Taiwan 'considering world's first junk food tax'

TAIPEI (AFP) - – Taiwan is planning the world's first tax on junk food in a bid to encourage the public to eat healthily and cut obesity rates, a report said Monday.

The Bureau of Health Promotion is drafting a bill to levy the special tax on food deemed unhealthy, such as sugary drinks, candy, cakes, fast food and alcohol, said the Apple Daily.

Revenue from the tax would finance groups promoting health awareness or subsidise the island's cash-strapped national health insurance programme, the report said.

The bill is expected to be submitted to the parliament for approval next year and could take effect around 2011, it said, citing the bureau's director Chiou Shu-ti.

Health officials contacted by AFP were not immediately available for comment.

Taiwan would be the first government in the world to impose junk food tax if the bill is passed, according to local health advocacy group John Tung Foundation.

"Overweight problems are getting worse in Taiwan with 25 to 30 percent of children obese, and it will cause more strain on our national health system," said Beryl Sheu, chief of the foundation's food nutrition division.

"Hopefully the tax will dissuade people from eating junk food and snacks and prompt food companies to make healthier products," she said.

Fancy some century-old Butter?

WELLINGTON (AFP) - – Two blocks of butter have been found intact after nearly a century in an Antarctic hut used by British explorer Robert Falcon Scott on his doomed 1910-12 expedition, a report said.

Television New Zealand reported that conservators found the two blocks of New Zealand butter in bags in stables attached to the expedition Hut at Cape Evans in Antarctica.

The extreme cold of the polar region has preserved the hut and expedition equipment inside, but recent signs of deterioration had prompted the Antarctic Heritage Trust to launch a preservation project.

The trust's Lizzie Meek said the butter was a "treasure find".

"It's quite amazing how strong the smell is after nearly 100 years," Meek said at the hut. "I'm not sure I'd want it on my toast."

Scott used the Cape Evans hut as a base for his expedition to the South Pole, which he and four others reached on 17 January, 1912. But they found that Norwegian Roald Amundsen had beaten them by five weeks to reach the South Pole for the first time.

Scott and his four companions all died on the return journey to Cape Evans.

The latest find follows news last month of the discovery of two crates of Scotch whisky under a hut used by another British explorer, Ernest Shackleton, during his 1907-09 expedition to Antarctica.

HSA warns public not to consume illegal drug "Huo Luo Jing Dan"

SINGAPORE: A traditional Chinese medicine has been found to contain illegal ingredients that can cause serious adverse reaction.

The drug, "Huo Luo Jing Dan", was said to promote blood circulation and relieve aches and pains, including rheumatism and arthritis. It is sold in a dark coloured plastic bottle with a gold—coloured label that contains small red capsules.

The Health Sciences Authority (HSA) has warned the public not to consume the product because it contains potent, undeclared Western medicines that cause dangerous side effects like increased blood pressure, weak bones, stomach ulcers and kidney failure.

A 50—year—old woman who had been taking the drug for several years developed swelling of the throat, following an infection that did not heal quickly. Her face also swelled to a ’moon face’, caused by prolonged corticosteroid consumption.

Her doctor alerted the authorities after he suspected that she had suffered from an adverse effect from the product and was hospitalised.

The patient has since recovered and was discharged from the hospital after discontinuing the product.

Investigations revealed that the manufacturer printed on the label, China Tian Jin Ren Ji, is fraudulent and does not exist. The friend from whom the patient originally purchased the product also could not be contacted.

The HSA advises members of the public who had bought the product not to consume it and to seek medical attention immediately if they feel unwell after taking this product.

It also reminds consumers to be wary of products that promise a quick cure for serious conditions.

Anyone who is aware of the illegal sale of this product should call the HSA Enforcement Branch’s 24—hour hotline at 6866—3485 or email to hsa_is@hsa.gov.sg. — CNA/ha/al

Herkimer Foods Ida Mae

New!" Herkimer Foods Ida Mae Sports Jels Refueling Gelatine Cubes are available in the USA in Lemon Lime and Fruit Punch flavors from Herkimer Foods. They are sold in 2-count, 12 oz. sleeves containing single-serve 6 oz. cups. Package text reads, "Electrolytes - Carbohydrates."

5 million dollar chocolate?

Feast your eyes:

5 Million Dollar Chocolate
Uploaded by DiagonalView. - See more comedy videos.

Yan Bao Sheep Liver Soup

Fancy Sheep Liver soup anyone?

Yan Bao Sheep Liver Soup Green Bean is new on Chinese market launched by Shenyang Yanbao Foodstuff Co., Ltd. There are six products in this series - Sheep Liver Soup - Green Bean, Strawberry, Hawthorn, Primary Taste, Chestnut and Flat Taste.

New Frutels Acne Care in a Chocolate is available in the USA from Frutels, LLC. The individually wrapped Premium Dark confection is sold in a 4 box, one month supply format.

This product claims to stop pimples before they form by fighting internal causes: stress, hormones, and diet.

According to manufacture claims:"Frutels contains vitamins and minerals shown to strengthen the body against these internal causes and help clear skin of acne. Unlike vitamins in pill form which are difficult for the body to use, Frutels' vitamin formula is blended into premium dark chocolate, this makes the vitamins easily available to the body, along with the additional antioxidants found in dark chocolate. All of the vitamins our body needs can be found in nature, so Frutels doesn't contain any harsh chemicals. 100 percent vegetarian and kosher (OU) - Sugar-free - All natural, no artificial ingredients - No side effects - For general use we recommend: For mild acne 2 Frutels a day - For moderate acne 3 to 4 Frutels a day - For severe acne 5 plus Frutels a day."

Katokichi Ashita no Asa Gohan Misoshiru Tsuki

Meaning breakfast for tomorrow, this new ready meal in an aseptic pack contains rice fortified with GABA [gamma-aminobutyric acid] (30mg). A separate sachet of miso [fermented paste of soybeans and cereals] for making an instant soup is also packed together to create a set of traditional Japanese style breakfast.

The miso soup is provided by Nagatanien, and the company's trademark is shown on the package. The rice can be heated in a microwave oven. The main target is consumers with a busy lifestyle.

Foods Shunkan Bishoku Kaoru Green Curry

These are new freeze-dried instant ready meals. Consumers only need to add hot water to reconstitute the curry; it only takes 10 seconds, and this is signified on the package. Both varieties are medium spicy and are made with more than 17 types of spices for an authentic flavor. There are no artificial flavorings added.

Aged Black Garlic

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

'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

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

]. 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

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

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

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

Fancy bit-sized burgers?

Here's one commercial that will tickle you:

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

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

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

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

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?

Red Rush High Energy Chocolate Bar

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

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

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

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

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.

Rotong Green Pea Sticks

Cocoaland Industry Sdn. Bhd. has reportedly introduced Green Pea Sticks (stik kacang hijau) to the market in Vietnam. The sticks are claimed to be made with natural ingredients and to be free from fat.

They are marketed under the Rotong brand name in 125g canisters.

This is sure one 'green' snack!

MAXXED Energy Pop

Need some energy on the go?

The new MAXXED Energy Pop is sold in the USA in a can with a pull-off lid for freshness by Tri Sales Co., a division of Charms.

The MAXXED Lollipop is "a unique nutrient blend of the leading supplements that revitalize energy. Maxxed is infused with: taurine, ginseng, guarana, vitamins B6 & B12 and caffeine."

They are said to require no refrigeration, to be very portable and conveninet to use.

Win great food prizes this National Day

The Food Innovation Resource Centre is having a National day special!

Just be their top poster in the forum and you get to walk away with attractive food prizes.. check it out!

Nestle KitKat Kit Mail

You've got mail with this interesting product!

This is a new package of the chocolate wafer sandwich snack KitKat. The package design has a space for writing messages and sending this product as a gift by post.

The company states that this is the first product in Japan with this function. Consumers in Japan only need to stick stamps (with correct fare) on the box and post it via post boxes just as sending a greeting card. This product is suitable for many occasions including birthdays.

Wunderbar Intellimune Antioxidant Bar

Certainly not a wonder bra!

But equally amazing for its lifting properties..

The Intelligent Nutrients line of products, available in the USA from Minneapolis, MN-based Intelligent Nutrients, Inc., includes Wunderbar Intellimune Antioxidant Bar. Touted as an "omega-rich super-antioxidant and immune-boosting whole foods bar perfect for snacking and lunches," it "contains both the seed oil and meal complexes, uniting the seed oils and meals into a super-nutrient." Sold singly in a laminated wrapper, the 1.5 oz. (42.6g)

It contains the "Certified organic Antioxidant Intellimune(tm) Seed Oil Complex of black cumin, pumpkin, red grape, red raspberry and cranberry seed oils."

Sweetleaf Sweetener

Sweetleaf Sweetener(tm) is touted as the "purest, most natural formulation of stevia available. Introduced in the USA in a new formulation from Wisdom Natural Brands, the "kosher certified" product is said to be the only stevia-based sweetener that uses only pure water in its proprietary extraction process. It comes in packets that are sold in a 50-count box priced at $6.99.

According to its accompanying literature, All Natural SteviaPlus has absolutely nothing artificial in it! (and) is safe for diabetics." It is also "completely calorie-free, all-natural, and has a zero glycemic index."

Organic food not healthier, says British study

LONDON (AFP) - - Organic food supporters defended the benefits of naturally-grown produce on Friday, after a report suggested there are no significant health advantages from it.

In a study published in a US journal this week, researchers at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM) found there were no major differences between organic and conventionally-produced food.

"A small number of differences in nutrient content were found to exist between organically and conventionally-produced crops and livestock, said Dr. Alan Dangour, principal author of the study.

"But these are unlikely to be of any public health relevance."

And he added: "Our review indicates that there is currently no evidence to support the selection of organically over conventionally-produced foods on the basis of nutritional superiority."

Organic food, devoid of additives and produced without chemicals such as fertilisers and pesticides, has become an increasingly popular choice on supermarket shelves in recent years.

But it is typically more expensive than regular foodstuffs, and as such has already been hit by the global recession, making shoppers think twice about paying more for organically-grown vegetables and such like.

The study, commissioned by Britain's Food Standards Agency (FSA) and published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, threatens to deal a new blow to the organic food lobby.

But its supporters underlined other benefits of organic produce, notably for the environment.

"Organic farming is a holistic, integrated approach which conserves soils, encourages biodiversity, eliminates greenhouse gas-intensive nitrogen inputs, conserves genetic diversity, and brings more income to the grower," said Andrew Lee of the Sustainable Development Commission.

"And is very probably healthier to boot," he wrote in a letter to the Guardian newspaper.

Molly Connisbee of the Soil Association said that organic farms have on average 30 percent more species and 50 percent more wildlife like birds, butterflies and bees.

"Other environmental benefits are self-evident -- there's less dangerous waste on organic farms and almost no pesticide use. Artificial nitrogen fertiliser is banned in organic farming, so there's less runoff of nutrients that cause algae blooms in coastal waters," she said.

The British study was based on a review of all studies published over the last 50 years relating to nutritional content and health differences between the two kinds of produce.

Pub Corn

With an intresting name like pub-corn, one should be able to imagine its flavour!

Pub-Corn Alcohol Flavored Popcorn is now available in the USA. Offered in Beer, Pina Colada and Irish Cream varieties, the ready-to-eat popcorn is presented in a 1 lb. plastic bag that retails for $4.00. Blue X is the distributor.

Dole Easy-Open Salad Bag

No scissors, no headaches, no struggle," Dole Easy-Open Salad Bag is now available in the USA and Canada.

"A simple pull, and customers can enjoy the fresh-tasting goodness of Dole's farm-fresh salads."

Consumers are said to enjoy the fresh, new, innovative, pinch and pull feature. Offered in Italian and American varieties, the product is presented in a "new, innovative" plastic bag. Dole Food Co., Inc. is the manufacturer

Thomy Mayonnaise

Mayonnaise is included in the Thomy line of products packaged in "hygienic, resealable" metal tubes with stand-on caps. The Mayonnaise comes in a 279ml size that is said to keep the product fresh and easy to dispense and apportion.

Certainly less messy compared to conventional packaging!

Cadbury Eyebrows

Hot off the tube with its catchy ditty song...



Will eating Cadbury chocolate give you a sensation like this?

Das Lolli

Das Foods has launched a "new line of adventurous, uniquely flavored and affordable Lollipops called Das Lolli." Sold singly in the USA, each 0.3 oz. plastic wrapped Lollipop - Caramel Me Happy (caramel and lavender made with caramelized cane sugar, chewy Das Salty Caramel, real lavender extract and tiny crystals of Fleur de Sel sea salt), Fab-O-Pom (pomegranate and orange with real pomegranate extract, orange oil and tiny pieces of orange zest), Man Bait (maple bacon with real smoky bacon bits and maple syrup) and Naughty Ginger (ginger and lemon with small bits of spicy candied ginger and all-natural lemon extract) - has a suggested retail price of 50 cents.

Literature states, "At only 30 calories each, Das Lolli are all natural, corn syrup-free, free of chemical preservatives and additives, and contain no artificial flavors or food coloring."

Ribena with Lemon: A perfect Match.

This TV commercial for Ribena with Lemon seems to be so Hindie inspired!




Anyone dancing behind the tree with a pack of Ribena in your hand?

Water & Energy

Watermelon and Lychee, Verbena and Lemongrass, and Mint and Lime are three varieties in which a new 'energizing' Bottled Water is now available under the Water & Energy brand name.

Recently introduced to consumers in Slovakia, this water with real fruit, panax ginseng, guarana and caffeine is claimed to be free from sodium, artificial colors, and preservatives. Enriched with vitamins, each variety is presented in a 500ml plastic bottle.

Crystal Head Vodka

Produced by Diamond Estates Wines & Spirits Ltd. out of Newfoundland, new Crystal Head Vodka is offered in the USA, by Dan Aykroyd, in an overboxed, 750ml glass bottle in the shape of a human skull.

The idea for the bottle is claimed to have come from Aykroyd's fascination with ghosts, spirits and extraterrestrial life.

The Vodka is said to be free of any additives such as sugar, glycerin and citrus oil, to be made with water from a deep aquifer, to be quadruple distilled and to be triple filtered through polished crystals known as Herkimer diamonds.

House Foods: House Megashaki

Megashaki refers to mega refresh.

This new functional drink is designed be consumed when concentration is needed, such as when working, taking exams or driving. It contains ginger extract, chili extract, caffeine and arginine as active ingredients.

Apple juice and lemon juice are added to produce a palatable taste; the fruit juice content is 20%.

We're Live on Twitter!

Yes..

We've jumped onto the Twitter bandwagon...

Do follow us @sgfoodfad !

SnapDragon Beauty Beverage

SnapDragon Beauty Beverage is part of the Votre Vu line of products available in the USA from Votre Vu. Presented in a 30 fl. oz. (885ml) bottle, it is sold in a 2-pack and a 4-pack with suggested retails of $23.00 and $39.00, respectively.

Literature states, "This delicious private blend of powerful anti aging super-fruits and botanicals features mango, pomegranate and acai berry juices. A melange of teas (green, white and gorgeous red) infuse some spices to your life. Seven daily vitamins plus collagen, aloe vera, foti, ginkgo biloba and baobab fiber round out this exotic beauty mix, supported by naturally safe extracts, fruits and minerals which may enhance energy. No preservatives or sugar added."

Used daily, Snapdragon "may help repair, restore and re-balance your body's internal systems, naturally giving your skin a radiant, beautiful glow. It may boost your overall vitality when added to your daily beauty regimen for optimal health, inside and out."

Viagra-Laced Coffee Confiscated After Selling as 'Energy Drink'

More than 900 boxes of Viagra-laced coffee confiscated in Malaysia were being marketed as an energy booster.

“The coffee mixture had been distributed in sachets nationwide,” said a report in the New Straits Times Online. “Investigations revealed the distributor attempted to mislead the public by claiming the coffee mixture could provide an energy boost, besides being beneficial for men.”

The impotence drug Viagra was initially developed to treat high blood pressure and certain symptoms of heart disease. However, scientists discovered during trials that it also could be used to treat sexual problems in men. It should only be used with a doctor’s supervision.

Nippon Milk Community: Megmilk Astaxanthin Power

. This new functional drink is a mixed vegetable juice (carrot juice and tomato juice). It is fortified with astaxanthin which is a red pigment carotenoid occurring naturally in fish and shellfish and hematococcus seaweed.

In this product, the astaxanthin used is derived from seaweed. Each bottle supplies 4mg astaxanthin, and the vegetable content is more than 120g (calculated as fresh vegetables).

The main target is consumers in their 40s and above.

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Nakano All Natural Seasoned Rice Vinegar

Its benefits were so great that the ancient Babylonians inscribed its virtues on stone tablets over 7000 years ago; Hippocrates, the father of modern medicine, used it to treat his patients in 400 B.C. ;Helen of Troy bathed in it as a way of relaxing.!

Just what is this miraculous product? It's vinegar! In this new and modern age, vinegar too gets a new makeover with NAKANO All Natural Seasoned Rice Vinegars which are currently available in lots of tasty flavors like Original Seasoned, Roasted Garlic, Basil & Oregano, Red Pepper, Balsamic Blend, and Italian Herb.

NAKANO All Natural Seasoned Rice Vinegar is: All natural, fat free, low calorie, gluten free.
The NAKANO range of all natural seasoned rice vinegar is so versatile. Thinking of how to use in your diet?

Here's some Splash Tips: you can splash it on sliced, fresh tomatoes, greens and other vegetables to add flavour and profile to your salads; incorporate it into a mayonnaise recipe for interesting and unique tastes; season and marinate meats; tenderize meats and vegetables; to inhibit the growth of bacteria during the processing of pickles; add onto steamed white rice for flavour enhancement.

The possibilities are just endless... you just need to use your imagination!

For the health conscious, here's why you should have make vinegar a part of your diet: Vinegar can also be used as a salt alternative for those wishing to reduce the amount table salt in their diet. Vinegar also dulls the craving for sweets and does not contains no fat.

Uncured Duck Sausages

The new line of "gourmet" D'Artagnan Hot Dogs is available in the USA in an Uncured Duck version from D'Artagnan, Inc. They are sold in a 4-count, 12 oz. vacuum-sealed wrapper.

Promotional literature for the line reads, "Fully cooked - No nitrates, nitrites, preservatives or animal by-products - No growth hormones or antibiotics - No artificial ingredients - No casings - Shelf life: 21 days." The Ducks are said to be raised on a small family farm with an all vegetarian feed of corn, soybean and wheat; to never be given any antibiotics or hormones and to be richly flavored, juicy and plump.

10 Food Safety Tips for having a BBQ

1. Defrost any frozen foods thoroughly before you cook them, or at least check that they are cooked right through before serving.

2. Don’t place or prepare raw meat next to cooked or partially cooked meat or other ready-to-eat foods.

3. Use a meat thermometer to check meat is cooked. If you don’t have one, cook minced meat burgers and sausages thoroughly (right through to the centre) and cook poultry until the juices run clear.

4. Turn the food regularly so it cooks evenly.

5. If you’re expecting lots of guests, consider cooking the food in a conventional oven first then finishing it off on the barbecue.

6. Before you serve it, ensure the centre of the meat is piping hot – don’t assume that if it’s charred on the outside it will be cooked thoroughly on the inside.

7. Keep raw and cooked meat and poultry separate on the grill.

8. Don’t use the same plate to transport raw and cooked foods.

9. It’s OK to leave cooked meat for a short time on a corner of the barbecue or covered on a plate for late arrivals; just ensure it’s protected from flies.

10. Handle food with tongs or other equipment, and use separate equipment to handle raw and cooked meats.

Nissui O-sakana Sausage

This new fish sausage contains enough calcium to make a nutritional supplement claim on the package. One sausage contains calcium to the equivalent of 300ml milk. The sausages are packed in a film and sealed with a new type of clip called Eco clip instead of the traditional steel clip. The packaging material is environmentally friendly and easy to open. This product does not contain eggs. There are no preservatives and curing agent.

Food Safety Tips: Handling Leftovers

Holiday meals often result in some tasty leftovers, which can make for easy catering the following day, but again because of the higher summer temperatures, take some extra care:

• refrigerate or freeze any leftovers within two hours of their preparation

• cool leftover food in a shallow tray (to help it cool quickly and evenly) then store in a covered container in your fridge

• don’t reheat leftovers more than once

• eat leftovers within two days

• when in doubt – throw it out.

Marina Azul Kids

Launced in Mexico, the Trozos de Atun Aleta Amarilla is a new flavored tuna product that is marketed under the Marina Azul Kids label and is offered in Pizza and Catsup flavors.

It is claimed to be a natural source of omega 3, to contain no artificial preservatives, and to not require refrigeration.

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Food Safety Tips for having a BBQ

When asking friends around for a barbecue, you don’t want the FBI (foodborne illness) to crash the party. Cooking outdoors in warm spring and summer temperatures provides the ideal situation for pathogens to multiply and cause foodborne illness. Outdoor chefs need to take special care when preparing, cooking and storing food for a barbecue.

Before firing up the barbie, make sure all cooking paraphernalia and the surfaces food will be put on are spotlessly cleaned with soap and hot water and then thoroughly dried. Have one set of utensils for raw meat and poultry, and another set for cooked foods. Using just one set almost guarantees that you’ll transfer pathogens from raw meat to cooked foods.

Make sure meat, poultry and other perishable foods are stored cold until they are ready for cooking. Once cooked, it is important to put food on a clean plate – not the one the raw meat was stored on.

It is recommended that chicken, meat patties and sausages are precooked before going on the barbecue to ensure they are thoroughly cooked by the time they turn brown and crisp. Cooking on a barbecue is not as accurate or consistent as using a kitchen cooker, so when cooking outdoors you should use a meat thermometer. If you don’t have one – and you should – keep an eye on the meat to ensure the juices run clear and it is steaming hot right though (although this is still no guarantee of safety).

Summer and picnics go hand in hand. Following a few simple guidelines will make your outdoor meal a pleasurable experience. Transporting your food in cooled chilly bags or bins and keeping it cold until it’s time to eat will slow the growth of pathogens. Also keep food covered as much as possible to keep unwanted insects and bugs out.

Organic Healthy Wake Up Drink

Yves Rocher launched Boisson Bio Reveil Sante (Organic Healthy Wake Up Drink) in three varieties in France.

This product is said to contain all 5 recommended daily portions of fruit and vegetables in a single drink, and is claimed to be organic.

The line includes:

• Forme et Tonus (Form & Tone), which contains Barbados cherry, kiwi pulp, mango, sea buckthorn, and lentils;
• Comfort Digest, made of fennel seeds, aniseed, coriander seeds, blueberry, and blackberry
• Equilibre Cholesterol (Cholesterol Balance), which contains pomegranate, artichoke, coconut, pomace and apple.

Are you putting yourself / guests at risk?

While everyone should take care to handle food safely, some people need to take more care. If you have low immunity, your immune system is weaker than usual and you are at higher risk of getting infections, including those carried by food. If you do get ill from what you eat, your illness may also be more serious.

Or you might have a food allergy, and consuming certain foods could have severe or even life-threatening consequences.

While there is no such thing as foods that are guaranteed to be safe for everyone, there is plenty of information to guide those more at risk to identify high-risk foods and select safer options.

Many things can make a person more vulnerable to foodborne illnesses. Having advanced cancer or undergoing chemotherapy, for example, can suppress the immune system. Low stomach-acid levels, whether caused by a stomach operation or medication, also place someone at higher risk of getting a foodborne illness as stomach acid normally provides a defence by killing many pathogens. Pregnant women, premature babies and sick children are part of the at-risk group too. If in doubt, your doctor will be able to help assess whether you have low immunity.

At-risk people are advised not to eat some foods, such as foods containing raw eggs or uncooked fish, but plenty of others can be safely enjoyed as long as extra caution is exercised when preparing and consuming them. Yoghurt for example should be eaten within two days of opening, so buying single-serve pots may be better than large containers. Eating stuffing from a chicken or turkey is not advisable if it is cooked in the bird, but can be eaten when cooked in a separate dish and eaten hot.

If you have food allergies and are invited out to dinner, let your hosts know what you need to avoid. If you’re cooking for someone with an allergy, take special care as even minute traces can cause severe reactions in some people.

Socal Cleanse Organic Detox Tea

The new Socal Cleanse collection is available in the USA from Socal Cleanse. Said to contain the purest ingredients with no harmful chemicals, Organic Detox Tea is sold in a 3 oz. (85g - loose leaf herbal tea) tin that is said to be biodegradable. Organic Detox Tea is offered in Hibiscus and Peppermint flavors.

Literature for the Hibiscus variety states, "Our proprietary blend of herbs gently cleanses your body while providing essential antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals - a perfect blend of nutrients. We handcraft each and every tea batch with an exclusive line of organic botanicals and herbs. Eco-friendly - Our label is completely tree-free, water-free and is printed with non-toxic water-based inks. Recycle or reuse our versatile and sleek tin. Our teas are caffeine free so even the most sensitive of systems can still benefit. Rich in vitamins including A, B1, B2, B3 and E - Rich in minerals including calcium, magnesium, potassium, iodine, and zinc - USDA organic - Certified CCOF organic - Cruelty free and vegan."

Food Safety Tips: Washing your hands

How often did your parents ask you to wash your hands before eating? It’s one of the oldest and best ways to prevent a foodborne illness, but one that we tend to take for granted – and also forget. Giving your hands a good scrub is an important measure to prevent spreading pathogens to food.

Always wash your hands before handling food. It’s equally vital to wash them after touching raw meat and poultry, going to the toilet, blowing your nose or sneezing into your hand while preparing food, changing nappies, handling pets and doing gardening.

To make sure your hands are really clean, you should wash them thoroughly using soap and warm water and then dry them on a clean, dry towel or paper towel. Making sure hands are dry is critical. Recent research shows washed hands that have not been dried can be more of a risk for transferring pathogens to food than hands not washed at all. If you want to be particularly careful, especially after handling raw meat for example, use a paper towel to turn off the tap. This is because you could have transferred bacteria to the tap when you turned it on with your unwashed hands.

LaLoo's Bambinis Goat Milk Ice Cream Sandwiches

New LaLoo's Bambinis Ice Cream Sandwiches are available in the USA in an 8-count box containing individually wrapped Ice Cream Sandwiches from La Loo's Goat's Milk Ice Cream Co. La Loo's (pronounced Lay-Looz) frozen novelties are "all made from naturally low-fat, low-cal, and low-lactose goats' milk.

These sandwiches feature the company's best-selling Vanilla Snowflake ice cream paired with all natural, dark chocolate cookies." They are said to have only 85 calories, and to provide the added health benefit of goat's milk, "which has more protein, calcium and ease of digestibility than dairy or soy." The chemical structure of goat's milk is also claimed to be naturally low in fat and calories with more vitamins, calcium and minerals than cow's milk, and to be a complete protein containing all the essential amino acids. "Laloo's is humane certified, GMO free, all natural and delicious."