Soft Drinks Research Articles

Formation of CdTe core and CdTe@ZnTe core-shell quantum dots via hydrothermal approach using dual capping agents: deciphering the food dye sensing and protein binding applications.

Excessive use of food coloring agents in the food industry to make the food more attractive or improve the taste has caused various health and ecological problems. Therefore, it is necessary to develop a reliable, sensitive, and selective sensing probe to detect food dyes in different food products for future industrial processing and biosafety. In recent decades, surface-functionalized quantum dots (QDs), owing to their unique optical properties, have gained tremendous interest for a wide range of applications, including biomedical, bioimaging and sensing applications. Herein, we have reported the synthesis of excellent colloidal stable and highly luminescent CdTe core and CdTe@ZnTe core-shell QDs using dual functionalizing agents, polyvinyl pyrrolidone and vitamin C. The synthesized QDs were explored as excellent sensing probes for the food dyes carmoisine, Ponceau 4R and tartrazine with limit of detection (LOD) values of 0.097 ± 0.006, 0.147 ± 0.001 and 0.044 ± 0.001 μM for CdTe-PVP QDs and 0.079 ± 0.001, 0.114 ± 0.002 and 0.042 ± 0.001 μM for CdTe@ZnTe-PVP QDs, respectively. The sensitivity of the synthesized QDs for the food dyes was also investigated in real samples (soft drinks and medications). Moreover, considering the potential effects of QDs as therapeutics or nano-drug carriers, the interactions between the synthesized QDs and carrier protein human serum albumin (HSA) were investigated. The binding affinity was observed to be in the order of 104 M-1. QDs were found to quench the intrinsic fluorescence of HSA, and both types of quenching (static and dynamic) occur via electrostatic interactions in association with hydrophobic forces without any significant alteration in the protein structure.

A Bamboo HD-Zip Transcription Factor PeHDZ72 Conferred Drought Tolerance by Promoting Sugar and Water Transport.

Drought drastically affects plant growth, development and productivity. Plants respond to drought stress by enhancing sugar accumulation and water transport. Homeodomain-leucine zipper (HD-Zip) transcription factors (TFs) participate in various aspects of plant growth and stress response. However, the internal regulatory mechanism of HD-Zips in moso bamboo (Phyllostachys edulis) remains largely unknown. In this study, we identified an HD-Zip member, PeHDZ72, which was highly expressed in bamboo shoots and roots and was induced by drought. Furthermore, PeSTP_46019, PeSWEET_23178 and PeTIP4-3 were identified as downstream genes of PeHDZ72 in moso bamboo by DAP-seq. The expressions of these three genes were all induced by drought stress. Y1H, DLR and GUS activity assays demonstrated that PeHDZ72 could bind to three types of HD-motifs in the promoters of these three genes. Overexpression of PeHDZ72 led to a remarkable enhancement in drought tolerance in transgenic rice, with significantly improved soluble sugar and sucrose contents. Meanwhile, the expressions of OsSTPs, OsSWEETs and OsTIP were all upregulated in transgenic rice under drought stress. Overall, our results indicate that drought stress might induce the expression of PeHDZ72, which in turn activated downstream genes PeSTP_46019, PeSWEET_23178 and PeTIP4-3, contributing to the improvement of cellular osmotic potential in moso bamboo in response to drought stress.

Sequential use of coagulation and adsorption methods for COD removal from soft drink industry wastewater

Sequential use of coagulation and adsorption methods for COD removal from soft drink industry wastewater

Erosive Tooth Wear and Associated Risk Indicators in Schoolchildren from Rural and Urban Areas of the State of Mexico: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Limited access to health services and low educational levels are factors in the rural population that are associated with the development of oral pathologies. However, the specific risk indicators contributing to erosive tooth wear (ETW) in these populations remain unclear. The objective of this study was to identify risk indicators associated with the prevalence of erosive tooth wear (ETW) in schoolchildren aged 8-12 years from rural and urban areas in the State of Mexico. A cross-sectional study was carried out in public schools in rural and urban areas. The prevalence of ETW was evaluated using the Basic Erosive Wear Examination (BEWE). The risk indicators studied were gastroesophageal reflux, vomiting, vitamin C, food, beverages, dental hygiene, bruxism, and hyposalivation. Logistic regression models were used to calculate odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). The prevalence of ETW was higher in the rural area (77.3%) compared to the urban area (51.2%) (p = 0.001). The odds of presenting ETW were more than twice in schoolchildren from rural areas compared to those from urban areas (OR: 2.25, 95% CI: 1.11-3.98). Risk indicators varied between rural and urban populations, with different factors such as the consumption of fresh tomato sauce, orange, tangerine, atole (artisanal corn-based drink), and teeth grinding in the rural area, and lemon, soft drink, fruit juice consumption, and the simplified oral hygiene index in the urban area (p < 0.05). To prevent ETW, strategies offering tailored dietary and hygiene advice should be proposed, considering the specific conditions of each geographic area.

Dietary Pattern's Role in Hepatic Epigenetic and Dietary Recommendations for the Prevention of NAFLD.

Comprehensive screening and eligibility criteria identified eleven articles focusing on epigenetic changes in NAFLD patients through dietary modifications or nutrient supplementation. Data were organized based on study types, categorizing them into evaluations of epigenetic changes in NAFLD patients through dietary pattern modifications or specific nutrient intake. The study highlights the importance of dietary interventions in managing and preventing NAFLD, emphasizing the potential of dietary patterns to influence hepatic epigenetic gene modulation. This study provides valuable insights and recommendations to mitigate the risk of developing NAFLD: (i) eat a primarily plant-based diet; (ii) increase consumption of high-fiber foods; (iii) consume more polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fatty acids; (iv) limit processed foods, soft drinks, added sugars, and salt; and (v) avoid alcohol.

Pengaruh Inovasi Produk dan Kualitas Produk Terhadap Keputusan Pembelian Minuman Isotonik Pocari Sweet di Kabupaten Karawang

Pocari Sweet has been ranked first for a long time as the top brand in the type of isotonic drink. This study is aimed at analyzing the influence of product innovation and product quality on purchasing decisions for the Pocari Sweet isotonic drink in Karawang district. The population in this study were the people of Karawang district who often consumed and knew about various kinds of pocari sweet isotonic drink packaging. The research method is quantitative using purposive sampling with the hair formula which then obtains a sample of 150 respondents. Data analysis uses PLS-SEM to provide predictions and develop theory. The result is that product innovation and product quality have a significant influence on purchasing decisions.

Sex and Age Differences in the Effects of Food Frequency on Metabolic Parameters in Japanese Adults.

Owing to differences in dietary preferences between men and women, the associations between dietary intake frequency and metabolic parameters may differ between the sexes. A retrospective observational study of the checkup findings of 3147 Japanese individuals (968 men, 2179 women) aged 20-59 years was conducted to examine differences in dietary habits and associations between food frequency and blood parameters (eGFR, HbA1c, uric acid, and lipids) by sex and age. Males were more likely to consume meat, fish, soft drinks, and alcohol, whereas women were more likely to consume soybeans, dairy products, vegetables, fruits, and snacks. Multivariate linear regression models adjusted for age and BMI revealed that meat intake frequency was positively associated with HbA1c (β = 0.007, p = 0.03) and negatively associated with eGFR (β = -0.3, p = 0.01) only in males, whereas fish intake frequency was positively associated with eGFR (β = 0.4, p = 0.005) only in females. Egg and soy intake frequencies were positively and negatively associated with non-HDL-C (egg: β = 0.6, p = 0.02; soy: β = -0.3, p = 0.03) only in females. Alcohol consumption frequency was associated with uric acid (M: β = 0.06, p < 0.001; F: β = 0.06, p < 0.001) and HDL-C (M: β = 1.0, p < 0.001; F: β = 1.3, p < 0.001) in both sexes. Future research is needed to determine whether varying the emphasis of dietary guidance by sex and age group is effective, since the effects of dietary preferences on metabolic parameters vary by age and sex.

One-pot derivatization spectrofluorimetric method for detection of aspartame in sweetener commercial tablets and soft drinks: Greenness assessments of the methodology.

Aspartame is an artificial sweetener used in drinks and many foods. International Agency for Research on Cancer classified aspartame as possibly carcinogenic to humans (IARC Group 2B). In this study, a sensitive and selective spectrofluorimetric method was developed to detect aspartame. The method is based on switching on the fluorescence activity of aspartame upon its condensation with O-phthalaldehyde (Roth's reaction) in the presence of 2-mercaptoethanol. The reaction product was detected fluorometrically at λem of 438 nm after λex of 340 nm. All reaction conditions required to yield the optimal fluorescence intensity were observed and investigated. Furthermore, the approach was validated according to ICH guidelines. Upon plotting the concentrations of aspartame against their associated fluorescence intensity values, the relationship between the two variables was linear within the range of 0.5-3.0μg/mL. Furthermore, the method was employed to analyze the quantity of aspartame in commercial packages and soft drinks with an acceptable level of recovery. In addition, the Green Solvents Selecting Tool, Complementary Green Analytical Procedure Index, and the Analytical Greenness Metric tool were used to evaluate the sustainability and the greenness of the developed methodology.

P097 SEXUAL DIMORPHISM IN A HYPERTENSIVE MODEL OF FRUCTOSE PLUS HIGH SALT DIET

High salt diet (HSD) and fructose are both consumed in excess and contributes to hypertension (HTN). Fructose is commonly used to sweeten soft drinks, and studies have linked soft drink consumption to salt-sensitive HTN. However, full mechanisms aren’t understood. Previous data indicates that an acute fructose-enriched diet (FED) increases Na/K/2Cl cotransporter (NKCC2) activity, promoting salt-sensitive HTN in rats; however, there is no research on long-term consumption. Here, our goal was to evaluate whether a FED, coupled to HSD, can induce HTN. Given the known sex-dependent differences in salt-sensitive HTN, we also hypothesized differences between male and female mice. Male and female C57BI/6 mice (10 weeks old, n=4-6) were treated with vehicle or fructose (10% in drinking water) plus HSD (4% in food) for 28 days. Systolic blood pressure (SBP) was measured by tail-cuff plethysmography, and cardiac hypertrophy (morphometry). We performed an acute diuresis test using furosemide to inhibit NKCC2 (20 mg/kg bw, ip) at day 26, and then measured natriuresis (metabolic cages) for 2-hrs. All data are presented by mean standard deviation. Fructose+HSD increased SBP in male mice after 28 days (Veh=110.5±4.6 vs. Frucose+HSD=130.2±5.6 mmHg; p&lt;0.01); in contrast, HTN was completely prevented in female mice (Veh=109.8±6.8 vs. Fructose+HSD=114.0±11.0 mmHg; ns). We did not observe changes in cardiac hypertrophy in either sex. We observed a significant decrease in natriuresis (∼20%) after furosemide injection in male mice (Veh=5.9±1.1 vs. Fructose+HSD=4.7±0.8 μEq/2 h/g bw; ns). Surprisingly, we observed an increase in natriuresis following furosemide injection in female mice (Veh=3.8±5.0 vs. Fructose+HSD= 7.7±2.7 μEq/2 h/g bw; p&lt;0.01). We observed HTN in males following a FED combined with HSD, which was not associated with increased NKCC2 activation. In contrast, female mice showed a resistance to HTN, and yet an apparent increase in NKCC2 activity. This probably suggests a dysregulation of other transporters not evaluated in this work. Finally, we demonstrate that long-term FED, with HSD, induces HTN with a sexual dimorphic effect, apparently through differential renal sodium handling.

Caffeine consumption of medical students in Korea: amount and symptoms based on a 2023 survey.

To investigate the form and level of daily caffeine intake recommended above 400 mg in medical students expected to consume caffeinated beverages to enhance their performance. From May to June 2023, freshman through senior medical students at a medical school in Korea were administered a seven-item questionnaire designed to measure the amount of caffeine-containing foods consumed, the weekly interval between consumption, the reason for consumption, and the level of caffeine-induced symptoms experienced. Out of 443 students, 361 responded (81.5%). The most commonly consumed caffeine beverages were coffee (79.2%), followed by soda (33.2%), tea (27.4%), chocolate (25.2%), and energy drinks (20.5%). The estimated (average±standard deviation) daily intake was estimated to 274.6±276.5 mg, and they consumed caffeine on an average of 4.25±2.26 days per week. Students who consumed 400 mg or more of caffeine daily consumed 19.9%. The primary motivation for caffeine intake was "to improve academic performance" (60.9%) and "preferred food" (51.8%). Among the responders, 98% of them replied they had symptoms that could be caused by caffeine, in order of palpitations (47.4%), frequent urination (42.9%), anxiety (27.1%), indigestion (17.5%), and excitement (17.5%). A total of 45.7% reported two symptoms, and 24.7% reported three or more. Caffeinated beverage consumption was routine among current medical students, with 20% consuming more than the recommended daily amount. Most students experienced at least one caffeine-induced symptom, with two symptoms in half, suggesting the need for policy measures and warnings about caffeine-containing foods.

Hyperspectral reflectance imaging for visualizing reducing sugar content, moisture, and hollow rate in red ginseng

Red ginseng (RG) has been traditionally valued in Northeast Asia for its health-enhancing properties. Recent advancements in hyperspectral imaging (HSI) offer a non-destructive, efficient, and reliable method to assess critical quality indicators of RG, such as reducing sugar content (RSC), water content (WC), and hollow rate (HR). This study developed predictive models using HSI technology to monitor these quality indicators over the spectral range of 400–1700 nm. Image features were enhanced using Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and Minimum Noise Fraction (MNF), followed by classification through Spectral Angle Mapping (SAM). The best-performing model for RSC achieved an R2 value of 0.6198 and a root mean square error (RMSE) of 0.013. For WC, the optimal model obtained an R2 value of 0.6555 and an RMSE of 0.014. The spatial distribution of RSC, WC, and HR was effectively visualized, demonstrating the potential of HSI for on-site quality control of RG. This study provides a foundation for real-time, non-invasive monitoring of RG quality, addressing industry needs for rapid and reliable assessment methods.

The Impact of Light-Dark Cycle Alteration on the Acceleration of Type 1 Diabetes in NOD Mice Model.

We aimed to evaluate the effect of light-dark cycle alteration and soft drink consumption on the acceleration of type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) development among non-obese diabetic (NOD) mice model. We exposed female NOD and C57BL/6 mice from the age of 5 weeks to either adlib soft drink consumption and/or T20 light-dark cycle alteration until the development of diabetes, or the mice reached the age of 30 weeks. Each group consisted of 7-15 mice. We monitored weight, length, blood glucose level, and insulin autoantibody (IAA) levels weekly. Out of 75 NOD and 22 C57BL/6 mice, 41 NOD mice developed diabetes, and 6 mice died between 7 and 8 weeks of age. The mean time to development of T1DM among NOD control mice was 20 weeks. The time to development of T1DM was accelerated by two weeks in the NOD mice exposed to light-dark cycle alteration, hazard ratio of 2.65,95th CI (0.70, 10.04) p = 0.15). The other groups developed T1DM, similar to the control group. There was a trend toward earlier development of T1DM among NOD mice exposed to light-dark cycle alteration, but this difference was not statistically significant. Further studies are needed to confirm our findings using larger sample sizes and different animal species.

Maternal dietary patterns associated with bone density in Chinese lactating women and infants at 6 months postpartum: a prospective study using data from 2018–2019

This cohort study was designed to explore the relationship between maternal dietary patterns (DPs) and bone health in Chinese lactating mothers and infants. We recruited 150 lactating women at 1-month postpartum. The estimated bone mineral density (eBMD) of subjects’ calcanei and the information on dietary intake were collected. After 5-month follow-up, the eBMD of mothers and their infants were measured again. Factor analysis was applied to determine maternal DPs. General linear models were used to evaluate the association between maternal DPs and maternal eBMD loss or infants’ eBMD. With all potential covariates adjusted, Factor 2 (high intake of whole grains, tubers, mixed beans, soybeans and soybean products, seaweeds, and nuts) showed a positive association with the changes of maternal eBMD (β = 0.16, 95 % CI: 0.005, 0.310). Factor 3 (high intake of soft drinks, fried foods, and puffed foods) was inversely correlated with the changes of maternal eBMD (β = –0. 22, 95 % CI: -0.44, 0.00). The changes of maternal eBMD were positively associated with 6-month infants’ eBMD (β = 0.34, 95 % CI: 0.017, 0.652). In conclusion, Factor 2 might contribute to the maintenance of eBMD in lactating women, while Factor 3 could exacerbate maternal eBMD loss. Additionally, the changes of maternal eBMD presented a positive correlation with 6-month infants’ eBMD.

Ultra-processed foods, allergy outcomes and underlying mechanisms in children: An EAACI task force report.

Consumption of ultra-processed foods [UPFs] may be associated with negative health outcomes. Limited data exist regarding the potential role of UPFs in the occurrence of allergic diseases. The underlying mechanisms underpinning any such associations are also poorly elucidated. We performed a systematic review and narrative evidence synthesis of the available literature to assess associations between UPF consumption and pediatric allergy outcomes (n = 26 papers), including data on the association seen with the gut microbiome (n = 16 papers) or immune system (n = 3 papers) structure and function following PRISMA guidelines. Dietary exposure to fructose, carbonated soft drinks, and sugar intake was associated with an increased risk of asthma, allergic rhinitis, and food allergies in children. Commercial baby food intake was associated with childhood food allergy. Childhood intake of fructose, fruit juices, sugar-sweetened beverages, high carbohydrate UPFs, monosodium glutamate, UPFs, and advanced glycated end-products (AGEs) was associated with the occurrence of allergic diseases. Exposure to UPFs and common ingredients in UPFs seem to be associated with increased occurrence of allergic diseases such as asthma, wheezing, food allergies, atopic dermatitis, and allergic rhinitis, in many, but not all studies. More preclinical and clinical studies are required to better define the link between UPF consumption and the risk of allergies and asthma. These observational studies ideally require supporting data with clearly defined UPF consumption, validated dietary measures, and mechanistic assessments to definitively link UPFs with the risk of allergies and asthma.

Критерии потребительского выбора пищевой продукции в контексте анализа рисков для здоровья

Provision of food quality and safety is among national priorities. The strategy aimed at improving quality of food products in the Russian Federation for the period up to 2030 highlights a relevant issue as regards Russians consuming low-quality food products. The aim of this study is to identify criteria that determine consumer choice of food products and its influence on health risks. The empirical data used in the study are represented by the results of national social surveys (Russian Public Opinion Research Center, NAFI Research Center, Public Opinion Fund, 2020–2023) and materials obtained by focus interviews with Russian megacity residents (n = 26, spring 2024). Price is the top criterion that determines consumer choices in Russia. We identified three behavioral strategies based on subjective perception of food quality and price: 1) quality is priority regardless of a price (the strategy is typical for middle-aged consumers with higher incomes); 2) a balance between quality and price (including orientation at discounts and special promotion campaigns at points-of-sail); 3) refusal from subjectively more qualitative food products in favor of less qualitative but cheaper ones (the strategy is typical for consumers from senior age groups). Consumer orientation at product price leads to changes in diets in case population incomes are dropping or market prices are growing; in particular, it means a decline in fruit, meat and fish consumption. Significance a consumer places on food taste as a selection criterion results in choosing food products with low ‘objective’ consumer value but a higher ‘subjective’ one, for example, chips, sweetened carbonated beverages, and products with high saturated fat contents. Risky consumer choice is also determined by low interest in healthy diets and absence of any faith in possibility to get objective information. A conclusion is made that it is necessary to make food products, which are subjectively perceived by consumers as more qualitative, more affordable in money terms; to intensify educational activities and to create suitable conditions for making consumers refuse from buying products with low nutrition value.

Criteria that determine consumer choice of food products within health risk analysis

Provision of food quality and safety is among national priorities. The strategy aimed at improving quality of food products in the Russian Federation for the period up to 2030 highlights a relevant issue as regards Russians consuming low-quality food products. The aim of this study is to identify criteria that determine consumer choice of food products and its influence on health risks. The empirical data used in the study are represented by the results of national social surveys (Russian Public Opinion Research Center, NAFI Research Center, Public Opinion Fund, 2020–2023) and materials obtained by focus interviews with Russian megacity residents (n = 26, spring 2024). Price is the top criterion that determines consumer choices in Russia. We identified three behavioral strategies based on subjective perception of food quality and price: 1) quality is priority regardless of a price (the strategy is typical for middle-aged consumers with higher incomes); 2) a balance between quality and price (including orientation at discounts and special promotion campaigns at points-of-sail); 3) refusal from subjectively more qualitative food products in favor of less qualitative but cheaper ones (the strategy is typical for consumers from senior age groups). Consumer orientation at product price leads to changes in diets in case population incomes are dropping or market prices are growing; in particular, it means a decline in fruit, meat and fish consumption. Significance a consumer places on food taste as a selection criterion results in choosing food products with low ‘objective’ consumer value but a higher ‘subjective’ one, for example, chips, sweetened carbonated beverages, and products with high saturated fat contents. Risky consumer choice is also determined by low interest in healthy diets and absence of any faith in possibility to get objective information. A conclusion is made that it is necessary to make food products, which are subjectively perceived by consumers as more qualitative, more affordable in money terms; to intensify educational activities and to create suitable conditions for making consumers refuse from buying products with low nutrition value.

Identifying Customer Segmentation and Persona of Soft Drink Industry in India: An Approach Using K-Means Clustering

Perkembangan industri makanan dan minuman terus maju dengan dukungan teknologi dan berbagai inovasi terbaru. Dalam kategori minuman ringan (soft drink), semakin banyak varian jenis dan penambahan rasa yang dibuat untuk menarik perhatian masyarakat. Pertumbuhan industri minuman ringan diperkirakan akan terus meningkat. Minuman ringan (soft drink) adalah minuman yang tidak mengandung alkohol, biasanya berbentuk bubuk atau cairan yang mengandung bahan makanan atau bahan tambahan lainnya, baik alami maupun sintesis, dan dikemas dalam kemasan siap konsumsi. Perusahaan minuman ringan dalam menentukan langkah untuk meningkatkan keuntungan, perlu memiliki strategi meningkatkan penjualan dengan mengetahui target konsumen supaya tidak kehilangan pelanggan potensial dan memiliki biaya iklan yang efektif dengan melakukan customer segmentation. Metode yang digunakan pada penelitian ini untuk melakukan segmentasi adalah dengan menggunakan Metode Kmeans clustering. Metode ini adalah salah satu algoritma pembelajaran tanpa pengawasan (unsupervised learning). K-Means berfungsi untuk mengelompokkan data ke dalam data kluster. Dataset pada penelitian ini menggunakan 1000 populasi transaksi minuman ringan di India. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan 7 kluster berbeda yaitu middle productive age of gangster softdrink lovers, Early Productive Age of Sky9 and CodeX Softdrink Lovers, Cocacola &amp; Pepsi lovers, Pepsi Softdrink Lovers, middle productive age of Cocacola softdrink lovers, Early Productive Age of Cocacola Softdrink Lovers, dan Bluebull Softdrink Lovers. Cluster 6: Early Productive Age of Cocacola Softdrink Lovers merupakan kluster terbesar senilai 19% dari total populasi. Dengan ini maka perusahaan cocacola yang menargetkan Cluster 6 dapat melakukan positioning seperti menyesuaikan keinginan dari cutomer yang yaitu mengembangkan produk less sugar serta menggunakan online platform dalam melakukan marketing.

Exploring the sugar-sweetened beverage tax (SSBT) pass-through rate in the Irish hospitality sector

BackgroundThe World Health Organization (WHO) supports the use of Sugar-Sweetened Beverage Taxes (SSBTs) as a fiscal lever to help reduce sugar consumption and tackle obesity. Obesity is associated with a range of adverse health outcomes. In response to increasing levels of obesity in Ireland, an SSBT was introduced in 2018. Previous research in Ireland has noted that the pass-through rate of the SSBT in retail (off-site consumption) settings was poor. However, to date, no research has examined the SSBT pass-through rate in hospitality (on-site consumption) venues in Ireland.MethodsThis research examines the SSBT pass-through rate on Coca-Cola versus diet versions of Coca-Cola in a convenience sample of 100 hospitality venues in two provincial Irish cities.ResultsWilcoxon signed rank test analysis revealed that regular Coca-Cola was significantly more expensive compared to the price charged for diet versions of Coca-Cola. However, in 85.6% of cases the same price was charged for both full-sugar and sugar-free drinks. The mean pass-through rate of the SSBT was 33.8%.ConclusionThe effective functioning of the SSBT is premised on persistent price differences between soft drink prices based on sugar content. However, this is barely evident in the hospitality sector in Ireland. A number of recommendations are suggested, including both increasing the SSBT, and increasing it annually in line with inflation.

Substantiating the feasibility of processing the secondary product obtained after osmotic dehydration of dried apricots

The object of research is the production technology of dried apricots by the method of osmotic dehydration and the derived products that are formed in the process. An improved technology for processing the secondary product of apricot production has been proposed, which is based on increasing the osmotic pressure in the cells of plant raw materials by increasing the concentration of dry substances. The improved technology involves the use of the process of osmotic dehydration in a 70 % sugar solution with a temperature of up to 55±5 °C as an alternative to the blanching process. This provides a reduction in drying time to 1 hour due to the partial transition of water from the fruit cells into the sugar solution. The spent osmotic solution contains biologically valuable substances. The mass fraction of dry substances in the spent solution decreased by 17.4 %. It was found that spent osmotic solutions contain 15.87±0.05 mg/100 carotenoids, which cause their orange color. Color stability is likely caused by the acidity of the osmotic solution (pH=3.7±0.05). As a result of hydrolysis, sucrose, which was the main component of the osmotic solution before dehydration of apricot fruits, is partially inverted into glucose (21.41±0.05) and fructose (19.99±0.05 g/100 g). Fortified sugar had a light beige color, pure without stains and impurities, sweet taste, and aroma of apricot. The jelly-like soft drink, made on the basis of a derivative product formed during the production of dried apricots, had a sweet taste, a slight aroma of apricot. The color of the meal is cream. Light straw-colored jelly, sweet in taste, with a faint aftertaste and aroma of apricot, had a jelly-like uniform consistency that can be cut. The study showed the possibility of practical application of derived products, which are usually disposed of, for production

Water Reuse via Membrane Technology: A Case Study for Producing Cooling Water from Soft Drink Wastewater

High volumes of water are used in the soft drink industry, where purification can be achieved via membrane technology, allowing it to be reused in operating cooling towers, steam boilers, and closed-loop systems. In this study, ultrafiltration (UF) and nanofiltration (NF) were applied to produce reclaimed water for cooling towers. In experimental studies conducted under a total recycle mode of operation, two UF membranes with molecular weight cut-offs (MWCO) of 10 kDa and 5 kDa, and one NF membrane were tested. The transmembrane pressure was set to 2 bars for UF and 4 bars for NF. Considering the water quality criteria for cooling towers, removal efficiencies were calculated for total suspended solids (TSS), turbidity, and chemical oxygen demand (COD). TSS and turbidity removal rates were 100% for both UF and NF; however, COD removal rates varied. In UF, feed and permeate COD concentrations were 718 - 796 mg/L and 255 - 286 mg/L, corresponding to a removal efficiency of 64-65%. On the other hand, in NF, the feed and permeate COD concentrations were 207 mg/L and 147 mg/L, indicating a 29% removal. Flux decline was not severe; it ranged from 10% to 20%. It was revealed that further treatment is required to meet the COD criteria of 75 mg/L for cooling towers.