Western Australian company Fresh Produce Alliance is utilising high-pressure processing (HPP) to produce its brands of baby food and avocado-based foods and drinks, capitalising on the method's ability to preserve the flavour, aroma, colour and nutrition. [ + ]

In the US, demand for meat packed in pouches is increasing as consumers embrace the convenience factor. And there is no reason to assume antipodean consumers are not likewise purchasing pouch-packed product to make meal preparation simpler. [ + ]

The worldwide production capacity for bio-based polymers grew by 4% to 6.6 million tonnes from 2015 to 2016, with capacity forecast to grow to 8.5 million tonnes by 2021, according to a report published by nova-Institute. [ + ]

Recognising the continuing demand for gluten-free products in Australia and New Zealand, Nestlé has just opened a new, dedicated gluten-free facility in Cambria Park, South Auckland. [ + ]

Tetra Pak expects to be manufacturing 3 billion closures per year in its new packaging closures plant in Thailand. [ + ]

With the arrival of autumn, the Food Safety Information Council has warned people not to pick or eat wild mushrooms, as deadly death cap mushrooms start to appear in southern and western regions of Australia. [ + ]

Every 800 g loaf of wholegrain bread manufactured in the UK produces the equivalent of 0.589 kg of carbon dioxide, according to scientists who followed the manufacture of bread along the supply chain. [ + ]

To mark this year's Mardi Gras celebrations in Sydney, Byron Bay Cookies has partnered with its ambassador, acclaimed chef Christine Manfield, to release the Pride Cookie. [ + ]

A line of fast-growing sprouting broccoli that can be harvested in 8–10 weeks is being developed. [ + ]

The Australian Refrigeration Association (ARA) has a new president — Ian Tuena. [ + ]

The board of Food Standards Australia and New Zealand (FSANZ) has appointed Mark Booth its new CEO. Mark will replace Steve McCutcheon, who left at the end of January after 10 years in the position. [ + ]

High-pressure processing systems manufacturer Avure Technologies has been acquired by JBT and will become part of the JBT FoodTech business. [ + ]

Virgin Australia and St Hallett have collaborated to create a wine blend that tastes perfect at 38,000 feet. [ + ]

Now the patent has expired, Shaka Retort technology is more affordable for those interested in improving product taste while reducing sterilisation times. [ + ]

The food and beverage processing industry has very special needs from the lubricants used in in its processing and refrigeration plants and these lubricants now have another source — Gordon Brothers Industries is partnering with Total Oil Australia. [ + ]