Nonalcoholic Research Articles

Developing a zero-proof beverage course: Insights from industry professionals, educators, and students

This study examined beverage-focused hospitality courses in U.S. undergraduate programs, revealing that most courses address alcoholic beverages, with only two offering nonalcoholic (zero-proof) content. Given the growing demand for nonalcoholic beverages, the study aimed to identify key beverages and topics missing from current curricula and create an optimal zero-proof beverages course. Input from food and beverage professionals and hospitality educators highlighted coffee, tea, water, functional beverages, fermented beverages, and zero-proof cocktails as critical. The course was developed using the Integrated Course Design Framework and reviewed by hospitality educators and students for improvement. A syllabus template is included.

Exploring Consumer Understanding and Perceptions of Front-of-Pack Labelling of Foods and Non-Alcoholic Beverages in Kenya.

Background: Front-of-package labeling (FOPL) is shown to support healthier consumer choices. Many countries have adopted different FOPL systems. Objective: This study explored perceptions and understanding of three FOPLs and identified features that could enhance their effectiveness in Kenya. Methods: A qualitative study was conducted across four Kenyan counties-Nairobi, Mombasa, Garissa, and Kisumu. Data from 12 focus group discussions with 137 adults of diverse socio-demographic backgrounds were analysed. Participants evaluated three FOPLs: Red and Green (RG) Octagon, Red and Green Octagon with icons and text (RGI), and Black Octagon Warning Label (WL). The FGDs assessed visibility and memorability, comprehension, potential effectiveness, and cultural relevance of each label. NVivo version 14.0 was used for thematic analysis. Results: Kenyan consumers had mixed perceptions of the proposed FOPLs. The black Octagon WL was found to be the most visible and memorable due to its bright colours. Although the RG and RGI symbols were visually engaging, some participants reported confusion with the colour meanings. The WL was also more readily understood due to its text. Overall, WL was preferred for its potential to influence purchasing decisions, while all three FOPLs were considered culturally suitable. Conclusions: The Black Octagon Warning Label was the most visible and comprehensible of the three FOPLs and shows promise in influencing consumer behaviour in Kenya. While RG and RGI symbols are appealing, their colour scheme could reduce their effectiveness. Educating consumers on FOPLs could enhance their impact in reducing unhealthy food purchases.

Content-Related Quality Control of Water- and Fat-Soluble Vitamins in Fortified Non-Alcoholic Beverages.

Vitamin-fortified non-alcoholic beverages (VFNABs) are rising in popularity and availability. However, owing to their regulation as foods, there are also growing quality and safety concerns. Therefore, we aimed to provide an overview of the content-related quality of VFNABs on the Slovenian market. Vitamin contents in 50 VFNABs (29 waters, 5 juices, 12 energy drinks, and 4 instant drinks) were determined using validated methods based on liquid chromatography. The results revealed several quality issues, which were determined in all four VFNAB types. These included an indication of at least one vitamin, present in a lower-than-significant amount, on the nutrition declaration in 64% of the tested VFNABs and vitamin contents outside the tolerance interval (65-150% of the label claim) in almost half of the cases (48.4%, n = 244). Since the disclosed quality issues are not only a reason for the misleading of consumers but may also pose safety risks for both individuals and public health, we further performed an overall assessment of the VFNABs as vitamin sources. The results revealed that the tested VFNABs not only fully cover but in several cases considerably exceed daily vitamin needs (up to 616% of the reference values), an effect which is further accentuated in children. The performed content-related quality control study undoubtedly highlight the need for stricter quality control and regulation and can be utilized as a foundation and recommendation for the manufacturers in terms of committing to and pursuing the production of VFNABs.

Sugar-sweetened beverage consumption in Thailand: Determinants and variation across socioeconomic status

ObjectivesReducing consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) is a primary public health goal in Thailand, but information on the characteristics of SSB consumers remains limited. This study aims to gain knowledge about the characteristics of SSB consumers in Thailand. Study designSecondary analysis of survey data. MethodsThe study used data from the Health Behaviour of Population Survey conducted by Thailand's National Statistics Office between February and May 2021. SSB consumption was sourced from a survey question about the consumption of prepackaged sugar-sweetened non-alcoholic beverages. The influence of demographic, socioeconomic, behavioural, habitual, and health factors on mean daily intake and daily consumption was assessed using a two-part model and logistic regression analysis, respectively. Decomposition analysis was conducted to understand how the impact of these factors affecting SSB consumption varied across socioeconomic groups. ResultsFrequent SSB consumers exhibited various unhealthy behaviours, including smoking, unhealthy food consumption, low physical activity, and making food selections driven by appetitive motivations. Although higher socioeconomic status was associated with greater consumption of SSBs, it stabilised at elevated income levels. Increased SSB consumption in higher socioeconomic groups was linked to mixed eating habits, being overweight, and occasional drinking, while in lower socioeconomic groups, it was associated with unhealthy behaviours like smoking, regular alcohol drinking, appetitive food choices, and low physical activity. ConclusionsSSB consumption in Thailand is multifactorial, varying by socioeconomic status. These insights are crucial for policy formation aimed at reducing SSB consumption in the country. Policymakers should explore interventions that address overall unhealthy behaviours alongside those targeting overconsumption of SSBs.

Association between health-enhancing physical activity and the social factors, lifestyle and dietary characteristics.

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends minimum of 150 minutes of moderate intensity aerobic physical activity or 75 minutes of vigorous intensity aerobic physical activity along with at least two sessions of muscle strengthening exercises per week. Compliance with these recommendations is classified as Health Enhancing Physical Activity (HEPA). The aim of this study was to analyze the association between the HEPA and the social factors, lifestyle and dietary characteristics. We conducted the secondary analyses of the data from the Serbian National Health Survey 2019, on 12067 adult participants classified in two groups: with HEPA and without HEPA based on the compliance with the WHO recommendations. Prevalence of HEPA was 3.3% (394/12067). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed positive association between HEPA and male sex (OR: 4.25, 95% CI: 2.68-6.73), average (OR: 3,01, 95% CI: 1.13-8.04), good (OR: 3.10, 95% CI: 1.21-7.94) and very good (OR: 4.64, 95% CI: 1.82-11.84) income quintile being single (OR: 1.85, 95% CI: 1.16-2.95), the number of portions of fruits per day (OR: 1.29, 95% CI: 1.09-1.53), the frequency fresh fruit/vegetable juice consumption (OR: 1.20, 95% CI: 1.02-1.40), and being non-smoker (OR: 1.67, 95% CI: 1.03-2.73). There was a negative association between HEPA and age (OR: 0.96, 95% CI: 0.95-0.98), BMI (OR: 0.94, 95% CI: 0.88-1.00), average self-rated health (OR: 0.18, 95% CI: 0.12-0.60), and the frequency of non-alcoholic beverages consumption (OR: 0.75, 95% CI: 0.62-0.89). Since only a small percentage of the adult population in Serbia meets the WHO recommendations for physical activity, action is required. This should involve creating future strategies and policies, as well as initiatives focused on education and raising awareness about the importance of physical activity and health.

Gıda Fiyatlarındaki Artışların İncelenmesi: Türkiye Üzerine Bir Uygulama

In this study, 5 different econometric models are constructed by determining the variables affecting food price increases in Turkey. Monthly data for the years 2005-2023 are used. The coefficients of the models are estimated by Dynamic Least Squares method. TUFE_GIDA (food and non-alcoholic beverages series), TUFE_IMG (CPI unprocessed food series) and producer prices of agricultural products (UFE_TARIM) are used to represent the food prices variable. In all models, the exchange rate increases food prices. Similarly, increases in diesel prices increase TUFE_GIDA and TUFE_IMG. As expected, increases in the export volume of agricultural products increase food prices, while increases in the import volume of agricultural products increase food prices. While increases in producer prices of agricultural products increase TUFE_IMG, increases in producer food prices increase TUFE_FOOD. World food prices have an increasing effect on TUFE_GIDA. The increase in fertilizer prices increases producer prices of agricultural products. The 2008 and 2018 economic crises and the dummy variable used to represent the Covid-19 pandemic also increase food prices. Keywords: Dynamic Least Squares method, Price Indices.

Isotopic analysis of modern sorghum and finger millet from different altitudes in Ethiopia: implications for ancient farming practices

C4 crops such as sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) and finger millet (Eleusine coracana) have played a significant role in the economic livelihood in arid and semi-arid zones of tropical and sub-tropical Africa since prehistoric times. However, to date, our knowledge of their past management practices is limited. Stable isotope analysis of archaeobotanical remains has been recognized as a valuable tool for reconstructing past agricultural practices, e.g. water management, and fertilization. Nonetheless, our limited understanding of the isotopic variability of C4 plants calls for further research on modern plant before application to archaeobotanical remains. In this paper, we aim to enhance our understanding of modern C4 botanical remains' isotopic variability by analyzing sorghum and finger millet plants. These crops were cultivated according to traditional local practices and collected from ten villages located in the Konso Zone (South Ethiopia) and Tigray Regional State (North Ethiopia), where they are among the daily ingredients for food, and traditional alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. We analyzed carbon and nitrogen stable isotopes of seeds and biosilica content in chaff, as it has been suggested that a relationship can exist between silicon and C:N. Carbon isotope values show significant variability, positively correlated with altitude. By demonstrating the sensitivity of C4 grain carbon stable isotope to altitude variations, which are likely connected to water availability, this study offers invaluable insights for the accurate assessment of isotopic values derived from ancient C4 crops. The absence of significant correlations with δ15N suggests that nitrogen isotope values may be less effective for understanding environmental variations in this kind of context. This highlights the limitations of nitrogen isotope data for interpreting ancient agricultural practices and underscores the importance of relying more on carbon isotopes for insights related to environmental conditions and altitude. Furthermore, we confirm that the amount of assimilated carbon may depend also on the biosilica content, which is in turn modulated by environmental parameters such as water availability or soil silicon levels.

The Processing of a Novel Health Beverage Based on Extracts from Green Tea and Chios Mastiha

In the present study, the processing, characterization, and assessment of novel non-alcoholic and sugar-free drinks based on bioactive extracts from valuable natural sources, such as green tea enriched with Chios mastiha, are considered. Currently, the transition towards the consumption of healthy and sustainable food and beverages promoting human health and well-being is strongly encouraged and biologically active compounds from natural resources have a broad range of ap-plications in this sector. In this context, three beverages (all non-alcoholic, non-carbonated, and sugar-free) were created, including extracts of green tea with Chios mastiha, matcha green tea with Chios mastiha and louisa green tea with Chios mastiha, and an evaluation of their biological potential was performed. Specifically, an analysis of water, extracts, and additives for the beverage production was carried out. Microbiological and nutritional value determination was also conducted in samples of the three products. According to the experimental results, the novel health beverage produced from green tea enriched with Chios Mastiha extracts was found to have improved organoleptic characteristics and was microbiologically stable and safe for a period of 180 days from the production date at 25 °C. It is also considered stable and safe for 3 days after production, even if it remains open at 25 °C. In view of a possible scale-up of this application, safety, and preservation control should continue for at least 540 days from the date of production. In conclusion, the current research findings support the development of a novel non-alcoholic sugar-free health drink based on bioactive extracts from green tea enriched with Chios mastiha, to contribute to maintaining human health and also to strengthen the economy.

Occurrence and characteristics of microplastics in South African beverages

This study presents the first comprehensive assessment of microplastics (MPs) in alcoholic (AB) and non-alcohol (NAB) beverages in South Africa. Beverages in various packaging materials, specifically glass, aluminium, and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) were tested for MP content. The samples were filtered and digested, then stained with Rose Bengal dye to facilitate particle identification, followed by physical and chemical characterisation using stereomicroscopy and micro-Raman spectroscopy, respectively. Fibers were the prevalent shape observed in AB packaged in glass, as well as in NAB (PET), and NAB (Aluminium). The Aluminium samples also exhibited a high abundance of fragments. Multivariate principal component analysis and Pearson correlation coefficient matrix revealed positive correlations between fibers of size ranges 0.02–0.1 mm and 0.1–0.5 mm in NAB samples. While in AB samples, the ranges were observed to be 1–2 mm and 2–3 mm. Six polymers were identified, namely: polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), polyurethane (PU), polyamide (PA), PET, and polybutylene terephthalate (PBT). This study offers a holistic appraisal of MPs in commercially sold beverages in South Africa. It establishes a framework for assessing the socioeconomic impacts of MPs, including their commercial, environmental, social, and sustainability implications.

An Amperometric Sensor with Anti-Fouling Properties for Indicating Xylazine Adulterant in Beverages.

Amperometric electrochemical sensing schemes, which are easily fabricated and can directly relate measured current with analyte concentrations, remain a promising strategy for the development of the portable, in situ detection of commonly employed adulterants. Xylazine (XYL) is a non-narcotic compound designed for veterinary use as a sedative known as Rompun®. XYL is increasingly being abused as a recreational drug, as an opioid adulterant and, because of its chemical properties, has found unfortunate prominence as a date rape drug spiked into beverages. In this study, a systematic exploration and development of fouling-resistant, amperometric XYL sensors is presented. The sensing strategy features layer-by-layer (LBL) modification of glassy carbon electrodes (GCEs) with carbon nanotubes (CNTs) for sensitivity and the engagement of cyclodextrin host-guest chemistry in conjunction with polyurethane (PU) semi-permeable membranes for selectivity. The optimization of different materials and parameters during development created a greater fundamental understanding of the interfacial electrochemistry, allowing for a more informed subsequent design of effective sensors exhibiting XYL selectivity, effective sensitivity, rapid response times (<20 s), and low estimated limits of detection (~1 ppm). Most importantly, the demonstrated XYL sensors are versatile and robust, easily fabricated from common materials, and can effectively detect XYL at <10 ppm in both common alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, requiring only minimal volume (20 µL) of the spiked beverage for a standard addition analysis.

Do-it-yourself flavored capsule cigarettes: Exploiting potential regulatory loopholes?

Capsule cigarettes allow users to crush liquid-filled capsules to release flavors into cigarettes' filters. New devices are emerging across the globe that allow people who smoke to circumvent tobacco flavor restrictions via injectable capsules. This study examined TikTok videos marketing flavored capsule injector devices. TikTok videos (n = 832) posted worldwide between July 6, 2021, and December 28, 2023, that used hashtags #injectorflavor, #flavourclickball, #flavorball, and #injectorballcigarette were collected using a TikTok application programing interface. A codebook was developed using a systematic iterative approach, identifying six codes: flavor capsules, promotes flavors (i.e., fruit, mint or menthol flavors, non-alcoholic drinks, alcoholic drinks), demonstrates how to use or refill large injector devices, demonstrates how to use small convenient devices, includes music (any or English-language). Two independent coders annotated all videos. Overall, 88.3% (n=735) of the videos displayed flavor capsules and had been viewed more than 72 million times. Half (51.6%) of the videos demonstrated how to use large box-shaped devices to inject capsules into the filter of a cigarette, and 15.0% of the videos showed how to do this with smaller, more convenient devices. Flavors including fruit (35.5%), menthol/mint (27.8%), non-alcoholic drinks (21.9%), and alcoholic drinks (11.6%) were used to promote these capsules. Most videos (85.6%) were uploaded by sellers on "TikTok shop." TikTok accounts are promoting injectable capsule devices that circumvent flavored tobacco sales restrictions. Policy makers, tobacco control advocates, and public health practitioners should be aware of such marketing to inform regulation and develop prevention strategies. Our findings identified an emerging product that can encourage circumvention of flavor restriction policies. Regulators, policy makers, public health practitioners, researchers, and advocates should be aware of such products to inform regulation and develop prevention strategies. Given the potential for these products to reduce the intended effects of flavored tobacco sales restrictions, policy makers must be poised to address materials that consumers use to create their own flavored tobacco products, including flavor capsules designed to be inserted into cigarettes.

Sociodemographic and lifestyle correlates of energy drinks consumption in Serbian adolescents

Abstract Background and aim Energy drinks (EDs) are non-alcoholic beverages that typically contain high levels of caffeine and sugar in combination with other ingredients known to have stimulant properties. Although there is growing evidence of the harmful physiological and psychological effects of energy drinks their popularity has increased during the past decade. While researchers point out variety of health consequences, data on prevalence and correlates of EDs consumption are scarce. Aim of the study was to determine prevalence of EDs consumption and to investigate sociodemographic and lifestyle correlates of EDs consumption among adolescents in Serbia. Study design Secondary analysis of data obtained from 2022 Health Behaviour in School-aged Children Study (HBSC) in Serbia. Study included 3962 students aged 11, 13 and 15 years. Students with missing values for one or more study variables were excluded from the analyses. Methods Multiple logistic analyses stratified by age and sex were performed to estimate the associations between consuming EDs and sociodemographic and lifestyle characteristics. Results Overall, 15.6% of students consumed EDs more than once a week (16.2% of boys and 15.5% of girls) with highest percentage among 15-year-old students (20.3%). For both genders, the percentage of adolescents consuming ED more than once a week was higher among adolescents with lowest family affluence (21.9%), those consuming soft drinks daily (39.5%) and alcohol weekly (47.6%). In boys only, consuming ED several times a week was more frequent among adolescents having at least 60 min moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) daily than among those with lower levels of MVPA. Conclusions Different patterns of ED consumption were identified suggesting need for tailored interventions aimed at reducing ED consumption in adolescents. Key messages • Every fifth h 15-year-old student in Serbia consume EDs more than once a week. • Higher EDs consumption among physically active boys indicate need for targeting interventions that will address this issue.

Potential reformulation of food products two years after implementation of Nutri-Score in Belgium

Abstract Background Nutri-score is a front of pack labeling system that provides consumers with simplified information of the nutritional quality of food products. It is based on a five color (green to red) or letter (A to E) scheme that grades the quality of the product using an algorithm that takes into account the energy, sugar, saturated fats, salt, fiber, protein content, and percent of fruits and vegetables. In Belgium, Nutri-score was implemented on a voluntary basis in April 2019. This study aims to explore reformulation of products with Nutri-score by comparing their nutrient content and Nutri-score distribution in 2019 and 2021. Methods Product data from one of the major retailers was used in the analysis. Similar products in 2019 and 2021 with matched barcodes were used. Descriptive statistics were computed and statistical analyses such as the signed rank test and the McNemars test were performed to respectively evaluate the changes in the nutrient content and Nutri-score. The tests were conducted at 5% level of significance. Results From the matched sample of 668 products, about 55% had a Nutri-score of A and B in both 2019 and 2021. The proportion of food products with Nutri-Score of A/B and of D/E was not significantly different after two years of Nutri-Score implementation. Results showed a significant decrease in the median energy content of dairy, sauces, and meat products and in the median sugar content of dairy and fruit and vegetable products. There was a significant increase in the median fiber content of the dairy, meat products, and non-alcoholic beverages. For all food groups, the salt content of the products in 2019 and 2021 was not significantly different. Conclusions This two-year interval analysis described the changes in the classification and reformulation of the products with Nutri-score. Favorable changes in the nutrient quality of the product profiles reveals improvement in their reformulation. Key messages • In this analysis, changes has been observed in the nutrient content of food products between 2019 and 2021. • Producers or manufacturers should continue working on commitments to enhance the nutritional quality of the products delivered to consumers.

The corporate political activity of Portugal’s food industry: enhancing public health transparency

Abstract Background This study in Portugal aims to monitor the Corporate Political Activity (CPA) in the food industry. Portugal provides a compelling case study due to its robust implementation of public health policies. Methods A systematic qualitative approach proposed by Mialon et al., a part of the INFORMAS Module 3, was employed. This method is based on the analysis of publicly available information. Key industry actors were selected through expert consultation and market analysis using EuroMonitor data. Information sources included industry, government, and academic materials accessed via websites and news. A thematic qualitative analysis was conducted involving iterative steps: identifying CPA practices based on predefined strategies - Taxonomy of Action Strategies: access and influence policymaking, use the law to obstruct policies, manufacture public support, shape evidence, displace and usurp public health, and manage reputations -, recording methods in a database, and saving evidence. Data collection spanned October 2023 to April 2024, covering materials from 2022 to 2023. Results Twenty-five key players were identified, including processed food and non-alcoholic beverage manufacturers, fast food companies, food retailers, and national trade associations. Food retailers, notably Jerónimo Martins, Lidl, Mercadona, and Sonae, showcased a higher prevalence of CPA. Nestlé and Sumol+Compal also emerged as prominent actors. The food industry in Portugal employs diverse strategies and tactics primarily focused on shaping evidence and managing reputations. While instances of displacing public health priorities and manufacturing public support were observed, they were relatively fewer. Only APED and FIPA showed engagement in policymaking influence. Conclusions Vigilant monitoring of CPA in the food industry in Portugal reveals dominant tactics of shaping evidence and managing reputations. Understanding these strategies is vital for policymaking to safeguard public health. Key messages • The food industry in Portugal employs diverse strategies, primarily shaping evidence and managing reputations, to influence public health policies. • Monitoring the Corporate Political Activity is key to preserving the integrity of public health policymaking in Portugal’s food industry.

A comprehensive study on the production of potassium sorbate and sodium benzoate reference material in orange juice

Controlling the content of preservatives in soft drinks is of paramount important for assessing their quality during production and consumption, as well as for ensuring consumer health. To effectively enhance laboratory capacity in preservatives analysis, the requirement for reference materials (RMs) of non-alcoholic beverages containing common preservatives such as potassium sorbate and sodium benzoate is fundamentally essential. This research was conducted to provide a procedure for the production of reference materials for potassium sorbate and sodium benzoate in orange juice. The concentration of potassium sorbate and sodium benzoate in the reference materials complied with Circular No.24/2019/TT-BYT which regulates the management and use of food additives. The two RMs of natural and flavored orange juice were homogeneous and stable, however, their quality and stability were strongly affected by the storage temperature. At a particular condition of 5&amp;deg;C, synthetic orange juice witnessed a higher stability than natural at 532 days and 318 days, respectively. Furthermore, an accelerated aging study demonstrated that at -20&amp;deg;C, the integrity of potassium sorbate and sodium benzoate in natural orange juice was identically maintained for a substantial period of almost 3 years (expected shelf life 1,049 days).

Microplastics contamination in popular soft drinks and non-alcoholic beverages marketed in Iran: Quantity and characteristics

Given the increasing reliance on plastic packaging in the beverage industry, this study investigates the presence of microplastics (MPs) in the most popular beverage brands in the Iranian market. A total of 19 bottled beverage brands, including soft drinks and non-alcoholic beverages, were randomly collected and filtered. Quantitative analysis of the MPs was then performed using stereomicroscopy and fluorescence techniques, and classification was based on color, shape, and size. In addition, the polymer type was determined using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), and the surface morphology and elemental composition of the MPs were examined using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS). The results showed that approximately 80–90 % of the samples were contaminated with different MP types, with an average of 4.5 ± 4.8 particles/L detected by stereomicroscopy and 21.90 ± 25.72 particles/L by fluorescence microscopy. FT-IR analysis identified polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polyethylene (PE) as the predominant polymer types and may clarify the possible role of packaging materials in the contamination of MPs. Fragments accounted for the highest proportion of MPs (71 %), followed by fibers (29 %). The size distribution of MPs was dominated by particles in the range of 1–500 μm (48 %), followed by 500–1000 μm (40 %) and 1000–1500 μm (12 %). MPs were black (84 %), with smaller proportions of red (7 %) and green (1 %), which may reflect the source of the contamination. The findings emphasize the necessity of increased monitoring and the application of countermeasures to lessen MPs contamination in the beverage sector.

Multidimensional fluorescence spectroscopic characterization of Spain’s top-selling gins: Category and alcohol content

Excitation-emission fluorescence spectroscopy (EEFS) is emerging as a powerful tool for food characterization and authentication. This study pioneers the use of EEFS to characterize and differentiate Spain’s top-selling gins, considering categories and alcohol content. Twenty gins, including alcoholic (ALC), light alcoholic (LIG), and non-alcoholic (NALC) types, were analyzed generating excitation-emission matrices (EEMs), which were processed with multi-way principal component analysis (MPCA) and PARAllel FACtor analysis (PARAFAC). Results revealed distinct spectral fingerprints for each gin type, with significant differences between alcoholic and non-alcoholic gins. Light gins closely resembled their full-alcohol counterparts, indicating minimal alteration in gin characteristics due to reduced alcohol content, while non-alcoholic gins showed substantial divergence. The MPCA model highlighted primary differences between ALC and NALC types, while the PARAFAC models identified specific fluorophores linked to juniper berries and other botanicals. This study confirms that EEFS, coupled with chemometrics, is effective in authenticating gin products, marking a significant advancement in spirit analysis.

Application of HPLC Coupled with a Charged Aerosol Detector to the Evaluation of Fructose, Glucose, Sucrose, and Inositol Levels in Fruit Juices, Energy Drinks, Sports Drinks, and Soft Drinks

The study aimed to estimate the levels of fructose, glucose, sucrose, and inositol levels in sweetened beverages with a newly developed method using HPLC coupled with a charged aerosol detector (CAD). In total, 85 commercially available non-alcoholic beverages, including 18 energy drinks, 8 sports drinks, 15 soft drinks, 14 fruit drinks, 7 fruit nectars, and 22 fruit juices were analyzed by HPLC-CAD. The method was validated, and it was characterized by a wide concentration range (1–150 µg/mL), sensitivity, and good accuracy (94.9–103%). The results showed significant variation in fructose, glucose, and sucrose concentrations in energy drinks, sports drinks, soft drinks, fruit drinks, fruit nectars, and juice. The highest total sugar contents (fructose, glucose, sucrose, and inositol) were found in energy drinks (14.2 g/100 mL), followed by fruit nectars (13.7 g/100 mL) and soft drinks (12.7 g/100 mL). Statistical analysis (Spearman correlation test, Kruskal–Wallis test) of the data showed significant relationships between particular sugars in the analyzed products.

The non-alcoholic fruit beverage market through patent prospecting

Non-alcoholic fruit beverages hold significant importance in the fruit processing chain. This article aimed to conduct a technological prospective study, through patents, in this specific beverage area. Patents were searched in the online databases of INPI (Brazil) and EPO (Europe), using keywords, the internation classification number, and filing dates. A total of 80 patents were retrieved, excluding duplicates and out of scope ones. The year 2020 witnessed the highest number of filings, followed by a decrease in subsequent years. Japan held 46% of the patents considered in this study, while Brazil accounted for 26%. Overall, the primary filers are from the industry, while 48% of Brazilian patents had educational and research institutions as filers. Lemon, orange, and grapefruit were the most cited fruits in the analyzed documents, indicating a wide participation of tropical fruits in beverage production. Despite Brazil being one of the world's largest fruit producers, Japan leads in innovations related to fruit beverages. Brazil needs to improve its innovation ecosystem to encourage domestic companies, achieve greater competitiveness in international trade, and add higher value to its traded goods.

The effectiveness of reduction in alcohol consumption achieved by the provision of non-alcoholic beverages associates with Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test scores: a secondary analysis of a randomized controlled trial

BackgroundThe Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) is commonly used in clinical settings to assess the severity of alcohol-related problems, with the effectiveness of alcohol reduction interventions varying across this spectrum. In a recent study, we demonstrated that a 12-week intervention involving the provision of free non-alcoholic beverages reduced alcohol consumption among heavy drinkers for up to 8 weeks post-intervention. However, it remains unclear whether this effect was consistent across different AUDIT score ranges. Therefore, this secondary analysis aimed to examine whether the severity of alcohol-related problems, as indicated by AUDIT scores, influences the effectiveness of non-alcoholic beverage provision in reducing alcohol consumption.MethodsThis was a single-center, open-label, randomized, parallel-group study. Participants were Japanese individuals who frequently consumed large quantities of alcohol (at least 40 g/day for men and 20 g/day for women) but were not diagnosed with alcohol dependence. Participants were randomly assigned to either an intervention or control group. The intervention group received free non-alcoholic beverages once every 4 weeks over a 12-week period (24 bottles of 350 mL per case, up to three cases per session, for a total of three sessions). Alcohol and non-alcoholic beverage consumption over the previous 4 weeks was tracked using a drinking diary. For this secondary analysis, participants were categorized into four groups based on their AUDIT scores (group 1: ≤ 7 points, group 2: 8–11 points, group 3: 12–14 points, and group 4: ≥ 15 points), and changes in alcohol consumption were compared across these groups in both the intervention and control participants.ResultsThe provision of non-alcoholic beverages significantly increased non-alcoholic beverage consumption in all groups. However, alcohol consumption was significantly reduced in the intervention groups compared to controls only in groups 1–3. The reduction in alcohol consumption was less pronounced in groups 3 and 4 compared to group 1 (both, p < 0.05). Importantly, the provision of non-alcoholic beverages did not lead to an increase in alcohol consumption, even among individuals with higher AUDIT scores.ConclusionsThese findings suggest that individuals with higher AUDIT scores may experience a reduced benefit from a 12-week non-alcoholic beverage intervention in terms of alcohol consumption reduction. Nevertheless, this intervention appears to be a safe and effective strategy for reducing alcohol consumption in heavy drinkers who do not have alcohol dependence.Trial registrationUMIN UMIN000047949. Registered 4 June 2022.