Things are looking good for the beverage industry with above average growth expected for new types of drinks. Improvements in processing technology will help processors realise this growth.

Foodborne viruses are a common, and probably the most under-recognised, cause of outbreaks of gastroenteritis. The prevention of foodborne viral illness depends on the quality of raw materials, staff education and a high level of awareness in the manufacturing industry. In this three-part article, the Institute of Food Science & Technology’s April 2008 Information Statement will bring food producers up to date with this important topic.

The original source of all foodborne viruses is the human intestine. They cannot grow in food. Part two of this series looks at how these viruses are transferred to our food sources and examines current detection methods.

Foodborne viruses are hardy and may survive for prolonged periods in foods or the food handling environment, as well as persisting in aquatic environments. Part three addresses the control methods necessary for hygienic food manufacturing.

Both aluminium and plastic cans can now be resealed by the consumer thanks to the Ball Resealable End.

The historic free trade agreement between China and New Zealand will open up new opportunities for NZ businesses looking to engage with, or grow their existing links with, China. It will facilitate goods and services trade, and investment.

Machinery that is designed to be easy to clean and sanitise can save food processors time and minimise food contamination risks.

Tamper evidence, cold-chain compliance, authenticity and more can all be ensured with the latest functional labels.

Recent US trades driven by economic growth in developing countries and favourable exchange rates, combined with tight global grain supplies, resulted in record or near-record prices for corn, soybeans and other food and feed grains in 2007

For retailers, the shelf remains the key interface with customers. It's here that consumers decide which products to put in their trolleys. 70% of purchasing decisions are made at the point of sale (POS)

Has anyone else noticed that 2008 is already shaping up to be a bad year for logistics in Australia?

The organic foods market is the fastest growing food sector both internationally and locally with 20+% annual growth recorded in Europe, the US, Australia and New Zealand

Australians are consuming 5-10 times more salt than they need, according to Associate Professor Bruce Neal, chairman of Australia Division of World Action on Salt and Health (AWASH)

The Food Innovation Grants Programme (FIG) seems to have been quietly abandoned by the new federal government with nothing to take its place in encouraging innovation and commercialisation in Australia's food and beverage industry

In 2008, new products that complement a simpler, purer and more natural way of life are set to dominate, according to research from Mintel Global New Products Database (GNPD)