Association Of Official Agricultural Chemists Research Articles

Evaluation of Interlaboratory Comparisons on Quality Testing Towards Pesticide Formulation of beta-Cyfluthrin, Chlorpyrifos, and Profenofos Active Ingredients

The Surabaya Center for Seed and Plantation Protection (BBPPTP Surabaya) carried out interlaboratory comparison research to test the quality of pesticide formulations. This study aimed to determine the ability of each participating laboratory to analyze the concentration of the active ingredients’ beta-cyfluthrin, chlorpyrifos, and profenofos in test samples expressed in z-score values. A total of 15 laboratories participated in this program. The quality test method of the pesticide formulations for the beta-cyfluthrin, chlorpyrifos, and profenofos active ingredients referred to the Association of Official Agricultural Chemists (AOAC) method, which was developed and validated. A homogeneity test was carried out before the test samples were distributed. The data were evaluated using a robust z-score statistical calculation algorithm, a method under the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 13528:2016. The assigned values used to calculate the z-score were obtained by statistical processing of participants’ test results. The results of the stability test calculation showed that the distributed sample data was statistically stable. Three laboratory participants were in the questionable category, and one laboratory participant was in the outlier category.

Simultaneous Determination of Trichothecenes and Zearalenone in Food by Ultra-Performance Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS)

Trichothecenes (deoxynivalenol, 3- and 15-acetyl-deoxynivalenol) and zearalenone are toxic secondary metabolites produced by Fusarium species. Although managing these mycotoxins simultaneously is crucial, current analytical methods differ because of their distinct properties. In this study, food matrix extraction conditions were established and applied to cereal-based foods (n = 90). The optimal conditions were developed by utilizing fragment ions and precursors, following the guidelines established by the Association of Official Agricultural Chemists (AOAC). The developed method demonstrated high accuracy and reliability within 20 min, even for samples with low concentrations. Consequently, the recovery range of the fat-oil-processed products and cereal sirup improved from 27.0% to 98.3% and 27.6% to 97.8%, respectively. This improved extraction method offers a more convenient and rapid approach for the analysis of various matrices. Furthermore, these optimized methods can be extended to monitor the co-occurrence of mycotoxins in cereal-based foods, providing valuable assistance to the food industry and regulatory agencies for detecting and monitoring mycotoxins that may pose potential health risks.

Nutritional Composition and Odor-Contributing Volatile Compounds of the Edible Mushroom Cantharellus alborufescens.

Chanterelles are one of the most highly valued wild edible mushroom genera worldwide. This work aimed to investigate the nutritional characteristics and volatile compounds' profile of Cantharellus alborufescens for the first time. Proximate analysis was performed according to the Association of Official Agricultural Chemists, while the mineral contents and the volatile compounds were determined using ICP-MS and GC-MS, respectively. C. alborufescens had an average of 25.8% protein, 5.5% fat, 12.7% ash, and 55.9% carbohydrates, including 11.4% fiber per dw of mushroom. Further analyses of the fat and protein contents revealed high amounts of polyunsaturated fatty acids as well as monosodium glutamate-like amino acids. Linoleic acid (42.0% of fat) and oleic acid (28.6% of fat) were the major fatty acids, while leucine (1.2%) and lysine (0.9%) were the most abundant essential amino acids. The results showed that C. alborufescens contained 3.1 µg/g vitamin D2 and 4.9 mg/g vitamin E per dw, as well as notable quantities of macro- and microelements, such as potassium, calcium, magnesium, and iron. GC-MS analysis revealed various volatile compounds such as acetaldehyde, n-hexanal, 3-methylbutanal, 1-octen-3-ol, etc. In conclusion, this study supports the use of C. alborufescens as a food rich in fiber and vitamin E, with a suitable amount of protein and other nutrients.

Spatial distribution of heavy metals in groundwater around automobile workshops in a popular Niger-Delta University town, Nigeria

The research was carried out to assess the concentration and distribution of heavy metals in groundwater from selected automobile workshops in Ozoro metropolis, a busy university town, in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria. The major activities carried out in the sampled automobile workshops include vehicle maintenance, painting, panel beating and fabrication. Nine (9) groundwater samples from the automobile workshops and one control sample 2 km away from the influence area were analyzed. Heavy metal concentration, contamination factor, and pollution loading indices were investigated using geostatistical modeling and statistical analysis tools. Heavy metal concentrations in the various samples were determined in accordance with the Association of Official Agricultural Chemists (AOAC) International guidelines. Findings obtained from the study revealed that the groundwater was affected by leachates from the automobile workshops, as the heavy metal levels in the groundwater from the sampling sites were considerably higher than the reference point. The concentration ranges (mg/L) of the heavy metals were Cd (0.0217–0.0412), Cr (0.0643–0.0901), Cu (0.0599–0.0803), Fe (0.3118–0.4171), and Pb (0.1423–0.1781). The spatial distribution maps showed that the metals spread unevenly across the study area. The pollution indices revealed that groundwater from the sampling sites is moderately polluted with heavy metals and the trend of the pollution load index (PLI) is Cd > Ni > Cu > Mn > Pb > Zn > Fe. Comparing the results with those of international regulatory bodies, the groundwater from the study area was found to still be within the approved range for potable water. However, there is evidence of slight contamination due to the activities of the automobile workshops. This may call for minor treatment before usage, regular monitoring and ensuring that the artisans comply with relevant regulations in their operations.

Oxidative and Frying Stabilities of Monodora myristica (Gaertn.) Du-nal Seed Oil of Nigerian Origin

Background: The demand for vegetable oils is on the increase. Deep frying is the commonest method by which vegetable oils are consumed. The aim of this study was to extract oil from an underutilized oil seed and compare its physicochemical properties, frying, and oxidative stability with those of commercial refined palm oil.
 Methods: Oil was extracted from Monodora myristica seeds using a soxhlet fat extractor and the percentage oil yield was determined. The physicochemical, oxidative, and frying stabilities of the extracted M. myristica Seed Oil (MMSO) were evaluated based on the standard procedure of the Association of Official Agricultural Chemists and official methods and recommended practices of the American Oil Chemists Society and compared with those of commercial refined palm oil- Kings Vegetable Oil (KVO). Data were statistically analyzed using SPSS version 20.
 Results: The oil yield of M. myristica seed was 37.64%. The refractive index, specific gravity, moisture content (%), and peroxide value (mEq/kg) were respectively 1.470, 1.468, 0.923, and 0.917 for MMSO; and 0.220, 0.253, 1.05, and 3.50 for KVO. MMSO had better oxidative stability and showed 80% lesser peroxide formation than KVO. The frying stability of MMSO was better as it showed a lower increase in FFA (28.4%) and peroxide value (9.54 mEq/kg) than KVO (45.99% and 26.19 mEq/kg, respectively) after frying.
 Conclusion: Deteriorative effect of oxidation and polymerization was lower in MMSO than in KVO indicating MMSO to be superior frying oil suitable for repeated frying.

Rapid Quantitative Analysis of Metabolites in Kimchi Using LC-Q-Orbitrap MS.

Kimchi is a traditional Korean salted spontaneous lactic acid bacteria (LAB)-fermented food made using various vegetables. Organic acids, free sugars, and amino acids are key metabolites produced during LAB fermentation that determine the taste and quality of kimchi. However, each metabolite is typically analyzed using an independent analytical method, which is time-consuming and expensive. Therefore, in this study, we developed a method based on LC-Q-Orbitrap MS using which 20 types of representative fermented kimchi metabolites were selected and simultaneously analyzed within 10 min. The established method was validated, and its detection and quantification limits, linearity, precision, and accuracy were found to satisfy the Association of Official Agricultural Chemists (AOAC) validation guidelines. The 20 metabolites were simultaneously extracted from kimchi with different degrees of fermentation and quantitatively analyzed using LC-Q-Orbitrap MS. These results were analyzed using linear discriminant analysis and heat mapping, and the metabolites were grouped into early, middle, and late stages of fermentation. Malic acid (6.518-7.701 mMol) was only present in the initial stage of fermentation, and l-phenylalanine rapidly increased from the middle stage (2.180 mMol) to late stage (4.770 mMol). Lactic acid, which is representative of the sour taste of kimchi, was detected in the middle stage and increased rapidly up to 74.452 mMol in the late stage. In summary, in this study, 20 major kimchi metabolites were accurately analyzed within 10 min and grouped based on the degree of fermentation. Therefore, the method established in this study accurately and rapidly provides information on kimchi consumption and fermentation that could be highly valuable to the kimchi industry and kimchi consumers.

Nutritional profiling of some selected commercially important freshwater and marine water fishes of Bangladesh

The purpose of the study was to investigate the proximate composition and mineral content of Bangladesh's economically important freshwater and marine water fish. Proximate composition and mineral content was determined according to the Association of Official Agricultural Chemists (AOAC) standard method. All of the factors had a substantial variation (p < 0.05), according to the findings. The maximum protein content was observed in Lates calcarifer (18.673%) and minimum in Pangasius pangasius (15.616%). The content of lipid among the species varied from 0.316% to 13.396%, with Mugil cephalus having the highest lipid content and Channa striata having the lowest. The moisture content ranges from 68.343% to 81.160%. All the fishes have an average ash content of 0.850%–4.350%. The energy content is also significantly higher in marine water fishes. The mineral content was highly variable. Calcium content was lowest in Pangasius pangasius (0.555%) and highest in Setipinna phasa (3.495%). The magnesium content ranged between 0.281% and 1.885%. Phosphorus was lowest in Lepturacanthus savala (0.826%) and highest in Setipinna phasa (2.114%). The amount of sodium, potassium, and sulfur was relatively less for all fish species but there were substantial differences across the twelve samples. The PCA biplot's for proximate composition analyses has demonstrated positive affinity only between Lates calcarifer and Mugil cephalus in case of ash, lipid, and carbohydrate whereas Setipina phasa, Mugil cephalus, Lutjanus lutjanus, and Oreochromis mossambicus were grouped together with magnesium, phosphorus, calcium, and sulfur in the case of mineral content. Overall, the marine water fishes can be a good food item in terms of nutrition which could provide better health benefits for human.

VALIDATION OF LC-MS/MS METHOD FOR DETERMINATION OF CYPROHEPTADINE IN DIETARY SUPPLEMENTS

Aims: A rapid and sensitive liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometric (LC-MS/MS) method was validated for determination of prohibited cyproheptadine hydrochloride (CP) in dietary supplements.&#x0D; Methods: CP was extracted by sonication in methanol for 30 min. The chromatography separation of CP took place on C18 column (100 mm x 2.1 mm, 1.8 µm) with gradient mobile phase of both of acetonitrile and water containing 0.1% formic acid. Multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) in the positive mode was used to quantify and confirm CP at m/z 288.2/191.1 and 288.1/96.0, respectively.&#x0D; Results: The method was validated according to the AOAC requirements. The linearity ranges were found from 0.1 to 50 ng. mL-1 of CP (R2 = 1). The limit of detection and limit of quantification were 1.5 ng/g or ng/mL and 5 ng/g or ng/mL, respectively. The accuracy was within the range from 92 to 99%, with the relative standard deviation (RSD%) of 2.0-5.9%.&#x0D; Conclusion: The validated parameters have met the requirement of Association of Official Agricultural Chemists (AOAC). This reliable method would be useful for the monitoring of cyproheptadine in dietary supplements.

The role of soaking, steaming, and dehulling on the nutritional quality of Bambara groundnuts (Vigna subterranea (L) Verdc.)

Bambara groundnut (Vigna subterranea (L) Verdc.) is a leguminous plant that is widely cultivated in West Africa for its nutritious seeds. However, the hard-to-cook phenomenon of this legume affects its patronage by consumers. The quality and bioavailability of nutrients are affected by processing techniques during cooking. This study evaluated the effects of processing techniques on the nutritional quality of two Bambara groundnut varieties (namely, Simbi-bile and Sinkpili-zee). For this, each variety was subjected to four processing techniques, namely, (i) dehulled and soaked in water, (ii) dehulled and soaked in 1% NaHCO3 + 1% NaCl, (iii) dehulled and steamed, and (iv) Control. After sample processing, the Association of Official Agricultural Chemists (AOAC) standard protocols were used for chemical analysis. The results on proximate composition, anti-nutritional factors, and seed minerals composition showed significant variations among treatments. The main effects of variety and processing technique markedly influenced the parameters measured. Soaked Bambara groundnut with NaHCO3 reduced anti-nutritional factors. Steamed treatments yielded highest amount of protein (25.87%) while dehulled treated Bambara groundnut produced the highest amount of carbohydrate (42.77%). Calcium, potassium, and iron showed significant reduction (p ≤ 0.05) when dehulled. Additional sodium in processing Bambara increased mineral content of the crop. Anti-nutritional factor levels were also reduced significantly in simbi-bile when soaked. Proximate components (crude protein, crude fat, crude fiber, carbohydrate, and water) had significant changes in their compositions across all the processing techniques. From the correlation analysis, oxalate and phytate have some levels of effect in all varieties on every nutritional or mineral component. Total ash correlated negatively with crude fat and positively with phytate and oxalate. Dehulled and control did not reduce the anti-nutritional factors compared to NaHCO3 + NaCl. From the results, soaking of Bambara groundnuts in 1% NaHCO3 + 1% NaCl prior to cooking was effective in improving nutritional quality while overcoming the hard-to-cook phenomenon. The findings highlight the need to adopt correct processing techniques that conserve the nutritional benefits of these edible seeds. Soaking Bambara groundnut in NaHCO3 + NaCl as a processing technique increases mineral content while reducing anti-nutritional factors, and hence should be adapted.

Development of a new food composition table: An updated tool for estimating nutrient intake in Bangladeshi population

Valid and reliable food composition data have a crucial role in all nutrition-related activities in a country. However, existing food composition tables in Bangladesh date back to 1970s and are outdated in terms of data quality. Consequently, it was imperative to revise the food composition table for Bangladesh (FCTB). This paper describes the generation of an updated food composition database (FCDB) for Bangladesh following international standards. Primary analytical values from 74 foods (including 54 prioritized key foods (KFs)) were generated through component-specific Association of Official Agricultural Chemists (AOAC) or other internationally accredited methods. Secondary compositional values (analytical, estimated, borrowed, or calculated) were assembled and compiled in accordance with the International Network of Food Data Systems (INFOODS) guidelines and standards. The FCDB now contains updated and well-structured reliable values for 447 foods and 89 components that will have important usages for all stakeholders in the country and elsewhere.

Determination of 250 pesticide residues in the Iranian vegetables assessed during 2019–2020 using the modified QuEChERS method along with gas chromatography - mass spectrometry

In this study, association of official agricultural chemists(AOAC) international (2007) QuEChERS (quick, easy, cheap, effective, rugged,and safe) method was developed with slight changes under the term of the modified QuEChERS method and was used along with gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) for determination of 250 selected multiclass pesticides in vegetables (in total of 1436 samples) during 2019 - 2020 in iran. The principles of this method are similar to the conventional QuEChERS method and involve extraction of acetonitrile, followed by the dispersed solid-phase extraction (SPE) purification with a combination of primary-secondary amine (PSA) adsorbent and MgSO4 but with slight changes in steps of sample preparation and volume of organic solvent and amount of adsorbent. For performance evaluation, validation method was carried out. After applying changes and experiments, recovery yields ranged from 77.1 to 113.2%, with repeatabilities of 4.4–19.2%. The limits of detection (LODs) were between 0.0016 - 0.044 for target analytes in extract of vegetable samples. The expanded measurement uncertainty was not higher than 30% for all target analytes. The method was successfully applied for analysis of 1,436 vegetable samples obtained from local markets and vegetable traders. There were no residues in 69.76% of samples. A portion (25.49%) of the samples contained pesticide residues less than or equal to the maximum residue limits (MRLs), and 4.94% of samples contained pesticide residues greater than their MRLs. Our findings provided useful information on the current contamination status of a key agricultural area in iran from 2019 to 2020 and highlighted the need for regular monitoring of pesticide residues in a greater number of vegetable samples for longer periods.

Chemical Composition, Phytochemical Constituent, and Toxicity of Methanol Extract of Brown Algae (Padina sp.) from Puntondo Coast, Takalar (Indonesia)

Background: Padina sp. is an algae that has potential as a functional food. This study aimed to explore the chemical and photochemical constituent in the methanolic exract of Padina sp.&#x0D; Methods: Brown algae of Padina sp. from Puntondo coast, Takalar, Indonesia was prepared. The algae characterization was carried out based on the standard procedure of Association of Official Agricultural Chemists (AOAC). Toxicity of Padina sp. was. determined with Brine Shrimp Lethality Test (BSLT).&#x0D; Results: Chemical contents were 13.46% water, 38.02% ash, 12.33% protein, 1.60% fat, 20.02% fiber, and 48.06% carbohydrate. The FTIR spectrum displayed the presence of hydroxyl, carboxylic acids, aldehydes, aliphatic hydrocarbons, fatty acids, and unsaturated hydrocarbons. Padina sp. extract consisted of phytol compound which had 70-96% similarity with steroids, fatty acids, carboxylic acids, terpenoid, and proteins. The result of toxicity was 6344.54 ppm indicating not toxic.&#x0D; Conclusion: Padina sp. can be used as a raw material source for functional food and pharmaceutical industry.

Morphological characteristics and nutritional value of binthe kiki, a local maize variety from Gorontalo, Indonesia

Abstract. Ahmad J, Kandowangko NY, Solang M, Najamuddin E. 2021. Morphological characteristics and nutritional value of binthe kiki, a local maize variety from Gorontalo, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 22: 3523-3529. Gorontalo is among the coastal areas in Tomini bay with diverse varieties of local maize. Despite that, the population of local maize has seen a steady decline over the years. A literature study reports that local maize has adapted well to the environment in which it grows. Local maize is also hailed by the community as a source of food, animal feed, and the main ingredient of traditional medicines. The present study aims to investigate the morphological characteristics and nutritional value of binthe kiki local maize variety. Employing a quantitative descriptive method, the data of morphological characteristics were collected by referring to the maize descriptor guidelines, while the data of the nutritional value of maize kernels (regarding the proximate and mineral contents) were analyzed by referring to the Indonesian National Standard and Association of Official Agricultural Chemists (AOAC) standards. The findings show that the morphological characteristics of binthe kiki variety are as follows: (i) an average plant height of 161 cm; (ii) each stalk has three cobs with an average height of 119 cm; (iii) an average stalk circumference of 6.35 cm; (iv) an average of 12 leaves per stalk; (v) 71.12 cm of an average length of leaves; (vi) 5.21 cm of an average width of leaves; (vii) the direction of the leaf blade, on average, is slightly curved; (viii) the average leaf tip is pointed; (ix) an average cob length of 8.4 cm; (x) an average cob diameter of 2.74 cm; (xi) an average cob weight (without husk) of 0.054 kg/cob; (xii) an average of 24 kernels per row; (xiii) an average weight per 1000 kernels of 145 gram. Binthe kiki variety has high contents of protein, carbohydrate, zinc, and calcium, yet it is low in fat contents compared to other varieties.

Steroidal saponins of Trillium govanianum: Quality control, pharmacokinetic analysis, and anti-inflammatory activity

The rhizomes of Trillium govanianum have traditionally been used in the Ayurvedic system of medicine to treat inflammation, pain, burn, and reproductive malfunctions. However, the ethanopharmacology and chemical constituents of T. govanianum have not been effusively explored to date. The present study attempted to uncover the phytochemical constituents and quality parameters of T. govanianum rhizomes, along with an evaluation of the anti-inflammatory potential of the extract, fractions, and isolated steroidal saponins. The quality of T. govanianum rhizomes was examined by standard guidelines of the Association of Official Agricultural Chemists (AOAC). The phytochemical composition of rhizomes was estimated by the spectroscopic method. The extract, fractions, and pure molecules were tested for their anti-inflammatory potential using lipopolysaccharide-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages. Besides that, computational pharmacokinetics properties of bioactive compounds were screened by using the Schrödinger software. The quality control parameters such as moisture content, ash value, pH, heavy metals, alpha toxins, residual pesticides, and microbial load were observed within the permitted limits as per AOAC guidelines, suggesting good quality and safe nature of T. govanianum rhizomes. Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of steroidal saponins (78.3 ± 0.61 mg/g), phenolics (12.3 ± 2.76 mg/g), flavonoids (3.54 ± 0.24 mg/g), and carbohydrates (473 ± 2.27 mg/g) in the rhizomes. Macrophages cytocompatibility demonstrated that cell viability was not affected at any tested concentration of extract, fractions and pure compounds [diosgenin ( 1 ), borassoside D ( 2 ), and govanoside B ( 7 )]. The LPS-stimulated macrophages secreted nitric oxide (NO) and pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF α , IL-1 β, and IL-6), which were inhibited by the extract, fractions, and compounds 1 , 2 , and 7 in a concentration-independent manner. Additionally, in silico pharmacokinetics revealed that compound 1 has good membrane-permeability followed by compound 2 , while compound 7 showed the non-membrane permeability. This study validates the traditional uses of rhizomes of T. govanianum in the treatment of inflammation, and this activity might be due to the presence of steroidal saponins . • Assessment of different quality control parameters of Trillium govanianum and all were observed within the permitted limits as per AOAC guidelines. • Phytochemical analysis revealed saponins (78.3 ± 0.61 mg/g), as the major constituents of this plant. • Anti-inflammatory and in silico pharmacokinetics activity evaluation of the extract, fractions, and three pure steroidal saponins of T. govanianum using lipopolysaccharide-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages. • Pure molecules effectively inhibit the production of cytokines (TNF- α , IL1 β , and IL-6) as compared with extract and fractions.

Quantitation of lupeol from stem bark extract of Betula alnoides Buch.-Ham. ex D.Don by two validated RP-HPLC and TLC-densitometric methods

To control the quality of Betula alnoides stem bark (BAS), lupeol, which is a promising compound found in BAS, has been determined by reverse phase high performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) and thin-layer chromatography (TLC)-densitometry. These methods were developed and validated according to the International Council for Harmonization (ICH) and the Association of Official Agricultural Chemists (AOAC) guidelines. RP-HPLC was achieved within 10 min using C8 column under an isocratic elution of acetonitrile at a flow rate of 1.0 mL/min. Lupeol was detected at a UV wavelength of 200 nm. TLC-densitometry performed on TLC silica gel plates was developed by chloroform at 10 cm of distance. Lupeol was detected under visible wavelength at 525 nm after anisaldehyde-sulfuric acid derivatization. Both developed methods exhibited good linearity, specificity, limits of detection and quantitation, accuracy and precision, and robustness. The validated methods were effectively applied to determine lupeol content in BAS collected from three different locations. The amount of lupeol was found to be about 50–100 µg/g of dried powder. The results revealed no statistically significant differences between the two methods. These findings revealed the validated RP-HPLC and TLC-densitometry that were easily applied for routine quality control of BAS for the first time.

Thermal and functional properties of starch extracted from tubers cultivated in the Ecuadorian Andean region

Thermal and functional properties of starch extracted from American taro and Indian shot were determined to assess their use in food products. Starch was extracted by the wet-milling method. Physicochemical composition was determined following the Association of Official Agricultural Chemists (AOAC) protocols. Total fibre was measured by the Total Dietary Fiber Assay Kit. The morphology of starch granules was observed by scanning electronic microscopy (SEM). Gelatinization temperature and viscosity were measured by Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) and with a rapid viscosity analyser (RVA), respectively. Swelling capacity, solubility index, and absorption index were measured at 15, 60, 70, 80, and 90 °C. The yield for Indian shot (72.5 %) was higher of that for taro (60.2 %). No significant differences (p &gt; 0.05) were found for moisture, ashes, total fibres, and protein; significant differences were found for fat content, total carbohydrates, amylose, and amylopectin. Granules of Indian shot starch featured ovoid shapes (diameter, 30 µm), while granules of American taro starch presented round shapes (diameter, 15 µm. Gelatinization temperature for American taro (78.33 °C) was higher of that for Indian shot (65.28 °C). Maximum viscosity in Indian shot (3,535.5 cP) was higher of that in American taro (2,446.5 cP). Concerning functional properties, Indian shot starch yielded higher values. Moreover, at high temperature values, American taro starch presented better gelling results than those in Indian shot.

Evaluation of Quality Parameters of Food Barley (Hordeum Vulgare L.) Varieties as Affected by Blended NPSB Fertilizer Rates in Central Highlands of Ethiopia

Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) is the most health benefits among cereal crops which were grown mostly in central highlands of Ethiopia. The three food barley varieties (EH1493, HB1966 and HB-1307) which were released by Holeta Agricultural Research Center (HARC) had experience on barley breeding program (his center of excellence) was evaluated for their grain flour quality content and proximate analysis with respective to five blended NPSB fertilizer rates (0, 100,150, 200 &amp; 250 kg NPSB ha -1 ) and one Recommended NP (60 kg N and 69 kg P 2 O 5 ha -1 ) fertilizer rates. To evaluate their proximate analysis and grain flour quality contents of the food barley varieties were determined by using suitable Standard Official procedures. Proximate analysis was determined according to Association of Official Agricultural Chemists (AOAC) method and TKW, MC, HLW, GS, GE, PC, FC, AC, CHO, SC, FC, and BG contents of food barley flour was analyzed. All quality and proximate analysis result means were statistically significant and in the range of acceptable recommendation according to FAO and other nutritional sources. The quality parameters analysis showed that EH1493 variety has an average moisture content (11.78%), Hectoliter weight (66.26%), and friability (68.43%), while grain size (80.46%) and Bet-glucan (861.81mgL -1 ) were higher with HB1966 variety. Moreover, 200kg NPSB ha -1 gave the maximum protein (10.31%), fat (2.51%), and ash (2.64%), while the highest total carbohydrate (82.88%) content obtained on 250kg NPSB ha -1 .The economic analysis revealed that the highest net benefit (69558.42 birr ha -1 ) with marginal rate of return of 1475.41% was recorded from the application of 200kg NPSB ha -1 with EH1493 variety. Therefore, application of 200 kg NPSB ha -1 with EH1493 variety is recommended to be used by farmers around Walmera district. Keywords: Food barley, NPSB fertilizers, proximate analysis, grain quality content DOI: 10.7176/FSQM/104-01 Publication date: January 31 st 2021

An Analytical and Economical Assessment of the Waste Cooking Oil based Biodiesel using Optimized Conditions on the Process Variables

ABSTRACT In the view of fossil fuel degradation and environmental aspects, biofuels always remain focused in the research field. In the present research work, the investigation was done on waste cooking oil because of its sustainability, low cost, and waste management. Here, the transesterification process of the waste cooking oil was optimized according to the central composite design of response surface methodology concerning the reaction temperature, catalyst amount, reaction time, and molar ratio (methanol to oil) at five levels. In the Analysis of Variance model, the R2 value is found to be 83% which shows the model is significant and adequate. The 92% maximum methyl ester yield was obtained at the reaction temperature 60°C, catalyst amount 0.75 weight %, time 80 min, and methanol to oil molar ratio 5:1. Also, the economic assessment showed the net cost of waste cooking oil-based biodiesel estimated 32.99 INR per liter. The result could serve as an essential data for upscaling and/or the future investigations in the usefulness of the waste cooking oil as a source of biodiesel. The biodiesel characteristics such as acid value, free fatty acid, kinematic viscosity, saponification value, calorific value, flash point, and cloud point were determined. Abbreviations: WCO: Waste cooking oil; FFA: Free fatty acid; FAME: Fatty acid methyl esters; wt%: Weight percentage; rpm: Revolutions per minute; g: gram; min: Minutes; RSM: Response surface methodology; CPME: Ceiba pentandra methyl ester; CCD: Central composite design; vol: Volume; mg: milligram; mm: millimeter; Expt: Experimental; ASTM: American Society for Testing and Materials; AOAC: Association of Official Agricultural Chemists; GC: Gas chromatography; ROI: Return on investment; ROA: Return on assets; INR: Indian rupee

The Effect of Compositional Changes Due to Seasonal Variation on Milk Density and the Determination of Season-Based Density Conversion Factors for Use in the Dairy Industry.

The objective of this study was to determine the effect of seasonal variation on milk composition and establish an algorithm to predict density based on milk composition to enable the calculation of season-based density conversion calculations. A total of 1035 raw whole milk samples were collected from morning and evening milking of 60 spring-calving individual cows of different genetic groups, namely Jersey, Elite HF (Holstein–Friesian) and National Average HF, once every two weeks for a period of 9 months (March–November, 2018). The average mean and standard deviation for milk compositional traits were 4.72 ± 1.30% fat, 3.85 ± 0.61% protein and 4.69 ± 0.30% lactose and density was estimated at 1.0308 ± 0.002 g/cm3. The density of the milk samples was evaluated using three methods: a portable density meter, DMA 35; a standard desktop version, DMA 4500M; and an Association of Official Agricultural Chemists (AOAC) method using 100-mL glass pycnometers. Statistical analysis using a linear mixed model showed a significant difference in density of milk samples (p < 0.05) across seasonal and compositional variations adjusted for the effects of days in milk, parity, the feeding treatment, the genetic group and the measurement technique. The mean density values and standard error of mean estimated for milk samples in each season, i.e., spring, summer and autumn were 1.0304 ± 0.00008 g/cm3, 1.0314 ± 0.00005 g/cm3 and 1.0309 ± 0.00007 g/cm3, respectively.

Folate Content and Chemical Composition of Commercially Available Gluten-Free Flour Alternatives.

Concerns about the nutritional and sensory qualities of gluten-free (GF) products has generated interest in the evaluation of novel gluten-free ingredients. Folate content is of particular interest due to limited sources of enriched folic acid in a GF diet as well as lack of nutrient composition data in novel flours. The aim of this study was to determine the total folate content and chemical composition of GF flours commercially available in Canada. A tri-enzyme method was used to extract folate from the flour samples, and a microbiological assay was used to measure the total folate contents. The chemical compositions of the GF flours were determined according to standard Association of Official Agricultural Chemists (AOAC) International methods. Compared to all-purpose flour, 265 ± 6.9μg/100 (dry-weight basis), chickpea flour registered the highest folate content 451 ± 10.8μg/100 (dry-weight basis) followed by quinoa flour, 174 ± 12.4μg/ 100g folate (dry-weight basis). Fonio, had a total starch content of ~77% but was not a source of folate. Flaxseed, chickpea, chia and coconut flours had the highest reported protein contents (mean value: 21.3 ± 1.3%) whereas flaxseed (~42%), and chia (~35%), had the highest lipid content. These findings may inform the selection of gluten-replacement flours with acceptable nutritional properties.