Research undertaken by Flinders University scientists could help increase the nutritional output of the staple grains of developing countries. The team has shown that they can alter the distribution of micronutrients such as zinc and iron in rice and wheat, creating more nutritious crops. Staple food crops such as wheat and rice form the bulk of diets in poorer countries, but they contain very low levels of essential micronutrients; iron and zinc in particular. Whole grains contain higher levels of micronutrients but most of these are found in the outer layers of the grain which are often removed prior to cooking. [ + ]

The term "whole grain" seems like it should be relatively straightforward. In reality, there has never been a complete legally endorsed definition of whole grain flour and products. [ + ]

Scientists have found that a higher consumption of yoghurt reduces the risk of type 2 diabetes by 28%; consumption of low-fat fermented dairy (including all yoghurts and some low-fat cheeses) reduces risk by 24%. [ + ]

Mark the 17th and 18th of June in your diary to attend the biennial AIP National Conference, which will be held at the Sofitel Wentworth in Sydney. [ + ]

Chinese soft drink brand Kangshifu is gaining ground on the three global giants - Coca-Cola, Pepsi and Sprite - according to research firm Canadean. [ + ]

SPC Ardmona has hit back against accusations that its "over-generous" staff allowances are the cause of its difficulties. The company has issued a media release challenging what it says are false claims about the business, including that it is a "union shop". [ + ]

The Anti-Dumping Commission has released a Statement of Facts about imported processed tomatoes which indicates that 56% of all processed tomatoes imported from Italy have been dumped in Australia. [ + ]

A new US study has drawn a link between high sodium intake and obesity in teenagers. Dr Haidong Zhu, a molecular geneticist at Georgia Regents University, found a correlation between salt and fatness, and also inflammation. [ + ]

MEP Instruments is now distributing Anton Paar Process Instrumentation products in Australia and New Zealand. MEP has distributed Anton Paar laboratory instrumentation sales for 15 years; it will now also distribute the Anton Paar Process portfolio. [ + ]

Despite the federal government's Food and Health Dialogue making a valiant effort to make foods healthier, Australians are being failed by the system, Professor Bruce Neal from the George Institute and The University of Sydney says. [ + ]

A Krones-designed NitroHotfill bottle has won Coca-Cola Amatil (CCA) the 2013 Australian Packaging Design Award. The 600 mL Powerade Sports bottle was voted Best of Show' at the awards. [ + ]

Despite fructose frequently being blamed for obesity, researchers have found no benefit in replacing fructose with glucose in commercially prepared foods. [ + ]

The APPMA is now accepting submissions for the 6th Annual APPMA Scholarship. The scholarship offers a packaging engineer the opportunity to complete a Diploma in Packaging Technology, worth more than $9000. [ + ]

In an attempt to boost their children's calcium intake, many parents are turning to cheese snacks, new research from Roy Morgan shows. [ + ]

A lot of hot air has caused an explosive situation in the German town of Rasdorf, resulting in an injured cow and damaged property. [ + ]