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Meals served to children should not only satisfy hunger and taste preferences but also be nutritionally adequate. Nutrition in early childhood is critical, as children spend a significant portion of their day in kindergarten or preschool, making these settings key contributors to their overall dietary intake. With the rising prevalence of nutrition-related health conditions among children, early interventions are essential for developing and establishing lifelong healthy eating habits. This study assessed the nutritional value and quality of children's diets in two distinct settings: kindergartens in Wroclaw, Poland, and preschools in Sydney, Australia, evaluating their alignment with the planetary health diet. The research analysed 10-day menu cycles from five kindergartens in Wroclaw and the contents of lunchboxes from five preschools in Sydney's Upper North Shore area. A total of 100 menus were reviewed in Poland, while 100 children's lunchboxes were assessed in Australia. Different analytical methods were employed: the Diet 6D software program for the Polish menus and the Food Consumption Score for the Australian lunchboxes. Both methods revealed dietary imbalances, such as excessive intake of protein, vitamin A, salt, and sugar, alongside deficiencies in calcium, vitamin C, and vitamin D. The study concluded that children's diets should adhere to nutritional guidelines, meeting both Polish and Australian standards, and align with the principles of the planetary health diet. To achieve this, nutritional education is essential for kindergarten staff in Poland, while targeted educational interventions are needed for parents and children in both Poland and Australia, promoting health and environmental sustainability through better nutrition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Considering Acheta domecticus flour's growing importance and utilization as an ingredient in many food products, research on its storage is essential. The objective of this study was to determine the chemical and nutritional fat profile of house cricket (Acheta domesticus) flour during storage for 12 months under different storage temperatures (−18 °C, +4 °C, and +20 °C in two variants, with and without access to light). Insect flour was studied using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The fatty acids content was determined, and dietary indicators were calculated. The acid value, peroxide value, and anisidine value were also determined, and differential scanning calorimetry was performed. The results obtained from spectroscopic analysis of Acheta domesticus flour were consistent with the biochemical data. During the 12-month period of flour storage, the storage temperature significantly influenced the percentage composition of identified groups of fatty acids and the values of all presented ratios and dietary indices. During storage at refrigerated temperatures (−18 °C and +4 °C), no changes were observed in the fatty acid content and dietary indices, indicating that refrigerated temperatures provide oxidative stability to flour during 12 months of storage. Samples stored at 20 °C had higher acid values (AV), peroxide values (PV), and anisidine values (p-AV) compared to samples stored at lower temperatures (4 °C and −18 °C). Simultaneously, an increase in SFA and MUFA, as well as a decrease in PUFA and UFA, was noted in samples stored at room temperature. Storing cricket flour at lower temperatures when the storage period will be more than 12 months is essential to restrict the occurrence of fat oxidation. Elevated temperatures and exposure to light have a notable effect in hastening oxidation mechanisms, reducing thermal resilience, and inducing more pronounced alterations in the quality of fats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Gryllus bimaculatus (field cricket) powder is a prospect in enriching gluten‐free food products' protein and mineral contents. However, the technological impacts of replacing common gluten‐free cereal flours with G. bimaculatus powder are still incipient. This study aimed to characterise nutritional composition, particle morphology, and particle size distribution of G. bimaculatus powder and the gluten‐free flours (maize, rice, finger millet and proso millet). Additionally, it investigated the effects of substituting these gluten‐free flours with 5%, 10%, 15% and 20% G. bimaculatus powder on proximate composition, hydration and colour properties. G. bimaculatus powder showed significantly (P ≤ 0.05) high protein (44.8 g/100 g) content and essential minerals such as zinc (208.5 mg/kg) and iron (132.2 mg/kg). Micrographs of G. bimaculatus powder revealed compact and heterogenous particles while the flours' particles varied in sizes, and the starch granules had different shapes, sizes and arrangements. Flour particles exhibited bi‐and trimodal size distributions ranging from 1.5 μm to 1100 μm with minor peaks preceding major peaks. Finger millet flour had a greater span of 4.12, while proso millet flour had a lower span of 1.97. Particle size correlated negatively with water absorption capacity (WAC) (r = −0.938) and oil absorption capacity (OAC) (r = −0.955), respectively. G. bimaculatus powder addition significantly increased (P ≤ 0.05) fat, protein and fibre contents, decreased (P ≤ 0.05) nitrogen‐free extracts, but had no effect on ash content. Hydration properties differed significantly (P ≤ 0.05) except for WAC in proso millet blends. Samples exhibited significantly higher (P ≤ 0.05) WAC than OAC in exception of G. bimaculatus powder and showed no emulsifying activities. Addition of G. bimaculatus powder significantly (P ≤ 0.05) increased colour differences, reduced redness (a*), yellowness (b*) and lightness. The use of G. bimaculatus powder demonstrates the potential to enhance the nutritional properties and modify the colour and hydration of gluten‐free flours in the development of novel gluten‐free foods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The quality of poultry meat offered to the consumer depends mainly on the level of hygiene during all stages of its production, storage time, and temperature. This study investigated the effect of refrigerated storage on the microbiological contamination, color, and pH of turkey thigh muscles stored at 1 °C over six days. Microbial growth, including total mesophilic aerobes, presumptive lactic acid bacteria, and Enterobacteriaceae, significantly increased, impacting the meat's sensory attributes and safety. On the 6th day of meat storage, the content of total mesophilic aerobes, presumptive lactic acid bacteria, and Enterobacteriaceae was 1.82 × 107 CFU/g, 1.00 × 104 CFU/g, and 1.87 × 105 CFU/g, respectively. The stability of color was assessed by quantifying the total heme pigments, comparing myoglobin, oxymyoglobin, and metmyoglobin concentrations, analyzing color parameters L*, a*, b*, and the sensory assessment of surface color, showing a decline in total heme pigments, three myoglobin forms, redness (a*) and lightness (L*). In contrast, yellowness (b*) increased. These changes were correlated with the growth of spoilage microorganisms that influenced the meat's pigmentation and pH, with a notable rise in pH associated with microbial metabolization. Based on the conducted research, it was found that the maximum storage time of turkey thigh muscles at a temperature of 1 °C is 4 days. On the 4th day of storage, the total mesophilic aerobe content was 3.5 × 105 CFU/g. This study underscores the critical need for maintaining controlled refrigeration conditions to mitigate spoilage, ensuring food safety, and preserving turkey meat's sensory and nutritional qualities. There is a need for further research to improve turkey meat storage techniques under specific temperature conditions by studying the impact of using varying packaging materials (with different barrier properties) or the application of natural preservatives. Additionally, future studies could focus on evaluating the effectiveness of cold chain management practices to ensure the quality and safety of turkey products during storage. By addressing these research gaps, practitioners and researchers can contribute to developing more efficient and sustainable turkey meat supply chains, which may help mitigate food wastage by safeguarding the quality and safety of the meat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The research on the cultural aversion to eating insects in Western countries provides valuable insights into consumer behavior and consumption patterns. By exploring the cultural norms, historical practices, and symbolic associations related to insects, the study sheds light on why most people in Western societies find it difficult to accept insects as a food source. This research contributes to existing consumer research knowledge by delving into the roots of disgust and negative perceptions surrounding insect consumption. It situates itself within the broader context of cultural and historical influences, examining the impact of Slavic folk culture, biblical references, and symbolism associated with specific insect species. This comprehensive approach enhances understanding of the multifaceted nature of disgust towards insects as a potential food source. The research is relevant to academia and non-academic constituents, such as policymakers, food industries, and cultural influencers. Understanding the cultural and psychological barriers to insect consumption can guide marketing strategies, product development, and public awareness campaigns to promote alternative protein sources. Policymakers may use these findings to address regulatory hurdles and promote the acceptance of insect-based products in Western markets. Insects are a conventional food in many cultures worldwide. Why therefore are they treated with aversion by the majority of people in Western countries? The aim of this work is to understand cultural norms and historical practices related to insects that can explain why in the countries of the West it is so difficult to accept them as a foodstuff, and why the disgust that they arouse is more common than in other regions of the world. Insects in Western countries are associated with negative experiences resulting from cultural and religious beliefs, traditions, stories, myths and individual experiences. Although there are species of insect that have positive associations, the high number of negative terms popularized the negative image of these creatures in people's minds, as a result of which the concept of insects as a foodstuff arouses disgust in the culture of the West. Understanding the aversion to insects will contribute to the broader understanding of consumer attitudes, cultural influences on consumption, or potential shifts in food choices. It also can help develop strategies or methods that will assist in changing this reluctance and encourage the utilization of insects as a food source. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of edible insects in the human diet is gaining importance because they are characterized by high nutritional value, and their cultivation is much more environmentally friendly than traditional livestock farming. The objective of this study was to determine the chemical and nutritional fat profile of selected edible insects as follows: house cricket (Acheta domesticus adult), field cricket (Gryllus bimaculatus adult), mealworm (Tenebrio molitor larvae), and palm weevil (Rhynchophorus ferrugineus larvae) which are now commercially available worldwide. Additionally, the degree of implementation of nutrition standards for selected nutrients by these insects was assessed. Freeze-dried insects were studied using infrared-attenuated total reflectance mid-infrared spectroscopy for basic differentiation. The content of fat and fatty acids was determined, and dietary indicators were calculated. The spectroscopic findings align with biochemical data, revealing that Rhynchophorus ferrugineus larvae contain the highest fat content and the least protein. Unsaturated fatty acids (UFAs) predominated in the fat of the assessed insects. The highest content of saturated fatty acids (SFAs), along with the lowest content of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), was observed in the larvae of the Rhynchophorus ferrugineus species. From a nutritional standpoint, Tenebrio molitor larvae exhibit the most favorable indicators, characterized by minimal athero- and thrombogenic effects, along with an optimal balance of hypo- and hypercholesterolemic acids. Knowledge of the composition and quantities of fats in different insect species is valuable for planning and preparing meals with accurate nutritional profiles, among other applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The market for gluten-free products is experiencing significant growth due to the increase in the number of gluten/wheat affected patients diagnosed, but largely as a result of the emergence of a new niche market dedicated for consumers who optionally avoid gluten. Native flours are perceived as viable alternative for industrially used starch and hydrocolloids blends, mainly due to their lack of vitamins and minerals, which are abundant in non-refined raw materials. Edible inks for on-demand printing are under significant consideration, while texture building capacity remains an issue. As heat-moisture treatment has proved to be useful for stabilizing the pasting and rheological behavior of various native flours, HMT supported by microwave heating was investigated as printable ink stabilizers. For Spanish and Polish buckwheat flours and two different varieties of teff (white and brown) flour pasting, structural and textural characteristics after the microwave supported heat moisture treatment in 30% of initial moisture content were evaluated. The peak viscosity was reduced by 54% and 60% for Polish and Spanish flour, respectively, while for teff, the reduction was 15% and 43% for the white and brown varieties, respectively. Significant improvement in viscoelastic modulus G' (for Polish and Spanish buckwheat flour, 32% and 16%, respectively; for white and brown tef varieties, 14% and 18%, respectively) was observed for all the treated samples regardless of the species or variety; this resulted in better performance during 3D printing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The sustainability of food systems and circular economy aspects are ending the traditional food approaches and are demanding changes in raw materials and products supplied by agriculture and the food industry. However, the "supply" of new products is the easiest to achieve, while gaining the acceptance of consumers for a new product will always be the toughest. For the consumer the new product is an item which until recently was not known or used. However, considering the newness of products concept on a scientific basis, it is obvious that the concept covers new, novel, and innovative food products. The study applies an advanced analysis of the factors that drive the consumers' acceptance of new products (perceived as new, novel, and innovative) on the food market in Poland. Specifically, seaweeds (as new), edible insects (as novel), and 3D-printed personalized food products (as innovative) were chosen. The selected factors influencing the Polish consumers' approach towards the newness of food products, including the different tendencies to accept innovations in this area, were analyzed by using factor and reliability analysis. The assessment of the differences towards an acceptance of new products based on the socio-demographic characteristics of the consumer was completed using the Kruskal–Wallis test. Furthermore, to analyze the features favoring the acceptance of new products, the logistic regression was estimated. The article presents the results of a survey of 500 Polish respondents in the 20–44 age group. The profound statistical analysis showed that the destiny of foreign travel turned out to be an important variable in the logistic regression model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For several years, the concept of consuming insects has been attracting significant interest in Europe, given its potential to provide an environmentally sustainable, meat-alternative source of protein in the diet, not only for animals but also for humans. In Poland at the beginning of 2023, there was a considerable interest around edible insects, but in a negative context. A disinformation campaign was conducted on television and social media, claiming that edible insects threaten human health. It was suggested that consuming insects is a futuristic fad, an ideological madness, a concept conflicting with Polish economic interests, particularly affecting farming areas. This work aimed to present the most important, reliable data regarding edible insects to create a comprehensive and objective informational foundation. This foundation can serve as a basis for making decisions regarding the potential utilisation of insects as a food source. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Queijo Serra da Estrela is a PDO Portuguese cheese produced through coagulation of raw ewe's milk using cardoon (Cynara cardunculus L.) flowers. The present research was aimed at depicting an up-to-date and comprehensive overview of the microbiota of Queijo Serra da Estrela cheese. To this end, viable counting and metataxonomic analysis were carried out on cheeses sampled from four Portuguese artisan producers. Physico-chemical and morpho-textural analyses were also performed, together with the analysis of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Finally, non-starter lactic acid bacteria (NSLAB) isolated from the cheeses were characterized for their enzymatic activities using a semi-quantitative method. According to the metataxonomic analysis, Lactococcus lactis and Lactococcus piscium were the species occurring at the highest relative abundance. The isolates collected from the cheeses were assigned to Enterococcus durans, Enterococcus faecalis, Enterococcus faecium, Enterococcus lactis, Levilactobacillus brevis, Latilactobacillus graminis, Leuconostoc mesenteroides, and the Lacticaseibacillus casei group. The enzymatic characterization of these cultures highlighted esterase, aminopeptidase, acid phosphatase, beta-galactosidase, alpha-glucosidase, and beta-glucosidase among the major enzymatic activities. Fungal populations were dominated by Debaryomyces hansenii and Kurtzmaniella zeylanoides; however, species rarely found in cheese (e.g., Candida boidinii, Vishniacozyma victoriae, and Starmerella) were also detected. The volatile compounds characterizing the analyzed cheeses were carboxylic acids and esters, followed by carbonyl compounds and alcohols. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Food health and wellness has become increasingly important for consumers, and this has inevitably caused growth in the dietetic food manufacturing sector. This paper examines the technical inefficiency of dietetic food manufacturing firms in five major dietetic food producing European countries (France, Italy, Norway, Poland and Spain) for the period 2009-2017. To account for the sluggish adjustment of capital, we employed a dynamic production framework within the nonparametric method of Data Envelopment Analysis. Furthermore, we used the concept of a metafrontier to compare inefficiency between countries and analyzed three inefficiency measures: estimated with regard to a metafrontier (pooled dynamic inefficiency), computed with reference to country-specific frontier (managerial dynamic inefficiency), and the gap between these two frontier measures (program dynamic inefficiency). The results indicate that firms in Poland were the least dynamically inefficient among countries analyzed, while companies in Norway were at the opposite end of the spectrum. Managerial inefficiency was the largest source of pooled inefficiency for firms in France and Italy, while program inefficiency was the main reason of pooled inefficiency for firms in Norway, Poland and Spain. The results also reveal that investments were the most inefficient factor, followed by output, materials and employees. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years the pace of human life has increased significantly. Sometimes, overworked people do not have time to prepare five meals a day by themselves, and use the services of catering companies offering ready-made meals that are delivered directly to the client's place of work or residence in the form of a box. This study aimed to evaluate the diet of individual customers based on the standard diet developed by one of the companies (the company was randomly chosen) engaged in dietary catering based in Lower Silesia. This evaluation was carried out based on menus prepared for ten days. For this purpose, the Diet 6D programme, developed by the Institute of Food and Nutrition in Warsaw, was used. The amounts of basic nutrients in the standard dietary menus adopted by the catering company did not comply with the recommendations for a rational diet. The advantage of the served meals was that the customers were offered a daily variety of meals rich in vegetables and fruit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate change, which threatens the well-being of future generations, is humanity's most serious challenge. Environmental issues are becoming more important to consumers than ever before. Edible insects are a new food ingredient with great potential to contribute to global food security and provide an interesting food alternative, especially for meat products. This paper discusses the social and natural conditions of edible insect farming, the phenomenon of entomophagy, developmental stages of insects, characteristics of selected edible insect species with high potential for use as food, and presents their nutritional value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Obesity is considered one of the most critical health problems in the present world. Every year this problem concerns the growing population in European countries as well as in Poland. There is much evidence for the effects of obesity on other disease entities such as type II diabetes, coronary heart disease, and cancer. The current lifestyle, combined with the rapid development of new technologies, makes people more comfortable, eager to eat outside, often introducing diets containing excessive amounts of energy into their lives. An inadequate diet, combined with a lack of physical activity is a significant factor leading to overweight and obesity. The work aims to present selected aspects of obesity, i.e. factors affecting obesity, its types, treatment methods and effects of obesity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gluten is a mixture of prolamines that occur in grains of cereals such as wheat, barley, rye and oats. The presence of gluten in the diet may cause an abnormal response of the body, which may manifest itself in the form of celiac disease, hypersensitivity to gluten, allergy to gluten. The only effective method of treating disorders caused by gluten is its complete elimination from food. Due to the prevailing fashion for a gluten-free diet, many people eliminate gluten from their menus, although they are not forced to use the elimination diet. The study aims to present necessary information about gluten from the consumer point of view. Among others, the characteristics of cereals containing gluten, diseases related to gluten intolerance in the diet, symptoms of these diseases, gluten-free diet are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spices give dishes a specific smell, taste and color. In addition, they are used in the treatment of many diseases and conditions, including bacterial infection, cough, and liver diseases, because they have antiviral, bactericidal, bacteriostatic, antifungal, antioxidant and anticancer effects. The purpose of the work is to characterize selected spices, within which their application and recommendations related to their use in therapeutic diets are presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The comparison between the high-oxygen atmosphere (MA) and vacuum showed essential differences between these two atmosphere types. Based on the total viable count data, the shelf life of meat packed under MA was established as 11 days, whereas for samples stored in vacuum it was 14 days. Lactobacillus spp. grew quicker under vacuum, whereas the total viable count, Pseudomonas spp. and Enterobacteriaceae, grew better under the oxygen atmosphere. High oxygen levels used in MA promoted lipid oxidation in goose meat, causing changes of odour intensity. Based on these results, it can be concluded that packing in vacuum increased the shelf life of goose meat, not only due to microbial growth but also to sensory quality. The present paper clearly shows that vacuum packaging is better suited for goose meat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An adequately balanced daily food rations providing the organism with a sufficient amount of energy and nutrients, is particularly important in early childhood due to the child's intensive physical and intellectual development. Kindergarten's meals should realise 75% of recommended daily allowances. The aim of this study was the energetic and nutritional evaluation of meals served in the chosen kindergarten in Wrocław based on theoretical analysis of the menus using the Dietician 2 computer program. Energetic value, content of basic nutrients (protein, fats and carbohydrates), anti-oxidative vitamins (A and C) and selected mineral ingredients (Ca and Fe) was calculated for forty kindergarten menus of four seasons: spring, summer, autumn and winter. The average caloric value of a food rations was at a correct level in spring, summer, autumn and winter. Exceeds standards in autumn. It has been shown that children diet is marked by a low content of calcium in spring and summer. Excessice consumption was found for vitamins A and C and iron. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The percentage of older people in Poland and in the world has been resing which determines the need to pay more attention to their diet. One of the problems in this age group is connected with improper nutrition. Appropriate nutrition of elderly people has an effect on slowing down the process of biological aging as well as physiological and pathological changes. The aim of this study was the energetic and nutritional evaluation of diets, administered in a chosen nursing home residents of the Lower Silesia area based on theoretical analysis of the menus using the Diet 5D computer program. The energy values, contents of protein, fat, carbohydrates, selected mineral ingredients (Ca and Fe) and vitamins (A, C, B1) were calculated for forty menus of four seasons: spring, summer, autumn and winter. Data were compared with nutritional standards. High energy intake was noticed in the group of both women and men. The evaluation of nutritional value of the menus demonstrated several irregularities against the standards. In the menus incorrectness was found connected with too big - due to the norms - intake of fats. High dietary content of iron and vitamins A, C, B1 was found. The diet was characterized by low content of calcium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The atmosphere type and the storage time had an influence on the fatty acids profile and sensory evaluation of odour and colour intensity in subcutaneous fat of geese. During storage there was no change in the fatty acids profile of the vacuum-stored fat, and the sensory evaluation of odour and colour intensity did not change. The total percentage of saturated fatty acids and monounsaturated fatty acids increased, while polyunsaturated fatty acids decreased in fat stored under modified atmosphere for 14 days. Differences in the sum of all fatty acids resulted from changes in the percentages of individual acids in subcutaneous fat packed in modified atmosphere. The obtained data indicates that vacuum packaging inhibited lipid oxidation of subcutaneous goose fat, maintaining its nutritional value throughout storage time, whereas packaging in a high oxygen modified atmosphere promoted fatty acid oxidation, causing changes of fat odour and colour. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Appropriate nutrition is one of the main factors determining the proper functioning of the body. It influences slowing down the aging process as well as the course of common diseases. The hospital diet should fulfill high nutrition standards and should be treated during the stay in hospital, as an integral part of therapeutic treatment. The aim of this study was the energetic and nutritional assessment of hospital diets, administered in a chosen hospital of the Lower Silesia area based on theoretical analysis of the decade menus. The computer program Dietician 2, designed in the Institute of Food and Nutrition in Warsaw was used for calculations. Easily digestible diet was analyzed. The energy values, contents of protein, fat, carbohydrates, fiber, cholesterol, fatty acids, mineral ingredients: Ca, Fe, vitamins: A, C, salt were calculated for forty hospital menus of four seasons. Data were compared with food recommendations. The caloric value and contents of protein, carbohydrates and fiber in menus met the obligatory standards. The research showed low contents of calcium, iron and vitamin C. High dietary content of fats, cholesterol and vitamin A was found. The findings did not show any differences in supply of energy and other nutritional ingredients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Appropriately selected hospital diet gives a favorable state of health and should be treated during stay in hospital as an integral part, which determines the efficacy of therapeutic treatment and recovery period. The aim of this study was the energetic and nutritional evaluation of hospital diets, administered in a chosen hospital of the Lower Silesia area based on theoretical analysis of the menus using the Dietician 2 computer program. The energy values, contents of protein, fat, carbohydrates, fiber, mineral ingredients: Ca, Fe, vitamins: A, C, salt were calculated for forty hospital menus of four seasons: spring, summer, autumn and winter. The caloric value and contents of carbohydrates or fiber in food rations met the obligatory standards. The evaluation of nutritional value of the menus demonstrated several irregularities against the standards. The diet was characterized by low contents of protein, calcium and vitamin C. In the menus incorrectness was found connected with too big - due to the norms - intake of fats. High dietary content of vitamin A was found. The obtained results confirm that it is necessary to continuously promote knowledge of rational nutrition principles among hospital staff. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Patients nutrition in hospital should fulfill high nutrition standards. For many years nutrition in Polish hospitals has risen certain concern, and in many cases it does not fulfill the principles of rational nutrition. The aim of this study was the energetic and nutritional evaluation of meals served in hospital based on a theoretical analysis of the menus using the Diet 4D computer program. The energy values, contents of protein, fat, carbohydrates, mineral ingredients: Ca, Fe, vitamins: A, C, were calculated for twenty eight hospital menus of four seasons: spring, summer, autumn and winter. The average caloric value of a food ration was at a correct level. The results of the conducted research indicate lack of balanced content of essential nutrients in patients daily food rations. In the rations incorrectness was found connected with too big - due to the norms - intake of fats. The diet was characterized by low carbohydrates content. The deficient intake in relation to the standards was observed for calcium and vitamin C. High dietary content of vitamin A and iron was found. The results indicate the need for nutritional education of hospital staff. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this work was to present the current knowledge about the influence of modified atmosphere on the properties of refrigerated poultry meat. The methods of atmosphere modification in packaged meat (vacuum packaging, gas atmosphere packaging), types of gases most commonly used to modify atmosphere and packaging materials were discussed. Special attention was given to describe the influence of modified atmosphere packaging and storage on microbiology issues, colour changes and lipid oxidation of poultry meat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nutrition is one of the most important factors assuring normal growth and development of human. It is a proven fact that an improper diet causes the development of such diseases as obesity, arterial hypertension, atherosderosis. The aim of this study was the assessment of selected dietary habits and physical activity of secondary school students from Jawor. The study involved 168 participants (108 girls and 60 boys). The data were gathered by an interview method based on the questionnaire with multiple choice answers. The improper dietary habits were revealed both in female and male group. The results showed the statistically essential gender influence on dietary habits of investigated youth. The most common dietary mistakes in the investigated group were: irregular intake of meals, skipping first breakfast, secondary breakfast and tea snack. Eating between meals was rather common occurrence among of the examined youth. The level of physical activity was unsatisfactory. The results indicate that it is indispensable to carry out nutrition education among secondary school children in order to develop proper diet habits and to rectify mistakes made in this field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Atmosphere type and storage time had significant effects on the fatty acid (FA) profile of goose breast muscle lipid. The FA profile did not change during 14 days of storage in muscle packed in vacuum. The percent of saturated FA (SFA) and monounsaturated FA (MUFA) increased gradually during 14 days of storage in samples packed in modified atmosphere, whereas the level of polyunsaturated FA (PUFA) decreased in the same period. The muscle packed in vacuum were characterised by a higher PUFA/SFA ratio and greater PUFA content concerning n-3 FA after storage in comparison to the samples packed in modified atmosphere (MA). The data indicated that packaging in a high oxygen level atmosphere promoted FA oxidation in goose breast meat during storage, which implied decreased PUFA percentage and increased SFA and MUFA percentages. Vacuum packaging proved to be a better method for preserving goose muscle FA profile during 14 days of storage. Also, the FA profile of goose meat packed in vacuum was healthier than that of meat packed in MA, since there was a higher concentration of unsaturated fatty acids and lower n-6/n-3 ratio. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent years have witnessed a tendency to changes in people's dietary habits. Consumers concerned about rational and healthy eating search high nutritional value meat. Poultry meat is an important source of dietary energy and nutrients, providing high quality protein, essential fatty acids, vitamins and minerals. The meat quality is determined by many factors: health safety, nutritional value, functional and sensory properties. Dynamic development of trade, distribution network, rising demand for poultry meat sold in a refrigerated form (and not frozen), as cuts (such as leg, breast with skin and bone, breast fillet with skin or skinless) as well as in the form of ready-to use goods inspires a search for methods to improve its quality. In this paper based on literature overview factors affecting the quality of gallinaceous poultry meat were reported. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to investigate the influence of packaging material: (PA/PE, PA/PE+AF, PA/ARE/PE) with different barrier properties on the colour parameters C* and h° and the content of malonaldehyde of turkey thigh muscles packed in a modified atmosphere: 75% CO2, 20% N2, 5% O2 and stored at 1°C for: 4, 8, 12, 15 days. During the cold storage the C* parameter decreased and the ho parameter and malonaldehyde content increased in muscles throughout the period of storage for all packaging materials. The muscles packed in PA/PE bags had the highest concentration of malonaldehyde in comparison to samples packed in other two packaging materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nutrition is one of the most important factors assuring normal growth and development of human. It is a proven fact that an improper diet causes the development of such diseases as atherosclerosis, arterial hypertension, obesity or type 2 diabetes. The aim of this study was the assessment of selected dietary habits and physical activity of students of the Wroclaw University of Economics. The study involved 181 participants (124 women and 57 men). The data were gathered by an interview method based on the questionnaire with multiple choice answers. The improper dietary habits were revealed both in female and male group. The results showed the statistically essential gender influence on dietary habits of investigated students. The most common dietary mistakes in the investigated group were: irregular intake of meals, skipping the second breakfast and tea snack. The self-evaluation of the proper nutrition is very critical and it confirms that students are aware of bad habits. Students do not put into operation principles concerning proper nutrition despite the knowledge they possess in this area. The results indicate the need for creating a healthy lifestyle among students. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nutrition is one of the most important factors assuring normal growth and development of children. Kindergarten's meals should realise 75% of recommended daily allowances. The aim of this study was the energetic and nutritional evaluation of meals served in the kindergarten based on theoretical analysis of the menus using the Diet 4D computer program. The energy values, contents of protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins: A, C, B12, mineral ingredients: Ca, Fe were calculated for forty kindergarten menus of four seasons: spring, summer, autumn and winter. The average caloric value of a food ration was at a correct level. High dietary content of vitamin A and B12 was found. The deficient intake in relation to the standards was observed for calcium, iron and vitamin C. The results indicate the need for nutritional education for the kindergarten staff. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to investigate the influence of packaging material (PA/PE, PA/PE+AF, PA/ARE/PE) with different barrier properties on the sensory characteristics (general appearance, consistency and outward appearance of wrapping before its opening) of turkey thigh muscles packed in a modified atmosphere consisting of 75% CO2, 20% N2, 5% O2 and stored at +1°C for: 4, 8, 12, 15 days. General appearance and consistency of experimental muscles packaged in all types of used wrappings deteriorated with storage up to the 15th day. At the end of storage general appearance of samples packed in PA/PE bags were recognized as undesirable, while the samples packed in PA/PE + AF and PA/ARE/PE bags as tolerated. Turkey thigh muscles paked in pouches with an antifog layer had the best outward appearance of wrapping before its opening during storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nutrition is one of the most important factors assuring normal growth and development of children. Kindergarten's meals should realise 75% of recommended daily allowances. The aim of this study is the energetic and nutritional evaluation of meals served in the kindergarten based on theoretical analysis of the menus using the Diet 4D computer program. The energy values, contents of protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins: A, C, mineral ingredients: Ca, Fe were calculated for forty kindergarten menus of four seasons: spring, summer, autumn and winter. In the rations incorrectness was found connected with excessive - due to the norms - consumption of energy, fats and carbohydrates. The deficient intake in relation to the standards was observed for calcium and vitamin C. High dietary content of vitamin A was found. The results indicate the need for nutritional education for the kindergarten staff. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of the research was to determine and compare the cholesterol content and fatty acid (FA) profile of muscles and abdominal fat of 17 week-old geese of Polish, native breeds -- Kartuska (KA, n=18) and Lubelska (LU, n=18) maintained at the Research Station of Waterfowl Genetic Resources in Dworzyska, belonging to the National Research Institute of Animal Production in Cracow. The geese were fed ad libitum during the experimental period on the same complete feed. Genotype affected the fatty acids profile as well as fat and cholesterol content of muscles and abdominal fat. The type of muscle (breast or thigh) also influenced the investigated parameters. Lipids of KA muscles were characterized by more favourable level of n-6/n-3 ratio than LU ones. Breast muscles compared to thigh muscles were lower in total fat and monounsaturated FA while higher in cholesterol, saturated and polyunsaturated n-3 fatty acids. The KA geese abdominal fat showed lower percentage of polyunsaturated fatty acids but had more favourable value of n-6/n-3 ratio than the LU ones. Cholesterol content in the KA geese abdominal fat was lower than in LU ones. Overall, the nutritional value of KA muscles lipids and fat tissues were higher in comparison to the LU geese. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: The objective of the work is to investigate the influence of packaging material (PA/PE, PA/PE+AF, PA/ARE/PE) with different barrier properties on the sensory cha-racteristics of turkey thigh muscles packed in a modified atmosphere consisting of 75% CO2, 20% N2, 5% O2 and stored in the refrigeration conditions at +1°C for 4, 8, 12, 15 days. The packaging material did not have significant effect on sensory descriptors (intensity of odour and flavour, tenderness, juiciness, cohesiveness, resilience, chewinness, general assessment), texture profile components (hardness, gumminess, chewinness, cohesiveness, resilience) and shear force of roasted samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The evaluation of nutrition is an essential element of preventing chronic diseases and can be used to determine nutritional recommendations. A child spends about 7–8 h a day in a kindergarten; therefore, meals served there should be balanced appropriately to ensure the full psychophysical development of the young organism. At preschool age, children develop eating habits that can have life-long effects. Based on 10-day menus, the study aimed to estimate the energy and nutritional value of children's diets at four randomly selected kindergartens in the Wroclaw district, Poland. In total, 80 menus were analyzed (40 for summer and 40 for autumn). The data from kindergartens were analyzed based on the Diet 6D computer program. Regardless of the kindergarten, the analyzed food rations showed irregularities related to excessive supplies (in reference to the dietary recommendations) of sucrose, fiber, salt, magnesium, and vitamin A. The preschool food rations did not cover demands with respect to PUFA n-3, PUFA-n-6, calcium, and vitamin D. The observed irregularities confirm the need to monitor the content of energy and nutrients in preschool menus to be able to correct any dietary errors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The deterioration of food quality due to lipid oxidation is a serious problem in the food sector. Oxidation reactions adversely affect the physicochemical properties of food, worsening its quality. Lipid oxidation products are formed during the production, processing, and storage of food products. In the human diet, the sources of lipid oxidation products are all fat-containing products, including goose meat with a high content of polyunsaturated fatty acids. This study aims at comparing the fatty acid profile of goose breast muscle lipids depending on the storage conditions: type of atmosphere, temperature, and storage time. Three-way variance analysis was used to evaluate changes in the fatty acids profile occurring in goose meat. The health aspect of fatty acid oxidation of goose meat is also discussed. In general, the fatty acid composition changed significantly during storage in the meat packed in the high-oxygen modified atmosphere at different temperatures (1 °C and 4 °C). Higher temperature led to a higher degree of lipid oxidation and nutrient loss. During the storage of samples in vacuum, no changes in the fatty acid content and dietary indices were found, regardless of the storage temperature, which indicates that the anaerobic atmosphere ensured the oxidative stability of goose meat during 11 days of refrigerated storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, attention has been drawn to the fact that increasing the consumption of edible insects may positively impact the state of the natural environment and reduce the problem of malnutrition in large parts of society. Indeed, insects are seen as an alternative to traditional meat products, primarily meat. This article aimed to compare the nutritional value of edible insects and meat. Based on tables of composition and nutritional value and on the licensed computer program Diet 6D, data on the nutritional value of 10 commonly consumed meat types were compiled. Based on a literature review, data on the nutritional value of seven commercially available edible insect species were collected and collated. There was a comparison of 100 g of edible insects with 100 g of meat (fresh weight). In addition, the atherogenic index thrombogenic index, the hypocholesterolemic/hypercholesterolemic ratio, and the nutritional quality index were calculated. It was found that both meat and insects are rich in nutrients, including those considered essential for the proper development and functioning of the human body. At the same time, it has been shown that the content of individual nutrients in both insects and meat varies significantly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of edible insects in the human diet is gaining importance because they are characterized by high nutritional value, and their cultivation is much more environmentally friendly than traditional livestock farming. The objective of this study was to determine the chemical and nutritional fat profile of selected edible insects as follows: house cricket ( Acheta domesticus adult), field cricket ( Gryllus bimaculatus adult), mealworm ( Tenebrio molitor larvae), and palm weevil ( Rhynchophorus ferrugineus larvae) which are now commercially available worldwide. Additionally, the degree of implementation of nutrition standards for selected nutrients by these insects was assessed. Freeze-dried insects were studied using infrared-attenuated total reflectance mid-infrared spectroscopy for basic differentiation. The content of fat and fatty acids was determined, and dietary indicators were calculated. The spectroscopic findings align with biochemical data, revealing that Rhynchophorus ferrugineus larvae contain the highest fat content and the least protein. Unsaturated fatty acids (UFAs) predominated in the fat of the assessed insects. The highest content of saturated fatty acids (SFAs), along with the lowest content of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), was observed in the larvae of the Rhynchophorus ferrugineus species. From a nutritional standpoint, Tenebrio molitor larvae exhibit the most favorable indicators, characterized by minimal athero- and thrombogenic effects, along with an optimal balance of hypo- and hypercholesterolemic acids. Knowledge of the composition and quantities of fats in different insect species is valuable for planning and preparing meals with accurate nutritional profiles, among other applications.

Queijo Serra da Estrela is a PDO Portuguese cheese produced through coagulation of raw ewe’s milk using cardoon (Cynara cardunculus L.) flowers. The present research was aimed at depicting an up-to-date and comprehensive overview of the microbiota of Queijo Serra da Estrela cheese. To this end, viable counting and metataxonomic analysis were carried out on cheeses sampled from four Portuguese artisan producers. Physico-chemical and morpho-textural analyses were also performed, together with the analysis of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Finally, non-starter lactic acid bacteria (NSLAB) isolated from the cheeses were characterized for their enzymatic activities using a semi-quantitative method. According to the metataxonomic analysis, Lactococcus lactis and Lactococcus piscium were the species occurring at the highest relative abundance. The isolates collected from the cheeses were assigned to Enterococcus durans, Enterococcus faecalis, Enterococcus faecium, Enterococcus lactis, Levilactobacillus brevis, Latilactobacillus graminis, Leuconostoc mesenteroides, and the Lacticaseibacillus casei group. The enzymatic characterization of these cultures highlighted esterase, aminopeptidase, acid phosphatase, beta-galactosidase, alpha-glucosidase, and beta-glucosidase among the major enzymatic activities. Fungal populations were dominated by Debaryomyces hansenii and Kurtzmaniella zeylanoides; however, species rarely found in cheese (e.g., Candida boidinii, Vishniacozyma victoriae, and Starmerella) were also detected. The volatile compounds characterizing the analyzed cheeses were carboxylic acids and esters, followed by carbonyl compounds and alcohols.