The US Department of Agriculture's development of GMO certification scheme emerged this week, adding to the debate over the labelling of foods containing genetically modified ingredients. Elsewhere in the US, Mondelez International revealed jobs will go at a biscuit plant in Chicago. Meanwhile, dairy giant Arla Foods announced a deal in Egypt with local processor Juhayna Food Industries. Click on the headlines to read more.

Comment: Why USDA action on GMOs could block mandatory labelling
The labelling of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in food products is a massive hot potato in the US. Not least because states like Vermont are attempting to push through mandatory labelling – something staunchly opposed by much of the food industry. The US Department of Agriculture entered the fray when it revealed the development of a certification and labelling scheme for GMOs under its existing Process Verified Program. Could this help stave off compulsory labels?

Arla expands in Egypt with Juhayna JV
Arla Foods has inked a joint venture agreement with Egyptian dairy Juhanya Food Industries that will see the European co-operative's products fed into the firm's distribution network in the country.

Mondelez to cut jobs at Chicago site
Mondelez International has revealed jobs will be lost at its biscuit plant in Chicago, whether or not the company chooses the facility – and not one in Mexico – for fresh investment.

Brussels rejects mandatory origin labels for dairy
The European Commission has rejected mandatory country-of-origin labels for dairy products in recommendations that will be passed to the European Council and Parliament.

China ends Brazil beef ban
China has lifted an embargo on beef imports from Brazil three years after a cow in the country tested positive for mad-cow disease.

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just-food's pick: Health, convenience dominate at Sweets & Snacks Expo

Busier lifestyles and a growing awareness of how diet can affect health has prompted a big shift in the way US consumers eat. This has been particularly felt by the sweets and snacks industries where manufacturers are having to innovate to meet evolving consumer demand. Protein-based snacks, sugar-free candy and bite-sized chocolate dominated aisles at this year's Sweets & Snacks Expo in Chicago.

Editor's viewpoint: Why FMCG background vital for next Thorntons CEO
In some ways, Jonathan Hart will leave the UK chocolate maker and retailer Thorntons next month in a better position than he found the business when he joined in January 2011. However, when Hart steps down on 27 June, Thorntons should be looking for – or be set to install – a new chief executive with more experience in FMCG and in selling branded products to UK and international grocers.

Unilever CFO Jean-Marc Huet stands down
Unilever CFO Jean-Marc Huet is standing down from his post and will be replaced by UK and Ireland executive vice president Graeme Pitkethly, the company revealed today (19 May).

Terrena, Sofiproteol in talks for control of Doux
French food co-op Terrena and local agribusiness Sofiprotéol are in talks to buy a majority stake in poultry processor Groupe Doux from the Calmels family.

On the money: Premier to push on with range revamp

Rationalisation of SKUs and innovation will continue to form a big part of Premier Foods plc's focus for 2015, CEOGavinDarby has said.