Brazilian Diet Research Articles

Does foliar fertilization with zinc enhance physiological pro-cesses and biofortify grains in bean cultivars?

Beans are one of the staple grains of the Brazilian diet and are strategic in combating malnutrition, since their grains are rich in iron. However, zinc (Zn) is another relevant micronutrient in issues related to malnutrition, but little is known about it in bean grains. Thus, the objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of foliar fertilization with Zn on physiological and productive processes and grain biofortification in bean cultivars. The experiment was conducted in randomized blocks, in a 10x2 factorial scheme, with 10 bean cultivars (BRS FP403; BRS Campeiro; BRS Esplendor; BRS Esteio; BRS FC310; BRS FC402; BRS FC415; BRS FC409; BRS Estilo and BRS Pérola) fertilized via foliar or not with Zn, with four replicates. The yield components of beans, chlorophyll fluorescence, chlorophylls a, b and total, carotenoids and pigments in leaves and Zn content in leaves and grains were evaluated. The evaluated characteristics showed significant differences by the multivariate tests of Wilks' Lambda, Pillai's Trait, Hotelling-Lawley's Trait and Roy's Maximum Root. Foliar fertilization with zinc enhanced physiological processes and biofortified grains in bean cultivars, especially in the materials BRS FC409, BRS FC310, BRS FC402 and BRS Pérola.

Major types of diets in the management of metabolic syndrome and obesity: a systematic review

Introduction: Excessive weight gain generates comorbidities, many of which are characterized as metabolic syndrome (MS), in which the individual, to be diagnosed, must present three or more metabolic or anthropometric changes such as increased waist circumference, systemic arterial hypertension, hyperglycemia, hypertriglyceridemia, and reduced serum HDL levels. It is important to highlight the association of MS with cardiovascular diseases, increasing global mortality by approximately 1.5 times and cardiovascular mortality by approximately 2.5 times. In this sense, of the different types of diets such as the low-carb diet, very low-carb diet, and intermittent fasting diet, the traditional Brazilian diet, the DASH, and the Mediterranean diet stand out, as they present as the main therapeutic proposal in the treatment of MS. Objective: It was to carry out a systematic review to present the main types of diets in the management of metabolic syndrome, evaluating their effectiveness as a nutritional benefit in controlling health and quality of life. Methods: The PRISMA Platform systematic review rules were followed. The search was carried out from April to June 2024 in the Web of Science, Scopus, PubMed, Science Direct, Scielo, and Google Scholar databases. The quality of the studies was based on the GRADE and AMSTAR-2 instrument and the risk of bias was analyzed appropriately. according to the Cochrane instrument. Results and Conclusion: 111 articles were found, and 30 were evaluated in full and included in this article, 21 of which were included in the systematic review. Considering the Cochrane tool for risk of bias, the global assessment resulted in 12 studies with a high risk of bias and 21 studies that did not reach GRADE and AMSTAR-2. Most studies showed homogeneity in their results, with X2=79.8%>50%. It was concluded that the traditional Brazilian diet, DASH, and the Mediterranean diet have in common the characteristics of plant-based diet varieties that incorporate natural foods and reduce ultra-processed foods. These diets have shown good results for human health through the prevention and treatment of obesity in its different life cycles, and there is also evidence of a reduction in the risk of cardiovascular diseases and cancer in individuals with obesity. Furthermore, these diets promote a decrease in low-grade inflammation that affects individuals with obesity, having beneficial effects in reducing metabolic syndrome, even more so when added to physical activities. It has been shown that dietary factors can play a fundamental role both in the individual components and in the prevention and control of metabolic syndrome. Recent data associate the presence of metabolic syndrome with lower consumption of whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.

Differences in the cost and environmental impact between the current diet in Brazil and healthy and sustainable diets: a modeling study

BackgroundWhile healthy and sustainable diets benefit human and planetary health, their monetary cost has a direct impact on consumer food choices. This study aimed to identify the cost and environmental impact of the current Brazilian diet (CBD) and compare it with healthy and sustainable diets.MethodsData from the Brazilian Household Budget Survey 2017/18 and the Footprints of Foods and Culinary Preparations Consumed in Brazil database were used for a modeling study comparing the cost of healthy and sustainable diets (based on the Brazilian Dietary Guidelines (BDG) diet and the EAT-Lancet diet) versus the CBD. The DIETCOST program generated multiple food baskets for each scenario (Montecarlo simulations). Nutritional quality, cost, and environmental impact measures (carbon footprint (CF) and water footprint (WF)) were estimated for all diets and compared by ANOVA. Simple linear regressions used standardized environmental impacts measures to estimate differentials in costs and environmental impacts among diets scenarios.ResultsWe observed significant differences in costs/1000 kcal. The BDG diet was cheaper (BRL$4.9 (95%IC:4.8;4.9) ≈ USD$1.5) than the CBD (BRL$5.6 (95%IC:5.6;5.7) ≈ USD$1.8) and the EAT-Lancet diet (BRL$6.1 (95%IC:6.0;6.1) ≈ USD$1.9). Ultra-processed foods (UPF) and red meat contributed the most to the CBD cost/1000 kcal, while fruits and vegetables made the lowest contribution to CBD. Red meat, sugary drinks, and UPF were the main contributors to the environmental impacts of the CBD. The environmental impact/1000 kcal of the CBD was nearly double (CF:3.1 kg(95%IC: 3.0;3.1); WF:2,705 L 95%IC:2,671;2,739)) the cost of the BDG diet (CF:1.4 kg (95%IC:1.4;1.4); WF:1,542 L (95%IC:1,524;1,561)) and EAT-Lancet diet (CF:1.1 kg (95%IC:1.0;1.1); WF:1,448 L (95%IC:1,428;1,469)). A one standard deviation increase in standardized CF corresponded to an increase of BRL$0.48 in the cost of the CBD, similar to standardized WF (BRL$0.56). A similar relationship between the environmental impact and the cost of the BDG (CF: BRL$0.20; WF: BRL$0.33) and EAT-Lancet (CF: BRL$0.04; WF: BRL$0.18) was found, but with a less pronounced effect.ConclusionsThe BDG diet was cost-effective, while the EAT-Lancet diet was slightly pricier than the CBD. The CBD presented almost double the CF and WF compared to the BDG and EAT-Lancet diets. The lower cost in each diet was associated with lower environmental impact, particularly for the BDG and EAT-Lancet diets. Multisectoral public policies must be applied to guide individuals and societies towards healthier and more sustainable eating patterns.

Impact of Food Processing Techniques on Nutritional Content in Brazil

Purpose: The aim of the study was to analyze the impact of food processing techniques on nutritional content in Brazil. Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries. Findings: In Brazil, studies show that food processing techniques affect nutritional content, with traditional methods like fermentation enhancing nutrient bioavailability, while modern methods like high-temperature cooking reduce vitamins and minerals. This impact raises concerns about the nutritional quality of the Brazilian diet, prompting a shift towards techniques that preserve nutritional value. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Maillard reaction theory, enzyme inactivation theory & degradation and retention theory may be used to anchor future studies on analyze the impact of food processing techniques on nutritional content in Brazil. Food manufacturers should strive to optimize processing techniques to minimize nutrient losses while achieving other objectives such as safety, taste, and texture. Policymakers should collaborate with industry stakeholders to develop evidence-based guidelines and standards for food processing.

The role of edible mushrooms in the Brazilian diet: a comprehensive analysis

Purpose This study aims to examine the role of edible mushrooms in the Brazilian diet, considering their strategic significance in meeting nutritional goals within sustainable development. Despite their potential in the nutrition of the Brazilian population, significant knowledge gaps still exist. To address this, the authors formulated this study into five main sections: the consumption of edible mushrooms in Brazil, the factors influencing the consumption, the occurrence of edible mushrooms in Brazil, the nutritional contribution of mushrooms consumed in Brazil and sustainable mushroom production in Brazil. Design/methodology/approach The authors compiled current literature to develop this viewpoint paper using systematic review, systematic search and narrative review search methods. Findings Mushrooms are sporadically consumed in Brazil, primarily by the urban population, with challenges in estimating the most used species. Social, economic and cultural factors, health considerations and reduced meat consumption influence mushroom consumption behavior. While Pleurotus ostreatus, Lentinula edodes and Agaricus bisporus are primary species, ethnomycological studies highlight a more diverse consumption among traditional indigenous communities. Brazil hosts approximately 133 wild mushroom species safe for human consumption. Some can be sustainably cultivated using substrates derived from agricultural and urban waste, offering high-protein, high-fiber, low-fat foods with bioactive compounds holding antioxidant and prebiotic potential. Originality/value To the best of the authors’ knowledge, no previous study has investigated how edible mushrooms contribute to the food and nutrition of the Brazilian population. This study emphasizes the crucial role of edible mushrooms in preserving Brazil’s cultural heritage, contributing to food and nutritional security and enhancing the overall diet quality.

A recipe for change: Analyzing the climate and ecosystem impacts of the Brazilian diet shift

Diet shift is an opportunity to mitigate the impacts of food systems, which are responsible for about a third of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions globally and exert various environmental pressures on ecosystems. This study evaluates the mitigation potential of both global and local environmental impacts through dietary changes within the Brazilian context. Furthermore, the study aims to identify the potential benefits and trade-offs that may arise from these dietary transitions, thus providing a comprehensive analysis of the overall environmental implications. To this end, a life cycle assessment (LCA) was performed to evaluate the environmental impacts of a conventional diet in Brazil and seven alternatives, namely adjusted-EAT-Lancet, pescatarian, vegetarian, entomophagic (insect-based food), mycoprotein (microbial-based food), and synthetic (cell-based food) diets. Results indicate a substantial mitigation potential for GHG emissions (4-9 kg CO2e/cap/day) (39 % to 86 %) and land use (4-9 m2/cap/day) (38 % to 82 %) through a diet shift from a conventional diet to any of the seven alternative diets. However, certain trade-offs exist. A diet shift demonstrates no mitigation potential of soil acidification, and opportunities to reduce water eutrophication (0.02-0.2 g Pe/cap/day) (2 % to 24 %) and water consumption (0.2-0.5 m3/cap/day) (7 % to 14 %) were only found by completely substituting animal products for insect-based food, microbial-based food, and cell-based food. This study highlights the considerable potential of dietary changes to mitigate global environmental impacts associated with food systems. By revealing opportunities and challenges, this study supports science-based decision-making and guides efforts toward sustainable and environmentally friendly food consumption patterns.

Technological quality of common bean landraces from organic cropping system

Beans are an important constituent of the Brazilian diet, and the search for cultivars with good culinary characteristics and adapted to the place of cultivation is necessary. It is known that there is a wide genetic diversity for common bean landrace cultivars. Still, little is known experimentally about the behavior of these cultivars when produced under organic cultivation. This work aimed to evaluate the technological quality of common bean landraces produced under organic cropping system. Twenty-six cultivars were used, four commercial and twenty-two landraces, originating from the Active Bean Germplasm Bank (BAF) of Santa Catarina State University – Agroveterinary Sciences Center (UDESC/CAV), produced in organic and conventional cultivation, in two crops. Cooking time and resistance, percentage of water absorption and broken grains and total soluble solids were evaluated. The shortest cooking time for the grains cultivated in the organic system (18 to 22 minutes) was obtained. The cultivars that had a percentage of unbroken grains between 60 and 80% showed a higher content of total soluble solids in the broth. Based on the genetic diversity for technological quality in organic cropping system, the use of cultivars, BAFs: 60, 23, 81, 13, 68, 55, 75 and 36 are indicated to integrate genetic improvement programs or to be used by small farmers for bean production.

Polyphenol contents in meal recommendations from the Brazilian dietary guidelines

Research has demonstrated that consuming polyphenols is linked to a lower risk of non-communicable chronic diseases. The objective of this study was to quantify the polyphenol content in the meal recommendations provided by the Food Guide for the Brazilian Population (2014). This quantitative and descriptive analysis was conducted on the data from photographic documentation in the national food guide, focusing on the food items, their preparation methods, and the suggested quantities for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The polyphenol contents of the foods and meals were estimated using the Phenol-Explorer database, which allowed determining the contribution of foods and polyphenol classes to the total polyphenol content. The mean total polyphenol content for breakfast patterns was found to be 242.67 ± 161.09 mg, with coffee being the primary contributor to this amount. Phenolic acids were the most significant contributors, accounting for ≥95% of the total. For lunch and dinner patterns, the average polyphenol contents were 311.97 ± 208.15 mg and 337.14 ± 220.17 mg, respectively. Contrary to breakfast, flavonoids emerged as the predominant class in these meals (p < 0.005), with legumes making a notable contribution to the total polyphenol content in both lunch and dinner. No significant difference was observed between the polyphenol contents of the different breakfast, lunch, and dinner patterns (p = 0.71). Therefore, the inclusion of different meals throughout the day is important for the intake of different polyphenol classes. Staple items in the national diet, particularly coffee and beans, were identified as key contributors to the polyphenol content in the meals suggested by the national food guide. Furthermore, in natura and minimally processed foods are highlighted as significant sources of polyphenols in the Brazilian diet.

Brazilian Front-of-Package Labeling: A Product Compliance Analysis 12 Months after Implementation of Regulations.

This study investigated the presence of front-of-package labeling on food products in major retailers in Brazil after its implementation in 2022. Carried out from May to October 2023, we analyzed 2145 products of brands present in five Brazilian states. A total of 541 products presented front-of-package warnings. The categories varied in their adherence to front-of-package labeling, highlighting a prevalence of combined warnings, such as high in added sugar and high in saturated fat on sweet biscuits and chocolates. Sausages showed a high prevalence of high in sodium and high in saturated fat warnings. Beverages stood out as high in added sugar, while fats, dairy products, frozen preparations, seasonings, and sauces presented diversity in the warnings. Other products, such as panettone, showed a high presence of alerts. The study demonstrated the widespread presence of front-of-package labeling on ultra-processed products highly consumed by the Brazilian population. Considering the alarming presence of these foods in the Brazilian diet, it is concluded that front-of-package nutrition labeling is crucial to inform and raise awareness among consumers, allowing healthier choices and potentially contributing to a reduction in chronic diseases and the costs associated with treatment in the health system.

Household availability of foods from Brazilian biodiversity.

Food biodiversity is characterized by the diversity of foods that compose a local, regional, or national ecosystem. Brazil has 20% of all the planet's biodiversity and the richest biomes in the world. Therefore, describing the participation of these foods in the Brazilian diet is relevant. Using a complex sample with data from 57,920 households collected by the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics from 2017 to 2018, this study showed that, except for yerba mate, the availability of foods from Brazilian biodiversity is low, representing an average of 7.09g/per capita/day. Regarding biomes, the Caatinga had the highest availability of fruits (4.20g/per capita/day) while the Amazon had the highest availability of vegetables (1.52g/per capita/day). The results are unsatisfactory and lower than what is expected from a territory rich in biodiversity and a world-leading food system. A greater commitment is essential to promote actions that strengthen the consumption of these foods among Brazilians.

Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) in fish biota of Guanabara Bay at Rio de Janeiro - Brazil

Fish is present in the Brazilian diet and represents an important participation in protein consumption. The use of highly toxic pesticides is still tolerated in Brazil despite being banned in many parts of the world. This study records traces of contamination by Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) at Guanabara Bay at Rio de Janeiro (Brazil). Our results indicate that local production and the widespread use of such chlorinated compounds in the past decades are being reflected on the edible fish tissue concentrations.

Carbon Footprint of Away-From-Home Food Consumption in Brazilian Diet

Environmentally unsustainable diets are often characterized by being high in calories, processed foods, and red meats, characteristics related to away-from-home food (AFHF). The aim of this study is to evaluate if AFHF consumption is related to environmental sustainability. Data of 20,780 adults from 24 h recalls collected in the 2017-2018 Brazilian National Dietary Survey (NDS) were used to estimate carbon footprint coefficients. The mean carbon footprint was estimated among individuals who consumed AFHF and non-consumers. Linear regression models were used to evaluate differences between away-from-home eating and the carbon footprint of the diet, adjusting for age and income. A total of 41% of Brazilians consumed AFHF during the previous day. The mean carbon footprint from foods consumed away from home represented 18% of the total carbon footprint. AFHF was positively associated with increased total carbon footprint (β: 204.1; p-value: 0.0145). In conclusion, the consumption of foods away from home in urban areas of Brazil was associated with atmospheric greenhouse gas emissions independently of age and income. Away-from-home food consumption should be considered to reinforce the influence of diet on individual and planet health.

Food consumption in Brazil: influence of beef on environmental impact and nutritional quality of the diet.

To estimate beef consumption and its influence on carbon and water footprints, as well as to improve the nutritional quality of the Brazilian diet. The amount of beef and other foods consumed was evaluated by two 24-hour food records in a representative sample of the Brazilian population ≥ 10 years of age (n = 32,853) from 2008 to 2009. The environmental impact of the diet considered the coefficients of the carbon footprint (gCO2 and/kg) and the water footprint (liters/kg) of the foods, as well as their nutritional quality considering the nutrient composition of each food associated with the prevention of nutritional deficiencies or the increase/decrease in chronic disease risk. Linear and logistic regression models, crude and adjusted for sex, age, education, income, region, and area, were used to respectively study the association of fifths of the caloric contribution of beef with the environmental impacts of the diet and inadequate nutrient intake. Carbon and water footprints and protein, iron, zinc, vitamin B12, saturated fat, and sodium contents were higher in the fraction of the diet composed of beef, whereas fiber and added sugar contents were higher in the fraction composed by the other foods. Dietary beef contribution was directly associated with the carbon and water footprints of the diet and the risk of saturated fat and sodium excess, besides fiber insufficiency, inversely associated with the risk of protein, iron, zinc, and vitamin B12 insufficiency. Reducing beef consumption in Brazil would also reduce the carbon and water footprints of the diet, as well as the risk of chronic diseases related to food. Therefore, in order not to increase the risk of nutritional deficiencies, monitoring the increased intake of other foods rich in protein, iron, zinc, and vitamin B12 is suggested.

Cacti fruit in the human diet: Sensory perceptions and interest of Brazilian consumers

AbstractCactus fruits have distinctive sensory characteristics and are highly nutritious. Despite that, these unconventional food plants are little used and undervalued in the Brazilian diet. Therefore, this work aims to observe Brazilian participants' perceptions and interest in cactus fruit consumption. Thus, an online survey was applied to identify these foods' frequency, motivation, and forms of consumption. To analyze consumers' perception, a free‐word association test about cactus fruits was carried out with the survey. The responses obtained from 611 participants revealed that few (36.8%) have already consumed it, motivated mainly by curiosity (41.4%). However, from the positive associations evidenced in the sensory test and the interest in experimenting (93.2%), it is observed that cactus fruits have a niche in the market due to their nutritional attributes and can be inserted fresh or as food products (e.g., jam/compote, juice, and ice cream) into the Brazilian diet.Practical ApplicationsThis study can promote the consumption and valorization of cactus fruits considering that they present nutritional characteristics beneficial to human health. Associated with Food and Nutritional Security, these fruits become an economically sustainable opportunity to be studied in new product development. Furthermore, the survey and the Free‐word Association Test can be used to guide the possible market niches with significant acceptance by the population. Thus, a profitable opportunity for consumption and marketing is evidenced, whether in nature, processed, or even new products, such as juices, teas, or bakery products.

Soaking to Reduce Potassium and Phosphorus Content of Foods

To achieve and maintain normal serum potassium and phosphorus levels reducing potassium and phosphorus intake is frequently recommended for adults living with chronic kidney disease. Exploring food preparation methods to reduce potassium and phosphorus content appears warranted. The study aim is to determine the impact of soaking foods in hot water on potassium and phosphorus content in a variety of plant- and animal-based foods. Twenty foods were selected that are common staples in Brazilian diet patterns. Food was soaked for 5-10minutes in deionized water that had been brought to a boil and then removed from heat using a 5-part water to 1-part sample ratio. The potassium content was determined by flame photometry. The phosphorus content was determined by visible ultraviolet spectrophotometry. Soaking foods resulted in a reduction in potassium and phosphorus. Potassium reduction in beef, green leafy vegetables, and grains was 40-49%; in chicken, fish, and nonleafy vegetables30-39%; and tubers 10-20%. Phosphorus reduction in grains and beans was 30-39%; in nonleafy vegetables20-29%; and beef, chicken, and fish 10-20%. Soaking foods in hot water for 5-10minutes reduces potassium and phosphorus content. Using this technique to prepare foods may be a more acceptable alternative to longer demineralization periods making it easier for adults living with chronic kidney disease to follow diet recommendations.

BALANCE Dietary Index in Patients with Heart Failure, and Its Adherence in Sergipe, Brazil.

Background: “The effective treatment of Heart Failure (HF) involves care with food intake. Recently, the Ministry of Health created the Brazilian Cardioprotective Diet and its dietary index, BALANCE, which assesses adherence to the standard’s recommendations”. Methods: This observational prospective study is part of the Congestive Heart Failure Registry (VICTIM-CHF) of Aracaju/SE. Observations and data collection took place from April 2018 to February 2021. Sociodemographic and clinical aspects and food consumption were evaluated. Food intake was determined using the food frequency questionnaire. Foods were categorized using the BALANCE dietary index into green, yellow, blue and red food groups. The BALANCE dietary index was obtained using median and interquartile ranges, scores of the Mann–Whitney U test, and associations between clinical variables and the index, through linear regression. Results: Participants included 240 patients with HF (61.12 ± 1.06 years), who were assisted by the Unified Health System (67.5%). Individuals with a partner showed greater adherence to the green food group recommendations (0.09; 0.00–0.17). The lowest adherence to recommendations regarding the blue food group was observed in individuals with excess weight, who had a higher consumption of foods rich in animal protein (0.54; 0.38–0.78). As for the red food group (ultra-processed foods) the highest adherence was observed by patients with diabetes mellitus (0.41; 0.05–0.77). The greatest adherence to the yellow food group, and a higher score, was observed in patients with the smallest left ventricular systolic diameter (LVSD). Conclusions: Being married was directly associated with the consumption of foods in the green group, while being overweight and having diabetes were inversely associated with adherence to the blue and red food groups, respectively. Greater adherence to the yellow food group recommendations was inversely associated with less change in the DSFVE.

Positive Effects of Extra-Virgin Olive Oil Supplementation and DietBra on Inflammation and Glycemic Profiles in Adults With Type 2 Diabetes and Class II/III Obesity: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

BackgroundEvidence on the effects of dietary interventions on inflammatory markers in individuals with obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is scarce. Our study evaluated the effects of extra-virgin olive oil alone and in combination with a traditional Brazilian diet on inflammatory markers and glycemic profiles in adults with both T2DM and class II/III obesity.MethodsAdults aged 18-64 years with T2DM and class II/III obesity were randomized into two intervention groups: 1) extra-virgin olive oil only and 2) extra-virgin olive oil + a traditional Brazilian diet (OliveOil+DietBra). Data on sociodemographic characteristics, lifestyle, anthropometry, biochemical markers and inflammatory markers were collected. The primary outcomes were glycemic parameters and inflammatory markers. The body mass index (BMI) and weight were the secondary outcomes.ResultsForty individuals with T2DM and class II/III obesity were enrolled, and 34 (85%) completed the intervention course. The intake of olive oil was 37.88 ± 12.50 mL/day in the olive oil group and 37.71 ± 12.23 mL/day in the OliveOil+DietBra group, with no significant difference between groups (p = 0.484). Compared to the olive oil only group, the OliveOil+DietBra group had significantly lower levels of fasting insulin (p = 0.047) at the end of the intervention, whereas the other glycemic parameters were not altered. In the OliveOil+DietBra group, serum levels of inflammatory cytokines, IL-1α (p = 0.006) and adiponectin (p = 0.049) were lower and those of TNFα were higher (p = 0.037). There was a significant reduction in BMI and weight compared to the baseline values in the OliveOil+DietBra group (p = 0.015).ConclusionsThe intervention with OliveOil+DietBra effectively decreased the levels of fasting insulin, IL-1α and adiponectin, suggesting its beneficial role in improving the inflammatory profiles and fasting insulin levels in adults with class II/III obesity and T2DM.Clinical Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier: NCT02463435

Ultra-processed food intake and diet carbon and water footprints: a national study in Brazil.

ABSTRACTOBJECTIVE To study the association between ultra-processed food consumption and carbon and water footprints of the Brazilian diet.METHODS Cross-sectional analysis on data collected in 2008–2009 on a probabilistic sample of the Brazilian population aged ≥ 10 years (n = 32,886). Individual food intake was assessed using two 24-hour food records, on non-consecutive days. The environmental impact of individual diets was calculated by multiplying the amount of each food by coefficients that quantify the atmospheric emissions of greenhouse gases in grams of carbon dioxide equivalent (carbon footprint) and freshwater use in liters (water footprint), both per gram or milliliter of food. The two coefficients consider the food life cycle ‘from farm to fork.’ Crude and adjusted linear regression models and tests for linear trends assessed the association between the ultra-processed food contribution to total energy intake (quintiles) and the diet carbon and water footprints. Potential confounders included age, sex, education, income, and region. Total energy intake was assessed as a potential mediation variable.RESULTS In the crude models, the dietary contribution of ultra-processed foods was linearly associated with the carbon and water footprints of the Brazilian diet. After adjustment for potential confounders, the association remained significant only regarding the diet water footprint, which increased by 10.1% between the lowest and highest quintile of the contribution of ultra-processed foods. Additional adjustment for total energy intake eliminated this association indicating that the dietary contribution of ultra-processed foods increases the diet water footprint by increasing energy intake.CONCLUSIONS The negative impact of ultra-processed foods on the diet water footprint, shown for the first time in this study, adds to the negative impacts of these foods, already demonstrated regarding dietary nutrient profiles and the risk for several chronic non-communicable diseases. This reinforces the recommendation to avoid ultra-processed foods made in the official Brazilian Dietary Guidelines and increasingly in dietary guidelines of other countries.

Between salubridade and saudade. Food habits of Brazilians living in Italy

ABSTRACT This article deals with the eating habits of Brazilians living in Italy, and their views on the healthiness of the Mediterranean and Brazilian diet. After presenting the theoretical framework of the research, based on the notion of “dietary acculturation,” the results of a list of questions submitted to 58 Brazilians residing in Italy are discussed. The answers highlight the strong attachment of respondents to Brazilian food traditions, but also the systematic consumption of typical Italian dishes and drinks, to which they reserve very positive opinions. We hypothesize that the coincidence between the connotations of the Mediterranean/Italian diet and the indications contained in the “Food Guide for the Brazilian population” of the Brazilian Ministry of Health (2014), which respondents appear to know well, is supporting a process of dietary acculturation of Brazilians in Italy.

Carbon footprint of the Brazilian diet.

ABSTRACTOBJECTIVE:To estimate the carbon footprint of the Brazilian diet and of sociodemographic strata of this population.METHODS:Carbon footprint of the diet was estimated based on data from two 24-hour diet records, obtained in 2008 and 2009, from a probabilistic sample of the Brazilian population aged 10 years and over (n = 34,003) and on environmental impact coefficients of food and culinary preparations consumed in Brazil (gCO2e/kg). Means with 95% confidence intervals of food consumption (kcal/person/day) and the carbon footprint of the diet (gCO2e/person/day and in gCO2e/2,000kcal) were calculated for the population as a whole and for strata according to sex, age, income, education, macro-regions and Federative Unit. Linear regression models were used to identify significant differences (p < 0.05) in the dietary carbon footprint of different sociodemographic strata.RESULTS:The average carbon footprint of the Brazilian diet was 4,489gCO2e/person/day. It was higher for males, for the age group from 20 to 49 years and for the North and Midwest regions, and tended to increase with income and education. The pattern of association of footprint with sociodemographic variables did not change substantially with adjustment for differences in the amount of food consumed, except for a reduction in the relative excess of the footprint among males and an increase in the relative excess of the footprint in the Midwest region.CONCLUSION:The carbon footprint of the Brazilian diet exceeds by about 30% the footprint of the human diet, which could simultaneously meet the nutritional requirements of a healthy diet and the global goal of containing the increase in the planet's average temperature. The pattern of association of this footprint with sociodemographic variables can help identify priority targets for public actions aimed at reducing the environmental impacts of food consumption in Brazil.