June 26, 2024 commemorates 50 years since the monumental debut of the first Universal Product Code (UPC) barcode scan. While the UPC has endured for 50 years, new two-dimensional (2D) barcodes, such as QR codes powered by GS1, are emerging on product packaging with a range of benefits.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has sent a warning letter to Bimbo Bakeries USA Inc. for listing “contains” statements for major food allergens on the labels of products that do not actually contain the listed allergens. The warning letter follows an FDA statement denouncing a trend of food manufacturers attempting to circumvent allergen cross-contamination requirements by exploiting loopholes around “may contain” label statements.

Kerry recently celebrated the opening of a new BSL-2-certified Food Protection and Preservation Lab at the company’s Beloit Innovation Center in in Beloit, Wisconsin.

A recent study of canned tuna packed in oil and sold in Europe revealed toxic chemicals bisphenol A (BPA) and/or glycidol in all of the analyzed tuna products. Mercury and 3-MCPD were not found at levels high enough to cause concern.

In collaboration with supply chain partners, ExxonMobil has successfully helped develop a recyclable MDO-PE//PE laminate, suitable for a variety of foods and liquids.

An EU Member States expert committee has voted in support of a European Commission proposal to ban some bisphenols, including bisphenol A (BPA), in food contact materials.

L.S. Starrett Co. has introduced its new Skinner Blades and Stainless Steel Reciprocating Saw Blades (Recip Saw Blades) for meat and food processing.

A novel, chemical- and heat-free egg processing technique utilizing engineered water nanostructures has been shown to effectively inactivate pathogens on eggshells while preserving eggs’ physical and nutritional quality.

University of Edinburgh researchers have conducted a study that affirms the efficacy of standard pasteurization practices against Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) H5N1.

A recent study examined the extent of gluten migration from different biodegradable food contact materials into a variety of liquid and solid foods to provide a more comprehensive basis for assessing the risk of exposure for wheat allergy and celiac disease patients.