CONTENTS Baking & Snack COVER STORY 73 Vol. 26, No. 10 November 2004 FEATURES Measuring Success Marrying accurate dispensing methods with traceability techniques answers today's needs for automatically handling more ingredients than ever before. 24 Biscuits en America Boldly acquiring an existing US production facility, Canadian-based Biscuits Leclerc invests in new equipment and product lines with abounding confidence. 33 Strong Traditions Savvy marketing and state-of-the-art technology build success for Austria's Der Bäcker Ruetz. 41 Market Update: Breakfast foods Grain-based food producers offer a variety of options for quick, healthy or indulgent breakfasts. 47 Pure Sweetness Honey's natural, healthful and functional properties make it ideal for baked foods and snacks in today's health-conscious market. 79 On the Move New conveyors work with robotic systems and belts designed for specific applications such as dough and pan handling. 85 Electronics and Safer Foods New developments in metal detection, X-ray and visual sorting technologies make it easy for processors to ensure safety and quality of products. 90 World Baking: Germany Industrial baked foods and private label make minor gains while artisan items take a major hit. Cover: Ingredient handling operations at Biscuits Leclerc, as well as other bakers, rely on new designs and techniques to ensure precise accuracy and traceability for consistent and high-quality products. Photo ©2004 Eric Stashak Photography Editorial NewsFront People Calendar of Events Ingredient News Products & Services 53 Right Time to Rise Leavening techniques can help you capitalize on market trends. DEPARTMENTS 10 12 22 23 92 93 FOOD INGREDIENT SOLUTIONS 61 The Sweet Life, Technically Speaking 94 96 97 98 105 106 Packaging News Patents New Product Spotlight On the Web Advertisers' Index New on the Shelf More than the need for sweet flavor defines the baker's choice of sweetener. 68 Nutrition News 70 Solutions Sampling November 2004 / BAKING & SNACK / 7