By Rory Harrington, 28-Jul-2009   www.foodproductiondaily.com

Combining recycling streams of polyethylene terephthalate PET and polylactic acid PLA containers could place the future of both in jeopardy, a leading trade body has cautioned.

The National Association for PET Container Resources NAPCOR has rejected the premise of recycling both materials in tandem over concerns of separation costs, increased contamination and yield loss. The group also warned about the impact any such move would have on recycled PET quality and processing.

via NAPCOR rejects joint recycling of PET and PLA.

By Simon Pitman, 30-Jul-2009 www.cosmeticsdesign.com

Avon has announced a 65 drop in profits as charges for its tough restructuring program bites into the company’s bottom line.

The company’s quarterly sales were also hit hard by unfavorable currency exchange, as the US dollar continued to be strong against international currencies.

via Restructuring costs hit Avon second quarter profits.

By Simon Pitman, 30-Jul-2009  www.cosmeticsdesign.com

Lower costs boost second quarter profits for soap and toothpaste maker Colgate-Palmolive, despite the fact that global sales fell on the strength of the dollar.

Net earnings rose by 14 percent to $561.6m, a figure that was boosted by the fact that it had been hit by significant restructuring charges in the corresponding period last year.

via Colgate profits rise on lower costs despite fall in sales.