Mercury in CFL’s Compact Fluorescent Lamps

Have you made the switch to the new energy efficient light bulbs? I do like the fact that they do save energy and I have found that the new bulbs do last longer than the older conventional light bulbs. One of the concerns I have is the amount of mercury contained in the bulbs. I…

Hidden Sugar in Foods

Check out this video from Consumer Reports. I could not believe how much sugar was in some of the products listed in the video.  In addition, I know pay much closer attention to the amount of sugar that is listed on the food label.  One granola bar, pop or container of yogurt may be hindering…

No Ethanol Credits means higher prices

The oil companies will no longer receive a $.45 per gallon federal tax credit is no longer in place, as a result prices will go up. Typically when we hear these words, we naturally think of the ethanol producer and the  reduced number of sales of the product. But now, with the tax credit gone,…

Ohio Quakes linked to oil drilling waste

I came across this article in the USAToday concerning this subject, “Ohio Quakes linked to oil drilling waste pumped into wells” According to the article, “Oil-drilling wastewater pumped into a northeast Ohio well is responsible for 11 minor earthquakes around Youngstown since last spring, including one Saturday, a seismologist tells the Associated Press.” More minor…

Tax Credits Expire for Biodiesel and Ethanol in 2012

2012 marks a new year for the Ethanol and Biodiesel. The Agriculture Industry is enjoying some great production numbers in the last five years. In addition,  the Ethanol industry has been able to embrace this great period of production and has been able to grow as a result of some strong companies running multiple production…

2012 – America’s New Poor

This video reminded me that a number of people are trying to make ends meet. Nearly every one of every two Americans is just barely meeting personal needs of food, home and expenses.  This number is very alarming! Often times on this blog, I talk about businesses and the economy.  Sometimes we need to stop…

Economic Predictions for 2011 and 2012

Take a look at this video of economic predictions for 2011 and 2012. It is really interesting to go back and listen to people’s predictions from last year. It seems that each day, we as people are looking for the right news to listen to. We all want a message of hope and assurance that…

Aflatoxin in Chinese Milk

Aflatoxin is in the news again. In China questions are being raised about the excessive aflatoxin levels being found in milk. “According to China Daily, the government agency says it tested milk from 128 dairy plants in 21 provinces covering 200 products. Only two were found to exceed safe levels.” Source BrownfieldAgNews.com article:  Mildew causing…

Planning for 2012

Typically, this last week between Christmas and New Years is a time of reflecting on the past year accomplishments and looking forward to the new year. Planning in a time of uncertainty can be challenging, but here at Midwest Laboratories the focus is on our clients and our staff. A closer look at the numbers…

What gift will you give to make a difference

At this time of year, giving is always at an all-time hear. I really liked the story about the anonymous person who paid for several people’s layaway items at a local Kmart store in Omaha, NE. Taking time to care is really the key.  These words have really struck with me as many of us…