International economic and political instability is driving disillusionment and risk in supply chains across most of the globe. [ + ]

The Australian and New Zealand Ministerial Forum on Food Regulation has met in Brisbane to discuss issues such as the legalisation of hemp as food and labelling reform. [ + ]

The Australian Institute of Packaging (AIP) and the Australian Packaging & Processing Machinery Association (APPMA) have established the Packaging & Processing Innovation and Design Awards for Australia. [ + ]

Food Standards Australia New Zealand has released the third edition of Safe Food Australia — a guide to the food safety standards in the Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code. [ + ]

Researchers studying microalgae cultivation believe it could become a top-tier contender to combat global warming, climate change and food insecurity. [ + ]

One of the most frequently used operations across the food processing sector, drying is critical to the safety, quality and functionality of many food products and ingredients. However, it is also one of the most energy-intensive processes and is often poorly understood and inefficient. [ + ]

Amcor has announced it will expand its flexible packaging platform in the northern China region with the US$28 million acquisition of Hebei Qite Packing (Qite). [ + ]

DuPont Industrial Biosciences will supply enzymes for incorporation into biogas-boosting products distributed by MIAVIT under a new supply agreement. [ + ]

Canadian researchers have developed a paper strip laced with sugar which can kill E. coli in contaminated water. [ + ]

A report by the Grattan Institute recommends the introduction of a tax on sugary drinks in Australia to help recoup some of the costs of obesity to the community. [ + ]

Research from Canada has suggested that children who drink whole milk are leaner and have higher vitamin D levels than those who drink low-fat or skim milk. [ + ]

Researchers have found that fast-cooking dry beans provides more protein and iron than 'slower' varieties. [ + ]

Innova Market Insights has revealed its predictions for the top trends likely to impact the food industry in 2017. [ + ]

A partnership between food platform Spoon University and online meal kit marketplace Chef'd will create a meal kit subscription service specifically curated for US college students. [ + ]

Adult children may need to start reminding their parents to "eat your vegetables", according to research suggesting younger adults are increasing vegetable consumption, while baby boomers are doing the opposite. [ + ]