Industry News
High BPA? Could be the receipt, not the packaging
Research shows that using skincare products dramatically increases the absorption of BPA from cash register receipts. [ + ]
Does limited supply promote brand loyalty or brand switching?
According to a new study in the Journal of Consumer Research, when you can't get your favourite product, you'll quickly forget about it if you can find a good replacement. [ + ]
Research centre aims to secure food for the future through photosynthesis
A research centre has been established to explore new technologies for improving crop yields, by improving the way that plants capture the sun's energy through photosynthesis. [ + ]
Unlocking aroma formation in wine
Scientists have identified two enzymes that determine the terpene content - and thus the aroma intensity - of grapes. The findings could play an important role in the future development of grape varieties. [ + ]
Slipper-shaped dog food wins packaging prize
Dog food packaging shaped like slippers and a carton of extra-large eggs depicting a chicken in some discomfort are among the packaging designs recognised by the Pentawards Concept 2015. [ + ]
Retail trade growth to soften in December; trade turnover to increase
Retail trade growth will slow in the lead-up to Christmas, according to the AFGC CHEP Retail Index. The Index predicts just 3.2% year-on-year growth for the December quarter. [ + ]
Iced coffee market hots up
Consumers' love of coffee has turned cold, according to new research from Innova Market Insights. Chilled ready-to-drink (RTD) or iced coffee is booming, with the number of launches tripling in the last five years. [ + ]
Tea flavour, health benefits reduced by rain
Researchers have found that shifting patterns of precipitation affect key chemicals responsible for the flavour and health properties of tea. [ + ]
Natural sweeteners on the rise … slowly
According to a report published by Canadean, consumers love the idea of natural sweeteners, but our taste buds are still adjusting. [ + ]
Cutting-edge culinary trends for 2015
Coconut sugar, ugly fruit and vegetables and cannabis cuisine feature in advertising agency Sterling Rice Group's list of Top 10 Cutting-Edge Culinary Trends for 2015 [ + ]
Too soon to tell if chocolate is brain food, experts say
Recent research suggesting that compounds found in cocoa can improve memory in older people makes old age seem not quite so bad. But is it too soon to start plying grandma with a family-sized block of chocolate every time you go to visit? [ + ]
Start date for dietary fibre claim requirements could be pushed back
New requirements for nutrition content claims about dietary fibre could be delayed by 12 months after the Australian Food and Grocery Council applied to extend the requirements to January 2017. [ + ]
50% rebate available for small exporters
Small exporters of agricultural commodities have one week to apply for a rebate of 50% (up to $5000) on export registration charges. [ + ]
Cherries that keep their cool travel better
How do you keep cherries fresh when exporting? The secret's in the cooling, according to Canadian agrifood research. Just a few degrees can have a big impact on cherries that are transported via ocean container. [ + ]
Older consumers need educating about protein
Consumers are becoming aware of how important protein is in the diet - but most of them aren't eating enough of it and don't fully understand its benefits. According to research firm Canadean, this presents an opportunity for manufacturers. [ + ]
