Orange juice maker Tropicana markets its brand as fresh from the grove, but a series of lawsuits nationwide claim the company's juice is so heavily processed it should not be called "natural."
California Certified Organic Farmers (CCOF) and Oregon Tilth, two leading U.S.-based organic certification groups, announced plans to merge by October 31, 2012.
Ingredients that are natural and multifunctional are in great demand by food formulators and product developers. Pea, oat and corn fibers are healthy ingredients loaded with dietary fiber and have the added benefit of being perceived as “natural” by consumers.
Health, convenience, functional attributes and other qualities are in high demand by consumers, but food and beverages still must taste good. Food processors need to be able to incorporate all the things customers want—while never forgetting that flavor trumps all. Presenters at Prepared Foods’ R&D Seminars offered some tips.
The U.S. organic industry grew by 9.5% overall in 2011 to reach $31.5 billion in sales, and organic food sales now represent 4.2% of all U.S. food sales, up from 4% in 2010.