Sustainable Food Research Articles

Can the co-creation of local food products be a key factor in rural development?

PurposeThis study aims to comprehensively explore the behaviour of potential consumers in terms of their perception of how local agri-food co-creation activities in rural areas influence the perceived quality of agri-food products and the perceived value of the sustainable development goals (SDGs) in rural areas. To do so, it is important to start by answering the research question: Are consumers interested in the co-creation of agri-food products in rural areas?Design/methodology/approachThe methodology consists of two phases, one qualitative and one quantitative. The first phase includes four interviews with experts on gastronomy, rural tourism and services in rural areas and two focus groups with consumers involved in the research topic. In the quantitative phase, a representative sample of almost 700 people in Spain was obtained.FindingsThe first result shows a high level of interest in participating in co-creation activities with agri-food products in rural areas. Other research results suggest that the social integration of consumers with the local community through co-creation activities could improve the appreciation and market position of local foods, as well as their perceived beneficial effect on sustainable development goals. The results also demonstrate how the perceived value of co-creation activities has a positive impact on the intention to undertake and recommend such activities.Originality/valueThis study highlights the importance of co-creation in rural areas, in line with the SDGs and consumer preferences for locally produced sustainable food. Involving consumers in the production process allows small producers to stand out, fostering innovation and rural development. The results show consumers' interest in co-creation, motivated by altruism and the desire to preserve local heritage. The study highlights the indirect impact of co-creation on rural development, emphasising the perceived value and engagement of consumers. Ultimately, it suggests promoting sustainable rural economies through collaborative efforts between producers, consumers and local stakeholders.

Transparency and changing stakeholder roles in the digital age of sustainable agri-food supply chain networks

Society and policy demand greater sustainability of food systems, driving practitioners to improve the transparency of supply chain networks through digital innovation. Uncertainties regarding the structuring of relationships with primary and secondary stakeholders for sharing intangible data and information diminishes the potential for exploitation of digital transparency. While businesses are accustomed to organizing efficient flows of tangible goods, management research integrating digital transparency considerations to investigate and conceptualize structural changes in agri-food supply chain networks (AFSCNs) is scarce. This gap motivates the following four questions of this study: (1) Who are the primary and secondary stakeholders in the AFSCNs of the digital era? (2) What are their transparency interests? (3) How do AFSCN structures change with the emergence of digital innovations that can facilitate sustainability transition through greater transparency? (4) How to conceptualize those structural changes to AFSCNs? The netchain approach and respective transparency concept are integrated with classical stakeholder theory. Data was collected via a series of 21 semi-structured pilot interviews with technology providers in the EU agri-food sector and analyzed using structured content analysis. Results paint a complex picture of contemporary primary and secondary stakeholders of AFSCNs and their interests. Primary stakeholder interests lead to coopetition in vertical and horizontal relationships of the netchain and low transparency efforts by intermediaries. Both hamper the dissemination of digital innovations and the exploitation of their potential to improve AFSCN sustainability. Among secondary stakeholders, policymakers and governments, NGOs, and technology providers excel in being drivers of digital transparency for sustainability, with social media as a strong direct communication tool to reach netchain stakeholders, consumers, and research institutes/universities as collaborators and customers. The emergence of “information AFSCN” and “digital AFSCN” increases the complexity of the whole supply chain network through intermediation, reconfiguration, and emergence modes of change to underlying structures. Agri-food business managers, scientists, and policymakers should innovate in private and public governance to facilitate collaborative advantage and sustainability in a combination aligned with innovative digital transparency solutions.

Factors affecting the adoption of blockchain technologies in the food supply chain

With the rise in food insecurity, one of the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals is to end hunger, achieve food security, and promote sustainable agriculture. This can be achieved through the strengthening and development of existing food systems. Integrating emerging technologies such as blockchain technology can help develop sustainable food systems. Blockchain technology allows the tracking and tracing of food items as they move through the supply chain. Blockchain technology also allows for low transactional costs at almost instantaneous applications. There is however a low adoption rate of blockchain technology amongst organisations in the food supply chain. The objective of the study was to explore factors that affect the adoption of blockchain technology in the food supply chain. The study adopted a quantitative research method that was guided by the technology, organisation, and environment Framework (TOE) to explore factors affecting blockchain technology adoption in the food supply chain. A systematic literature review was used for the study. Quantitative content analysis was used to analyse peer-reviewed articles. Results showed that TOE factors affect the adoption of blockchain technology in the food supply chain. Factors such as cost, scalability, firm size, and IT policy were noted as important factors affecting the adoption of blockchain technology in the food supply chain. The study contributes to the body of knowledge on factors that affect the adoption of blockchain technology in the food supply chain.

Advancements and future perspectives in nutrient film technique hydroponic system: a comprehensive review and bibliometric analysis

In the context of climate change, reducing the environmental impact of agriculture has become increasingly critical. To ensure sustainable food production, it is essential to adopt cultivation techniques that maximize resource efficiency, particularly in water and nutrient usage. The Nutrient Film Technique (NFT) is one such hydroponic system, designed to optimize water and nutrient use, making it a valuable tool for sustainable agriculture. This bibliometric review examines the evolution of NFT research from 1977 to 2023, focusing on the growing interest in this method as a solution to the agricultural challenges posed by climate change. Through the analysis of 774 scientific documents, this review highlights an upward trend in NFT-related studies, with a noticeable shift from conference proceedings to peer-reviewed journal articles, particularly in recent years. Acta Horticulturae has been a leading journal in this field, underscoring the significance of early conference contributions. Lettuce and tomatoes have emerged as the primary crops studied in NFT systems, demonstrating the technique’s broad applicability. Research on lettuce has primarily focused on nitrate accumulation and biofortification, aiming to improve both the nutritional quality and safety of the crop. Studies on tomatoes have explored challenges related to oxygen concentration in the nutrient solution, where innovations such as the Nutrient Drip Technique (NDT) and the New Growing System (NGS) have shown promise in addressing these issues. Other key areas of NFT research include the effects of water salinity on crop growth and the integration of NFT with aquaponics systems, highlighting its potential for sustainable, water-efficient crop production. However, challenges such as nutrient imbalances and disease management persist. This review underscores the growing relevance of NFT in the pursuit of environmentally sustainable agriculture. Continued innovation and research are essential to optimizing nutrient management, refining environmental controls, and exploring new crop varieties, thereby enhancing the potential of NFT for sustainable farming systems.

Societal acceptance and environmental impact of sustainable diets: A comparative study of vegetarian, vegan, and flexitarian diets with similar transportation distances

The study examines the acceptance and sustainability of vegetarian, vegan, and flexitarian diets, focusing on the health and environmental benefits of reducing animal-derived proteins. Our objective was to investigate the level of acceptance of these dietary trends across different age groups and health statuses and understand how sustainability awareness and health consciousness impact dietary decisions. We used a mixed-method approach to achieve this, conducting eight in-depth interviews and a survey with 329 participants from various demographic backgrounds. Our qualitative analysis revealed that individual and family health consciousness, along with sustainability considerations, play a significant role in dietary choices, particularly among younger generations who are more open to sustainable eating. Quantitative results show that access to information and educational resources strongly influences dietary decisions, further supporting the spread of environmentally conscious eating habits. The practical significance of our research lies in highlighting the importance of educational campaigns and public health policies that can foster broader societal acceptance of sustainable diets. Educational institutions and community organizations can help facilitate the transfer of knowledge necessary for adopting such diets. Our findings emphasize the role of targeted communication strategies in increasing awareness of the benefits of plant-based diets. Furthermore, these insights underline the potential of policy interventions to make sustainable food choices more accessible and appealing to a wider population. Future research could focus on exploring economic incentives and examining long-term health and environmental outcomes associated with these diets.

Participants' Experience with Gamification Elements of a School-Based Health Promotion Intervention in Italy: A Mixed Methods Study.

Gamified interventions consist of a combination of game elements designed to motivate and engage users, thus addressing issues of participant low participation and enthusiasm in interventions. Gamification does not work well in all situations and its success depends on the context and target users. However, there is a lack of research on analog health interventions. Qualitative and quantitative data were collected in parallel to examine participants' experiences with Food Game, an analog gamified intervention designed to promote healthier and more sustainable food choices among high school students. Teams of students compete to complete peer-led thematic challenges. Sixty-four students from the 2022/23 edition participated in focus group interviews (N = 11), and 119 completed a survey (56.1% response rate) with indicators of responsiveness and perceived motivational impact of the program's five game elements. Results indicate a relatively high level of engagement with the program. Students valued Food Game because it gave them the opportunity to demonstrate their sense of agency and autonomy and to work in a group with their peers, thus addressing basic needs for competence, relatedness, and autonomy as described by Self-Determination Theory and providing an empowering experience. The least motivating game element in the Food Game was the leaderboard and inter-team competition. Focus group data confirmed students' ambivalence about the competition embedded in the program and pointed to potential unintended consequences, including inter-team conflict, stress, and reduced intrinsic motivation to play. The strengths and weaknesses of Food Game approach to gamification are discussed, along with implications for prevention research and practice.

Recent advancements in aquaponics with special emphasis on its sustainability

AbstractAn aquaponic system which is an integration of hydroponics with aquaculture is sustainable, ecologically friendly, and uses non‐renewable resources with very high efficacy. The increasing trend in aquaponics research demonstrates a growing recognition of its potential to address critical global issues such as food security, water conservation, and sustainable agriculture, particularly in regions vulnerable to climate change and resource limitations. It has witnessed remarkable advancements in recent years, with various methods and variations emerging to enhance its functionality and productivity. The purpose of this review is to unify fragmented research on aquaponics and provide a comprehensive resource that emphasizes its potential for broad adoption and successful implementation in varied environments. This review focuses on recent innovations in aquaponic system designs for various climates and examines key advancements in critical areas, including microbial communities, biofiltration, feed management, water quality, and nutrient cycling, emphasizing the interdisciplinary nature of aquaponics. Coupled systems suit moderate climates with high resource efficiency, while decoupled systems offer flexibility across diverse climates by allowing independent control of each component. Innovations such as sandponics, algaeponics, and saline aquaponics address challenges like water scarcity and nutrient efficiency. Smart technologies like IoT and AI are integrated into aquaponics, automating monitoring and nutrient management for better productivity. Emerging areas, including vermi‐aquaponics and flocponics, offer new solutions for nutrient cycling, making aquaponics more efficient, adaptable, and resource‐conserving globally. This paper also examines the sustainability aspects of aquaponics, emphasizing its economic, social, and environmental dimensions. Despite high setup costs and nutrient complexities, aquaponics offers significant potential for sustainable food production by minimizing water use and reducing synthetic fertilizers. Its scalability in both urban and rural areas, along with innovations like vertical systems, presents promising solutions for enhancing agriculture and food security across diverse environments.

Perceived barriers and enablers middle-aged and older adults experience to adopting ‘sustainable’ diets: A mixed methods systematic review

Abstract The adoption of sustainable diets among middle-aged and older adults may lead to both improved health outcomes and lower environmental impact. Understanding the barriers and enablers that influence food choices and dietary patterns in this growing demographic is pivotal to inform the promotion of dietary change. A convergent integrated mixed methods systematic review was conducted using the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology. Four databases (MEDLINE, CINAHL, Scopus and PsychInfo) were searched for studies published from January 2009 to February 2024 that identified the perceptions of participants 45 years and older in high-income countries about sustainable food choices and barriers and enablers to consumption. From 6295 studies, 23 studies were included and critically appraised using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool. Findings were integrated in a narrative review. Key enablers included the following: understanding of environmental impacts of food; nutritional benefits of plant products; nutrition knowledge and awareness of the health and environmental concerns around some animal food sources. Key barriers included the following: cost of eating a sustainable diet; preference for taste of animal foods like meat and high accessibility; inconvenience of preparation; concerns around nutritional adequacy of plant foods versus animal foods; sociocultural influences and lack of familiarity about sustainability and diet. These findings provide insight into public perceptions of over 45 year olds and may be used by public health practitioners in education and nutrition promotion efforts to motivate people to overcome barriers, such as lack of knowledge, accessibility and food preparation skills as highlighted by this review. Other forms of research into policy and regulatory functions may be needed to further inform strategies to modify dietary patterns.

In vitro Genebank of India for safe conservation of horticultural plant diversity: four decades of milestones.

India is a treasure trove of biological diversity with its plant genetic resources playing a crucial role in the crop improvement serving as the foundation for the country's sustainable food and nutritional security. India's in vitro genebank (IVG) is part of the National Genebank at the Indian Council of Agricultural Research-National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources (ICAR-NBPGR). The IVG houses distinctive multi-crop repository that utilizes several tissue culture techniques for short- to medium-term storage in in vitro active genebank (IVAG) and cryoconservation approaches for long-term storage in in vitro base genebank (IVBG). In IVAG, germplasm is conserved under normal and slow growth conditions with a subculture period of 1-36months depending on the species/genotype and conservation approach. Currently, the IVAG holds 2,038 germplasm accessions (69 genera and 171 species) from six crop groups, viz. (a) tropical fruit crops (449), (b) temperate and minor tropical fruit crops (408), (c) tuber crops (530), (d) bulbous and ornamental crops (187), (e) medicinal and aromatic plants (232), and (f) spices and industrial crops (232). For long-term conservation, in vitro produced explants of various species are cryopreserved at the IVBG in liquid nitrogen. Utilizing various cryoconservation procedures, 347 accessions from several crop groups have been successfully conserved in the IVBG. Over the past four decades, in vitro conservation has been accomplished by the above mentioned cutting-edge techniques. This report highlights the efforts and achievements of the National Genebank in conserving horticultural genetic resources through in vitro and cryoconservation.

Fermented soy products: A review of bioactives for health from fermentation to functionality.

The increasing prevalence of metabolic diseases and the global drive toward achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) underscore the need for sustainable, nutrient-dense foods. Soybeans (Glycine max), a critical global crop, offer promising solutions; however, their predominant use as animal feed raises concerns regarding food security and environmental sustainability. Fermented soy products-including tempeh, natto, and miso-are rich in bioactive compounds such as peptides and isoflavones, which offer potential therapeutic effects and hold cultural and nutritional significance. These fermented products provide bioactive profiles with unique health-promoting properties. This review critically examines the bioactive compounds generated through fermentation, focusing on their bioconversion pathways in the gastrointestinal tract and their metabolic implications for human health. Recent consumer demand for novel food ingredients with additional biological benefits has fueled research into advanced extraction techniques, enhancing the functional applications of bioactive compounds from these soy-based products. This review further explores innovations in extraction methods that improve bioactive yield and sustainability, reinforcing the applicability of these compounds in health-promoting food interventions. The originality of this review lies in its in-depth exploration of the gastrointestinal bioconversion of fermented soy bioactive compounds alongside the latest sustainable extraction methods designed to optimize their use. Future research should aim to refine fermentation and extraction processes, investigate synergistic microbial interactions, and develop environmentally sustainable production methods. These efforts have the potential to position fermented soy products as essential contributors to global nutritional security and sustainable food systems, addressing both public health and environmental needs.

Fostering Sustainable Communities: Competencies and Training Needs for Social Organic Farming in Hungary, Greece, and Italy

This study examines key competencies in social organic farming (SOF) as perceived by stakeholders in Hungary, Greece, and Italy, including necessary knowledge, skills, and attitudes. It also explores the educational and professional requirements for those aiming to become social organic farmers, ultimately contributing to an ideal farmer profile. Through qualitative methods, such as semi-structured interviews with stakeholders, the study identifies essential competencies and training needs for SOF. Results show that successful social organic farmers must understand organic farming principles, social work, farm economics, and possess personal skills like empathy, team-work, and effective communication. These competencies and training align with Social Capital Theory, Diffusion of Innovation Theory, and Community-Based Participatory Research, under-scoring the importance of social networks, community engagement, and innovation in advancing sustainable and inclusive agricultural practices. The study also highlights SOF's role in supporting community well-being, enhancing sustainable food systems, and promoting both physical and mental health. Findings offer valuable insights into the limited literature on SOF, providing actionable recommendations for vocational training programs that support social organic farmers’ growth across Europe. This, in turn, fosters sustainable agriculture, circular economies, and public health, thereby strengthening community resilience and ecological stability.

Modeling a Green and Reliable Intermodal Routing Problem for Food Grain Transportation Under Carbon Tax and Trading Regulations and Multi-Source Uncertainty

This study addresses an intermodal routing problem encountered by an intermodal transportation operator fulfilling the food grain transportation order of an agri-food company. To enhance the environmental sustainability of food logistics, carbon tax and trading regulations have been employed to reduce the carbon emissions associated with transportation. Multi-source uncertainties, including the company’s demand for food grains and various parameters related to the intermodal transportation activities, are modeled via trapezoidal fuzzy numbers to optimize the comprehensive reliability of the solution. This work incorporates wastage reduction by lowering the wastage costs and formulating a wastage threshold constraint in intermodal routing. Accordingly, a fuzzy mixed-integer nonlinear programming model for a green and reliable intermodal routing problem for food grain transportation is proposed. To overcome the model’s insolvability and the difficulty in finding the global optimum solution to a nonlinear optimization model, a two-stage solution method is developed, employing chance-constrained programming and linearization technique to reformulate the initial model. A numerical case study is given to verify the feasibility of the proposed methods. Sensitivity analysis reveals the influence of confidence levels and wastage threshold, providing insights for the agri-food company to balance economics, reliability, and wastage reduction in food grain transportation. The numerical case study also analyzes the feasibility of carbon tax and trading regulations in reducing carbon emissions, concluding that carbon tax regulations consistently achieve greater reductions and are universally feasible. In contrast, the feasibility of carbon trading regulations depends on confidence levels and wastage threshold. The findings of this work could provide strong quantitative support for intermodal transportation operators and agri-food companies seeking to implement sustainable food grain transportation.

Synergistic Matching and Influencing Factors of Grain Production and Cropland Net Primary Productivity in the Black Soil Region of Northeast China

Exploring the spatiotemporal dynamics, spatial mismatch, and complex influencing mechanism of grain production and cropland productivity in the black soil region of northeast China (BSRNC) is essential for the synergistic protection and utilization of black soil cropland and sustainable grain production. The BSRNC has realized cropland expansion and grain production increases in the past decades. This implied a substantial investment has been made in the region’s agriculture. However, at present, knowledge on the spatial mismatch and influencing factors of grain production and cropland productivity is still unclear. This study analyzed the spatial–temporal mismatch characteristics of grain production and cropland net primary productivity (CNPP) using the gravity center model, spatial autocorrelation analysis, and spatial mismatch index (SMI), and identified the spatial heterogeneity and prediction–response relationships of influencing factors based on a geographically and temporally weighted regression (GTWR) model and boosted regression tree (BRT) machine learning algorithm. The findings indicated that grain production and CNPP have been increasing, but the overall spatial pattern of cold hotspots has not changed obviously in the BSRNC from 2000 to 2020. The SMI has shown a decreasing trend, indicating that the synergistic development of grain production and CNPP has been obvious, which plays an important role in sustainable food supply capacity. Agricultural production and the natural environment have always been critical factors influencing the spatial mismatch. Specifically, the marginal impact of fertilizer application has undergone a shift. This study may provide new clues for the formulation of regional strategies for sustainable food supply and black soil cropland system protection.

Enhancing the Efficiency and Sustainability of Producing Curcumin‐Infused Plant‐Based Milk Alternatives With a Two‐in‐One Post pH‐Driven Processing Strategy

ABSTRACTIncreasing food sustainability and health benefits is essential to meet the demands of a growing global population while minimizing environmental impact. This study used a green two‐in‐one post pH‐driven processing strategy to develop a sustainable and healthy plant‐based milk alternative. It achieved both extraction and encapsulation in one step by directly incorporating the health‐promoting curcumin from turmeric into soymilk. A high processing efficiency was observed, 94.2% ± 1.6%, with a high extraction efficiency of 96.4% ± 0.5%. Using raw turmeric instead of a purified curcumin significantly enhanced the sustainability in the use of raw materials, for example, reducing the CO2‐eq emissions by 22 times and energy use by 10 times, even with a very small percentage of curcumin (∼0.03 wt%) in the formulation. This strategy underscores the importance of using raw materials and minimizing processing steps to develop more sustainable foods. Additionally, the incorporation of curcumin was found to impart a yellow color to soymilk. No significant changes were observed in other physicochemical properties like particle size, zeta potential, and melting behavior, as most curcumin molecules were encapsulated within the lipid phase of soymilk. The curcumin‐infused soymilk powders also maintained excellent storage stability for 1 month under freezing temperature.

Comparative Study on the Proximate and Selected Sugar Composition of Raw and Processed Breadfruit

Introduction: African bread fruit possesses great promise as a dietary source for humans. Its seeds, when processed are considered to be nutritious and healthy. There are limited information on the sugar profiles of African breadfruit, which has limited its utilization as a dietary source for humans. Objective: The study evaluated the proximate composition and sugar profiles of raw and processed breadfruit. Methods: The samples used were the raw, boiled and toasted forms of breadfruit. Standard procedures were followed for the proximate composition and gas chromatography was used to determine the sugar composition. The statistically differences between the groups at p<0.05 was tested using ANOVA. Results: The study’s findings showed that in comparison to the boiled and toasted forms, the raw form had significantly higher percentage of carbohydrate (81.10), crude protein (1.73), ash (2.93) and crude fibre (4.80). The boiled had significantly higher moisture (19.49) than raw and toasted forms. The sugar profiling revealed that the concentration(mg/100g) of glucose (13.77), and xylose (3.42) was significantly higher in the raw compared to the processed forms. D-fructose (3.93) was significantly higher in the boiled form while D-Galacturonic acid (5.76) and D-Glucuronic acid (8.57) were significantly higher in the toasted form. Conclusion: The findings suggest that breadfruit is a good source of carbohydrates and can be used as sustainable food and can help to alleviate malnutrition among humans.

Microgreens: A Comprehensive Review Emphasizing Urban Agriculture

In this comprehensive review, we delve into the multifaceted world of nutrient-rich microgreens, with a particular emphasis on their significance in urban agriculture. By exploring their nutritional composition, culinary applications and cultivation techniques, we aim to shed light on the transformative potential of microgreens in promoting sustainable urban food systems. Through an interdisciplinary lens encompassing agronomy, nutrition and urban planning, we uncover the myriad benefits of microgreens cultivation and highlight the critical role they play in shaping the future of urban agriculture.

Exploring Microgravity’s Effect on Seed Germination and Growth of Plants

The study of the effects of microgravity on plant cells has gained significant attention, especially in the context of space experiments, which necessitates a comprehensive understanding of plant growth and development in altered gravitational conditions. Understanding the impact of microgravity on seed germination, seedling establishment, and overall plant development is essential for future space agriculture and the development of sustainable food production systems. In microgravity, plants encounter unique physical and physiological challenges, making it essential to explore the physiological and biochemical responses of plant cells to this environment. Various factors contribute to the alterations observed in plant behavior under microgravity, including changes in water and nutrient distribution, disruptions in hormone signaling, and modifications in the expression of secondary metabolites. Physiological and biochemical in plants due to microgravity caused by the influence on the phytochrome system, gas exchange photosynthesis, and the production of secondary metabolites. Microgravity affects mechanocellular responses of plants which elucidates how the absence of gravity can disrupt cytoplasmic streaming, impact cell wall rigidity, and cause damage to cell membranes. These alterations in plant cell behavior under microgravity conditions can have profound implications for plant growth and development. Space farming faces challenges and constraints of cultivating plants in space, such as managing water distribution, temperature fluctuations, and radiation exposure, are addressed. Innovative methods for planting crops in space, including plant pillows, greenhouse cultivation, and soil-less systems, are discussed. In the future, research efforts should focus on selecting or genetically modifying plant varieties with enhanced tolerance to the diverse stress encountered in space environments. Thus, it is concluded that space farming underscores the importance of comprehensive studies on plant responses to microgravity, offering valuable insights for both space exploration and terrestrial agriculture.

The co-design of support strategies for sustainable, healthy, and affordable food provision in Early Childhood Education settings.

To co-design support strategies to enable sustainable, healthy, affordable food provision, including waste mitigation practices, in Australian Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) settings. Based upon the co-design IDEAS framework (Ideate, DEsign, Assess & Share), this co-design process involved iterative interviews and focus groups with ECEC centre staff, and workshops with Nutrition Australia. Interview and workshop themes were coded to the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF) to develop initial prototypes for support strategies that were further developed and refined in focus groups. ECEC with onsite food provision, in Victoria, Australia. ECEC staff and a Victorian Government funded program delivered through Nutrition Australia that provides nutrition support to ECEC services. ECEC staff interviews (n=17) suggested a lack of knowledge on the topic of sustainable healthy food provision and a need for resources and support for all staff and children. Workshops with Nutrition Australia built on interviews and suggested a focus on lower intensity strategies, and a suggestion to embed knowledge-related activities into the children's curriculum. Focus groups (n=8) further informed co-design of strategies, producing a visual representation of sustainable healthy food provision with supporting tips and a whole-of-centre approach that includes children through a classroom activity. The co-designed resources could provide feasible strategies for the adoption of sustainable, healthy and affordable provision practices in the ECEC setting. Involvement of a local government-funded health promotion service provides valuable research-to-practice contribution as well opportunity for scalable dissemination of resources through existing infrastructure.

Nano fertilizer application under different establishment techniques for sustainable paddy (Oryza sativa L.) production

Rice production in Asia is a cornerstone of global food security. Implementing innovative crop establishment practices and utilizing nano fertilizers can enhance rice yields and mitigate environmental concerns, thereby contributing to a resilient and sustainable food system. Therefore, a field experiment was conducted over 2020 and 2021 that included various methods of application (seed treatment, root dipping, soil and foliar application) of nano fertilizers (nano nitrogen and nano zinc) under different rice establishment methods (conventional paddy and SRI). Statistical analysis was performed using Fisher’s analysis of variance and Duncan’s multiple range test (p ≤ 0.05). The findings showed that the application of 75% N and two foliar sprays of nano-nitrogen and nano-zinc at 25 to 30 and 45 to 50 days after transplanting under System of Rice Intensification method (Treatment T14) was statistically superior in improving growth and yield parameters, grain and straw yield, and in enhancing the quality of rice over other treatments. Studies revealed strong positive correlations between all the measures, with the exception of the proportion of chaffiness and unfilled grains. The results of the stepwise regression analysis revealed the percentage dependence of grain and straw yield on growth, yield, and quality factors.

Biochar Influences Polyethylene Microplastic-Contaminated Soil Properties and Enzyme Activities

Microplastics (MPs) have emerged as a significant pollutant, threatening agricultural ecosystem sustainability and global food security. However, relatively few studies have investigated biochar remedial effects on plant growth and biochemical properties in soils contaminated with MPs. In polyethylene microplastic (PE-MP)-contaminated soil, we investigated corn stover biochar effects on soybean growth, soil nutrient content, enzyme activity, and microbial biomass and assessed its impact on soil microbial resource limitations. The addition of MPs inhibited soybean growth in various forms across four stages. Conversely, the addition of biochar to MPs improved soybean growth to some extent, where above-ground biomass increased by 5.82% after adding biochar to soils containing microplastics. In soil treated with MPs and biochar, nitrate nitrogen (N), available phosphorus (P), and available potassium (K) increased by 20.1, 27.4, and 57.2%, respectively, while available nitrogen significantly decreased to 128.3 mg kg−1 compared to the MP-only treatment. PE-MPs alone significantly reduced soil carbon (C), N, and P enzyme activities, as well as microbial biomass, with β-glucosidase, leucine aminopeptidase, and acid phosphatase activities decreasing by 29.9, 27.8, and 25.5%, respectively. Interestingly, biochar addition to MPs significantly alleviated these detrimental effects. Microbial biomass C, N, and P increased by up to 56.0, 22.5, and 96.6%, respectively, following biochar addition to soils containing MPs. Analysis of vector lengths, vector angles, and scatter plots indicated that the presence of MPs reduced soil N and P availability. Overall, while MPs inhibited soybean development, biochar addition alleviated this effect to some extent. Furthermore, partial least-squares path modeling revealed that MPs negatively affected soil chemical properties, microbial biomass, and enzyme activities, whereas biochar positively influenced soil enzyme activities.