Ess Seshat – Page 56

Italian Coffee Trader Alkaff Turns to Dimitra’s Blockchain Platform to Ensure Compliance with Deforestation Regulation

Dimitra, a blockchain-based operating system for agricultural technology, has onboarded Alkaff, a Sicily-based international green coffee trading corporation, to its EUDR Due Diligence Service (DDS) platform to ensure compliant coffee supplies in Italy.

This platform utilizes artificial intelligence (AI) and blockchain technology to acquire and analyze farmer data and ensure market compliance with the upcoming European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), set to take effect at the end of 2024.

Reducing the burden of data management for green coffee traders, roasters and merchants in Italy, Dimitra’s DDS platform receives, manages, analyzes and stores supply chain data for seamless communication with authorities and other supply chain operators. Once a supply chain is fully mapped, Dimitra’s DDS will automatically prepare a Risk Assessment and Due Diligence Report, and upon user confirmation, upload all required data to the EU Information System, documenting compliance. Dimitra’s DDS platform can act as a standalone system or be fully integrated into any third-party Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) environment.

Alkaff will employ Dimitra’s tailored DDS platform and engage Dimitra’s industry experts to map Alkaff’s expansive supply chain, support Alkaff suppliers in farm-level data acquisition, and analyze the data provided by the suppliers to ensure a transparent, traceable and EUDR-compliant supply chain. Dimitra will integrate fully into Alkaff’s software environment and also deliver traceability data directly to Alkaff’s customer-facing application.

“For Alkaff, the largest coffee merchant in Italy, to make this decisive step towards EUDR compliance proves once again that Rudi Albert, the company CEO, and his team understand the opportunities that come with the digitalization of global coffee chains,” says Maurizio Zugna, Italy project manager. “Dimitra’s platform digitalizes the process making compliance that much more achievable.”

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Kawasaki Heavy becomes embroiled in growing Japanese engine scandal

A third Japanese company has come clean that it altered test results for hundreds of ship engines manufactured since the year 2000.

Kawasaki Heavy Industries joins IHI Power Systems and Hitachi Zosen in a rumbling Japanese engine scandal as Tokyo investigates all the nation’s ship engine manufacturers.

Following the news this April that more than 4,000 ship engines manufactured by IHI Power Systems had falsified fuel economy data over the past 20 years, the Japanese government vowed to investigate all engine manufacturers.

Hitachi Zosen was forced to apologise to customers around the world after two of its subsidiaries were found to have falsified fuel economy data for a total of 1,364 ship engines, or almost all of the units investigated, that had been shipped out since 1999. The falsifications may have impacted calculations for nitrogen oxide emissions.

Now Kawasaki Heavy Industries is having to follow suit, admitting this week that test results were altered for 673 of its two-stroke diesel engines as well as one four-stroke engine.

“Specifically, the investigation confirmed that shop trial fuel consumption rates for the company’s marine diesel engines had been altered through the manipulation of testing equipment to keep values within the permissible range of customer specifications and to reduce data discrepancies. This has the potential to impact NOx emissions calculations for these engines,” the company wrote in a statement.

Investigations underway in Japan have overtones of the famous Volkswagen emissions scandal.

The 2015 Volkswagen emissions scandal is the most famous recent example of manufacturers knowingly misleading customers. The German car manufacturer was found to have intentionally programmed turbocharged direct injection (TDI) diesel engines to activate their emissions controls only during laboratory emissions testing, which caused the vehicles’ NOx output to meet US standards during regulatory testing. However, the vehicles emitted up to 40 times more NOx in real-world driving.

Shipping has had previous engine scandals. MAN, itself a subsidiary of Volkswagen, paid a fine in 2011 over its misleading fuel consumption claims while in 2016, Wärtsilä revealed deviations in certain fuel consumption measurement tests were detected at Wärtsilä’s delivery centre in Trieste in Italy.

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GRDC, QUT project to benchmark crop-residue emissions

Professor David Rowlings. Photo: QUT media

A NEW $8 million national study is set to quantify greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from crop residues, to help the Australian grains industry accurately report its carbon footprint, with potential benefits for future market access and price.

An initiative of the Grains Research and Development Corporation, the national project will be led by Professor David Rowlings from the Queensland University of Technology.

It will involve two years of fieldwork to quantify emissions from crop-residue decomposition across a range of crop types, climates and soils at five sites in Australia.

The trial sites, and research-parnters monitors are:

Gatton, Qld – University of Qld;
Tamworth and Wagga Wagga, New South Wales – NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development;
Horsham, Victoria – Agriculture Victoria; and,
Wongan Hills, Western Australia – WA DPIRD.

The landmark study is expected to have significant benefits for grain growers and marketers, as the GHG emissions attached to grains can impact the price and marketability of exports, as well as the sustainability credentials of farm businesses.

Prof Rowlings said crop residues emit GHG as they decompose in the paddock, with nitrous oxide making up most of these emissions.

“Australia includes these emissions in its sector level accounting to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change,” Prof Rowlings said.

“While the global default emission decomposition factor is 1 percent of total residues, international research has shown that 0.5pc may be more accurate for dry climates.

“As this research has been accepted by the IPCC, the CSIRO – with GRDC support – is currently updating Australia’s GHG baseline methodology to use the lower emissions factor from 2024.

“However, with approximately 23 million hectares of land under cropping, Australian growers could still benefit by being able to use accurate, locally derived emissions data for IPCC reporting.”

At each trial site, nitrous oxide will be measured for the 12 months following harvest to obtain accurate data on the emissions from the decaying crop residues.

Crops being studied include wheat, faba beans and canola in NSW and Victoria; maize, sorghum, wheat and faba beans in Qld; and wheat and canola in WA.

“We have achieved a good spread of representative climate conditions, soil types and crops.

“Over the two years and five locations, we will gather 32 site-years’ worth of data.”

GRDC sustainable cropping systems manager north Cristina Martinez said the new national study was critical in that it aimed to generate representative emissions factors for Australian crop residues alongside region-based data that individual farms could adopt for emissions accounting and reporting.

This research builds on earlier work done by GRDC in partnership with CSIRO for the Australian Grains Baseline and Mitigation Assessment.

This 2022 report showed crop residue accounted for 20.4pc of all Scope 1, or on-farm, GHG emissions in Australian cropping, compared to fertiliser at 15pc, lime application, or farm operations at 11pc each.

This initial study also concluded that the use of internationally derived emissions factors may be overestimating reportable GHG emissions from the Australian grains sector.

Source: GRDC

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Safety awards honor 244 poultry facilities for exceptional performance

The Joint Poultry Industry Safety & Health Council recognized 244 chicken and turkey facilities with safety awards at the National Safety Conference for the Poultry Industry in Destin, Fla. The facilities were honored in recognition of their outstanding performance through the implementation of innovative and effective employee safety and health programs.

Award consideration was based on injury statistics over three years (2021–2024) and an evaluation of written applications by academia and other safety experts. Sixty facilities received the highest level of recognition, Award of Distinction. The other categories include the Award of Honor and the Award of Merit. Ninety-one facilities received the Award of Honor, and 93 received the Award of Merit.

The Award of Distinction honors facilities for sharing the essential aspects of safety and health training, education and employee involvement and have incurred injury and illness rates equal to or greater than 75% less than Bureau of Labor Statistics results. The Award of Honor is given to facilities based on the same essential aspects, but with incident rates between 75 and 50% less than BLS results, and the Award of Merit honors facilities that have incurred injury and illness rates between 50% and equal to BLS results.

“These awards are illustrative of the progress made by the industry regarding the safety and health of its workers, and I want to offer my congratulations to all of these facilities and their employees,” said Allan Foy, corporate director of safety for Farbest Foods and chair of the Joint Poultry Industry Safety & Health Council.

The Joint Industry Safety & Health Council consists of members from the U.S. Poultry & Egg Association, National Chicken Council and National Turkey Federation. Collectively, the three organizations represent companies that produce 95% of the nation’s poultry products and directly employ more than 350,000 workers.

Source: National Chicken Council

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28% of PET bottles are being recycled, The Recycling Partnership reports

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Dive Brief:

PET bottles are now estimated to have a 28% recycling rate in residential systems, according to data shared by The Recycling Partnership.
A PET Recycling Coalition report last week said that since the Partnership launched the brands-backed group in 2022, 24 million new pounds of PET bottles have been captured along with 5 million pounds of non-bottle PET packaging.
In the near term, the coalition says it seeks to exceed an acceptance rate of 60% for non-bottle PET and “achieve scaled recycling” for pigmented and opaque PET by the end of 2025.

Dive Insight:

When The Recycling Partnership launched the coalition, it was driven in part by companies demanding rPET for packaging to meet corporate sustainability goals and regulatory requirements, as well as by reclaimers seeking more material from MRFs to increase rPET production to sell to companies for packaging. The Partnership said that there’s more demand for clear recycled PET, whereas manufacturer demand for rPET derived from pigmented or opaque PET is low.

Specifically, the coalition aimed to increase the capture of PET bottles; widen acceptance of PET trays, cups and clamshells in community recycling collection programs; unlock new supplies of rPET for packaging manufacturers; and strengthen recycling systems of pigmented and opaque PET. The coalition is funded by the likes of Coca-Cola, Kraft Heinz and Danone North America, and its steering committee members include Eastman, Indorama Ventures, the National Association for PET Container Resources, Niagara Bottling, Procter & Gamble and the Walmart Foundation.

Many beverage brands and others say they want to buy recycled PET to increase the proportion of recycled content in their bottles. Some brands have said there’s not enough supply — or affordable supply — to buy, although there’s been a mixed picture of how much this is a factor. But Coca-Cola, a supporter of the coalition, even co-launched a competition this year aimed at finding innovations that could increase rPET supply. Coca-Cola reported in its most recent 2022 sustainability report that 15% of the PET it used is recycled PET.

It can be hard to get a clear picture of how much PET is being collected for recycling to boost supply. EPA’s most updated recycling data dates back to 2018; the agency estimated that the recycling rate of PET bottles and jars was about 29%, citing the American Chemistry Council and other industry data.

Regardless, increasing the collection of PET, known by some consumers as #1 plastics, is a key part of the equation now and going forward.

According to Partnership data, bottles dominate PET packaging; 18% of PET packaging in the U.S. is not bottles. Within that subset, the Partnership reports that just 9% of non-bottle PET fruit containers, tubs and trays are recycled.

The Partnership reports that the coalition has so far granted $5.12 million to 23 awardees, including three to MRFs that will separate pigmented and opaque PET and one to a reclaimer focused on creating a new end market for that material. The coalition said it was unable to fulfill about $15 million in additional funding requests and that it’s seeking to raise $52 million total for its efforts.

The coalition argues that the need for additional funding is heightened by changing policy, namely the addition of more state extended producer responsibility laws. “[I]n states like Oregon, the EPR framework will not unlock the full opportunity for non-bottle PET circularity unless sufficient responsible end markets exist,” the report states. “Our Coalition granting has helped develop those end markets but more work is needed.”

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Who’s News in Catering for April 6, 2024

Instawork, the leading platform in connecting businesses with skilled hourly workers, has announced an expansion of its services to include long-term staffing. This announcement comes at a critical time when businesses are looking for a way to handle fluctuations in consumer demand. Traditional staffing agencies have shown poor retention rates for hourly workers beyond 30 days, putting additional pressure on businesses looking for long-term dependability. Instawork’s survey of its network of hourly workers (Pros) found that 70% can commit long-term to businesses. These workers are eager for longer term work schedules but need to be successfully matched with businesses also looking for their skills, experience, and commitment. Instawork’s AI-powered technology is at the forefront of this initiative, vetting workers to ensure a match for businesses’ long-term needs. The intelligent platform considers a myriad of factors, including worker skills, experience, and even their proximity to the business location and methods of transportation. The result? A remarkable doubling of worker retention rates after 30 days, showcasing the effectiveness of Instawork’s quality and reliability-focused model. This strategic move by Instawork is backed by a recent Series D fundraise and is further validated by their recognition in the top 10% of Inc. 5000’s fastest-growing private companies, Forbes’ Next Billion Dollar Startup list, and accolades such as the 2022 ACE Award for “Best Innovation” and Business Insider’s “Best Business Apps.”

Laura’s Gourmet introduces its new product line, “Over the Top” blends – a seasoned fusion of ancient grains, seeds, and spices, meticulously curated by Chef Laura Briscoe. Created to inspire and elevate any culinary dish, the line features four crunchy, nutritious, and uniquely flavorful blends to top any dish: The Original, The Southwestern, The Southeast Asian, and The Italian. ‘Over the Top’ enhances a broad assortment of recipes, bringing together the rich histories of diverse flavors skillfully crafted for the modern palate. I invite all chefs to draw inspiration from these blends and elevate their dishes with additional layers of flavor and signature crunch. We are excited to see ‘Over the Top’ have a delicious impact on the Foodservice Industry.

Sabert Corporation, a leading global manufacturer of innovative and sustainable food packaging solutions, announces the launch of its new Catering Pop-Top family. A game-changer for foodservice operators, this distinctive catering bowl line offers unmatched functionality and convenience for any catering occasion, from workplace meetings to large-scale events. The Catering Pop-Top features a unique hinged lid that folds back, clicks into place and can be rotated 90 degrees to display one or both sides of the base. Available in one or two-compartment bases, the Catering Pop-Top family is an exceptional solution for transporting and serving a variety of menu items and cuisines.

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The VinePair Podcast: Do Bartenders Need to Know Bar History?

“VinePair Podcast” host Adam Teeter came across recent survey results revealing that very few people in the industry are familiar with the movers and shakers of the modern cocktail renaissance. This prompted the pod team to question how crucial such historical knowledge is for the new school of somms and bartenders to succeed. Does knowing how classic (and modern classic) cocktails came to fruition actually give bartenders an upper hand when they go to make drinks of their own? Or is knowing why certain cocktails work flavor-wise enough? After all, if someone can make a good Division Bell, does it matter whether or not they know who invented it?

On this episode of the “VinePair Podcast,” Adam, Joanna, and Zach discuss whether the current crop of bartenders and sommeliers should know the names and stories of some of their more famous predecessors, or if the only thing that really matters is being able to make the drinks and serve the wine. Tune in for more.

Zach is drinking: 2001 DeLille Cellars Chaleur Blanc
Joanna is drinking: Tito’s Moscow Mule at Bar Raval
Adam is drinking: 2005 Monemvasia “300” White

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John Soules cooks up something sweet and spicy

TYLER, TEXAS — John Soules Foods announced a partnership with Mike’s Hot Honey to create a new product offering, Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Bites.

The chicken bites pair sweet heat flavor with savory, thick, juicy white chicken meat. The bites are breaded with a crisp, golden coating and then glazed with a hot honey barbecue sauce made with Mike’s Hot Honey.

“We see consumers looking for ways to put a new spin on familiar foods,” said Michael Pierce, Head of Marketing at John Soules Foods. “We’re excited to partner with Mike’s Hot Honey to do just that, bringing a fresh perspective to the traditional honey BBQ flavored breaded chicken bite. We think we’ve combined the best of hot honey with the best of chicken to create a craveable flavor experience consumers are going to love.”

The Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Bites are currently available at Kroger retail locations.

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FOX IV Launches New Entry-Level Label Print and Apply

Simple, Affordable, Automated Labeling System

FOX IV Technologies will officially launch their NEW 6312 Label Printer-Applicator at Pack Expo International 2024. The 6312 is ideal for simple label print and apply applications, such as shipping labeling, as well as for small to medium size businesses looking to begin their automation journey.

Designed to be an entry level label print and apply solution, the FOX IV 6312 is streamlined and simplified. By incorporating the Postek MX series print engine, no external PC or PLC is required. With just a few taps on the LCD touch screen, the entire labeling process can be set up and ready to use – no coding experience required! The best feature; however, is its affordability. The lower cost of acquisition makes automating labeling achievable for small to medium-sized businesses.

“The 6312 is a great way to start automating your fulfillment processes,” explains FOX IV Marketing Manager Catherine Hornsby. “The large 4.5” touchscreen, built-in PLC, and simplified applicator controls makes the 6312 easy for operators to use. It can be set up on a new or existing conveyor or used with a manual trigger for semi-automatic labeling.”

“Additionally,” says Ms. Hornsby, “the entry-level price point makes automating labeling easier to justify by providing fast ROI through increased throughput, labor time savings, and minimized labeling errors. For companies ready to move to the next level, it’s a great starting point.”

The Postek MX print module is incorporated into FOX IV’s durable industrial applicator design. Labels up to 4.72” (120 mm) can be printed at speeds up to 18 ips, depending on model, and applied directly to the top, side, or bottom of a product, shipping box, reusable tote, or pallet. Systems are available with 203, 300, or 600 dpi print resolution. Other features include automated printhead pressure adjustments, a 12” OD label roll capacity, and automatic calibration for consistent high-quality printing. Several optional features are offered to customize the labeling experience, including RFID encoding and verification, 1D and 2D barcode verification, ribbon saver, and a wireless communication option.

Pack Expo attendees can experience the new FOX IV 6312 at Booth #4936 in the North Hall.

FOX IV Technologies, Inc., has been an innovator in the automated labeling and coding industry for over 25 years. They offer a full line of label printers and applicators, ribbons, labels, enclosures, printing supplies and services, material handling equipment and software solutions in order to provide fully integrated turnkey automated identification systems. The company integrates all major printing technologies into durable label printer applicators capable of operating 24/7 in a wide variety manufacturing environments. Known internationally for innovative designs, quality construction and customized solutions, FOX IV is located approximately 20 miles east of Pittsburgh, PA.

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Barge Confirmed As Earliest Known Wreck In Swan River

A barge wreck found in September last year has been confirmed as the earliest known shipwreck discovered to date in Western Australia’s Swan River, the WA Museum said. The barge was identified as one that lost in 1882 while carrying limestone from Fremantle to Perth.

The State Government’s release of detailed 3D multibeam surveys of the Swan River riverbed played a crucial role in the initial discovery of the wreck, which was first identified by Maritime Archaeology Association WA President Patrick Morrison and his colleagues Jess Green and Ian McCann.

Following this discovery in 2023, WA Museum Maritime Archaeologist Ross Anderson undertook thorough investigations of the site and historical documents to pinpoint the wreck’s identity, age, and its historical and archaeological significance. Important factors in the identification included the wreck’s design, its precise location and depth, and the presence of a large ceramic demijohn found at the site.

This wreck holds historical importance as it highlights the role of barges in transporting bulk cargoes between Fremantle and Perth during the 19th century, before the advent of motorized transportation.

In addition to its historical value, the wreck is of considerable archaeological interest due to its well-preserved state, which provides insights into the construction and cargo handling methods of typical Swan River barges.

Culture and the Arts Minister David Templeman said, “I commend the outstanding work of the WA Museum and Maritime Archaeology Association of WA for integrating state-of-the-art search technology and historical research to find and identify this historic wreck.

“WA has a rich maritime history with more than 1,600 ships wrecked off our vast coastline. It is exciting to see how new technology is unveiling further glimpses into our maritime history.

“Having identified the wreck from 1882, it is protected under the State’s Maritime Archaeology Act. While people may visit or dive the wreck, it is important to remember it is an offence to anchor on, damage or remove objects from a protected site.”

(Image: WA Museum)

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