Food Fads

Aged Black Garlic

2009-11-12T21:01:00.000+08:00

product of Korea, new Black Garlic Aged Black Garlic is available in the USA from Black Garlic, Inc. Two whole cloves are sold in a 1.27 oz. (36g) packet with a windowed back for viewing the product.

Package text reads, "Sweet & soft in taste with a hint of garlic flavor! It's the black garlic without smell, fermented with hand selected garlic for a month!" Promotional literature reads, "It has a tender, almost jelly-like texture with a melt-in-your mouth consistency similar to a soft dried fruit.

Black garlic is all-natural. There is no additives and no preservatives. It's loaded with nearly twice as many antioxidants as raw garlic. It also contains S-Allycysteine, which is fancy talk for a natural compound that has been proven to be a factor in cancer prevention. As an ingredient, black garlic is versatile enough to use as a dominant flavor or as a subtle garnish."

Marmite Cereal Bar

2009-11-08T20:59:00.000+08:00

Touted as "the world's first savoury cereal bar", Marmite Cereal Bar is now available on the market in the United Kingdom. The snack has a signature Marmite yeast extract flavor, and is said to be rich in B-vitamins and fiber.

Each 25g bar contains 93kcal and is free from artificial additives or preservatives.

Savoury snack bars, anyone?

Australia throwing away $5.2b of food

2009-11-06T06:57:00.000+08:00

Source AAP

The average Australian household dumps $616 worth of food in the bin each year, according to a new survey.

That's a whopping $5.2 billion in wasted food for the country as a whole - and bad news for the environment.

The survey's authors conservatively estimate that it creates as much carbon emissions as that of the iron and steel industries in Australia.

The What a Waste survey, which took in the responses of 1,603 Australians during October, found that despite being concerned about wasted food - and guilty - households threw out an average $616 worth of food annually.

Queenslanders were the worst, dumping $678 each year, followed by NSW households on $643.

Canberrans were next, followed by those in Western Australia, Victoria, Tasmania, with South Australians the best - only putting $517 worth of food in the dumpster.

Fruit and vegetables were the most thrown out items, followed by restaurant and takeaway leftovers and then meat and fish.

The survey also found the richer the household the more likely the residents were inclined to throw out food, with the amount of discarded items rising in tandem with the average household income.

Smaller households were also more likely to throw out food.

"Food waste has a major financial and environmental impact," campaigner Jon Dee said.

"It costs Australians billions of dollars per year, and the millions of tonnes of food waste left rotting in landfill gives off methane - a greenhouse gas 22 times more potent than the CO2 that comes out of exhausts."

The authors of the Australia Institute report believe the onus is on government to introduce policies to get people thinking smart about food shopping and waste.

They've suggested banning free plastic bags at supermarkets, which would make shoppers take their own and therefore, plan their shopping more thoroughly.

Most of those surveyed said financial reasons was the key motivator to stopping food waste, rather than environmental or humanitarian concerns.

Imported Dried Plums and Prunes Available for Sale in Singapore Do Not Contain Elevated Level of Lead

2009-10-26T13:27:00.000+08:00

From: AVA

Following the alert issued by the Texas Department of State Health Services on elevated levels of lead found in certain imported dried plums/prunes and products containing imported dried plums, the Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority of Singapore has stepped up checks on imported dried plums/prunes from countries such as China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, the United States of America for testing of lead.

So far, the results of the test showed that the samples are satisfactory and do not contain elevated level of lead.

Yow Blaisins

2009-10-18T22:54:00.001+08:00

YOW Snacks, including Blaisins, are distributed in the USA by Jupiter, FL-based Yow Snacks, Inc. Identified as a "handy snack in cupholders, desks, backpacks, lunch boxes, briefcases, glove compartments, tackle boxes or anywhere," they are presented in an 11 oz. (314g) plastic bottle.

Label copy reads, "7 servings of blueberries - Dried blueberries pack the highest antioxidant content among dried fruits and contain four times the antioxidants of their fresh counterparts. Right out of the bottle or added to cereal, yogurt, salads and entrees."

Del Monte Healthy Kids

2009-10-15T22:52:00.000+08:00

The Del Monte Healthy Kids(tm) line of "fortified canned fruit for children" has been introduced in the USA by Del Monte Foods.

Literature states, "With the introduction of Del Monte Healthy Kids(tm) canned fruit, children can now enjoy class Fruit Cocktail for a nourishing snack or dessert with the added nutritional value that will help them to live healthier lives."

The line also includes Enriched Peach Chunks in a 15 oz. can. Touted as "the first fortified canned fruit product," they are said to be preservative free and fortified with vitamins A, C and calcium.

Picante de Bachaco Culon

2009-10-12T22:51:00.000+08:00

Fancy ants is your diet?

New Picante de Bachaco Culon product is being touted as a natural aphrodisiac in Venezuela.

The sauce is marketed under the Dona Flora brand name and is said to have a formulation that includes yucca juice (catara) and giant ground ants. The claim is made that the spicy sauce is a source for zinc and natural proteins.

Launch Omega Frozen Bars

2009-10-09T22:46:00.000+08:00

Launch Omega Frozen Bars are sold in the USA in a 3 bar pack box containing individual 2 3/4 fl. oz. (81ml) bars by Launch Frozen Innovations Inc.

The line includes Chocolate Monkey (Chocolate Banana), Too-Berry (Strawberry-Raspberry), and Pomonade (Pomegranate Lemonade) varieties.

The labels are flagged, "Delicious - Healthy - Indulgent - 9g protein - 540mg Omegas." Promotional literature for the frozen treats reads, "All natural - Low fat - Snack with multiple health benefits - Great source of protein - High DHA (Omega smart fats) - No cholesterol - Lower carbohydrates."

Banlanhua Herbal Tea Drink

2009-10-06T10:44:00.000+08:00

'Banlanhua Herbal Tea Drink' comes in two types - Rock Candy and Xylitol.

claimed, it is made of herb essence and suits for different ages.

Its amazing how traditional herbal drinks in the Chinese market are getting fast onto the sugar-free trend!

Bonbon au Chocolat Drink Chocolate

2009-10-03T22:42:00.000+08:00

Bonbon au Chocolat Drink Chocolate (Individual Chocolates for Drinking Chocolate) has been recently made available to consumers in Germany, the United Kingdom, Canada, Russia and Japan under the Beschle brand name.

The product, which is touted as "bonbons of chocolate for easy hot chocolate", is retailed in a 200g cardboard box containing individually wrapped 'chocolates'. According to literature, one chocolate in a cup with milk will yield a mild hot chocolate while 2 chocolate will yield an intense drink.

Kirin Tiramisu Latte

2009-09-26T22:41:00.000+08:00

]. This new chilled coffee drink is added to the series based on household recipes from around the world. It is inspired by the Italian dessert tiramisu.

This drink consists of bitter espresso coffee and Mascarpone cheese plus milk and fresh cream. The Mascarpone cheese is produced in Hokkaido. This drink has a smooth texture.

Matcha Magic

2009-09-22T22:33:00.000+08:00

Matcha Magic Powdered Green Tea is produced in Japan and available in the USA from Overseas Trading Support Inc. The "leaves are carefully milled by specially made stone mill to make high quality Matcha."

Presented in 100g (3.5 oz.) and 500g (17.64 oz.) resealable foil pouches, the varieties are Matcha Delight (good for mixing with bread, pasta and cookies), Matcha Fun (good for mixing with baked items such as cookies and pie), Matcha Joy (good for mixing with bread and pasta), Matcha Super (mix with any ice cream or chocolate item), and Matcha Supreme (is mainly used for tea ceremony).

Convenience for bakers!

Nanoparticles could pose threat to humans: scientists

2009-09-21T21:27:00.000+08:00

VIENNA (AFP) - – They can make fabric resistant to stains, improve the taste of food and help drug research, but nanoparticles could also pose a danger to human health, experts warned Wednesday.

Susanne Stark, of the Consumer Information Association, told a seminar in the Austrian city of Salzburg that companies should be forced to indicate on labels whether a product contains the tiny particles.

"There are more questions than answers on the effects of nanoparticles" on human health, the chemist said.

Cosmetic and food products should indicate whether their products contain nanoparticles by 2012, she said.

Nanoparticles, measuring no more than 100 nanometres (0.00001 centimetre), have helped to revolutionise how everyday products are made.

The particles are used to make stain-resistant paint or creamy cosmetic and food products. They can also change colour to indicate whether a product has expired.

But their risk to humans remains largely unknown.

Nanoparticles can enter the body through the mouth and nose, the digestive system or the skin, and spread inside the body through blood vessels, said Hans Peter Hutter, a doctor specialised in environmental hygiene in Vienna.

"These tiny particles could without a doubt go all the way to the placenta," he said. But he warned that little was known about their behaviour inside human tissue.

Snow Brand Glucosamine Skim Milk Powder

2009-09-18T22:29:00.000+08:00

This functional skim milk powder is fortified with 50mg N-acetyl glucosamine per 16g single portion stick sachet. Each sachet also contains 30mg collagen and milk calcium.

The N-acetyl glucosamine is a world first, derived from crab and shrimp shells and produced by Yaizu Suisan Kagaku Kogyo Co. This low-fat skim milk powder is a refreshing yogurt flavor.

Jack In The Box New Commercial mini sirloin burgers

2009-09-17T21:50:00.001+08:00

Fancy bit-sized burgers?

Here's one commercial that will tickle you:

Dr. John's Herbal Candy Sugar-Free Anti-Cavity Orange Lollipops

2009-09-15T22:13:00.000+08:00

Dr. John's Herbal Candy Sugar-Free Anti-Cavity Orange Lollipops have been created by microbiologists at the UCLA School of Dentistry.

Available in the USA from Dr. John's Candies, they are said to be infused with "a natural ingredient found in licorice that kills the primary bacterium causing tooth decay: Streptococcus mutans."

Wise Organic Pastures Uncured Beef Hot Dogs

2009-09-12T22:11:00.000+08:00

The Wise Organic Pastures line of products, available in the USA from Brooklyn, NY-based Wise Kosher Natural Poultry, Inc., includes Organic Uncured Beef Hot Dogs. Touted as "the world's first organic & kosher hot dogs," the "gluten free" product is sold in a 12-count, 12 oz. (340g) vacuum pack.

Literature states that the refrigerated product is "double-certified kosher and organic to bring you the healthiest, best-tasting hot dogs possible." The cattle "eat only organic vegetarian feed, free of synthetic pesticides, genetically-modified grains, and animal-by products. They are never given antibiotics or growth-promoting hormones. The result? The best quality, purity, and taste you'll find anywhere."

Fighting prostrate cancer

2009-09-10T18:33:00.001+08:00

Prostrate cancer in one of the main forms of cancer that afflicts men.

While many studies have shown that dietary amounts of certain foods, vitamins, and minerals can contribute to prostate cancer risk. Dietary factors that may increase prostate cancer risk include the mineral selenium. A study in 2007 cast doubt on the effectiveness of lycopene (found in tomatoes) in reducing the risk of prostate cancer. Lower blood levels of vitamin D also may increase the risk of developing prostate cancer. This may be linked to lower exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light, since UV light exposure can increase vitamin D in the body.

A large study has implicated dairy, specifically low-fat milk and other dairy products to which vitamin A palmitate has been added. This form of synthetic vitamin A has been linked to prostate cancer because it reacts with zinc and protein to form an unabsorbable complex.

Antioxidants are generally found in abundance in fruits and vegetables. These foods are also rich in substances known as phytochemicals , some of which have cancer-protective effects. Last year, a study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute found that men consuming four servings of vegetables a day had a 35 percent. reduced risk of prostate cancer compared to those consuming two servings of vegetables a day. Eating three or more servings of cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower, brussel sprouts and cabbage) was found to reduce risk by about 40 per cent compared to eating only one serving a week.

Also, eating foods such as fruits and soy based products will not only reduce the risk of an enlarged prostate, but also reduce the need for medications like Viagra and cialis. If you are getting Viagra online, why not try an alternative method by giving this foods a try?

New Hillside Self Heating Canned Soups

2009-09-05T22:10:00.000+08:00

New Hillside canned Soups in 9.5 fl. oz. (281ml) Self-Heating containers are distributed in the USA by OnTech Operations, Inc. The varieties at this time include Tomato Vegetable and Classic Chicken. Package text for the Tomato Vegetable Soup reads, "Self heating container - Push button - Do not microwave - OnTech has combined centuries-old knowledge with state-of-the-art packaging to create a revolutionary container that heats itself!

Pressing the button of the container breaks a foil seal and allows water to drain into the heating chamber, which contains quicklime. This combination creates heat. The beverage is heated without ever touching the mixture. For best results activate at room temperature (65 - 75 degrees Fahrenheit). Step 1 Turn container upside down. Pull off metal tamper-proof bottom. Step 2 Place on flat surface.

With thumb, firmly push button downward until green water drains. After 10 seconds, turn container right-side-up. Step 3 This spot (shown at the right) changes color from pink to white (5-8 min.) when beverage is hot. After spot is white, twist lid to align opening. Shake, open and enjoy!"

Heineken - Every Man's Dream?

2009-09-04T22:52:00.000+08:00

Red Rush High Energy Chocolate Bar

2009-09-01T22:08:00.000+08:00

The Red Rush High Energy Chocolate Bar with Avec, Caffeine, Taurine and Guarana is sold in Canada in a 50g laminate wrapper by Niche Brands Inc.

The bilingual wrapper is tagged, "Natural health product."

Trader Joe's Dried Sweetened Hibiscus Flowers

2009-08-29T22:06:00.000+08:00

New Trader Joe's Dried Fruit is available in the USA in a Dried Sweetened Hibiscus Flowers variety from Trader Joe's.It is said to feature the tangy sweetness of the petals that make it a treat right out of the bag.

This snack can also be used on a freshly tossed green salad, in recipes "and in a few simple steps they can be transformed into a jewel-like ruby-red beverage that will dazzle and, of course, refresh!"

Tic Tac Chill Flavored Mints

2009-08-25T21:54:00.000+08:00

Tic Tac Chill Sugar Free Artificially Flavored Mints will be introduced in the USA in a new "large" size by Ferrero USA.

A "product of Italy", the mints contain "Xylitol, a natural sweetener with oral care properties" and will be available in Paradise Mint and Exotic Cherry flavors.

They will be sold in a shrink wrapped, 0.95 oz. (27g) "sleek, cool and modern" plastic dispenser that "opens with one hand." The dispenser has an "innovative dual opening (with) traditional flip-top (and) sliding door for easier access."

Himalania Goji Berries with Wasabi

2009-08-22T21:52:00.000+08:00

Himalania Goji Berries are now available in a Wasabi Covered version. BrandStorm Inc. offers this "unique healthy snack" in a 4 oz. (113g) laminated pouch that is resealable and designed for rack display.

The "combination of dried goji berries and the hot crunch of the wasabi coating creates a distinctive sweet and spicy treat that is 100 percent natural, with no artificial color - a rare feat for wasabi."

Said to be loaded with nutrients, Himalania's "all-natural Goji berries contain no added sweeteners, no artificial ingredients and are rich in high-potency antioxidant vitamin C, beta carotene, B vitamins, amino acids, potassium, protein, and polysaccharides."

You will definitely be tickled! Goji!

PickleSickle Frozen Pickle Juice Treats

2009-08-16T21:50:00.000+08:00

Manufactured by Picklesickle.com LLC, new PickleSickle Frozen Pickle Juice Treats, in a Regular variety, are sold in the USA in a 16-count package containing single-serve, plastic tubes.

They are claimed to be made from freshly squeezed pickles, to have no fat and to have less than 1 gram of sugar. Promoted with the "PickleSickle Bob" character (as seen in the picture accompanied), they are said to be a healthy alternative for kids and more nutritious than sugary sweets.