UK plastic milk bottle producer Nampak claims to have created the world’s lightest four-pint high density polyethylene (HDPE) bottle, weighing just 32 grams. [ + ]

The alcohol industry’s self-regulation has failed, the AMA has said, with the industry involved pushing to “lure young people into early and potentially harmful drinking patterns”. [ + ]

University of South Carolina scientists are working to give the term ‘evergreen’ a new meaning, developing new plastics that are based on polymers from pine trees, firs and other conifers. [ + ]

The 20th Australian HACCP Conference will explore a range of topics, including Australia’s role in a global marketplace, Australian technical updates and new issues for food export. [ + ]

Sourdough bread resists mould, unlike conventionally leavened bread. It seems that during sourdough production, bacteria convert the linoleic acid in bread flour to a compound that has powerful antifungal activity. [ + ]

General Mills and Häagen-Dazs have announced a sustainable vanilla sourcing program designed to support smallholder vanilla farmers in Madagascar. [ + ]

Dr Helén Williams, senior lecturer in energy and environmental systems at Karlstad University, Sweden, and visiting academic at RMIT in Melbourne, will speak at the AIP March Technical Dinner. [ + ]

Country of origin labelling in Australia leaves a great deal to be desired, but the Greens’ proposed bill is not an acceptable alternative, the Australian Made Campaign has said. [ + ]

Nestlé Australia has announced that every chocolate it sells is now independently certified to ensure the cocoa is sourced and produced sustainably on farms with safe working conditions. [ + ]

Terry O’Brien, Managing Director of Simplot Australia, has been elected as the new chair of the Australian Food and Grocery Council Board following the resignation of John Doumani. [ + ]

A triennial event, the 10th SIAB International Techno-Bake Exhibition will not only exhibit enhancements to traditional sectors but also new and innovative developments in the baking industry. [ + ]

The AFGC has criticised Greenpeace’s recent activism at CCA’s Sydney headquarters, calling it “yet another example of the environmental lobby trying to pull the wool over consumers’ eyes.” [ + ]

Two American not-for-profit organisations dedicated to improving quality of life for those with food allergies have merged. The Kids with Food Allergies Foundation will become a division of the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. [ + ]

Murray Goulburn says a drive to improve efficiencies in the business has enabled it to provide its supplier-shareholders with a third step up in milk price for the season. [ + ]

Kraft Foods’ President has applauded the government for taking the first step towards establishing a Food Innovation Precinct to boost the Australian food manufacturing industry and capture the Asian market. [ + ]