Consumer Safety Research Articles

Synthetic Data Generation for AI-Informed End-of-Line Testing for Lithium-Ion Battery Production

Lithium-ion batteries are a key technology in supply chains for modern electric vehicles. Their production is complex and can be prone to defects. As such, the detection of defective batteries is critical to ensure performance and consumer safety. Existing end-of-line testing relies heavily on electrical measurements for identifying defective cells. However, it is possible that not all pertinent information is encoded within the electrical measurements alone. Reversible expansion in lithium-ion cells is an indicator of lithiation within the cell, while irreversible expansion is a consequence of the ageing process; unexpected expansion may indicate the presence of undesirable defects. By measuring expansion in addition to electrical measurements, we aim to make better and faster quality predictions during end-of-line testing, thereby facilitating the early detection of potential defects. To make these predictions, we implement artificial intelligence algorithms to extract information from the measurements. Training these networks requires large training datasets, which are expensive to produce. In this paper, we demonstrate a first-order physical modelling approach for generating synthetic data to pre-train artificial intelligence algorithms that perform anomaly detection on lithium-ion battery cells at the end-of-line. The equivalent circuit model used to generate voltage curves could be fit to real data with a mean absolute error of less than 1%, and the expansion model could be fit to a mean absolute error of less than 2% of the measured values. By pretraining the artificial intelligence network using synthetic data, we can leverage existing physical models to reduce the amount of training data required.

Preliminary assessment of heavy metal contamination in children's cereal bars: implications for consumer safety on the Polish market.

The primary objective of this study is to evaluate the content of heavy metals, including cadmium, lead, zinc, arsenic, copper and nickel, in cereal bars intended for consumption by children and adolescents. The study also aims to identify factors that differentiate the content of these products. The study material comprised 50 cereal bars, which were consumed by a population group of children and adolescents. The determination of zinc, arsenic, copper and nickel was accomplished through the utilisation of optical emission spectrometry with inductively coupled plasma excitation on a spectrometer, while cadmium and lead were ascertained by atomic absorption spectrometry with electrothermal atomization (ET-AAS) on an atomic absorption spectrometer. In the heavy metal analysis of the cereal bars, lead was not detected in contents above the limit of quantification (LOQ) of 0.10mg/kg. However, three samples exceeded the maximum permissible levels of cadmium, with contents of 0.046mg/kg in two cases and 0.043mg/kg in one case, while the minimum determined cadmium content was 0.011mg/kg. The arsenic content of the samples oscillated between 0.56 and 4.16mg/kg. Although there are no established standards for nickel, zinc and copper, their contents are of potential health significance in the context of chronic exposure, requiring detailed assessment. The results of the statistical analysis showed significant differences in copper and zinc depending on product composition (p ≤ 0.0001), suggesting higher contents of these metals in oatmeal-dominant products, possibly due to specific raw material sources or variation in the production process. The homogeneity of nickel, cadmium and arsenic contents regardless of product composition was confirmed by the absence of significant statistical differences (p > 0.05). The analysis of geographical variation showed that products of Polish origin were characterised by higher copper and cadmium contents compared to products from Germany, suggesting a potential influence of local environmental and technological conditions. Hazard quotient (HQ and HI) calculations for the analysed scenarios showed that the limits were exceeded, especially for products with a predominance of oatmeal and Polish production, highlighting the need for further research into the sources of these contaminants and their health implications.

Comparative performance of artificial neural networks and support vector Machines in detecting adulteration of apple juice concentrate using spectroscopy and time domain NMR.

The detection of adulteration in apple juice concentrate is critical for ensuring product authenticity and consumer safety. This study evaluates the effectiveness of artificial neural networks (ANN) and support vector machines (SVM) in analyzing spectroscopic data to detect adulteration in apple juice concentrate. Four techniques-UV-visible, fluorescence, near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy, and time domain 1H nuclear magnetic resonance relaxometry (1H NMR)-were used to generate data from both authentic and adulterated apple juice samples. Adulterants included glucose syrup, fructose syrup, grape concentrate, and date concentrate. The spectroscopic data were pre-processed and analyzed using ANN and SVM models, with performance metrics such as sensitivity, specificity, and correct classification rates (CCR) evaluated for both calibration and validation sets. Results indicated that NIR spectroscopy combined with SVM provided the highest overall accuracy, with near-perfect specificity and high CCR values, making it the most robust method for adulteration detection. UV-visible and fluorescence spectroscopy also demonstrated strong performance but were slightly less consistent across different adulterants. 1H NMR relaxometry, while providing detailed molecular insights, showed variable sensitivity depending on the adulterant type. The findings showed the importance of selecting appropriate analytical techniques and machine learning models for food authentication. This study contributes to the development of non-destructive, rapid, and accurate methods for detecting food adulteration, which can help support industry efforts to enhance product integrity and maintain consumer trust.

COMPREHENSIVE REGULATIONS FOR DRUG AND COSMETICS IN EUROPEAN UNION

Pharmaceuticals are regulated for quality, safety, and effectiveness by regulators for marketing approval with regard to good manufacturing practices, formulation, labelling, packaging, documentation and qualified individuals. Cosmetics for oneself or others are growing in popularity. The European Union (EU) Cosmetics Directive No. 1223/2009 enforces guidelines for cosmetic preparations. By considering the long-term risks of nanoparticles if misused by researchers and testers, the risk assessment outlined in Article 16 of the cosmetic code provides a framework for increasing the possibilities for innovation in nano-products. On March 14, 2024, the EU Commission published Regulation (EU) 2024/858, amending Cosmetics Regulation European Commission (EC) No. 1223/2009, which updated Annexes II and III regarding the use of certain nanomaterials in cosmetic products. Substances added in Annex II are prohibited from use, whereas those added in Annex III can be used when prescribed restrictions are met like essential conditions under European regulations for the import and sale of cosmetics. In the EU, the manufacturer is responsible for the safety of its products and must ensure that they undergo an expert scientific safety assessment before they are sold. The European Commission is also advised on issues related to the safety and allergenic properties of cosmetic products and ingredients by the Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS), administered by the Directorate-General for Health and Food Safety (DG SANTE), informed by independent scientific expertise.

Detection methods and control measures of Burkholderia gladioli and its toxins: A review.

Burkholderia gladioli is a widely distributed Gram-negative bacterium. Under suitable environmental conditions, it can produce harmful toxins bongkrekic acid (BKA) and toxoflavin (TF) in food carriers (such as fermented cereal products, spoiled fresh Tremella and Auricularia auricula, and fermented potatoes), posing a serious threat to the safety of food producers and consumers. Food poisoning caused by B. gladioli can manifest as comprehensive symptoms such as diarrhea, and in severe cases, symptoms such as convulsions and shock may occur. Therefore, it is necessary to conduct a comprehensive and in-depth exploration of the food safety issues it causes. First, this article summarizes the clinical cases and prevalence caused by B. gladioli. Second, the detection methods for BKA and the methods for simultaneous detection of BKA and TF were reviewed. Finally, the methods that can inhibit the proliferation of B. gladioli and effective measures to control its production of BKA in different food carriers were reviewed. This review will help to comprehensively understand the spread of B. gladioli and its toxins and preventive measures, aiming to reduce their harm to human health.

Active packaging film based on chitosan/gelatin blend incorporated with mango peel carbon dots: Properties and shelf life extension of minced pork.

Active packaging is essential for reducing food quality loss and ensuring consumer safety. Recently, carbon dots, synthesized from agricultural bio-wastes, have been used as active nanofillers. Mango peels generally discarded as waste can serve as potential precursor for synthesis of carbon dots. Mango peel carbon dots (MPCD) were prepared and characterized. Characteristics of active film based on chitosan (CS)/fish gelatin (FG) blend incorporated with MPCD at different concentrations (1, 3, and 5 wt%) were investigated. MPCD with augmenting concentrations enhanced mechanical properties of CS/FG film. Film containing 5 % MPCD had 15 % higher tensile strength than the control (without MPCD). The film containing MPCD showed the improved antioxidant activity, antimicrobial and UV barrier properties. The pouch (5 × 5 cm2) made from film added with 5 % MPCD via heat sealing was used for packaging minced pork. Minced pork packed in the pouch showed lower bacterial growth (below 6 log CFU/g) and chemical changes than that packed in polyethylene pouch during 15 days of storage at 4 °C. Therefore, the conversion of mango peel into valuable carbon dots promotes a zero-waste sustainable approach in line with the biocircular economy. Active pouch could be employed as novel biodegradable active and green packaging for the food industry.

Radiological safety assessment of sugar consumption in South Africa—a study of 226Ra, 228Ra, and 40K levels

Human exposure to natural radionuclides in the environment primarily occurs through ingestion of foodstuffs, highlighting the importance of continuous monitoring of radionuclide levels in foodstuffs by ensuring consumer safety and compliance with regulatory standards. Using gamma spectrometry, this study investigates activity concentration levels of 226Ra, 228Ra, and 40K, and associated radiological health risks, in 14 commonly available sugar brands in South Africa. The activity concentration levels of these natural radionuclides ranged from 2.01 ± 0.13 to 7.93 ± 0.34 Bq/kg for 226Ra, 2.90 ± 0.10 to 7.09 ± 0.32 Bq/kg for 228Ra, and 209.40 ± 4.79 to 453.20 ± 10.49 Bq/kg for 40K. The respective mean values were 3.83 ± 0.21, 2.90 ± 0.21, and 320.26 ± 7.41 Bq/kg, with brown sugar having lower values than with white sugar. Annual effective ingestion dose from intake of 226Ra, 228Ra, and 40K, for infants (1–2 years), children (7–12 years), and adults (>17 years) ranged from 0.28 to 0.69, 0.32 to 0.82, and 0.12 to 0.30 mSv/year, respectively, and the respective mean values are 0.40 ± 0.11, 0.45 ± 0.14, and 0.17 ± 0.05 mSv/year. 228Ra contributed the largest proportion to ingestion dose (46–67%), indicating potential radiation risk to bones. Lifetime cancer risk ranged from 1.25 × 10−8 to 4.95 × 10−8 for 226Ra, 1.95 × 10−8 to 4.77 × 10−8 for 228Ra, and 5.53 × 10−7 to 1.19 × 10−6 for 40K, with a total mean of 8.96 × 10−7 ± 2.31 × 10−7. Total chronic daily intake due to 226Ra, 228Ra, and 40K ranged from 0.26 to 0.56 with a mean of 0.39 ± 0.10 (mg/kg-day). The activity concentration levels of the natural radionuclides are within the reference value while annual effective ingestion dose and lifetime cancer risks were below international permissible limits. This indicates that sugar in South Africa is radiologically safe and does not pose significant radiological health risks. In this study, the measured activity levels are comparable to those reported in other similar studies. This baseline study highlights the importance of continuous monitoring of radionuclide levels in foodstuffs, ensuring consumer safety, compliance with regulatory standards, and contributing to ongoing discussions on radiological health risks associated with dietary habits. Public health initiatives could consider offering guidelines for safe levels of consumables such as sugar, especially among vulnerable populations such as children.

The TOXIN knowledge graph: supporting animal-free risk assessment of cosmetics.

The European Union's ban on animal testing for cosmetic products and their ingredients, combined with the lack of validated animal-free methods, poses challenges in evaluating their potential repeated-dose organ toxicity. To address this, innovative strategies like Next-Generation Risk Assessment (NGRA) are being explored, integrating historical animal data with new mechanistic insights from non-animal New Approach Methodologies (NAMs). This paper introduces the TOXIN knowledge graph (TOXIN KG), a tool designed to retrieve toxicological information on cosmetic ingredients, with a focus on liver-related data. TOXIN KG uses graph-structured semantic technology and integrates toxicological data through ontologies, ensuring interoperable representation. The primary data source is safety information on cosmetic ingredients from scientific opinions issued by the Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety between 2009 and 2019. The ToxRTool automates the reliability assessment of toxicity studies, while the Simplified Molecular Input Line Entry System (SMILES) notation standardizes chemical identification, enabling in silico prediction of repeated-dose toxicity via the implementation of the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development Quantitative Structure-Activity Relationship Toolbox (OECD QSAR Toolbox). The ToXic Process Ontology, enriched with relevant biological repositories, is employed to represent toxicological concepts systematically. Search filters allow the identification of cosmetic compounds potentially linked to liver toxicity. Data visualization is achieved through Ontodia, a JavaScript library. TOXIN KG, filled with information for 88 cosmetic ingredients, allowed us to identify 53 compounds affecting at least one liver toxicity parameter in a 90-day repeated-dose animal study. For one compound, we illustrate how TOXIN KG links this observation to hepatic cholestasis as an adverse outcome. In an ab initio NGRA context, follow-up in vitro studies using human-based NAMs would be necessary to understand the compound's biological activity and the molecular mechanism leading to the adverse effect. In summary, TOXIN KG emerges as a valuable tool for advancing the reusability of cosmetics safety data, providing knowledge in support of NAM-based hazard and risk assessments. Database URL: https://toxin-search.netlify.app/.

Validating Accelerated Shelf Life Testing Methodology for Predicting Shelf Life in High-Pressure-Processed Meat Products

The shelf life of meat products is a critical factor in ensuring both consumer safety and product quality. Traditional methods for determining shelf life are labor-intensive and time-consuming, making it challenging for manufacturers to adapt to market demands. The accelerated shelf life testing (ASLT) methodology offers a viable solution by exposing products to controlled elevated conditions that simulate long-term storage, allowing for faster shelf life predictions. This study evaluates the ASLT methodology as a predictive tool for determining the shelf life of high-pressure (HPP)-treated meat products. The present study includes experiments to verify the shelf life of frankfurter-type sausages under accelerated conditions. By simulating long-term storage at elevated temperatures (4–18 °C), a kinetic model was developed to monitor spoilage bacteria growth, with validation under dynamic temperature conditions. The results indicate that the main spoilage population of frankfurter-type sausages was lactic acid bacteria (LAB), which was strongly correlated with the total mesophilic microflora of the products. The findings show that elevated storage temperatures (8 and 18 °C) provide accurate shelf life predictions, offering an efficient approach to ensure product quality and meet consumer demands.

Optimised determination of arsenic and lead in tea samples using microwave-assisted digestion and ICP-MS: method validation and health risk assessment

ABSTRACT Heavy metal contamination in tea poses significant risks to consumer health, necessitating the development of accurate and efficient analytical methods for routine monitoring. This study aimed to optimise and validate a robust process for the simultaneous determination of arsenic (As) and lead (Pb) in dried tea samples using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) following microwave-assisted digestion. These toxic elements were selected due to their known health risks and their frequent detection in tea. The method was systematically optimised for digestion parameters and validated following EURACHEM guidelines to ensure accuracy and precision. Key validation metrics included linearity (R2 ≥0.9999), limits of quantification (LOQ) of 0.25 µg/kg for As and 1.5 µg/kg for Pb, sufficient for regulatory compliance. The method demonstrated excellent mean recoveries (75%–89%) and relative standard deviations (RSDs) below 15% across all fortification levels. Precision and accuracy were further verified through proficiency testing, yielding acceptable z-scores for both analytes. Application of the validated method to tea samples collected from Egypt revealed arsenic concentrations ranging from 0.018 ± 0.004 to 0.280 ± 0.070 mg/kg and lead concentrations from 0.083 ± 0.021 to 1.630 ± 0.407 mg/kg. Although detection rates were elevated, the calculated target hazard quotient (THQ) values for As and Pb were below the threshold of 1, suggesting no significant non-carcinogenic health risks associated with tea consumption. This study provides a reliable, cost-effective analytical framework for monitoring heavy metal contamination in tea products, supporting consumer safety and public health initiatives.

Occurrence of <i>Salmonella</i> and presumptive <i>Bacillus cereus</i> in sesame products from Swiss retail stores

Sesame products such as tahini (tahin) or halva (halwa or helva), originating from Arabic cuisine, are becoming increasingly popular in Switzerland. Pathogens, such as Salmonella, can contaminate sesame products, as evidenced by various product recalls. In this study, the occurrence of Salmonella and Bacillus cereus group members was investigated in 100 sesame products (25 sesame seeds, 16 halva, 19 different sesame pastes, 7 sesame bars, 25 hummus, and 8 other products containing sesame) collected from Swiss retail stores. None of the products were positive for Salmonella, whereas B. cereus group members could be detected with bacterial counts between 1×102 and 9×102 CFU/g in 11 out of 100 (11%) products. The 11 isolates identified by matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight were whole-genome sequenced with Illumina technology to confirm the identity of the pathogen, determine its toxin gene profile, and perform panC typing. Most of the isolates harbored genes encoding the enterotoxins Nhe, Hbl, and CytK. The isolates were assigned to diverse B. cereus group members, including one identified as B. cytotoxicus. In addition, one of the isolates matched genetically with the Thurigiensis strain used in biopesticide products. In conclusion, none of the investigated sesame products contained significant levels of Salmonella or B. cereus group members. However, as B. cereus with pathogenic potential was detected in multiple samples, proper storage is crucial to prevent its growth and ensure consumer safety, especially for products with high water activity such as hummus.

Use of potassium hydroxide as a source of nutrients in the composition of food supplements

Abstract In recent years, diet and nutrition have become a primary focus of public health worldwide. Food supplements (FS), used to complement common diets, are a significant and highly marketed category of food products. This has positioned healthcare professionals and public decision makers to play critical roles in their distribution and monitoring. Following a serious case of intoxication due to the ingestion of potassium hydroxide (KOH) as a nutrient source in a food supplement, technical opinion has been applied to admissible levels of vitamins and minerals in such products. KOH, known for its high potential Hydrogen (pH) and caustic properties, poses safety risks if not properly diluted. EU Regulation 1169/2011 stipulates minimum significant quantities for nutrients, including potassium, which must not exceed certain levels to ensure safety. The use of KOH as the sole potassium source in the form of powders has been shown to create strong alkalinity, posing risks when dissolved in water for human consumption. Safer alternative potassium forms are available for food supplements. This underscores the need for continuous regulatory oversight and greater involvement of healthcare professionals to ensure consumer safety, given the broad variability in supplement formulations and their increasing market share.

Evaluation of the marketing conditions of food of animal origin in the city of Santarém, state of Pará, Brazil

During food marketing, low temperatures are used to preserve food and inhibit the proliferation of microorganisms, as well as minimize the effects of chemical reactions responsible for spoilage. The objective of this work is to evaluate the conditions of storage and conditioning of products of animal origin in commercial establishments located in the city of Santarém, state of Pará, Brazil. Thirty (30) establishments were evaluated, with regard to temperatures used for the commercialization of products of animal origin. The results showed that only 26.6% (8/30) of the establishments were in compliance with current legislation, with up to 4ºC for meat and sausages and up to 7ºC for dairy products. Temperatures ranged from -16.3 to 27.5°C in the other establishments evaluated. Therefore, it is necessary for establishments to apply control measures to maintain the cold chain during the marketing of products of animal origin, as well as inspection bodies must intensify surveillance, ensuring greater consumer safety.

Оцінка безпечності дієтичної добавки “Rheumacаre Ultra”, оптимізація дієтологічних умов для функціонування суглобів

In Ukraine, among chronic diseases, pathology of the musculoskeletal system is one of the most frequent problems, and about 3.5 million people have problems with the musculoskeletal system and its various complications, which require continuous therapy throughout life. Aim. Generalization of the results of a comprehensive sanitary and hygienic assessment of the safety for consumers of a dietary supplement created to support the normal functioning of joints; data analysis of electronic publishers Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed, other foreign and domestic sources of scientific information on the research topic. Materials and Methods. The dietary supplement "Rheumacare Ultra" has been tested for the content of heavy metals and pesticides for compliance with the State Sanitary Rules and Regulations of Ukraine. The microbiological safety of the dietary supplement was controlled by the content of mesophilic aerobic and facultative anaerobic microorganisms. The method of ultra-high-performance high-speed mass spectrometric liquid chromatography with electron spray ionization (UPLC-MC/MC, Waters, USA) and the gas chromatography method were used to determine the content of pesticide residues; the content of lead, cadmium, mercury was determined by the atomic emission method (instrument ‒ atomic emission spectrometer "SHIMADSU ICPE ‒ 9820"). Results. Based on expert assessment of documentation, analysis of data sources of scientific information, results of sanitarychemical, radiological and sanitary-microbiological studies, it was established that dietary supplement "Rheumacare Ultra" ("Rheumacare Ultra") is safe for the health of consumers and can be used for purpose: to promote the normalization of metabolism, optimization of the chemical composition of the diet, creation of optimal dietary conditions to support the normal functioning of the musculoskeletal system, in particular ‒ joints; to purposefully affect the growth of the level of adaptation capabilities of the human body in conditions of constantly increasing harmful effects of the environment. Conclusions. Assessing the safety of traditional Ayurvedic recipes is a difficult task due to the multicomponent composition of organic-mineral complexes and the lack of complete information on the chemical structure of biologically active components of endemic plants and their impact on human health. Keywords: dietary supplements, sanitary and hygienic assessment, musculoskeletal system, joints.

Joke or counterfeit? Balancing trademark parody and consumer safety in the edibles market

AbstractChildren mistakenly eating tetrahydrocannabinol‐laced gummies thinking they are Halloween candy. Adults overdosing on seemly innocent and fun‐looking “edibles.” These all‐too‐common occurrences are a serious problem in the growing market for cannabis‐related products. A significant part of the risk stems from the broad acceptance and expectation of parody marketing in the field, which has contributed to these dangerous misunderstandings. Importantly, recent changes to trademark law have limited the commercial use of parodies as marks, strengthening the hand of brand owners to police harmful impersonation while preserving legitimate speech. As a result of the more restrictive environment, trademark law and consumer safety rules are increasingly congruent and a greater array of stakeholders with significant financial resources now possess the power and incentive to reduce the danger. This article uses the above cannabis marketing conflict as a framing tool for exploring the limits of trademark parody in an important yet under‐examined context: when safety concerns clash and arguably supersede speech. The existing literature has typically considered parody in innocuous and often noncommercial applications. Such limited review underappreciates instances when trademark confusion or dilution through parody lead to serious health consequences, particularly for vulnerable audiences such as children. Additionally, to the extent that the literature does address cannabis and trademarks, it has generally focused on cannabis branding issues as opposed to infringing the rights of others. This article bridges the gaps. Moreover, it integrates a consideration of the impact of recent Supreme Court cases, Jack Daniel's Properties, Inc. v. VIP Products LLC and Vidal v. Elster, that reflect a tighter circumscription on speech protections for unauthorized use. It concludes with the observation that not all parodies are equal in terms of balancing speech and safety. And with evolving trademark law, there is increasingly an incentive for various stakeholders to collaborate to enhance consumer safety.

Application of Plant Extracts Rich in Anthocyanins in the Development of Intelligent Biodegradable Packaging: An Overview

Consumers are increasingly opting for food with high quality, in addition to practicality, as there are changes in time, habits and preferences, demanding that the food and packaging industries adapt to a new lifestyle. Intelligent packaging provides consumers with real-time information about the quality and safety of packaged products. A critical analysis of the processes used to develop these packages was carried out. In this context, this review aims to analyze the concept of intelligent packaging, emphasizing the incorporation of extracts rich in anthocyanins, verifying its relationship with the development of new technologies and discussing current aspects of the scientific production process of the packaging. It was also highlighted that anthocyanin compounds are susceptible to pH variations. As an indicator of pH variation, a plant extract was necessary to incorporate into a solid matrix to immobilize the dye. The pH indicator film represents a simple and visual method to detect changes in food products. In this sense, technological processes and resources have been gaining prominence with the premise of offering quality, convenience and safety for consumers and companies.

Non-invasive in vitro NAM for the detection of reversible and irreversible eye damage after chemical exposure for GHS classification purposes (ImAi).

The potential risk of chemicals to the human eye is assessed by adopted test guidelines (TGs) for regulatory purposes to ensure consumer safety. Over the past decade, the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) has approved new approach methodologies (NAMs) to predict chemical eye damage. However, existing NAMs remain associated with limitations: First, no full replacement of the in vivo Draize eye test due to limited predictability of severe/mild damage was reached. Second, the existing NAMs do not allow reliable differentiation between reversible and irreversible eye damage. Especially the prediction of tissue recovery remains challenging in vitro. Existing in vitro NAMs are based on destructive analysis with no consideration of tissue recovery. In this study, we developed a standalone eye-irritation test method based on non-invasive impedance spectroscopy (ImAi) to discriminate between damaging and irritating chemicals. Tissue effects were analyzed via transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER) measurements of human in vitro epithelial models over 14days. The TEER was performed using a developed impedance spectrometer. For development of the EIT, a chemical reference list of 329 chemicals was compiled. The applicability of the ImAi-test was exemplified by the discrimination of Cat. 1 vs. Cat. 2 for 23 reference chemicals. Correct classification was achieved for 90.9% of Cat. 1 and 83.3% of Cat. 2 chemicals. Our non-invasive in vitro test overcomes the limitations of Cat. 2 classification of the existing in vitro methods and provides for the first time a non-animal test method that can fully replace the Draize eye test.

Effect of Different Papain Concentrations on Yield and Quality of Tuna Eye Oil

Graphical Abstract Highlight Research Innovative Use of By-Products: The study explores the use of tuna eye by-products, a rich source of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), to reduce reliance on imported fish oil and promote sustainable utilization of fishery waste. Enhanced Extraction Methodology: Enzymatic extraction using papain at optimal concentrations significantly improves the yield and quality of tuna eye oil, achieving up to six times higher yield compared to other methods. Nutritional and Quality Benefits: The extracted oil demonstrated low Index of Atherogenicity (IA) and Index of Thrombogenicity (IT), indicating its potential as a heart-healthy dietary supplement, with DHA and EPA concentrations well preserved. Environmental and Safety Advantages: The enzymatic process is solvent-free, minimizing environmental impact and ensuring consumer safety, while also addressing challenges posed by extended sample storage during the COVID-19 pandemic. Abstract Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is an essential omega-3 fatty acid, a major component of the human frontal cortex performing a significant role in the fetal brain and retinal development. Deficiency of this component, especially in fetuses, infants, and young children, triggers poor brain neurodevelopment and cognitive impairment. Compulsion of fish oil rich in DHA fulfilled by imports reaching 9,124,579 kg in 2021. In the interim, utilization of potential by-products (tuna’s eyes) as a source of DHA has not been piloted on account of some constraints, one of which is yield that has not been maximized. Enzymatic oil extraction is considered green extraction which is safer and produces higher yields than conventional extraction using high temperatures and chemical solvents. The purpose of this study was to determine the optimal concentration of papain in enzymatic extraction to obtain the highest possible yield of tuna eye oil and the quality of extracted tuna eye oil. The best results were obtained from the extraction with papain enzyme 1% at 55°C for 1 hour, giving an optimal yield. The best yield produced was 8.59 ± 0.69%, or six times higher than cold extraction (centrifugation) without enzyme addition (1.41 ± 0.07%). Adding enzyme concentration up to 1% resulted in increased yield, decreased dark color, decreased viscosity, and improved oxidation quality. The study found that the Index of Atherogenicity (IA) and Index of Thrombogenicity (IT) values fell within low ranges 0.38-0.40 and 0.20-0.21, respectively. Heating during the enzymatic hydrolysis process (55°C) for 1 hour did not significantly alter the percentage of PUFA, and especially DHA remained well preserved.

The Genetic Determinants of Listeria monocytogenes Resistance to Bacteriocins Produced by Lactic Acid Bacteria.

Listeria monocytogenes is a Gram-positive bacterium responsible for listeriosis, a serious foodborne disease that can lead to serious health complications. Pregnant women, newborns, the elderly, and patients with weakened immune systems are particularly susceptible to infection. Due to the ability of L. monocytogenes to survive in extreme environmental conditions, such as low temperatures, high salinity, and acidity, this bacterium poses a serious threat to food production plants and is particularly difficult to eliminate from these plants. One of the promising solutions to reduce the presence of this bacterium in food products is bacteriocins as natural control agents. These are substances with antibacterial activity produced by other bacteria, mainly lactic acid bacteria (LAB), which can effectively inhibit the development of pathogens such as L. monocytogenes. The use of bacteriocins in the food industry is beneficial due to their natural origin, specificity of action, and consumer safety. However, the problem of resistance to these substances exists. This review focuses on the mechanisms of bacteriocin resistance, such as modifications of bacteriocin docking receptors, changes in the structure of the cell wall and membrane, and the occurrence of cross-resistance to different bacteriocins. Genetic factors determining these mechanisms and strategies to cope with the problem of resistance are also presented. Research on this issue is crucial for developing effective preventive methods that will enable the safe and long-term use of bacteriocins in food production.

Genetic Diversity Quantification and Characterization of Spore-Forming Bacteria Isolated from Milk Powder Produced in Rio Grande Do Sul, Brazil

Abstract Heat treatment used in milk powder processing cannot always inactivate spore-forming microorganisms. Toxin deterioration and production by some species are significant concerns for the dairy industry, making the identification of these microorganisms essential for solving problems with the quality of the products. Given this scenario, this study sought to quantify and identify the predominant species in milk powder, aiming to know the isolated genetic varieties. Fourteen samples were analyzed for aerobic/anaerobic, mesophilic, and thermophilic bacterial spore presence, totaling 52 analyses. Spore contamination was verified in all samples analyzed, and the thermophilic spores had the highest contamination levels. 16S rRNA sequencing revealed 47 isolates: Weizmannia coagulans (21%), Anoxybacillus flavithermus (5.3%), Clostridium butyricum (5.3%), Bacillus amyloliquefaciens (2.6%), Geobacillus stearothermophilus (2.6%), Clostridium pabulibutyricum (2.6%), Clostridium sporosphaeroides (2.6%), Bacillus licheniformis (2.6%), Bacillus sp. (34%), Geobacillus sp. (15.8%), and Clostridium sp. (5.3%). The results indicate the need to establish control measures to improve the hygiene and processing conditions of powdered milk, thereby ensuring product quality and consumer safety.