When you hear the term “food news”, what comes into your mind? Some may think about the latest recipes and dishes, while others may think of big fashion trends, new foods in the grocery store apron and the latest in scientific studies concerning what makes us grow and develop better immune systems. But food news is something that encompasses a lot more than the recipes that dominate the pages of food magazines. It is actually a collective term encompassing all the information and research on food that could possibly influence your decisions about what and how you choose to cook or eat. Here are five of the many food news stories that dominate the headlines today:
Recent study results have shown that obesity has reached epidemic proportions. The report brought immediate attention to the fact that food prices have skyrocketed in recent years, with analysts predicting that obesity and type 2 diabetes may become major health risks for the general population. With obesity costing America over a hundred billion dollars per year, the findings are a huge blow to American food businesses who already felt the pinch when consumers cut back on discretionary spending during the recession. As a result, many food business companies found their revenues dwindling as sales dipped. A range of food businesses including fast food chains and home preparation restaurants have slashed their menus in an effort to attract healthier consumers.
Scientists have announced a finding that calls into question the popular belief that chocolate is bad for you. According to the news, scientists have confirmed that eating too much chocolate can lead to a range of heart disease problems, including heart attacks. This revelation comes as no surprise to dieters who have long realized that eating chocolate on a regular basis can boost serotonin levels in the brain, which in turn helps reduce feelings of stress and anxiety. In fact, the British government announced a 5p reduction in the recommended daily consumption of chocolate last month in an attempt to reduce food industry costs caused by rising food prices.
New studies have shown that food additives used in food products can be dangerous to human health. An example of this is bisphenol A, which is found in many artificial foods and drinks, particularly in soft drinks, energy drinks and mouthwash. Bisphenol A has been linked to an array of health problems including cancers and brain development problems.
Meanwhile, food business news is filled with reports of new products that are being developed, especially by small food manufacturers. One such item that recently made its way to store shelves was the so-called “superfood” fruit drink. Originating in Australia, the product boasts a high concentration of antioxidants, including blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, blackberries, bilberries and cranberries. It is believed that these berries can fight free radicals produced by the body which can cause serious diseases such as heart disease.
Indeed, food business publications such as Popular Mechanics keep readers informed about developments within the food industry. In addition to providing information on how products are becoming more nutritious and delicious, it also features stories of food entrepreneurs and how they have revolutionized the food industry by coming up with new products. Looking back, the evolution of food businesses has been a story that has changed the way people eat.