NEWS ROUNDUP 2000-02-28

Bananas Target of Internet Hoax

rnet rumor mill has turned its sights on imported bananas. The International Banana Association here and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, have both issued statements verifying the falsity of an e-mail message that alleges bananas imported from Costa Rica are infected with a flesh-eating bacteria. "The IBA assures all its customers that all bananas are safe to eat," said Tim DeBus, president of the organization. Recently, restaurant chain KFC was the subject of such a hoax, where Internet users were warned that the "chicken" used in the sandwiches was actually glutenous blobs of protein kept alive in a laboratory.

Dole Introduces Organic Salad Mix

SALINAS, Calif. -- Dole Fresh Vegetables has introduced Organic Blends, the company's first-ever fresh-cut packaged salad line made with organic produce.The inaugural four varieties include Baby Lettuces, Baby Spinach, Hearts of Romaine Mix and Spring Mix with Herbs. The line is being introduced initially into three markets -- Midwest, Eastern and North Atlantic -- with national distribution to follow. Packages range in size from five to 9 ounces, at a suggested retail price of $2.79 to $2.99. Marketing support will include 40 million cents-off coupons distributed between March and August, according to officials.