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Packaging company announces expansion before takeover

France-based Alcan Packaging has started production trials at a new €17 million (US$24.4 million) flexible packaging plant in the Czech Republic as part of its strategy to strengthen its position in the growth markets of Central and Eastern Europe, according to www.foodproductiondaily.com.
The announcement on the plant came shortly before the European Commission gave its approval to the proposed US$2.025 billion takeover by Australian company Amcor.
Amcor unveiled its anticipated reorganization with the formation of seven major business units, including a Rigid Plastics division that would consist of what was previously Amcor PET Packaging, Bericap closures - North America and Alcan Packaging Pharma Plastics (Rigids).
The combined Amcor and Alcan Packaging businesses in Europe currently have sales of approximately US$4.8 billion across 75 plants.

French scientist explains the effects of DON

Mycotoxin intestinal absorption – specifically the effects of DON on the gastrointestinal tract – is the subject of one of the latest videos on Biomin’s Mycotoxin Channel on YouTube.
In a one-minute-plus clip, Dr. Isabelle Oswald of the French National Institute of Agricultural Research (INRA) explains what happens in the intestines of animals as a result of the mycotoxin DON.

Zuke's announces support initiatives for retailers

Zuke’s, a manufacturer of all-natural pet treats, announced its 2010 retailer support initiatives, many of which are currently in effect.
“We want to support this trend by providing our retail partners with the tools and incentives they need to increase the sell-through of these products in natural and general grocery,” said Patrick Meiering, founder of Zuke’s.
Support initiatives include in-store sampling programs, store locators on the Zuke’s Web site to push retailer sales and tradeshow specials to support new and existing products.

Hartz seeks input on shelter donations

The Hartz Mountain Corp., a US company offering pet supplies and treats, has agreed to donate US$3 million worth of its pet products to animal shelters in the US and Canada.
The company has already donated US$2 million but is asking customers to nominate additional shelters that will benefit from the other US$1 million worth of pet supplies by e-mailing the company at hartzshelterheroes@hartz.com.

Merrick donates petfood to shelters

After deciding upon a list of no-kill shelters throughout the US, Merrick Pet Care committed to providing six months worth of petfood to each. To date, Merrick delivers both dry and canned food to shelters in nine states: Arkansas, California, Colorado, Florida, Illinois, Oklahoma, Texas, Virginia and Washington.
This past month, the company provided approximately 14,500 pounds of dry food and 50,000 cans to the shelters.

The 'catch me if you can' B vitamin

Thiamine, an essential ingredient for cats and dogs, can be lost during typical petfood production. Read the full column in Petfood Industry.