported. Epidemiological and traceback investigations conducted by local, state, and federal officials indicated that consumption of two ready-to-eat salads, Field Fresh Chopped Salad with Grilled Chicken and Mexicali Salad with Chili Lime Chicken produced by Glass Onion Catering and sold at grocery store locations, were the likely source of this outbreak of E. coli O157:H7 infections. On Nov. 10, 2013, Glass Onion Catering recalled numerous ready-to-eat salads and sandwich wrap products that may be contaminated with E. coli O157:H7.
• 2013 Townsend Farms/Costco Hepatitis A Outbreak: A total of 165 people were confirmed to have become ill from Hepatitis A linked to pomegranate arils contained in ‘Townsend Farms Organic Antioxidant Blend’ in 10 states: Arizona (23), California (79), Colorado (28), Hawaii (8), New Hampshire (1), New Jersey (1), New Mexico (11), Nevada (6), Utah (3), and Wisconsin (2). The major outbreak strain of Hepatitis A virus, belonging to genotype 1B, was found in clinical specimens of 117 people in nine states. This genotype is rarely seen in the Americas but circulates in North Africa and the Middle East. This genotype was identified in a 2013 outbreak of Hepatitis A virus infections in Europe linked to frozen berries and a 2012 outbreak in British Columbia related to a frozen berry blend with pomegranate seeds from Egypt.
• 2014 Bidart Brothers Listeria Apple Outbreak: A total of 35 people infected with the outbreak strains of Listeria monocytogenes were reported from 12 states: Arizona (5), California (3), Colorado (1), Minnesota (4), Missouri (5), Nevada (1), New Mexico (6), North Carolina (1), Texas (4), Utah (1), Washington (1), and Wisconsin (3). Of these, 34 people were hospitalized. Listeriosis contributed to at least three of the seven deaths reported. Eleven illnesses were pregnancy-related (occurred in a pregnant woman or her newborn infant), with one illness resulting in a fetal loss. Three invasive illnesses (meningitis) were among otherwise healthy children aged 5-15 years. On Jan. 6, 2015, Bidart Bros. of Bakersfield, CA, recalled Granny Smith and Gala apples because environmental testing revealed contamination with Listeria monocytogenes at the firm’s apple-packing facility.
• 2015 Blue Bell Ice Cream Listeria Outbreak: A total of 10 people with Listeriosis related to this outbreak were reported from four states: Arizona (1), Kansas (5), Oklahoma (1), and Texas (3). All ill people were hospitalized. Three deaths were reported from Kansas (3). On April 21, CDC reported that whole genome sequencing confirmed that the people from Arizona (1) and Oklahoma (1) were part of the outbreak, bringing the total case count to 10. On May 7, 2015, FDA released the findings from recent inspections at the Blue Bell production facilities, which found significant food safety violations.

So, what are your thoughts?

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Dog Chew Bones Distributed at PetSmart in 9 States Recalled for Salmonella Risk

Blue Buffalo Company of Wilton, CT, is voluntarily recalling one production lot of Cub Size Wilderness Wild Chews Bones because the product has the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella.

The product was distributed starting Nov. 19, 2015, in PetSmart stores located in the following nine states: California, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, and Washington.

The recalled product comes individually shrink-wrapped in plastic with the UPC number 840243110087 printed on a sticker affixed to the product and an expiration date of Nov. 4, 2017, printed as “exp 110417” on the shrink-wrap. Consumers should look at the UPC code and expiration date on the product package to determine if it is subject to the voluntary recall.

The voluntary recall is limited to the following product and production lot:

Product Name	UPC Code	Expiration Date
Cub Size Wilderness Wild Chews Bone	840243110087	November 4, 2017

Routine testing at the manufacturing site revealed the presence of Salmonella in the product. No illnesses have been reported to date, and no other Blue Buffalo products are affected.

Consumers who have purchased the product subject to this recall are urged to dispose of the product or return it to the place of purchase for full refund.

Consumers with questions may contact Blue Buffalo at 888-641-9736 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday and the weekend of Nov. 28, 2015, or by email for more information.

Salmonella can affect animals eating the product, and there is risk to humans from handling contaminated pet products, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with the products or any surfaces exposed to these products.

Healthy people infected with Salmonella should monitor themselves for some or all of the following symptoms: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramping and fever. Rarely, Salmonella can result in more serious ailments, including arterial infections, endocarditis, arthritis, muscle pain, eye irritation and urinary tract symptoms. Consumers exhibiting these signs after having contact with this product should contact their healthcare provider.

Pets with Salmonella infections may have decreased appetite, fever and abdominal pain. Other clinical signs may include lethargy, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, and vomiting. Infected but otherwise healthy pets can be carriers and infect other animals or humans. If your pet has consumed the recalled product and has these symptoms, please contact your veterinarian.

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Taylor Farms Recall Associated With Costco E. coli Outbreak

Tracy, CA-based Taylor Farms Pacific, Inc.  is recalling a long list of products  because they may include celery which could potentially contain E. coli 0157:H7.

The recalled products are being recalled “out of an abundance of caution” by Taylor Farms due to a Celery and Onion Diced Blend testing positive for E. coli 0157:H7 in a sample taken by the Montana Department of Health.

The Celery and Onion Diced Blend tested by the state of Montana was used in a Costco Rotisserie Chicken Salad that has been linked to a multi-state E. coli 0157:H7 outbreak.

Escherichia coli O157:H7 is a bacterium that causes a diarrheal illness often with bloody stools. Some infected with the pathogen  develop a form of kidney failure called Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS). HUS is most likely to occur in young children and the elderly. The condition can lead to serious kidney damage and even death.

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3D-mapping: A new nutrient-delivery tool

According to a study published in Nature Communications, researchers have developed a new method that can “see” inside dispersed cubosomes (dispersed cubic liquid crystalline phases).

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Food odors may activate impulse area of the brain in obese children

A study being presented at the annual meeting of the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA), taking place November 29–December 4, shows that the area of the brain associated with impulsivity and the development of obsessive-compulsive disorder may be activated in obese children when introduced to food smells.

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Pinnacle Foods to buy Boulder Brands in $975 million deal

Pinnacle Foods has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Boulder Brands in a transaction valued at approximately $975 million, including approximately $265 million of net debt.

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Walmart’s interest in drone delivery will change the food conversation

Customers want to shop whenever, wherever, and however. New digital capabilities are creating fresh potential for the grocery industry, with the latest buzz surrounding drone delivery.

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FDA issues guidance on labeling of foods from genetically engineered plants

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recognizes that many consumers are interested in whether food ingredients are derived from genetically engineered (GE) plants.

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FDA microbial surveillance program to test cucumbers, hot peppers

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced a new web resource to share more information about its sampling programs for food safety and has posted new information on a more robust surveillance sampling approach under development.

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Kemin hires Wallace as technical sales manager

Kemin has hired John Wallace as technical sales manager for the upper Midwest region of North America.

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USDA awards $2 million for nutrition education, obesity prevention research

The U.S. Dept. of Agriculture’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture (USDA NIFA) has awarded $2 million in grants to support research on nutrition education and obesity prevention for disadvantaged children and families at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, and Utah State University.

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Cost of Thanksgiving dinner rises to over $50

The American Farm Bureau’s (AFBF) 30th annual informal price survey of classic items found on the Thanksgiving Day dinner table indicates the average cost of this year’s feast for 10 is $50.11, a 70-cent increase from last year’s average of $49.41.

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DuPont Awards for Packaging Innovation opens

DuPont Packaging is now accepting entries for the 28th DuPont Award for Packaging Innovation.

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FDA approves GE fish

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced that it has approved AquAdvantage salmon, an Atlantic salmon genetically engineered (GE) by AquaBounty Technologies to reach market size more quickly than non-GE farm-raised Atlantic salmon.

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Frutarom acquires AMCO

Frutarom Industries has signed an agreement to purchase 75% of the share capital AMCO of Poland for $20.7 million.

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Consumer concern over sugar drives substitutes’ sales

Sugar is now the top item consumers are trying to avoid in their diets and is neck-and-neck with calories as the top item they look for on nutrition facts labels, finds The NPD Group, a global information company.

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EFSA finds glyphosate unlikely to be carcinogenic; proposes exposure threshold

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and the European Union Member States have finalized the re-assessment of glyphosate, a chemical that is used widely in pesticides.

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The flavor chemistry of cocoa

A paper published in Comprehensive Reviews in Food Science and Food Safety examines cocoa flavor from a compositional and a sensory perspective.

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Video: CRISPR-Cas technologies—the future of food science

In the latest “Take 5 for Food Science” video, researcher and co-author Rodolphe Barrangou, North Carolina State University, delves into his Journal of Food Science review article on “CRISPR-Based Technologies and the Future of Food Science.”

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AAK hires Reddy, Petrak

AAK, a manufacturer of specialty vegetable fats, has hired Ramesh Reddy and Bryan Petrak as the members of its innovation team based in Edison, N.J.

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ConAgra to spin off foodservice frozen potato business

ConAgra Foods has announced plans to pursue the separation of the company into two independent public companies: one comprising its consumer portfolio of brands and the other comprising its foodservice portfolio of frozen potato products.

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Consumer trust in the food industry

According to the 2015 Edelman Trust Barometer, trust in business, media, and even NGOs suffered over the past year, leaving government as the lone institution to experience a slight uptick in public trust.

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Kroger to buy Roundy’s for $178 million and assume $600 million debt

Kroger and Roundy’s have announced a definitive merger agreement under which Kroger will purchase all outstanding shares of Roundy’s for $3.60 per share in cash—about $178 million in cash—and assume $600 million in Roundy’s debt.

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Glanbia to acquire thinkThin for $217 million

Glanbia has agreed to acquire thinkThin LLC for a cash consideration of $217 million.

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Innova’s top 10 food, beverage trends for 2016

The “clean eating” trend has inspired a back to basics approach in product development and is an overarching theme in Innova Market Insights’ Top 10 Trends list for 2016.

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Taco Bell to serve 100% cage-free eggs by end of 2016

Taco Bell has announced that 100% of its more than 6,000 U.S. corporate and franchise-owned restaurants will exclusively serve cage-free eggs by Dec. 31, 2016.

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USDA releases guide to help food processors control potential allergens

The U.S. Dept. of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (USDA FSIS) has released new guidelines to assist meat, poultry, and processed egg product producers in properly managing ingredients that could trigger adverse reactions among consumers with allergies or other sensitivities.

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Tyson Foods Recalls Cooked Chicken Wings for Possible Adulteration

Tyson Foods Inc. of Springdale, AR, is recalling approximately 52,486 pounds of chicken wing product that may be adulterated because of having an “off-odor” scent, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced Monday, Nov. 16.

The problem was discovered when Tyson received consumer complaints about the product being “off-odor,” as well mild illness associated with consumption. After these consumer complaints, Tysons brought the issue to the attention of FSIS.

The company stated that the recall was made because the product “does not meet Tyson Foods quality standards.”

The fully cooked buffalo-style chicken wing section item was produced on Oct. 24, 2015, and Oct. 25, 2015, at the Tyson facility in Pine Bluff, AR. The following product is subject to recall:

• 28-oz. retail bags containing multiple pieces of “Tyson® Any’tizers® Fully Cooked Hot Wings® CHICKEN WING SECTIONS COATED WITH A FLAVORFUL HOT, TANGY SAUCE” with use by/sell by dates of Oct. 24, 2016, and Oct. 25, 2016, packaging dates 2975PBF0508-23/2985PBF0500-01 and case codes 2975PBF0508-23/2985PBF0500-01.

The product subject to recall bear establishment number “P-13456” inside the USDA mark of inspection as well as on the back of the bag above the heating instructions. These items were shipped to retail locations nationwide.

Consumers who have purchased these products are urged not to consume them. These products should be thrown away or returned to the place of purchase.

Consumers with questions about the recall can contact Tyson Foods Consumer Relations toll-free at (866) 328-3156.

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Dannon extends application deadline for grant

Dannon has extended the Yogurt & Probiotics Fellowship application deadline to Dec. 4, 2015.

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Campbell’s Recalls 355,000 Cans of SpaghettiOs Original for Potential Choking Hazard

Campbell Soup Co. of Camden, NJ, is voluntarily recalling 14.2-ounce cans of SpaghettiOs Original due to a potential choking hazard posed by pieces of red plastic found in a small number of cans. This plastic material is from parts of the can lining, which may peel off.

The affected 14.2-ounce SpaghettiOs Original product has a date of Feb. 22, 2017, which is stamped on the base of the can, and a UPC code of 51000 22432, which is printed under the bar code.

The issue was identified after the company received consumer complaints. This recall affects 355,000 cans and is limited to the United States.

This product should not be eaten. People who have bought the affected product should return it to the store where it was purchased for an exchange or full refund.

For more information call 1-866-535-3774 between 9 a.m. and 7 p.m. EST, Monday through Friday, or visit here.

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FDA releases rules on produce, imported foods

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has finalized rules that establish enforceable safety standards for produce farms, and make importers accountable for verifying that imported food meets U.S. safety standards.

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Ohio Company Recalls Cereal With Flax Seed Due to Salmonella Risk

Homestat Farm of Dublin, OH, is recalling some of its 42-ounce packages only of “Organic Steel Cut Oats & Chia with Flax And Rye Flakes” because the flax seed ingredient has the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella,

The recalled “Organic Steel Cut Oats & Chia with Flax And Rye Flakes” was distributed on a limited basis in Sam’s Club retail stores located in AK, CA, FL, GA, IL, IN, KS, MD, MI, MN, MS, NC, NH, OH, PA and TX.

The product comes in a 42-ounce carton with UPC 8 35882 00620 4 marked with Best Buy: 03/16/17-1, 03/16/18-1, 03/19/17-1, 03/19/17-2, 03/23/17-1, 03/23/17-2, 03/24/17-1, 03/26/17-1, 03/26/17-2, 04/08/17-2. The best-buy date can be found embossed on the bottom flap of the box next to the bar code.

No illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this issue.

A supplier informed Homestat Farm of the problem after contamination was found in flax seed provided to another customer.

Consumers who have purchased these 42-ounce packages of “Organic Steel Cut Oats & Chia with Flax And Rye Flakes” should return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company at 1-800-819-3918, Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m EST.

Salmonella is an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy persons infected with Salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea (which may be bloody), nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain.

In rare circumstances, infection with Salmonella can result in the organism getting into the bloodstream and producing more severe illnesses such as arterial infections (e.g., infected aneurysms), endocarditis and arthritis.

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Discerning Gen Z consumers seek flavor

The next generation of American consumers is ethnically diverse, tech-savvy, and on the move. Technomic’s study, “GEN Z: Decoding the Behaviors of the Next Generation,” finds that they are discerning consumers, driven mainly by flavor, and that their flavor preferences, while still relatively simple, are just starting to show some sophistication.

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DuPont names Edward Breen chair, CEO

The DuPont board of directors has named Edward D. Breen the company’s chair and chief executive officer, effective immediately.

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Kraft Heinz to close seven plants, cut about 2,600 jobs

According to Fortune, Kraft Heinz will close seven factories and lay off about 2,600 employees.

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U.S. House panel oks bill to roll back menu labeling regulations

According to The Hill, legislation aiming to loosen regulations requiring restaurants and grocery stores to list the number of calories in each prepared food item they sell cleared a key House panel.

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NYC calorie counts don’t add up to leaner diets

Six years after New York City mandated calorie counts in chain restaurants, a study published in Health Affairs shows calorie labels on their own may not reduce the overall number of calories that consumers order at fast-food chains.

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Can words make you hungry?

Research presented at The Obesity Society Annual Meeting at ObesityWeek 2015 shows that brain responses to written food words differ between lean individuals and those with obesity, and suggests that both stress and genetics could influence excess eating.

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FDA requests comments on use of ‘natural’ on food labels

Due to the changing landscape of food ingredients and production, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is asking the public to provide information and comments on the use of the term “natural” in the labeling of human food products.

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Chefs predict top menu trends for 2016

The National Restaurant Association (NRA) annually explores the top menu trends for the coming year.

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Purdue breaks ground on two animal sciences buildings

On Nov. 6 Purdue University broke ground for two buildings that will equip faculty, staff, and students with the latest technology to help them meet increasing need for innovation in animal sciences research and education.

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Studies showing health risks of certain foods don’t faze consumers

The recent release of a World Health Organization study showing a link between processed and red meat consumption and cancer raises the question, will consumers reduce their intake of these foods?

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Gluten-Free Cheese Ravioli Recalled for Potential Salmonella Contamination

Conte’s Pasta Co. Inc. of Vineland, NJ, has recalled its Gluten Free Cheese Ravioli due to potential Salmonella contamination. No reports illnesses related to the product have been received to date.

The following product is included in this recall:

• Conte’s Gluten Free Cheese Ravioli, 12 oz., UPC 73415894009 with a use-by date of 020317

Following the recall announcement, Giant Food Stores LLC and Martin’s Food Markets stated that their outlets had removed the product from shelves. Customers who purchased the recalled product should discard any unused portions and bring their receipt to the store where purchased for a full refund.

Consumption of food contaminated with Salmonella can cause salmonellosis, one of the most common bacterial foodborne illnesses. Salmonella infections can be life-threatening, especially to those with weak immune systems, such as infants, the elderly and persons with HIV infection or undergoing chemotherapy.

The most common manifestations of salmonellosis are diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and fever within eight to 72 hours. Additional symptoms may be chills, headache, nausea and vomiting that can last up to seven days.

Consumers looking for additional information on the recall may call Conte’s Pasta Co. at 800-211-6607. In addition, customers may call Giant/Martin’s Customer Service at 888-814-4268 for more information.

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Ground Flax Seed Meal Sold Online Recalled for Salmonella Risk

Zenobia Company LLC of Yonkers, NY, is recalling My Spice Sage Ground Flax Seed Meal because the product has the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella.

The product was distributed nationwide through online mail order between the dates of 6/15/15 – 11/4/15.

This product is labeled Ground Flax Seed Meal and is packaged in resealable plastic bags of the following sizes: 4 oz. and 16 oz. or 50 pounds bulk. UPC numbers are 00575004, 00575016, 00575111.

No illnesses have been reported to date.

The recall was initiated after a supplier notified the company that the Ground Flax Seed Meal potentially containing Salmonella was shipped unknowingly.

Consumers with questions may contact the company at 1-877-890-5244, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m.  to 5 p.m. EST. Consumers who have purchased the recalled Ground Flax Seed Meal are urged to discard the product and contact the company for a full refund.

Salmonella is an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy persons infected with Salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea (which may be bloody), nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain.

In rare circumstances, infection with Salmonella can result in the organism getting into the bloodstream and producing more severe illnesses such as arterial infections (e.g., infected aneurysms), endocarditis and arthritis.

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Cat Treats Recalled for Possibly Containing Propylene Glycol

Blue Buffalo Company Ltd. of Wilton, CT, is voluntarily recalling a limited production of Blue Kitty Yums Chicken Recipe Cat Treats that may contain low levels of propylene glycol. Propylene glycol is not permitted by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in cat food.

FDA tested the product in response to a consumer complaint and found propylene glycol in one bag of the cat treats in the impacted lot. To date, the company stated that no other reports of incidents related to the cat treats have been received.

Cats reacting to high doses of propylene glycol may exhibit signs of depression and may have a loss of coordination, muscle twitching, and excessive urination and thirst. If your cat has consumed the recalled product and has these symptoms, please contact your veterinarian.

The affected product was distributed nationwide in the U.S. and Canada through pet specialty stores and on the Internet.

The product is packaged in a 2-oz., plastic stand-up pouch. Only these specific code dates of this product are involved:

• Blue Kitty Yums Tasty Chicken Recipe, UPC: 859610007820 – Best If Used By: April 24, 2016.
• Blue Kitty Yums Tasty Chicken Recipe, UPC: 859610007820 – Best If Used By: July 24, 2016.

No other Blue Buffalo pet foods or treats are involved in this recall.

Consumers who have purchased the recalled product may return it to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact Blue Buffalo at 888-667-1508 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or by email at BlueBuffalo5883@stericycle.com.

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13 E. Coli Illnesses in California Linked to Recalled Apple Juice

As of Friday, Nov. 6, 2015, there were 13 confirmed cases of E. coli O111 infection being linked to unpasteurized apple juice from High Hill Ranch near Placerville, CA. An investigation by state and county health and environmental officials is continuing into the source of the problem.

According to the Sacramento County Department of Health & Human Services, 11 of those sickened reside in Sacramento County, one lives in Yolo County, and one is from Contra Costa County. One person was hospitalized. They reportedly became ill in mid-October after buying the raw apple juice for home consumption or being served it at the ranch.

“The California Food and Drug Branch is looking into it, and basically we are also working with them, but in terms of the environmental sampling that was done, sampling of the juice, that was all done by the state,” Greg Stanton, director of the El Dorado County Environmental Management Division, told Food Safety News. (Placerville is in El Dorado County.)

Ron Owens, a spokesman for the California Department of Public Health, said Friday that more information about the state’s role in the outbreak investigation would be available next week.

On Oct. 23, High Hill Ranch recalled its own brand of unpasteurized apple juice sold after Oct. 6 and substituted a flash-pasteurized brand of apple juice. While an Oct. 11 sample of the ranch’s unpasteurized apple juice tested positive for the E. coli bacteria, other tests of the product by the California Department of Public Health were negative.

Ranch owners Jerry and Michelle Visman issued a statement after the problem arose expressing regret about the illnesses, suggesting that customers may have inadvertently passed an illness along, and noting that they would no longer be handing out free samples of their apple juice.

“It was recently brought to our attention by the health department that in mid-October, some people reported getting sick after visiting our ranch. We are very sorry for this. There is some speculation that it may have been caused by drinking the apple juice. We have always offered free samples at our juice-making facility, so that the people could try the juice before buying it. Unfortunately, hundreds of people touch the filler nozzle everyday to fill the sample cups. With so many people getting sick this time of the year this very well could have spread a virus to the sample jug. We regret that for health concerns, the free samples will have to discontinue.

“We are also having the juice tested as a precaution to make absolutely sure all is well, because after making juice for 50 years and not having any complaints, we want to make sure that the good track record continues. Most people have probably already drank the juice they brought but our friends at the health department think it prudent to discard what’s left. The testing will be done in short order on our juice. Until then, we have the excellent Barsotti Apple juice along with all their other great products.”

The ranch owners plan to issue another statement about the situation in the near future, according to an employee who answered the phone at High Hill Ranch on Friday.

Meanwhile, on Nov. 5, the El Dorado County Health Department in Placerville released the following timeline in a fact sheet about the outbreak investigation:

• “On Oct. 23, 2015, according to the Sacramento County Department of Health and Human Services, there were at least seven (7) cases of E. coli illness among residents of Sacramento County who consumed unpasteurized apple juice either sampled at or purchased from High Hill Ranch between Oct. 10 and Oct. 12, 2015.
• On Oct. 23, 2015, High Hill Ranch voluntarily discontinued the processing, sale and distribution of unpasteurized apple juice currently in stock. Unpasteurized apple juice was replaced with a flash pasteurized apple juice product produced and bottled by another local vendor.
• On Oct. 23, 2015, the County of El Dorado issued a press release advising the public of a voluntary recall of unpasteurized apple juice initiated by High Hill Ranch due to suspected contamination with bacteria, likely a strain of E. coli. Consumers were advised not to consume unpasteurized apple juice purchased on or after Oct. 6, 2015, and to dispose of any remaining product.
• On Oct. 29, 2015, the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) notified the county that there were thirteen (13) ill patients associated with the consumption of unpasteurized apple juice from High Hill Ranch. Three (3) of these patients were laboratory confirmed with E. coli 0111. Two (2) additional patients were subsequently confirmed to have E. coli 0111.
• On Oct. 30, 2015, High Hill Ranch notified the county that they had submitted samples of unpasteurized apple juice to an independent laboratory for testing for E. coli 0111. The juice samples tested were from a separate and subsequent production run after the suspected processing period that may have contained harmful bacteria.
• On Nov. 4, 2015, the county was notified by the CDPH that a sample of unpasteurized juice obtained from one of the ill Sacramento County patients had tested positive for E. coli 0111.
• On Nov. 5, 2015, the county was notified by the CDPH that all laboratory samples collected from High Hill Ranch on October 21, 2015, by CDPH were negative for the presence of E. coli 0111.

High Hill Ranch has voluntarily discontinued the production and sale of unpasteurized apple juice indefinitely. No other High Hill Ranch products are being investigated. High Hill Ranch continues to fully cooperate with local and state health officials during this ongoing investigation.”

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Wegmans Recalls Pine Nuts for Salmonella Risk, Pudding Cups for Unlisted Allergen

Wegmans Food Markets Inc. of Gates, NY, has announced recalls of Wegmans Italian Classics Pine Nuts and Kozy Shack Indulgent Recipe Salted Caramel pudding cups because of Salmonella concerns and an unlisted allergen, respectively.

The recalled pine nuts, sold in 3-ounce containers, contain the UPC 77890-24823. Only packages with best-by dates of April 10 and April 17, 2016, are affected, Wegmans stated.

World Variety Produce of Vernon, CA, recalled the pine nuts, which were sold under the Wegmans brand, because they may have been contaminated with Salmonella.

Kozy Shack Indulgent Recipe Salted Caramel pudding cups sold in four-packs were also recalled. The four-packs may contain vanilla bean pudding that contains egg that was not listed on the product’s label.

“People who have an allergy or sensitivity to eggs should not consume this product,” the company’s recall stated.

The recalled pudding cups were sold at Wegmans between Oct. 1 and Nov. 4, 2015. They have a UPC of 7349109240 and a use-by date of Nov. 30, 2015.

The cups come packaged in a four-pack with a cardboard sleeve. If the sleeve has been removed, the lot number on the impacted pudding cups is 31908940.

For more information on the pudding cups recall, contact Kozy Shack at 1-877-585-2365, Monday from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and Tuesday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Both the pine nuts and pudding cups can be returned for a full refund, Wegmans stated.

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10 restaurant trends for 2016

The U.S. restaurant industry is evolving in profound ways, according to Technomic. The food research and consulting firm has predicted 10 trends that may prove transformational in 2016, ranging from menu tweaks to technological and social upheavals.

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Multistate outbreaks responsible for majority of food poisoning deaths

According to Reuters, U.S. regulators want food companies to be more proactive in preventing foodborne diseases, citing new data showing that multistate outbreaks cause more than half of all food poisoning deaths, even though they account for just 3% of all outbreaks.

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Bunge, Solazyme to expand joint venture

Solazyme and Bunge have agreed to expand their joint venture to include a focus on food, including a range of oils for food and products for animal nutrition.

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Cutting out processed sugar may improve obese children’s health

A study published in Obesity shows that reducing consumption of added sugar, even without reducing calories or losing weight, may help reduce a cluster of chronic metabolic diseases, including high cholesterol and blood pressure, in children.

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Kellogg to source 100% cage-free eggs by 2025

Kellogg has announced its plans to build on its commitment to animal welfare by sourcing only cage-free eggs for its foods and eliminating gestation stalls from its pork supply chain by the end of 2025.

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TreeHouse Foods to acquire ConAgra’s private label business for $2.7 billion

TreeHouse Foods has signed a definitive agreement to acquire ConAgra Foods’ private brands operations.

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Baby Muesli Recalled in the UK for Insect Contamination

Cow & Gate is recalling one batch of Cow & Gate Sunny Start My First Banana Muesli from 10 months with a best-before date of 27/09/2016. No other Cow & Gate products are affected.

The British-based company stated that the recall was in response to complaints regarding insects found in the pack. Since other packs in this batch may be affected, the company asked customers not to feed My First Banana Muesli with this best-before date to babies.

“We are very sorry that this has happened and would like to reassure parents that we maintain strict standards at our factory and we are committed to providing the highest quality products. We have launched an immediate investigation and we will be taking all necessary steps to prevent this happening again,” the company stated on its website.

Parents were advised to return any packs with that affected best-before date to the store where they were purchased for a refund or to contact the company by phone or email.

Cow & Gate, a baby food and formula company headquartered in Trowbridge, England, is owned by Paris-based Group Danone. Among other products, Group Danone owns the Dannon and Evian brands.

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Partnership to maximize almond orchards for groundwater recharge in California

The Almond Board of California and Sustainable Conservation, a conservation nonprofit that unites people to steward California's resources in ways that make economic sense, have announced a new partnership focused on exploring the potential of California’s one million acres of almond orchards for groundwater recharge.

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All American Meats Recalls 167,427 Pounds of Ground Beef Over E. coli Concerns

All American Meats, Inc., an Omaha, Neb. establishment, is recalling approximately 167,427 pounds of ground beef products that may be adulterated with E. coli O157:H7, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

The ground beef items were produced on Oct. 16, 2015. The following products are subject to recall:

80-lb. (approximate weight) boxes of “Ground Beef 80% Lean 20% Fat (Fine Grind)” with Sell By Date 11-03-2015 and case code 62100.
80-lb. (approximate weight) boxes of “Ground Beef 73% Lean 27% Fat (Fine Grind)” with Sell By Date 11-03-2015 and case code 60100.
60-lb. (approximate weight) boxes of “Ground Beef Round 85% Lean 15% Fat (Fine Grind)” with Sell By Date 11-03-2015 and case code 68560.
60-lb. (approximate weight) boxes of “Ground Beef Chuck 81% Lean 19% Fat (Fine Grind)” with Sell By Date 11-03-2015 and case code 68160.
60-lb. (approximate weight) boxes of “Ground Beef Chuck 81% Lean 19% Fat (Fine Grind)” with Sell By Date 11-03-2015 and case code 63130.
80-lb. (approximate weight) boxes of “Ground Beef Chuck 81% Lean 19% Fat (Fine Grind)” with Sell By Date 11-03-2015 and case code 63100.

The products subject to recall bear establishment number “EST. 20420” inside the USDA mark of inspection. These items were shipped to retail locations nationwide.

The problem was discovered on Oct. 30, 2015, when a positive result for E. coli O157:H7 from FSIS’ in-commerce surveillance program testing was traced back to the establishment. There have been no confirmed reports of adverse reactions due to consumption of these products.

E. coli O157:H7 is a potentially deadly bacterium that can cause dehydration, bloody diarrhea and abdominal cramps 2–8 days (3–4 days, on average) after exposure to the organism. While most people recover within a week, some develop a type of kidney failure called hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). This condition can occur among persons of any age but is most common in children under 5-years old and older adults. It is marked by easy bruising, pallor, and decreased urine output. Persons who experience these symptoms should seek emergency medical care immediately.

FSIS and the company are concerned that some product may be frozen and in consumers’ freezers.

Consumers who have purchased these products are urged not to consume them. These products should be thrown away or returned to the place of purchase.

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