Fortification Levels Research Articles

Supplementation of Aloe Vera to Formulate the Fortified Bread by Managing its Nutritional Profile

Aloe vera is the medicinal plant rich in bioactive compounds. It has a potential to cure many health related problems. The challenge for the food sector is to create novel food products with health promising properties. Objective: To fortify the bread with two different varieties of Aloe vera in different treatments in varying proportion (0, 10, 20, 30%). Methods: The raw material was analyzed and compositional results of proximate analysis of Aloe vera gel indicated the moisture content (98 ± 0.081, 98.5 ± 0.816), crude protein (0.39 ± 0.008, 0.34 ± 0.0081), crude fat (0.22 ± 0.081, 0.23 ± 0.016) crude ash (0.4 ± 0.081, 0.4 ± 0.081), crude fiber (0.59 ± 0.081, 0.31± 0.0816), and NFE (0.4 ± 0.163, 0.01 ± 0.0081) % for Aloe barbedensis miller and A. barbedensis marlothi respectively. The product was developed using different proportions of both varieties of Aloe vera. The proximate, mineral, color, texture and sensory properties of the Aloe vera fortified bread samples were evaluated. Results: Results of the proximate analysis showed that addition of 20% of marlothi variety of Aloe vera enhance the texture of bread. However, the sensory evaluation indicated that the 20% Aloe vera fortified bread was not significantly different from the bread produced from 100% wheat flour in terms of quality attributes evaluated in this study. Conclusions: Fortification of bread with Aloe vera gel increased the fiber content and macronutrient of conventional bread. In addition, the Aloe vera fortified bread was rich in minerals and also acceptable to consumers at 20% fortification level.

Cyclic shear test and finite element analysis of TRC-reinforced damaged confined masonry walls

Due to the low level of seismic fortification during construction, masonry walls are highly vulnerable to earthquakes, but some walls remain in service after repair. To investigate the strengthening effect of textile-reinforced concrete (TRC) on the seismic performance of seismically damaged confined masonry (CM) walls, tests were conducted on four masonry walls, and a finite element model was established for parametric analysis. A TRC facing improves the overall performance of the wall and increases the ductility of the wall. TRC reinforcement technology increases the peak load of CM walls by 19.9%-21.7%, the ductility factor by 42.1%-52.8%, and the cumulative energy dissipation by 95%-118%. The more severe the damage to the wall is, the less effective the strengthening effect of the TRC reinforcement. As the number of layers of textile increases, the load-bearing capacity, deformation capacity and energy dissipation capacity of the walls increase. When the vertical compressive stress increases, the increase in the shear bearing capacity and energy dissipation of walls due to the TRC facings first decreases and then increases. Moreover, TRC facings have limited effectiveness in reinforcing walls with high aspect ratios and high mortar strengths.

An Optimized and Validated QuEChERS-Based Method for the Determination of PCBs in Edible Aquatic Species

AbstractIn the present research, a quick, easy, cheap, effective, rugged, and safe (QuEChERS) method was optimized and validated for the determination of 14 selected PCB congeners in mussel (Mytilus galloprovincialis) and fish samples (Sparus aurata). The optimization included the selection of different QuEChERS procedures, extraction solvent, sample weight, and suitable sorbents for the clean-up step to achieve high sensitivity and minimal matrix interferences simultaneously. The identification and quantification of the selected PCBs were carried out using GC–MS. The method was validated providing in all cases excellent linearity (r2 above 0.99). Recoveries were estimated at three different fortification levels (10, 50, and 100 ng g−1) and ranged from 72.5 to 109.5% and 72.1 to 88.4% for mussel and fish samples, respectively. In addition, for both matrices, the LOQs ranged from 1 to 2.5 ng g−1. The matrix effect was in all cases < 29%, while the expanded uncertainty U%, which was estimated at all the fortification levels, was found below 53% in all cases. Eventually, the optimized and validated method was applied to mussel and fish samples acquired from aquacultures in NW Greece, revealing the absence of the selected congeners in all cases.

Simultaneous Determination of Seven Pyrethroid Pesticide Residues in Aquatic Products by Gas Chromatography

Aquatic products are good sources of essential nutrients, but the presence of pyrethroids (PYRs) as contaminants may pose risks to consumer health as the intricate matrices of PYRs usually obstruct chemical hazard detection. In this study, a gas chromatographic method was established and validated for simultaneously detecting residues of seven PYRs (cyhalothrin, permethrin, cyfluthrin, cypermethrin, tau-fluvalinate, fenvalerate, deltamethrin) in aquatic products. The aim of this method was to assess better the potential risks of pesticide residues in aquatic products. The PYRs in aquatic products were extracted with acetonitrile, purified with n-hexane saturated with acetonitrile, and cleaned up on a Cleanert® Alumina N column. Statistical analysis and orthogonal array experimental design were used to optimize the key parameters. To validate the proposed method, commonly consumed aquatic products (such as carp, crucian carp, whiteleg shrimp, river crab, sea cucumber, and scallop) were obtained from local supermarkets in Shanghai. Satisfied linearity of the calibration curves was achieved in a matrix-matched standard solution, with a correlation coefficient (R2) larger than 0.995. The average recoveries at five fortification levels varied from 77.0% to 117.2%, with relative standard deviations (RSDs) below 11.1%. Concerning electron capture detection, the limits of detection (LOD) and limits of quantification (LOQ) were 2.0–5.0 µg/kg and 5.0–10.0 µg/kg, respectively. These results demonstrate the high stability and sensitivity of this method for simultaneously detecting PYRs in aquatic products, having great practicability and which can be popularized easily.

Differential degradation dynamics of λ-cyhalothrin in mineral and peat soils: a comparative study under laboratory condition

Dissipation kinetics of λ-cyhalothrin in mineral and peat soils of Semongok (mineral soil) and Sibu (peat soil) farms was investigated in a laboratory incubation experiment under different temperature and moisture conditions at normal and double application dosages. The soil was spiked with λ-cyhalothrin at 5 and 25 µg/g soil, respectively. The soil moisture content was adjusted to 20, 40, and 60% of field capacity and then incubated in three climatic chambers at 15, 25, and 35 °C. Samples were collected at 0, 7, 21, 42, 70, and 105 days and analysed by Gas Chromatography-Electron Capture Detector (GC-ECD). Pesticides from the soil were extracted via a facile-modified QuEChERS method. Recovery studies of λ-cyhalothrin in mineral and peat soils were carried out at 0.05, 0.1, 0.5 and 1.0 µg/g fortification levels. The percentage of recovered amount was in the range of 81.4–95.0% and 81.3–86.5% for mineral and peat soils, respectively which falls within the acceptable recovery range of 70.0–120.0%. Factors i.e., soil carbon content, moisture, temperature, and applied dosage that render the degradation of λ-cyhalothrin in mineral and peat soils were evaluated. Findings showed that faster λ-cyhalothrin degradation took place in soil that contained low organic carbon content (< 12%), low soil moisture (≤ 20%) and incubated under higher temperatures (≤ 35 °C). Degradation of λ-cyhalothrin was described by first-order kinetics in both mineral and peat soils at various conditions. Half-lives of λ-cyhalothrin in mineral soil were shorter compared to peat soil. This is due to its lower carbon content and lower soil organic matter availability. This study provides significant information to the agriculture industry and farmers on the important factors such as soil properties, environmental conditions and application dosage that will influence the fate of pesticides in soil.Graphical abstract

Optimisation and application of the multi-residue analysis method for detection of 50 pesticides in cabbage by using LC-MS/MS- QuEChERS

ABSTRACT A multi-residue method for simultaneous determination of 50 pesticides in cabbage, belonging to different chemical classes has been developed by LC-MS/MS. The pesticides were analysed simultaneously in a single run using positive electrospray ionisation with multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) after extraction with modified QuEChERS method. The calibration curve for each analyte was linear with the concentration of 0.0025, 0.005 0.01, 0.025, 0.05 and 0.10 µg mL−1 with a correlation coefficient which ranged between 0.993 and 0.999. The mean recoveries obtained for four fortification levels (0.01, 0.025, 0.050 and 0.10 μg/g) were 77.96–119.67% with satisfactory precision (RSD < 20%). The matrix effects were found in range of 6.42 to 19.52% with optimised cleanup process. The developed method was used to investigate the occurrence of pesticides residue in cabbage head samples collected from different markets of the Varanasi region, India. All the 50 compounds were eluted from the column of the LC-MS/MS within the 7.961 min. The limit of quantification of the optimised method was 0.01 mg kg−1 for all the 50 pesticides. Therefore, it would be recommended as a very sensitive and quick method for estimation of multi-residue in cabbage. The developed method was successfully utilised for the analysis of the market samples collected from four different market of the Varanasi, India. Total five compounds namely thiamethoxam, carbendazim, imidacloprid, acetamiprid and dimethoate were detected in cabbage samples. Out of five compounds, only two compounds i.e. acetamiprid and dimethoate are recommended by Central Insecticide Board and Registration Committee (CIB&RC), Govt. of India.

Assessment of flusilazole residues on apples: Detection, quantification and health risk implications.

Apple, a major fruit of temperate Himalayas, is sprayed with chemical pesticides around 12 times during the cropping season. Various systemic and contact fungicides are applied for the management of major diseases. In order to manage disease, flusilazole 40 EC is frequently used. However, excessive chemical application has been found to be detrimental for consumer safety. Keeping in view consumer safety, risk assessment, the half-life and waiting period for flusilazole 40 EC were evaluated on the Red Velox variety of apple. The QuEChERS (quick, easy, cheap, effective, rugged and safe) method and high-performance liquid chromatography were adapted for sample processing and analysis, respectively. The recovery percentages of flusilazole at three fortification levels (0.04, 0.09 and 0.50 mg kg-1 ) were 98.85, 99.83 and 98.98%, respectively. Flusilazole at the recommended dose (80 g a.i.ha-1 ) left an initial deposit of 0.733 mg kg-1 , which dissipated by 93.45% in 60 days and was non-detectable beyond this period. Meanwhile flusilazole at double the recommended dose (160 g a.i.ha-1 ) left an initial deposit of 0.913 mg kg-1 , which dissipated by 93.43% in 70 days and was non-detectable beyond this period. Based on the maximum residue limit of 0.3mg kg-1 as prescribed by the Codex Alimentarius Commission, a waiting period of 28.74 and 46.03 days was recorded for single and double doses, respectively. Moreover, in order to assess the consumer risk, theoretical maximum residue contributions (TMRCs) were derived using flusilazole residues (average and maximum) recorded at various time intervals and compared with the maximum permissible intake, which was found to be 0.42 mg per person per day. Based on the average per capita daily consumption of 6.76 g apple in India, the TMRC values were computed. Although the values of TMRC decreased below maximum permissible intake at the first day after application, indicating minimal consumer health risks, fruits sprayed with a double dose of flusilazole carried the risk even up to the tenth day after flusilazole application. The results of the present study will be valuable for safe and timely use of flusilazole on apple.

The impact of replacing milk with plant-based alternatives on iodine intake: a dietary modelling study.

Cow's milk is the primary source of iodine in the UK, but consumption of plant-based milk alternatives (PBMA) is increasing and these products are often not fortified with iodine. We evaluated the impact that replacing current milk consumption with PBMA would have on iodine intake. We used data from the National Diet and Nutrition Survey (2016-2019) for children (1.5-10years), girls 11-18years, and women of reproductive age (WRA). We used a dietary modelling approach with scenarios using brand-leveliodine-fortification data (0, 13, 22.5, 27.4 and 45µg/100mL). Relative to usual diet, we calculated change in iodine intake, and the proportion with intake below the Lower Reference Nutrient Intake (LRNI) or above the upper limit. For all groups, replacement with PBMA, either unfortified or fortified at the lowest concentration, resulted in a meaningful decrease in iodine intake, and increased the proportion with intake < LRNI; compared to usual diet, iodine intake reduced by 58% in children 1.5-3years (127 vs. 53µg/day) and the proportion with intake < LRNI increased in girls (11-18years;20% to 48%) and WRA (13% to 33%) if anunfortified PBMA was used. Replacement of milk with PBMA fortified at 27.4µg/100mL had the lowest impact. Replacing milk with commercially available PBMAs has potential to reduce population iodine intake, depending on the fortification level. PBMAs fortified with ≥ 22.5 and < 45µg iodine/100mL would be required to minimize the impact on iodine intake. Research is needed on the impact of total dairy replacement.

Influence of sesame cake on physicochemical, antioxidant and sensorial characteristics of fortified wheat breads

Incorporation of two sesame cake preparations, differing in fat, 11 % (LF) and 17 % (HF), and protein, 51 % (LF) and 44 % (HF), contents, respectively, into breads at 6, 12 and 20 % wheat flour substitution levels, led to enriched end-products with antioxidants, suitable also to carry the ‘high protein’ and ‘fiber source’ nutrition claims (at ≥ 12 % substitution level). Sesame cake decreased wheat dough resistance to mixing and extension, and peak viscosity (empirical rheology), in a concentration-dependent manner, being more pronounced for LF formulations. Breads with LF incorporation ≥ 12 % had lower specific volumes and harder crumb (texture analysis) throughout storage, than control (100 % wheat flour); however, such adverse effects were diminished in HF bread formulations due to the plasticizing and emulsifying action of the sesame cake fat. Calorimetry showed that the sesame cake had no effect on starch retrogradation, but enhanced amylose–lipid complex formation. Antioxidant activity (ABTS, DPPH and FRAP assays), and phenolic acids (ferulic, p-coumaric and sinapic) and lignan (sesaminol glucosides and sesamolin) contents, determined by HPLC-DAD-MS, were higher in LF breads than their HF counterparts. The presence of some sulfur (off-flavor) and pyrazine (nutty flavor) compounds (SPME-GC–MS), as well as the sesame flavor and bitterness (sensory analysis) were of higher intensity in HF breads, while the 6 % LF product received the highest overall acceptability score among all fortified products. Overall, the sesame cake can be a promising ingredient for production of functional wheat bread depending on its composition and fortification level.

Estimating food consumption, micronutrient intake and the contribution of large-scale food fortification to micronutrient adequacy in Tanzania.

To assess the potential contribution of large-scale food fortification (LSFF) towards meeting dietary micronutrient requirements in Tanzania. We used household food consumption data from the National Panel Survey 2014-15 to estimate fortifiable food vehicle coverage and consumption (standardised using the adult female equivalent approach) and the prevalence at risk of inadequate apparent intake of five micronutrients included in Tanzania's fortification legislation. We modelled four LSFF scenarios: no fortification, status quo (i.e. compliance with current fortification contents) and full fortification with and without maize flour fortification. Tanzania. A nationally representative sample of 3290 Tanzanian households. The coverage of edible oils and maize and wheat flours (including products of wheat flour and oil such as bread and cakes) was high, with 91 percent, 88 percent and 53 percent of households consuming these commodities, respectively. We estimated that vitamin A-fortified oil could reduce the prevalence of inadequate apparent intake of vitamin A (retinol activity equivalent) from 92 percent without LSFF to 80 percent with LSFF at current fortification levels. Low industry LSFF compliance of flour fortification limits the contribution of other micronutrients, but a hypothetical full fortification scenario shows that LSFF of cereal flours could substantially reduce the prevalence at risk of inadequate intakes of iron, zinc, folate and vitamin B12. The current Tanzania LSFF programme likely contributes to reducing vitamin A inadequacy. Policies that support increased compliance could improve the supply of multiple nutrients, but the prominence of small-scale maize mills restricts this theoretical benefit.

Multi-pesticide residue screening, identification, and quantification analysis in various fruits and vegetables by UHPLC-Q Exactive HRMS.

A general strategy for qualitative screening and quantitative analysis of 403 pesticides in various fruits and vegetables was developed using ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) in conjunction with a Thermo Q Exactive Focus high-resolution mass spectrometer, relying on an executable compound database comprised of the exacted mass of precursor ions, retention times, and fragment ions. Taking advantage of the powerful separation capacity of UHPLC, an Orbitrap analyzer with high sensitivity in full scan mode and elevated mass resolution of product ions in the MS/MS mode, eight pairs of isomers and fifty-seven groups of isobaric compounds were selectively identified. The method was then systematically assessed and validated for eight fruits and vegetables, in terms of screening detection limit (SDL), matrix effects, recovery, and precision over 400 pesticides. The results showed that the SDLs of 68.0-84.4% for the pesticides were less than or equal to 10 μg kg-1 in the representative matrices, recoveries in the range of 60-120% accounting for 48.6-84.4% of all the targets at three lower fortified levels of 5, 20, and 50 μg kg-1 with a precision of less than 20% while the range of overall average recoveries for the majority of the pesticides were from 82.4% to 105.1% in the as-selected matrices with RSDs between 3.9% and 7.7%. Using this method, screening data from a survey of pesticide residues in 68 practical samples across 32 different matrix types provides scientific data for the inspection and supervision of pesticide residue safety of fruits and vegetables.

Modifying rheological properties of psyllium by gamma irradiation enables development of low glycaemic index food with a predicted gastrointestinal tolerance

Gel forming dietary fibre like psyllium (PS) is effective in slowing down rate of digestion as well as absorption of glucose thereby reducing the postprandial glucose level and hence is used to develop functional foods for diabetic patients. The fortification level is however limited which otherwise elicit unwanted rheological response and poor sensorial quality in final product. In the present study this limitation was overcome by improving the functionality of the fibre by gamma radiation processing of the polysaccharides. We assessed the changes in rheological properties of radiation processed PS (RPPS) at different doses which enabled us to optimise the irradiation dose and levels of fortification of the RPPS in wheat flour for preparation of Indian unleavened bread (chapati). We observed that PS processed at a dose of 25 kGy could be incorporated to a level as high as 14 % in wheat flour yielding a sensorially better product compared to unfortified wheat flour. Further, the most striking effect observed for RPPS fortified chapati was reduction in the release of glucose upon subjecting to simulated gastrointestinal digestion. Finally, clinical and in vitro fermentation studies also confirmed a low GI value and high gastrointestinal tolerance of RPPS fortified chapati.

Benchmarking the nutrient composition and labelling practices of dry or instant cereals for older infants and young children across seven Southeast Asian countries.

In Southeast Asia, the increasing availability of commercially produced complementary foods (CPCF), including dry or instant cereals (CPCF cereals), has been noted, however, concerns exist around their nutrient profile and labelling practices. This 2021 study assessed the nutrient composition, labelling practices, and micronutrient content of CPCF cereals sold in the capital cities of seven Southeast Asian countries: Phnom Penh (Cambodia), Jakarta (Indonesia), Manila (Philippines), Bangkok (Thailand), Vientiane (Lao PDR), Hanoi (Vietnam), and Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia). The study adapted a nutrient profiling model from the WHO Regional Office for Europe to determine the proportion of products suitable for promotion for older infants and young children. Micronutrient content of fortified CPCF cereals was assessed against fortification levels specified in the Codex Alimentarius guideline for formulated complementary foods. Of the 484 products assessed, 184 (38.0%) met all nutrient composition requirements. Around one-third of CPCF cereals contained added sugars and/or sweeteners (37.2%) and high levels of sodium (28.9%). None of the CPCF cereals met all labelling requirements, primarily due to the presence of inappropriate claims on the labels. Most fortified CPCF cereals contained adequate amounts of critical micronutrients, such as calcium, iron, zinc, vitamin A, and vitamin D. However, rates of fortification varied across the seven countries, and almost a third (30.8%) of CPCF cereals were not fortified with any micronutrients. To support the appropriate promotion of CPCF in the region, Southeast Asian countries need to strengthen and enforce national binding legal measures, including national standards for the composition, labelling, and fortification of CPCF cereals.

Overall seismic reliability analysis of aqueduct structure based on different levels under random earthquake

The seismic reliability analysis method of large aqueduct structure is of great significance to its operation and maintenance safety evaluation and seismic toughness evaluation in the life cycle. In this paper, the seismic reliability analysis method of aqueduct structure at different levels is proposed based on the probability density evolution theory and the random ground motion model of engineering physics. Taking Shuangji River aqueduct as an example, 100 random seismic acceleration time-history samples and corresponding probability assignments are generated based on the engineering physical random ground motion model, and combined with the nonlinear response analysis platform of fiber beam element of aqueduct structure，the dynamic response analysis of the aqueduct structure under nonlinear and random coupling conditions is carried out from the perspective of the whole process of nonlinear development. And by introducing different failure criteria of the aqueduct structure, the overall seismic resistance of the aqueduct structure under different fortification targets is quantitatively analyzed. The results show that the coupling of randomness and nonlinearity has a significant impact on the dynamic response of the aqueduct structure. The overall seismic reliability analysis method based on different fortification levels can accurately solve and evaluate the overall seismic reliability of the aqueduct structure under different fortification levels. The research results have important theoretical significance for the overall seismic reliability analysis and design of aqueduct structures based on multi-level fortification targets.

Augmenting Functional and Sensorial Quality Attributes of Kefir through Fortification with Encapsulated Blackberry Juice.

Kefir is a fermented dairy product claimed to confer many health-promoting effects, but its acidic taste is not appealing to some consumers. Therefore, the aim of this study was to enhance the functional and sensorial quality attributes of kefir through fortification with encapsulated blackberry juice (EBJ). The blackberry juice was successfully encapsulated via freeze-drying using lentil protein isolate (LPI) as the carrier. The encapsulated blackberry juice showed good physicochemical, functional, and morphological properties, as well as microbiological safety for use as a food additive. The kefir was fortified with EBJ in concentrations of 1, 2.5, 5, and 7.5% (w/w), stored for up to 28 days under refrigeration, and periodically evaluated. Parameters such as the viscosity, titrable acidity, and pH indicate that the kefir fortification did not affect its stability during storage. EBJ significantly increased the antioxidant properties of the kefir, depending on the fortification level. Additionally, all the fortified samples provided more anthocyanins than the daily recommended intake. Microbiological profiling demonstrated that good laboratory practice and hygiene were implemented during the experiments. Finally, the panelists showed that higher EBJ concentrations in the kefir resulted in greater overall acceptability, indicating that this encapsulate has the potential to be a substitute synthetic color additive in the dairy industry.

Value addition of mushrooms by incorporation in the food products: an overview

Abstract Mushrooms are functional food that substantially has both nutritional and medicinal properties. The mushroom types like button, oyster, shiitake and enoki are consumed worldwide either directly in food or fortified with other food products. The principal purpose of fortification is to maintain the intrinsic properties of the food like taste, appearance, and texture and enhance their nutritional and mineral values. The level of fortification depends on the factors like safety, compatibility, and cost considerations. This paper reviews the possibilities of fortified food products with different mushrooms. The usage of mushrooms, their nutritional profile, suggested composition of mushroom powder and enhanced nutrition of fortified food products like bread, biscuits, cookies, noodles, pasta, soup etc., are discussed. Additionally, mushrooms are valuable material for preparing chutney powders, nuggets, jam, jellies, and the production of indigenous cosmetic items actively uses mushrooms’ bioactive chemicals.

Simple and rapid determination of triclabendazole and its metabolites in bovine and goat muscle tissue.

Triclabendazole (TCB) is widely used for prevention and treatment of parasitic infections in animals. Improper use can result in drug residues in animal tissues and cause health problems to humans through consumption. A simple and reliable analytical method for the determination of TCB and its metabolites in bovine and goat muscle using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) was developed and validated. Analytes were extracted using acetonitrile and purified using enhanced matrix removal cartridge. Chromatographic separation was carried out on a BEH Shield RP18 column. The analytes were detected in positive-mode electrospray ionization mass spectrometry using multiple reaction monitoring. Average recoveries of 96.1%-105.6% with coefficients of variation of 1.9%-8.4% were obtained at fortification levels of 0.5, 2.5, 25, and 50 μg/kg for TCB and 5.0, 25, 250, and 500 μg/kg for its metabolites (triclabendazole sulfoxide, triclabendazole sulfone, and keto-TCB). A good linear regression was obtained with the mixed standard solutions in the range of 0.05-20 μg/L for TCB and 0.5-200 μg/L for its metabolites. The limit of quantification and limit of detection ranged from 0.05 to 0.75 μg/kg and from 0.1 to 1.5μg/kg, respectively. Moreover, this method was successfully applied to 33 real samples.

Matrix Effect Evaluation in GC/MS-MS Analysis of Multiple Pesticide Residues in Selected Food Matrices

Multi-analyte methods based on QuEChERS sample preparation and chromatography/mass spectrometry determination are indispensable in monitoring pesticide residues in the feed and food chain. QuEChERS method, even though perceived as convenient and generic, can contribute to sample matrix constituents’ introduction to the measuring system and possibly affect analytical results. In this study, matrix effects (ME) were investigated in four food matrices of plant origin (apples, grapes, spelt kernels, and sunflower seeds) during GC-MS/MS analysis of &gt;200 pesticide residues using QuEChERS sample preparation. Data analysis revealed considerable analyte signal enhancement and suppression: strong enhancement was observed for the majority of analytes in two matrices within the commodity groups with high water content—apples, and high acid and water content—grapes (73.9% MES and 72.5% MEA, and 77.7% MES and 74.9% MEA, respectively), while strong suppression was observed for matrices within the commodity groups with high starch/protein content and low water and fat content—spelt kernels, and high oil content and very low water content—sunflower seeds (82.1% MES and 82.6% MEA, and 65.2% MES and 70.0% MEA, respectively). Although strong matrix effects were the most common for all investigated matrices, the use of matrix-matched calibration for each sample type enabled satisfactory method performance, i.e., recoveries for the majority of analytes (up to roughly 90%, depending on the fortification level and matrix type), which was also externally confirmed through participation in proficiency testing schemes for relevant food commodity groups with the achieved z-scores within acceptable range ≤ |2|.

Iodine status of school-aged children in the changing context of universal salt iodization program during 1997–2018 in Chongqing, China

ObjectiveTo illustrate the changes of iodized salt usage, goiter rate of school-aged children and median urinary iodine concentration (MUIC) of school-aged children in Chongqing for the last 21 years. This study aims to estimate the variational provincial status of iodine nutrition and provide scientific evidence for fine-tuning and adaptation of the current program. MethodsDifferent number of families and school children aged 8–10 years from Chongqing during 1997–2018 participated in the study. UIC and iodine content in table salt were measured. Thyroid volumes of students were examined and goiter prevalence was calculated across years. ResultsThe median iodine content of table salt was negatively associated with years(r = −0.727, P < 0.01). The MUIC were decreased annually (ranged between 200 and 300 μg/L) and was negatively associated with year(r = −0.831, P < 0.01). Goiter of school-aged children in Chongqing was decreased from the highest rate of 23.58% in 1999 to 1.62% in 2018(Cochran-Armitage Trend Test: χ2=-30.695, P < 0.01). Thyroid volume were negatively associated with years(r = −0.962, P < 0.01) and had a positive relationship with MUIC 1997–2018 (r = 0.862, P < 0.01). ConclusionsThe consumption of adequately iodized salt can eliminate Iodine deficiency disorders (IDD) in children, but possible excessive iodine intake from salt could result in high urinary iodine excretion and even goiter. A systematic, well-designed and continual program monitoring is essential to ensure the adequacy of iodine fortification levels and to regularly change the iodine concentration in household table salt.

Evaluation of Zinc Concentrations in Fruit from Various Pear Strains and Cultivars in China for Establishing a Standard for Zinc-Enriched Pears

Zinc (Zn)-enriched pears, which are derived from genetically related cultivars or crops fortified using agronomic methods, have the potential to partly satisfy the human demand for Zn nutrition and diversify consumer choices. However, a standard for the Zn fortification level in pears is lacking, and the disparity in literature-reported fruit Zn concentrations can vary by substantial amounts. Before investigating the Zn concentrations in fruits of the main pear cultivars in China, common sample preparation methods were compared. Among the pre-treatment methods tested, the freeze-dry technique had a greater degree of discrete variation, whereas oven drying (fresh weight) was the optimal method for determining fruit Zn concentrations. Based on the optimal method, no significant distribution patterns of fruit Zn concentration were found among the regions and strains examined. The averaged pulp Zn concentration in all 26 cultivars was 0.72 mg kg−1, with the Hongxiangsu, Jinfeng, and 420 cultivars having the highest concentrations. Combined with the findings from our previous field experiments on Zn-fortified pears, a Zn concentration of ≥0.90 mg kg−1 is the suggested standard for pear enrichment. These results help us to better understand pear Zn nutrition levels and facilitate the marketisation of the fortified fruit.