High Micronutrient Research Articles

Nutrient-dense foods and diverse diets are important for ensuring adequate nutrition across the life course

The world faces a global challenge of how to meet the nutritional needs of a diverse global population through diets. This paper defines the relative nutritional needs across each stage of the life cycle to support human health and identifies who is nutritionally vulnerable. Findings in this paper suggest that there are biological nutritional vulnerabilities stemming from high micronutrient needs per calorie in certain phases of the life cycle, particularly for infants and young children, women of reproductive age, pregnant and lactating women, and older adults, particularly older women. The paper demonstrates the role of micronutrient-dense animal-source foods and plant-source foods important in meeting essential nutrient needs to support healthy growth, development, and aging across vulnerable stages of the life cycle.

Assessment of genetic biodiversity and association of micronutrients and agronomic traits using microsatellites and staining methods which accelerates high-micronutrients variety selections within different wheat groups

Evaluation of genetic biodiversity for micronutrients is crucial for breeding high-quality crops and addressing the negative impacts of mineral deficiencies. The objectives of this research were to assess genetic variation and the relationship between grain Fe and Zn levels and agronomic traits in a diverse collection of wheat varieties. Additionally, the study aimed to determine the correlation between microsatellite markers (SSR) and micronutrient quantities. A total of 42 genotypes (Iranian commercial cultivars, landraces, and Afghan and Swiss varieties) were evaluated over a two-year period. Fe and Zn levels were measured using two semi quantitative staining assays and atomic absorption spectrophotometry (AAS) facility. Semi-quantitative staining methods and AAS showed high correlations for micronutrient contents. Landraces exhibited higher Fe (63.79 mg/kg) and Zn (44.76 mg/kg) but lower grain yield compared with commercial cultivars. Heritability estimates ranged 53%-79.43%, suggesting that genetic variance played a higher contribution in the phenotypic variation of traits than environmental factors. Notably, Fe content displayed significant correlations with days to maturity. Canonical correlation analysis (CCA) revealed that Zn content was correlated with four agronomic traits. Evaluation of genetic diversity using SSR markers demonstrated high genetic variation among the genotypes tested. The analysis of polymorphism information content (PIC) indicated that SSR primers had an average PIC of 0.75, with the Xgwm192 primer exhibiting higher PIC than others. Several SSR markers revealed association with micronutrient content that can be used in marker-assisted selection (MAS) programs aimed at selection of high micronutrient genotypes. In conclusion, the findings underscored the substantial genetic diversity present in micronutrient levels among global wheat genotypes, the potential of landraces for micronutrients biofortification of wheat cultivars through cross hybridization, the utility of staining methods for screening high/low micronutrient genotypes, and use of microsatellite markers for marker-assisted breeding aiming to micronutrient improvement in breeding programs.

Increased food crop diversification and gathering of wild plants associated with women's dietary diversity in Chad.

Women of reproductive age are particularly vulnerable to low-quality diets due to their higher micronutrients needs. The minimum dietary diversity for women (MDDW) is a proxy for micronutrient adequacy in this group of women. Its relationship with other aspects that lead to malnutrition is not fully elucidated and depends on the context. In this study, we assessed the prevalence of MDDW among women of a rural area in Chad and its association with socioeconomical, agricultural, dietary and food security data. A cross-sectional study was conducted. Following a multistage cluster sampling, 984 women of reproductive age were randomly selected and interviewed in March 2019. We obtained food consumption data through unquantified 24 h recalls and computed MDDW as consuming at least five out of 10 predefined food groups. We constructed a Food Production Diversity Score (FPDS) with crop and livestock information. We obtained multivariable logistic regression models including different covariates. MDDW was achieved by only 33% of women in the sample. In our final model, we identified a significant association of MDDW with the FPDS and gathering ofwild plants. Women in households with the highest FPDS had 70% more chances of achieving MDDW than those with the lowest FPDS. Gathering wild plants doubled these chances. Areas of cultivated land,Water, Sanitation and Hygiene resources, and a high level of food security, measured with the Household Food Insecurity Access Scale,were also significantly related to the achievement of MDDW. This illustrates the importance of nutrition-sensitive policies, also considering biodiversity and food production diversification.

Randomised control trial indicates micronutrient supplementation may support a more robust maternal microbiome for women with antenatal depression during pregnancy

Background and AimsWe investigated the effects of high dose dietary micronutrient supplementation or placebo on the human gut microbiome in pregnant women who had moderate symptoms of antenatal depression. There is a significant absence of well-controlled clinical studies that have investigated the dynamic changes of the microbiome during pregnancy and the relationship among diet, microbiome and antenatal depression. This research is among the first to provide an insight into this area of research. MethodsThis 12 - week study followed a standard double blinded randomised placebo-controlled trial (RCT) design with either high dose micronutrients or active placebo. Matching stool microbiome samples and mood data were obtained at baseline and post-treatment, from participants between 12 and 24 weeks gestation. Stool microbiome samples from 33 participants (17 in the placebo and 16 in the treatment group) were assessed using 16s rRNA sequencing. Data preparation and statistical analysis was predominantly performed using the QIIME2 bioinformatic software tools for 16s rRNA analysis. ResultsMicrobiome community structure became increasingly heterogenous with decreased diversity during the course of the study, which was represented by significant changes in alpha and beta diversity. This effect appeared to be mitigated by micronutrient administration. There were less substantial changes at the genus level, where Coprococcus decreased in relative abundance in response to micronutrient administration. We also observed that a higher abundance of Coprococcus and higher alpha diversity correlated with higher antenatal depression scores. ConclusionsMicronutrient treatment appeared to support a more diverse (alpha diversity) and stable (beta diversity) microbiome during pregnancy. This may aid in maintaining a more resilient or adaptable microbial community, which would help protect against decreases or fluctuations that are observed during pregnancy.

Proximate Composition and Functional Properties of Soyabeans (Glycine Max) Enriched Carbohydrate Diets

This study explored enhancing the nutritional value and functional properties of carbohydrate-rich diets by incorporating soybeans into millet, cassava, and yam. Soybeans, known for their high protein, unsaturated fats, and micronutrients, were used to fortify these staple foods. Proximate analysis assessed the macronutrient content of both the original and soybean-enriched samples, while functional properties such as water and oil absorption capacities, swelling index, bulk density, and gelation capacity were evaluated. Results showed significant increases in protein content, particularly in the millet-soybean mixture (29.81%), with relatively low levels of fat and ash. Functional assessments indicated millet’s highest gelation capacity and cassava’s superior water absorption. These findings suggest that soybean fortification can improve carbohydrate-rich diets’ nutritional quality and versatility. Further research is recommended to assess the impact of these dietary modifications on human health and consumer acceptance.

Unveiling the nutrient-wealth of black soybean: A holistic review of its bioactive compounds and health implications.

Legumes, an essential component of staple diets, hold a prominent place in global cuisines. Soybean stands out as a widely cultivated legume and is valued for its high protein content, dietary fiber, and rich micronutrients. Several varieties of soybean are available, of which black and yellow varieties show dominance in varied countries and cultures. Over time, the cultivation and consumption of black soybeans have markedly reduced compared to the yellow variety. Despite its rich nutritional and therapeutic indices, it has lost its usage over time. Traditionally, it was utilized in oriental medicine for detoxification and anti-inflammatory potential. However, the antinutrients present in black soybean limit its utilization in the food sector due to their interference with overall nutrient absorption. Several studies in the last few decades have focused on reducing the content of antinutritional factors. However, the information on the use of different processing techniques, both singly and in blends, to reduce antinutrients and enhance the bioaccessibility, bioavailability, and bioactivity of bioactive compounds and varied nutrients is limited and fragmented. Furthermore, studies have highlighted black soybeans' protective effects against various degenerative diseases. However, the studies on the effect of processing to enhance its antioxidative properties to make them a sought-after food commodity with nutraceutical potential and therapeutic efficacy are limited and widely scattered. The review aims to consolidate knowledge of diverse processing methods to improve their nutritional and bioactive profile for wider applications in the food and pharmaceutical industries. Further, it has also highlighted its nutraceutical properties for developing varied functional foods against degenerative diseases to have better therapeutic efficacy.

Development of Iron and Zinc Biofortified Rice Variety for Nutrition Improvement in Bangladesh

Depleting micronutrients such as iron and zinc poses a serious risk to a population’s health in regions where nutrient-rich meals are unavailable, such as Bangladesh. We can engross the essential minerals using biofortified rice varieties enriched with essential minerals. We experimented to develop and evaluate a new high-yielding rice variety, Advanced Chemical Industries (ACI) dhan1, specifically for the rainy season in Bangladesh. We used high-yielding rice parent lines with high iron and zinc in the hybridization process, then grew and selected the resulting breeding lines during the rainy season of Bangladesh to identify the most suitable rice lines for the rainy season. The plant height and days to maturity traits were the same as shown in both cultivars, ACI dhan1 and Bangladesh Rice Research Institute (BRRI) dhan62 (standard check), which are 104 cm and 103 days, respectively. On the other hand, ACI dhan1 produced 6.05 tons per hectare, and BRRI dhan62 yielded 4.33 tons per hectare. A quality analysis of the grain quantified that ACI dhan1 contained 8.21% protein and 25.12% apparent amylose. Similarly, ACI dhan1 had very high levels of Zn (24.8 ppm) and Fe (9 ppm). We observed a more than 70% improvement in milling capabilities and head rice recovery. In proposed variety trials, the Seed Certification Agency of Bangladesh identified an average yield advantage of more than 10% for ACI dhan1 in 10 locations. National Seed Board, Bangladesh, released it as a candidate for high-iron and zinc-enriched rice variety and approved its extensive cultivation in Bangladesh. Due to its high micronutrient content, excellent agronomic performance, and non-sticky cooking quality, ACI dhan1 presents itself as a variety of choice in Bangladesh’s pursuit of food and nutrition security. Thus, the present study demonstrates the large achievement of biofortification by ACI dhan1 and hence promises to be a strong weapon in the battle against malnutrition.

Efficacy of foliar versus soil application of micronutrients on the production of mango (Mangifera indica L.)

Soil test-based fertilizer recommendations were calculated for mango @1.25:0.60:0.90kg N: P2O5:K2O per tree and were applied for all eight treatments as per schedule in the Randomized block design in an experimental field. The pooled analysis of the results revealed that the application of Soil test based recommended dose of fertilizer application after harvest + Soil application of FeSO4 @ 200g + ZnSO4 @ 200g + MgSO4 @ 100g +CuSO4 @50g + Borax @50g + MnSO4 @ 50g+ Foliar spray (twice) of ZnSO4 (0.3%) + FeSO4 (0.5%) + CuSO4 (0.2%) + Mg SO4 (0.5%) + Borax (0.2%) + MnSO4 (0.2%) at pre-flowering and marble stage recorded the maximum individual fruit weight (592 g) and highest yield kg per tree (380) followed by the T1 + IIHR micronutrients spray (twice) with yield per tree of 336 kg/tree while the control STCR based RDF alone after harvest recorded 193 kg/tree. The leaf nutrients were analyzed after sprays of the application of T1 + Soil application of micronutrients + Foliar Spray of micronutrients (Twice) recorded the highest leaf nutrient status of Nitrogen 1.55%, Phosphorus 0.224% and Potassium 1.39% and the highest micronutrients in leaf Iron (131.80 ppm), Zinc (20.50 ppm), Copper (37.50 ppm) and Manganese (199.20 ppm) higher as above treatment while, the control recorded lower value of Iron (66.30 ppm), Zinc (9.40 ppm), Copper (31.70 ppm) and Manganese (114.20 ppm).

Effects of blending ratios variation on micronutrient compositions and phytate/minerals molar ratios of dabi teff-field pea based novel composite complementary flours

Mixtures of multiple grains at varied ratios can provide multiple and higher micronutrients than a single grain. Thus, this research was aimed at examining the effect of blending ratios variation on micro-compositions and phytate/minerals molar ratios of pre-processed local dabi teff-field pea based novel composite complementary flours. Inductively Coupled Plasma-Optical Emission Spectrometry was used to determine dietary minerals. Nutrisurvey software was employed to define ranges of the mixture components and they were constrained at 20–35% for dabi teff, 0–30% field pea and 5–20% maize, while the remaining were set constant at 25% barley, 15% oats and 5% linseed. Design-Expert ® software version 11, D-optimal was used to generate eleven experimental blends and to examine the effects of blending ratio variation on the responses. Mean mineral contents were significantly different (P < 0.05) among the blends (as affected by component ratios variation) and ranged from 24.01–31.58 mg/100 g for iron, 73.46 -78.81 mg/100 g for calcium, and 2.33–2.61 mg/100 g for zinc contents. The phytate/minerals molar ratios were significantly different among the blends except phytate/calcium molar ratio (Ph:Ca), ranged from 0.232–0.344 for phytate/iron molar ratio (Ph:Fe), 0.067–0.085 for (Ph:Ca), 3.356–4.18 for phytate/zinc molar ratio (Ph:Zn) and 6.457–7.943 for phytate by calcium to zinc molar ratio (Ph*Ca:Zn). A linear model was significant (P < 0.05) and adequate to describe variations in iron, zinc, Ph:Fe, Ph:Zn and Ph*Ca:Zn. There was a remarkably linear increase in iron and calcium contents with an increased dabi teff ratio in the blends accompanied by a significant decrease (P < 0.05) in phytate/minerals molar ratios. The findings showed that increasing dabi teff ratio in the blends notably increased iron content with reduced Ph:Fe molar ratio, providing the bases for developing iron-dense novel composite complementary flour with improved iron bioavailability to combat iron deficiency anemia among children.Graphical

АЛГОРИТМ ЭФФЕКТИВНОГО ПРИМЕНЕНИЯ ВИТАМИННО-МИНЕРАЛЬНЫХ КОМПЛЕКСОВ

At present time, there is a huge range of vitamin and mineral supplements (VMS), that differ in composition and doses of micronutrients, which complicates the choice and their effective use. The purpose of the review is to substantiate the algorithm for effective use of VMS for the correction of micronutrient deficiency. The general pattern in the VMS administration is that there is an inverse relationship between the dose of micronutrients and the increase in their concentration in a fasting blood test after an overnight break. Improving vitamin status requires time, that is longer when taking VMS with low doses, and for each vitamin the time to achieve optimal concentrations is different. To optimize the vitamin status by means of VMS administration containing vitamins in doses corresponding to 100% of the recommended daily intake (RDI) takes from 1.5 months for B vitamins to 3-5 months for vitamin D. A course of VMS administration for 1 months may not be enough to correct the deficiency of all vitamins. After stopping additional use of VMS, a “wash-out” of vitamins occurs for one to several weeks, i.e. decrease of blood concentration and return to the original state of deficiency. A universal, scientifically based scheme for the effective use of VMS consists of a course of VMS administration with high (200-300% of the RDI) micronutrients, especially after an illness or taking antibiotics, and then switching to constant use of VMS containing deficient micronutrients in a dose of 50-100 % of RDI. Women during the periconceptional period and throughout pregnancy are recommended to take daily multicomponent VMS, specifically designed for pregnant women, containing doses of micronutrients that correspond to the physiological needs of the body.

Fruit Agronomic and Quality Traits of Tomato F1 Hybrids Derived from Traditional Varieties

The high genetic diversity of the tomato and its high micronutrient content make this fruit very interesting from an economic and nutritional point of view. The genetic erosion suffered by this crop, due to breeding objectives based on yield and marketing, makes it necessary to return to the origins in search of the nutritional and organoleptic quality lost in traditional varieties. In this study, the agronomic, physical, organoleptic, and nutritional characteristics of eighteen F1 hybrids, obtained by crossing fourteen traditional varieties, previously selected for their quality, were studied in order to select genotypes of superior quality that could be candidates for new varieties. All the parameters studied were strongly influenced by genotype, with a wide range between varieties. Most of the experimental hybrids showed higher quality scores than the commercial hybrids used as controls, due to the extensive selection process carried out on the parents in previous work. Principal component analysis revealed the characteristics of each hybrid that distinguished it from the others. Some hybrids (H1, H2, and H4) stood out for their high concentration of active compounds, others (H14, H13, H8, H15, H7, and H9) for their agronomic performance and high β-carotene content, and H3 was the only one to contain chlorophyll in its ripe fruits. Finally, the evaluation index allowed the selection of five hybrids with interesting characteristics, combining good yield performance and high quality. The results of this work have allowed for the selection of a group of hybrids with high organoleptic and nutritional quality which will be used as parents in a breeding programme, in which their characteristics will be fixed and their resilience will be increased through the introduction of virus resistance.

Daily intake of baru (Dipteryx alata Vog.), a Cerrado native almond, promotes changes in the intestinal microbiota of individuals with obesity: A pilot study

The Brazilian Cerrado biome is rich in plant biodiversity, with fruits that have unique sensory characteristics and high nutritional quality. Among the various fruits, baru (Dipteryx alata Vog.) has attracted the attention of researchers because of its high lipid, protein, carbohydrate, fiber, and micronutrient (minerals and vitamins) contents. The present study evaluated the effects of regular consumption of baru almonds for over 60 days on the biochemical and anthropometric profiles and fecal microbiota of obese individuals. A pilot study was conducted on 15 individuals with obesity who were instructed to consume a 20-gram portion of baru almonds throughout the day. The body composition was assessed using anthropometric measurements. Blood pressure, glucose levels, lipid profile, serum insulin and iron contents, and fecal microbiota composition were determined at baseline (day 0) and after 60 days. Baru almond consumption contributed to changes in biochemical parameters, improved HDL cholesterol levels, and reduced total and LDL cholesterol levels. Some positive changes in the microbiota composition after consuming baru almonds include a decrease in the Faecalibacterium family and an increase in the Provotella genus. Therefore, ingesting baru almonds can modulate gut microbiota of individuals with obesity.

Micronutrient inadequacy among lactating mothers in rural areas of North Mecha District, Amhara Region, Ethiopia.

Lactating mothers are frequently at risk for nutritional deficiencies due to the physiological requirements of lactation. Throughout the world, a significant number of lactating mothers have micronutrient intake inadequacy. Evidence on micronutrient intake during lactation is limited in rural Ethiopia. Therefore, this study aimed to determine micronutrient intake inadequacy and associated factors among lactating mothers. A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted from February 1 to 18, 2023, among lactating mothers in rural areas of the North Mecha District of Amhara Region, Northwest Ethiopia. A multistage sampling technique was used to select 449 study participants. An interviewer-administered questionnaire was employed to collect dietary intake data by using a single multiphasic interactive 24-h dietary recall. The NutriSurvey 2007 software and Ethiopia, Tanzania and Kenya food composition tables were used to calculate nutrient values for the selected 12 micronutrients. For the remainder of the analysis, SPSS version 25 was employed. The Nutrient Adequacy Ratio (NAR) and Mean Adequacy Ratio (MAR) were calculated by dividing all NAR values by the number of micronutrients computed to evaluate the nutrient intakes. A logistic regression analysis was conducted to determine the factors contributing to the overall micronutrient intake inadequacy, and statistical significance was determined at a p value <0.05. A total of 430 lactating mothers participated in the study, with a 96% response rate and a mean age of 29.46 ± 5.55 years. The overall prevalence of micronutrient intake inadequacy was 72.3% (95% CI: 67.9, 76.5). The odds of micronutrient intake inadequacy were 2.5 times higher among lactating mothers aged 18-25 years old as compared to mothers in the age group ≥36 years old (AOR = 2.52, 95% CI: 1.09, 5.83). Mothers with the educational status of unable to read and write and primary school incomplete were 3.5 (AOR = 3.49, 95% CI: 1.24, 9.83) and 3.6 (AOR = 3.56, 95% CI: 1.06, 11.99) times more likely to have micronutrient intake inadequacy than mothers with secondary school completed or above educational status, respectively. Mothers whose partner's occupation was other than farming were 3.3 times more likely to have micronutrient intake inadequacy as compared to mothers whose partners were engaged in farming (AOR = 3.32, 95% CI: 1.08, 10.27). Lactating mothers who were from food-insecure households were 83% more likely to have high micronutrient intake inadequacy as compared to lactating mothers from food-secure households (AOR = 1.83, 95% CI: 1.04, 3.23). Lactating mothers with nutrition-related unfavorable attitudes were 77% more likely to have inadequate intake of micronutrients compared to lactating mothers with favorable attitudes (AOR = 1.77, 95% CI: 1.07, 2.93). The prevalence of micronutrient intake inadequacy among lactating mothers was high. Age of the mothers, educational status of the mothers, occupation of the partner, household food security, and nutrition-related attitude were significantly associated with micronutrient intake inadequacy. Community driven nutrition education and interventions are needed to address the high micronutrient intake inadequacy among lactating mothers in rural Ethiopia.

Grain quality traits within the wheat (Triticum spp.) genepool: prospects for improved nutrition through de novo domestication.

Wild relatives of wheat (Triticum spp.) harbor beneficial alleles for potential improvement and de novo domestication of selected genotypes with advantageous traits. We analyzed the nutrient composition in wild diploid and tetraploid wheats and their domesticated diploid, tetraploid and hexaploid relatives under field conditions in Germany and compared them with modern Triticum aestivum and Triticum durum cultivars. Grain iron (Fe) and zinc (Zn) concentrations, phytate:mineral molar ratios, grain protein content (GPC) and antioxidant activity were analyzed across 125 genotypes. Grain Fe and Zn concentrations in wild wheats were 72 mg kg-1 and 59 mg kg-1, respectively, with improved bioavailability indicated by Phytate:Fe and Phytate:Zn molar ratios (11.7 and 16.9, respectively) and GPC (231 g kg-1). By comparison, grain Fe and Zn concentrations in landrace taxa were 54 mg kg-1 and 55 mg kg-1, respectively, with lower Phytate:Fe and Phytate:Zn molar ratios (15.1 and 17.5, respectively) and GPC (178 g kg-1). Average grain Fe accumulation in Triticum araraticum was 73 mg kg-1, reaching 116 mg kg-1, with high Fe bioavailability (Phyt:Fe: 11.7; minimum: 7.2). Wild wheats, landraces and modern cultivars showed no differences in antioxidant activity. Triticum zhukovskyi stood out with high grain micronutrient concentrations and favorable molar ratios. It was also the only taxon with elevated antioxidant activity. Our results indicate alteration of grain quality during domestication. T. araraticum has promising genotypes with advantageous grain quality characteristics that could be selected for de novo domestication. Favorable nutritional traits in the GGAA wheat lineage (T. araraticum and T. zhukovskyi) hold promise for improving grain quality traits. © 2024 The Authors. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.

Considerations for Correction of Micronutrient Deficiencies Through Supplementation in Pregnant Women and Children Under-5 in Latin America.

Micronutrient deficiencies in Latin America are a public health concern, nonetheless, lack of information still exists in many countries, so that the true magnitude of the problem remains uncertain. To summarise experiences that can inform the development of policies and programs to address micronutrient deficiencies throung supplementation in pregnant women and chlidren under five years of age in Latin American. Review of the most evidence on the effects of micronutrients supplementation, focusing on pregnant women and children under five years of age. Certain population groups, as women of reproductive age and children under 2 years of age, are at increased risk for deficiency due to their high micronutrient requirements. This is compounded by the limited access to micronutrient-rich foods for many people living in vulnerable situations. Micronutrient supplementation is an effective intervention to prevent and treat deficiency and to mitigate its adverse effects on health, nutrition, and pregnancy outcomes in micronutrient-deficient populations. The potential benefits of supplementation programs, however, are realized only when they reach those who have the potential to benefit, that is, with inadequate intakes of micronutrients from dietary sources, and when the quality of design and delivery of the programs aresufficient to reach that population timely, regularly, and effectively to enable and motivate consumption. Several resources and experiences exist that can help favor the development of programs that can realize this biological and programmatic potential. There is need for continuous efforts to augment coverage and achieve results that can translate into economic benefits for individuals, families, and nations.

Production of Dry Cakes (Cookies) Based on a Combination Between Millets Flour with Wheat

The perfect diet to achieve sustainable nutrition, health, and well-being goals requires information on the quality of food sources Millet (Panicum miliaceum L.) also has an energy value comparable to that of staple cereals, and more significant health benefits due to its high fiber, minerals, vitamins, macro and micronutrients, and phytochemical compounds that are useful for chronic disorders. This research aims to analyze the production of dry cakes (Cookies) based on a combination of millet flour with wheat. This study used a Factorial Randomized Block Design with 3 (three) factors each with 2 (two) levels, repeated 2 (two) times, namely: Factors of Wheat Flour (TT), namely: TT1 = 250 gram and TT2 = 350gram, Millet flour factor (TM), namely: TM1 = 250 gram and TM2 150 gram. Refined Sugar Factor (GH): GH1 = 100 grams and GH2 = 1 gram. A protein content of 8.29%, a fat content of 24.42%, a crude fiber content of 1.766%, an ash content of 1.75%, and a preference level above scale 3 (like) is obtained by optimizing the cookie-making process by replacing wheat flour with millet flour. Additionally, one gram of sucrose sugar is added.

Faecal sludge pyrolysis as a circular economic approach to waste management and nutrient recovery

AbstractThe disposal of faecal sludge from non-networked sanitation amenities leads to contamination of the surrounding environment and increasing public health problems across developing countries. Permanent solutions to deal with faecal sludge are required to solve the sanitation crisis and achieve the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6 “ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all” by 2030. Full-scale pyrolysis of faecal sludge in developing countries is fast becoming a safe and long-term option. Pyrolysis not only eliminates pathogens within the sludge but produces biochar as an end product which has the potential as a soil amendment to increase crop yield. In general, faecal sludge biochars have high pH values, high ash contents, and high macro-and micronutrient concentrations. Compared to biochar from lignocellulosic materials, faecal sludge biochar contains less carbon and exhibits lower porosities, and lower surface areas. However, evaluating the properties of faecal sludge biochar is difficult due to the different technologies used in collection, storage, and transportation of the feedstock. Differences in faecal sludge characteristics based on location, climate, age of the sludge, type of sanitation technology and seasonality are also factors in determining the properties of faecal sludge biochars. These factors contribute to the difficulty in describing faecal sludge biochar properties in general terms, and there is an argument to be made that characteristics of large-scale faecal sludge biochar should be determined on a case-by-case basis. The conclusion of this review is that future research should concentrate on short-term and long-term field studies of faecal sludge biochar application to different soil types.

Organic Cutlery : Substitution of Plastic Wares

Abstract- Edible cutlery is the best alternative to plastic cutlery. It is prepared by baking a mixture of sorghum, rice and wheat flour with different types of flavours, like ginger, garlic, black pepper, sugar, cinnamon, cumin and mint. A splash of colours is added to the cutlery by including spinach (green), beet root (red) or carrot (orange) pulp into the product mix. They contain fibre, iron, protein and calcium. One of the naturally occurring high micro-nutrients in this is sorghum. It is highly nutritious with no preservatives and easily decomposable. Moreover, it won’t get softened by the use of any hot material or liquor contained with it. Edible cutlery is a solution that provides the same convenience as disposable forks, spoons, plates and chopsticks without any environmental (hazards) problems. It’s delicious, hygienic, and durable and it promotes a healthy tomorrow.

Phytosiderophore pathway response in barley exposed to iron, zinc or copper starvation

Efficient micronutrient acquisition is a critical factor in selecting micronutrient dense crops for human consumption. Enhanced exudation and re-uptake of metal chelators, so-called phytosiderophores, by roots of graminaceous plants has been implicated in efficient micronutrient acquisition. We compared PS biosynthesis and exudation as a response mechanism to either Fe, Zn or Cu starvation. Two barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) lines with contrasting micronutrient grain yields were grown hydroponically and PS exudation (LC-MS) and root gene expression (RNAseq) were determined after either Fe, Zn, or Cu starvation. The response strength of the PS pathway was micronutrient dependent and decreased in the order Fe > Zn > Cu deficiency. We observed a stronger expression of PS pathway genes and greater PS exudation in the barley line with large micronutrient grain yield suggesting that a highly expressed PS pathway might be an important trait involved in high micronutrient accumulation. In addition to several metal specific transporters, we also found that the expression of IRO2 and bHLH156 transcription factors was not only induced under Fe but also under Zn and Cu deficiency. Our study delivers important insights into the role of the PS pathway in the acquisition of different micronutrients.

Improving Crop Health, Performance, and Quality in Organic Spring Wheat Production: The Need to Understand Interactions between Pedoclimatic Conditions, Variety, and Fertilization

Organic wheat production systems have lower yields compared with intensive conventional production and often do not achieve the grain protein content and quality thresholds set by millers and bakers. In contrast, organic production methods were reported to result in higher concentrations of nutritionally desirable micronutrients and lower concentrations of the toxic metal Cd in wheat grain and wholegrain flour. However, although N-availability and variety characteristics are known to affect both gain yields and bread-making quality, the exact reasons for the yield gap and differences in grain processing and nutritional quality between organic and conventional spring wheat production in the UK are poorly understood. The overall aim of this study was therefore to determine to what extent changes in variety choice and fertilization regimes may reduce the yield gap and improve processing quality without affecting nutritional quality in organic spring wheat production. To achieve this aim, we compared crop health, yield, grain processing, and nutritional quality parameters in spring wheat produced using (i) six contrasting spring wheat varieties grown with a standard fertilization regime and (ii) one variety widely used by organic farmers (Paragon) with nine different fertilization regimes in (iii) three UK sites/farms with contrasting pedoclimatic conditions. Significant differences in foliar disease severity, grain yield, and quality parameters were detected between six contrasting spring wheat varieties when grown under organic management regimes. Specifically, the varieties Paragon and Tybalt were identified as the best-performing varieties with respect to foliar disease resistance and grain yield under organic farming conditions and also produced high processing and nutritional quality across the three UK sites. However, the highest grain yields were obtained by Paragon at the Gilchester site and Tybalt at the Sheepdrove and Courtyard sites, while the highest protein contents were produced by Tybalt at the Gilchester site and Paragon at the Sheepdrove and Courtyard sites, which suggests that there is a need for site-specific wheat variety selection in the UK organic sector. Although organic fertilizer input type and level also affected wheat performance, differences between fertilization regimes were smaller than those observed between the five contrasting varieties, which suggests that improvements in spring wheat breeding/selection have a greater potential for increasing crop yield and quality in the organic sector compared with changes to fertilization practices. Overall, results suggest it is feasible to breed/select spring wheat varieties that combine high protein, vitamin E, and micronutrients with low toxic metal (Cd, Pb) concentrations when produced under organic farming conditions. These findings also support the hypothesis that differences in variety choice by organic and conventional farmers have contributed to the differences in nutritional quality between organic and conventional wheat products reported in previous studies.