Contamination Of Food Products Research Articles

Sustainable Management of Microplastic Pollutions from PET Bottles: Overview and Mitigation Strategies

The widespread use of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) in bottled water packaging remains significant and is expected to increase further in the coming years. This trend raises concerns due to the generation of large amounts of waste. The degradation of PET leads to the release of low-molecular-weight substances and microplastic particles, which contaminate food products and the environment. This work highlights the significance of microplastic pollution, summarizes the mechanisms of PET degradation, and discusses methods for microplastic detection. A key section of the paper explores potential degradation management strategies, focusing on their applications and existing limitations. The study underscores the need for coordinated action among the scientific community, industry, and policymakers to mitigate this pressing environmental challenge.

Benefits of Probiotics—Biodetoxification

The rapid growth of the world’s population is generating escalating demands for food production. Global food demand is expected to increase by 35% to 56% between 2010 and 2050. Therefore, food mass production is becoming more challenging. The chemicalization of food production, processing, transport, packaging, and storage is almost impossible to avoid. These factors, along with environmental pollution, contribute to the increase in food product contamination. Xenobiotics appearing in food, including a variety of toxic substances (heavy metals, acrylamide, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons), and pathogens (pathogenic bacteria, fungi, molds, and yeast-producing mycotoxins) can threaten consumers’ safety and have negative economic implications. In this regard, the introduction of effective detoxification methods appears to be very important. It can be accomplished by physical, chemical, and biological means. Many reports have proved that probiotics are useful in food biodetoxification. Probiotics effectively reduce food contamination (at various stages of food production) and, moreover, annihilate toxins present in the human body. Many in vitro studies have confirmed the biodetoxification properties of probiotics, demonstrating that they diminish the toxic effects of the main types of food contaminants (heavy metals, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, pesticides, mycotoxins, nitrates and nitrites, acrylamide, alkylphenols, biogenic amines, and dioxins). Probiotics produce various bioactive compounds, including antimutagenic, antioxidant, and anti-carcinogenic compounds. Their protective and beneficial influence on human microbiota can modulate host inflammatory processes, inhibit carcinogenesis, and modify immune resistance. Detoxification with probiotics is environment-friendly and, unlike physical and chemical methods, does not adversely affect the nutritional value and quality of food. In addition, probiotics in food are associated with well-known human health benefits; therefore, as a functional food, they have gained common consumer acceptance. The large-scale application of biodetoxification methods in both agriculture and the food industry is a challenge for the future. Based on contemporary research, this review provides the mechanism of probiotic biodetoxification, possible applications of various probiotics, and future trends.

AuNCs@ZIF-8 with enhanced AIE effect to develop a lateral flow immunosensor for POC dual-modal detection of acetochlor.

AuNCs@ZIF-8 with enhanced AIE effect to develop a lateral flow immunosensor for POC dual-modal detection of acetochlor.

Exposure to the main Organic Plastic Additives through food contamination.

Exposure to the main Organic Plastic Additives through food contamination.

Sources and Levels of Cadmium and Lead Contamination in Infant Weaning Food (MPASI)

ABSTRACTComplementary breastfeeding (MPASI) is an important stage in meeting the nutritional needs of babies after 6 months of age. However, contamination of heavy metals, such as lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd), in complementary foods can be a serious threat to the health of babies who have a more vulnerable metabolism than adults. The aim of this study is to identify the level of heavy metal contamination (Pb and Cd) in complementary food products circulating in Indonesia. The method used in this study uses atomic absorption spectroscopy (SSA), the preparation method uses the destruction of a microwave system with a combination of 65% HNO3 and 30% H2O2 solvents (7:1). The results showed that all MPASI products (A, B, C, and D) studied contained Cd and Pb exceeding the maximum limit set by World Health Organization (WHO) (Cd < 0.010 mg/L and Pb < 0.020 mg/L), the highest concentrations of Cd and Pb were found in the sample code C (chicken) of 0.63 ± 0.0397 and 2.21 ± 0.1868 mg/L, respectively. This study is expected to provide scientific data that supports the strengthening of food safety regulations and increase public awareness of the importance of choosing safe complementary foods.

MATHEMATICAL MODELING AND ANALYSIS OF DIARRHEA TRANSMISSION WITH CAMPAIGN-BASED CONTROL MEASURE AND TREATMENT

The SEIR (Susceptible-Exposed-Infectious-Recovered) model is a well-established framework for examining the spread of infectious diseases, including diarrhea. This study enhances the traditional SEIR model by incorporating a campaign parameter including hygiene practices, environmental cleanliness, and waste management, as a control measure to assess its effectiveness in managing diarrheal disease outbreaks. The model's stability was analyzed, and the basic reproduction number (R0) was derived using the next-generation matrix method. Findings indicate that the disease-free equilibrium is locally asymptotically stable when R0<1 suggesting that the infection can be controlled within the population. Conversely, when R0<1 the equilibrium is unstable, indicating continued spread of the infection. Results emphasize that improving hygiene practices, environmental cleanliness, avoiding contaminated food product and waste management significantly reduces exposure among susceptible individuals, thereby decreasing the infection rate and enhancing recovery. Forward sensitivity analysis highlights the critical factors affecting disease transmission, underscoring the need for targeted interventions in high-risk areas. Numerical simulations demonstrate the effectiveness of public health campaigns and other epidemiological measures in controlling diarrheal outbreaks, offering valuable insights for public health policy and strategic resource allocation.

Food Poisonous Detection Device

In recent years, food safety has emerged as a critical public health issue due to the increasing occurrences of foodborne illnesses. These illnesses are often caused by toxic substances, pathogens, and chemicals present in contaminated food products. Conventional methods for determining the presence of bacteria and poisons that are transmitted through food can be laborious, time-consuming, and need sophisticated laboratory equipment. To address these challenges, we propose the development of a portable and cost-effective food poisonous detection device designed for rapid and accurate identification of harmful contaminants in various food items. The proposed device leverages advanced sensor technology, microfluidics, and artificial intelligence (AI) to detect a wide range of foodborne pathogens, toxins, and chemical residues. The device is equipped with biosensors that can specifically bind to target molecules such as bacteria, viruses, and toxins, generating an electrical signal that is proportional to the amount of the pollutant present. An integrated artificial intelligence algorithm performs additional processing and evaluation on the signal, which compares the data against a pre-established database of known contaminants to provide an accurate and timely diagnosis. The development process involved extensive research and testing to ensure the device's sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy. Various types of biosensors, including optical, electrochemical, and piezoelectric sensors, were evaluated for their ability to detect different contaminants. The integration of microfluidic channels enabled efficient sample handling and reduced the overall testing time. The AI algorithm was trained using a large dataset of foodborne pathogen profiles to enhance its predictive capabilities and reduce false positives and negatives.

The Potential of Lactic Acid Bacteria and Dairy By-Products in Controlling Campylobacter jejuni in Poultry

Campylobacter jejuni (C. jejuni) is the primary Campylobacter species and a major cause of foodborne illness associated with poultry products. This review focuses on lactic acid bacteria (LAB), especially Lactobacillus species, and acid whey as a dairy by-product for C. jejuni control in poultry as a sustainable method. LAB strains L. crispatus exhibit a cecal colonization reduction of >90% by competitive exclusion and bacteriocin activity, while L. johnsonii FI9785 decrease bacterial load 4–5 log10. Acid whey, which is abundant in organic acids (e.g., lactic acid) and bioactive peptides (e.g., lactoferrin), reduces C. jejuni viability, decreasing the food product contamination on the carcass for a short time by 40%. LAB antimicrobial function becomes more effective when used with acid whey, although specific farm-related variables require additional optimization. Some of the key strategies include co-encapsulating LAB with acid whey or plant-derived antimicrobials for improving survival, conducting in vivo trials in commercial farm conditions to evaluate scalability, and adding whey into feed (1–2% inclusion) or applying it as a pre-slaughter spray. These strategies enable the antibiotic-free production and circular economy goals through repurposing low-cost acid whey. Future studies should directly compare them with standard antimicrobials to confirm their scalability for poultry safety.

Prevalence, identification of virulence genes, and antibiotic resistance properties of Shiga-toxin producing Escherichia coli (STEC) strains isolated from ice cream and juice in sales centers

ObjectiveContaminated food with Shiga-toxin producing Escherichia coli (STEC) can cause diarrhea and severe diseases in consumers. This study aimed to assess the phenotypic and genotypic characteristics of virulence and antibiotic resistance genes in STEC strains isolated from various types of ice cream and fruit juice sold in Isfahan, Iran.MethodsFrom March 2023 to March 2024, 500 samples—including traditional ice cream (100), industrial ice cream (100), frozen ice cream (100), traditional juice (100), and industrial juice (100)—were collected. Samples were analyzed using biochemical and molecular methods for STEC detection. Antibiotic sensitivity was evaluated using the disc diffusion method against 14 antibiotics. Specific primers were used to identify antibiotic resistance and virulence genes.ResultsAmong the 500 samples, 52 (10.42%) were E. coli positive, with the highest prevalence found in traditional juice (20%) and traditional ice cream (15%). The pathogenic subtype, particularly enterohemorrhagic E. coli (EHEC), was most common in traditional juice (75% of positive samples) and traditional ice cream (66.66%). High antibiotic resistance rates were observed against ampicillin (86.53%), tetracycline (76.92%), and sulfamethoxazole (73.07%), while the lowest resistance was recorded for imipenem (7.69%). The most frequently detected antibiotic resistance genes were aadA1 (76.92%), tetA (57.69%), and sul1 (55.76%). Key virulence genes included stx1, stx2, and eaeA.ConclusionThese findings emphasize the public health risks associated with STEC contamination in food products and the need for stricter food safety measures and antibiotic stewardship programs. These findings highlight the public health risks of STEC contamination in food products, particularly traditional ice cream and juice. Localized studies are essential to understand specific risks and inform targeted interventions. Strategies such as improved hygiene practices, stringent food safety regulations, and effective antibiotic stewardship programs are critical to mitigating the threat posed by STEC in food products.

Environmental Health Risk Assessment of Consumption of Foodstuffs Containing Organophosphate Residues among Farmers

The use of pesticides in the agricultural sector results in contamination of foodstuffs by pesticide residues, thus becoming a source of exposure to the body and resulting in health problems. The purpose of this study was to analyse the health risks due to the consumption of foodstuffs containing organophosphate residues in farmers. The design of this study was cross-sectional, employing the Environmental Health Risk Assessment (EHRA). The study population was farmers in the North Dempo District of Pagar Alam. A total of 117 farmers were sampled randomly. Environmental samples consisted of five red chilies and five tomatoes, which were selected purposively. Organophosphate residues were quantified using liquid Chromatography Tandem Mass Spectrometry. Body weight was measured using calibrated body scales. Activity pattern data were collected through interviews using a questionnaire. Data analysis was conducted using the EHRA formulas. The results demonstrated the presence of Chlorpyriphos in red chillies at a concentration of 3,05 mg/kg, while Profenofos was found at 0.0731 mg/kg and 0.0118 mg/kg. The presence of Chlorpyriphos in tomatoes samples at a concentration of 0.4439 mg/kg, while Profenofos was found at 0.0112 mg/kg and 0.2043 mg/kg. The risk quotient for consumption of red chillies containing Chlorpyriphos was found to be 0.0447, while that for Profenofos was 0.2476. The risk quotient for consumption of tomatoes containing Chlorpyriphos was found to be 0.0302, while that for Profenofos was 2.92. It can be concluded that respondents were at non-carcinogenic health risk due to consumption of tomatoes containing Profenofos.

Recent progress in the application of chromatography-coupled mass-spectrometry in the analysis of contaminants in food products.

Recent progress in the application of chromatography-coupled mass-spectrometry in the analysis of contaminants in food products.

Potential health and safety risk of enterotoxin-producing Bacillus species isolated from fermentation effluents discharged into the environment

Bacillus species are an important group of bacteria involved in the fermentation processes. Despite their advantages, their implication in foodborne illnesses due to the production of enterotoxins has received little attention. The study sought to detect enterotoxin-producing Bacillus species from effluent spots around maize and African locust bean (ALB) fermentation environments. Fermentation effluent-contaminated spots of maize and ALB processing sites were sampled for Bacillus species. The identified Bacillus species were screened for various enterotoxigenic genes which include non-hemolytic enterotoxin (nheA, nheB, and nheC), hemolysin BL (hblC, hblD) and Bacillus cereus enterotoxin-T (bceT) using specific oligonucleotides. From the 62 identified Bacillus species, 32.26% (95% CI 23.1–41.4%), 40.32% (95% CI 30.7–49.9%), and 38.71% (95% CI 29.2–48.3%) had bceT, hbl, and nhe enterotoxigenic genes respectively. Also, 32.26% (95% CI 23.1–41.4%) of the Bacillus species had all three categories of enterotoxins assayed in this investigation (nhe, hbl, and bceT), and 59.68% (95% CI 50.1–69.3%) of the Bacillus did not encode any of the genes. The presence of enterotoxigenic genes in Bacillus species recovered from maize and ALB processing environments suggests their potential contamination of fermented food products, and by extension, potential threat to human health, if it is not managed adequately.

Evaluation of the responses of contrasting sensitive and tolerant rice genotypes to arsenic stress

The threats of arsenic (As) contamination of rice grains and rice-based food products are being experienced globally. Arsenic toxicity to rice (Oryza sativa L.) affects its production and grain quality. In this work, screening of 67 rice genotypes was performed against As stress (25 µM and 50 µM, in the form of arsenite [As(III)]) for 7d in lab conditions on the basis of germination and early growth of seedlings. Germination percentage, root and shoot length, and seedling vigour were analyzed. The genotypes showed a wide range of variation in germination percentage, and seedling growth in response to both control and As(III) stress. The comparative evaluation of genotypes could demarcate them into sensitive (e.g. Shobhini and DRR Dhan-41) and tolerant (e.g. Pooja and Vivek Dhan) categories. To further investigate the behavior of contrasting varieties, a tolerant (Pooja) and moderately sensitive (CO-50) variety of rice were subjected to As stress for variable concentrations (0–25 µM; fixed duration 5 d) and duration (1–15 d; fixed concentration 25 µM). The accumulation of As by tolerant and sensitive varieties in roots, old leaves and young leaves was found to be significantly lower in Pooja than in CO-50. The differential As accumulation reflected in growth and biochemical responses (malondialdehyde level, superoxide dismutase activity and total non-protein thiols). The results demonstrate the potential of using contrasting rice varieties for future breeding or gene editing approaches to develop low arsenic accumulating rice cultivars.

Bayesian phylogeographic analysis infers cross-border transmission dynamics of drug-resistant Salmonella Enteritidis.

Antimicrobial resistance and disease severity in nontyphoidal Salmonella have constituted a serious public health challenge worldwide. Drug-resistant Salmonella Enteritidis is a leading pathogen that causes human infections primarily through the consumption of contaminated food products. Previous research focuses on the whole-genome analysis of antimicrobial resistance and virulence factors in S. Enteritidis; however, details on how this bacterium localized, expanded, and diversified from location to location remain unknown. Our study for the first time addresses this gap by investigating the phylogeographic transmission to estimate the frequency and location of cross-border spread. By evidence-based inferred transmission, we aim to uncover novel insights into the dynamic spread of S. Enteritidis, revealing the route of emergence and migration. This research is crucial for enhancing our understanding of the control strategies to safeguard human health.

Exonuclease-assisted Cas12a Assay without PAM Requirement for Visual Detection of Vibrio Species

Exonuclease-assisted Cas12a Assay without PAM Requirement for Visual Detection of Vibrio Species

Label-Free Localized Surface Plasmon Resonance (LSPR) Biosensor, based on Au-Ag NPs Embedded in TiO2 Matrix, for Detection of Ochratoxin-A (OTA) in Wine

Ochratoxin-A (OTA) is a widespread foodstuff contaminant with potential carcinogenic effects. Innovative sensing technologies that allow on-site and sensitive food screening can have a significant impact on food and environment safety. A novel and quantitative label-free LSPR-based biosensor was specifically designed for OTA detection, employing a portable LSPR spectroscopy sensing system for efficient on-site and cost-effective analysis. This biosensor is comprised of monoclonal anti-OTA antibodies immobilized on the surface of sputtered Au-Ag nanoparticles embedded in a TiO2 matrix. Under optimized conditions, the LSPR-based biosensor demonstrated a linear dynamic response from 0.05 to 2 ng mL−1, with an estimated limit of detection at 7 pg mL−1, using 55 μL of sample, outperforming commercial ELISA technique in relevant bioanalytical parameters. Sensitivity in OTA detection is crucial because it ensures the accurate identification of low concentrations, which is essential for preventing health risks associated to cumulative ingestion of contaminated food products. The robustness and feasibility of the presented LSPR-based biosensing was tested using spiked white wine, exhibiting a satisfactory recovery of 93% to 113%, confirming its efficacy in a complex matrix.

The Role of Nanoparticles in Enhancing Preservation, Antimicrobial Protection and Packaging Innovations

In the pursuit of ensuring global food security, enhancing food safety has emerged as a critical endeavor. Nanotechnology, with its multifaceted applications, has demonstrated significant potential in revolutionizing food safety measures. This paper presents a comprehensive overview of the utilization of nanoparticles to enhance food safety across various dimensions. The antimicrobial activities of nanoparticles stand out as a promising approach to combat foodborne pathogens. Their unique physicochemical properties enable targeted and effective antimicrobial actions, mitigating microbial contamination in food products. This review delves into the diverse types of nanoparticles employed, highlighting their mode of action and outcomes in different food matrices. Another pivotal facet explored herein is the incorporation of nanoparticles in food packaging materials. This innovation addresses challenges related to shelf life extension and preservation of food quality. By imparting barrier properties, nanoparticles prevent the permeation of gases and moisture, thereby retarding spoilage and maintaining product freshness. Preservation of food quality, a paramount concern in the food industry, is also tackled within this discourse. The potential of nanoparticles to enhance sensory attributes, nutrient retention and texture of food products is elucidated. The review also contemplates future directions and research gaps in the realm of nanoparticle-based food safety strategies.

Food Adulteration In India : Legal Provisions And Judicial Trends

Food is necessary for the survival of human body. Adulteration or contamination of natural food product is one of the major challenges in today’s society. Food Adulteration leads to several health issues including certain nutrition deficiency diseases, kidney disorder and failure of an individual organ including heart, kidney, liver etc. The Supreme Court held that any food article which is hazardous or injurious to public health is a potential danger to the fundamental rights to life guaranteed under article-21 of the Constitution of India. Article 47 of the Constitution of India provides that the state shall regard the rising of the level of the nutrition and the standard of living of the people and the improvement of public health as among its primary duties. The Food Safety and Standard Act, 2006 has been enacted with the intention of eradicating the evil of manufacture, distribution and sale of adulterated article of foods which is a menace to the public health. Therefore the authorities have a duty to protect interest of citizens from the potential danger of contaminated or adulterated food article or substances.

Antimicrobial Resistance Pattern of Some Microorganisms Isolated from Packaged Food Samples

Aims: The aim of this study was to determine the presence of microorganisms in packaged foods which are very popular among the elites, who may assume that these foods will be totally save, especially for their children; and determine the resistance pattern of microorganisms isolated from these selected packaged food samples. Study Design: The study employed an experimental study design. Place and Duration of Study: Samples were collected between March and May, 2021 and the study spanned from January 2021 to April 2022. The research was carried out in the Microbiology Laboratory of Pure and Applied Biology Departement, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Nigeria. Methodology: Isolation of microorganisms were done by standard microbiological methods. The abilities of bacteria isolates to produce biofilm were determined and quantified at 492 nm with HALOMPR-96 visible microplate reader. Bacteria and fungi isolates were tested for their sensitivity to antimicrobials with different antibacterial and antifungal disc and results compared with guidelines from Clinical and Laboratory Standard Institute (CLSI, 2018). Selected bacteria and fungi isolates were characterized molecularly by 16S rRNA and ITS respectively. Results: A total of 17 bacteria and 13 fungi isolated from sampled packaged food belonging to 6 bacteria genera and 4 fungi genera respectively were obtained. All bacteria isolates were either moderate or weak biofilm producers. A 100 % sensitivity to Gentamicin and Ofloxacin was observed among Gram positive bacteria. All fungi isolates were sensitive to one or more of the antifungal used. Molecular identity of selected bacteria and fungi isolates revealed their closest isolates from available isolates in GenBank. Conclusion: Packaged foods are important source of microorganisms that can be of public health importance. Ingestion of contaminated food products can lead to food poisoning. The resistance of these microbes to antibiotics makes such a difficult situation to handle.

Aspergillus Mycotoxins: The Major Food Contaminants.

Mycotoxins, a category of fungal secondary metabolites, frequently contaminate food products and pose a severe threat to human health. Aspergillus, a genus of fungi, is capable of producing mycotoxins, with aflatoxins (AFs) and ochratoxins being its principal types. Aspergillus mycotoxins can contaminate a wide range of crops and their derivatives, such as maize, wheat, rice, minor cereals, and peanuts, thereby threatening food and feed safety. In the paper, the related biosynthesis genes and multifaceted biosynthesis pathways of these mycotoxins are first discussed in detail, and elucidated several global regulators, including growth conditions, oxidative stress, and cell signal. Furthermore, how global shifts in temperature and water availability, driven by climate change (including rising temperatures, increased heavy rainfall frequency, prolonged droughts, and elevated carbon dioxide levels), are key determinants of Aspergillus proliferation and mycotoxin production are explored. Finally, to safeguard animal and human health from the detrimental impacts of Aspergillus mycotoxins, the effective and convenient analytical techniques and management strategies for the detection and prevention of contamination are analyzed. Overall, this review provides effective detection techniques and promising solutions to the global contamination of food with Aspergillus mycotoxins, which is of great significance to ensuring food security and protecting people's lives and health.