Tasters have found a gluten-free pasta made using green banana flour to be more acceptable than regular whole wheat pasta. The product has less fat and is cheaper to produce than standard pastas and is suitable for celiacs. [ + ]

Australian children are consuming lower levels of food colours than in 2008, a new FSANZ report has shown. [ + ]

As part of its plans to improve manufacturing efficiency, Goodman Fielder will close three of its bakery facilities, cut 115 jobs and reduce its product range. [ + ]

Rising demand for protein has prompted a flurry of activity in the protein alternative sector, according to Innova Market Insights. [ + ]

Dairy company PURA has announced its milk will no longer contain permeate, a watery by-product of milk processing, as of 1 July 2012. [ + ]

At the 2012 National Conference the Australian Institute of Packaging (AIP) recognised four packaging technologists for significant contribution to their specific packaging field and to the wider packaging industry, including the seventh only Founders Award in 50 years. [ + ]

During the 2012 AIP National Conference at the Marriott Surfers Paradise, the APPMA announced the winner of the annual scholarship program which enables one person each year to study a Diploma in Packaging Technology. The scholarship winner is Anna Roland, Technical Officer, Betta Foods Australia. [ + ]

A Belgian study has found younger consumers are more accepting of stevia-sweetened ice-creams than older consumers. [ + ]

The federal government’s decision to lower the inspection rate for imported cocoa products has been described by the Australian Industry Group as “sensible”. [ + ]

The AFGC has appointed Gary Dawson to the role of Chief Executive Officer. Dawson will take over from Acting Chief Executive Officer Dr Geoffrey Annison on 30 July. [ + ]

Anna Roland, a Technical Officer with Betta Foods Australia, has been announced as the winner of the 2012 APPMA scholarship. [ + ]

DAFF has issued an Imported Food Notice about sports supplements containing DMAA and non-permitted additives. [ + ]

Murray Goulburn Co-operative has sold Mitsubishi Corporation a 24% stake in the $75 million Tasmanian Dairy Products processing company. [ + ]

Following an incident in which a worker’s leg was caught in a sweep auger, a Horsham company has been fined $50,000. [ + ]

Parwan Valley Mushrooms recently opened its $10 million purpose-built mushroom facility at Parwan, west of Melbourne. [ + ]