Nutrient Composition Research Articles

Evaluating the environmental and agronomic implications of bone char and biochar applications to loamy sand based on sorption data

BackgroundThe widely adopted use of charred biomass for agronomic and environmental purposes; and the reported positive and deleterious effects necessitated the need for this study to ascertain the potential causes of the erratic results surrounding the use of charred biomass in agriculture and the environment. A batch sorption experiment was carried out to determine the sorptive and desorptive capacity of bone char and biochar on nitrate, ammonium, phosphate and sulphate concentrations in a loamy sand soil. The potential agronomic and environmental implications of the sorption data were also discussed.ResultsThe results indicated that bone char is richer in nutrient composition than biochar, with 70% more ability to sorb nutrients. The bone char and biochar sorption isotherms conformed to the H-curve isotherm type. Bone char and biochar have multiple layers of adsorption sites. Nutrient adsorption maxima, binding energy, and maximum buffering capacities of the soil were increased with the addition of bone char and biochar. The unamended soil was observed to retain as low as 6% of added nitrate to as much as 58% of added phosphate, while bone char retained 56% of added sulphate, 47% of phosphate, 76% nitrate and 64% of ammonium. Generally, bone char retained 60.6% of the added nutrients, while biochar retained 40.7% of the nutrients. The addition of bone char led to a 45.8% increase in the nutrient retention ability of the soil and a 36.1% increase with the addition of biochar.ConclusionThe nutrient sorption characteristics of biochar should be studied prior to its use as a soil nutrient amendment. It was concluded that bone char or biochar is a potential soil nutrient immobilizer; hence, applications for agronomic purposes should take cognizance of the native soil fertility so as to appropriately add fertilizer input before use.

Rearing fly larvae on various substrates: nutrient composition of larvae and frass.

Management solutions for waste in southern Thailand, such as fly larvae, are tested in a laboratory using different substrates and wastes from the Thai agricultural sector. The nutritional content of the immature stages of Musca domestica Linnaeus (Diptera: Muscidae) and Hermetia illucens (Linnaeus) (Diptera: Stratiomyidae) larvae, especially their protein and fat contents, makes them a potential animal feed. Laboratory strains of M. domestica and H. illucens were reared on selected substrates to examine how diet influenced their performance and nutritional composition. Waste from aquaculture, vegetables, and fruits in southern Thailand was examined for larval diet and showed promise as a rearing substrate for these insects. Musca domestica larvae reared on fishery waste achieved the highest larval weight and fat content, whereas H. illucens larvae reared on an aquaculture waste diet had the highest protein content. These findings imply aquaculture waste could be the best choice for large-scale fly larvae production, particularly as a protein feed additive.

A Comparative Study of Nutrient Composition, Proteolytic Activity, Phytochemical Profiles, Vitamin C Content, and Antioxidant Properties in the Peels of Selected Perennial Fruits

A Comparative Study of Nutrient Composition, Proteolytic Activity, Phytochemical Profiles, Vitamin C Content, and Antioxidant Properties in the Peels of Selected Perennial Fruits

Evaluating the nutrient composition and antioxidant properties of orange (Citrus sinensis) peels through Penicillium camemberti-based solid-substrate fermentation

Citrus by-products, especially orange peels, are a significant global waste issue, driving research into management solutions. Solid-substrate fermentation is a promising method to convert this waste into valuable resources, enhancing its medicinal and nutritional potential while addressing environmental and economic concerns in food waste management. Therefore, this study was carried out to evaluate the impact of solid-substrate fermentation (SSF) with Penicillium camemberti on the nutrient profile, antioxidative properties, and potential neuroprotective effects of orange peels in AlCl3 (Al)-induced neurotoxicity in fruit fly (Drosophila melanogaster) model. Orange peels were collected, air-dried to a constant weight, and subjected to a 10-day SSF process with Penicillium camemberti. Post-fermentation, in vitro nutritional profiling, and antioxidant assays were conducted, alongside in vivo assessments of the neuroprotective effects on survival rate, memory index, monoamine oxidase (MAO) activity, and endogenous antioxidant markers on Al-induced fruit flies were determined. The results showed that fermentation with Penicillium camemberti significantly enhanced the nutritional composition of the orange peels compared to their unfermented counterparts. The antioxidant properties of fermented orange peels were significantly (p < 0.05) increased, as evidenced by increased DPPH scavenging activity (81.68 ± 0.18) and ferric reducing antioxidant power (10.77 ± 0.27). Additionally, biochemical assays in vivo revealed a significant improvement in survival rates and memory indices in Al-induced flies. Also, monoamine oxidase (MAO) levels were significantly reduced, while glutathione S-transferase (GST) levels were significantly (p < 0.05) elevated in the induced flies fed with the fermented samples. Conclusively, this study highlights the capability of Penicillium camemberti fermentation in converting waste into valuable resources, enhancing the nutrient profile of citrus peels for applications in livestock feed and potential therapeutic interventions for degenerative disorders.

Evaluation of the Fertilizer Potential of Black Soldier Fly Larval Frass Obtained by the Processing of Multiple Organic Wastes in Agriculture in Cameroon: Effects on Plant Growth Parameters and Maize Kernel Nutrient Composition

The growing utilization of inorganic fertilizers results in the depletion of a minimal quantity of essential elements, including phosphorus, nitrogen, and potassium. The residual fraction is discharged into the environment as organic waste, posing a threat to the ecosystem.The black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) have been acknowledged as a solution for the increasing problem of organic waste. BSFL provides numerous benefits, including their current use of waste material, known as frass, as an organic fertilizer. The aim of this study is to examine the fertilizing properties of frass and its effects on plant growth parameters and nutrient concentration in maize kernels when consumed. This will be compared to other cultivation methods including synthetic fertilizers, conventional compost, and no compost. Following a 90-day timeframe, a comprehensive analysis was performed to assess the growth characteristics and nutrient composition within the kennels. The results of this study indicate that frass positively affects plant growth and has a favorable blend of nutrients, as previously demonstrated by studies investigating the nutrient levels in maize. This study showcased the capacity of utilizing frass as a carrier to boost agricultural output and enhance the accessibility of particular nutrients in plants. Further investigation is required to substantiate these conclusions. The widespread use of black soldier fly larvae in the agricultural sector in poor countries, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa, has the capacity to have a beneficial effect on integrated sustainable agriculture and the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals 2, 11, and 12.

Physicochemical characterization and sensory enhancement of cold plasma treated black whole wheat flour

This study examined the effects of cold plasma (CP) treatment on the physicochemical properties and sensory quality of black whole wheat flour (BWWF). Various factors including nutrient composition, color, amino acids, aroma, particle size, microstructure, antioxidant activity, and water migration were analyzed before and after CP treatment. The findings revealed that CP treatment had a minimal impact on the baseline nutrient composition of BWWF, but significantly improved its free amino acid profile, enhancing its nutritional value. The treated BWWF had an improved surface color, appeared brighter and yellower, and gave off a pleasant mellow aroma, while removing unpleasant flavor. The total phenolic content of BWWF increased while the flavonoid and anthocyanin content decreased after the treatment. CP-treated BWWF underwent aggregation cross-linking in the microstructure, and the content of bound water decreased, but the stability increased. In conclusion, CP treatment had great potential to improve the physicochemical properties and sensory quality of BWWF.

Impact of bamboo shoot powders on the quality attributes of cassava-based crackers

Bamboo shoots are a nutritious food rich in protein and dietary fibre, low in carbohydrates and fats, and with good mineral and vitamin profiles. Bamboo shoots are projected to be a superfood, although at present they are considered a neglected food commodity that is restricted to a few Asian countries. The use of bamboo shoot powder (BSP) in food fortification represents a promising avenue for enhancing the nutritional value of foods. This study evaluated the differences in nutrient composition and functional properties of two BSP species (Gigantochloa levis and Bambusa vulgaris), and their effects on the proximate analysis, physicochemical properties and sensory attributes of cassava crackers. G. levis BSP had greater amounts of moisture, protein, fat, ash, and total dietary fibre than B. vulgaris BSP. Both types of BSP had good WHC and swelling power which suggest that they could easily be incorporated into food systems. B. vulgaris BSP had better WHC and swelling power than G. levis BSP. The cassava crackers were formulated as C control (0 % BSP), B5 (5 % B. vulgaris), B10 (10 % B. vulgaris), G5 (5 % G. levis), and G10 (10 % G. levis). Adding BSP significantly increased (p<0.05) the moisture, protein, ash, crude fibre and total dietary fibre of the crackers. G. levis BSP had a stronger influence on the colour (p<0.05) of cassava crackers. The overall liking score of cassava crackers containing 5 % G. levis BSP was the highest (p<0.05). In conclusion, BSP enhanced the nutritional properties while improving the sensory characteristics of cassava crackers. BSP is potentially useful as a functional ingredient in cassava crackers and snack products.

Development and Pilot Study of myfood24 West Africa—An Online Tool for Dietary Assessment in Nigeria

Background and objective: Tools to accurately and efficiently measure dietary intake in Nigeria are lacking. We aimed to develop and assess the usability of a new online dietary assessment tool for Nigeria—myfood24 West Africa. Methods: We developed the myfood24 West Africa database using data from existing food composition tables, packaged foods labels and research articles. The development followed seven steps: identified data sources, selected foods, processed/cleaned the data, calculated the nutrient content of recipes, created and allocated portion sizes, quality-checked the database and developed food accompaniments. To pilot the tool, we recruited 179 university staff in Nigeria using a cross-sectional design. Usability was assessed using a questionnaire that included the System Usability Scale (SUS) and a feedback session. Results: The database included 924 foods, with up to 54 nutrients and 35 portion-size images allocated to foods. Sixty percent of the data were sourced from the 2019 West Africa Food Composition Table, 17% from back-of-pack labels of packaged foods, 14% from the 2017 Nigerian Food Composition Table, 5% from generated recipes and 4% from the published literature. Of the participants, 30% (n = 53) self-recorded their food intake, with a total of 1345 food and drink entries from both self- and interviewer-collected data. The mean SUS score of 74 (95% CI: 68,79) indicated good usability. The feedback showed that the tool was user-friendly, educational and included a variety of local foods. Conclusions: This new tool will enhance the dietary assessment of the Nigerian population. More work will expand coverage to include more foods from the region.

THE ACCOMPANIMENT OF SUPPLEMENTARY FOOD FOR MONITORING THE STUNTING RISK CHILDREN IN RENGAS I VILLAGE OGAN ILIR

Introduction: The Ogan Ilir Regency district has the second-highest prevalence of stunting in South Sumatra, with a prevalence rate of 24.9%. Providing additional meals (PMT) is an essential component, especially to improve the conditions of low-income communities affected by malnutrition, with a specific focus on young children. The purpose of the activity is to provide a continuous supply of food, thus preventing body weight loss and promoting optimal nutritional well-being. Methods: The event took place at a village in Payaraman District situated in Ogan Ilir Regency. The participant were the two children, namely Anak R (3.5 years old) and Anak S (1.7 years). The service methods included the process of meal preparation for PMT and the delivery of meals to the homes of children. The method used for the PMT involved the daily allocation of food, the nutrient composition of various foods, including pumpkin, potatoes, carrots, maize and similar substitutes. At the end of the month, the final anthropometric measurements were collected. The anthropometric measurements encompassed body weight, and height. The weight of the youngster was measured using a digital scale manufactured for further analysis. Results: There was a noticeable improvement in weight and height of Anak R and Anak S. Anak R demonstrated a weight gain after the programme from exactly 9.30 kg to 9.80 kg, while Anak S showed an increased weight from 7.80 kg to 8.50 kg. Anak R's height improved from 81.0 cm to 85.0 cm and Anak S's from 71.0 cm to 72.0 cm. Despite the observed growth in the weight and height of both children, the acquired findings did not meet the desired levels for each child's weight and height. Conclusion: Community service activities include food supplementary accompaniment and stunting surveillance has assisted for children with high risk of stunting conditions to gain weight and height after food additions. The accompaniment community service activity can be used as an effort to reduce cases of malnutrition.

Proximate and Amino Acid Composition of Freshwater Fish of Nagpur, Maharashtra, India

Background: The study aimed to evaluate proximate and amino acids profile of selected freshwater species from Nagpur, India. Nutritional composition of calbasu (Labeo calbasu), silver carp (Hypophthalmichthys molitrix), tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) and pangasius (Pangasianodon pangasius) was investigated to make aware the consumer about the present nutrient composition of these fish. Methods: Iced Calbasu, Silver carp, Tilapia and Pangasius fish were procured from Mayo fish market, Nagpur, Maharashtra, India and brought to the laboratory of Fish Processing Technology, College of Fishery Science, Nagpur. The marketable sized (average weight of 0.5-1.3 kg) fish were used for evaluation of proximate composition the methods of AOAC (2005). The amino acids profiling of fish samples were assessed by using High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC, Shimadzu LC-6A). Result: The variation (p less than 0.05) in nutrient composition viz. proximate and amino acids of these fish mainly due the effect of feed composition, feeding habits, geographical condition and availability of feed etc. The major components of proximate composition, moisture (75.75-77.53%), protein (14.52-18.01%), lipids (2.45-6.71%) and ash (1.10-2.09%) were recorded. The protein content was relatively stable in all species. The carbohydrate was found to be lower than 1.5%. The energy value of the fish species was between 94.81-123.51 Kcal. The pangasius had higher energy value due to high amount of fat content. During the study, the concentrations of essential amino acids (EAA) in all fish species ranged from 25.48 g/100 g to 29.41 g/100 g, while amounts of non-essential amino acids (NEAA) ranged between 27.94 g/100 g and 31.27 g/100 g. Lysine (5.14-6.31 g/100 g) and glutamic acid (6.26-8.72 g/100 g) were the most predominant amino acids found in EAA and NEAA respectively in all species. The higher level of essential amino acids was found in tilapia fish followed by silver carp, calbasu and pangasius. The results of the present study revealed that, all species have high nutritional value in terms of proximate and amino acids to offer positive health benefits upon consumption.

Nutritional Composition and Phytochemical Analysis of Ragi Microgreens

Ragi (elusine coracana) is one of the staple pseudocereal well known for his multitude of beneficial roles in promoting health and general wellbeing. Though it is one of the common millets and majorly consumed in south and north part of India, nutritional potential of ragi microgreens is yet to be explored. Considering other established microgreen’s nutritional significance, possible health implications, antioxidant properties and erythropoietic activity, present study was undertaken to estimate nutritional composition, qualitative phytochemical analysis, and quantification of bioactive ingredients of lyophilized ragi microgreens. Since lyophilisation is considered superior technique in preserving heat labile compounds, compared to other dehydration methods, it was used as the preferred sample for present study. Nutrient composition of ragi microgreens was found to be impressive with a protein content of 13.3 gm percent, crude fibre content 8 gm percent, iron mg percent vitamin C 112 mg percent and calcium are 91 gm percent. Preliminary phytochemical screening revealed presence of terpenoids, alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, and sterols. Total chlorophyll estimation indicated that total chlorophyll content of lyophilized ragi microgreen is 623 mg/100 gm.

Comparison of the nutritional composition and calculated Nutri-score classifications of the Dutch food retail supply in 2018 and 2020.

In the Netherlands, reformulation strategies have been established for several years, whereas Nutri-Score was implemented in 2024. Besides being a helpful tool for consumers to make healthier food choices, Nutri-Score also aims to stimulate food reformulation by food manufacturers. The present study investigates whether changes in food composition could have led to different calculated Nutri-Score classifications. Food compositions and Nutri-Score classifications were calculated using the updated Nutri-Score algorithm. Food groups with the largest change in the distribution of Nutri-Score classifications were analysed in-depth by plotting frequency distributions and calculating median contents for nutrient contents that relatively changed the most in 2020. Food composition data were available from the Dutch Branded Food database in 2018 (n 38 295) and 2020 (n 48 091). Not applicable. In general, median nutrient contents and calculated Nutri-Score classifications were similar for 2018 and 2020. The median sugar and SFA contents were lower for some food groups (e.g. breakfast cereals, meat preserves, sweets and sweet goods) in 2020 compared to 2018. The median SFA content for meat preserves and sweets and sweet goods was relatively low in Nutri-Score classification A ascending towards higher median content in Nutri-Score classification E. Although food reformulation was not substantial in the Dutch food retail supply in 2018 and 2020, some differences in Nutri-Score classifications were observed. When implemented, Nutri-Score may encourage food manufacturers to increase their reformulation efforts. Repeated monitoring of food compositions and Nutri-Score classifications is recommended to establish reformulation efforts by food manufacturers.

NUTRIENT CONTENT, IN VITRO GAS PRODUCTION AND POST INCUBATION PARAMETERS OF INDIGENOUS BROWSE FODDERS IN DIFFERENT AGRO-ECOLOGICAL ZONES OF NORTHWEST ETHIOPIA

&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Background: &lt;/strong&gt;In Ethiopia indigenous browse species have the potential to serve as a sustainable supplement for poor quality feeds and enhance ruminant livestock production. &lt;strong&gt;Objective:&lt;/strong&gt; To analyze the nutrient content, in vitro gas production, and post incubation parameters of indigenous browse species in northwestern Ethiopia. &lt;strong&gt;Methodology: &lt;/strong&gt;Eight indigenous browse fodder trees were collected from each agroecological zone for this experiment. Leaf and pod samples of the fodder trees were collected, dried and ground for laboratory analysis. Analysis of variance was carried out for nutrient content, in vitro gas, and methane production of the samples within agroecological zones using standard analytical procedures. The statistical design used to analyze the data was Completely Randomized Design (CRD). &lt;strong&gt; Results:&lt;/strong&gt; The highest CP content was recorded from &lt;em&gt;Vernonia&lt;/em&gt;&lt;em&gt; amygdalina &lt;/em&gt;(223.4 g/kg DM)&lt;em&gt;,&lt;/em&gt; &lt;em&gt;Dodonaea viscosa &lt;/em&gt;(207.7 g/kg DM), and &lt;em&gt;Acacia abyssinica &lt;/em&gt;(216.0 g/kg DM) in the highland, midland and lowland agro-ecology respectively. In lowland area, NDF, ADF and ADL contents were highest for &lt;em&gt;Albezia amara&lt;/em&gt; leaves and lowest for &lt;em&gt;Acacia brevispica&lt;/em&gt; respectively. &lt;em&gt;V. amygdalina&lt;/em&gt;, &lt;em&gt;Stereospermum kunthianum&lt;/em&gt; and &lt;em&gt;Ficus vasta&lt;/em&gt; had the highest gas volume at 24-hour incubation time in high, mid and lowland, respectively. The estimated organic matter digestibility, metabolizable energy and short chain fatty acid at 24 hour of incubation was the highest for &lt;em&gt;V. amygdalina&lt;/em&gt;, &lt;em&gt;S kunthianum&lt;/em&gt; and &lt;em&gt;F. vasta&lt;/em&gt; in high, mid and lowland, respectively. &lt;em&gt;Ficus sycomorus&lt;/em&gt; and &lt;em&gt;Myrica salicifolia&lt;/em&gt; had the lowest methane production among the species in the low, mid and highland study areas, respectively. &lt;strong&gt;Implications: &lt;/strong&gt;The present study provides a valuable resource for selecting suitable feed options for livestock in different agroecological zones. High CP and digestible browse species like &lt;em&gt;V. amygdalina,&lt;/em&gt; &lt;em&gt;S. kunthianum&lt;/em&gt;, and &lt;em&gt;F. vasta&lt;/em&gt; could be prioritized for livestock feed. Low methane-producing species like &lt;em&gt;F. sycomorus&lt;/em&gt; and &lt;em&gt;M. salicifolia&lt;/em&gt; could be incorporated into diets to reduce enteric methane emissions. &lt;strong&gt;Conclusion&lt;/strong&gt;: Based on their nutrient composition and in vitro gas production potential, these feed resources are of better quality to supplement grazing livestock during the seasons of critical feed shortage as the main feed resources are either limited in availability or lower in nutrient composition and digestibility in the study areas.&lt;/p&gt;

Effects of urbanization on diet in eastern chipmunks (Tamias striatus) as determined by stable isotopes

Urban environments offer wildlife a consistent supply of anthropogenic food waste, divergent from natural food sources in nutrient composition. This study investigates the dietary impact of urbanization on eastern chipmunks (Tamias striatus (Linnaeus, 1758)) by analyzing stable isotope signatures (∂13C and ∂15N) in their hair. The hypothesis posits that chipmunks in urban locales consume more corn-based and high-protein foods, reflected in elevated isotopic signatures compared to their rural counterparts. Sampling encompassed 20 sites across Sudbury, Ontario, varying in urbanization levels. Urbanization was gauged via surveys capturing human activity and sources of anthropogenic food waste. Contrary to expectations, chipmunks did not exhibit δ13C signatures indicative of substantial corn consumption from human food waste. However, δ15N signatures positively correlated with urbanization, suggesting heightened animal protein intake in urban habitats. Elevated δ15N signatures may also result from the use of fertilizers in urban areas . Future avenues involve using stable isotope mixing models to pinpoint dietary sources and exploring the health and reproductive ramifications of urban diets, including effects on gut microbiome composition.

Evaluation of nutrient composition of selected small indigenous fish species in Bangladesh and potential contribution to nutrient intakes

Small indigenous fish (SIF) are recognized as easily available, and abundant source of macronutrients and micronutrients in Bangladesh. The current investigation was undertaken to assess the existing heavy metal, mineral, vitamin, and others nutrient content of small indigenous freshwater fish in Bangladesh. Eight indigenous fish (Mola, Tengra, Baim, Punti, Chanda, Guchi, Koi, and Taki) were selected for this study. The AAS (Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer), ICP-MS (Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectrometry), and the Association of Official Analytical Chemists methods outlined were used to determine the proximate compositional analysis of fish. The highest fat content was found in koi fish. Protein was highest in both baim and taki fish. Iron, zinc, vitamin A, and vitamin B12 content were highest in mola fish. Highest calcium and phosphorus were found in the chanda and taki fish. The study concludes that small indigenous fish are valuable sources of fat, protein, ash, iron, zinc, calcium, phosphorus, potassium, vitamin A, and vitamin B12, which are important for maintaining good health. Our findings suggest that small indigenous fish could serve as a viable option for addressing the nutritional needs for the children (6–23 m age), and Pregnant and lactating women in Bangladesh as a tool to fight malnutrition.

Southernmost record and diet of Leptobrachella eos (Ohler, Woollen, Grosjean, Hendrix, Vences, Ziegler &amp; Dubois, 2011) in Vietnam

Abstract The Rosy Litter Frog (Leptobrachella eos) is known from Thailand, Laos, and Vietnam. Knowledge about the natural history of this species is virtually lacking. As a result of our field work in Son La, Nghe An, and Ha Tinh provinces of Vietnam, we provide data on the food composition of L. eos for the first time. Using the stomach-flushing method, we analyzed stomach contents of 34 individuals (23 males and 11 females) from a total of 42 frogs, with stomachs of five males and three females (19%) being empty. A total of 13 prey categories were observed in the stomachs of L. eos, with 232 items, comprising 230 items of invertebrates and two unidentified items. The most important (IRI) groups among the prey of L. eos were Blattodea (26.31%), Araneae (17.26%), Orthoptera (13.21%), Coleoptera (12.39%), and Opiliones (10.09%). There was an overlap of 51.11 % in the diet between males and females, The trophic spectrum of males comprising 11 prey categories revealed to be wider than that of females comprising nine prey categories. Despite differences in diets between the sexes, Blattodea, Orthoptera, Araneae, Coleoptera, and Opiliones represented the most important prey category for all of them. In addition, we also report a new find of Leptobrachella eos, with a new subpopulation from Ha Tinh Province, Vietnam.

Seasonal variation in the food composition of the Bolkar Mountain Viper, Montivipera bulgardaghica (Nilson & Andren, 1985), in the Central Taurus Mountains, Anatolia

The Bolkar Mountain Viper, Montivipera bulgardaghica (Nilson & Andren, 1985), is a mountain viper found in the eastern Mediterranean region. In this study, we present data on the seasonal variation in diet composition across two different habitats in the Central Taurus Mountains of Anatolia, Türkiye. The Karboğazı population inhabits a subalpine shrubland, while the Göller Yaylası population resides in forested land. The vipers primarily consumed Lacertidae (47%), followed by Orthoptera (27%), Chilopoda (18%), and Scincidae (8%) in number. In spring, the diet of the Karboğazı population was mainly composed of Lacertidae but shifts toward Orthoptera during summer and autumn. In contrast, the Göller Yaylası population fed on Lacertidae throughout the entire active season. Overall, the Karboğazı population primarily consumed invertebrates, whereas the Göller Yaylası population predominantly fed on lizards. Both populations exhibited partial niche overlap. There was no significant difference in diet composition between sexes, but prey type and quantity varied with the season. Prey diversity increased in summer and decreased in autumn and spring, corresponding with the prey availability in the environment.

Особенности трофических связей обыкновенной гаги Somateria mollissima в условиях высокоширотных архипелагов Шпицберген и Земля Франца-Иосифа

Based on scatological analysis, data on food composition of the common eider Somateria mollissima in Western Spitsbergen and Franz Josef Land were obtained. It was revealed that in the latter, food diversity is smaller. The basis of the food were mollusks and crustaceans, at the same time, the importance of the latter on Franz Josef Land is higher. The impact of warming on food composition was further discussed. It is assumed that the nature of the food supply is a factor limiting the number of eider populations.

Impact of Substrate Type and Developmental Stage on Nutrient Composition and Convergence Efficiency of Hermetia illucens Larvae

Impact of Substrate Type and Developmental Stage on Nutrient Composition and Convergence Efficiency of Hermetia illucens Larvae

Microbial Food Safety of Sous Vide Cooking Processes of Chicken and Eggs.

Sous vide cooking implies cooking foods, packed under vacuum conditions, at controlled temperatures (<80 °C). Although this method opens a new window of culinary possibilities, it also involves a series of risks, mainly microbiologically related, that must be assessed. The aim of this work was to evaluate the effectiveness of SV processes to inactivate three important foodborne pathogens (Campylobacter, Salmonella, and Clostridium spores) in chicken breast and eggs (omelet). For this purpose, two levels of inoculation (102 and 106 CFU/g), two different recipes, and two distinct treatments (with and without storage) for each food were studied. After treatments and storage, the corresponding microbiological counts were performed with standard methods. Average inactivation rates observed were 1.70, 4.82, and 4.34 log for Clostridium spores, Campylobacter, and Salmonella, respectively. No significant differences in microbial inactivation were perceived between the different recipes (food composition) or treatments, except for Clostridium spores, which showed a higher inactivation rate (2.30 log) when samples were stored. In general, preliminary results showed that, although appropriate levels of inactivation are reached for vegetative pathogenic cells, in some cases (spores in breast and Salmonella in eggs), the remaining microbiological risks should be considered and further studied, especially if long-term storage is planned.