Coronavirus: Your one-stop blog for food industry updates
10 August
Mintel: How to make it in the mindful market
Tapping into the rising consumer interest in mental health is about so much more than adding some magnesium to the mix so brands that want to win in this space will need to offer a value proposition through much more than just their products.
27 July
Healthy plant-rich diets associated with lower COVID-19 risk
Does diet impact risk and severity of COVID-19?
Research reveals Gen Zs want healthy snacks that prioritise their mental health instead of calories
Research commissioned by EIT Food has found that young Europeans want an overhaul of how they access, discuss and learn about healthy food.
9 July
Faecal microbiota transplants may influence COVID-19 severity, suggest researchers
Tweaking the gut microbiome via a faecal microbiome transplant (FMT) may be worth further study as an approach to regulate the immune system in COVID-19 patients, researchers speculate.
14 June
A non-conventional start: How Coca-Cola launched Costa coffee products during the pandemic
Coca-Cola Hellenic Bottling Company was the first Coca-Cola bottler to bring a new range of Costa products to the market at scale last year. So how did it do this during the pandemic?
3 June
IADSA resource highlights vitamin D importance in wake of COVID-tackling role
The International Alliance of Dietary/Food Supplement Associations (IADSA) is underlining the link between inadequate vitamin D levels and a higher risk of falling with its online resource that highlights nutrition’s role in vulnerable populations.
Consumers in the mood for natural mind-health solutions
SIRIO has identified hops, saffron, and hempseed oil as rising stars when it comes to ingredients that help support focus, mood and calm.
Global beverage alcohol volumes expected to recover from pandemic in 2023
Global beverage alcohol is showing positive signs of recovery: expected to grow 2.9% in volume by the end of 2021; and return to pre-pandemic levels by 2023.
2 June
Functional beverages: How to stay immune to the competition
The global functional beverage market was worth $102bn in 2020, and growth is predicted at a CAGR of 3.2%, but how can brands make their products stand out in an increasingly crowded market?
1 June
Keeping an eye on the market: Lutein and zeaxanthin in focus
PharmaLinea is catering to the dramatic rise in consumer concern around eye health with a new range of lutein and zeaxanthin based supplements.
20 May
Expert insight: Key research challenges in validating immune system benefits
Despite huge consumer and industry interest in immunity, the list of food components that have gained regulatory approval for immune-support health claims is still limited to a handful of vitamins and minerals. To understand why and what can be done,...
14 May
The future of wine post-COVID: 5 trends to watch
From ecommerce to lower alcohol products, here's five trends to watch in the UK wine industry.
5 May
Mental wellbeing ranks top of health concerns in global consumer survey
Consumers rank ‘mental wellbeing’ as their top health concern in 2021, driven by a year of lockdowns, Euromonitor market analysts have revealed.
29 April
Probiotic blend found to be effective against COVID-19-related pneumonia, study finds
More evidence has emerged of the gut’s role in the onset of COVID-19 as researchers point towards a probiotic as a method to aid patients hospitalised with virus-related pneumonia.
26 April
The pandemic's impact on Europe's beer industry - and the way forward for 2021
On-trade beer sales in Europe plunged 42% in 2020 as a result of the pandemic. Getting the hopitality industry back up and running will be key to the industry's recovery in 2021, says The Brewers of Europe.
23 April
‘We lost 97% of our business in six weeks’: The Pished Fish on its D2C reinvention
The ups and downs suffered by The Pished Fish, a UK brand that makes Scandinavian-inspired alcohol- and botanical- infused smoked salmon, illustrate the shift in consumer behaviour towards online shopping and the new food categories created by the pandemic.
20 April
The 'CoronaEspresso' is a COVID-19 home test made from a 'cheap' and 'sustainable' coffee capsule.
Coca-Cola: 'Our Q1 results show promising signs that a broader recovery is on the horizon'
Coca-Cola's volumes in March 2021 marked a return to the pre-pandemic volumes in March 2019. But the company warns that recovery trajectories are very different between individual markets.
19 April
A host of new technologies have been released promising to ensure customers feel safe and protected in busy venues and help the hospitality industry bounce back from the impact of the pandemic. What impact will these innovations have on the eating out experience?
8 April
Irish Government committee outlines policies needed to promote Vitamin D
The Irish Joint Committee on Health has launched a report on Vitamin D deficiency concluding that the Government must promote supplementation across the population by increasing public knowledge and reducing costs.
7 April
'The pint is half full': US craft beer down 9% - but emerges from 2020 stronger than expected.
US craft beer production decreased 9% in 2020: representing the first decline in the modern craft era. But while the industry has undoubtedly been hit by the pandemic, it hasn't been the collapse many were predicting.
24 March
Has the alternative meat market been slowed by COVID? Redefine Meat thinks not
With industry feedback indicating that meat reduction and flexitarianism has slowed amid the ongoing pandemic, we talk to Eshchar Ben-Shitrit, CEO and Co-Founder of meat alternative innovators, Redefine Meat, on the landscape.
COVID-19 has boosted interest in functional foods that deliver wellbeing benefits like immunity and stress management. But while the pandemic may have accelerated this trend, functional foods are no flash in the pan, experts insist.
22 March
Spitfire engines and Merlin's magic: How Heineken is turning wasted COVID-19 beer into green energy
Heineken UK's Manchester brewery is using millions of pints of beer - which was unable to be sold with the COVID-19 closure of the on-trade - to power its operations.
19 March
Nutrition a possible factor in Covid-19 vaccination efficacy, concludes review
Researchers have highlighted nutrition as a possible factor influencing the effectiveness of the COVID-19 vaccine, as recent news establishes a link between vitamin D levels and an adequate immune response.
Pandemic induced research frenzy increases backing for some legacy ingredients
The pandemic has boosted interest in immune health support ingredients of all kinds. As scientists race to determine the best way to help patients in the current crisis, NutraIngredients-USA takes a look at what some of the latest research has to say...
Immune support in the age of vaccines: Do shots threaten the category?
The immune support category continues to dominate dietary supplements as the pandemic proceeds to push consumers toward prioritizing their immune health. But with more than two million Americans getting the COVID-19 vaccine every day, where does the category...
16 March
Brands weigh in on launching immune support in crowded space
They were already gaining traction pre-pandemic, and now, products in the immune support category are continuing to pop up everywhere—from elderberry water to CBD gummies to dairy-based probiotics. We spoke with a few brands who launched their own immune...
12 March
A sommelier with no sense of taste or smell? How COVID-19 is affecting wine professionals
A keen taste of taste and smell is a fundamental part of most jobs in the wine industry. So what happens when a professional - who depends on these senses - loses them from COVID-19?
8 March
AB InBev invests $159m in UK breweries
Budweiser Brewing Group UK&I is investing in two UK breweries to meet growing demand for off-trade beer: having seen record sales in the channel last year.
5 March
Probiotics see biggest ever online surge in 2020
Probiotics witnessed their biggest ever rise in online engagement in 2020 with weight management leading the charge as consumers looked for natural ways to stay healthy and avoid severe COVID-19.
2 March
Vitamin D 'necessary' for COVID-19 treatment, says Spanish society
Vitamin D supplementation should be a standardised practice to treat COVID-19 in hospitalised older patients, according to a newly published position statement by the Spanish Society of Geriatrics and Gerontology.
26 February
Ireland academics urge its government to deploy vitamin D in COVID fight as calls gather pace
Calls to include vitamin D as part of a national strategy to tackle COVID continues to gain momentum as health experts have pushed Ireland’s government to consider and act upon the latest evidence.
Lockdown lifts interest in home-cooking: 91% of Brits plan to cook ‘as much, or more’ this year
The closure of out-of-home foodservice channels and having more time on our hands during lockdown has raised interest in home-cooking and, new research suggests, this trend could have sticking power when restrictions ease.
Study backs link between Vitamin D and COVID-19 severity
A retrospective study of elderly COVID-19 patients has concluded that vitamin D serum deficiency is associated with more severe lung symptoms, longer disease duration and higher risk of death.
25 February
Nestlé continues to lean into the direct-to-consumer (D2C) channel as part of its portfolio transformation strategy. This week, the Swiss food giant snapped up UK recipe kit company SimplyCook. With the changes ushered in by COVID expected to leave a lasting mark, the outlook for D2C looks bright.
19 February
Prelim data: Probiotic may reduce COVID-19 severity
AB-Biotics has revealed the preliminary results of a fast-tracked study which suggests their probiotic can help reduce COVID-19 symptom duration for non-hospitalised patients.
18 February
ADM talks 2021 trends in weight management
The global pandemic has heightened consumers’ concerns about their weight and ADM says this awareness is set to last. But what products will fit consumers' evolving demands?
A recent study that found no benefit for vitamin C and zinc in shortening COVID-19 symptoms suffers from weak study design and a possible premature cessation, CRN says.
16 February
Vitamin D deficiency increases hospitalisation risk in older population
Vitamin D deficiency increases the likelihood of hospitalisation and the length of stay in the population aged over 60, according to a cross-sectional study of over 3,000 people.
15 February
Immunity on-trend: Selenium and zinc’s time to shine
Vitamin D is enjoying its well-deserved moment in the spotlight but the next trending ingredients in immune health will be selenium and zinc, according to a supplement entrepreneur.
10 February
Post-COVID trends: Shoppers will back local, remain online and watch their F&B spending
UK consumers will continue to shop more locally and seek out locally produced products throughout 2021 and online sales will continue to flourish, according to new research from Lumina Intelligence. However, there is a cloud on the horizon: the recessionary environment.
What does 2021 and the ‘new normal’ have in store for seafood?
In the UK, 2020 saw frozen fish sales surge in retail, while premium seafood struggled to find its way onto restaurant diners’ plates. What do experts predict for the post-COVID ‘new normal’? And how can brands make the most of this changing retail landscape?
9 February
Kellogg Company and Unilever are calling on start-ups to help tackle some of the most critical issues facing the food and industry.
5 February
Wake up to the opportunity: Sleep and stress in the spotlight
Functional food and supplements targeting sleep support and stress relief is a largely untapped opportunity, according to Mintel, but one nootropics startup has proven it has its finger firmly on the pulse.
The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly changed consumer behaviour in retail, according to Steve Challouma, General Manager UK at Nomad Foods-owned Birds Eye.
4 February
Acne, IBS and dogs: COVID-19 probiotic opportunities go beyond immunity
Interest in probiotics has accelerated during COVID-19, with some key concerns being stress-related gut issues, acne caused by face masks and pet health.
Lactoferrin exhibits COVID-19 protective effect in vitro
Lactoferrin can enhance antiviral immune response to COVID-19 infection, according to a newly published study in cells.
2 February
South Africa's alcohol industry welcomes partial lifting of alcohol ban
South Africa will now allow limited sales of alcohol, lifting its third ban on alcohol sales since the pandemic started.
Manufacturers and retailers create global alliance for alcohol ecommerce standards
Prompted by a rise in ecommerce during the pandemic, major alcohol manufacturers and retailers from around the world have joined together to create responsible ecommerce standards.
Scientists warn factory farming raises future pandemic risk: 'COVID-19 could be a dress rehearsal'
South African scientists have warned that rising demand for affordable meat and the expansion of intensive animal agriculture creates the ‘perfect breeding ground’ for the development of viruses that could spark future pandemics.
25 January
Irish alcohol exports hit by pandemic
Irish alcohol exports fell by around 19% in 2020: a proportional decline greater than at the height of the global financial crisis in 2008.
South Africa's alcohol industry faces 'economic abyss' as alcohol ban continues
South Africa's liquor industry warns that many businesses are on the brink of closure as the alcohol ban in the country continues.
22 January
Coronavirus pandemic a ‘temporary setback’ for flexitarian movement
The UK has observed a temporary slowdown in the meat reduction trend, according to Mintel, who says processed meat sales are booming amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
21 January
Irish dairy exports to UK declined in 2020 says Bord Bia report
New figures released in the annual Bord Bia Export Performance and Prospects report 2020/2021 show exports of Irish food, drink and horticulture to the UK declined by 5% in 2020, with a value of €4.3bn/$5.2bn (compared to €4.5bn/$5.5bn in 2019).
20 January
COVID-19 has accelerated interest in the role that automation, robotics and data can play in food and agricultural production. We speak to industry leaders to learn about the latest developments.
Dairy Dialog podcast 117: Quantec, Kerry, Chobani
This week, we have conversations with Quantec founder Dr Rod Claycomb and CEO Raewyn McPhillips; Christina Matrozou, marketing manager for taste in Europe and Russia at Kerry, and Chobani chief corporate affairs officer, Cristina Alesci.
What trends will shape flavour innovation in 2021?
The seismic events of 2020 have shaped consumer behaviours and expectations. The COVID-19 pandemic has reached every part of our lives – and the flavours we crave are no exception.
18 January
FrieslandCampina Ingredients sees four key trends for 2021
FrieslandCampina Ingredients has released a new report outlining the trends and developments for the future of performance and active nutrition.
15 January
COVID: Smell, taste and the lessons for the food industry
Almost a year since the start of the pandemic in Europe, many of those infected who reported losing their sense of smell and consequently taste -- even without displaying other symptoms -- still haven’t recovered these senses.
13 January
Microbiome impacts COVID-19 severity and duration, study suggests
Gut microbiota composition may be associated with the severity of COVID-19 and the risk of on-going symptoms, according to a newly published observational study.
12 January
Patients with more omega-3s in blood less likely to die from COVID-19, pilot study finds
Patients with the most omega-3s in their system were 75% less likely to die from COVID-19, a preliminary pilot study suggests.
11 January
Energy strip startup on a mission to dissolve 'exhaustion epidemic'
An Australian startup says the 'exhaustion epidemic' caused by lockdown 3.0 will further boost interest in its energy strips after entering the UK market in 2020 and growing online sales by over 100%.
5 January
Report raises concern over supplement use in COVID-19
Global use of supplements increased during the COVID-19 pandemic, yet many have admitted to letting their daily dietary habits slip, suggesting consumers may have fallen prey to marketing misinformation online, according to a new report from Poland.
4 January
Operations expert Victoria Cobos joined General Mills in early November, as the company grappled with the challenges of COVID-19 and the fast-approaching Brexit deadline. We caught up with her to learn what the Supply Chain Director’s priorities are moving into 2021.
BrewDog offers pubs and bars as vaccination venues
Scottish craft brewer BrewDog is in talks with the government to use its bars and pubs - most of which are currently closed under restrictions - as vaccination centres.
Vitamin B6 may play a potential role in reducing the severity of COVID-19 and its complications, according to an opinion article written by researchers from Japan, China and Thailand.
21 December
France halts UK food and drink imports due to super-infectious coronavirus strain
Britain is heading towards international isolation as several Member States impose travel restrictions on UK travellers and France suspends freight traffic across the Channel.
Experts send Vitamin D and Covid-19 open letter to world's governments
In an open letter being sent to world governments today (21st December), 120 health, science and medical experts from the UK, US, and Europe say there is clear scientific evidence that vitamin D reduces Covid-19 infections, hospitalisations, and deaths.
18 December
UK health bodies: ‘Use vitamin D for winter but not for coronavirus’
Leading UK health bodies have published updated guidance on vitamin D for COVID-19, in which they support its use during autumn and winter but stop short of recommending the vitamin to tackle the virus.
17 December
Global campaign makes plea for vitamin C and COVID-19
An international consortium of vitamin C advocates wants regulators to bring vitamin C into the therapeutic bag of measures in the battle against COVID-19.
15 December
Omega-3 Overview 2020: COVID and Contradictions (in Science)
The year 2020 will go down in history as a year like no other; the overused adjective “unprecedented” doesn’t even seem to do the situation justice anymore. In a year dominated by COVID-19, it’s impossible to look at any industry segment without examining...
“If not now then when?”: 2020 a cue for VMS businesses to remodel
With supplements on course to catch up the OTC category by 2025, PharmaLinea’s founder urges brand owners to “take a serious look at their business models for the future”.
COVID-19 focus: Top 10 most read COVID-19 research of 2020
See our top 10 most read research studies assessing effects of botanicals, herbals, vitamins and minerals on COVID-19, featuring ingredients such as coconut oil, honey, curcumin, and probiotics.
10 December
Italian group fights COVID-19 health claim abuse
Italy’s primary food supplements group is taking action to protect the EU’s biggest and most dynamic market from a surge in misleading coronavirus-linked immunity claims.
9 December
Mystic Meg for the market: Top 10 Trends for 2021
FMCG Gurus has revealed its predictions for the top 10 consumer trends that will impact food and drink brands in 2021.
Are we headed for Horsegate 2.0? COVID-19 escalates risk of meat fraud
An unprecedented shortage of meat production, prompted by the COVID-19 outbreak, is driving up the risk of meat fraud – particularly in species substitution.
JollyGut: This new smart food scanner is ‘reinventing the shopping experience’
In the short-term, JollyGut aims to simplify and personalise the shopping experience for consumers both in-store and online. In the long-term, CMO Dmitry Dubovik says the start-up is setting its sights further afield: “We want to become an Amazon for food.”
2 December
Health trumps price among COVID-hit consumers, report reveals
The pandemic presents an exciting opportunity for food manufacturers to innovate products targeting consumers who believe access to affordable food should not come at the cost of health and good nutrition.
30 November
Jobs to be lost as FrieslandCampina Germany speeds up transformation strategy
FrieslandCampina Germany said it is accelerating the transformation it launched two years ago, focusing on its brands and scaling back the production of unprofitable products.
UK Dairy Expo 2021 postponed
Harrison & Hetherington, organizers of the Borderway UK Dairy Expo, have postponed the event scheduled to take place in March 2021.
27 November
‘Mega trends’ in clean label revealed: ‘It’s what’s not on the label that’s important’
For today’s consumers, ‘clean label’ is less about the ingredients featured back-of-pack, and more about what isn’t listed, be it preservatives, genetically modified ingredients or artificial sweeteners, according to L.E.K. Consulting.
25 November
Meat sector calls for coronavirus vaccine priority
With new hopes for a COVID-19 vaccine, the UK meat processing sector wants its key workers to be amongst the first to be immunised.
23 November
Cutting your way to growth? Job cuts loom as Danone eyes €1bn savings in a ‘COVID-world’
Danone has said it wants to slash €1bn from its cost base, an effort that will cost up to 2% of its workforce, as it responds to the business challenges of COVID-19. But can the French Activia-to-Alpro manufacturer cut its way to growth?
20 November
China detects COVID-19 on German pork knuckles, suspends imports from 20 countries
Reports that COVID-19 has been detected on frozen food packaging and products, including on pork knuckles coming from Germany, have prompted import bans in China. However, Germany's BfR says infection via pork meat is 'unlikely'.
17 November
New report on the role of nutrition in COVID-19 recovery, aging and health
A new report published by the Global Coalition on Aging (GCOA) and Nutricia examines the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on older people’s health and well-being.
12 November
What will news of a COVID vaccine do to the frozen category revival?
With a vaccine breakthrough igniting the hope of a return to normal by spring, manufacturers and analysts are confident the frozen trend’s resurgence is here to stay.
9 November
The UK food industry is facing an increased risk of food fraud due to the disruptions associated with COVID-19 and Brexit. Equiptment manufacturer Elementar UK is urging the industry to act.
5 November
UK’s Prime Minister set to provide free vitamin D in coronavirus fight
The UK Prime Minister is set to follow Scotland’s example by offering free vitamin D supplies to those shielding as the country hunkers down in the latest round of lockdown.
4 November
Study: Elderly patients previously on vitamin D3 supplements more likely to survive COVID-19
Elderly patients who have previously taken vitamin D3 supplements are more likely to survive COVID-19 but supplementing with 80,000 IU daily after infection is probably too low a dose and too late in the day to generate protective effects, according to...
3 November
Co-op Food chief talks ‘sticking’ trends in retail: ‘In every challenge there is an opportunity’
The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated consumer shopping trends. But which ones are going to stick? FoodNavigator hears from chief executive of Co-op Food UK, Jo Whitfield, to find out.
Alland & Robert to ‘massively increase’ acacia gum production following spike in demand
COVID-19 has accelerated demand for FMCG, and with that, acacia gum, Alland & Robert tells FoodNavigator.
27 October
Almarai first brand to receive pandemic prepared certification
Saudi Arabian dairy company Almarai said it is the first brand in the world to obtain a Pandemic Prepared Certification from AIB International due to its application of best practices for food safety in times of epidemics.
22 October
New project looks to pandemic-proof dairy industry
UK dairy farmers could benefit from a new project that aims to make the industry more resilient to threats such as covid-19.
Snack innovators see shift to positive nutrition but 'cutting the nasties isn’t enough'
Innovative snack brands say they are seeing a shift in the snack category as consumers seek out products that deliver positive nutrition in response to COVID-19.
21 October
What does the future hold for Europe’s savoury snacks category? FoodNavigator asks ESA Director General Sebastian Emig if wellness ingredients are here to stay, whether CBD will hit the mainstream, and what kinds of opportunities 2021 presents to snacks makers.
C&C Group: 'Near term outlook for the on-trade remains challenging and uncertain'
Lockdowns and continuing on-trade restrictions have hit C&C Group's H1 2021: while the Bulmers and Magners maker says the key Christmas trading period is also likely to be impacted.
Direct to consumer wine sales up 7% in Australia
Direct to consumer wine sales grew by 7% in value in 2019-2020: outperforming other channels in Australia.
Meat majors accused of exposing workers to abuse during coronavirus pandemic
WH Group, Tyson, JBS and Hormel are among the businesses accused by KnowTheChain of exposing their workers to labour abuse amid the COVID-19 pandemic. FoodNavigator asks the world’s four biggest meat companies for their take on the report.
20 October
Danone could axe 30% of SKUs in post-COVID recovery plan, say analysts
The French food and beverage giant will prune its portfolio after recording a drop in sales in its third quarter.
19 October
The Nobel Peace Prize 2020 has been awarded to the World Food Programme for its efforts to combat hunger. FoodNavigator catches up with WFP supply chain expert John Crisci to find out him what the prize means to the UN agency.
15 October
As the European Parliament prepares to cast its final vote on the use of names such as ‘burger’ and ‘sausage’ for vegetarian and vegan products, FoodNavigator hears from a plant-based campaigner, a meat market expert, and the British Meat Processors Association.
12 October
COVID-19: Google trends reveal global nutrition focus
A Google Trends analysis report reveals the "profound effects" of COVID-19 on interest in immune-boosting nutrients and herbs globally and which specific ingredients consumers favour across different global regions.
9 October
COVID trends have exasperated food safety and allergen labelling risks, expert warns
Dark kitchens, direct-to-consumer sales and online ordering have been given a significant boost by to the coronavirus pandemic and subsequent lockdowns. This could have a negative impact on safety, one expert warns.
Review suggests vitamin K as potential 'missing link' in COVID-19
A new review presents vitamin K metabolism as the potential missing link between lung damage and thromboembolism, two of the most serious outcomes observed in COVID-19 patients.
6 October
Global food businesses are backing the call for international action to stem – and ultimately reverse – nature loss. But efforts to date have failed to yield sufficient results. FoodNavigator examines the business case for action on biodiversity.
2 October
What does the list of top most valuable UK brands tell us about food trends?
Despite the nightmare that has been 2020, it has been good year for food companies, according to the 2020 top 75 Most Valuable UK Brands report from ad giant WPP and insight firm Kantar.
COVID-19: Scientists raise the vitamin D alarm
A group of researchers and doctors have formed an international alliance aiming to encourage governments to increase recommendations for vitamin D intake to 4,000 IU daily as they believe this would reduce COVID-19 hospitalisations.
Paper lays out historical precedents in use of plant based remedies during pandemics
The effusion of natural products connected to COVID-19 is nothing new. Plant-based remedies have played a central part in all of the pandemics in human history, a Spanish researcher maintains.
1 October
Scottish Bakers provides clarity on government’s COVID guidance as new lead is sworn in
The national association – which has protected the interests of Scotland’s bakery trade for nearly 130 years – has sworn in Linda Hill from Murrays Bakers of Perth and confirms its stance to help combat the spread of coronavirus.
29 September
Diageo sees 'good start' to fiscal 21 as markets start to recover
Diageo says its US business is performing strongly and ahead of expectations; while the company is seeing sequential improvement acrross all regions.
Covid-19 to add extra $1.6bn to milk sales in China in 2020
Sales of milk in China are predicted to stand at $26.9bn in 2020, $1.6bn greater than the previously projected amount before the coronavirus pandemic.
24 September
Upcoming events called off due to coronavirus pandemic
Two more events slated for 2020 with relevance to the dairy industry have been postponed – one within a few days of opening its doors.
23 September
From biotech to robotics: FTW Ventures talks food tech in the era of COVID
FTW Ventures, an early-stage VC, has launched a new fund to support food and agri-tech start-ups that it believes can disrupt the sector. FoodNavigator speaks to founder and entrepreneur Brian Frank about the tech and trends he believes will come to the fore in a world now shaped by the coronavirus pandemic.
Dairy Dialog podcast 101: NIZO, Kerry, Casper’s Ice Cream
We have three interviews, and four guests, on this week’s Dairy Dialog podcast. We chatted with Robyn Eijlander, senior project manager microbiology and food safety at NIZO; Keith Lawes, VP of Sales and Marketing at Casper’s Ice Cream; and two people from Kerry - Celia Ridet, senior technologist, and Janka Reke, strategic marketeer for beverages with Kerry Europe & Russia.
21 September
Five strategies for success during COVID-19
Traditional ways of doing business may have come under pressure during the pandemic - but smart beverage brands are showing creativity, imagination and resilience. Rabobank highlights five key strategies for success in a coronavirus era.
Fonterra announces annual results and return to paying dividend
In a year dominated by Covid-19, Fonterra Co-operative Group Limited has announced its annual results, final Farmgate Milk Price of NZ$7.14 (US$4.79) per kgMS and a dividend of 5 cents per share for the 2019/20 season, bringing the final cash payout for farmers to NZ$7.19 (US$4.83) per kgMS.
CP Kelco launches virtual experience
Nature-based ingredient solution provider CP Kelco has launched a new virtual experience, allowing customers, partners and other industry stakeholders to discover CP Kelco’s insights and portfolio of offerings through a virtual-reality environment.
18 September
Don’t slow efforts on trans fats in response to COVID pandemic, WHO warns
The World Health Organization has called on global governments to remain focused on eliminating trans fats from the food supply, despite the new and unprecedented challenges being thrown up by the global coronavirus pandemic.
14 September
ADM: Six ways food & beverage innovation is evolving through COVID-19
Ingredients and solutions company ADM said it has identified six emerging behavioral changes that will power innovation and growth in the months ahead.
DFA donating refrigeration to rural food banks
Through the Dairy Farmers of America (DFA) Cares Farmers Feeding Families Fund, the US dairy cooperative’s 13,000 family farm-owners are donating refrigeration to rural and community food banks across the country and pledging to keep them stocked during the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.
IDF goat and sheep milk symposium goes digital
Originally set for May 2020 in Brussels, Belgium, but postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, organizers of the 8th International Dairy Federation (IDF) international symposium on sheep, goat, and other non-cow milk have decided on a digital format, with the online event set to run from November 4 to 6.
Chadwicks sees challenges and opportunities for dairy packaging
COVID-19 has created widespread economic uncertainty resulting in many sectors critically reviewing their business models. The dairy packaging sector is no exception and across the supply chain companies have had to innovate and respond quickly to changes.
11 September
Following the recent dismantlement of Public Health England, will the government be held accountable to its new obesity commitments?
10 September
Yili tops Brand Finance list of world’s most valuable dairy brands
The food & drink sector is one of the few sectors that should suffer limited impact as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, with the world’s top food & drink brands unlikely to lose brand value, according to the latest Brand Finance Food & Drink 2020 report.
Quorn links obesity to climate change, commits to 'full review' of product portfolio
We no longer have the luxury of tackling obesity and climate change separately, says Quorn's sustainable development manager Tess Kelly, who revealed the brand is committed to launching a complete nutritional review of its product portfolio.
8 September
Public Health England is challenging manufacturers and retailers to cut calories in their products by 10% - rather than the previously set target of 20%. However, industry says the new guideline still represents a 'monumental challenge'.
7 September
Arla delivers strong results despite pandemic
Danish-headquartered dairy cooperative Arla Foods said in spite of the global coronavirus pandemic, in the first half year, its global branded sales volumes grew an unprecedented 10.4% and the cooperative delivered a strong and competitive performance price.
Maxum Foods global dairy commodity update for September
Australia and New Zealand dairy ingredients supplier Maxum Foods has published its September update on the dairy commodity markets.
Vitamin D deficiency may boost risk of coronavirus infection
Scientists at the University of Chicago are calling for clinical trials to investigate if vitamin D may reduce COVID-19 incidence after their retrospective study found a link between deficiency of the sunshine vitamin and the likelihood of becoming infected...
4 September
Food Union investing in tech and innovation: ‘This will give us an ongoing competitive edge’
Latvian dairy company Food Union Group is investing to position itself for future growth, with a focus on production capabilities, food tech and market-led innovation. FoodNavigator speaks to CEO Normunds Staņēvičs to find out more.
PLT wins novel foods approval for mushroom-based Vitamin D
Earthlight Whole Food's Vitamin D, distributed by PLT Health Solutions in the US, has received novel foods approval in the EU, allowing it to be used in 'clean label' food and beverages in Europe.
3 September
Beyond the buzz: How to succeed in the ‘high-risk market’ for nootropics
Demand for food and beverage products that boost mood, memory, focus and energy is said to be soaring. However, food consultant Julian Mellentin warns that food innovators should tread lightly.
Lockdown life boosts Arla Foods butter sales
The Danish dairy giant’s half-year results are the latest to illustrate how food and beverage firms have needed to pivot to successfully negotiate the shift in consumer trends amid the pandemic.
2 September
Healthy eating takes lockdown hit: IGD
People feel that their diets have got worse during the coronavirus lockdown. And, while more people say health is an important purchase motivator, fewer consumers are going to make healthy changes to their diets, according to IGD data.
Pernod Ricard plans for continued uncertainty and volatility
Releasing its FY20 results today, the French wine and spirits giant (which counts Absolut vodka and Jameson Irish Whiskey among its brands) says it has proved its resilience during the pandemic. But it expects continued uncertainty and volatility in the market moving forward.
Dairy Dialog podcast 98: Conagen and Ornua Ingredients Europe
On the Dairy Dialog podcast we have two interviews this week, with Conagen VP of innovation, Dr Casey Lippmeier, and we also talk to Joan Bombardo, managing director of Ornua Ingredients Europe, about recovering from a fire at the plant in Spain, and responding to the coronavirus pandemic.
1 September
New Zealand's wine industry has always benefited from a dynamic wine tourism sector, while international events help boost its exports. But with coronavirus and restrictions on travel, the industry is aware it may have to adjust its strategies.
Coronavirus and meat consumption: Where, how, and what have the Belgians been eating?
COVID-19 has had a significant impact on where and how Belgians are consuming food, but ‘limited impact’ on which foods they are eating, according to VLAM Marketing Advisor Kris Michiels.
31 August
Industry should be prepared for a 'massive global financial crash', says Gira Meat Director Rupert Claxton, who does not expect poultry, beef, and pork markets to be back at pre-COVID levels by next year.
FMCG brands need to reevaluate and revitalise their portfolios, now. Here’s how
Neuroscience can bolster a brand’s better features, strip out the bad ones, and ensure every facet of its intellectual property resonates with customers, says Liz Richardson.
28 August
Lacthosa expands range of Sula dairy products in US
Lacthosa Sula, a brand of Lacteos de Honduras SA, is widening its market by launching into more US markets through the Sula Food & Beverage Corporation, a distribution company.
Food Union Group talks ice cream trends
Latvia-based Food Union Group is a global dairy production and distribution group that recently launched more than 100 new ice cream products across Europe.
Taste & Wellbeing: Givaudan signals nutritional focus with Flavour name change
Givaudan no longer feels the name of its Flavour Division fully reflects the portfolio, which has expanded into products designed for the health market space.
27 August
Emmi delivers growth during crisis
Swiss dairy company Emmi increased sales by 6.6% to CHF1,773.5m ($1.95bn) in the first six months of the financial year, a period dominated by the coronavirus crisis.
Coronavirus hits US craft spirits: 41% of sales evaporate
US craft distillers are projected to lose $700m in annualized sales, representing a loss of 41% of the total craft business.
24 August
Study says pandemic was US dairy’s ‘perfect storm’
Early in the pandemic shutdown, news clips in the US showed empty supermarket shelves in the dairy aisles, and farmers dumping milk they could not sell.
21 August
Food and pandemics: Is intensive animal farming the 'single most risky human behaviour'?
A recent report has identified the eating and farming of animals as the single most risky human behaviour in relation to pandemics. The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, however, is not convinced.
20 August
Big profits for a2 Milk Company
The a2 Milk Company has published its annual financial report for the year ending June 30, 2020.
19 August
Study adds weight to link between COVID-19 and vitamin D
A new cohort study involving 9940 men and women has added to the mounting research to indicate vitamin D supplementation may reduce the seriousness of COVID-19 infections.
18 August
Keytone launches Immunity Booster Powder
Keytone Dairy Corporation Limited has secured national ranging at Coles Supermarkets in Australia for its new Tonik plant range, and has launched an Immunity Booster Powder product under its proprietary brand, KeyDairy.
17 August
Heineken turns to virtual tech during pandemic to launch cardboard topper for multipack beer
Heineken is rolling out its new 'Green Grip': a cardboard topper for beer multipacks which eliminates plastic from millions of cans. With travel restrictions hindering the travel of engineers, virtual technology was used to install new machinery at Heineken's Manchester factory.
South Africa lifts alcohol ban
South Africa's alcohol industry is welcoming the government's decision to lift its coronavirus ban on alcohol sales.
Hochdorf restructuring leading to better results
Swiss-headquartered dairy company Hochdorf Group has published its financial statements for the first half of 2020, and the company said it is starting to see positive results from restructuring.
13 August
Vinamilk ‘overcoming global pandemic’
Vietnamese dairy company Vinamilk said it is expanding in spite of the global coronavirus pandemic.
11 August
Leveraging AI to reduce COVID-19 risk: ‘It’s not enough to rely on test and trace’
A new AI platform has been created to help food businesses manage the risk of COVID-19 in their workforce. We spoke to the platform’s developer to find more.
HelloFresh sweeps away supermarket competition in meal-kit space
HelloFresh raised its guidance for the year for the third time, illustrating strong demand for meal-kit among consumers amid the coronavirus pandemic
10 August
Selig launches online toolkit for troubleshooting during pandemic
Selig, a global provider of sealing solutions, is expanding its customer support by launching virtual field service to provide technical assistance throughout the coronavirus pandemic.
6 August
Ice cream start-up Gemelli on surviving COVID-19: ‘Gemelli was born from resilience’
The coronavirus crisis has hurt many food and beverage SMEs, reliant on out-of-home channels, particularly hard. We spoke to the founders of French ice cream start-up Gemelli to hear how this company has responded.
Pack Expo launches online event as show canceled for first time
PMMI, the Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies, has canceled its in-person Pack Expo International and Healthcare Packaging Expo in Chicago this year.
5 August
Coronavirus will have ‘far-reaching’ impact on alcohol: 5 emerging consumer trends
The alcohol beverage industry has taken a hit from the coronavirus pandemic. But shifts in consumer behavior are also opening up new opportunities: for example in RTDs, local products, and low/no alcohol drinks.
While AB InBev’s Q2 performance was materially impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic as expected, it has seen ‘considerable improvement’ over the course of the quarter.
Coca-Cola lines up hard seltzer and cola-coffee launches
The Coca-Cola Company will launch a hard seltzer under its Topo Chico brand later this year; while Coca-Cola With Coffee will make its debut in the US in 2021. And Coca-Cola champions the launches as examples of good innovation in a coronavirus world.
This week’s podcast is dedicated to some of the companies presenting new products or concepts related to the dairy industry at the recent virtual SHIFT20 event, put on by the IFT (Institute of Food Technologists).
COVID-19: An opportunity to address urgent nutrition education gaps
There is an urgent need to provide evidence-based nutrition education to health professionals and this pandemic may be the perfect catalyst for this change.
4 August
Staff motivation is that great moving target for all manufacturers and the COVID-19 lockdown period – and the coming out of it – has added new dimensions to the challenge.
Keytone launches new plant-based range and updates on orders and lockdown
Keytone Dairy Corporation Limited has announced the launch of a new proprietary product range, Tonik Plant, the largest order received from Walmart China to date and provided an update on the recently announced Stage 3 and Stage 4 lockdowns.
3 August
The German government has introduced measures to protect workers in the meat sector after COVID-19 outbreaks at abattoirs around the country uncovered abuses.
Danone CEO sees COVID-19 polarizing the food sector: ‘There won't be a middle class anymore’
Danone believes that the cornonavirus pandemic will result in a polarization of the food sector, as consumers trade up to healthier products in some areas and trade-down to cut household expenditure in others. “There will be a polarization of the market
31 July
COVID-19 market trends: Stress supplement demand rising
PharmaLinea has revealed two new products to fill gaps in the stress supplements market in response to new research showing this as a huge and growing health concern.
Price the ‘biggest barrier’ to healthy diets
Price is the ‘biggest barrier’ stopping consumers eating healthier diets followed by formulation and flavour issues, research reveals.
27 July
The immediate effects of coronavirus on the hospitality industry are 'horrendous', says two-Michelin star chef Raymond Blanc OBE, but in the long-term, his glass is half full: "There is going to be a complete reinvention of our society towards using cleaner energy. It's really exciting."
24 July
Meet the AI start-up helping Nestlé, Barilla, and Mondelēz cut production waste
Israeli start-up Seebo has raised a total of €31m to help manufacturers predict and prevent food waste on the factory floor. The more complex the production line, the better, CEO Lior Akavia tells FoodNavigator.
Unilever braces for COVID-19 economic downturn: ‘A deep global recession has already started’
Unilever has leveraged ‘agility’ to adapt its business to COVID-19. How does the company plan to cope with the global economic recession that now looks likely?
23 July
Supplementary probiotic blend may play role in halting coronavirus development
Preliminary data suggests a probiotic formulation could act as a complementary remedy to slow down the progression of COVID-19 as researchers stress the gut-lung axis’ importance in controlling the disease.
World Cheese Awards in Oviedo rescheduled to 2021
The Guild of Fine Food, which organizes the World Cheese Awards, said the event will not take place in Spain this year, amid ongoing concerns surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic.
8 ways COVID-19 is changing US wine drinking habits
Are consumers spending more or less on wine? Will ecommerce increase in popularity - or do wine consumers still prefer traditional channels? Wine Intelligence takes a look at how the habits of regular wine consumers are changing.
21 July
SIAL latest event to be postponed
Comexposium Group, organizer of SIAL (Salon International de l’Alimentation), has announced the 2020 edition of SIAL Paris, initially set for this fall, is to be rescheduled to October 15 to 19, 2022.
The multinational snack producer partnered with NextGen insights agency Join the Dots I InSites Consulting and virtual reality (VR) market researcher Gorilla in the room to understand how shelf-ready packaging and merchandising impacts shopper behaviour, without study respondents leaving their homes.
Inconsistent labelling regulations hinder vitamin D food fortification innovation, says BNF
Differing rules between the UK and Europe present a barrier for food manufacturers looking to fortify products with vitamin D, according to the British Nutrition Foundation, as a new report urges more intake of the ‘sunshine nutrient’ among consumers.
Hamburg-based ingredient supplier GoodMills Innovation is introducing SpermidinEVO, a new wheat germ concentrate with ‘added health benefits’. Johanna Imbeck, Project Manager, tells FoodNavigator the launch comes as consumer concern over healthy ageing and immune health continues to go mainstream.
20 July
Selenium deficiency plays key role in COVID-19 severity, say researchers
Selenium deficiency is clearly linked to COVID-19 severity and this may suggest a possible prevention strategy opportunity, new research concludes.
Ornua Foods UK issues financial report
Ornua Foods UK, the UK’s largest supplier of British and Irish cheese, has published its operating and financial results for year ended 2019.
Indian government and IICMA shoot down coronavirus ice cream myth
The Indian Ice Cream Manufacturers Association (IICMA) and the Indian government have both moved to counter a rumor circulating online that ice cream and other frozen desserts could be responsible for spreading coronavirus.
16 July
Rapid detection of coronavirus on food processing surfaces enabled by EU funding
A new partnership between five European companies and research institutions is receiving funding from EIT Food, in order to build a diagnostic platform to improve the on-site testing capacity of the food industry, delivering results in less than one hour.
15 July
Coca-Cola Freestyle goes contactless with smartphone technology
As consumer behavior continues to shift as a result of the coronavirus pandemic, The Coca-Cola Company is rolling out a touchless fountain experience.
14 July
The drinks and snacks maker’s second-quarter earnings illustrate the consumer trends to have emerged from the global pandemic which the company aims to tap to drive future growth.
13 July
Frozen sales continue to surge as sector outperforms fresh and chilled
UK sales of frozen food increased by £285m in the last three months according to the latest statistics from market researcher Kantar and the British Frozen Food Federation (BFFF).
10 July
Supplement survey reveals marked shift in health product use during crisis
France’s National Syndicate of Food Supplements’ latest survey reveals a shift in attitude to health, wellbeing and supplement use, triggered in part by the ongoing health crisis.
9 July 2020
As big and small food brands adapt to the 'new normal', many are exploring the direct to consumer (D2C) route as a means of growing sales. Coconuts Organic, a plant-based ice cream, is one of the small businesses doing just that.
May margin triggers Dairy Margin Coverage Program payment
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) says the May 2020 income over feed cost margin was $5.37 per hundredweight (cwt.), triggering the third payment of 2020 for dairy producers.
8 July 2020
Dairy Dialog podcast 90: Selig, Elopak, Chobani
Guests on the podcast this week are Peter McGuiness, CEO of Chobani; John Brown, vice president of marketing at Selig; and Patrick Verhelst, Elopak chief marketing officer.
7 July 2020
Food Standards Scotland (FSS) has issued a warning calling on businesses and consumers to be vigilant against heightened food fraud risks arising from the coronavirus pandemic.
Australian wine: How can the industry navigate its way through the pandemic?
Wine Australia has released its five-year Strategic Plan 2020-2025: noting that 'many significant challenges lie ahead, given the global disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic'.
Fi Europe and Hi Europe set to open as planned in December
This year’s Food ingredients Europe and Health ingredients Europe, in Frankfurt, Germany, in December, are set to go ahead.
6 July 2020
Working with the likes of Tesco and Albert Heijn, Spoon Guru uses its AI powered software to ease the path to purchase and transform food discovery. The company’s co-founder Markus Stripf tells FoodNavigator that the way people shop online is changing.
Chobani donating all profits from new PB&J yogurt to Feeding America
US Greek yogurt maker Chobani announced today it is donating all profits from a new limited edition charity flavor to Feeding America, a nationwide network of food banks that provides food to people in need.
Maxum Foods global dairy commodity update for July
Maxum Foods Pty Ltd. has issued its global commodity update for the dairy industry for July.
The Pringles maker has joined the World Upside Down campaign launched by the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB), which calls for people to think about the challenges visually impaired people face in ‘the new normal’.
3 July 2020
General Mills posted a 21% rise in Q4 sales, driven by the burst of in-home eating and baking caused by the coronavirus lockdown. The Pillsbury, Betty Crocker and Gold Medal brand owner reported a revenue of $5.02bn for the three months ending May 31, 2020, topping Wall Street expectations of $4.98bn.
2 July 2020
Experts criticise government review of Vitamin D for COVID-19
Nutrition and industry experts have responded to Public Health England's (PHE) reports which found no evidence to support taking vitamin D supplements to prevent or treat COVID‑19, describing the conclusions as 'narrow-minded' and 'abysmal'.
GEA Remote Service helps KMF in India during corona lockdown
During a countrywide lockdown caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, all non-essential operations as well as local movements were suspended in India in the month of April.
1 July 2020
Facts and figures: The UK craft bakery sector versus coronavirus lockdown
A survey by the Craft Bakers Association (CBA) has found the UK sector is well on its way in adapting to the ‘new normal’ despite the unprecedented challenges thrown at it.
Bunge Loders Croklaan to open Creative Studio in Turkey
The sustainable plant-based edible oils and fats specialist will inaugurate its first Creative Studio in Istanbul in Q3, a dedicated workspace designed to accelerate customer innovation in the growing Middle East/North African markets, while adhering to all COVID-19 directives.
Dairy Dialog podcast 89: KanPak, Take Two Foods, Novozymes, IATP
On the podcast this week, our guests are Larry McGill, corporate vice president, GSF and CEO of KanPak U.S.; Take Two Foods co-founder and CEO Sarah Pool and co-founder and COO Matt Olsofsky; Ulrich Irgens, from Novozymes OneHealth; and Shefali Sharma, director, European office, Institute for Agriculture and Trade Policy.
30 June 2020
UK government: No evidence to support taking Vitamin D to prevent or treat COVID-19
There is no evidence to support taking vitamin D supplements to specifically prevent or treat COVID‑19 but everyone should consider taking vitamin D supplements if they are in lockdown, the UK government has announced.
Frito-Lay gears up for the biggest week of the year for salty snack sales
The lead-up to the Fourth of July is historically the biggest week of the year for salty snacks in the States and Frito-Lay anticipates sales to be on a par with previous years, despite the challenges of the coronavirus outbreak.
29 June 2020
IDF launches third edition of Dairy Sustainability Outlook
The International Dairy Federation (IDF) has launched the 3rd edition of its Dairy Sustainability Outlook series, which provides new case studies to support the dairy sector in delivering on its commitment to sustainable development.
Latin America update: Consumers, coronavirus and currency
The coronavirus pandemic and its impact have taken center stage in Latin America. Governments across the region have adopted vastly different approaches to containing the virus and, as a result, the prevalence of infection varies greatly from country...
26 June 2020
A new report claims that ‘appalling’ working, employment and housing conditions in the meat sector are why meat processing plans have become ‘vectors for the spread of COVID-19’.
A coalition of investors is calling on Tesco, the UK’s largest retailer, to disclose details of healthy food and drink sales and set ‘ambitious targets’ to increase these over time.
Can coronavirus be transmitted via meat products?
Outbreaks of COVID-19 at abattoirs and meat cutting facilities in Germany over the last few weeks has prompted concerns that the virus can be transmitted via meat products.
25 June 2020
New report recommends transforming food systems under climate change
With the coronavirus crisis intensifying hunger even in wealthy countries, food, agriculture and environment experts from six continents have responded with a roadmap for resetting food systems already being hit hard by climate change.
BSI kitemark for Christeyns hand sanitizer
UK-based Christeyns Food Hygiene, which manufactures specialist hygiene solutions, has become the first manufacturer to receive the globally-recognized British Standards Institution (BSI) kitemark for hand sanitizer.
24 June 2020
Evidence review: Micronutrient deficiencies and COVID-19
Practitioners should make micronutrient deficiencies a key consideration during the COVID-19 screening process, a recently published research review argues.
Dairy Dialog podcast 88: Nutricia, FAIRR, Mettler Toledo, MVP Dairy
This week, guests on the podcast are Patrick Kamphuis, senior medical affairs director at Nutricia; Teni Ekundare, investor outreach manager, UK & Northern Europe, FAIRR Initiative; Frank Borrmann, market manager SBU Checkweighing, Mettler Toledo; and Ken McCarty, co-owner of MVP Dairy.
23 June 2020
Rabobank dairy report looks at post-lockdown picture
Rabobank has published its quarterly dairy report, Waiting for the dust to settle.
22 June 2020
UK ‘bounce back’ plan for food and drink sector: ‘More trade is absolutely critical’
The UK government has outlined a package of measures that, it says, are designed to ‘turbo charge’ UK food and drink businesses as the world recovers from coronavirus.
Development of coronavirus detection tools in foods ‘essential’, argue researchers
To ensure food safety and prevent supply chain disruptions, researchers are calling for the development of detection tools for SARS-CoV-2 in foods.
19 June 2020
The Craft Bakers Association (CBA) – which represents approximately 500 bakery businesses in England, Wales and Northern Ireland – reports the sector has become very dynamic on the back of the coronavirus outbreak.
18 June 2020
UK government sets up dairy response fund for English dairy farmers
Since the start of the coronavirus outbreak, the dairy industry has faced challenges of excess milk, falling prices, and reduced demand from the hospitality sector.
Food Union launches e-commerce platform for consumers
Baltic-headquartered Food Union, a global dairy production and distribution group, has launched an e-commerce distribution service in four European countries, delivering ice cream, dairy products, pastry and frozen food directly to customers.
UK’s first virtual cheese awards to be held
British cheesemakers produce more than 700 diverse cheeses, however, due to the coronavirus pandemic, the annual cheese awards have been postponed.
17 June 2020
Dairy Dialog podcast 87: ADM, DuPont Nutrition & Biosciences, Waitrose, Whisps
This week’s podcast features interviews with Daniel Ramos Vidal, vice president health & wellness at ADM; Clementina Dellomonaco, global product line manager, dairy enzymes, at DuPont Nutrition & Biosciences; Ilana Fischer, CEO of US-based cheese snack company Whisps; and Alice Shrubsall, assistant cheese buyer at UK retailer, Waitrose.
Norway squashes speculation that salmon was source of fresh Covid wave in China
Norway’s seafood industry has hit back after China halted imports from European salmon suppliers after a new wave of coronavirus at a Beijing market was said to have entered the city via salmon.
16 June 2020
Spanish consumers shifted to healthier diets during COVID-19 confinement - study
COVID-19 lockdown in Spain led to the adoption of healthier diets, according to a study.
How COVID-19 is shaking up consumer trends: Mintel
The market insight firm says the coronavirus pandemic has made vegan, 'healing', and shelf-stable foods more appealing to consumers.
Tech Projects develops new stainless-steel solutions for food processors
UK-based Tech Projects has developed a hand-sanitizing unit and screen it says will support safe working practices and social distancing in the food-processing sector.
New cheese box produced to support California cheesemakers
The California Milk Advisory Board (CMAB) and dairy exporter HarbyrCo have launched the California Cheesemakers' Select box of California artisan cheeses available for delivery to consumers throughout the US.
15 June 2020
Pandemic halts Indian dairy growth
Indian-based global analytics company CRISIL says revenue growth of the Indian dairy industry will be flat this fiscal because of weak sales of value-added products (VAP), a problem aggravated by the coronavirus pandemic lockdown.
Scottish dairy sector looking to recovery
As countries emerge from lockdown restrictions, Scotland’s dairy farmers are looking to build stronger supply chains and discuss milk contracts as they recover from the impacts of the coronavirus crisis, says NFU (National Farmers’ Union) Scotland.
Brewing slowdown hits Marmite production
Marmite is now only producing one jar size of its famous British spread, due to the short supply of brewer's yeast.
12 June 2020
Vitamin D story becomes ever more compelling, supplement brand founders say
Recent research on vitamin D has made an even more compelling case the critical importance of the nutrient, the founders of a supplement brand say.
11 June 2020
Researchers hit food industry with double blame: Obesity pandemic and COVID-19 severity
The food industry must share the blame for both the obesity pandemic and the severity of COVID-19 disease, argue researchers in the UK.
ICMSA says milk prices for farmers must reflect recovery
The chairperson of the Irish Creamery Milk Suppliers Association’s (ICMSA) dairy committee says his association expects the prices to be announced by milk processors in the coming days for milk supplied in May to reflect a “surging recovery.”
Mengniu expecting big drop in profits
In March, China Mengniu Dairy Company Limited, said the group’s sales in February and March 2020 were affected by the coronavirus outbreak.
10 June 2020
Coca-Cola vending machines accept bitcoin to reduce contact
Coca-Cola Amatil has signed agreements with Centrapay, a digital asset integrator, to allow Australians and New Zealanders to pay for vending machine items using cryptocurrency.
How will COVID-19 impact health food perceptions?
Health food and drink experts have revealed what they believe will be the biggest purchase drivers and the biggest innovation pitfalls post-COVID and how brands can cater to emerging needs.
While many sections of nutrition and dietary supplements industry have seen significant sales increases, there has been talk of declines for pre-workout products as gym visits stopped. But what are the brands themselves reporting, and what are the similarities...
Dairy Dialog podcast 86: Tate & Lyle, Royal DSM, Crisp
On this week’s Dairy Dialog’s podcast, there are three interviews: Anna Pierce, director of sustainability at Tate & Lyle; Bob Savage, product application expert, cheese, at DSM; and Are Traasdahl, co-founder and CEO of Crisp. We also have our weekly look at the global dairy markets with Liam Fenton from INTL FCStone.
9 June 2020
Arla seeing foodservice demand rising in Denmark
Arla Foods says there are positive signs that Denmark is emerging from the coronavirus crisis.
KanPak bottles surplus milk to support hunger relief
Two truckloads of surplus milk donations arrived last week at Southern California's Second Harvest Food Bank of Orange County from a dairy production facility in Kansas.
8 June 2020
How big data and AI is revolutionising FMCG innovation: Spoonshot
The challenge of responding to coronavirus has highlighted the need to leverage big data, predictive analytics and artificial intelligence in the FMCG space. However, AI start-up Spoonshot stresses, the long-term opportunities this technology can unlock are more significant still.
Plug pulled on World Dairy Expo
In an open letter on its website, organizers of the World Dairy Expo (WDE) in Madison, Wisconsin, have announced the cancellation of this year’s event due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Saputo revenues up despite coronavirus impact
Canadian dairy company Saputo Inc. has reported its financial results for the fourth quarter and the fiscal year that ended on March 31, 2020.
PreScouter publishes coronavirus testing report
PreScouter, a Chicago-based research intelligence firm, has released a new report that details all of the currently available COVID-19 workplace testing options, detailing the logistics and investment required for each option.
IFCN conference says coronavirus fear bigger than impact on dairy industry so far
Dairy experts from 70 countries discussed the coronavirus crisis and its effect on the dairy industry during the 21th IFCN Dairy Conference, which was held online, on June 2 and 3.
6 June 2020
Early on in lockdown, scientists predicted confinement measures implemented due to the COVID-19 pandemic could exacerbate childhood obesity. Now, the results are in.
Meat body hits back as report warns coronavirus could be ‘straw that breaks its back’
The British Meat Processors Association has slammed a new report which claims that factory farming is both vulnerable to pandemics, and guilty of creating them.
5 June 2020
Foods to improve mental wellbeing ‘may prove recession proof’
Functional food and beverages that are seen to improve mental health could be set to be a ‘recession proof’ sector, claims market researcher MMR. It says its new data highlights innovation opportunities as consumers seek new strategies to manage their...
ESSNA issues sports nutrition advice to suit home-based lifestyle
The European Specialist Sports Nutrition Alliance (ESSNA) makes available a guide for home-based sports nutrition in which the group offers advice to keep mentally and physically sharp during the pandemic.
How to adapt strategy during a global crisis
Within this global health and economic crisis lies opportunity for supplements offering great value for money but companies must act now to flourish, according to a recent webinar from private label supplement developer PharmaLinea Ltd.
Meat body hits back as report warns coronavirus could be 'straw that breaks its back'
The British Meat Processors Association has slammed a new report which claims that factory farming is both vulnerable to pandemics, and guilty of creating them.
Early on in lockdown, scientists predicted confinement measures implemented due to the COVID-19 pandemic could exacerbate childhood obesity. Now, the results are in.
4 June 2020
Survey shows more than half of UK consumers turning to British cheese
Lockdown due to the coronavirus crisis has had a positive effect on the nation’s cooking habits, according to new figures published by the Stilton Cheese Makers Association (SCMA), which represents the UK’s Stilton producers.
3 June 2020
How COVID-19 is shaping global consumer trends
COVID-19 has accelerated a number of 'mega' consumer trends and halted others, according to the strategic market insight provider Euromonitor International, providing insight into how consumers' shopping habits are being shaped in the short...
Personalised health startup prepares to 'ride the wave' of digital affinity
A personalised GI health startup co-founded by a doctor looking to create a one stop shop for digestive issues says his company is set to ‘ride the wave’ of digital health acceptance created by the pandemic.
On this week’s Dairy Dialog podcast, we have four guests, in three interviews. We talk to Dheeraj Talreja, president of AAK Kamani and Varun Deshpande, managing director at the Good Food Institute India; Dr Stephanie Venn-Watson, CEO and co-founder of Seraphina Therapeutics; and Graham Hunneman, director at Christeyns Food Hygiene. And of course, coronavirus is central to the discussion on food hygiene as many countries start to emerge from lockdowns.
2 June 2020
COVID-19 caution: Chinese botanical suppliers hold back on capacity building despite demand spike
Plant extract companies in China are seeing more demand for immune-related raw materials, but most are adopting a cautious stance when it comes to capacity building due to trade uncertainties brought on by COVID-19.
Maxum publishes global dairy commodity update for June
Dustin Boughton, procurement director at Maxum Foods in Australia and New Zealand, says dairy markets turned the corner in May with improving demand as COVID-19 lockdowns started to ease in most regions while milk output slowed in the US and EU.
SMC's nutribuns are again fighting hunger among the Philippines' most vulnerable
San Miguel Corporation (SMC) is fighting hunger in the Philippines with its vitamin-packed breads it originally produced in the 1970s to be distributed primarily to public elementary school students as a complete meal, in a bid to combat malnutrition.
Coca-Cola starts producing test tubes for COVID-19 testing kits
Coca-Cola is repurposing its Coca-Cola bottle preforms as test tubes for use in COVID-19 kits: with the capacity to produce millions of tubes a week.
‘Dramatic volume declines’ for Australia’s alcohol industry
April was the worst month on record for sales of beer, wine and spirits, according to Alcohol Beverages Australia.
1 June 2020
NMPF urges participation in new coronavirus assistance program
US farmers can now sign up for the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP), the direct payments for producers funded by Congress and implemented by the USDA.
Waitrose helping struggling UK cheese suppliers
UK retailer Waitrose has launched a special “best of British” cheese selection box, to help its smaller British artisan cheese suppliers adversely affected by the coronavirus pandemic.
Miriam Ueberall recently joined The Kraft Heinz Company to head up research and development for the group’s international zone. FoodNavigator speaks to her about how innovation and product development is at the heart of Kraft Heinz’s turnaround plans.
29 May 2020
Life in lockdown: Coronavirus prompts half of French consumers to reappraise 'value' of food
During eight weeks of lockdown, or confinement, over half of French people report having changed their view of the social, economic and ecological value of food production.
Nabim’s new president praises UK millers’ efforts to address flour shortage during coronavirus
The National Association of British and Irish Millers has announced a change in its executive board. Carr’s Flour and Whitworth Bros chairman Roger Butler (59) – previously Nabim’s vice president – is taking over the reins from George Marriage. The management transition comes as the UK flour industry continues to face unprecedented challenges due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Public health campaigner Action on Sugar and Action on Salt has fleshed out the details on the interventionist measures it wants adopted in the UK to combat obesity and improve the nation’s health.
Global research to define nutrition guidelines for recovering COVID-19 patients
Dutch nutrition research and innovation firm Nutricia has announced it will support a series of research projects taking place around to world over the following weeks to help define nutrition guidelines to help speed up the recovery of COVID-19 patients.
28 May 2020
COVID-19: Diet and supplements may be 'the need of the hour', say researchers
Altering the microbiome through diet, probiotics and prebiotics might be an effective supplementary method for tackling COVID-19, according to a research review from India.
Nutricia supporting research on recovery from hospitalization with coronavirus
Nutricia, part of the food, beverage and nutrition company Danone, has announced it is supporting research by independent medical professionals to define guidelines for nutritional care for COVID-19 patients recovering after ICU discharge.
A new report by WHO, UNICEF, and the International Baby Food Action Network (IBFAN) says despite efforts to stop the promotion of breast-milk substitutes, countries are still falling short in protecting parents from misleading information.
Mitsubishi produces new cobot
Mitsubishi Electric’s new robot, the MELFA ASSISTA, has been developed to work alongside human operators while meeting requirements for adequate social distancing of workers in manufacturing sites.
The coronavirus pandemic has placed considerable strain on small and medium sized food producers. Many have responded with ‘inspiring, creative and innovative solutions’. REFRAME takes us on a tour of how SMEs in the North Sea region have adjusted their business models.
Coronavirus era puts resilience of supply chains ‘front and centre’ warns Kellogg
With the COVID-19 crisis highlighting their vulnerability to external shocks, food and beverage companies are set to increasingly diversify their supply chains and locate production closer to their markets.
27 May 2020
US-based Kemin Industries has received a positive safety assessment from the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) for its algae-sourced beta glucan ingredient, BetaVia. This unlocks the opportunity for ‘innovative product developers to be the first to communicate around the source’ and tap into surging interest in immunity, the group’s European marketing manager, Miguel Martinho, tells FoodNavigator.
Lockdown measures have driven an unprecedented surge in demand for recipe box services. Yet once the dust settles, so too will subscription numbers, suggests Philip Koh, co-founder of London-based brand design agency Without. “Meal kits are unlikely to become the norm,” he told FoodNavigator.
IZEA’s BrandGraph – which measures online influencer content – found Rice Krispies was mentioned organically by influencers in over 11k posts during a 12-month analysis, followed by Pebbles in nearly 8k posts.
ASA dashes Revival hopes as firm told off over social media immunity ads
Social media ads, posted by UK-based Revival Drinks, has incurred the wrath of the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA), which deems the posts in breach of the rules of use for authorised health claims.
Warning letters continue as pandemic rages on
The Federal Trade Commission has sent out another round of warning letters to 50 more marketers nationwide, most of which are labeled as dietary supplements or Chinese herbs.
26 May 2020
Hard surface disinfection and hand sanitation crucial after lockdown ends
UK based Christeyns Food Hygiene, which manufactures specialist hygiene solutions, is stressing the importance of hard surface hygiene in reducing the risks of future coronavirus contamination and protecting staff.
From the coalface: How FMCG brands can - and have - adjusted to the coronavirus pandemic
How have FMCG brands pivoted in the face of coronavirus? What agile and adaptive strategies have they employed?
British cheesemakers call on consumers to buy Stilton as sales plummet 30%
The makers of the famous English cheese Stilton -- first British cheese to be awarded the protected designation of origin status -- are worried about the future after a sharp drop in sales since the introduction of containment and the closing of borders during the pandemic.
25 May 2020
Exclusive: FrieslandCampina Ingredients on the latest trends
FrieslandCampina Ingredients has published its latest trend report, its “Extra Summer Edition.”
Expected surge in demand for cold storage solutions
Higher seasonal temperatures and reduced product demand stemming from the coronavirus crisis will result in cold storage spaces exceeding capacity, according to UK temporary power and temperature solutions company, Aggreko.
22 May 2020
COVID-19: Internet 'rife with misinformation' about Vitamin D, say scientists
Reports arguing high dose Vitamin D supplementation could treat COVID-19 are based on speculation and are a risk to public health, warns a team of scientists from across the globe.
21 May 2020
Immunity and holistic wellness: Innovating for the post-pandemic world
Worldwide demand for immunity products is likely to deliver a permanent ‘new norm’ of higher growth for these types of supplements and brands will need to innovate to meet heightened demands, according to the boss of global nutraceutical developer SIRIO Europe.
Dairy groups seek more assistance beyond $16bn agriculture payments plan
The National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF) said current aid levels will be insufficient to meet the needs of the dairy sector in spite of the USDA’s $16bn agriculture payments plan announced this week.
US dairy organizations call for aid to other nations affected by coronavirus
The IDFA, the NMPF and USDEC have urged Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue to use all tools at his disposal to send US dairy products to neighboring nations struggling with the coronavirus pandemic.
Fonterra publishes third quarter results
New Zealand dairy cooperative Fonterra has published its results, and updates on the effects of coronavirus.
Although an unprecedented summer approaches, snacks still rule, says US Snack Index
The majority of Americans anticipate a very different summer compared to last year due to the coronavirus pandemic – but snacking will remain a constant.
20 May 2020
On the Dairy Dialog podcast this week, we have four guests, with coronavirus being the central theme. We chatted to Borden CEO, Tony Sarsam; Kyle Thygesen, director of milk sourcing for Lactalis US Yogurt; Robin Skailes, chairman of the Stilton Cheese Makers Association and director of Cropwell Bishop Creamery; and Meiky Tollman, newly-appointed CEO of The Collaborative.
Coronavirus boosts demand for local and functional foods in France: market study
The COVID-19 pandemic has increased demand for local products in France and could have a positive effect on the development of functional foods, according to Mintel.
Can I recycle this? The push to make plastic packaging labelling transparent
Much of plastic recycling labelling is ‘confusing and inconsistent’, according to a global assessment of recycling and sustainability labelling. The UN Environment Programme and Consumers International have set out five global recommendations for change.
19 May 2020
Leading scientists urge UK government to re-examine gut’s role in coronavirus
The UK’s most prominent scientists are asking the country’s health secretary Matt Hancock to assess the role of the gut microbiome in coronavirus citing evidence that points to its impact on susceptibility and recovery from the disease.
AVT Reliability offering free thermal imaging support to help keep workforces safe
UK based plant-reliability company AVT Reliability Ltd is using its involvement in thermal imaging – usually employed to detect faults in factory equipment – to help companies protect their workforce.
UK dairy campaign partners with Mind
The £1m ($1.2m) UK campaign to promote dairy kicked off this week with the slogan Milk Your Moments.
ADM and Hospital de Sagunto, one of the largest medical centers in the Valencia region of Spain have partnered on a clinical trial into the effects of using a food supplement containing live microbial strains.
Events continue to be hit by coronavirus
Two events set for Africa have been postponed due to the coronavirus crisis.
Adapting to a new normal: The UK’s microbakeries are seeing new possibilities, thanks to lockdown
While many of the UK’s family-owned and run artisanal bakeries have been hard hit by the coronavirus outbreak, several have modified their business models to ensure their freshly-baked treats continue to get out to consumers.
18 May 2020
Stilton cheese suffering through pandemic
Consumers in the UK are being urged to buy Stilton cheese as sales have declined by up to 30% since the start of the coronavirus crisis.
Alden’s Organic pivots to e-commerce
US organic ice-cream producer Alden’s Organic has responded to the coronavirus lockdown by making its ice cream, novelties and new dairy-free frozen desserts available for purchase on the brand’s website.
DS Smith launches e-commerce range to support business during crisis
Packaging company DS Smith has launched the Essential Solutions online e-commerce range in the UK to address the growing number of companies moving to e-commerce.
15 May 2020
‘Bimbo Contigo’ continues to outpour support for Mexicans affected by coronavirus
At the beginning of this unprecedented health crisis, Grupo Bimbo set up the ‘Bimbo Contigo’ (Bimbo With You) initiative to assist those affected by the pandemic, including a 270 million pesos pledge to support Mexico’s health sector and other initiatives.
Study: Vitamin D supplementation a key factor in COVID-19 severity
The scientific evidence supporting the use of vitamin D to help fight COVID-19 continues to build as researchers in Dublin call on the Irish government to change its supplement recommendations.
The FoodNavigator Podcast: What does Coronavirus mean for the future of food?
The coronavirus pandemic has touched every part of our lives. With the social and economic consequences still largely to be felt, many commentators suggest it will mark a before and after point for society. In this edition of The FoodNavigator Podcast, we ask what does COVID-19 mean for food businesses and the consumers they serve?
The French company also notes that food manufacturers in Europe are becoming increasingly wary of using ingredients sourced from China owing to the pandemic.
Public health campaigner Action on Salt and Action on Sugar is calling for an advertising ban on unhealthy foods during the lockdown.
Food makers suffer 22% loss due to coronavirus lockdown, sweet and beverage hit hardest
The latest barometer analysing effects of the COVID-19 crisis on food and beverage companies in France has revealed a 22% loss in turnover globally.
14 May 2020
Jumping on the coronavirus baking boom: The bread and cookie recipes hitting the headlines
The coronavirus outbreak has brought out the inner baker in many of us, with the number of people searching ‘bread’ and ‘cookies’ hitting an all-time high and encouraging big brand names to release their treasured recipes.
Ahoy high schoolers! Mondelez invites you an ‘epic’ virtual prom with Steve Aoki
The snack manufacturer is teaming its Chips Ahoy! and Sour Patch Kids brands to host an online danceathon for American students who may have missed their much-awaited-for prom due to the coronavirus lockdown.
Borden Dairy awarded USDA contract to provide 700m servings of dairy products for families in need
Borden, a US dairy company founded in 1857, has been awarded the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) largest contract through its new Farmers to Families Food Box Program as part of the Coronavirus Farm Assistance Program (CFAP).
Yili Group donates face masks to Thailand
Chinese dairy company Yili Group has collaborated with its Thai subsidiary Chomthana and Thailand Siam Dragon Association to deliver 170,400 face masks and other anti-epidemic supplies to those on the front lines in Thailand.
How are smallholder farmers impacted by the coronavirus pandemic? Olam weighs in
Smallholder farmers in Africa are particularly at risk amid the COVID-19 pandemic, according to Julie Greene, VP, Corporate Responsibility and Sustainability at agri-food giant Olam.
An outbreak of coronavirus in German slaughterhouses has placed the sector's living and working conditions in the spotlight.
13 May 2020
ASA fast tracks clampdown on ads that ‘exploit health-related anxieties during crisis’
The UK’s Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) is instructing a probiotics firm and aesthetic clinic to revise claims made on its ads that the watchdog says exploits health related anxieties during the current crisis.
Organic Alliance CEO on COVID-19: ‘This epidemic will mark a before and after for society’
Organic Alliance chief executive Lionel Wolberg says that the coronavirus crisis is fundamentally reshaping the French food system. “This epidemic will mark a before and after for society,” he tells FoodNavigator.
Warning on ‘high-risk nature’ of meatpacking after COVID-19 clusters emerge
Fresh warnings have been issued over the ‘high-risk nature’ of meat and poultry operations after news of fresh cases of COVID-19 – including one death - at meat companies in Northern Ireland emerged this week.
Scottish bakers stand fighting chance with extension of furlough scheme
Scottish Bakers has welcomed the four month extension of the UK government’s furlough scheme, which ought to relieve some pressure for small to medium-bakery businesses in Scotland hard hit by the coronavirus outbreak.
12 May 2020
Trade shows get green light in Germany from June
While they may not be craving crowded trains and buses to get to them, those who are missing travel and face-to-face events might have a bit of good news - Germany says B2B events can take place again.
DBA and Edge support government moves
The Dairy Business Association and Edge Dairy Farmer Cooperative in the US have announced their support of the Agriculture Department for awarding $317m in contracts to purchase milk and other dairy foods for struggling Americans.
Coronavirus: Betting on aeroponics to increase food security
As the COVID-19 pandemic upends farming and food supply chains and raises concern of widespread shortages and price increases, aeroponics players are hoping their new food production innovations can help strengthen food security.
11 May 2020
European milk powder demonstrations with an appeal to the European Commission
The European Milk Board (EMB) coordinated several campaigns last week to promote an EU-wide milk volume reduction scheme and to attack private storage aid measures for butter, milk powder and cheese.
In the midst of the coronavirus pandemic, US company Dairy West has launched Curds + Kindness, a program to direct surplus, nutrient-rich dairy foods to those who are hungry and unable to afford groceries throughout Idaho and Utah.
The new normal: BrewDog reveals what reopened bars could look like
From contactless ordering to single use menus, BrewDog has set out 10 key initiatives it will use at its bars as and when they’re allowed to reopen.
Is coronavirus changing how we eat?
The coronavirus crisis is causing people to re-evaluate their diets because it has underlined the link between food and health, according to some pundits. However habitual eating patterns are just that – habitual. To what extent has COVID-19 actually changed the way we eat?
Fragmented’ food policy in England cause for new cross-government committee, argue academics
With at least 16 departments responsible for food from fark to fork in England, academics are calling for improved government coordination. “This isn’t a new problem, but COVID-19 has really highlighted the lack of coordination,” says Rosalind Sharpe from City, University of London.
8 May 2020
The food industry faces rising pressure to tackle food insecurity in the wake of COVID-19. Rabobank shares six areas it expects to drive innovation in the ‘new normal’.
EU health claims and botanicals: Back in the spotlight amid COVID-19 crisis
Interest in wellness and immunity has spiked as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. But the questionable health claims made by some botanical brands has put the sector in the spotlight for some of the wrong reasons. Katia Merten-Lentz, partner at international law firm Keller and Heckman, looks at whether the current legal framework is fit for purpose.
Meal planning, snacking and interest in exotic foods are consumer trends that have all risen during the UK’s national lockdown, according to a John Lewis and Waitrose Report.
7 May 2020
Every week, new studies are emerging that highlight the important roles that nutrients like vitamin D and zinc play for our immune systems, but the dietary supplements industry cannot talk about much of it. Eventually, this needs to be rectified.
Parle’s revises Kismi logo to send social distancing message
India’s leading biscuits and confectionery manufacturer has changed the ‘kissing couple’ logo for its iconic Kismi brand to educate people on the need for social distancing to stay safe during the pandemic crisis.
Cheerios cheers on Canadian food bank workers
The iconic General Mills brand is praising the heroism of Canadian food bank workers with its ‘Cheer for the food banks frontline’ campaign.
UK government helps dairy farmers
A support package to help English dairy farmers hit by an economic storm caused by the coronavirus pandemic has been announced by government.
Canada helps dairy as part of agriculture package
This week, Canadian Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, announced measures within agriculture programs and an investment of more than C$252m (US$178.8m) to support farmers, food businesses, and food processors who provide essential services to Canadians every day by ensuring a safe and reliable food supply.
UK dairy industry launches £1m consumer campaign
The UK dairy sector in partnership with the Government has announced a new joint-funded campaign to highlight the importance of ‘human connections’ during the current coronavirus crisis.
Industry support of coronavirus fight update
The Tillamook County Creamery Association in Oregon, US, is making donations, and in Indonesia, Yili is contributing with PPE.
AB InBev's global volumes hit by coronavirus
The world's largest brewer saw global volumes decline by 32% in April as a result of the closure of the on-premise channel in most markets. But it says it is already learning from its operations in China and South Korea as to how to move forward through different stages of the coronavirus crisis.
Danone aims to increase plant-based growth in Europe
Danone has said it is looking at expanding its plant-based category in Europe as it looks to increase plant-based sales worldwide from around €2 billion in 2019 to around €5 billion by 2025.
European Freeze Dry looks beyond COVID-19 boost: ‘We will continue to see repeat purchase’
European Freeze Dry produces long-life ready meals and bulk freeze-dried ingredients. The company’s meals are usually eaten on the side of a mountain. But crises like COVID-19, and Brexit before it, have started to change this.
6 May 2020
Back to the big brands? How coronavirus is shaping beverage consumer trends
This time last year, consumers were seeking out new and exciting brands. But has coronavirus turned this completely on its head - are consumers now turning back towards familiar and trusted brands?
Dairy Dialog podcast 81: Synergy Flavours, Bunge Loders Croklaan, Somerdale International
On the podcast this week, we have interviews about ingredients, coronavirus, and legislation on 3-MCPDe. We chatted with Lorraine Kelly, category manager at Synergy Flavours; Stephen Jones, managing director of Somerdale International; and two guests from Bunge Loders Croklaan – Renee Boerefijn, director of innovation, EMEA, and said Feike Swennenhuis, marketing director for EMEA.
Surge in screen time has led to jump in sales, says eye supplement president
With social distancing in full effect, families have not only found themselves with a lot more time together, but a lot more time in front of their screens.
The dietary supplement industry as a whole is enjoying booming sales as consumer stock up on products to support optimum health. But an industry strategist warns that that sales bump is likely to be ephemeral, and brands that are not strategizing vigorously...
The economic impact of coronavirus and the companies lending a hand during lockdown
Feeding America estimates that an additional 17.1 million people could face hunger in the next six months because of the pandemic, increasing the urgent need for food assistance. Meanwhile, the outbreak has placed a strain on companies like Aryzta, but boosted business for those like Bakedin.
Reading Bakery Systems goes virtual to maintain bakery and snack innovation during lockdown
The global manufacturer of bakery and snack production systems is hosting the RBS Virtual Snack Seminar Series to keep customers in lockdown up-to-date on trends and new technology in the bakery and snacks arenas.
HelloFresh’s strong first quarter illustrates shift in consumer eating habits
HelloFresh has raised its earnings expectations for the full year after reporting a successful start to 2020 as increased numbers consumers dine at home amid coronavirus restrictions.
Organic food's coronavirus boost: 'Health crises have a long-term impact on consumer demand'
The coronavirus pandemic has led to surging demand for organic and sustainable foods, according to a new report. Why is the organic sector getting a ‘coronavirus boost’ and will gains be sustained in the face of an economic downturn?
Barry Callebaut distributes soap to Unilever’s cocoa farmer cooperatives
Cocoa producer Barry Callebaut is delivering 10,000 pieces of soap to customer Unilever’s cocoa farmer cooperatives in Côte d’Ivoire.
US meat supply under threat from coronavirus
US meat processing plants hit by the coronavirus could lead to empty shelves, a new report has warned.
5 May 2020
Canadian red meat industry receives coronavirus support
Canadian meat packers and processors have been granted access to federal funding to help prevent the spread of coronavirus.
Online kits revamped to help farmers sell direct to public
UK levy organisation Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) is offering beef and lamb box kits to farmers looking to sell their meat directly to consumers during the coronavirus pandemic.
NMPF hopes for more dairy purchases after $120m announcement
The National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF) said it appreciates Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue and the U.S. Department of Agriculture for including $120m of cheese and butter among $470m in Section 32 food purchases announced yesterday.
Events planned as EMB ramps up opposition to storage aid
The European Milk Board (EMB) says several campaigns are planned for May 7 to protest against what it says are misguided measures by the European Commission.
Maxum issues May global dairy commodity update
Dustin Boughton, director of procurement at Australian and New Zealand dairy ingredients suppliers Maxum Foods, has published the company's update for May, which is understandably dominated by coronavirus.
France urges consumers to eat more cheese as coronavirus hits sales
‘How do you govern a nation that has two hundred and forty-six different kinds of cheese?’, Charles de Gaulle famously quipped. The country is now facing the challenge of getting more consumers to eat cheese as coronavirus impacts demand.
With fewer hours spent in the sun due to COVID-19 lockdown, vitamin D levels are at risk of falling. So what can consumers eat to help ensure sufficient intake? ANSES weighs in.
4 May 2020
Spanish pork industry urges long-term focus on HORECA sector
Spanish pork industry trade body Interporc has stressed the importance of the hotel, restaurant and café (HORECA) sector to help recovery once the coronavirus pandemic has passed.
NutraIngredients global team hosts series of immunity focused webinars
NutraIngredients’ teams worldwide are to host the first ever co-ordinated series of webinars looking at immunity, with a focus on the microbiome, active nutrition, clinical research and botanicals.
Supplement industry can help consumers change their health regimens after the crisis
Given the current torrid pace of sales for some categories, the dietary supplement industry could emerge from the present crisis is a significantly strengthened position. Even categories that are in the doldrums stand to benefit.
Regulators using ever more powerful microscopes to look for disease claims, attorney says
Marketers of natural products need to be on their best behavior during this pandemic crisis as regulatory authorities comb through every aspect of a company’s marketing to look for disease claims, an attorney says.
New campaign urges French to support struggling PDO cheesemakers
As cheese sales drop by 60% in France during the coronavirus crisis, CNIEL, the French Dairy Interbranch Organization (Centre National Interprofessionnel de l'Economie Laitière), is urging the nation to help out the cheese industry.
Help of key workers and other programs continues
More dairy companies around the world are contributing to the continued fight against the coronavirus pandemic.
Pandemic sees spike in milk sales but plant-based demand soars
Czarnikow, a global supply chain, pricing and financial services company, said a survey shows the plant-based dairy alternatives industry is estimated to grow from $15.8bn in 2019 to $35.8bn by 2026.
How is Coca-Cola dealing with the coronavirus crisis?
Coca-Cola CEO James Quincey says that the company is well-versed in surviving crises over the course of its 134 year history: “Every previous crisis – military, economic or pandemic – the Coca-Cola Company has come out stronger”. So how is it dealing with coronavirus?
PepsiCo: ‘We’re going to identify new habits and consumption patterns – and tailor innovation accordingly’
PepsiCo saw a strong Q1: but as with any business faces a great deal of uncertainly around COVID-19. It says its strategy is to identify and plan for a ‘new normal’ – and tailor innovation accordingly.
Coca-Cola: ‘We’re going to embrace some seismic consumer behavior shifts, especially in e-commerce’
How will the coronavirus pandemic affect consumer and retail trends in the long term? Coca-Cola is predicting three key shifts: a return to known and trusted brands; a huge shift towards ecommerce, and a sleeker and slimmer innovation pipeline.
What will be the new norm? Looking at the snacking universe beyond coronavirus
The world has been building a digital reality for years, but now it will really kick in, according to consumer behaviourist Ken Hughes. Market researcher IRI concurs, noting that engaging with consumers will be more important than ever.
Coronavirus: 'Significant link' found between dietary selenium and cure rate
Scientists have identified a link between the outcome of COVID-19 disease and dietary selenium - found in fish, seafood, meat, poultry, and cereals. FoodNavigator hears from lead researcher Margaret Rayman, from the University of Surrey, to find out more.
Gene editing, like genetic modification, is a technology that has attracted a fair amount of skepticism from European regulators and citizens. However, proponents argue that it will be an invaluable tool in the construction of a future-fit food system. FoodNavigator speaks to Dr Oliver Peoples, CEO of Yeild10 Bioscience, about changing attitudes to the science sparked by the stressors of climate change and COVID-19.
30 April 2020
RABDF survey shows more than 1m liters of milk discarded
Interim data from the Royal Association of British Dairy Farmers (RABDF) survey show more than 1m liters of milk have been discarded since the start of the coronavirus outbreak in the UK.
More donations during crisis
More companies in the dairy and dairy-alternatives sectors have been helping during the coronavirus crisis. Here is our round-up of just some of those contributing.
NFU urges government support for UK dairy industry
The almost complete closure of food service and hospitality outlets has meant the loss of market for around eight million liters of milk per week in the UK.
Kellogg’s UK employees raise their cereal bowls in thanks to the NHS
The breakfast cereal giant has launched #RaiseYourBowl, a social media campaign aimed to raise awareness of its pledge to donate food to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) staff and other key workers.
29 April 2020
Tinned pasta, not toilet paper, now the most 'in-demand' item on shelf
Fresh data reveals that tinned pasta has overtaken toilet paper as the most out of stock product in UK supermarkets
UK refusal to postpone CBD deadline 'baffling' amid coronavirus pandemic, says lobby group
The Cannabis Trades Association has criticised the Food Standards Agency's refusal to postpone its CBD novel foods deadline, describing the move as 'unsympathetic' to businesses in the sector.
Start-up Fiid has witnessed tremendous growth in demand for its plant-based ambient ready meals in the wake of the coronavirus crisis and subsequent lockdown. “There’s potentially a silver lining for our particular category,” founder Shane Ryan tells FoodNavigator.
Probiotics and immunity: Tips to maximise the online opportunity
Probiotic products for immune health are enjoying a surge in online searches – with some brands enjoying a 500% boost, but what can businesses do to turn interest into commercial success? Lumina Intelligence’ online marketing expert reveals her top tips...
Herbalist & Alchemist CEO: ‘We’ve seen an upsurge in adaptogens and stress support products’
It’s not just immune support products that are selling well for dietary supplement firms, with consumers also seeking our adaptogens and products to help manage the stress of living through a pandemic, says the CEO of Herbalist & Alchemist.
Rethinking risk: Expansion into new markets key to tackle COVID-19 challenges
Supplement firms need to re-evaluate their attitude towards risk to tap into rising demand and offset some of the challenges brought by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Dairy Dialog podcast 80: Carbios, Chr Hansen, Choicelunch, Friend of the Earth
The Dairy Dialog podcast this week features four guests: Martin Stephan, CEO of Carbios; Julien Biolley, director of business development and marketing at Chr Hansen; Keith Cosbey, COO and co-founder of Choicelunch; and founder and director of Friend of the Earth, Paolo Bray.
Grupo Bimbo operating at full capacity given ‘great demand’ for baked goods
Grupo Bimbo saw increased demand for its baked goods – especially in the last two weeks of March – as consumers stocked up for the coronavirus lockdown.
Coronavirus lockdown sees spike in snacks sales for Mondelēz and PepsiCo
Mondelēz and PepsiCo have both reported a rise in organic sales in the first three months of the year as consumers rushed to stock up on comforting snacks before lockdown.
28 April 2020
CBD Trade Group rebukes UK food agency over lack of support during coronavirus
The Cannabis Trades Association (CTA) is calling out the Food Standards Agency’s (FSA) failure to support the Cannabidiol (CBD) and hemp industry in meeting the Novel Foods application deadline during the coronavirus crisis.
Stay inside, wash your hands, take supplements: Researchers urge leaders to extend virus advice
Supplements containing vitamins C and D and other micronutrients, are an effective and low-cost means of helping your immune system fight off COVID-19 and should be added to government advice in order to tackle coronavirus, according to a new article...
Clear link between vitamin D deficiency and severity of coronavirus, says researchers
Vitamin D deficiency may play an important role in the severity of COVID-19 infections so supplementation should be strongly advised at this time, according to researchers after studying the mortality rates across the globe.
Heura CEO on the future of plant-based R&D: Clean label, nutrition and price
Heura is one of Europe’s fastest growing plant-based brands. We spoke to CEO Marc Coloma, founder of Heura maker Foods for Tomorrow, about what is propelling the company’s success, the impact of COVID-19 and the future of plant-based innovation.
According to Philip Bull, MD of Eurostar Commodities, the company is expecting to see shortages of certain types of rice in the European market in the future, which, in turn, could lead to shortages of rice flour.
Canadian pork industry appeals for government support
Canadian pork farmers are being pushed to the brink by the coronavirus pandemic and are in need of government support, the industry trade body has warned.
Meat Education Programme sees growth during lockdown
The Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board’s (AHDB) online learning scheme, the Meat Education Programme, has seen a rise in demand during the coronavirus lockdown.
27 April 2020
US plant closures prompt worker safety plea
The extent of the impact of the coronavirus on US meat processing facilities has been highlighted by a workers’ union.
Positive contributions from dairy continue
In the US, Chobani has launched Chobani Pantry – a new way to help local food banks, while in Vietnam, Vinamilk has been distributing products and face masks.
Dutch turn to sweets and cheese in lockdown
In general, those working at home due to the coronavirus crisis are eating a bit more and exercising a bit less.
Increased sales for donkey milk company during pandemic
During the coronavirus crisis, donkey milk producer Eurolactis Italia Srl is seeing a growing demand for bulk donkey milk powder for the nutrition industry as well as for a raw cosmetic ingredient, mainly from soap manufacturers.
Amcor research reveals dairy at top of online grocery shopping list
New research by packaging company Amcor shows there are differences in European consumer attitudes to buying grocery products online.
Coronavirus impacts online dairy ingredient foodservice sales
Proteus Insight, a UK-based market research company that focuses on dairy in emerging markets, began tracking sales of dairy products across Chinese e-commerce online platforms in 2019.
EDA supports EU move but EMB slams crisis measures
Last week’s announcement by EU Commissioner Janusz Wojciechowski that exceptional measures would finally be opened by the EU Commission to support the dairy sector in Europe have been met with approval by the EDA.
Nuritas harnesses AI to identify coronavirus-fighting peptides
Nuritas once again harnesses Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology in the fight against the coronavirus as its platform is put to work identifying therapeutic peptides that modify the inflammatory response.
Award-winning Swedish startup reveals COVID-19 highs and lows
NutraIngredients Awards Startup 2019 winner, Nutrinovate, has seen a huge surge in sales of its 'anti-virus' products and has helped to tackle the global shortage of personal protection equipment.
How firms respond to opportunities created by pandemic will say a lot about their corporate cultures
Companies are taking a number of different tacks to be of service during— and potentially to profit from — the current pandemic crisis.
25 April 2020
Smithfield Foods responds to coronavirus allegations
US processor Smithfield Foods has published a detailed response to the recent allegations that it was not protecting its staff during the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.
24 April 2020
4 'significant issues' food systems must address in new COVID-19 era
In the era of the COVID-19 crisis, industry must avoid 'business as usual' practices, think outside the box, and accelerate efforts to develop sustainable and modern food systems, says food waste expert.
COVID-19 will force FMCG brands to take experiences in-home
How can food and drink brands reach consumers during the COVID-19 lockdown? Experiential brand activity will have to be taken directly to consumers in their homes, Liz Richardson, managing director and partner at HeyHuman, suggests.
Diet and gut health are crucial modifiable risk factors in coronavirus severity, says professor
The professor behind the COVID Symptom Tracker app - said to be the biggest ever citizen science project in health - predicts that diet and nutrition will soon be recognised as an essential element of immunity and a big modifiable risk factor in the fight...
COVID-19 natural product trial: New curcumin, artemisinin supplement to be tested on patients
A curcumin and artemisinin-based oral spray has been proposed as a treatment for COVID-19 patients and a clinical trial will be conducted, ASX-listed phytocannabinoid firm MGC Pharmaceuticals has revealed.
23 April 2020
Coronavirus and obesity: doctors take aim at food industry over poor diets
A cardiologist has blamed the food industry for ‘normalising’ ultra-processed junk food as more evidence emerges suggesting poor diet is the root cause behind increased mortality from Covid-19.
Public Health England extends Vitamin D advice during lock down
Public Health England (PHE) has updated its long-standing advice about vitamin D, stating that everyone should supplement with 10 micrograms daily, not just ‘at-risk’ groups.
Skyrocketing consumer interest in dietary supplements is placing increasing demands on a supply chain straining under national and international efforts to contain the novel Coronavirus, but could this be creating artificial demand?
Coca-Cola volumes decline 25% globally during coronavirus lockdowns
The Coca-Cola Company’s worldwide volumes have declined around 25% since the beginning of April, with almost all that decline coming from away-from-home channels.
BrewDog: ‘When all of this is over, we’re going to buy everyone a beer’
Craft brewer BrewDog says it will give everyone a Punk IPA on the house when its bars reopen.
Glanbia issues first quarter results
Irish headquartered global nutrition company Glanbia plc has issued an interim management statement for the three-month period ending April 4, 2020, with coronavirus concerns causing the company to withdraw its 2020 full-year financial guidance.
British Cheese Weekender set up to support small cheesemakers during coronavirus crisis
Britain's specialist cheesemakers and retailers have joined forces to urge the public to 'support small cheesemakers' as the coronavirus crisis threatens to wipe out the industry.
ADC calls for additional SBA funding
The American Dairy Coalition (ADC), a farmer-led US lobbying organization, is asking Congress to quickly add significant additional funds for struggling dairy farmers.
HSE issues temporary guidance for bakers in light of restricted dust mask supply due to coronavirus
The UK’s Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has addressed concerns raised by bakers of the potential for temporary unavailability of personal protective equipment (PPEs) used to protect workers from food ingredient dusts.
Coeliac Society Of Ireland and Promise Gluten Free deliver care packs to house-bound sufferers
The Coeliac Society of Ireland has launched the ‘Drive to Care’ initiative to deliver gluten-free care packages to coeliacs during lockdown.
Devro sales growth driven by coronavirus
Collagen producer Devro has reported an increase in sales driven by the ongoing coronavirus situation.
22 April 2020
Private storage aid support announced by European Commission
The European Commission has unveiled a raft of measures designed to support the agri-food sector that is under pressure due to the coronavirus pandemic.
COVID-19 and self-sufficiency: Is local food production capable of meeting demand?
The coronavirus pandemic emphasises the importance of local food production, but are such food systems able to fulfil global demand?
Dairy Dialog podcast 79: DuPont, DW Reusables, Quickes, Andonix
On this week’s Dairy Dialog podcast, two of the four guests speak on topics related to coronavirus. We feature Morten Boesen, global product line manager, fresh dairy, at DuPont Nutrition & Biosciences; Rudi Raskin, vice president sales, DW Reusables; Mary Quicke, managing director of Quicke’s; and David Yanez, founder and CEO of Andonix. And there is the weekly look at the global dairy markets with Liam Fenton, from INTL FCStone.
21 April 2020
Meat workers’ union urges coronavirus protection
The US United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) international union, which represents more than 250,000 meatpacking and food processing workers, has called on the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) to better protect the workforce.
Tyson Fresh Meats resumes production at Columbus Junction site
US processor Tyson Fresh Meats, the beef and pork subsidiary of Tyson Foods, has resumed limited operations at its pork plant in Columbus Junction, Iowa.
Coronavirus impact on US cattle industry tipped to reach $14.6bn
The United States Cattlemen's Association (USCA) has revealed its sobering estimation of the financial impact of coronavirus on the domestic cattle industry.
More dairy-related companies helping with coronavirus fight
FrieslandCampina WAMCO Nigeria PLC, DFA, ADM, JoYo's, Bel Group and Two Good are among the companies making a difference during the coronavirus lockdown.
Danone 1Q results overshadowed by coronavirus
Danone has issued its first quarter results, which show consolidated sales of €6.24bn ($6.77bn), up 1.7% on a reported basis.
UK dairy industry unites to call for immediate action
Appeals for urgent government action to save the UK dairy industry during the coronavirus crisis have been backed by the entire supply chain, including UK farming unions, Royal Association of British Dairy Farmers (RABDF), Dairy UK and the Provision Trade Federation.
ANSES warns of turmeric-based supplements’ effect on immune response
French authorities are warning of turmeric-containing food supplements that could disrupt the immune system by interfering with inflammatory defence mechanisms that fight infections such as the coronavirus.
Norwegian agency reiterates advice that supplements do not stop coronavirus
The Norwegian Food Safety Authority is echoing the advice from other European regulators and industry groups, which emphasise that supplements do little to stop coronavirus.
Paper bags could exacerbate bread waste, particularly in wake of coronavirus panic purchasing
The environmental impact is unlikely to be at the forefront of some consumers’ minds at the moment, but the pandemic has had a huge impact on food waste in the UK. According to packaging experts We Seal, paper bags for bread will execerbate the situation.
20 April 2020
Should bans on plastic be postponed? Single-use debate fires up amid COVID-19
The European Union is holding steadfast to its single-use directive deadline, despite pressure from industry to postpone.
Dairy groups react to $19bn disaster package
The National Milk Producers Federation expressed appreciation to Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue for including dairy in the US $19bn agriculture disaster assistance package, while noting that more will be needed to stem steep losses in the dairy sector.
Coronavirus impact on US cattle industry tipped to reach $14.6bn
The United States Cattlemen's Association (USCA) has revealed its sobering estimation of the financial impact of coronavirus on the domestic cattle industry.
Brazilian chicken exports rise despite coronavirus situation
Brazilian chicken meat exports grew 2.6% year-on-year in volume terms during March, despite the global impact of coronavirus.
17 April 2020
Coronavirus will boost clean meat trend, says supplier
The cultured meat sector is set to eventually be buoyed by the coronavirus crisis as consumers become more interested in food solutions seen as sustainable and safe, believes the co-founder and managing director of cultured meat supplier Peace of Meat.
Lockdown larder advice to continue creating the UK’s Top 10 quarantine bakes
Baking has become one of the nation’s biggest boredom breakers to fill the days in lockdown – but this has resulted in shortages of flour and yeast – leading the Real Bread Campaign to weigh in with recipes and tips.
Coronavirus: Bakery and snack producers up the ante to help those in need
Mondelēz, PepsiCo, Kellogg’s, Original Biscuit Bakers, Fairfield Farm and General Mills have stepped up efforts, as the world faces a mounting food insecurity crisis amid the spread of novel coronavirus.
16 April 2020
Coronavirus: Spotlight on the biotin supply chain
China accounts for about 80% of the global biotin supply, making it the largest biotin production country in the world.
Dairy farmers call for immediate EU-wide implementation of crisis instrument
The European Milk Board (EMB) says that as the demand of milk and milk products has significantly dropped because of the coronavirus crisis, produced milk volumes can no longer be absorbed.
NFU and dairy industry call for action
Following a dairy crisis meeting yesterday, the dairy industry has united behind the need for meaningful action to avoid a national catastrophe in UK dairying.
More companies step up in coronavirus crisis
More companies and organizations are helping with donations and product in order to help in the face of challenges created by the global covid-19 pandemic.
MilkLane begins doorstep delivery of safe milk in Bengaluru
During the lockdown in India due to the coronavirus crisis, dairy startup MilkLane has started home delivery of its products in Bengaluru.
Smithfield Foods closes two more processing facilities
US processor Smithfield Foods has revealed it will close two more of its pork facilities due to the spread of coronavirus.
Charoen Pokphand Foods introduces staff safety measures
Thai processor Charoen Pokphand Foods has implemented a series of health and safety measures to help prevent the spread of the coronavirus.
15 April 2020
New Zealand farmers warned of further processing delays
New Zealand producers have been warned that the delays in meat processing due to the coronavirus could be lengthened by as much as a week.
Food insecurity: How COVID-19 is exacerbating a crisis already on a ‘knife-edge’
Are those already on the verge of food insecurity now more likely to experience hunger and malnutrition? FoodNavigator investigates.
COVID-19 and protectionism in the food chain: An a-la-carte approach to EU rules?
Emmanuel Macron, France’s bastion of liberal globalisation and defender of the EU single-market, has said that French agriculture needs to become more ‘independent’ in response to the coronavirus pandemic. Could this signal a more protectionist approach to food production in Europe?
Consumer attitudes: The short and long term effects of an unprecedented pandemic
Analysts for the customer insights firm FMCG Gurus have predicted the short and long term impacts of COVID-19 on consumer attitudes and how food, drink and supplement brands can remain front of mind after customers’ purchasing decisions have been transformed by this pandemic.
Lucozade Sport reveals £100,000 goodwill fund to support fitness coaches
Backed by two-time world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua, Lucozade Sport is keeping the fitness community active by offering coaches £1 rewards for their online training sessions.
NOW CEO: ‘March was unprecedented in the history of the company’
Many dietary supplement companies are experiencing surging sales as consumers seek out health-promoting products, and Chicago-based NOW is no different.
The US flour miller and ingredients provider has been deemed part of the nation’s critical infrastructure in providing food and has a crisis team that kicked into gear to cope with the pandemic to ensure that product continues to appear on grocery shelves.
The US craft beer category grew 4% in 2019, against the backdrop of a 2% fall in the total beer market. But while small and independent brewers entered 2020 on a strong foundation, they now face a number of challenges as a result of the coronavirus pandemic, says the Brewers Association.
Status spirits: Well set to weather the storm?
The ‘status spirits’ market – brands that retail for $100 or more – is growing ahead of the total spirits market: representing more than $8bn in global value. And while the long-term impact of COVID-19 on beverage alcohol is yet to be fully known, status spirits historically tend to be resistant to economic uncertainty, according to the IWSR.
14 April 2020
Civil society networks, NGOs, and professional organisations are disgruntled at farmers association COPA-COGECA's bid to further delay the new EU food policy.
Quarantine baking boosts demand for powdered goods
As people are staying at home due to the coronavirus pandemic, restaurants are closed, and baking has become a way to not only make food for the family, but also to relieve boredom.
Edge Dairy Farmer Cooperative looks for USDA payments for milk disposal
Edge Dairy Farmer Cooperative, one of the largest dairy coops in the US, is urging the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to act to help farmers and people struggling to afford food during the coronavirus crisis.
Probiotics players express solid supply expectations amid surging sales
As demand for dietary supplements continues to surge, immune products, including probiotics, are among the most in-demand. We spoke to some leading probiotic players to find out how supply is being impacted by the novel coronavirus.
Could vitamin D play a role in coronavirus resistance? Research thinks so
Vitamin D supplements may aid in the resistance of respiratory infections such as the coronavirus or limit the severity of the illness in those infected, according to researchers.
13 April 2020
Smithfield Foods pork facility closed ‘until further notice’ due to coronavirus
US processor Smithfield Foods has extended the coronavirus-led closure of its Sioux Falls pork facility in South Dakota ‘until further notice’.
Brazil expands exports in eight markets during March
Brazil has reported a strong March in export terms, increasing presence in eight countries during the month, driven by falling trade barriers due to the coronavirus pandemic.
AHDB launches steak night campaign to combat drop in eating out
Levy board Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) has launched a new campaign to promote eating steak at home to replace eating out.
10 April 2020
Globally, the home baking trend has seen a revival as the sudden explosion of stress, boredom and need for comfort has changed consumer habits. So, how better to embrace your inner baker than with a batch of warm chocolate chip cookies?
Happy Easter and hot cross buns: The ultimate comfort snack boost to banish coronavirus blues?
Most people won’t be spending this Easter with important family and friends – thanks to the coronavirus crisis – but that’s not going to stop them from being more tempted than usual to bake up an aromatic batch of steaming hot cross buns, says Mintel.
Where UK microbakers and home bakers can find flour
To help UK microbakers and home bakers get beyond the frustration of staring at empty shelves, The Real Bread Campaign has posted comments from millers, along with tips of where to find the essential bakery ingredient on its website.
9 April 2020
Could the coronavirus pandemic exacerbate obesity?
Could school closures due to the COVID-19 pandemic worsen obesity rates? Or is such thinking 'extremely simplistic'? FoodNavigator investigates.
Foster Farms donates more than two million meals to food banks
US poultry processor Foster Farms is to provide more than two million meals to families affected by coronavirus.
Australian red meat exports remain steady despite coronavirus
Australian red meat exports during March have managed to remain stable in the face of the coronavirus pandemic, driven by demand from the Japanese market.
Weathering coronavirus: SMEs launch direct-to-consumer channel Mighty Small
Young Foodies, a community for small and medium-sized food brands, is launching a new direct-to-consumer sales channel, Mighty Small. It is hoped the innovation will help smaller brands who have seen their shelf space squeezed during the COVID-19 crisis.
NMPF and IDFA ask for federal assistance through Milk Crisis Plan
The National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF), the largest organization of US dairy farmers, and the International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA), have submitted a request for assistance – The Milk Crisis Plan – to Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue.
Declines in dairy, Rabobank forecasts
The North American RaboResearch team has issued an update report focusing on how the processing and distribution segments of the food supply chain are responding to the dislocation in food demand due to the coronavirus crisis.
NFU seeks coronavirus crisis meeting to save dairy sector
The survival of many British dairy farming businesses hit by the coronavirus depends on urgent action from the government, the National Farmers’ Union (NFU) said.
IDF says collaboration within the dairy sector is more important than ever
The milk supply chain has seen major disruptions that are preventing dairy farmers from getting their products to market due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Ornua says strong 2019 will help with coronavirus challenges
Ornua, Ireland’s largest exporter of dairy products, has published its operating and financial results for year ended 2019.
Social engagement with alcohol brands up 327% following coronavirus donations
Social engagement with alcohol brands has risen far more than other sectors during the coronavirus pandemic. And people are particularly keen to engage with brands that are donating money or resources to coronavirus relief efforts.
8 April 2020
New Zealand butchers approved to sell online
The confusion over New Zealand butchers not being allowed to open their shops has taken another twist with the Prime Minister clarifying the situation.
USDA expands beef market investigation to include coronavirus impact
The US Department of Agriculture's (USDA) decision to broaden the remit of its investigation into beef prices has been welcomed by cattle producers.
Thousands sign petition demanding Holland & Barrett store closures
Holland & Barrett staff have set up a petition, signed by thousands of staff and customers, begging the company to close its stores during the coronavirus pandemic as they argue their lives and the lives of customers are being put at risk.
Trade groups ask retailers not to stock products making coronavirus claims
A coalition of dietary supplement industry trade associations have come out in support of FDA actions against fraudulent coronavirus treatment claims and have urged retailers to not stock products with such claims on their labels.
The huge spike in sales of vitamin c supplements has left many brands without stock.
Dairy Dialog podcast 77: Crisp, Green Source Automation, Wisconsin Cheese Makers Association
On this podcast we chatted with Brad Tripp, sales manager at Green Source Automation, about automation in the age of pandemics; Are Traasdahl, co-founder and CEO of Crisp, about how retailers can predict demand during the crisis; and John Umhoefer, executive director of the Wisconsin Cheese Makers Association, about how the coronavirus pandemic is affecting cheese production and consumption in the US.
Nestlé CEO Mark Schneider warns that the business must ‘get ready for the storm’ as supply chain challenges are expected to intensify amid the global coronavirus pandemic.
The next generation of functional ingredients for snacks and other insights: Cargill research
Turmeric, pumpkin seeds and probiotics will be the new ingredient kids on the block – especially during these uncertain times when focus is on health and snacking has become more prevalent than ever – according to Cargill’s research to find out consumer preferences in choosing a snack.
7 April 2020
Tyson Foods production sites hit by coronavirus pandemic
All of Tyson Foods’ meat and poultry plants are experiencing some impact due to the coronavirus, the company has disclosed.
Ready-meals: Success - and struggle - amid coronavirus pandemic fuelled by retail channels
The coronavirus outbreak is driving fluctuations in demand for the UK's ready-meal sector, with certain channels, and businesses, faring better than others.
Video gaming surge shows pivot opportunity from Sports to eSports, but authenticity is key
Video gaming has exploded during the coronavirus pandemic as consumers shelter in place. Will more brands pivot and what do they need to know?
The Chinese authorities have named and shamed a string of fake advertisement, mostly surrounding unproven COVID-19 health claims.
Westland Milk Products operating as essential service
New Zealand’s Westland Milk Products has been registered as an essential service with only operational staff required at its Hokitika and Rolleston plants operating under strict New Zealand Government guidelines to keep themselves and the community safe.
Companies offering remote support during coronavirus isolation
With the outbreak of Covid-19, organizations are faced with travel restrictions and quarantine challenges, which also requires them to reduce direct contact between employees and service providers.
Maxum Foods issues April global dairy commodity update
Dairy markets continue to experience deep impacts from COVID-19 through lockdowns of people in many major countries, disrupting trade and shutting large segments of the food market to consumers.
RABDF seeks UK Government support for scheme to prevent widespread dairy disruption
The Royal Association of British Dairy Farmers (RABDF) is calling on the UK Government to help fund a short-term financial support scheme for dairy farmers whose businesses have been severely affected as a result of coronavirus and to avert a larger crisis in the industry.
How will the coronavirus pandemic change the wine world? Wine Intelligence looks at how consumer trends are likely to shift: from a dramatic shift towards off-premise sales to a new awareness and emphasis on local origin products.
6 April 2020
Irish farmers urge clarification on beef labelling
The Irish Farmers’ Association (IFA) has called on retail chain Supervalu to clarify its beef purchasing policy as produce labelled as being from Azerbaijan was found in a store.
Minor Figures backs small businesses 'absolutely devastated' by COVID-19 crisis
Amid tales of furloughing, cash flow problems, and shuttered doors, Minor Figures is getting creative. CEO Stuart Forsyth tells us how the oat m*lk brand is doing its bit to keep small businesses afloat.
US dairy farmers dumping milk due to coronavirus situation
The Wisconsin Dairy Alliance says dairy farmers are dumping milk into fields and down drains, retailers are limiting consumers dairy purchases, and farmers are left questioning if the milk they produce will be get picked up or if they will even get paid.
Job losses at Agropur due to coronavirus
Canadian dairy company Agropur has eliminated 60 jobs and temporarily laid off another 200 as the company said its priority is to maintain its dairy manufacturing and distribution operations, which constitute an essential public service.
The new norm? How has coronavirus changed your job?
With a quarter of the world's population on lockdown, the way we work has changed. But can your beverage business power on? Yes, it can: we talk to people in the industry and find out how they're adapting.
3 April 2020
ABP hits back at Polish beef accusations
Red meat processor ABP has responded to claims of a lack of support for Irish farmers during the coronavirus pandemic.
Industry offers insight into vitamin C supply chain
The coronavirus highlights how much the world depends on China for key ingredients.
FDA sends warning letter to CBD firm over coronavirus claims
The US Food and Drug Administration has issued another warning letter on COVID-19 claims. This one was issued to a Nevada company marketing CBD products.
Shoppers ignore government COVID-19 advice to shop ‘infrequently’: Data
UK shoppers have not heeded government advice to shop as ‘infrequently as possible’ to slow the transmission of novel coronavirus, with new data revealing that top-up shops remain the number one grocery mission.
PepsiCo pledges funds for COVID-19 response: ‘Bringing food to our neighbours who need it most’
Snack-to-soda giant PepsiCo has unveiled a US$45m support package to provide relief to communities ravaged by the coronavirus pandemic, including US$7.7m to be donated to European countries.
BakeryandSnack Chat Podcast: Debating the impact of coronavirus on consumer snacking behaviour
Determined not to let the ongoing COVID-19 crisis shelve plans, BakeryandSnacks virtually hosted the debate on snackification, originally scheduled to take place on stage at The Ingredients Show in Birmingham, UK.
2 April 2020
More coronavirus donations announced
Tetra Laval Group, Lactalis Nestlé and Danone have all made contributions in the fight against coronavirus.
EDA ramps up pressure for activating Private Storage Aid
The European Dairy Association (EDA) says it is counting on EU Member States at next Monday’s videoconference of the Special Committee on Agriculture (SCA) to voice the need for both immediate and European action.
The new norm: How has your job changed under lockdown?
Hastily assembled home offices, dodgy internet connections, and distracting pets... how we work has changed in these unprecedented times. But can you put 'Open for business' on your virtual door and power on? Yes, you can: we talk to people in the beverage industry and find out how they're adapting.
CRN UK highlights why essential nutrients have never been more essential
The ongoing threat of coronavirus could increase the potential for deficiencies in key micronutrients supporting the immune system, according to The Council for Responsible Nutrition UK (CRN UK).
1 April 2020
Tyson Foods to pay $60m ‘thank you’ bonus to staff
US processor Tyson Foods is pay around $60m in bonuses to its 116,000 domestic frontline staff and truckers for their efforts during the coronavirus situation.
Irish government increases support for producers
The Irish government has increased the budget for a support package for producers affected by the coronavirus situation.
COVID-19 and nutrition research: Where does the industry need to focus its scientific endeavours?
What scope is there for new scientific research to examine if nutra products have a role to play in helping tackle the pandemic?
Factory walkouts and social distancing: How can food businesses protect workers from COVID-19?
The rapid spread of COVID-19 has placed how we interact in the spotlight, with phrases like ‘social distancing’ now established in our common vocabulary. But what does this mean for key workers in the food sector? We take a look at operations best practice in the pandemic.
Dairy Dialog podcast 76: Willicroft and Liquid Retail
This week we have two features on the podcast, we spoke with Brad Vanstone, owner and founder of Willicroft, a cheese-alternatives brand and store in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, and we also have a chat with Richard Nicoll, chief commerce officer and managing director of Dubai-based consultancy Liquid Retail, about the coronavirus pandemic and how it’s affecting the Middle East and beyond.
Food, laughter and Easter eggs: The bakery and snack brands bringing relief to those in need
PeaTos, Nestlé and Panera are going the extra mile to support people facing hardship and uncertainty to get through the coronavirus outbreak with a welcome meals, some fun for the kiddies and a measure of laughter.
UK millers working around the clock to address flour shortage
Flour was one of the first products to be snapped up by consumers as they prepared for the lockdown – possibly because they knew they now have time to create their best baking sensations.
31 March 2020
Carcase balance issue to come for producers
The British Meat Processors Association (BMPA) has warned that unless retailers reinstate their full range of meat products, there will be an abundance of other cuts leading to falling prices for producers.
JBS USA reduces production at facility over health concerns
Processor JBS USA has temporarily reduced production at its beef facility in Souderton, Pennsylvania following concerns that staff members have become unwell.
While the coronavirus outbreak has prompted existential questions for The Marshmallowist, the UK start-up says consumer engagement has increased - as has basket spend.
Roquette, Cargill muck in to ward off coronavirus transmission in Europe
Roquette is producing hydro-alcoholic disinfectant for health institutions in France and Cargill is donating disinfecting alcohol to the Dutch government in response to heightened demand.
Maple Hill Creamery gives food for residents in need
Maple Hill Creamery has partnered with New York State's Department of Agriculture and Markets and nonprofit Feeding America to distribute 200,000 cartons of grass-fed organic milk and grass-fed yogurt to area residents in need.
Vinamilk donates to coronavirus fight
Vietnam's largest dairy producer, Vinamilk, has donated around $430,000 to authorities for the purchase of medical equipment, including test reagents needed for quick coronavirus testing, as well as $43,000 worth of products including milk and probiotics drink to frontline doctors and health workers in Ho Chi Minh City.
US dairy reacts to CARES Act, pushes government to purchase products
President Donald Trump signed a $2.2 trillion coronavirus stimulus package into law on March 27. Agriculture is earmarked to receive $9.5bn, and the dairy industry is pushing for the government to make a ‘significant purchase’ of dairy products.
30 March 2020
UK meat businesses adapting to tackle coronavirus situation
Meat businesses in the UK are shifting strategies to meet the increased demand for food as the coronavirus situation intensifies.
Canadian processor shuts doors due to coronavirus
Canadian pork and poultry processor Olymel has had to close its Yamachiche facility in Quebec due to a growing number of coronavirus cases among employees.
Tyson Foods pledges $13m in coronavirus community support
US meat processor Tyson Foods has pledged $13m to support local communities where the company operates in response to the coronavirus pandemic.
New advice for food businesses operating amid the coronavirus outbreak addresses social distancing in food processing plants, supermarkets, restaurants and takeaways in the UK.
Product showcase 2020: Where to find an online snack to fend of that attack while self-isolating
Consumers around the world are self-isolating because of the coronavirus outbreak, but that doesn’t stop them from craving a delicious distraction. Here’s a selection of healthy shelf-stable snacks that are available online from small entrepreneurs who also need support during these uncertain times – many of whom are also giving back.
TINE responding to coronavirus challenges
Norwegian dairy company TINE said it is experiencing increased demand for some goods and is increasing production in selected categories.
Major food shortages possible in Asia says FIA
Food Industry Asia (FIA) and the ASEAN Food and Beverage Alliance (AFBA), the regional associations representing Asia and ASEAN’s food and beverage (F&B) industries respectively, are jointly calling upon governments across the region to ensure the unhindered production and supply of food and beverages as each country tries to contain the outbreak of COVID-19.
Plant-based diet could be 'helpful' to vulnerable during pandemic
The researchers behind a new review of the affects of a plant-based diet on asthma symptoms say that diet interventions could be helpful for those classified as 'vulnerable'.
Craft breweries and cideries find relief in the CARES Act
Last week the US passed a $2.2 trillion stimulus package for economic relief from the coronavirus pandemic. Assistance to small businesses will help keep craft alcohol producers operating during the mandated shutdown.
Summer Fancy Food Show: Javits Center turned into makeshift hospital
The Specialty Food Association (SFA) will soon have to make a decision on its Summer Fancy Food Show: with its location - the Javits Center in Manhattan - currently being converted into a makeshift hospital.
27 March 2020
AI key to safeguarding food systems amid coronavirus: tech firm
A UK tech company claims AI holds the key to avoiding the risk of coronavirus destabilising the food system.
Italian online retailer ordered to stop using virus prevention claims
Naples based Carlitashop has made statements about an anti-viral manuka supplement suggesting it can tackling the COVID-19 virus.
Researchers warn faecal transplants can spread coronavirus
FMT donors should be screened to find out their travel history to avoid the risk of spreading the virus through transplants.
Panic buying amid coronavirus fears: How much are we spending...and why is it a problem?
As basket spend increases across the UK, FoodNavigator looks at how hoarding staple food items - as well as hand sanitizer, disinfectant and toilet paper - is affecting consumers' pockets.
PepsiCo has announced the closure of its Frito-Lay site in California, along with some Quaker Oat production lines in Iowa after employees contracted the virus; India’s largest Parle Biscuits is donating biscuits to people in need and Campbell has reported a soar in sales for its snacks.
26 March 2020
Professor's Covid Symptom Tracker app gains 1 million downloads in 48 hours
The entrepreneurial professor behind the infamous TwinsUK study and ZOE personalised nutrition app has led the creation of a COVID Symptom Tracker app to bolster scientific knowledge into how the virus spreads.
Hospital turns to high-dose vitamin C in fight against coronavirus
A hospital has reportedly turned to vitamin C as a treatment for the coronavirus, after reports emerged from China that doses well in excess of daily Dietary Reference Values (DRV) showed promise.
Coronavirus: How are Gousto, Mindful Chef, and Pasta Evangelists coping with recipe box boom?
Unprecedented demand for home-delivered recipe boxes is putting strain on Gousto, Mindful Chef, and Pasta Evangelists in the UK as they work to meet demand.
Nestlé, Unilever respond to coronavirus pandemic
Food industry giants Nestlé and Unilever have unveiled how they are responding to the COVID-19 pandemic to support their suppliers and the communities in which they operate globally.
Coronavirus will drive sales of probiotic products
GlobalData says the current pandemic will drive future sales of probiotics due to increased attention on healthy foods.
Keytone ups production in response to coronavirus outbreak
In New Zealand, Keytone is ramping up production to meet increased demand.
Dairy donates time, money and food to the coronavirus pandemic
In the US, Danone North America and Chobani are making contributions to help out during the crisis.
Nestlé steps up global response to coronavirus pandemic
Nestlé is making a donation to the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) as part of its response to the crisis.
Müller launches major recruitment drive in UK
In the UK, Müller UK & Ireland is ramping up deliveries as dairy products are selling well during the current crisis.
US Congress passes $2 trillion stimulus package, with $9.5bn for agriculture
The US government has injected a huge stimulus into the economy to tackle coronavirus, with $9.5bn earmarked for agriculture.
Entrepreneurs knuckle down to keep their start-ups thriving: ‘It's all hands on deck!'
The coronavirus crisis is a massive blow to many small businesses. But some start-ups have quickly adjusted to the new reality: ramping up online sales or swiftly making new marketing strategies. We talk to four beverage entrepreneurs who may have had to throw their 2020 business plans out of the window – but are keeping their chins up just the same.
US distillers work together to produce hand sanitizer on mass: 'We are in this together'
Spirits companies around the world are donating alcohol and production facilities to make hand sanitizer. In the US, the Distilled Spirits Council of the US (DSCUS) is coordinating efforts via a dedicated portal to connect suppliers, producers and medical professionals.
25 March 2020
SMEs fight for their lives in face of coronavirus: ‘It is a nerve-wracking time’
Small and medium sized food brands who have benefited from the diversification of the grocery aisle in recent years are now feeling the squeeze as the unprecedented coronavirus crisis sweeps Europe – and the world.
New Zealand butcher shops deemed ‘non-essential’
Butcher shops in New Zealand have been deemed non-essential by the government and must remain closed during the coronavirus pandemic.
Mexican meat supply chain urges responsible shopping
The Mexican meat industry has made a joint appeal to the public to shop responsibly during the coronavirus situation.
World Meat Congress postponed due to coronavirus
The World Meat Congress 2020, due to take place in Mexico this June, has been postponed by organisers due to the coronavirus situation.
‘Business as usual’ for Danish Crown Beef
Danish Crown Beef has reported steady production in its slaughterhouses during the coronavirus pandemic.
While the coronavirus situation in Europe is 'alarming', World Food Programme Acting Director of Supply Chain, John Crisci, tells FoodNavigator his 'greatest fear' is for Africa.
New ESSNA-EFF pact looks to push nutrition in ‘challenging times’
The European Specialist Sports Nutrition Alliance (ESSNA) is to join the European Food Forum (EFF) as part of ongoing efforts to promote healthy ageing and nutrition, especially during the coronavirus situation as well as Brexit.
Dairy Dialog podcast 75: NZMP, Christeyns Food Hygiene, Salon du fromage
This week's Dairy Dialog podcast includes an interview with Christeyns Food Hygiene on disinfection for food companies in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic.
Beverage gives back: How brands are helping out during the coronavirus crisis
Beverage brands are donating drinks to health workers; switching production to hand sanitizer; and supporting out-of-work bartenders. Here's just some of the initatives that have emerged this week.
Namibia’s largest grain processor warns of staple food price hikes amid coronavirus outbreak
Namib Mills Groups – one of Namibia’s biggest food producers – is concerned about the effect that coronavirus is having on the purchasing power of the Namibian dollar, just days after it inaugurated its N$135m ($7.8m) state-of-the-art bread factory.
24 March 2020
Coronavirus and obesity: industry urged to act post-crisis
The coronavirus pandemic should give the food industry increased impetus to make healthier products, according to experts, after an NHS audit in the UK revealed over three quarters (76.5%) of critically ill coronavirus patients are overweight.
Coronavirus supply chain management: Lessons from China
As the coronavirus crisis deepens in Europe Bo Zhou, CEO of supply chain software specialist FuturMaster, shares insights into managing the crisis and lessons learnt from keeping the cogs turning in China. “Everything that seems normal everyday becomes totally impossible.”
Coronavirus: Supermarkets also must 'flatten the curve' to meet demand
A lack of trust among consumers has prompted stockpiling efforts across the UK, according to Mintel retail expert Nick Carroll, who says supermarkets must 'flatten the curve' to ensure supply.
Australian red meat industry vows to 'rise to the challenge of coronavirus'
Representatives from the Australian red meat industry have pledged to keep shelves stocked during the coronavirus pandemic.
EDA looks to keep dairy open despite coronavirus challenges
The European Dairy Association is looking to the EU to help keep essential dairy products flowing.
Going for a (virtual) pint: BrewDog takes its bars online
Craft brewer BrewDog will open 102 bars online this Friday, with the new virtual bars offering beer tastings, homebrewing masterclasses, pub quizzes, live music and comedy.
Diageo pledges eight million bottles of hand sanitiser worldwide
Spirits giant Diageo has pledged to provide more than eight million bottles of hand sanitiser – through donating two million litres of alcohol to manufacturing partners – in the fight against COVID-19.
NMPF beefs up coronavirus resource website for dairy
The National Milk Producers Federation in the US has set up a designated website for those in the dairy industry to utilize during the health crisis.
Hope on the horizon: Bakery, snack companies hiring workers displaced by coronavirus
The North American bakery and snacks industries are hiring more workers to keep up with demand as consumers stockpile comfort foods like bread and snacks to get them through the coronavirus outbreak.
Grenade boss reveals business priorities during pandemic
The founder of global sports nutrition brand Grenade has revealed how he is working to keep his staff safe and ensuring the survival of his business during this extraordinary pandemic.
Coronavirus immunity claim warning for Omega-3 industry
Omega-3 businesses have been warned about the dangers of making immunity claims during this Coronavirus crisis.
Microbiome maintenance: How good gut health could tackle COVID-19
A healthy gut microbiome is crucial in mounting a response to the coronavirus, a public health expert says, who also details its role in preventing immune over-reactions that can damage the lungs.
23 March 2020
Opportunities for ecommerce? Rabobank assesses the impact of coronavirus on the drinks industry
The beverage industry is keeping a close eye on the rippling effects from the COVID-19 pandemic. And in the US, there have been a few positives mixed in with the negatives, such as a boom for ecommerce.
UK seafood hopes Brits will catch taste for fish amid coronavirus shock
The UK seafood industry – witnessing a severe fall in demand from export markets amid Covid-19 – is eager that the crisis might spur more British people to eat home-caught seafood.
FoodDrinkEurope demands EU action to relieve supply chains
The industry group has called on Brussels to take urgent action to ease pressure on supply chains during the pandemic.
Food rationing: UK urged to adopt health-based scheme, ‘not ad hoc led by retailers’
Academics say it is the Government’s responsibility – and not retailers’ – to implement a national rationing scheme based on nutritional guidance.
Brazil’s Marfrig pledges to keep all it meats plants operating; Mercado Libre cuts commission for non-perishable food products; Ambev brewery is now producing hand gel. We take a look at how the food industry is responding to the coronavirus outbreak.
Guatemalan sugar industry donates $1 million to equip mobile hospital
The Guatemalan Sugar Association (ASAZGUA) announced a donation of 7.64 million quetzals ($1 million) for one of five new mobile hospitals in the country.
Hard surface disinfection even more crucial for dairy industry in light of coronavirus
Christeyns Food Hygiene, based in Warrington in the UK, which manufactures and install food, dairy and beverage hygiene solutions, is stressing the importance of reducing the risks of contamination from hard surfaces as combating coronavirus continues to be top priority throughout the food chain.
Cocoa Association of Asia conference postponed for second time while governments scramble to maintain food supplies as COVID-19 coronavirus crisis deepens.
EMB says coronavirus has potential to be worst crisis yet for dairy
The European Milk Board (EMB) says all key indicators for the dairy sector are in a strong downward spiral.
Milk powder sales rocket during coronavirus crisis
Catalina Marketing, a company that specializes in shopper intelligence and personalized digital media for CPG brands and retailers, has continued to mine its Buyer Intelligence Database for the fourth consecutive week to track sales in those categories experiencing either spikes or declines as the US population pays closer attention to the COVID-19 pandemic.
EUROPEN & FEFCO call for open ‘green lanes’ to support F&B manufacturers during coronavirus crisis
Members of EUROPEN, (European Organisation for Packaging and the Environment) and FEFCO (European Federation of Corrugated Board Manufacturers) have spoken out in support of their customers during the coronavirus outbreak.
SnackSafely is launching an online campaign called #SnackSafelyAtHome to help consumers with food allergies while they are confined to their homes due to the coronavirus outbreak.
EUROPEN says packaging essential during coronavirus measures
The members of EUROPEN, the European Organisation for Packaging and the Environment, say the European Commission needs to recognize packaging and its raw materials are essential during the current crisis.
Stop panic buying: ABA assures Americans the sector is still #BakingStrong
The American Bakers Association (ABA) has issued a shout-out to the thousands of workers in the bakery supply chain who continue to supply safe products for citizens, despite today’s unprecedented lifestyle caused by coronavirus.
20 March 2020
EU mobilises 'all means at our disposal' to tackle COVID-19
FoodNavigator’s regular roundup of news from across Europe looks at the EU’s response to coronavirus – from advise on boarder management measures to concerns over disruption to the food supply chain.
French agri-food sector responds to COVID-19 lockdown: ‘Our food industry is strong and resilient’
Lobby groups in France are backing the government’s prioritisation of the agri-food chain as part of its nationwide coronavirus lockdown.
COVID-19: Competition laws relaxed to keep ‘shops staffed, shelves stocked, and the nation fed’
The UK Government has softened competition laws to enable supermarket retailer collaboration in helping meet boosted demand.
COVID-19: How to use diet and supplements to maintain immunity... and sanity
A dietitian and founder of a 'good mood food' startup has shared her tips for maintaining good mental health during the uncertain times of this COVID-19 pandemic.
Dietary supplement manufacturers and the natural channel stores that sell the products play an important role in supporting consumers health during this challenging time and should be counted as ‘essential’ businesses, stakeholders say.
Food production workers designated key personnel by UK government
The UK government has designated food production staff, including those in the meat industry, as key workers as part of measures to curb the spread of the coronavirus.
Moy Park makes staffing appeal to cope with coronavirus demand
Poultry processor Moy Park has announced hundreds of temporary jobs at its Northern Ireland and UK sites to help maintain supply during the coronavirus pandemic.
US meat industry moves to maintain supply as consumer demand grows during coronavirus
The North American Meat Institute (Meat Institute) has assured consumers that meat and poultry producers are continuing efforts to meet the growing demand for meat during the coronavirus pandemic.
Kellogg UK’s call out for additional workers to cope with coronavirus demand
While COVID-19 is forcing numerous layoffs and closures around the country – and indeed, around the world – the breakfast cereal giant has issued an urgent call out for additional workers at its Manchester plant to keep up with demand.
Kellogg’s value soars during COVID-19 crisis
Kellogg Company has braced for the coronavirus outbreak, while potentially benefiting from consumers stocking up.
19 March 2020
UK Coronavirus Emergency Bill looks to 'keep food supply flowing'
The UK government unveiled its Coronavirus Emergency Bill, legislation that would give it sweeping new powers to respond to the COVID-19 outbreak. The legislation aims to minimise disruption and safeguard key industries, including ‘supporting the food industry to maintain supplies’.
Online food delivery ‘one of the only winners’ in coronavirus outbreak
As the UK Prime Minister warns against eating in restaurants and pubs, and an increasing number of people enter self-isolation, online food delivery may be one of the only sectors that stands to gain.
How are beverage brands coping in the face of COVID-19?
Amid quarantines, lockdowns and cancellations, beverage companies are doing what they can to stay afloat as well as help out in the community. BeverageDaily rounds-up the latest news from brands dealing with the crisis.
COVID-19: Nutrition startups fear huge sales hit as Amazon bans non-essential goods
Nutrition startups have voiced fears for their businesses after Amazon announced it is prohibiting shipments of any non-essential goods from its warehouses until at least April 5th in an aim to meet spiralling demand caused by COVID-19.
Holland and Barrett imposes limits on immunity products amid COVID-19 panic buying
Global health food chain Holland and Barrett has brought in sales limits to reduce panic buying and introduced a dedicated one-hour shopping window for the elderly and vulnerable as well as a new call centre to keep up with soaring demand
Confectionery industry looks to stay relevant as grocery sector re-allocates stock
Confectionery, along with crisps, snacks & nuts, and soft drinks, has been earmarked as a risk category in the food sector for deprioritisation, as supermarkets re-allocate stock priorities towards staples and essential supplies due to the coronavirus outbreak.
The Cheerios and Nature’s Valley maker has raised its forecast for 2020, as social distancing efforts aimed at slowing the rapid spread of COVID-19 is causing consumers to stockpile, boosting demand for eat-at-home products like cereals and boredom-busting treats like snack bars.
Not all doom and gloom in the year of the virus: Bakery and snack players weigh in
The coronavirus pandemic – which has infected more than 220,000 people and killed more than 9,000 globally at the time of writing – is toying with global economy. But staple food categories are positioned to weather the economic storm.
18 March 2020
Coronavirus impact on labour supply fuels food shortage fears
European shoppers are finding themselves faced with empty shelves as coronavirus panic buying places the food supply under short-term pressure. But could longer-term impact on the agri-food labour force actually have more significant implications? FoodNagivator investigates.
Coronavirus sparks ‘staggering growth’ in online searches for foods with functional benefits
What foods are consumers looking to during coronavirus? Functional foods like kombucha and elderberries are the potential
Disease crisis turns up pressure on analytical labs
The COVID-19 crisis is placing an additional burden on testing labs as companies scramble to meet consumer demand for immune health products.
European Commission calls on startups & SMEs to help with coronavirus outbreak
The European Commission is calling on startups and SMEs with technologies and innovations that could help in treating, testing and monitoring the coronavirus outbreak to apply for the next round of funding from the European Innovation Council (EIC).
17 March 2020
‘Potential supply chain impact of COVID-19 coronavirus is immense and unpredictable’
INX International, which produces inks and coatings for commercial packaging and digital applications, has spoken out about the impact of COVID-19 coronavirus, saying 'the potential supply chain impact of this pandemic is immense and unpredictable’.
AAMP offers coronavirus guidance to members
The American Association of Meat Processors (AAMP) has issued guidance to its members as it feels the effect of the coronavirus.
Canadian red meat industry donates $50,000 to coronavirus effort in China
The Canadian red meat industry has made a $50,000 donation to the Canadian Red Cross to support work with the Red Cross Society of China and its efforts in responding to the coronavirus outbreak.
Spanish pork industry pledges regular supply
The head of the Spanish pork industry’s main trade body has pledged the sector will maintain regular activity despite the coronavirus’ impact on the country.
‘Business as usual’ for the Dutch meat industry during coronavirus
The Dutch meat industry has reassured customers that its companies are working hard to continue to serve consumers at home and abroad, despite the coronavirus measures.
It’s positive to note the bakery and snack industries are not buckling under the coronavirus outbreak.
16 March 2020
Coronavirus: Europe calls for calm as food shortage fears spark panic buying
European governments and representatives of the food industry are seeking to reassure shoppers that the food supply is secure as the region becomes the ‘epicentre’ for the COVID-19 outbreak.
COVID-19 and food: ‘This virus is sensitive to cooking temperatures’
French food agency ANSES says heat treatment can reduce contamination of a food product by a factor of 10,000.
Panic buying of immune products causes shortfalls; greater supply gaps loom in months ahead
A pulse of supply and production issues caused by the COVID-19 crisis is making its way through the dietary supplement industry. Inventories of botanical ingredients continue to hold up, but unprecedented demand for immunity boosting products is causing some strain.
Global meat industry reacts to coronavirus pandemic
The international meat industry has moved to try and maintain production as the coronavirus spreads throughout the world.
Cocoa disruption expected on markets as coronavirus continues to spread
‘During risk-off periods in markets, the prices of all products tend to move lower. When price carnage hits markets, rationality takes a holiday,’ said analyst Andrew Hecht.
13 March 2020
Coronavirus: ‘Dramatic decline’ in taste for Chinese and Italian cuisines
Google Trends data has revealed interest in cuisines from China and Italy – the two hardest hit countries of the COV-19 outbreak – has plummeted. FoodNavigator looks at what this means for the industry.
Could coronavirus hasten high times for CBD?
We've seen a run on toilet rolls, hand sanitizer and pasta. What about other foods and ingredients? Which might be set to be boosted by coronavirus?
12 March 2020
Spreading coronavirus: ‘There have been no reports of transmission through food’
EFSA says there is no evidence that food is a likely source of transmission of coronavirus disease (COVID-19).
Danish Crown fights off Coronavirus concerns for now
Pork processor Danish Crown has reassured customers that its slaughter and production will continue as normal until Friday at the very least.
10 March 2020
Coronavirus: UK relaxes supermarket restrictions to keep shelves stocked
The UK government has extended delivery hours for supermarkets to support the industry response to booming demand in the wake of the country’s COVID-19 outbreak, with further action to minimise disruption to supply chains under consideration.
9 March 2020
Coronavirus: One-third of UK shoppers stockpiling food, HIM & MCA research finds
New consumer research finds that one-third of consumers are stockpiling food in preparation for a major coronavirus outbreak.
3 March 2020
Coronavirus and Brexit are today’s biggest challenges for food makers, while online shopping continues to open the door for disruptive brands in grocery, Mission Ventures co-founder Paddy Willis tells FoodNavigator.
25 February 2020
Coronavirus: ‘Food excellence could fall into the eye of the hurricane’ Italian food sector warns
As Italian authorities struggle to bring the coronavirus outbreak under control and put together a support package for business, Italian industry associations and food sector representatives warn of the potential impact on the food sector.
5 February 2020
Can coronavirus be transmitted via imported food?
Novel coronavirus has claimed 425 lives in China to date, prompting concerns that food imported to Europe from Hubei Province and affected regions could be infected. The German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR) assesses whether this is a likely transmission route.
