Labelling food as ‘organic’ may not always lead to a positive impression and outcome. [ + ]

Grundfos Pumps recently installed a new state-of-the-art dosing system test rig, providing increased testing capabilities, in its facilities at Ormeau, Queensland. [ + ]

The Australian Food and Grocery Council has launched its Sustainability Commitment, which sets clear objectives, targets and metrics on water, energy, packaging and sustainable sourcing. [ + ]

Researchers at the University of Seville (Spain) have developed a technique for estimating grape composition and variety using computer imaging. They have also put forward an index for identifying the ripeness of seeds without the need for chemical analysis. This new method can help to decide the best moment for picking. [ + ]

‘Package rage’ - the anger consumers feel when negotiating a difficult-to-open package - could soon be a thing of the past, as manufacturers start to realise that consumer satisfaction goes far beyond product. [ + ]

While shelf friendly packaging (SFP) has been part of the Australian retail landscape for nearly 10 years, it is a process and a function that few understand. [ + ]

Are New Zealand and Australian cows being treated more poorly than those in Russia where daylight saving has been abandonded to reduce stress on the herd? [ + ]

It’s a very ‘first world’ approach, this seeking a product to cure our current and prevent future health problems. The idea that a food supplement or a pill can magically prevent disease is very alluring and much of the complementary therapy industry uses this allure to attract business. [ + ]

Tetra Pak was commissioned to build New Zealand’s only independent spray dryer at Hamilton’s Waikato Innovation Park. The dryer can produce half a tonne of whole milk powder per hour and operate for up to 21 hours a day. [ + ]

Hotfill or aseptic - that is the question facing companies when it comes to investing in filling technology for sensitive beverages. [ + ]

Loscam’s first foray into the bulk containers business, the Intermediate Bulk Container (IBC), is receiving positive feedback from its first clients. [ + ]

India is presenting great opportunities for chocolate manufacturers as the growth in this market is the strongest in the world. [ + ]

The highest level of sophistication in production processes is required for the manufacture of confectionery products. In particular, manufacturers assign the highest priority to hygienic design for open processes - processes where the product comes into contact with the production equipment. Machines designed in a way that improves process safety and product shelf life are given preference. [ + ]

2013 will be a year of increasing pressure, including pressure on manufacturers to be accountable to consumers and suppliers, and regulatory pressure around definitions of naturalness. [ + ]

Increasing product demand led organic food manufacturer Rod & Ben’s to automate its filling line. Riggs Autopack supplied the company with a volumetric filling and lidding line for its range of soups. [ + ]