Food Safety Research Articles

Food Safety Knowledge, Attitude and Behavior of Employees in Star Grade Hotels: Reference to Western Province of Sri Lanka

Food safety is a critical aspect of public health that significantly impacts various sectors, particularly the hospitality industry. Despite the high importance of food safety in the tourism sector, instances of foodborne illnesses continue to occur, posing health risks and threatening the industry's economic contributions. In a quantitative approach, this study investigates the relationships between food safety knowledge, attitude, and behavior among employees in the above three-star hotels in the Western Province of Sri Lanka. Partial least square structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) was used to examine the measurement and struc-tural models. The study was conducted using the convenient sampling method and data was collected from 51 respondence working in the kitchen departments of above 3-star hotels in Western province, Sri Lanka. The findings reveal a strong positive correlation between attitude and behavior, emphasizing that fos-tering a positive attitude through training and awareness campaigns can signifi-cantly enhance food safety behaviors. Conversely, the relationship between knowledge and behavior is found to be slightly negative and statistically insig-nificant, suggesting that knowledge alone does not directly influence behavior. However, a moderate positive relationship between attitude and knowledge indi-cates that a positive attitude can facilitate the acquisition and retention of food safety knowledge. This study contributes to the broader understanding of food safety in the hospitality sector and offers practical recommendations for policy and training interventions to mitigate foodborne illnesses and enhance the repu-tation and sustainability of hotels.

Pork as a Source of Diverse Viral Foodborne Infections: An Escalating Issue

This review synthesizes current knowledge on the risks posed by viral foodborne infections associated with pork, emphasizing their global prevalence and the complexity of managing such pathogens. It covers a range of significant viruses, including hepatitis A and E, norovirus, rotavirus, sapovirus, enterovirus, astrovirus, and enteric adenovirus. The role of pigs as reservoirs for diverse pathogens with zoonotic potential further complicates safety challenges, extending risks to individuals involved in pork production and processing. Various factors influencing viral contamination throughout the meat production chain are explored, from farm-level practices to processing and handling procedures. Emphasis is placed on the critical importance of implementing effective control measures at each stage, including enhanced biosecurity, rigorous hygiene practices, and appropriate thermal processing techniques. Additionally, the need for improved surveillance and detection methods to effectively identify and monitor viral presence in meat products is highlighted. In conclusion, the necessity of adopting a One Health approach that integrates efforts in animal health, food safety, and public health to mitigate the risks of viral foodborne infections associated with meat consumption is underscored. This holistic strategy is essential for safeguarding consumer health and ensuring the safety of the global food supply.

“AgriVision” A Flutter -Based Application for RealTime Detection of Pesticides Residues on Fruits

“AgriVision” is a Flutter-based mobile application designed to address the critical issue of pesticide contamination on fruits. The application utilizes real-time image processing and machine learning techniques to detect pesticide residues on the surface of various fruits, ensuring food safety and healthstandards. By capturing and analyzing images through a smartphone camera, the app provides instant and reliablefeedback on the presence of harmful chemicals. The user-friendly interface, combined with the portability of the solution, offers farmers, consumers, and vendors a practical tool to assess fruit quality and promote safer agricultural practices. This project aims to contribute to healthier food choices and enhance consumer safety. Key Words: AgriVision , Flutter application , Real-time detection , Pesticide residues , Fruits , Agricultural technology , Pesticide detection , Mobile app , Food safety , AgriTech , Image processing , Machine learning , Smart agriculture , Fruit quality analysis.

Biotechnological Tool for Metal(loid)s as Cd, Cu, Ni, and P Management with Multiple Approaches: Bioremediation, Recovery of Raw Materials, and Food Safety

Contaminated soils are a challenge for implementing biotechnology in bioremediation, the recovery of Critical and Strategic Raw Materials (CRMs and SRMs), and food security. European Union (EU) Governments have established strict limits on As, Pb, Cd, and Hg in foods (Document 32023R0915) and requested the recovery of 34 CRMs within a circular economy (CE) (5th CRMs list). This study proposed a biotechnological tool for the decontamination of soil with heavy metal(loid)s by arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM)-assisted phytoextraction and the subsequent recovery of CRMs or by phytostabilization to prevent their entry into the food chain. It consisted of placing Baccharis salicifolia plants, inoculated or non-inoculated with AM fungi, into bioreactors (BRs) containing mining soil with Cd, Ni, and Cu, according to the Argentinian Patent (AR090183B1). The bioextractive potential (BP) was also estimated at the highest Technological Readiness Level (TRL) using a vegetable depuration module (VDM, TRL 6). Inoculated plants showed significantly higher aerial bioaccumulation coefficients (Cd: 68.62; P: 2.99; Ni: 2.51; Cu: 0.18) in BRs, and the BP values reached 1.16 g, 9.75 g, 2.40 g, and 213.1 g for Ni, Cd, Cu, and P, respectively. Finally, these CRMs and SRMs could be recovered from biomass through hydrometallurgy within a CE framework.

Benzoic Acid potentiates intestinal IgA response in broiler chickens against Salmonella enterica Serovar Typhimurium infection

As a feed additive, Benzoic Acid (BA) has been demonstrated to significantly enhance feed conversion efficiency, regulate gastrointestinal pH, and improve overall animal health. Young animals, highly susceptible to S. Typhimurium infection, suffer from high mortality rates and substantial economic losses due to this pathogen. Despite promising indications of BA's immunomodulatory potential in boosting intestinal immunity, its underlying mechanisms remain insufficiently understood. This study investigates how BA strengthens intestinal anti-infection defenses in young animals via immunomodulatory pathways, focusing on its impact on macrophage polarization and IgA-mediated immune responses. Employing in vitro cell experiments and animal models, we examined the macrophage phenotypic alterations following BA treatment. We assessed the expression of immune-related genes in the intestine through immunofluorescence staining, Western blotting, and quantitative real-time PCR. The results demonstrate that BA promotes M2 macrophage polarization by activating the mTOR/PPAR-γ/STAT3 signaling pathways. Furthermore, BA enhances the intestinal expression of the polymeric immunoglobulin receptor (PIgR), B-cell activating factor (BAFF) from the TNF family, and activation-induced cytidine deaminase (AID), thereby enhancing IgA production by B-cells. These results underscore the potential of BA to bolster innate immune functions in young chickens, mitigate intestinal damage caused by S. Typhimurium infection, and ultimately promote both animal health and food safety.

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.

Covid-19 pandemic and its economic and psychological impacts on Saudi workers: An empirical study in the kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has had a substantial economic and psychological impact on workers in Saudi Arabia. The objective of the study was to assess the effects of the COVID-19 epidemic on the financial and mental well-being of Saudi employees in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Purpose: The COVID-19 epidemic has resulted in significant economic and societal ramifications. Current study indicates that the pandemic has not only precipitated an economic crisis but has also given rise to several psychological and emotional crises. This article provides a conceptual examination of how the pandemic impacts the economic and mental health conditions of Saudi workers, based on contemporary Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) models. Method: The current study employed a qualitative methodology and utilized a sample survey strategy. The data was gathered from Saudi workers residing in major cities of Saudi Arabia. The samples were obtained from professionals such as managers, doctors, and engineers, as well as non-professionals like unskilled and low-skilled laborers, who are employed in various public and private sectors. A range of statistical tools, including Descriptive statistics, ANOVA, Pearson’s Correlation, Factor analysis, Reliability test, Chi-square test, and regression approach, were employed to analyze and interpret the results. Result: According to the data, the pandemic has caused a wide range of economic problems, including high unemployment and underemployment rates, income instability, and different degrees of pressure on workers to find work. Feelings of insecurity (about food and environmental safety), worry, dread, stress, anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns have been generated by these challenges. The rate of mental health decline differs among demographics. Conclusions: The COVID-19 pandemic has universally affected all aspects of our lives worldwide. It resulted in an extended shutdown of educational institutions, factories, offices, and businesses. Without a question, it has profoundly transformed the work environment, professions, and lifestyles of billions of individuals worldwide. There is a high occurrence of poor psychological well-being among Saudi workers. However, it has been demonstrated that both economic health and mental health interventions can effectively alleviate the mental health burden in this population.

Systematic review and meta-analysis of human bocavirus as food safety risk in shellfish.

Human bocavirus (HBoV) is an emerging pathogen causing gastroenteritis/respiratory tract infection. Shellfish has been implicated in foodborne HBoV dissemination. The present investigation aimed at synthesising shellfish-associated HBoV data. Shellfish-HBoV data were mined from public repositories using topic-specific algorithm. A total of 30 data sources was identified of which 5 were synthesised. The average HBoV positivity and sample-size was 12 ± 9.2 and 134.2 ± 113.6, respectively. HBoV was studied in mollusc with 3.7-83.3% crude prevalence. The pooled HBoV prevalence in shellfish was 9.2% (7.2-11.8; 5 studies) and 12.9% (1.8-53.9; 5 studies) in common-effects and random-effects model respectively, with 0.12-94.89% prediction interval (PI). Sensitivity analysis yielded 8.7% (6.7-11.2; PI = 1.99-29.48%) prevalence. HBoV1 and HBoV2 pooled prevalence in shellfish was 7.91% (1.61-31.09; 3 studies) and 12.52% (0.01-99.60; 3 studies), respectively. HBoV3 prevalence was reported in one single study as 6.96% (4.41-10.35). In conclusion, the present study revealed high HBoV prevalence in shellfish, signifying the need to characterise HBoV and subtypes circulating in non-mollusc shellfish. Furthermore, there is an urgent need to mitigate the food safety risk that may result from HBoV contaminated shellfish since shellfish-borne HBoV is not routinely assessed and might be underestimated at present.

Effect of various culinary treatments on the glycoalkaloid content of potato peel

Potatoes are one of the most consumed foods worldwide. During germination, glycoalkaloids (GAs) with potential bioactive properties are produced, which, at high concentrations, may have adverse health effects. Potato peels, a byproduct generated in large quantities but increasingly used in contemporary cuisine, contain significant levels of these GAs. This paper examines GA levels in potato peels after various culinary treatments (boiling, steaming, baking, air frying, conventional deep frying, and double frying) to provide new data and ensure food safety. An optimized extraction method using ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) was employed, followed by purification with mesostructured SBA-15 silica functionalized with octadecylsilane (C18) chains as sorbent in solid-phase extraction, prior to HPLC-DAD determination of α-solanine and α-chaconine levels in the samples. The method was validated, obtaining excellent recovery values (88 – 96 %) and low detection and quantification limits (0.3 and 1 mg/L, respectively). Upon application of the validated analytical method to the samples culinarily treated using the most common cooking techniques (boiling, steaming, baking, air frying, conventional deep frying, and double frying) at various times and temperatures, the obtained results demonstrated significant reductions (between 52 % and 84 %) in GAs content in the treated potato peels, compared to fresh samples. Statically significant degradation of these compounds was observed through baking at elevated times and temperatures (74 – 84 %), as well as both conventional deep frying and double frying (76 – 83 %).

Detection of biliary trematodes in sheep and goats from northern and central Portugal

Fasciolosis and dicrocoeliosis are severe parasitic infections that result in substantial economic damages to livestock farming globally as a consequence of reduced productivity and viscera condemnation. Molecular tests such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR) can detect Fasciola hepatica and Dicrocoelium dendriticum DNA with high sensitivity and specificity. In this study, we aimed to assess the presence of F. hepatica and D. dendriticum by PCR-based techniques in 400 small ruminant bile samples retrieved from central Portugal. Additionally, we conducted genetic characterisation of F. hepatica and D. dendriticum in these samples. Only one of the 400 bile samples (0.25%; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.01–1.39) examined by PCR tested positive for F. hepatica, and two samples (0.50%, 95% CI: 0.06–1.79) tested positive for D. dendriticum. Our findings indicate a low prevalence of F. hepatica and D. dendriticum in Portuguese small ruminants, underscoring the need to investigatefactors leading to meat rejection in slaughterhouses. Implementing effective parasite control measures is crucial to minimise economic losses and improve food safety. Addressing these infections and deploying targeted control strategies can enhance livestock production sustainability and ensure safe, high-quality meat products for consumers.

Analysis of heavy metal characteristics and health risks of edible mushrooms in the mid-western region of China

This study determined the content of metal elements (As, Cd, Cr, Hg, Pb) in 9 edible mushrooms using ICP-MS, and evaluated the harm of long-term consumption of edible mushrooms to human health. The results showed that the concentrations of metal elements decreased in the order of Cd > As > Cr > Pb > Hg in edible mushrooms. The concentrations of Cd, As, Pb, and Hg were 22.95%, 8.20%, 1.64%, and 3.28% higher, respectively, than the maximum standards in China, whereas Cr did not exceed the limit. The detection rate of metal elements in Morchella esculenta (L.) Pers (M. esculenta), and Agaricus blazei Murill (A. blazei) were relatively high. The results of single factor evaluation and target hazard coefficient (THQ, HI) indicated that Dictyophora indusiata (Vent.ex Pers) Fisch (D. indusiata), A. blazei and M. esculenta were the main sources of risk. In addition, the HI values in ascending order were: Pb (0.43) < Cr (0.68) < Hg (0.92) < Cd (7.21) < As (14.02), indicating that Cd and As were the primary sources of health risks in edible mushrooms. To ensure food safety, it is recommended to strengthen the supervision of edible mushrooms, make reasonable choices, and reduce exposure levels of heavy metal pollution.

Single-atom ruthenium nanozyme-induced signal amplification strategy in photoelectrochemical aptasensor for ultrasensitive detection of chloramphenicol

To develop ultrasensitive and rapid antibiotics residue detection method is crucial for ensuring food safety and protecting human health. Herein, a novel photoelectrochemical (PEC) aptasensor integrated with single-atom ruthenium (Ru) nanozyme-mediated catalytic precipitation as a valuable signal amplification strategy, have been established for ultrasensitive chloramphenicol (CAP) detection. Particularly, the exceptional peroxidase-mimicking activity of single-atom Ru nanozyme is responsible for accelerating the oxidation of 4-chloro-1-naphthol (4-CN) to produce insoluble precipitate on the electrode, which in turn causes a notable reduction in the photocurrent. Whereas, when CAP is present, the aptamer is liberated away the electrode because of its potent affinity with CAP, resulting in an elevation of the photocurrent signal, enhancing the detection sensitivity. Importantly, the signal amplification strategy combines the effective photoactive material of Au nanoparticles/CdS quantum dot/TiO2 composites, a PEC aptasensor for determination of CAP with an ultralow detection limit of 4.12 pM is achieved in a self-powered mode with great selectivity and accuracy. This work proposes a novel reasonable approach utilizing high-activity single-atom nanozyme to induce signal amplification strategy for the advancement of single-atom nanozyme in ultrasensitive PEC biosensor, and further creates new avenues for ultrasensitive detection beyond antibiotics residue.

A Honeycomb Film Template-Based Method for High-Throughput Preparation of Anti-Salmonella typhimurium 14,028 Phage Microgels

Developing efficient anti-microbials for thoroughly addressing Salmonella contamination is essential for the improvement of food safety. Phage-built materials have shown great potential for biocontrol in environments. Due to challenges in delivery and stability, their widespread use has remained unattainable. Here, we have developed a honeycomb film template-based method for the high-throughput preparation of phage microgels. The honeycomb film template can be simply fabricated in a humid chamber based on a well-established breath figure method. The bacteriophage microgels can be further manufactured by dropping a pre-gelation solution containing bacteriophages into a honeycomb film template. This method can produce over 210,000 phage microgels in every square centimeter template with each microgel containing 1.04 × 107 phages. They can kill 99.90% of the contaminated S. typhimurium 14,028 on chicken samples. This simple, heat-free, and solvent-free method can maintain the strong anti-bacterial efficiency of phages, which can expand the wide application of phage-built microgels for food decontamination.

MXene/WO3 Sensor Array with Improved SNN Algorithm for Accurate Identification of Toxic Gases.

Gas sensing is pivotal in critical areas such as industrial production and food safety. This study explores the gas classification capabilities of MXene-based gas sensors. Pure V2CTx MXene and an MXene/WO3 nanocomposite were synthesized, and MXene-based gas sensors were integrated into a 2 × 2 rudimentary electronic nose array. The tests on gas sensitivity revealed that the inclusion of WO3 nanoparticles (NPs) boosted the sensor's response to 10 ppm of NO2 from 2.82 to 3.45 at room temperature. Moreover, the sensor showcased a rapid response/recovery duration of 74.5/149.0 s, excellent environmental stability, and long-term reliable sensing performance. Furthermore, we have improved the method of accurately identifying four toxic gases detected by an MXene-based sensor array using a spiking neural network (SNN) based on the memristive system. Also, the performance of this identification method revealed that the method achieved 95.83% accuracy in the identification of the four gases. Notably, the improved SNN demonstrated approximately 5% higher accuracy than the other gas recognition algorithm. These results highlight the potential of SNN as a powerful tool to accurately and reliably identify toxic gases based on the gas sensor array.

Electrochemical Sensing/Biosensing ‐ Bench to Market

The proposition of new sensors based on carbon (nano)structures as well as metal (nano)particles is a great alternative for electroanalysis. In this context, graphite, carbon nanotubes, graphene, carbon black and fullerene, as well as gold, silver, platinum, copper are the most common materials employed [1]. Also, biomolecules such as antibodies, DNA sequences, enzymes and aptamers can be promising molecular recognition elements and enable specific sensor/biosensor designs, with interferent species [2]. Since the pioneering works from Professor Joseph Wang [3,4], the screen‐printed and disposable electrodes have been reported in the literature as options to be used in point‐of‐care and point‐of use sites. Also, the evolution of 3D printing [5] and wearable devices have led to an increase in the number of papers reporting on their use.. The “Achilles heel” is that the laboratory creations don't make it to the market place [6]. Therefore, academia needs to think more about in the validation, demonstration and promotion of the laboratory developed technology with of new companies based on startups, for example, to attract investments and promote these sensors to commercial ones. In this context, the special issue “Electrochemical Sensing/Biosensing ‐ Bench to Market” brings the discussion and advances of electrochemical sensors, which can be used in many areas, such as medical, environmental, food safety, pharmaceutical, and forensic. For this purpose, the preparation, characterization, and application of these devices have attracted interest. Studies of the production, shelf‐life as well as reproducibility, and repeatability have been highlighted for mass production. Important subjects such as screen printing, and 3D printing are welcome for submissions. Therefore, we expect you to enjoy this Special Issue published in Electroanalysis.

Research on impedance measurement based on Gallium Nitride Transistor

Abstract Impedance measurement has broad applications in fields such as electrochemistry, biology, medicine, and food safety. Typically, frequency response analyzers are used for small signal disturbance measurements, but they come with drawbacks such as high cost, large size, and limited excitation capabilities. To address the need for wide-band, large-signal, and portable impedance measurement in electrochemical applications, a novel scheme based on a Gallium Nitride device excitation circuit and amplitude-phase discrimination module is proposed. A multiphase cascade frequency-doubling buck circuit is used to inject disturbance signals into the impedance under test, and impedance parameters are obtained using discrete fourier transformafter signal sampling. By varying the frequency of the disturbance signal, impedance information across different frequencies can be captured. In this approach, the amplitude-phase discrimination module replaces the frequency response analyzer, reducing the overall size of the measurement system, while the power device-based excitation circuit enables large signal disturbances.

Quality evaluation of innovative buttermilk biscuits produced from orange-flesh sweet potato flour infused with coconut

IntroductionThis study was undertaken to evaluate a value-added innovative buttermilk biscuit made from orange flesh sweet potato (OFSP) flour, infused with coconut. It underscores the importance of food utilisation through alternatives to wheat flour contributing to food and nutrition security amidst evolving global challenges. The objectives of this study were: to investigate the effect of different levels of OFSP flour with and without shredded coconut on the physical, microbiological, nutritional and sensory properties of buttermilk biscuits. The hypotheses were: Ho: There is no effect of different levels of OFSP flour and shredded coconut on the physical, microbiological, nutritional and sensory properties on buttermilk biscuits at ∝ = 0.05 and Ha: There is an effect of different levels of OFSP flour and shredded coconut on the physical, microbiological, nutritional and sensory properties on buttermilk biscuits at ∝ = 0.05.MethodsOFSP flour was produced and combined with wheat flour at different ratios and infused with desiccated shredded coconut to produce six formulations of buttermilk biscuits: 100% wheat flour + 5% coconut (control 1), 100% wheat flour (control 2), 70% wheat flour + 30% OFSP flour + 5% coconut, 70% wheat flour + 30% OFSP flour, 50% wheat flour + 50% OFSP flour + 5% coconut and 50% wheat flour + 50% OFSP flour. The study followed a randomised 3 × 2 factorial design where each treatment was replicated four times giving 24 treatments. Physical, nutritional, sensory, microbiological and shelf-life analyses were determined for each buttermilk biscuit treatment.ResultsThe study’s findings revealed that buttermilk biscuits formulated with 30% OFSP flour received the highest (p &amp;lt; 0.05) sensory evaluation scores for the majority of attributes and overall acceptability while the 100% wheat flour formulations received the lowest scores according to the 9-point hedonic scale. Notably, the inclusion of shredded coconut did not improve sensory attributes or overall acceptance of the buttermilk biscuits. The OFSP flour buttermilk biscuits contained protein, fat, fibre, moisture and ash. The 100% wheat flour treatments contained significantly higher levels of proteins and moisture than the OFSP flour buttermilk biscuits. The colour L* of the OFSP flour treatments were significantly lower than the 100% wheat flour treatments. There were no significant changes in spread-ratio, diameter and thickness of the buttermilk biscuits during storage. Furthermore, the microbiological quality was maintained as no growth of bacteria, yeasts and molds were observed.DiscussionThe OFSP flour with and without desiccated coconut produced acceptable buttermilk biscuits with less reliant on wheat flour. It is noteworthy that the protein content of the OFSP flour buttermilk biscuits was at an acceptable level even though it was lower than that in 100% wheat flour buttermilk biscuits. Food safety was maintained throughout storage which is crucial in the elimination of food borne diseases. The use of different baking parameters can be used for future studies to assess the effect of temperature on the quality of buttermilk biscuits.

Milk contamination in Europe under anticipated climate change scenarios

Transforming the food system while addressing climate change requires proactive measures based on quantitative projections of anticipated future conditions. A key component of the food system that must be considered during this transformation is food safety, which is the focus of this paper. Milk safety has been selected as a case study. Future milk contamination levels in Europe, in terms of total bacterial counts, are evaluated under various climate change scenarios. Projections from multiple climate models are integrated into a data-driven milk contamination model, validated using data from Malta, Spain, and Belgium. The modeling framework accounts for variability among dairy farms and the inherent uncertainties in climate projections. Results are presented through geographical heatmaps, highlighting coastal and southern areas such as Portugal, Western Spain, Southern Italy, and Western France as regions expected to face the highest bacterial counts. The analysis underlines the significant roles of humidity and wind speed, alongside temperature. It also examines compliance with the regulatory threshold for raw milk, revealing an increased frequency of summer weeks exceeding the threshold of 100,000 colony-forming units. Based on this analysis, regions are classified into low-risk, high-risk, and emerging-risk categories. This classification can guide the selection of farm strategies aimed at meeting future food safety standards. By informing these decisions with the anticipated impacts of climate change, the food system can be future-proofed.

Consumer self-protection behavior of online meal safety during the COVID-19 pandemic: the impact of risk perception and effect of satisfaction with management safety performance

PurposeThis study aims to assess the effects of risk perception and management subject satisfaction on consumers' online meal food safety self-protection behavior during the COVID-19 pandemic.Design/methodology/approachThis study uses 742 questionnaires collected via a two-stage online survey conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic, between December 2021 and January 2022. The entropy method, descriptive statistics, ordered logit model, stepwise regression models, interaction terms and decentralization method were used in the quantitative analysis. Respondents’ written responses to self-protection behavior were categorized into five groups.FindingsLess than half of consumers were aware that online food products carry the risk of SARS-COV-2 (44.48%). Between 30 and 40% of consumers took insufficient or no self-protection measures. Risk perception significantly and positively affected self-protection behavior during the COVID-19 pandemic. Consumers' management subject satisfaction has a positive moderating effect on risk perception, with the moderating effect of the satisfaction of online retailers being significant at the 5% level. Risk perception significantly and positively influences consumer self-protection behavior in provinces not affected by the pandemic.Originality/valueThe findings stress the benefits of synergistic interventions by consumers and management subject to food safety measures and the inclusion of tailored interventions during events threatening public health to effectively address food safety. The study offers valuable insights contributing to the improvement of public health outcomes, customer trust and service quality within the online food delivery industry.

Visual aptasensor based on PtNPs/g-C3N4 and DNase I for the field detection of acetamiprid.

A visual aptasensor based on the combination of graphitic carbon nitride loaded with platinum nanoparticles (PtNPs/g-C3N4) and deoxyribonuclease I (DNase I) was developed for detecting acetamiprid. The prepared PtNPs/g-C3N4 exhibited excellent peroxidase (POD)-like activity, demonstrating the capacity to oxidize the colourless o-phenylenediamine (OPD) to produce the coloured product diaminophenazine (DAP) in the presence of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). The DNA aptamer of acetamiprid can adsorb onto the surface of PtNPs/g-C3N4, thereby inhibiting its POD activity. The binding of acetamiprid to its aptamer results in the aptamer desorbing from the surface of PtNPs/g-C3N4 and subsequent digestion by DNase I. Ascribed to the synergistic effect of these factors, the aptasensor can achieve the rapid on-site detection of acetamiprid based on the acetamiprid-induced the colour change of the solution just with the smartphone. Furthermore, due to the remarkable fluorescence signal of DAP at 570nm, the aptasensor under fluorescence mode enables highly sensitive and quantitative detection of acetamiprid with a linear range of 1 ng/mL to 4µg/mL and a detection limit as low as 0.31 ng/mL.Theaptasensor has successfully realized the detection of acetamiprid in river water and cucumber samples, offering a novel perspective for the rapid assessment of environmental pollution and food safety risks associated with acetamiprid residues.