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FOOD SAFETY “BITES” Selected news, views and issues from ‘field to fork’

December 2016 In this month's edition: 1. Brexit 2. Diet and health 3) Errington Cheese - E.coli outbreak 4) International trade 5) Farming 6) Origin 7) Food Fraud 8) Labelling and advertising 9) Food Chain (including Modern Slavery and Sustainability) 10) Acrylamide 11) Commission continues fight against Antimicrobial Resistance with announcement of second Action Plan 12) Chief Scientific Adviser’s report - Food allergy and intolerance 13) EFSA: Caution essential when cooking burgers and mince 14) Freeze-drying fruit is top technique for retaining nutrients: Study 15) The meat companies making vegetarian food: Mainstreaming sustainable eating or dangerous double standards?

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1. Brexit a) PM’s Brexit plans thwarted after key court ruling Prime Minister Theresa May’s Brexit plans have been thrown into confusion after she lost a High Court battle to trigger Article 50 without a vote in Parliament – causing a jump in the pound’s value. The decision – made on November 3 – meant that MPs must now vote on whether the UK can start the process of leaving the EU. The government is expected to appeal the ruling. May argued the referendum result – a 51.9% victory for the Leave campaign – meant MPs did not need to vote. The High Court ruled: “The Court does not accept the argument put forward by the government. We decide that the government does not have power under the Crown’s prerogative to give notice pursuant to Article 50 for the UK to withdraw from the EU.” http://www.foodmanufacture.co.uk/Regulation/Prime-Minister-Theresa-May-loses-battle-to-leave-EU-without-MP-vote?utm_source=newsletter_daily&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=04-Nov-2016&c=2dIZZoVkrOuftebGR9XhglihYPzG5tvC&p2= b) UK government loses first Brexit battle The UK’s High Court has ruled that Prime Minister Theresa May cannot trigger Article 50 of the Lisbon Treaty – the process for leaving the European Union (EU) – without parliamentary approval. The landmark ruling, made on 3 November, means the UK government cannot use royal prerogative powers to trigger Article 50 in a bid to start of the process without a vote by UK members of parliament. The UK government will appeal the ruling. http://www.globalmeatnews.com/Safety-Legislation/UK-government-loses-first-Brexit-battle?utm_source=newsletter_daily&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=03-Nov-2016&c=2dIZZoVkrOuatBUZawzDP5DkXfPqHqef&p2= c) Farming ‘catastrophe’ in store without subsidies Domestic growers and farmers face a “catastrophe” if their subsidies are not maintained after the UK leaves the EU, the head of a logistics firm has claimed. Food producers were well within their rights to seek subsidies from the money that the UK wouldn’t have to pay to Europe after Brexit, Fowler Welch md Nick Hay told Food Manufacture. If subsidies to UK farmers were not maintained, food inflation would inevitably rise, which would “affect all of us”, Hay warned. In August, Chancellor Philip Hammond pledged to honour EU funding of farmers and scientific research labs.

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http://www.foodmanufacture.co.uk/Supply-Chain/Farming-catastrophe-in-store-without-subsidies?utm_source=newsletter_daily&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=09-Nov-2016&c=2dIZZoVkrOsDxxntW%2FAlYcBzuvY0%2BVWA&p2= d) Leaving the EU may make UK dairy ‘more profitable’ Leaving the EU could make the UK dairy industry more competitive and profitable, said the trade association Dairy UK. The organisation outlined the sector’s potential for global growth and how the outcome of Brexit negotiations could impact the sector. Developing exports was a crucial part of developing and strengthening the dairy industry, it argued. The sector needed to fully exploit trade opportunities to fortify its position as a global dairy player. http://www.foodmanufacture.co.uk/Business-News/UK-dairy-exports-more-profitable-after-Brexit?utm_source=newsletter_daily&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=GIN_FNd&c=2dIZZoVkrOteK7wfukwJNfoDpO9YaSdn&p2= e) More Brexit price rises for UK shoppers Nomad and PepsiCo will raise the prices of some products in the UK citing Brexit-induced currency changes. Well-known brands such as PepsiCo's Walkers crisps and Nomad's Birds Eye fish fingers will be affected. Since the UK voted to leave the EU in the June referendum, the value of the pound sterling has fallen to its lowest level against the US dollar since 1985 and dropped 14.5% against the euro. http://www.foodnavigator.com/Business/More-Brexit-price-rises-for-UK-shoppers?utm_source=newsletter_daily&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=07-Nov-2016&c=2dIZZoVkrOujtjWcIdnuLPpTmUMZqpaE&p2= f) Brexit could block food firm consolidation Brexit could derail mergers and acquisitions (M&A) activity in the months ahead, despite the UK food industry being ripe for consolidation, a business advisory firm has warned. The “massively fragmented” food sector presented a huge opportunity for buyers to take out market costs and benefit from increased business, Trefor Griffith, partner and head of food and beverage at Grant Thornton said. However, the impact of Brexit could start to devalue businesses ‘hedged’ against future costs, which in turn could scupper many deals, Griffith suggested. http://www.foodmanufacture.co.uk/Business-News/Brexit-could-prevent-food-firm-consolidation?utm_source=newsletter_daily&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=02-Nov-2016&c=2dIZZoVkrOuLmr%2BhDE6XK4FZI7gUrMfu&p2=

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g)Brexit food tariff cut is ‘ludicrous utopianism’: Clegg Brexit enthusiasts who believe leaving the EU will result in lower food and drink tariffs are suffering from “ludicrous utopianism”, the former deputy prime minister has claimed. Lowering or removing tariffs would work against the national interest and be opposed by both UK food and farming groups, and countries the UK would seek to forge new trade partnerships with, according to Liberal Democrat MP Nick Clegg. http://www.foodmanufacture.co.uk/Business-News/Brexit-food-tariff-reduction-slammed-by-former-deputy-PM?utm_source=newsletter_daily&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=04-Nov-2016&c=2dIZZoVkrOsjRur%2BNeiczag1YF134SJd&p2= h) Brexit price rises could turn consumers to own-label Food and drink manufacturers’ Brexit-related price rises could turn consumers to own-label brands, says Shore Capital analyst Clive Black. If price hikes – as seen by Unilever, Birds Eye and Walkers – become the norm, discount stores could see the benefit of consumers moving to own-label products, said Black. http://www.foodmanufacture.co.uk/Business-News/Food-manufacturers-price-rises-may-turn-consumers-to-own-label?utm_source=newsletter_daily&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=07-Nov-2016&c=2dIZZoVkrOve26O4Jz0PwIPXUuJjRQwm&p2= 2. Diet and health a) Cancer and diet leads top 10 media story list Food waste, meat substitutes and gut bacteria all feature in the top 10 most mentioned food terms in the media over the past 12 months – but stories about cancer and diet continue to dominate – according to the head of a research body. Other health related terms in the list were superfoods, vitamin D, gluten-free and genetically-modified food; while food fraud and food labelling completed the top 10. http://www.foodmanufacture.co.uk/Packaging/Cancer-and-diet-tops-media-story-list?utm_source=newsletter_daily&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=16-Nov-2016&c=2dIZZoVkrOv%2FHz0D7hr2xFUgNbn52Vzq&p2= b) Consumer snack attack: stay away from artificial colors and flavors A recent pan-European survey discloses what consumers look for when buying salty snacks. Consumers are explicitly asking for more ‘clean’ snack products, which leaves a wide open gap for producers, especially in Europe. Although snacks, like crisps (potato chips), are not considered the healthiest kind of snack to eat, almost 45% of the respondents said they would be prepared to pay more for salty snacks that are free from artificial colors. This was echoed by the number who would be willing to pay more for snacks free from artificial flavorings and preservatives.

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http://www.bakeryandsnacks.com/Ingredients/Consumer-snack-attack-stay-away-from-artificial-colors-and-flavors?utm_source=newsletter_daily&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=GIN_DRd&c=2dIZZoVkrOtxM5xzU2UhXkh0i6GOIs1V&p2= c) Snacking means sodium overload for kids Children are still consuming too much salt, and bakery and snack foods are among the biggest culprits. So claims a new study published in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Using data from the 2011-2012 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), researchers from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Division for Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention found the average sodium intake for kids between the ages of 6 and 18 years was 3,256 milligrams per day. That does not include any salt being added at the table. Experts propose the recommended intake for this age group to be limited to 1,900 mg/day to 2,300 mg/day, depending on age. http://www.bakeryandsnacks.com/Regulation-Safety/CDC-study-suggests-US-kids-consume-too-much-sodium?utm_source=newsletter_daily&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=GIN_DRd&c=2dIZZoVkrOsPGxZKQAXOf%2BWIygVMDi2F&p2= d) Food Safety Authority of Ireland - Salt in Diet Still High The Food Safety Authority (FSAI) has today published an update of its annual salt monitoring programme. As part of this ongoing programme of monitoring which has been in place since 2003, the FSAI examined 530 samples of processed food in 2015. Significant reductions in salt content was observed across a variety of products, but most notably in processed meats such as rashers, cooked ham and sausages. While levels of salt have decreased in processed foods, the average dietary salt intakes in Irish adults continue to exceed the recommended daily intake of 5g salt per day. https://www.fsai.ie/news_centre/press_releases/salt_reduction_programme_031116.html Report https://www.fsai.ie/uploadedFiles/Science_and_Health/Salt_and_Health/Salt_Surveys_2003_onwards.pdf e) Most soft drinks on sale exceed daily sugar limit, warns study Over half of the soft drinks available in supermarkets exceed the recommended daily amount for an adult’s sugar consumption, as a study identifies ginger beer as containing the most sugar. Data collected from major UK supermarkets including Asda, Sainsbury’s, Tesco and Waitrose, found that 55% of soft drinks available exceeded the maximum UK daily recommendation for sugar intake (30 grams a day (g/d)) per 330 millilitre (mL) can size. http://www.foodnavigator.com/Market-Trends/Most-soft-drinks-on-sale-exceed-daily-sugar-limit-warns-study?utm_source=newsletter_daily&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=15-Nov-2016&c=2dIZZoVkrOvU8hMqKJ6V0Nih9gJYnrNW&p2=

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f) Too much gluten may trigger coeliac disease in babies High gluten intake before the age of two carries coeliac disease risk, researchers say, challenging coeliac development links with breastfeeding and age. The new doctoral thesis is based on data from around 8,700 Swedish, Finnish, German and American children with a genetic risk of coeliac disease. One study found children eating more than 5 g per day of gluten were more than twice as likely to develop coeliac disease than those who ate less. The data debunked the theory that optimal breastfeeding durations could lower the risk. “Our findings indicate that the amount of gluten triggers the disease.” http://www.foodnavigator.com/Science/Too-much-gluten-may-trigger-coeliac-disease-in-babies/?utm_source=Newsletter_SponsoredSpecial&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Newsletter%2BSponsoredSpecial&c=2dIZZoVkrOvC1aXNMKche0kRgnx7NNlG g) Gluten-free demand leads to substitutes vying for vacant role The demand for ‘no compromise’ gluten-free products that exhibit the same qualities as their wheat-containing equivalents shows no signs of abating. Despite the success of gluten-free products the functional role of gluten is still a critical determinant of volume, texture and appearance of a baked product. Bakers and cereal technologists still regard this protein as the ‘cornerstone’ of baking. Without gluten, the main issues are the loss of structure and elasticity as well as gas-holding properties, and good crumb structure. According to one study, many gluten-free products like bread and pasta exhibit low volume, poor colour and crumb quality. http://www.foodnavigator.com/Market-Trends/Gluten-free-demand-leads-to-substitutes-vying-for-vacant-role?utm_source=newsletter_daily&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=31-Oct-2016&c=2dIZZoVkrOvNtpT5lsgQ%2F4c43zZ0%2Bf%2Ba&p2= h) Healthy breakfast may prevent childhood obesity Missing breakfast and a lack of sleep both appear to accurately predict whether a child will become overweight or obese in later life, a University College London (UCL) study has concluded. Findings from the research points to factors other than overeating or a poor diet as the sole lifestyle contributor to the obesity epidemic. The researchers found that body mass index (BMI) weight development in the first decade of a child’s life coupled with disrupted sleeping and meal routines, could also predict psychosocial well-being. http://www.foodnavigator.com/Science/Healthy-breakfast-may-prevent-childhood-obesity?utm_source=newsletter_daily&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=18-Nov-2016&c=2dIZZoVkrOvNSK1dDyro6GGEOZyRnP2z&p2=

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i) Omega-3 PUFAs could aid Alzheimer’s fight by boosting glymphatic system: Macau mouse study New research from Macau suggests that omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids could improve the function of the glymphatic system, which facilitates the clearance of waste from the brain. It is believed this could promote the clearance of metabolites including amyloid-β peptides, a primary culprit in Alzheimer's disease. The findings of the study, led by researchers at the University of Macau, has been published online in The FASEB Journal. http://www.nutraingredients.com/Research/Omega-3-PUFAs-could-aid-Alzheimer-s-fight-by-boosting-glymphatic-system-Macau-mouse-study?utm_source=newsletter_daily&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=28-Oct-2016&c=2dIZZoVkrOuOdGLjFNm1R%2BkCtZskVF9D&p2= j) Omega-3-rich diets linked to lower blood pressure in young, healthy adults Diets rich in omega-3 fatty acids may help healthy young people avoid the onset of high blood pressure, according to preliminary data presented at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions 2016. Observational data from 2,036 young, healthy adults indicated that adults in the highest quarter had about 4 mm Hg lower systolic and 2 mm Hg lower diastolic blood pressure compared to those with the least omega-3 fatty acids in their blood. In general, the higher the omega-3 fatty acids in the blood meant lower both systolic and diastolic blood pressure. http://www.nutraingredients-usa.com/Research/Omega-3-rich-diets-linked-to-lower-blood-pressure-in-young-healthy-adults/?utm_source=Newsletter_Subject&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Newsletter%2BSubject&c=mZEn04e80rH11cGc9OY7OA%3D%3D k) 'Good evidence' for zinc against diabetes complications: Review Higher zinc levels in the blood may be linked to a lower risk of cardiovascular disease for those with diabetes, says a review that also exposes holes in existing evidence. The essential trace element zinc has been proposed as a potential strategy against type 2 diabetes. However, there has been no work to systematically review the evidence to support this protective effect against the development of cardiometabolic diseases. A review of 14 papers published in the journal Nutrients sought to remedy this. http://www.nutraingredients.com/Research/Zinc-against-diabetes-complications-Review?utm_source=newsletter_daily&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=07-Nov-2016&c=2dIZZoVkrOu5AlBuG6n31aTSJ2Ke5bSk&p2= l) Kids with vitamin D deficiency more likely to develop asthma: 10-year study Children with vitamin D deficiency are more likely to develop asthma, a 10-year study of children in Perth, Australia, has discovered.

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The findings, published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, showed repeated bouts of vitamin D deficiency in early childhood were linked to higher rates of asthma at aged 10, as well as allergy and eczema. The study also found that allergic immune responses were more common in children with low vitamin D in the first few years, while children with vitamin D deficiency at 6 months of age were more likely to experience two conditions previously associated with heightened asthma risk. http://www.nutraingredients.com/Research/Kids-with-vitamin-D-deficiency-more-likely-to-develop-asthma-10-year-study?utm_source=newsletter_daily&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=02-Nov-2016&c=2dIZZoVkrOsaxNa2MmN%2FzgaP2vPYuGJV&p2= m) Consumer snack attack: stay away from artificial colours and flavours A recent pan-European survey discloses what consumers look for when buying salty snacks. Consumers are explicitly asking for more ‘clean’ snack products, which leaves a wide open gap for producers, especially in Europe. Although snacks, like crisps (potato chips), are not considered the healthiest kind of snack to eat, almost 45% of the respondents said they would be prepared to pay more for salty snacks that are free from artificial colours. This was echoed by the number who would be willing to pay more for snacks free from artificial flavourings and preservatives. http://www.bakeryandsnacks.com/Ingredients/Consumer-snack-attack-stay-away-from-artificial-colors-and-flavors?utm_source=newsletter_daily&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=GIN_DRd&c=2dIZZoVkrOtxM5xzU2UhXkh0i6GOIs1V&p2= n) Meta-analysis shows eggs can reduce stroke risk by 12% Eating up to one egg a day has no association with coronary heart disease (CHD) but does reduce the risk of stroke by 12%, a meta-analysis has suggested. The impact of this cholesterol content on cardiac health has been a subject of contention for decades with recommendations varying. Dr Ioannis Zabetakis, lecturer in food lipids at the University of Limerick, said in September that high serum cholesterol shouldn't be centre focus in cardiovascular disease strategies. "It doesn’t matter what your cholesterol levels are as long as you have anti-inflammatory foods in your diet. Once you stop inflammation it is like constructing a huge wall against a plethora of diseases,” he said. http://www.foodnavigator.com/Science/Meta-analysis-shows-eggs-can-reduce-stroke-risk-by-12?utm_source=newsletter_daily&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=03-Nov-2016&c=2dIZZoVkrOvVKTl6MfuAQYQSOnsqqiFq&p2=

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3) Errington Cheese - E.coli outbreak a) Errington Cheese wants judicial review against FSS Errington Cheese has petitioned for a judicial review to overturn Food Standards Scotland’s (FSS’s) total ban on the sale of its cheeses. The artisan cheese company, based in Carnwath, near Lanark, said it faced complete closure unless it was allowed to restart production and resume sale of its existing stock. FSS had ordered the remaining Dunsyre Blue to be destroyed after it claimed tests revealed the cheese was the source of an E.coli outbreak. The July E.coli outbreak led to the death of a three-year-old girl. The company denied it was responsible. Last week, it won a battle to keep £20,000 of stock after the FSS withdrew an order to destroy all the remaining cheese. http://www.foodmanufacture.co.uk/Food-Safety/Errington-Cheese-petitions-for-judicial-review-against-FSS?utm_source=newsletter_daily&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=31-Oct-2016&c=2dIZZoVkrOvGKLrl1DnseEPmkvxcveoh&p2= b) Errington Cheese and FSS E.coli row rolls on The row between Errington Cheese and Food Standards Scotland (FSS) continued this week, after FSS rejected claims it offered to pay the cheesemaker’s legal fees in full, in return for the firm dropping its application for a judicial review of a destruction order of its products. Errington Cheese dropped the application on November 9, after FSS promised to share its scientific evidence with Errington Cheese and pay its legal fees in full, claimed the cheesemaker. It also claimed FSS admitted the destruction order of £20,000 of stock in September was “unwarranted and unnecessary”. http://www.foodmanufacture.co.uk/Food-Safety/Cheese-manufacturer-and-FSS-continues-row-over-E.coli-link?utm_source=newsletter_daily&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=11-Nov-2016&c=2dIZZoVkrOvIEokXDE9A%2FMTWVaAHpRzB&p2= 4) International trade a) EU meat industry voices concern over CETA The CETA deal, whose legal texts were finally signed on 30 October, will be “a painful exercise” for the EU meat sector, Copa-Cogeca secretary general Pekka Pesonen has warned. He told GlobalMeatNews today (31 October): “The TRQs [tariff-reduced quotas] in beef and pig meat given to Canada are quite substantial. We have no doubt that the Canadian meat industry will use them. “However, we welcome that some important EU production standards have been recognised, in particular the ‘hormone-free beef’ and ‘ractopamine-free pig meat’ as a precondition to enter the EU market.”

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European Livestock and Meat Trades Union (UECBV) secretary general Jean-Luc Mériaux was pleased: “CETA confirmed the sensitive product status for EU beef and pork. Canadian beef and pork won’t have free EU access, but will be managed through import licences.” http://www.globalmeatnews.com/Industry-Markets/EU-meat-industry-concerned-by-CETA?utm_source=newsletter_daily&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=01-Nov-2016&c=2dIZZoVkrOt%2FAcazDq4z9sH4JRk%2FcFtV&p2= b) CETA: EU and Canada sign historic trade deal The European Union (EU) and Canada have signed a long-awaited free trade deal in Brussels, following weeks of increased opposition from Belgium’s French-speaking Wallonia region. The deal eliminates 99% of trade tariffs. It was signed at the EU’s headquarters by European Commission president Jean-Claude Juncker, European Council president Donald Tusk, Slovakia’s Prime Minister Robert Fico, and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. The Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) is expected to save European exporters more than €500 million per year. Under CETA, Europe will be able to import hundreds of thousands of tonnes of duty-free Canadian meat. But all the meat Europe imports from Canada has to satisfy EU rules, which means Canadian meat exports must be free from growth-promoting drugs, outlawed by the EU in 1981. http://www.globalmeatnews.com/Industry-Markets/CETA-EU-and-Canada-sign-historic-trade-deal?utm_source=newsletter_daily&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=31-Oct-2016&c=2dIZZoVkrOuND2vKGhrauET3eedeTERA&p2= c) European food firms hail EU-Canada trade deal European food and drink manufacturers’ organisation FoodDrinkEurope has welcomed the signing of an EU trade deal with Canada, viewed by some as a model for the UK’s trade arrangements with the union after Brexit. Europe’s food and drink manufacturers will benefit from an improved access to Canada’s high-income market via three key routes, said Frewen. http://www.foodmanufacture.co.uk/World-News/European-food-firms-welcome-EU-Canada-trade-deal?utm_source=newsletter_daily&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=31-Oct-2016&c=2dIZZoVkrOtalpgReCXlTrRrhc53fU5p&p2= d) EU and Canada trade deal – Still has to be agreed by Member States Canada’s prime minister and top EU officials signed the comprehensive economic and trade agreement, known as Ceta, paving the way for most import duties to be removed early next year. However, the treaty needs the approval of at least 38 national and regional parliaments, including the UK’s, to take full force. However, the treaty needs the approval of at least 38 national and regional parliaments, including the UK’s, to take full force. https://www.theguardian.com/business/2016/oct/30/eu-canada-sign-ceta-free-trade-deal-trudeau-juncker

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http://www.independent.co.uk/voices/justin-trudeau-brussells-eu-ceta-ttip-toxic-deal-wallonia-a7388841.html e) President Trump and the future of free trade As the world digests the news that Donald Trump is to become the 45th President of the United States of America, his views on international trade will be closely scrutinised by the global meat industry. A self-confessed ‘free trader’, one of his main international policies is to appoint “tough and smart trade negotiators to fight on behalf of American workers” as he feels that the US hasn’t gotten the best of existing and potential trade agreements. Vocally unhappy about the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) between the US, Canada and Mexico, he wants to renegotiate the deal and pledged that if the US doesn’t get a “better deal”, it will leave. http://www.globalmeatnews.com/Industry-Markets/President-Trump-and-the-future-of-free-trade?utm_source=newsletter_daily&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=09-Nov-2016&c=2dIZZoVkrOuETQH7uXy3sE%2F6eW5Ic30w&p2= 5) Farming a) Germany vows to control Europe’s bird flu epidemic Germany has vowed to fight its outbreak of avian influenza as the H5N8 strain rips through eight European countries. German authorities culled around 30,000 chickens this week in the northern state of Schleswig-Holstein as it tried to control the spread of the H5N8 avian influenza (AI) strain. Speaking at the EU Agriculture Council in Brussels this week, Germany’s federal agriculture minister Christian Schmidt said the country was working hard to control the pathogenic virus. http://www.globalmeatnews.com/Safety-Legislation/Germany-vows-to-control-Europe-s-bird-flu-epidemic?utm_source=newsletter_daily&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=18-Nov-2016&c=2dIZZoVkrOu%2BJItIv8q5%2FBASbuASwYwK&p2= b) Meat industry ‘hit hard’ by EU trade policy The EU meat industry, particularly beef, could be “hit hard” by upcoming trade deals signed by the European Union, a study has warned. The EU beef, lamb and poultry sectors could be seriously damaged by the bloc’s growing desire to liberalise international trade, a report by the European Commission has found. Looking at the cumulative economic impact of 12 future trade deals on the EU agriculture sector, the report warned that the beef sector was at risk of being priced out of the market by the Mercosur trade bloc.

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Reacting to the news, Martin Merrild, president of farming body Copa, warned that European beef producers could face intense pressure from tariff-free imports of South American beef. http://www.globalmeatnews.com/Analysis/Meat-industry-hit-hard-by-EU-trade-policy?utm_source=newsletter_daily&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=18-Nov-2016&c=2dIZZoVkrOs5NKV%2F8p5%2FMkjvFDwfMiXG&p2= c) Salmonella tainted eggs linked to child’s death in Croatia At least one person has died from a multi-country outbreak of Salmonella with investigations pointing to eggs as the source. Outbreak cases have been reported by Belgium, Croatia, Denmark, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Sweden and the UK. Nine are associated with travel history to Hungary or Poland. Between May and October, 112 confirmed and 148 probable S. enteritidis cases were reported, said the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) and European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). http://www.foodqualitynews.com/Food-Outbreaks/Illnesses-in-eight-countries-from-Salmonella-contaminated-eggs/?utm_source=Newsletter_Subject&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Newsletter%2BSubject&c=2dIZZoVkrOtyeB3PmsXTytsrTDgMC4ST d) Slow Food fights EU plans to beef up meat industry A coalition of organisations led by Slow Food is protesting EU agriculture commissioner Phil Hogan’s decision to allocate €15m to promote meat consumption in Europe. Slow Food’s letter was signed by a number of other groups including Greenpeace, Friends of the Earth and the European Public Health Alliance. The letter of protest urged the commissioner to withdraw his commitments, saying: "Promoting meat consumption is in direct contradiction with the European Union’s objective to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.” http://www.foodnavigator.com/Policy/Slow-Food-fights-EU-plans-to-beef-up-meat-industry?utm_source=newsletter_daily&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=15-Nov-2016&c=2dIZZoVkrOtX%2Byu2zmgFV6c8AdZ%2BkQou&p2= e) ASF poses ‘very serious risk’ to Denmark African swine fever (ASF) is a pig farmer’s worst nightmare and as the virus rages in Poland, experts warn even a small outbreak could cost Denmark’s pork industry around €300m in losses. The importance of Denmark’s pork industry to both the country’s national economy and the wider meat industry in Europe cannot be understated. Approximately 90% of pork produced in Denmark is exported. Pork accounts for half of all meat exports from the country and about 5% of all Danish exports.

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Poland has been grappling with ASF this year with the virus still at large across swathes of its eastern territory. A report from the UK Government’s Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra) on 15 August said the country had eight new ASF outbreaks since its last report, dated 27 June. http://www.globalmeatnews.com/Livestock/ASF-poses-very-serious-risk-to-Denmark?utm_source=newsletter_daily&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=02-Nov-2016&c=2dIZZoVkrOsce2mH7qoSIkDR%2Fn6j%2F%2FLw&p2= f) Political action needed to halt ‘explosive’ rise in antibiotics Intervention from senior politicians is needed to address the “ridiculous” increase in antibiotic use in countries like Spain, according to the Danish Agriculture and Food Council (DAFC). Spain and Italy’s use of antibiotics in farming has soared by 20% and 25% respectively compared to 2013, according to data from the European Medicines Agency (EMA). This “explosive increase” has led the DAFC to call for political intervention to address the issue. “Consumption that was already significantly above Denmark’s has now increased even more. Let’s just say that if we really want to eliminate antibiotic resistance, the time for talking is over. We need politicians to take action now.” http://www.globalmeatnews.com/Safety-Legislation/Political-action-sought-to-halt-antibiotic-rise?utm_source=newsletter_daily&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=31-Oct-2016&c=2dIZZoVkrOsnFaO%2Bx2naN7W4VwV7fUbI&p2= g) FSA and AHDB continue work to help industry deliver better health and animal welfare ‘The aim of this initiative is to help us work better with livestock producers and processors to ensure better public health and animal health and welfare. Improving the exchange of accurate and reliable data will allow producers, farmers and the FSA to respond quickly and to act upon it.’ https://www.food.gov.uk/news-updates/news/2016/15628/fsa-and-ahdb-help-industry-deliver-better-health-and-animal-welfare 6) Origin a) Origin labelling: A step towards transparency - or worrying form of ‘gastronationalism’? Calls for mandatory country of origin labelling (COOL) are growing louder in Europe and supporters say it will restore trust, provide transparency and help consumers support local producers if they wish. But one political scientist sees it as "a nonsensical and worrying" form of 'gastronationalism'. Deceit may be a strong word, although there is no doubt consumers felt deceived when the horsegate scandal hit several years ago, sparking a crisis in consumer confidence over murky food supply chains. For many, mandatory COOL is therefore simply about being more open over where food comes from, and it would seem a majority of Europe’s consumers are in favour.

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http://www.foodnavigator.com/Policy/Gastronationalism-or-transparency-country-of-origin-labelling?utm_source=newsletter_daily&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=18-Nov-2016&c=2dIZZoVkrOspfEit0IwRDvQE%2Bue8M1ke&p2= b) 'Unfortunate': Nestlé to lose Swiss cross on 80 brands Nestlé will be forced to drop the Swiss cross from 80 products manufactured in Switzerland following a new law on 'Swissness' set to come into force in January next year. "This is very unfortunate," the head of Nestlé Switzerland has said. Passed in 2013, the legislation sets minimum thresholds for ingredients of Swiss origin and will come into force on 1 January 2017. At least 80% of a product’s raw materials must come from Switzerland under the new rules. For milk and milk used in dairy products this rises to 100%. However, only raw materials that are available in Switzerland are taken into account and the deciding factor is ‘the rate of self-supply for natural products’. http://www.foodnavigator.com/Policy/Unfortunate-Nestle-to-lose-Swiss-cross-on-80-brands?utm_source=newsletter_daily&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=21-Nov-2016&c=2dIZZoVkrOt%2Fh0QFRjtjxh%2FQY3wFvjKy&p2= c) Poland to introduce voluntary 'Made in Poland' label Polish lawmakers look set to bring in a voluntary ‘Made in Poland’ label for foods that contain at least 75% domestically produced ingredients. The law would allow manufacturers to use the label "Produkt polski" along with a logo to be designed by the Ministry of Agriculture. Under the regulation, meat products may bear the logo if the animal was born, reared and slaughtered in the Republic of Poland. For products of animal origin other than meat, such as dairy products or eggs, the animals must be reared in Poland. http://www.foodnavigator.com/Policy/Poland-to-introduce-voluntary-Made-in-Poland-label?utm_source=newsletter_daily&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=21-Nov-2016&c=2dIZZoVkrOvZk%2F3fZ35uEntwGyU1n%2B3m&p2= 7) Food Fraud a) Food Crime Unit should get more power: review The National Food Crime Unit (NFCU) should be given more powers and resources to investigate food crime, according to a Food Standards Agency (FSA) review. The review – which began in August – recommended the NFCU be made into an “arms-length body” of the FSA, with the power to make day-to-day law enforcement decisions. The findings would be considered by the FSA Board at its next meeting on November 23. http://www.foodmanufacture.co.uk/Regulation/Food-Crime-Unit-could-gain-more-power?utm_source=newsletter_daily&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=11-Nov-2016&c=2dIZZoVkrOt0mxvdpe%2FktuEE%2BgLwyulq&p2=

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b) National Food Crime Unit Guidance The Food Standards Agency, National Food Crime Unit has published guidance encouraging businesses to work with it to report and tackle food crime and giving assurances with regard to the disclosure of data This guide explains the NFCU’s role in the fight against food crime, how the NFCU can support industry, and how in turn industry can support the NFCU. It is hopefully the first step in building meaningful two way dialogue between the NFCU and the food drink and feed industry. https://www.food.gov.uk/news-updates/news/2016/15642/nfcu-launches-industry-guide Industry Guide https://www.food.gov.uk/sites/default/files/tacklingfoodcrime-nfcu.pdf c) Seafish publishes letter to wholesalers identifying tuna issue Seafish's regulation team has recently been made aware of an issue with some tuna fish that is being placed on the UK market. A practice has emerged that involves fermented vegetable extract being injected into low grade tuna in order to restore its red colour. It is then being mis-sold as high-grade tuna at premium prices. The UK has always held that this product and process is not permitted for tuna. However, some EU member states interpreted the regulation differently and were permitting the use of vegetable extract as flavouring. http://www.seafish.org/about-seafish/news-and-events/news/seafish-publishes-letter-to-wholesalers-identifying-tuna-issue d) Two plead guilty to conspiracy in horsemeat fraud case Two men have pleaded guilty of conspiracy to defraud in selling horsemeat instead of beef. Alex Ostler-Beech, aged 44 from Hull, and Ulrik Nielsen, aged 57 of Gentofte, Denmark, both pleaded guilty to the charge at a hearing in Inner London Court on Wednesday (October 26). The third defendant in the case, Andronicos Sideras, 54, from London, pleaded not guilty and will face trial. Both Ostler-Beech and Nielsen will be sentenced after this case. The charges followed a complex international criminal investigation that saw the City of London Police, which is the national policing lead for fraud, working in partnership with the Food Standards Agency and Crown Prosecution Service, as well as law enforcement agencies from across the UK and Europe. http://www.foodmanufacture.co.uk/Regulation/Two-plead-guilty-to-conspiracy-in-horsemeat-fraud-scandal?utm_source=newsletter_daily&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=31-Oct-2016&c=2dIZZoVkrOuR5NCAleWji9gsX%2FtQO55K&p2=

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e) Fish and wine in Italy feature in JRC summary on food fraud Issues with fish and wine in Italy dominate the first monthly report on food fraud and authenticity by the Joint Research Centre (JRC). The European Commission's science and knowledge service said the monthly round-up was launched to inform stakeholders of potential cases and give them the opportunity to counter the issue. “Consumers have the right to make informed decisions about the food they purchase. Agricultural products of high commercial value have been traditionally the target of fraudulent malpractices. “Prevention of fraud and promotion of authentic products is important to assure the commercial success of European high-value agri-food products on international markets and to ensure that consumer rights are protected.” http://www.foodnavigator.com/Market-Trends/JRC-summary-of-food-fraud-and-adulteration?utm_source=newsletter_daily&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=27-Oct-2016&c=2dIZZoVkrOuPGQD25g3zY9QiT2ktqxr%2B&p2= Report https://ec.europa.eu/jrc/sites/jrcsh/files/jrc-food-fraud-summary-september-2016.pdf f) EU: New system aims at traceable, certified organic feed imports A new system of electronic certification for imported organic products such as soymeal from China, for example, is aimed at ensuring greater traceability of such ingredients and at reducing potential fraud. The European Commission also expects the new system, announced under regulatory amendments brought in last month, to reduce the administrative burden for operators and authorities, and provide much more comprehensive statistical data on organic imports. http://www.feednavigator.com/Regulation/EU-New-system-aims-at-traceable-certified-organic-feed-imports?utm_source=newsletter_daily&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=GIN_GMNd&c=2dIZZoVkrOt%2FKbezSoQKxP5xCtxVp25M&p2= 8) Labelling and advertising a) World health leaders push for junk food taxes and ad bans The World Medical Association has lent its weight in support of tough new policies to curb obesity, including taxes on junk food and sugary drinks as well as bans on advertising to children. “A comprehensive program is needed to prevent and address obesity in all segments of the population, with a specific focus on children,” WMA said in a statement published at its annual meeting in Taiwan. “The approach must include initiatives on price and availability of nutritious foods, access to education, advertising and marketing, information, labelling and other areas specific to regions and countries.”

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WMA called on governments to consider taxes on unhealthy foods and sugary drinks, and use the additional revenue to find research aimed at preventing childhood obesity. http://www.foodnavigator.com/Policy/World-health-leaders-push-for-junk-food-taxes-and-ad-bans?utm_source=newsletter_daily&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=28-Oct-2016&c=2dIZZoVkrOsgjHgFzyHGZrr5%2By%2BkVYEO&p2= b) 'The ethical urge' powers fair trade in Switzerland: Study The Swiss buy more fair trade foods than Germans, but it’s not just because there are more products available to them: they’re also “more ethically convinced” by these products, researchers have found. They selected Germany and Switzerland – two countries that “differ strongly in the consumption of fairly traded products, but at the same time show rather minor differences in central socio-economic indicators” – to carry out their study, published in the journal, Berliner Journal für Soziologie (in German with English abstract). http://www.foodnavigator.com/Policy/The-ethical-urge-powers-fair-trade-in-Switzerland-Study?utm_source=newsletter_daily&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=18-Nov-2016&c=2dIZZoVkrOugl6q1koAfK%2BZ%2BU%2B1LSmkw&p2= c) New campaign urges food industry to stop marketing to kids Food companies must live up to their promises1 by ending the practice of marketing unhealthy food -to children. Otherwise regulation will be the only way forward to curb this pernicious practice that is fattening children’s waistlines. That is the main message of a new campaign called ‘Food marketing to children: game over?’ launched today by BEUC. http://www.beuc.eu/publications/new-campaign-urges-food-industry-stop-marketing-kids/html BEUC’s 2015 position paper http://www.beuc.eu/publications/beuc-x-2015-008_pca_beuc_position_paper_on_nutrition.pdf d) Over half kids' food on Spanish TV use health halo claims: Research Over half of all food products marketed to children on Spanish television make some kind of nutrition or health claim but many of these products are unhealthy, say researchers calling for nutrient profiles. Researchers from the Institute of Health Carlos III and the National Center of Epidemiology in Madrid looked at the advertising of 169 food and drink products during 420 hours of broadcasting over seven days and five television channels. They found 53.3% of the products targeting children used nutrition claims in their advertising and 26.6% used health claims. However, when they looked at the nutrient profile of the products, they found 62.2% of these claim-making products were unhealthy. http://www.nutraingredients.com/Research/Over-half-kids-food-on-Spanish-TV-use-health-halo-claims-

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Research?utm_source=newsletter_daily&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=10-Nov-2016&c=2dIZZoVkrOs%2BVzNkEIOv74fdIVfhmgru&p2= e) A cheese by any other name: Let plant-based alternatives use traditional dairy terms Why call something 'vegan cheese' when you could call it 'a plant-derived, oil-based dairy analog'? How about because it is vegan cheese. It's time for the dairy lobby to see plant-based alternatives as complementary rather than competitive. In Europe, dairy terms are protected under EU regulation 1308/2013 which means the words milk, cheese and yoghurt can only be used for product made from animal milk. The wealth of products made from plant-based ingredients on the market shows that the monopoly on these words is clearly not preventing innovation from happening. But it could be stopping these products from making the jump from beyond the free-from food aisles in specialist shops to the shopping baskets of 'mainstream' consumers. http://www.foodnavigator.com/Policy/A-cheese-by-any-other-name-Let-plant-based-alternatives-use-traditional-dairy-terms?utm_source=newsletter_daily&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=14-Nov-2016&c=2dIZZoVkrOs1aiKEJgJfwhaFWl%2BjRkze&p2= 9) Food Chain (including Modern Slavery and Sustainability) a) Food chain is unfair, says EU task force. No it’s not, say retailers. The retail sector has launched a damning attack on the EU’s agri-markets task force after it recommended that new regulations are needed to protect producers and farmers. The task force (AMTF), made up of 12 independent experts from across the food chain, was asked to examine the position of farmers in the supply chain amid concerns they were the ones bearing the brunt of price volatility and prolonged periods of low prices. This week they published their conclusions. Most notably, voluntary agreements to prevent unfair trading practices (UTPs) were not up to scratch, they concluded. http://www.foodnavigator.com/Policy/Food-chain-is-unfair-says-EU-task-force.-No-it-s-not-say-retailers?utm_source=newsletter_daily&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=15-Nov-2016&c=2dIZZoVkrOt5GG4O0vakkCB1r2ds7JTI&p2= b) Calls for accountability in cocoa chain grow louder Chocolate companies are coming under increasing scrutiny to publish third-party verified impacts on cocoa sustainability efforts, including taxes paid in origin countries. A panel featuring Nestlé – considered the first on the topic of transparency at a cocoa conference – was held at the World Cocoa Foundation’s (WCF) partnership meeting in Abidjan late last month. Nestlé, ADM and Cargill are currently defending a US civil lawsuit brought by alleged former child slaves accusing the companies of aiding and abetting child slavery on Ivorian cocoa farms. The firms deny the claims and say they are taking steps to improve their supply chains. A separate US lawsuit brought by private consumers in California alleging Nestlé and

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Hershey misled consumers by failing to disclose cocoa in some chocolate brands may come from slave labour was dismissed by the district court in March. http://www.foodnavigator.com/Market-Trends/Calls-for-transparency-and-accountability-in-cocoa-sustainability-grow?utm_source=newsletter_daily&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=07-Nov-2016&c=2dIZZoVkrOtbkWWZCRKmr4qFg%2FEAM0Gc&p2= WCF monitoring and evaluation guide for the CocoaAction http://www.worldcocoafoundation.org/wp-content/uploads/20160427-HR_CocoaAction-MandE-Guide-1.pdf c) Forced labour in food industry: ‘Progress has been slow’ says report Large food manufacturers are not doing enough to tackle forced labour, a report has found, as vulnerabilities in supply chains means workers are amongst the poorest paid and most exploited. In a report that evaluates the actions undertaken by food manufacturers to clean up their supply chain, the average company score, out of the 20 organisations examined, was 30 out of a possible 100. The assessment found leading brands such as Unilever, Coca-Cola and Nestlé scored highest in initiatives designed to stamp out forced labour. http://www.foodnavigator.com/Policy/Forced-labour-in-food-industry-Progress-has-been-slow-says-report?utm_source=newsletter_daily&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=02-Nov-2016&c=2dIZZoVkrOtM%2BeI1MJLk16yJWw3bbdkC&p2= d) Legal battle over Thai poultry migrant abuse begins A lawsuit hearing over the alleged forced labour of 14 Myanmar chicken factory workers has started in Thailand’s Saraburi province. The claimants, 14 migrant workers from Myanmar, formerly Burma, are seeking THB44 million ($1.25m) in damages from Thai chicken farm Thammakaset 2 for labour law violations and compensation for alleged abuse. http://www.globalmeatnews.com/Safety-Legislation/Legal-battle-over-Thai-poultry-migrant-abuse-begins?utm_source=newsletter_daily&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=01-Nov-2016&c=2dIZZoVkrOsONJx37IGMGXl8GeVJxfSe&p2=

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10) Acrylamide a) Acrylamide proposals strengthened in new draft The European Commission has moved to strengthen proposed new regulations on acrylamide, but the amendments are unlikely to be enough to appease campaigners. Revision 5 of the legislation includes two additional articles – 5 and 6. The latter will be of particular interest to food manufacturers given that it threatens “maximum levels for acrylamide” in any sectors failing to apply the Codes of Practice (CoPs) and a formal review of progress within three years to ensure the industry-led approach is working. The use of indicative values rather than maximum levels is just one bone of contention between industry groups and campaigners as lobbying intensifies in the run up to a vote on the laws next year. http://www.foodnavigator.com/Policy/Acrylamide-proposals-strengthened-in-new-draft?utm_source=newsletter_daily&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=14-Nov-2016&c=2dIZZoVkrOtrxl7aDUf6kwpF04MsP65n&p2= b) Critics hammer Commission's draft acrylamide regulation Campaigners have challenged the legal basis of the European Commission’s draft regulation on acrylamide. SAFE (Safe Food Advocacy Europe), Corporate Europe Observatory (CEO) and the law firm Client Earth have sent a letter to both the vice president, Frans Timmermans, and the health commissioner, Vytenis Andriukaitis, outlining what they believe are major flaws with the current proposals. For a start, they argue the Commission is using the wrong regulations on which to base the new one, which could see the laws overturned if challenged. Sticking with indicative values is also in violation of one of the EU’s commitment to deliver “a high value of human protection”. http://www.foodnavigator.com/Policy/Critics-hammer-Commission-s-draft-acrylamide-regulation?utm_source=newsletter_daily&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=21-Nov-2016&c=2dIZZoVkrOuHYHTWiJAC8cpfo0HophK1&p2= c) Acrylamide levels in Europe are dangerously high, says NGO Acrylamide levels in Europe are still dangerously high and relying on industry goodwill to lower them is destined to fail, says an NGO following analysis of previously unseen data released by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). The report's authors also say there has been no substantial trend across food groups to suggest acrylamide levels are falling, and therefore relying on "industry goodwill" to ensure food safety is destined to fail. http://www.foodnavigator.com/Policy/Acrylamide-levels-in-Europe-are-dangerously-high-says-NGO?utm_source=newsletter_daily&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=23-Nov-2016&c=2dIZZoVkrOt1GtW2hRh%2BmdvQjmCL4L%2F9&p2=

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11) Commission continues fight against Antimicrobial Resistance with announcement of second Action Plan The EU Commissioner for Health and Food Safety, Vytenis Andriukaitis confirmed the renewed commitment in tackling antimicrobial resistance (AMR) that is one of the biggest health threats facing humanity today. Vytenis Andriukaitis said: "The EU has always been at the forefront in the fight against Antimicrobial resistance and this will remain an important priority for the Commission beyond 2016. We intend to publish in 2017 the next Action Plan that will continue to establish the EU as the leader in the fight against antimicrobial resistance." http://europa.eu/rapid/press-release_IP-16-3567_en.htm 12) Chief Scientific Adviser’s report - Food allergy and intolerance The fifth Chief Scientific Adviser’s report was launched today at a Food Allergy and Intolerance Research Programme workshop in London. 'The science behind food allergy and intolerance is complex and evolving. Such wide-ranging evidence has led the FSA to commission and publish comprehensive systematic reviews within the area', said Professor Guy Poppy, the FSA’s Chief Scientific Adviser. 'On average, two children in every classroom will have a food allergy, and two thirds of food-related hospital admissions are due to food allergy-related conditions. This report serves to deliver and explain the latest science in the field, as well as debunk some of the myths that exist.' https://www.food.gov.uk/news-updates/news/2016/15656/fifth-csa-report-launched Report https://www.food.gov.uk/sites/default/files/fifth-csa-report-allergy.pdf 13) EFSA: Caution essential when cooking burgers and mince A precautionary approach should be used when cooking beef burgers or minced beef, European Union (EU) experts have suggested at a meeting hosted by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). According to minutes of a closed session just released by EFSA, the Food Safety Authority of Ireland’s (FSAI’s) chief specialist for biological safety Dr Lisa O’Connor stressed advice in her country was that caterers and consumers must cook minced meat and high-risk minced meat products to a core temperature of 75°C or at 70°C for two minutes. http://www.globalmeatnews.com/Safety-Legislation/EFSA-urges-caution-over-burgers?utm_source=newsletter_daily&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=03-Nov-2016&c=2dIZZoVkrOskrZvpHaipAvijmw5%2BSzqi&p2=

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14) Freeze-drying fruit is top technique for retaining nutrients: Study Freeze-drying fruit retains almost all of its nutritional value and can help keep ingredient lists clean, according to a study funded by ingredient supplier Chaucer. The freeze-drying process (also known as lyophilisation) works by freezing a product before reducing the surrounding pressure. This forces frozen water inside the product to sublimate directly into gas. A recent investigation on British television channel Channel Four’s Food Unwrapped questioned the authenticity of freeze dried fruits in breakfast cereals and found the fruit was indeed real but offered no insight into nutritional value or the freeze-drying process. http://www.foodnavigator.com/Science/Freeze-drying-fruit-is-top-technique-for-retaining-nutrients-Study?utm_source=newsletter_daily&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=14-Nov-2016&c=2dIZZoVkrOu5dTJR3GJZ8cc0SO%2BJUpdK&p2= 15) The meat companies making vegetarian food: Mainstreaming sustainable eating or dangerous double standards? Increasing numbers of German meat producers are launching vegetarian products with the support of VEBU, the country's Vegetarian Society - but as Topas, Europe's 'vegan pioneer', quits VEBU in anger over its double standards, is industry walking an ethical fine line? Klaus Gaiser, the founder of Topas, the company credited with bringing seitan to Europe under the brand name Wheaty, has criticised VEBU for lending its support to the meat industry without ensuring that animal suffering is reduced. http://www.foodnavigator.com/Market-Trends/The-meat-companies-making-vegetarian-food-Mainstreaming-sustainable-eating-or-dangerous-double-standards/?utm_source=Newsletter_SponsoredSpecial&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Newsletter%2BSponsoredSpecial&c=2dIZZoVkrOuCAZWulYf5wnDVGgC6u59k Recalls – None Recorded Allergy Pip & Nut recalls Coconut Almond Butter 18 November 2016 Pip & Nut is recalling Coconut Almond Butter because it contains peanut which is not mentioned on the label. This means the product is a possible health risk for anyone with an allergy to peanuts. ALDI recalling Chinese Chicken Curry with Egg Fried Rice due to incorrect allergen labelling 16 November 2016 ALDI is recalling its Chinese Chicken Curry with Egg Fried Rice because it contains milk which is not declared within the ingredients list. This means the product is a possible health risk for anyone with an allergy or intolerance to milk or milk constituents. Gower Brewing Ltd is recalling four types of beer due to undeclared wheat (gluten) 1 November 2016

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The Granary, Middleton House Farm, Tamworth Road, Middleton, Staffs B78 2BD

Gower Brewing Limited is recalling four types of beer as their labels do not declare the presence of wheat malt. This makes the products a possible health risk to anyone with an allergy or intolerance to wheat or gluten. EU RASFF (Rapid alert system for food and Feed) – highlights All RASFF can be found at: https://webgate.ec.europa.eu/rasff-window/portal/?event=notificationsList&StartRow=1 Date Country of

origin Subject Country of

notification Classification

22/11/2016 United States aflatoxins (B1 = 31.4; Tot. = 40 µg/kg - ppb) in peanuts from the United States

UK Border Rejection

21/11/2016 Philippines tuna in brine (Katsuwonus [Euthynnus] pelamis) from the Philippines with defective packaging

UK Border Rejection

18/11/2016 Netherlands undeclared peanut (15900 mg/kg - ppm) in coconut almond butter from the Netherlands

UK Border Rejection

17/11/2016 Brazil poor temperature control - rupture of the cold chain - (-8 °C) of salted chicken breasts from Brazil

UK Border Rejection

16/11/2016 Thailand Salmonella (presence /25g) in in frozen salted chicken breasts from Thailand

UK Information for attention. Distribution restricted to notifying country

16/11/2016 India aflatoxins (B1 = 8.9; Tot. = 9.9 µg/kg - ppb) in chilli powder from India

UK Border Rejection

15/11/2016 India Salmonella (presence /25g) in frozen preparation chicken breast from Thailand

UK Border Rejection

15/11/2016 Thailand Salmonella (presence /25g) in frozen salted chicken breasts from Thailand

UK Border Rejection

15/11/2016 Bangladesh too high content of erucic acid (15.9 %) in mustard oil from Bangladesh

UK information for attention - consignment released

10/11/2016 India unauthorised colour Orange II (51 µg/kg - ppb) and unauthorised use of colour E 110 - Sunset Yellow FCF (30 mg/kg - ppm) in sugar coated fennel seeds from India

UK Border Rejection

10/11/2016 Malaysia Salmonella (in 2 out of 5 samples /25g) in betel leaves from Malaysia

UK information for attention - consignment released

09/11/2016 Vietnam damaged packaging of pouched tuna chunks in brine from Vietnam

UK Border Rejection

08/11/2016 Vietnam attempt to illegally import fresh mint from Vietnam

UK Border Rejection

08/11/2016 India Salmonella (presence /25g) in betel leaves from India

UK Border Rejection

04/11/2016 UK undeclared sulphite (15; 45 mg/kg - ppm) in caramelised red onion marmalades with chilli and horseradish sauces from the United Kingdom

UK information for attention

02/11/2016 India absence of health certificate(s) and absence of certified analytical report for masala peanuts from India

UK Border Rejection