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Chinese Government Seizes 76 Tons Of Dairy Products Contaminated With Toxic Melamine

July 9, 2010: 05:53 AM EST

The Chinese government, embarrassed by food-safety violations in the 2007 and 2008 melamine cases and determined to prevent them in the future, has implemented comprehensive changes in food inspection procedures that includes new rules and a streamlined food regulation bureaucracy. The new program seems to be working. Food inspectors in Qinghai Province in Western China recently impounded 76 tons of milk powder and other raw dairy products and finished goods tainted with as much as 559 times the legal levels of the toxic industrial chemical melamine. The confiscated products had somehow avoided a national recall of dairy foods after the 2008 debacle. Melamine is added to food products because it mimics protein in food quality tests, making foods then seem more nutritious.

MICHAEL WINES, "Tainted Dairy Products Seized in Western China", The New York Times, July 09, 2010, © The New York Times
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FDA’s New Safety Rules For Large-Scale Egg Producers Take Effect

July 9, 2010: 12:37 PM EST
The FDA hopes that its new rules enforcing safety standards for large-scale egg producers will make a dent in the large number of illnesses and deaths caused by eating eggs contaminated with Salmonella bacteria. The new requirements, which impact about 80 percent of egg producers, went into effect on July 9. The producers are required, for example, to adopt contamination prevention measures and to use refrigeration during egg storage and transportation. Illness caused by Salmonella bacteria in eggs is a serious public health problem, FDA said, with 79,000 illnesses and 30 deaths reported last year. By employing the safety measures, producers would reduce Salmonella enteritidis infections from eggs by nearly 60 percent, the agency said.
FDA, "New Final Rule to Ensure Egg Safety, Reduce Salmonella Illnesses Goes Into Effect", News release, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, July 09, 2010, © FDA
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Obama’s Food, Health Officials Report Progress In Campaign To Ensure Food Safety

July 9, 2010: 12:22 PM EST
Top Obama Administration agriculture and health officials report progress among the various federal food safety agencies in their efforts to implement the President’s food safety initiatives. The Food Safety Working Group had recommended a public health-focused approach to food safety grounded in prioritizing prevention, strengthening inspection and enforcement, and improving response and recovery. The USDA, for example, has issued draft standards and guidance on salmonella in poultry and eggs and produce safety. It has also begun a verification testing program for beef bench trim and has issued draft guidelines on ways to control E. coli on the farm. The Health and Human Services Dept. has launched a Web portal where industry and public health officials can report that a food might be harmful to health.
HHS Press Office, "Federal Agencies Announce Progress in First Year of Implementing Food Safety Working Group Recommendations", News release, U.S. Dep’t. Of Health and Human Services, July 09, 2010, © U.S. Dep’t. Of Health and Human Services
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Binge Drinking Causes Long-Term Disruption Of Genes Involved In Bone Formation

July 9, 2010: 01:12 PM EST
A U.S. study has found long-lasting disruptions in hundreds of genes involved in bone formation in rats that were injected with large amounts of alcohol. According to the researchers, the findings should serve as a warning to teenagers about the long-term effects of binge drinking on bone development, including an increased risk of fractures and osteoporosis. Binge drinking is defined as a woman having at least four drinks or a man having at least five drinks on one occasion. In the study, rats received injections of alcohol that resulted in a blood alcohol level of 0.28. Researchers found long-lasting disruption of about 300 bone-related genes in rats exposed to acute binge drinking and about 180 bone-related genes in rats exposed to chronic binge drinking.
John Callaci, Ph.D., Kristen Lauing and Phillip Roper, "Long-Term Modulations in the Vertebral Transcriptome of Adolescent-Stage Rats Exposed to Binge Alcohol", Alcohol and Alcoholism, July 09, 2010, © Medical Council on Alcohol
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OTA Blasts Time Magazine For “Misleading” Consumers On USDA Egg Quality Research

July 9, 2010: 12:19 AM EST
The Organic Trade Association criticized an article in Time magazine (“Organic Eggs: More Expensive, but No Healthier”) for misleading consumers by misinterpreting a USDA-sourced journal article reporting on the quality of chicken eggs derived from various sources. The article published in the journal Poultry Science “includes no reference to certified organic eggs and says nothing about nutritional value,” the OTA said in a letter to Time. The USDA researcher measured brown and white egg sizes, among other things, but made no statements about nutritional values, healthiness, etc. “The headline drawing broad health conclusions from a quality measure misinterprets what USDA scientists are saying and confuses consumers,” OTA said.
Barbara Haumann, "OTA: Egg research findings inaccurately peg organic in media reports", Press Release, OTA, July 09, 2010, © OTA
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European Lawmakers Are Firmly Opposed To Marketing Food Products From Cloned Animals

July 8, 2010: 03:09 AM EST
The European Parliament is not backing down from its opposition to meat and milk products from cloned animals. On July 7 it voted to exclude such food from a draft European Union regulation on novel foods. The legislators also asked for a moratorium on sales of food derived from cloning. The vote is a strong signal to the European Commission and EU member states who want to regulate the sale of "novel foods," but have not taken a firm stand on cloned animal food products. A complete ban on cloned animal food would put the EU into trade conflicts with less restrictive countries, especially the U.S. So-called nanofoods are also a bone of contention. The Parliament asked for a moratorium on their use until they could be proven safe.
EurActiv, "Parliament calls for EU ban on cloning for food", Press Release, EU, July 08, 2010, © European Union
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Weight Is The Key Concern For 70 Percent Of Americans

July 8, 2010: 01:52 PM EST
A large majority of Americans (70 percent) are concerned about their weight, and an even larger majority (77 percent) are trying to lose or maintain their weight, according to a survey by the International Food Information Council Foundation. Yet, despite advice from everywhere, including the highest levels of government, Americans still don’t quite understand the “calories in” and “calories out” dynamic and how it affects weight. Only 19 percent say they keep track of calories. Strategies for losing weight, the survey found, include changing the amount of food eaten (69 percent), changing the type of foods eaten (63 percent), and exercising (60 percent). Sixty-five percent say weight loss is the main reason they adopted a healthy diet and 16 percent say they are making their diet healthier to maintain weight.
International Food Information Council Foundation, "2010 Food & Health Survey Consumerr Attitudes Toward Food Safety, Nutrition, & Health", IFIC Report, July 08, 2010, © IFIC Foundation
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OTA Urges Greater Emphasis On Organic Foods In U.S. Dietary Guidelines

July 8, 2010: 03:23 AM EST
Draft dietary guidelines from the USDA and Dept. of Health and Human Services should be revised to encourage American shoppers concerned about exposure to toxic chemicals to look for the USDA Organic label on products, the Organic Trade Association (OTA) said in testimony before an advisory committee that is writing a new version of the guidelines. The organization criticized statements in the draft guidelines that say organic and conventional foods have similar nutritional value and contributions to human health. “These conclusions are neither grounded in current science nor relevant to the mandate of the dietary guidelines,” an OTA official said. She also noted that the guidelines offer advice that conflicts with the President’s Cancer Panel regarding ways to reduce environmental cancer risk by minimizing exposure to pesticides and chemical fertilizers.
Barbara Haumann, "OTA: Dietary Guidelines need to take stronger stand on organic foods", Press Release, Organic Trade Association, July 08, 2010, © Organic Trade Association
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High Prices, Lack Of Knowledge, Keep Many Women Shoppers From Buying Organic Deli Meat

July 8, 2010: 03:45 AM EST
An online survey of women who regularly purchase deli meat for their children found that 45 percent would choose organic meats for their kids if knew the benefits of buying organic. The survey, sponsored by natural and organic meat/cheese producer Applegate Farms, basically revealed that women shoppers don’t really understand terms like organic, conventional or natural. For example, 36 percent of the women surveyed either weren’t sure, or believed organic and natural deli meats are the same thing. But higher prices seem to be the deciding factor for shoppers: forty-nine 49 percent cited price as the reason they don't buy organic deli meat. Twenty-six percent said they didn’t buy organic because they couldn’t find organic deli foods in their local grocery stores.
Applegate Farms, "Survey Says: Moms Looking for More Guidance on Organic Deli Meat", PR Newswire, July 08, 2010, © PR Newswire
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European Food Industry Is Staggered By EFSA’s Health Claim Rulings

July 7, 2010: 04:51 AM EST
Rules adopted in 2006 by the European Food Safety Authority to protect consumers from scientifically unproven health claims have left the food industry in turmoil. About 80 percent of 900 claims examined – 4,637 were submitted – have been rejected by the EFSA as “unsubstantiated, exaggerated or untruthful." The EFSA rejected, for example, claims that green tea is an antioxidant, and is good for blood pressure, cholesterol levels, bones, teeth and eyesight, and claims that cranberry juice can reduce the risk of urinary tract infection in women. Product names might have to be changed as well: “Slim Fast” might be considered an unsubstantiated health claim. The rulings have angered manufacturers in the U.K., who predict that the rules could push shoppers to buy products from “less reputable “sources.
Neil Bowdler, "EU health food claims law begins to bite", BBC News, July 07, 2010, © BBC
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Choice Organic Tea Products Certified As Non-GMO

July 7, 2010: 02:48 AM EST
The nonprofit Non-GMO Project has verified that Choice Organic Teas are produced without genetic modification. The teas are also Fair Trade Certified. The product line, which includes 29 teas, will now carry the Non-GMO Project Verified seal. The Non-GMO Project was created by organizations in the natural and organic products industry in the U.S. and Canada to offer consumers a consistent non-GMO choice for organic and natural products made without genetic engineering or recombinant DNA technologies. The project verifies all types of products, including ones not yet produced commercially in GMO form. Choice Organic Teas is a brand of Granum, Inc. of Seattle, Wash.
Choice Organic Teas, "Choice Organic Teas First Tea Company Verified by Non-GMO Project", Press Release, Choice Organic Teas, July 07, 2010, © Non GMO Project
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USDA To Issue Stricter Standards For Olive Oil Labeling

July 7, 2010: 09:56 AM EST
The USDA is moving to stem the tide of cheap, low-end olive oil products being marketed as high-end goods and olive oils adulterated with cheaper canola, safflower or peanut oils. The agency this fall will issue new standards – voluntary, not mandatory – designed to make sure that when a consumer buys "100% extra virgin" olive oil he gets exactly that. Up till now, there have been no firm rules on the subject, so "the U.S. has been a dumping ground for cheap olive oil for years," according to an industry expert. The tainted olive oils not only cheat unsuspecting consumers, they present a health hazard. Connecticut investigators who tested olive oils from stores a few years after complaints of illness and fishy flavors verified that the oils were not pure.
P.J. Huffstutter, "U.S. to crack down on smearing of olive oil's reputation", Los Angeles Times, July 07, 2010, © The Los Angeles Times
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UN Body Issues Guidance On Melamine Levels, Control Of Pathogen Contamination In Foods

July 6, 2010: 09:12 AM EST
The industrial chemical melamine, used to manufacture plastics used for dishware and kitchenware, is usually safe when traces get into foods by contact, but is poisonous at high levels. A United Nations food standards body has ruled that powdered infant formula can contain a maximum of only 1 mg/kg of melamine, while the maximum allowed in other foods is 2.5 mg/kg. The levels set by the Codex Alimentarius Commission are not legally binding, but set a standard by which countries may bar importation of products with excessive melamine levels. The Commission also provided guidance for each stage of production of fresh, leafy vegetables, from harvesting to distribution, to reduce contamination risks. Guidance on controlling bacteria in seafood along the food chain and aflatoxins in Brazil nuts was also provided.
WHO, "Food body sets rules for bagged salad, melamine use", Press Release, WHO, July 06, 2010, © World Health Organisation
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Legislators Caution USDA About adverse Impact Of Deregulating GE Alfalfa

July 2, 2010: 09:23 AM EST
In response to a USDA Draft Environmental Impact Statement that found “no significant impact” from using genetically engineered alfalfa, a group of U.S. legislators has appealed to the agency to retain the regulated status of genetically engineered (GE) alfalfa. The National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA) requires federal agencies to review the environmental impact of proposed actions, such as USDA's proposed deregulation of genetically modified seeds. In their letter, the lawmakers cautioned that genetically engineered alfalfa would contaminate the crops of both conventional and organic alfalfa farmers, and could cause economic harm to alfalfa seed producers and to the organic dairy industry. On June 21, the U.S. Supreme Court, in a case involving Monsanto Corp., ordered the lifting of a nationwide permanent injunction on GE alfalfa.
Organic Consumer Association, "56 Members Of House And Senate Ask USDA to Stop Genetically Engineered Alfalfa", Press Release, Organic Consumer Association, July 02, 2010, © Organic Consumer Association
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Avoid Synthetic Dyes By Buying Organic Foods Only, OTA Advises

July 2, 2010: 02:27 AM EST
Consumers who want to avoid ingesting synthetic dyes from their foods can switch to organic, the Organic Trade Association advises. The advice follows on the heels of a call from the Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI) to ban the use of synthetic dyes in coloring foods because they present “a rainbow of risks” that includes allergic reactions, hyperactivity and possibly cancer. Organic foods are barred from using synthetic dyes, and must be processed without use of toxic and synthetic pesticides, antibiotics, synthetic nitrogen fertilizers, etc. “Organic handlers do not use any synthetic dyes in organic food products,” an OTA executive said. “It is another one of the benefits of choosing organic foods where you shop.” National organic standards are regulated by the USDA’s National Organic Program.
OTA, "Consumers can choose organic products to avoid synthetic food dyes", Press Release, The Organic Associoation (OTA), July 02, 2010, © OTA
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No Evidence That Gluten-Free, Casein-Free Diet Successfully Treats Autistic Disorders

July 1, 2010: 08:38 AM EST
A U.S. review of published research has found that a gluten-free or casein-free (GFCF) diet is not effective in treating the range of disorders associated with autism. The causes of autism and related disorders are still unknown. Nevertheless, various unproven theories have been “translated into treatment methods and shared with the public” before any scientific evidence has been accumulated on safety and effectiveness. One theory suggested that autistic people have a gastrointestinal tract disorder that causes them to absorb the toxins from incompletely digested casein, found in dairy products, and gluten, found in various grains. Scientists looked at 15 major scientific studies on the GFCF diet as a treatment for autism, and found significant design flaws that invalidate the use of the diet as a treatment for autism.
Austin Mulloy, Russell Lang, Mark O’Reilly, Jeff Sigafoos, Giulio Lancioni and Mandy Rispoli, "Gluten-free and casein-free diets in the treatment of autism spectrum disorders: A systematic review", Research in Autism Spectrum Disorders, July 01, 2010, © Elsevier B.V.
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Australian Unit Of Heinz Is Phasing Out Product Packaging Containing BPA

July 1, 2010: 04:19 AM EST
The Heinz Australian business unit announced that it has begun to phase out use of bisphenol A (BPA) in baby food packaging. Canned foods are the first priority, Heinz said. The phase-out coincides with an announcement by Parliamentary Secretary for Health Mark Butler that some big retailers in Australia were phasing out products containing BPA. Heinz said it was taking the action because of consumer concerns, despite declarations from Australian and other international food officials that BPA was “completely safe” to use in food packages. The company cited a U.S. FDA opinion, for example, that “the benefit of a stable source of good nutrition outweighs the potential risk from BPA exposure.”
Heinz, "Heinz to phase out BPA in baby food packaging", Heinz press release, July 01, 2010, © HJ Heinz Co Australia Ltd.
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Genetic Tinkering Adds Shelf Life To Tomatoes

June 30, 2010: 01:33 PM EST
Adding a yeast gene to tomatoes increases production of a compound that slows aging and delays microbial decay, a study finding that probably transfers to most fruits. The U.S. researchers said the technology inhibits the aging of plants and extends the shelf life of fruits – in the case of tomatoes by an additional week. The organic compound spermidine is a member of the class of chemicals known as polyamines that influence hundreds of genes. The researchers introduced the yeast spermidine synthase gene, which increased production of spermidine in the tomatoes. The ripe tomatoes from those plants stayed fresh eight days longer than untreated tomatoes before they began to shrivel. In addition, decay and rot symptoms associated with fungi were delayed by about three days.
Avtar Handa, Autar Mattoo, et al., "Overexpression of Yeast Spermidine Synthase Impacts Ripening, Senescence and Decay Symptoms in Tomato", The Plant Journal, June 30, 2010, © Blackwell Publishing Ltd. and the Society for Experimental Biology
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The Food and Drug Administration Suggests Limits To The Use of Antimicrobial Drugs In Food-Producing Animals

June 29, 2010: 10:42 PM EST

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, a part of the Food and Drug Administration, has published a policy framework (“The Judicious Use of Medically Important Antimicrobial Drugs in Food-Producing Animals”) relating to the use of antimicrobial drugs in animals used for food. For over 50 years, antimicrobial drugs have been used in both human and veterinary medicine, but growing resistance to these drugs makes them less effective as therapies, creating a potential danger to public health, and so these drugs need to be used more “judiciously” in order to slow the pace of growing resistance. The guidance includes limiting use of such drugs except where necessary, and limiting use in food-producing animals to situations where there is veterinary oversight. 

FDA, "The Judicious Use of Medically Important Antimicrobial Drugs in Food-Producing Animals", Draft Guidance statement, FDA, June 29, 2010, © FDA
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Consumers Overwhelmingly Worried About Impact Of BP Oil Spill On Gulf Seafood

June 28, 2010: 02:42 PM EST
A weekly consumer confidence survey has found that not only are almost all Americans aware of the BP oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico, they are worried about how it might impact the safety of Gulf seafood. The survey found that 99 percent of respondents knew about the spill, while 85 percent were following it closely in the news. About 89 percent of respondents were at least somewhat concerned about the possible effects of the spill on Gulf seafood. Half said they were "extremely concerned." Fifty-four percent said the oil spill would affect their consumption of seafood, and 44 percent of that group said they will only eat seafood if they’re sure it does not come from the Gulf of Mexico.
Dennis Degeneffe, et al., "Americans worried about the quality of Gulf seafood", Ongoing study, June 28, 2010, © The Food Industry Center at the Univ. of Minnesota
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NRDC Sues FDA For Inaction On BPA Petition

June 29, 2010: 01:44 AM EST
Charging the FDA with failure to act on an 18-month-old petition to outlaw the use of bisphenol A (BPA) in food packaging and containers, the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) has sued the federal agency. NRDC’s petition said that scientific evidence is sufficient to conclude that BPA in the U.S. food supply is unsafe for human consumption. The FDA itself in January 2010 expressed concern about the effects of early life exposure to BPA on brain and reproductive development. BPA is used to make plastics for baby bottles, sippy cups, and reusable water bottles. It can leak into the liquid inside, according to the NRDC. BPA is also used in the linings of canned food and beverages, including beer and soda cans, and canned liquid infant formula.
Sarah Janssen, "Our patience has run out, NRDC sues FDA for failure to regulate BPA", National Resources Defense Council (NRDC), June 29, 2010, © NRDC
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Kellogg Recalls Of Certain Cereal Brands Because Of Odd Flavor, Package Smell

June 25, 2010: 11:28 PM EST
Kellogg Company said it is working with the FDA on a nationwide recall of several of several of its breakfast cereals because of “an uncharacteristic off-flavor and smell coming from the liner in the package.” The recall included select packages of Kellogg's Corn Pops, Honey Smacks, Froot Loops and Apple Jacks. The company said the possibility of causing serious health problems was small, but acknowledged that the odd smell might cause “temporary symptoms,” like nausea and diarrhea. The company apologized to consumers for the problem and promised it was working “diligently” to correct it.
Kellogg's, "Kellogg Company Voluntarily Recalls Select Packages of Kellogg's® Corn Pops®, Kellogg's® Honey Smacks®, Kellogg's® Froot Loops® and Kellogg's® Apple Jacks®", Kellogg's website, June 25, 2010, © Kellogg's
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Global Obesity Epidemic Opens Market Opportunity For Weight Management Products

June 23, 2010: 12:29 AM EST
The convenience-based Western diet has attracted an ever increasing number of prosperous, more sedentary Asian professionals to such a degree that obesity has become significant problem. That trend, and a burgeoning consumer interest in active health management, provides a significant market opportunity in countries like China and India for weight management ingredients, according to market researcher Frost & Sullivan. Revenues in the market, which includes satiety ingredients and appetite suppressants, fat burners (thermogenic ingredients) and other products, were $7.5 billion in 2008 and are expected to hit $13.9 billion by 2015. Success in the global weight management ingredients market depends on finding innovative ways to prolong ingredient lifespan, working toward securing favorable legislation, and introducing new ingredients, the report says.
Frost & Sullivan, "Frost & Sullivan: Rising Obesity Rates Drive the Global Weight Management Ingredients Market", Frost & Sullivan, June 23, 2010, © Frost & Sullivan
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Chinese Researcher Create A Genetically Modified Cow That Produce Omega-3 Rich Milk

June 17, 2010: 10:48 AM EST

Researchers from China’s Inner Mongolian University were able to create a genetically modified cow that they hope will produce milk that is rich in omega-3. This is the world’s first genetically modified cow that has this trait and it is one of two genetically modified cows but it is the only one with this trait. Chief researcher Dr. Guang-Peng Li said the cow is still too young to produce milk but they analyzed an ear tissue sample and found the cow’s omega 3 fatty acid level to be 10 times more than in normal cows. Dr. Li’s long term goal for his transgenic cattle research is to get several fat-1 cattle that express high levels of omega-3 in order to produce cattle products that are healthy for humans.

Joanna Cosgrove, "Cloned Cows Produce Omega 3 Milk", Nutraceuticals World, June 17, 2010, © Rodman Publishing
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Health Canada OKs Use Of Plant Sterols In Some Food Categories

June 16, 2010: 11:15 AM EST
Health Canada has given the green light for food manufacturers in Canada to add approved levels of Archer Daniels Midland Company’s CardioAid® plant sterols to a range of food and beverage products, including mayonnaise, spreads, dressings, yogurt and juices. Evidence indicates that plant sterols, or phytosterols, can help stop cholesterol being absorbed by the body. The Heart and Stroke Foundation estimates that some 40 percent of adults in Canada have high cholesterol. ADM launched CardioAid in the 1990s and it’s now available as a powder and in a water-dispersible form. Health Canada’s approval follows permission from China’s Ministry of Health to use CardioAid plant sterols there, and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has indicated that it does not object to CardioAid being used in 19 food categories. Health Canada also provided guidance for health claims relating to the use of plant sterols to lower cholesterol.
ADM, "Health Canada Clears The Way For The Use Of Plant Sterols", ADM website, June 16, 2010, © ADM
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U.K.’s FSA Warns Parents On Risks Of Feeding Honey To Babies

June 2, 2010: 08:50 PM EST
Honey should not be fed to ease coughing in babies under one year old because of the risk of infant botulism, a rare but serious illness, the U.K.’s Food Standards Agency said in a warning to parents. A younger baby’s gut is not sufficiently developed to be able to fight off the botulism bacteria, the FSA said. Although there have been only 11 cases of infant botulism in the last three decades, three have been in the last year, all linked to honey. The agency suggested that babies consume only breast milk or infant formula during the first six months. Infant botulism causes muscle weakness and breathing problems, often resulting in hospital treatment. Although recovery can be slow, almost all babies recover full, the FSA said.
"Parents reminded: 'Honey is not suitable for babies'", FSA, June 02, 2010, © FSA
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Congressional Report Finds Herbal Supplements May Contain Contaminants

May 25, 2010: 04:34 AM EST
A Congressional report prepared by the Government Accountability Office reveals that the majority of 40 herbal supplements tested had trace levels of contaminants such as lead and mercury and that some make false health claims. Contaminant levels are not high enough to be hazardous but 16 of the supplements had pesticide residues that seem to be above the legal limits. The report comes ahead of planned debates in the Senate on wider regulations for food manufacturers. Democratic Senator Herb Kohl, who believes the FDA should have the power to regulate supplements, is leading the hearings. Currently, products that claim to prevent, treat, or cure diseases are tightly regulated but FDA approval is not required for products that make benign health claims. Annual sales of dietary supplements is estimated to be near $25 billion.
Gardiner Harris, "Study Finds Supplements Contain Contaminants", New York Times, May 25, 2010, © New York Times
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Kraft Foods Extends Novel Ingredients Collaboration With Medisyn Technologies

May 18, 2010: 09:07 PM EST
Kraft Foods and Medisyn Technologies, a developer and manufacturer of novel pharmaceuticals and nutraceuticals, have extended their collaboration agreement aimed at identifying and developing new food ingredients. The deal is in line with Kraft’s strategy to work more with other organizations as part of its innovation effort, and it expands the scope of the collaboration beyond just health and wellness to food quality, safety and performance.
"Kraft Foods and Medisyn Technologies Expand Collaboration to Discover New Ingredients", Medisyn Technologies, May 18, 2010, © Medisyn Technologies, Inc.
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Evidence Mounts That Cooking Beef Patties With Spices Retards Carcinogens

May 18, 2010: 09:30 AM EST
Scientific studies have shown that when meat is barbecued, grilled, boiled or fried, compounds known as heterocyclic amines (HCAs) are produced. HCAs have been shown to increase the risk of cancer in the colon, stomach, lungs, pancreas, breasts and prostate. But new research continues to provide evidence that various spices reduce HCA levels during cooking, thus reducing the risk of cancer. U.S. researchers recently found that spices containing natural antioxidants reduce HCA levels by 40 percent when applied to beef patties during cooking. Antioxidant spices – rosemary especially, but also cumin, coriander seeds, fingerroot and turmeric – contain phenolic compounds that block HCA formation during heating and allow high cooking temperatures. Some commercial rosemary extracts available on the Internet inhibit HCA formation by 61 to 79 percent, the researchers said.
J. Scott Smith, "Spicing the Meat Also Cuts the Cancer Risk", News release, Kansas State University, May 18, 2010, © Kansas State University
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BPA Present In 92 Percent Of Canned Food, Report Seeks Ban

May 18, 2010: 06:55 AM EST
The Center for Health, Environment & Justice in New York City found that BPA (Bisphenol A) was present in 92% of the canned food products it tested. The report’s authors are seeking a ban on BPA in all food packaging from the FDA, which has maintained BPA’s safety while recently pledging $30 million for further research. While studies have linked BPA to widespread reproductive and developmental harm, representatives for the canned food industry point to the major preventative impact BPA-based packaging has had on the spread of food-borne illnesses. Alternative packaging is being adopted by companies. The General Mills subsidiary, Muir Glen, for example, plans to remove BPA from its canned tomato cans. Still, concerns exist about the health impacts of BPA alternatives.
Steven Reinberg, HealthDay Reporter, "BPA in Cans Poses Health Threat, Report Claims", MSN, May 18, 2010, © HealthDay
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Scientists Link Childhood AD/HD With Organophosphate Pesticide Exposure

May 17, 2010: 05:32 AM EST
A study of 119 children ages 8 to 15 diagnosed with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (AD/HD) or undiagnosed but taking AD/HD medications found that 93.8 percent of the children had at least one detectable phosphate metabolite in their urine. U.S. and Canadian scientists linked a 10-fold increase in the dimethyl alkyl phosphates with greater odds of meeting diagnostic criteria for ADHD. The relationship was even stronger among children who were taking ADHD medications, but had not been clinically diagnosed. Children with levels higher than the median of the most common dimethyl alkyl phosphate – dimethyl thiophosphate – had nearly twice the odds of having ADHD compared with children with undetectable levels. The scientists acknowledged that they couldn’t prove exposure to pesticides caused AD/HD. Their behavior might actually increase their exposure to pesticides.
Maryse F. Bouchard, PhD, David C. Bellinger, PhD, et al. , "Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder and Urinary Metabolites of Organophosphate Pesticides", Pediatrics, May 17, 2010, © American Academy of Pediatrics
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Food Risk Studies Can Be Strengthened By Greater Public Involvement

May 13, 2010: 09:44 AM EST
A study by food experts in the U.K. has found that adding food safety activists and members of the general public to teams of technical experts examining the risks associated with food contamination often constructively expands the focus of reviews. According to the study’s author’s, the findings should help policymakers and regulators who want to attract more public participation and build public trust of expert food safety recommendations. The authors drew their conclusions from three case studies that described children’s risk from pesticide residues in apples, infection from a bacterial contaminant in chicken, and a hypothetical contamination of animal feed with a toxin. One drawback of the process, the authors noted, was the fact that lay people sometimes dominated technical discussions with descriptions of personal experiences.
G. C. Barker, C. Bayley, A. Cassidy, S. French, A. Hart, P. K. Malakar, J. Maule, M. Petkov, and R. Shepherd, "Can a Participatory Approach Contribute to Food Chain Risk Analysis?", Risk Analysis, May 13, 2010, © Society for Risk Analysis
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Survey Finds Food Shoppers Surfing The Web For Nutritional Data, Bargains

May 12, 2010: 08:19 PM EST
A survey by Deloitte has found that more consumers are searching the Internet with their computers and mobile devices to find nutritional and price information about food. The survey also found that consumers are better informed and more confident about food safety. Thirty-six percent of consumers surveyed said they searched food company Web sites for recipes in 2010, a slight increase from 2008. Seven percent of food shoppers use a mobile device in the store to get information about prices (53 percent), get or redeem coupons or discounts (44 percent), find nutritional information (28 percent) and read product reviews (22 percent). Nearly two-thirds (65 percent) of consumers were more concerned about food safety than five years ago, but this percentage dropped from 2008, when 76 percent voiced greater concern.
"Consumers Use Web, Mobile Devices for Food Info", Retailer Daily, May 12, 2010, © Watershed Publishing
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Vitamin D Supplementation Actually Increased Risk Of Bone Fractures In Study

May 12, 2010: 05:58 PM EST
An Australian clinical trial involving more than 2,000 women aged 70 years and older at high-risk for fractures has found that a single annual 500,000 IU dose of cholecalciferol (vitamin D) actually increased the rate of falls and bone fractures compared to women who received a placebo. Earlier studies of vitamin D supplementation’s effect have been confusing, scientists said, with some showing a reduced risk and others showing no effect or an increased risk. Trial participants had a total of 5,404 falls during the five-year study period, with 74 percent of women in the vitamin D group and 68 percent of women in the placebo group having at least one fall. Vitamin D participants also had 26 percent more fractures. The researchers suggested that further study of vitamin D safety was warranted.
Bess Dawson-Hughes, MD; Susan S. Harris, DSc , "High-Dose Vitamin D Supplementation", Journal of the American Medical Association, May 12, 2010, © American Medical Association
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IOM Urges Vigorous, Consistent Process For Evaluating Food, Supplement Health Claims

May 12, 2010: 08:36 AM EST
In a report sponsored by the FDA, the U.S. Institute of Medicine urged the agency to take as vigorous a regulatory approach toward food and nutritional supplement health claims as it does toward medication and medical technology approvals. The IOM said there is no scientific reason to use different standards when assessing the health benefit claims of food ingredients and drugs. They both can significantly affect people's well-being. According to the IOM, the FDA has been hampered in evaluating food supplement health claims because it does not have a broadly accepted assessment process. The IOM suggested a consistent framework the FDA could use to judge the validity of biomarkers used in studies provided as evidence to support product health and safety claims.
"IOM Report Recommends Framework to Evaluate Science Behind Health Claims for Foods and Drugs; Calls for Equal Rigor in Assessing Food Claims and Drug Approvals", The National Academies, May 12, 2010
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Presidential Panel Recommends Organic Food As One Way To Cut Risk Of Environmental Cancer

May 6, 2010: 09:05 AM EST
A presidential panel exploring ways to reduce environmental cancer risk has included in its annual report a recommendation that consumers choose organic foods. Though the report focuses mainly on how government and industry can work to reduce the level of carcinogens in the American environment, it does include a discussion of things people can do to reduce their exposure, including eating organically grown produce. The report notes, for example, that consumers can cut cancer risk by purchasing fruits and vegetables grown without pesticides or chemical fertilizers, and meats from animals raised without use of antibiotics and growth hormones. The report urges Pres. Obama to “use the power of your office to remove the carcinogens and other toxins from our food, water, and air …”
Dr. LaSalle Leffall, Jr. and Dr. Margaret L. Kripke, "President's Cancer Panel: Organic Foods Reduce Environmental Risks", Press Release, Organic Trade Association, May 06, 2010
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Though A Booming Industry, Vitamin Supplementation For Kids May Be Excessive

May 4, 2010: 09:04 PM EST
Sales of children’s dietary supplements reached $1.1 billion in 2008, and are growing at a rate of 4% to 6% a year, but some experts say many kids just don’t need them. No one disputes the fact that all children need good nutrition. But parents may be overdoing supplementation. Nutrition is best gained through food, according to pediatricians and nutritionists: a good, balanced diet doesn’t require vitamin supplementation. Taken in excessive doses, some supplements like vitamin A can even be harmful, while the benefits of some supplements for children, like omega-3s, have been exaggerated. The U.S. Federal Trade Commission recently warned 13 companies about making hyped-up claims about the benefits of omega-3 supplements for children, though a group representing supplement makers says most companies “are doing a great job" on safety.
ANNA WILDE MATHEWS , "The ABCs of Missing Vitamins", Wall Street Journal, May 04, 2010, © Dow Jones & Company, Inc
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People Who Combine Alcohol And Caffeinated Beverages Tend To Drink Twice As Much

May 1, 2010: 04:04 PM EST

A Canadian researcher investigating drinking patterns when alcohol and caffeinated energy beverages are combined has found that people drink twice the alcohol when they consume energy drinks than they would normally. One hypothesis about why this happens is that it’s a social behavior: people consume more of anything when they’re enjoying themselves. Another possibility points to the banning of smoking – a common stimulant – in many bars: people may turn to energy drinks to pick up the stimulant slack. But the most interesting hypothesis is physiological: the drinks’ ingredients may affect dopamine release from the brain, prolonging the initial euphoria that comes with rising blood-alcohol levels and holding off the sedative-like effects when they fall. According to researcher Sean Barrett, this parallels lab studies done with stimulants like tobacco cigarettes and cocaine.

Sean Barrett, et al., "Energy drink co-administration is associated with increased reported alcohol ingestion", Drug and Alcohol Review, May 01, 2010, © John Wiley & Sons
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Prenatal Supplement Market Is Booming, Despite Warnings To Expectant Mothers

April 26, 2010: 09:21 PM EST
Though obstetricians, researchers and various health authorities warn of potential health risks to unborn babies and expectant mothers, pregnant women continue to purchase natural supplements, including herbals. A recently published study reported that about 10 percent of pregnant women in the U.S. expose themselves and their unborns to herbal products. Even traditional prenatal vitamin supplementation has come under close scrutiny. A recent British study, for example, cautioned that multivitamins taken late in pregnancy have been associated with premature births. But despite the warnings, and because of publicity about vitamin D and omega-3s, expectant women continue to buy products that make holistic, natural and wellness claims. Natural supplement suppliers are listening. NutraBella, for example, has introduced Bellybar DHA, a supplement that contains 200+ mg of DHA per serving.
Joanna Cosgrove, "Supplements During Pregnancy", Nutraceuticals, April 26, 2010, © Rodman Publishing
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Organic Advocates Protest Relaxed FDA/USDA Position On GE Food Labeling

April 20, 2010: 08:53 AM EST
The nonprofit publisher of U.S. consumer research magazine Consumer Reports has joined more than 80 groups to protest a proposed FDA/USDA position on food labeling that “could potentially create significant problems for food producers in the U.S. who wish to indicate that their products contain no genetically engineered ingredients, including on organic food …” The government's draft position suggests that mandatory labeling of food as genetically engineered would “create the impression that the labeled food is in some way different” and would therefore be “false, misleading or deceptive.” GE ingredients are indeed different, according to the Consumers Union and groups representing farmers, public health, environmental and organic food organizations, and foods containing them should be clearly labeled as such.
"Letter to USDA from 80 Organisations Concerning GM and CODEX Labeling Problems", Consumers Union, April 20, 2010, © Consumers Union
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“Raw Milk” Movement Gains Adherents, If Not Governmental Support

April 15, 2010: 03:09 AM EST
Though bucking scientific evidence, medical case history and state and federal laws, the trend toward consuming unpasteurized cow’s milk is slowly gaining adherents in the U.S., thanks to the Internet. So-called “raw milk” advocates believe the untreated product can cure a variety of disorders, including asthma and gastrointestinal problems. But public health officials beg to differ, noting that unpasteurized milk is laden with germs, including dangerous campylobacter bacteria, and is especially hazardous to children. Only ten states have legalized retail sale of unpasteurized milk. The rest have either banned it outright or allow it only on farms via "cow-share" arrangements. Nevertheless, increasingly vocal proponents are stubborn. "I have seen more kids directly harmed by vaccines," says one advocate. "I've never seen anybody whose kids were harmed by raw milk."
Elizabeth Weise, "'Raw milk' advocates, health officials step up dispute ", USA TODAY, April 15, 2010, © USA TODAY, a division of Gannett Co. Inc
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Simple Test Developed To Detect Hazardous Food Contaminant Melamine

April 1, 2010: 09:51 AM EST
Melamine – an industrial compound used in plastics and fertilizers and found in 2008 in tainted dairy products from China – sickened thousands of people, especially children, leading to a global recall of Chinese dairy products. High in nitrogen, melamine was added to foods to make them appear higher in protein value during testing. To combat the problem, US researchers have developed a quick, cheap and simple way to detect melamine in milk. The new method uses gold nanoparticles and a dual color and precipitation test that takes less than 15 minutes, according to the researchers. The interaction between the gold nanoparticles and melamine causes a dramatic color change. The researchers hope to develop a simple commercial kit that can be used by anyone, anywhere to detect melamine in food.
Fang Wei, Robert Lam, Stacy Cheng, Steven Lu, Dean Ho, and Na Li, "Rapid Detection of Melamine in Whole Milk Mediated by Unmodified Gold Nanoparticles", Applied Physics Letters, April 01, 2010, © American Institute of Physics
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US EPA Adds BPA To Chemical Concern List, Possible Impact On Food Packaging

March 28, 2010: 11:36 PM EST
US-based Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) will investigate the potential harmful effects of chemical bisphenol A (BPA) on human health and the environment. BPA, widely used in the manufacture of consumer and industrial products, is believed to have adverse effects on animal reproduction and development as well as the endocrine system. The US Food and Drug Administration previously raised concerns about BPA’s potential impacts, adding it would look at ways to cut BPA exposure in food packaging. EPA will investigate BPA’s effect on water supply and on growth, reproduction, and development of aquatic organisms and wildlife. EPA will also include BPA in its chemical concern list. EPA is authorized under the Toxic Substances Control Act to list chemicals that may present an unreasonable risk of injury to health or the environment.
"EPA to Scrutinize Environmental Impact of Bisphenol A", EPA, March 28, 2010, ©
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Worrisome Levels Of Arsenic Found In Tests Of Children’s Juice Boxes

March 14, 2010: 02:59 AM EST
An independent test commissioned by a Florida newspaper has found that the amount of arsenic in a quarter of children’s juice box samples surpassed the FDA’s “level of concern” for heavy metals in juices. A naturally occurring substance, arsenic is difficult to avoid in food and water, but is a proven carcinogenic when consumed “at high levels in drinking water over a lifetime” and has been associated with other health problems. According to the paper, “More than 60 percent of the apple juice from concentrate sold in U.S. stores comes from Chinese orchards,” from other foreign orchards, and from American orchards that use arsenic-based pesticides. A top FDA chemical hazards official, however, said there was no evidence to suggest “a risk issue that you need to be mindful of.”
Tom Marshall, "Arsenic in apple juice: How much is too much?", St. Petersburg Times, March 14, 2010, © St. Petersburg Times
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No Matter The Strategy, Cutting Sodium Content Would Save Billions In Healthcare Costs

March 1, 2010: 04:20 AM EST
Two strategies could save billions of dollars currently spent on treating heart attacks and strokes in the U.S.: voluntary sodium reductions by food companies and sodium taxation, according to scientists who used a computer simulation based on British data. Adults currently aged 40 to 85 years would suffer 514,000 fewer strokes and 480,000 fewer heart attacks over their lifetimes – saving $32 billion – if voluntary industry efforts reduced sodium intake by 9.5 percent. Sodium taxation itself would cut intake by six percent, saving $22.4 billion. The study also found that reducing salt content and taxing sodium would extend lifespans – by 2.1 million and 1.3 million years, respectively. Researchers cautioned about unintended consequences: “Sodium reductions may lead persons to consume more fats and sugars or simply more calories, leading to other health risks,” they said.
Crystal M. Smith-Spangler, MD, et al, "Population Strategies to Decrease Sodium Intake and the Burden of Cardiovascular Disease A Cost-Effectiveness Analysis", Annals of Internal Medicine, March 01, 2010, © American College of Physicians
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Test Could Predict Whether Milk-Sensitive Kids Will Tolerate Milk In Baked Goods

February 27, 2010: 10:59 AM EST
U.S. researchers are developing a blood test that could tell whether a child known to be allergic to all cow’s milk might nevertheless tolerate milk contained in baked products. An earlier study showed that as many as 75 percent of cow’s milk-sensitive children have no allergic reaction to baked-milk products. But how do you tell ahead of time without risking a severe immune response? In this study of 41 children, the scientists found that antibodies from children hypersensitive to all milk products bound themselves to more milk protein sites (epitopes), causing an immune response. The number of epitopes involved also predicted the severity of the reaction.
"Research gets closer to a test for tolerating milk products", American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI), February 27, 2010, © American Academy of Allergy Asthma & Immunology
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Regulation Slows Canada’s Vitamin Market; Better Prospects For Nutraceuticals And Functional Foods

February 26, 2010: 10:50 AM EST
Strict vitamin and supplements regulation in Canada has slowed growth and innovation, find Euromonitor International. Vitamin and supplement suppliers are required to obtain a license from Health Canada, a process that requires submitting a range of product information, including the type, source and potency of ingredients, as well as evidence supporting any health claims. These added launch costs have reduced variety and will continue to hamper the market; Euromonitor projects that the vitamins and dietary supplement market will fall over 1 per cent in constant value from 2009-2014. Some bright spots remain; vitamin D sales are rising, as are fish oil sales. Prospects look brighter for functional foods and nutraceuticals. In a separate analysis, The Freedonia Group expects the nutraceutical ingredients market in Canada to increase 5.2 per cent annually to reach $390 million (US) in 2013.
Colin Whittington, "Canada in the Spotlight: Tight regulations, consumer skepticism hamper sales of supplements and fortified/functional foods", Functional Ingredients, February 26, 2010, © Penton Media, Inc
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42% of Americans Link Food with Illness: Harris Poll

February 25, 2010: 05:02 AM EST
A new poll by Harris Interactive shows that four in ten Americans believe food caused them to fall sick or ill in the past two years. Sixty-nine percent of these people think they are aware of which food item resulted in illness and just over one fourth of them have eliminated that item from their diet completely. Amplifying the impact, 15% warned friends and family to avoid that food item. Fresh foods are the major cause of concern with 73% of respondents expressing at least some concern about fresh items. The new Nielsen Healthy Eating Index, which scored 402 in 2009, shows Americans are eating healthier and their awareness about food related illness has increased; in 2008 the score was 389.
"Food-borne Illness Poses Consumer Concern", Marketing Charts, February 25, 2010, © Watershed Publishing
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CSPI Criticizes Pumping Poultry With Salt Water; Raises Health Concerns

February 24, 2010: 10:37 AM EST
CSPI (Center for Science in the Public Interest) Executive Director Michael F. Jacobson expressed concerns about dishonest and unsafe practices of some poultry producers who pump chickens with salt water to increase their weight and raise their value. This practice continues without any restraint because of a lack of action from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Aside from the added financial burden to the consumers, this practice also poses a health risk because of the high sodium content found in these chickens. Salt is the number one contributor to diseases such as heart disease, high blood pressure and stroke which causes about 100,000 deaths every year. The average US adult consumes substantially more than the daily recommended 1,500 milligrams and the CSPI contends that reducing unnecessary salt in poultry is an important starting point.
Statement of CSPI Executive Director Michael F. Jacobson, "Salt-Water-Soaked Chicken Not at all Natural, Says CSPI", Center for Science in the Public Interest, February 24, 2010, © Center for Science in the Public Interest
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Agriculture Secretary Urges Swift Reauthorization Of U.S. Lunch, Nutrition Programs

February 23, 2010: 10:44 AM EST
Stressing the Obama Administration’s goals of reducing child hunger and “solving childhood obesity in a generation,” U.S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack told reporters at a press luncheon recently that Congress needs to quickly reauthorize national school lunch and breakfast programs as well as the Child Nutrition Act, the keystone legislation in Michelle Obama's Let's Move! Campaign. Vilsack said the administration’s top priorities in the campaign include: improved nutrition standards, better access to meal programs, more education about healthy eating, enhanced food safety and healthier school food. Other priorities, Vilsack said, focus on standards for competitive foods sold in schools, training of school cooks and better cafeteria equipment.
"Agriculture Secretary Vilsack Presents Obama Administration's Priorities to Improve National School Lunch and Breakfast Programs", USDA, February 23, 2010, © USDA
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