Rich Nutrient Research Articles

Impact of ripening stages and drying techniques on the physicochemical and sensory attributes of apple mango chips.

Mangoes (Mangifera indica L.) are valued for their rich nutrients, including vitamins A, B, C, carotenoids, and phenolic compounds. However, high moisture content and seasonal availability contribute to post-harvest losses of up to 50%. To reduce these losses and extend shelf life, drying methods like solar, convective, and freeze-drying are used, each impacting dried mango quality differently. This study examines how ripening stages and drying methods affect the physicochemical and sensory qualities of apple mango chips, analyzing attributes such as moisture (7.81%-11.50%), protein (2.49%-2.89%), fat (0.78%-1.11%), pH, total soluble solids, and color parameters (L* and a* values). Results show that solar drying, especially for fully ripe mangoes, enhances color and sensory qualities, with fully ripe, solar-dried mango chips receiving the highest ratings for color, taste, flavor, and aroma. This emphasizes the importance of optimizing ripeness and drying techniques to improve dried mango quality. Although solar drying is cost-effective and preserves sensory qualities, limitations include nutrient loss and limited access to advanced drying technologies like freeze-drying, especially in developing regions. The study's focus on apple mangoes and a small, non-trained sensory panel may limit generalizability, suggesting that future research could explore additional drying methods across more mango varieties. Larger sensory panels with trained evaluators may provide broader insights. This study offers valuable strategies for enhancing dried mango production and marketability. By optimizing ripening stages and drying techniques, industry professionals and researchers can improve product quality, meet consumer preferences, and support sustainability, benefiting local farmers and global markets.

Peningkatan Ketahanan Pakan Ternak Melalui Pembuatan Silase di Desa Pesantren, Kecamatan Blado, Kabupaten Batang

Silage is forage processing done by fermentation using lactic acid under anaerobic conditions. Silage is an alternative animal feed that can fulfil animal feed needs when it is difficult to obtain. The rich nutrient content in silage, such as protein, carbohydrates and minerals can fulfil the nutritional needs of animals and support optimal productivity. This activity aims to provide in-depth knowledge and skills to farmers regarding silage making techniques as quality animal feed. Activities start from information gathering; preparation and making of silage materials, concepts, and samples; preparation and procurement of silage material tools; implementation of socialisation; opening of silage results, and evaluation of activities that have been carried out. This test consists of several variables including; aroma, texture, colour and the presence of fungi. The results of the activity showed an increase in farmers' knowledge about silage making, there were 82% of farmers who understood the material presented and 55% of farmers were very satisfied with the activities that had been carried out. The silage results that have been made show some characteristics that are less in accordance with the category of good quality silage at the top of the silage, but the silage results at the bottom are still in the category that can be accepted by livestock. Good quality silage can be determined through its physical quality, so an organoleptic test is carried out to see the physical quality of silage. The quality of the silage produced based on organoleptic tests has a brownish green colour, a slightly smelly aroma, a slightly watery mushy texture and the presence of fungi in the top layer. Thus, making silage has the potential to be a solution to overcome the problem of feed availability in the dry season and increase the capacity of farmers in managing feed.

Nutrient content in tissues of Groenlandia densa, Myriophyllum spicatum and Zannichellia palustris: an attempt to understand the intercompartmental relationships in a small stream in the Middle Atlas Mountains of Morocco

Research has long focused on the relative importance of leaves and roots as sources of nutrient supply for macrophytes, as well as the function each stream compartment plays in their growth and development. This study aims to expand the debate on aquatic ecology and to better understand the connection between compartments in aquatic systems by highlighting the relationship observed in rivers between nutrients in macrophytes tissues, water, and sediments. We measured the concentrations of P-PO4, N-NO3 and N-NH4 in three different compartments of the Amengous stream in the Middle Atlas of Morocco. Myriophyllum spicatum (L.), Groenlandia densa (L.) Fourr. and Zannichellia palustris (L.) were selected as plant species. Our results show that even if the species coexist in the same habitat, they respond differently to nutrient richness. G. densa has a higher nutrient accumulation capacity than M. spicatum and Z. palustris and prefers the water compartment as a nutrient source. Although M. spicatum can accumulate phosphate compounds from water and sediment, ammonium is not its preferred nitrogen source. Z. palustris shows a tendency to accumulate nitrogen compounds through the roots, while it prefers the assimilation of phosphorus compounds through the leaves rather than the roots.

Consumer Preferences, Sensory Evaluation, and Color Analysis of Beetroot and Tomato Juices: Implications for Product Development and Marketing in Health-Promoting Beverages.

This study explores the significance of beetroot and tomato juices, two prominent health-promoting foods known for their rich nutrient content and bioactive compounds. The growing consumer awareness of the link between diet and well-being emphasizes the need for food producers to align their products with health-conscious preferences. The aim of this research was to assess the composition, color, and sensory attributes-specifically color, taste, and odor-of various commercially available beetroot and tomato juices and to evaluate their acceptability among consumers. A total of 50 dietitians (41 women and 9 men) participated in sensory evaluations and spectrophotometric color analysis using the CIELAB system, which measures lightness (L*), red-green tones (a*), and blue-yellow tones (b*). This dual approach allowed for a comprehensive understanding of how color characteristics correspond to sensory ratings. Results revealed significant differences in color and sensory attributes among the juices, with darker hues and higher red-tone values generally preferred by consumers. Juices with lower lightness (L*) and dominant blue or red tones (negative b*, higher a*) were consistently rated higher, suggesting that color plays a pivotal role in initial product acceptance. However, no single juice excelled across all sensory categories, indicating varied consumer preference. The findings underscore the influence of color on consumer perception and its potential for guiding product development. For producers of functional beverages, optimizing visual appeal through precise control of color parameters could enhance marketability while balancing sensory attributes such as taste and aroma. These insights support the development of products that satisfy both nutritional goals and consumer expectations.

Detannying in Cashew Apple Juice (Anacardium occidentale L.) by Chemical Agents

Vietnam is the leading exporter of cashew nuts globally; however, the cashew apple, constituting 75% of the total harvest from cashew trees, remains underexploited despite its rich nutrient content. The main reason is that cashew apple contains high amount of tannin which causes astringency. Consequently, this undesired compound poses a significant challenge for food product development. Thus, tannin removal is critical in cashew apple juice processing to improve sensorial characteristic and produce a nutritious beverage from cashew apple. Gelatin, modified cassava starch (MCS), and polyvinyl polypyrolidone (PVPP) are the most recommended agents for tannin reduction. This study evaluated the efficacy of these clarifying agents based on agent concentration, processing time, and juice pH. Results indicated that gelatin at 2 g/L for 30 min at pH 3 reduced tannin by 34.31%; MCS removed 41.34% of tannins at 3 g/L for 30 min at pH 3; and PVPP achieved tannin removal of 32.45% at 4 g/L for 30 min at pH 4. All chemical treatments decreased nutritional values, including vitamin C, sugars, polyphenols, and antioxidant activity. While MCS demonstrated the highest tannin removal efficiency, the sensory quality of the treated juice requires further enhancement due to low pH.

Artemisia annua Residue Regulates Immunity, Antioxidant Ability, Intestinal Barrier Function, and Microbial Structure in Weaned Piglets.

Artemisia annua residue (AR), as the byproduct of industrial extraction of artemisinin, contains rich nutrients and active ingredients. This study was conducted to determine the effects of AR as an unconventional feed material on growth performance, immunity, and intestinal health in weaned piglets. Thirty-two piglets weaned at 21 days (7.53 ± 0.31 kg average BW) were fed with a corn-soybean basal diet (BD) and a basal diet with 1% (LAR), 2% (MAR), and 4% (HAR) AR diets for 28 days. AR diets increased the serum IgA and complement component 3 levels, superoxide dismutase activity, and villus height in the duodenum (p < 0.05). The MAR group increased the ADG, serum total protein, and mRNA expression levels of Claudin-1 in the duodenum and zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1) and the mucin 2 (MUC2) in the colon, as well as colonic Romboutsia and Anaerostipes abundances, and decreased the Proteobacteria abundance (p < 0.05). To sum up, dietary AR supplementation may enhance growth performance by improving serum immunoglobulin and antioxidant enzyme activity, intestinal morphology, tight junction protein expression, and gut microbiota of weaned piglets. Regression analysis showed that the optimal AR supplemental level for growth performance, immunity, antioxidant ability, and intestinal health of weaned piglets was 2.08% to 4.24%.

Multi-Omics Analysis of the Molecular Mechanisms by Which Extract of Artemisia selengensis Turcz. Ameliorates DBP-Induced Liver Injury.

Artemisia selengensis Turcz. is a perennial herb belonging to the genus Artemisia in the family Asteraceae. Known for its nutrient richness, distinct flavor, and medicinal properties, Artemisia selengensis Turcz. has garnered attention. However, its efficacy, particularly in alleviating hepatic injury, remains underexplored. This study aims to assess the therapeutic potential of the 50% ethanol extract of Artemisia selengensis Turcz. (ASTE) in a mouse model of dibutyl phthalate (DBP)-induced liver injury. Through multi-omics analysis, including transcriptomics, metabolomics, and intestinal flora examination, we explored the pathways and key targets of ASTE in treating liver injury. Network pharmacology further identified the crucial components of ASTE for liver injury treatment. Our findings indicate that ASTE affects intestinal flora such as Adlercreutzia through flavonoids, particularly naringin and epicatechin. Additionally, key genes in the PPAR pathway, such as fatty acid-binding protein 3 (Fabp3), fatty acid-binding protein 5 (Fabp5), 3-hydroxyacyl-CoA dehydrogenase (Ehhadh), and phospholipid transfer protein (Pltp), influence glycerophospholipid metabolism, contributing to liver injury amelioration. This study sheds light on the molecular mechanisms underlying ASTE's hepatoprotective effects, laying the groundwork for its potential application as a functional food.

NUTRITIONAL AND PHYSIO-CHEMICAL COMPARISON OF FRESH, RAW AND COMMERCIAL MILK

Background: Milk is a vital source of nutrition for individuals of all age groups, including infants, children, adults, and the elderly. It is globally recognized for its rich nutrient profile, offering proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. However, milk adulteration, particularly with water, has become a widespread issue, reducing its nutritional quality and posing significant health risks. Understanding variations in milk quality among different suppliers is crucial to ensuring safe consumption and guiding better production practices. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the quality, safety, and nutritional composition of fresh raw milk from farms, shops, milkmen, and packaged brands available in local markets, identifying variations and contamination levels to promote consumer awareness and inform better handling practices. Methods: Milk samples were collected from farms, shops, milkmen, and packaged brands through random sampling in the Multan region. A total of 20 milk samples were analyzed, five from each source. Sterilized glass bottles were used for sample collection, followed by transportation in iceboxes to maintain freshness. Nutritional analyses included protein, fat, lactose, and moisture content using standard methods such as the Kjeldahl and Gerber techniques. Physio-chemical properties, including specific gravity, acidity, total solids, and solids-not-fat, were measured using lactometers, pH meters, and titration methods. Data were statistically analyzed using one-way ANOVA to assess significant differences among groups. Results: The study revealed significant variations in milk quality. Packaged milk showed the lowest moisture content (80.4%), while milkman samples had the highest (92.0%). Protein levels ranged from 2.2% in milkman samples to 3.4% in farm milk. Fat content was lowest in milkman samples (2.1%) and highest in farm milk (4.3%). Lactose ranged from 3.2% in milkman samples to 5.5% in packaged milk. Solid-not-fat content varied between 7.7% and 8.5%, while total solids ranged from 11.6% to 14.4%. Specific gravity ranged from 1.02 to 1.03, and acidity levels were between 0.09% and 0.15%. Packaged milk was the safest option with minimal contamination, while farm milk exhibited superior nutritional quality compared to milk from shops and milkmen, which were heavily contaminated. Conclusion: Packaged milk was found to be safer for consumption, but farm milk exhibited better nutritional quality. Milk from shops and milkmen was heavily contaminated, underscoring the need for improved hygiene practices. These findings emphasize the importance of awareness among consumers, farmers, and suppliers regarding milk quality, adulteration, and safe handling practices to ensure better public health outcomes.

An Overview of Potential Benefits for General Health and Weight Management by Consuming of Chia Seedsaa

Chia seeds (Salvia hispanica L.) have undoubtedly Attain Approval in current time due to their nourishing advantages. They are Famous for their huge composition of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for cardiac and central nervous systems. Also, chia seeds are Affluent in nutritive microfibers, which can help in assimilation and allow an affection of satiety; chia seeds have a huge contentof proteins and derivatives, so considered a good origin of proteins. These proteins and derivatives are necessary for different bodily Concerns, including muscle rebuilding and development, enzyme protraction. A way from the twenty certified proteins, dozen are included in the standardized metabolism techniques of plant corpuscle, and the tarrying 8 are exactly connected to the rendering and preservation of plant fats, indicating that the huge content of fats in chia seeds, which is responsible for thirty percent of their content. Also, chia seeds are Distinctly Loaded in omega-3 fatty acids, hatch twenty percent of their fats content. The residences of these proteins are interrelated to fats generation and preservation enlighten on why chia seeds are an important origin of omega-3 fatty acids and other advantageous fats. Chia seeds are a rich nutrient because of their super content and good effects on the health. Also, Weight controlling, Chia seeds are loaded in natural or artificial substance and nitrogenous matter, which can aid in assist a feeling of satiety and decrease calories consumption.

The Ocean Serves as a Net Source of Atmospheric Nitric Oxide but a Net Sink of Nitrogen Dioxide.

Nitrogen oxides (NOx), comprised of nitric oxide (NO) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2), play a crucial role in the global nitrogen cycle, but the oceanic occurrence remained unclear. Here, we show an integrated underway observation of oceanic and atmospheric NO and NO2 from the coastal seas to the open ocean in the northwestern Pacific Ocean (NWPO). The concentrations of NO and NO2 showed similar distribution patterns that the coastal seas with rich nitrogen nutrients showed higher levels, like the Yellow Sea (7.6 and 19.9 pmol L-1) and the East China Sea (11.8 and 23.3 pmol L-1), while the oligotrophic sea and open ocean showed decreased levels, like the South China Sea (2.4 pmol L-1 and below the detection limit, LOD) and the NWPO (3.5 pmol L-1 and below the LOD). Apart from nitrogen nutrients, sea surface temperature might be another important influencing factor on the NO and NO2 distribution. In the surface water (<10 m), photoproduction was a major NO source compared to the microbial process, while in the mixed layer, the microbial process played a more critical role. The saturation values showed that the sea was a net source of atmospheric NO but was a net sink of NO2.

Enhancing biomass fuel properties of municipal sewage sludge with carbon-rich and low ash energy crops common reed and miscanthus

Wastewater treatment plant effluents, sewage sludge, and purified water are important resources for producing renewable energy and implementing a carbon-neutral green energy policy due to their richness in organic matter and nutrients for energy crops. In the present study, the biomass energy potential, fuel quality, and combustion emission characteristics of sewage sludge and the energy plants Arundo donax and Miscanthus×giganteus and their mixtures were investigated to improve the combustion properties of sewage sludge. The plant biomass is produced using sewage treatment plant effluent as a nutrient source. The proximate and ultimate analysis results showed that adding plant biomass shifted the fuel value of the mixtures, mainly reducing the ash content and increasing the volatile matter and carbon content in the solid biofuel. The regression analysis showed that heating values of 25, 50, and 75 % biomass in sewage sludge mixtures linearly increased HHV and LHV values. The increase in volatile matter significantly improved the ignitability index of sewage sludge, reaching the optimum value of 35 at 75 % biomass mixtures for both crops. The NOx and SO2 emissions of the mixtures were lower than those of sewage sludge. Overall, the results indicate a synergistic effect between the combustion of biomass from energy crops and sewage sludge. A comprehensive comparison of proximate, ultimate, heating value, fuel indices, and gaseous emissions shows that the mixed fuels of 50 % biomass and 50 % sewage sludge can promote combustion and reduce emissions. Arundo had better biofuel properties than Miscanthus.

Effects of Inoculating Symbiotic Microorganisms on Acacia mangium Grown on Coconut Fiber

The ability of Acacia mangium to grow on degraded soils, thanks to its ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen, makes it a very important species in agroforestry and in the restoration of impoverished soils. However, all the experiments on Acacia mangium, whether inoculated or not, have only been carried out on a single type of substrate, i.e. soil. The aim was to determine whether inoculation significantly increased the biomass and height growth of Acacia mangium grown on coconut fiber. The experimental design comprised 5 treatments (Ta, T, M, R, and MR) with 5 replicates. Characterizing the coconut fiber and the dry biomass of Acacia mangium above ground and roots consisted of determining the content of elements such as P, K, Ca, Mg, and N. The number of nodules was also counted The results showed that inoculation (M, R and, MR) had no significant effect on the height growth and biomass of Acacia mangium. Non-inoculated (Ta and T) plants showed greater growth, probably due to the richness of nutrients (N, P) in the coconut fiber. The presence of nodules in the non-inoculated plants indicates the presence of indigenous strains in the coconut fiber. Double inoculation (mycorrhizae/rhizobia) significantly stimulated the growth and nodulation of Acacia mangium. Double inoculation also increased substrate fertility, which had a positive effect on plant growth. The Glomus-Bradyrhizobium combination appeared to be the most effective in improving the growth and nodulation of Acacia mangium.

Assessing the potential of mosquito larval rearing water for enhanced tomato seedling establishment

Vigorous seedlings guarantee satisfactory production in the forward stages of the vegetation period. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of bio-based rearing water of two mosquito species (Culiseta sp. and Culex sp.) on tomato germination, emergence, and seedling quality. For this purpose, two distinct larval-rearing waters (LRW)(with diverse larval densities), and fry food-applied water were used as bio-priming agents. The findings revealed that using bio-based rearing water could enhance the vigor of tomato seeds. All Culex sp. derived LRWs had a shorter mean germination time than the control group. One Culex sp. derived larval rearing water treatment resulted in the shortest mean germination time (4.35 days), whereas one Culiseta sp. derived larval rearing water treatment resulted in the longest (6.20 days). There were no statistically significant differences in stem length but significant differences in plant length. Plant length was shorter in larval rearing water and fry food-applied water than in the control. The stem diameters of plants primed with larval rearing water were generally wider than the control. According to analyses of the plant length, stem length, and stem diameter measurements, the larval rearing water and fry food-applied water treatments may have had a reductive influence on plant length but provided significant support for thicker seedlings, which are more beneficial for seedlings. Other germination and growth characteristics (vigor index of germination, emergence percentage, mean time of emergence, vigor index of emergence, plant length, stem length, leaf width, leaf length, stem fresh weight, stem dry weight, root dry weight) did not show significant variation among treatments. Using larval rearing water as a bio-priming agent in agriculture offers several benefits. Larval rearing water enhances seed germination and vigor due to its possibly rich nutrient content and bioactive compounds, promoting faster and more uniform germination. It is an eco-friendly and cost-effective alternative to chemical treatments, supporting sustainable agricultural practices.

The hex1 gene of Trichoderma simmonsii is involved in stress responses, biocontrol potential and wheat plant growth

Woronin bodies are unique organelles in Pezizomycotina fungi that allow hyphae compartmentalization and prevent cytoplasmatic bleeding after mechanical injury. Several studies have related the peroxisomal protein HEX1, the major component of Woronin bodies with other biological processes such as hyphal growth, osmotic stress tolerance and pathogenicity. Trichoderma spp. are plant-beneficial multipurpose biological control agents, and proteomic and transcriptomic studies have shown that HEX1 and its corresponding gene are overrepresented when grown in the presence of fungal cell walls and plant polymers. To further investigate the involvement of hex1 in Trichoderma biology, we generated hex1 deletion transformants using the wheat endophytic strain T. simmonsii T137 as host. Results confirmed that hex1 gene is involved in the prevention of cytoplasmatic bleeding, and also has a role in fungal growth and biocontrol potential against phytopathogenic fungi and oomycetes. The involvement of hex1 in the fungal response to osmotic and oxidative stresses is conditioned by the type of stress and by the nutrient richness of the culture medium. The hex1 deletion also affected the interaction with wheat, but did not affect the plant protective effect of T137 against water stress. Overall, this study shows the implication of HEX1 in a wide range of biological processes necessary for T. simmonsii to deploy its abilities to be used as an agriculturally beneficial fungus.

The impact of replacing chemical nitrogen fertilizer with monosodium glutamate waste liquid residue on yield, quality, and carbon emission of rice production

Replacing chemical nitrogen (N) fertilizer with monosodium glutamate waste liquid residue (MSGWLR) is beneficial for achieving clean production in both the monosodium glutamate (MSG) industry and agriculture. However, the impact of this method on rice production and environment has not yet been clear. This study adopted field experiments to clarify the rice yield, quality and carbon emissions applying conventional application of chemical N fertilizer (CF), reduction of N fertilizer by 20% (N80%), based on reduction of chemical N fertilizer by 20% and replacing 50% chemical N fertilizer with MSGWLR (MSGWLR50%), and replacing 100% chemical N fertilizer (MSGWLR100%). The results showed that compared with CF treatment, MSGWLR100% showed no significant changes in rice yield, milling quality, fatty acid value, and taste quality. The chalkiness rate of rice significantly decreased, and the protein content significantly increased. On the other hand, the carbon emissions from rice production treated with MSGWLR100% were the lowest, with a 58.5% decrease in global warming potential (GWP) compared to CF treatment. This was mainly because MSGWLR100% treatment could provide rich and balanced nutrients for rice growth, and it did not promote greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from paddy field. At the same time, it effectively reduced the indirect carbon emissions in chemical fertilizer production by reducing chemical N fertilizer. Therefore, the MSGWLR100% fertilization treatment is beneficial for cleaner production in the MSG industry and rice cultivation.Graphical

Nutritional Quality, Functional Properties, and Biological Characterization of Watermeal (Wolffia globosa)

Watermeal (Wolffia globosa) has emerged as a promising candidate as an alternative protein source due to its outstanding nutritional profile. This study evaluated the nutritional quality, functional properties, and biological characteristics of W. globosa. The protein content was found to be high at 26.76 g/100 g of dry weight (DW). Functional properties, including water and oil holding capacities, protein solubility, foaming, and emulsifying abilities across different pH levels, were assessed to determine optimal conditions. Amino acid profiling revealed that essential amino acids constitute 67% of the total amino acids. Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), particularly α-linolenic (18:3 n-3) and linoleic acids (18:2 n-6), were identified as the predominant fatty acids. Additionally, watermeal was found to contain significant amounts of α-tocopherol (699 µg/g) and γ-oryzanol (100 µg/g), which contribute to its antioxidant capacity, as confirmed by DPPH and FRAP assays. The prominent protein bands were observed at around 62–67 kDa, likely representing a structural, metabolic protein (vicilin-like protein) of 38% of the total protein content. Overall, W. globosa demonstrates significant potential as a functional food ingredient, offering a rich nutrient profile and health-promoting properties, making it a promising choice for future diets.

Changes in Postharvest Quality and Physiological Attributes of Strawberry Fruits Influenced by l-Phenylalanine.

Strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa) is a popular fruit with rich nutrients and a delicious taste. But this fruit is very vulnerable to diseases and decay. Therefore, l-phenylalanine (Phe) (0, 4, 8 mM) was considered to improve biochemical characteristics and activity of antioxidant enzymes in strawberry fruit cv. Sabrina under cold storage (5, 10, 15 days). After treatment and storage, traits including weight loss, total phenol (TP), antioxidant capacity, ascorbic acid, total anthocyanin (TA), total flavonoid (TF), malondialdehyde (MDA), soluble protein content and antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), ascorbate peroxidase (APX), and guaiacol peroxidase (POD) and phenylalanine ammonialyase (PAL) were evaluated at 5-day intervals. Our findings showed that the treatment of l-phenylalanine in different concentrations prevented the weight loss of the fruit compared to the control and maintained and increased TP, antioxidant capacity, ascorbic acid, TA, TF, soluble protein and SOD, CAT, APX, POD, and PAL enzymes activity. Also, Phe decreased the MDA content and peroxidation of lipid. The results showed that 4 mM Phe is the best treatment for improving phytochemical characteristics and maintaining fruit quality. The findings indicated that Phe treatment may be useful to improve quality and increase postharvest shelf life in strawberry fruits.

The Millet Scenario in India during the Last Three Decades

The nutrient rich millet crops are cultivated in marginal and poor soil as rainfed crop in India.Millets are rich in proteins, and minerals like Zinc, Iron and Phytochemicals, because of it rich nutrient status it’s called as Nutri-cereals. The market demand on millets in increasing day by day. So, this study focussed on the growth performance and instability in area, production and productivity. This study considered the period from 1990 to 2021. The secondary data like area, production and productivity were collected from various publications like APEDA, Agriculture StatisticsHandbook and India Stat. Over the entire period the area, production and productivity showed a decreasing trend. The estimated CDVI (Cuddy-Della Valle Index) value revealed that the production of millets had high instability while the area had the lowest instability. Hence the government should create awareness among the farmers and consumers.

Application of QuEChERS extraction and LC–MS/MS for determination of pharmaceuticals in sewage sludges sampled across the Czech Republic

The use of pharmaceuticals entails a significant risk of environmental contamination. Wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) are considered to be the main contributors to contamination as they ineffectively eliminate these compounds from wastewater. Simultaneously, they produce solid waste, sludge, which often contains a variety of retained pollutants, including pharmaceuticals. Since sewage sludge is frequently applied to agricultural soil due to its rich nutrient content, pollutants are introduced into the environment in this way. Only a few studies have been carried out on the topic of the analysis of pharmaceuticals in sludge. Therefore, information on the occurrence of pharmaceuticals in sludge is limited. The present study employed quick, easy, cheap, effective, rugged and safe (QuEChERS) extraction and liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) analysis to establish a simple and reliable procedure for determining 16 pharmaceuticals (antibiotics, anticonvulsants, antidepressants and β-blockers) in sewage sludge. The method has been thoroughly validated, and parameters such as linear range, accuracy, precision, matrix effects and detection and quantification limits were assessed. Our method achieved low limits of quantification (0.5–9.0 µg kg−1) and satisfactory recoveries (51–101%). Forty sludge samples from different WWTPs across the Czech Republic were analysed. Fourteen compounds were detected and quantified in most samples, with antidepressants having the highest detection frequency and overall content. Sertraline, with a mean concentration of 521.0 µg kg−1, was notably prevalent alongside its metabolite norsertraline (mean concentration 204.9 µg kg−1). The antibiotic azithromycin was also found at higher levels (mean concentration 185.1 µg kg−1).

Teff: Its applicability in various food uses and potential as a key component in gluten-free food formulations—An overview of existing literature research

In recent years, there has been a significant increase in demand for gluten-free foods. This rise can be attributed to a growing number of individuals opting for gluten-free diets due to factors such as gluten sensitivity and celiac disease. Interest in teff has also increased markedly due to its high protein content, balanced amino acid composition, and rich nutrient contents including fiber, iron, and calcium, along with its gluten-free nature. Additionally, teff exhibits positive functional properties that contribute to improving texture, moisture retention, and shelf life in gluten-free products. Its mild flavor profile allows for versatile applications across a spectrum of culinary applications, enhancing the sensory appeal and taste of gluten-free offerings. This makes it a suitable alternative to wheat and other grains in food applications for individuals with celiac disease. Overall, integrating teff into gluten-free formulations presents an attractive opportunity to enhance the nutritional quality, sensory experience, and market competitiveness of gluten-free products, catering to the diverse needs and preferences of consumers seeking gluten-free alternatives for health, dietary, or lifestyle reasons. Further research and innovation in teff-based product development are crucial to fully unlock its potential and promote inclusive, sustainable growth in the gluten-free food sector. Therefore, these attributes underscore teff's promising role in the global food and beverage industries.