Validation of this BAX System assay found it to be an effective method for detecting Salmonella in cream cheese and other foods, and on stainless steel surfaces.

Health Canada accepts Beneo's fiber portfolio

Beneo's complete portfolio of inulin and oligofructose dietary fibers is now accepted by Health Canada, following evaluation within the authority's regulatory framework and a newly implemented fiber policy. Chicory fibers inulin and oligofructose will be included in Health Canada's initial "list of accepted dietary fibers."

FDA approves lubricant for food contact use

Metallized Carbon Corp., a supplier of oil-free, self-lubricating, carbon-graphite materials for severe service lubrication applications, announces that its Metcar Grade M-58 has received approval from the FDA so that it can be used in food contact applications.  This will permit the use of Metcar Grade M-58 in dry running, food mixer seals to provide lower seal friction and longer seal wear life.

One Italian culture producer acquires another

Culture and enzyme producer Clerici-Sacco acquired CSL, another culture producer. CSL has competencies in thermophilic cultures for dairy applications, such as fermented milks and its typical Italian cheese type range (Jointec is the most famous brand registered worldwide).

Alpma, Ivarson in joint venture

After a successful 50-year cooperation between Alpma and its U.S. distributor/agent Ivarson, the two companies have decided to increase the Alpma presence in North America by establishing Alpma USA as a joint venture. Axel von Wardenburg is expected to serve as Vice President of Sale. He will work closely with the Ivarson team of Chuck Ellingson and Aaron Collins to expand Alpma’s services and products in the United States. It is based in Milwaukee, Wis.

Chemco, Flo-Kem merge

Chemco Products Co. and Flo-Kem announced a merger agreement which took effect Jan. 1, 2013. The parent company is LMC Enterprises dba Chemco Products Company and Flo-Kem.  This merger is said to improve the business model and enhance efficiencies allowing for future growth.

A new website for Autocrat

There is a new website, www.autocrat.com, for Autocrat LCC, a supplier of premium coffee, tea and botanical extracts to the global food and beverage industry. The site has been reformatted to maximize usability and functionality.

tna opens office in Brazil

Packaging solutions specialist tna opened a regional office in São Paulo, Brazi (photo, left). The company said the move reflects its commitment to meeting increased demand for innovative packaging technology.