USA

In a recent study The Environmental Defense Fund (EDF), found that nearly 20% of baby food samples were found to contain lead, more than other foods. The EDF report identified Fruit juices as being a one of the highest, with lead in 89% of grape juice, 67% of mixed fruit juice, 55% of apple juice and 45% of pear juice samples. Lead was found in baby versions of apple and grape juices more often than standard versions.

The EDF is calling for federal authorities and manufacturers to the lower the amount of lead in food.

“Every child’s food should come unleaded,” EDF Health Program Vice President Sarah Vogel said in a statement. “Unfortunately, food is a poorly understood and often overlooked source of lead exposure, a potent neurotoxin. Our report should serve as a call to action for government and business alike to better protect children.”

Among other baby food types, root vegetables had lead in 65% of samples and baby food carrots had lead more often than regular carrots. Lead also was found in 47% of crackers and cookies, 29% of fruits including juices and 4% of cereals.

The lead may be coming from the soil or from processing, but more research is needed, according to the EDF.

Source: American Academy of Pediatrics News

DENMARK

During the past twelve months, the Danish chain has increased its locations to more than 50 new outlets worldwide gaining a foothold in new markets such as the USA and Australia. In just one year, the company’s turnover has increased by 36% to 551 million kroner. In addition to operating over 60 shops in Denmark, Joe & The Juice also has many shops in the Nordic region, the US, UK, Australia, Germany, France, Switzerland, Hong Kong, Singapore and South Korea. The company employs almost 1,000 people worldwide, an increase of 287 people year on year.

Source: CPH Post Online

USA

With summer days just around the corner, LEMON LEMON, a new sparkling lemonade from PepsiCo, has been launched in stores across the USA. LEMON LEMON includes a mix of lemon juice, bubbles and a touch of sweetness, available in three flavours – Original, Blackberry and Peach at 70-calories per 12-oz.

To celebrate the global launch of LEMON LEMON, consumers can power down and get away with “Picnic Time Off,” a series of picnics in three of the world’s busiest cities – Paris, New York and Toronto. Each LEMON LEMON picnic will include music, food, refreshment, real life connections and a chance to sample LEMON LEMON.

“LEMON LEMON is the perfect refreshment when you’re looking to escape from the day-to-day grind,” said Rosemarie Iannucci, Marketing Director, PepsiCo. “We are excited to kick-off summer with a LEMON LEMON floating picnic, encouraging New Yorkers to relax, recharge and reconnect with those around you.”

USA

Stoli® Vodka, the original premium vodka with uncompromising quality since 1938, is expanding its award-winning portfolio with Stoli® Crushed, a fresh and fun expression of Stoli vodka with real fruit juice. As the first vodka brand to introduce flavours in 1962, Stoli continues on its path of unrivalled innovation, becoming the first premium imported vodka brand to enter the fast growing ‘real fruit juice’ spirits segment with Stoli Crushed, which will be offered in Pineapple and Ruby Red Grapefruit, two of the best-selling flavours within the category. Stoli Crushed will begin its national rollout in the US from May 2017 – in time for summer.

“The real fruit juice category is on the verge of explosive growth as consumers today are craving easy-to-mix spirits and real flavors,” said Patrick Piana, President and CEO, Stoli Group USA. “With Stoli Crushed, we are looking to elevate the category and to widen our spectrum of Stoli consumers. We are tremendously proud of the high-quality Pineapple and Ruby Red Grapefruit flavors we developed and are marking this as our biggest innovation to date.” Source: PR Newswire