Safety Of Food Products Research Articles

Assessing Olive Oil Quality Using Different DNA-Based Methods

Olive oil is appreciated worldwide for its unique nutritional and organoleptic properties. It is rich in unsaturated fatty acids and antioxidants, which are well-known for their health benefits. The qualitative characteristics of olive oil can be adversely affected by various biotic and abiotic factors. Particularly, microbial pathogens, such as mold fungi, can cause the deterioration of the oil and, thus, be a serious risk to consumer health. In this study, the effectiveness of DNA-based methods, i.e., endpoint PCR, Real-Time PCR (RT-PCR), and loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP), all based on the ITS2-28S region, were used to evaluate the fungal contamination of samples of extra virgin olive oil. All the DNA techniques were able to detect, albeit at different levels, fungal infections affecting some of the basic quality parameters of the olive oils analyzed. However, compared to endpoint PCR and/or RT-PCR, the LAMP assay greatly simplified and accelerated the identification of pathogenic mold in the oil samples. This may encourage the olive oil industry to adopt this method in order to offer the consumer an oil with specific health parameters and therefore guarantee the safety and quality of this precious food product.

Navigation literacy of primary health care personnel (using the example of the heads of medical and obstetric centers in Orenburg region)

Objective. To assess navigation literacy of primary health care personnel (using the example of the heads of medical and obstetric centers in Orenburg region). Materials and methods. Navigation literacy of primary health care personnel was assessed among all heads of medical and obstetric centers in Orenburg region (n = 58). For this purpose, a single-stage continuous online survey was conducted using a combined questionnaire developed by the Central Research Institute for Healthcare Organization and Informatization of the Ministry of Heath of the Russian Federation. Results. The level of navigation literacy among the heads of the medical and obstetric centers of Orenburg region in 65.7 % of cases was excellent and sufficient. In the list of navigation skills, the heads of the medical and obstetric centers noted difficulties in the implementation of: issues of medical insurance (48.3 %), legal aspects of medical care and protection of patients' rights (27.5-48.3 %), healthcare reform (36.2 %). It was found out that from 63.7 % to 91.4 % of the heads of the medical and obstetric centers are aware of the ongoing state measures in the field of public health. The majority of the respondents (60.0 %) noted that they search for necessary information for professional purposes using digital tools. However, every third respondent (32.7 %) mentioned the difficulties in finding it on legislative issues, interpreting the quality and safety of food products according to their product labeling (27.6 %), solving problems related to mental health and well-being (18.9 %). These data demonstrate the need to improve navigation literacy of medical and obstetric centers managers in the digital environment. Conclusions. The modern multilevel and multicomponent healthcare system is associated with the need to improve the navigation literacy of medical personnel. The data obtained determined the main directions for improving navigation literacy of the heads of medical and obstetric centers.

Exploring the Correlation Between Salt Tolerance and Seed Nutritional Value of Different Quinoa Genotypes Grown Under Saharan Climatic Conditions

Quinoa is an annual pseudocereal highly adapted to extreme environments and has become, at this point in time, an extremely popular food due to its exceptional and high nutritional quality. This study aims to investigate the association of quinoa salt tolerance at an early developmental stage with its grain nutritional value under the effect of severe climatic hurdles. The current findings revealed a significant variability between genotypes in salt response attributes at the first development stage, where genotypes Amarilla Sacaca (thereafter, A. Sacaca) and QQ57 exhibited high salt tolerance thresholds with a low salt sensitivity index (SI), and a high capacity for Na+ sequestration into vacuoles. A significant positive association was detected between salt tolerance degree and yield parameters, saponins (SAPs), and minerals contents, where genotype A. Sacaca exhibited the highest SAP content with 3.84 mg.g−1 and the highest amounts of K, Ca, P, and Fe. The analysis of fatty acid composition demonstrated a high significant negative correlation between crude fat content and salt SI, and between yield parameters. Despite its low harvest index (HI) and low seed oil content, the salt-tolerant genotype A. Sacaca showed a high nutritional quality for seed oil according to its lowest ω6/ω3 ratio (5.6/1) and lowest level of atherogenicity index (AI). The genotype 115R, defined as the most sensitive to salt stress, exhibited a high seed oil quality due to its low lipid peroxidation susceptibility as reflected by its oxidative susceptibility and peroxidizability indexes. The significance of this study includes the identification of valuable quinoa genotypes showing high efficiency in growth and yield under severe stress accompanied by a high nutritional value satisfying the market requirements for healthy, nutritious, and safe food products.

Promoting social sustainability and transforming foodways through alternative food spaces: a case study of Beijing farmers’ market

ABSTRACT Organic farmers’ markets have rapidly expanded in major Chinese cities as a response to food safety concerns, with the concept of “organic” serving as the driving force behind this movement. This study examines the Beijing Farmers’ Market, the first organic farmers’ market in mainland China, to explore its role in reconfiguring foodways and promoting social sustainability. The development of the Beijing Farmers’ Market is driven by the changing values, attitudes, and ideologies of both producers and consumers, that set them apart from the mainstream food system. While this study is situated within the broader context of food safety concerns that contribute to the emergence of such markets, it primarily focuses on how the market fosters trust and proactive relationships between health-conscious consumers and new farmers committed to safe food production. These dynamic connections are shaped by shifting lifestyles among both producers and consumers. This research highlights how food serves as a socio-spatial space for reconnecting people with nature and cultivating food communities, engagement and resilience.

Carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic risks caused by rice contamination with heavy metals and their effect on the prevalence of cardiovascular disease (Using machine learning)

IntroductionThe safety and health of food products are essential in the food industry, and the risk of contamination from various contaminants must be evaluated. Exposure to HMs from the environment (especially food) causes various adverse effects on the body and increases the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Material and methodVolunteers in the study comprised both healthy individuals and those with CVD. Patients were chosen using a cohort database of CVD individuals. A random choice of samples was conducted. Medical information (individuals with CVD) related to the participants was obtained from the Hoveyzeh Cohort Study Center. CVD-HM relationships were assessed using various machine-learning techniques. ResultBased on the results of the GAM statistics approach, the baseline levels (β) of As, Cd, and Cr in rice have been calculated to be 1.05, 1.19, and 1.11, respectively. Based on the investigation's results, rice acts as a mediator between high-magnitude actions and the prevalence of CVD. Eating rice increases the probability of CVD by 0.18 and raises As eating by 0.494. The results showed that rice consumption in the research area is not associated with non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic risk (CRs and ILCRs for both categories were less than 1∗10−6). ConclusionThere was neither a carcinogenic nor non-carcinogenic threat to adults or children and many hazardous HMs existed at the accepted thresholds. A notable relationship was seen between rice contaminated with HM and CVD.

Agri-food fraud in Africa vis-à-vis global health

This paper reports on the extent of agri-food fraud in Africa, its occurrence across the Africa-EU trade borders, and associated implications for global health. It revealed that agri-food fraud in Africa and across Africa-EU trade borders may be a concern. Meanwhile, a few suspected cases have been reported, there may be more unchecked/unnoticed agri-food fraud practices ongoing in Africa requiring food trade border checks and rapid decisions making processes to reduce exposures. Exposure to adulterants can have significant implications for global health, as consumers unknowingly pay for, and consume, products that may be adulterated with substances which constitute a risk factor to one or more unchecked hazards against consumers' health protection. As global trade in agri-food products expands, the supply chain vulnerability to fraudulent activities becomes increasingly evident. This may be worse partly due to the inadequate food safety laws in African countries or poor enforcement. There is a need for food safety regulations in Africa that aim to ensure the safety and authenticity of food products, protect public health, and maintain consumer confidence. Finally, there is a need for rapid detection tools to make quick decisions on the field and agri-food traceability systems.

Zinc oxide nanomaterials: Safeguarding food quality and sustainability.

In this era, where food safety and sustainability are paramount concerns, the utilization of zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles (NPs) is a promising solution to enhance the safety, quality, and sustainability of food products. ZnO NPs in the food industry have evolved significantly over time, reflecting advancements in synthesizing methods, antimicrobial activities, and risk assessment considerations for human health and the environment. This comprehensive review delves into the historical trajectory, current applications, and prospects of ZnO NPs in food-related contexts. Synthesizing methods, ranging from solvothermal and solgel techniques to laser ablation and microfluidic reactors, have facilitated the production of ZnO NPs with tailored properties suited for diverse food applications. The remarkable antimicrobial activity of ZnO NPs against a wide spectrum of pathogens has garnered attention for their potential to enhance food safety and extend shelf-life. Furthermore, comprehensive risk assessment methodologies have been employed to evaluate the potential impacts of ZnO NPs on human health and the environment, regarding toxicity, migration, and ecological implications. By navigating the intricate interplay between synthesis methods, antimicrobial efficacy, inhibitory mechanisms, and risk assessment protocols, by elucidating the multifaceted role of ZnO NPs in shaping the past, present, and future of the food industry, this review offers valuable insights and promising avenues for researchers, policymakers, and industry stakeholders to enhance food safety, quality, and sustainability.

Chemical Characterization and In Vitro Evaluation of Glucans from Fermentation-Produced Nutraceutical Bionutri-AR1®: Antioxidant and Immunomodulatory Properties

Background: The consumption of nutraceuticals or food supplements has increased crucially, aiming to address nutrient deficits and enhance immune system function. To develop safe food products with unique nutritional and functional benefits, new production methods of these nutraceuticals such as the fermentative process have been gaining prominence for industrial applications. Bionutri-AR1® is a nutraceutical produced via this bioprocess, featuring a complex composition, that has been used to improve the immune systems of debilitated people. Objectives: Considering the various biological properties attributed to glucans, one of its main components, this study aims to structurally characterize and evaluate, in vitro, the antioxidant and immunomodulatory potential of the polymers from this nutraceutical to assess whether these polymers contribute to the product’s reported biological effects. Methods/Results: Unlike previous reports, this study characterized by NMR, GC-MS, and Congo Red assay techniques two main glucans: a water-insoluble linear α-D-glucan with glycosidic bonds (1→4) and a soluble branched (1→3)- and (1→6)-linked β-glucan with a triple helix. Both glucans showed significant antioxidant activity, measured by their capacity to scavenge 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radicals. They were also capable of inducing the secretion of cytokines such as tumoral necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin 10 (IL-10), and interleukin 6 (IL-6), determined through capture enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), especially when co-stimulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Conclusions: This suggests a dual action of these glucans in both proinflammatory and regulatory pathways. Future studies will describe the mechanisms by which these glucans, especially the insoluble ones, enhance immune system function, highlighting their potential use in immunotherapy.

Rethinking Freshwater Cage Aquaculture: A Case in Ghana

Lakes around the world, including Ghana’s Lake Volta, are facing insidious threats from pollutants due to high dependency on aquatic ecosystems. Cage aquaculture is expanding across Africa because of its potential to address food insecurity, provide livelihoods, and boost local economies. However, the uncontrolled expansion of cage aquaculture can have significant negative impacts on water resources, including environmental footprints that threaten biodiversity. Given the intensification of cage aquaculture for tilapia farming on Lake Volta, we advocate for a transition to inland-integrated aquaculture systems that promote circularity. Strengthening stakeholder collaboration is essential for enhancing competence in mapping inland aquaculture areas, identifying eco-friendly alternatives and reinforcing aquaculture regulations, with particular emphasis on cage culture on Lake Volta. These strategies can reduce the pressures imposed by tilapia cage farms on the lake while promoting best management practices. Additionally, capacity building must be an ongoing process to address knowledge gaps, including the development of effective preparedness plans executed during emergencies. The ongoing pollution from illegal mining in the Black Volta River, a tributary of Lake Volta, along with endemic diseases in the lake, further compounds fish health and welfare issues. This underscores the urgent need to implement inland transition strategies to protect the lake, mitigate disease spread, and ensure safe fish food production.

Inactivation of Escherichia coli O157:H7 in tomato juice by combined treatment of ethanolic clove extract and mild heat

The combination of plant extracts with mild heat treatment is a promising strategy for obtaining microbiologically and chemically safe food products. In this study, we evaluated the antimicrobial activity of ethanolic clove extract against Escherichia coli O157: H7 in nutrient broth, buffer, and tomato juice. Clove extract at 0.4% concentration showed significant E. coli O157: H7 population reduction in all media tested. E. coli O157: H7 was most sensitive to the ethanolic clove extract in nutrient-deficient media but demonstrated relative resistance in nutrient-rich media and tomato juice. Moreover, we evaluated the potential of clove extract as a preservative in tomato juice stored at cold storage temperatures of 4 °C and 15 °C. The clove extract exhibited stronger inhibitory effects against the pathogen in tomato juice stored at 15 °C than at 4 °C. Additionally, we assessed the antimicrobial efficacy of clove extract in combination with mild heat treatment against E. coli O157: H7 in tomato juice. The combined treatment of 0.05% clove extract with mild heat at 60 °C for 30 min achieved a 5-log reduction in the E. coli population in tomato juice. Our findings present a potential hurdle technology against E. coli O157: H7 in tomato juice processing by employing a combination of naturally sourced antimicrobial agents from clove and mild heat treatment. This approach can be effectively adopted by large-scale industries and small-scale local juice vendors to ensure the safety of tomato juice products.

Progressive analytical techniques utilized for the detection of contaminants attributed to food safety and security

Food analysis and authentication are very crucial to assure safety, quality, and integrity of food and food-related products. Analysis of food products not only ensures the quality of food but also gives information about composition, physical characteristics, flavor, shelf-life, safety, microstructure, and processibility. Consequently, food is now regarded as an inexpensive means of preventing disease while also serving as a source of energy. Typically, a wide range of distinct chemical components make up the chemical composition of food. Furthermore, during processing or storage, food is always susceptible to structural alterations. Therefore, to assess the nutritional value and the quality of food products, food components must be analyzed and quantified. Food analysis mainly includes the preparation, examination, and identification of major food components, such as dietary fiber, phenolic compounds, carbohydrates, proteins, amino acids, peptides, enzymes, phospholipids, pesticides, alcohols, fat-soluble and water-soluble vitamins, organic acids, organic bases, bittering agents, pigments, and aroma compounds, as well as minor components including preservatives, antioxidants, colorants. Therefore, there are several advanced analytical techniques, including spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, chromatography, NMR, HSI, MALDI-TOF, RT-PCR, biosensors, etc. have been vital in the food science domain due to their high selectivity and sensitivity. This review emphasizes implementing various analytical techniques to analyze food safety and security.

Arsenic, cadmium, and chromium concentrations in contrasting phosphate fertilizers and their bioaccumulation by crops: Towards a green label?

Potentially toxic elements such as arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), and chromium (Cr) are severely regulated in fertilizers and deserve continuous investigation. Phosphate-derived Cd has been a stepping-stone toward achieving sustainable and safe worldwide food production, especially after a new regulation aiming for reduced limits of Cd in P fertilizers (EU, 2019/1009). Three pot experiments were conducted to assess the variability of As, Cd, and Cr concentrations - with a particular focus on Cd - from monoammonium phosphates (MAP 1, MAP 2, and MAP 3 from different geographic origins) and their accumulation in limed and unlimed soils, and contrasting crops, representing staple food and significant sources of these elements for humans (i.e., potato, tobacco, and rice). A diverse array of sensitive techniques for trace elements determination were used to reveal the highest level of Cd of MAP 3 (20.71 mg kg−1 MAP), which loaded the highest amounts of this element to the soil matrix and solution, plant shoots, and xylem sap, contrasting with results for MAP 1 (0.87 mg kg−1 MAP), which has almost ten times less Cd than that required for low-Cd labeling of P fertilizers (≤20 mg Cd kg−1 P2O5). MAP 3 also had the highest Cr concentration (139.3 mg kg−1 MAP). Among crops, rice accumulated 16-fold less Cd than potato plants. Liming decreased Cd in tobacco and potato shoots up to 35%. Moreover, reductions of about 20% were also observed for Cd accumulation in tubers and sap. Conversely, Cd from MAP 3 was always much more accumulated in soil solution, achieving up to 20 μg L−1, while values < 5 μg L−1 (i.e., a groundwater limit) were obtained from MAP 1. Our findings may be used as a reference in developing green labels for fertilizers in scenarios where Cd accumulation represents a potential risk for soil and human health.

Analytical control of residues of the herbicide trifluralin in the assessment of the food safety

Introduction. Trifluralin is a systemic herbicide of the chemical class of dinitroaniline derivatives. During monitoring studies, trifluralin was detected in carrots produced in the Russian Federation. Since trifluralin-based pesticides are not approved for the use in the Russian Federation, residual amounts of the substance are not typical for this crop. To check the contamination of carrots with a pesticide not typical for this crop, confirmatory qualitative and quantitative studies were carried out. Purpose of the work. Increasing the efficiency of identification and reliability of quantitative results when monitoring food products for safety when performing confirmatory analytical studies using the example of determining trifluralin in carrots to assess the safety of food products intended for the consumer. Materials and methods. Gas chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry (GC-MS/MS) was used to identify and quantify trifluralin. Samples were prepared for analysis using the QuEChERS method. Identification was carried out by multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) using a triple quadrupole mass spectrometer using two to four MRM transitions (m/z): 306,1→264,0; 264,0→206,0; 264,0→188,0; 264,0→160,1. Matrix-matched calibration was used for quantitation. Results. The effectiveness of screening studies when monitoring food products using the GC-MS/MS method can be significantly elevated by increasing the number of MRM transitions (at least 3), controlling the reference retention time of the substance, and maintaining the ratio of confirmatory ions. To obtain a reliable quantification of trifluralin content in carrots, the use of a matrix-matched calibration is recommended. Limitation. In the study, only carrots were considered as food products. Conclusion. Confirmation of test results is especially important when determining pesticide residues that are not normally found in a given matrix, or when it is suspected that the maximum permissible level may be exceeded. When conducting a screening study and detecting a food contaminant, contamination of the product can only be reported in advance. Next, a confirmatory analysis is required using a validated quantitative method, including an appropriate calibration procedure. In quantitative analysis, the presence of matrix sample components can cause problems due to sample suppression/enhancement phenomena. Matrix-aware calibration has been shown to be effective in compensating for matrix effects.

Electrochemical molecularly imprinted polymer sensor for simple and fast analysis of tetrodotoxin in seafood

Tetrodotoxin (TTX) is a marine biotoxin whose biosynthesis is associated with the pufferfish. Its distribution is primarily focused in Asian and tropical marine areas. Currently, this group of toxins is classified as emerging in Europe, and its presence could be related to climate change. This incidence has prompted the European Union, with the European Food Safety Authority, to establish control and monitoring mechanisms for TTX in marine products in Europe. In this context, the development of analytical tools capable of ensuring the safety of food products, especially seafood and fish, is a crucial task. This study describes the development of a molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) based electrochemical sensor for the analysis of TTX. The MIP was synthesized through the electropolymerization of a functional monomer, ortho-phenylenediamine in the presence of a dummy template, voglibose. The MIP sensor was constructed on a screen-printed gold electrode and characterized by cyclic voltammetry. Differential pulse voltammetry, using a redox probe ([Fe(CN)6]3-/4-), was used in the analysis protocol. The developed sensor exhibited a linear response between 5.0 μg mL−1 and 25.0 μg mL−1, with a limit of detection of 1.14 μg mL−1. Its high imprinting efficiency conferred outstanding selectivity towards TTX. The sensor's applicability was confirmed through recovery assays on spiked mussel samples, achieving recoveries of 81.0 %, 110.2 %, and 102.5 % for external standard addition at 30.0, 44.0, and 60.0 μg kg−1, respectively, with relative standard deviations below 15 %. These results are comparable to those obtained using Hydrophilic Interaction Liquid Chromatography coupled with Tandem Mass Spectrometry, a validated method carried out by the European Reference Laboratory for Marine Biotoxins. Thus, the MIP sensor represents a portable, simple, and fast tool with essential analytical functionalities for the sampling phase and pre-selection of laboratory samples for analysis.

Developing organic farming areas to achieve ESG principles

Abstract Considering consumer demand for eco-friendly and safe food products, and the desire to comply with ESG principles, the authors need to study priority methods and directions for developing organic agriculture. The article aims at determining promising directions for developing organic agriculture to achieve ESG principles. This research employed methods of analysis of documents and scientific articles, online expert survey and statistical method for checking the reliability during the process of information collection. The authors systematized the results obtained into groups depending on the method of agricultural production in organic agriculture: organic, organo-biological, biodynamic, biological (ecological), and integrated. After ranking them, the authors determined the areas of organic agriculture that require priority development. This research has practical significance for government authorities, business structures, farmers and other stakeholders as it can aid in development of government programs to support organic agriculture entities in Kazakhstan and other countries with similar conditions to achieve ESG principles.

Evaluation of the Thermal and Light Stability of β-Carotene Extracted from Mauritia flexuosa Using Ionic Liquid

The growing concern over the adverse effects of synthetic dyes has generated interest in the use of natural pigments by the food industry. β-carotene, a carotenoid found in various plant sources, is recognized for its antioxidant properties and provitamin A activity. The fruit of the buriti palm (Mauritia flexuosa), which is particularly rich in β-carotene, serves as a significant natural source of this pigment. This study aimed to extract β-carotene from buriti fruit using ionic liquids as an alternative to conventional organic solvents like acetone. β-carotene content was determined by HPLC and showed that extraction with [C4mim] [BF4] not only improved β-carotene extraction efficiency compared to acetone (19.21 and 13.13 mg/100 g, respectively) but also provided greater pigment stability during light, thermal and color stability tests. Moreover, ionic liquids are aligned with the principles of green chemistry and offer a sustainable and safe alternative for the food industry. Its favorable characteristics not only reduce environmental impacts associated with conventional solvents, but also ensure an increase in the shelf life of natural dyes, thus promoting the safety and quality of food products.

Awareness, perception, and practices of Ayurveda doctors toward FSSAI (Ayurveda Ahara) Regulations Act 2022: A cross-sectional survey

BACKGROUND: The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI; Ayurveda Ahara) Regulations Act 2022 was established by the FSSAI to regulate the safety, quality, and labeling of Ayurvedic food products. This Act is specifically designed to distinguish Ayurvedic food products from Ayurvedic medicines and proprietary drugs, ensuring that they meet strict standards of safety and authenticity. This study aims to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of Ayurvedic doctors regarding the FSSAI (Ayurveda Ahara) Regulations Act 2022. It seeks to understand their level of awareness and implementation of these regulations in clinical practice and to identify areas for further education or training. METHODS: A cross-sectional online survey was conducted from April 4, 2024, to June 20, 2024, using Google Forms. The semi-structured questionnaire included 31 questions divided into four sections covering knowledge, attitudes, and practices toward the FSSAI Ayurveda Ahara regulations. The survey included 148 qualified Ayurvedic doctors from across India. Descriptive analysis of the data was performed, and the results were expressed as percentages. RESULTS: Out of 148 respondents, 85.1% were aware of the FSSAI Ayurveda Ahara regulations, but only 14.2% were thoroughly familiar with them. Most respondents had acquired knowledge through professional associations (83.7%) and medical journals (72.9%). While 81.8% of the doctors believed in the significant role of the regulations in public health, practical challenges such as the availability of compliant products and patient adherence were identified. Only 54.7% of doctors were likely to incorporate compliant Ayurvedic food products into their treatment recommendations. CONCLUSION: The study highlights the need for enhanced education and dissemination of detailed information about the FSSAI (Ayurveda Ahara) Regulations Act 2022. Despite positive attitudes toward the regulations, practical application is hindered by significant challenges. Addressing these gaps through targeted training programs, improved information dissemination, and supportive measures is essential for effective implementation.

Dissipation and persistence behaviour of fipronil and its metabolites in chilli fruits using GC-ECD, confirmed by GC-MS, under semi-arid conditions

Chilli, one of the most popular vegetables in the world is infested by many insect-pests and diseases. Fipronil, a phenylpyrazole class insecticide is used to manage insect-pests on chilli. The present study aimed to analyze the dissipation patterns and residual concentrations of the fipronil and its metabolites in chilli fruits during the Kharif season of 2020–21, in semi-arid environment. In the study, fipronil was applied to the plants twice, with a 10-day gap between treatments, using a 5 % suspension concentrate. The applications were undertaken using two separate concentrations i.e. the lower dosage of 40 g a.i. ha−1 and higher dosage of 80 g a.i. ha−1. There were four sets of data for each concentration. The chilli crop was systematically sampled at predetermined intervals after the application of the second spray. The procedure encompassed utilizing the modified QuEChERS (Quick, Easy, Cheap, Effective, Rugged, and Safe) technique for extraction and purification, followed by analyzing the resulting residues using Gas Chromatography Electron Capture Detector. Gas Chromatography- Mass Spectrometry was subsequently conducted for the confirmation of the findings. The research revealed that the mean initial deposit of fipronil and its metabolites (desulfinyl, sulphide, and sulfone) at the authorized dosage was determined to be 0.574, 0.123, 0.031, and 0.180 mg kg−1, respectively. In contrast, when administered at twice the prescribed dosage, the mean first deposit was 1.204, 0.230, 0.067, and 0.382 mg kg−1. The half-life values of these residues exhibited a range of 1.2–4.1 days for both dosages. A prudent waiting duration was determined for the doses, leading to the conclusion that an average interval of 7 days is deemed safe for harvesting chilli peppers. The significance of this discovery is related to the maximum residue limits of 0.001 mg kg−1 for fipronil in green chilli, as established by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India. This study provides significant insights into fipronil's persistence and proper management in chilli plant cultivation, emphasizing the importance of following prescribed dosages and designated waiting intervals to ensure the safety of food products.

Molecular screening of potential Bacillus species bacteriocin starter cultures isolated from Nigerian fermented condiments

Traditional fermented food condiments in Nigeria are majorly produced by using protein-rich leguminous seeds via spontaneous fermentation or back slopping. However, health risks such as the production of biogenic amines, presence of toxigenic genes and food borne pathogens remains major concerns of public health significance. Hence, the need for the production of safe condiments using non-pathogenic food-grade starter cultures. Isolation and characterization of organisms from spontaneously fermented condiments made from Parkia biglobosa, Ricinus communis, Pentaclethra macrophylla and Prosopis africana was done using standard methods. Phenotypic and biochemical characterizations was down using established protocols while molecular identification was done using 16S rRNA sequencing. Results obtained showed that the microbial load (cfu/ml) recorded from the spontaneously fermented condiments ranged from: 2.1×107-5.2×1012, 15.2×107-4.4×1010, 4.4×1010-4.4×1012 and 6.4×107-1.6×1012 for P. biglobosa, R. communis, P. macrophylla and P. africana respectively. Identification of isolates revealed Bacillus. However, 22.8% of the Bacillus isolates harboured HblA and HblD genes while 40.9 % showed bands for the presence of HblC genes. In addition, the percentage occurrence of 18.1%, 27.2% and 50% was obtained for the presence of NheA, NheB and NheC genes respectively while none of the Bacillus isolates showed bands for the presence of Cytk and EM1 genes. More so, five Bacillus isolates were identified to be non-toxigenic, showing bands only for Bac, Osbo and Spas genes which are bacteriocin producing genes. Put together, the identified non-toxigenic food-grade Bacillus species recorded in this study can be recommended as potential bacteriocin starter cultures for the fermentation of microbiologically safe food products.

Developing Flowcharts for Hazard Analysis in Seafood Retail: Critical Control Point Verification

Background: Implementing Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) management across the supply chain is promoted globally to ensure the safety of marine food products due to their rapid quality deterioration. However, many seafood retail stores deviate from adopting these practices. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to create a flowchart based on HACCP and validate it in retail stores. Methods: Chub mackerel (Scomber japonicus), scallops (Patinopecten yessoensis), and whiteleg shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei) specimens were purchased from a supermarket from August to December 2020. The handling information of these products from receipt to sales was obtained to prepare an HACCP plan for retail stores. Groups adhering to and deviating from flowchart conditions were categorized as Critical Control Point (CCP)-compliant and CCP-deviant, respectively. Four samples of each product for each condition were analyzed. Bacterial viability was evaluated using the flat agar culture method. Escherichia coli and Vibrio parahaemolyticus were detected using the Brilliant Green-Lactose-Bile and material point methods, respectively. Product freshness was assessed by determining K-values using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography. Results were compared using Student’s t-test. Results: At elevated storage temperatures, bacterial growth rates were higher in chub mackerel and whiteleg shrimp than those in scallops. E. coli was not detected in any sample, whereas V. parahaemolyticus was detected in scallops and whiteleg shrimp but not in chub mackerel. CCP-deviant refrigerated scallops had increased V. parahaemolyticus counts; however, it did not differ between the frozen scallop and whiteleg shrimp. K-values increased more rapidly in CCP-deviant chub mackerel, whiteleg shrimp, and refrigerated scallops, but not in frozen scallops. Inadequate temperature control during display and sale markedly deteriorated the quality of marine products. Conclusion: Setting CCPs for marine food product display and sale while controlling temperature can preserve product quality. The flowchart created in this study can be broadly used for marine retail stores.