Health Canada reports on bisphenol A
The safety of bisphenol A (BPA), a substance used in the manufacture of polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins, has been under scrutiny for many years, mainly due to concerns over its estrogen-mimicking properties. Nevertheless, millions of tonnes of BPA are produced every year by several well known chemical companies by condensing acetone with two equivalents of phenol. Health Canada has taken a particularly active position in investigating the dangers, if any, posed by BPA and has recently published three reports on exposure to BPA via bottled water, baby foods in glass jars with metal lids and canned powdered infant formula.
According to extensive notes in Wikipedia, the synthesis of bisphenol A was first reported by A P Dianin in 1891. In the 1930s experiments with rats showed the substance was estrogenic, but it was not until the 1990s that the adverse effects of low dose exposure on laboratory animals was reported. Since then its endocrine disrupting properties have been widely studied with more than 100 papers published which raise health concerns over the use of BPA.
In 2006, the Canadian Government introduced its Chemicals Management Plan (CMP) to review the safety of widely-used chemicals which had been in the marketplace for many years, and to update knowledge and understanding of these chemicals. As part of the CMP, exposure studies on BPA have shown that the general public need not be concerned because, in general, most Canadians are exposed to very low levels of bisphenol A and it is unlikely to pose a health risk. In the case of baby foods packaged in glass jars with metal lids, it is from the plastic liners to the lids that any BPA leaching into the food would occur. The Health Canada study covered 122 baby foods marketed under 7 brands by 6 different companies. Problems with the analytical methods meant that BPA could not be quantified in 23 of the samples purchased. However, concentrations of BPA in most of the baby foods were low. 15% of the products had BPA levels less than the average MDL (method detection limit) of 0.18 ng/g (0.18 ppb). 70% had BPA levels of less than 1.0 ng/g, with the average for all products tested being 0.95 ng/g.
For the canned powdered infant formulae, the survey covered 38 products marketed under 11 brands by 6 different companies. The products were purchased in June 2008 from local grocery stores in Ottawa. Among the 38 products, 31 products were milk based and 7 were soya based. In this case the MDL was 0.13 ng/g, and on this basis all the samples of formulae tested were below this limit.
In the case of bottled water, samples of 54 different bottled water products marketed under 21 brands by 16 companies were purchased in a local store in Ottawa in April 2008. These products covered a variety of water types, such as spring, mineral, flavoured, carbonated and non-carbonated. These products came in various types of containers including glass, metal, high density polyethylene (HDPE), polyethylene terephthalate (PETE) and polycarbonate. In addition, samples from two different brands of bottled water products in polycarbonate carboys in the office area (delivered directly by the producers) were also analysed for BPA. Containers of all polycarbonate bottled water products were the 18.5-L polycarbonate carboys. Results presented by Health Canada showed that levels of BPA in samples from all 51 non-polycarbonate bottled water products were less than the method detection limit of 0.5 µg/L. BPA was detected in 13 of 17 samples from 4 of the 5 different polycarbonate bottled water products. Concentrations of BPA ranged from 0.50 to 8.82 µg/L, with an average of 1.5 µg/L. Since migration of BPA from polycarbonate containers into water at room temperature is very slow, it is likely that the products with higher BPA levels were exposed to heat (e.g. under the sun) during storage and/or transportation.
The full text of all three reports on BPA can be accessed from the following links:
Survey of Bisphenol A in bottled water products
Survey of Bisphenol A in Baby Foods Prepackaged in Glass Jars with Metal Lids
Survey of Bisphenol A in Canned Powdered Infant Formula Products
See also: Food Safety headlines below for link to an article which raises further concerns over another family of chemicals used as plasticisers in many consumers goods, toys and household products – phthalates. These are also endocrine disruptors.
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Omega 3 supplementation during pregnancy may decrease infant allergy
A study published in Acta Paediatrica
by Swedish scientists indicates that omega-3 supplementation of expectant mothers during pregnancy and the first few months of breast feeding may lead to a reduced risk of allergies in their offspring.
Over recent years, allergic diseases have increased and factors which may have contributed to this include environment and choice of foods. The authors of this recent study suggest that decreased omega 6 / omega 3 fatty acid ratios may help decrease the risk of sensitisation. Their aim therefore was to evaluate the effect of omega-3 long chain polyunsaturated fatty acid (LCPUFA) supplementation during pregnancy and lactation on the risk of allergic sensitisation and disease during the first year of life.
Furuhjelm et al recruited 145 Swedish women for the study. Family allergy history was assessed and all the families had at least one parent or older child with either current allergic symptoms or a previous history of them. Food diaries were taken at the 25th gestational week and six months after birth. Maternal blood samples were taken at the start of the study and within one week of delivery. Exposure to tobacco smoke, plus data on breast feeding and food introduction was also collected at 3, 6 and 12 months after delivery. After drop outs and exclusions, 117 children were followed up in accordance with the plan. Women were randomly divided into two groups. One group received supplementation with omega 3 fatty acids, at an amount corresponding to around 100g salmon daily. The other group received a placebo. Supplementation started at the 25th week of gestation and the women were encouraged to continue it throughout pregnancy and lactation. Maternal blood was analysed for immunoglobulin E (IgE) – this being the predominant antibody associated with allergic response- to a series of airborne antigens. Infants were assessed for IgE antibodies toward egg, milk and wheat at 3 and 12 months and skin prick tests were performed on the children for cows’ milk, egg white, and wheat flour at 6 and 12 months.
The researchers indicated that as expected women in the omega 3 group showed significantly higher levels of omega 3 fatty acids EPA and DHA a week after delivery compared to those measured at the start of the study and in women in the placebo group. They found that food allergy during the first year of life of the offspring was significantly less frequent in the omega 3 group compared to the control. The scientists found that the risk of developing a positive skin prick test of any kind, a positive skin prick to egg or IgE associated eczema within the first year was 3 to 4 times less in the omega 3 group and that the risk of developing a food allergy was reduced 10 times in this group compared to the control.
Furuhjelm et al propose several mechanisms for this effect including one in which both EPA and DHA change the fluidity of immune cell membranes and reduce levels of the omega 6 fatty acid arachidonic acid. Inhibition of the metabolism of arachidonic acid may be linked to lower allergic sensitisation and the production of less inflammatory eicosanoids. Other anti-inflammatory effects of both EPA and DHA in early immune development may also involve the actions of bioactive lipids, lipoxins, neuroprotectins and resolvins, but all these require much further research to see if they do, indeed, play a part.
RSSL's Lipids Laboratory has expertise in all aspects of fat analysis and fatty acid profiling, including the determination of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. For more information please contact Customer Services on Freefone 0800 243482 or e-mail enquiries@rssl.com
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Whole grain and hypertension
Previous studies have found an inverse relation between consumption of whole grain foods and incident of hypertension among women. Now a cohort study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition has investigated this relationship amongst men.
Hypertension can cause coronary heart disease, stroke and renal failure as well as morbidity. Flint et al state that this is the first study to report total grams of whole grains in relation to risk of hypertension. Whole grains, contain bran and germ components and provide numerous nutrients including potassium, magnesium, folate, carbohydrates and cereal fibre.
Flint et al used data from the US Health Professionals’ Follow up Study which started in 1986 and is a prospective cohort of 51,529 male health professionals ranging in age from 40-75 years. At baseline and at every two years, participants were asked to provide information on factors such as medical history, dietary intake and lifestyle. The participants were asked if they had been diagnosed with any illnesses including hypertension. They were also provided with a semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire at baseline and every four years subsequently. This included questions on consumption of grain foods such as dark and white bread, cold breakfast cereals, brown and white rice and pasta. Variables which could influence the relation between whole grain intake and hypertension including medical history, nutrient intake, family history of hypertension and lifestyle factors were also provided at baseline and on follow up surveys. For 18 years, 31,684 participants without known hypertension, cancer, stroke, or coronary heart disease were followed through to 2004 for onset of hypertension. Making adjustments for age and total energy intake, Flint et al used statistical methods to show the relation between time-varying whole grain intake and incident hypertension.
They found over the 18 years, 9227 cases of incident hypertension in the 31,684 men. After analysis and adjusting for confounding factors, Flint et al showed that the inverse association between risk of hypertension and whole grain food intake persisted, and that those in the highest consumption group compared to the lowest showed a 19% reduction in the risk of incidence of hypertension. Additionally the researchers found total bran intake was also inversely associated with hypertension with the highest consumption group showing a 15% reduction in risk compared to the lowest. The study authors noted that the inverse association was independent of sodium, alcohol and fruit and vegetable intake and that it also persisted after adjusting for physical activity and multivitamin use. They said that this study with its large cohort and long follow up is in a unique position to expand existing knowledge on the relation between whole grains and hypertension. They also suggest that the real magnitude of the relationship may be stronger than their data shows due to possible measurement errors.
Flint et al state that a number of mechanisms for this effect have been suggested. These included whole grain’s effects in improving insulin sensitivity and endothelial function, and the fact that a high intake of whole grains may diminish the vascular reactivity impairment associated with high fat meals. A diet in whole grains also generally leads to lower weight gains over a period of time, also a factor which is effective in reducing hypertension risk. Overall the authors make the point that in their analyses of whole grain intake from a large on-going prospective cohort study with more 9000 cases of hypertension, whole grains and total bran were inversely associated with new onset hypertension during 18 years of follow up. They claim that these findings have implications for future dietary guidelines and the prevention of hypertension.
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Antioxidant activity and polyphenol content of cocoa powder
A study, reported in the Journal of Food Science, has measured the antioxidant activity, total polyphenols, procyanidin oligomers and flavanol monomers in typical cocoa-containing products and in several commercial cake mixes. To date, little has been known about the effects of common cooking processes on cocoa flavanols and the research sought to determine levels of these health beneficial compounds in chocolate frosting, hot cocoa drinks, chocolate cookies and chocolate cakes made with natural cocoa powder.
In this study, the effect of leavening agents was investigated by substituting baking powder for baking soda, varying the proportions of baking soda and/or baking powder, and testing two different commercial baking powders. Regardless of time and baking temperature, the recoverable levels of antioxidant activity (measured as ORAC (oxygen radical absorbance capacity) values), polyphenols and monomers in the baked chocolate cakes were similar, suggesting that oven temperature was not the key factor in the loss of antioxidants. Replacement of baking soda with increasing amounts of baking powder led to changes in the final baked pH, colour, and the measured antioxidant and flavanol-related chemistries. Baking soda is 100% pure sodium bicarbonate – an alkaline compound, whereas baking powder is a mixture of baking soda and various acidic ingredients. More specifically, the pH of the baked chocolate cakes changed in an orderly way as the ratio of baking powder to baking soda was changed. Closer examination of the procyanidin content showed that the high pH generated by baking soda resulted in substantial loss of the flavanol monomers. Overall, the higher pH generated by baking soda resulted in a 71% to 94% decrease in the flavanol monomers and a 84% decrease in the procyanidins. This was in contrast to essentially no loss in flavanol monomers or procyanidins with the lower pH generated by baking powder. Large recoveries of flavanol monomers were found in some of the cakes made with baking powder or mixtures of baking powder and baking soda.
This is the first study focusing on the fate of antioxidant activity, total polyphenols, flavanol monomers, and procyanidins in heated or baked cocoa-containing products. The results show that the choice of leavening agents and the resultant effect on pH during baking is a key factor in the subsequent levels of antioxidant activity, total polyphenols and flavanol compounds. Baked cake pH in excess of about 7.5 resulted in progressive loss of cocoa flavanol monomers as pH increased with almost complete loss above pH 8.5, accompanied by loss of the procyanidin oligomers. Over 60% of US home cookbook recipes contain baking soda (rather than baking powder) as the sole leavening agent as do many, but not all, commercial cake mixes surveyed at local grocery stores. Ideally, the authors say, using a leavening agent which raises the pH to no more than 7.25 results in both good leavening properties and the preservation of cocoa flavanols and procyanidins.
RSSL’S Functional Ingredients Laboratory has a validated ORAC method which can be used to test the antioxidant capacity of foods. It is hoped the service will be available within the next few weeks. For more information please contact Customer Services on Freefone 0800 243482 or e-mail enquiries@rssl.com
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Folate may reduce risk of colorectal cancer in women
A research team based at several academic institutions in Korea has found that women with a high intake of folate were 66% and 70% less likely to suffer from cancer of the colon and rectum, respectively. Close scrutiny of the data collected from 596 men and women with colorectal cancer and a similar number of matched controls who were free of the disease, showed that a similar benefit was not seen in men.
Folate is a B-vitamin found in green leafy vegetables and legumes such as chick peas and lentils. Folate deficiency has been linked to neural tube defects in infants, so that in several countries including the USA and Canada mandatory fortification programmes are in place. In May 2007 the UK’s Food Standards Agency Board agreed unanimously that 'mandatory fortification' with folic acid should be introduced, alongside controls on voluntary fortification and advice on the use of supplements. But subsequently the publication of two studies which suggested that folic acid might increase the risk of colorectal cancer (CRC), brought plans for fortification to a standstill.
The study by Kim et al., published in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition (online 24/06/09, doi: 10.1038/ejcn.2009.37) showed that participants with CRC were likely to have a family history of the disease amongst close relatives, to consume more alcohol, be smokers and be less likely to participate in vigorous exercise. In the overall data for men and women combined, when comparing the highest quartile of dietary folate intake with the lowest, those with the highest intakes were found to be 53%, 58% and 52% less likely to develop colorectal, colon or rectal cancers. However, when the data were analysed by gender, they showed that only in the women was there an inverse relationship between dietary folate intake and a reduction in colon and rectal cancers.
Discussing the current work in NutraIngredients.com (06/07/09) Stephen Daniells mentions that whilst the vast majority of studies show folate has a protective effect against colorectal cancers, a few studies have linked folic acid intakes to an increased risk of the disease. A possible explanation of the contradictory results may lie in the difference between the synthetic and natural forms of the vitamin. Folic acid is not a naturally occurring form although it is used by food and pharmaceutical companies for fortification and in supplements. In an article in the April 2009 issue of Nutrition Reviews, Dr Joel Mason from the USDA Human Nutrition Research Center on Ageing at Tufts University explored this subject in greater depth. He indicated that although folic acid was converted to 5-methyltetrahydrofolate, the natural form of the vitamin, it is possible that high oral doses of folic acid may overwhelm this conversion pathway, leaving measureable doses of folic acid in the blood. Therefore, in the presence of pre-cancerous or cancerous tumours, the excess folic acid may actually facilitate the promotion of cancer.
RSSL's Functional Ingredients Laboratory provides vitamin analysis in a wide range of matrices including drinks, fortified foods, pre-mixes and multi-vitamin tablets. RSSL is one of the few laboratories in the UK to have a Biacore Q instrument, enabling rapid testing of B12, folic acid and biotin. It also provides a full vitamin and mineral analysis service to assist with labelling, due diligence, claim substantiation and stability.
For more information please contact Customer Services on Freefone 0800 243482 or e-mail enquiries@rssl.com
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Umami taste receptor
Dr Paul Breslin and colleagues at the Monell Chemical Senses Center, US, have taken another step forward in their understanding of the receptors which produce the savoury umami taste, a taste which is particularly associated with L-glutamate salts such as monosodium glutamate (MSG).
In their introduction, Quing-Ying Cheng et al. outline how three genes for the TAS1R family of taste receptors reside in a cluster on human chromosome1. Proteins encoded for by these genes function as heteromeric taste receptors: TAS1R2 plus TAS1R3 sense sugar and other sweeteners, while TAS1R1 plus TAS1R3 sense amino acids. Cheng’s present study was designed to find out whether TAS1R genetic variants could be related to umami taste perception. To do this, the scientists first conducted a psychophysical investigation of umami sensitivity in 242 subjects, who were asked to discriminate between sodium chloride and MSG. Ten of these subjects, 5 sensitive and 5 insensitive completed further tests of glutamate sensitivity.
Next the authors fully sequenced the coding regions of genomic TAS1R1 and TAS1R3 genes for 87 white individuals, mainly of Dutch origin, who were phenotyped for their responses to monopotassium glutamate (MPG). This was achieved by assessing their sensitivity to five concentrations of MPG - 25, 50, 75, 100 and 200 mmol/L. (Monopotassium glutamate, rather than monosodium glutamate was used to avoid introducing the salty taste of the sodium ion). By comparing MPG sensitivity with their DNA codes, the Monell team were able to find three polymorphisms on the TAS1R3 gene which were linked to increased sensitivity to glutamate. An in vitro study, using the response of human embryonic kidney (HEK) T cells to a mixture of glutamate and inosine monophosphate (IMP) confirmed the potential role of the TAS1R1-TAS1R3 heteromeric receptor in the umami taste.
On the basis of their findings, the authors concluded that there were variations in the degree to which individuals sensed the umami taste and that this was correlated with variations in the human TAS1R3 gene. (Summary in FoodNavigator.com (09/07/09); full text in American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, ahead of print 08/07/09. doi:10.3945/ajcn.2009.27462N.)
RSSL's Product and Ingredient Innovation Division, has considerable expertise in developing a wide range of food and drink products at a laboratory and pilot scale. For more information please contact Customer Services on Freefone 0800 243482 or e-mail enquiries@rssl.com
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Results from two studies involving docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), both indicated that this omega-3 fatty acid was not effective in slowing cognitive decline in mild to moderate cases of Alzheimer’s disease nor in arresting age related cognitive decline in healthy older people. They were presented to the Annual Conference of the Alzheimer’s Association, held recently in Vienna, Austria.
The first study was the Alzheimer’s disease Cooperative Study (ADCS) supported by the US National Institute on Ageing and led by Dr Joseph Quinn and his team based at Oregon Health and Sciences University. They carried out a double blind, randomised, placebo controlled clinical trial comparing the effects of 2g/d DHA with a placebo in 402 people (average age = 76) diagnosed with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease. At the beginning of the trial all the participants had a dietary DHA intake of less than 200 mg/day. The trial lasted 18 months, and those who were already taking drugs to treat Alzheimer’s disease continued to take them. Outcomes measured were the rate of change in the Alzheimer’s disease assessment scale-cognitive (ADAS-cog) and in the Clinical Dementia Scale-sum (CDR-SOB). Study participants were also tested to see if they carried the E4 version of the ApoE gene, since ApoE4 increases the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease, but does not appear to modify the rate of disease progression. Results showed that DHA treatment made no difference to ADAS-cog or CDR-SOB scores or to those with the ApoE4 gene variant. However, in those without the ApoE4 gene there was a slower rate of decline in the primary test for mental function (ADAS-cog).
Martek Biosciences produces algal DHA for use in supplementation, and its scientists carried out the MIDAS (Memory Improvement with DHA) Study. This was a 6-month, double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled, multi-center study in which 485 healthy older people (average age = 70) received 900 mg/day of algal DHA. The primary outcome measured was a change from baseline in the CANTAB Paired Associate Learning (PAL), a visuospatial episodic memory test. Results showed that after 6 months, subjects taking the DHA made significantly fewer errors in PAL compared to when they started. They also had a reduction in heart rate and an increase in plasma phospholipid DHA levels. Plasma levels of Alzheimer’s related proteins Abeta 1-40, 1-42 and hs-CRP were not significantly different in the supplemented and control groups. (Alzheimer's and Dementia, July 2009, 5 (4): Supplement 1: P84. doi:10.1016/j.jalz.2009.05.215. Summary in Eurekalert.org 12/07/09).
RSSL's Lipids Laboratory has expertise in all aspects of fat analysis and fatty acid profiling, including the determination of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. For more information please contact Customer Services on Freefone 0800 243482 or e-mail enquiries@rssl.com
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Product recalls and alerts
**KTC (Edibles) Ltd withdraws some flour
**From Ireland
**From Australia and New Zealand
**From Canada
**From the US
**European Rapid Alerts for week 28
**Links to recall web sites
**Recall web sites for halal and kosher foods
**KTC (Edibles) Ltd withdraws some flour
KTC (Edibles) Ltd is withdrawing some of its Golden Tropics Cocoyam Fufu Flour and Plantain Fufu Flour, because the products contain sodium bisulphite, which is not clearly mention on the product labels. This makes these products a possible health risk for anyone who is sensitive to sulphites. The Food Standards Agency has issued an Allergy Alert.
**From Ireland
Salmonella has been detected in a batch of sesame seeds, supplied via the UK to three retail chains (Supervalu, Superquinn, Tesco Ireland) in the Republic of Ireland. The batches have been withdrawn from sale by the supermarkets but consumers who may have already purchased the seeds should not eat the seeds, and should dispose of them or return them to the supermarket.
**From Australia and New Zealand
Hubbard Foods Limited have recalled certain Hubbards Yours Fruitfully Natural Muesli (650g), as the product may contain traces of peanuts and almonds which are not identified on the package labelling.
Global Castle Pty Ltd is conducting a voluntary recall of certain Ready to Eat Meal (Shelf Stable) due to it containing undeclared gluten.
**From Canada
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) and Metro Ontario Inc. are warning people with allergies to milk not to consume certain Master Choice brand frozen Garlic and Herb Baguettes. The affected products contain milk which is not declared on the label.
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) is warning people with allergies to milk, eggs, or tree nuts (almond, hazelnut) not to consume various Crown, Lotte, and Surasang brands of snack foods. These products contain allergens which are not declared on the labels.
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) is warning the public not to consume various product because these products may be contaminated with Salmonella. These foods contain dry milk ingredients that have been recalled in the U.S. by Plainview Milk Products Cooperative, Plainview, Minnesota due to Salmonella contamination.
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) and Treasure Mills Bakery are warning people with allergies to milk not to consume certain Treasure Mills brand Brownie Bars. The affected product contains milk which is not declared on the label.
**From the US
Nutrition Global LLC of Milford, Connecticut is recalling certain batches of SNI Pro Whey, SNI Pro Mass and Sci Labs Mass Fuzion Dietary Supplement bearing certain LOT number because the products contain instant non-fact dry milk manufactured by the Plainview Milk Products Cooperative.
Sturm Foods, Inc announced a voluntary recall of several brands of one-quart instant nonfat dry milk. This recall is a precautionary measure due the voluntary recall of instant nonfat dry milk announced by the supplier of the instant nonfat dry milk, Plainview Milk Products Cooperative on June 29, 2009.
The ‘G Collection’ Mother’s Day and Valentine’s Day gift boxes that were available for purchase during limited holiday timeframes in 2009 are being recalled by Godiva Chocolatier, the distributor of the G Collection. This recall is being issued because one chocolate piece in the G Collection - the Praline Crunch – contains a dry nonfat milk ingredient purchased from Plainview Milk Products Cooperative.
Diamond Crystal Brands Inc. of Savannah, Ga., is recalling products containing nonfat dry milk because its supplier, Plainview Milk Products Cooperative, Plainview, Minn., warned the company of a possible Salmonella contamination.
Country Creations is recalling packets of frosting because they have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella.
**European Rapid Alerts for week 28
The results of rapid alerts for week 28 (up to 10/7/2009) are now available on the Europa web site.
**Links to recall web sites
For UK product recalls visit the Food Standards Agency’s Food Alerts and Allergy Alert web sites.
For US product recalls visit the USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) or the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) web sites.
For product recalls in Australia and New Zealand visit the FSANZ web site.
For Canada go to The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA)
For Ireland go to the Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI).
**Recall web sites for halal and kosher foods
Food e-News does not cover product recalls and mislabelling alerts for Kosher or Halal products. If you need information on these please go to the London Beth Din Kashrut Division where there is a facility on the home page to access the kosher alerts system. For US Kosher alerts please go to Kashrut.com and follow the link labelled 'Consumer Kashrut Alerts' for Kosher alerts. For Halal alerts go to the Muslim Consumer Group web site, which also outlines the criteria used to judge if products are halal or not.
RSSL's Emergency Response Service (ERS) helps customers deal with a wide range of product emergencies and offers advice on crisis management. It operates 24 hours a day and 365 days a year. To request an ERS presentation or find out more please contact Customer Services on Freefone 0800 243482 or e-mail enquiries@rssl.com
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Food safety
**Nestle restart cookie dough production after E. coli scare
**FDA publishes new regulation for eggs
**65 die in Gujarat due to illicit home-brew consumption
**Great Lakes fish may show high levels of toxins
**BPA found in jarred baby food and water from polycarbonate bottles
**Nutritionist offered bizarre advice
**Toxin detection biosensor on paper
**FSA responds to Wales E. coli outbreak report
**Phthalates linked to low birth weight in Chinese newborns
**UK National Reference Laboratory Annual Report published
**Testing of contaminated sunflower oil from Ukraine
**Buying foods for children with nut allergies
**Animal diseases updates and food poisoning outbreaks
**The Food Safety Network
**Nestle restart cookie dough production after E. coli scare
Nestle USA have restarted production of cookie dough in the plant in Virginia after the FDA failed to find E. coli at the plant. The company recalled dough after the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said it was connected with illness in at least 72 people countrywide. Although the FDA found E. coli in a sample of refrigerated dough, it did not match the strain in the outbreak. The FDA has said that they think it now unlikely that the source will be found although they suggested that flour was the most plausible source. Nestle indicate that they have dismantled and tested all their machinery and although they say they discovered two minor issues a spokesman was quoted as saying that neither is believed to have any relationship to the presence of E. coli O157:H7 and that both have been corrected. Nestle also said they had replaced all their stockpiled ingredients. (Food Quality News)
**FDA publishes new regulation for eggs
The US FDA has published a regulation aimed at reducing Salmonella in eggs and so making them safer to eat. The regulation requires egg producers to register with the FDA, and to maintain a prevention plan and records showing their adherence to the regulation. The industry is expected to take specific measures to keep eggs safe during production, storage and transport. The FDA says they introduced this regulation as Salmonella infected eggs are estimated to cause over 140,000 illnesses in the US each year. The new regulation applies to producers with more than 3000 laying hens, which is said to include over 99% of US egg producers, and the FDA hope that it will prevent 79000 illnesses and 30 deaths per year. (FDA)
**65 die in Gujarat due to illicit home-brew consumption
65 people have died and another 23 are fighting for their lives in Ahmadabad, the main city in Gujarat state, India, after drinking illicit home-brewed alcohol. Police said 32 people have been arrested in connection with the brewing and distribution of the drink. Deaths in India from illegally brewed alcohol appear to be common and the drink is often spiked with chemicals or pesticides to make it stronger. Gujarat prohibits the sale of all alcohol and this intensifies the problem. Police have indicated that in this incident, the alleged brewer, his son and another relative all consumed the home-brew to prove it was good quality after some complaints about its taste and have reported that all three died in hospital. (Sky News)
**Great Lakes fish may show high levels of toxins
A report from advocacy group Environmental Defence says that fish from the Great Lakes may show high levels of toxins and that the situation has not improved over the past four years. The report examined advisories published by the Ontario Ministry of Environment for eight fish species caught in 13 locations across the lakes. It claims that many fish were found to be partly or completely unfit for human consumption and that the toxins included mercury, dioxins and pesticides. Fish from Lake Ontario had the highest contamination while those from Lake Superior had the lowest. The report urged governments to update the Canada-U.S. Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement which was last revised in 1978 and said immediate action was required. An Ontario Ministry of the Environment spokesman said they would examine the report’s recommendations. Jeremy Holden, fisheries biologist for the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters, however, is quoted as saying that there is a lot of good news that is being overshadowed and confirmed that there are also a lot of healthy fish in the Great Lakes. (Canadian Press).
**NHS Nutritionist offered bizarre possibly dangerous advice
An NHS Nutritionist employed to cover maternity leave was reported to managers after the returning nutritionist sat in on one of her consultations. Concerned by this, she examined patient files and found many examples of peculiar advice. Katie Peck is said to have recommended a bizarre range of foods to diabetic patients with no apparent clinical motive. A disciplinary panel has heard than most advice was harmless but for two diabetic patients, it was allegedly dangerous. It is also alleged that Miss Peck, who faces disciplinary charges in relation to 27 patients, banned mashed potato and alcohol, said water should be filtered and recommended specific brands of a number of foods. An HPC spokesman is quoted as saying that Katie Peck's fitness to practise was impaired by reason of lack of competence. Miss Peck denies any wrongdoing and the hearing continues. (Daily Mail)
**Toxin detection biosensor on paper
A paper published in Analytical Chemistry describes a method for printing a toxin-detecting biosensor on paper using a FujiFilm Dimatix Materials Printer. Similar to a home pregnancy test strip, the researcher used a lateral flow sensing approach by detecting acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitors such as paraoxon (active metabolite of the insecticide parathion) and aflatoxin B1. The method uses biocompatible silica nanoparticles which are firstly deposited on paper, followed by a second ink containing the enzyme, and the resulting bio-ink forms a thin film of enzyme that is encapsulated in the silica on paper. The ink then changes colour when it is exposed to a toxin. According to the article in Science Daily the bioactive paper provides a rapid, portable, disposable and cheap way of detecting substances, including toxins, pathogens and viruses (Science Daily)
**FSA responds to Wales E. coli outbreak report
The Food Standards Agency has responded to Professor Hugh Pennington’s report on the fatal E. coli outbreak in Wales in 2005. The response to the report, which will be considered by the FSA’s board next week, notes improvements already made in food hygiene since the outbreak. It also details additional measures the FSA is due to take to ensure the recommendations aimed at the Agency in the original report are fully met. (FSA).
**Phthalates linked to low birth weight in Chinese newborns
Research detailed in the Journal of Pediatrics (in press, doi:10.1016/j.jpeds.2009.04.007) at two Chinese Universities and the Population Council studied 201 pairs of newborns and their mothers between 2005 and 2006. Of these, 88 were born with low birth weight. Maternal blood, cord blood and meconium samples were taken and analysed for phthalates. More than 70% of the samples collected contained quantifiable levels of phthalates, with higher levels in samples obtained from the low birth weight infants than the normal weight ones. Phthalates are used in certain food contact materials, but in the EU cannot be used in toys for children under the age of three which may be put in the mouth.
**UK National Reference Laboratory Annual Report published
The first annual report of the UK National Reference Laboratory (NRL) for contaminants in food and animal feed has been published. The NRL, which is appointed by the Food Standards Agency, helps to set European Union standards for routine procedures and reliable testing methods in food and feed.
**Testing of contaminated sunflower oil from Ukraine
In April 2008 France reported to the European Commission’s rapid alert system for food and feed (RASFF) the presence of mineral oil in sunflower oil imported from the Ukraine. The Commission subsequently promulgated Commission Decision 2008/433/EC of 10 June 2008 which imposed special conditions on the import of sunflower oil originating in or consigned from the Ukraine. Since then the Joint Research Centre (JRC) Institute for Reference Materials and Measurements (IRMM) has tested 55 analytical laboratories from 17 EU Member States plus Switzerland and Ukraine to determine their capability to measure levels of the contaminant. The test results are now available and show that around 80% of laboratories performed satisfactorily. Test samples comprising both naturally-contaminated and 'spiked' sunflower oil were dispatched to the laboratories, which then had to measure these blind samples using their in-house methods of analysis. The JRC analysed the results, and determined that between 78% and 85% of the laboratories were able to carry out the tests satisfactorily, depending on the test material. The full report can be downloaded from the JRC web site. (Flex-News.com 13/07/09).
**Buying foods for children with nut allergies
The Anaphylaxis Campaign’s latest news alert concerns a survey of parents, asking for information about their habits when shopping for foods for children with nut allergies. Results reported show that more than 80% of responders would avoid a product labelled “may contain nuts” or “not suitable for nut allergy sufferers”. However, only 60% of parents avoid a product labelled “may contain traces of nuts” or “cannot guarantee this is nut free”. Only 40% would avoid “this product does not contain any nuts but is made in a factory that uses nuts.” The attitudes of parents whose children had suffered a significant allergic reaction appeared to be no different to those where the child had a positive skin prick test to nut but had not reacted.
**Animal diseases updates and food poisoning outbreaks
Regular global updates on food poisoning outbreaks and animal diseases, such as avian influenza, foot and mouth, Ebola, SARS, and Anthrax can be found on the International Society for Infectious Diseases ‘ProMED-mail’ web site.
**The Food Safety Network
The International Food Safety Network (iFSN) at Kansas State University provides research, commentary, policy evaluation and public information on food safety issues. An international repository of food safety-related information, FSN offers consumer, student and industry outreach services, information research, on-line resources, collaborative projects, evaluation and analysis, and a capacity to address current and emerging food safety concerns.
RSSL's scientists are able to assist food businesses to manage food safety issues more effectively. The laboratories have considerable experience in the detection and identification of foreign bodies, heavy metals, allergens, toxins and chemical residues. For more information on any of these services and RSSL's Emergency Response Service, please contact Customer Services on Freefone 0800 243482 or e-mail enquiries@rssl.com
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Legislation headlines
**EU health claim approvals face delay
**Canada protects families with bisphenol A regulations
**FDA takes action against dietary supplement and protein powder manufacturers
**US qualified health claims for selenium
**TSG application for Kabanosy
**TSG application for ‘Kiełbasa Jałowcowa’
**TSG application for ‘Kiełbasa Mysliwsja’
**PGI application for Farine De Blé Noir De Bretagne
**PDO application for ‘Irpinia — Colline Dell’ufita
**PDO application for ‘Aceite Campo De Montiel’
**FSANZ consults on food safety regulations for seed sprouts
**Latest reports and opinions from the EFSA
**EU health claim approvals face delay
The European Commission has admitted it will miss its deadline of 31 January 2010 for approving an EU-wide list of allowable health claims for food products. Brussels blamed the unexpectedly "high number" of 44,000 submitted claims, whose lengthy processing was further delayed by Member States compiling applications in different ways. The Commission consolidated these into 4,000 claims before passing them to the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) for assessment - mandatory under the EU's new health claims legislation. EFSA will now only publish its opinions, which must come before the Commission approves its final list of approved claims, in batches starting September. (Quoted direct from Just-Food.com 14/07/09).
**Canada protects families with bisphenol A regulations
On 26 June 2009, the Canadian Government announced that it is moving forward with proposed regulations to prohibit the advertisement, sale and importation of polycarbonate plastic baby bottles that contain bisphenol A, otherwise known as BPA. The aim is to reduce newborn and infant exposure to this substance.
**FDA takes action against dietary supplement and protein powder manufacturers
The US Department of Justice, on behalf of the US Food and Drug Administration, has filed a complaint for permanent injunction against Quality Formulation Laboratories, Inc., American Sports Nutrition Inc., Sports Nutrition International LLC and Mohamed S. Desoky, who oversees operations at all three companies. The companies, located in Paterson, N.J., manufacture dietary supplements and protein powders and distribute them throughout the United States. The companies also export powder mixes and dietary supplements for sale by private label customers. The government's complaint alleges that the companies have failed to follow current Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) by manufacturing and storing food under filthy conditions and in conditions that may cause major food allergens to enter into products not intended to contain them. The complaint also alleges that the companies failed to disclose major food allergens on the product labels and have other labelling problems
**US qualified health claims for selenium
NutraIngredients-usa.com (23/06/09) reports that the US Food and Drug Administration has agreed to allow the use of certain, very qualified health claims linking selenium to a reduced risk of bladder, prostate and thyroid cancer. However, the FDA said the credible scientific evidence for these health benefits is very limited so the claims would need to contain significant qualifying language.
**TSG application for Kabanosy
An application has been made for a traditional speciality guaranteed (TSG) for ‘Kabanosy’ , which are long, thin sticks of dry sausage twisted off at one end and evenly wrinkled. The sticks are folded in two and in the curve there is an indent where they were hung.
**TSG application for ‘Kiełbasa Jałowcowa’
An application has been made for a traditional speciality guaranteed (TSG) for ‘Kiełbasa Jałowcowa’ which is a smoked, cured pork sausage, which has the appearance of an evenly wrinkled stick in the form of a garland. It has a characteristic whorl shape, without external longitudinal creases.
**TSG application for ‘Kiełbasa Mysliwsja’
An application has been made for a traditional speciality guaranteed for ‘Kiełbasa Myśliwska’, which is a sausage that is short, dark brown in colour and has an evenly wrinkled surface (free of lengthwise depressions). Its appearance is that of sticks bent into a crescent shape, usually divided into ‘pairs’ (unseparated at the twist-off point), of around 15 cm in length and over 32 mm in diameter.
**PGI application for Farine De Blé Noir De Bretagne
An application has been made for protected geographical indication (PGI) for ‘Farine De Blé Noir De Bretagne’ or ‘Farine De Blé Noir De Bretagne — Gwinizh Du Breizh, which is a flour obtained by grinding seeds of buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum), a plant traditionally grown in Brittany. The variety used is silvery black la Harpe and/or Tetra Harpe.
**PDO application for ‘Irpinia — Colline Dell’ufita
An application has been made for a protected designation of origin for ‘Irpinia — Colline Dell’ufita. This is a type of extra virgin olive oil.
**PDO application for ‘Aceite Campo De Montiel’
An application has been made for a protected designation of origin (PDO) for ‘Aceite Campo De Montiel’, which is an extra-virgin olive oil obtained from the fruit of the olive tree of the Cornicabra, Picual, Manzanilla, Arbequina and local varieties by mechanical processes or other physical means that do not lead to deterioration of the oil, conserving the taste, aroma and characteristics of the fruit from which it is obtained.
**FSANZ consults on food safety regulations for seed sprouts
Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) has invited individuals and organisations with an interest in the regulation of food to provide information and comment on a proposal to develop measures to maximise seed sprouts safety. The proposal is considering the development of a food safety standard for the production of seed sprouts (e.g. alfalfa, mung beans) for human consumption in Australia. Such a standard would be incorporated into the Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code. Submissions should reach FSANZ by Wednesday 26 August 2009.
**Latest reports and opinions from the EFSA
New project to study the effect of climate change on aflatoxin B1 in cereals EFSA has launched a call for proposals to study the potential increase in aflatoxin B1 in cereals in the EU as a result of climate change. Aflatoxin B1 is a mycotoxin produced by moulds which grow on certain cereals including maize, wheat and rice. It is particularly prevalent in hot and humid climates and is carcinogenic. Scientific organisations designated by the EU Member States have until 7 September 2009 to submit proposals.
EFSA publishes its first report on pesticide residues in food
The Annual Report on Pesticide Residues published today provides an overview on the pesticide residues in food observed throughout EU during 2007 and assesses the exposure of consumers through their diets. The report showed that the majority of the 74.000 samples complied with the legal maximum residue levels of pesticides.
EFSA advises on welfare of dairy cows
Poor dairy cow welfare is manifested in the form of lameness and mastitis, as well as reproductive, metabolic and behavioural disorders. The EFSA’s (European Food Safety Authority) panel on Animal Health and Welfare (AHAW) has investigated the factors that affect the welfare of diary cows and have concluded that long-term genetic selection for higher milk yield and the nature of the farming systems used – i.e. housing, equipment, management and handling practices – are major factors affecting the health and welfare of dairy cows. Over the last thirty years genetic selection for higher milk yield has changed the body shape and increased the size of dairy cows, therefore increasing their requirement for space. The panel has recommended that the design of resting, walking and feeding areas in the buildings should allow for sufficient movement and exercise. The panel also concluded that the incidence of mastitis could be reduced not just by treatment, but also by improving the animals’ immune systems through minimising stress factors and appropriate nutrition.
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Other headlines
**ASA adjudicates on KFC TV advert
**Eating fish good for humans but not good for the planet
**Detection of walnut residues using ELISA.
**Dental disease provides marker for other chronic diseases
**Scientists closer to developing salt-tolerant crops
**Anti-cancer patent granted to Ocean Spray Cranberries
**Xylitol good for preventing tooth decay
**Caloric restriction lengthens lifespan of monkeys
**ASA adjudicate on Arla Foods advert
**Chinese consumed fish 40,000 years ago
**ASA adjudicates on KFC TV advert
The Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) received 20 complaints about a TV advert for Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC), because viewers thought that it was misleading since it implied that the chicken was delivered fresh daily, also that the advert implied that the chicken was grilled rather than fried. However, the ASA generally felt that the advert was not misleading, except with respect to the frequency of deliveries, where it agreed the advert gave the impression that deliveries were more frequent than they were.
**Eating fish good for humans but not good for the planet.
Some companies have recently increased their commitment to sustainably-sourced fish. However, at the same time, fish supplies are under increasing pressure as consumers are urged to eat more fish for health reasons, oily fish being particularly beneficial. For instance, Greenpeace states that if suggested intake levels are met, fish consumption would increase by over 40%. However, the environmental group points out that fish stocks are already in crisis globally and that any advice related to eating fish needs to take that into account. In response, the FSA have added a message relating to sustainability, indicating that they will not be changing the recommendation that people need to eat two portions a week, one of which should be oily. The FSA will, however, be providing more information to help people make a more sustainable choices. Research suggests that consumers are less interested in sustainable fish supplies, than in the positive health benefits of eating fish. Much more information on these issues at Just-food.com (09/07/09)
** Detection of walnut residues using ELISA.
An ELISA method has been developed to detect the presence of walnuts using sheep anti-walnut serum as the capture reagent and rabbit anti-walnut serum as part of the detection system. The ELISA has been validated using known amounts of walnut (0-100ppm) in several food matrices, testing almost 100 foods and ingredients. The ELISA gave recoveries of 1 to 100ppm walnut ranging from 71.6% to 119% ±7% to 16.5%, with a detection limit of 1ppm, and minimal cross-reactivity, (with the exception of pecan.) The ELISA can be used to detect undeclared walnut residues in foods and ingredients and as a tool to validate the effectiveness of allergen control programs for walnuts. (Journal of Food Science, 10/06/09)
**Dental disease provides marker for other chronic diseases
High-glycemic diets which cause dental problems may also be bad for your body according to Dr Philippe P. Hujoel of University of Washington. In the last twenty years, people have been encouraged to consume fermentable dietary carbohydrates, which include items like bananas, sticky fruits and starchy potatoes, in the belief that a high carbohydrate diet helps to prevent systemic chronic diseases. Cutting down on dietary fats and increasing carbohydrate intake has also been amongst health recommendations in recent years. Indeed Hujoel says such dietary recommendations have taken precedence over adverse dental health effects, with dental problems seen as fixable with fluoride, sealants, oral hygiene, antimicrobials and dental fillings. However, Hujoel is of the opinion that dental disease shares a common cause with a number of chronic diet-related diseases, and that restricting intakes of fermentable carbohydrates could have benefits for both dental health and the prevention of systemic health problems. ( Science daily 12/07/09); full text in Journal of Dental Research ).
**Scientists closer to developing salt-tolerant crops
An team of scientists based at the University of Adelaide in Australia has developed salt-tolerant crops using a new type of genetic modification. The method, which works by confining salt to specific regions of the plant where it will do least damage, increases the plants tolerance to salinity and has brought the possibility of salt-tolerant cereal crops a step closer. With the effect of salinity being felt in agriculture worldwide, the belief is that this new development could have a huge impact on world food production, particularly in irrigated land, where one third of the world's food is produced. (Inge S. Moller et al, July 2009 Plant cell )
**Anti-cancer patent granted to Ocean Spray Cranberries
Isolated cranberry seed oil and its components, in a form suitable for use as a foodstuff, dietary supplement, or pharmaceutical composition, are the subject of US Patent 7,517,540. It is claimed that the isolated cranberry seed oil or compositions comprising one or a combination of its components can be used as anticancer, hypocholesterolemic, antithrombotic, antioxidizing, antiatherogenic, anti-inflammatory, and immunoregulatory agents. In addition, the invention features novel methods of extracting cranberry seed oil from cranberry seeds in a form suitable for adding to foodstuffs, dietary supplements, or pharmaceutical compositions. The first claim relates to a method for treating or reducing the occurrence of breast cancer in a subject comprising the step of administering to said subject a therapeutically-effective amount of a foodstuff, dietary supplement or pharmaceutical composition comprising a cranberry seed oil extract substantially free of impurities and enriched for gamma.-tocotrienol, wherein gamma.-tocotrienol is present in an amount of about 1505 mg/kg or more.
**Xylitol good for preventing tooth decay
According the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) about 28% of all American toddlers and pre-school children are affected by tooth decay. So the results of a study by a research group at the University of Washington led by Peter Milgrom are particularly welcome, since they have suggested that formulating products containing xylitol can be very effective in reducing the occurrence of caries in very young children. 94 children aged 9 – 15 months were divided into three groups. Two groups received 8 g/day of xylitol in either two or three doses. A third group received a single dose of 2.67 g of xylitol/day. After about 10 months of study, results showed that in the group receiving 8 g/day in two doses, 24.2% of the children had tooth decay, while in the group receiving three doses/day the figure was 40.6%. In the children given a single dose of 2.67 g/day, 51.7% had tooth decay. More details at NutraIngredients.com 07/07/09).
**Caloric restriction lengthens lifespan of monkeys
Many news sources report on a 20-year study at the University of Wisconsin on rhesus monkeys, whose lifespan has been extended by keeping them on a severely calorie-restricted diet. The research involved 76 monkeys split into two groups one of which ate a calorie-restricted diet and the other group a normal diet. Those on the normal diet were three times more likely to develop age-related illnesses such as cancer and cardiovascular diseases. More at BBC Health News. See also: Food e-News Edition 444 which discussed the latest work carried out at the Salk Institute in California, US on the roundworm (Caenorhabditis elegans) has identified a pivotal role for two enzymes which work together. The enzymes are referred to as WWP-1 (a ubiquitin ligase) and UBC-18 (a ubiquitin conjugating enzyme). These enzymes appeared to be responsible for prolonging the life of worms kept on a low calorie diet.
**Chinese consumed fish 40,000 years ago
The isotopic analysis of a bone from one of the earliest modern humans in Asia, the 40,000 year old skeleton from Tianyuan Cave in China, by an international team of researchers shows that freshwater fish was already an important part of the diet of early humans. Carbon and nitrogen isotope analysis of the protein collagen extracted from the skeleton indicated a diet high in animal protein. Additionally, comparing the sulphur isotope values of terrestrial and freshwater animals from around the area to those in the skeleton indicated that the individual regularly consumed freshwater fish. More on this story at ScienceDaily.com
**ASA adjudicate on Arla Foods advert
A complainant to the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) suggested that an advertisement for Arla Food’s Lactofree intended for lactose intolerance people, discouraged essential treatment from a suitably qualified medical practitioner, and misleadingly implied elimination diets were safe and easy. However, the ASA did not agree and did not uphold the complaint. The full text of the adjudication can be downloaded from the ASA web site.
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