Purpose The primary aim of this study is to assess the dietary habits of Cypriot students and determine their adherence to the Mediterranean diet (MD) pattern. Furthermore, this study seeks to investigate the intake of dietary supplements, the frequency of ordering food and the overall quality of life among Cypriot students. The findings gained from this study can inform and guide relevant institutions in making necessary adjustments to promote the adherence to the MD among university students. Design/methodology/approach This was a cross-sectional study. This study was conducted between February 2023 and May 2023 using a convenience sampling. The questionnaire was created using the Google Forms tool and distributed online via social media platforms (e.g. Facebook and Instagram) and email lists of students from public and private universities and colleges in Cyprus. The sample size was calculated to be 400 individuals, assuming a 95% confidence interval with a precision of 5% and a hypothetical adherence rate to the MD of 50% (based on literature). Findings In a sample of 503 students, the authors reported that the mean age of the students was 23.2 ± 5.3 years, and the body mass index was 24.1 ± 5.7 kg/m2. It was identified that 45% of the sample demonstrated a high adherence to the MD. The Cypriot student population was found to consume substantial portions of poultry, red meat and its products, dairy products rich in fats, olive oil and a low consumption of whole grains, potatoes, fruits, vegetables, legumes and fish. This study revealed that increasing age was associated with greater adherence to the MD, while higher body mass index was associated with lower adherence to the MD. Furthermore, female students and those attending private universities exhibited a tendency towards higher adherence compared to their male counterparts and students from public universities, respectively. In conclusion, the dietary habits and lifestyle of the student population in Cyprus have improved in recent years; however, there remains a need for further improvement and compliance within the student community. Originality/value To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study conducted among the Cypriot university student population investigating these factors after the COVID-19 pandemic. This study provides a substantial sample size of 503 participants across all five districts of Cyprus, which significantly enhances the reliability of the findings by minimizing potential sampling error. The distribution between the two types of universities from which the participants were drawn was nearly equal. Furthermore, the analysis of the questionnaire data was performed using the MedDietScore tool, recognized as a valid and reliable instrument for assessing adherence to the MD (Panagiotakos et al., 2006). The results of this study could serve as a valuable resource for relevant authorities to implement targeted interventions aimed at improving the dietary behaviours of Cypriot students. Specifically, the Ministry of Health of Cyprus, alongside various public health organizations could initiate awareness campaigns and educational seminars. These efforts would focus on informing the student population about the MD. In addition, the media and universities in Cyprus could play a crucial role by presenting the findings of this study as well as the benefits of MD to the health, the academic performance and mental well-being.

Purpose This study aims to understand the experiences and perceptions related to eating practices and nutritional management in patients awaiting liver transplantation. Design/methodology/approach This was an empirical, qualitative, cross-sectional study. Patients on the waiting list for liver transplantation, over 18 years of age and with BMI < 30 kg/m2, participated in the study. The data saturation criterion defines the sample size. The instrument used was semi-structured interviews. Data analysis was based on Bardin’s thematic analysis. Findings In total, 14 patients were interviewed (54.5 ± 13.5 years; 71.4% male). Alcoholic cirrhosis was the leading indication for liver transplantation (50.0%). The data analysis generated three main themes: family and social aspects and their interfaces with nutritional care; implications of the disease in the diet; and dietary restrictions in the context of chronic liver disease. The participants reported changes in their diet associated with physiological and psycho-emotional changes caused by liver disease. They also externalized the difficulties related to adherence to dietary guidelines and the importance of family support. Patients on the liver transplant waiting list experience significant transformations and the need for (re)signification about food, which is strongly influenced by a lack of appetite and dietary restrictions. However, even in the face of difficulties, patients strive to follow dietary recommendations to manage their disease and its associated complications. It is essential to highlight the importance of family support in disease management. Originality/value Addressing a gap in understanding patient perspectives on nutritional therapy, this study provides original qualitative insights into barriers and facilitators for dietary adherence among liver transplant candidates, informing the development of more patient-centered interventions.

Purpose This study aims to design and develop fibre-enriched goat milk shrikhand with the addition of date pulp as sugar replacer with improved shelf life. Design/methodology/approach In this trial, control shrikhand was made with 30% sugar without date pulp, while treatments were as follows: T1 (5% date pulp + 25% sugar); T2 (10% date pulp + 20% sugar); T3 (15% date pulp + 15% sugar). Developed shrikhand was stored at 4 ± 1°C for 12 days. Various physico-chemical, antioxidant, lipid oxidation, microbial and sensory attributes were analysed. Findings Fibre and ash content increased (p = 0.05) appreciably among date pulp-added shrikhand than control. The pH, antioxidant indices value and sensory attributes decreased (p = 0.05) significantly while, titratable acidity, lipid oxidation parameters and microbial counts (p = 0.05) increased significantly during refrigerated storage. The results concluded that the treatment T3 maintained better quality throughout the storage period. Practical implications These findings suggested that the incorporation of date pulp to goat milk shrikhand act as phyto-preservatives for extension of its shelf-life, and it can also be used to replace sugar as sweetener. Date paste exhibit promising potential as ingredients for preparation of functional dairy products manifested with qualities as low sugar and fibre enriched as well as preservative. Originality/value Study showed that shrikhand prepared with inclusion of 15% date pulp and 15% sugar exhibited excellent results, maintain pH and titratable acidity, amplifying antioxidant activity, reducing lipid oxidation, preventing microbial proliferation and better maintained organoleptic attributes during storage. These outcomes accentuate potential of addition of 15 % date pulp as an effective sugar replacer and as phyto-preservative.

Purpose Average- and low-income households in developing countries cannot afford animal milk. This study aims to examine the feasibility of formulating instant milk-analogue from tiger nut and fermented sorghum. Design/methodology/approach Sorghum grains were sorted, cleaned and fermented for 24 h and processed into kunu-zaki. Tiger nut was also processed into milk. The duo were blended in ratios 100:0, 80:20, 70:30 and 60:40 for fermented sorgum and tiger nut milk, respectively. Each mixture was homogenized, concentrated in rotary evaporator and lyophilized. The instant milk-analogue obtained was examined for nutritional, sensory and phenolic compounds while microbiological evaluation was carried out on the liquid sample. Findings The nutritional contents of the instant enriched tiger nut-sorghum kunu was enhanced significantly (p = 0.03) with the inclusion of tiger nut. The protein content was 6.70%–15.92%, ash (0.28%–5.40%), vitamin C (5.33–17.55 mg/100 g), pyridoxine (1.30–3.80 mg/100 g) and vitamin A (3.04–13.33 mg/100 g). The milk-analogue showed the presence of phenolic compounds chlorogenic acid, ferulic acid, epicatechin and gallic acid. The general acceptability rating was enhanced on higher inclusion of tiger nut (6.12–8.40). Enterobacteriacea and coliforms were absent in milk-analogue samples. A total of eight microorganisms comprised of bacterial and fungi were present in the enriched kunu-zaki. These microorganisms included Lactobacillus plantarum, Streptococcus species, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Bacillus licheniformis, Fusarium species, Bacillus subtilis, Penicillum species, and Micrococcus luteus. Originality/value Having the milk-analogue in powder form would enhance its self-life, aids easy packaging and transportation. It would also reduce the challenge of refrigeration storage and food poisoning due to improper handling if in liquid form.

Purpose This study aims to identify the effect of malting on nutritional composition in biofortified and non-biofortified pearl millet. Design/methodology/approach The pearl millet varieties HHB 197 (non-biofortified) and HHB 299 (biofortified) were subjected to malting with 48 h germination time and kilning at 50°C. Findings Malting significantly decreased crude protein and fat content. It brought about a significant (p = 0.05) decrease in phytate content and trypsin inhibitor activity of the two respective varieties. A significant (p = 0.05), respective increase in in vitro protein (8.82% and 8.39%) and starch digestibility (53.63% and 54.55%) was observed in both HHB 197 and HHB 299. The percentage iron bioaccessibility of the two respective varieties increased by 15.39% and 16.49%. The total phenolic content, total flavonoids content and DPPH radical scavenging activity also increased being significantly (p = 0.05) higher in HHB 299 pearl millet variety. Vitamin C content, which was not detectable in unprocessed varieties, was 2.21 and 2.18 mg/100 g in respective malted varieties. Practical implications Suitably processed biofortified millets can provide meaningful solutions for malnutrition and strengthen the upscaling of millets adding to dietary diversification. Originality/value Biofortified crops are an excellent approach to improve micronutrient content. However, not many studies have reported effect of processing in these crops. This study compares the effect of malting on iron bioaccessibility, digestibility, antinutrients and antioxidant content in biofortified and non-biofortified pearl millet.

Purpose Mental health significantly impacts individual and social well-being, influencing factors such as reproduction, work motivation, sleep and disease outcomes. The purpose of this study is to examine the relationship between dietary fat quality indices and mental health, particularly stress, anxiety and depression, in relation to a range of age and sex groups. Design/methodology/approach This cross-sectional study involved 172 adults (aged 18–65 years) residing in Tehran. Data were collected using a demographic questionnaire, the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale-21 (DASS-21) for mental health assessment and the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) for physical activity levels. Linear regression, ANOVA and ANCOVA tests were used for statistical analysis. Findings A total of 172 people (ages 18–65 years) from the original 352 samples were examined. In people under 30 years, the prevalence of severe anxiety was 78%, whereas in people over 30 years, it was 72.2%. Of the older group, 51.8% and 60.2% of the younger group suffered from severe depression. The thrombogenic index (TI), atherogenic index (AI) and hypocholesterolemic to hypercholesterolemic ratio (HH) were found to significantly inversely correlate with depression in men. Additionally, a noteworthy inverse relationship was found between stress and the cholesterol-saturated fat index (CSI). In addition, individuals under 30 years showed a clear relationship between anxiety and their saturated fat percentage (SFA). Originality/value The finding of this study showed that dietary fat quality indicators are strongly correlated with stress and depression; among individuals under 30 years, there is a significant relationship between anxiety and the percentage of saturated fat.

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to address the gaps in infant and young child feeding practices in India that need improvement to meet the goals set forth in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG-2, Zero Hunger). There are many factors that impact infant and young child feeding practices in India and strategic interventions are required to address the same. Design/methodology/approach A literature review was conducted using PubMed and Google Scholar to see the studies that have been done in India and Low-middle-income countries on infant and young child feeding practices. While for knowledge, attitude and practices, the review was done by having inclusion and exclusion criteria to ascertain that relevant studies are not missed in the review, which would be of significance; however, this is not a systematic review study. Findings Review of the studies done in India related to factors associated with positive and negative correlation with optimal infant and young child feeding practices. The review highlights that despite satisfactory knowledge level of mothers, it may not translate into actual correct infant and young child feeding practices. Hence, the paper looks at specific socio-demographic, cultural barriers and facilitators. A comprehensive overview of the Government of India schemes and programmes to protect, promote and support breastfeeding and complementary feeding. Originality/value This paper outlines the convergent actions required to improve infant and young child feeding practices.

Purpose Obesity and hypertension are critical risk factors for cardiovascular diseases, often associated with poor lipid profiles and systemic inflammation. This study aimed to evaluate the combined effects of high-intensity functional training (HIFT) and Hibiscus sabdariffa supplementation on anthropometric parameters, lipid profiles, blood pressure and inflammatory marker (CRP) in overweight and obese men. Design/methodology/approach In a randomized controlled trial, 68 overweight and obese men were randomized into four groups: Hibiscus supplementation (SG), HIFT (TG), combined HIFT and Hibiscus supplementation (TSG) and control (CG). The 12-week intervention included thrice-weekly HIFT sessions for TG and TSG, while SG and TSG consumed 450 mg Hibiscus capsules daily. Anthropometric measurements, blood pressure, lipid profiles and CRP levels were assessed pre- and post-intervention. Sixty-two participants completed the study. Findings Results showed that the TG group exhibited significant reductions in weight, BMI, body fat percentage, TC, triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, CRP (p < 0.05), HDL, systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP) (p < 0.01). SG group independently led to significant reductions in CRP and TC (p < 0.05), SBP, DPB and triglycerides (p < 0.01). The combined intervention (TSG) produced the most substantial improvements across all parameters (p < 0.01). Originality/value To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first to examine the combined effects of HIFT and Hibiscus sabdariffa on cardiovascular risk factors in overweight and obese men. The findings highlight their synergistic benefits in improving lipid profiles, inflammation and blood pressure. These results offer a time-efficient strategy for cardiovascular risk reduction, warranting further research on long-term effects.

Purpose This study aims to explore the relationship between ecological footprint awareness, adherence to the Mediterranean diet and attitudes toward healthy eating in Turkish adults. Design/methodology/approach This descriptive and cross-sectional study was conducted among 2054 adults aged 19–65 in Turkey between March and June 2023. Data were collected through a Web-based questionnaire assessing anthropometric measurements, adherence to the Mediterranean diet, attitudes toward healthy eating and ecological footprint awareness. Descriptive statistics, Pearson correlations and regression analyses were used to assess relationships between these variables. Findings The study found significant positive correlations between ecological footprint awareness, adherence to the Mediterranean diet and attitudes toward healthy eating. Regression analysis revealed that age, ecological footprint awareness and healthy eating attitudes were significant predictors of Mediterranean diet adherence. Additionally, age and educational level were important factors influencing attitudes toward healthy eating. Originality/value This study highlights a crucial relationship between ecological footprint awareness, adherence to the Mediterranean diet and attitudes toward healthy eating. Encouraging adherence to sustainable diets, such as the Mediterranean diet, can reduce ecological footprints and promote planetary and human health.

Purpose The rising interest in functional foods has brought millet-based probiotic beverages to the forefront as sustainable nondairy alternatives for extended and challenging environments. This study aims to examine the nutritional benefits, probiotic compatibility and practical applications in long-term preservation settings, such as space missions, military deployments and remote expeditions, while also addressing their potential use for athletes, travelers and health-conscious consumers. Design/methodology/approach A comprehensive search using keywords such as “millet-based probiotics” and “functional beverages for long voyages” was conducted across Web of Science, Scopus, PubMed and Google Scholar. This search yielded a database of 163 papers. After applying inclusion and exclusion criteria, 19 publications met the review’s requirements. An additional set of supporting literature was used to contextualize the findings, resulting in a total of 117 references. Findings Millets are nutrient-rich and possess prebiotic properties that support beneficial gut microbiota. Their fermentation compatibility makes them ideal for functional beverage development, particularly for vegan and lactose-intolerant populations. Incorporating probiotics into millet-based beverages can alleviate gastrointestinal issues, nutrient loss and immune suppression caused by prolonged travel. The worldwide market for plant-based drinks is expected to reach US$26bn in the next five years, indicating an increasing demand for dairy substitutes. Innovations in formulation and bioactivity enhancement are addressing these gaps, positioning millet-based beverages as a viable option. Originality/value This review highlights the importance of millet-based probiotic beverages in promoting dietary health and sustainability, not only for long-duration missions but also for broader consumer markets seeking plant-based, shelf-stable dietary alternatives.