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The Food and Drink Federation (FDF) has released new guidelines, called Allergen Recall Prevention, to assist food manufacturers in preventing allergen-related incidents and product recalls. The guidance, developed in collaboration with FDF members and the government's Food Standards Agency (FSA), provides essential practices for managing and investigating food allergy incidents, with a focus on accurate allergen labelling. The FDF emphasizes the importance of proper allergen management to ensure consumer safety and prevent economic impacts, particularly on smaller businesses in the UK food sector. The guidance also addresses common causes of allergen incidents, such as incorrect labelling and misleading 'free-from' claims, to help companies strengthen their food safety procedures. [Extracted from the article]

A large-scale port strike in the US has shut down 36 ports from Maine to Texas, affecting 68% of containerized exports and 56% of imports for the nation. The strike, which is the largest of its kind in 50 years, is a result of failed negotiations between the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) union and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) employer group over new contracts and demands to stop port automation projects. The strike has halted the flow of about half the nation’s ocean shipping, impacting various sectors including the food industry, particularly fresh fruits and vegetables, soybeans, soybean meal, chilled or frozen meat, and eggs. The disruption and increased shipping costs could threaten jobs, lead to price increases, and stoke inflation. The food industry has expressed deep concern and urged the parties to resume negotiations. The strike's duration is uncertain, but it is expected to be resolved within a week due to the growing domino effects and potential shortages on supermarket shelves. President Biden has expressed support for the union, calling for a fair contract that reflects the workers' contribution to the economy. The pressure is on the USMX to improve its offer, but whether they will scale back automation plans remains uncertain. [Extracted from the article]

Regulators worldwide are increasing their scrutiny of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in food packaging due to concerns about their environmental and health hazards. PFAS have been linked to cancer and high blood pressure and are known as "forever chemicals" because they do not break down in the environment. Several US states have issued restrictions or bans on PFAS in food contact materials, and the EU is considering a proposal to restrict PFAS under its REACH regulation. Food and drink companies are working to develop alternatives to PFAS in packaging, but finding suitable substitutes can be challenging. [Extracted from the article]

US-based Entrepreneurial Equity Partners (E2P) has acquired Truss Beverage Co. from Tilray Brands. The acquisition includes Truss Beverage's production facility in Belleville, Ontario, which has an annual production capacity of 250,000 hectolitres. E2P's subsidiary Ya Ya Foods, a North American co-packer of aseptic beverages and foods, made the transaction. The acquisition expands Ya Ya Foods' production sites to three and allows for new capabilities and increased capacity. Truss Beverage was originally a cannabis drinks joint venture between Tilray Brands and Molson Coors Beverage Co. [Extracted from the article]

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has made nutrition a top priority and has planned a comprehensive agenda for the second half of the year that will impact the entire food industry. The FDA's key initiatives include setting new sodium reduction targets for food products, updating the definition of "healthy" for food labels, and implementing front-of-pack nutrition information labeling. These actions aim to address the high levels of sodium, sugar, and saturated fats in the American diet, which contribute to health problems such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart disease. The FDA's efforts are voluntary, but it is in the best interest of food companies to work with the FDA to improve the nutritional profile of packaged foods and be part of the solution to the nutrition problem in the US. [Extracted from the article]

Singapore's SATS, a foodservice caterer for the airline industry and airport lounges, has announced a partnership with Japan's Mitsui & Co. The companies aim to enhance their food-value chain footprints across Asia by leveraging SATS' food solutions competencies and Mitsui's distribution channels. Mitsui will hold a 15% stake in SATS and its subsidiaries, with the goal of supporting growth and expansion in food-related businesses. The partnership will also explore potential collaborations in supplying food ingredients and launching frozen ready meals in Japan. [Extracted from the article]

Spanish ham and croquette maker Urkabe Benetan has received a 31.5% stake from private-equity firm Stellum Capital. The investment will help Urkabe Benetan address its growth plan and reinforce its resources. The company, which is part of the Indaux Group, has achieved a turnover of €26m ($28m) and employs over 100 people. Stellum Food & Tech, the investment vehicle of Stellum Capital, focuses on food-related investments and has previously invested in companies such as Uvesco, Envaplaster, and Syra Coffee. [Extracted from the article]

A study has found high levels of PFAS 'forever chemicals' in food and drink products, including white rice, eggs, red meat, seafood, and coffee. The research, conducted in New Hampshire, collected blood and breast milk samples from over 1,500 mothers since 2009. PFAS chemicals have been found worldwide in water, air, dust, and consumer goods. The ingestion of PFAS has been linked to health conditions such as thyroid disease, liver and kidney failure, and cancer. The study suggests that dietary interventions during pregnancy could reduce exposure to PFAS. [Extracted from the article]

This article provides a buyer's guide for food-grade air compressors in the food industry. It emphasizes the importance of using safe and contaminant-free compressed air in food processing. The guide highlights key considerations for selecting food-grade air compressors, such as industry certification, oil-free technology, air quality, material of construction, energy efficiency, maintenance and hygiene, and noise levels. It also discusses industry-leading systems and solutions, as well as the latest technological advances in food-grade air compressors. The article concludes by emphasizing the importance of informed decision-making to ensure the safety, efficiency, and sustainability of food production processes. [Extracted from the article]

Food logistics companies play a critical role in the food industry by ensuring that food and beverage products are efficiently transported from producers to consumers while maintaining quality and safety standards. When selecting a food logistics partner, businesses prioritize aspects such as cold chain management, transportation capabilities, and end-to-end services. Industry-leading systems and solutions, including temperature-controlled warehousing and real-time inventory management, are essential for efficient and compliant food logistics. Technological advances, such as blockchain and AI-driven analytics, are revolutionizing the industry and enabling more reliable and transparent services. Businesses must carefully evaluate providers to ensure their products are delivered with the expected quality and safety. [Extracted from the article]

EU member states have supported a proposal to ban the use of Bisphenol A (BPA) in food and drink packaging. BPA is a chemical used in the production of plastics and resins, and the ban will apply to packaging that comes into contact with food or drinks. The ban will be implemented by the European Parliament and Council later this year, with a phasing out period to allow the food and drinks industries to adapt. The European Food Safety Authority has previously identified potential harmful effects of BPA on the immune system. The European Environment Agency has also found that a significant percentage of people in 11 EU countries were likely exposed to levels of BPA above safe health thresholds. Food and drink manufacturers have stated their commitment to complying with the new regulations, but have called for measures to be proportionate and realistic to avoid negative impacts on food and packaging waste. [Extracted from the article]

Nissin Foods Co., a subsidiary of Nissin Foods Holdings Co., plans to acquire South Korean baked grain crispy rolls maker Gaemi Food for $34.9 million. The acquisition will add Gaemi Food's brands, including Kemy sweets, chocolate, and chewy gum, to Nissin Foods Co.'s portfolio. Nissin Foods Co. aims to expand its distribution capabilities in China and Southeast Asia and tap into the growing consumer interest in convenient foods. The move is seen as a strategic milestone for Nissin Foods Co. in developing its business in the Korean and overseas markets. [Extracted from the article]

US food producer Hearthside Food Solutions has announced the closure of a baked bars factory in Nashville, Tennessee, affecting 229 jobs. The decision to close the facility is part of the company's efforts to optimize its production network and better meet customer needs. Hearthside Food Solutions operates out of 23 shelf-stable facilities and seven fresh and frozen plants across the US, employing over 9,000 people. The company has also been subject to an investigation into allegations of child labor, which were revealed in a New York Times investigation. [Extracted from the article]

Mars, the US food giant, is investing $70 million in a research and development site in Hackettstown, New Jersey for its chocolate and confectionery brands. The site will include a prototyping kitchen, packaging lab, and collaboration space to enhance innovation and meet changing consumer preferences. The investment will support the manufacturing of popular Mars brands such as M&M's, Twix, Snickers, and Skittles, and will also focus on developing sustainable packaging materials. This investment demonstrates Mars' commitment to innovation and creating happiness for consumers. [Extracted from the article]

Consumer interest in plant-based foods is on the rise globally, driven by a focus on personal health and awareness of the climate impact of the meat industry. While some consumers are limiting their meat intake, rather than excluding it altogether, Generations X, Y, and Z are most engaged with low/no-meat diets. Asian consumers, influenced by traditional use of soy, are particularly receptive to plant-based alternatives. Despite challenges such as production costs and retail price inflation, the meat substitutes market is expected to continue growing, with the value projected to reach $13.4 billion in 2027. The US is identified as the biggest growth market for meat substitutes, with other countries such as Canada, Australia, and Nigeria also showing potential. Soy-based products currently dominate the market, but there is a decreasing appetite for soy and grain-based products in most markets outside the US due to concerns over processing methods. The rise of direct-to-consumer meal kits and the inclusion of plant-based options on quick service restaurant menus are contributing to the success of plant-based products. However, the market faces challenges such as volatility in raw material prices and the need for sustainable farming practices and green packaging. GEA Food Solutions is working to support the demand for meat alternatives by developing new products and integrated process solutions. [Extracted from the article]

The European Union (EU) has reached a provisional agreement to implement a new law aimed at reducing packaging waste and banning single-use plastics for supermarket fruit and vegetables. The deal includes targets to reduce packaging by 5% by 2030 and 15% by 2040, with the goal of making all packaging recyclable by 2030. The EU cites the need for action due to the increasing amount of packaging waste, which has risen by nearly 25% in the past decade and is expected to increase by another 19% by 2030. The agreement also includes a ban on "forever chemicals" in food contact packaging and proposes higher re-use targets for takeaway packaging and drinks containers. While some groups have praised the deal, others have expressed concerns about certain exemptions and potential legal challenges. [Extracted from the article]

Mondelez International, the snacks giant behind brands like Cadbury and Milka, has invested in Pack2Earth, a start-up in Spain that is developing bio-based packaging alternatives to plastic. Mondelez's investment is part of its Sustainable Futures impact investing platform, which aims to support environmental and social projects. Pack2Earth is working on bio-based flexible film and injection material that is compostable and organically recyclable. Mondelez has set a goal for all its packaging to be recyclable by 2025 and to reduce its use of virgin plastic. [Extracted from the article]

UK-based investment firm Harwood Private Equity has acquired US manufacturer Crest Foods, a producer of branded and private-label dry food and dairy stabilizers. The financial terms of the deal were not disclosed. Harwood aims to lead Crest Foods into its next phase of growth while maintaining its dedication to providing value-added services to its customer base and leading consumer brands. The acquisition also includes a contract packaging, distribution, and warehousing facility in Ashton. Harwood Private Equity specializes in supporting companies with an enterprise value between £15m ($18.9m) and £75m. [Extracted from the article]

The annual UN climate summit, COP28, saw 134 parties commit to the Emirates Declaration on Sustainable Agriculture, Resilient Food Systems, and Climate Action, with the goal of including food and agriculture in their climate commitments by 2025. Food systems contribute around a third of global greenhouse gas emissions, with beef, milk, rice, and maize being responsible for 65% of emissions. Achieving a net-zero food system by 2050 will require a transformation of the food and agricultural system through efficiency improvements, carbon sequestration, dietary changes, and new agricultural technologies. However, challenges such as the permanence of carbon sequestration techniques, affordability, and the need for increased climate finance and education must be addressed. A proposed roadmap for achieving net-zero emissions in global food systems by 2050 includes the adoption of low-emission practices, carbon sequestration, reductions in livestock production, and the deployment of new technologies. The transitions will vary depending on the national context and will require significant financial investments. While progress has been made, more action and funding are needed to achieve the necessary mitigation for a net-zero food system. [Extracted from the article]

Bonduelle and Unilever are facing potential fines in France for allegedly colluding to hide the use of bisphenol A (BPA) in packaging, according to French investigative news agency L'informé. The French competition watchdog, L'Autorité de la Concurrence, is reportedly planning to fine the companies €20m ($21.8m). In 2021, the watchdog announced an investigation into claims that companies had agreed not to disclose certain materials in contact with food. The use of BPA in food packaging has been illegal in France since 2015, and the European Commission has proposed a ban on its use in food contact materials. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by the UK-based charity The Ellen MacArthur Foundation (EMF) suggests that the use of returnable packaging in the food, beverage, and personal-care sectors could significantly reduce emissions from single-use plastic. Depending on the product type, GHG emissions could be reduced by 35% to 69% through a major shift in packaging practices. The study proposes a "system change" scenario where brands collaborate and pool infrastructure, resulting in 95% of packaging being returned and reused around 15 times. To make returnable packaging economically viable, manufacturers would need to scale and share infrastructure, standardize packaging, and ensure high return rates by making the collection process convenient for consumers. The study was conducted in partnership with sustainability firms Systemiq and Eunomia, as well as Nestlé, The Coca-Cola Co., Amazon, Mars, and Danone. [Extracted from the article]

SVB Foods bought Vita Specialty Foods from Chicago-based seafood business Vita Food Products for an undisclosed sum. Keywords: Shelf-stable; Deals; News EN Shelf-stable Deals News N.PAG N.PAG 1 10/26/23 20231024 NES 231024 Honey and salad dressings manufacturer Vita Specialty Foods has been acquired by fellow US business SVB Foods. [Extracted from the article]

Whereas in most countries, distributors and producers regularly adjust their prices, French law allows for a three-month window of annual price negotiations, usually from 1 December to 1 March. Keywords: Baby Food; Bakery and Cereal; Confectionery; Dairy & Soy Food; Dairy Alternatives; Eggs; Fish & Seafood; Fresh produce; Frozen; Ice Cream; News EN Baby Food Bakery and Cereal Confectionery Dairy & Soy Food Dairy Alternatives Eggs Fish & Seafood Fresh produce Frozen Ice Cream News N.PAG N.PAG 1 09/29/23 20230927 NES 230927 Unsuccessful in its latest attempt to bear down on FMCG prices, France is preparing a new law that will force manufacturers and retailers into early price negotiations. [Extracted from the article]

The article highlights the application of digital printing technology in several industries including food packaging and the growth of digital printing industry. Topics include Nestlé's focus on development of packaging and digital printing using factors such as sustainability and data management.

Evidently, consumers, even if they may not necessarily have had a cola-infused ketchup in mind, often look to brands for ideas as to how individual food and drink items can be enjoyed together in a new and unexpected way. Keywords: Meat; Savoury Snacks; Comment; PepsiCo EN Meat Savoury Snacks Comment PepsiCo N.PAG N.PAG 1 08/17/23 20230815 NES 230815 A ketchup infused with cola. [Extracted from the article]

Keywords: Bakery and Cereal; Environmental Sustainability; Fresh produce; Meat; Pan-industry; Refrigerated; News EN Bakery and Cereal Environmental Sustainability Fresh produce Meat Pan-industry Refrigerated News N.PAG N.PAG 1 08/11/23 20230809 NES 230809 Canada is embarking on efforts to cut the plastic packaging on food products. Those proposed thresholds would not apply to plastic packaging that comes into direct contact with food - described as "primary food plastic packaging" - due to food safety requirements. [Extracted from the article]

In 2022, it teamed up with Toyama prefecture-based plastics R&D firm Shirouma Science Co Ltd, Osaka-based packaging manufacturer Fuji Seal International Inc and Tokyo-based packaging manufacturer Rengo Co. to create a "Pure Select Mayonnaise Fresh Keep Bottle". An official from the European Fresh Produce Association, Freshfel, says while it was expecting the new law to harmonise EU packaging waste rules more closely, it is pressing EU ministers and European Parliament members to ensure it does not regulate the packaging of fresh products more harshly than canned and bottled lines. [Extracted from the article]

Gareth Callan, packaging sustainability lead of Pepsico UK & Ireland added: "We're always exploring new packaging solutions that can help us reduce virgin fossil plastic use, in pursuit of our broader sustainable packaging goals. Keywords: ESG; Savoury Snacks; News; PepsiCo EN ESG Savoury Snacks News PepsiCo N.PAG N.PAG 1 03/14/23 20230309 NES 230309 PepsiCo is describing its trial of paper-based and recyclable outer packaging for its Walkers brand of crisps as a first for savoury snacks flexible packaging in the UK. PepsiCo invested GBP14m (US$16.66m) to improve food packaging sustainability in October last year. [Extracted from the article]

The first food packaging-based polymer was Polyvinyl acetate (PVAC), which is an adhesive found in food packaging, shipping boxes/bags and binders for paper, plastics and foils. Keywords: ESG; Pan-industry; News EN ESG Pan-industry News N.PAG N.PAG 1 03/14/23 20230308 NES 230308 Research conducted by the University of Hull and Hull York Medical School shows two of the five microplastic polymer types found in human veins came from food packaging. [Extracted from the article]

Campaign group Healthy Babies Bright Futures (HBBF), which produced a 2019 report into heavy metals in baby foods, criticised the regulator for not doing enough to tackle the problem and accused it of years of "stalling". Keywords: Baby Food; News EN Baby Food News N.PAG N.PAG 1 01/31/23 20230125 NES 230125 The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is taking action to limit the amount of lead that can be contained in baby food. [Extracted from the article]

On the new man's appointment Daniel Madden, a managing director at Platinum Equity said: "Leon is an experienced CEO who has delivered outstanding results in both private and public company settings. Keywords: Bakery and Cereal; Shelf-stable; News; Biscuit International EN Bakery and Cereal Shelf-stable News Biscuit International N.PAG N.PAG 1 12/19/22 20221213 NES 221213 France-based Biscuit International has a new CEO in the shape of Leon Taviansky. [Extracted from the article]

Alcoholic Beverages, Baby Food, Beer & cider, Confectionery, Dairy & Soy Food, Environment, ESG, Fish & Seafood, Fresh produce, Frozen, Homepage, Industry News, News, Corporate responsibility Keywords: Alcoholic Beverages; Baby Food; Beer & cider; Confectionery; Dairy & Soy Food; Environment; ESG; Fish & Seafood; Fresh produce; Frozen; Homepage; Industry News; News; Corporate responsibility EN Alcoholic Beverages Baby Food Beer & cider Confectionery Dairy & Soy Food Environment ESG Fish & Seafood Fresh produce Frozen Homepage Industry News News Corporate responsibility N.PAG N.PAG 1 12/07/22 20221201 NES 221201 EU targets for packaging recycling have been met with scepticism as industry bodies claim the necessary infrastructure is not yet there. [Extracted from the article]

The article offers report on how package design can affect consumers’ purchasing decisions. Topics discussed include information on the increasing inclination of consumers towards the online shopping and their security; discussions on the shared shopping responsibilities of the consumer goods; and the information on the role of the empathy in understanding what shoppers want in food and beverage packaging.

While reducing emissions and carbon footprints is extremely laudable and significant steps have been taken across the industry, some manufacturers have struggled to introduce that thinking while maintaining product quality in automated food processing technology. Add in the guarantee of a consistent product, plus additional benefits for food safety, and the benefits of Batch2Flow to GEA's customers are manifold. Keywords: Future-proofing food processing and packaging; Sponsored; sponsored EN Future-proofing food processing and packaging Sponsored sponsored N.PAG N.PAG 1 11/18/22 20221114 NES 221114 As modern consumers become increasingly aware of industry's impact on the planet, food manufacturers are rightfully facing increased pressure to reduce the emissions and waste created by its machines and production processes. [Extracted from the article]

The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) proposes designating the chemicals as hazardous substances under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA). US to clamp down on "forever chemicals" used in food packaging Keywords: Bakery and Cereal; Pan-industry; Savoury Snacks; Homepage; News EN Bakery and Cereal Pan-industry Savoury Snacks Homepage News N.PAG N.PAG 1 09/06/22 20220831 NES 220831 The US government has outlined plans to outlaw certain PFAS, or "forever chemicals", some of which are used in food packaging. [Extracted from the article]

Environment, Meat Substitutes, Vegetarian and Vegan, Homepage, Interviews, Refrigerated, Charlie Bigham's Keywords: Environment; Meat Substitutes; Refrigerated; Vegetarian and Vegan; Homepage; Interviews; Charlie Bigham's EN Environment Meat Substitutes Refrigerated Vegetarian and Vegan Homepage Interviews Charlie Bigham's N.PAG N.PAG 1 08/16/22 20220810 NES 220810 With all the chatter around climate change, Charlie Bigham is proud of the UK upmarket prepared meals firm's planet-friendly credentials. "Evidence is overwhelming, we're heading towards a long-term climate catastrophe" - Charlie Bigham's founder talks shop. [Extracted from the article]

Just Food guide: The road to net zero - Big Food's emissions pledges Just Food analysis: How ambitious are emissions targets of food manufacturers? Keywords: Baby Food; Bakery and Cereal; Confectionery; Dairy & Soy Food; Eggs; Fish & Seafood; Fresh produce; Frozen; Ice Cream; Meat; Homepage; News; Corporate responsibility EN Baby Food Bakery and Cereal Confectionery Dairy & Soy Food Eggs Fish & Seafood Fresh produce Frozen Ice Cream Meat Homepage News Corporate responsibility N.PAG N.PAG 1 06/27/22 20220621 NES 220621 New research reveals the largest food and beverage companies in developed countries are set to fall short of an industry target to cut their carbon footprint for 2030, research claims. [Extracted from the article]

Keywords: Baby Food; Meat; Pan-industry; Homepage; News EN Baby Food Meat Pan-industry Homepage News N.PAG N.PAG 1 06/07/22 20220601 NES 220601 The US Department of Agriculture has announced a raft of measures in an attempt to transform the country's food system and shore up the food supply chain. And up to $600m will be pumped into providing financial assistance to support food supply chain infrastructure that is not covered by the meat and poultry processing program. In food production, a Food Supply Chain Loan Guarantee Program will back private lenders that invest in independently owned food processing, distribution and aggregation infrastructure, and "other projects along the middle of the supply chain". [Extracted from the article]

The article presents a case study of how market research has aided food and beverage company Nestlé SA in exercising corporate responsibility. It explores the development of Guideline Daily Amounts (GDAs) labelling on the packs' front which reveals that consumers of Nestl&#233 that the company is concerned of their health. It highlights the creation of symbols quickly visible on the front of packs helps consumers understand and recognise the nutritional content of the food they purchase.

Keywords: Buyer's Guide; Pumps; Valves and Compressors EN Buyer's Guide Pumps Valves and Compressors N.PAG N.PAG 1 05/31/22 20220526 NES 220526 Pumps, valves and compressors are used in different steps during manufacturing in the food and beverage industry, including fermentation, mixing, pumping fluids, packaging, spraying, sterilisation, preservation, air filtration, and transportation. Role of pumps and compressors in the food industry Pumps and compressors have numerous applications in the food and beverage industry. The list includes providers of air compressor services, compressed air piping systems, food-grade pumps and compressors, sanitary stainless-steel valves, tubes and fittings, sustainable dairy and food solutions, sanitary food pumps, food processing pumps, and food transfer pumps. [Extracted from the article]

Bakery and Cereal, Dairy, Dairy alternatives, Eggs, Fresh produce, Frozen, Ice Cream, Infant Formula and Baby Food, Meat alternatives, Meat and Seafood, Homepage, News Keywords: Bakery and Cereal; Dairy; Dairy alternatives; Eggs; Fresh produce; Frozen; Ice Cream; Infant Formula and Baby Food; Meat alternatives; Meat and Seafood; Homepage; News EN Bakery and Cereal Dairy Dairy alternatives Eggs Fresh produce Frozen Ice Cream Infant Formula and Baby Food Meat alternatives Meat and Seafood Homepage News N.PAG N.PAG 1 05/24/22 20220520 NES 220520 Scientists claim thousands of potentially harmful chemicals have been found in food packaging, processing equipment, reusable containers and kitchen utensils. [Extracted from the article]

But what finally convinced Ventulà to work with GEA was the option of having a single manufacturer to supply all the machines for the new slicing, loading and packaging line. What are the main improvements that the new slicing, loading and packaging line has contribut... Each element of the new slicing line contributes to greater efficiency for Ventulà. Keywords: Future-proofing food processing and packaging; Sponsored; sponsored EN Future-proofing food processing and packaging Sponsored sponsored N.PAG N.PAG 1 05/10/22 20220504 NES 220504 Ramón Ventulà, S.A is a company with a rich history. [Extracted from the article]

Keywords: Bakery and Cereal; Dairy; Dairy alternatives; Eggs; Fresh produce; Frozen; Ice Cream; Infant Formula and Baby Food; Meat alternatives; Pan-industry; Comment; Homepage EN Bakery and Cereal Dairy Dairy alternatives Eggs Fresh produce Frozen Ice Cream Infant Formula and Baby Food Meat alternatives Pan-industry Comment Homepage N.PAG N.PAG 1 05/04/22 20220429 NES 220429 US consumers are hanging tough and continue to spend on packaged foods at the grocery store despite the fact inflation is running at its highest pace since 1981. There's uncertainty even at the biggest and the best packaged foods companies about the state of the consumer and inflation in the US food market. Brands and the industry need to do a better job of explaining to consumers and customers just how serious the cost pressures are. [Extracted from the article]