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28.06.2008 Anti-obesity drug Acomplia
German health insurance do not pay for acomplia and scientist issues warn for late-effects [1]
The Lower House of the German Parliament (Bundestag) decided that German health insurance will not pay for Acomplia classifying the drug as lifestyler. Rimonabant is the active ingredient of Acomplia. The drug was banned in USA because of depression and suicide side effects, but is approved in France, Germany and UK. [2]

Acomplia acts on the central nerve system, blocking certain receptors. This is of concern for the neurobiologist Andreas Zimmer from the University Bonn, Germany. He found that a special type of mice which received Acomplia had a reduced lifespan, presented epilepsy and a loss of nerve cells in the brain was found.

The producer of the drug, Sanofi-Aventis, argues that effects in animals cannot be translated to human physiology. Zimmer says that the 2 an 3 years studies presented by Sanofi-Aventis were to short to show late-effects. The company expects a revenue from Acomplia of up to 5 billion Dollar/year.

[1] ARD. Tagescschau.de: Entscheidung über Schlankmacherpille. Kassen müssen nicht für "Acomplia" zahlen. 28.06.2008
http://www.tagesschau.de/wirtschaft/meldung93178.html

[2] BBC: Weight loss pill warning issued. A weight-loss drug used by thousands is unsafe for those also taking antidepressants, health watchdogs warn. 19.07.2007
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/6907160.stm

28.06.2008: Vitamin D deficiency
Low vitamin D status increase risk of a series of causes of mortality [1]
Harald Dobnig and colleagues 2008 in a study in Graz, Austria suggest 20 - 30 ng/mL as the minimum desirable serum level of 25-hydroxyvitamin D. It is estimated that up to 60% of the populations in North America and other parts of the world are vitamin D deficient.

The study found vitamin D levels varying from 12 ng/mL to 22.7 ng/mL. The low 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels increased risk of all cause mortality and inflammation (C-reactive protein and interleukin-6 levels), oxidative burden (serum phospholipid and glutathione levels) and cell adhesion (vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 and intercellular adhesion molecule 1 levels).

The authors write that low 25-hydroxyvitamin D and 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D levels increase the risk of all-cause and cardiovascular mortality. They call for intervention trials using vitamin D as final confirmation of the risk relationship with vitamin D deficiency.

Low levels of 25(OH)D with higher risk of myocardial infarction [2]
Edward Giovannucci and colleagues in a study in 2008 found an association of low levels of 25(OH)D with higher risk of myocardial infarction.

[1] Harald Dobnig; Stefan Pilz; Hubert Scharnagl; Wilfried Renner; Ursula Seelhorst; Britta Wellnitz; Jürgen Kinkeldei; Bernhard O. Boehm; Gisela Weihrauch; Winfried Maerz: Independent Association of Low Serum 25-Hydroxyvitamin D and 1,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D Levels With All-Cause and Cardiovascular Mortality.  Arch Intern Med. 2008;168(12):1340-1349.
http://archinte.ama-assn.org/cgi/content/abstract/168/12/1340

[2] Giovannucci, Edward; Liu, Yan; Hollis, Bruce W.; Rimm, Eric B.: 25-Hydroxyvitamin D and Risk of Myocardial Infarction in Men. A Prospective Study. Arch Intern Med. 2008;168(11):1174-1180.
http://archinte.ama-assn.org/cgi/content/abstract/168/11/1174?


28.06.2008: New phthalate testing method revealed toxic migration from recycled cartons to hot foods [1]

Recycled paper and cardboard may contain toxic inks, adhesives and other dyes which may migrate to foods like pizzas, curry sausages which heat up the cardboard. For this reason recycled materials are not permitted in pizza boxes in Italy. Phthalates such as diisobutyl phthalate were found in pizza boxes in 2008 by Monica Bononi using a new developed testing method for phthalate migration in paper and cardboards.

The new method is a useful tool for the packaging industry to measure the amount of DIBP emanating from recycled cardboard, paper and seals for caps for glass jars.

German manufacturers and processors of paper and cardboard recently decided to stop using products containing DIBP due to safety concerns.

The Australian consumer group CHOICE found in June 2008  that more than half of baby foods in jars were contaminated by phthalate used as plasticizer in the seal of the cap. The group says that there is no immediate health danger to individuals, however, it is the long-term health implications of plasticisers migrating into foods which is of concern.

CHOICE calls for the food industry to find safe alternatives to epoxidised soybean oil(ESBO) and phthalates, and regulators should sets limits for plasticisers in food. [2]

[1] Bononi, Monica; Tateo, Fernando: Identification of diisobutyl phthalate (DIBP) suspected as possible contaminant in recycled cellulose for take-away pizza boxes. Packaging Technology and Science. Doi:10.1002/pts.805

http://www3.interscience.wiley.com/journal/116844643/abstract?CRETRY=1&SRETRY=0

[2] CHOICE: Plasticisers, CHOICE tested foods in glass jars and found contaminants from the plastic used to seal the lids. Online 06/08.
http://www.choice.com.au/viewArticle.aspx?id=106380&catId=100228&tid=100008&p=1&title=Plasticisers

27.06.2008: EU panel says synthetic zeaxanthin as an ingredient in food supplements is not safe [1]
The EU Panel on Dietetic Products, Nutrition and Allergies found that the safety could not be established for synthetic Zeaxanthin as an ingredient in food supplements for a level of up to 20 mg/person/day.

According to the Panel, in European countries, the average intake level of zeaxanthin via food was estimated to be between 0.2 and 0.9 mg/day and for people with a high intake of zeaxanthin-rich vegetables and fruits this could result in a level of 1.8 mg/day (95th percentile). The proposed use levels of up to 20 mg/person/day of synthetic zeaxanthin as an ingredient in food supplements would lead to intake levels up to 100 times higher than the average intake from natural sources.

These intake levels are within the range of the group ADI 0-2 mg/kg body weight for lutein and synthetic zeaxanthin as established by JECFA. However, in the opinion of the Panel, the toxicological data on synthetic zeaxanthin are not sufficient to derive an acceptable daily intake.

Zeaxanthin and eye diseases [2]
Zeaxanthin is one of the two carotenoids contained within the retina of the eye.
Within the central macula, zeaxanthin is the dominant component, whereas in the peripheral retina, lutein predominates.

As a food additive, zeaxanthin is a food colour wtith E number E161h.
Zeaxanthin is one of the most common carotenoid alcohols found in nature. It is the pigment that gives corn, saffron, and many other plants their characteristic colour. Zeaxanthin breaks down to form picrocrocin and safranal, which are responsible for the taste and aroma of saffron. Sources of zeaxanthin and lutein are eggs, spinach and other green vegetables.

Low plasma concentrations of lutein and zeaxanthin may increase the risk of developing age-related macula degeneration (AMD). Some studies say that supplemental lutein and/or zeaxanthin could reduce the risk of AMD [3] and cataract.

The Blue Mountains Eye Study [4]
In an Australian cohort study, Jennifer Tann and colleagues 2008 found that higher dietary lutein and zeaxanthin intake reduced the risk of Age-Related Eye Disease AMD, confirming finding of protective influences from zinc against AMD. Higher beta-carotene intake were found by the authors to increase the risk of AMD.

[1] Scientific Opinion of the Panel on Dietetic Products Nutrition and Allergies on a request from the European Commission on the safety of synthetic Zeaxanthin as an ingredient in food supplements. The EFSA Journal (2008) 728, 1-28.
http://www.efsa.europa.eu/EFSA/efsa_locale-1178620753812_1178717463740.htm

[2] Wikipedia: Zeaxanthin
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zeaxanthin

[3] Age-Related Eye Disease Study Research Group, SanGiovanni. John Paul; Chew, Emily Y. , et al.: The relationship of dietary carotenoid and vitamin A, E, and C intake with age-related macular degeneration in a case-control study: AREDS Report No. 22. (2007) Arch Ophthalmol 125 (9) 1225-1232.
http://archopht.ama-assn.org/cgi/content/abstract/125/9/1225

[4] Tan, Jennifer S.L.; Wang, Jie Jin; Flood, Victoria; Rochtchina, Elena; Smith, Wayne; Mitchell, Paul: Dietary antioxidants and the long-term incidence of age-related macular degeneration: the Blue Mountains Eye Study. Ophthalmology 2008 Feb;115(2):334-41. Epub 2007 Jul 30.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17664009?ordinalpos=1&itool=EntrezSystem2.PEntrez.
Pubmed.Pubmed_ResultsPanel.Pubmed_DiscoveryPanel.Pubmed_Discovery_
RA&linkpos=1&log$=relatedarticles&logdbfrom=pubmed


No support for prevention of AMD by omega-3 fratty acids [1]
Chong and colleagues 2008 in a systematic review and meta-analysis the evidence on dietary omega-3 fatty acid and fish intake in the primary prevention of age-related macular degeneration (AMD found that findings of this meta-analysis suggests that consumption of fish and foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids may be associated with a lower risk of AMD, however, there is insufficient evidence from the current literature to support their routine consumption for AMD prevention.

No relation between alcohol consumption and AMD [2]
Boekhoorn and colleagues in the Rotterdam study 2008 found no relationship between overall or specific alcohol consumption and risk of aging macula disorder (AMD), a synonym for age-related macular degeneration. The authors concluded that alcohol consumption is not a risk factor for AMD.

[1] Chong, Elaine W-T.; Kreis, Andreas J.; Wong, Tien Y.; Simpson, Julie A.; Guymer, Robyn H.: Dietary omega-3 Fatty Acid and Fish Intake in the Primary Prevention of Age-Related Macular Degeneration. A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Arch Ophthalmol. 2008;126(6):826-833.
http://archopht.ama-assn.org/cgi/content/short/126/6/826

[2] Boekhoorn, Sharmila S. ; Vingerling, Johannes R.; Hofman, Albert; de JonSg, Paulus T. V. M.: Alcohol Consumption and Risk of Aging Macula Disorder in a General Population
The Rotterdam Study. Arch Ophthalmol. 2008;126(6):834-839.
http://archopht.ama-assn.org/cgi/content/abstract/126/6/834


26.06.2008: Coffee and tea may reduce risk of a certain type of stroke [1]
Larsson and colleagues 2008 in a large, prospective, observational study using data from the Finnish Alpha-Tocopherol, Beta-Carotene Cancer Prevention Study showed that smokers who consumed 8 or more cups of coffee per day, and those who drank 2 or more cups of black tea daily had reduced cerebral infarction risk.

The authors concluded that high consumption of coffee and tea may reduce the risk of cerebral infarction among men but not to other types of stroke, such as intracerebral hemorrhages, subarachnoid hemorrhages, and unspecified strokes.

[1] Larsson, Susanna C.; Männistö, Satu; Virtanen, Mikko J.; Kontto, Jukka; Albanes, Demetrius; Virtamo, Jarmo: Coffee and Tea Consumption and Risk of Stroke Subtypes in Male Smokers. Stroke. 2008;39:1681-1687; published online before print March 27 2008, doi:10.1161/STROKEAHA.107.504183
http://stroke.ahajournals.org/cgi/content/abstract/39/6/1681


25.06.2008: The Radioactive waste leakage at the final disposal site Asse 2 near Wolfsburg, Germany.  [1]
Leaking barrels with high radioactive waste in a salt cavern in Germany in 700 meters caused a spill which may affect drinking water of the region. The site had to be closed because of the high radioactivity of the site endangering   engineers. Cesium-127 is heavily contaminating water which circulates through the walls of the cavern.

Experts say that contamination of drinking reservoir of the nearby region Harz for the coming generation is very likely to occur.

Electricity from nuclear power plants is therefore a deadly choice for humanity.

The German government tries to play down the dangers for the region to avoid panic of the population. However, experts says that there is no solution how the contamination of the whole region can be avoided.

[1] Spiegel Online: ATOMMÜLLENDLAGER ASSE Expertengruppe soll über "Schweizer Käse" beraten
http://www.spiegel.de/wissenschaft/mensch/0,1518,561832,00.html

25.06.2008: Fish oil prices are kept high embedded in a climate of overall increasing prices [1]
Soy beans, fish meal and oil are basics of animal feed. Their price influences global food trade prices.
According to a market report of FAO Globefish The cost of many vegetable oils has doubled in the past year as a result of a confluence of factors, including use of crops for biofuels and insufficient harvests.

Fish oil is actually a by-product of the fish meal industry, with the protein part used largely for animal feed. The price of fish oil is closely related to the fluctuation of the price of vegetable oil.
Up to 80% of fish oil is used in aquaculture as feed for farmed fish. As vegetable oils gets expensive, fish farmers have opted for the comparatively cheaper fish oil instead, increasing the demand for fish oil.

Fish oil: The price of fish oil rose from US$800 per metric tonne in February 2007 to $2200 per metric tonne in February 2008.

Fish meal: Fish meal prices of US$ 1 210/tonne is about US$ 100/tonne 6% below the price level one year ago due to little buying interest in China. Prices for fish meal and fish oil will remain high in a climate of overall increasing vegetable meal prices, creating an environment of higher prices.

The present price level of soy meal is US$ 500/tonne is almost double the price level of one year ago.

New Code of Responsible Practice (CORP) [1] [2]
This code is being developed by the International Fish meal and Fish Oil Organisation (IFFO), which represents the fish meal and fish oil industry worldwide, is developing a new Code of Responsible Practice (CORP). Fish meal and fish oil producers will be able to prove that their products are traceable, high quality marine products which are manufactured safely using fish from responsibly managed fisheries. Producers should be able to enter the audit process early in 2009.

The EU and Japan monitor fish meal to ensure it is free of land animal material.

HACCP shemes: HACCP schemes are usually in place to control safety and quality of the production. This involves outside inspectors who ensure critical control points are correctly identified and controls carefully monitored and recorded e.g. product temperature, moisture, microbial count etc.

IFSA quality assurance scheme: Exporters to  the European Union  should adopt the IFSA.International Feed Standard Alliance (IFSA) quality assurance scheme. This covers quality assurance from raw material through the factory, storage and transport to the end user. It includes the Dutch GMP+ and UK Femas schemes and is expected to become the main quality assurance scheme for raw materials across Europe. [3]

Production and quality : The production and quality controls of fish meal and oil are described by FAO . [4] [5]

[1] FAO Globefish: Fishmeal Market Report - June 2008. Fishmeal prices up, but might decline soon.
http://www.globefish.org/index.php?id=4535

[2] International Fishmeal and Fish Oil Organisation (IFFO): Production
http://www.iffo.net/default.asp?fname=1&sWebIdiomas=1&url=174

[3] International Feed Safety Alliance (IFSA) IFIS IFSA Feed Ingredients Standard
April 2007
http://www.ifsa-info.net/lmbinaries/ifis.pdf

[4] FAO: The production of fish meal and oil.
http://www.fao.org/docrep/003/x6899e/X6899E00.HTM

[5] FAO: Fish oil quality
http://www.fao.org/docrep/003/x6899e/X6899E11.htm#10.2.6%20Fish%20oil%20quality


24.06.2008: Infant formula and follow-up formula may contain harmful 3-MCPD fatty acid esters  [1]
The substance 3-monochloropropane-1,2-diol (3-MCPD) may be formed when fat-containing foods that also contain salt are exposed to high temperatures during production. It has been detected in numerous heated foods, for instance in dark brown toast. During the production of fats and oils, 3-MCPD fatty acid esters may be formed from 3-monochloropropane-1,2-diol when the fats and oils are heated to high temperatures.

Significant amounts of 3-MCPD fatty acid esters have now been detected by food control authorities in numerous edible fats and fat-containing foods, for instance in infant formula and follow-up formula. The Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR) has assessed the detected levels from the health angle and recommended that concerted action be taken to lower the levels of 3-MCPD esters in infant formula and follow-up formula. The Institute recommends that mothers who are unable to breastfeed their infants and give them infant formula should continue to do so.

The latest studies by the official food control authorities identified high levels of 3-MCPD fatty acid esters for the first time in refined edible fats like margarine and oil and in fat-containing foods including infant formula and follow-up formula.

The BfR says that the TDI value of 2 μg/kg body weight for 3-MCPD is exceeded in adults with a high consumption of refined vegetable fats. This applies in particular to infants who ingest formula and follow-up formula (to the extent that the TDI concept is also applied to infants for whom it normally does not apply in the first months of life).

BfR believes there is a need for action to reduce the levels of 3-MCPD esters in edible fats and fat-containing foods as there is no alternative to infant formula and follow-up formula for babies who are not breastfed, aside from breast milk from other mothers. BfR advises mothers who are unable to breastfeed their babies to continue feeding their infants the commercially available products. Cow milk or the milk of other domestic animals is not a viable alter-native as it does not contain some essential nutrients which infants need for their development.

The BfR believes there is a need for action to reduce the levels but does not see any acute health risk.

[1] Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR) Infant formula and follow-up formula may contain harmful 3-MCPD fatty acid esters. BfR Opinion No. 047/2007, 11 December 2007
http://www.bfr.bund.de/cm/245/infant_formula_and_follow_up_formula_may_contain_harmful_
3_mcpd_fatty_acid_esters.pdf


24.06.2008: Competitiveness of the European Food Industry. [1]
The first meeting of the High Level Group (HLG) on the Competitiveness of the Agro-Food Industry today will help pave the way to boosting the performance of this important sector in Europe. Their task is to identify and address issues that determine the competitiveness of the Agro-Food industry and to formulate a set of recommendations to achieve predictable and stable framework conditions for years to come.

The competitiveness of Europe's food industry is weak compared to the US and Canada, and at a similar level to Australia's and Brazil's, according to the Commission's report, Competitiveness of the European Food Industry: An economic and legal assessment. [2]

Priority topics for the HLG are, amongst others: competitiveness issues, needs for innovation and research & development, sustained support for small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs), simplifying food legislation while ensuring a high level of food safety, new means of sustainable production, multilateral and bilateral trade agreements and ways to overcome the food price crisis and its effects on the food chain.

Due to its dispersed structure, the Food Industry is in a weak position when negotiating with the retail sector. [3]

[1] Europa Press Releases: High Level Group to boost competitiveness of the agro-food industry. 12.06.2008
http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=IP/08/921&format=HTML&aged=0&
language=EN&guiLanguage=en

[2] Competitiveness of the European Food Industry: An economic and legal assessment.
http://ec.europa.eu/enterprise/food/competitiveness_study.pdf

[3] European Commission. Europa Enterprise and Industry: Promoting Competitiveness in the Agro-Food Industry. 5-6 June 2008.
http://ec.europa.eu/enterprise/food/conferences/intro_en.html

22.06.2008: Belgian soft drinks with Benzene, benzoic acid and benzoates should be banned from acidic beverages [1]
Christof Van Poucke and colleagues 2008 analysed 134 Belgian soft drinks. The authors found that ten samples were above the European limit for benzene in drinking water of 1 µg/L, and one sample had a concentration of 10.98 µg/L, thereby exceeding the action limit for benzene in soft drinks of 10 µg /L.

The authors stress that benzene can be formed when benzoic acid, a food preservative, is combined with ascorbic acid acidity regulators and interaction with packaging materials in foods like soft drinks.

Benzene oxidises in the body to produce an epoxide, benzene oxide, which is not excreted readily and can interact with DNA to produce harmful mutations.

The use of preservatives like benzoic acid and benzoates can be avoided by sanitising filling lines and adopting sound hygienic strategies. Soft drinks and other beverages are very easy to handle in an sterile environment.

[1] Van Poucke, Christof ; Detavernier, Christ'l; Van Bocxlaer, Jan; Vermeylen, Rudi; Van Peteghem, Carlos: Monitoring the benzene contents in soft drinks using headspace gas chromatography-mass spectrometry: A survey of the situation on the Belgian market. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry. 4. June 2008. 56 (12), 4504 – 4510, 2008. DOI: 10.1021/jf072580q
http://pubs.acs.org/cgi-bin/abstract.cgi/jafcau/2008/56/i12/abs/jf072580q.html


22.06.2008: Shelf life testing [1]
Lara Manzocco and colleagues developed a new shelf life modeling of photosensitive foods such as beverages highly prone to oxidative photobleaching, considering different light levels at increasing temperatures. Bleaching rate, pigment content, and pigment degradation products were analysed. The authors stress that shelf life testing of light-sensitive foods must take into proper account the effect of temperature and light to predicting shelf life of photosensitive foods under marketing conditions.

[1] Manzocco, Lara; Kravina, Giuditta; Calligaris, Sonia; Nicoli, Maria Cristina: Shelf Life Modeling of Photosensitive Food: The Case of Colored Beverages. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry. Published online ahead of print 6.06.2008. Doi:10.1021/jf800072u
http://pubs.acs.org/cgi-bin/abstract.cgi/jafcau/asap/abs/jf800072u.html


20.06.2008: Rosemary extracts are safe  [1]
The Panel of the EFSA considered the use of rosemary extracts as a food additive.
The extracts were:
- F62: rosemary extract produced from dried rosemary leaves by acetone extraction,
- D74: rosemary extract prepared by extraction of dried rosemary leaves by means of supercritical carbon dioxide,
- AR: rosemary extract prepared from a partially deodorised ethanolic extract of rosemary,
- ARD: extract prepared from a deodorised ethanolic extract of rosemary,
- RES: extract which is a decolourised and deodorised rosemary extract obtained by a two-step extraction using hexane and ethanol.

Four rosemary extracts, D74, AR, ARD, and RES, were tested for genotoxicity. Several in vitro genotoxicity studies were performed in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic test systems and an in vivo mouse micronucleus test performed with rosemary extract RES. The Panel concluded that these do not give rise to safety concerns with respect to genotoxicity of the rosemary extracts.

Based on the margins of safety identified, the Panel concluded that the use of rosemary extracts at the proposed uses and use levels would not be of safety concern.

[1] Use of rosemary extracts as a food additive - Scientific Opinion of the Panel on Food Additives, Flavourings, Processing Aids and Materials in Contact with Food. Adopted date: 07/03/2008
http://www.efsa.europa.eu/EFSA/efsa\_locale-1178620753812\_1178714927107.htm

20.06.2008: The hunger hormone Ghrelin defends against depression and anxiety of chronic stress but increases obesity. [1]
Zigman and Lutter found that the "hunger hormone" ghrelin might also defend against symptoms of stress-induced depression and anxiety, but also increases food intake and body weight.

Ghrelin is produced in the gastrointestinal tract, and sends a hunger signals to the brain. Blocking the effect of ghrelin might control weight, by decreasing food intake and increasing energy expenditure, but may also increase anxiety and depression.

Mice bred to model depression (referred to as chronic social defeat stress) had persistently increased ghrelin levels. A ghrelin receptor in the brain is linked to growth hormone and called the growth hormone secretagogue receptor (Ghsr). Mice bred to lack this receptor (Ghsr-null mice) showed even more deleterious effects of chronic defeat.

The authors concluded that hormones associated with appetite and hunger may co-ordinate an entire behavioural response to stress and probably affect mood and energy levels. The findings may help to understand the conditions like anorexia nervosa, where calorie restriction and weight loss could have an anti-depressant effect and be reinforcing for this illness. [2]

[1] Zigman, Jeffrey; Lutter, Michael: Hunger hormone increases during stress, may have antidepressant effect. Eurekalert. 15.06.2008
http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2008-06/usmc-hhi061208.php

[2] Lutter, Michael,;Sakata, Ichiro; Osborne-Lawrence, Sherri; Rovinsky, Sherry A.; Anderson, Jason G.; Jung, Saendy; Birnbaum, Shari;Yanagisawa, Masashi; Elmquist, Joel K.; Nestler, Eric J.; Zigman, Jeffrey M.: The orexigenic hormone ghrelin defends against depressive symptoms of chronic stress. Nature Neuroscience. Published online: 15 June 2008 | :10.1038/nn.2139
http://www.nature.com/neuro/journal/vaop/ncurrent/abs/nn.2139.html


20.06.2008: Volatile compounds of coffee aroma alleviate sleep deprivation stress and have antioxidant activities [1]
There are about 900 volatile compounds in the aroma of roasted coffee beans. Han-Seok Seo and colleagues 2008 found that the volatiles in coffee induce changes in the expression of messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein levels in the rat brain, resulting in antioxidant or stress relaxation activities.

mRNA are messenger molecules that indicate when a gene is being expressed. There are 11 genes which are important to brain function. When the rats were exposed to the aroma of coffee, the mRNA for nine of the genes was restored to near normal levels, and pushed to above normal levels for two: GIR which is involved in neuro-endocrine control, and NFGR, which controls oxidative stress.

The authors concluded that it is not yet known if the results may be translated to humans, however, these results may explain why coffee is preferred by humans when they need to stay awake. The volatiles of the coffee aroma may help alleviate the stress of the sleep deprivation caused by sleep deprivation changing the mRNA and protein expression levels of the rat brain, and have antioxidant activities.

[1] Seo, Han-Seok; Hirano, Misato; Shibato, Junko; Rakwal, Randeep; Hwang, In Kyeong; Masuo, Yoshinori: Effects of Coffee Bean Aroma on the Rat Brain Stressed by Sleep Deprivation: A Selected Transcript- and 2D Gel-Based Proteome Analysis. J.Agric.Food Chem. 56(12),4665-4673, 2008. doi:10.1021/jf8001137. Web Release Date: June 3,
http://pubs.acs.org/cgi-bin/abstract.cgi/jafcau/2008/56/i12/abs/jf8001137.html


19.06.2008: Vitamins C, E, and beta-carotene from fruits and vegetables but not from supplements reduce risk of Barrett's esophagus [1]
Ai Kubo and colleagues 2008 evaluated the associations among antioxidants, fruit and vegetable intake, and the risk of Barrett's esophagus, a potential precursor to esophageal adenocarcinoma.

The authors found that dietary antioxidants, fruits, and vegetables are inversely associated with the risk of Barret's esophagus, while no association was observed for supplement intake. Kubo and colleagues suggest that fruits and vegetables themselves or a not yet identified compound of fruits and vegetables may reduce the risc of esophageal cancer.

[1] Kubo, Ai; Levin, Theodore R.;G. Block, Rumore, Gregory J.; Quesenberry, Jr,,Charles P. Buffler, Patricia; Corley, Douglas A.: Dietary Antioxidants, Fruits, and Vegetables and the Risk of Barrett's Esophagus. American Journal of Gastroenterology. Volume 103, Pages 1-10, doi: 10.1111/j.1572-0241.2008.01838.x
http://www.blackwell-synergy.com/doi/abs/10.1111/j.1572-0241.2008.01838.x


19.06.2008: Ireland, supplements and the EU
Irish Association of Health Stores, health store retailers as well as food supplement manufacturers and wholesalers are campaigning against EU regulations.

The European Referendum Initiative: The European Referendum Initiative, sustained by six organizations, say that European citizens are not given the right to be directly involved in political decision-making, degenerating into a dictatorship where democracy, freedom of choice and the privacy rights of individuals are violated, and the interests of big business over those of its own citizens are favoured. [1]

Irish Association of Health Stores: The Irish Association of Health Stores, in a meeting of its National Council announced to oppose the Lisbon Treaty.
In its press release of 9 June 2008 the IAHS says that Europe has not been good for the natural products industry, or for freedom of choice in healthcare, alleging that the Lisbon Treaty seems set to further facilitate erosion of individual rights and choices.

The Association point to the Food Supplements Directive and the Traditional Herbal Medicinal Products Directive saying that these regulations work at the expense of small enterprises and the natural products sector. The Association also says that trade regulations within the EU are drawn up to favour big business.

The Irish Association of Health Stores IAHS campaigned for years against regulations of Food supplements and functional foods calling them as highly restrictive. IHAS admits that the EU constitution, which was rejected by the Irish referendum, was not directly relevant to food industry. The opposition base on rejecting further centralisation of laws in Europe. [2]

The IHAS Petition for higher level vitamin and mineral supplements: Freedom of healthcare choice [3]
We require that the Irish government and EU commission respect and retain our right as consumers to exercise freedom of choice in healthcare.

Specifically we require that our right to access the higher level vitamin and mineral supplements, which have been available in Ireland and elsewhere for the past 40 years, should not be eroded as is currently proposed under the Food Supplements Directive and recommended by the Food Safety Authority of Ireland.

Distorted facts
The IAHS says that the issue highlighted in the Petition for higher level vitamin and mineral supplement and the video “saveoursupplementsireland.com"  [4]  only a part of the restrictions on freedom of choice in healthcare to come with the directive on herbal products (Traditional Herbal Medicinal Products Directive) and a regulation on nutrition and health claims (NHCR). [2]

However, these regulations are meant to protect the consumer from unsafe high dosages and misleading informations of claims for which there are no scientific proofs. These regulations base on worldwide accepted facts and are found in the Codex Alimentarius of the United Nations.

Freedom of access to higher doses
No European regulations denies the right of Irish consumer to take 2 or ever ten pills of the supplements, on its own risk, double or even tenfold doses of vitamins and minerals may so be achieved. The European Union, however, has the obligation to protect those who are concerned about long-term intoxication resulting of unhealthy high supplementation.

Medicinal herbs over the counter [5] [6]
The Directive on Traditional Herbal Medicinal Products, or more precisely, Directive 2004/24/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 31 March 2004 amending, as regards traditional herbal medicinal products, Directive 2001/83/EC on the Community code relating to medicinal products for human use is an European Union directive that was agreed in April 2004 and came into force on 30th October 2005.
The European medicinal herbs regulation has no restrictions on herbs or claims for products which were on market for 30 years in the EU (or at least 15 years in the EU and 15 years elsewhere).

The Directive requires traditional, over-the-counter herbal remedies which are not included in the 30 years rules, must assure standards of safety and quality and for regulations to be standardised throughout the European Union, or have to be withdrawn from sale.

The knowledge of medicinal herbs is as ancient as history of mankind is. New-modern herbs and their claims based on assumptions which cannot stand scientific proves deceive those who do not get the effects which are being advertised.

The Constitution of the European Union gives strength to Council to fight back US hormone meat, GM rice from USA, protects the consumer against the excesses of the WTO and looks after food safety. Democracy must respect the decision of the majority otherwise a community brakes appart. The European Union, with a free trade of foods in their borders increased the freedom of choice of the consumer bringing foods from 27 countries on the shelves of food stores insuring a high standard of safety.

[1] European Referendum Initiative: Consumer organizations launch campaign
demanding right to referendums. Press Release - 3 March, 2008
http://www.eu-referendum.org/english/press_releases/20080303_launch_campaign.html

[2] Irish Association of Health Stores IAHS: 9 Jun 2008 - IAHS Heeds D' Estaing's Words
http://www.irishhealthstores.com/

[3] IAHS Care 2 Petition Site: Help save our supplements: Freedom of choice in heathcare.
http://www.thepetitionsite.com/2/help-save-our-supplements

[4] Save Our Supplements Ireland.com: Exposed! The scandal of proposed EU regulations to restrict your access to safe vitamin and mineral supplements. Watch the 60 seconds video at:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5JOBY0KDERY

[5] Directive 2004/24/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 31 March 2004
amending, as regards traditional herbal medicinal products, Directive 2001/83/EC on the
Community code relating to medicinal products for human use
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/European_Directive_on_Traditional_Herbal_Medicinal_Products

[6] Directive 2001/83/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 6 November 2001 on the Community code relating to medicinal products for human use.
http://eur-lex.europa.eu/LexUriServ/LexUriServ.do?uri=OJ:L:2001:311:0067:0128:EN:PDF15.06.2008:

19.06.2008: Reasons of the Irish No to Europe[1]
Hubert Kleinert in an article in German Spiegel, cites four reasons of the Irish NO to the European Constitution:
Unconsciousness of what they were voting
1.- People find Europe intransparent. They do not understand how the EU functions. Get informed about the Treaty of Lisabon. [2] [3]
2.- Lacking public dialogue which is hindered because of 27 different languages. Translation of all regulations in 27 languages are being provided. All Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) maintain sites with specific informations in the language of their country. [4]
3.- The unconditional competition philosophy of the market. That is how globalisation works. The EU protects the consumer through its Competition Law. [5]
4- Bad image of the politicians. All politicians are elected by the people. There is no uniform voting system for the election of MEPs; rather, each member state is free to choose its own system. [6]

[1] Kleinert, Hubert: Warum die Iren nicht die Deppen Europas sind. Spiegel Online 19.06.2008.
http://www.spiegel.de/politik/ausland/0,1518,560575,00.html

[2] The Treaty of Lisabon at a glance
http://europa.eu/lisbon_treaty/glance/index_en.htm

[3] Full text of the Treaty of Lisabon
http://europa.eu/lisbon_treaty/full_text/index_en.htm

[4] Your Members of the European Parliament. Contacts
http://www.europarl.europa.eu/members/public.do?language=en

[5] Wikipedia: European Community competition law
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/European_Community_competition_law

[6] Wikipedia: Members of the European Parliament, election
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Members_of_the_European_Parliament



Rising demands of oilseeds increase pressure on biodiversity of producers [1]
The USDA report on oilseeds says that vegetable oil prices will likely remain above historic averages during 2008/09 as demand remains strong primarily due to surging growth in the developing world. Prices for all vegetable oils have double or tripled over the last 18 months as supplies were restricted due to various production shortfalls and policy imposed - export impediments.

According to USDA oil importers, particularly China and India, will look toward palm oil to satisfy demand for vegetable oil as ending stocks of major soy oil exporters (Argentina, Brazil, and the United States) are forecast down 2 percent from last year.

Wang Yinji, of the Chinese grains company Cofco says that Chinese vegetable oil consumption will rapidly rise for a few years because per capita consumption of 17 kilograms a year is below the world average, compared with 25 Kg in Taiwan and nearly 40 Kg in the USA. [2]

This increases the pressure on the ecology of Brazil which tries to expand its soy fields together with increasing bio-fuel programs.

[1] USDA: Oilseeds: World Markets and Trade. June 2008­
http://www.fas.usda.gov/oilseeds/circular/2008/June/oilseedsfull0608.pdf

[2] China.org.cn: China to import more cooking oil. (Shanghai Daily November 21, 2007)
http://china.org.cn/english/business/232617.htm


15.06.2008: Organic milk for everyone [1]
Arla Foods is strong in UK, Sweden, Denmark aims to increase its business with organic milk, cheese and yoghurt rising its payouts to farmers to avoid shortfall. The organic market of Denmark and Sweden are dominated by Arla which looks at the immense potential of Germany. Meanwhile traditional farmers in Germany and the Netherlands are fighting to survive while being underpaid.
The company claims to be the world’s largest producer of organic milk products. [2]

Arla Foods expands now its production sites on eight additional strategic countries: Germany, Poland, Russia, Middle East, United States, Canada, Spain and Greece. In the Middle East the company is present in Dubai, while jobs are lost in their main production site at Copenhagen.
Regional organic sustainable infrastructure are being dismantled by by all overlapping corporations.

[1] Arla Foods: Arla streamlines its international organisation: Arla streamlines its organisation for the international consumer markets. The ambition is to come closer to consumers and customers. At the same time Arla focuses on eight markets including the Middle East
http://www.arlafoods.com/APPL/HJ/HJ202COM/HJ202D01.NSF/O/9E404F95E52599D3C1257452002E6C02

[2] Arla Foods: Arla to make organic production even more attractive From July 1, Arla Foods is to increase the payment to its organic co-operative members in both Denmark and Sweden to attract more organic producers.
http://www.arlafoods.com/appl/HJ/HJ202COM/HJ202D01.NSF/O/19879E5DC37253B5C12574650045F368


15.06.2008: Alliance between GM and organic farming [1]
According to Pamela Ronald says that combining genetic technology with organic farming is the future of global food production. However, the animosity between the two hardened fronts have to be overcome. The plant pathologist says that genetically modified seeds grown using organic agricultural methods can significantly increase yields whilst reducing the use of environmentally damaging chemicals. The author says to meet increasing food demand genetic engineering and organic farming should be combined. She stresses that after more than a decade of genetically engineered crops, and more than 30 years of organic farming, we know that neither method alone is sufficient to solve the problems faced - and caused - by agriculture.

Pamela Ronald stresses that when genetic engineering hits its limits, though, organic farming can help. For example, the Bt cotton that transformed Chinese farming only kills caterpillars of some species, so it cannot be a stand-alone solution for general insect control. In fact, after seven years of pesticide reductions in Bt cotton fields in China, populations of other insects increased so much that farmers had to resume spraying certain insecticides. Organic farmers, by contrast, control these secondary pests by introducing beneficial insects that feed on the pests and by rotating crops to reduce the overall pest populations.

The IAAKSTD Report [2]
The International Assessment of Agricultural Knowledge, Science and Technology for Development report, published in April 2008 also supports blending both systems to achieve food security.
The report reminds that there is a world of asymmetric development, unsustainable natural resource use, and continued rural and urban poverty. The report calls for a shift of the conventional agriculture to recognize and give increased importance to the multifunctionality of agriculture, accounting for the complexity of agricultural systems within diverse social and ecological contexts.

It is, however, important for big corporations to abandon the policy of highes earnings and cooperate with the development of traits adapted to regional needs. This is a goal of the united scientific world has to face , integrating the research of international universities and the financial cooperation of the established corporations. One smal start may be Monsanto and BASF releasing transgene corn traits for Africa:

Monsanto and BASF rethinking sustainability [3]
According to a press release of Monsanto, the company, together with BASF, will provide drought-tolerance corn transgenes that they have developed through their collaboration. These contributions will be provided without royalty. This will go along with the work of African Agricultural Technology Foundation.

[1] Pamela Ronald: The new organic. The future of food may depend on an unlikely marriage: organic farmers and genetic engineering. March 16, 2008
http://indica.ucdavis.edu/news/filestorage/The%20new%20organic%20-%20The%20Boston%20Globe.pdf

[2] Executive Summary of the Synthesis Report of the
International Assessment of Agricultural Knowledge, Science and Technology for Development (IAASTD)
http://www.agassessment.org/docs/SR_Exec_Sum_210408_Final.pdf
Get all reports of IAASTD :
http://www.agassessment.org/index.cfm?Page=IAASTD%20Reports&ItemID=2713

[3] Monsanto: Drought Tolerant Corn WEMA Project News Release March 2008. African Agricultural Technology Foundation to Develop Drought-Tolerant Maize Varieties for Small-Scale Farmers in Africa. Long-term goal of public-private partnership to reduce crop failure, alleviate hunger and poverty. African Agricultural Technology Foundation.
http://www.monsanto.com/droughttolerantcorn/WEMA.asp


14.06.2008:Gum arabic replacement[1]
Climate and political factors in Sudan and Nigeria cause insecurity in the supply of gum arabic
Sugar beet pectin was found by Siew and Williams 2008 to be a substitute being, however, more expensive than gum arabic.

Studying the content of protein and ferulic acid of the sugar beet pectin fraction the authors found that one or both of these two functional groups adsorb onto the surface of the oil droplets and stabilize the emulsions.
The authors concluded that compared to those made with gum arabic, the emulsion samples made with sugar beet pectin samples exhibited similar (or even slightly higher) stability.

[1] Siew, C.K.; Williams P.A.: Role of Protein and Ferulic Acid in the Emulsification Properties of Sugar Beet Pectin. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry Volume 56, Number 11, Pages 4164-4171 Doi:10.1021/jf073358o
http://pubs.acs.org/cgi-bin/abstract.cgi/jafcau/2008/56/i11/abs/jf073358o.html


14.06.2008: U.S. bio ethanol industry result in threefold mycotoxins contamination in feed {1}
High levels of mycotoxins in maize-based ethanol co-products up to three times compared with grains, are expected by Wu and Munkvold 2008. The co-products are mostly dried distillers' grain and solubles or wet distillers' grains which are fed to livestock. The authors estimate that the mycotoxins from dried distillers' grain and solubles, mainly fumonisins, may result in loss of up to 293 million USD/y to the swine industry from weight gain reduction. Other stakeholders are also affected if mycotoxin contamination in both pre- and postharvest maize. will not be controlled.

The toxicity of the fumonisins, fumonisin B1 (FB1), fumonisin B2 (FB2), and fumonisin B3 (FB3), produced by Fusarium moniliforme to poultry was studied by Henry and Wyatt. The authors found that the 50% lethal dose for FB1, when injected into the air cell of embryonating chicken eggs, was 18.73 microg per egg. [2]

Synergistic effect of fumonisins on the toxicity of fusaric acid [3]
Fusaric acid, only moderately toxic to the chicken egg, was found by Bacon, Porter and Norred 1995 to have its toxicity increased due to the synergistic effect of fumonisin B1 and other fusaria toxins found on corn and other cereals. The authors concluded that fusaric acid might play a role in enhanced and unpredicted toxicity in mammalian systems if it is consumed with other mycotoxins.
Fumonisins in quail rations [4]
Butkeraitis and colleagues 2004 found that exposure to FB 1 at concentrations equal or more than 50 mg/kg could adversely affect quail performance. The authors stress the importance of controlling fumonisin contamination of quail rations.
Human tolerable Daily Intake is 800 ng/kg bw/day of FB1.

FDA sees fumonisins residues as not a public health concern [5]
The FDA concluded in residue Studies in 2000 that fumonisins are poorly absorbed 'orally' in all species tested to date. Oral bioavailability averaged about 4% in swine and 0.7% in laying hens. Most of the ingested FB1and FB2 is excreted in the feces unchanged. The FDA believes fumonisin residues in meat, milk and eggs will likely not be a public health concern.

Exposure Assessment by the Australian FSA [6]
Maize is the only commodity that contains significant amount of fumonisins (IPSC, 2000). Estimated
mean dietary intakes of fumonisin B1 based on regional diets and published distributions of
concentrations of fumonisin B1 in maize, indicating a mean intake of fumonisin B1 ranging from 0.2
μg/kg bw/day in European-type diet to 2.4 μg/kg bw/day in the African diet (WHO, 2001c).
Fumonisin B1 is not well absorbed by poultry and should not contribute significantly to human dietary
exposure.
Risk Characterisation: Secondary exposure to fumonisin B1 through consumption of poultry meat products derived from poultry fed fumonisin B1-containing feed, presents a negligible risk to the consumer

[1] Wu, Felicia; Munkvold, Gary P. : Mycotoxins in Ethanol Co-products: Modeling Economic Impacts on the Livestock Industry and Management Strategies. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry. Volume 56, Number 11, Pages 3900-39011 doi:10.1021/jf072697e
http://pubs.acs.org/cgi-bin/abstract.cgi/jafcau/2008/56/i11/abs/jf072697e.html

[2] Henry, M. H.; Wyatt, R. D.: The toxicity of fumonisin B1, B2, and B3, individually and in combination, in chicken embryos. Poultry Science, Vol 80, Issue 4, 401-407
http://ps.fass.org/cgi/content/abstract/80/4/401

[3] Bacon, C. W. ; Porter, J. K. ; Norred, W. P. ; Toxic interactions of fumonisin B1 and fusaric acid measured by injection into fertile chicken egg. Mycopathologia. 1995, vol. 129, nr 1, pp. 29-35 (47 ref.)
http://cat.inist.fr/?aModele=afficheN&cpsidt=3597478

[4] Butkeraitis, P.; Oliveira, C.A.F.; Ledoux, D.R.; Ogido, R.; lbuquerque, R. A; Rosmaninho, J.F. ; Rottinghaus, G.E.: British Poultry Science. Volume 45, Number 6, December 2004 , pp. 798-801(4) http://www.ingentaconnect.com/content/tandf/cbps/2004/00000045/00000006/art00010

[5] FDA: Background Paper in Support of Fumonisin Levels in Animal Feed. June 6, 2000
http://www.cfsan.fda.gov/~dms/fumonbg2.html

[6]FSA Australia New Zealand: Scientific Assessment of the Public Health and Safety of Poultry Meat in Australia Food Standards Australia New Zealand November 2005
http://www.foodstandards.govt.nz/_srcfiles/P282_Poultry%20_%20DAR%20Attach3.pdf


14.06.2008: Turning corn fiber into ethanol [1]
Hans Van Leeuwen, developed a process that can convert corn fiber, a byproduct of the wet milling process that produces corn syrup, into fuel-grade ethanol. It uses a mould which produces enzymes that break down corn fibre into simple sugars which can be fermented into ethanol.
This process may also be applied to distillers dried grains, a byproduct of the dry milling process that's typically used to convert corn kernels into ethanol.

According to the authors ethanol is produced grinding corn kernels and adding water and enzymes. The enzymes break the starches into sugars. The sugars are fermented with yeasts to produce ethanol which is distilled.
The authors say that for every gallon alcohol produced there are six gallons of leftovers called stillage. The solids are removed by centrifugation, which may be dried and sold as cattle feed as distillers dried grains.
Half of the remaining liquid, known as thin stillage is used for next fermentation and the other half is evaporated and blended with distillers dried grains to produce distillers dried grains with solubles.
The researchers used a fungus, Rhizopus microsporus, to remove about 80 per cent of organic material and the solids so the whole thin silage may be used in the next fermentation batch. The fungus which grows during the process is rich in protein, certain essential amino acids and other nutrients and may be added to distillers dried grains as feed for hogs and chicken.
This process improves alcohol yield and reduces energy needed in the process.

[1] Iowa State University: Iowa State researchers use fungus to improve corn-to-ethanol process. 25.May 2008
http://www.public.iastate.edu/~nscentral/news/2008/may/fungus.shtml


13.06.2008: European  Constitution  as layed down by the Treaty of Lisbon rejected by Irish referendum  [1]
It is a hard slap on democracy, when a small minority is able to stop themajority of the European population. Ireland was a poor developing  country and is now, thanks to heavy subventions of the EU, on the way to become a high tech country.

Not ratifying the Treaty of Lisbon brings serious problems to handle WTO, pressure from USA to allow GM food and to harmonize European food Law.
Ireland argues with irrational  slogans like "People died for your freedom. Don´t trow it away." This does not comply with the European spirit.

The European Commission should leave those minorities outside and create its own block of those who ratified the Constitution.


[1] Los Angeles Times: Ireland sees growing opposition to European constitution
The June 12 vote on the Lisbon Treaty now seems less certain, as opposition groups, some businessmen and farmers raise concerns about sovereignty.
http://www.latimes.com/news/printedition/suncommentary/la-fg-treaty1-2008jun01,0,871786.story



13.06.2008: Extract from red yeast Chinese rice XZK reduced cardiovascular events and death [1]
David M. Capuzzi and colleagues 2008, report that treatment with XZK decreased CV and total mortality by 30% and 33%, the need for coronary revascularization by 1/3.

According to the authors total and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and triglycerides were lowered, and the good high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels were raised. They concluded that long-term therapy with XZK decreased the recurrence of coronary events. New cardiovascular events and deaths were reduced.

[1] Lu, Zongliang; Kou, Wenrong; Du, Baomin; Wu, Yangfeng; Zhao, Shuiping; Brusco, Osvaldo A.; Morgan, John M.; Capuzzi, David M. and Chinese Coronary Secondary Prevention Study Group: Coronary artery disease: Effect of Xuezhikang, an Extract From Red Yeast Chinese Rice, on Coronary Events in a Chinese Population With Previous Myocardial Infarction. The American Journal of Cardiology. Volume 101, Issue 12, 15 June 2008, Pages 1689-1693 doi:10.1016/j.amjcard.2008.02.056
http://www.ajconline.org/article/S0002-9149(08)00353-6/abstract


12.06.2008: Clones and foods derived from them  [1]
Animal cloning is an emerging technology in the EU and well established in the US. Food derived from cloned animals will enter the food chain across the world.

The FSA exploring the perceptions of animal cloning and to identify what the key issues and areas of concern/uncertainty are, particularly in relation to food.

FSA concluded that consumer struggled to identify any convincing benefits of the technique and felt that the only "winners" were likely to be the biotechnology companies, livestock breeders, farmers or food retailers and were concerned that the only reason for introducing animal cloning was a financial one. They questioned whether there were really any benefits for consumers.

Views on Labelling
FSA found that the consumer call for all food derived from cloned animals and their offspring to be clearly
labelled. The question arouse how far removed an animal needs to be from a cloned ancestor before it is considered ‘normal’.

Cloning in USA [2]
In the US, the Food and Drug Administration has concluded that "meat and milk
from cow, pig, and goat clones and the offspring of any animal clones are as safe as
food we eat every day."Labelling of cloned animals and food derived from the , like meat, eggs and milk in USA will not be required. Cloned foods already entered the food chain.

New Zealand  [3]
According to the New Zealand Food Safety Authority, there is no accepted scientific evidence to suggest that food from cloned animals is any less safe than food from non-cloned animals.

Denmark
Denmark, has specific legislation on the cloning of farm animals.

EU
In the EU any food product derived from cloned animals has to be subjected to a safety evaluation and needs to be approved by all European Union (EU) Member States as a novel food before it could be
legally marketed.

Intellectual property issues [4]
The Group stresses that  it should be clarified whether the exclusion clauses in Directive 98/44/EC
(Art. 6d) on patentability of biological inventions and the EPO rules (23 d) to animal cloning for food
apply.

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA)
The EFSA examined the question of the safety of clones, their progeny and the environment and found them as safe. However, cloning, as with other assisted reproduction technologies, could unintentionally affect the genetic diversity by increasing the proportion of a specific genotype within a given population.

Assisted reproductive techniques (ARTs)
Assisted reproductive techniques (ARTs) are:

Animal cloning using somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) Whereas all of the current methods still involve taking sperm from a male and joining it with an egg from a female, cloning is the ability to create an exact copy of a biological entity by means other than the joining of a sperm and an egg. Genetic diversity is strongly reduced in the offsprings. The lack of genetic diversity makes the species vulnerable to environmental changes like new diseases and early aging.

                                                                                                                      Click picture to enlarge view

Artificial Insemination
Involves the collection of semen from bulls which can then be used to artificially inseminate cows.
It is possible to freeze the semen, store it for longer and make it more widely available. Genetic diversity is not affected.

Oestrus Synchronisation
Involves giving hormone implants and injections to ensure a group of cows are ready for
breeding at the same time, being used together with artificial insemination. Genetic diversity is not affected.

Embryo Transfer
Just as artificial insemination is used to produce lots of calves from a single, prize bull, embryo transfer is used to produce more offspring from a prize cow stimulated with a hormone to produce a number of eggs at once. The cow is then mated and many of the eggs are fertilised and start
to develop. The embryos are flushed out surgically and implanted into the uterus of surrogate
mothers where they are brought to term. Genetic diversity is not affected.

In Vitro Fertilisation
This is a similar process to embryo transfer except the unfertilised eggs of the prize cow
are fertilised in an incubator before being transferred to surrogate mothers. Genetic diversity is not affected.

Sexed Semen
The purpose of this is to produce a higher proportion of female calves. Genetic diversity is not affected.

[1] FSA Study: Animal Cloning and Implications for the Food Chain. Findings of Research Among the General Public
http://www.food.gov.uk/multimedia/pdfs/clonereport.pdf

[2] U.S. FDA: Center for Veterinary Medicine: Animal Cloning
http://www.fda.gov/cvm/cloning.htm

[3] New Zealand Food Safety Authority: Food from cloned animals.
http://www.nzfsa.govt.nz/policy-law/publications/policy-statements/food-cloned-animals/food-from-
cloned-animals-final.htm#P31_2524

[4] Directive 98/44/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of the European Union on the legal protection of biotechnological inventions of 6 July 1998.
http://eur-lex.europa.eu/LexUriServ/LexUriServ.do?uri=OJ:L:1998:213:0013:0021:EN:PDF



11.06.2008: Bisglycinates as sources of copper, zinc, calcium, magnesium in foods and as food supplements are safe, safety unclear of chromium glycinate nicotinate complex  [1]
The Panel of the EFSA published an opinion which says that the use of copper bisglycinate chelate, zinc bisglycinate chelate, calcium bisglycinate chelate, and magnesium bisglycinate chelate as a source of the specific element for nutritional purposes and food supplements is not of safety concern.

The Panel could not reach a conclusion on the safety of chromium glycinate nicotinate complex, due to lack of information.

[1] EFSA: Scientific Opinion of the Panel on Food Additives, Flavourings, Processing Aids and Materials in Contact with Food on a request from the Commission on certain bisglycinates and glycinate nicotinate as sources for copper, zinc, calcium, magnesium and chromium. The EFSA Journal (2008) 718, 1-26
http://www.efsa.europa.eu/EFSA/efsa_locale-1178620753820_1178713218484.htm

10.09.2008: Bioavailability of zinc gluconate salts compared with zinc from yeasts
Zinc is, after iron, the most  important  trace elements in the body,being related to  a healthy immune system, influence memory, muscle strength and endurance in adults.
According to Thomas Tompkins and colleagues compared the bioavailability of zinc gluconate and zinc from yeasts in two studies presented in 2007.

The first study found zinc yeast to have significantly less loss in the faeces, accounting for a gain in net zinc balance, while, in comparison, zinc gluconate supplementation resulted in net loss of zinc through the faeces. [1]

In the second study Tomkins and colleagues wrote that zinc-enriched yeast was 3.7 times more bioavailable than the zinc gluconate and that copper-enriched yeast was 1.4 times more bioavailable than the Cu gluconate. Lallemand Health Ingredients is waiting for the approval from EFSA for the mineral enriched yeast supplement. [2]

[1] Vinson, Joe A.; Tompkins, Thomas A. Agbor, Gabriel A.: Comparative Bioavailability of Mineral-enriched Gluconates and Yeast in Rat Liver After Depletion-Repletion Feeding. Biological Trace Element Researche , Humana Press. Volume 118, Number 2 / September, 2007 104-110 (7).
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17873352

[2] Tompkins, Thomas A.; Renard, Nadine E.; Kiuchi, Akira: Clinical Evaluation of the Bioavailability of Zinc-enriched Yeast and Zinc Gluconate in Healthy Volunteers. Biological Trace Element Researche , Humana Press, (Humana Press). Volume 120, Numbers 1-3 / December 2007 pp 28-35 (8)doi: 10.1007/s12011-007-0072-2
http://www.springerlink.com/content/n138537440760645/09.06.2008


09.06.2008: European Union draft of Renewable Energy Directive critics
Carbon permits [1]
Claude Turmes, European Parliament Rapporteur on the Renewable Energy Directive says that the trade of certificates described in article eight of the proposed directive, can be limited by the Commission according to article nine. to protect the national support schemes. However, turmes sys that investors could say this is contrary to article 28 and 30 [EC Treaties] relating to the free movement of goods.

Business with Carbon Permits is already flourishing [2] [3]
The North-Pool stock exchange will trade CO2 futures and use the trans-Atlantic potential. Carbon permits cost in Europe 27 EUR/Ton CO2 and the price is expected to rise up to 40 EUR, meanwhile the US permits cost only 4.7 EUR (7 USD). A good business for North-Poole and Richard Sandor, head of the London-based Climate Exchange PLC.

Doha Bank in Qatar [4]
The Doha Bank, a major Qatari private commercial bank, is the pioneer in financing carbon trading deals in cooperation with Japanese companies for a market trading greenhouse gas emission rights.

Research on effects of biofuel production [5]
According to a study by order of the European trade body for the biscuit and confectionery industry (CAOBISCO) the 10 per cent mandatory target for the inclusion of biofuels in transport fuel by 2020 will have serious effects on environment and food prices. According to the study global demand for agricultural commodities and erratic weather already contributed considerably to the dramatic price increases in raw materials worldwide.

The study stresses that the EU is unable to cope with the demand of 10 per cent biofuels and will becomes a net-importer of grains, moving from 10 million tonnes of exports up to 32 million tonnes of imports, and up to 50 per cent of vegetable oils will be imported in 2020.

The study calls for the development of second – generation (non-food crop based biofuels, such as waste from agriculture and forestry), but this alternative is unlike to become important until 2020.

Claude Turmes supports dropping the biofuels target because it cannot be achieved in a sustainable way.

[1] EurActiv: Turmes: Seeks revamped renewable
http://www.euractiv.com/en/energy/turmes-seeks-revamped-renewables-trading-rejects-biofuels
-target/article-172326

[2] Handelsblatt: Das Klima erreicht die Börse. 06.06.2008
http://www.handelsblatt.com/news/Default.aspx?_p=200729&_t=ft&_b=1440258

[3] The Wall Street Journal: CARBON KING. Economist Strikes Gold In Climate-Change Fight Pollution Market Seen as Test for U.S.; One 'Surreal' Fall By LEILA ABBOUD March 13, 2008; Page A1
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB120535230851631199.html?mod=%2528_pageid_%2529_topbox

[4] The Arab Environment Watch: Doha Bank to trade carbon emission, the Islamic Way! 25.04.2008
http://www.arabenvironment.net/archive/2008/4/549118.html

[5] CAOBISCO: Biofuels in the EU Impact Assess 2020. Food Industry Perspective Review Summary. 13. February 2008 Feedstock demand at a 10% incorporation of biofuels in 2020.
http://www.caobisco.com/doc_uploads/304-1179e-annex2-rev3.pdf


08.06.2008: FAO Food Summit in Rome calls for more investment in agriculture [1]
More aid for developing countries
The Declaration of the FAO´s summit on soaring food prices in Rome from 3 to 6 June 2008 call on donors and international financial institutions to provide balance of payments support and/or budget support to food-importing, low-income countries.

Money and food imports destroy the local agrarian structure and increases unemployment.
Drilling a well in dry region attracts humans and herds. Former well distributed population which could survive self-supporting, are attracted new wells and food distribution centres. Now the overcrowded region cannot feed people and animals any more. Those who left their former places are dependent on foreign help. African experts call to stop aids to underdeveloped countries to avoid disturbance of the infrastructure of the countries. [2]

Food crisis touches also developed countries
According to Jacques Diouf, director general of the FAO the organisation is focused on aid to farmers in developing countries, however, the crisis touches developed nations too.
There is a gap between supply and demand, so that some countries don´t have food at all.

Low food stock capacity
FAO recommends countries to develop their food stock capacities and consider other measures to strengthen food security risk management in order to moderate unusual fluctuations in food grain prices.

Biofuels and food security
FAO also recommends to install a coherent, effective and results-oriented international dialogue on biofuels in the context of food security and sustainable development needs.

Germany´s Chancellor Angela Merkel, together with its environment minister Gabriel made a deal with Brazilian President Lulla concerning the trade of biofuel which will affect seriously the environment of the whole country, displacing small farmers and menacing the Amazon forest. Rapidly increasing staple food prices are a result of these monocultures.
Bio alcohol from the US corn belt at the Mississippi

Doha claims to improve world market of agrarian products of developed countries
WTO members reaffirmed their commitment to the rapid and successful conclusion of the Doha development agenda. Its aim is to liberalize international trade in agriculture by reducing trade barriers and market distorting policies. According to the Declaration, the efforts of Doha will give farmers, particularly in developing countries, new opportunities to sell their products on world markets and support their efforts to increase productivity and production. The WTO destroys the self-feeding regions.

Trade barriers also destroy the infrastructure of food supply. Such as chicken wings from European countries sold as extreme low prices in Ghana which destroys the local poultry market. All local poultry farms are closed and all workers lost their job. [3]

In Germany, Holland and Austria farmers are selling their milk below production costs. Supermarket chains like LIDL ALDI force the price down to a global market price. This destroys the sustainable regional food supply. If local production costs are not covered, farmers will go bankrupt and food must be moved from one region to another increasing transportation.

[1] Food Summit calls for more investment in agriculture Poor countries need special assistance to weather food price shocks
http://www.fao.org/newsroom/en/news/2008/1000856/index.html

[2] Spiegel Online: Developmental Aid Workers Are Killing Africa. 06.05.2008
http://www.spiegel.de/international/world/0,1518,557723,00.html

[3] Poulets Foundation: Chicken exports. Europe plucks Africa. A campaign for the right to protect
agricultural markets
http://www.sosfaim.be/pdf/en/poulets_foundation.pdf

07.06.2008: The European Commission protects European sodium glutamate producer [1]
Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is a flavour enhancer for foods such as soups, fish and meat dishes, and ready meals in produces of Nestle, Unilever and others. Glutamate was linked to headache, known as the China restaurant syndrome and other problems.

Ajinomoto Foods Europe, the only MSG producer in the EU, complainted of Chinese firms dumping sodium glutamate on the EU market undercutting Ajinomoto's price by up to 24 per cent. Following the complaint, the European Commission imposed anti-dumping tariffs of 39,7 per cent on monosodium glutamate (MSG) imported to the EU from China.

[1] Commission Regulation (EC) No 492/2008 of 3 June 2008 imposing a provisional anti-dumping duty on imports of monosodium glutamate originating in the Peoples Republic of China
http://vlex.com/vid/38605235


07.06.2008:Retinal cell destruction caused by sodium glutamate [1]
Ohguro Hirishi and colleagues 2002 found a significant accumulation of glutamate in vitreous was observed in rats on high sodium glutamate. Thickness of retinal neuronal layers was remarkably thinner in rats fed on sodium glutamate diets than in those on a regular diet.

The authors concluded that a diet high in sodium glutamate over a period of several years may increase glutamate concentrations in vitreous and may cause retinal cell destruction.

[1] Hiroshi, Ohguro; Harumi, Katsushima; Ikuyo, Maruyama; Tadao, Maeda; Satsuki, Yanagihashi; Tomomi, Metoki; Mitsuru, Nakazawa: A high dietary intake of sodium glutamate as flavoring (Ajinomoto) causes gross changes in retinal morphology and function. Experimental eye research. 2002, vol. 75, nr. 3, pp. 307-315
http://cat.inist.fr/?aModele=afficheN&cpsidt=13901132


06.06.2008: Climate: The profitable carbon permits trading exchange [1] [2]
According to Torger Lien of the Norwegian energy stock exchange North-Poole wants to use the transatlantic potential of CO2-Futures. Richard Sandor, founder of the first two climate stock exchange - Chicago Climate Exchange (CCX) and European Climate Exchange (ECX) expects great sells as the new US president is expected to activate climate awareness after 8 years of denial.

Richard Sandor, head of the London-based Climate Exchange PLC, buys and sells the right to pollute.
Carbon permits are traded much like physical commodities. In Europe Carbon Credits cost 27 EURO/Ton CO2, but are expected to raise to 40 EURO/Ton, meanwhile in USA they are sold at 4.70 EURO ( 7 US/D). So it is more than a profitable business. It is a big market where the right to pollute is bought and old.

Each government-issued permit grants its holder permission to emit a ton of carbon dioxide, and these credits may also be sold, if not needed. Carbon exchange makes money by trading these credits.

So-called "cap and trade" programs like Europe's are intended to give polluters a financial incentive to reduce emission. Those who do not want to improve their technology buy carbon credits at the exchange. As air traffic is planed to be included in this system, carbon exchange will flourish.

The system, “cap and trade” produced no measurable reductions in emissions so far, but carbon trading has produced profits to banks, traders and exchanges like these of Mr. Sandor.


[1] Handelsblatt: Das Klima erreicht die Börse. 06.06.2008
http://www.handelsblatt.com/news/Default.aspx?_p=200729&_t=ft&_b=1440258

[2] The Wall Street Journal: CARBON KING. Economist Strikes Gold In Climate-Change Fight Pollution Market Seen as Test for U.S.; One 'Surreal' Fall By LEILA ABBOUD March 13, 2008; Page A1
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB120535230851631199.html?mod=%2528_pageid_%2529_topbox


05.06.2008: Artificial food colours to be banned in USA[1]
The CSPI petitioned the FDA to ban the artificial food dyes Yellow 5, Yellow 6, Red 3, Red 40, Blue 1, Blue 2, Green 3, and Orange B because those chemicals cause hyperactivity and other behavioral problems in some children. Such action was held in the UK with support of the UK Food Standards Agency FSA.

CSPI refers to three studies which say that artificial food colours cause hyperactivity and other adverse effects in children and adults. According to the CSPI Kraft Macaroni and Cheese, Jell-O, Lunchables, and countless other products still use Yellow 5, Yellow 6, Red 40, and these other petrochemical-based food dyes.

A summary of the studies
McCann and colleagues 2007 found significant reductions in hyperactive behaviour when artificial food colours were withdrawn from the diet of children.
The authors concluded that there is a general adverse effect of artificial food colouring and benzoate preservatives on the behaviour of 3 year old children which is detectable by parents but not by a simple clinic assessment. [2]

Bateman and colleagues 2004 in a study found that artificial food colours exacerbate hyperactive behaviours (inattention, impulsivity, and overactivity) in children at least up to middle childhood. According to the authors other findings show that adverse eff ects are not just seen in children with extreme hyperactivity, but can also be seen in the general population and across the range of severities of hyperactivity. [3]

Schab and Trihn 2004 in a study related to artificial colours and hyperactivity say that as long there is uncertainty about the early and long-term effects of these exposures, society should engage in a broader discussion about whether the aesthetic and commercial rationale for the use of artificial food colours is justified. [4]

[1] CSPI Urges FDA to Ban Artificial Food Dyes Linked to Behavior Problems Dyes Called "Secret Shame" of Food Industry and Regulators. 02.06.2008
http://www.cspinet.org/new/200806022.html

[2] McCann D, Barrett A, Cooper A, Crumpler D, Dalen L, Grimshaw K, et al: Food additives and hyperactive behaviour in 3-year-old and 8/9 year-old children in the community a randomised, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial. The Lancet 2007; 370:1560-70 DOI:10.1016/S0140-6736(07)61306-3
http://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140673607613063/abstract

[3] Bateman, B.; Warner, J .O.; Hutchinson, E.; Dean, T.; Rowlandson, P.; Gant, C.; Grundy, J.; Fitzgerald, C.;  Stevenson, J.: The effects of a double blind, placebo controlled, artificial food colourings and benzoate preservative challenge on hyperactivity in a general population sample of preschool children. Arch Dis Child 2004;89:506–511. doi: 10.1136/adc.2003.031435
http://cspinet.org/new/pdf/bateman.pdf

[4] Schab, David W.; Trihn,Nhi-Hat.: Do Artificial Food Colors Promote Hyperactivity in Children with Hyperactive Syndromes? A Meta-Analysis of Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Trials. Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics. Vol. 25, No. 6, 423-434,December 2004
http://www.jrnldbp.com/pt/re/jdbp/abstract.00004703-200412000-00007.htm


04.06.2008: DSP: Diarrhoeic Shellfish Poisoning (A colorimetric phosphatase inhibition assay) [1]
To detect DSP toxins, a colorimetric phosphatase inhibition assay was developed using a highly purified recombinant human PP2A C-subunit, which is produced by a recombinat Baculovirus. The assay is very sensitive, fast, easy,accurate, reproducible and inexpensive to detect DSP toxins (OA group) in the shellfish. The intensity of the color is proportional to the enzyme activity and the absorbance is measured at 405 nm. The lowest detectable concentration of OA is 0.1 μg/g in shellfish digestive glands,which comprise about 10-30% of all the soft tissue of the shellfish by weight.

The DSP Rapid Kit was developed following the studies of Takai and Mieskes 1991, and
Tubaro and colleagues 1996 which proposed the assay as routine assessment of okadaic acid shellfish contamination, stressing that it is sensitive, rapid and does not require expensive equipment. [2] [3]

[1] DSP Rapid Kit: Diarrhoeic Shellfish Poisoning (A colorimetric phosphatase inhibition assay)
http://www.sceti.co.jp/medical/PdfFiles/dsp_rapid_kit_english.pdf

[2]. Takai A, Mieskes G.: Inhibitory effect of okadaic acid on the p-nitrophenyl phosphate phosphatase activity of protein phosphatases. Biochem J. 275:233-9, 1991
http://www.biochemj.org/bj/275/bj2750233.htm

[3]Tubaro, Aurelia; Florio, Chiara; Luxich, Elena; Sosa, Silvio; Della Loggia, Roberto; Yasumoto, Takeshi: A protein phosphatase 2A inhibition assay for a fast and sensitive assessment of okadaic
acid contamination in mussels. Toxicon 34(7):743-52, 1996. Toxicon

04.05.2008: Vitamin D deficiency in children and toddlers[1]
Gordon and colleagues 2008 found that a low degree of vitamin D insufficiency is widespread in US. The authors also stress that breastfed infants in winter who did not receive vitamin D supplementation were the most severely vitamin D deficient.
The authors enforce the recommendations for health care providers and parents to ensure that breastfed infants receive daily vitamin D supplementation for the duration of breastfeeding
In this study older age, winter season, higher body mass index, black race/ethnicity, and elevated parathyroid hormone concentrations were also associated with lower vitamin D status .One-third of vitamin D–deficient participants exhibited demineralization.

Review of vitamin D deficiency [2]
Rovner and O´Brien 2008 found that there is still unsifficiency on vitamin D in children in the United States. The authors efforts call for efforts to improve the vitamin D status of children.

[1] Gordon, Catherine M.; Feldman, Henry A.; Sinclair, Linda; LeBoff Williams, Avery ; Kleinman; Paul K.;Perez-Rossello,Jeannette ; Cox, Joanne E.: Prevalence of Vitamin D Deficiency Among Healthy Infants and Toddlers. Archives of Paediatric Medicine. Arch Pediatr Adolesc Med. 2008;162(6):505-512.
http://archpedi.ama-assn.org/cgi/content/short/162/6/505

[2] Rovner, Alisha J. ; O’Brien, Kimberly O.: Hypovitaminosis D Among Healthy Children in the United States A Review of the Current Evidence Arch Pediatr Adolesc Med. 2008;162(6):513-519.
http://archpedi.ama-assn.org/cgi/content/full/162/6/513


03.06.2008: Antibrowning agent for fresh-cut fruit [1]
Browning of fresh cut fruits is initiated by polyphenol oxidase enzyme (PPO) in presence of oxygen and converts phenolic compounds into dark coloured pigments.

Rojas-Grau and colleagues 2008 measured levels of PPO to quantify the anti-browning activity of ascorbic acid, 4-hexylresorcinol, N-acetylcysteine, and glutathione on fresh-cut Fuji apple slices stored at four degrees Celsius for 14 days. The compounds were studied individually or in combination.

The colour of the apples was maintained over 14 days at 4°C when using N-acetylcysteine and glutathione together, or N-acetylcysteine alone in 1 per cent concentration. Both are natural products and are thiol-containing compounds. The enzyme PPO was inactivated.
The authors concluded that both natural antibrowning agents offer advantage over the use of ascorbic acid.

[1] Rojas-Grau, M.A.; Soliva-Fortuny, R.; Martin-Bellosa, O.: Effect of Natural Antibrowning Agents on Color and Related Enzymes in Fresh-Cut Fuji Apples as an Alternative to the Use of Ascorbic Acid. Journal of Food Science Published online ahead of print, doi: 10.1111/j.1750-3841.2008.00794.x
http://www.blackwell-synergy.com/doi/abs/10.1111/j.1750-3841.2008.00794.x


02.06.2008:Food industry asking to tighten the rules on weight-reduction drugs [1]
It is hard to believe but it is true, GlaxoSmithKline, owner of Alli weight-reduction OTC drug, instead of pledging for soft rules, issued a petition to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to ban dietary supplements from making weight loss claims.

Dietary supplements and weight-loss aids aren't subject to the same rigorous standards as are prescription drugs or medications sold over-the-counter. They can be marketed with limited proof of effectiveness or safety. Vendors can make health claims about products based on their own review and interpretation of studies without the authorization of the FDA.

GSK says that the trials supporting botanical and other ingredients in benefit of weight loss are not rigorous enough, or numerous enough. Classifying weight-loss products as prescription drugs or medication could eliminate nasty competitors which could not present clinical studies of their claims.
The Mayo Clinic cites over the counter weight-loss drugs, all of them presenting serious inconveniences: Bitter Orange, Chitosan, Chromium, Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), Country mallow (heartleaf), Ephedra, Green tea extract, Guar gum, Hoodia. [5]

Consumer interest in weight management is stronger than ever as obesity-related problems have increased.

Drug for weight loss, limited efficacy and safety concerns. [2]
Alli, is designed to be used only as part of a behavioral weight-loss program that GSK says is not for everyone. cut calories and exercise more. It acts as a fat blocker by preventing up to 25 percent of fat eaten from being digested. Alli has half the amount found in prescription Orlistat (Xenical).
A low-fat (no more than 15 grams of fat per meal) and a reduced-calorie program must be followed.
In April 2006, the consumer group Public Citizen petitioned the FDA to block Alli because of concerns of two studies suggesting that Xenical can cause these precancerous growths. [3] [4]

Mayo Clinic says Alli provides only modest results [5]
According to Donald Hensrud, M.D., a preventive medicine and nutrition specialist at Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn Alli could conceivably result in an average of 3 pounds lost in a year in addition to the approximately 8 pounds you could expect to lose from diet and exercise alone.

[1] Food Navigator : The GSK weight loss wake-up call
http://www.foodnavigator.com/news/ng.asp?n=85498&c=yvW%2FFaETORThk%2FENu9r8Ug%3D%3D

[2] Washington Post: Lowdown on OTC Weight-Loss Drug. 20.02.2007 Page HE05
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/02/16/AR2007021602319.html

[3] Garcia S, da Costa Barros L, Turatti A, Martinello F, Modiano P, Ribeiro-Silva A, de Oliveira Vespúcio M, Uyemura S (2006). "The anti-obesity agent Orlistat is associated to increase in colonic preneoplastic markers in rats treated with a chemical carcinogen.". Cancer Lett 240 (2): 221-4. doi:10.1016/j.canlet.2005.09.011. PMID 16377080
http://www.cancerletters.info/article/S0304-3835(05)00860-8/abstract

[4] Takayama T, Katsuki S, Takahashi Y, Ohi M, Nojiri S, Sakamaki S, Kato J, Kogawa K, Miyake H, Niitsu Y (1998). "Aberrant crypt foci of the colon as precursors of adenoma and cancer". N Engl J Med 339(18): 1277–84. Doi:10.1056/NEJM199810293391803. PMID 9791143.
http://content.nejm.org/cgi/content/abstract/339/18/1277

[5] MayoClinic.com: Alli weight-loss pill: Does it work? Is Alli the solution to your weight-loss woes? A Mayo Clinic specialist discusses the effectiveness of Alli, an over-the-counter weight-loss pill.
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/alli/WT00030

02.06.2008: Two employees from German company Alfred Wolff GmbH were arrested in US for importing honey contaminated with antibiotics and wrong labelling. [1]
The two employees Stefanie Giesselbach and Magnus von Buddenbrock, the general manager of the Chicago office were arrested at the airport as Gieselbach tried to board a plane to Germany. Both may be sentenced to 5 years prison.
US authorities allege that Wolff imported Chinese honey mislabelled as coming from Russia
and the Ukraine to avoid to pay US anti-dumping duties. The honey also contained illegal antibiotics chloramphenicol.

Alfred L. Wolff 's organic honey and organic agave juice are certified by BSC-Öko-Garantie, Germany, EU Code Nr. DE-001-Öko-Kontrollstelle. [2]

Wolff, with headquarters in Hamburg, Germany, is the leading supplier of honey ingredients, with customers in the bakery, dairy, beverage and confectionery markets, organic honey and other raw ware for the food industry.

The company claims to have developed a new technique which can remove potential pathogens such as Botulism without affecting the quality and taste of the honey. The managing director, Alexander Wolff says that to company was mainly accused to have imported honey into the US in violation of custom regulations with respect to declarations of origin to avoid antidumping duties. He claims that the accusations are false. [3]

[1] Herald Tribune International: German food company executives arrested in plot to import honey illegally from China. 28.05.2008
http://www.iht.com/articles/ap/2008/05/28/business/NA-FIN-US-Honey-Arrests.php

[2]Alfred L.Wolf: Organic Growth! News Archive - 03/2007
http://www.alwolff.com/newsarchive.php?lang=en&id=NM-53

[3] Forbes.com: German company rejects US honey plot accusations. Associated Press 28.05.08,
http://www.forbes.com/feeds/ap/2008/05/28/ap5054905.html


01.06.2008: Call for increased supplementation with vitamin D [1]
Hypovitaminosis D is prevalent in youth worldwide, but the safety of vitamin D at doses exceeding 200 IU/day is unknown in this age group. We assessed the safety of high doses of vitamin D3 administered to apparently healthy school children.
Ghada El-Haff Fuleihan and colleagues 2008 in a study with adolescents, gave vitamin D3 in 200 and 2.000 IU/day for one year. No vitamin D intoxication was detected with biochemical variables monitoring.
The authors concluded that vitamin D3 at doses equivalent to 2,000 IU/day for one year is safe in adolescents and results in desirable vitamin D levels.

According to Michael Holick, vitamin D deficiency remains common in children and adults. In utero and during childhood, vitamin D deficiency can cause growth retardation and skeletal deformities and may increase the risk of hip fracture later in life.
Holick states that curret recommendations of 200 IU per day for children and adults up to 50 years of age for vitamin D need to be increased to 800 - 1000 IU vitamin D3.
About 60 per cent of northern populations may be vitamin D deficient. increasing the risk of osteopenia, osteoporosis, muscle weakness, fractures, common cancers, autoimmune diseases, infectious diseases and cardiovascular diseases. [2]

According to Vieth and colleagues 2007, human diets do not provide sufficient vitamin D, which is confirmed by low serum 25(OH)D concentrations.
Vieth concludes that correction of low 25(OH)D concentrations can happen only if some or all of the following are implemented: the encouragement of safe, moderate exposure of skin to ultraviolet light; appropriate increases in food fortification with vitamin D; and the provision of higher doses of vitamin D in supplements for adults. [3]

Holik and Chen 2008 recommends a circulating level of 25-hydroxyvitamin D of >75 nmol/L, or 30 ng/mL, to maximize vitamin D's beneficial effects for health. In the absence of adequate sun exposure, at least 800–1000 IU vitamin D3/d may be needed to achieve this in children and adults. Vitamin D2 may be equally effective for maintaining circulating concentrations of 25-hydroxyvitamin D when given in physiologic concentrations. [4]

[1] Maalouf, Joyce; Nabulsi, Mona; Vieth, Reinhold; Kimball, Samantha; El-Rassi, Rola; Mahfoud, Ziyad; El-Hajj Fuleihan, Ghada : Short-term and long-term safety of weekly high-dose vitamin D3 supplementation in school children. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism Published online ahead of print 29 April 2008, doi:10.1210/jc.2007-2530
http://jcem.endojournals.org/cgi/content/abstract/jc.2007-2530v1

[2] Holick, Michael F.: Vitamin D Deficiency: New England Journal of Medicine
July 19, 2007, Volume 357, Number 3, Pages 266-281
http://content.nejm.org/cgi/content/extract/357/3/266

[3] Vieth, Reinhold; Bischoff-Ferrari, Heike; Boucher, Barbara J.; Dawson-Hughes, Bess; Garland, Cedric F.; Heaney, Robert P.; Holick, Michael F.; Hollis, Bruce W.; Lamberg-Allardt, Christel; McGrath, John J.; Norman, Anthony W.; Scragg, Robert; Whiting, Susan J.: Willett, Walter C.; Zittermann, Armin: The urgent need to recommend an intake of vitamin D that is effective. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition March 2007, Volume 85, Number 3, Pages 649-650
http://www.ajcn.org/cgi/content/full/85/3/649

[4] Holick , Michael F.; Chen, Tai C.: Vitamin D deficiency: a worldwide problem with health consequences. Am. J. Clinical Nutrition, April 1, 2008; 87(4): 1080S - 1086S.
http://www.ajcn.org/cgi/content/abstract/87/4/1080S


01.06.2008: Vitamin D supplementation may reduce systolic blood pressure [1]
According to Suzanne Judd and colleagues 2008, point out that recent clinical trials and animal studies have suggested that vitamin D insufficiency may be associated with elevated blood pressure.
In their study, the authors found that systolic blood pressure (SBP) is inversely associated with serum vitamin D concentrations in nonhypertensive white persons in the United States. The authors call for studies on the potential effects of vitamin D supplementation as a method to reduce SBP in persons at risk of hypertension.

[1] Suzanne E Judd, Mark S Nanes, Thomas R Ziegler, Peter WF Wilson and Vin Tangpricha:
Optimal vitamin D status attenuates the age-associated increase in systolic blood pressure in white Americans: results from the third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, Vol. 87, No. 1, 136-141, January 2008
http://www.ajcn.org/cgi/content/abstract/87/1/136


01.06.2008: Sugar, anti-social behaviour and ADHD
Sugar and adverse conduct problems [1]
Lien et al 2006 found a relationship between soft drink consumption and mental distress, conduct problems, and total mental health difficulties score. The higher the consumption of soft drinks, the more extreme symptoms of hyperactivity were observed. The highest adverse reaction observed for conduct problems were found among boys and girls who consumed 4 or more glasses of sugar-containing soft drinks per day.

The authors concluded that high consumption levels of sugar-containing soft drinks were associated with mental health problems among adolescents.

Sugar is not linked to anti-social behavior [2]
David Benton, in a response to the study of Lien et al 2006, reviewed studies on sucrose consumption found that food intolerance to sucrose is less frequent than many other foods.

Low blood glucose levels, but higher than those that can be described clinically as hypoglycemic, are
 associated with irritability and violence. However, sucrose is not the predominant cause of swings in blood glucose levels.

Micro-nutrient decreased anti-social behaviour. Micro-nutrient intake is more closely associated with the total energy rather than sucrose intake; typically the amount of sucrose in the diet does not lead to micro-nutrient deficiency.

Benton concluded that studies that have examined the impact of sucrose on the behaviour of children produced no evidence that it has an adverse influence, such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.
However, sugar fat and salt-reduction should go on in face of the obesity and cardiovascular risks.
Physical activity not also reduces risk of obesity, but also may improve mental health in adolescents.

Physical activity and mental health [3]
Five to seven weekly hours of physical activity at age 15-16 years was weakly associated with mental health. The authors called for further studies about physical activity as a possible protective factor in relation to mental health problems in adolescence.

[1] Lien, L.; Lien, N.; Heyerdahl, S.; Thoresen, M.; Bjertness E.: Consumption of soft drinks and hyperactivity, mental distress, and conduct problems among adolescents in Oslo, Norway. Am J Public Health. 2006 Oct;96(10):1815-20.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17008578

[2] Benton, David: Sucrose and behavioural problems. Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition. Volume 48, issue 5, May 2008. Pages 385-401. Doi: 10.1080/10408390701407316
http://www.informaworld.com/smpp/content~db=all?content=10.1080/10408390701407316

[3] Sagatun, A.; Sagaard, A.J.; Bjertness, E.; Selmer, R.; Heyerdahl, S.: The association between weekly hours of physical activity and mental health: a three-year follow-up study of 15-16-year-old students in the city of Oslo, Norway. BMC Public Health. 2007 Jul 12;7(147):155.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17626617?