Nestle's "advanced" talks to put the bulk of its ice cream business into a venture with the UK's R&R Ice Cream was the week's stand-out M&A story, while regulatory developments – the TPP trade deal, food safety rules in China and US dietary guidelines – caught the eye elsewhere. Subscribers can click on the headlines for more.
Nestle, R&R Ice Cream in international joint venture talks
Nestle and R&R Ice Cream confirmed they are in talks over a possible international frozen food and ice cream venture.
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How the food industry is reacting to the TPP – quote, unquote
After five years negotiations, 12 Pacific Rim countries – including the US, Japan, Australia and New Zealand – have struck a deal that will reduce tariffs and trade barriers in the region. Here are some early reactions to the deal.
US dietary guidelines to ignore environmental impact
US government officials have decided to not consider the impact of food products on the environment as they devise the latest iteration of the Dietary Guidelines for Americans.
China implements new safety regulations, tougher penalties
The Chinese authorities are starting to implement more stringent food safety regulations under revised laws.
Why Lactalis could move for Dairy Crest – analysis
With the UK's Competition and Markets Authority likely to approve the disposal of Dairy Crest's milk business in the coming weeks, some industry watchers have been speculating what remains of the local dairy group could be a takeover target. The business will be well teed up financially for a sale that maximises shareholder value in the first half of 2016 with one stand-out potential acquirer, writes Glenboden's Stefan Kirk.
Impossible Foods eyes meat-free launch after latest funding
Impossible Foods, a US meat-free business, has announced it has raised $108m in a fresh round of financing.
John West, Princes face criticism on tuna sourcing
Thai Union Group's UK unit John West and Princes, the UK food and drink group, have come under fire from Greenpeace over their tuna sourcing and sustainability pledges.
Saputo buys Canadian firm Woolwich Dairy
Saputo has moved to enhance its position in speciality cheese in North America with the purchase of Canada-based Woolwich Dairy for C$80m (US$61.2m).
Norway announces plan to lower salt intake
Norway has outlined a bid to cut salt consumption by 15% by 2018, with the country's government and manufacturers including Orkla and Nortura announcing plans to work on the issue.
Meiji to expand yoghurt drink production
Meiji Holdings, the Japanese food group, has announced plans to expand its local production of yoghurt drinks.
