Keeping ahead of consumer packaging demands

One-quarter of consumers say recycling instructions on packaging aren't always clear. And more than one-third say they're more likely to select packaging that allows them to see what's inside. Check out more learnings from Mintel's recent food packaging trends survey. Read more at Package Printing...

"Carbon farming" good for the climate, farmers and biodiversity

Eric Toensmeier, Yale professor and author of the new book "The Carbon Farming Solution," says stopping all emissions isn't enough to prevent "catastrophic climate change." Here, he makes a case for using reforestation, farming practices, agroforestry and better grazing practices to sequester carbon. Read more at Mongabay...

China backs GMO soybeans in push for high-tech agriculture

In its new five-year plan for science and technology, China, which has historically shunned GMO foods, recommends working toward commercializing pest-resistant cotton and corn, and herbicide-resistant soybeans. Read more at Reuters...

Grocery stores are becoming the fast-food industry's biggest threat

Lower commodity costs are leading to lower prices at retail; meanwhile, fast food chains report slowing sales growth. Some analysts say a U.S. restaurant recession is on the way. Food retail's ever-increasing focus on foodservice probably isn't helping them. Read more at Business Insider...

Fines for meat industry's safety problems are 'embarrassingly low'

Meat and poultry processing plants have come a long way since "The Jungle"—but they're still dangerous. They consistently report more injuries than the manufacturing industry overall, and the ramifications for companies that don't meet OSHA requirements are well below fines for other offenses from different agencies. Read more at NPR...