All news articles for March 2017

© iStock/bogdandreava

The big debate: Can sugar survive a public health crisis?

By Niamh Michail

The world is getting fatter and unhealthier - are smaller portions and diet drinks really going to help when they sit next to full-sugar, supersized products? Is it time to tax or is industry doing enough? Catch the highlights from our live debate.

Parliament failed to reach the required majority, leaving the decision in the hands of the commission  ©iStock

MEPs oppose GM approvals but Commission will have the final say

By Louis Gore-Langton

EU member states yesterday voted against the introduction and renewal of GM grains in Europe but failed to reach a binding majority, leaving the president of the Commission Jean-Claude Juncker to make the final decision.

© iStock/bogdandreava

A 20% sugar cut by 2020? ‘It won’t be possible,’ says FDF

By Niamh Michail

A 20% sugar cut across all food categories by 2020 – as per voluntary targets set by the UK government – is not technically possible, nor would it be acceptable to consumers, industry lobby the Food and Drink Federation (FDF) has said.

Facial expressions show Mars the adverts that will drive sales

'This is the largest emotional dataset linked to real business outcomes in existence'

Facial expressions show Mars the adverts that will drive sales

By David Burrows

It’s a claim that will raise a few eyebrows: researchers working for Mars can identify with 75% accuracy whether or not an advert will deliver a big sales uplift by studying facial expressions.

iStock©

Symrise reports major growth in 2016

By Louis Gore-Langton

German flavours and nutrition supplier Symrise reports strong growth in 2016 following expansion and decentralisation of the company.

© iStock/Tatyana_Tomsickova

Natural flavours and colours can reassure health-conscious parents

By Niamh Michail

Industry used to shy away from scrutiny towards ingredients lists, but by choosing the right colour or flavour firms can add value to products and reassure consumers, according to colouring food supplier GNT and kids' food brand Appy Kids Co.