Regulatory

Until a couple of years ago, American packagers using cans seemed satisfied with the straight sidewall profile and functionality of most metal cans. The cans were strong, easy to fill and seam, and offered a number of labeling, case packing and stacking options.

FTC reconsiders its minimum standards for copy claim. The need for multiple packaging lines is a major issue with some packagers.

Tests of hot-filled jam in a jar and pasteurized beer in bottles are among the latest signs that PEN's packaging potential may soon be realized.

The FDA has sanctioned seven health claims that link a nutrient to a positive impact on a disease: * calcium and osteoporosis; * dietary lipids and cancer; * sodium and hypertension; * dietary saturated fat and cholesterol and risk of coronary heart disease; * fiber-containing grain products, fruits, and vegetables and cancer; * fruits, vegetables and grain products that contain fiber, particularly soluble fiber, and risk of coronary heart disease; * and fruits and vegetables and cancer.