FDA to increase oversight of baby formula supplies | UK regulators want more disclosure of potential allergens | Ginkgo Bioworks to help Vivici make dairy proteins
Recent successful food safety conferences in Australia and New Zealand showed "new bonds of commitment to support excellence" in the industry, writes Damien Alexander, SQFI's business development representative for the region. CISRO hosted the Australian meeting at its West Melbourne facility, while Merieux sponsored in New Zealand's gathering at the University of Auckland.
The FDA has established the Office of Critical Foods, which will oversee products, including infant formula, and increase inspections in that area. The agency also is backing efforts to improve reporting and scientific oversight of Cronobacter sakazakii illnesses associated with powdered formula.
The UK's Food Standards Authority is developing guidelines for how potential allergens should be disclosed, both in written materials and expectations of conversations between patrons and establishments that serve food. The FSA's recommendations will be presented to the country's ministers.
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Vivici will use Ginkgo Bioworks' generative AI platform and production services to produce sustainable alternatives to dairy proteins that taste the same as animal-derived dairy products. Ginkgo will help Vivici design micro-organisms that produce proteins through fermentation.
The percentage of people who say their primary grocer is "on my side" when it comes to staying healthy rose 4% from last year to 50%, according to The Power of Health and Well-Being in the Food Industry report from FMI -- The Food Industry Association. Food retailers can support this idea by using Front of Pack Nutrition labeling tools like Facts Up Front and calling on the expertise of registered dietitian nutritionists.
The New Jersey state government has partnered with two hospitals to send mobile grocery stores to underserved communities in Atlantic City, which surprisingly has no grocery stores. The Eat Well program sells food for 30% to 50% below retail prices, including fresh produce and seafood.
Check out the SQF Guidance, Tip Sheets and Checklists page for new updates including the new macro-enabled checklists -- an easily printable, customizable tool offered by SQFI for your internal audits and annual SQF audit. Interested? You can download a free sample macro-enabled checklist to test its functionality.
