TECH FLASH FDT approved as national automation standard of China The approval will allow multinational companies to deploy automation platforms on a global scale. Shane O'Halloran September 25, 2013 Adoption of the standard should improve device integration and asset management capabilities.Read More
TECH FLASH OSHA: Agriculture industry records highest fatality rate of any sector The 2012 fatality rate was actually better than 2011’s. Shane O'Halloran September 25, 2013 Grain engulfments are a major hazard in agricultural production.Read More
TECH FLASH Looking ahead: Dairy industry trends & challenges A new study highlights continued consolidation, mega-farms and new shelf-stable packaging formats among key trends, as 80 percent of respondents cite need for new technology. Shane O'Halloran September 25, 2013 The results were presented at PACK EXPO Las Vegas.Read More
TECH FLASH CSPI says CDC antibiotic resistance report doesn’t offer steps to food safety Critics say the agency is overly vague about antibiotic abuse in food production animals. September 25, 2013 Among the data, CDC found that 22 percent of resistant illnesses are linked to foodborne hazardsRead More
TECH FLASH ISA urges inclusion of ANSI/ISA99 in national cybersecurity framework Automation Federation has worked closely with the government in an advisory capacity. Shane O'Halloran September 25, 2013 The National Institute of Standards and Technology has spearheaded the campaign.Read More
Federal legislation seeks to create standard front-of-package label It would also require greater disclosure of caffeine and sugar content, and define how “natural” and “healthy” claims may be made. Shane O'Halloran September 25, 2013 The Food Labeling Modernization Act was introduced by three Congressional Democrats.Read More
TECH FLASH FDA to hold food defense workshops The agency will demonstrate its new Food Defense Plan Builder software. Shane O'Halloran September 24, 2013 Meetings will take place in October and November.Read More
TECH FLASH Will Coke’s sweetener-safety offensive work? Soft drink sales are declining, due in part to mistrust of low-calorie sweeteners. Shane O'Halloran September 11, 2013 Coke’s new ad campaign defends the safety and nutritional value of aspartame.Read More
TECH FLASH Survey shows skepticism over organic, renewed trust in natural After years of gains in the category, new survey data shows skepticism over organic claims. Shane O'Halloran September 11, 2013 Trust in natural claims is on the rise.Read More
TECH FLASH Five keys for low-temperature valve and fluid automation device selection When temperatures drop, will your valves and fluid automation devices hold up? Shane O'Halloran September 11, 2013 From selection and delivery to operations and maintenance, low temperatures can cause problems for fluid automation devices and valves.Read More