Procter & Gamble hoping to get more mileage out of olestra plant. Sales of the fat substitute have been disappointing, largely because of the Center for Science in the Public Interest’s consciousness-raising about its potential to cause gas, bloating, diarrhea and nausea as well as blocking the absorption of some nutrients. Now P&G is talking with federal regulators about using its manufacturing facility, currently operating at less than 50% of planned capacity, to make a similar substance that could be used to absorb oil spills and toxic chemicals for environmental cleanup. SF Chronicle