Friday, December 21, 2012

Happy Holidays -AOCS Office Closure

Thank you to all who made our progress possible this year. We hope you have a wonderful holiday.

Please note that AOCS will be closed December 24 through January 1. Orders received during this time will not be processed for shipment until January 2.


Monday, December 17, 2012

Patent Law in Biotechnology in the EU

The following information is taken from the February 14, 2012 EU CORDIS News Release:

The European Commission will be building a new team with 15 experts, to examine the development and implications of patent law in the field of biotechnology and genetic engineering. The group will consist of experts in the areas of intellectual property law (in particular patent law and the law on plant variety rights), public and industrial research and development, life sciences (including plant and animal breeding) and biotechnology. Their role will be to examine the implications of patent law and provide high quality legal and technical expertise, which will help the Commission with its reporting obligations.

The team of experts will be crucial in advising the Commission on a number of questions concerning the Directive (98/44) of the EU's Council of Ministers and the European Parliament on the legal protection of biotechnological inventions, the so-called 'Biotech Patent Directive'.

One particular area that has raised many questions is on how the Directive affects access to the human genome data and possible restrictions on the research and applications for which this data could be used. The role of the experts will be to assist and advise the European Commission in its reporting requirements and on the legal protection of biotechnological inventions (referred to as 'Directive 98/44/EC').

Patents are necessary in biotechnology as they provide an incentive to innovation. Without the safeguards provided by patents, industry and other inventors would be unwilling to invest their time and money in research and development. However, biotechnology carries a considerable amount of high risk investment, particularly in the field of genetic engineering. So adequate patent protection needs to be in place to encourage the investment required to create jobs and maintain the European Union's competitiveness in this important area of research. This is why Directive 98/44 on the legal protection of biotechnological inventions was proposed and, after lengthy and thorough discussions within the European Parliament and among Member States, it was adopted.

But still, the patent laws surrounding biotechnology remain a complex issue, particularly the ethical aspects of inventions. For example, discoveries, which do not extend human ability, but only human knowledge, are by their very nature not patentable. Sequencing of a genome belongs to the area of discovery, which means it cannot be the subject of patent protection. However, it is different if a DNA sequence is released from its natural surroundings by means of a technical procedure and is made available for the first time to a commercial application. This makes such a gene 'new' in the patent sense and therefore patentable, if it was not previously accessible to the public and was previously not available.

The position that was agreed by both the European Parliament and the Council of Ministers after much discussion was that patents for inventions comprised of, or based on, gene sequences should be allowed. The Directive therefore provides that inventions based on, or comprised of, gene sequences or partial gene sequences can be patented provided that they satisfy the normal criteria for any invention as well as making clear that patents should not be granted where the application does not include specific reference to the industrial application of the gene sequence.

However, advances in technology have made understanding the isolation and manufacture of genes easier to understand, and are taken into account when a patent is examined, in particular whether the invention in the patent application possesses an inventive step. If it is decided by either the patent offices or the national courts that there is no inventive step then the patent will either be refused or revoked.

It is expected that the addition of a new team of experts will ensure a greater understanding of patentable biotechnology and help to unravel the complexities that surround this area.

For more information, please visit:

News and Notes for Monday December 17, 2012

Vitamin D Levels Linked to Daytime Sleepiness
A strong but complicated association exists between vitamin D levels and daytime sleepiness, and race is a major factor, according to a small new study. Read more from HealthDaily News.

Palm Oil Slumps to Three-Year Low as Stockpiles Reach Record
Palm, the world’s most consumed cooking oil, tumbled to the lowest level in more than three years amid record inventories in Malaysia and on signs that global supplies will be more than enough to meet demand.  Prices have declined even as soybeans jumped 22 percent this year and wheat advanced 25 percent. Read more from Bloomberg.

Oil Crops Outlook
The USDA Economic Research Service has released its latest monthly report which "... examines supply, use, prices, and trade for oil crops (primarily soybeans and products)."

USDA Grants Support Sustainable Bioenergy Production
Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today announced $10 million in research grants to spur production of bioenergy and biobased products that will lead to the development of sustainable regional systems and help create jobs.  Read the News Release.

Grain Sorghum Ethanol Qualifies as a Renewable Fuel under the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) Program
EPA has issued a Final Rule in which determines that "... ethanol made from grain sorghum at dry mill facilities that use natural gas for process energy meets the lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions reduction threshold of 20 percent compared to the baseline petroleum fuel it would replace, and therefore qualifies as renewable fuel ..."

Abstract Alerts

Biopolymers as a Flexible Resource for Nanochemistry
Angew. Chem. Int. Ed.Schnepp, Z. (2012), doi: 10.1002/anie.201206943. Read the abstract.

Enhanced Anticancer Potential of Encapsulated Solid Lipid Nanoparticles of TPD: A Novel Triterpenediol from Boswellia serrata
Shashi Bhushan, Vandita Kakkar, Harish Chandra Pal, Santosh Kumar Guru, Ajay Kumar, D. M. Mondhe, P. R. Sharma, Subhash Chandra Taneja, Indu Pal Kaur, Jaswant Singh, and A. K. Saxena
Molecular Pharmaceutics. Article ASAP. Read the abstract.

Simultaneous determination of methylcarbamate and ethylcarbamate in fermented foods and beverages by derivatization and GC-MS analysis
Shin H, Yang E. Chemistry Central Journal 2012, 6:157 (13 December 2012). Read the abstract.


Friday, December 14, 2012

PPG buys AkzoNobel's North American architectural paints unit for $1.05 billion

PPG Industries says it has reached a definitive agreement to acquire the North American architectural coatings business of AkzoNobel in a deal valued at $1.05 billion. The acquisition includes all of AkzoNobel's North American architectural coatings manufacturing and distribution facilities, paint stores, product lines, and employees related to the production, sale, and distribution of architectural coatings in the United States, Canada, and the Caribbean.
Read the News Release.

Codex Alimentarius CCMAS Special Session with MoniQA Conference

The 4th MoniQA International Conference themed "Food Safety under Global Pressure of Climate Change, Food Security and Economic Crises" will take place in Budapest, Hungary, 26 February - 1 March 2013. The Joint IAM/MoniQA workshop for delegates of Codex Alimentarius CCMAS will be included in the MoniQA Conference as a special session:

Wednesday 27 February 2013:
Session 4: Food Integrity – Authenticity, Labelling, Fraud, Screening for the Unexpected
Chairs: Markus Lipp, USP, USA, and Paul Finglas, IFR, United Kingdom

Thursday 28 February 2013:
Session 13: Challenges and Solutions for Representative Sampling
Chairs: Árpád Ambrus, National Food Safety Authority, Hungary, and Simone Braun, German Cancer Research Center DKFZ, Germany

Friday 1 March 2013
Session 15: Development of a global standard for validation of binary (qualitative) methods
Chair: Ray Shillito, Bayer CropScience, USA

Session 19: Method Validation – Standardisation – Verification: Best of IAM
Chairs: Richard Cantrill, AOCS, USA, and Franz Ulberth, IRMM- JRC, European Commission, Belgium

The full program is available here.


Find Out More

http://budapest2013.moniqa.org/


Keynote Speakers 

  • Franz Fischler, former European Union's Commissioner for Agriculture, Rural Development and Fisheries, Austria: Impacts of Economic Crises on Food Markets and How to Make the Food Production Sector Sustainable.
  • Vish Prakash, Distinguished Scientist of CSIR - India, President ISNNAN, Indi: A Sustainable Nutrition Security through a Food Security for Health and Wellness in Developing Countries by Adaptable, Accessible and Affordable Food Technologies.
  • Eleonora Dupouy, Food Safety and Consumer Protection Officer  Regional Office for Europe and Central Asia, FAO, Hungary: Enhancing The Impact Of Agriculture On Food And Nutrition Security Under The Pressure Of Emerging Global Challenges.
  • Elke Anklam, Director Institute for Health and Consumer Protection, Joint Research Center, ISPRA, Italy: Emerging Food Safety Risks and Global Trade.
  • Frans Verstraete, DG SANCO, Brussles: Regulating For Emerging Food Safety Concerns As Regards Mycotoxins And Phytotoxins.
  • Antonio di Giulio, Acting Director Biotechnologies, Agriculture, Food, DG Research, European Commission, Belgium: Horizon 2020 – Future Research for a Safe, Secure and Nutritious Food Supply.

Workshops

Pre-conference workshops are offered for free to registered conference participants
  • Horizon 2020 - Your Research Priorities on the European Research Agenda
  • Quality Assurance aspects of mycotoxin testing
  • Risk Communication (additional fee applies)
  • Demonstration training on food modelling tools for evaluation of the impact of microstructure on nutritional and sensory properties
  • Open debate on hot topics in food safety for the future
  • Young Scientist Forum

Travel Notes

Limited and exclusive, convenient and discounted travel and accommodation offers for conference participants are available at a first come first serve basis:
  • 15% discount on all flights with Austrian Airlines, the Official Conference Carrier. Use your eVoucher code you receive upon registration to the conference and book your flight at www.austrian.com.
  • Pre-book your discounted taxi transfer service from any of the airports/train stations in Budapest, Vienna or Bratislava to the conference hotel at http://tshungary.com/moniqa.
  • Room and breakfast at an unbeatable price at the 4* Conference Hotel http://budapest2013.moniqa.org/accommodation. Novotel Budapest Congress offers best convenience, free wifi, great comfort, and after conference shopping, fitness and relaxation opportunities with a modern shopping mall next to the hotel, the hotel’s own recreational amenities including an indoor pool, a sauna, and a fitness facility with the latest, modern equipment. Only a limited number of rooms have been blocked for this meeting until the end of 2012! Book now at a special discounted conference rate at http://www.novotel.com/gb/booking/room-dates.shtml


We hope to see you in Budapest, Hungary, 26 February - 1 March 2013.

Dr. Roland Ernest Poms and Dr. Sandor Tömösközi
On behalf of the Organising Committee



News and Notes for Friday December 14, 2012

New Twist On Using Biomass for Perfume, Cosmetic, Personal Care Products
In a new approach for tapping biomass as a sustainable raw material, scientists are reporting use of a Nobel-Prize-winning technology to transform plant "essential oils" -- substances with the characteristic fragrance of the plant -- into high-value ingredients for sunscreens, perfumes and other personal care products. Read more from Science Daily.

Protein signaling between soybean root hairs, bacteria reveals core cellular processes
Understanding what happens to a soybean root hair system infected by symbiotic, nitrogen-fixing soil bacteria, Bradyrhizobium japonicum, could go a long way toward using this symbiosis to redesign plants and improve crop yields, benefiting both food and biofuel production. Read more from Phys.org.

Biobased Briquettes, not Bombs, for the Taliban?
Could biomass briquette mills and improved cook stoves undermine the Taliban — for one percent of what the US now spends? Read more from Biofuels Digest.

Finns develop efficient bio-based plastic production technique
Two quick facts: the volume of oil used every year in the production of plastics equates to approximately 5% of the world’s total oil consumption, and approximately 40% of all plastics are used in packaging. Read more from Foodprocessing.

USDA NIFA Fellowships Grant Program
USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) is seeking applications for the program under its Agriculture and Food Research Initiative (AFRI).

Regulation of Nutrition and Health Claims on Packaged Foods in Australia 
Food manufacturers who choose to make claims like low in fat or contains protein for muscle development will have to provide scientific evidence to support these claims under a new food standard.  Read the News Release.

U.S. and World Supply Use Balances for Major Grains, Soybeans and Products and Cotton, and U.S. Supply and Use Data for Sugar and Livestock Products
The USDA Economic Research Service (ERS) has released its monthly report, titled "World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates" (WASDE), which provides the most current USDA forecasts of U.S. and world supply-use balances for these commodities.  View the report (.pdf)

Agilent Technologies’ New Pathway Architect Software to Include SRI International’s BioCyc Pathway Database CollectionAgilent Technologies Inc. and SRI International today announced they have signed a licensing agreement to offer laboratory research customers a package that combines Agilent’s latest release of GeneSpring GX, GeneSpring NGS, Mass Profiler Professional and Pathway Architect version 12.5 with SRI International’s complete BioCyc Pathway Database Collection. The integrated package will allow scientists to access, combine, visualize and analyze biological data sets across multiple “omics” experiments (genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics and metabolomics).  Read the News Release.

Jobs
  • A Manager of NLEA Support at Eurofins Scientific Inc., (Des Moines, IA, USA) is sought. View the job posting.
  • A Deputy Director for Research is sought by the FDA National Center for Toxicological Research (NCTR) located in Jefferson, Arkansas. View the USA Jobs posting.
  • A Food Safety Specialist and Assistant Professor who will be involved in a two-state extension appointment is sought by the Kansas State University and the University of Missouri. View the posting. 

AOCS News

Announcing Amended Methods for the Official Methods and Recommended Practices of the AOCS, 6th Edition, 2nd Printing.
At the Uniform Methods Committee Meeting of the 103rd AOCS Annual Meeting & Expo, a majority vote was taken to enact the online publishing of both official and amended records of the Official Methods and Recommended Practices of the AOCS. For more information, visit: http://www.aocs.org/Methods.

Save in December on AOCS Methods
The Official Methods and Recommended Practices of the AOCS, 6th Edition, 2nd Printing, is ON SALE for the month of December. The AOCS has set the standard for analytical methods critical to processing, trading, utilizing, and evaluating fats, oils, and lipid products. Worldwide acceptance has made the AOCS Methods a requirement wherever fats and oils are analyzed. Order now to save.

Welcome Clariant Corp -New Gold Corporate Member
As one of the world’s leading specialty chemical companies, Clariant contributes to value creation with innovative and sustainable solutions for customers from many industries. Our portfolio is designed to meet very specific needs with as much precision as possible. At the same time, our research and development is focused on addressing the key trends of our time. These include energy efficiency, renewable raw materials, emission-free mobility, and conserving finite resources. Our business units are divided into six market segments: Consumer Care, Industrial Applications, Plastics & Coatings, Energy, Resources, and Bio Tech.
http://www.clariant.com


Monday, December 10, 2012

News and Notes for Monday December 10, 2012

Soy Checkoff Announces High-Oleic Soy Expansion
The national soy checkoff announced Thursday it has authorized the formation of a major industry partnership aimed at growing the market for a healthier soil oil through high-oleic soybeans. Read more from Farm Futures.

Consumers May Get Their Omega-3 Through Cows Rather Than Fish
As reported in the November issue of the Journal of Dairy Science, fortifying cow milk with Omega-3 fatty acids, surprisingly, leads to an undetectable smell or taste of fish oil while providing heart healthy Omega-3s, Vitamin D and calcium at the same time in a glass of milk. Read more from EMaxHealth.

Personal care demand in Africa drives palm oil production
The desire for personal care products in Ghana and Nigeria is driving palm oil production in Africa and has even led to palm oil being imported as the local markets fail to keep up with the demand. Read more from Cosmetics Design Europe.

Polyols from bio-PDO and succinic acid
This year seems to be a good year for expanding DuPont Tate & Lyle’s bio-based propanediol (PDO) applications.  The company announced that its Susterra bio-based PDO combined with bio-succinic acid supplied by Myriant, are now being used by Piedmont Chemical to produce 100% bio-based polyester polyols. Read more from the Green Chemicals Blog.

Edible Adhesives Patent
The USDA Agricultural Research Service has announced its intent to grant an exclusive royalty bearing license for a patent, titled "Sugar-Based Edible Adhesives" to City Center Farms, LLC of Phoenix, Arizona. Information about the patent is posted at  http://www.patentbuddy.com/Patent/6613378

 AOCS News

Announcing Amended Methods for the Official Methods and Recommended Practices of the AOCS, 6th Edition, 2nd Printing.
At the Uniform Methods Committee Meeting of the 103rd AOCS Annual Meeting & Expo, a majority vote was taken to enact the online publishing of both official and amended records of the Official Methods and Recommended Practices of the AOCS. For more information, visit: http://www.aocs.org/Methods.

Program Available - Oils and Fats World Market Update
Experience unparalleled education, strategic thinking, and discussion regarding the progress, opportunities, and challenges facing the fats and oils industry. View the full conference program.

Call for Papers - XV Latin American Congress on Fats and Oils
CORCHIGA and AOCS are proud to organize the XV Latin American Congress and Exhibition on Fats and Oils at the Sheraton Hotel and Convention Center in Santiago, Chile. Themed Chile and a World of Oils, this congress will cover important and timely topics in the fats and oils industries especially chosen to enhance attendees' business knowledge of today's market.
Submission deadline: 4 January 2013
Full submission guidelines available at: LACongress.aocs.org

Abstract Alerts

Method Development for Fecal Lipidomics Profiling
Katherine E Gregory , Susan Schiavo Bird , Vera S. Gross , Vasant R Marur , Alexander V. Lazarev , W. Allan Walker , and Bruce S. Kristal. Anal. Chem., Just Accepted Manuscript. DOI: 10.1021/ac303011k. Publication Date (Web): December 4, 2012. Read the abstract.

Thermophilic fermentation of acetoin and 2,3-butanediol by a novel Geobacillus strain
Xiao Z, Wang X, Huang Y, Huo F, Zhu X, Xi L, Lu JR. Biotechnology for Biofuels 2012, 5:88 (6 December 2012). Read the abstract.

Biodiesel production from microalgal isolates of southern Pakistan and quantification of FAMEs by GC-MS/MS analysis
Musharraf SG, Ahmed MA, Zehra N, Kabir N, Choudhary MI, Rahman A. Chemistry Central Journal 2012, 6:149 (5 December 2012). Read the abstract.

Friday, December 7, 2012

News and Notes for Friday December 7, 2012

Demystifying Biobased Products Key to Marketing Success
Communicating the benefits of biobased content, the world's newest ecological marketing term, is often tricky. "Biobased" represents all of green marketing's traditional challenges — including greenwash — but has additional, unique challenges all its own. Read more from Sustainable Brands.

Plastic packaging industry is moving towards completely bio-based products
A transition to bio-based economy nevertheless requires products that are not only ecologically sustainable but also competitive in terms of quality. Read more from Phys.Org.

Chinese Have Greater Confidence in Green Products than North Americans
A recent survey by DuPont revealed a growing understanding of green products among urban Chinese consumers. The findings reflect the potential for green products in the world’s largest consumer market.  Read more from Sustainable Plant.

EU Commission backs controversial sustainable palm oil scheme
The European Commission has approved a scheme that would certify as sustainable transport fuel made from palm oil, condemned by environmental groups as one of the most damaging sources of biodiesel. Read more from Reuters.

Nanotechnology consumer database with risk information launched
The Danish Consumer Council and the Danish Ecological Council has in cooperation with DTU Environment developed a database, which help consumers identify more than 1,200 products that may contain nanomaterials. Read more from Nanowerk News.

Biosensors a key area for nanotechnology
Nanobiosensors hold considerable potential as future areas of development for nanotechnology, according to a recent study. Read more from Food Quality News.

New Omega-3 film launched by IFFO
IFFO, the Marine Ingredients Organisation has launched an informative video about Omega-3’s, nature’s own health products entitled ‘Marine Omega-3 – The Healthiest Fats’.
The film is a response to growing scientific and consumer interest in the subject and can be viewed at: http://www.iffo.net/default.asp?contentID=8091

Requests for Proposals

Anti-Obesity Agents for Food- RFP REQUEST
NineSigma, representing a global food manufacturer, invites proposals for food materials that have an anti-obesity effect, in order to create supplements or food additives that enable weight loss. Find out more about this RFP. 

New Methods for Protein Hydrolysis- RFP REQUEST
 NineSigma, representing a major food products manufacturer, is seeking development partners for highly efficient manufacturing methods for protein hydrolysates without the use of liquid acid or alkali catalysts. Find out more about this RFP.

Efficient Methods for Drying Wet Polymer Granules- RFP REQUEST
NineSigma, representing a global polymer producer, invites proposals for novel technologies that can efficiently dry wet polymer granules during a batch production process. Find out more about this RFP.

Measuring Cleanliness, Dryness and Brilliancy of Goods inside a Dishwasher- RFP REQUEST
NineSigma, representing a consumer goods company, invites proposals for technologies that can determine how well a dishwasher is performing by measuring cleanliness, dryness and brilliancy of goods. Find out more about this RFP.

Abstract Alerts

Trends, analytical methods and precision in the determination of perfluoroalkyl acids in human milk
A. Kärrman, G. Lindström.TrAC Trends in Analytical Chemistry. Available online 1 December 2012. Read the abstract.

Dilatational rheology of a gel point network formed by nonionic soluble surfactants at the oil–water interface
Nicolas Anton ,  Thierry F. Vandamme and Patrick Bouriat. Soft Matter, 2013, Advance Article. Received 19 Sep 2012, Accepted 13 Nov 2012. First published on the web 30 Nov 2012. Read the abstract.

Supporting food security in the 21st century through resource-conserving increases in agricultural production
Norman Uphoff. Agriculture & Food Security 2012, 1:18 doi:10.1186/2048-7010-1-18
Published: 1 December 2012. Read the abstract.

Comparative study of sulfite pretreatments for robust enzymatic saccharification of corn cob residue
Bu L, Xing Y, Yu H, Gao Y, Jiang J. Biotechnology for Biofuels. 2012, 5:87 (4 December 2012). Read the abstract.


Wednesday, December 5, 2012

News and Notes for Wednesday December 5, 2012

Refinery growth to boost Indonesia's palm oil output next year
An expansion in the edible oil processing industry in top palm oil producer Indonesia is expected to boost its consumption to about 7.5 million tonnes next year, which may reduce the amount available for export. Read more from Reuters.

Outlook for U.S. Agricultural Trade 
USDA Economic Research Service (ERS) has released its latest quarterly report  "FY 2013 Exports Forecast at a Record $145 Billion; Imports at a Record $115 Billion" (.pdf)

DuPont breaks ground on world’s largest Cellulosic Biorefinery
30 million gallon plant in Nevada, Iowa will expand central Iowa’s energy exports, add to local grower economy. Read more from Biofuels Digest.

EFSA to compile inventory of food and feed nanotechnology uses
The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) is preparing a document summarizing current knowledge on nanotechnology applications in the food and feed sectors, according to an internal mandate. The project includes an inventory of applications of nanotechnologies in food and feed additives and in food contact materials. Read more from Chemical Watch.

The Next Generation of Dairy Ingredients
Dairy ingredients are have a natural ability to perform the functions of foaming, gelling, emulsification and other important characteristics in food. The Dairy Research Institute  supports new dairy-ingredient research to maximize the capabilities of milk and whey-derived ingredients, and to increase opportunities for their use in foods and beverages. Read more from Food Product Design.

FSMA Food Safety Plan Expectations and Overview of Preventive Controls
This free paper from Leavitt Partners and Eurofins  covers important updates related to the US Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) and recent changes that will impact food shipments to the US. Download the paper (.pdf)

Synchrotron gives insight into green energy enzymes
UC Davis chemists have been using a Japanese synchrotron to get a detailed look at enzymes that could help power the green economy. The work was published online Nov. 8 by the journal Angewandte Chemie and is featured on the cover of the Nov. 26 issue.  Read more from Science Codex.

AOCS News

Save in December on AOCS Methods
The Official Methods and Recommended Practices of the AOCS, 6th Edition, 2nd Printing, is ON SALE for the month of December. The AOCS has set the standard for analytical methods critical to processing, trading, utilizing, and evaluating fats, oils, and lipid products. Worldwide acceptance has made the AOCS Methods a requirement wherever fats and oils are analyzed. Order now to save.

Welcome GKD-USA -Bronze Corporate Member
GKD-USA understands its role as an innovative problem solver. The range of our applications includes very finely woven mesh for the filtration industry, process conveyor belting for the food industry, and decorative and functional applications with our metal fabrics for architecture. http://www.gkdusa.com/

Welcome Crystal Filtration Co- Bronze Corporate Member
Crystal Filtration, a leader in the filtration industry for over 25 years, has developed a breakthrough product that extends the life of cooking oil, and reduces Free Fatty Acids (FFAs) up to 70%. http://filsorb.com/


Monday, December 3, 2012

Friday, November 30, 2012

News and Notes for Friday November 30, 2012

US Senate votes 62-37 to back military aviation biofuels
n Washington, the US Senate voted 62-37 in favor of an amendment offered by Senator Mark Udall of Colorado to repeal section 313 of the annual Defense appropriations bill. Section 313 language, which was offered by Senator Inhofe and adopted in Committee, prohibits DOD from procuring alternative fuels if they cost more than their conventional counterparts. Read more from Biofuels Digest.

GM Study Declared Unsound
A controversial study that suggested genetically modified (GM) maize causes cancer in rats is dismissed by the European Food Safety Authority. Read more from The Scientist.

Syngenta licenses Enogen to Kansas’ Bonanza BioEnergy
Syngenta in North America announced it has signed a commercial agreement with a Kansas ethanol plant to use grain featuring Enogen® trait technology in 2013. Enogen® trait technology allows corn to express a robust form of alpha amylase enzyme, the primary enzyme used in dry grind ethanol production to convert starch to sugars. Read more at Biofuels Digest.

Analysis of conflicting fish oil studies finds that omega-3 fatty acids still matter
Literally hundreds of clinical trials, including some that have gained widespread attention, have been done on the possible benefits of omega-3 fatty acids for the prevention of heart disease – producing conflicting results, varied claims, and frustrated consumers unsure what to believe. Read more form Medical Xpress.

Technologies to Deliver a Hygienic Refreshment of Clothes & Garments - RFP REQUEST
NineSigma, representing a consumer products company, invites proposals for technologies that can deliver a hygienic refreshment of clothing and garments by killing bacteria and removing unwanted smells, without using chemicals or other non-durable goods. Find out more.

Best of the Blogs

The Scholarly Kitchen discusses the difficulty scientists and policy makers have in
calculating the return on investment (ROI) for science funding. Read 'Metrics and Meaning — Can We Find Relevance and Quality Without Measurements?'

Abstract Alerts

Ultrasound-assisted matrix solid-phase dispersive liquid extraction for the determination of intermediates in hair dyes with ion chromatography
Zhixiong Zhonga, Yanhong Wuc, Zhibin Luoa, Binghui Zhua. Analytica Chimica Acta. Volume 752, 8 November 2012, Pages 53–61. Read the abstract.

Biogas from Macroalgae: is it time to revisit the idea?
Hughes AD, Kelly MS, Black KD, Stanley MS . Biotechnology for Biofuels 2012, 5:86 (27 November 2012). Read the abstract.

Uptake of α-Linolenic Acid and Its Conversion to Long Chain Omega-3 Fatty Acids in Rats Fed Microemulsions of Linseed Oil  
D. Sugasini, B. R. Lokesh. Lipids. December 2012, Volume 47, Issue 12, pp 1155-1167. Read the abstract.

Wednesday, November 28, 2012

His other videos on the AOCS Youtube channel

Has it really been 2 months since my last post to the AOCS blog? Sure hope you haven’t missed reading or hearing what AOCS members are saying about AOCS. But I’m back now, rested after a nice 4 day holiday, and ready to promote AOCS.

Just this week the Professional Educators’ Common Interest Group (PE CIG) distributed its digital newsletter. And as I was reading through the articles, about their plans for the upcoming AOCS Annual Meeting & Expo, they mention “Anyone whom caught Dr. Eskin’s rap… will appreciate that (poster) submissions can be in various formats.” It had been awhile since I viewed Dr. Eskin’s rap and this newsletter prompted me to go to YouTube (channel: aocs1909) to view it yet again. If you haven’t seen his rap, I encourage you to do so now. I’ll wait for you to come back to finish reading this blog post.

Perhaps some of you remember Dr. Eskin’s musical performance at the 100th AOCS Annual Meeting & Expo? And, there is a rumor that Dr. Eskin has another rap in the making and will debut at the 104th AOCS Annual Meeting & Expo.

For his latest video, Dr. Eskin took a few moments to talk about his AOCS experience.  How he was encouraged to join by Dr. Tim Mounts, how he had a great mentor in Dr. Tom Smouse, and how new researchers have a great advantage with AOCS. Why? Hear why from Dr. Eskin by viewing his other video on the AOCS YouTube channel.

I hope you enjoyed viewing Dr. Eskin’s videos. And next time you need a break from culling through large amounts of data (which reminds me – I need to review that membership survey data), or writing progress reports, go to the AOCS YouTube account. You’ll find a wide variety of videos (from book promotion, health benefits of Vitamin D, member testimonials, AOCS Year in review, and a rap) which are all work related.

Tuesday, November 27, 2012

Webinars-Algae Sustainability and Green Chemistry

AOCS has been notified of two great webinars that we would like to share with our readers. The NRC's Webinar on the Algae Sustainability Report  is today (!) Nov. 27 at 1:00pm EST  and the ACS Webinar "Rational Design of Safer Chemicals" is December 6, 2012 2-3pm EDT. Both appear to be free!

Sustainable Development of Algal Biofuels in the United States: A discussion of the recently released NRC report 

Date and time:Tuesday, November 27, 2012 1:00 pm EST
Panelist(s) Info: Jennie Hunter-Cevera (Chair), Mark Jones
Duration: 1 hour
Register for the Webinar

ACS Business & Innovation Channel: Green Chemistry Series " Rational Design of Safer Chemicals"

Date and time: December 6, 2012 2-3pm ET
Panelist(s) Info: Dr. Julie Beth Zimmerman, Joseph Fortunak, PhD
Duration: 1 hour
Register for the ACS Webinar

Green Chemistry involves more than reduce, reuse & recycle, it can mean using better designed products that are less toxic and more sustainable.  Join Dr. Julie Zimmerman as she explains how rational design can create the next generation of molecules. Find out more about this webinar 



Monday, November 26, 2012

News and Notes for Monday November 26, 2012

BASF redoubles efforts to become fatty acid leader
The world's largest chemical group, BASF of Germany, has set its sights on a Norwegian company specializing in the output of fatty acids.  BASF announced it is aiming to become the world's leader in the production of fish oil-derived fatty omega 3 acids. Read more from Deutsche Welle.

Spain Predicts 58% Slump in Olive-Oil Output, Cuts Corn Outlook
Spain’s Agriculture Ministry forecast a 58 percent plunge in olive-oil production this year, predicted lower wine output and cut its outlook for corn. Read the News Release at Bloomberg.

Butternut squash pectin shows promise as a food additive
Pectin extracted from by-products of processing of vegetables like butternut and beetroot show promise for stabilizing emulsions and could offer interesting new ingredients for emulsion-based foods. Read more from Food Navigator.

Natural cosmetics: Distribution is key to success in a slowing European market
According to Organic Monitor, the European natural and organic personal care products market should record single-digit growth this year, for the first time over the last decade. The latest research of the London-based company shows the growth rate has dropped from double-digits because of the “debt crisis” impacting retailers and consumer expenditure. Read more from Premium Beauty News.

ADM Employees Donate 111 Metric Tons of Food to Those in Need
In recognition of World Food Day, employees of Archer Daniels Midland Company donated the equivalent of more than 245,453 pounds (111 metric tons) of food to help those in need in ADM communities. Donations were made in 29 communities in six different countries. Read more from Soyatech.

Mass spectrometer will help researchers improve lipid analysis
A Kansas State University professor's research analyzing lipids is helping scientists around the world understand plant responses and develop better crops that can withstand environmental stress. To support her collaborative work, Ruth Welti, university distinguished professor of biology, recently received a grant from the National Science Foundation's Major Research Instrumentation program. The grant--with matching funds from the university--will be used to purchase the most advanced mass spectrometer for the Kansas Lipidomics Research Center, which Welti directs. Read more from the High Plains Journal.

Abstract Alerts

Advances in analytical methods to study cholesterol metabolism: the determination of serum noncholesterol sterols
Isabel Andrade,Lèlita Santos,Fernando Ramos. Biomed. Chromatogr.. doi: 10.1002/bmc.2840. Article first published online: 20 NOV 2012. Read the abstract.

Co-hydrolysis of lignocellulosic biomass for microbial lipid accumulation.
Ruan Z, Zanotti M, Zhong Y, Liao W, Ducey C, Liu Y. Biotechnol Bioeng. 2012 Nov 1. Read the abstract.

Friday, November 23, 2012

News and Notes for Friday November 23, 2012

Solazyme to Expand Renewable-Oil Production With Bunge, ADM
Solazyme Inc., which makes oil products from sugar-consuming algae, will expand production capacity through partnerships with Bunge Ltd.and Archer- Daniels-Midland Co. Read more from Bloomberg.

DuPont Pioneer, Cargill Announce 2013 Plenish® High Oleic Soy IP Contract Program
DuPont Pioneer and Cargill announced today they will work with farmers near Cargill's facility in Sidney, Ohio, to grow Plenish® high oleic soybeans in 2013.   Read the News Release.

FTC's 2012 Report Concludes U.S. Ethanol Market Remains Unconcentrated
The market for fuel ethanol in the United States remains unconcentrated, with 154 firms nationwide either producing ethanol or likely to be in production in the next 12 to 18 months, according to the Federal Trade Commission’s 2012 report on the state of U.S. ethanol production.  Read the News Release and the 2012 FTC Report on Ethanol Market Concentration (.pdf).

Federal Procurement of Biobased Products: New Proposed BioPreferred Regulation to Expand
The USDA has issued a Final Rule that "... adds 12 sections [Agricultural spray adjuvants; Animal cleaning products; Deodorants; Dethatcher products; Fuel conditioners; Leather, vinyl, and rubber care products; Lotions and moisturizers; Shaving products; Specialty precision cleaners and solvents; Sun care products; Wastewater systems coatings; Water clarifying agents] to designate product categories within which biobased products will be afforded Federal procurement preference."   Read the News release.

CTPA reiterates cosmetics safety
Despite media reports implying that some natural alternatives to ingredients used in personal care products are safer, the Cosmetic, Toiletry and Perfumery Association has once again spoken out about cosmetics safety. Read more from Cosmetics Design Europe.

Ingredient Investigation: Soy and Vitamin C
Soy and vitamin C have been longstanding key ingredients in skin care products. Linda Walker, author of The Skin Care Ingredient Handbook, discusses the benefits of vitamin C and debunks the controversy surrounding soy.  Read more from SkinInc.com.

Spain Announces 6-Month Program to Monitor Olive Oil Quality
Designed to verify olive oil quality and product traceability, the campaign will cover olive oil mills, bottling companies, refineries and distribution centers. Read more from the Olive Oil Times.

Anti-Obesity Agents for Food - RFP REQUEST
A global food manufacturer invites proposals for food materials that have an anti-obesity effect, in order to create supplements or food additives that enable weight loss.  Find out more about this RFP request.

Eliminate or reduce the use of water in washing machines - RFP REQUEST
A global developer and manufacturer of washing machines invites proposals for new technologies or approaches to eliminate or significantly reduce the use of water in devices for cleaning clothing. Find out more about this RFP Request.

Abstract Alerts

Feeding Healthy Beagles Medium-Chain Triglycerides, Fish Oil, and Carnitine Offsets Age-Related Changes in Serum Fatty Acids and Carnitine Metabolites
Jean A. Hall1, Dennis E. Jewell. (2012). PLoS ONE 7(11): e49510.  Read the abstract.

Evaluation of the bioconversion of genetically modified switchgrass using simultaneous saccharification and fermentation and a consolidated bioprocessing approach
Yee KL, Rodriguez M, Tschaplinski TJ, Engle NL, Martin MZ, Fu C, Wang Z, Hamilton-Brehm SD, Mielenz JR . Biotechnology for Biofuels 2012, 5:81 (12 November 2012). Read the abstract.

Tuesday, November 20, 2012

AOCS Newsletter Highlights -November 2012

Inaugural Singapore Conference a Success
AOCS thanks everyone who joined us for the World Conference on Fabric and Home Care in Singapore last month. Singapore 2012 provided perspectives on the technology, products, and business trends of the global fabric and home care business.

Singapore 2012 Snapshot:
  •     More than 600 people attended, with 36 countries represented
  •     The Exhibition highlighted 26 companies from across the globe
  •     The conference featured 16 oral presentations and 9 poster presentations
  •     More than 25 attendees joined AOCS as members
Attendees were sent an electronic survey about the conference. Please take the time to complete it; your feedback helps AOCS as we plan future conferences.

We look forward to seeing you at Montreux 2014, October 6-9, 2014.

inform Free Feature
The Leahy-Smith America Invents Act, which was signed into law in 2011, represents the most significant change to the US patent system since 1952.

Find out how these changes could affect you in this month’s free article from inform, the AOCS member magazine.

Award Nominations Due Soon
Do you know someone who should be recognized for their contributions to the fats, oils, and related materials industries?
Visit the Awards Program website for deadlines, nomination requirements, and applications.
 

December 1:
Extended! December 1:

AOCS Technical Services Workshop: Laboratory Methods
This inaugural AOCS Technical Services workshop, taking place July 16-17, 2013, includes educational sessions designed for lab technicians.

Technical program topics include:
  • Regulatory updates
  • Method troubleshooting for food, feed, and biofuel
  • Emerging pollutants
  • Quality control and accreditation needs/requirements
  • Publishing methods with AOCS
Exhibitors—reserve your bench space today, contact: ConnieH@aocs.org
Watch for registration to open in February 2013.

Preorder and Save
Physical and Chemical Characteristics of Oils, Fats, and Waxes, 3rd Edition
David Firestone, Editor
List: $150
AOCS Member: $120
Reserve your copy by December 10, 2012 and pay only $99! (plus shipping) 
Contact AOCS Orders Department at
+1 217-693-4803 or orders@aocs.org and mention promo code 12RPCC.



Monday, November 19, 2012

News and Notes for Monday November 19, 2012

Gene discovery turns soldier beetle defense into biotech opportunity
The Soldier beetle is the first animal found to produce the exotic fatty acid dihydromatriciaria (DHMA). New antibiotic and anti-cancer chemicals may one day be synthesized using biotechnology, following this discovery. Read more from Phys.org.

'Fat Tax' in Denmark Is Repealed After Criticism
Citing a harmful effect on businesses and consumer buying power, lawmakers in Denmark have repealed the so-called fat tax, which was charged on foods high in saturated fats, after just one year.Read more from the New York Times.

Palm oil production in Nigeria and Ghana to increase on back of demand for personal care products
Growing demand for personal care products in Ghana and Nigeria is triggering increased demand by local manufacturers for crude palm oil, according to a new report from market research company Frost & Sullivan. Read more from Cosmetics Design Europe.

Triclosan in Cosmetics and Personal Care Products Can Increase Allergy Risk
Triclosan -- an antibacterial chemical found in toothpaste and other products -- can contribute to an increased risk of allergy development in children. This comes from the Norwegian Environment and Childhood Asthma Study, in which the Norwegian Institute of Public Health is involved. Similar results are reported in the USA. Read more from ScienceDaily.

Oil Crops Outlook  
The USDA Economic Research Service has released its latest monthly report which "... examines supply, use, prices, and trade for oil crops (primarily soybeans and products), including supply and demand prospects in major importing and exporting countries. Includes information on cottonseed, peanuts, sunflowerseed, tropical oils, corn oil, and animal fats ..."  Read the report (PDF).

CFS announces study findings on 3-MCPD fatty acid esters in local food
The fatty acid esters of 3-Monochloropropane-1,2-diol (3-MCPD) in food are unlikely to have major toxic effects on local consumers, according to the findings of a study conducted by the Centre for Food Safety (CFS). Read the News Release.

Global Food Prices are on Average Eight Percent Lower
According to the latest UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) Food Price Index which notes that the decline was "... largely due to lower international prices of cereals and oils and fats, which more than offset increases in dairy and sugar prices ..." - FAO also released its biannual "Food Outlook" which noted that "... global expenditure on food imports was forecast at $1.14 trillion in 2012, 10 percent lower than last year's record level .
Read the FAO News Release.
FAO Food Price Index
"FAO Food Outlook - Global Market Analysis" (PDF)

Argentina, Indonesia face EU biodiesel dumping investigation
The European Union has begun investigating accusations that Argentina and Indonesia are dumping biodiesel in Europe, undercutting local companies which face falling output and bankruptcies.
Read more from Reuters.

Abstract Alerts

Scientific Opinion on application (EFSA-GMO-NL-2010-78) for the placing on the market of herbicide-tolerant, increased oleic acid genetically modified soybean MON 87705 for food and feed uses, import and processing under Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003 from Monsanto
EFSA Journal 2012;10(10):2909 [34 pp.] Read the abstract or download the article (PDF).

Effect of Antioxidants on the Lipid Oxidation and Flavor of Microwave-assistant Dried Silver Carp (Hypophthalmichthys molitrix) Slices
Xiangjin Fu, Zhonghai Li, Qinglu Lin, Shiying Xu. Journal of Food Research.  Vol 1, No 4 (2012). Read the abstract or download the full-text (PDF).

Evaluation of flavonoids and diverse antioxidant activities of Sonchus arvensis
Khan RA. Chemistry Central Journal 2012, 6:126 (29 October 2012). Read the abstract or download the provisional paper (PDF).

Qualitative screening for adulterants in weight-loss supplements by ion mobility spectrometry
Jamie D. Dunn, Connie M. Gryniewicz-Ruzicka, Daniel J. Mans, Laura C. Mecker-Pogue, John F. Kauffman, Benjamin J. Westenberger, Lucinda F. Buhse. Journal of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Analysis. Volume 71, December 2012, Pages 18–26. Read the abstract.


Monday, November 12, 2012

News and Notes for Monday November 12, 2012

France proposes 'Nutella tax' on palm oil
A looming "Nutella tax" in France that would raise taxes on palm oil by 300 percent . Read more from the New York Daily News or read the News Release from Reuters.

New Methods for Protein Hydrolysis - RFP Request
NineSigma, representing a major food products manufacturer, is seeking development partners for highly efficient manufacturing methods for protein hydrolysates without the use of liquid acid or alkali catalysts. Read the RFP (.pdf)

Global metabolomic initiative announced
Investigators at Washington University and The Scripps Research Institute have announced the launch of a "Global Metabolomic Initiative" to facilitate meta-analyses on studies of the metabolism of bacteria, yeast, plants, animals and people. Read more from Medical Express.

Nano-based technology to lengthen shelf-life
Nanotechnology and other novel technologies will be more widely adopted as ways of extending the shelf-life of food and drink products in the future. Read more from foodmanufacture.co.uk.

CFS announces study findings on 3-MCPD fatty acid esters in local food
The fatty acid esters of 3-Monochloropropane-1,2-diol (3-MCPD) in food are unlikely to have major toxic effects on local consumers, according to the findings of a study conducted by the Centre for Food Safety (CFS). Read the News Release.

Abstract Alerts

Rheology of poly(acrylic acid) – A model study

Yuchen Wang , Richard Arthur Pethrick , Nicholas E Hudson , and Carl J Schaschke. Ind. Eng. Chem. Res., Just Accepted Manuscript. Publication Date (Web): November 8, 2012. Read the abstract.

Safety and efficacy of personal care products containing colloidal oatmeal
Criquet M, Roure R, Dayan L, Nollent V, Bertin C. Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology. Published Date November 2012 Volume 2012:5 Pages 183 - 193. Read the abstract.

Sunflower-oil-based lecithin organogels as matrices for controlled drug delivery
D. Satapathy, D. Biswas, B. Behera, S. S. Sagiri, K. Pal, K. Pramanik. Journal of Applied Polymer Science. Article first published online: 9 NOV 2012. Read the abstract.

Polymers containing phosphorus groups and polyethers: from synthesis to application
Iliescu S, Zubizarreta L, Plesu N, Macarie L, Popa A, Ilia G .Chemistry Central Journal 2012, 6:132 (8 November 2012). Read the abstract.

Friday, November 9, 2012

World Conference on Fabric and Home Care (Singapore 2012) Wrap Up

The premier of Singapore 2012 World Conference on Fabric and Home Care was a great success. Thank you to those who attended! This global conference focused on driving innovation, enhancing performance, and maximizing sustainability in the fabric and home care industry.

Read the tweets

See photos on Facebook

The Numbers-World Conference on Fabric and Home Care 2012:
• Attendance: 600
• Countries Represented: 36
• Oral Presentations: 16
• Poster Presentations: 9
• Over 25 attendees joined AOCS as a member


Save the date, the conference series will continue in Montreux, 6-9 October 2014.



News and Notes for Friday November 9, 2012

Unilever Cuts Palm Oil Use in Food Products; Overall Consumption Steady
Netherlands-based consumer product giant Unilever (UN) has reduced the use of palm oil in its food products but is using more of the oil in its non-food products, so overall consumption has remained flat in recent years Read more from Fox Business.

New GRAS Database Increases Transparency
A new database of self-affirmed GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) determinations has been launched to tackle concerns about a lack of transparency in the process. Read more from Food Navigator.

EU Action Plan for Olive Oil Inching Forward
A minimum number of tests on olive oil authenticity would have to conducted each year in the European Union under proposed anti-fraud measures before a European Commission committee. Read more from the Olive Oil Times

Biofuel breakthrough: Quick cook method turns algae into oil (w/ Video) 
It looks like Mother Nature was wasting her time with a multimillion-year process to produce crude oil. Michigan Engineering researchers can "pressure-cook" algae for as little as a minute and transform an unprecedented 65 percent of the green slime into biocrude. Read more at Phys.org

Neste Oil adds NExBTL renewable naphtha suitable for producing bioplastics to its corporate customer product range
Neste Oil - the world's largest producer of renewable diesel - has launched the commercial production and sales of renewable naphtha for corporate customers. NExBTL renewable naphtha can be used as a feedstock for producing bioplastics, for example, and as a biocomponent for gasoline. Read the News release.

Mineral oil: a need for more data
Concerns arise over the potential migration of mineral oil hydrocarbons into food from recycled paperboard packaging. What can we do as an industry to address the issue? Read more from Packaging World.

Abstract Alerts

Bioenergy grass feedstock: current options and prospects for trait improvement using emerging genetic, genomic, and systems biology toolkits
Feltus FA, Vandenbrink JP . Biotechnology for Biofuels 2012, 5:80 (2 November 2012). Read the abstract.

Membrane-perturbing effect of fatty acids and lysolipids
Ahmad Arouri, Ole G. Mouritsen. Progress in Lipid Research. Available online 29 October 2012. Read the abstract.

Decreased Plasma Cholesterol Concentrations After PUFA-Rich Diets are not Due to Reduced Cholesterol Absorption/Synthesis
Vanu R. Ramprasath, Peter J. H. Jones, Donna D. Buckley, Laura A. Woollett and James E. Heubi. Lipids.Volume 47, Number 11 (2012), 1063-1071. Read the abstract.

Biocatalytic Conversion of Coconut Oil to Natural Flavor Esters Optimized with Response Surface Methodology
Jingcan Sun, Jin Hua Chin, Weibiao Zhou, Bin Yu, Philip Curran and Shao-Quan Liu.  Journal of the American Oil Chemists' Society. Volume 89, Number 11 (2012), 1991-1998. Read the abstract.

Tuesday, November 6, 2012

UPDATED-Controversy on Proposition 37- GMO Labelling

California Voters have Defeated Proposition 37, a November 6, 2012 voter ballot initiative that would have required " ... labeling on raw or processed food offered for sale to consumers if made from plants or animals with genetic material changed in specified ways..."

Details of the vote are posted on the home page of California Secretary of State.

 --

Today  (November 6th, 2012) California voters will vote on Proposition 37, which would require labeled identification of genetically engineered or modified ingredients and foods. 

Yesterday, Food Seminars International (FSI) presented "Food Fight: Are GMO's "Alright" or "Frankenfood"? " where Alexis Baden-Mayer (a Consumer Activist ) and Thomas P. Redick (Global Environmental Ethics Counsel) debated the GMO labeling issue. You can view the webinar recording here.

Find all news stories related to Proposition 37 here.



Monday, November 5, 2012

News and Notes for Monday November 5, 2012

SG Biofuels expands jatropha platform; confirms $99 per barrel crude jatropha oil
SG Biofuels announced that it has expanded its global network of hybrid trial and agronomic research sites and has achieved costs of $99 per barrel or less across three continents. By comparison, the Brent crude price is averaging $113.02 per barrel this month, according to Oilenergy.com. Read more from Biofuels Digest.

Archer Daniels Earnings Beat On Oilseed Performance
Archer Daniels Midland (ADM) reported first-quarter earnings above Wall Street estimates Tuesday due to a higher than expected profit at its oilseeds processing unit. Read more at IBD. 

Study Shows Americans Seeking Biobased Products
Seventy percent of Americans say they shop for "green" products on a regular basis. That number is up 10 percent in the last three years. As the evolution of green products is occurring, new certifications and labels are being introduced. One such certification is the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Certified Biobased Product label, an initiative of the BioPreferred Program. Read more from IBTimes.

Food Manufacturers Seeking Stable, Healthy Oils
With public attention focused on health, food processors have been seeking healthy oil formulations with an eye toward stability.One of the newer products in this category is high-oleic acid canola oil, which joins palm oil as a growing industry favorite.  Read more from Food Processing.

SDA omega-3: The future of trans-fat-free margarine?
Stearidonic acid (SDA) soybean oil may offer a trans-fat-free base for margarine, while simultaneously boosting omega-3 intakes, suggests new data. Read more from Food Navigator.

Agency seeks contractors for sampling and analyses
The U.K. Food Standards Agency (FSA) is inviting tenders for the sampling of food at retail and analyses of inorganic, organic environmental and process contaminants. Find out more.

Requests for Proposals

Measuring Cleanliness, Dryness and Brilliancy of Goods inside a Dishwasher-RFP Request
NineSigma, representing a consumer goods company, invites proposals for technologies that can determine how well a dishwasher is performing by measuring cleanliness, dryness and brilliancy of goods.  View the Request for Proposal (.pdf)

Partners to Identify New Functional Molecules in Food-RFP Request
NineSigma, representing CALBEE, Inc., a Japanese potato chip manufacturer, seeks partners to identify new functional molecules in the edible portion of potatoes or in their by-products (skin, sprouts, washing waste water), evaluate the bioactivities of such molecules, and investigate methods for their effective use in functional foods. View the Request for Proposal (.pdf)

Friday, November 2, 2012

Meetings, Conferences and Short Courses for November 2012

Upcoming events for the month of November related to oils, fats, chemistry, biofuels as well as fabric and home care.

November 2012

01-02 2nd ICIS Asian Surfactants Conference
Marina Bay Sands, Singapore

04-08 32nd Practical Short Course on Vegetable Oil Extraction
College Station, Texas, USA
Information: ; Phone: +1 979-862-2262

05-09 WMFmeetsIUPAC
7th Conference of The World Mycotoxin Forum and the XIIIth IUPAC International Symposium on Mycotoxins and Phycotoxins
Rotterdam, the Netherlands

07-08 Food Defense Workshop
Robert M. Kerr Food & Agricultural Products Center, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, USA

07-08 Mass Spectrometry 2012
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

07-08 MassSpec 2012: New Horizons in MS Hyphenated Techniques and Analyses
Biopolis, Singapore

11-13 Practical Short Course on Biodiesel/Biofuel from Algae and other Feedstock. Industrial Applications of Vegetable Oils
Texas A&M University, College Station, TX USA

11-15 Society of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry (SETAC) North America 33rd Annual Meeting
Long Beach, California, USA

12-14 2nd World Congress on Cell Science & Stem Cell Research
San Antonio, Texas, USA

13-14 Lipid Oxidation in Foods: Improving Food Quality and Protecting Bioactive Lipids
Amherst, Massachusetts, USA

13-15 Health Ingredients Europe and Natural Ingredients
Messe Frankfurt, Germany

14-15 Novel Sources for Omega 3 for Food and Feed
Copenhagen, Denmark

15-16 10th Practical Short Course: Omega-3 and Nutritional Lipids
Frankfurt am Main, Germany

19-21 International Conference and Expo on Material Science and Engineering
San Antonio, Texas, USA

19-23 World Cocoa Conference
Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire

20-23 2012 European Federation of Food Science and Technology (EFFoST) Annual Meeting
A Lunch Box for Tomorrow : An interactive combination of integrated analysis and specialized knowledge of food
Montpellier, France

23-24 67th Annual Convention of The Oil Technologists' Association of India
Mumbai, India

23-24 International Conference and Exhibition on Cosmetology & Cosmetics
HICC Hyderabad, India

26-28 International Conference on Anesthesia & Perioperative Care
San Antonio, Texas, USA

26-28 International Toxicology Summit & Expo
San Antonio, Texas, USA

26-28 International Conference on Hair Transplantation & Trichology 2012
San Antonio, Texas, USA

27-29 National Advanced Biofuels Conference & Expo
Houston, Texas, USA

28-29 2nd South America Surfactants HPC Markets
Sao Paulo, Brazil

28-29 2nd Annual Waste Conversion Congress West Coast
Long Beach, CA USA

Find Out More