Nutritious Food Research Articles

Millet consumption in type 2 diabetics in urban slums of India: a pilot study

Diabetes is a leading cause of death and disability worldwide, affecting people regardless of their country, age group, or sex. Considering the growing prevalence of diabetes among low socioeconomic groups in developing countries like India, the present study aims to determine the prevalence of millet consumption in urban slums in Pune, India. A pilot cross-sectional study was conducted at a private medical college’s field practice area in Pune from January to March 2024. The study focused on individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus. A pre-designed, pretested semi-structured paperless questionnaire in the Kobo tool app was used to collect information on socio-demographic information, consumption of millet, and diabetes-related information. A total of 30 type 2 diabetics were interviewed as a pilot study. Of these, 53.57% were females, and 46.43% were males. The prevalence of millet consumption was 93% in type 2 diabetics. Sorghum was the most consumed millet amongst all other millet. Age >50 years, education >10th pass, and non-alcoholics were significantly associated with satisfactory consumption of millet. Diversifying diets with nutritious foods like millet can help reduce health-related burdens, including type 2 diabetes. This is important for policy-making and prioritizing diabetes self-care interventions.

Nutritional enrichment of traditional complementary foods using underutilized nutritious plant foods in sub-Saharan Africa: their nutritional potential and health benefits: A scoping review

Nutritional enrichment of traditional complementary foods using underutilized nutritious plant foods in sub-Saharan Africa: their nutritional potential and health benefits: A scoping review

Incidence and mortality of endometrial cancer in Appalachian eastern Kentucky.

e13809 Background: Endometrial cancer significantly impacts the Appalachian population compared to the overall United States population. Evidence supports that this difference may be due to health disparities, which includes access to affordable healthy food, obesity, and metabolic syndromes in addition to care disparities. Methods: We queried the Kentucky Cancer Registry’s online public Cancer Incidence and Mortality Registry to determine changes in age adjusted invasive corpus uteri cancer incidence and mortality rates in Appalachian (AK) and Non-Appalachian Kentucky (NAK) counties over time. Incidence rate ratios were used to analyze the difference in endometrial cancer incidence and mortality between AK and NAK populations across several time periods. The z-test for two population proportions was used to analyze differences in incidence and mortality between AK and NAK. Results: Incidence of endometrial cancer was higher in AK vs. NAK at the beginning (P < 0.002) and end (P < 0.001) of the period examined, although there was no statistically significant difference in mortality between AK vs NAK. Incidence and mortality increased in both AK (P < 0.01) and NAK (P < 0.001) across the period studied. Conclusions: Incidence in endometrial cancer in Appalachian Kentucky was significantly higher than non-Appalachian Kentucky, although mortality was not higher in the final years studied. Lower socioeconomic status, access to affordable nutritious foods, and health likely contributed to an increased incidence of endometrial cancer. With an increase in chronic diseases such as obesity prevailing in AK, there is increased exposure to unopposed estrogen, which increases the risk for developing endometrial cancer and may be reflected in these results. Education and lack of access to healthcare also are contributing factors. Although the cancer care disparities seen in Appalachia are commonly viewed as byproducts of the region’s unique culture, they can also be viewed as local expression of challenges in global oncology facing resource poor, rural regions around the world. Efforts to reduce the risk in Appalachia will require addressing the underlying problems seen in other communities worldwide with rising endometrial cancer incidence – poverty, health literacy, obesity, rising rates of diabetes, exercise and environmental pollution. Year Incidence AK (/100,000) Incidence NAK (/100,000) % Higher Incidence AK Mortality AK (/100,000) Mortality NAK (/100,000) % Higher Mortality AK 2001-2005 25.3 21.0 20.5% 1.6 1.6 0.0% 2006-2010 27.2 22.1 23.1% 1.5 1.6 -6.3% 2011-2015 30.3 24.7 22.7% 2.0 1.7 17.6% 2016-2020 31.8 26.0 22.3% 2.5 2.6 -3.8%

Fabrication of mycelium-gellan gum hybrids as next generation alternative protein foods produced by fermentation.

Fabrication of mycelium-gellan gum hybrids as next generation alternative protein foods produced by fermentation.

Junk food or healthy food? The relationship between odor identification performance and dietary patterns among children and adolescents.

Junk food or healthy food? The relationship between odor identification performance and dietary patterns among children and adolescents.

Geospatial analysis of community-level social and environmental barriers for adult burn injury survivors in North Texas.

Geospatial analysis of community-level social and environmental barriers for adult burn injury survivors in North Texas.

A medically tailored meal (MTM) delivery program to reduce nutritional decline and improve treatment tolerance in patients with colorectal cancer (CRC): A pilot study.

3564 Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC CA) is the 3 rd most common CA among US adults. Over 50% of CRC patients (pts) present with advanced disease, necessitating adjuvant or palliative chemotherapy. Nearly 50% CRC pts will be diagnosed with malnutrition (MN) during their CA journey. MN is associated with reduced quality of life, poorer response to chemotherapy, and reduced survival. The provision of medically tailored meals (MTM) improves access to nutritious foods to support pts’ caloric/nutrient needs and preferences. Remote delivery of MTMs could serve as an impactful intervention for pts at highest risk of MN and to improve treatment tolerance. Methods: Primary outcomes were feasibility (enrollment/adherence/retention) and acceptability of an MTM program in pts undergoing 5-FU based therapy for CRC; secondary included weight maintenance, MN measured by PG-SGA (Patient-Generated Subjective Global Assessment), HEI (Healthy Eating Index) score generated by VioScreen, a validated computerized food frequency tool, QOL measured by FACT-C/FACT-G, and treatment disruption. The MTM program included daily meals delivered weekly and nutritional counseling at 4 timepoints . Results: Among 100 eligible CRC pts approached, 48 consented and 52 declined, primarily due to lack of interest in MTMs (35/52, 67%). 40/48 (83%) initiated the MTM program and 32/40 (80%) completed it, including 13 (41%) Stage II/III and 19 (59%) Stage IV patients. 16/48 (33%) consented pts discontinued the study due to non-compliance (n = 4), post-consent refusal (n = 4), dissatisfaction w/meals (n = 7) or death (n = 1). Pts had mean age of 56 yrs (range 32-78), with 51% female, 20% African American, and 15% Hispanic. 34% had < HS diploma, and 56% reported income of <$50,000. Enrollment (44%, goal > 50%, minimum 40%), counseling adherence (52.5%, goal > 66%, minimum 50%) and study retention rate (81%, goal > 70%) measured by end-of-study survey completion all surpassed a priori unfavorable result threshold (lower feasibility limit), but only retention met its target. Acceptability was high: 92% were satisfied with the MTM program and 91% would recommend it. Mean weight was maintained during study (181.2 lbs start, 181.6 lbs end) and mean PG-SGA score declined (7.5 to 5.4, indicating lower risk of MN at the end of the study). Mean HEI scores decreased slightly (63.3 start, 61.6 end, indicating a slight reduction in dietary quality) throughout the program; however, more than half of pts (56%, n = 14) demonstrated an increase in their HEI scores, suggesting improved quality of food consumed. Conclusions: Our MTM delivery program was highly acceptable and was associated with weight maintenance and improved PG-SGA scores in CRC pts receiving 5-FU based therapy. Further research of MTM delivery programs should consider retention challenges among pts facing advanced GI cancers.

Prabowo-Gibran's Free Nutritious Food: Impacts on Human Capital and Community Economy

This research analyzes the Free Nutritious Food (MBG) Program initiated by the Prabowo-Gibran administration as a strategic policy to combat malnutrition, enhance educational outcomes, and stimulate local economic growth. Employing a qualitative approach, the research involved in-depth interviews, participatory observation, and document analysis with key stakeholders, including policymakers, educators, nutritionists, and community members. The study identifies significant public support for the program, particularly among low-income groups who experience direct benefits in children’s health and academic focus. Consistent with human capital theory, findings confirm that improved nutrition positively influences cognitive development and school participation. However, challenges such as uneven food distribution in remote areas, infrastructural constraints, and inter-agency coordination gaps threaten the program’s effectiveness. Additionally, the large-scale budget requirement (IDR 100 trillion annually) raises concerns about long-term fiscal sustainability and potential dependency. This research highlights the need for a comprehensive strategy that integrates community empowerment, nutrition education, and inter-sectoral collaboration to optimize outcomes. The study contributes to the academic discourse on social policy in Indonesia by offering an in-depth, multidimensional evaluation and suggesting practical pathways for enhancing program sustainability. The findings have significant implications for designing inclusive, efficient, and resilient public health and education interventions.

The Relationship Between Mother's Knowledge About Nutritious Food and the Incidence of Stunting in Toddlers in Gunungagung Village

One of the problems regarding nutrition in Indonesia, especially the problem that occurs in Gunungagung Village, is stunting. Stunting is a disease that is declared chronic and has an impact on the development and growth of stunted sufferers. One of the contributing factors is a lack of nutritional intake. The behavior of providing nutritional intake to toddlers is influenced by a mother's knowledge. Therefore, a mother's knowledge of preparing a nutritious food menu can ensure good nutrition. The aim of this research is to find out and identify the characteristics of respondents from mothers based on age, education, occupation and characteristics of respondents from toddlers based on age and gender, mothers' knowledge about nutritious food, categories of stunting incidents that occur in toddlers and the relationship between mothers' knowledge about food. nutrition and the incidence of stunting among toddlers in Gunungagung Village. This research uses quantitative with a cross sectional design. Sampling used total sampling technique. With a total sample of 48 respondents, the data collection was observation, questionnaires, interviews and documentation. Data analysis used univariate and bivariate analysis (chi square) and correlation. The results of this research are that a p-value of 0.000 is <0.05, so H0 is rejected and H1 is accepted and the correlation is weak in the form of a negative correlation. Based on the results of this description, it can be decided that there is a relationship between maternal knowledge about nutritious food and the incidence of stunting among toddlers in Gunungagung Village with a correlation value of -292 with a weak correlation level.

Good Agricultural Practice (GAP) Trials in Brinjal: A Step Toward Safer, Nutritious, and Secure Food Systems in Bangladesh

To validate the Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) standards, a trial of brinjal (variety: Caity) from Ispahani Seed Company was conducted at a farmer's field in Shibpur, Narsingdi, Bangladesh, during the summer season of 2024. The objective was to produce high-quality and safe brinjal following GAP guidelines. The Government of Bangladesh officially authorized the Bangladesh GAP protocol in 2023, providing a framework for producers to cultivate high-quality crops for consumers. All activities in this trial adhered to the Bangladesh GAP protocol to ensure superior brinjal production. A total of 37 decimals of land, owned by Md. Belayet Hossain was planted with brinjal on March 13, 2024. The crop was managed strictly according to GAP standards. Harvesting took place over a period from May 8, 2024, to July 26, 2024, with a total of 22 harvests. The first harvest was conducted on May 8, 2024, while the final (22nd) harvest occurred 168 days after transplanting, on July 26, 2024. The entire yield was obtained from the 37-decimal plot, with fruit yield per harvest varying depending on the harvest time. The yield ranged from 69.69 kg to 206.19 kg per plot. A similar trend was observed in the fruit yield per hectare, which ranged from 465.23 kg/ha to 1,376.46 kg/ha. These values represent single-harvest yields. The total fruit yield from the 37-decimal plot was 3,045 kg, while the estimated yield per hectare was 20,331 kg. These findings indicate that brinjal production under GAP standards can ensure high-quality yields, contributing to both local and export markets. The economic analysis of brinjal production reveals a positive return on investment, as indicated by the Benefit-Cost Ratio (BCR) of 1.31.

Agribusiness potential for nutritional and safety labels on peanut butter in Kenya: a study of consumer preferences

PurposeThis study assesses consumer preferences for peanut butter, a nutritious food option in Kenya, and evaluates whether explicitly stating the food safety and nutritional benefits on food labels can enhance the agribusiness potential by increasing consumer demand for healthier options.Design/methodology/approachUsing a discrete choice experiment, the study analyzes how health and food safety messages, such as “aflatoxin tested,” influence Kenyan consumers’ choices and willingness to pay for labeled peanut butter.FindingsOur findings indicate that labeled food products receive higher evaluations from consumers. Respondents prioritize food safety attributes, specifically being “aflatoxin tested,” over nutritional attributes like being “high in protein.” We also demonstrate that supplementing these labels with explanatory claims significantly increases both the likelihood of selection and willingness to pay for the product.Research limitations/implicationsThe hypothetical nature of the experiments and a small, localized sample may limit the generalizability of the results. Future research should include real choice experiments with a broader sample.Originality/valueThis research introduces two novel aspects: first, it employs an experimental approach to evaluate the impact of nutritional labeling on consumer choices, and second, it compares trade-offs between safety and nutrition, providing evidence for policies aimed at reducing malnutrition and enhancing food safety in Kenya.

Pemberdayaan Kelompok Wanita Tani (KWT) Melalui Program Makan Gratis Sebagai Solusi Stunting

Stunting is one of the chronic nutritional problems that is still a challenge in Indonesia. Lack of balanced nutritional intake from pregnancy to toddler age is the main factor causing it. In an effort to overcome stunting, the government has initiated the Free Meal Program as a strategy to increase nutritional intake for vulnerable groups. One important element in supporting the success of this program is the role of the Women Farmers Group (KWT), which plays a role in providing nutritious local food through land utilization. This research was conducted in Nagari Sungai Duo, Sitiung District, Dharmasraya Regency, West Sumatra, using descriptive methods and a participatory approach. Activities included nutrition and stunting counseling, land cleaning and optimization, and planting corn seeds as the main food source in the free meal program. The results showed that nutrition education increased public awareness of the importance of consuming nutritious food, while land optimization by KWT increased the availability of local food. Planting corn as part of a food security strategy contributed to supporting the free meal program and reducing stunting rates in the area.

Training in Processing Indonesian Special Foods and Sharing Nutritious Food with the Young Generation of Karo Regency

The training focuses on managing Indonesian traditional cuisine and disseminating nutritious food to the younger generation, with the objective of showcasing the rich diversity of Indonesian culinary heritage. This curriculum instructs on traditional food processing methods utilizing local resources, while promoting the significance of a nutritious diet and balanced nutrition. Participants get theoretical knowledge and practical experience in the selection, preparation, and presentation of nutritious meals. Furthermore, students are encouraged to provide nutritious food to anyone in need, particularly children and disadvantaged families, to cultivate empathy and social consciousness. This initiative connects the youth with the culinary legacy of the archipelago, promotes a healthy lifestyle, and incorporates local food components. Consequently, the younger generation is anticipated to serve as catalysts for change, prioritizing personal health and community well-being while enhancing quality of life sustainably.

Unveiling the Impacts of Food Security on Community Health: A Scoping Review

Food security, defined as consistent access to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food, is crucial in shaping community health. This scoping review explores the multidimensional impacts of food security on physical, mental, and social well-being. Malnutrition, stemming from both undernutrition and overnutrition, links food insecurity to health issues such as stunted growth, obesity, and chronic diseases like diabetes and heart conditions. Moreover, the psychological toll of food insecurity is significant, manifesting as stress, anxiety, and depression while exacerbating social inequalities and perpetuating cycles of poverty and ill health. Global and national perspectives reveal the persistent challenge of food insecurity, particularly in low- and middle-income regions, where economic disparities, climate change, and conflicts disrupt food systems. In Malaysia, rising food insecurity has highlighted gaps in nutrition quality and affordability, with vulnerable groups, including children and low-income households, experiencing the brunt of its effects. Addressing food security requires sustainable agricultural practices, effective policies, and robust social safety nets. National initiatives, such as Malaysia’s Agrofood Policy 2021-2030, focus on enhancing food self-sufficiency, supporting farmers, and fostering sustainable practices through technology and education. However, challenges such as aging agricultural populations, land limitations, and climate variability remain barriers. This paper underscores the importance of holistic approaches to food security, integrating nutrition education, mental health support, and economic interventions to foster healthier, more resilient communities. Food security is essential for improving public health and achieving broader socioeconomic stability and sustainable development Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol. 24 No. 02 April’25 Page : 307-330

Feasibility Study on Pickled Bamboo Shoots in Laguna, Philippines

Abstract Bamboo shoots are a nutritious and underutilized food resource in the Philippines, particularly in Laguna, where bamboo is widely cultivated. However, their high perishability limits their availability, leading to food waste and lost economic opportunities. Pickling presents a viable solution by extending shelf life while enhancing flavor. This study examines the feasibility of producing and marketing pickled bamboo shoots in Laguna through a quantitative approach, assessing consumer demand, pricing preferences, and economic viability. A survey was conducted among 100 respondents, including local consumers and food business owners, using a structured questionnaire to gather data on purchasing behavior, taste preferences, and willingness to pay. Descriptive and statistical analyses, including frequency distribution and mean scoring, were used to interpret the findings. Financial feasibility was assessed through cost-benefit analysis, estimating production costs, selling price, and profit margins.

Barriers and Facilitators to Engagement in Collective Gardening Among Black African Immigrants in Alberta, Canada.

Community gardens are increasingly popular in Canadian cities, serving as transformative spaces where immigrants can develop self-reliant strategies for accessing culturally familiar and healthy nutritious foods. However, numerous facilitators and barriers exist that limit the engagement of racialized groups such as Black-identifying immigrants. Using a socio-ecological framework, this research explores barriers and facilitators of engagement of Black African immigrants in collective community gardening in Alberta, Canada. The study adopted a community-based participatory research (CBPR) approach using mixed methods. Data collection included structured surveys (n = 119) to assess general engagement, facilitators, and barriers; in-depth interviews (n = 10) to explore lived experiences; and Afrocentric sharing circles (n = 2) to probe collective perspectives in relation to engagement in collective gardening. Participants were purposefully recruited through community networks within African immigrant-serving community organizations. Our findings revealed how barriers at various levels of the socio-ecological model (SEM) interact to shape the interest and engagement of African immigrants in collective community gardening. Access to collective gardens was associated with significant benefits, including maintaining healthy foodways, knowledge exchange, growing social capital, and community connections that support overall wellbeing. This study contributes an accessible framework for understanding and addressing the complex barriers that limit engagement in community gardens for vulnerable communities, while highlighting opportunities for creating more inclusive and culturally responsive urban agriculture initiatives.

Interactive Problems of Students and Managing Devices of Teachers in the Classroom

This study aimed to determine the relationship between the interactive problems of students and the managing devices of teachers in the classroom in public elementary schools in Sta. Ana District, Division of Davao City. This study used the non-experimental quantitative research design utilizing correlational method. The respondents of this study were composed of 138 teachers in public elementary school using the universal sampling. The data analysis utilized the mean, pearson r and regression analysis. The findings disclosed that the degree of interactive problems among students in the classroom in public elementary schools in terms of family problems, examination stress, financial difficulties and relationship difficulties were high and oftentimes manifested. Moreover, the level of managing devices of teachers in public elementary school in terms of let thy self-talk positively, get active exercises, eat nutritious foods, get adequate sleep, get away at least once a day, interact with kids, book an aromatherapy massage and feel good, learn to say “no”, and be considerate were moderate and sometimes manifested. It was found out that there was a significant relationship between interactive problems among students in the classroom and managing devices of public elementary school teachers. It revealed further that the domains of interactive problems among students in the classroom significantly influence the management of devices in public elementary schools. Based on the findings, the public school teachers should attend on interactive problems and managing devices consultations and trainings from the DepEd for professional growth program. This may provide skillful development for teachers with the goal of building dimensions that thoroughly support education opportunities for learners and learn the content of healthier academic practices.

SUSTAINABLE FOOD SYSTEMS: FUNCTIONAL FOODS AND MANAGEMENT OF FOOD WASTE

The increasing global population, changing consumption patterns and climate change are putting significant pressure on food systems. There is a strong focus on the development of sustainable food systems that prioritize the efficient use of resources, reduce environmental impacts, and ensure that everyone has access to healthy nutritious food. Functional foods are known for their high nutritional values and beneficial bioactive components that positively affect human health. Additionally, they have the potential to help reduce food waste. This review examines the relationship between functional foods and sustainable nutrition and the impacts of food waste in this context by referencing current academic literature. Also, detailed examination of upcycled foods that revalue food waste and attribute economic value according to circular economy principles were given. It is expected that reducing food waste will provide significant benefits for the environment, economy, and health through the inclusion of sustainable nutrition practices and functional foods.

Pengenalan Healthy Nutritious Food Knowledge dan Personal Hygiene di SD Negeri Gadingsari, Kecamatan Binakal, Kabupaten Bondowoso

Children's ability to eat healthy and nutritious food is closely related to education. Education is an inseparable process as an effort to grow and develop the potential in every human being. Especially in children, education plays an important role in forming a healthy diet and good hygiene behavior. However, in several studies in Indonesia, it is not uncommon to find that there is still a lack of knowledge about healthy and nutritious food and good hand washing among elementary school students which harms their health. As in SDN Gadingsari, Binakal District, there are still many elementary school students who have a low understanding of healthy and nutritious food. The author's purpose in carrying out this social project is to socialize, provide education and understanding directly to SDN Gadingsari students about the importance of eating healthy and nutritious food and good hygiene behavior through interactive learning such as showing videos as a result of eating nutritious healthy food, washing hands, providing material on the concept of the contents of my plate, the content in nutritious food such as carbohydrates, protein, fat, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, games to gymnastics together. The results showed that the students were very enthusiastic about learning about healthy and nutritious food. It is hoped that students can apply it in their daily lives.

Public policies for the strengthening of urban and peri-urban agriculture in the state of Rio de Janeiro (Brazil)

ABSTRACT The role of Urban and Peri-urban Agriculture (UPA) in urban planning, food security, and sustainability is increasingly recognized. However, there is a critical gap in understanding how current public policies support UPA, particularly at the municipal level. Few studies address how legislative frameworks shape the implementation of UPA, especially in contexts of varying municipal capacities. This study bridges that gap by analyzing the legal frameworks of 92 municipalities in the state of Rio de Janeiro, a region notable for the expansion of urban agriculture. Therefore, this research applied Bardin’s content analysis to categorize legislation, evaluating its direct or indirect support for UPA activities based on municipality size. Key indicators such as beneficiaries, marketing, technical assistance, funding, land use, inputs, and infrastructure were analyzed using IraMuTeq software. The findings reveal a lack of comprehensive legislative support, evidenced by limited focus on target audiences, viability instruments, and implementation guidelines. These results emphasize the need for more robust public policies to realize UPA’s full potential in generating income, employment, nutritious food, environmental recovery, and community resilience. This study underscores the importance of continuous dialogue, action, and effective policy implementation to fully integrate UPA into sustainable urban planning.