Unannounced audits are now commonplace, with the BRC and larger supermarket chains making these part of their terms of working and simply expecting their suppliers to comply. Would this level of scrutiny have been part and parcel of the industry had the horsemeat scandal not come to light? [ + ]

Whether you use X-ray or metal detection to detect any foreign contaminants in your products depends on your application. This quick Q&A explains. [ + ]

On the long journey from the fruit plantation to the retailer's shelf, fruits can quickly perish. In particular, the refrigeration inside the cargo containers is not always guaranteed and existing methods for measuring the temperature are not sufficiently reliable. A sensor developed at Empa in Switzerland solves this problem. It looks like a piece of fruit and acts like a piece of fruit — but is actually a spy. [ + ]

Whether you are just getting started, or are a seasoned professional, the choice of mixers is so extensive as to be just plain confusing. This article poses some questions to be considered when making that all-important selection. [ + ]

Consumers and businesses expect to get what they pay for — if you order 25 kg of carrots you expect to receive 25 kg of carrots. And this expectation is enshrined in Australian law. [ + ]

A study has revealed the hidden levels of salt within one of Australia's staple foods. [ + ]

Memphis Meats has developed both duck and chicken meat that is grown from directly poultry cells without involving raising any animals at all. By producing meat directly from animal cells, the need to feed, breed and slaughter animals will be obviated. [ + ]

Redefine your food management across your supply chain with the Internet of Things (IoT). [ + ]

Make sure everyone has something to eat by checking their special dietary requirements and then using this guide to make sure your meeting, office lunch or corporate event is full of plenty of food for everyone. [ + ]

What's driven the massive investment by Australian red meat processors in large-scale plate freezing technology over the past few years? Jon Condon* took a look at a piece of somewhat obscure and perhaps little-appreciated processing technology which in no small way is helping consolidate Australia's reputation as the world's best beef exporter, based on quality, consistency and product performance. [ + ]

The winners of the 2017 Packaging & Processing Innovation and Design Awards have been announced at a gala dinner held at the Novotel Sydney Olympic Park. [ + ]

An ACCC study into Australia's cattle and beef sector has identified changes that are needed to improve transparency and competitiveness. [ + ]

Manufacturers of confectionery and bakery products need to respond to the rising demands of consumers — for great tasting products in functional and environmentally friendly packaging. [ + ]

Inline carton printing and labelling can be a great alternative to pre-printed cartons. [ + ]

Sugar activates the same brain system as drugs such as nicotine and cocaine, meaning consuming it is a behaviour we want to repeat. [ + ]