Mercury contents and potential exposure risk of rice-containing food products.

Mercury (Hg), especially methylmercury (MeHg), accumulation in rice grain due to rice paddy possessing conditions conducive to Hg methylation has led to human Hg exposure through consumption of rice-based daily meals. In addition to being a food staple, rice is widely used as a raw material to produce a vast variety of processed food products. Little is known about Hg levels in snacking rice-food products and potential Hg exposure from consumption of them, besides previous studies on infant rice cereals. Aiming to provide complementary information for a more complete assessment on Hg exposure risk originated from Hg-containing rice, this study determined total Hg (THg) and MeHg levels in 195 rice-containing and rice-free processed food products covering all major types of snack foods marketed in China and the estimated daily intake (EDI) of dietary Hg from the consumption of these foods. The results clearly showed THg and MeHg contents in rice-containing foods were significantly higher than rice-free products, suggesting the transfer of Hg and MeHg from the rice to the end products, even after manufacturing processes. Moreover, significant positive correlations were observed between THg, MeHg, or MeHg/THg ratio and rice content for samples containing multiple grains as ingredients, further indicating the deciding role of rice for Hg levels in the end food products. Although the EDI of THg and MeHg via rice-based food products were relatively low compared to the reference dose, it should be considered these snacking food products would contribute additive Hg intake outside of the daily regular meals.

A comprehensive review on natural sweeteners: impact on sensory properties, food structure, and new frontiers for their application.

In recent years, the worldwide increase in lifestyle diseases and metabolic disorders has been ascribed to the excessive consumption of sucrose and added sugars. For this reason, many approaches have been developed in order to replace sucrose in food and beverage formulations with alternative sweetening compounds. The raising awareness concerning the synthetic sweeteners due to their negative impact on health, triggered the need to search for alternative substances. Natural sweeteners may be classified in: (i) non-nutritive (e.g., neohesperidine dihydrochalcone, thaumatin, glycyrrhizin mogroside and stevia) and (ii) bulk sweeteners, including both polyols (e.g., maltitol, mannitol, erythritol) and rare sugars (e.g., tagatose and allulose). In this review we discuss the most popular natural sweeteners and their application in the main food sectors (e.g., bakery, dairy, confectionary and beverage), providing a full understanding of their impact on the textural and sensory properties in comparison to sucrose. Furthermore, we analyze the use of natural sweeteners in blends, which in addition to enabling an effective replacement of sugar, in order to complement the merits and limits of individual compounds. Finally, microencapsulation technology is presented as an alternative strategy to solving some issues such as aftertaste, bitterness, unpleasant flavors, but also to enhance their stability and ease of use.

Migratory-derived resources induce elongated food chains through middle-up food web effects.

BACKGROUND: Seasonal movements of animals often result in the transfer of large amounts of energy and nutrients across ecosystem boundaries, which may have large consequences on local food webs through various pathways. While this is known for both terrestrial- and aquatic organisms, quantitative estimates on its effects on food web structure and identification of key pathways are scarce, due to the difficulty in obtaining replication on ecosystem level with negative control, i.e. comparable systems without migration. METHODS: In this study, we estimate the impact of Arctic charr (Salvelinus alpinus) migration on riverine ecosystem structure, by comparing multiple streams with strictly resident populations above natural migration barriers with streams below those barriers harboring partially migratory populations. We compared density estimates and size structure between above and below populations. Diet differences were examined through the analysis of stomach contents, changes in trophic position were examined by using stable isotopes. To infer growth rate of resident individuals, back-growth calculation was performed using otoliths. RESULTS: We find higher densities of small juveniles in partially migratory populations, where juvenile Arctic charr show initially lower growth, likely due to higher intraspecific competition. After reaching a size, where they can start feeding on eggs and smaller juveniles, which are both more frequent in partially migratory populations, growth surpasses that of resident populations. Cannibalism induced by high juvenile densities occurred almost exclusively in populations with migration and represents an altered energy pathway to the food web. The presence of large cannibalistic charr feeding on smaller ones that have a similar trophic level as charr from strictly resident populations (based on stomach content) coupled with steeper δ15N-size regression slopes illustrate the general increase of food chain length in systems with migration. CONCLUSIONS: Our results thus suggest that the consumption of migration-derived resources may result in longer food chains through middle-up rather than bottom-up effects. Furthermore, by occupying the apex of the food chain and feeding on juvenile conspecifics, resident individuals experience reduced competition with their young counterparts, which potentially balances their fitness with migratory individuals.

A framework and review of evidence of the importance of coral reefs for marine birds in tropical ecosystems.

As global heating and other anthropogenic influences alter tropical marine environments, it is unclear how marine bird populations will be impacted and whether their current roles in tropical marine ecosystems will change. Although marine birds roost and breed on tropical islands in large numbers, the direct trophic interactions between these birds and their prey across the tropics are poorly documented. We present a first framework for evaluating the dependence on and contributions of marine birds to tropical coral reef ecosystems and use it to examine the evidence for different kinds of interaction, focusing primarily on avian diets. We found 34 publications between 1967 and 2023 that presented a total of 111 data sets with enough detail for quantitative dietary analysis of tropical marine birds. Only two bird species out of 37 (5.4%) had diets of >50% coral reef fishes and only one, the Pacific Reef Egret, appeared to depend almost entirely on reef-based production. Marine birds are also prey for other marine organisms, but insufficient data are available for quantitative analysis. Evidence for indirect effects of birds in tropical marine environments is stronger than for direct dependence on coral reefs, particularly in relation to nutrient concentration and the fertilisation impacts of guano on corals. Dispersal of propagules (e.g. seeds, spores, invertebrate eggs) by bathing, drinking, resting or foraging birds is under-studied and poorly documented. Although the degradation of coral reefs appears unlikely to have a significant direct impact on food availability for most marine bird populations, indirect effects involving marine birds may be disrupted by global environmental change.

Occurrence of aflatoxin M1 in cheese products commonly available in Sri Lankan market.

Aflatoxins (AFs) are a group of mycotoxins produced by certain fungi of Aspergillus spp. AFs of major concern are B1 (AFB1), B2 (AFB2), G1 (AFG1), G2 (AFG2), and M1 (AFM1). AFM1 is a hydroxylated metabolite of AFB1 formed inside the animal's body which is excreted into milk of cows that consumed AFB1 contaminated feed. Consumption of AFM1-contaminated milk and subsequent dairy products causes negative health effects in consumers. This study was conducted to determine the occurrence and levels of AFM1 in cheese products available in the Sri Lankan market where AFM1 is not regularly monitored in milk while having an outdated regulatory limit of 1 ppb established for dairy products. Processed cheese (n = 28), hard cheese (n = 14), semi-hard cheese (n = 5), and soft cheese (n = 3) representing seven popular brands were collected. The samples were analyzed by Ultra High-Performance Liquid Chromatography Fluorescence Detection. AFM1 was detected in 40 samples (80 %), while 17 (34 %) and 37 (74 %) of the samples had AFM1 levels exceeding the maximum permitted limit set by Codex Alimentarius Commission (0.5 ppb) and the Netherlands (0.2 ppb). Further, 10 samples violated the Sri Lankan maximum limit of 1 ppb. Thirteen out of the 14 hard cheese (92.9 %, 0.11-14.43 ppb) and all semi-hard cheese samples (100 %, 0.29-0.65 ppb) contained AFM1. Most of the soft (66.7 %, 0.35-0.45 ppb) and processed (71.4 %, 0.11-1.35 ppb) cheese samples had AFM1. Most of the locally manufactured cheese products in Sri Lankan market may pose health risks to consumers. The results highlight the significance of regular monitoring of AFM1 in dairy products and the importance of updating regulations on par with international standards concurrently to ensure consumer safety.

"Eco-conscious appetites: Investigating organic food purchase intentions through consumption values, empowered by environmental self-identity and analyzed using MGA - Baltic insights".

Growing consumer interest in organic food has attracted the attention of the academic community. While the existing literature broadly examines the acceptability of organic food, there is a recognized need to delve deeper into consumer values. This study fills this gap by applying the theory of consumer values. The data was collected as part of a survey of 1000 Lithuanian consumers to evaluate the proposed hypotheses empirically. The results show that functional value (quality), social value, conditional value, emotional value, and epistemic value positively influence purchase intention for organic food. Conversely, functional value (price) does not significantly impact the purchase intention of organic food. Furthermore, the study recognizes a significant moderating impact of environmental self-identity in shaping the relationship between conditional value, emotional value, and purchase intention of organic food. In addition, a multi-group analysis examines notable differences between consumer groups based on gender, education, age, and income. The results indicate significant group differences, showing that purchasing behavior among women, younger consumers, those with higher incomes, and those with higher education levels are more susceptible to these values. This research improves our understanding of consumer values regarding organic food in Lithuania and provides valuable guidance to managers and policymakers. By recognizing the intricate interplay between different values and the influence of environmental self-identity, stakeholders can better tailor their marketing efforts and policies to meet the unique preferences of different consumer groups, ultimately promoting the growth of the organic food market.

Assessing blockchain and IoT technologies for agricultural food supply chains in Africa: A feasibility analysis.

This review paper delves into the global agricultural food supply chains through the lens of African perspectives, examining the role of blockchain and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies in transforming food traceability. It assesses the applicability and efficacy of these innovations in addressing critical issues such as food fraud, contamination, and systemic inefficiencies from an African viewpoint. By engaging in an in-depth analysis of relevant studies, this work dissects the technical, economic, legal, and operational facets of employing blockchain and IoT in the agri-food sector. The findings illuminate the transformative potential these technologies hold for enhancing food safety and transparency across supply chains. However, the review also brings to light significant hurdles related to scalability, cost-effectiveness, and regulatory frameworks that must be surmounted. Advocating for a context-sensitive application of blockchain and IoT, the paper highlights the importance of adapting these technologies to fit the diverse socio-economic and infrastructural realities prevalent in African countries. Offering valuable insights to stakeholders in agricultural technology and food safety, this comprehensive review outlines a roadmap for future research and strategic implementation efforts aimed at leveraging blockchain and IoT for the development of secure, sustainable food systems.

Development and characterization of flaxseed mucilage and elastin/collagen biofilms.

Flaxseed mucilage (FSM)-based biofilms were prepared with varying compositions of the elastin/collagen (ELN/COL) protein matrix. These biofilms were characterized by using fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), differential scanning calorimeter (DSC), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The thickness, water solubility, moisture content, transparency, and mechanical properties of biofilms were investigated. The biofilms were observed to be homogeneous and flexible. The addition of 40 % w/w ELN/COL to the FSM biofilms (FSM-ELN/COL biofilms) enhanced the thickness from 0.127 to 0.142 mm, water solubility from 59.30 to 84.60 % and elongation at break from 91.4 to 188.6 %. However, the reductions in the tensile strength from 6.56 to 4.69 MPa and melting point from 140 °C to 134 °C of the biofilms were observed. The transparency value of 40 % w/w FSM-ELN/COL biofilms increased from 5.42 to 7.19 due to the presence of ELN/COL within the FSM matrix that hinders the light transmission passing through the biofilm. FTIR and XRD tests indicated hydrogen bonding and electrostatic interactions occurred between FSM and ELN/COL, giving rise to a good compatibility of the system. FSM-ELN/COL biofilms fabricated in this work had appropriate mechanical and thermal stability, thus the promising potential to be employed as food packaging and coating.

Beyond the food on your plate: Investigating sources of microplastic contamination in home kitchens.

Given that a substantial amount of time is spent in kitchens preparing food, the kitchen equipment used may be relevant in determining the composition and amount of microplastics ending up on our dinner plate. While previous research has predominantly focused on foodstuffs as a source of microplastics, we emphasise that micro- and nanoplastics are ubiquitous and likely originate from diverse sources. To address the existing knowledge gap regarding additional sources contributing to microplastics on our dinner plates, this review investigates various kitchen processes, utensils and equipment (excluding single-use items and foodstuffs) to get a better understanding of potential microplastic sources within a home kitchen. Conducting a narrative literature review using terms related to kitchenware and kitchen-affiliated equipment and processes, this study underscores that the selection of preparation tools, storage, serving, cooking, and cleaning procedures in our kitchens may have a significant impact on microplastic exposure. Mechanical, physical, and chemical processes occurring during food preparation contribute to the release of microplastic particles, challenging the assumption that exposure to microplastics in food is solely tied to food products or packaging. This review highlights diverse sources of microplastics in home kitchens, posing concerns for food safety and human health.

Assessment of the potential risks in SD rats gavaged with genetically modified yeast containing the cp4-epsps gene.

Introduction: Despite the absence of definitive evidence indicating that the cp4-epsps gene and its resultant recombinant proteins have significant harmful effects on either human or animal health, the safety assessment of genetically modified (GM) crops expressing the CP4-EPSPS proteins has been controversial. This study endeavor was aimed at evaluating the potential risks posed by the CP4-EPSPS protein in transgenic crops, thereby contributing to the advancement of risk assessment methodologies in the context of genetically engineered crops. Methods: To ascertain the appropriate daily dosages for oral gavage administration, the expression levels of the CP4-EPSPS protein in a recombinant yeast were quantified. Subsequently, physiological and biochemical analysis, metabolomics, and metagenomic analysis were conducted based on a 90-day Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats feeding experiment, respectively, thereby enhancing the depth and precision of our risk assessment framework. Results: The results from the physiological and biochemical analysis, organ pathological, blood metabolism, gut microbiota, and correlation analysis of metabolites and gut microbiota revealed several biomarkers for further risk assessment. These biomarkers include clinical biochemical indexes such as total bilirubin (TBIL), direct bilirubin (DBIL), creatine kinase (CK), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH); metabolites like Methionine, 2-Oxovaleric acid, and LysoPC (16:0); and gut microbiota including Blautia wexlerae, Holdemanella biformis, Dorea sp. CAG 317, Coriobacteriaceae and Erysipelotrichaceae. Conclusion: In conclusion, the risk can be significantly reduced by directly consuming inactivated recombinant CP4-EPSPS. Therefore, in everyday life, the risk associated with consuming GM foods containing recombinant CP4-EPSPS is substantially reduced after heat treatment.

CKD-497 inhibits NF-kB signaling and ameliorates inflammation and pulmonary fibrosis in ovalbumin-induced asthma and particulate matter-induced airway inflammatory diseases.

Introduction: Air pollution, allergens, and bacterial infections are major contributors to pathological respiratory disorders worldwide. CKD-497, derived from the rhizome of Atractylodes japonica and the fruits of Schisandra chinensis, is known for its ability to relieve cough and facilitate phlegm expectoration. However, its protective action against allergic asthma and fine dust-induced lung inflammation, along with its underlying mechanisms, have not been thoroughly investigated. Methods: In this study, we established mouse models of ovalbumin (OVA)-induced asthma and particulate matter (PM)-induced pulmonary inflammation to evaluate the effects of CKD-497. Mice were administered CKD-497 orally, and various parameters such as airway inflammation, mucus production, and proinflammatory cytokine levels (IL-1ß, IL-6, TNF-α) were measured. Additionally, the macrophage cell line RAW264.7 was pretreated with CKD-497 and stimulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to assess inflammation via the NF-kB signaling pathway. Results: Oral administration of CKD-497 effectively attenuated airway inflammation and mucus production in both OVA-induced asthma and PM-induced lung inflammation models. It also significantly decreased the production of proinflammatory cytokines IL-1ß, IL-6, and TNF-α. CKD-497 alleviated leukocyte infiltration, including neutrophils, and reduced fibrillary collagen deposition in PM10-treated mice. In vitro, CKD-497 pretreatment inhibited LPS-induced inflammation in RAW264.7 cells through the suppression of the NF-kB signaling pathway. Discussion: CKD-497 shows potent anti-inflammatory effects in mouse models of asthma and PM-induced lung inflammation, potentially mediated by the inhibition of the NF-kB pathway. These findings suggest that CKD-497 could serve as a functional supplement to protect against respiratory diseases by mitigating pulmonary and airway inflammation induced by allergens and air pollution.

Nanocomposite films based on chia (Salvia hispanica L.) flour seeds incorporating antioxidant chitosan nanoparticles.

Chia (Salvia hispanica L.) flour seeds produce films with good barrier properties against water vapor and could be used as food packaging; however, their mechanical properties are poor, which limits their application. The incorporation of nanoparticles into natural polymers is a strategy used to improve the properties of films to increase their applications. Furthermore, nanoparticles can encapsulate antioxidant agents and generate active films. The objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of chia flour (4%-7%), glycerol (15%-25%), and chia extract-loaded chitosan nanoparticles (ChCNp) (0%-0.75%) on the physical, mechanical, barrier, structural and antioxidant properties of chia flour nanocomposite films. Chitosan nanoparticles loaded with antioxidant chia extract were synthesized by ionic gelation and incorporated into the films. The thickness, water vapor permeability, tensile strength, and antioxidant properties of the films were evaluated using a Box-Behnken experimental design. Structural analysis was conducted using the FTIR technique. The results of the ANOVA of the responses were adjusted to second and third order polynomial models obtaining determination coefficients of 0.96-0.99. The water vapor permeability of the films was 3.89 × 10-8-1.68 × 10-7 g mm/Pa s m2, tensile strength was 0.67-3.59 MPa and antioxidant activity was 57.12%-67.84%. The variables presented different effects on the films. Increasing the chia seed flour concentration negatively affected the water vapor permeability but improved the tensile strength and the antioxidant capacity of the films. The increase in glycerol concentration caused the films to become brittle. The nanoparticles had a significant effect on the thickness of the films and improved their mechanical and antioxidant properties. However, they did not show an effect on barrier properties. The results demonstrate that it is possible to obtain nanocomposite films with antioxidant capacity from chia seed flour and with the incorporation of chitosan nanoparticles loaded with antioxidants.

Protecting the health of the most vulnerable in the overlooked Democratic Republic of Congo crisis.

Background and Aim: The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is facing a humanitarian crisis due to prolonged conflicts, human rights abuses, and gender-based violence. This perspective article aims to discuss the challenges faced by vulnerable populations in the DRC, including the impact of interventions and broader humanitarian strategies. Methods: A search on Google Scholar was carried out to identify relevant journal articles. Additionally, relevant reports and data on the DR Congo crisis were sourced from the websites of international and humanitarian organizations including the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, World Health Organization, United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, and the Norwegian Refugee Council. Results: The crisis has led to 6.1 million displaced individuals and 1 million seeking asylum in neighboring countries. Insecurity and displacement further exacerbate the crisis, exacerbating health issues and malnutrition, particularly among women and children. The deterioration of water, sanitation, and hygiene infrastructure in the region facilitates the spread of infectious diseases. The UN has appealed for $8.3 billion in humanitarian assistance in West and Central Africa, including DRC. However, more attention and efforts are needed to curb the menace of the conflict. Conclusions: Addressing root causes like political volatility, economic disparity, and social unrest is crucial for sustained health protection. Tailoring humanitarian assistance to the context of conflict is essential, prioritizing mental health support and psychosocial services. Improving access to healthcare is crucial. Addressing food insecurity is essential, involving targeted food assistance programs, improving agricultural practices, and establishing income-generating activities. Sustaining international assistance and investments are needed to address the health needs of the most vulnerable populations.

Impact of wheat sensitization on wheeze and T2 phenotypes in general population of children.

Background: The association between sensitization to specific aeroallergens and outcomes in patients with asthma is well researched; however, the association between childhood-onset wheeze/asthma and sensitization to various aeroallergens and food allergens in the general pediatric population remains poorly understood. Objective: We sought to investigate the association between sensitization to common aeroallergens and food allergens with wheeze and type 2 (T2) inflammation in the general pediatric population. Methods: Specific IgEs against 9 aeroallergens and 4 food allergens were measured in the prospective Hokkaido birth cohort of 428 school-age children (age ∼10 years). Wheeze and other allergic symptoms were assessed using the International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood questionnaire. Blood eosinophil count and fractional exhaled nitric oxide level were assessed as T2 biomarkers. The Isle of Wight birth cohort in the United Kingdom was used for replication analysis (n = 1032). Results: The prevalence of sensitization to at least 1 aeroallergen and food allergen was 70.5% and 22.3%, respectively. A significant association between wheeze and sensitization to aeroallergens such as ragweed, Japanese cedar, mugwort, and pet dander was found. However, the association between wheeze and wheat sensitization was highly significant (Hokkaido birth cohort: odds ratio, 4.67; 95% CI, 1.98-11.01; Isle of Wight birth cohort, odds ratio, 4.01; 95% CI, 1.78-9.07). Sensitization to most aeroallergens, though not any food allergen, was associated with the T2-high phenotype. Conclusions: Sensitization to wheat may be an important risk factor for wheeze/asthma development, especially the pathogenesis of T2-non/low asthma, independent of aeroallergens, in the general pediatric population.

Health and income inequality: a comparative analysis of USA and Italy.

Introduction: Socio-economic background is often an important determinant for health with low income households having higher exposure to risk factors and diminished access to healthcare and prevention, in a way that is specific to each country. Methods: Here, we perform a comparative analysis of the relations between health and income inequality in two developed countries, USA and Italy, using longitudinal and cross-sectional data from surveys. Results and discussion: We show that the income class determines the incidence of chronic pathologies, associated risk-factors and psychiatric conditions, but find striking differences in health inequality between the two countries. We then focus our attention on a fraction of very disadvantaged households in the USA whose income in persistently at the bottom of the distribution over a span of 20 years and which is shown to display particularly dire health conditions. Low income people in the USA also display comorbidity patterns that are not found in higher income people, while in Italy income appears to be less relevant for comorbidity. Taken together our findings illustrate how differences in lifestyle and the healthcare systems affect health inequality.

Systematic review of knowledge, attitudes, and practices of dairy farmers and consumers towards bovine tuberculosis in low- and middle-income countries.

Bovine Tuberculosis (bTB), caused by Mycobacterium bovis, is a neglected zoonotic disease primarily associated with cattle. The incidence of bTB is highest in low-income settings with high cattle density and unpasteurised dairy consumption. Smallholder dairy farming has steadily grown in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) with limited professional support for adequate bTB surveillance and risk mitigation. Several studies have explored the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of milk value chain stakeholders towards bTB in LMICs, but this evidence has not been collated and synthesised. We conducted a systematic review to determine what is known, believed, and done in relation to bTB among dairy producers and consumers in LMICs. We performed a systematic search of studies in OVID Medline, Scopus and CABI on 11 September 2023. KAP data were summarised using narrative synthesis and forest plots. We retrieved 2763 articles, retaining 51 for the review. Only studies from Africa (n = 38) and Asia (n = 13) met the eligibility criteria. Most populations reported awareness of human tuberculosis and knew it could be treated, but there was limited awareness of bTB and its zoonotic potential. Knowledge of bTB transmission routes and bTB mitigation varied across populations, and risky practices were also variable. Inconsistencies in study design and survey tools suggest some results may have a mid- to high-risk of bias. Awareness of bTB is surprisingly low among African and Asian populations with high bTB exposure risk, possibly due to the long-standing divide between animal and human health messages that has obscured the One Health implications of bTB. Addressing bTB in LMICs requires a structural One Health approach and standard KAP survey tools to adequately explore the socio-cultural, political, and economic processes and drivers favouring bTB spread and persistence.

A high-strength collagen-based antimicrobial film grafted with ε-polylysine fabrication by riboflavin-mediated ultraviolet irradiation for pork preservation.

In this study, a UV-cured collagen-based film (C-P-H film) with high mechanical strength and antimicrobial properties was developed by riboflavin-mediated ultraviolet irradiation of collagen solution containing histidine-modified ε-polylysine. Fourier transform infrared analysis indicated that covalent cross-linking was formed between the collagen molecule and the histidine-grafted ε-polylysine. Compared with the pure collagen film, the C-P-H film containing 5 wt% histidine-modified ε-polylysine showed higher tensile strength (145.98 MPa), higher thermal denaturation temperature (76.5 °C), lower water vapor permeability (5.54 × 10-11 g m-1 s-1 Pa) and excellent antimicrobial activities against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. In addition, the wrapping of the C-P-H film effectively inhibited bacterial growth of pork during storage time, successfully prolonging the shelf-life of pork by approximately 4 days compared to that of plastic wrap. These results suggested that collagen-based film grafted with histidine-modified ε-polylysine via riboflavin-mediated ultraviolet irradiation process had a great potential for pork preservation.

Hydrothermal carbonization of combined food waste: A critical evaluation of emergent products.

Hydrothermal carbonization (HTC) increasingly appears as an eco-friendly method for managing food waste (FW). In this work, a combination of FW was subjected to HTC, and products were critically evaluated. This involved a lab-scale pressure reactor and optimization of HTC conditions: temperature (220-340 °C) and residence time (90-260 min) via central composite design type of response surface methodology (CCD-RSM). Results showed varying temperatures and residence time to impact the hydrochar (HC) and hydrothermal carbonization aqueous phase (HTC-AP) properties. Although HC produced through HTC exhibited lower ash content (<2%) despite higher fixed carbon (>55 %) with respect to the raw FW, the heating value of HC ranged from 19.2 to 32.5 MJ/kg. Temperature primarily influenced FW conversion, affecting carbonaceous properties. Saturated fatty acids (SFA) were found to be predominant in the HTC-AP under all tested operating conditions (77.3, 48.4, and 37.1 wt% for HTC at 340, 280, and 220 °C in 180 min, respectively). Total phosphorus recovery in HC and HTC-AP respectively peaked at 340 °C and 220 °C in 180 min. The study concludes that HTC holds promise for energy-dense biofuel production, nutrient recovery, and fostering a circular economy.

Co-encapsulation of hydrophilic and hydrophobic bioactives stabilized in nanostarch-assisted emulsion for inner core gel of coaxial 3D printing.

3D printing technology, especially coaxial 3D mode of multiple-component shaping, has great potential in the manufacture of personalized nutritional foods. However, integrating and stabilizing functional objectives of different natures remains a challenge for 3D customized foods. Here, we used starch nanoparticle (SNP) to assisted soy protein (SPI) emulsion to load hydrophilic and hydrophobic bioactives (anthocyanin, AC, and curcumin, Cur). The addition of SNP significantly improved the storage stability of the emulsion. Xanthan gum (XG) was also added to the SNP/SPI system to enhance its rheology and form an emulsion gel as inner core of coaxial 3D printing. Low field nuclear magnetic resonance and emulsification analyses showed that AC/Cur@SNP/SPI/XG functional inner core had a strong water binding state and good stability. After printing with outer layer, the SNP/SPI coaxial sample had the lowest deviation rate of 0.8 %. Also, SNP/SPI coaxial sample showed higher AC (90.2 %) and Cur (90.8 %) retention compared to pure starch (S), pure SNP, pure SPI, and S/SPI samples as well as SNP/SPI sample printed without outer layer. In summary, this study provides a new perspective for the manufacture of customized products as multifunctional foods, feeds and even potential delivery of drugs.

Experience Sampling as a dietary assessment method: a scoping review towards implementation.

BACKGROUND: Accurate and feasible assessment of dietary intake remains challenging for research and healthcare. Experience Sampling Methodology (ESM) is a real-time real-life data capturing method with low burden and good feasibility not yet fully explored as alternative dietary assessment method. METHODS: This scoping review is the first to explore the implementation of ESM as an alternative to traditional dietary assessment methods by mapping the methodological considerations to apply ESM and formulating recommendations to develop an Experience Sampling-based Dietary Assessment Method (ESDAM). The scoping review methodology framework was followed by searching PubMed (including OVID) and Web of Science from 2012 until 2024. RESULTS: Screening of 646 articles resulted in 39 included articles describing 24 studies. ESM was mostly applied for qualitative dietary assessment (i.e. type of consumed foods) (n = 12), next to semi-quantitative dietary assessment (i.e. frequency of consumption, no portion size) (n = 7), and quantitative dietary assessment (i.e. type and portion size of consumed foods) (n = 5). Most studies used ESM to assess the intake of selected foods. Two studies applied ESM as an alternative to traditional dietary assessment methods assessing total dietary intake quantitatively (i.e. all food groups). ESM duration ranged from 4 to 30 days and most studies applied ESM for 7 days (n = 15). Sampling schedules were mostly semi-random (n = 12) or fixed (n = 9) with prompts starting at 8-10 AM and ending at 8-12 PM. ESM questionnaires were adapted from existing questionnaires, based on food consumption data or focus group discussions, and respond options were mostly presented as multiple-choice. Recall period to report dietary intake in ESM prompts varied from 15 min to 3.5 h. CONCLUSIONS: Most studies used ESM for 7 days with fixed or semi-random sampling during waking hours and 2-h recall periods. An ESDAM can be developed starting from a food record approach (actual intake) or a validated food frequency questionnaire (long-term or habitual intake). Actual dietary intake can be measured by ESM through short intensive fixed sampling schedules while habitual dietary intake measurement by ESM allows for longer less frequent semi-random sampling schedules. ESM sampling protocols should be developed carefully to optimize feasibility and accuracy of dietary data.