Latest news with #InnovaMarketInsights
Time Out
3 days ago
- Business
- Time Out
Bangkok once again hosts THAIFEX – ANUGA ASIA, cementing its place as the global pantry
In the food and beverage world, it's not just what ends up on the plate or cup – it's the power plays behind the packaging, the flavour trends dressed up as lifestyle ideologies, the supply chains zigzagging across continents. In Bangkok, the act of eating is always loaded, whether it's a streetside bowl of noodles or a deal sealed over coconut milk lattes. So when THAIFEX – ANUGA ASIA made its annual return from May 27-31, it wasn't merely another entry in the events calendar. It was a billboard for where the industry is headed. One part trade show, two parts economic choreography, the 2025 edition arrived with the energy of possibility – transforming the city's steel and glass into a playground for culinary futures. The name might suggest something cinematic, but in reality, it's where the brightest minds in food come together to shape what – and how – the world eats next. Now in its 2025 edition, the event doubled down on its reputation as Asia-Pacific's command centre for all things edible. Yet this year, the energy felt different – more trends, more transformation, more impact for a better food future. Asia-Pacific's most influential F&B gathering has long been a place for people who think about food as more than sustenance. This year, it leaned further into that ambition, showcasing how eating has become an act of innovation, identity and even ideology. The geography of taste If borders are imaginary lines, this event blurred them entirely. With exhibitors from over 50 countries and first-time participants from Central Asia, Africa and Eastern Europe – including Gabon, Slovenia and Uzbekistan – THAIFEX took on the air of a diplomatic mission, albeit one conducted in bite-sized samples. Pavilions from Australia, Hong Kong and the Netherlands added to the show's international sprawl, turning Bangkok into a temporary capital of global sourcing. It wasn't just about new names. It was about new access. Emerging markets made their debut, and in doing so, expanded the definition of what (and who) belongs in the conversation about global food futures. Beyond the bite: food as function The central theme – 'Beyond Food Experience' – sounded like something out of a tech keynote, and the content lived up to it. What we're eating is changing, but so is why. Exhibitors pushed products that claimed to do more than satisfy hunger: brain-boosting drinks, gut-friendly snacks, climate-conscious proteins. At the Trend Zone, curated by Innova Market Insights, regional and global obsessions were decoded with the precision of data science: functional beverages, clean labels, alt-proteins rebranded as gourmet indulgence. Taste mattered – but so did utility. Chefs, Startups and Culinary Showdowns It wouldn't be THAIFEX without spectacle. The Thailand Ultimate Chef Challenge saw over 400 chefs compete in more than 20 categories, from reimagined Asian staples to molecular showstoppers. Judged by 57 experts from 12 countries, the event doubled as both sport and performance art. Meanwhile, THAIFEX – ANUGA Startup carved space for 30 disruptive newcomers, who pitched edible futures in front of buyers, investors and executives. From lab-grown seafood to mushroom-enhanced snacks, the message was clear: the food industry isn't just keeping up – it's driving forward. Tasting tomorrow In the Alternative Protein Taste and Flavour Challenge, trade visitors were invited to do what all trends eventually demand – have a taste. On May 27, they chewed, sipped and judged a line-up of plant-based and lab-grown contenders. Winners were announced the next day, though the larger point lingered: if the future of food is going to be radically different, it still needs to be delicious. By the time the final sample cup was tossed and the last exhibitor packed away their signage, it was clear that THAIFEX had once again managed to distil the mood of an entire industry. No longer content with just feeding people, the F&B world is now trying to rewire the way we think, shop, eat and live. And in Bangkok, where ancient recipes meet futuristic solutions, the future of food doesn't just feel possible – it feels inevitable. And if 2025 was anything to go by, next year's edition won't just pick up where it left off. THAIFEX – ANUGA ASIA will return bigger, better, bolder. You can catch it from May 26-30 2026 at IMPACT Muang Thong Thani. Bring an appetite – for ideas.
Korea Herald
4 days ago
- Business
- Korea Herald
Countdown Begins: Hi & Fi Asia-China 2025 To Unveil Industry Breakthroughs In 20 Days
SHANGHAI, June 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- With just three weeks remaining, anticipation builds for Hi & Fi Asia-China 2025, Asia's premier trade platform for health ingredients and food innovation. The landmark event, taking place June 24-26 at Shanghai's National Exhibition and Convention Center (NECC), promises to deliver groundbreaking innovations, critical market insights, and unparalleled networking opportunities for the global food and nutrition industry. Awards Spotlight: Final Days for Fi Innovation Submissions The inaugural Fi Innovation Awards program enters its final submission phase, with the June 8 deadline fast approaching. Open to both exhibitors and non-exhibitors, the awards recognize excellence across three key categories: Fi Technology Innovation Awards Fi Health Innovation Awards Fi Sustainable Innovation Awards The Awards will be judged by an esteemed panel of industry experts, including Annie Liu (Innova Market Insights), Dr. Lei Li (Shanghai Jiao Tong University), Jianqiang Bao (Shanghai Food Additives Association), Dr. Vetamur Krishnakumar (Giract), Rusong Li (Solidaridad), and Tao Zhang (Daofoods). These distinguished judges bring decades of combined experience across health ingredients, food technology, and sustainable innovation. Global Knowledge Exchange: Bilingual Forum Lineup This year's conference program features four bilingual forums designed to bridge industry knowledge: Specialized Innovation Tour Innova Market Insights will lead the popular "Beauty Walk" tour, showcasing breakthrough nutricosmetic innovations from featured exhibitors including Givaudan (Booth 41F40) and Synceres Biosciences (Booth 21D45). Brazil Takes Important Stage The Brazil Theme Day on June 25 will highlight South America's growing influence in nutraceuticals. Enhanced International Attendee Program Recognizing growing global participation, organizers have expanded benefits for overseas visitors: Guide in China – A comprehensive digital handbook covering: Registration & Participation With over 500 exhibitors and 15,000 attendees expected, early registration is strongly encouraged. About Hi & Fi Asia-China Now in its 26th edition, Hi & Fi Asia-China is the definitive marketplace for food ingredients, health innovations and sustainable solutions in Asia. The event is organized by Informa Markets, a global leader in B2B events and digital services.
Yahoo
4 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Countdown Begins: Hi & Fi Asia-China 2025 To Unveil Industry Breakthroughs In 20 Days
SHANGHAI, June 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- With just three weeks remaining, anticipation builds for Hi & Fi Asia-China 2025, Asia's premier trade platform for health ingredients and food innovation. The landmark event, taking place June 24-26 at Shanghai's National Exhibition and Convention Center (NECC), promises to deliver groundbreaking innovations, critical market insights, and unparalleled networking opportunities for the global food and nutrition industry. Awards Spotlight: Final Days for Fi Innovation Submissions The inaugural Fi Innovation Awards program enters its final submission phase, with the June 8 deadline fast approaching. Open to both exhibitors and non-exhibitors, the awards recognize excellence across three key categories: Fi Technology Innovation Awards Fi Health Innovation Awards Fi Sustainable Innovation Awards The Awards will be judged by an esteemed panel of industry experts, including Annie Liu (Innova Market Insights), Dr. Lei Li (Shanghai Jiao Tong University), Jianqiang Bao (Shanghai Food Additives Association), Dr. Vetamur Krishnakumar (Giract), Rusong Li (Solidaridad), and Tao Zhang (Daofoods). These distinguished judges bring decades of combined experience across health ingredients, food technology, and sustainable innovation. Global Knowledge Exchange: Bilingual Forum Lineup This year's conference program features four bilingual forums designed to bridge industry knowledge: Sports Nutrition Breakthroughs (Hosted with ISSN) featuring Dr. Johan Thuvander of NHITEK Global Trade Pathways with latest EUDR and CSDDD compliance strategies Omega-3 Market Deep Dive led by GOED's Ellen Schutt Sustainable Ingredient Sourcing with Solidaridad experts Specialized Innovation Tour Innova Market Insights will lead the popular "Beauty Walk" tour, showcasing breakthrough nutricosmetic innovations from featured exhibitors including Givaudan (Booth 41F40) and Synceres Biosciences (Booth 21D45). Brazil Takes Important Stage The Brazil Theme Day on June 25 will highlight South America's growing influence in nutraceuticals. Enhanced International Attendee Program Recognizing growing global participation, organizers have expanded benefits for overseas visitors: Complimentary services including visa support Exhibitor and exhibit catalogs valued at￥200 2 free lunch vouchers VIP lounge access Limited-edition Chinese souvenir (￥50 value) Guide in China – A comprehensive digital handbook covering: Transportation tips (airport transfers, public transit) Payment solutions (Alipay/WeChat setup guide) Cultural recommendation (business customs, dining tips) Registration & Participation With over 500 exhibitors and 15,000 attendees expected, early registration is strongly encouraged. Event registration: Awards submission: About Hi & Fi Asia-China Now in its 26th edition, Hi & Fi Asia-China is the definitive marketplace for food ingredients, health innovations and sustainable solutions in Asia. The event is organized by Informa Markets, a global leader in B2B events and digital services. Media Contact:Sini Bai+86 21 3339 View original content: SOURCE Hi & Fi Asia-China
Forbes
29-05-2025
- Business
- Forbes
The Coolest Trends And Innovations In Produce Preservation
Because fruits and vegetables are among the most commonly wasted foods, often spoiling before ... More they're eaten, improving produce preservation is a critical strategy for cutting food waste and reducing the greenhouse gas emissions that drive climate change. As food prices rise and environmental concerns deepen, keeping fruits and vegetables fresher for longer is becoming a global priority for consumers. Produce preservation is a powerful tool in the fight against food waste and the climate crisis, helping to reduce emissions, conserve resources, and keep fresh, nutritious food out of landfills and on our plates. By some estimates, nearly 40% of food produced globally is never eaten. Fruits and vegetables account for the highest portion of this waste due to their perishability. According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, food waste is responsible for 8–10% of all human-caused greenhouse gas emissions. If it were a country, food waste would rank as the third-largest emitter in the world, behind only China and the United States. Against this backdrop, food preservation has become a climate, economic, and public health imperative. A Harris Poll conducted in the U.S. found that 88% of Americans consider reducing food waste important. And according to Innova Market Insights, 39% of consumers globally now rank planetary health as their top concern. These days, shoppers are increasingly drawn to smart packaging that keeps their food fresh for longer. According to Innova's 2023 Packaging Survey, people are most willing to spend extra on packaging that not only helps protect the planet, but also keeps food from spoiling too quickly, making it a powerful way to cut down on food waste. At the same time, growing concerns about chemical preservatives and heavily processed foods— both for health and environmental reasons— are pushing the food industry to explore cleaner, more sustainable preservation solutions. A growing number of startups and established companies are developing more sustainable tools that help fruits and vegetables last longer, from air purification systems to smart humidity control. Here's a look at some of the innovations making a difference. Foods that are most ethylene-sensitive, like bananas, tend to ripen, age, or spoil more quickly when ... More exposed to ethylene gas. Ethylene, a naturally occurring gas released by fruits like apples, avocados, bananas, and peaches, acts as a ripening agent and can accelerate spoilage of nearby vegetables. Ozone, volatile organic compounds, and microbial particles also contribute to food degradation. For this reason, indoor air quality is a key factor in produce preservation. 'Air quality directly impacts the longevity of fresh produce,' says Trent Thiel, Global Product Manager of Molecular Contamination Control at Camfil, a global manufacturer of air filtration and clean air solutions. By filtering out ethylene gas, ozone, and airborne microbes, clean air solutions can significantly extend the shelf life of fruits and vegetables. Camfil's CamPure 8, for example, is designed to target ethylene and other oxidizing gases that accelerate ripening and spoilage. 'When you remove ethylene from the environment, you slow down the aging process of produce. That means less shrinkage, fewer losses, and better quality for longer,' Thiel explains. The 2024 Camfil Sustainability Report points out that 99% of the air that humans breathe doesn't meet World Health Organization standards. 'Dirty air isn't just an environmental or public health issue… it's a food systems issue, too,' says Thiel. Who knew that a sexy kitchen gadget could have the word ethylene in it? The global ethylene absorber market is projected to grow from $12.77 billion in 2024 to over $48 billion by 2033, according to IMARC Group, reflecting increasing demand from both commercial and consumer markets. Smaller-scale ethylene absorbers are starting to make their mark in home kitchens. The Bluapple Produce Saver, for instance, is a glossy, refillable, non-toxic blue sphere that quietly soaks up ethylene gas in your fridge, fruit bowl, or pantry. The company claims it can keep produce fresh two to three times longer, helping consumers reduce food waste without lifting a finger. The Bluapple Produce Saver soaks up ethylene gas in your fridge, fruit bowl, or pantry. Even major appliance brands are getting in on the action. Refrigerators like the Bosch B36CL80SNS and Frigidaire Gallery GRSC2352AF now come with built-in ethylene filters because the air around your produce matters just as much as the produce itself. Vacuum packaging is effective for produce preservation because it removes oxygen, slowing down the ... More growth of spoilage-causing microbes and oxidation that leads to wilting and decay. When it comes to food spoilage, oxygen is the silent saboteur. It triggers oxidation, dulls color and flavor, and fuels the growth of mold and bacteria. Vacuum sealing offers a precise way to manage that risk. Devices like the FoodSaver vacuum sealer use automatic technology to remove air from custom-designed bags, locking in freshness with a tight, sensor-driven seal. The result? Food that stays fresh up to five times longer, with a serious reduction in freezer burn, spoilage, and waste. As these devices become more affordable and user-friendly— with features like automatic sealing and adjustable vacuum levels— vacuum sealing is emerging as one of the fastest-growing segments in food tech. According to Arizton Advisory & Intelligence, the U.S. vacuum sealer market was valued at $2.91 billion in 2023 and is on track to grow to $3.45 billion by 2029. Another standout innovation that provides an oxygen barrier without the use of plastic is Apeel— a plant-based, edible coating made from compounds found in the peels, seeds, and pulp of fruits and vegetables. By reinforcing the natural barrier that slows down oxidation and moisture loss, Apeel helps extend shelf life without the need for plastic packaging. According to Apeel Sciences, one truckload of cucumbers treated with Apeel and shipped without plastic wrap can eliminate the equivalent of roughly 100,000 plastic straws. Humid conditions in a fridge can cause produce to rot, especially if there's too much moisture and ... More poor airflow. When it comes to keeping produce crisp and vibrant, humidity is just as important as temperature. Leafy greens and herbs need a humid environment to stay perky, while ethylene-producing fruits, like apples and avocados, fare better in drier conditions. But it's a balancing act: too much moisture invites mold, too little and you're left with limp, shriveled leftovers. Bluapple's VeggieZips help to manage this delicate balance. The reusable produce bags come with adjustable vents and a HydroLiner insert, a cloth-like layer that can either add or absorb moisture depending on the needs of the item being stored. The bags are washable and designed for long-term use. Refrigerators are also getting smarter. Models like GE's Profile PVD28BYNFS now offer dual humidity zones and fine-tuned airflow systems with adjustable drawers for precise humidity regulation. Experts say the ideal fridge temperature lands between 32°F and 38°F— cool enough to extend shelf life, but gentle enough to protect delicate produce from frostbite. FreshPaper's plant-based botanicals inhibit the growth of bacteria and fungi that cause produce to ... More spoil. Bacteria and fungi are among the most common culprits in food decay, entering through bruises or openings and breaking down cell walls. They thrive in warm, damp environments, making refrigeration and air purification essential. Air filtration and sanitation technologies are key to microbial defense. 'High MERV-A rated filters such as MERV 14A or MERV16A, HEPA/ULPA filters and UV-C systems can trap or neutralize these spoilage organisms before they come into contact with food,' explains Thiel. One option for home kitchens is FreshPaper by The Freshglow Co.— biodegradable sheets infused with natural botanical extracts that help slow down spoilage. Simply placing a sheet in a produce drawer or container can extend freshness two to four times, according to the company. With nods from Oprah Magazine and Food & Wine, FreshPaper has earned a following for turning a simple idea into an effective tool against food waste. The United Nations' Sustainable Development Goal 12.3 aims to halve global food waste by 2030. Getting there will require a combination of awareness, innovation, and clean air strategies that extend the life of what we eat, before it ends up in the bin. While technology is playing a growing role, small behavioral changes at home remain important in produce preservation. Storing ethylene-producing fruits like apples and bananas away from sensitive vegetables, using paper towels to absorb moisture, and avoiding overcrowding in the fridge can all help extend shelf life.
Yahoo
08-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Bread Recalls That Affected Millions
Bread has been a dietary staple for thousands of years. According to Innova Market Insights, 72% of Americans purchased bread products in 2024, with almost ⅓ of them enjoying baked goods more than four times a week. There are many explanations for our love affair with bread, from its delicious taste to its affordability and versatility. Whether it's a sourdough you made from scratch or a crusty French baguette picked up from the local bakery, bread pairs well with a huge range of ingredients from cheeses and spreads to cured meats. On the commercial side of things, bread is relatively easy to produce, usually consisting of nothing more than flour, yeast, salt, and water. Nevertheless, things don't always go according to plan. Despite its simplicity, bread has been the subject of several major recalls over the years. From undeclared allergens to contamination with foreign objects or pathogens, recalls can shake consumer confidence but hopefully serve as a reminder to manufacturers that they must remain vigilant throughout the production process. Ready to find out more about some of the biggest bread recalls to hit the industry? We're here to bring you up to speed on the most significant baked good mishaps to hit headlines. Read more: Once Popular Sandwiches People Don't Eat Anymore Although the affected baked goods were only distributed in Texas, the recall announced by The Bakery Group in March 2025 could have had serious consequences. The main issue involved undeclared milk, soy, and Yellow 5. While milk and soy are known allergens, Yellow 5 has the potential to contain benzidine and 4-aminobiphenyl, both of which are known carcinogens. In fact, the food dye has been banned in countries such as Austria and Finland. None of the allergens were disclosed on the packaging -- a serious omission that was identified during a routine inspection by the State of Texas Health and Human Services. The recall involved 629 cases of brioche loaves and 104 cases of hamburger buns, amounting to over 9,000 individual bread products. The baked goods in question were Ben E. Keith Co. Dense Brioche Pullman Loaf, Ben E. Keith Co. 4.5" Brioche HB Buns, and Rodeo Goat Casa Linda Brioche Pullman Loaf. The Food and Drug Administration defined the recall as a Class II risk, where the "use of, or exposure to, a violative product may cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences." Back in 2024, countless home cooks were stopped in their tracks while preparing beloved staples like a super crispy grilled cheese sandwich, French toast, or bread pudding. The reason? An unexpected bread recall issued by Idaho-based Albertsons Companies, which no doubt forced many to rethink their meal plans and make do with alternative ingredients. The market recall was prompted by the discovery of metal and plastic shavings embedded inside the baked goods. As a result, the affected products were swiftly removed from supermarket shelves in California and Nevada, where the bread was distributed. However, it was unclear how the contaminants ended up inside the loaves. So, what products were actually pulled from the shelves? The Class II recall affected Signature Select Butter Top White Bread, Athens Select Butter Top White Bread, and CalPia 100% Whole Wheat Bread. In total, over 13,500 units of bread had to be yanked from the store shelves to protect consumers from potential injury. In 2022, the Piantedosi Baking Company announced a recall of several of its baked goods as an extension of an earlier withdrawal of an unspecified raw material initiated by Lyons Magnus. The market withdrawal was announced over fears of potential microbial contamination, including Cronobacter sakazakii and Clostridium botulinum. Botulism is a life-threatening condition characterized by symptoms such as blurred vision, slurred speech, difficulty breathing, dry mouth, and muscle weakness. While rare in humans, Cronobacter infections can also be very serious and even fatal. Piantedosi's recalled products included a variety of different rolls, including gourmet burger rolls, Hawaiian sandwich rolls, and brioche-style slider rolls. The products had been distributed in 15 states in the U.S. While no illnesses were linked to Piantedosi and no pathogens were found in the company's baked goods, the recall was issued as a precaution. Nature's Own Honey Wheat Bread comes with the promise of no artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors. It also contains no high fructose corn syrup, which some consider worse than sugar. Unfortunately, in December 2021, the product was found to contain an unexpected ingredient -- milk. The issue arose after loaves of Nature's Own Butterbread, which contain milk, somehow ended up in Nature's Own Honey Wheat Bread packaging. The product was distributed in the states of Arizona, Colorado, Wyoming, California, and Nevada. A wholesale distributor in California that distributed the product in Mexico was also affected. While milk may seem like a wholesome addition to baked goods, the Food and Drug Administration has listed the dairy product as one of the nine major food allergens. For people with milk allergies, exposure to dairy can cause symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and rash. Severe reactions can sometimes even lead to anaphylactic shock. Luckily, despite the labeling error, no adverse health issues were reported by consumers at the time of the incident. Founded in 1919, Flowers Foods is one of America's biggest producers of packaged bakery products, including breads, buns, and snack cakes. A testament to its enduring success, the Georgia-based company currently operates more than 40 bakeries in 19 states. Nevertheless, even the biggest names get things wrong sometimes, as shown in 2018 when Flowers Foods recalled several of its baked goods due to suspected salmonella contamination. The offending pathogen was discovered in the whey powder used to make the products. The affected baked goods included Captain John Derst's Old Fashioned Bread, as well as Swiss rolls offered under the labels Mrs. Freshley's, Food Lion, H-E-B, Baker's Treat, Market Square, and Great Value. Captain John Derst's Old Fashioned Bread was distributed across Alabama, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina, while the Swiss rolls made their way to supermarket shelves across the U.S. At the time, the products had not been linked to any adverse health incidents. Koffee Kup Bakery closed its doors in 2021 after 80 years in business due to economic difficulties. In a pretty predictable turn of events, the company's assets were acquired by one of the biggest players in the U.S. baking game, Flowers Foods. Before Koffee Kup Bakery ceased operations, it faced other challenges, including a recall of bread products tied to a potential contamination with plastic. In 2016, Koffee Kup Bakery recalled close to 100,000 baked goods after routine testing revealed the presence of pieces of clear plastic in its bread and rolls. Upon closer inspection, the company discovered that a piece of plastic had contaminated the production line and broke into fragments during processing. The recall affected around 35 different products, including hamburger buns, hoagie rolls, sub rolls, and hot dog rolls. Aside from Koffee Kup-branded baked goods, Big Y and Market Basket-branded products were also affected by the recall. The bakery items had been distributed in 11 states, including Rhode Island, Virginia, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Connecticut, Vermont, Maine, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Maryland. Bimbo Bakeries is the biggest producer of commercial baked goods in the U.S., with 55 bakeries and more than 700 sales centers around the country. As a part of Grupo Bimbo, the company stands behind a wide range of popular brands that produce baked goods -- some of which were affected when Bimbo issued a recall due to possible contamination with glass fragments. In 2015, Bimbo Bakeries recalled numerous bread and bun products sold under the brand names Sara Lee, Kroger, Bimbo, Nature's Harvest, Great Value, and L'Oven Fresh. The reason? A shattered light bulb at one of its bakeries. We can only imagine the scramble that took place behind the scenes. The problem was brought to Bimbo's attention after three customers complained about finding small shards of glass on the surface of their bread. The recall affected nearly 50,000 packages of bread distributed in 11 states. Fortunately, nobody reported any injuries related to the products. While National Choice Bakery was acquired by Bimbo Bakeries in 2023, the company had made headlines years earlier when it issued a product recall over allergen labeling issues. In 2015, National Choice Bakery announced that it was pulling various bagels sold under the labels Market Pantry, L'Oven Fresh, Village Hearth, Dan's Pantry, Lender's, and Kroger. It's unclear exactly how many individual products -- which were distributed in Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, and Ohio -- were affected. The products were pulled from the shelves due to the presence of undeclared peanuts and tree nuts. The move was taken after peanuts and almonds were detected in a batch of gluten supplied to the company by a third party. While no adverse health issues were reported at the time, consuming even trace amounts of peanuts or tree nuts can have dire consequences for individuals with allergies. Some of the symptoms of an allergic reaction include stomach cramps, vomiting, hives, dizziness, and shortness of breath. In the most severe cases, exposure to peanuts can even lead to anaphylactic shock, which can be fatal. Finding a piece of wire in your scrambled eggs on toast is probably not a surprise that many of us would choose for our morning meal. That may have been the reality for many had Bimbo Bakeries not recalled a range of its bread products in 2013. The safety alert was announced due to concerns that a piece of flexible wire had contaminated baked goods during production at a third-party flour mill, thanks to a faulty wire screen. The recall affected a range of Bimbo Bakeries products, including Sara Lee 100% Multi-Grain Thin Style Buns, EarthGrains 100% Natural 12 Grain Bakery Bread, and Arnold Healthfull 45 Calories Per Slice Multigrain Bread. Other affected brands included Brownberry, Farm, Harmons, L'Oven Fresh, and Stroehmann. While Bimbo Bakeries didn't provide an exact number of recalled products, none of them were offered in stores at the time of the recall. This wasn't the first time Bimbo Bakeries experienced an issue with a faulty wire screen. Just a month before Bimbo pulled its baked goods from the shelves, the company announced a recall of Sara Lee, Publix Premium, and Thomas bagels across Alabama, Florida, Los Angeles, Georgia, Mississippi, North and South Carolina, and Tennessee due to potential metal contamination caused by faulty machinery. Undeclared allergens are one of the most common reasons for recalls. The problem usually happens when manufacturers mix up packaging or when there is accidental contamination during the production process. While unlabeled ingredients may appear trivial to some consumers, to others, they can mean the difference between life and death, as even trace amounts of a certain ingredient can lead to severe health consequences. In 2010, Bimbo Bakeries found itself in hot water after distributing bread that contained milk, an ingredient that wasn't listed on the packaging. The item at the center of the recall was Bimbo Soft White Bread distributed in California, Idaho, Washington, and Oregon. While no adverse reactions to the bread were reported by customers at the time, consuming the bread could have posed a serious problem to individuals allergic to dairy. Milk allergies can trigger a range of unwelcome symptoms, including vomiting, wheezing, digestive issues, and hives, and, in severe cases, even prove deadly. Before Grupo Bimbo acquired Sara Lee in 2010 for a cool $959 million, the company ran more than 40 plants and boasted around 4,800 distribution routes. Since Sara Lee operated on such a large scale, its 2007 recall of bread products -- triggered by potential contamination with metal fragments -- was particularly alarming. The recall was issued after a routine inspection revealed a damaged whole-wheat flour sifter, raising concerns that metal may have contaminated the baked goods during the production process. The potentially serious mishap led Sara Lee to recall a range of bread labels, including EarthGrains and Sara Lee Delightful Wheat. Just some of the affected products included Great Value Split Top Bread, EarthGrains 100% Natural Wheat Berry, and Sara Lee Hearty & Delicious 100% Whole Wheat. The baked goods had been distributed in several states, including Mississippi, Alabama, Arkansas, Missouri, Georgia, Tennessee, Louisiana, and Florida. The Meridia bakery in Mississippi, where the problem occurred, was able to continue production using pre-packaged flour, which didn't require sifting. For more food and drink goodness, join The Takeout's newsletter. Get taste tests, food & drink news, deals from your favorite chains, recipes, cooking tips, and more! Read the original article on The Takeout.
