Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Opeyemi Afolabi Femi-Oladunni, Pablo Ruiz-Palomino, Maria Pilar Martinez-Ruiz, Ana Isabel Muro-Rodriguez
Summary: This article provides a semi-systematic literature review on the concept of food values based on the analysis of 36 relevant research articles. The results highlight the novelty and rapid popularity of this concept in different fields. The study shows how the concept has evolved to adapt to specific market features and behaviors. Three distinct clusters of food values are identified. The article expands our understanding on the evolution of food values along various dimensions and proposes further research.
Article
Food Science & Technology
Ana Catarina C. O. Leite, Miguel A. Cerqueira, Michele Michelin, Pablo Fucinos, Lorenzo Pastrana
Summary: Transmission of viral pathogens through contaminated food is a major global public health concern. The development of antiviral edible films and coatings containing bioactive compounds shows great potential in preventing infectious outbreaks and reducing the transmission of foodborne illnesses caused by enteric viruses.
TRENDS IN FOOD SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Food Science & Technology
Gert W. Meijer, Patrick Detzel, Klaus G. Grunert, Marie-Claude Robert, Violeta Stancu
Summary: The review discusses the increasing number of label elements on food labels and their impact on consumer decision making for easier, safer, and healthier food choices. Recommendations include further research on allergen symbols, understanding the health impact of nutrition-related label elements, and promoting global harmonisation in label elements on foods.
TRENDS IN FOOD SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
(2021)
Review
Environmental Sciences
Balasubramanian Ramakrishnan, Naga Raju Maddela, Kadiyala Venkateswarlu, Mallavarapu Megharaj
Summary: Organic farming is widely adopted globally, but the presence of various pollutants in organic products poses risks to human health. Efforts to mitigate the unintended flows of pollutants into organic products are needed to ensure their safety.
SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT
(2021)
Review
Engineering, Chemical
Mary R. Yan, Sally Hsieh, Norberto Ricacho
Summary: Packaging is an important part of the food industry that is closely related to food quality, safety, and marketing. Traditional food packaging provides protection and storage for food, while advancements in packaging technology have added features to extend the shelf life of food. Consumer demand for environmentally friendly packaging has led to the emergence of sustainable packaging solutions. This article reviews the importance of food packaging in ensuring food quality and safety, explores the development and application of advanced smart, active, and intelligent packaging systems, and discusses the properties of oxygen barriers in packaging.
Article
Nutrition & Dietetics
Michal Wiatrowski, Ewa Czarniecka-Skubina, Joanna Trafialek
Summary: The study analyzed Polish consumers' attitudes toward street food, their eating habits, and the factors influencing their choice of meals from street food vendors. The research identified factors such as service and food quality, personal preferences, and price as key determinants. Cluster analysis identified four main street food consumer preference profiles. The Internet and social media were recognized as information and promotion channels for this form of gastronomy.
Article
Food Science & Technology
Nana Sameshima, Rie Akamatsu
Summary: This study used hierarchical cluster analysis to examine Japanese consumers' concerns about information regarding food safety. The analysis revealed different levels of risk perception among consumers, with some focusing on food hygiene control and others on the chemicals intentionally used in food, which may be influenced by the media used to obtain information on food safety.
Article
Food Science & Technology
Claudio Bellia, Simona Bacarella, Marzia Ingrassia
Summary: Street food, a popular food tradition in many cities around the world, is affordable and prepared according to local preferences and culinary culture. However, it is also associated with health hazards, prompting the need for studies on food safety. This paper aims to provide a theoretical framework of the interaction between street food and food safety topics, highlighting the existence of street food safety as a research interest.
Review
Horticulture
Danilo Loconsole, Pietro Santamaria
Summary: UV light can influence the physiological responses of plants, with factors like wavelength, intensity, and exposure having a great impact on plant growth and quality. Plants regulate their response to UV light through photoreceptors, and low doses of UV may stimulate biomass accumulation and synthesis of healthy compounds.
Article
Agricultural Economics & Policy
Magdalena Niewczas-Dobrowolska
Summary: Food safety is an important characteristic of food as it directly affects consumers' health and well-being. Consumer perception of food hazards is influenced by various factors such as gender, decision-making ability, similarity of the country from which the hazard originates, and scientists' knowledge. The occurrence of food hazards has serious consequences for consumers, food chain actors, and public finance.
BRITISH FOOD JOURNAL
(2022)
Article
Psychology, Multidisciplinary
Zhou Guanqi, Mudassir Husnain
Summary: This study provides a comprehensive framework for examining the relationships between organic food supply chain traceability, consumer wellbeing, and food safety trust based in organic food sector, drawing on dynamic capabilities theory. The findings show that organic food traceability positively affects food safety trust and consumer wellbeing, and consumer awareness of organic food moderates the relationship between food safety trust and consumer wellbeing.
FRONTIERS IN PSYCHOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Food Science & Technology
Luis Junqueira, Monica Truninger, Valerie L. Almli, Vania Ferreira, Rui Leandro Maia, Paula Teixeira
Summary: The survey revealed high-risk behaviors in domestic egg handling among the Portuguese population, including consuming eggs from noncontrolled sources and dishes made with uncooked or lightly cooked eggs. Consumers prioritize safety criteria when purchasing eggs, but still exhibit risky practices in egg storage and consumption. Awareness campaigns should focus on promoting safe egg choices and proper handling practices, such as using pasteurized eggs and refrigerating backyard eggs.
Article
Environmental Sciences
Isidro Juan Miron, Cristina Linares, Julio Diaz
Summary: This study reviews the impact of climate change on food production and food safety. It found that frequent extreme weather events lead to decreased crop yields, with a greater impact on developing countries. Additionally, higher average temperatures may increase the risk of foodborne illnesses.
ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH
(2023)
Review
Food Science & Technology
Helen Onyeaka, Osmond C. Ekwebelem, Ukpai A. Eze, Queeneth Onwuka, Job Aleke, Ogueri Nwaiwu, Joy Onyinyechi Chionuma
Summary: Nigeria, as a developing nation, faces significant challenges in food safety culture due to its diversity and over 250 ethnic groups. Urbanization and economic growth have led to low food safety awareness, while government oversight in this area needs improvement. Public engagement in food safety issues has not shown a promising trajectory.
Article
Food Science & Technology
Carolina P. C. Martins, Gustavo L. P. A. Ramos, Tatiana C. Pimentel, Monica Q. Freitas, Maria Carmela K. H. Duarte, Denise P. R. Azeredo, Marcia Cristina Silva, Rodrigo N. Cavalcanti, Erick A. Esmerino, Adriano G. Cruz
Summary: This study verified the knowledge related to domestic microwave ovens by Brazilians and Portuguese, finding differences in their use, knowledge, safety practices, and attitudes. It emphasizes the need for more information dissemination to reach individuals with lower levels of education.
Review
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Cheila Almeida, Philippe Loubet, Tamiris Pacheco da Costa, Paula Quinteiro, Jara Laso, David Baptista de Sousa, Ronan Cooney, Sinead Mellett, Guido Sonnemann, Carlos Jose Rodriguez, Neil Rowan, Eoghan Clifford, Israel Ruiz-Salmon, Maria Margallo, Ruben Aldaco, Maria Leonor Nunes, Ana Claudia Dias, Antonio Marques
Summary: Packaging is essential for food preservation and transportation but can have a significant environmental burden. Qualitative analysis focuses on direct and indirect impacts of packaging, while quantitative analysis shows that cans' production contributes significantly to the overall climate change impact for canned products. Overall, it is important to accurately consider packaging material production and end-of-life management to improve the environmental assessment of seafood products.
JOURNAL OF INDUSTRIAL ECOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Emma J. Murphy, Emanuele Rezoagli, Robert Pogue, Bianca Simonassi-Paiva, Ismin Izwani Zainol Abidin, Gustavo Waltzer Fehrenbach, Emer O'Neil, Ian Major, John G. Laffey, Neil Rowan
Summary: ARDS is a common form of acute respiratory failure with high mortality, characterized by alveolar inflammation. Beta-glucans, isolated from mushrooms, showed potential as an immunomodulatory treatment for ARDS. Extracts from different mushroom species varied in beta-glucan content and demonstrated the ability to induce both inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokine secretion in vitro.
SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT
(2022)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Emer A. O'Neill, Neil J. Rowan
Summary: Aquaculture is one of the fastest growing food producing industries globally, but its rapid growth presents challenges such as balancing environmental impact. This study investigated the relationship between traditional monitoring methods and algal health to evaluate the impact of aquaculture on receiving aquatic ecosystems.
SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT
(2022)
Article
Microbiology
Elaine Meade, Sarah Hehir, Neil Rowan, Mary Garvey
Summary: Fungal active compounds such as psychedelics have potential in treating chronic mental health and chronic pain conditions through their anxiolytic, antidepressant, and anti-addictive effects. Studies suggest that micro-dosing or acute dosing with these compounds may offer patients new treatment options with rapid and long-lasting effects.
Review
Environmental Sciences
Gustavo Waltzer Fehrenbach, Robert Pogue, Frank Carter, Eoghan Clifford, Neil Rowan
Summary: Shellfish are an important source of nutrition but are threatened by water quality and environmental contaminants. This review explores the presence of microplastics, pharmaceuticals, and toxic contaminants in shellfish, and assesses the risks associated with consumption. Preventive approaches are necessary to protect the shellfish industry and consumers.
SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT
(2022)
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Besek Mariam Mohamad Jahis, Zul Ilham, Sugenendran Supramani, Mohamad Nor Azzimi Sohedein, Mohamad Faizal Ibrahim, Suraini Abd-Aziz, Neil Rowan, Wan Abd Al Qadr Imad Wan-Mohtar
Summary: This study demonstrates the successful production of biodiesel feedstock from Ganoderma lucidum and optimization of its production process, including the yield of exopolysaccharide (EPS), endopolysaccharide (ENS) and biomass. By using Response surface methodology (RSM), significant improvements in production efficiency were achieved, and the Ganodiesel produced met international standards, showing great potential for future applications.
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Mary Garvey, Neil J. Rowan
Summary: Fungal pathogens pose a significant threat to human health, especially among vulnerable individuals. The emergence of antifungal drug resistance has further complicated the treatment of cutaneous, invasive, and bloodstream infections. To tackle this crisis, the World Health Organization has prioritized fungal pathogens, emphasizing the urgent need for solutions. This review discusses the challenges of antifungal drug resistance, highlights the effectiveness of current disease mitigation approaches, and calls for a better understanding of fungal resistance mechanisms.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2023)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Emer A. O'Neill, Gustavo Fehrenbach, Emma Murphy, Sergio A. Alencar, Robert Pogue, Neil J. Rowan
Summary: The development of integrated multi-trophic aquaculture (IMTA) systems is crucial for meeting the emerging demand for high-protein foods globally. This study showcases a novel IMTA system based on wettable peatland innovation, which relies on natural microalgae for waste treatment and demonstrates significant underestimation of microalgae diversity using traditional methods. The findings highlight the importance of digital technologies in monitoring and transforming IMTA systems for sustainability.
SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT
(2022)
Review
Environmental Sciences
Mary Garvey, Elaine Meade, Neil J. Rowan
Summary: Fungal pathogens are a significant global disease burden. However, their status as eukaryotes complicates their involvement in fungal-mediated infections and treatment. Antifungal drugs can be toxic to host cells, and there is increasing evidence of adaptive resistance in animals and humans. Current diagnostic and treatment methods have limitations, leading to high mortality rates and prolonged illness in immunocompromised patients. Therefore, real-time monitoring and diagnostic methods for fungal pathogens are needed, as well as increased awareness of the contribution of fungal pathogens to disease. More information is also needed on the selection and dosage of antifungal drugs, as well as factors governing resistance, to find more appropriate and effective solutions. Additionally, there is growing interest in developing alternative and complementary green biocides and disinfection innovations.
SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT
(2022)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Emer A. O'Neill, Neil J. Rowan
Summary: Irish freshwater aquaculture has the potential to aid food security, but its expansion has been hindered by environmental EU directives. A peatland-based recirculating aquaculture multi-trophic pond system (RAMPS) was developed to assess its sustainable development while adhering to organic aquaculture practices. The collapse of the algal population within the system was observed, and further investigations identified zoosporic parasites as potential causes. Additional research is needed to monitor and mitigate these parasites.
SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT
(2023)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Neil J. Rowan
Summary: Safeguarding the seafood industry is crucial to protect human health. However, eliminating enteric viruses, especially in live shellfish, is challenging. Current disinfection methods are effective against bacteria but have limited effectiveness against enteric viruses. Therefore, alternative non-thermal technologies and novel diagnostic approaches are needed to ensure the safety of shellfish. Risk management planning and real-time ecosystem monitoring are also important for mitigating potential contaminant threats.
SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT
(2023)
Review
Environmental Sciences
Neil J. Rowan
Summary: The COVID-19 pandemic was declared a global public health emergency by the WHO. There was a lack of knowledge on how to respond to the pandemic and manage the disease. Methods for safe reuse of personal protective equipment have been developed, and these methods can also be applied to decontaminate large volumes of waste. Effective disease mitigation strategies are needed to address the challenges posed by COVID-19 variants.
SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT
(2023)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Cheila Almeida, Jara Laso, David Baptista de Sousa, Ronan Cooney, Paula Quinteiro, Neil Rowan, Ana Claudia Dias, Eoghan Clifford, Rodrigo G. Reboredo, Maria Margallo, Maria Leonor Nunes, Antonio Marques
Summary: Packaging is crucial for food protection, consumer information, and waste reduction, but it can also negatively impact the environment. Recycling waste treatment offers more environmental benefits, yet only 66% of packaging waste is recycled in the EU. To minimize environmental impact, reducing packaging production and promoting reuse are the key approaches. Assessing consumer willingness to reduce environmental impact of seafood packaging is important.
SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT
(2023)
Review
Immunology
Elaine Meade, Neil Rowan, Mary Garvey
Summary: Emerging, re-emerging, and zoonotic viral pathogens pose a serious threat to human health and global stability. In order to prevent future outbreaks, manufacturing and distribution methods need to be changed to advance the production of vaccines, monoclonal antibodies, cytokines, and other antiviral therapies.
Article
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Brian McEvoy, Ana Maksimovic, Neil J. Rowan
Summary: This study aimed to determine the inactivation kinetics of Geobacillus stearothermophilus and Bacillus atrophaeus biological indicators treated with vaporized hydrogen peroxide (VH2O2) at an industrial scale. The results showed that the VH2O2-treated microorganisms exhibited log linear inactivation kinetics, and no significant topographical changes were observed in the outer surface of the treated spores. Therefore, this study validates the appropriateness of using VH2O2 as a sterilization method.
JOURNAL OF APPLIED MICROBIOLOGY
(2023)