Benefits Of Products Research Articles

PURCHASE BEHAVIOUR OF PADDY FARMERS TOWARDS HYBRID PADDY SEEDS IN DHARAMPUR TALUKA OF VALSAD DISTRICT

Seed is the initial point of cropping cycle. Seeds play a vital role in agriculture and the seeds industry is rapidly growing due to the rising demand for increased food production and high quality seeds. The primary aim of this study was to explore the purchase behaviour of farmers regarding hybrid paddy seeds. To fulfill the objective descriptive research design was adopted with Multi-stage sampling method. Initially, Dharampur taluka was purposefully selected from 6 talukas in Valsad district. In the next stage, 10 villages were randomly selected within Dharampur taluka. Finally, 10 paddy farmers were conveniently selected from each village, resulting in a total sample size of 100 farmers. The structured interview schedule was used to collect the primary data from farmers. The collected data was analyzed with the help of statistical tools as simple percentage analysis, weighted average mean, rating scale, etc. The study found that most farmers (56%) were belonged to 41 to 50 year age group, primarily had secondary education (45%) and commonly combined farming with animal husbandry (58%). Most of the farmers (56%) owned small, fragmented land under 1 hectare. Hybrid paddy seed purchase was influenced by past experience and product benefits. KEY WORDS: Socio-economic profile, Purchase behaviour, Paddy farmers, Hybrid paddy seeds, Valsad district

Enhancing Malaysia’s Halal Brand Identity: Insights and Strategies for Sustainable Global Halal Hub

Halal branding has become an essential strategy for businesses to cater to the needs of Muslim consumers and tap into a rapidly growing market. Malaysia has positioned itself as a global halal hub, attracting Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) food manufacturers and becoming a trusted source of halal products and services. However, developing a distinct Malaysia’s halal brand identity remains a challenge. This article explores the importance of developing a strong halal brand identity for the sustainability of Malaysia as a global halal hub. The study conducted in-depth interviews with eight identified respondents who were either chief executive officers, presidents of participating companies, or partners and directors of various government agencies at local and international branches. The study discusses successful halal brand identity campaigns undertaken by major global and regional brands, focusing on promoting halal values, ethical practices, and the benefits of halal products. To develop a strong halal brand identity, comprehensive marketing and communication strategies are recommended, utilising the effects theory to craft effective digital marketing strategies that resonate with Muslim consumers and promote ethical consumption.

Level of Consumer Satisfaction Towards Brown Rice in Malang District: A Customer Satisfaction Index (CSI) Analysis

In general, the current demand for brown rice does not receive the same attention from the public as white rice. So, it is important to further understand consumer behavior related to consuming brown rice because this has an impact on consumer satisfaction and has an impact on the strategies formulated by producers. Thus, this study aims to assess the level of consumer satisfaction with brown rice and evaluate the performance and importance of certain attributes. The variables analyzed include product quality, price, and benefits. This study applied a quantitative approach with Accidental Sampling technique, involving 100 respondents who were analyzed using the Customers Satisfaction Index (CSI) technique. The results of these findings indicate that the product quality variable (Taste) has the highest level of importance and performance, with values of 4.56 and 4.49, respectively. The level of satisfaction of brown rice consumers in Pakis District, Malang Regency, reached 74.53%, which is classified as satisfied (range 60.1% - 80.0%). The suggestions given are that producers need to improve the quality of brown rice in terms of taste, color, and texture, while marketers are advised to utilize social media and creative campaigns to attract young consumers and offer discounts for large purchases to increase customer satisfaction.

Impact of in-silico technologies in the development of high-risk medical devices on healthcare

Abstract This study examines the impact of in-silico technologies (IST), such as virtual cohorts and digital twins, on the development of high-risk medical devices within the healthcare sector. An iterative empirical approach combining a literature review, exploratory and in-depth interviews with stakeholders from academia, industry, regulators, healthcare professionals, and focus groups with patients across Europe, Japan, and the USA was employed to gain insight into the implications of IST on healthcare. The findings indicate that IST can reduce the time to market for medical devices, thereby facilitating faster, broader, and more equitable access for patients. The implementation of extensive early testing, optimized study designs and increased sample sizes in trials can facilitate the achievement of enhanced safety. The early identification of adverse effects can enhance the safety of medical devices and improve patient outcomes. Furthermore, IST may facilitate the inclusion of underrepresented groups, such as children, in clinical trials, thereby enhancing their representation in medical research. The reduction in costs associated with IST may facilitate innovation cycles. However, the impact on prices is contingent on competition. Furthermore, IST have the potential to reduce the need for animal testing. Nevertheless, several uncertainties and potential adverse effects have been identified. Physician training on new devices remains a bottleneck, which may limit the benefits of new products. Despite the advancements, a complete replacement of traditional clinical and preclinical trials with IST is not seen to be feasible. From a policy perspective, it is crucial to promote regulatory clarity by providing guidance for the usage of IST, to offer incentives for the adoption of IST, and to foster competition. These findings demonstrate the multifaceted potential benefits and challenges of IST, including enhanced safety, accessibility, and innovation in healthcare. Key messages • In-silico technologies can reduce time-to market of medical devices up medical device and improve safety for patients. • Challenges like physician training and regulatory guidance must be addressed to fully realize benefits of in silico technologies.

Long-Term Effectiveness of a Quitline for Smoking Cessation: Results of a Randomized Controlled Trial

Plain Language SummarySmoking is a major global health problem, causing many preventable deaths and disabilities each year. Telephone counselling is a recommended method to help people quit smoking because it provides accessible support. This study examined the long-term effectiveness of the national German Smokers Quitline. Daily smokers who wanted to quit smoking were divided into two groups. One group received up to six phone calls from the national German Smokers Quitline, the other group received a self-help brochure. We measured how many participants stopped smoking for at least 7 days 12 months after the start of the intervention (7-day point prevalence of abstinence). We assessed long-term cigarette and tobacco abstinence, i.e., how many participants abstained from cigarettes/tobacco for a period of 9 months after the start of the intervention. We also examined the use of other cessation aids. A total of 905 participants took part in the study. The telephone counselling group had higher rates of long-term cigarette (31.7% vs. 17.8%) and tobacco abstinence (30.8% vs. 15.2%) compared to the other group. The odds of quitting were significantly higher in the telephone counselling group. However, the 7-day point prevalence of abstinence did not differ between the groups. Many participants used additional cessation aids, with e-cigarettes being the most common. In conclusion, telephone counselling provided by the national German Smokers Quitline is effective in helping people quit smoking long term. Increasing its awareness could improve smoking cessation rates in Germany. Counselling should include information about the risks and benefits of new nicotine consumer products.

Vine Tea Extract Enhanced the Fermentation of Skimmed Milk by Lacticaseibacillus casei

ABSTRACTVine tea extract (VTE), from the traditional Chinese herbal tea, was added to reconstituted skimmed milk; the mixture was fermented with Lacticaseibacillus casei, and fermentation characteristics, flavonoid content, antioxidant capacity (AOC), and viability of L. casei were measured. 2 mg/mL VTE promoted L. casei growth and 8 mg/mL VTE inhibited growth, an effect consistent with observed pH changes. Total flavonoid content and AOC increased with increasing VTE dosage. Dihydromyricetin was partially metabolized during fermentation and accounted for most of the antioxidant function of VTE. 2 mg/mL VTE was optimal for maintenance of probiotic culture and pH stability during cold storage and improved AOC during product shelf life. VTE has the potential to increase the health benefits of probiotic dairy products, and the resulting mixture may be suitable to use as a daily milk‐based health drink.

Enhancing the Antioxidant Activity of Tea (Camellia sinensis) Through Common Herbal Infusions.

Tea is the second most widely consumed beverage globally, after water, and is known for its substantial antioxidant properties, primarily due to its phenolic content. This study quantifies phenolic compounds and assesses antioxidant activity in ten types of tea and selected herbal infusions, individually and in combination. Our findings reveal that free phenolic compounds and their antioxidant activity were twelve times and eight times greater than bound phenolic compounds. Among individual infusions, white tea exhibited the highest antioxidant activity and phenolic content, with 172.51 µmol TE/1000 g and 7.83 mg GAE/1000 g, respectively. In combination, white/linden flower tea showed the highest antioxidant activity (374.44 µmol TE/1000 g), and white/orange tea contained the highest phenolic content (9.24 mg GAE/1000 g). This study identified primarily two phenolic compounds, epigallocatechin gallate and epicatechin gallate, and one alkaloid, caffeine, in tea and herbal combinations. Compared to other combinations, we observed significant variations in catechins and caffeine between white and dark teas. Integrating specific herbal infusions with tea can enhance antioxidant activity up to three-fold compared to tea alone. This research offers valuable insights into optimizing herbal infusions to maximize antioxidant benefits, creating new opportunities to enhance the health benefits of tea-based products.

The Impact of Word of Mouth and Customer Satisfaction on Purchase Decisions: The Role of Maslahah as an Intervening Variable in the Cosmetic Products Industry in Indonesia

This study investigates how Word of Mouth (recommendations), Customer Satisfaction, and perceived Maslahah influence Purchase Decisions in the cosmetic product consumption context in Indonesia. Structural Equation Modeling with Partial Least Squares (SEM-PLS) was employed to analyze data from 450 respondents. Results indicate that Word of Mouth significantly influences Purchase Decisions (β = 0.350, t-stat = 5.698, p < 0.000), suggesting positive recommendations increase the likelihood of product purchase. However, Word of Mouth slightly diminishes the perception of product Maslahah (β = -0.122, t-stat = 1.835, p = 0.067), implying positive recommendations may marginally affect perceived maslahah. The indirect effect of Word of Mouth on Purchase Decisions through Maslahah was also marginal (β = -0.044, t-stat = 1.829, p = 0.068). Customer Satisfaction significantly enhances the perception of product Maslahah (β = 0.720, t-stat = 11.309, p < 0.000) and influences Purchase Decisions through Maslahah (β = 0.263, t-stat = 7.194, p < 0.000), yet direct impact on Purchase Decisions was insignificant (β = -0.002, t-stat = 0.044, p = 0.965). Moreover, perceived Maslahah significantly affects Purchase Decisions (β = 0.366, t-stat = 7.586, p < 0.000), highlighting its role in consumer decision-making. Overall, findings deepen understanding of how Word of Mouth, Customer Satisfaction, and perceived Maslahah shape consumer behavior in purchasing cosmetics. Marketers can utilize these insights to leverage recommendations, enhance satisfaction, and communicate product benefits effectively to influence consumer decisions, thereby enhancing market position and competitive advantage for cosmetic companies.

Technology innovation to improve SMEs sustainability

Purpose This study aims to analyze the determinants of small and medium enterprise (SME) sustainability through online marketing technology innovation. Design/methodology/approach The study was conducted through a survey in Siak Regency and Dumai City, Riau Province, Indonesia. The study population is small entrepreneurs doing online marketing. The determination of this survey area is by considering: the use of online marketing technology in this area is relatively more developed than other regions; Siak Regency and Dumai City are very prospective to be used as small business development areas based on online marketing; and the sample was determined by purposive random sampling with the criteria of small entrepreneurs who have tried to do online marketing for at least six months. Based on these criteria, there are 301 small entrepreneurs who conduct online marketing as a sample. Findings The sustainability of SMEs is directly and indirectly influenced by government support, human resource quality, innovation costs, economic conditions and business partners through online marketing technology innovations. Online marketing strategy through targeting, segmentation and positioning marketing strategies. Implementation of online marketing technology innovation models: increased government support; improvement of human resources; provision of innovation cost allocation; government policies in maintaining economic stability; and increase in business partners. Research limitations/implications Limited access to data can limit the interpretation of correlations between the variables studied. This limitation is because the available data is limited to certain periods and certain geographical regions. In addition, research time constraints limit the ability to conduct more in-depth interviews and obtain additional data relevant to the topic being studied. Practical implications Practical implications: 1) Targeting marketing strategy is a staged strategy to select a target market. The target market for SME products is intermediary consumers (agents) and end consumers; 2) Segmenting marketing strategy is a stage strategy to determine market segments. The market segment of SME products is based on consumer characteristics, namely, the local market and markets outside the region. SME product market segments based on consumer response characteristics, namely, market segments based on product benefits and consumer loyalty; 3) Positioning marketing strategy is a strategy for the development stage of each product detail placement and the development of a 4P mix strategy, namely, product, price, place and promotion. Social implications The implementation of this research policy is: increased government support in facilitating online marketing; increased human resources in online marketing; provision of cost allocation of innovation in online marketing; government policy in maintaining economic stability; and increased business partners in online marketing. Model implementation requires mentoring and training through cooperation with business partners. Originality/value The sustainability of SMEs requires online marketing technology innovation. These findings can help provide an alternative solution to the weak resources of SMEs. With the discovery of the determining factor for the sustainability of SMEs, it can accelerate the SME digitalization program.

Factors Affecting Green Purchase Behavior Among Undergraduate Students: A Conceptual Analysis

This study focuses on a literature review examining the factors affecting green purchase behavior among undergraduate students. In the modern world the latest technology adaptation, allows consumers to be exposed to such information about product quality and benefits to them and society before going to purchase and consume it. Therefore, many governments and manufacturers take proactive actions by producing more green and environmentally friendly products. With aggressive marketing strategies in targeting pro-environmental consumers, especially the younger generation. However, it could be one opportunity to study among undergraduate students as part of the younger generation who are commonly educated, this group could be a significant group for pro-environmental consumers. There are several factors could be studied such as environmental concern, perceived consumer effectiveness, environmental knowledge, attitude toward green products, willingness to pay, and green purchase intention. This conceptual analysis study can pave the way for developing a framework and further research analysis.

Changes in the nutritional, flavor, and phytochemical properties of Citrus reticulata Blanco cv. ‘Dahongpao’ whole fruits during enzymatic hydrolysis and fermentation

IntroductionCurrently, the large-scale consumption of fresh citrus fruits in the form of juices, jams, and purees results in significant quantities of waste consisting of citrus peels, pulp, and seeds.MethodsTo improve the utilization rate of whole citrus fruits and reduce the generation of processing waste, the best pre-optimized enzymatic fermentation conditions were used to treat whole citrus fruits and to analyse the changes in nutritional and active components (Enzymatic: pectinase, cellulase, hemicellulase added at a ratio of 1:1:1 for 63.326 min at a temperature of 60°C, with 0.506% of each enzyme added; Fermentation: Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus TR08, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum subsp. Plantarum CICC 6257, and Limosilactobacillus fermentum CCFM1139 were added at a ratio of 1:1:1 for 30 h, with the concentration was 108 CFU/mL, and the total amount added was 6%).ResultsResults showed that after enzymatic hydrolysis, the mineral elements (Nitrogen, phosphorus), total amino acid, vitamin C, and organic acid content increased. For soluble sugars, the contents of fructose and glucose increased, whereas the sucrose content decreased. Fermentation had a minimal effect on the mineral content; however, the total amino acid, vitamin C, and soluble sugar contents decreased. Additionally, when comparing the samples after enzymatic fermentation to those after enzymatic hydrolysis alone, the total phenols, total flavonoids, carotenoids and antioxidant activities were significantly increased by 1.39, 1.49, 1.21 and 3.79 folds, respectively.DiscussionThis study addresses the challenges of utilizing fruit residue in the current market, including high treatment costs and environmental pollution, by providing a novel perspective on the enzymatic hydrolysis and fermentation of whole red oranges. Furthermore, it aims to improve the nutritional, functional, and health benefits of citrus fruit products.

Animal welfare has priority: Swiss consumers’ preferences for animal welfare, greenhouse gas reductions and other sustainability improvements in dairy products

Animal welfare is at the forefront of the debate on sustainable food systems. However, animal welfare improvements often imply higher costs for producers. We explored whether Swiss consumers are willing to contribute monetarily to such improvements through an increase in prices of butter or milk. Based on a discrete choice experiment on 986 Swiss consumers, we investigated preferences for two animal welfare improvements in the dairy industry – loose housing and farm killing – as well as for organic production, origin of product, and greenhouse gas (GHG) reductions. Furthermore, we investigated how consumers perceive a potential conflict between of GHG reductions and animal welfare concerns. Half of our sample faced increases in milk prices; the other half faced increases in butter prices. Findings indicate that animal welfare is of higher importance to consumers when compared to the other attributes under analysis. Consumers oppose GHG reductions associated with deteriorations in animal welfare and are willing to pay for improvements in housing conditions and a less stressful killing of the animals. Improvements in animal welfare could be crucial for dairy industry actors and provide strong arguments in communicating the benefits of dairy products to consumers.

Market Penetration Strategy by Increasing Firm Competitiveness

To achieve successful market penetration, businesses must navigate complexities related to culture, legal frameworks, economic conditions, and competition. Businesses must decide whether to standardize their marketing strategies across different markets or adapt them to suit unique market characteristics. Competition is the ability to perform better, and faster. In facing competition, companies need to determine the right strategy, because in general companies are trying to survive, grow and develop. The purpose of the Market Penetration Strategy research by Increasing Company Competitiveness can include several aspects, namely, Assessing the company's strengths and weaknesses. Conducting market analysis to understand existing opportunities and challenges, including consumer preferences and behavior, and market trends and Developping an effective Market Penetration Strategy to increase market penetration, such as products, improving customer service, or competitive pricing strategies. This study uses a descriptive qualitative method to find out how PT. AJS Bumiputera markets its products, using market penetration to increase competitiveness, or to find out what the biggest challenges are in its market penetration strategy. This study uses a qualitative method as one of the methodologies in research that does not yet have a standard definition and is generally agreed upon for use. From the results of the study it is known that PT. Bumiputera Sharia Life Insurance, using market penetration through digital platforms such as social media, company websites, and online advertising campaigns to reach a wider audience. Organizing events, seminars, or workshops, related to finance or health. Providing education about the benefits of insurance products to the public, conducting direct promotions through telemarketing, or face-to-face marketing to introduce products directly.

Pentacyclic Triterpenoid Content in Cranberry Raw Materials and Products

Cranberry fruit extracts have been shown to inhibit expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines in THP-1 cells and reduce colonic tumor burden and tissue inflammation in a mouse model of colitis. These activities are attributed to both the triterpenoid and polyphenol constituents of the fruit. The pentacyclic triterpenoids ursolic acid (UA), oleanolic acid (OA), corosolic acid (CA), maslinic acid (MA), and esters of UA and OA occur in the waxy layer of cranberry peel, and their content in cranberry products is likely to vary with the fruit source and processing methods. UPLC-MS (ultra performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry) was applied to determine the four triterpenoid acids and their esters in cranberry products and raw materials. Cranberry pomace, a side stream in juice production, was a rich source at 64,090 µg total triterpenoids/g DW. Cranberry juice beverages ranged from 0.018 to 0.26 µg/g of product, fruit samples ranged from 6542 to 17,070 µg/g DW, and whole berry products contained up to 2665 µg/g DW. Free UA was the most plentiful triterpenoid in all samples. These analyses illustrate the potential value of an underutilized side stream in cranberry juice production and highlight potential benefits of whole fruit products.

Physicochemical and phytochemical analysis of three melon fruit (canary melon, watermelon, and muskmelon) peels, and their valorization in biscuits development

IntroductionMelons are highly sought after worldwide due to their exquisite and delectable taste. However, the peels of these fruits, which are rich in phytochemicals and sustainable components for innovative culinary formulations, are often discarded as waste.MethodsThis study explored the phytochemistry and valorization of three melon fruit, i.e., canary melon (Cucumis melo, var. Fonzy), watermelon (Citrullus lanatus, var. Augusta), and muskmelon (Cucumis melo, var. Cantaloupe), peels in food applications by incorporating into wheat flour biscuits. Peels of fruits were separated, dried and powders were extracted with 70% ethanol.Results and discussionComparing the muskmelon fruit peel to the peels of the other two fruits, the muskmelon fruit peel had the significantly (p < 0.05) high ash (8.36%), fiber (12.06%), fat (1.21%), protein (5.02%), mineral contents (Mg 233, Ca 364, K 1605, Fe 49.72, and Zn 2.39 mg/100 g), total phenolic content (167.49 mg GAE/100 g), total flavonoid content (79.16 mg QE/100 g) and total antioxidant activity (56.92 mg Trolox equivalent/100 g). Results of the antimicrobial experiments of three melon peels showed that extracts from all peels showed enough antimicrobial activities, nearly comparable to the reference drugs (ampicillin and nystatin), which still showed the highest inhibition zones. Among three extracts, highest zone of inhibition against three bacterial species, i.e., Bacillus cereus (12.03 mm), Escherichia coli (10.02 mm), and Streptococcus aureus (18.08 mm), and fungal species, i.e., Candida albicans (8.09 mm), Aspergillus niger (7.06 mm), and Mucor meihi (7.02 mm) was exhibited by muskmelon peel extract. Moisture, ash, fat, fiber, minerals, phenolics, flavonoids, and antioxidant activities of biscuits were increased as a result of incorporating peel flours. Correlation showed TPC and TAA were highly correlated in watermelon (10%; 1). Using principal component analysis, adding 5% canary watermelon peel powder to biscuits improved their healthful and active elements while maintaining sensory features. Baking with 10% muskmelon or watermelon peel powder boosted nutrition and antioxidant activity. After the control, biscuits fortified with 5% melon peel powder exhibited significantly (p < 0.05) high sensory scores. These findings highlight the value of melon peels as sustainable ingredients, promoting waste reduction and enhancing the dietary and functional benefits of food products.

The Use of E-Marketing Channels and Customer Satisfaction in Uyo Metropolis, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria

This research was conducted to investigate the influence that the use of e-marketing channels have on customer satisfaction in Uyo Metropolise of Akwa Ibom State. Electronic marketing proxies like social media platforms and website platforms were considered and measured against customer satisfaction in Uyo metropolis. Primary data were collected with the use of the questionnaire from users of electronic marketing channels and the target population of the study were treated as infinite, hence a sample size of 347 respondents were selected using the convenience sampling technique. Data collected were further analyzed using the Pearson’s Product Moment Correlation statistics at a 0.05 level of significance. Findings showed that the two independent variables (social media platforms and website platforms) significantly influence customers’ satisfaction. It was concluded that customers’ access to information on social media platforms and website platforms played a significant role in building customer satisfaction. On the basis of the findings, it was recommended among others, that e-marketing channels like social media platforms should be well utilized by online merchants for engaging and communicating products information, benefits and availability to online shoppers in Uyo metropolis, Akwa Ibom State.

The impact of health and environmental messaging with and without product filtering in complex retail markets: the case of pulses.

Multiple barriers exist to healthy and environmentally sustainable food choices. Limited consumer understanding of the health and environmental implications of food choices complicates their abilities to make choices that lead to desired outcomes. The complexity of the retail environment itself may crowd out less immediate motivations to address health or environment. Even if consumers understand general impacts of food choices on health and environmental outcomes, there may be non-negligible time and search costs to identifying the products that meet consumers' needs. In many food categories, the foods containing attributes that help achieve health and sustainability outcomes may represent a small percentage of available products. In this research, we examine the case of pulses-beans, chickpeas, lentils, and dry peas. Pulses are nutritious and have a low environmental impact. However, consumption of pulses in the US is quite low, which may be attributable to low consumer knowledge of pulse benefits, as well as difficulty of identifying pulse products in retail environments. In this research, we examine the choice of pulse-based foods in three conditions: (1) a control condition, (2) a messaging condition communicating the health and environmental benefits of pulse products, and (3) a paired messaging condition with a choice environment intervention that allows respondents to choose to filter products to those that contain pulses. Participants selected a food item from each of six food categories. We find slight, but significant, increases in pulse choice in the messaging only condition relative to the control condition, but dramatic and highly significant increases when participants can filter the products to easily view pulse products. We also find evidence for knowledge being a barrier to healthy/sustainable food choice. Participants exposed to the messaging were more likely to view pulses as environmentally beneficial, and less likely to report that they did not know the health or environmental impacts of pulse foods. We find that paired messaging and filtering interventions significantly increase the choice of pulse-based foods, which offer both human health and sustainability benefits.

Unlocking the Potential of Food Waste: A Review of Multifunctional Pectins.

This review comprehensively explores the multifunctional applications of pectins derived from food waste and by-products, emphasizing their role as versatile biomaterials in the medical-related sectors. Pectins, known for their polyelectrolytic nature and ability to form hydrogels, influence the chemical composition, sensory properties, and overall acceptability of food and pharmaceutical products. The study presents an in-depth analysis of molecular parameters and structural features of pectins, such as the degree of esterification (DE), monosaccharide composition, galacturonic acid (GalA) content, and relative amounts of homogalacturonan (HG) and rhamnogalacturonan I (RG-I), which are critical for their technofunctional properties and biological activity. Emphasis is placed on pectins obtained from various waste sources, including fruits, vegetables, herbs, and nuts. The review also highlights the importance of structure-function relationships, especially with respect to the interfacial properties and rheological behavior of pectin solutions and gels. Biological applications, including antioxidant, immunomodulatory, anticancer, and antimicrobial activities, are also discussed, positioning pectins as promising biomaterials for various functional and therapeutic applications. Recalled pectins can also support the growth of probiotic bacteria, thus increasing the health benefits of the final product. This detailed review highlights the potential of using pectins from food waste to develop advanced and sustainable biopolymer-based products.

Green purchase behaviour of Arab millennials towards eco-friendly products: the moderating role of eco-labelling

Purpose This study aims to examine millennial consumers’ intentions towards purchasing eco-friendly products in the emerging Arab nation of Oman, focusing on the moderating role of eco-labelling (EL). Design/methodology/approach Environmental knowledge (EK) and environmental concern (EC) are integrated into the theory of planned behaviour (TPB) framework as independent variables, along with EL as a moderating variable. The data was collected through a self-administered survey and consisted of 705 random responses that was tabulated and analysed through the structural equation modelling technique. Findings ECs, subjective norms (SNs) and perceived behavioural control (PBC) significantly influence consumer attitudes towards green eco-friendly products. Consumers’ EK and attitudes positively influence the purchase intention (PI) to make green purchases. SNs and PBC substantially influence consumer attitudes towards adopting green products. However, the findings reveal a non-significant moderating influence of EL on the relationship between EC and PI for millennial Omani consumers. Research limitations/implications The findings are limited to only one Arab country, Oman, which limits the scope of the study. This study contributes to the TPB by using additional dimensions to examine the green purchasing behaviour of millennials. Practical implications Marketers can use these insights to develop strategies that emphasise the environmental benefits of products, leverage social influences and empower consumers to make environmentally conscious choices. Incorporating EL and green packaging can enhance the visibility and attractiveness of green products. Social implications Promoting environmental education, awareness campaigns and policy interventions that highlight the importance of eco-friendly product choices can foster more sustainable consumption patterns among Arab consumers. Originality/value To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study to examine the green PIs of millennials in an Arab context, specifically focusing on the moderating role of EL.

Management of triggering factor effects in sensitive skin syndrome with a dermo-cosmetic product.

Environmental factors are important in the generation or aggravation of sensitive skin syndrome (SSS). Creams can be useful for patients with SSS, particularly when triggering factors cannot be avoided. Several clinical studies have investigated the safety and efficacy of specific creams in patients with SSS, but the majority were assessed with a single type of triggering factor and were non-comparative. Therefore, this study's aim was to investigate, the benefit of a specific dermo-cosmetic product in response to physical and chemical factors in subjects with SSS. Three clinical studies were performed on subjects presenting SSS. The physical impact was assessed in a stripping test, and in a randomized intra-individual study with a newly developed heat-cold stress model. To assess chemical factors, a capsaicin test on the nasolabial fold was performed. The product significantly reduced the increase in skin microcirculation caused by stripping after 30 min versus. The untreated condition (45.8% vs. 62.0%; p < 0.01). Immediately and at D28, the product induced a significant increase in skin hydration even after a heat-cold stress, while the overall score of unpleasant symptoms significantly decreased compared with the control (8.1 vs. 10.7 and 3.7 vs. 8.0, respectively; p < 0.01). Regarding chemical factors, a significant difference in the sensation intensity (p < 0.001) was observed after capsaicin stress, also in terms of the sensation duration due to the product application versus the control (192 s vs. 403 s; p < 0.001). These studies show that topical application of a dermo-cosmetic product can prevent unpleasant symptoms and improve the skin state in SSS exposed to physical and chemical triggering factors.