On July 13 NAFFS Executive Director Bob Bauer and East Coast Scholarship Chair Al Roth presented NAFFS’ second annual scholarship awards to two deserving students in the Rutgers University Food Science Program. Dr. Mukund Karwe, professor of food engineering and Dr. Richard Ludescher, professor of food science, were also on hand to congratulate the students.

Two $1,250 awards were presented to:

Gabriella Gloria Chiappe, M.S. student with a 4.0 GPA
Jennifer Eng, B.S. student with a 3.4 GPA

In early September Patrick Imburgia, West Coast Scholarship Chair, and Piero Berlonghi, director of development, Wilkinson College of Letters and Sciences, Chapman University will present a $2,500 award to winning Chapman University student, Margaret Ward, a Masters of Science student in food science.

NAFFS’ scholarship support helps Rutgers and Chapman to:

• Provide quality programs
• Attract the brightest students
• Support cutting-edge research
• Provide highly qualified food scientists and nutritionists for the food industry workforce

NAFFS extends its sincere congratulations to the outstanding students and thanks the many member companies who provided financial support.

HEALTH AND WELLNESS DRIVING
ORGANIC FOOD & BEVERAGE MARKET

The global organic foods & beverages market is projected to exceed $86 billion by the year 2009, according to a new report by Global Industry Analysts, Inc. With health and well-being a high priority on consumers’ priority lists, the enduring health benefits offered by organic foods are expected to sustain the prosperity of the market into the distant future.

The outbreak of recent food scares combined with rising awareness of the long-term health impact of residues from pesticides in food, and unhealthy ingredients such as fats and hydrogenated oils, have contributed to the spotlight being turned on organic foods.

The U.S. is the largest market for organic foods and beverages in the world and is projected to reach sales of over $43 billion by the year 2010, according to “Organic Foods & Beverages: A Global Strategic Business Report.” The Asia-Pacific region is projected to be the fastest growing organic foods and beverages market. The organic produce market is the largest segment in the organic foods and beverages market and is projected to reach sales of $33 billion by 2010. Concern for the environment is also driving consumers towards adopting an organic dietary regime. The non-dairy organic beverages market is also rising due to increased demand for organic juices and drinks and is forecast to witness the fastest growth of more than 18.5 percent during the ten-year analysis period.

With manufacturers attempting to redefine the taste and look of organics to position them as delicious in addition to being natural and organic, expect to see organics integrating with gourmet foods and shedding its uninteresting “health-only” image. Indulgent foods such as chocolates, cheeses and condiments are now available in organic, marking an important development in its evolution.

REGISTER NOW FOR
NAFFS CONVENTION

Word is out about the exciting lineup of speakers at the NAFFS Convention to be held October 18-21 in Longboat Key, Florida.

How do you get a competitive edge in the organic arena? What are the opportunities for flavor and ingredient manufacturers? How do you create flavors that satisfy changing criteria and keep your customers happy? These and many more questions will be addressed by industry leaders from Whole Foods, Treatt plc, Wizard’s Cauldron, Florida Crystals and Sheila LInderman Consulting.

The NAFFS Annual Convention is the resource for answers to the many complexities in this evolving market. In addition, it’s the perfect platform for networking with industry leaders and peers. Complete details have been mailed and are available on www.naffs.org. Register now!

FOOD ADDITIVES MARKET
POISED FOR GROWTH

The global food additives market is expected to reach $38 billion by the year 2010 according to a new report. “Food Additives: A Global Strategic Business Report” provides a review of the changing tastes in various parts around the world and the evolution of the food additives market to cater to these tastes.

With so many people moving across borders, catering to these varied kinds of people and their tastes has led to an increase in the demand for food additives. The Flavors/Enhancers market accounts for the largest share of food additives, followed by the Calorie/Fat Reducers market. Colorants/Adjuvants market is projected to offer the highest growth opportunity, according to the report. Demand for premium food additive products is expected to increase significantly, owing to the increasing demand for premium additives.

Along with the opportunities, the food industry is also facing challenges such as competitive pressures, reduced margins and competition from offshore and emerging markets. The food industry is also witnessing increased preference for specialty additive products made for specific applications. Another aspect causing concern to the additives industry is the severe competition from low-cost products made in China. These developments have forced the additive industry to invest heavily in developing innovative products and penetrate into the Asian market through acquisitions and joint ventures.

FDA UPDATES ITS Q&A
ON BENZENE IN BEVERAGES

FDA has updated its questions and answers on the occurrence of benzene in soft drinks and other beverages. Results of a recent survey conducted by the Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition (CFSAN) indicate that the levels of benzene found in beverages to date do not pose a safety concern for consumers. Nearly all samples analyzed in the survey contained either no benzene or levels below 5 ppb.

FDA’s updated Q&A, along with links to the survey data, can be found at http://www.cfsan.fda.gov/~dms/benzqa.html

NAFFS CALENDAR

Be sure to save these dates:

October 18-21 – The 90th Annual NAFFS Convention, The Resort at Longboat Key Club, Longboat Key, Fla.