General Mills recalled 1.8 million boxes of gluten-free Cheerios after a truck contaminated with wheat flour was used to transport oat flour to one of its plants. This led to a box testing over the FDA's gluten-free limit and many consumers reporting gastrointestinal issues. While General Mills remains committed to gluten-free Cheerios, the recall damaged consumer trust and resulted in lawsuits. General Mills has since increased testing and protocols but some consumers remain wary of possible cross-contamination in its oats. Celiac support groups want improved validation of testing methods to ensure products are safe.
Documento sobre las continuidades en el polígono sur. cooedu_ps
Este documento presenta una reflexión sobre el tema de las continuidades del profesorado en el Polígono Sur de Sevilla. Reconoce los beneficios de las continuidades pero plantea preocupaciones sobre sus posibles efectos negativos como fomentar el miedo a hablar y frenar el sentido crítico. Propone mejorar el plan de continuidades a través del diálogo y la participación para asegurar la selección de perfiles adecuados y comprometidos que analicen críticamente la realidad educativa del barrio.
The document discusses several unethical practices in the food industry from production to marketing. At the production stage, large corporations like Tyson, Smithfield, and KFC are accused of inhumane treatment of animals. Nestle was found to still use child labor in cocoa farms despite promises to stop. Monsanto uses questionable genetic engineering techniques. Improper use of chemicals, water, and false labeling are other issues. Misleading marketing claims by Complan, Horlicks, Red Bull and Tropicana show unethical advertising. Nestle promoted infant formula in poor nations irresponsibly. Overall, the text calls for more humane, environmentally friendly, and transparent practices across the food supply chain.
The document discusses the issue of milk adulteration in India. It notes that a survey found 68.4% of milk in India was adulterated, containing substances like urea and detergent which can harm infants. Experts say adulterated milk has led to increased diseases in children. There are also issues with fake and substandard baby formula products due to lack of regulations and enforcement. Proper laws and tracking technologies are needed to curb the problem and protect public health.
2019 American Veterinarian Medical Association Bill Marler
This document discusses potential liability issues related to operating petting zoos, herdshares, and agritourism activities. It notes that milk is considered a product, so dairies can be held strictly liable for injuries caused by contaminated milk. It reviews legal standards around strict liability and discusses relevant case law. The document also discusses comparative fault, releases and waivers, trade association liability, and FDA regulations related to raw milk. It provides examples of raw milk outbreaks and discusses ways some operations circumvent FDA laws. Finally, it discusses an E. coli outbreak at a state fair and provides policy recommendations to improve safety at such events.
General Mills launched a gluten-free cereal called Gluten-Free Chex Cereal to address the growing market for gluten-free products and consumers with celiac disease or gluten intolerance. While the product has received some positive attention online, it lacks widespread awareness. The advertising plan aims to increase awareness of celiac disease, position General Mills as socially responsible for addressing this health issue, and gain market share for Gluten-Free Chex Cereal and other potential gluten-free products. The plan proposes utilizing both "push" and "pull" strategies to spread information and build broader awareness among target audiences.
The FDA has approved the sale and consumption of meat and milk from cloned animals and their offspring in the United States without requiring labeling. However, cloning is still an inefficient process with a high rate of stillbirths and offspring mortality. While the FDA claims food from cloned animals is as safe as conventionally produced food, they have not conducted long-term studies on human health effects. Consumers currently have no way of knowing if the food they purchase comes from cloned animals. Mandatory labeling would allow personal choice just as labels do for organic versus conventional products.
Media plan created for Silk Soymilk in my sophomore Advertising class. I was responsible for the design of the book and advertisements (print, television, out-of-home).
The document provides an analysis of the cereal industry and environment for Honey Nut Cheerios. It discusses key points:
- Cereal industry sales were $9.1 billion in 2008, peaking at $10.8 billion in 2009, then declining to $9.51 billion in 2012. Consumption has dropped 1% annually for a decade.
- The industry faces challenges like consumers choosing healthier/more convenient breakfasts and declining birth rates reducing the target demographic of children.
- General Mills' top competitors are Kellogg, Kraft, and PepsiCo, who together control 55% of the market. General Mills has 31% share.
- Trends impacting General Mills include
Documento sobre las continuidades en el polígono sur. cooedu_ps
Este documento presenta una reflexión sobre el tema de las continuidades del profesorado en el Polígono Sur de Sevilla. Reconoce los beneficios de las continuidades pero plantea preocupaciones sobre sus posibles efectos negativos como fomentar el miedo a hablar y frenar el sentido crítico. Propone mejorar el plan de continuidades a través del diálogo y la participación para asegurar la selección de perfiles adecuados y comprometidos que analicen críticamente la realidad educativa del barrio.
The document discusses several unethical practices in the food industry from production to marketing. At the production stage, large corporations like Tyson, Smithfield, and KFC are accused of inhumane treatment of animals. Nestle was found to still use child labor in cocoa farms despite promises to stop. Monsanto uses questionable genetic engineering techniques. Improper use of chemicals, water, and false labeling are other issues. Misleading marketing claims by Complan, Horlicks, Red Bull and Tropicana show unethical advertising. Nestle promoted infant formula in poor nations irresponsibly. Overall, the text calls for more humane, environmentally friendly, and transparent practices across the food supply chain.
The document discusses the issue of milk adulteration in India. It notes that a survey found 68.4% of milk in India was adulterated, containing substances like urea and detergent which can harm infants. Experts say adulterated milk has led to increased diseases in children. There are also issues with fake and substandard baby formula products due to lack of regulations and enforcement. Proper laws and tracking technologies are needed to curb the problem and protect public health.
2019 American Veterinarian Medical Association Bill Marler
This document discusses potential liability issues related to operating petting zoos, herdshares, and agritourism activities. It notes that milk is considered a product, so dairies can be held strictly liable for injuries caused by contaminated milk. It reviews legal standards around strict liability and discusses relevant case law. The document also discusses comparative fault, releases and waivers, trade association liability, and FDA regulations related to raw milk. It provides examples of raw milk outbreaks and discusses ways some operations circumvent FDA laws. Finally, it discusses an E. coli outbreak at a state fair and provides policy recommendations to improve safety at such events.
General Mills launched a gluten-free cereal called Gluten-Free Chex Cereal to address the growing market for gluten-free products and consumers with celiac disease or gluten intolerance. While the product has received some positive attention online, it lacks widespread awareness. The advertising plan aims to increase awareness of celiac disease, position General Mills as socially responsible for addressing this health issue, and gain market share for Gluten-Free Chex Cereal and other potential gluten-free products. The plan proposes utilizing both "push" and "pull" strategies to spread information and build broader awareness among target audiences.
The FDA has approved the sale and consumption of meat and milk from cloned animals and their offspring in the United States without requiring labeling. However, cloning is still an inefficient process with a high rate of stillbirths and offspring mortality. While the FDA claims food from cloned animals is as safe as conventionally produced food, they have not conducted long-term studies on human health effects. Consumers currently have no way of knowing if the food they purchase comes from cloned animals. Mandatory labeling would allow personal choice just as labels do for organic versus conventional products.
Media plan created for Silk Soymilk in my sophomore Advertising class. I was responsible for the design of the book and advertisements (print, television, out-of-home).
The document provides an analysis of the cereal industry and environment for Honey Nut Cheerios. It discusses key points:
- Cereal industry sales were $9.1 billion in 2008, peaking at $10.8 billion in 2009, then declining to $9.51 billion in 2012. Consumption has dropped 1% annually for a decade.
- The industry faces challenges like consumers choosing healthier/more convenient breakfasts and declining birth rates reducing the target demographic of children.
- General Mills' top competitors are Kellogg, Kraft, and PepsiCo, who together control 55% of the market. General Mills has 31% share.
- Trends impacting General Mills include
In 2015, an estimated 35,500 serious birth defects of the spine and brain were prevented because wheat and maize flours were fortified with folic acid, according to research published in July 2016.
This document discusses product recalls and how companies can mitigate risks and losses. It describes Blue Bell Creameries' recall of all its ice cream products in 2015 after a listeriosis outbreak linked to its desserts caused illnesses and deaths. Blue Bell took corrective actions like thoroughly cleaning plants and improving sanitization procedures. The document also discusses a recall by Trek Bicycle of nearly 1 million bikes due to a risk of their front wheels separating. Both companies worked closely with regulators during their recalls. The impacts of recalls, importance of prevention, and role of social media are also addressed.
Monthly recap of recall and product safety news reported by various US government agencies. The publication also provides an update on the product recall and contamination insurance marketplace, including new markets and capacity, significant recall events, and legislative changes affecting the consumer products industry.
The document discusses the importance of food safety in South Africa following a meat scandal where various meats were mislabeled. It outlines several key points:
1) Traceability in the supply chain is virtually non-existent, making it difficult to ensure contaminated products do not reach supermarket shelves.
2) Cross-contamination of meat is possible during processing, but deliberate adulteration for financial gain cannot be ruled out.
3) Education and transparency are important to establish accountability and allow consumers to make informed choices, though economic pressures make ensuring food safety challenging.
4) A proactive, preventative approach through proper training and communication between suppliers and retailers is needed to promote a strong food safety culture.
Macro Trends from Expo West (April 2015)MBGenhance
“Natural” is becoming one of the most alluring terms for both consumers and marketers. As more people seek to lead healthier lives, they’re increasingly turning to toxin-free, natural products. Indeed, the market for natural products has surged in recent years and continues to grow: U.S. consumer sales of natural, organic and healthy products are forecast to grow 64% from $153 billion in 2013 to $252 billion in 2019, a rate nearly double that of mainstream consumer packaged goods, according to New Hope Natural Media, the organizer of Expo West.
This report is based on findings from Expo West, the world’s largest natural, organic and healthy products event. Expo West, which took place March 4-8 in Anaheim, California, brought together more than 71,000 industry members and over 2,700 exhibiting companies. With dozens of panels and hundreds of networking events, Expo West is ground zero for emerging trends and innovative products.
General Mills is a major food company that started as a flour milling business in the 1850s. It has since expanded into cereal and other packaged foods. General Mills faces issues with how its marketing and products relate to childhood obesity in America. The company formed an Obesity Committee to research the problem and suggest solutions. The committee evaluated 5 potential solutions based on criteria like brand loyalty, nutrition standards, ethical marketing, and competition. It recommends lowering sugar content in cereals to less than 12g per serving to make products healthier while fulfilling the evaluation criteria. This solution would help address obesity by providing nutritious options for children.
GMI OPEN INNOVATION WORKS - Prepared Foods - 2.16.15Dena Strehlow PhD
General Mills developed Nature Valley Bistro Cups oatmeal to be made in Keurig single-serve brewing machines. They tested early prototypes with employees and conducted a "Lemonade Stand" demonstration in two stores, selling the product and gathering feedback. This helped them refine flavors and packaging based on direct consumer input. Nature Valley Bistro Cups launched on Amazon, becoming an instant success as the first hot oatmeal available for single-serve brewers. General Mills credits their open innovation approach and willingness to interact directly with consumers throughout the product development process for the product's success.
Demand for grass-fed beef has increased by 25–30% every year over the last decade. Now, more than ever, it is critical for producers to get their message out to the world. Andrew Gunther from A Greener World presents to SWGLA members on the topic at the 2016 Southwest Grass-Fed Conference.
This document discusses Where Food Comes From, Inc., a company that provides third-party verification and certification services for food producers. It has three main auditing divisions that verify various product attributes and certifications. The document outlines many of the standards, certifications, and attributes that the company can currently verify. It also discusses the importance of third-party verification and traceability in validating claims about food production practices and meeting consumer demand for transparency.
Social Responsibility As A Driver For Food Safety (with Amy's Kitchen)TraceGains
As many people are aware, there has been an increased focus on the verification of food safety and quality programs—especially with the advent of the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA)—in foreign supplier locations.
This increased focus has both required and inspired many of us in the food safety world to expand our global point of view. With an increasing U.S. economy and a growing global food supply chain, more and more of us are having to look to developing nations for new food supply.
However, the one area that has been left untouched in this effort is social responsibility.
This presentation with Anna Key Jesus, Senior Director, Quality Systems at Amy's Kitchen, Inc., explores the direct connection between the people and planet elements of sustainability and their impact on global food safety.
How Does FDA Define “Gluten-Free?”
In addition to limiting the unavoidable presence of gluten to less than 20 ppm, FDA now allows manufacturers to label a food “gluten-free” if the food does not contain any of the following:
1. an ingredient that is any type of wheat, rye, barley, or crossbreeds of these grains
2. an ingredient derived from these grains and that has not been processed to remove gluten
3. an ingredient derived from these grains and that has been processed to remove gluten, if it results in the food containing
20 or more parts per million (ppm) gluten
Research Proposal about Food AdulterationMASUM BILLAH
This document presents a research proposal on evaluating the quality of sweetened condensed milk available in the local markets of Bangladesh. The research group consists of 7 members led by Md. Hashibul Hossain. The proposal introduces the topic of food adulteration in condensed milk and outlines the problem statement regarding low quality and unsafe condensed milk being sold. The general and specific objectives of the proposed research are to prevent adulteration and inform consumers about quality. A literature review and any questions are also mentioned.
This document discusses genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in food. It begins by explaining that GMOs are plants or animals that have been genetically engineered, usually to enhance production or nutrient levels. While most developed countries have restrictions on GMOs due to health concerns, they are common in the US, where 80% of processed foods may contain GMOs. Examples given include many snacks, oils, meats, and soy products. The document outlines both arguments for and against GMOs, discussing issues like their effect on small farmers, potential health risks, and lack of independent safety testing. It emphasizes that most Americans support mandatory GMO labeling but the biotech industry has prevented it so far.
Grace Chua, president of Consumer Rights for Safe Food (CRSF), gave a report to its members during the General Assembly last March 22, 2014. Sharing it with you.
Perfect Food: The Silicon Valley Food MovementTrung Ho
What would the food system look like if we started over?
That's the question that investors, entrepreneurs, and food scientists in Silicon Valley are asking as they've been working towards creating a more sustainable food system as the global population inches closer to 9.6 billion by 2050. Mayonnaise without eggs? Real-tasting meat made from plants? Living a healthy life on a nutritious drink alone? Food from the Silicon Valley Food Movement may sound crazy, but they're becoming more and more popular as large groups of investors, chefs, environmental and animal activists, consumers, and just about all walks of life are gravitating towards the idea that food can and should be healthy, tasty, and help make a positive difference in the world's future.
This report looks at the different food startups and its corresponding trends/driving factors, as well as its implications for big food brands. This report also takes a look at related food trends and its manifestations that are occurring outside of Silicon Valley.
This document summarizes a proposal for Ben & Jerry's to launch a new 100% organic yogurt product line to improve profitability. It outlines Ben & Jerry's background and strengths in organic and sustainable farming. It also discusses opportunities in the large and fast-growing organic food and yogurt industries. The proposal recommends launching organic frozen yogurt in unique flavors, leveraging Ben & Jerry's brand recognition and supplier relationships. A marketing plan is proposed using partnerships, sampling, and celebrity endorsements to promote the new product.
Johnson & Johnson Crisis Communication PresentationJulian Gross
The document provides background on Johnson & Johnson (J&J) and discusses the problem of lawsuits linking J&J's talcum powder to ovarian cancer. It outlines J&J's product, competitors, and issues surrounding negative media coverage and damage to its brand and reputation. The goal is to maintain and regain customer trust through increased transparency, media interviews, and realigning with its credo of customer responsibility. Target audiences include mothers, women ages 25-44, and investors. Communications strategies include social media, media relations, leadership messaging, and CSR opportunities to partner with cancer organizations.
Welcome to the December Edition of Crisis Management’s RecallRegister, Aon’s monthly recall
and product safety newsletter. This publication provides a review of the month’s recalls as
reported by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), the U.S Food and Drug
Administration (FDA), the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), National Highway Traffic
Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA). In addition
to recall announcements, RecallRegister provides an update on the product recall and
contamination insurance marketplace and environment. Each month, we highlight issues of
importance including new markets and capacity, significant recall events and changes in
legislation affecting the consumer products industry.
In 2015, an estimated 35,500 serious birth defects of the spine and brain were prevented because wheat and maize flours were fortified with folic acid, according to research published in July 2016.
This document discusses product recalls and how companies can mitigate risks and losses. It describes Blue Bell Creameries' recall of all its ice cream products in 2015 after a listeriosis outbreak linked to its desserts caused illnesses and deaths. Blue Bell took corrective actions like thoroughly cleaning plants and improving sanitization procedures. The document also discusses a recall by Trek Bicycle of nearly 1 million bikes due to a risk of their front wheels separating. Both companies worked closely with regulators during their recalls. The impacts of recalls, importance of prevention, and role of social media are also addressed.
Monthly recap of recall and product safety news reported by various US government agencies. The publication also provides an update on the product recall and contamination insurance marketplace, including new markets and capacity, significant recall events, and legislative changes affecting the consumer products industry.
The document discusses the importance of food safety in South Africa following a meat scandal where various meats were mislabeled. It outlines several key points:
1) Traceability in the supply chain is virtually non-existent, making it difficult to ensure contaminated products do not reach supermarket shelves.
2) Cross-contamination of meat is possible during processing, but deliberate adulteration for financial gain cannot be ruled out.
3) Education and transparency are important to establish accountability and allow consumers to make informed choices, though economic pressures make ensuring food safety challenging.
4) A proactive, preventative approach through proper training and communication between suppliers and retailers is needed to promote a strong food safety culture.
Macro Trends from Expo West (April 2015)MBGenhance
“Natural” is becoming one of the most alluring terms for both consumers and marketers. As more people seek to lead healthier lives, they’re increasingly turning to toxin-free, natural products. Indeed, the market for natural products has surged in recent years and continues to grow: U.S. consumer sales of natural, organic and healthy products are forecast to grow 64% from $153 billion in 2013 to $252 billion in 2019, a rate nearly double that of mainstream consumer packaged goods, according to New Hope Natural Media, the organizer of Expo West.
This report is based on findings from Expo West, the world’s largest natural, organic and healthy products event. Expo West, which took place March 4-8 in Anaheim, California, brought together more than 71,000 industry members and over 2,700 exhibiting companies. With dozens of panels and hundreds of networking events, Expo West is ground zero for emerging trends and innovative products.
General Mills is a major food company that started as a flour milling business in the 1850s. It has since expanded into cereal and other packaged foods. General Mills faces issues with how its marketing and products relate to childhood obesity in America. The company formed an Obesity Committee to research the problem and suggest solutions. The committee evaluated 5 potential solutions based on criteria like brand loyalty, nutrition standards, ethical marketing, and competition. It recommends lowering sugar content in cereals to less than 12g per serving to make products healthier while fulfilling the evaluation criteria. This solution would help address obesity by providing nutritious options for children.
GMI OPEN INNOVATION WORKS - Prepared Foods - 2.16.15Dena Strehlow PhD
General Mills developed Nature Valley Bistro Cups oatmeal to be made in Keurig single-serve brewing machines. They tested early prototypes with employees and conducted a "Lemonade Stand" demonstration in two stores, selling the product and gathering feedback. This helped them refine flavors and packaging based on direct consumer input. Nature Valley Bistro Cups launched on Amazon, becoming an instant success as the first hot oatmeal available for single-serve brewers. General Mills credits their open innovation approach and willingness to interact directly with consumers throughout the product development process for the product's success.
Demand for grass-fed beef has increased by 25–30% every year over the last decade. Now, more than ever, it is critical for producers to get their message out to the world. Andrew Gunther from A Greener World presents to SWGLA members on the topic at the 2016 Southwest Grass-Fed Conference.
This document discusses Where Food Comes From, Inc., a company that provides third-party verification and certification services for food producers. It has three main auditing divisions that verify various product attributes and certifications. The document outlines many of the standards, certifications, and attributes that the company can currently verify. It also discusses the importance of third-party verification and traceability in validating claims about food production practices and meeting consumer demand for transparency.
Social Responsibility As A Driver For Food Safety (with Amy's Kitchen)TraceGains
As many people are aware, there has been an increased focus on the verification of food safety and quality programs—especially with the advent of the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA)—in foreign supplier locations.
This increased focus has both required and inspired many of us in the food safety world to expand our global point of view. With an increasing U.S. economy and a growing global food supply chain, more and more of us are having to look to developing nations for new food supply.
However, the one area that has been left untouched in this effort is social responsibility.
This presentation with Anna Key Jesus, Senior Director, Quality Systems at Amy's Kitchen, Inc., explores the direct connection between the people and planet elements of sustainability and their impact on global food safety.
How Does FDA Define “Gluten-Free?”
In addition to limiting the unavoidable presence of gluten to less than 20 ppm, FDA now allows manufacturers to label a food “gluten-free” if the food does not contain any of the following:
1. an ingredient that is any type of wheat, rye, barley, or crossbreeds of these grains
2. an ingredient derived from these grains and that has not been processed to remove gluten
3. an ingredient derived from these grains and that has been processed to remove gluten, if it results in the food containing
20 or more parts per million (ppm) gluten
Research Proposal about Food AdulterationMASUM BILLAH
This document presents a research proposal on evaluating the quality of sweetened condensed milk available in the local markets of Bangladesh. The research group consists of 7 members led by Md. Hashibul Hossain. The proposal introduces the topic of food adulteration in condensed milk and outlines the problem statement regarding low quality and unsafe condensed milk being sold. The general and specific objectives of the proposed research are to prevent adulteration and inform consumers about quality. A literature review and any questions are also mentioned.
This document discusses genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in food. It begins by explaining that GMOs are plants or animals that have been genetically engineered, usually to enhance production or nutrient levels. While most developed countries have restrictions on GMOs due to health concerns, they are common in the US, where 80% of processed foods may contain GMOs. Examples given include many snacks, oils, meats, and soy products. The document outlines both arguments for and against GMOs, discussing issues like their effect on small farmers, potential health risks, and lack of independent safety testing. It emphasizes that most Americans support mandatory GMO labeling but the biotech industry has prevented it so far.
Grace Chua, president of Consumer Rights for Safe Food (CRSF), gave a report to its members during the General Assembly last March 22, 2014. Sharing it with you.
Perfect Food: The Silicon Valley Food MovementTrung Ho
What would the food system look like if we started over?
That's the question that investors, entrepreneurs, and food scientists in Silicon Valley are asking as they've been working towards creating a more sustainable food system as the global population inches closer to 9.6 billion by 2050. Mayonnaise without eggs? Real-tasting meat made from plants? Living a healthy life on a nutritious drink alone? Food from the Silicon Valley Food Movement may sound crazy, but they're becoming more and more popular as large groups of investors, chefs, environmental and animal activists, consumers, and just about all walks of life are gravitating towards the idea that food can and should be healthy, tasty, and help make a positive difference in the world's future.
This report looks at the different food startups and its corresponding trends/driving factors, as well as its implications for big food brands. This report also takes a look at related food trends and its manifestations that are occurring outside of Silicon Valley.
This document summarizes a proposal for Ben & Jerry's to launch a new 100% organic yogurt product line to improve profitability. It outlines Ben & Jerry's background and strengths in organic and sustainable farming. It also discusses opportunities in the large and fast-growing organic food and yogurt industries. The proposal recommends launching organic frozen yogurt in unique flavors, leveraging Ben & Jerry's brand recognition and supplier relationships. A marketing plan is proposed using partnerships, sampling, and celebrity endorsements to promote the new product.
Johnson & Johnson Crisis Communication PresentationJulian Gross
The document provides background on Johnson & Johnson (J&J) and discusses the problem of lawsuits linking J&J's talcum powder to ovarian cancer. It outlines J&J's product, competitors, and issues surrounding negative media coverage and damage to its brand and reputation. The goal is to maintain and regain customer trust through increased transparency, media interviews, and realigning with its credo of customer responsibility. Target audiences include mothers, women ages 25-44, and investors. Communications strategies include social media, media relations, leadership messaging, and CSR opportunities to partner with cancer organizations.
Welcome to the December Edition of Crisis Management’s RecallRegister, Aon’s monthly recall
and product safety newsletter. This publication provides a review of the month’s recalls as
reported by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), the U.S Food and Drug
Administration (FDA), the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), National Highway Traffic
Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA). In addition
to recall announcements, RecallRegister provides an update on the product recall and
contamination insurance marketplace and environment. Each month, we highlight issues of
importance including new markets and capacity, significant recall events and changes in
legislation affecting the consumer products industry.
1. CHEERIOS LAUNCH
RUNS INTO TROUBLE
GENERAL'MILLS'RECALLS i.8 MILLION'BOXES'
MADE AT CALIFORNIA PLANT
BYAMYRATNER
GENERAL MILLS' WIDELY promoted
launch of gluten-free Cheerios was quickly
marred by a nationwide October recall of 1.8
million boxes that actuallycontained gluten.
'Ihe mishap occurred while the cereal was
under scrutiny by suspiciousconsumers and in
the midst of a Food and DrugAdministration
(FDA) investigation of claims that the cereal
was making people with celiac disease sick.
Still General Mills remains committed to
gluten-free Cheerios, according to spokesman
Mike Siemienas. "We're in this for the long
haul," he said.
The voluntaryrecall affected Cheerios and
Honey Nut Cheerios produced at a Lodi,
California, plant over a two-week period in
July. The oat flour used to make the cereal
was accidentally loaded onto a truckcon-
taminated with wheat flour, according to
General Mills. The truck was used because
a rail line that normally transports the flour
to the processing plant was not working,
according to the company.
General Mills now faces a class action law-
suit filed in California by two consumers who
say they were misled by the gluten-freelabel
on boxes of cereal from the recalled lots. The
suit accuses the company of "deceptive, unfair
and false advertising."
Meanwhile FDA tests of 36 samples of
Cheerios and Honey Nut Cheerios produced
in plants across the United States found that
one box produced at the Lodi plant during
the time covered by the recall contained more
than twice the 20 parts per million allowed
limit in foods labeled gluten free. The other
samples met the FDA standard. The FDA
reported receiving 125 reports of adverse
events from and about consumers who ate
Cheerios labeled gluten-free, according to
an FDA spokesperson. Most noted gastro-
intestinal discomfort.
At the time of the recall, General Mills
apologized and said the company understood
it would have to rebuild badly damagedcon-
sumer trust. But some consumers never did
trust the gluten-free statusof the cereal,largely
because General Mills is not using so-called
"pure" oats. These oats, which were typically
the only kind found in gluten-free products
until about a year ago, are specially planted,
grown, harvested, transported and milled to
eliminate wheat,barley and rye that commonly
cross-contaminate oats.
MECHANICALLY PROCESSEDOATS
General Mills uses a mechanical system, which
a team worked on forfiveyears to develop, to
separate the gluten-containing grains from
the oats after they have reached the company's
Fridley Mill, near Minneapolis.
Under FDA gluten-freelabeling rules, oats
are considered a gluten-free grain andcom-
panies are not required to use "pure" oats or
mechanically or optically separated oats. A
product that contains oats and islabeled gluten
free onlyhas to meet the FDA's overallstandard
of less than 20 ppm.
Since the rules went into effect in August
2014, food companies have beenincreasingly
using mechanically and optically sorted oats
in gluten-free products in order to meet the
FDA standard. This includes Quaker Oats'
new gluten-free oatmeal and some Bob's Red
Mill products.
Additionally General Mills' method of
testing the finished cereal to determine if it
contains less than 20 ppm of gluten has been
challenged. Multiple boxes of the cereal are
combined before samples are drawn for test-
ing, raising questions about whether higher
amounts of gluten in some samples could
be diluted by lower amounts in others. But
independent testing has found samples meet
the FDA standard.
Although General Mills had maintained
that it was testing all the oats, the oat flour and
the cereal itself, the company admitted that
finished product testing, which would likely
have picked up the wheat-flourcontamination,
was not being done at the Lodi plant at the
time of the recall.
MORE TESTING
Since the recall, testing has been amped up
in several ways, according to Siemienas. "We
are testing finished products on every date
of production at each one of our production
facilities," he said. "We also continue to test
and assure that our oat supply—and our oat
flour—iscontinuing to meet the FDA gluten-
free standard."
General Mills is adding and certifying labo-
ratory testing capability across the country,
Siemienas said, adding that the company does
not intendto continue to conduct allthe neces-
sary testing at labs in Minneapolis. The com-
pany is working to add third-party labs to do
a portion of the finished product testing. "This
additional capacitywould increasethe amount
of testing we can conduct and where, but it
wouldn't add any fundamental capabilitieswe
did not already have in place," Siemienassaid.
Even as the recall was being announced,
General Mills said the oat flour was not the
source of the problem and had been tested
and found to be gluten free. "We weren't fully
prepared for what happened when we lost
rail service to one of our facilities and had
to offload oat flour into trucks for a time,"
Siemienas said. "Ourinvestigation pretty
quickly came to focus on one truck for which
we did not havea 'wash tag' certifying that the
truck was clean before we used it to transport
flour. It was human error, and it was also an
isolated incident."
General Mills has strengthened its flour
handling protocols and has tested and retested
cereal made at the Lodi plant.
Television ads for the gluten-free Cheerios,
which have run in spots as prominent as the
Grammys telecast,largelydisappearedafter the
recall as the company seemed to be seeking a
lower profile. Siemienas said new TV ads are
in the works and may appear soon. And the
original gluten-free Cheerios ad featuring Phil
Zietlow, the man behind development of the
cereal, might be used again at some point.
Siemienas downplayed the role the recall
had in advertising changes. "Refreshing and
rotating our advertising is something we do
all the time," he said.
Customers who contacted General Mills
about recalled boxes of Cheerios were ottered
a refund or a coupon and were sent a letter of
apology. Jim Murphy,senior vice president and
president of the cereal division, also publicly
apologized on the company's blog.
Efforts to engage with the gluten-free com-
munity have been occurring both online and
at gluten-free conferences and trade shows,
according to Siemienas. "We're certainlyhaving
frank and open conversations with gluten-
sensitive customers," he said.
SUPPORT GROUPS WEIGH IN
On social media some consumers say they
do not feel safe including Cheerios in their
gluten-free diet as a result of the recalls. Oth-
ers are more willing to give the cereal a sec-
ond chance. Several celiac disease support
groups issued statements regarding gluten-
free Cheerios after the recall, holdingGeneral
Mills responsible for making a mistake in
handling but leaving room for the companyto
make changes that would enable it to produce
a safe, gluten-free product.
"The General Mills recall isjust another
example of the challengescompanies face in
producing clean, safe gluten-free products,"
Alice Bast, president and chief executive of-
ficer of the National Foundation for Celiac
Awareness (NFCA), said in her statement.
18 Gluten-Free Living January/February 2016
2. "I urge General Mills and any other supplier
of gluten-free products to review, improve
and validate their testing methods. Our
community relies on this testing to stay
healthy. Without trustworthy gluten-free
claims, we cannot be safe, and we live in
constant fear."
Bast also advised consumers to avoid any
product from any company if they feel their
safety and health can be put at risk by eating it.
Marilyn Geller, CEO of the Celiac Disease
Foundation (CDF), said her group wasdeeply
disappointed by the recall after initial excite-
ment over the launch by General Mills,a CDF
partner for many years. "We fully understand
and appreciate that it is our responsibilityto
do everything in our power to hold General
Mills accountable to the celiac disease and
gluten-sensitive communities,"Geller said in
a statement.
She noted that the company had shared
information about its new oat flour handling
protocols and its testing procedures for fin-
ished products. "We expect General Mills
to implement these new controls fully and
continuously to earn back our community's
trust," she said.
The Gluten Intolerance Group (GIG), in a
statement byCEO CynthiaKupper, R.D.,called
General Mills, "a responsible and concerned
manufacturer when [the company] issued arecall
of Cheeriosmadein specifically identified plants."
"While thisisan unfortunate incident on the
heels of the Cheerioslaunch,and the mishap is
significant, GeneralMills representsa company
that is concerned and deserves to be given the
opportunity to have the gluten-free consumers'
support in this matter," Kupper said.
General Mills is considering independent
third-party certification of gluten-free Cheeri-
os, somethingthe companyhad originally said
it did not feel was necessary given its own test-
ing capability. "As we work to regain the trust
of the gluten-free community, we'll continue
to consider thisas an option," Siemienassaid.
Most third-party certification requires prod-
ucts to test to 10 ppm or less. When gluten-free
Cheerios were launched, General Mills said
it was adhering to the FDA's standard of less
than 20 ppm. The Gluten-Free Certification
Program, which isendorsed by NFCAand the
Canadian CeliacAssociation, does use the 20
ppm standard.
Cheerios, which previouslywere sold only
in the United States, are now also being test-
marketed in Canada, where rules regarding
the use of oats in gluten-free products recently
changed. (See story page 16)
Approximately 3,000 cases of gluten-free
Cheerios were recentlyshipped to the Cana-
dian marketplace to gauge consumer interest
there. Only clearly labeled gluten-free boxes
are made with processed oats; any others are
not gluten free.
QUAKER ROLLS OUT
GF OATMEAL
QUAKER OATS IN JANUARYwill launch
gluten-free oatmeal nationwide.
Gluten-free products include Quaker
Quick 1-Minute Oats and Quaker Instant
Oatmeal in Original and Maple & Brown
Sugar flavors. They are currently available
in some Kroger and Walmart supermarkets.
The oats are being opticallyand mechani-
cally sorted to remove gluten-containing
grains that commonly cross-contaminate
oat crops.
Use of optically and mechanically pro-
cessed oats has been controversial in the
gluten-free community, which previously
only accepted so-called "pure oats" as safe in
gluten-free products.Food and DrugAdmin-
istration labelingrules that went into effect
in August 2014 cleared the way for use of the
processed oats in foods labeled gluten free.
Lori Alexander,Quaker's manager of nutri-
tion sciencesand a registereddietitian who has
celiac disease, said the company's gluten-free
oats are sorted and separated from wheat,
barley and rye based on density, color and
length using a proprietarysorting protocol.
The effectiveness of the removal system
is backed up by multiple quality checks
throughout the milling process, through
finished product testing, according to the
company. Alexander said technology was
developed to look for grains that are not oats.
Quaker buys the oats for both its regular
and gluten-free oatmeal from the same farm-
ers. The oats are then segregated according to
the amount ofgluten cross-contaminationthat
remains. Those with the lowest amount then
gothroughthe mechanical and optical sorting
before being made into gluten-free oatmeal.
STARTS
GLUTEN FREE
100: Natural Whole Grain
QUICK 1-MINUTE
Alexander said Quaker has invested in
processing equipment that is "unrivaled in
the industry."
The company isworking to meet the FDA's
gluten-free labelingstandard of less than 20
parts per million of gluten, but the internal
cut off has been set at 12 ppm, according
to Alexander. The oatmeal does not have
third-party independent certification, but
Quaker is considering it.
Cleaned groats,which are the grain kernels
that remain after the inedible hull has been
removed, are inspected, with the equivalent
of 3,000 40-grams samples from each pro-
duction run examined to determine if any
remaining grains that may not be groats
are present. If any single sample does not
meet the company's standard, the entire lot
is rejected for use in gluten-free products
and is used in other Quaker products that
are not gluten free.
The oats are kilned, cut and flaked on
dedicated gluten-free equipment. Testing
of finished product is done on 16 serving-
size samples per lot, which equals no more
than 12hours of production. Composites of
samples are not used in the testing process.
All 16 of the samples must test at less than
12 ppm in order for the lot to pass and be
released into the market.
If any sample in the lot tests higher than
12 ppm, the entire lot is destroyed because
the finished product can't be repurposed,
Alexander said.
Thegluten-free oat products are packagedon
lines shared with gluten-containing quick and
instant oats. Cleaning protocolsare followed to
prevent cross-contamination.AllQuaker Oats
gluten-free productsare made atthecompany's
Cedar Rapids, Iowa, plant, which isthe largest
oat milling facility in the world.
Quaker considered using "pure" oats,
which are grown, transported and milled
in a specific way to prevent cross-contami-
nation but decided the oats would have to be
cleaned anyway, Alexandersaid, adding that
the increased cost of the "pure" oats was not
a decisivefactor. The company concluded the
oats did not offer the "quality, taste and tex-
ture" associated with Quaker oats, she said.
Offered as part of the Quaker Select Starts
line, the gluten-free oatmeal packaging in-
cludes the familiarlogo with the Quaker man.
Thegluten-free oatmeal ispricedslightly higher
than Quaker's other oatmeal products. GF
—Amy Ratner
www.glutenfreeliving.com 19