High Oleic Acid Content Research Articles

Identification of miRNAs Involved in Lipid Metabolism and Tuber Development in Cyperus esculentus L.

Tiger nut (Cyperus esculentus L.) is recognized for its high oil and oleic acid content in underground tubers. However, the molecular mechanisms governing growth, development, and fatty acid accumulation in these tubers are not well understood. This study employed gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) and small RNA sequencing on tiger nut tubers across five developmental stages. The findings indicate that the critical period for accumulating dry matter and oils, particularly oleic acid, occurs between 35 and 75 days after tuber formation. A total of 183 microRNAs (miRNAs) were identified, comprising 31 known and 152 novel miRNAs. Approximately half of these miRNAs (such as ces-miR156b-3p and ces-miR166a-3p) exhibited differential expression during and around the key periods of metabolite synthesis. The predicted target genes of these miRNAs were significantly enriched in glycerate 3-phosphate metabolism and cell growth processes. Furthermore, 13 miRNA–mRNA interaction modules related to oil accumulation and tuber growth were identified, and these target genes’ expression levels showed significant differences during the tuber developmental stages. These findings advance the understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying tuber development and oil accumulation in tiger nut.

Exploring the Potential of Pangasius Catfish Oil as a Base Oil for Nanoemulsion Products: Optimization and Characterization

Pangasius catfish, also known as striped catfish, is a high-fat fish compared to other freshwater fish like snakehead fish and carp. The oil extracted from this fish contains unsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids that are beneficial for health. The quality of the oil is affected by the extraction method, especially the preliminary heating temperature for the extraction. Pangasius catfish oil contains omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) that have the potential to inhibit inflammation, hyperpigmentation, accelerate skin healing for topical applications, and act as a skin permeation enhancer and oil base for nanoemulsion due to its high oleic acid content. In this research, an experimental design was conducted on pangasius catfish oil extraction using the pressing method to optimize predetermined parameters using Response Surface Methodology (RSM). The factors considered for optimization included the quantity of water and extraction temperatures, with water content ranging from 50% to 150% (w/v) and extraction temperatures ranging from 25°C to 55°C. These ranges were intended to yield results and characterization values of oxidation parameters are tested according to the International Fish Oil Standard (IFOS) through tests including Acid Value (AV), Peroxide Value (PV), Anisidine Value (p-AnV), and Total Oxidation (TOTOX). Subsequently, the optimal conditions were confirmed to obtain the best fish oil results, which were achieved at 1.5 times the amount of pre-treatment water and a pre-treatment temperature of 55°C. The pangasius catfish oil obtained from the confirmation of optimal conditions is used as a raw material for producing nanoemulsions. The D-Optimal Mixture Design of Design Expert approach is utilized to formulate the nanoemulsion. The nanoemulsion formula containing 0.5% pangasius catfish oil was determined as the optimal formula according to the range of physical characteristics of the referenced nanoemulsion preparations with a desirability value of 0.974. This study has demonstrated the potential utility of pangasius catfish oil as a prominent base oil in nanoemulsion products.

FATTY ACID COMPOSITION OF DIFFERENT COMMERCIALLY SOLD VEGETABLE OILS WITHIN SOUTHERN KADUNA, KADUNA STATE, NIGERIA

Most of the edible vegetable oils in southern Kaduna are locally processed and are available in a large commercial quantity with little known about their fatty acid (FA) content. The aim of this work was to investigate the fatty acid content of these oils and their potential impact on human health. Six commonly used edible vegetable oil samples sold in various Southern Kaduna markets were analyzed for different fatty acids content using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The result of the analysis showed differences in the contents of saturated fatty acids (SFAs), monounsaturated (MUFAs), and polyunsaturated (PUFAs). Coconut oil and kernel oil showed high content of SFAs (86.21% and 78.76%) respectively, while olive oil and peanut oil displayed significant amounts of MUFAs (75.40% and 47.62%) respectively due to high content of oleic acid (C18:1). Soybean oil with 58.06% of linoleic acid (C18:2) showed the highest total PUFA content of 65.23%. The Health Risk Index (HRI) was evaluated to assessed the impact associated with the overall intake of fatty acids in vegetable oils. The HRI were 1.78 (peanut), 0.04 (kernel), 0.23 (palm), 0.2(coconut), 4.05(soybean) and olive (0.71). Thus, soybean oil, peanut oil and olive oil have the optimum PUFA:SFA ratio according to FAO/WHO recommendations. Hence, they are recommended for mass consumption. The health promotion index (HPI) was also evaluated to assessed the content of certain essential fatty acids in various oils which have specific health benefits. The results of HPI investigation showed that only Soybean oil contains the balanced ω-6: ω-3 fatty acid ratio of 8.1 than others.

Clinical rationale for dietary lutein supplementation in long COVID and mRNA vaccine injury syndromes.

Lutein, a plant-derived xanthophyl-carotenoid, is an exceptional antioxidant and anti-inflammatory constituent found in food. High dietary intake of lutein is beneficial against eye disease, improves cardiometabolic health, protects from neurodegenerative diseases, and is beneficial for liver, kidney, and respiratory health. Lutein protects against oxidative and nitrosative stress, both of which play a major role in long COVID and mRNA vaccination injury syndromes. Lutein is an important natural agent for therapeutic use against oxidative and nitrosative stress in chronic illnesses such as cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases and cancer. It can also potentially inhibit spike protein-induced inflammation. Rich dietary supplementation of lutein, naturally derived in non-biodegradable Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO), can most optimally be used against oxidative and nitrosative stress during post-COVID and mRNA vaccination injury syndromes. Due to its high oleic acid (OA) content, EVOO supports optimal absorption of dietary lutein. The main molecular pathways by which the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein induces pathology, nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer activated B cells (NF-κB) and activated protein (AP)-1, can be suppressed by lutein. Synergy with other natural compounds for spike protein detoxification is likely.

Determination of global yield isotherms of macaúba (Acrocomia aculeata) extract using supercritical CO2 and its biological potential

This study investigates the effectiveness of macaúba oil extraction using supercritical carbon dioxide, focusing on determining operational parameters such as temperature and pressure that maximize the quality and yield of the extract obtained. The extraction was carried out using freeze-dried macaúba pulp, under varying conditions of pressure and temperature. The overall yield isotherms of macaúba oil obtained, the solubility of the solute, composition of fatty acids, triglycerides, phenolic compounds, in addition to the antioxidant capacity and antimicrobial activity, were evaluated, before and after extraction. The results demonstrated that, under the conditions evaluated, the extraction process achieved maximum oil yields of 24.4 %, with a predominance of unsaturated acids rich in antioxidants and high concentrations of oleic acid (64.12 %), β-carotene (80.06 mg/kg) and α-tocopherol (114.66 mg/100 g of oil). This promising method offers a sustainable alternative for the production of compounds with high nutritional value, highlighting its potential for industrial applications.

Associations of the rs12504538 and rs6824447 Polymorphisms of the Elovl6 Gene with Estimated Elongase and Desaturase Activity and Fatty Acid Concentrations in Mexican Women with Gestational Diabetes Mellitus

Background: This study aimed to investigate the possible associations of the rs12504538 and rs6824447 polymorphisms of the Elovl6 gene with estimated elongase and desaturase activity and saturated fatty acid concentrations in Mexican women with Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM). Methods: We recruited 172 women in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy who had undergone an oral glucose tolerance test, including 66 who had diagnosed with GDM according to the 2016 ADA criteria and 106 who had normal glucose tolerance test results, from the General Hospital and Health Centers of the Health Ministry of Guanajuato, México. Participants were matched by gestational week. Data on age, gestational week and anthropometric characteristics were collected. Blood samples were drawn after an overnight fast for the measurement of serum glucose, lipid, NEFA, serum fatty acid and insulin levels; SNP genotyping and quantification of fatty acids was performed and elongase and desaturase activity was estimated. Findings: With the exception of HDL-cholesterol, all variables, including NEFA levels, were significantly greater in the GDM group than in the non-GDM group. The rs6824447 polymorphism of the Elovl6 gene, an age >25 years and HOMA-IR levels were associated with the development of GDM (OR=5.1, 95% CI 1.56-17.1, p=0.006; OR=4.89, 95% CI 1.65-14.4, p=0.003; OR=34.1 95% CI 8.7-133, p<0.000001, respectively). Palmitic acid (OR=1.08; 95% CI: 1.06-1.11; p<0.001) and oleic acid (OR=1.17; 95% CI: 1.14-1.2; p<0.001) concentrations were also associated with the development of GDM. No differences in the estimated elongase and desaturase activity among the non-GDM and GDM groups were found and only the activity of Δ9D SCD18 desaturase was marginally high in GDM patients (p=0.050). Conclusion: The rs6824447Elovl6 polymorphism is associated with the development of GDM, as are high serum palmitic acid, oleic acid and stearic acid concentrations and estimated Δ9D SCD18 desaturase activity.

Unraveling the genetic basis of oil quality in olives: a comparative transcriptome analysis.

The balanced fatty acid profile of olive oil not only enhances its stability but also contributes to its positive effects on health, making it a valuable dietary choice. Olive oil's high content of unsaturated fatty acids and low content of saturated fatty acids contribute to its beneficial effects on cardiovascular diseases and cancer. The quantities of these fatty acids in olive oil may fluctuate due to various factors, with genotype being a crucial determinant of the oil's quality. This study investigated the genetic basis of oil quality by comparing the transcriptome of two Iranian cultivars with contrasting oil profiles: Mari, known for its high oleic acid content, and Shengeh, characterized by high linoleic acid at Jaén index four. Gas chromatography confirmed a significant difference in fatty acid composition between the two cultivars. Mari exhibited significantly higher oleic acid content (78.48%) compared to Shengeh (48.05%), while linoleic acid content was significantly lower in Mari (4.76%) than in Shengeh (26.69%). Using RNA sequencing at Jaén index four, we analyzed genes involved in fatty acid biosynthesis. Differential expression analysis identified 2775 genes showing statistically significant differences between the cultivars. Investigating these genes across nine fundamental pathways involved in oil quality led to the identification of 25 effective genes. Further analysis revealed 78 transcription factors and 95 transcription binding sites involved in oil quality, with BPC6 and RGA emerging as unique factors. This research provides a comprehensive understanding of the genetic and molecular mechanisms underlying oil quality in olive cultivars. The findings have practical implications for olive breeders and producers, potentially streamlining cultivar selection processes and contributing to the production of high-quality olive oil.

Nutrient profile, protease and cellulase activities of protein extracted from black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) larvae reared on various substrates

The Black Soldier Fly (BSF; Hermetia illucens) larvae are recognized for their ability to convert diverse organic materials into protein-rich biomass, depending on the substrate they consume. The composition of these substrates can significantly impact the nutrient profile and enzyme activities of the resulting maggot protein extract (MPE). Therefore, this exploratory research aimed to assess the nutrient content, protease, and cellulase activity of MPE obtained from BSF maggots reared on different substrates, with a specific focus on substrates A (comprising restaurant waste and rejected milk), B (layer manure), and C (kitchen waste). The results showed that maggot meal from layer manure had the highest protein content (45.36%) and the lowest fat content (18.44%). Amino acids in maggot meal contained high levels of glutamic acid, aspartic acid, alanine, valine, leucine, and isoleucine. Lauric acids were found in maggot meal from kitchen waste (33.79%), layer manure (32.18%), and restaurant waste and rejected milk (22.94%). Maggot meal from layer manure had the highest oleic acid content (15.13%). The protein concentration of MPE from various substrates ranged from 0.56 to 0.601 mg/ml (at 60% w/v ammonium sulfate saturation) and 0.555 to 0.609 mg/ml (at 70% ammonium sulfate saturation). The protease activity of MPE from layer manure substrates exhibited optimum activity and stability in neutral to alkaline pH, with activity levels of 0.748 U/mg at pH 7.0 and pH 11.0 (at 60% w/v ammonium sulfate saturation) and 0.774 units/mg at 70% w/v ammonium sulfate saturation. The highest cellulase activity was found in MPE from kitchen waste, which remained stable at pH 5.0-11.0. In general, maggots from different substrate sources exhibited distinct nutrient profiles and enzyme activities. Protein extract from maggots grown in layer manure showed the most suitable nutrient profile for use as an alternative source of protein feed and protease enzymes.

Development of high oleic Spanish bunch groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) through marker-assisted backcrossing

ABSTRACT Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) is an important oilseed crop. A specific type of groundnut, known as high-oleate groundnut, is particularly sought-after for its antioxidant properties and benefits to human health due to its favorable fatty acid profile. To breed high-oleic acid varieties of groundnut, two elite varieties of Tamil Nadu, India, TMVGn 13 and GJG 33, were hybridized with a high-oleic groundnut donor released in India, Girnar 4. The resulting progenies were then backcrossed with their recurrent parents for two generations, using marker-assisted backcross selection. Six progenies in the TMVGn 13 × Girnar 4 cross and nine progenies in the GJG 33 × Girnar 4 cross were identified as homozygous mutants for ahFAD2A and ahFAD2B genes, respectively. Three lines with high oleic acid content (>70%), good oil content (48–50%), and pod yield per plant were selected from these progenies. Following multi-location and adaptive research yield trials, these lines may be released as high-oleic acid varieties.

دراسة تأثيرمدة التخزين على بعض خواص عينات زيت الزيتون في غرب ليبي

Olive oil has high nutritional and therapeutic benefits compared to other vegetable oils due to its content of vitamins, unsaturated fatty acids and the antioxidants. This study examined the chemical properties of eight olive oil samples stored for periods ranging from 3 months to 30 years, collected from western Libya. The study assessed various quality indicators, including moisture content, acidity, peroxide number, saponification number, and reducing power, comparing them to the standards set by the International Olive Council. The results showed that the moisture content in two samples (3-year Yafran and 30-year Zawia) was within the permissible limit of 0.2%, while the rest exceeded it. Acidity levels did not surpass the 17% limit in any of the samples. Interestingly, the 30-year Zawia sample had the highest oleic acid content at 32%. Peroxide values remained below the 20 meq/kg threshold. The most significant finding was that the 30-year Zawia sample exhibited the strongest reducing power of 0.077 ± 0.7, highlighting olive oil's potential in protecting cells from chronic diseases and inhibiting the spread of cancer cells.

Fatty Acid Profile and Physicochemical Properties of Moringa oleifera Seed Oil Extracted at Different Temperatures.

Moringa oleifera Lam. (Moringaceae) is a tropical plant native to India. It is widespread throughout the southern hemisphere, with great adaptability to high temperatures and water scarcity. Its seeds have a great amount of oil with a high content of oleic acid, quite similar to olive oil. Therefore, this study is focused on the extraction of oil from moringa seeds via an automatic screw press extractor at different temperatures (70, 100, 130, 160, 190, and 220 °C) and on the analysis of its acidity, acid value, peroxide value (PV), saponification value (SV), iodine value (IV), optical properties, and fatty acids profile. The results showed that the oil yield was 19 ± 3% regardless of the temperature applied. The oil was stable from the oxidative point of view, with a high acidity. Temperature extraction did not significantly affect the SV and the IV. However, the extraction temperature should be below 190 °C to obtain a translucent and luminous oil with light yellow tones. The oil contains high levels of unsaturated fatty acids, especially oleic acid (ω9) (up to 77.8%) and linolenic acid (ω3) (3.4%). On the other hand, behenic (7%), palmitic (6%), stearic (5%), and arachidic (0.2%) were the dominant saturated acids. The good properties of moringa oil make it a good, sustainable alternative to vegetable oils.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil's Main Components' Antioxidant Activity and in Silico Effect on AKT1.

The study compared the chemical composition of various olive oils from the northern Algerian province of Bejaia. The research focused on the antioxidant activities of the oil's main constituents and their ability to inhibit the AKT1 protein, which is implicated in the development of colorectal cancer. The findings revealed that all of the examined oils fell within the extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) category and exhibited a high oleic acid content, particularly for samples from wild olives. These oils include high amount of ligstroside and oleocanthal, two important phenolic compounds. Wild olive oils stand out from cultivated ones due to their higher bitterness index. In addition, these oils have the highest concentrations of α-tocopherols and the best oxidative stability. Olive oil extracts demonstrated their antioxidant properties by neutralizing DPPH and ABTS radicals and converting ferric ions (Fe3+) to ferrous ions (Fe2+) for FRAP assay. Molecular docking was applied to assess the interaction between the main compounds identified in the analyzed olive oils and the human AKT1 protein, which is involved in the genesis of colorectal cancer. The findings revealed that lutein, oleuropein aglycone, and ligstroside aglycone had the highest binding affinity for the AKT1 protein. The present study could provide the theoretical foundation for further research on the interaction between AKT1 protein and EVOO compounds.

Clinical rationale for dietary lutein supplementation in long COVID and mRNA vaccine injury syndromes

Lutein, a plant-derived xanthophyl-carotenoid, is an exceptional antioxidant and anti-inflammatory constituent found in food. High dietary intake of lutein is beneficial against eye disease, improves cardiometabolic health, protects from neurodegenerative diseases, and is beneficial for liver, kidney, and respiratory health. Lutein protects against oxidative and nitrosative stress, both of which play a major role in post-COVID and mRNA vaccination injury syndromes. Lutein is an important natural agent for therapeutic use against oxidative and nitrosative stress in chronic illnesses such as cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases and cancer. It can also potentially inhibit spike protein-induced inflammation. Rich dietary supplementation of lutein, naturally derived in non-biodegradable Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO), can most optimally be used against oxidative and nitrosative stress during post-COVID and mRNA vaccination injury syndromes. Due to its high oleic acid (OA) content, EVOO supports optimal absorption of dietary lutein. The main molecular pathways by which the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein induces pathology, nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer activated B cells (NF-κB) and activated protein (AP)-1, can be suppressed by lutein. Synergy with other natural compounds for spike protein detoxification is likely.

The Influence of Nitrogen and Sulfur Fertilization on Oil Quality and Seed Meal in Different Genotypes of Winter Oilseed Rape (Brassica napus L.)

Adequate nitrogen (N) and sulfur (S) fertilization of oilseed rape crops is necessary to obtain good-quality oil and post-extraction rapeseed meal. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of different doses of N fertilization (100, 160 and 220 kg ha−1) and S (0, 30, 60 and 90 kg ha−1) on the value of seeds of three winter oilseed rape genotypes. Two winter oilseed rape genotypes obtained by mutagenesis (cultivar Polka and breeding genotype PN440) were characterized by changed fatty acid profile. The cultivar Polka, type HO (high oleic), had a high content of oleic acid (C18:1, 78.0%) and the breeding genotype PN440, type HOLL (high-oleic and low-linolenic), had a high content of oleic acid (C18:1, 75.0%) and a low content of linolenic acid (C18:3, 3.0%). We also used the canola type of winter oilseed rape cultivar, Monolit. The analysed winter oilseed rape genotypes responded similarly to the N and S fertilization factors with regard to the content of crude fat and total protein in the seeds and the composition of fatty acids in the oil. N fertilization increased the content of glucosinolates (GLS-alkenyl, indole and total) in seeds, whereas S application decreased the content of saturated fatty acids (stearic acid-C18:0) in oil and increased the content of alkenyl and total glucosinolates (GLSs) in seeds. A significant interaction between N and S was observed for crude-fat and total-protein content. This study suggests that ensuring an adequate supply of both nitrogen and sulfur in the soil is essential for optimizing meal and oil quality in different types of winter oilseed rape cultivars. Proper management of these nutrients can lead to improved oil content and overall crop performance.

Genetic Variability Analysis of Gamma Irradiated M2 Populations for Higher Oleic Acid Content in TMV (Gn) 13 (Arachis hypogaea L.)

Background: Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) is an important commercial crop augmenting protein and oil industry. Breeding for improved peanut crop with higher oleic acid content through induced mutagenesis could the best cooking oil in terms of health benefits. Further, the knowledge of the variability parameters and frequency distribution of desired traits could benefit plant breeders while developing selection criteria to maximising the genetic gain. Methods: The present study aimed to determine the mean lethal dose (LD 50) of gamma irradiation on groundnut TMV (Gn) 13) to create the genetic variability and to screen the putative mutants with allele specific primers based on phenotypic and agronomic traits. Result: Five traits viz., plant height, number of pods per plant, pod length, pod width and pod yield per plant had expressed significantly higher heritability coupled with high Genetic advance per cent of Mean substantiating the role of additive gene action. Also, the frequency distribution pointed out the positively skewed traits in both the populations. Further, molecular validation through AS-PCR assay revealed the presence of ahFAD2A mutant allele in 4 out of 155 putative mutants. As a result, these mutants have 43-45% oleic acid than the control TMV (Gn) 13, which has 35-39%.

Chemical Composition and Lipid Bioactive Components of Centaurea thracica Dwelling in Bulgaria.

Centaurea thracica (Janka) Hayek is a plant common in southern Bulgaria. The inflorescences were collected during June and September 2021, while their seeds were obtained in September 2021. The chemical and lipid composition of the inflorescences during the vegetation process of the plant were established. A significant decrease in total proteins (from 8.7 to 7.4%), glyceride oils (2.0-1.7%), and ash (4.5-4.2%) content was observed, while the amount of carbohydrates (72.3-77.2%) and fibers (28.7-35.8%) increased. During the vegetation of the plant, the content of oleic and linoleic acids increased up to 2-3 times, while the level of palmitic acid decreased. The lipids from the seeds were rich in oleic (53.0%) and palmitic (36.2%) acids. The tocopherol content in the oils of the inflorescences during vegetation increased from 58 to 110 mg/kg, and the content in the oil from the seeds was 260 mg/kg. The phospholipid content decreased during vegetation, and differences were observed in the composition between the inflorescences and the seeds. The high content of oleic acid, linoleic acid, tocopherols, and phospholipids determine the nutritional and biological value of the oils isolated from Centaurea thracica, and contribute to their potential use in various directions.

The Impact of Beeswax and Glycerol Monolaurate on Camellia Oil Oleogel's Formulation and Application in Food Products.

This study assessed the nutritional profile of camellia oil through its fatty acid composition, highlighting its high oleic acid content (81.4%), followed by linoleic (7.99%) and palmitic acids (7.74%), demonstrating its excellence as an edible oil source. The impact of beeswax (BW) and glycerol monolaurate (GML) on camellia oil oleogels was investigated, revealing that increasing BW or GML concentrations enhanced hardness and springiness, with 10% BW oleogel exhibiting the highest hardness and springiness. FTIR results suggested that the structure of the oleogels was formed by interactions between molecules without altering the chemical composition. In biscuits, 10% BW oleogel provided superior crispness, expansion ratio, texture, and taste, whereas GML imparted a distinct odor. In sausages, no significant differences were observed in color, water retention, and pH between the control and replacement groups; however, the BW group scored higher than the GML group in the sensory evaluation. The findings suggest that the BW oleogel is an effective fat substitute in biscuits and sausages, promoting the application of camellia oil in food products.

Amlou inspired spread: Formulation and characterization of new spread based on Ziziphus lotus L. fruit, argan oil, and honey

This study explores novel applications of combining natural products by integrating Ziziphus lotus L. (Z. lotus), honey, and argan oil to create a product similar to traditional Moroccan Amlou (a mixture of almonds, honey, and argan oil). Five formulations were developed with varying percentages of these three ingredients, alongside two formulations of traditional Amlou. The nutritional value, mineral composition, fatty acid profile, bioactive compounds, and antioxidant activities of the products were analyzed using standard analytical methods such as gas chromatography and spectrophotometry. Additionally, sensory evaluations were conducted to assess consumer preferences. The results showed that the new formulations are rich in oil (45.15–52.24 g/100 g), carbohydrates (40.26–46.81 g/100 g), and protein (3.15–3.92 g/100 g). Mineral analysis revealed significant amounts of potassium (443–578 mg/100 g), calcium (98–124 mg/100 g), phosphorus (50–65 mg/100 g), and magnesium (38–50 mg/100 g). The Z. lotus-based products exhibited higher phenolic content (7–12 mg GAE/g), flavonoids (7.10–10.18 mg QE/g), and stronger antioxidant activities using DPPH radical scavenging activity (3.55–11.14 mg AAE/g) and FRAP (5.39–8.55 mg AAE/g). Moreover, the new product retains the beneficial fatty acid profile of argan oil, with a high content of oleic acid (48 %) and linoleic acid (32 %). Sensory evaluation indicated that the formulation consisting of 45 % Z. lotus powder, 50 % argan oil, and 5 % honey was the most appreciated for taste and texture. These findings suggest that incorporating Z. lotus into traditional Amlou recipes not only enhances nutritional and antioxidant properties but also meets consumer acceptance in terms of flavor and texture.

Joselito® and lowering of LDL-cholesterol concentration, blood pressure, and reduction of coronary heart disease risk: Evaluation of a health claim pursuant to Article 14 of Regulation (EC) No 1924/2006.

Following an application from Cárnicas Joselito S.A. pursuant to Article 14 of Regulation (EC) No 1924/2006 via the Competent Authority of Spain, the Panel on Nutrition, Novel Foods and Food Allergens (NDA) was asked to deliver an opinion on the scientific substantiation of a health claim related to 'Joselito ham increases antioxidant substances in the body, reduces blood pressure and plasma triglycerides, decreases oxidative stress and prevents effect in diseases related to the cardiovascular and intestinal systems'. The scope of the application was proposed to fall under a health claim referring to disease risk reduction. The food constituent that is the subject of the health claim is Joselito, an Iberian ham characterised by a high content of oleic acid. The Panel considers that the food is sufficiently characterised. The Panel considers that lowering of LDL-cholesterol concentration and blood pressure is a beneficial effect by decreasing the risk of coronary heart disease. Upon a request from EFSA, the applicant identified one human intervention study as being pertinent to the claim. However, due to methodological limitations, the Panel considers that no conclusions can be drawn from this study for the scientific substantiation of the claim. The Panel notes that no human intervention studies from which conclusions could be drawn for the scientific substantiation of the claim were provided by the applicant. The Panel concludes that a cause and effect relationship has not been established between the intake of Joselito® ham and the reduction of LDL-cholesterol concentration or blood pressure.

Sustainable production of liquid phenyl using oil extracted from discarded pupae of mulberry silk worms (Bombyx mori)

The mulberry silkworm (Bombyx mori) pupae, typically discarded as waste by the silk industry, are a valuable source of oil. Using the Soxhlet extraction method, 30.4 % oil was recovered from the pulverized dried pupae. This oil exhibited a high iodine value of 120 gI2/100 g and a saponification value of 201 mg KOH/g, which qualified it for soap making in phenyl. Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis identified five fatty acids in the oil: palmitoleic acid, linoleic acid, oleic acid, stearic acid, and palmitic acid. The composition was 38.80 % saturated fatty acids (SFA), 46.01 % monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA), and 15.20 % polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA). A disinfectant liquid, phenyl, was formulated using this oil, leveraging its high oleic acid content (45.10 %) and favorable physicochemical properties. The antibacterial efficacy of the phenyl was tested against eight harmful bacterial strains. It showed significant activity against all tested bacteria, particularly gram-negative strains, with inhibition zones ranging from 20.25 to 28.0 mm, outperforming the positive control, chloramphenicol, which had inhibition zones of 15.45–19.40 mm. For gram-positive bacteria, the inhibition zones were 14.25–22.50 mm. The phenyl was most effective against Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli, with inhibition zones of 28.0 mm and 23.50 mm, respectively. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was highest for Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli at 110 μL/mL, and for Staphylococcus aureus at 115 μL/mL. The prepared phenyl disinfectant proved to be efficient against a range of bacteria and can be used to sanitize various surfaces effectively.