Irish potato famine mystery solved
04 June, 2013An international team of scientists has discovered the unique strain of Phytophthora infestans that was responsible for the Irish potato famine by using dried herbarium samples held in Munich and London.
Green-lipped mussel extract eases exercise-induced asthma
04 June, 2013A study has found that an omega-3 supplement derived from NZ green-lipped mussel significantly improved lung function and reduced airway inflammation in asthmatics who experience exercise-induced asthma.
Calls for gingko ban following cancer study results
04 June, 2013A report from the US National Toxicology Program has found “clear evidence” that Gingko biloba caused liver cancer in mice, and “some evidence” that gingko caused thyroid cancer in rats.
New alternative to wheat and maize set to take off
03 June, 2013A sustainable farming model could transform cassava from a poor people’s food crop into a 21st-century crop, the FAO says. Cassava is a cheaper alternative to wheat and maize, and can be processed into a high-quality flour.
Taro research to boost Pacific agribusiness
29 May, 2013Australian research into taro could open new markets and create greater food security in the Pacific region, according to UQ and PARDI research leader Shane Dullahide.
Too much of a good thing: controlling ethylene
20 May, 2013As part of a worldwide effort to find better ways of controlling ethylene, scientists compared all existing ethylene control/removal methods and technologies. The results of their review are published in the journal Chemical Reviews.
Food allergy information portal launched
13 May, 2013A new food allergies portal that provides information for consumers and food manufacturers on managing food allergies has been launched to coincide with Food Allergy Awareness Week, 13 to 19 May.
Australian bush food could be the next antioxidant superfood
24 April, 2013Blackmores Institute has commissioned new research into the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of the Davidson’s Plum. Southern Cross University will undertake the research into the native fruit, which grows around northern NSW.
‘Seeing’ the flavour of foods
23 April, 2013Speaking at the 245th National Meeting & Exposition of the American Chemical Society, Terry E Acree, PhD, described how people sometimes ‘see’ flavours in foods and beverages before actually tasting them.
Environment affects taste of whisky by up to 20%
03 April, 2013British researchers have demonstrated that environment can enhance the flavour of whisky by up to 20%.
Study to revolutionise allergen management
27 March, 2013The iFAAM project - the world’s largest study of food allergies - will produce a standardised management process for companies involved in food manufacturing.
Floating nets create baby-leaf boom
14 February, 2013Growth rates of baby-leaf lettuce crops have been boosted by giant ‘floating’ nets. The nets create a unique microclimate, protecting plants from pests and extreme weather.
Centre of Excellence a model for food manufacturing innovation
13 February, 2013The AFGC has extended congratulations to Kraft and the Victorian Government on the official opening of Stage One of the Kraft Foods Asia Pacific Centre of Excellence.
Chickpea breakthrough could feed millions
07 February, 2013Millions of people in developing countries may benefit from a breakthrough in chickpea farming thanks to an international project involving a researcher from The University of Western Australia.
Stem cells for taste identified
05 February, 2013Scientists have identified the location and certain genetic characteristics of taste stem cells on the tongue. The findings will facilitate techniques to grow and manipulate new functional taste cells for both clinical and research purposes.