Consumer Requirements Research Articles

Contemporary Trends in Active and Intelligent Polymer Nanocomposite based Food Packaging Systems for Food Safety and Sustainability in the Modern Aeon

Abstract: The demand for innovative solutions has arisen from the inevitability of improved packaging systems to protect processed food from various factors that cause spoilage. Traditional food packaging materials have limitations in fulfilling all the requirements of consumers, such as being inert, cheap, lightweight, easily degradable, reusable, and resistant to physical abuse. Nanofillers incorporated in the polymer matrix can provide potential solutions to these challenges. This review paper deliberates the use of nanofillers in a polymer matrix to develop an active and intelligent polymer nanocomposites-based processed food packaging system. The present review article focuses on the properties of nanofillers and their potential benefits when incorporated into the polymer matrix. It also examines the challenges associated with developing such packaging systems and explores the ways to address them. It highlights the potential of nanofiller-based polymer nanocomposites in developing a novel food packaging system that can improve the shelf-life and quality of processed food. Such systems can protect food from dirt or dust, oxygen, light, moisture, and food-spoiling microorganisms. Incorporating nanofillers can provide a viable solution to these problems. Most importantly, this paper provides research insights into the potential benefits of nanofillers-based polymer nanocomposites and their applications in the food packaging industry. The verdicts of this review will be of interest to the food packaging industry, entrepreneurs and researchers interested in developing sustainable and innovative packaging systems.

A greener approach to assess bioactive compounds in tropical pumpkin (Cucurbita moschata) using colorimetry

Bioactive compounds have been shown to promote healthy human development and protect against certain diseases including some cancers. Tropical pumpkins bred for consumption, such as calabaza (Cucurbita moschata), possess these compounds, though concentrations vary considerably between varieties. Bioactive compound quantification methods can be expensive, complex, and generate considerable hazardous waste. A predictive tool utilizing the relationship between extrinsic properties and tristimulus colorimetry values of calabaza would allow for significantly higher throughput with lower requirements for equipment, training, and laboratory consumables. Therefore, this study examined correlations between flesh color and bioactive compound quantities of several calabaza germplasm lines to assess the utility of a sustainable and portable predictive tool. CIEL* a* b* values of pumpkin flesh were assessed using a colorimeter and compared to bioactive compound concentrations determined analytically. Redness was found to correlate with increased ascorbic acid and total soluble solids content. Yellowness correlated with β-carotene equivalent carotenoids and ascorbic acid content. These results suggest that colorimetry may be a viable pre-screening technique for quantifying bioactive compounds in C. moschata.

Development of conceptual provisions for implementing innovative technologies to quality standards of public passenger transport

This paper reports a study of the main principles for the formation of public passenger transport service quality standards. The object of the research is public passenger transport services. The task of the study is the development of conceptual foundations for the formation of quality standards using modern innovative technologies. It has been established that the main factor in achieving the quality of public passenger transport services is taking into account innovative technologies and compliance with the criteria and norms of EU standards. Features in the functioning of public passenger transport in the world have been studied, including the use of information platforms for tracking the movement of transport routes, Internet applications, ensuring safety and compliance with environmental requirements. The criteria that serve as indicators of improving the efficiency of the quality of services have been defined, among the main ones are the availability of transportation, comfort, frequency of traffic, and waiting time, quality of service, as well as safety. A system of forming the quality of public passenger transport services has been proposed, which involves determining the needs and requirements of consumers of public passenger transport services, ensures the development of measures to improve the quality of services and their certification. A comprehensive approach to the formation of the quality of public passenger transport services based on the introduction of innovative technologies has been formed, which could make it possible to determine the level of their innovative development, as well as ways to improve it. This approach takes into account the relationship between implemented measures, measuring the level of service quality and the distribution of obligations to ensure the level of services determined by quality criteria. This makes it possible to determine the required level of quality of public passenger transport services and to form a relationship between the level of innovative technologies and the stages of the approach. The practical significance of the results is the design of tools that would ensure the improvement of the quality of public passenger transport services.

Language of emotions: Establishing connection with customers in tourism industries

Establishing a deep connection to customers is crucial in the highly competitive tourism industry. Service providers in the tourism industry must be good expressive communicators in order to deliver a better product and enhance the customer’s experience. This qualitative study explores the significance of the 'Language of Emotions' in the tourism industry, including the use of empathy, emotional intelligence, and effective communication to comprehend and address the emotional requirements of consumers. Tapping twelve (12) frontline tourism industry workers with at least three years of experience and twelve (12) tourists who made six purchases of tourism-related goods in the previous two years totaling to 24 respondents via purposive sampling, results of this study implies that tourism industry professionals can use this language to develop unique experiences, cultivate client loyalty, and accelerate company expansion. Personalized service delivery, emotional engagement, and attentive listening are some strategies. The study also highlights the necessity of providing personnel with communication and emotional intelligence training. The usefulness and difficulties of applying the "Language of Emotions" are covered in the conclusion, along with suggestions for further study and use. For tourism industry experts looking to improve client satisfaction and loyalty through emotional connections, this research provides insightful information.

SUBSTANTIATION OF THE PROFESSIONAL STANDARD OF "PERSONAL FITNESS TRAINER" IN UKRAINE

Professional staff is needed for the effective functioning of health fitness. There are no professional standards for fitness staff in Ukraine, so there is no single standardized approach to determining the list of job functions, general and special competencies, the required knowledge, skills and practical abilities. The purpose of the study is to substantiate and develop a professional standard of "Personal Fitness Trainer" taking into account international experience. Methods: analysis and generalization of scientific and methodical literature, pedagogical observation, functional analysis, documentary method, method of expert evaluations, methods of mathematical statistics. Results. The development of a professional standard for "Personal Fitness Trainer" was based on regulatory acts and the algorithm formed for the health fitness system. There have been identified 60 necessary labor actions which ensure the performance of 9 labor functions of a fitness trainer. The professional standard takes into account the needs of employers, consumer requirements and will be the basis for the industry standard of higher education in the relevant specialty. Conclusions. The developed professional standard for "Personal fitness trainer" is relevant, complies with regulatory acts and established algorithm, adapted to the system of fitness. The expediency of developing a professional standard "Personal fitness trainer" was based on the study of the actual state and prospects of application of fitness staff. The professional standard provides requirements for the content and quality of professional activity; list of general competencies; requirements for the level of qualification, medical contraindications to work, work experience, level of education of a fitness trainer; a list of labor functions and labor actions and the necessary knowledge, skills and abilities; list of subjects and means of work and definition of professional competencies, etc. The professional standard "Personal fitness trainer" should be the basis for the industry standard of higher education in the relevant specialty.

The dual role of blockchain in mediating credence attributes and moderating sensing capabilities in the wine sector

Purpose This study aims to investigate the dynamic capabilities of wineries, focusing on sensing and its role in enabling digital innovation. Furthermore, it explores the role of blockchain technology (BCT) in validating credence attributes of wine, emphasising blockchain as a strategic asset that enhances the ability of wineries to innovate and respond to changing market conditions. Design/methodology/approach The study adopts an exploratory approach based on a longitudinal, single-case study of the Argentinian Costaflores Organic Winery. Findings Findings reveal that integrating digital disruptive innovations such as blockchain can strategically position wineries to better meet emerging consumer preferences and market trends. Blockchain simultaneously acts as both a mediator and a moderator. As a mediator, it facilitates the validation of credence attributes of wine such as authenticity and sustainability, enhancing customer trust and loyalty. As a moderator, it influences the strength and effectiveness of the relationship between sensing and innovation capabilities. This enables wineries to more effectively respond to changing consumer requirements and market trends and improve operational performance. Research limitations/implications The study was limited by its focus on a single case study of the Argentinian Costaflores Organic Winery, which may affect the generalisability of the findings. However, the study provides valuable insights into the strategic adaptation and competitive positioning of wineries in response to the continuing market challenges. It significantly contributes to the understanding of integrating digital disruptive innovations as strategic assets in the agri-food sector, particularly in the wine sector. Originality/value This study addresses a significant research gap by exploring how BCT facilitates the organisation of sensing capabilities. It contributes to the understanding of how the wineries’ sensing capabilities both influence and are influenced by the adoption of BCT, particularly in the context of innovation enabling and improved operational performance.

Comparative analysis of raw milk samples in Amasya region

Milk is a complete and incredibly nutritious food supply for humans. Millions of tons of raw milk have been processed by the dairy industry to meet huge public demand. Therefore, there are studies needed related to the classification of raw milks in the supply chain. The aim of this study is to evaluate the quality of raw milk samples in Amasya region. Firstly, raw cow's milk is classified according to its protein and fat values. In the first period, the mean fat value of raw milk collected from three lines was found to be 3.86, 3.89, and 3.87 as (%) the percent value, respectively, while the mean protein value of raw milk collected from three lines was found to be 3.29, 3.28, and 3.25 as (%) the percent value, respectively. In the second period, the mean fat value of raw milk collected from three lines was found to be 3.93, 3.99, and 4.03 as (%) the percent value, respectively, while the mean protein value of raw milk collected from three lines was found to be 3.34, 3.35, and 3.34 as (%) the percent value, respectively. The findings indicated that during both periods, the daily raw milk collected from three lines is class A, where protein value (%) is 3.1 and above while fat value (%) is 3.5 and above. Since the quality of raw milk is important not only for milk consumers but also for the quality of the corresponding dairy products, the quality of raw milk must be controlled correctly. Consumer requirements for high-quality milk and dairy are of importance on dairy products.

Hybrid Electro search beetle optimization based task scheduling and game theory SOA based resource allocation in multi cloud computing

AbstractThe most complicated process in multi‐cloud computing is resource allocation, as it needs to cope with a number of configurations and constraints of cloud providers and customers. At the time of resource allocation, the centralized cloud broker monitors the virtual machines (VM) status, scheduling process, and fitness. However, VM scheduling is found tedious and has received huge attention in business, academia, and research. This enhances the demand for both task scheduling and resource allocation in a multi‐cloud environment. To bridge the gap between the consumer requirement and server infrastructure, a joint optimization‐based resource allocation and task scheduling concept is analyzed in the proposed framework. The first phase introduces the task scheduling mechanism, which uses Hybrid Electro Search and Beetle Swarm Optimization to determine the optimal task for specific VMs. The optimal selection procedure is done by analyzing a multi‐cloud environment's makespan, energy, cost, and throughput parameters. In the second step, an Adaptive Game Theory‐based Seagull optimization approach performs several rounds of reassignment iteratively to minimize the variation in the expected completion time, consequently decreasing high energy consumption and load balancing. The experimental analysis for the proposed model is implemented using Python. The proposed methodology is shown to achieve cheaper costs, shorter waiting times, improved resource allocation, and efficient load balancing. Finally, a comparative analysis is performed with some hybrid optimization models, which illustrate the efficiency of the proposed hybrid optimization model.

Open-Source Hardware Design of Modular Solar DC Nanogrid

The technical feasibility of solar photovoltaic (PV) direct current (DC) nanogrids is well established, but the components of nanogrids are primarily commercially focused on alternating current (AC)-based systems. Thus, DC converter-based designs at the system level require personnel with high degree of technical knowledge, which results in high costs. To enable a democratization of the technology by reducing the costs, this study provides a novel modular plug-and-play open-source DC nanogrid. The system can be customized according to consumer requirements, enabling the supply of various voltage levels to accommodate different device voltage needs. The step-by-step design process of the converter, controller, data logger, and assembly of the complete system is provided. A time-domain simulation and stability analysis of the designed system were conducted in MATLAB/Simulink (version 2024b) as well as experimental validation. The results show that transforming the nanogrid from a distribution network to a device makes it suitable for various user-specific applications, such as remotely supplying power to campsites, emergency vehicles like ambulances, and small houses lacking grid electricity. The modular DC nanogrid includes all the features available in a DC distribution network, as well as data logging, which enhances the user experience and promotes the use of solar-powered DC grid systems.

Розробка та впровадження удосконалених методів управління бізнес-процесами підприємств торгівлі та апк

The study aims to identify methods of improving the management of business processes in trade and agricultural enterprises. Integration and transformational processes in the Ukrainian economy, high competition, pressure of crisis factors, and high unpredictability of changes in the external environment require Ukrainian trade and agricultural enterprises to search for new, more effective management methods constantly. New management methods should be aimed at strengthening the competitive advantages of trade and agricultural enterprises in the market and the stable operation of the enterprise from a strategic perspective. Therefore, one of the most problematic areas is reorienting trade and agricultural enterprises to a high-tech model of improvement and development of business processes. However, the potential benefits of improving the methods of managing business processes of trade and agricultural enterprises within the framework of implementing the development strategy are promising. It allows them to optimize their activity (economic efficiency) while considering future management specifics. The conducted analysis, which was thorough and comprehensive, made it possible to develop and systematize the criteria for evaluating the effectiveness of managing business processes of trade and agricultural enterprises based on the proposed algorithm in accordance with the goals of business processes and consumer requirements. The work has developed a methodology for evaluating and improving the effectiveness of business process management of trade and agro-industrial complex enterprises, which allows the evaluate the business processes of the enterprise of the correspondingly achieved level (effectiveness of business processes) and increases the efficiency of business processes of trade and agro-industrial complex enterprises relative to the industry and global levels (benchmarking of business processes). During the research, the technology of conducting benchmarking was improved, which allows for an increase in the effectiveness of business processes of trade and agricultural enterprises due to the inclusion of a stage for evaluating the effectiveness of the developed measures in the benchmarking process. Thanks to this, a toolkit is proposed to determine the effectiveness of business process management and its ranking based on Harrington’s verbal-numerical scale. The Harrington scale allows you to determine the effectiveness of business processes, considering the results that are obtained that fall into numerical intervals. The paper proposes using the method of analyzing hierarchies to obtain the most reliable value of the performance indicator of the business process management system of trade and agricultural enterprises. Keywords: business process management, assessment criteria, business process performance, business process benchmarking.

Methodology of sensory analysis in improving the technology of canned fruit beverages

The Ukrainian fruit juice market is competitive and consumers prefer products that have high organoleptic characteristics and retain the maximum amount of nutrients. The study analyses the current state of the fruit beverage market, in particular apple juice, in Ukraine, with a focus on organoleptic properties that influence consumer choice. The relevance of the study lies in the need to improve the technologies for the production of canned fruit juices, in particular apple juice, to ensure compliance with modern consumer requirements for product quality and safety. The fruit juice market in Ukraine is competitive and consumers prefer products with high organoleptic characteristics and retaining the maximum amount of nutrients. Given the change in consumer preferences and increased interest in healthy eating, there is a need for a comprehensive analysis of consumer expectations and sensory properties of products. The aim of the study was to identify the main factors influencing consumers' choice of apple juice, assess the quality of products of the five leading brands in the Ukrainian market (Nash Sik, Jaffa, Galicia, Rich and Biola), and develop recommendations for improving organoleptic characteristics to increase the competitiveness of products. Based on the developed questionnaire, a survey was conducted to determine consumer preferences and the formation of the juice market. The results of the survey revealed a high level of consumer interest in new types of varietal fruit juices, which underlines the importance of research in this area. The main results of the study showed that the juice of the Rich brand meets consumer expectations the best, particularly in terms of taste and aroma. Consumers noted the importance of naturalness of products and the absence of artificial additives, which emphasizes the need to improve production technologies to preserve the natural composition and taste. Recommendations have been developed to improve the quality of apple juice, including optimization of technological processes, increasing the content of nutrients in the final product and ensuring compliance with consumer expectations. The results obtained can be used to increase the competitiveness of products in the market and expand the range of fruit juices in line with current trends in healthy eating.

The utilization of banana peels (Musa acuminata Cavendish subgroup) as an alternative ingredient for producing dried plant-based meat products

The utilization and value-added of agricultural by-products have been highlighted for the novel development of food and non-food products nowadays. This study aimed to produce the dried plant-based meat prototype using banana peels to substitute the textured vegetable protein (TVP) and characterize their properties. Banana peels (state 2 or 3 of maturity) were collected and washed to reduce contamination. The pesticide residues and the characteristics (chemical composition and antioxidant activity) of banana peel were analyzed before use. The meat sample (mixed with ingredients such as TVP, banana peel, sugar, salt, pepper, and other components) was prepared, shaped, and dried in the oven (at 80oC) until the moisture content was lower than 15% and divided for four treatments with different proportions of TVP and peels at the concentrations of 0, 25, 50, and 75 %w/w. The physical and physicochemical properties (color, pH, Aw, texture profile), chemical compositions, biological activity, microbiological test, and sensory evaluation (color, flavor, texture, appearance, and overall liking as well as acceptability) were determined. The results revealed a significantly reduced L * , a * , and b * value (p<0.05) with an increase in banana peels added ratio. The different pH and Aw values were not observed in all treatments (p>0.05). There was no significant difference (p>0.05) was observed in protein content among group treatments compared to the control. The meat sample showed a slightly softer texture when compared to the control (p<0.05). There were no pathogenic microorganisms observed in the meat samples. The overall liking (obtained from 30 panelists) was moderately desirable (5.50 points) from the consumer testing. Moreover, 50% (w/w) of substitution showed the highest score (43.3%), while the control was 33.3% on the acceptability test. According to the results, banana peels could be used as an alternative ingredient for substitute TPV in plant-based meat products. These findings could be helpful for the fundamental data to develop plant-based meat to meet consumer requirements.

Volatiles and bacterial composition of pickled bamboo shoots within 10 pre-packaged Chinese Luosifen disclosed by GC–MS, GC-IMS, and high-throughput sequencing

Pickled bamboo shoots represent a type of fermented bamboo shoot product. In China, pickled bamboo shoots are regarded as the soul of Luosifen, which is a local specialty food in Liuzhou (Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China). To exemplify the uniqueness of the pickled bamboo shoots, we analyzed the pickled bamboo shoots within 10 pre-packaged Chinese Luosifen to determine the composition of volatiles and bacteria, and subsequently examined the correlation between them. The volatiles were identified using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) and gas chromatography-ion mobility spectrometry (GC-IMS). Meanwhile, high-throughput sequencing technology was employed to investigate the bacterial composition. The results indicated that the pH values of the samples exhibited minimal variance (ranging from 3.71 to 4.53), while the total acid (measured as g lactic acid /L) varied (from 4.65 to 10.3 g lactic acid /L). Lactic acid, acetic acid, and succinic acid were the predominant organic acids. 50 volatiles were detected by HS-GC-MIS, and 108 volatiles were identified by HS-SPME-GC–MS. p-Cresol (76,541.67 < OAV < 248,166.67), acetic acid (482.31 < OAV < 1164.62), and hexanoic acid (108.33 < OAV < 1333.33) were the common distinctive volatiles among the 10 samples. Proteobacteria and Firmicutes, as the dominant phyla, were positively and negatively related to 1-butanol (R = 0.66, − 0.66), respectively. Industrial relevanceIn China, Luosifen, as a local delicacy, enjoys popularity among the public for its sour, smelly, spicy, fresh, and oily features. Among them, pickled bamboo shoots are highly sought after for their distinctive sour and refreshing flavor. Nevertheless, some individuals cannot tolerate the sour smell of pickled bamboo shoots yet still have a desire to consume Luosifen. To address this issue, it is crucial to determine what constitutes the pungent odor in pickled bamboo shoots and subsequently regulate it to meet the requirements of diverse consumers and enhance the economic benefits of the Luosifen industry. This study disclosed the stimulant flavor substances of pickled bamboo shoots in 10 pre-packaged Luosifen detected by GC–MS and GC-IMS, offering a theoretical foundation for subsequent regulation.

Repurposing natural gas pipelines for hydrogen: Limits and options from a case study in Germany

We investigate the challenges and options for repurposing existing natural gas pipelines for hydrogen transportation. Challenges of re-purposing are mainly related to safety and due to the risk of hydrogen embrittlement of pipeline steels and the smaller molecular size of the gas. From an economic perspective, the lower volumetric energy density of hydrogen compared to natural gas is a challenge. We investigate three pipeline repurposing options in depth: a) no modification to the pipeline but enhanced maintenance, b) use of gaseous inhibitors, and c) the pipe-in-pipe approach. The levelized costs of transportation of these options are compared for the case of the German Norddeutsche Erdgasleitung (NEL) pipeline. We find a similar cost range for all three options. This indicates that other criteria such as the sunk costs, public acceptance, and consumer requirements are likely to shape the decision making for gas pipeline repurposing.

Interplay of emerging industrial technologies, ambidexterity, and sustainability: The case of the textile sector

The global consumer market demands personalized products and it is quite challenging for the manufacturing industry to address the consumer requirements along with optimal production. In order to curb customization and production challenges, emerging industrial technologies (EIT) are adopted by the industries such as artificial intelligence (AI), internet of things (IoT), autonomous robots (AuR), and mobile technologies (MT). However, this technological transformation may impact organizational sustainability due to EIT's higher capital investment, lack of skilled personnel to operate EIT, and EIT dependency on extensive energy consumption. In addition, EIT must resonate with the sustainable ways of production and consumption which again brings in another challenge of balancing sustainability and production. Ambidextrous practices may enable industrial stakeholders to explore and exploit this disparity. Therefore, it is required to explore the impact of EIT on organizational sustainability along with the mediation of ambidextrous practices which is a notable gap in the existing literature. The sample is taken from Pakistani textile industry to estimate the relationship between the research variables while a quantitative survey approach was adopted to collect data from textile industry professionals. The collected data from 192 respondents was analyzed using partial least square structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) method in SmartPLS 4. The findings reveal a differential influence of EIT on the organizational sustainability dimensions, significant impact in the case of AI, complementary mediation of OA with AuR, competitive mediation of Organizational Ambidexterity for IoT, and fully mediated by Organizational Ambidexterity for MT. The study enriches the dynamic capabilities framework, highlighting Organizational Ambidexterity as essential for effective technological integration to achieve sustainability. For practitioners and policymakers, this research offers a strategic roadmap for leveraging EIT aligned with organizational sustainability objectives, advocating for the development of ambidextrous capabilities to navigate implementation hurdles effectively.

Development of flour confectionery products using physiologically valuable beekeeping products

The current tasks facing specialists involved in the production and circulation of food products is the creation of products that are balanced in terms of physiologically valuable ingredients. The formation of cookies with a modified recipe composition can change the perception of cookie descriptors. So, a desirable aspect is the search for physiologically valuable ingredients that enrich the finished product and meet the requirements of consumers when assessing its consumer properties, characteristic of the geographical location of the regions of residence and familiar to consumers. The purpose of the research was to develop flour confectionery products using physiologically valuable beekeeping products – bee pollen pellet collected in various regions of the country, and to evaluate the consumer characteristics of the resulting products, taking into account the factors of traditional perception of organoleptic indicators. The objects of the research were samples of bee pollen collected in various regions of Russia. The quality of bee pollen pellet was assessed according to organoleptic indicators: appearance, color, consistency, smell, taste. The assessment of physicochemical quality indicators of bee pollen pellet was carried out using industry-accepted methods. The quality of sugar cookies was assessed using accepted methods for assessing the quality of flour confectionery products. The assessment of the organoleptic quality indicators of the cookies was also carried out hedonistically using the acceptability and preference method and the paired comparison method. The research has confirmed the feasibility of using bee products (bee pollen pellet) in the production of flour confectionery products. Hedonic tests of the perception of flour confectionery products with the addition of beekeeping products and bee pollen have confirmed the traditional perception of the finished products. In general, the proposed solutions for the development of flour confectionery products using physiologically valuable beekeeping products will expand the range of functional food products.

Physical Quality Parameters and Activity of Albumen Lysozyme of Eggs From Traditional Hens Bred in Poland Compared With Commercial Hybrids

Abstract The variation in egg quality parameters of traditional/native hen breeds with good freshness and antibacterial properties of egg albumen may determine the attractiveness of these eggs for modern consumers looking for high quality products. The objective of this study was to evaluate external and internal physical quality parameters and enzymatic activity of lysozyme of eggs from three traditional hens bred in Poland and to compare these egg quality parameters to those obtained from commercial hybrids kept under the same management conditions in extensive farming production system. The study was carried out on eggs collected from 4 genetic groups of hens, i.e. Polish Liliputy Bantams (PLB), native Polish Crested Chickens (PCr, CP-22 strain), Gold Laced Polish Chickens (GLP) and from Hy–Line Brown hybrids (HLB). In total 135 PLB, 75 PCr, 75 GLP and 75 HLB hens were kept on litter (3 pens) and fed commercial feed. The eggs (n = 33/genotype/age) were collected at the 33 and 55 weeks of age. The study concluded that with the age of the hens, there was an increase (P&lt;0.05) in the weight of the egg and the proportion of its main fractions, as well as a decrease (P&lt;0.05) in the quality parameters of the albumen and the eggshell. However the eggs from traditional breeds retain good parameters of albumen quality even at the end of production period. The eggs of traditional hens were characterized by higher (P&lt;0.05) yolk proportion and its color and albumen lysozyme parameters, and a lower (P&lt;0.05) eggshell and albumen height and Haugh unit score in relation to commercial hybrids. The highest (P&lt;0.05) content of lysozyme and enzymatic activity of lysozyme were found in eggs from Gold Laced Polish Chickens. Thus, eggs obtained from traditional hens may meet requirements of modern consumers because of specific physical characteristics, good albumen lysozyme activity and freshness parameters. Particularly noteworthy are Polish Liliputy Bantams eggs, characterized by the low weight and a high proportion of more intensely colored yolk and good Haugh unit score at the end of production period.

Exploration of a European-centered strawberry diversity panel provides markers and candidate genes for the control of fruit quality traits.

Fruit quality traits are major breeding targets in cultivated strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa). Taking into account the requirements of both growers and consumers when selecting high-quality cultivars is a real challenge. Here, we used a diversity panel enriched with unique European accessions and the 50K FanaSNP array to highlight the evolution of strawberry diversity over the past 160years, investigate the molecular basis of 12 major fruit quality traits by genome-wide association studies (GWAS), and provide genetic markers for breeding. Results show that considerable improvements of key breeding targets including fruit weight, firmness, composition, and appearance occurred simultaneously in European and American cultivars. Despite the high genetic diversity of our panel, we observed a drop in nucleotide diversity in certain chromosomal regions, revealing the impact of selection. GWAS identified 71 associations with 11 quality traits and, while validating known associations (firmness, sugar), highlighted the predominance of new quantitative trait locus (QTL), demonstrating the value of using untapped genetic resources. Three of the six selective sweeps detected are related to glossiness or skin resistance, two little-studied traits important for fruit attractiveness and, potentially, postharvest shelf life. Moreover, major QTL for firmness, glossiness, skin resistance, and susceptibility to bruising are found within a low diversity region of chromosome 3D. Stringent search for candidate genes underlying QTL uncovered strong candidates for fruit color, firmness, sugar and acid composition, glossiness, and skin resistance. Overall, our study provides a potential avenue for extending shelf life without compromising flavor and color as well as the genetic markers needed to achieve this goal.

ЦИФРОВІ ТРАНСФОРМАЦІЇ ПРОГРАМ ЛОЯЛЬНОСТІ ПІДПРИЄМСТВ ТОРГІВЛІ

The development of retail, due to the emergence of new modern digital tools, is changing approaches to ensuring and managing consumer loyalty within the framework of the implementation of the concept of relationship marketing. Loyalty programs implemented by retail enterprises need to be transformed to ensure interaction with consumers in all available channels using the capabilities of artificial intelligence, machine learning and Big Data. The purpose of the article is to determine the prerequisites and directions of transformation of loyalty programs in accordance with the possibilities of using digital tools relevant for retail to ensure interaction with consumers within the omnichannel approach. The object of the research is loyalty programs of retail trade enterprises as a set of tools aimed at strengthening the positive experience of interaction with consumers and increasing their level of satisfaction with the offered services. The methods used in the research. Here are used methods of categorical analysis and synthesis to study theoretical approaches to determining the essence and features of omnichannel loyalty programs. In addition, the description of the transformation of loyalty programs required the use of the observation method to display market trends and vectors of their influence on the specified process, as well as specification - to highlight and characterize relevant digital tools. Research hypothesis. The development of technologies and the emergence of new digital tools in retail, along with changes in purchasing consumers’ behavior, necessitates the transformation of loyalty programs. The expediency of interacting with consumers at all possible touch points determines the relevance of an omnichannel loyalty program. Presenting main material. In order to form consumer loyalty, trade enterprises must ensure a high level of their satisfaction with the service process, which is associated with the use of influence opportunities with the help of special programs. Factors in the marketing environment change consumer requirements for loyalty programs, the use of new digital tools in retail allows for effective interaction within the scope of the omnichannel approach. The originality and practical significance of the research lies in proving the relevance of the transformation of loyalty programs using digital tools. Conclusions and perspectives of further research. The omnichannel loyalty program allows to increase the efficiency of retail trade enterprises. Digital tools implemented in omnichannel loyalty programs and the specifics of their application, in our opinion, are the subject of separate researches.

Emergence and Transformation of K-Smart Beauty Care

Purpose: K-smart beauty is securing an important position in the global beauty industry through innovation based on a scientific approach and the latest technology. This satisfies consumers' diverse appearance management needs and conveys the positive values of the new K-culture. In this study, we aim to examine changes in Korean beauty care behavior for the pursuit of health interventions and aesthetics that meet consumer requirements and preferences. Method: This study investigated academic research published by the Korea Research Information Sharing Service(www.riss.kr), data from Korea's government-funded research institutes, and media articles to investigate the recent change process of K-beauty. Purpose of the study a literature review was conducted by organizing the contents that corresponded to the above. Results: The beauty industry in Korean society is going through a process of specialization, segmentation, and cutting-edge technology, and is transforming into smart beauty through continuous innovation. Changing consumer awareness of beauty care was at work on this basis, and various factors such as technological development and distribution of beauty equipment, diversification of service provision to consumers, and globalization of K-culture were confirmed to have a complex synergistic effect. Conclusion: In Korean society, the perception of beauty care is changing beyond simple appearance care to the concept of smart beauty, which includes health interventions. It has been confirmed that these changes enable the provision of efficient and economical services and are gradually moving towards data-based customized services for everyone while protecting the environment.