Research from Mintel shows that global launches of foods with sodium claims actually declined by 5% over the 2010/2011 period, with only 2% of food launches in 2011 sporting sodium claims. [ + ]

A recent Stanford University study comparing organic and conventionally produced food is "irrelevant" for most Australian consumers of organic products, an academic claims. [ + ]

USP has been granted observer status by the Codex Alimentarius Commission, allowing it to provide expert information, advice and guidance to the commission. [ + ]

Pro-Pac Packaging has announced it will purchase the business and assets of Start Food Tech Australia, a national supplier of packaging consumables and products to the meat, chicken and fish processing industries. [ + ]

Supermarket-branded shredded cheese is becoming increasingly popular, especially among consumers with children aged 12 to 15, new research from Roy Morgan has shown. [ + ]

Naturally occurring toxins and contaminants that either affect final product quality or are classified as probable human carcinogens are being prevented from developing by harnessing the innate functions of specialist yeasts. [ + ]

Cases of ciguatera poisoning are on the rise among people living in Pacific Island nations, researchers have found. The poisoning causes acutely painful and debilitating effects that can last for months. [ + ]

Submissions are invited on an application to remove restrictions on package size for low-fat, phytosterol-enriched cheese. [ + ]

Researchers from China have found that a key chemical in green tea positively affects the generation of brain cells, benefiting memory and spatial learning. [ + ]

Engineered from Vivos films, Vivos Edible Delivery Systems break down and release their contents when exposed to hot or cold liquids. The dissolved food can be consumed along with the food. [ + ]

Thinking of nominating someone for the Australian Supply Chain & Logistics Awards? Well, it’s time to stop thinking and start doing: nominations close on 14 September. [ + ]

Multivac New Zealand has been announced as the exclusive New Zealand distributor of Plantic eco Plastic ultrahigh-barrier sustainable packaging. [ + ]

AUSVEG has upped the ante in its public debate with DAFF over the import of New Zealand potatoes for processing, releasing a YouTube video featuring an animation ridiculing Julia Gillard and other ministers. [ + ]

Stephen Audsley has been appointed the new Chief Executive of Peters as part of the transition of the company from Nestlé to Pacific Equity Partners. [ + ]

The Seattle Mariners is hoping to achieve its target of 90% waste diversion from landfill by using fully compostable packaging from BASF for snack foods sold at Safeco Field. [ + ]