Omega-3 Fatty Acid Content Research Articles

Evolutionary and ecological correlates of thiaminase in fishes

Thiamine (vitamin B1) is required by all living organisms in multiple metabolic pathways. It is scarce in natural systems, and deficiency can lead to reproductive failure, neurological issues, and death. One major cause of thiamine deficiency is an overreliance on diet items containing the enzyme thiaminase. Thiaminase activity has been noted in many prey fishes and linked to cohort failure in salmonid predators that eat prey fish with thiaminase activity, yet it is generally unknown whether evolutionary history, fish traits, and/or environmental conditions lead to production of thiaminase. We conducted literature and GenBank BLAST sequence searches to collect thiaminase activity data and sequence homology data in expressed protein sequences for 300 freshwater and marine fishes. We then tested whether presence or absence of thiaminase could be predicted by evolutionary relationships, trophic level, omega-3 fatty acid concentrations, habitat, climate, invasive potential, and body size. There was no evolutionary relationship with thiaminase activity. It first appears in Class Actinoptergyii (bony ray-finned fishes) and is present across the entire Actinoptergyii phylogeny in both primitive and derived fish orders. Instead, ecological factors explained the most variation in thiaminase: fishes were more likely to express thiaminase if they fed closer to the base of the food web, were high in polyunsaturated fatty acids, lived in freshwater, and were from tropical climates. These data provide a foundation for understanding sources of thiaminase leading to thiamine deficiency in fisheries and other organisms, including humans that eat uncooked fish.

Chia Oil Microencapsulation Using Tannic Acid and Soy Protein Isolate as Wall Materials.

The use of proteins to produce oil-containing microcapsules has been previously analyzed; however, their chemical modification, in order to improve their performance as wall materials, is a strategy that has not been widely developed yet. This study aimed to analyze the chemical modification of the proteins through cross-linking reactions with tannic acid and to evaluate their performance as wall materials to the microencapsulation of oils rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids. The cross-linking reaction of isolated soy protein and tannic acid was carried out at pH 10-11 and 60 °C. Subsequently, emulsions were made with a high-speed homogenizer and microcapsules were obtained by spray drying. Microcapsules were characterized by particle size, morphology (SEM), total pore area and % porosity (mercury intrusion methodology), superficial properties (contact angle), and size distribution of oil droplets (by laser diffraction). Additionally, encapsulation efficiency was determined as a function of total and surface oil. Oil chemical stability and quality were studied by Rancimat, hydroperoxide values, and fatty acid profiles. In addition, a storage test was performed for 180 days, and released oil and polyphenols were determined by in vitro gastric digestion. Moreover, the fatty acid composition of the oil and the total polyphenol content and antioxidant capacity of polyphenols were analyzed. The results showed that spray-dried microcapsules had an encapsulation efficiency between 54 and 78%. The oxidative stability exhibited a positive correlation between the amount of polyphenols used and the induction time, with a maximum of 27 h. The storage assay showed that the peroxide value was lower for those cross-linked microcapsules concerning control after 180 days. After the storage time, the omega-3 content was reduced by 49% for soy protein samples, while cross-linked microcapsules maintained the initial concentration. The in-vitro digestion assay showed a decrease in the amount of oil released from the cross-linked microcapsules and an increase in the amount of polyphenols and a higher antioxidant capacity for all samples (for example, 238.10 mgGAE/g and 554.22 mg TE/g for undigested microcapsules with TA 40% versus 322.09 mgGAE/g and 663.61 mg TE/g for digested samples). The microcapsules showed a high degree of protection of the encapsulated oil, providing a high content of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAS) and polyphenols even in prolonged storage times.

Food Is Medicine for Individuals Affected by Homelessness: Findings from a Participatory Soup Kitchen Menu Redesign.

Health disparities among people experiencing homelessness are likely exacerbated by limited access to healthy, fresh, and minimally processed foods. Soup kitchens and shelters serve as essential food safety nets for preventing hunger in this population, and community interest is growing in the potential of "food is medicine" interventions to improve the mental and physical wellbeing of people who receive meals from these providers. This study describes our two-phase approach to first identify and prioritize nutrition needs within an urban soup kitchen community and then test and implement new recipes and menu guidelines to help the standard soup kitchen menu better align with those priorities. We began by first conducting a nutrition needs assessment, including a collection of intercept surveys from a convenience sample of soup kitchen guests to better understand their nutrition-related health needs, dental issues, food preferences, and menu satisfaction (n = 112), as well as a nutrition analysis of the standard menu based on seven randomly selected meals. Most respondents reported at least one chronic health condition, with depressive disorders (50.9%) and cardiovascular diseases (49.1%) being the most common. Nearly all guests requested more fruits and vegetables at mealtimes, and results from the menu analysis revealed opportunities to lower meal contents of sodium, saturated fat, and added sugars and to raise micronutrient, fiber, and omega-3 content. We then applied these nutrition needs assessment findings to inform the second phase of the project. This phase included the identification of new food inventory items to help support cardiovascular and mental health-related nutrition needs, taste test sampling of new healthy menu items with soup kitchen guests, and hands-on culinary medicine training to kitchen staff on newly-developed "food is medicine" guidelines to support menu transformation. All taste tests of new menu items received over 75% approval, which exceeded satisfaction ratings of the standard menu collected during the phase 1 needs assessment. Findings from this community-based participatory research project confirm the great potential for hunger safety net providers to support critical nutrition needs within this vulnerable population through strategic menu changes. However, more research is needed on the longitudinal impacts of such changes on health indicators over time.

Improving growth, omega-3 contents, and disease resistance of Asian seabass: status of a 20-year family-based breeding program

Improving growth, omega-3 contents, and disease resistance of Asian seabass: status of a 20-year family-based breeding program

Nutritional Significance of Fish in Combating Malnutrition

The nutritional importance of fish in the context of combating malnutrition holds significant potential as a strategic avenue for addressing global health issues. Malnutrition, characterized by deficiencies in vital nutrients, remains a critical concern affecting diverse populations. Fish is a nutrient-dense food source and investigates its potential contributions to alleviating malnutrition. Wild-caught and aquaculture-derived fish are rich sources of essential nutrients crucial for human health. Abundant in high-quality proteins, fish provides ample amino acids necessary for growth, immune function, and cellular repair. Moreover, fish is renowned for its content of omega-3 fatty acids, along with eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) also docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), which confer cardiovascular advantages, neurological development, and anti-inflammatory properties. The importance of fish’s micronutrients, such as vitamins D and B12, iodine, selenium, and zinc. These micronutrients play integral roles in maintaining bone health, supporting cognitive functions, regulating thyroid activity, and enhancing immune responses. Notably, the bioavailability of these nutrients from fish exceeds that of many plant-based sources, highlighting its potential to address nutrient deficiencies effectively. The versatility of fish consumption across cultural diets and its potential to bridge nutritional gaps for vulnerable populations, particularly in regions with limited access to diverse nutrient sources. As malnutrition is influenced by various socio-economic, cultural, and environmental factors, adopting a holistic approach incorporating fish’s nutritional attributes could significantly address this challenge. This study aims to highlight the potential of fish as a strategic path for addressing global health issues.

Comparing data driven soft independent class analogy (DD-SIMCA) and one class partial least square (OC-PLS) to authenticate sacha inchi (Plukenetia volubilis L.) oil using portable NIR spectrometer

Sacha Inchi (SI) oil is valuable due to high content of omega-3 and omega-6, which are important in human diet, thus being susceptible to adulteration. In this work, a low-cost and portable Near Infrared (NIR) spectrometer was used to authenticate pure sacha inchi oil from adulterated one with cheaper oils. Principal component analysis (PCA) was applied as screening technique and showed a good class separation between pure SI oil and blends, with significant impact of unsaturated fatty acids present in SI oil. Data Driven Soft Independent Class Analogy (DD-SIMCA) provided better results when compared to One Class Partial Least Square (OC-PLS) for data analysis. DD-SIMCA was implemented in rigorous approach, and it reached Sensitivity (SEN) = 89.8 % and Specificity (SPE) = 93 % using α = 0.05 and 4 PCs, while ordinary OC-PLS required 10 LVs to reach SEN = 87.8 % and SPE = 84.3 %, performing better than Gaussian radial basis function (GRBF-OCPLS) and partial robust M-regression (PRM) approaches. Results indicate that low-cost NIR spectrometer coupled to one-class classifiers could be used to authenticate pure SI oil.

Pengukuran omega-3 pada ikan penja (Awaous sp.) asal Polewali Mandar Provinsi Sulawesi Barat

Omega-3 is an essential fatty acid necessary for human health. It has anti-inflammatory properties, reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease, and is needed for brain development. The three main omega-3 fatty acids are alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Penja fish is a typical marine biota of Polewali Mandar, West Sulawesi, which is believed to be rich in omega-3. The research aimed to determine the omega-3 content in penja fish (Awaous sp.) from Polewali Mandar, West Sulawesi Province. Penja fish was extracted using the Soxhlet method, and then the fatty acid content was analyzed by GC-MS. The results of this study show that penja fish extract (Awaous sp.) contains omega-3 consisting of 2.64% linolenic acid, 0.94% eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and 1.17% docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). The total omega-3 content in penja fish (Awaous sp.) is 4.75%.

Chia (Salvia Hispanica): An Overview of Its Botany, Uses, Reproductive, Biology, Pharmacological Properties and Industrial Potentials

The consumption of chia seed (Salvia hispanica L.) has increased in recent years due to its high content of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids and dietary fibre. This seed also has a high concentration of proteins and essential amino acids, becoming a promising source of bioactive compounds such as chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid, myricetin, quercetin and kaempferol with the major phenolic acid being rosmarinic acide. Owing to the rich nutritional profile, chia seeds provide numerous health benefits such as cardiac and hepatic protective effects, anti-aging and anti-carcinogenic properties. The high amounts of dietary fibres present in the seeds also confer benefits by preserving good glycemic control thus helping in controlling diabetes mellitus. In addition to the food industry for the development of various baked products, production of biodegradable edible films, use as emulsifiers and stabilizers among other uses. In this article we have focused on drafting a technical description of the chia.

Analysis of Omega-3 Content in Different Cultivation Treatments of Purslane Plants (Portulaca oleracea)

Purslane is a wild plant that is beneficial for human health. The aim of this research was to analyze the omega-3 content in various purslane cultivation treatments. This research was carried out in October-November 2022 at Wayamiga Village, East Bacan District, South Halmahera Regency, North Maluku Province. The tools used in this research were a scales watering can, a digital camera, a roller meter, a hose, a ruler, a rope, a counter, a plastic bucket, a plastic bag, stationery, hoe. The materials are purslane seeds, chicken manure, cow manure, label paper, and water. Population and Sample. The population in this study was purslane plants (Portulaca oleracea). At the same time, the samples were 27 purslane plant samples planted in 27 seedbeds. Research Variables: 1) The independent variable is the treatment dose of manure. 2) The dependent variable is plant growth with the parameters observed, namely vegetative growth: a) plant height and b) number of branches. Results. The single factor of chicken manure fertilization had an effect on the variable content of plant height and stem diameter of purslane at 30 HST. The single factor: Different harvest times influence the number of branches, stem diameter, and crown diameter of purslane plants which are influenced by differences in harvest time with a harvest time of 45 HST as the best treatment. The interaction between manure fertilization and different harvest times affects the variables of plant height, number of branches, stem diameter, crown diameter, and fresh weight of purslane plants. The best combination is chicken manure and a harvest time of 45 HST. The different treatments in cultivating purslane plants affect the omega-3 content, namely the differences in harvest time and the interaction between manure and differences in harvest time with the best harvest time being 35 HST and the best combination of cow manure and first harvest time

Vegan/vegetarian diet and human milk donation: An EMBA survey across European milk banks.

The nutritional adequacy of human milk (HM) from vegan/vegetarian mothers has been a matter of debate, and a variety of recommendations regarding the eligibility of these mothers as human milk donors exists. According to the latest evidence, HM from vegans/vegetarians is similar in its composition to that from omnivores, however, some differences may be observed regarding vitamin B12 and omega-3 fatty acids concentrations. Maternal supplementation of these compounds has been proven effective in increasing their HM concentration. With this survey, we aimed to explore the practices currently in use in European human milk banks (HMBs) regarding potential donors following vegan/vegetarian diets. The online survey was distributed to European HMBs between January and July 2022. A total of 188 HMBs were contacted, and 118 replied (response rate 63%). Vegan and vegetarian mothers were recommended supplements of vitamin B12 to be accepted as donors in 27% and 26% of HMBs, respectively. Additional omega-3 fatty acid supplementation was required in 8% HMBs. In the remaining HMBs, these mothers were either systematically excluded or included regardless of supplementation. The dosage of the recommended supplements was extremely variable. Fifty-one percent of HMBs were following recommendations to guide their practice, national or local recommendations mainly. Great variability in European HMBs practices towards potential donors following vegan/vegetarian diets exists. Some of these practices can result in loss of donors and/or in potential nutritional deficiencies. Standardised evidence-based recommendations on this issue and their implementation in daily HMB practice are needed.

Fish Oil Substitution in Fish Feed Using Vegetable Oils, Terrestrial Animal Fats and Indonesian Local Raw Material Candidates (A Review)

Aquaculture is one of the world's most rapidly expanding producers of protein-rich diets. This is in accordance with the rising demand for feed to sustain these activities. However, the use of natural materials for fish feed, particularly fish oil, creates a paradox because it is derived from fish, therefore it is against the principles of sustainable agriculture. This article examines vegetable oils with a superior nutritional profile, palatability, digestibility, anti-nutritional factors, availability, and cost in comparison to fish oil. The ten-year-old articles selected and compiled originate from national (SHINTA) and international (Elsevier and Proquest) websites. Finding alternatives to fish oil as a source of lipids in fish diets is the result of several decades of research. Vegetable and animal sources are two main types of fish oil substitutes. Up to one hundred percent of fish oil can be substituted with vegetable oils like palm oil, canola oil, soybean oil, and olive oil. Similarly, animal sources can provide up to 75% of the lipids necessary for fish diets. Moreover, rubber seed oil has the potential to supplant fish oil in Indonesia due to its high omega-3 fatty acid content, which is comparable to that of fish oil. The conclusion of this review is that there are multiple sources of lipids that can be used to replace fish oil, and that more consideration must be given to the type of lipid source used in accordance with the type of fish being cultivated and the location of the fish cultivation.

Regulation of omega-3 fatty acids production by different genes in freshwater fish species: a review.

The present study aims to compare the gene expression of three different fish species (common carp, tilapia, and trout) with varying levels of fatty acids (FA). Based on transcriptome analysis and RNA sequencing, various genes and their associated metabolic pathways are identified. Pathways are categorized based on the genes they encode. Genes that were differentially expressed and their promoter's methylation patterns were revealed by RNA-seq analysis in common carp. Furthermore, fatty acid-enriched pathways, such as ARA4 and adipocytokine signaling, were also identified. Many genes and pathways may influence tilapia's growth and omega-3 content. Using the mTOR pathway, trout with differential expression were discovered to be involved in producing omega-3 fatty acids. This study revealed major pathways in fish species to produce omega-3 fatty acids.

A new omega-3 rich euglenoid Eutreptiella sp. from the Korean coastal waters

Euglenoids, the primary producers of fatty acids (FAs), are used in functional foods, feeds, and biofuels. Long-chain polyunsaturated FAs (LC-PUFAs) such as eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) are crucial for human health. The primary commercial source of LC-PUFA is fish; however, its heavy metal bioconcentration is concerning. Globally declining wild-harvested fish stocks is another recently recognized serious problem. Herein, the morphology, molecular phylogeny, matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight (MALDI-TOF) mass spectroscopy, and FA compositions of an unspecified euglenoid strain KCTC 19016P isolated from the Korean coastal waters were examined. The vegetative cells were longitudinally spindle-shaped with a truncated apex and a tail-like extension at the anterior and posterior ends, respectively and had two unequal flagella. They had distinct red eyespots, numerous chloroplasts, and paramylon granules. Pellicular cell striations were easily observed using a scanning electron microscope. Phylogenetic analyses based on nuclear and chloroplast small-subunit ribosomal RNA sequences revealed that Eutreptiella sp. KCTC 19016P was nested within the Eutreptiella clade and was closely related to Eutreptiella marina (AY703209). Using the MALDI-TOF spectrum analysis, we differentiated between Eutreptiella sp. KCTC 19016P and the related NIES strains, thereby confirming their taxonomic similarities. Eutreptiella sp. KCTC 19016P growth was observed for 30 days; the maximum growth rate and doubling time was 0.50 ± 0.05 day−1 and 1.40 ± 0.15 day, respectively. Eutreptiella sp. KCTC 19016P had a relatively high monounsaturated FA percentage compared to the other species. The omega-3 FA content in Eutreptiella sp. KCTC 19016P was significantly higher than that of the other strains, as determined using ordinary one-way analysis of variance (P < 0.0001). Among the four euglenoids, Eutreptiella sp. KCTC 19016P had the highest α-linolenic acid and DHA contents. Thus, this new isolate could potentially be used in aquaculture and nutraceuticals without the risks associated with consuming fish.

Arctic Sea Ice Microalga Chlamydomonas latifrons KNF0041: Identification and Statistical Optimization of Medium for Enhanced Biomass and Omega-3/Omega-6.

Polar microorganisms produce biologically active compounds that enable them to survive in harsh environments. These compounds have potential biomedical applications. The green microalga Chlamydomonas latifrons KNF0041, isolated from Arctic sea ice, has been found to produce polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), including omega-3 and omega-6, which have antioxidant properties. To improve the biomass production of strain KNF0041, statistical methods such as the Plackett-Burman design, Box-Behnken design, and response surface methodology (RSM) were utilized for medium optimization. The optimized medium was designed with increased potassium phosphate content and reduced acetic acid (AcOH) content. The use of the optimized medium resulted in an increase in the cell number as biomass of strain KNF0041 by 34.18% and the omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acid (FA) content by 10.04% and 58.29%, respectively, compared to that in normal TAP medium, which is known as the growth medium for Chlamydomonas culture. In this study, Chlamydomonas latifrons was discovered for the first time in the polar region and identified using morphology and molecular phylogenetic analyses, the secondary structures of the internal transcribed spacers, and optimized culture conditions. The results of this study provide an efficient method for the application of polar microalgae for the production of bioactive compounds.

Associations of Dietary Intake and Nutrient Status with Micronutrient and Lipid Composition in Breast Milk of Donor Women.

The influence of the diet and nutritional status of milk donors on the nutritional composition of donor human milk (DHM) is unknown. The present study aimed to determine the nutritional profile of DHM and the associations between donors' dietary intake and nutritional status and the micronutrient and lipid composition in DHM. For this purpose, 113 donors completed a food frequency questionnaire, provided a five-day weighed dietary record, and collected milk for five consecutive days. Nutrient determinations in donors' erythrocytes, plasma, urine, and milk were performed. Multiple linear regressions were conducted for the evaluation of the associations. We highlight the following results: DHM docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) was positively associated with donors' plasma DHA content and donors' DHA intake (R2 0.45, p < 0.001). For every 1 g/day DHA intake, an increase of 0.38% in DHA content and 0.78% in total omega-3 content was observed in DHM (R2 0.29, p < 0.001). DHM saturated fatty acids were positively associated with erythrocyte dimethyl acetals, plasma stearic acid, trans fatty acids intake, and breastfeeding duration and negatively associated with erythrocyte margaroleic acid (R2 0.34, p < 0.01). DHM cholecalciferol was associated with plasma cholecalciferol levels and dairy intake (R2 0.57, p < 0.01). Other weaker associations were found for free thiamin, free riboflavin, pyridoxal, dehydroascorbic acid, and the lipid profile in DHM. In conclusion, the diet and nutritional status of donors influence the fatty acid profile and micronutrient content of DHM.

Transcriptomic Responses of Salvia hispanica to the Infestation of Red Spider Mites (Tetranychus neocaledonicus).

Salvia hispanica (chia) is a highly nutritious food source and has gained popularity due to its high omega-3 fatty acid content. Red spider mites are a serious problem in the production of S. hispanica. However, no study has been conducted to analyze the defensive response to the infestation of red spider mites in S. hispanica. To elucidate the molecular mechanisms of the defensive response of S. hispanica to red spider mites, we performed a transcriptomic analysis of S. hispanica when infested by red spider mites. In the comparative assessment of leaf transcriptomes, a total of 1743 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified between control and mite-infested S. hispanica. From these, 1208 (69%) transcripts were upregulated and 535 (31%) were downregulated. The DEGs included transcription factors, defense hormones, and secondary metabolites that were either suppressed or activated in response to spider mite herbivory. Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment analysis revealed that plant secondary metabolites, such as glucosinolates, and signaling pathways, including the jasmonic acid signaling pathway, may play an important role in the defense against red spider mites. This study provides novel insights into the defense response of S. hispanica to insect herbivory and could be a resource for the improvement of pest resistance in the chia.

Evaluation of Chlamydomonas reinhardtii Microalgae as a Sustainable Feed Supplement and Fishmeal Substitute in Aquaculture with a Positive Impact on Human Nutrition

Currently, there is an urgent need for the growing aquaculture sector to rely on sustainable ingredients which can achieve optimal growth while maintaining fish’s nutritional value (especially omega-3 fatty acid content) for human consumption. Here, C. reinhardtii biomass was substituted for fishmeal in zebrafish (Danio rerio) diets in wild-type and mutant (Casper) strains. Four isonitrogenous (46% cp), isocaloric (19–21 MJ/kg DW) diets were prepared with C. reinhardtii replacing 10% (C10), 20% (C20), and 50% (C50) of the fishmeal component of the diet formulation. Over 8 weeks of feeding trials, the zebrafish showed a significant growth improvement when fed C10, C20, and C50 compared with the control (no C. reinhardtii), with C20 giving the best performance in terms of growth, feed conversion ratio (FCR), and specific growth rate (SGR). Interestingly, C. reinhardtii in the diet increased the levels of linolenic acid (C18:3 n-3) and hexadecatrienoic acid (C16: 4-n-3) (p ≤ 0.05) in the zebrafish. Yellow pigmentation, which was shown to be lutein, was observed in eggs and zebrafish flesh for fish fed a diet containing C. reinhardtii. Moreover, the zebrafish assimilated β-carotene from C. reinhardtii and converted it to vitamin A. Overall, while replacing 20% of fishmen in the zebrafish’s diet with C. reinhardtii biomass offers the best results, replacement with only 10% showed a significant benefit for the zebrafish. Furthermore, replacing fishmeal with 50% C. reinhardtii is still possible and beneficial, and C. reinhardtii whole cells are digestible by zebrafish, thus demonstrating that C. reinhardtii not only has the potential to serve as a feed supplement but that it can also act as a feed substitute once the production cost of microalgae becomes competitive.

CRISPR/Cas9-mediated knock-in of masu salmon (Oncorhyncus masou) elongase gene in the melanocortin-4 (mc4r) coding region of channel catfish (Ictalurus punctatus) genome.

Channel catfish, Ictalurus punctatus, have limited ability to synthesize Ω-3 fatty acids. The ccβA-msElovl2 transgene containing masu salmon, Oncorhynchus masou, elongase gene driven by the common carp, Cyprinus carpio, β-actin promoter was inserted into the channel catfish melanocortin-4 receptor (mc4r) gene site using the two-hit two-oligo with plasmid (2H2OP) method. The best performing sgRNA resulted in a knockout mutation rate of 92%, a knock-in rate of 54% and a simultaneous knockout/knock-in rate of 49%. Fish containing both the ccβA-msElovl2 transgene knock-in and mc4r knockout (Elovl2) were 41.8% larger than controls at 6months post-hatch (p = 0.005). Mean eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA, C20:5n-3) levels in Elov2 mutants and mc4r knockout mutants (MC4R) were 121.6% and 94.1% higher than in controls, respectively (p = 0.045; p = 0.025). Observed mean docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, C22:6n-3) and total EPA + DHA content was 32.8% and 45.1% higher, respectively, in Elovl2 transgenic channel catfish than controls (p = 0.368; p = 0.025). To our knowledge this is the first example of genome engineering to simultaneously target transgenesis and knock-out a gene in a commercially important aquaculture species for multiple improved performance traits. With a high transgene integration rate, improved growth, and higher omega-3 fatty acid content, the use of Elovl2 transgenic channel catfish appears beneficial for application on commercial farms.

UTILIZATION OF GALLIC ACID-CROSSLINKED SOY PROTEINS AS WALL MATERIAL FOR CHIA OIL MICROENCAPSULATION.

Chia oil represents the vegetable source with the highest content of omega-3 fatty acids. However, the incorporation of polyunsaturated fatty acids into food is limited due to their susceptibility toward oxidation. This investigation aimed to study the microencapsulation of chia oil (CO), using gallic acid (GA) crosslinked-soy protein isolate (SPI) as a wall material and its effect on its oxidative stability. Microcapsules presented a moisture content, water activity, and encapsulation efficiency of around 2.95-4.51% (w.b.); 0.17 and 59.76-71.65%, respectively. Rancimat tests showed that with higher GA content, the induction period increased up to 27.9 h. The storage test demonstrated that the microencapsulated oil with crosslinked wall material has lower values of hydroperoxides and higher induction times concerning the non-crosslinked oil. Finally, the fatty acid profile at this storage time indicated that microcapsules with GA did not have significant changes. In vitro digestion exhibited a reduction in the percentage of bioavailable oil for crosslinked microcapsules, but with no variations in its chemical quality, and an increase in the total polyphenols amount and antioxidant activity. The results obtained demonstrated that the microencapsulation of chia oil using SPI cross-linked with GA as wall material exerted a very important protective effect since a synergistic effect could be described between the microencapsulation effect and the antioxidant power of GA. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Evaluation of millets for physio-chemical and root morphological traits suitable for resilient farming and nutritional security in Eastern Himalayas.

Millets are nutritionally superior and climate-resilient short-duration crops and hold a prominent place in cropping sequences around the world. They have immense potential to grow in a marginal environment due to diverse adaptive mechanisms. An experiment was conducted in an organic production system in the North Eastern Himalayan foothills of India for 3 consecutive years by evaluating high-yielding varieties (HYVs) of different millets, viz., finger millet, foxtail millet, little millet, barnyard millet, proso millet, and browntop millet, along with local landraces of finger millets (Sikkim-1 and Sikkim-2; Nagaland-1 and Nagaland-2) to identify stable, high-yielding, and nutritionally superior genotypes suited for the region. Among the various millets, finger millet, followed by little millet and foxtail millet, proved their superiority in terms of productivity (ranging between 1.16 and 1.43 Mg ha-1) compared to other millets. Among different varieties of finger millets, cv. VL Mandua 352 recorded the highest average grain yield (1.43 Mg ha-1) followed by local landraces, Nagaland-2 (1.31 Mg ha-1) and Sikkim-1 (1.25 Mg ha-1). Root traits such as total root length, root volume, average diameter of roots, and root surface area were significantly higher in finger millet landraces Nagaland-1, Nagaland-2, and Sikkim-1 compared to the rest of the millet genotypes. The different millets were found to be rich sources of protein as recorded in foxtail millet cv. SiA 3088 (12.3%), proso millet cv. TNAU 145 (11.5%), and finger millet landraces, Sikkim-1 and Nagaland-2 (8.7% each). Finger millet landrace Sikkim-2 recorded the highest omega-6 content (1.16%), followed by barnyard millet cv. VL 207 (1.09%). Barnyard millet cv. VL 207 recorded the highest polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) content (1.23%), followed by foxtail millet cv. SiA 3088 (1.09%). The local finger millet landraces Sikkim-1 and Sikkim-2 recorded the highest levels of histidine (0.41%) and tryptophan (0.12%), respectively. Sikkim-1 and Nagaland-2 recorded the highest level of thiamine (0.32%) compared to the HYVs. These findings indicate that finger millet has great potential in the organic production system of the North Eastern Himalayan Region (NEHR) of India, and apart from HYVs like VL Mandua 352, local landraces, viz., Nagaland-2 and Sikkim-1, should also be promoted for ensuring food and nutritional security in this fragile ecosystem.