The issue of sugar intake returned to the fore this week with a UK panel calling for official guidance on daily consumption to be halved. Fonterra announcing a different kind of cut, with over 500 jobs to go at the dairy exporter. China is a factor in the New Zealand group's decision and the country's easing growth is affecting a number of food multinationals. This week, infant formula manufacturer Mead Johnson cut its profit forecast on the back of challenges in emerging markets including China.

Sugar consumption should be halved, UK panel urges
A panel advising the UK government on nutrition has called for the recommendation on daily sugar intake to be halved.

Fonterra sheds 523 jobs in cost-cutting drive
Fonterra is to cut 523 jobs, the first publicly-announced result of the dairy co-operative's review of its business.

Mead Johnson warns on China, emerging markets
Mead Johnson lowered its full-year sales and earnings outlook yesterday (14 July) after issues in China and other emerging markets hit the group in the second quarter.

Lindt sales propelled by Russell Stover, share gains
Lindt & Sprüngli reported a 17.4% jump in first-half sales, propelled by market share gains in Europe, the US and emerging markets as well as the contribution from the recently acquired Russell Stover business.

B&G Foods acquires Spartan Foods
B&G Foods has acquired Spartan Foods of America, which manufactures the Mama Mary's pizza crust brand, from Linsalata Capital Partners for around US$50m in cash.

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Agrial buys Dutch vegetable group Van Oers United
Agrial, the French food co-operative, has snapped up Dutch fresh vegetables supplier Van Oers United for an undisclosed sum.

US billionaire Sid Bass invests in Blue Bell Creameries
Blue Bell Creameries, the US ice cream maker trying to rebuild its business after being linked to a fatal listeriosis outbreak, has secured investment from billionaire Sid Bass.

Comment: How to meet changing demand in US foodservice
In a guest column, David Henkes, vice president at foodservice analysts Technomic, outlines how operators are responding to changing consumer demand, outlining how manufacturers serving the sector can react.

Focus: Is Nestle's "reboot" enough to save Lean Cuisine?
Lean Cuisine is a declining brand in a struggling category, placing the US business in a precarious position within the Nestle portfolio. Last week, Nestle announced a "reboot" that will see it attempt to reposition Lean Cuisine through new products, new packaging and a new marketing message. But will this be enough to breath fresh life into what was a dated and off-trend brand? Katy Askew investigates.

Mars to expand US chocolate plant
Mars Inc is to extend its chocolate plant in Kansas in a bid to meet demand "for ever greater choice".

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