KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA: Exports of halal food products from Malaysia is expected to reach US$900 million this year. This is an increase of US$260 million from exports to the Organisation Of Islamic Conference (OIC) member countries in 2007.

ROME, ITALY: A set of Livestock Emergency Guidelines and Standards (LEGS) published in May, is designed to ensure that the livelihoods of vulnerable livestock keepers are protected in future crises.

SINGAPORE: Fonterra has signed binding agreements with both Nestlé Australia and Regal Cream Products (Bulla Dairy Foods) to sell its Australian ice cream business.

KUCHING, MALAYSIA: The European Union (EU) has allowed the import of Malaysia’s fisheries products into their markets from May 15.

Demand for water quality has led beverage companies to replace existing water treatment plant with a modern and safe system. By Rainer Stohmann & Marcus Toh, Veolia Water Solutions & Technologies (SEA)

Organic baby food is less prone to consumer spending cuts than other organic product categories. By Ewa Hudson, head of health and wellness food and beverages research, Euromonitor

Majority of laboratories around the world are capable of effectively testing for the presence of melamine in food. By Andreas Breidbach, scientific officer, Joint Research Centre, Institute For Reference Materials & Measurements

Increasing consumer concern on harmful effects of BPA (Bisphenol A) is forcing companies to look out for alternatives in packaging manufacture. By Tjut Rostina

The virus A (H1N1), which was earlier referred to as swine flu, struck misplaced fears on the consumption of pork. By Tjut Rostina

Arla Foods Ingredients has developed the PSMD T45 for the meat industry. The ingredient is a functional milk protein for cost optimisation of processed meat products.

Chr Hansen introduces its ingredient solution which improves taste, appearance and process economy for producers of sausages and cooked meat.

Delvocid L is a liquid food preservation solution developed by DSM Food Specialties

DD Williamson has added organic annatto extracts in its range of colouring