The European Union Commission approves Archer Daniels Midland Co.'s purchase of Unilever NV's edible oil refining subsidiary Van den Bergh.

The European Union Commission approves Archer Daniels Midland Co.'s purchase of Unilever NV's edible oil refining subsidiary Van den Bergh. Financial details weren't disclosed. "The transaction broadens ADM's activities on the seed oil and bakery fat markets, but no competition concerns arise," the Commission said in a statement. Unilever is selling the production unit, part of its Bestfoods UK Ltd. subsidiary, to focus on marketing its key margarine and spreads brands such as Becel, Flora and Take Control. ADM, Decatur, Ill., is buying to complement its existing portfolio. It will integrate its acquisition into its Pura Foods subsidiary.

In another announcement, ADM launches its NovaLipid line of zero and reduced trans-fat oil and shortening products, one week after the Food and Drug Administration said it will mandate trans-fat nutritional labeling on foods. ADM says the products can be used in margarine, baking, frying, confectionery, snacks and cereal products.