Short Shelf Life Research Articles

Herbal soaps in skincare: Natural solution for healthy skin

Herbal soap is a natural, medication-based soap that contains antibacterial and antifungal agents, utilizing plant parts such as leaves, stems, roots, and fruits to treat various skin conditions. Unlike commercial soaps, herbal soaps are gentle on the skin, retaining moisture and providing a natural alternative to synthetic soaps that can cause skin irritation and allergies. The skin, being the largest organ in the human body, serves as a protective barrier against external pathogens, and herbal soaps can play a crucial role in maintaining skin health. Various herbs, such as aloe vera, neem, turmeric, reetha, and tulsi, are used in herbal soap preparation, offering benefits such as antimicrobial properties, skin nourishment, and aromatherapy. Herbal soaps can treat various skin conditions, including acne, eczema, and psoriasis, while also promoting skin radiance and protecting skin barriers. This review highlights the advantages of herbal soap over synthetic soap, including its natural ingredients, gentle nature, and antimicrobial properties. However, herbal soaps also have limitations, such as shorter shelf life and potential allergy reactions. Overall, herbal soap is a valuable alternative to synthetic soap, providing a natural and effective way to maintain skin health and treat various skin conditions.

STRATEGY TO IMPROVE THE CAPACITY OF MILLENNIAL FARMERS IN FACING THE PHENOMENON OF AGING FARMER IN CIAMIS DISTRICT, CIAMIS REGENCY

The success in achieving agricultural development is determined by quality human resources and a commitment to developing the agricultural sector. Millennial farmers are farmers aged 19-39 years and/or adaptive to digital technology. However, it is known that Indonesian agriculture is facing the aging farmer phenomenon where the number of young farmers is decreasing, while the number of farmers over 55 years old is increasing. This study aims to describe and analyze internal factors, namely the strengths and weaknesses of millennial farmers in Ciamis District, as well as to describe and analyze external factors, namely the opportunities and threats faced by millennial farmers, and to determine priority strategies for increasing the capacity of millennial farmers in Ciamis District, Ciamis Regency. This research method uses a case study with a discussion conducted in a qualitative descriptive manner. The respondent determination technique is carried out purposively or intentionally with certain considerations. This research was conducted in Ciamis District, Ciamis Regency. The analysis tool used is a SWOT analysis which includes Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats and a Quantitative Strategic Planning Matrix (QSPM) analysis. The internal environment which is the main strength is the ability of cultivation techniques that have been tested through farmer training activities with a score of 0.412, while the main weakness factor is that millennial farmers have not been able to access capital and there has been no cooperation with institutions providing agricultural production inputs with a score of 0.120. The external environment which is the main opportunity is the ease of access to communication between millennial farmers and extension workers and Plant Pest Control (POPT) officers with a score of 0.372, while the main threat is the short shelf life of agricultural products with a score of 0.342. Alternative strategies that are a priority based on the QSPM analysis are the formation and development of farmer cooperatives or Agribusiness Microfinance Institutions (LKM-A) in the Ciamis District area with a score of 6.520.

Techno-Functional Properties of Mexican Cheese Whey Requesón Powder: Effects of Air-Convective Drying and Natural Gum Addition

Requesón, a Mexican whey cheese, has a short shelf life due to its high moisture content, near-neutral pH, and the limited preservation infrastructure of the artisanal cheese sector. Therefore, the development of requesón powder provides an innovative pathway to enhance market potential and expand its applications. This study aimed to evaluate the techno-functional properties of requesón powder produced through air-convective drying and to assess the protective effects of two natural gums, mesquite gum and guar gum, at concentrations of 0.25 and 0.5 g/L. Thermal dehydration significantly affected (p < 0.05) water holding capacity, swelling capacity, and hardness of the reconstituted powder. Although gum addition did not significantly enhance water holding capacity, it moderately improved texture and led to notable increases in swelling capacity (21–34%) and emulsifying capacity (11–20%) at high concentrations (p < 0.05). Structural analyses using X-ray diffraction and electron microscopy revealed that thermal dehydration induced protein aggregation and reduced microporosity, impairing rehydration performance compared to requesón powder obtained by lyophilization. These findings suggest that requesón powder production is a promising strategy for valorizing whey and extending the applications of this traditional cheese as a functional food ingredient.

Natural antioxidants recovered from food by-products as inhibitors of lipid oxidation

Lipid oxidation is a major factor in food quality deterioration, leading to reduced nutritional value, off-flavours, and shorter shelf life, and is one of the major challenges facing the food industry worldwide. The production and use of natural antioxidants recovered from food by-products that have a high ability to inhibit lipid oxidation could have profound effects on improving food quality. These by-products, which are rich in bioactive compounds such as polyphenols, flavonoids, carotenoids, and tocopherols, play an important role in scavenging free radicals, chelating metal ions, and delaying the formation of peroxides. This review explores the potential of natural antioxidants derived from fruit peels, vegetable pomace, cereal bran, dairy by-products, and seafood residues in enhancing oxidative stability in various food systems, including oils, meats, and dairy products, and provides a comprehensive understanding of the potential of antioxidants recovered from food by-products in preventing lipid oxidation. However, there are serious obstacles, such as improving budget-friendly extraction techniques for the production and use of natural antioxidants extracted from lipid oxidation inhibitor by-products. Future research tackling these difficulties could open up suitable ways to utilize the complete capacity of natural antioxidants in industrial utilizations and sustainable food systems.

Preliminary evaluation of the hygienic level of refrigerated vacuum-packed wild boar meat.

Wild boar meat is usually available frozen, but the catering industry is also interested in fresh vacuum-chilled meat. This work aims to evaluate the hygienic level of vacuum-packed and refrigerated game meat [Longissimus dorsi (LD) muscle] and to investigate the existence of relationships with other parameters measured at the game handling establishment (GHE). The pH of the LD muscle and carcass surface contamination [aerobic colony count (ACC) and Enterobacteriaceae (EC)] were measured on 12 wild boar regularly processed at a local GHE. Subsequently, 2 cm-thick steaks were taken from the LD muscle at a cutting plant from the same subjects sampled at the GHE and individually vacuum sealed and stored at 2°C for 1, 7, 14, and 21 days. The meat was analyzed for ACC and EC at each storage time and for Escherichia coli β-glucosidase + counts at 21 days. The mean final pH value of the muscle samples was 5.6, and the ACC and EC carcass surface average load was 2.54 and 0.79 Log CFU/cm2, respectively. Meat preparations at 21 days had ACC, EC, and E. coli mean values of 5.80, 3.13, and 2.03 Log CFU/g, respectively. Pearson's analysis showed a significant positive correlation between pH and ACC at day 1 and between EC on carcasses and meat at day 1. The results confirm that if the pH of meat is high, the development of microorganisms is favored, and, therefore, a shorter shelf life is expected. Furthermore, the EC on carcasses seems to be a good index for estimating the hygienic level of the obtained meat.

Planning and Development of INROLL Noodle Business as an Innovation of Instant Noodle-Based Snacks among the Younger Generation

This study aims to examine the planning and development process of an innovative culinary business called Mie Gulung (INROLL), based on instant noodles and targeted at the younger generation. INROLL is presented as a modern snack that combines the familiar taste of instant noodles with an aesthetic appearance and appealing toppings such as cheese, nori, and beef slices. The method used is descriptive qualitative with a literature study and SWOT analysis approach. The results indicate that product innovation, attractive visuals, affordable pricing, and digital marketing strategies via social media are key factors in attracting young consumers. However, challenges remain, such as negative perceptions of instant noodles, short shelf life, and potential inconsistencies in product quality. With the right development strategies, including content-based promotion and collaboration with influencers, INROLL has great potential to become a new snack trend favored by millennials and Gen Z.

Evaluation of Commercial Bleach and Packing Materials as a Management Option of Tomato (<i>Lycopersicon esculentum </i>Mill.) Rotting Disease in Eastern Ethiopia

Tomato is a very perishable vegetable with a short shelf-life in many parts of the world including Ethiopia. Experiments were conducted to evaluate effect of commercial bleach and packing materials as a management option of these diseases. Eight levels of storage structures integrated with three levels of washing were evaluated. Among management options the highest (68.88%) mean marketable fruits were obtained from treatments washed with bleach, rinsed in water, dried and stored in plastic boxes without plastic lining. The highest incidence (89.74%) and percent severity index (67.2%) was recorded on unwashed fruits stored in traditional basket lined with polyethylene sheet, where as the lowest was from fruits washed with bleach, rinsed in water, dried and stored with plastic box without polyethylene sheet lining. Washing of fruit with bleach, rinsing in water, drying and storing in plastic box without polyethylene sheet lining was found to be the best management option. This treatment provided the highest net profit of 1298.5 Ethiopia Birr/box with marginal rate of return of 11.6% and marginal benefit of 820.5 Birr/box. In conclusion, washing of fruits with bleach, rinsing in water, drying and storing in plastic box without polyethylene sheet lining was found to be the most effective management option. However, further studies are important to evaluat other manegement options for fruit rotting fungi.

Effect of Edible Coatings and Modified Atmosphere Packaging on the Shelf Life and Quality Parameters of Bitter Gourd

Bitter gourd has a short shelf life of 3–4 days under ambient conditions, necessitating effective preservation methods. This study evaluated the efficacy of edible coatings and Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP) with perforation in extending its storage life. The research was conducted in two stages. In the first stage, four edible coatings, namely, carboxymethyl cellulose, guar gum, clove essential oil, and garlic essential oil, were assessed at varying concentrations. Guar gum at 1.5% concentration was found to be the most effective, preserving quality attributes up to 16 days. In the second stage, the impact of MAP on the shelf life of guar gum-coated bitter gourd was examined using polypropylene pouches with 10, 20, and 30 perforations (4.1 × 10⁻³%, 8.2 × 10⁻³%, and 1.23 × 10⁻²% of package area). The combination of guar gum coating with MAP (10 and 20 perforations) extended the storage period to 28 days while maintaining key quality attributes such as chlorophyll, vitamin C, antioxidant activity, and total phenolic content at over 75% of their fresh values. The lowest physiological loss in weight (6.06%) and acceptable microbial load were observed in samples stored in 10-perforation packs. Based on these findings, storing bitter gourd with a 1.5% guar gum coating in MAP pouches with 4.1 × 10⁻³% (10 perforations) or 8.2 × 10⁻³% package area (20 perforations) is recommended for optimal shelf-life extension.

Biofilm-Forming Lactic Acid Bacteria in Sausages: Isolation, Characterization, and Inhibition Using Eisenia bicyclis-Based Nanoparticles

Background/Objectives: Lactic acid bacteria produce biofilms in meat products that contribute to the products’ deterioration, reduction in quality, and shortened shelf life. Although LAB are generally considered benign, certain strains create slime and cause significant drops in pH. The study’s goal was to identify and characterize LAB strains from sausage products that are capable of biofilm formation, and to evaluate the inhibitory effects of E. bicyclis methanol extract, its ethyl acetate fraction, and phloroglucinol, as well as to synthesize AuNPs, and assess their efficacy in controlling biofilm formation. Methods: Slime or biofilm-producing LAB bacteria were isolated from commercial sausages and identified using 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Lactobacillus sakei S10, which can tolerate high salt concentrations and cold temperatures, was chosen as a representative strain. The isolates were subsequently tested for hemolytic activity, salt and temperature tolerance, and carbohydrate consumption patterns. To evaluate antibiofilm potential, marine-derived compounds from Eisenia bicyclis, such as phloroglucinol (PG), crude methanolic extracts, ethyl acetate fractions, and gold nanoparticle (AuNP) formulations, were tested in situ on sausage surfaces against L. sakei S10 and common pathogens (Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus). The biofilm-inhibitory effects of the extracts, PG, and PG-AuNPs were estimated using the colony-counting method. Results: The PG-AuNPs had an average particle size of 98.74 nm and a zeta potential of −29.82 mV, indicating nanoscale dimensions and considerable colloidal stability. Structural analysis confirmed their spherical form and crystalline structure, as well as the presence of phenolic groups in both reduction and stabilization processes. Among the studied treatments, the PG and PG-AuNPs had the strongest antibiofilm activities, dramatically lowering biofilm biomass, particularly for P. aeruginosa and L. sakei S10. However, the inhibitory effects were less prominent in in situ conditions than in in vitro testing, highlighting the complexity of real food matrices. Conclusions: The results of this study indicate that polyphenolic compounds obtained from marine sources, particularly in nano-formulated forms, have a great deal of potential as natural antibiofilm products. Enhancing the microbiological safety of processed meat products and extending their shelf life could be accomplished through the application of these polyphenolic compounds in food packaging or surface treatments.

Optimized Combinations of Filtrates of Trichoderma spp., Metarhizium spp., and Bacillus spp. in the Biocontrol of Rice Pests and Diseases

Trichoderma spp., Metarhizium spp., and Bacillus spp. are commonly used as biocontrol microorganisms domestically and internationally. However, microbial pesticides currently prepared from single living microorganisms have problems such as a short shelf life, particularly under stressful environment conditions. Secondary metabolites produced from biocontrol microorganisms are comparatively stable when used under field conditions. This study screened the optimal combination of biocontrol metabolites, referred to as TMB, composed of culture filtrates from certain isolates of Trichoderma asperellum 10264, Bacillus subtilis S4-4-10, and Metarhizium anisopliae 3.11962 (1:4:1 (v/v)). RNA-seq analysis and transmission electron microscope observations were carried out to identify the major functions of the most effective culture filtrates against Magnaporthe oryzae (the pathogen causing rice blast disease) and Chilo suppressalis (an insect pest in rice cultivation). TMB was found to disrupt the midgut subcellular structure of C. suppressalis larvae and inhibit the expression of genes related to immunity, membrane components, protein synthesis, and other functions in C. suppressalis larvae and M. oryzae, thereby interfering with their normal growth, reproduction, and infection potential in rice. In addition, TMB was also able to promote rice growth and trigger host defense responses against infections by the target pests and pathogens. In summary, TMB generated different inhibitory activities against multiple targets in C. suppressalis and M. oryzae and induced plant immunity in rice. Therefore, it can be used as a new environmentally friendly agent or alternative to control rice pests and diseases.

A Comprehensive Study on the Nutritional Profile and Shelf Life of a Custom-Formulated Protein Bar Versus a Market-Standard Product

Background: With growing interest in healthy lifestyles, protein bars have gained popularity. However, many commercial bars contain excessive calories, sugar, and artificial additives that undermine their health benefits. This study aimed to develop a protein bar using natural ingredients with a balanced macronutrient profile. Method: The protein bar formulation used soy protein extract, a plant-based protein source, known for its complete amino acid profile but limited in methionine, which was complemented by oats to nutritionally balance this deficiency. A database was created to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of commercially available protein bars based on consumer feedback. The experimental bar was tested for nutritional value, shelf life, and physiological impact, using only natural ingredients for texture, flavor, and stability. Results: The experimental protein bar had higher protein and fiber content than a selected commercial bar but a shorter shelf life (7 days vs. 90 days) due to the absence of preservatives. The database helped identify target consumer groups and ensure the product was affordable and nutritionally effective. Conclusion: This study demonstrates that using natural, complementary ingredients can create a protein bar with a more balanced nutrient profile while avoiding harmful additives. The final product supports muscle protein synthesis through its high-quality protein content and promotes glycemic control and satiety via its fiber-rich, low-sugar formulation and metabolic processes, offering a healthier alternative to commercial options, with a focus on consumer health and cost-effectiveness.

The Role of Genetic Variation in Modulating the Effects of Blended Fruits and Vegetables Versus Fruit- and Vegetable-Coated Food Products on Antioxidant Capacity, DNA Protection, and Vascular Health: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Background/Objectives: Fruits and vegetables (F&Vs) are major dietary sources of phytochemicals, crucial for preventing non-communicable diseases. However, barriers such as preparation inconvenience and a short shelf life hinder their consumption. F&V-coated foods have emerged as an alternative. This human nutrition intervention study assessed the effects of a blended F&Vs mixture versus an F&V-coated food on phytochemical absorption and chronic disease risk markers. It also explored how genetic variation influences physiological responses to these F&V products. Methods: In this randomized-controlled trial, participants were assigned to one of three dietary interventions: a blended F&V mixture (“F&V Blend”), a rice-based cereal product coated with this blend (“Coated Pearl”), or the same product without the F&V mixture (“Uncoated Pearl”). The four-week study included a two-week run-in and a two-week intervention phase, each followed by a test day. Measurements included DNA damage resistance (comet assay), plasma antioxidant status (Trolox capacity and superoxide levels), microvasculature health (retinal analysis), and plasma phytochemical concentrations (colorimetric analyses or HPLC). To assess group differences, a linear mixed model was used. Fifteen polymorphic genes related to phytochemical metabolism and oxidative stress were tested using TaqMan and PCR, with outcomes analyzed via ANOVA. Results: The F&V Blend and Coated Pearl products increased plasma carotenoid levels versus the Uncoated Pearl product. Only the F&V Blend improved retinal dilation and DNA resistance. Surprisingly, the Uncoated Pearl product enhanced antioxidant capacity, lowered superoxide levels, and improved retinal microvasculature. Genotype effects were minimal, except for HNF1A, where wildtypes in the Uncoated Pearl group showed a higher antioxidant capacity. Conclusions: Fresh F&Vs were more effective than coated alternatives in improving vascular health and DNA protection.

Entomopathogenic nematodes in pest management: Mechanisms, efficacy, and future prospects

Abstract Entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) are emerging as effective biological control agents, offering an eco-friendly alternative to conventional chemical insecticides. Their efficacy stems from a mutualistic association with symbiotic bacteria, which enhances their pathogenicity and aids in efficient insect host exploitation. Various application techniques, including advanced horticultural equipment and formulation innovations, have been developed to optimize their use in agricultural systems. However, the effectiveness and persistence of EPNs are influenced by several factors, such as environmental conditions, biotic interactions, and host specificity. Despite their potential, broader adoption is constrained by challenges like high production costs, short shelf life, and susceptibility to adverse environmental conditions. To address these limitations, advancements in formulation – such as encapsulated nematodes and water-dispersible granules – have been explored to enhance storage stability and field performance. Genetic improvements, including extending the longevity of infective juveniles, improving symbiotic bacterial retention, and increasing resistance to environmental stressors, are pivotal in boosting their efficiency. Additionally, genomic research is crucial for identifying genetic determinants associated with key adaptive traits, enabling the selection or development of robust EPN strains suited to diverse climatic conditions. The successful integration of EPNs into pest management programs relies on a comprehensive understanding of their biology, ecological interactions, and environmental adaptability. Strengthening their role in integrated pest management (IPM) can substantially reduce dependence on chemical insecticides, promoting sustainable agriculture while maintaining ecological equilibrium.

Designing a Sustainable Supply Chain Network for Perishable Products Integrating Internet of Things and Mixed Fleets

Designing a sustainable supply chain network for perishable products is challenging due to their short shelf life and sensitivity to environmental conditions. These factors necessitate strict quality control and efficient logistics. The emergence of Internet of Things (IoT) technology has significantly improved supply chain operations by enabling real-time monitoring of environmental conditions. This helps maintain product quality and ensures timely deliveries. Additionally, using mixed fleets—comprising both electric and conventional vehicles—can reduce carbon emissions without compromising operational reliability. While previous studies have explored the application of IoT to enhance delivery efficiency and the use of mixed fleets to address environmental concerns, few have examined both technologies within a unified modeling framework. This study proposes a sustainable multi-period supply chain network for perishable products that integrates IoT technology and mixed fleets into an optimization framework. We develop a multi-objective location-inventory-routing model. The first objective minimizes total costs, including production, facility operation, inventory, transportation, carbon emissions, IoT deployment, and energy use. The second objective aims to maximize service levels, which are measured by product quality and on-time delivery. The model is solved using the Non-Dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm II (NSGA-II). A case study based on real-world data demonstrates the model’s effectiveness. Sensitivity analysis indicates that balancing the emphasis on quality and delivery reliability leads to improved cost and service performance. Furthermore, while total costs steadily increase with higher demand, service levels remain stable, showcasing the model’s robustness. These results provide practical guidance for managing sustainable supply chains for perishable products.

Optimizing Pharmaceutical Inventory Control: Strategies for Classification and Seasonal Demand Forecasting

Effective pharmaceutical inventory management is critical for assuring the availability of necessary pharmaceuticals, avoiding the waste, and managing the costs in healthcare systems. The complexities of pharmaceutical inventory management are worsened by factors such as varied degrees of criticality, unexpected demand patterns, short shelf life, and resource constraint. This study looks at major inventory management frameworks including ABC, VED, and SDE analyses, which classify drugs based on their value, criticality, and supply risks, allowing for more accurate inventory calculations. Furthermore, the study emphasizes the use of machine learning models and time series forecasting approaches, notably SARIMA and LSTM, to predict seasonal demand fluctuations and improve inventory planning and decision-making processes. Although much research has been undertaken on the deployment of these approaches in a variety of industries, there is a significant gap in their application to pharmaceutical inventory management, particularly in resource-constrained contexts with insufficient historical data. This work seeks to close this gap by investigating how time series models might be modified to estimate demand seasonality in the absence of comprehensive historical data. The findings highlight the ability of SARIMA and LSTM to increase the forecasting accuracy and guide superior inventory managing methods, resulting in more efficient supply chains management and better decision-making in pharmaceutical contexts. The major goal is to use time series models to address seasonality difficulties in pharmaceutical inventory management, especially when data availability is limited.

Physicochemical Characterization of Fresh and Powdered Tomato in Arba Minch, Ethiopia

Tomato (<em>Solanum lycopersicum </em>L.) is the largest vegetable crop produced and consumed in the world. Tomatoes are a top source of Vitamin A and C, contain more dietary fibre, beta-carotene, iron, lycopene, magnesium, niacin, potassium, phosphorus, riboflavin, and thiamine. Tomatoes have a limited shelf life in ambient conditions and are highly perishable. It creates glut during the production season and becomes scanty during the off-season. Short shelf life, coupled with inadequate processing facilities results in heavy revenue loss to the country. The aim of conducted research was analyzed the Physico-chemical properties, evaluated the effects of different pretreatments (NaCl and CaCl<sub>2</sub>) and optimized the drying and processing techniques to achieve the desired quality of tomato powder. This involves the production of tomato powder using the grinder. The demand for tomato powder is increasing rapidly in the domestic and international markets, with a significant portion used to prepare convenience food. Physicochemical analysis of fresh tomatoes and powder was carried out at ambient temperature. Physiochemical parameters recorded revealed that fresh tomatoes have an average length of 6.33 cm and an average breadth of 5.33 cm. The average length-breadth ratio was 1.18, and the average weight of fresh tomatoes was 143.76 gms. The average moisture content of fresh tomatoes was 95.31%, acidity 0.17%, and lycopene 15 mg/100 g. The moisture content of tomato powder T<sub>0</sub> and T<sub>1</sub> was 7.7% and 5.60% respectively, acidity was 0.45 and 0.60, lycopene content was 1.41 mg/100 g and 2.37 mg/100 g, non-enzymatic browning was 0.92 and 0.65, dehydration ratio was 26.61 and 25.11, and the rehydration ratio was 1.75 and 2.85 respectively. The application of this research provides a viable solution to reduce post-harvest losses and enhance the economic value of tomatoes. By converting fresh tomatoes into powder, the shelf life is significantly extended, ensuring a stable supply throughout the year.

Thin Layer Drying Kinetics and Influence of Drying Temperature on the Proximate Composition of Tiger-Nut Milk Powder

Milk derived from animal sources often contains anti-nutrient elements such as α-lactoglobulin, β-lactoglobulin, lactose and cholesterol, which can contribute to various health challenges. Plant-based milk alternatives, such as tiger-nut milk, offer a healthier option but often face limitations like short shelf life and high storage costs. This study aimed to investigate the drying kinetics and proximate composition of tiger-nut milk powder. Tiger-nut tubers were processed into milk from brown varieties and subsequently dried at 50, 60, and 70°C. Data obtained were fitted to five commonly applied drying mathematical models (Newton, Logarithmic, Page, Henderson and Pabis) to determine the one which predicted the drying kinetics of the milk more accurately. The dried powder was then analyzed for its proximate composition, including moisture content, crude fiber, carbohydrates, protein, lipids, ash, and pH using standardized procedures developed by Association of Official Analytical Chemists (AOAC). The best fit model for the drying kinetics analysis was determined using the coefficient of determination (R²), with the Page model having the highest R² values of 0.998-0.999. This analysis revealed that the Page model accurately describes the drying behavior, with both drying time and equilibrium moisture content decrease as the drying temperature increases. The results also indicated that tiger-nut milk powder contains a moderate protein content (7.12-7.26%), a high carbohydrate content (63.68-64.17%), and relatively low levels of lipids (6.12-6.24%) and ash (1.42%). These findings suggest that tiger-nut milk powder has the potential to be a valuable plant-based food alternative. Future research should focus on determining its specific mineral composition, bioactive compounds, and potential health benefits.

Thin Layer Drying Kinetics and Influence of Drying Temperature on the Proximate Composition of Tiger-Nut Milk Powder

Milk derived from animal sources often contains anti-nutrient elements such as α-lactoglobulin, β-lactoglobulin, lactose and cholesterol, which can contribute to various health challenges. Plant-based milk alternatives, such as tiger-nut milk, offer a healthier option but often face limitations like short shelf life and high storage costs. This study aimed to investigate the drying kinetics and proximate composition of tiger-nut milk powder. Tiger-nut tubers were processed into milk from brown varieties and subsequently dried at 50, 60, and 70°C. Data obtained were fitted to five commonly applied drying mathematical models (Newton, Logarithmic, Page, Henderson and Pabis) to determine the one which predicted the drying kinetics of the milk more accurately. The dried powder was then analyzed for its proximate composition, including moisture content, crude fiber, carbohydrates, protein, lipids, ash, and pH using standardized procedures developed by Association of Official Analytical Chemists (AOAC). The best fit model for the drying kinetics analysis was determined using the coefficient of determination (R²), with the Page model having the highest R² values of 0.998-0.999. This analysis revealed that the Page model accurately describes the drying behavior, with both drying time and equilibrium moisture content decrease as the drying temperature increases. The results also indicated that tiger-nut milk powder contains a moderate protein content (7.12-7.26%), a high carbohydrate content (63.68-64.17%), and relatively low levels of lipids (6.12-6.24%) and ash (1.42%). These findings suggest that tiger-nut milk powder has the potential to be a valuable plant-based food alternative. Future research should focus on determining its specific mineral composition, bioactive compounds, and potential health benefits.

Evaluation of Antifungal and Biopreservative Potential of Orange Peel-derived Lactobacillus fermentum O1.1 in Cherry Tomatoes.

Evaluation of Antifungal and Biopreservative Potential of Orange Peel-derived Lactobacillus fermentum O1.1 in Cherry Tomatoes.

Effect of hydrogen-producing magnesium-incorporated edible coating on Metabolomic and Volatilomic of beef meatballs.

Effect of hydrogen-producing magnesium-incorporated edible coating on Metabolomic and Volatilomic of beef meatballs.