Search Results (2,555)

Soy protein isolate (SPI) microgels were produced via heat-set gelation (4, 6, 8, and 10% by mass) followed by ultrasonication (400 W, 70% amplitude, 3 or 6 min) and used as stabilizers of oil–water emulsions (10% oil phase). The SPI concentration and ultrasonication time affected microgel size (236–356 nm) and polydispersity (0.253–0.550). The physical stability of the emulsions stabilized with 6 and 8% SPI microgels (6 min of ultrasonication) was evaluated for 14 d, influencing on the average size, creaming index and instability index of the emulsions, where those with 6% SPI microgels resulted in a major stability. The emulsions produced with these microgels encapsulated beta-carotene and were incorporated into whole yogurt at three concentrations: 5 (YE5), 10 (YE10), and 15% (YE15). The addition of the emulsions did not affect the physicochemical or microbiological quality of the yogurt. Rheological tests revealed that the yogurt behaved as a non-Newtonian and pseudoplastic fluid, with yogurts with more emulsions being less viscous. Sensory evaluation revealed consumer acceptance regarding color and texture; however, the perception of residual flavor was proportional to the amount of emulsion added. SPI microgels are effective stabilizers for β-carotene-loaded emulsions and a promising strategy for this compound delivery in yogurt. Full article

Against the backdrop of the growing popularity of blockchain technology, this study investigates blockchain adoption strategies for the fresh food supply chain (FFSC) under a carbon cap-and-trade (CAT) policy. Taking a two-echelon supply chain consisting of a supplier and a retailer as an example, we designed four blockchain adoption modes based on the supplier’s strategy (adopt or not) and the retailer’s strategy (adopt or not). Combining influencing factors such as consumers’ low-carbon preference, consumers’ freshness preference, and carbon trading price (CTP), we established four game-theoretic models. Using backward induction, we derived the equilibrium strategies for the supplier and retailer under different modes and analyzed the impact of key factors on these equilibrium strategies. The analysis yielded four key findings: (1) BB mode (both adopt blockchain) is the optimal adoption strategy for both FFSC parties when carbon prices are high, and consumers exhibit strong dual preferences. It most effectively mitigates the negative price impact of rising carbon prices by synergistically enhancing emission reduction efforts and freshness preservation efforts, thereby increasing overall profits and achieving a Pareto improvement in the benefits for both parties. (2) Consumers’ low-carbon preference and freshness preference exhibit an interaction effect. These two preferences mutually reinforce each other’s incentive effect on FFSC efforts (emission reduction/freshness preservation). Blockchain’s information transparency makes these efforts more perceptible to consumers, forming a synergistic “emission reduction-freshness preservation” cycle that further drives sales and profit growth. (3) The adoption of blockchain by either the supplier or the retailer significantly lowers the cost threshold for the other party to adopt blockchain, thereby increasing their willingness to adopt. (4) CAT and consumer preferences jointly influence the adoption strategies of suppliers and retailers. Additionally, the adoption strategies of FFSC participants are also affected by the other party’s blockchain adoption status. Drawing on the above conclusions, this study provides actionable guidance for suppliers and retailers in selecting optimal blockchain adoption strategies. Full article

This study investigated consumer perception of food insecurity by refining data collected from social media platforms. Text mining and TF-IDF were used to extract core keywords closely related to food insecurity and analyze their meanings. In addition, time series analysis and sentiment analysis were used to examine temporal and emotional changes. The analysis results showed that keywords, such as health, stress, mental, and depression, appeared frequently, indicating that food insecurity is closely related to psychological and mental problems. In addition, consumers showed high emotional sensitivity to essential nutrients, such as vitamin D, magnesium, calcium, and omega. Furthermore, stress indices and mental and physical response indices increased simultaneously during this period, indicating that food insecurity is a factor that causes emotional and physical responses. The results of the sentiment analysis showed that negative emotions (anxiety, fear, and sadness) were higher than positive emotions, suggesting that discussions related to food insecurity have a negative emotional impact. Full article

A comprehensive overview is provided on factors and processes influencing the final quality of a cup of coffee, with an emphasis on the brewing method’s central role. Coffee quality assessment, both at the bean and cup level, combines objective parameters (color, moisture, bean defects, density) with a notable degree of subjectivity, as consumer sensory perception is ultimately decisive. The brewing technique is described as a critical determinant of the final chemical, physical, and sensory attributes. Key parameters such as aroma profile, pH, titratable acidity, total and filtered solids, lipid and fatty acid content, viscosity, foam (crema), and colorimetric indices are detailed as essential metrics in coffee quality evaluation. Roasting creates most of coffee’s key aroma compounds. The brewing method further shapes the extraction of both volatile and other bioactive compounds like caffeine, chlorogenic acids, and lipids. Brewing methods significantly affect acidity, “body,” and crema stability, while water quality, temperature, and pressure are shown to impact extraction results and sensory properties. Attention is paid to how methods such as Espresso, filter, French press, and cold brew yield distinct physicochemical and sensory profiles in the cup. Overall, the review highlights the multifaceted nature of coffee cup quality and the interplay between raw material, processing, and preparation, ultimately shaping the coffee sensory experience and market value. Full article

The reuse of treated wastewater (TWW) offers a sustainable solution for water management in agriculture, particularly in arid regions like Saudi Arabia. However, its success depends on farmers’ acceptance, influenced by perceptions of economic benefits, social acceptability, environmental impacts, and health risks. This study surveys 391 farmers across five regions in Saudi Arabia to assess their attitudes toward TWW reuse in irrigation, exploring how advanced wastewater treatment technologies can improve acceptance. Results show that 65% of farmers use TWW, with usage peaking at 72% in Al-Ahsa and Qatif, driven by water scarcity and lack of alternatives. While 78% are satisfied with TWW, concerns persist regarding pests, consumer acceptance, health risks, and soil quality. Advanced technologies can mitigate these issues by enhancing water quality and safety. The highest positive impact of the use of TWW in irrigation from was the impact on productivity, reduction in the cost of fertilizers and savings in the cost of water abstraction. With only 57% of farmers receiving extension services, integrating education on these technologies could further boost confidence. This study highlights key acceptance factors, underscoring the need for technological and educational interventions to promote sustainable TWW reuse in agriculture. Full article

As a crucial vehicle for advancing the transition to a green low-carbon economy, the green supply chain plays a pivotal role in alleviating pollution pressures and facilitating the green transformation of products. Existing studies mainly focus on static optimization and cost coordination in green supply chains, with limited attention to the dynamic impact of consumer behavior on green production and channel coordination. Based on consumer green preferences and the evolution of reference prices, we developed a differential game model for a two-tier green supply chain composed of a manufacturer and a retailer. The model incorporates green goodwill and consumer memory variables to capture the dynamic interaction among product greenness, sales effort, and consumer perception. By comparing the dynamic optimal response paths under integrated and non-integrated strategies, the study analyzes how reference price effects and goodwill accumulation influence decision-making and system performance. The results show that the stable reference price of green products is significantly higher than the actual selling price. When consumer environmental awareness is strong, cooperative strategies can markedly improve both green performance and supply chain profits, offering potential for Pareto improvement. This research enhances behavior-oriented modeling in green supply chains and provides theoretical and empirical support for designing collaboration mechanisms in green product promotion. Full article

The 1.5-degree lifestyles aim to reduce household carbon footprints across six areas (food, housing, mobility, consumer goods, leisure, and services), as identified by IGES, relying on public efforts. This study seeks to understand Japanese university students’ perceptions of 1.5-degree lifestyles, their preferred actions for implementation at the individual, family, and community levels, and the top three enablers and barriers they face. Using a questionnaire based on the KIDA (knowledge, interest, desire, action) framework, which aligns with IGES’s six sectors, data from 244 responses collected via snowball sampling were analyzed. Results reveal low awareness of 1.5-degree lifestyles among Japanese university students, along with a moderate desire to learn more. Gender differences were significant, with females showing higher awareness, desire, and action compared to males. Three common barriers identified include challenges with work–life balance, economic concerns, and gaps between knowledge and action. Recommendations emphasize increasing youth awareness and encouraging action on 1.5-degree lifestyles through early environmental education, youth-focused communication (such as social media), and securing strong political support to help address practical challenges. Full article

Goji berry is widely consumed worldwide and holds substantial market value, yet its cultivation faces significant threats from the goji berry psyllid (Bactericera gobica). Chemosensory-related genes play critical roles in regulating insect behaviors, which makes them key molecular targets for the development of environmentally friendly pest control strategies. However, chemosensory genes in B. gobica have not been previously identified or characterized. In this study, we sequenced transcriptomes from the antennae and body tissues of male and female B. gobica and annotated genes associated with chemosensory functions. We identified 15 odorant-binding proteins (OBPs), 18 chemosensory proteins (CSPs), 3 sensory neuron membrane proteins (SNMPs), 26 odorant receptors (ORs), 8 gustatory receptors (GRs), and 32 ionotropic receptors (IRs). Transcriptome data and a quantitative real-time PCR confirmed the tissue-specific expression patterns of these genes, with several genes, including three BgobOBPs, eight BgobCSPs, one BgobOR, two BgobGRs, and two BgobIR, highly expressed in the antennae, suggesting their role in olfactory recognition. BgobGR1 was most highly expressed among GRs, indicating its important role in gustatory perception. We also identified gene BgobGR5 with differential expression patterns between females and males. Our study represents the first characterization of chemosensory genes in a Bactericera species. Full article

Research on food-related behaviors has increasingly focused on orthorexia nervosa, but the underlying mechanisms are not fully understood, especially with the rise of new types of healthy foods. This study examines the associations between orthorexic tendencies, as measured by the Orthorexia Nervosa Inventory and ORTO-R, and scores on the Food Neophobias Scale, attitudes toward novel foods, body shape concerns, as assessed by the Body Shape Questionnaire, and drive for muscularity, training adherence, and anabolic steroid use, as measured by the Drive for Muscularity Scale. A total of 306 participants (68.3% female; Mage = 35.4 years, SD = 13.7), who were at least 18 old and fluent in Italian, took part in an online, anonymous data collection. The results revealed mixed associations between ON and the perceived attractiveness or intention to consume novel foods. In contrast, no relationship was found between orthorexia and food neophobia. Additionally, orthorexic dimensions were correlated with greater body shape dissatisfaction (r-scores ranging from 0.44 to 0.52, p < 0.001) and a drive for muscularity (r-scores ranging from 0.43 to 0.57, p < 0.001). Notably, orthorexic scores showed significant positive correlations with thoughts about anabolic steroid use (r-scores ranging from 0.26 to 0.60, p < 0.001) and training adherence (r-scores ranging from 0.39 to 0.53, p < 0.001) in a subsample of people who regularly exercise. Of examined the predictors, body shape concerns and thoughts about anabolic steroid use (ß ranging from 0.21 to 0.55, and R² ranging from 0.43 to 0.57, p < 0.001) were the most robust predictors of orthorexic tendencies. Overall, the findings highlight the complex relationships between orthorexic tendencies, perceptions, and attitudes, as well as body-related concerns, while also providing new insights into their connection to novel foods. Full article

Sunscreen protects skin from harmful Ultra Violet (UV) rays, preventing skin diseases like cancer and premature aging. This review explores the role of nanotechnology in enhancing sunscreen formulations by incorporating green and sustainable ingredients. Nanoparticles such as titanium dioxide and zinc oxide effectively reflect UV rays, improving protection while minimizing white residue, thereby enhancing aesthetics, stability, and efficacy. Recent advancements in formulation include lipid-based and polymer-based nanosystems that improve the delivery of active ingredients, offering multifunctional benefits. Additionally, modern sunscreens integrate anti-aging and antioxidant properties, reflecting the trend toward hybrid formulations with multiple skin benefits. The review also examines recent patents, highlighting innovations in nanotechnology-driven sunscreen formulations and delivery systems. Safety and regulatory concerns are critically analyzed, focusing on public perception of nanoparticles and their environmental impact. Issues such as manufacturing challenges and consumer hesitancy toward nano-scaled formulations due to safety considerations are also discussed. While nanotechnology presents significant potential in advancing sun protection, the review underscores the importance of balancing innovation with safety and sustainability. Ultimately, it serves as a guide for future research directions in nano-based sunscreens, advocating for responsible and informed development in the field. Full article

Sensory evaluation is essential to understand consumer perception. This study compared three descriptive methods (Check-All-That-Apply (CATA), Flash Profile, and Pivot Profile) to characterize muffins formulated with alternative flours (purple corn and amaranth) in comparison to a wheat-based control. Six formulations (T0–T5) were evaluated: CATA and Pivot Profile were applied with 100 consumers, while Flash Profile was conducted with 15 panelists. Multivariate statistical analyses were used: correspondence analysis for CATA and Pivot, and Generalized Procrustes Analysis for Flash Profile. All three methods showed high discriminative power: CATA explained 94.36% of the variance, identifying three main groups; Flash Profile explained 63.88%, highlighting differences in texture and aroma; and Pivot Profile explained 81.10%, revealing complex interactions among sensory attributes. Sample T1 (100% purple corn) showed a distinctive sensory profile (bitter and dry), while samples T2 to T5 presented intermediate characteristics. The RV coefficient confirmed significant congruence between the methods. CATA effectively identified relevant sensory differences, Pivot Profile generated descriptors in relation to a control sample, and Flash Profile enabled exploratory analysis. The choice of method depends on the study objective, with each approach offering complementary sensory information. Full article

In Australasian countries such as New Zealand, algae consumption is gaining in popularity within consumer markets. Beverages containing macro-algae, like kelp, and those containing micro-algae, such as spirulina, are considered novel products. While consumer preferences for algae-based products are well explored, less attention has been given to beverages, despite their importance for consumers, specifically those interested in health and well-being. The present study is dedicated to this research gap and investigates the key factors driving and hindering New Zealand consumers’ willingness to drink, pay a price premium, and spread word of mouth about micro-algae-based beverages, such as tea, smoothies, and cuppa soups. Theoretically, the present study is grounded in a seminal Australasian driver and barrier model of seaweed consumption. The current research design both confirms and extends the consumer behaviours previously examined. An online consumer study was distributed and collected via an opt-in panel provider, resulting in 437 responses. Consumers mirroring the NZ population in age, gender, and household income were the target sample, and descriptive statistics and a quantitative analysis via a partial least squares structural analysis served as the methodological foundation for the study. Food neophilia and involvement with algae were significant drivers for all three behavioural intentions investigated. Food neophobia was a significant inhibitor to the willingness to drink but not significantly related to the willingness to pay a price premium or spread word of mouth. Consumer perceptions of product attributes were a significant driver of New Zealand consumers’ willingness to spread word of mouth. The study provides best practice recommendations for marketers in Australasian beverage industries. In terms of its theoretical merit, two aspects stand out. Micro-algae beverages are an emerging beverage product category in Australasian markets, requiring wider exploration and complementary consumer research dedicated to algae-based food items. The focus on food neophobia and neophilia is original, as it helps to understand the barriers and drivers essential to beverages. In contrast to food items, beverages cannot hide novel ingredients such as micro-algae, making them simultaneously more appealing to food neophilic consumers and extremely challenging to food neophobic consumers. Full article

This research examines the cognitive and psychological mechanisms underlying young adults’ reactions to ESG-labeled online advertisements, specifically resistance to persuasion and purchase intention. Based on dual-process theories of persuasion and digital literacy theory, we develop and test a structural equation model (SEM) of perceived greenwashing, online advertising literacy, source credibility, persuasion knowledge, and advertising skepticism as predictors of behavioral intention. Data were gathered from 690 Greek consumers between the ages of 18–35 years through an online survey. All the direct effects hypothesized were statistically significant, while advertising skepticism was the strongest direct predictor of purchase intention. Mediation tests indicated that persuasion knowledge and skepticism partially mediated perceptions of greenwashing, literacy, and credibility effects, in favor of a complementary dual-route process of ESG message evaluation. Multi-group comparisons revealed significant moderation effects across gender, age, education, ESG familiarity, influencer trust, and ad-avoidance behavior. Most strikingly, women evidenced stronger resistance effects via persuasion knowledge, whereas younger users and those with lower familiarity with ESG topics were more susceptible to skepticism and greenwashing. Education supported the processing of source credibility and digital literacy cues, underlining the contribution of informational capital to persuasion resilience. The results provide theoretical contributions to digital persuasion and resistance with practical implications for marketers, educators, and policymakers seeking to develop ethical ESG communication. Future research is invited to broaden cross-cultural understanding, investigate emotional mediators, and incorporate experimental approaches to foster consumer skepticism and trust knowledge in digital sustainability messages. Full article

This study examines how Japanese consumers’ awareness of multiple eco-labels, specifically Organic JAS and RSPO, affects their willingness to pay more for eco-labeled cosmetic products. Drawing on the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) and Signaling Theory, this study models the interaction between awareness of these two eco-labels and their influence on organic cosmetic buying intentions. Using statistical analysis of survey data from 505 Japanese consumers, the findings reveal that heightened awareness of the Organic JAS label significantly increases the willingness to pay more for eco-labeled cosmetics. However, when awareness of the RSPO label is also present, the positive effect of Organic JAS awareness diminishes, indicating that multiple eco-label signals may interfere with each other. These results underscore the complexity of consumer perceptions regarding eco-labels and suggest that the effectiveness of eco-labels as green marketing tools depends not only on raising awareness but also on understanding how different labels interact to influence consumers’ willingness to pay in the Japanese cosmetics market. Full article

In the context of the Carbon Generalized System of Preferences (CGSP), this paper develops a three-tier reverse supply chain model comprising the government, recyclers, and consumers. Differential game analysis is employed to investigate the evolutionary dynamics of consumers’ perceived recycling value and to examine how government recycling efforts and recyclers’ point rewards levels influence this perception. Furthermore, the study explores the dynamic trajectory of consumers’ perceived recycling value across three decision-making models—collaborative-driven, government-driven, and market-driven—and evaluates its impact on supply chain efficiency. The research shows that (1) enhanced recycling efforts by both the government and recyclers significantly improve consumers’ perceived recycling value, thereby promoting the recycling of waste electrical and electronic equipment, with the most pronounced improvement observed under the collaborative-driven strategy; (2) in the government-driven model, the government’s subsidy rate affects recyclers’ decisions regarding point-based incentives but does not influence the government’s own recycling effort; (3) the evolutionary trajectories of consumers’ perceived recycling value and system efficiency differ among the models, with the highest levels achieved under the collaborative-driven model, followed by the government-driven model, and the lowest under the market-driven model. This study fully accounts for the dynamic nature of consumers’ perceived recycling value, offering theoretical and practical guidelines for effective WEEE recycling. Full article