The GMO and "Fiscal Cliff"

Well, good Californians decided not to approve Prop 37, we know that was "good" because it could have added $400 per year to their food budget, not to mention the increases over time to all Americans as a result of the food manufacturers having to adjust all their formulas, processes, etc.

Now that we are clear of the GMO "cliff", we are asking our elected officials to do good for all Americans and address all issues associated with the fiscal cliff. Not compromising could mean an average tax increase of over $2000 per family.

We elected you to Washington, now do your job and make us happier Americans and don't leave until the job is completed! 

Genetically Engineered Food Labeling

 A California ballot initiative mandating that all foods containing a "genetically engineered" ingredient carry a GE label is being voted on next Tuesday by that state's citizens. Proposition 37, as it is called, would require manufacturers to put a "partially produced engineered" label on product made or containing GE ingredients. If passed, this law would go into effect 7/1/2014. It would require that any product containing a certain percentage of GE ingredients, based on product weight, to bear the label.
Proposition 37 would also impact food labeled "natural" and "all natural". Such products will not be allowed to be labeled or advertised as natural.
Technically, many foods contain some type of corn derivative, soy derivative or canola derivative. The fact is that most of those ingredients are derived from plants grown using GE technology.
Many people say lets get these foods labeled, but just think of the carry over to the entire nations food industry if this catchos on with the nations consumers (not just California).
Does this change the labeling game? I think it could!!

Healthy Nutmeats

Nutmeats are extremely healthy! The Mayo Clinic states that nuts contain unsaturated fatty acids, omega -3 fatty acids, fiber, vitamin E, plant sterols and L-arginine, as well as many other nutrients that are needed for proper health. Nuts can also reduce the risk of dangerous blood clots and lower your cholesterol level. They also help the lining of your arteries stay healthy. Those that are highly preferred are walnuts, almonds, pine nuts (make pesto!), pecans, and hazelnuts.
Walnuts are possibly the best nut of the group because they help the brain, heart, skin and bones to be at their healthiest. Almonds are great for you because they are loaded with magnesium and calcium - two of the best bone healthy nutrients. Vitamin E is also plentiful in almonds according to the USDA and may lessen the risk of colon cancer in addition to lowering bad (LDL) cholesterol. Cedar nuts (pine nuts) are loaded with protein and amino acids (the ingredients that make up proteins). Vitamins E, K, thiamin, niacin, manganese, copper and zinc are plentiful in the pine nut. Pecans play a solid role in lowering cholesterol and are full of vitamins and minerals, heart healthy fats, and antioxidant rich vitamins A, C, and E. Lastly, Hazelnuts provide heart healthy fiber and are loaded with vitamins C, E, and K along with key minerals as copper, iron and phosphorous. Enjoy your NUTS!

Eating Healthy??

Seventy six per cent of consumers agree that changing nutritional guidelines makes it very difficult to know what to believe about nutrition and 52% of these consumers believe figuring ou their income tax is easier than knowing what they should and shouldn't eat to be healthier.
Essentially consumers are confuled about how to eat healthy. The recent survey also pointed out thatconsumers most often rely on their own research instead of third party experts when making decisions about food and their overall eating habits.
Other points of the survey include that 55% of Americans are trying to lose weight, but 23% of obese consumers and 44% of overweight consumers say they are not trying to lose weight. Fewer than 1 in 10 Americans correctly guessed the number of calories they need to maintain their weight and 60% of Americans have given thought to the sustainability of their foods and beverages with about 40% regularly purchasing locally sourced food and beverage products. So the beat goes on !! 

Front Of Package Labeling Strategy

A report issued by a committee appointed by the Institute of Medicine concluded that it truly is time for an alternate approach in presenting nutritional information about the healthfulness of food. After  reviewing a number of products at retail and in my cupboard, I certainly agree. The front of package (FOP) display could be standardized, will be more informative to consumers, and would, with information contained on the principal display panel, motivate food and beverage companies to produce healthier products because of its closeness to the consumers eyes. The key is that the current Nutrition Facts statement is clumsy and complex for the average consumer to review, just too much unnecessary information. The new FOP facts information is simple and does not require a degree in food chemistry or nutrition to understand. Encourage the FDA and the USDA to develop a test program using a single, standard FOP system and replacing the existing system, the Nutrtition Facts Statement. Afterall the most effective programs will be those that consumers embrace and understand. Simplicity is key, there is too much unnecessary information with the current system, and its model needs an overhaul.

Flanyak Scientific, LLC is a consulting firm supporting the Food, Confectionery and Pharmaceutical Industries.