Editor's choice: the highlights on just-food this week

By Dean Best | 6 January 2012

just-food's first week back after the Christmas and New Year break included PepsiCo brushing off a US report of plans to cut 4,000 jobs, UK seafood firm Young's Seafood shedding over 500 posts and Arla Foods pledging to expand in Scotland - but saying the move could still affect employees. In the week between Christmas and New Year, we saw China's food sector rocked by its latest safety scandal, with news that dairy group Mengniu Dairy produced milk containing a carcinogen. Click on the headlines for more.

US: PepsiCo claims talk of 4,000 job cuts "inaccurate"
PepsiCo has denied reports that it is looking to cut around 4,000 jobs and reduce pension contributions in a bid to boost earnings.

UK: Nestle UK to quit Croydon HQ
Nestle has today (5 January) confirmed speculation it is moving the headquarters of its UK business.

UK: Young's to cut 555 jobs at Cumbrian
Young's Seafood today (3 January) announced that a total of 555 jobs could go at recently-acquired rival UK firm Cumbrian Seafoods.

CHINA: Mengniu embroiled in new tainted milk scandal
Chinese dairy processor Mengniu Dairy has admitted producing milk containing excessive levels of a cancer-causing chemical.

UK: Findus asks for debt delay
Findus Group has asked its lenders to delay an assessment of its debts as it looks to integrate its acquisition of Cumbrian Seafoods.

US: Diamond stocks rise over Einhorn speculation
Stocks in uncertainty-riddled Diamond Foods rose on rumours that investor David Einhorn has acquired a stake in the firm.

UK: Government launches healthy meals campaign
Three UK supermarket chains are offering discounted healthy food as part of a government campaign.

US: Post to revamp marketing, target larger customers
A revamp of Post Holdings' marketing team and a greater focus on the US cereal maker's largest retail accounts are among the ways the firm plans to grow its business after it spins off from private-label group Ralcorp Holdings.

UK: Arla plans expansion in Scotland
Arla Foods will build a new depot in Glasgow as part of plans to grow its business in Scotland.

UK: Baxters boss handed drink-drive ban
The chief executive of soup maker Baxters Food Group has been fined GBP600 (US$930) and banned from driving after admitting drinking and getting behind the wheel.

Sectors: Baby food, Cereal, Dairy, Emerging markets, Food safety, Seafood

Companies: PepsiCo, Nestle, Young’s Seafood, Mengniu Dairy, Arla Foods, Findus Group, Diamond Foods, Ralcorp Holdings

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