Search Results (6,709)

Small black soybeans (Seomoktae, SBS), traditionally regarded as medicinal beans in East Asia, contain abundant bioactive compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential. This study aimed to develop a functional plant-based milk substitute by fermenting soymilk (yellow soybean, YS) supplemented with SBS (25% or 50%) using Streptococcus thermophilus JAMI_LB_02 and Lactiplantibacillus plantarum JAMI_LB_05 (patented LABs) to enhance probiotic functionality and nutritional value. Fermentation characteristics, microbial viability, antioxidant activity, anthocyanin content, and free amino acid profiles were evaluated. After 72 h, total acidity in all samples exceeded 0.81%, and viable LAB counts reached 10.07–10.21 log CFU/mL, surpassing the Korean Food Code. The 50% SBS formulation exhibited significantly higher radical scavenging activity, total phenol and flavonoid contents, and anthocyanin levels (p < 0.05). Digestive enzyme treatment increased total free amino acid in SBS 50%, particularly functional amino acids such as arginine, alanine, and asparagine. Heatmap analysis classified products with high SBS content as Group A and analyzed the correlation between redness, antioxidant activity, and water-soluble amino acid content. Overall, SBS-fermented soymilk is an improved protein digestibility, probiotic-rich, and alternative to dairy-based fermented products, aligning with the growing consumer demand for plant-based functional foods. Full article

Soil-dwelling beetles, including native and invasive species such as Popilia japonica Newman (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae), are persistent and damaging agricultural pests worldwide. Mass trapping, using pheromone-, light-, or food-based lures to attract and remove adults, is being developed as an environmentally sustainable alternative within integrated pest management (IPM). Scarab beetles respond positively to attractant-based traps, and large-scale programs against P. japonica in North America provide valuable insights for global applications. The efficacy of mass trapping depends on species biology, trap density, environmental conditions and landscape structure. Capturing adults does not always immediately reduce larval populations, as underground stages persist in soil for multiple years. Light traps are effective but often attract many non-target insects, whereas pheromone traps are more selective but require careful optimization of lure composition, release rate and placement. To achieve reliable suppression, mass trapping should be integrated with complementary strategies such as biological control agents (Beauveria spp., Metarhizium spp.), crop rotation, tolerant crop varieties and soil management. Future research should focus on refining lure design, optimizing deployment, testing predictive models and evaluating multi-bait systems. Overall, mass trapping represents a promising and environmentally sustainable tool that, when incorporated into integrated approaches, can enhance the management of soil-dwelling scarab beetles across diverse agroecosystems worldwide. Full article

Plant-based meat alternatives (PMAs), as an emerging food category gaining increasing popularity, face potential food safety risks and ethical concerns for vegetarians due to the illegal adulteration of animal-derived components. To address these challenges and enhance regulatory oversight, the development of a rapid, sensitive, and highly specific detection method is essential. In this study, five DNA extraction methods were evaluated and optimized to identify the most effective approach for PMA products. The optimal conditions were determined to be 60 mmol/L NaCl, 10 mmol/L Tris HCl, and a centrifugation speed of 12,000× g. Additionally, specific primers targeting four common animal-derived adulterants, namely pork, chicken, duck, and beef, were designed and screened for targeted amplification. To establish a rapid and visually interpretable detection system, the recombinant polymerase amplification conditions were optimized. The final protocol used 0.4 µmol/L primer and isothermal amplification at 39 °C for 25 min, with the incorporation of SYBR Green I dye enabling the rapid and specific visualization of animal-derived DNA. This optimized method is characterized by its simplicity, sensitivity (capable of detecting beef-derived components as low as 0.0514% w/w), and rapidity, significantly reducing detection time and providing a reliable tool for the identification of animal-derived adulteration in PMA products. Full article

Starch is a promising biodegradable polymer for food packaging, offering a competitive alternative to synthetic films, but its native form has limited functionality. This study aimed to develop edible films based on native (N) and octenyl-succinylated (OS) maize starch incorporating honey-bee-derived extracts (HBE), and to evaluate their physicochemical, structural, and bioactive properties. Moreover, the films were applied as a packaging for apple slices stored for seven days. OS starch enhanced film functionality, particularly when combined with bee pollen, bee bread, and propolis extracts. The presence of amphiphilic octenyl groups and bioactive components significantly modified film microstructure and thermal behavior. Compared to native starch films, OS-based films showed higher water solubility and swelling ratio but lower tensile strength. Among the HBE formulations, propolis-enriched films exhibited the highest total phenolic content, strongest antioxidant capacity, and most effective antimicrobial action. Although none of the starch-based films prevented apple weight loss or browning during storage, propolis addition markedly reduced mold growth compared to synthetic packaging. Overall, octenyl-succinylated maize starch combined with propolis extract offers a promising, biodegradable alternative to conventional plastic films for sustainable food packaging applications. Full article

Background/Objectives: Menu calorie labeling policies aim to promote healthier eating habits, yet their effectiveness remains debated. The present study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of two alternative qualitative labeling strategies—Physical Activity Calorie Equivalent (PACE) labels and Percent Daily Intake (PDI) pie charts—compared to the standard numeric calorie count mandated in several countries, since they have been proposed to enhance consumer comprehension and decision-making. Methods: A nationwide online survey elicited responses from N = 885 individuals living in Italy. Survey participants were randomly assigned to one of three menu conditions: (1) numeric calorie labeling only, (2) numeric calories plus PACE labels, or (3) numeric calories plus a PDI pie chart. Participants selected a three-course meal from their respective menus. Data on sociodemographic factors, dietary habits, BMI, self-assessed nutritional knowledge, and psychological traits—restrained eating (DEBQ-R) and impulsivity (SUPPS-P)—were collected. Ordinal logistic regressions assessed the impact of labeling format, gender, and nutritional knowledge on total calories ordered. Results: Neither PACE labels nor PDI pie charts significantly influenced total calorie selection compared to numeric calorie labels alone. No significant interactions emerged between labeling format and gender or nutritional knowledge. However, age, BMI, and dietary habits were strongly associated with calorie choices: older adults, individuals with restrictive diets, and those with higher restrained eating scores selected lower-calorie meals, while participants with higher BMI or frequent meat intake opted for more calorie-dense options. Conclusions: Alternative calorie labeling formats alone may be insufficient to alter food choices in online settings. Future interventions should integrate motivational and educational strategies tailored to individual traits and dietary habits, rather than relying solely on calorie presentation format. Full article

The environmental impact of petroleum-based plastics has accelerated the search for sustainable alternatives in food packaging. Polylactic acid (PLA), a biobased and compostable polymer, is among the most promising candidates, yet its inherent brittleness and poor moisture barrier limit its application in high-humidity contexts such as dairy packaging. This study investigates immiscible PLA/poly(butylene succinate-co-adipate) (PBSA) blend films as potential biobased packaging materials for perishable foods. Even if these blends have been already studied, limited attention has been given to the systematic characterization of the baseline barrier properties of unmodified PLA/PBSA blends in contact with liquid dairy products. Four blend ratios (PLA/PBSA = 30/70, 40/60, 50/50, 60/40 wt%) were prepared via micro-compounding and compression molding. The films were characterized through melt flow analysis, FTIR, SEM, DSC, DMTA, and tensile testing to evaluate their thermal, morphological, and mechanical properties. Crucially, moisture barrier performance was assessed under simulated dairy conditions by sealing fresh whey at 4 °C and monitoring weight loss over 30 days. Results revealed that while tensile strength and storage modulus (E’) decreased nearly linearly with increasing PBSA content, elongation at break exhibited a non-linear trend, highlighting the complex interplay between blend morphology and mechanical behavior. The study provides a baseline understanding of neat PLA/PBSA blends in contact with liquid dairy, identifying the most promising formulations for future scale-up. These findings contribute to the development of biodegradable packaging systems tailored for refrigerated, high-moisture food applications Full article

Background: Chilean salmon aquaculture, a sector crucial for global food security, faces persistent challenges from bacterial pathogens, particularly Piscirickettsia salmonis, resulting in substantial antimicrobial use (351.1 tons in 2024). Objective and methods: To address this issue, the “Sustainable Management of Aquaculture Bacterial Diseases” workshop convened 27 experts to develop a roadmap for prudent antimicrobial stewardship, with the goal of informing public policies and industry best practices. Discussions focused on four critical areas. Results: Antimicrobial Resistance Prevention recognized aquaculture’s dual role in antimicrobial resistance development, underscoring its ecological dimension, the need for international collaboration, proactive policy design, and the establishment of comprehensive “One Health” surveillance systems guided by expert committees. Communication and Education identified critical gaps in specialized veterinary aquaculture training and public outreach, advocating for interdisciplinary teams and clear communication strategies, with a projected timeline of a decade for effective implementation. Therapeutic Alternatives acknowledged current limitations of vaccines against P. salmonis but underscored promising Chilean innovations, including the use of plant extracts, gut-microbiota modulation, and passive immunotherapy, as well as the importance of early intervention. Finally, environmental impact discussions revealed data deficiencies in aquatic ecosystems, emphasizing the need for advanced molecular tools, adaptive regulatory frameworks, and harmonized requirements for environmental risk-assessment procedures. Conclusions: The workshop’s findings provide a vital framework for advancing sustainable antimicrobial use within the Chilean salmon industry as a case study. The insights and lessons derived from this sector can significantly contribute to global aquaculture’s transition toward sustainability, providing a solid foundation for developing a comprehensive roadmap and universally applicable recommendations for stakeholders across aquaculture and other animal-farming industries worldwide. This roadmap, with its essential components, is designed to enhance the understanding of AMU in farmed salmon through a One Health approach, incorporating global guidance for all aquaculture stakeholders. Full article

Background/Objectives: Interest in alternatives to animal-derived products has gained momentum, driven by health, environmental, and ethical concerns. However, consumer interest in plant-based meat alternatives (PBMAs) remains highly heterogeneous. This study employs the core dimensions of the Food-Related Lifestyle (FRL) framework for consumer segmentation to deepen understanding of PBMA adoption in a meat-centric context such as Poland, and to derive segment-specific recommendations that support the transition toward plant-based diets. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among a representative sample of Polish adults (n = 1200). Consumer segmentation was performed using a two-step cluster analysis based on the three FRL dimensions—food involvement, innovativeness, and responsibility. Results: Four distinct consumer clusters emerged, differing significantly across all FRL dimensions (p < 0.001). Cluster 1, Traditionalists (18.5%), demonstrated high food involvement but the lowest innovativeness, showing the highest proportion of non-buyers and strong environmental scepticism. Cluster 2, Conscious Food Enthusiasts (24.6%), demonstrated the highest scores across all FRL dimensions, reported the most frequent PBMA purchases, and showed a strong sustainability orientation combined with a pronounced appreciation for sensory quality and eating enjoyment. Cluster 3, Moderates (38.8%) occupied intermediate positions exhibiting moderate PBMA purchasing frequency but expressing concern about food waste. Cluster 4, Careless Food Lovers (18.2%, n = 218), showed high food involvement and innovativeness, but the lowest responsibility, characterised by pronounced environmental scepticism. Conclusions: The study shows that consumer segments with similar levels of food involvement differ in their perceptions, beliefs, and willingness to adopt PBMAs, primarily according to their environmental orientation. These findings highlight that a strong interest in food alone does not translate into acceptance of plant-based alternatives unless accompanied by sustainability-oriented values. Overall, the results offer practical guidance for designing marketing, product development, and policy initiatives tailored to distinct consumer profiles, supporting the transition toward more plant-based dietary patterns. Full article

The non-degradable polymers used in daily and commercial application are generally inexpensive; however, their excessive use leads to extensive environmental damage. In light of this, the demand for bio-derived, biocompatible, and biodegradable polymers increases since these materials are potential alternatives to petroleum-derived polymers. Polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB), a class of highly crystalline thermoplastics derived from natural sources, offer significant environmental advantages over fossil fuel-based polymers due to their inherent biodegradability. This eco-friendly profile has spurred research into their commercial applications, ranging from food packaging to pharmaceuticals. However, processing challenges, particularly for polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB)—including high costs and the requirement for elevated temperatures—remain major obstacles. Additionally, PHB-based products are often brittle and exhibit inferior mechanical properties compared to conventional petroleum-based polymers such as polypropylene and polyethylene. This review comprehensively examines the state-of-the-art processing techniques for PHB and their composites. Key properties, such as mechanical performance, thermal behavior, and degradation characteristics, are scrutinized. Furthermore, the review explores mitigation strategies, such as blending and plasticization, aimed at overcoming the mechanical brittleness while upholding the principles of sustainability and maintaining a low carbon footprint. Full article

The transition toward sustainable panel technologies is driving intensive research on binderless boards and self-bonded lignocellulosic composites. Particleboard, an engineered wood composite made by hot pressing wood particles with synthetic adhesives, is among the most widely produced wood-based panels due to cost-effectiveness and versatility. However, pressure on forest-derived raw materials and concern over formaldehyde emissions are accelerating the search for renewable resources and greener routes. Residues and underutilized materials from agro-industrial, food, and forestry sectors (such as cereal straws, sugarcane bagasse, brewer’s spent grain, and fruit-processing by-products) offer a sustainable alternative, enabling waste valorization, lowering environmental burdens, and supporting circular bioeconomy models. Binderless boards, produced without adhesives, exploit natural bonding among lignocellulosic components, including lignin softening, thermoplasticization, and covalent crosslinking during hot pressing. This review adopts a complex network approach to systematically map and analyze the scientific landscape of binderless board production. Using citation-based networks from curated seed papers and their first- and second-degree neighbors, we identify thematic clusters, with cluster “A” as the research core. The examination of this cluster, complemented by word-cloud analysis of titles and abstracts, highlights prevalent raw materials and key research lines, like raw-material sources and lignocellulosic composition, processing parameters, and pretreatment strategies. Based on these findings, brewer’s spent grain is selected as a representative case study for cost analysis. This approach synthesizes the state of the art and reveals emerging directions, research gaps, and influential works, providing a data-driven foundation for advancing self-bonded lignocellulosic composites. Full article

Nuts such as pecans, almonds, peanuts, pistachios, and walnuts are nutrient-dense foods rich in unsaturated fatty acids and antioxidant compounds. Their regular consumption has been linked to significant health benefits, including reduced risks of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and high cholesterol. With increasing global demand, ensuring the quality of nuts before they reach consumers is critical. Conventional quality assessment methods dominate the industry but are often subjective, destructive, time-intensive, environmentally burdensome, and laborious. Therefore, there is an urgent need for rapid, non-destructive, and objective alternatives capable of meeting modern quality standards. In this systematic review, we summarize traditional approaches for evaluating nut quality parameters and introduce hyperspectral imaging as a novel technique with promising applications. We examine its use in detecting nut adulteration, assessing chemical composition, identifying defects, and evaluating other quality traits. Limitations of hyperspectral imaging in industrial settings are also discussed, along with potential solutions and future directions. Given the relatively limited research area, approximately 44 relevant studies were critically reviewed. This work provides valuable insights for researchers and industry stakeholders developing innovative technologies for nut quality assessment. Full article

Staphylococcus aureus is a major foodborne pathogen associated with contamination of dairy and meat products, posing a persistent challenge to food safety due to its biofilm formation and resistance to multiple antibiotics. In this review, we summarize recent advances in the use of bacteriophages and phage-derived endolysins as targeted biocontrol agents against S. aureus in food systems. Bacteriophages exhibit host specificity and self-replicating capacity, while endolysins provide rapid lytic activity, minimal resistance development, and effectiveness against biofilm-embedded cells. Studies demonstrate significant microbial reductions in milk, cheese, and meat matrices, although factors such as pH, salt, and fat content can influence their efficacy. The integration of these biocontrol tools into food preservation represents a sustainable and safe alternative to conventional antimicrobials. Finally, we discuss current limitations and the need for optimizing formulations, stability, and regulatory frameworks to facilitate the adoption of phage and endolysin-based products in the food industry. Full article

Global population growth, climate change, and the environmental impact of livestock production have accelerated the search for sustainable and efficient protein sources. Fruiting bodies (mushrooms) and mycelial biomass have emerged as promising alternatives due to their high nutritional quality, low ecological footprint, and compatibility with circular bioeconomy principles. This review highlights the nutritional, biotechnological, and environmental aspects of fungal proteins obtained from both fruiting bodies and mycelial biomass of Basidiomycetes. Emphasis is placed on amino acid composition, protein digestibility, and advances in cultivation and fermentation systems for large-scale production. Submerged and solid-state fermentation processes are analyzed in terms of scalability, resource efficiency, and integration with agro-industrial residues for sustainable bioprocessing. Comparative analyses reveal that mycelial biomass production achieves high protein yields with significantly reduced land, water, and energy requirements compared to conventional protein sources. Emerging fungal species such as Schizophyllum commune and Auricularia polytricha demonstrate strong potential for producing protein-rich mycelia applicable to functional and plant-based foods. Finally, the review discusses current technological innovations, regulatory frameworks, and market perspectives that position fungal biomass as a strategic component in the ongoing global protein transition. Full article

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is one of the most significant global health threats of the 21st century, driving the urgent search for alternatives to conventional antibiotics. Copper nanoparticles (CuNPs) have gained attention due to their broad antimicrobial spectrum, cost-effectiveness, and versatile applications in medicine, agriculture, and the food industry. This review provides a systematic overview of the advances in CuNP synthesis, mechanisms of antimicrobial action, biomedical and industrial applications, and associated toxicity issues. A comprehensive literature review was conducted, covering chemical, physical, and biological synthesis strategies; mechanistic studies on microbial inhibition; and experimental reports on biomedical and environmental applications. A comparative analysis revealed opportunities, limitations, and knowledge gaps, with particular emphasis on cytotoxic and ecotoxicological aspects. CuNPs show strong antimicrobial activity against bacteria, fungi, viruses, and multidrug-resistant strains through mechanisms such as reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, membrane disruption, and DNA/protein interactions. Their use in medical devices, wound dressings, textiles, and packaging materials underlines their application potential. However, cytotoxicity to mammalian cells, ecological risks, and the lack of standardized safety protocols remain critical challenges. Particle size, morphology, and surface chemistry strongly influence both efficacy and toxicity, underlining the importance of controlled synthesis and functionalization. Overall, CuNPs represent a promising strategy to tackle the AMR crisis. Future research should focus on environmentally friendly and surface-modified synthesis approaches, standardized toxicity assessments, and robust regulatory frameworks. By balancing antimicrobial efficacy with biosafety and sustainability, CuNPs could become a transformative platform for clinical, industrial, and environmental applications. Full article

Considering sustainable consumption not just as an exercise of individual choice but a shared and collective activity, this study explores the role of conscious and responsible consumption initiatives (CRCIs) driving citizens’ adoption of sustainable lifestyles. This research followed a qualitative approach, combining documentary research and twenty-six in-depth interviews with practitioners in eight grassroots consumer initiatives located in Galicia (Spain). The results show that CRCIs favor members’ consumption of organic, seasonal, fair, and locally produced food. The findings also reveal that engagement in these initiatives nurtures three interconnected types of learning—cognitive, attitudinal, and behavioral—which contribute to wider adoption of sustainable practices related to shifts in dietary habits, energy use, mobility, and frugality. CRCIs facilitate gradual transitions toward reduced meat consumption, favoring the intake of plant-based foods, and greater self-efficacy in preparing sustainable meals. These behavioral changes are incremental, motivated by inner reflection, practical experience, and consciousness around alternative economic models. However, the consistent adoption of sustainable eating habits is hindered by cultural and psychological barriers like cultural traditions, entrenched habits, and time constraints. In conclusion, these grassroots initiatives are interesting entry points for engaging citizens in sustainable lifestyles, becoming also gateways to the broader social and solidarity economy movement. Full article