Research has found that price tags influence our tastebuds. Wine that is perceived to be expensive supposedly tastes better due to a placebo effect that influences the reward areas in the brain. [ + ]

A study has found that those who eat late at night may be more at risk of sunburn and long-term effects such as skin ageing and skin cancer. [ + ]

Meat & Livestock Australia has announced a $3 million investment (over three years) with the aim of reducing the incidence and costs of endemic health conditions affecting South Australia's sheep flock. [ + ]

It all gets back to the chemistry of the flavour compounds in whisky. [ + ]

Researchers have developed a milk capsule that dissolves when placed in a hot drink. Not only does this reduce the consumption of packaging material, the capsules are easier to use than conventional plastic containers. [ + ]

With indications that the added value in the food supply chain is not adequately distributed across all levels of the chain, the European Commission has launched an EU-wide public consultation on how to make the EU food supply chain fairer. Should we be doing likewise? [ + ]

The food industry often has trouble finding staff competent in food packaging processes and design, including new product design. It's time the industry takes some responsibility for this issue and invests in the training of staff. If future employees finish their education well prepared to enter the workforce the whole industry will benefit. [ + ]

Wells and Miele have developed a validated process for cleaning and decontaminating hygiene brushware and associated tools. [ + ]

Detpak has partnered with Smart Planet Technologies to create the RecycleMe cup that can be easily recycled using the existing paper and cardboard recycling stream. [ + ]

To increase growth in Asia Pacific, Royal DSM has appointed Pieter Nuboer and André Rhoen into new leadership positions for their nutritional products. [ + ]

I understand the marketing behind wagyu and Cape Grim beef but promoting baby formula as better than organic because the diet of the cows supplying the base can be certified as 'Grass fed' has surprised me. [ + ]

Preferences for certain brands could be making your partner unhappy, suggests new research published in the Journal of Consumer Research. [ + ]

Held at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre on 5–7 September, this year's Seafood Expo Asia will bring together industry professionals to source the latest products, meet with suppliers and discuss current trends. [ + ]

Australia harvests nearly a quarter of a million tonnes of onions each year — and now the chemistry behind why they make us cry has been understood. [ + ]

A former owner of a Melbourne fruit market has been fined a record penalty of $660,000 after failing to pay a refugee appropriate wages. [ + ]