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[Display omitted] • Comparison of toxic side effects of synthetic food additives through the latest research results. • Application comparison between commonly used synthetic additives and plant-based additives. • Edible coatings/films and nanoencapsulation applications for plant-based additives. • Providing future research directions for the sustainability of plant-based additives. The growth of the world population and the rapid industrialization of food have led to food producers' increased reliance on food additives. While food additives offer numerous conveniences and advantages in food applications, the potential risks associated with synthetic additives remain a significant concern. This report examines the current status of safety assessment and toxicity studies of common synthetic additives, including flavorings (sweeteners and flavor enhancers), colorants, preservatives (antimicrobials and antioxidants), and emulsifiers. The report also examines recent advances in promising plant-based alternative additives in terms of active ingredients, sensory properties, potential health benefits, food application challenges, and their related technologies (edible coatings/films and nanoencapsulation technologies), providing valuable references and insights for the sustainable development of food additives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cellular fluorescence imaging (CFI) uses fluorescent substances to label specific biomarkers in cells, recording their dynamic changes via fluorescent signals to study physiological processes. With advancements in fluorescent probe technology and cell biology, CFI has been widely used in food toxicology studies. CFI offers significant advantages over conventional toxicological methods, but no articles summarize this development. This paper reviews the application of CFI in detecting and evaluating toxic metal elements, chemical residues, mycotoxins, bacteria, viruses, and food processing contaminants, as well as evaluating vitamins, functional minerals, functional amino acids, functional peptides and polyphenol compounds. Additionally, the challenges and future prospects of CFI in food testing and toxicology are discussed. • Advanced cellular fluorescence imaging (CFI) for food evaluation are reviewed. • Different ways of imaging cells are described and compared. • Case-studies are presented on food evaluation by cellular fluorescence imaging. • Future scope of CFI for food evaluation are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This Special Issue contains articles on applications of various new approach methodologies (NAMs) in the field of toxicology and risk assessment. These NAMs include in vitro high-throughput screening, quantitative structure-activity relationship (QSAR) modeling, physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) modeling, network toxicology analysis, molecular docking simulation, omics, machine learning, deep learning, and "template-and-anchor" multiscale computational modeling. These in vitro and in silico approaches complement each other and can be integrated together to support different applications of toxicology, including food safety assessment, dietary exposure assessment, chemical toxicity potency screening and ranking, chemical toxicity prediction, chemical toxicokinetic simulation, and to investigate the potential mechanisms of toxicities, as introduced further in selected articles in this Special Issue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microalgae are valuable sources of human nutritional products, leading to growing interest in algae-based dietary supplements. Research is still ongoing for high-value commodities from microalgae to cover the food demands of the ever-increasing human population. Thus far, there is a dearth of comprehensive information available on the safety of microalgae-based products (MP) for the food sector. Algal food safety (AFS) is a nascent field, and consequently, quality analysis has not been adequately explored; the lack of hygienic requisites is a matter of concern for scientists, producers, policymakers, and consumers. In this review, we aim to provide the available knowledge on the potential hazards, critical insights into the necessity of AFS, as well as quality control (QC) and regulations. This paper briefly reviews bottlenecks at each step of the production process, from the pre-cultivation to the storage stage. Plus, quality assessment criteria are discussed, including toxicological and microbiological standards. Additionally, it describes the role of all stakeholders in the algal food industry. Finally, we discuss a few suggested solutions to address the gaps in AFS. [Display omitted] • Comprehensive information remains scarce on the safety of microalgae-based food products. • Algal food safety is a nascent field, necessitating exploration of quality analysis and hygienic requisites. • Bottlenecks exist at each production step, from pre-cultivation to storage. • Rigorous quality assessment ensures high-quality algal products. • Collaboration between stakeholders (researchers, producers, consumers, and policymakers) helps establish best guidelines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, the research on intelligent packaging is gaining momentum, primarily being driven by consumer preferences to food safety and reducing the resource waste. Freshness indicator is a kind of simple and efficient intelligent packaging technology, which can directly and scientifically indicate the freshness of food without complex operation. Freshness indicator shows great potential in the food supply chain. As an innovative food packaging method, freshness indicator can effectively monitor food freshness in real time without damaging food and packaging. The objective of this review is to provide relevant information on freshness indicators, such as release of food freshness indicators (carbon dioxide volatile salt-nitrogen sulfides, etc.), types (chemical chromogenic formulation, data carrier indicator, natural color formulation), safety assessment methods (toxicological assessment, exposure assessment), barriers and trends. The potential of freshness indicators in the detection of perishable food freshness was emphasized. The applications of some freshness indicator products in food and the research demands of safety were also discussed. • Recent advances in food intelligent packaging with freshness indicator are reviewed. • The existing limitations and trends of freshness indicators are comprehensively discussed. • Safety assessment methods for freshness indicators are briefly summarized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mycotoxin patulin is primarily produced as a secondary metabolite by numerous fungal species and predominantly by Aspergillus , Byssochlamys , and Penicillium species. It is generally associated with fungal infected food materials. Penicillium expansum is considered the only fungal species liable for patulin contamination in pome fruits, especially in apples and apple-based products. This toxin in food poses serious health concerns and economic threat, which has aroused the need to adopt effective detection and mitigation strategies. Understanding its origin sources and biosynthetic mechanism stands essential for efficiently designing a management strategy against this fungal contamination. This review aims to present an updated outline of the sources of patulin occurrence in different foods and their biosynthetic mechanisms. It further provides information regarding the detrimental effects of patulin on human and agriculture as well as its effective detection, management, and control strategies. [Display omitted] • Patulin is mainly produced by Aspergillus , Byssochlamys , and Penicillium species. • Patulin contaminates pome fruits, especially apples and apple-based products. • Patulin contaminated products have serious human health impacts. • Management strategies are required for the safety and security of food. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The special issue "New Insight into Mycotoxins and Bacterial Toxins: Toxicity Assessment, Molecular Mechanism and Food Safety" in Food and Chemical Toxicology contains 19 articles on current hot topics in mycotoxins and bacterial toxins. Dietary exposure to mycotoxins and risk assessments are reported in this issue. Molecular mechanisms of multiple mycotoxins and emerging mechanisms of toxicity are especially concerned by researchers. Moreover, mycotoxin-detoxifying substances and antimicrobial agents are also fully investigated in the context. This special issue will help to further understand the mycotoxins and bacterial toxins, casting new light for the control of food safety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanotechnology is an emerging, novel area of applications in antimicrobial and eco-friendly food packaging that have tremendous potential benefits. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have been extensively studied and frequently used in food packaging applications due to their superior physicochemical, biological and antimicrobial properties. Recently, plant extract-mediated synthesis of AgNPs has gained enormous popularity due to environment-friendliness, relatively economical synthesis, and effective functionality in food packaging applications. Numerous medicinal plant extract(s) are used in the synthesis of AgNPs, which are most commonly spherical in shape and within 2–80 nm range in size. Amount and composition of plant extract, metal ion concentration, reaction temperature and time, and pH of the reaction mixture are the key factors affecting shape, size, morphology and crystallinity of the synthesized AgNPs. Compared to other synthesis methods, including microbial synthesis , plant-mediated synthesis of AgNPs is faster, more convenient, and can be effective in utilization of wastes generated by fruit and vegetable producers and handlers. Plant-mediated AgNPs are effective against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative foodborne pathogens and spoilage bacteria. Silver (Ag+) ions of AgNPs bind with negatively charged functional groups present in the microbial cell membrane, thereby increase permeability of the membrane disturbing the cellular transport system leading to cell death. In addition, entry of Ag+ ions into the cell cytoplasm may damage DNA, RNA, peptide forming compounds and metabolic enzymes resulting in the inhibition or hampering of cell division and microbial respiration. Scientific efforts are being made on the application of plant-mediated AgNPs in bionanocomposite films and coatings, as effective food preservation strategies. This review highlights innovative applications of plant-mediated AgNPs in sustainable antimicrobial food packaging. • Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are well-studied and frequently used in food packaging. • AgNPs have superior physicochemical, biological and antimicrobial properties. • Plant extract mediated synthesis of AgNPs is faster and more convenient. • AgNPs are effective against foodborne pathogens and spoilage microorganisms. • Plant-mediated AgNPs are effective in sustainable antimicrobial food packaging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mead is a traditional alcoholic beverage obtained by fermentation of mead wort and is popularly produced at home and/or in small meaderies. Different types of mead can be distinguished based on honey-to-water ratio, addition of spices and/or fruits, and the method of wort preparation. The consumption of mead has gained popularity in Europe owing to the presence of its natural and high-quality compounds. As a result, mead production has remarkably increased during the past years, and increasing attention has been paid to improve its production parameters. In the first part of this comprehensive review, general aspects of mead production and the characteristic parameters of alcoholic beverages, including organic acid content, pH value, ethanol content, titratable acidity, volatile acidity, and residual sugar content are discussed. In the second part, the aroma profile and sensory acceptability of mead, including parameters that might influence the characteristic aroma of mead, is presented. The flavor of mead mainly depends on the type of honey used for fermentation, and the analysis of odorants is one of the most important criteria in the quality evaluation of mead. In addition, the presence of hydroxymethylfurfural, one of the major Maillard reaction products, and of phenolic compounds is related to the type of honey used. Furthermore, the antioxidant activity of mead significantly correlates with the type and amount of honey used for mead preparation. • The sweetness of mead determines the overall consumer acceptability of mead. • Mead flavor is dependent on the type of honey used. • Reduced hydroxymethylfurfural content in mead may be related to yeast enzymatic reactions. • The antioxidant activity of mead highly correlates with the amount and type of honey used. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mycotoxins-contaminated milk could threaten human health; therefore, it is necessary to demonstrate the toxicological effect of mycotoxins in milk. Most recently, researchers have paid more attention to the immunotoxic effects of the individual cereal-contaminating mycotoxins, namely, zearalenone and deoxynivalenol. However, there is scant information about the intestinal immunotoxicity of aflatoxin M1 (AFM1), let alone that of a combination of AFM1 and ochratoxin A (OTA), which often co-occur in milk. To reveal the inflammatory response caused by these mycotoxins, expression of inflammation-related genes in differentiated Caco-2 cells was analyzed, demonstrating a synergistic effect of the mixture of AFM1 (4 μg/mL) and OTA (4 μg/mL). Integrative transcriptomic and proteomic analyses were also performed. A cross-omics analysis identified several mechanisms underlying this synergy: (i) compared with stimulation with either compound alone, combined use resulted in stronger induction of proteins involved in immunity-related pathways; (ii) combination of the two agents targeted different points in the same pathways; and (iii) combination of the two agents activated specific inflammation-related pathways. These results suggested that combined use of AFM1 and OTA might exacerbate intestinal inflammation, indicating that regulatory authorities should pay more attention to food contamination by multiple mycotoxins when performing risk assessments. Image 1 • The AFM1 and OTA-induced inflammatory response were studied on intestinal cells. • The combination of AFM1 and OTA produced synergism in inflammatory response. • Integrative transcriptomic and proteomic analyses were performed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Nano-sized plastics are able to bioaccumulate in the brain tissue. • 20 nm Polystyrene particles are able to cause oxidative DNA damages in the brain. • Polystyrene nanoplastics injected to yolk sac may cause body malformations. Nano-sized plastic particles formed from both daily use plastics and its debris have become a potential health and environmental problem due to features such as transportation through food webs and maternal transfer. Although many studies on the toxicity of plastics exist more detailed and molecular studies are needed to evaluate and review the effects of plastics especially in nano-size range. For this purpose, we have microinjected polystyrene nanoplastics (PNP) (20 nm) to the zebrafish embryo, which is one of the best model organisms for developmental toxicity studies, to simulate intake with food or maternal. Survival, hatching and malformations evaluated during the experimental period (120 h). Moreover, we have aimed to put forth the presence of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and apoptosis signalling accumulation in the body in addition to bioaccumulation of PNP and immunochemical toxicity (8-OHdG) on the brain of zebrafish larvae at the 120th hour. According to results, it has been demonstrated that 20 nm diameter PNP can reach the brain and bioaccumulate there, moreover lead to oxidative DNA damage in the brain regions where it bioaccumulates. Here we have also imaged the PNP from a vertebrate brain via transmission electron microscopy (TEM) for the first time. As a result of these, it has been detected increasing mortality and prevailing abnormalities in addition to excessive ROS and apoptosis in especially the brain. As a conclusion, obtained data have suggested that precautions, on the use and contamination of the plastic product, to be taken during both pregnancy and baby care/feeding are important for the health of the baby in future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Cumulative toxic effects of food contaminants are of growing concern in risk assessment. • The endocrine disruptor bisphenol A (BPA) is exerting estrogenic activity in human Ishikawa cells. • Combinatory estrogenic effects of BPA with alternariol and zearalenone were observed to exceed the effects of the single compounds. • Combination index analysis revealed those activities to be nearly additive. Humans are typically exposed to mixtures of substances, whereby their bioactivity can be significantly altered by co-occurring compounds. Thus, over the last years, research on combinatory effects has gained increasing attention. In particular, several xenoestrogens have been recently reported to interact synergistically, among them alternariol (AOH) and zearalenone (ZEN), two toxins produced by molds which contaminate crops or food commodities. Bisphenol A (BPA) is a potential food contaminant arising from its use in plastics and represents a well-known xenoestrogen, acting as an endocrine disruptor. However, little research was yet conducted on its impact on the bioactivity of other xenoestrogens, and vice versa. Thus, in this study, we focused on combinatory estrogenic effects of BPA with AOH and ZEN in Ishikawa cells, which represent a well-established, estrogen-sensitive human cell model. Estrogenic stimuli of the single compounds and binary combinations in constant concentration ratios were measured by assessing the activity of alkaline phosphatase, a natural reporter gene for estrogen receptor activation. In parallel, cytotoxicity was monitored by neutral red assay. For statistical analysis of combinatory effects the "combination index" model was applied. In combination with ZEN, BPA was found to cause additive estrogenic effects. Mixtures of BPA with AOH expressed moderately antagonistic to nearly additive combinatory effects, depending on the concentration ratio. Although no synergistic effects were measured in the applied chemical mixtures, additive estrogenic stimuli were observed, underlining the importance to consider the cumulative impact of endocrine active factors out of different sources and structural classes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a response to the varied environmental, public health, and animal welfare challenges of contemporary animal food production, advocates of plant-based and cell-based animal food alternatives have championed those products as key to feeding the growing global population. This review offers an overview of key arguments in favor of and in opposition to animal product alternatives, and from there situates the debate within literature on food system change. It concludes that animal product alternatives are most likely to be incorporated as reforms within the corporate food regime and are generally incompatible with food sovereignty perspectives. Whether animal product alternatives could align with the food justice approach, however, is less clear. An agenda that operationalizes plant-based and cell-based animal product alternatives through a lens of "food tech justice" might offer a productive path forward for food system health, equity, and sustainability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite being one of the most expensive gourmet foods, it remains unclear if the iconic White Truffle (Tuber magnatum Pico; hereinafter WT) accumulates radioactivity at harmful levels comparable to other fungal species. Here, we measure the active radiocaesium-137 concentration (137Cs) in ten hypogeous WT fruitbodies from southern Hungary, and the soils in which they were growing. All WTs reveal non-significant 137Cs values, thus providing an 'all clear' for WT hunters in the species' northernmost habitats, where corresponding soil samples occasionally exhibit slight 137Cs concentrations. Our results are particularly relevant in the light of a rapidly increasing global demand for WTs and their subsequent trading extent and price inflation, because up to 600 kg of fresh fruitbodies are harvested each year in southern Hungary. Moreover, some of Europe's forest ecosystems, in which mushroom picking is common practise, are still contaminated with 137Cs from the Chernobyl fallout more than 30 years ago, posing a serious threat to human health. Image 1 • It is unclear if White Truffles, the most iconic fungi, are radioactive. • With 600 kg of fresh fruitbodies, southern Hungary is a major White Truffles supplier. • In contrast to surrounding soils, White truffles reveal insignificant 137Cs values. • Our results provide an 'all clear' for White Truffle hunters in southern Hungary. • Due to international truffle demands and trading, our study is of global importance. White truffles from the species' northernmost distribution in southern Hungary reveal non-significant radiocaesium-137 concentrations (137Cs). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study was focused on assessment of potential health risks of paper-based food contact materials (FCMs) in a step-wise approach using three toxicological bioassays in vitro and chemical analyses of migrating contaminants. 3T3 NRU cytotoxicity test showed high sensitivity to detect basal toxicity of FCMs extracts and served as a first-line test for selection of samples for further testing. The reconstructed human intestine model EpiIntestinal showed more realistic tissue response than cell culture monolayer and higher resistance despite prolonged exposure to the selected 6 samples, i.e. negligible decrease of viability and intestinal penetration, nevertheless an increase of IL-8 after exposure to black printed sample extract. Yeast based assays identified weak agonistic/antagonostic activity to human androgen receptor of the black printed sample. In accordance with the biological effects, the targeted LC and GC analytical methods confirmed the presence of high amounts of phthalates, photoinitiators and PAHs that could justify the hazard of the black printed sample. Heavily printed uncoated FCMs are recognized not to be suitable for direct contact with food. The selected bioassays and chemical analyses might be useful tools to detect targeted biological effects of xenobiotics suspected to contribute to human exposure from food. • An effect-directed approach combining bioassays and chemical analyses was proved as useful to assess possible impact of FCMs on human health. • bioassays included cytotoxicity, toxicity and penetration using reconstructed human intestinal model and endocrine disruption screen. • Extensively printed napkin samples exhibited highest toxicological risks and released phthalates, photoinitiators and PAHs. • The black printed paper extract caused IL-8 increase and agonistic activity to human androgen receptor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metabolomics deals with the study of low molecular weight compounds and metabolites in biological fluids, tissues and organs. It is a relatively new and evolving field that is useful in the prediction of several biomarkers of food intake, diseases and drug toxicity at the cellular level. It has been applied to study chronic health conditions such as hypertension, cancer, oxidative stress, cardiovascular diseases, metabolic syndrome, obesity and diabetes as well as food composition, nutritional assessment and food quality. However, very limited studies have been reported on the application of metabolomics profiling of the physiological effects of food bioactive peptides and protein hydrolysates. This review discusses the importance of metabolite profiling of the physiological effects of food bioactive peptides and protein hydrolysates and associated regulatory mechanisms. Food bioactive peptides and protein hydrolysates are important because of the numerous vital physiological roles they play in human health and diseases. Metabolite profiling of in vivo changes will provide better understanding of the pathogenesis of disease conditions and the regulatory mechanisms of action of bioactive peptides and protein hydrolysates involved in the attenuation of these conditions. The study provides information on several metabolite changes and potential mechanisms of action associated with the consumption of bioactive peptides and protein hydrolysates. It also offered an understanding of the regulatory pathways involved in the attenuation of several disease conditions by food bioactive peptides and protein hydrolysates as well as assisting in the development of biomarkers. • Metabolomics can determine metabolite changes associated with peptide therapy. • Metabolomics can be used to predict biomarkers of chronic human diseases. • Metabolomics is a useful tool in understanding the pathogenesis of diseases. • Metabolomics provides information on the mechanism of action of bioactive peptides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Entomophagy (eating insects) has a long history. Currently, 2 billion people in 113 countries consume insects (Tao, Li 2018). However, in many states (mainly Western) attitude towards it is ambiguous. Majority of people there reject insects as food because they consider eating insects as nasty. However, this attitude is no more than a preconception because, over the years, many formerly unusual foodstuffs (for example, eating frogs) became traditional. This review's purpose is to give comprehensive positive and negative analysis aspects of the use of insects as a food source for humans and animal feed. This study focuses on such positive reasons for using insects as a food source for human health, environmental factors, and socioeconomic benefit, the high efficiency of the use of forages for insects cultivation, there are considerable nutritional value of different insect species comparing to chicken, pork and beef. Challenges of using insects as food related to microbial, chemical, physical, allergic, parasitical and toxicological risks. In the context of the world food resources reduction, insect's food use is a promising direction. The main tasks are the knowledge dissemination, change of the ratio in getting edible insects (the share increase of semi-domestication and farming comparing to wild harvesting), edible insect food industry development, species composition expansion of used insects, conducting research on risks to human health. The review argues that insects have the potential to serve as food and feed source globally with a lower negative impact on the environment. • Edible insects have higher nutritional value than other animal and plant foods. • Food use of insects has environmental, health, and economic benefits. • Insect farming is the most effective method of producing edible insects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cereal and cereal-based products are used as an important sources of energy and minerals as well as vitamins in all of the world. However, their contamination with mycotoxins reserved huge concerns due to adverse effects of mycotoxin on human health. The present research was undertaken to evaluate published studies regarding the identification of mycotoxins zearalenone (ZEN), ochratoxin A (OTA), deoxynivalenol (DON), and total aflatoxin (TAF) in the cereal-based products between 1 January 1983 and 25 December 2017. In this regard, 66 out of 2817 screened studies were used in the conducted systematic review. The lowest and highest number of published reports was associated with DON and TAF in some of the cereal-based products, respectively. Among the countries, Germany was ranked as the first in establishing investigations. Moreover, the liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-ESI/MS) was categorized as the most implemented technique for mycotoxin detection. The rank order of products cereal-based food based on number of studies was cereal grains > cornflake > bread > breakfast > flour > infant product > pasta > other products. The results of this study not only summarized the most frequently mycotoxin detection technique but also may provide a roadmap for future research regarding the mycotoxins detection analysis. Image 1 • 66 articles were included in the identification of mycotoxins in cereal based foods study. • The rank order of mycotoxins based on studies was DON > ZEN > OTA > TAF. • Highest number of study was performed on the cereal grain. • The highest used methods for detection mycotoxins was LC-ESI/MS. • The highest number of studies was related to Germany (n = 32). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Investigation has been made on contamination with mercury of a raw and stir-fried in moderate oil mushrooms grew in geochemically anomalous soils in south-west Asia. The "bolete" mushrooms studied were Baorangia bicolor , Boletus edulis, Boletus speciosus , Retiboletus griseus , Rugiboletus extremiorientalis and Sutorius magnificus. The batches of fresh mushrooms were respectively dried and stir-fried in moderate oil using a wok pan. Data obtained confirmed on elevated Hg content in mushrooms from the southwestern China and showed on elevated content of the element in popular mushroom dishes. The meal (100 g) made of fried "boletes" could provide for consumer Hg in dose from 0.27 to 1.4 (median 0.96) μg kg−1 body mass (RfD, reference dose is 0.3 μg kg−1 bm per day). Fried mushrooms if taken daily over a week period (100 g × 7) could provide Hg in dose from 1.9 to 9.6 (median 6.8) μg kg−1 bm. In view of the reference values for safe intake of inorganic Hg (PTWI, provisionally tolerable weekly intake is 4 μg kg−1 bm) and moderate consumption, the fried bolete mushrooms could provide Hg in doses exceeding the safe limit. • Boletes from the southwestern China can be elevated in Hg. • Dehydration causes concentration of Hg in fried mushrooms. • Stir-fried bolete could provide Hg in doses exceeding the safe limit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Furan is a colorless toxic organic compound that is produced during thermal degradation of natural food constituents, and is present in various processed foods such as coffee and processed baby foods. The present study investigated the endocrine disrupting potential of furan in Sprague Dawley male pups. On postnatal day 0 (PND 0), pups were divided into five groups. The control group received subcutaneous injections of corn oil (50 μL), while the treated groups were injected with one of four concentrations of furan (1, 5, 10 and 20 mg kg−1 d−1 in 50 μL corn oil) from PND 1 to PND 10. Our results reveal significant physiological changes in groups receiving the two highest doses of furan (10 and 20 mg kg−1 d−1). Fertility was decreased in high dose groups, as evidenced by lower daily sperm production (DSP) and epididymis sperm counts, and dose-dependent histological alterations in the testes. High dose groups showed significant reductions in plasma concentrations of testosterone, LH and GH, while plasma cortisol and final body weight was increased compared to the control group..The results suggest that neonatal exposure to high concentrations of furan cause structural and endocrine alterations in male neonatal rats, compromising fertility. • Furan changed the sperm parameters and hormonal profile of rats. • Highest doses caused a reduction in the number of Spermatogonia, spermatocytes and spermatid cells. • Neonatal exposure to furan caused histological alterations in testis and epididymal tissues. • A negative correlation between HPA and HPG axis was observed in animals exposed to high dose of furan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mycotoxin patulin is a toxic fungal secondary metabolite occurring in food worldwide. Methods for rapid, simple and specific detection of patulin-producing fungi in food and feed are therefore urgently needed. In the current study, a loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) assay based on the isoepoxydon dehydrogenase (idh) gene of the patulin biosynthetic pathway was developed and optimized for the group-specific detection of patulin-producing Penicillium species. By testing purified DNA of 174 fungal strains representing 31 genera, the assay was demonstrated to be highly specific for the detection of patulin-producing species in Penicillium , Byssochlamys and Paecilomyces. The assay had a detection limit of 2.5 pg of purified genomic DNA of P. expansum per reaction. Moreover, the assay was demonstrated to detect patulin-producers when conidia were directly added to the master mix as template without any sample preparation. The applicability of the assay in food analyses was successfully tested on artificially contaminated grapes and apples requiring minimal sample preparation. A screening of grapes from the 2018 harvest from different locations in Germany revealed no presence of patulin-producers. The developed LAMP assay is a promising tool for rapid diagnosis in quality control applications in the food and beverage industry. • A LAMP assay for rapid and sensitive detection of patulin-producing Penicillium spp. was developed. • The assay was successfully applied to artificially contaminated grapes and apples. • Grapes from the 2018 harvest from different locations in Germany showed no contamination with patulin-producers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • Different types of HAAs. • Formation mechanism and toxicology effect of HAAs. • Several groups of food matrices which containing HAAs. • Sample preparation and analytical techniques for monitoring and determination of HAAs. Abstract Heterocyclic aromatic amines (HAAs) are defined as a major class of poisonous compounds formed from proteinaceous foods during heat processing and flavour-forming. These toxicants have detrimental effects on the human body and eventually bring about mutagenicity and carcinogenicity. Owing to the presence of HAAs at a marginal level in the intricate tissue of food and their interactivity, an effective sample preparation should be employed to extract these controversial chemicals from the food matrix. For separation and detection of HAAs, advanced extraction methods and instrumental techniques have been applied. According to the type of sample preparation, sensitivity of the experiment, laboratory conditions and available facilities, the choice of analytical equipment will be different. In this review, various cooked food samples containing HAAs and heat processing of them have been listed. Also, sample pre-treatment and analytical techniques that have been applied to determine HAAs are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Colorectal adenocarcinoma cells (Caco-2) are a widely used model of intestinal barrier to study cancer development, toxicological assessments, absorption and metabolism in food science or drug discovery. Caco-2 spontaneously differentiate into a monolayer expressing several specific characteristics, typically showed by mature enterocytes. For in vitro experiments, it is crucial to identify non-invasive and non-destructive techniques able to evaluate the integrity and differentiation of the cells monolayer. Thus, we aimed to assess these properties by analyzing electrical impedance measurements. Methods Caco-2 cells were differentiated for 21 days. The monolayer integrity and differentiation were primarily evaluated by means of morphological, biochemical and molecular data. Impedance measurements in a range of frequencies from 400 Hz to 50 kHz were performed using a dedicated set up, including customized Aerosol Jet Printed carbon-based sensors. Results The trends of RI observed at three different frequencies were able to describe cell growth and differentiation. In order to evaluate which frequencies better correlate with cell differentiation, Principal Component Analysis have been employed and the concordance analysis between RI magnitude and morphological, biochemical and molecular data, highlighted 40 kHz as the optimal frequency to assess Caco-2 cells differentiation process. Conclusion We demonstrated the feasibility and reliability of applying impedance-based measurements not only to provide information about the monolayer status, but also for cell differentiation monitoring. General significance This study underlined the possibility to use a dedicated sensor to assess the integrity and differentiation of Caco-2 monolayer, as a reliable non-destructive alternative to conventional approaches. Highlights • Electrochemical sensors can provide information about cell adhesion, growth and differentiation. • Monitoring of Caco-2 to enterocyte-like cells differentiation with impedance-based sensors. • Relative Impedance at specific frequencies could describe cell growth and differentiation. • 40 kHz highlighted as the optimal frequency to assess Caco-2 cells differentiation process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Acrylamide (2-propanamide), an unsaturated amide, occurs in thermally processed (baked/fried) foods such as potato chips, biscuits, coffee, fried nuts and cereals. Acrylamide is generated, when baked food items consisting reducing sugars and protein containing asparagine (amino acid), are heated at a very high temperature. Scope and approach Since acrylamide is potentially neurotoxic and carcinogenic in nature, its accurate determination in processed foods is very important. Among the various methods available for detection of acrylamide concentration, biosensors are comparatively more simple, rapid, sensitive and specific. The acrylamide biosensors work optimally within 2–10s, between pH 4.5–7.4 and have a shelf life upto 100 days at 4 °C. Key findings The present review describes in detail the occurrence, generation, toxicity and determination of acrylamide with special emphasis on biosensing methods. The miniaturization of laboratory model of acrylamide biosensor could be transformed into portable model. Graphical abstract Electrochemical reactions involved in functioning of acrylamide biosensor based on HbNPs. Image 1 Highlights • Acrylamide (2-propanamide), an unsaturated amide, occurs in thermally processed (baked/fried) foods. • Acrylamide is generated when foods consisting of reducing sugars and asparagines are heated at a very high temperature. • Acrylamide is potentially neurotoxic and carcinogenic in nature. • Among various methods for detection of acrylamide, biosensing methods are more simple, rapid, sensitive and specific. • Present review describes occurrence, generation, toxicity and determination of acrylamide with special emphasis on biosensors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The lipoperoxidation and the oxidation of pigments and proteins reduces the quality and nutritional value of meat products. The use of antioxidants slows down this reaction, preserving the characteristics of the product during its storage and prolonging its useful life. The use of synthetic antioxidants in food products has been the subject of several toxicological studies. Currently, the call for antioxidants from natural sources stands out. Investigations in this sense should be conducted considering the complex mechanism of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and interactions with cellular constituents to elucidate the mechanism of action of synthetic antioxidants and natural sources. Although natural additives appear as an alternative to meet the various market niches and associate natural antioxidants to active packaging as they are progressively released into the product. In this review, we present research with natural antioxidants that could be used satisfactorily in meat products, in addition to recent studies that use them in active packaging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Botanical-derived dietary supplements have widespread use in the general population. The complex and variable nature of botanical ingredients and reports of adverse responses have led to concern for negative human health impacts following consumption of these products. Toxicity testing of the vast number of available products, formulations, and combinations is not feasible due to the time and resource intensive nature of comprehensive testing. Methods are needed to assess the safety of a large number of products via more efficient frameworks. Identification of toxicologically-active constituents is one approach being used, with many advantages toward product regulation. Bioassay-guided fractionation (BGF) is the leading approach used to identify biologically-active constituents. Most BGF studies with botanicals focus on identifying pharmacologically-active constituents for drug discovery or botanical efficacy research. Here, we explore BGF in a toxicological context, drawing from both efficacy and poisonous plant research. Limitations of BGF, including loss of mixture activity and bias toward abundant constituents, and recent advancements in the field (e.g., biochemometrics) are discussed from a toxicological perspective. Identification of active constituents will allow better monitoring of market products for known toxicologically-active constituents, as well as surveying human exposure, two important steps to ensuring the safety of botanical dietary supplements. Highlights • Safety of botanical products would be improved by identification and monitoring of potentially toxic constituents. • Adulteration and natural variation contribute to the complexity of botanicals and potential toxic constituents. • Identification of toxic constituents uses bioassay guided fractionation and complementary approaches. • Known mechanism of toxicity improves efficiency in identification of actives. • Suspected toxic constituents can be screened using targeted approaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Aflatoxins are a class of carcinogenic mycotoxins produced by Aspergillus fungi and are known to contaminate a large portion of the world's food supply. Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) is the most potent of these compounds and has been well-characterized to lead to the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in humans and animals. This review focuses on the metabolism of AFB1, including epoxidation and DNA adduction, as it concerns the initiation of cancer and the underlying mechanisms. The link between AFB1 consumption and HCC is also discussed including synergistic interactions with the hepatitis B virus. Toxic effects of AFB1, including growth suppression, malnutrition, and immunomodulation, are also covered. This review also describes recent reports of AFB1 occurrence in global food supplies and exposures in occupational settings. Furthermore, a summary of recent detoxification methods is included to indicate the present state of the field in developing aflatoxin control methods. This information shows that AFB1 occurs frequently in food supplies at high concentrations, particularly in maize. Regarding detoxification methods, chemical control methods were the fastest methods that still retained high detoxification efficacy. The information presented here highlights the need to implement new and/or existing detoxification methods to reduce the global burden of AFB1 toxicity. Highlights • AFB1 is a potent hepatocarcinogen that contaminates a large portion of the world's food supply. • After ingestion, AFB1 forms DNA adducts which initiates carcinogenesis and can work synergistically with hepatitis B virus. • AFB1 is also strongly linked with many other toxicities including growth impairment, malnutrition, and immunomodulation. • Diverse chemical and biological control methods have been studied to reduce AFB1 levels in food. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract In 2015, the Expert Panel of the Flavor and Extract Manufacturers Association (FEMA) initiated a re-evaluation of the safety of over 250 natural flavor complexes (NFCs) used as flavoring ingredients. This publication is the first in a series and summarizes the evaluation of 54 Citrus -derived NFCs using the procedure outlined in Smith et al. (2005) and updated in Cohen et al. (2018) to evaluate the safety of naturally-occurring mixtures for their intended use as flavoring ingredients. The procedure relies on a complete chemical characterization of each NFC intended for commerce and organization of each NFC's chemical constituents into well-defined congeneric groups. The safety of the NFC is evaluated using the well-established and conservative threshold of toxicological concern (TTC) concept in addition to data on absorption, metabolism and toxicology of members of the congeneric groups and the NFC under evaluation. As a result of the application of the procedure, 54 natural flavor complexes derived from botanicals of the Citrus genus were affirmed as generally recognized as safe (GRAS) under their conditions of intended use as flavoring ingredients based on an evaluation of each NFC and the constituents and congeneric groups therein. Highlights • Safety evaluation of Citrus -derived flavoring ingredients. • Evaluation used procedure for naturals developed by the FEMA Expert Panel. • FEMA GRAS status determined/affirmed for 54 Citrus -derived natural flavor complexes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Restaurant frying was conducted to get representative oil at regulation limitation. • Polar compound distribution of frying oil at TPC 24%, 25% and 27% was evaluated. • Effect of fried food and oil type on polar compound distribution was compared. • Contents of oxidized triglyceride in oil at regulation limitations were presented. Abstract Deterioration of frying oil greatly affects the nutrition of fried foods. In this study, influence of fried food and oil type on the distribution of polar compounds in oils at total polar compound (TPC) of 24%, 25% and 27% was evaluated. Both food and oil significantly affected the composition of frying oil (P < 0.01) and the effect of oil was relatively more significant than that of food. Five groups of polar compounds were presented: triglyceride oligomer (TGO), triglyceride dimer (TGD), oxidized triglyceride monomer (oxTGM), diglyceride (DG) and free fatty acid (FFA). TGD and DG had the highest contents, up to 6.9%–7.5% and 8.1%–8.9% respectively, while FFA had the lowest content with 1.4%–1.7%. The compound of the greatest concern in frying oil, oxTGM, varied from 4.6% to 4.8%, when TPC reached 24%–27%. Data will be expected to provide the evidence for toxicological evaluation of fried oils and foods in restaurants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Cereal biopolymers are widely available, inexpensive and versatile molecules used for nano- and microtechnology applications that will shape the future of our daily food. The way in which we currently produce and consume food is not sustainable and a food revolution is needed to meet current and future challenges in terms of ensuring a healthy, affordable diet, food safety, sustainability and security while not compromising on quality. As plant-derived molecules cereal biopolymers fit into the current quest for green, safe, renewable and sustainable solutions for long-standing and upcoming challenges experienced by the food industry. Scope and approach In this review, the unique and unequalled potential and versatility of cereal biopolymers for nano- and microtechnology applications will be highlighted. Emphasis will be laid on two main applications: (i) the development of encapsulation and controlled release/target delivery systems and (ii) the exploitation of structure building and stabilizing capacities. Key findings and conclusions This relatively new cereal nano- and microtechnology research field needs to mature from a predominantly by observation driven to a more ratio controlled scientific approach. Cereal biopolymers have the potential to propel the current state-of-the-art food solutions to the next level. However, in order to let nano- and microtechnology and, more in particular cereal-based nano- and microtechnology, develop into a widely supported and powerful avenue to spur the much needed revolution in our food production, toxicological studies and open, unbiased and clear consumer communication also need to be clear focus points. Highlights • Cereal biopolymers are widely available and display unique functional properties. • Cereal biopolymers have been used to engineer a range of nano- and microstructures. • Cereal biopolymers create well-performing delivery systems for bioactives. • Cereal biopolymer micro- and nanostructures build/stabilize novel food structures. • Biopolymer nanotechnology requires more insight in structures and interactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Food safety is vital in everyday life. Food toxins are small peptides or proteins that can cause disease by disrupting biological macromolecules such as enzymes or cellular receptors. Toxins are introduced either externally or from internal, spoilage-related pathogens. To keep these unsafe foods off the market, detection techniques for various toxins have been devised. Although many techniques serve this purpose well, challenges remain regarding sensitivity, specificity, and cost, especially for trace amounts of highly lethal proteinaceous toxins. Scope and approach Atomic force microscopy (AFM) is a widely used nanotechnology for imaging and force measurement in biophysics and biology. Its high sensitivity in probing specific, single-molecule binding between molecules is applicable to food toxin detection. In this review, after a summary of the development of AFM, different detection operation modes are introduced along with examples of their applications. Key findings and conclusions Cantilever sensing and recognition imaging are found to be the appropriate AFM techniques for detection. Their shared functionalization approaches are outlined for two categories of surfaces: silicon and gold. Recent progress in AFM biosensors and their applications to food toxin detection are discussed. Single-molecule sensitivity and ease of designing sensing schemes make these AFM techniques excellent candidates for real-world application. Existing challenges in designing sensing molecules and preventing the food matrix from confounding signals are not only applicable to AFM techniques but to most current biosensors. Through the collaboration among materials science, chemistry, and molecular biology, solving these issues will promote significant advancement in AFM-based food toxin detection. Graphical abstract Besides different detection operation modes of AFM, a recognition element can be coupled to an AFM to produce an instrument that is capable of providing extraordinarily high sensitivity, high selectivity, and a cost-effective path toward recognizing these contaminants and securing the safety of the food supply. Image 1 Highlights • Accurate, trace detection of food toxins is critical for securing the food supply. • AFM's biosensing capabilities can sensitively and reliably detect food toxins. • Chemical functionalization of the AFM probe tip is straight-forward and flexible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The bioavailability and oxidative damage toxicity of lead (Pb) in seven food matrices, including rice, milk, tomato, garlic, apple, kelp and pork, were determined using an in vitro digestion/Caco-2 cell model and a rat pheochromocytoma (PC12) oxidative damage model. Results showed that Pb bioaccessibility and bioavailability in the apple and kelp groups were significantly lower than other food matrix groups, with corresponding values of 11.05–28.31% and 1.57–8.81%, respectively. Oxidative damage assays showed that digestion products of apple polyphenol extract, which was selected from seven food matrices, could increase the oxidation resistance and the levels of glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and acetyl cholinesterase (AChE) by 32.23%, 39.02%, 27.14% and 30.90%, respectively. Additionally, malondialdehyde (MDA) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels could be decreased by 59.66% and 40.21%, respectively. In conclusion, phenolics were an important food matrix that could decrease the bioavailability and oxidative damage of Pb. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Bacillus cereus strains were isolated from dried foods, which included international brands of spices from South East Asia, Mexico and India purchased from several retail stores, samples of powdered infant formula (PIF), medicated fish feed and dietary supplements. The genetic diversity of 64 strains from spices and PIF was determined using a multiplex endpoint PCR assay designed to identify hemolysin BL, nonhemolytic enterotoxin, cytotoxin K, and enterotoxin FM toxin genes. Thirteen different B. cereus toxigenic gene patterns or profiles were identified among the strains. Randomly selected B. cereus strains were sequenced and compared with reference Genomic Groups from National Center Biotechnology Information using bioinformatics tools. A comprehensive multi-loci sequence analysis (MLSA) was designed using alleles from 25 known MLST genes specifically tailored for use with whole genome assemblies. A cohort of representative genomes of strains from a few FDA regulated commodities like dry foods and medicated fish feed was used to demonstrate the utility of the 25-MLSA approach for rapid clustering and identification of Genome Groups. The analysis clustered the strains from medicated fish feed, dry foods, and dietary supplements into phylogenetically-related groups. 25-MLSA also pointed to a greater diversity of B. cereus strains from foods and feed than previously recognized. Our integrated approach of toxin gene PCR, and to our knowledge, whole genome sequencing (WGS) based sequence analysis, may be the first of its kind that demonstrates enterotoxigenic potential and genomic diversity in parallel. Highlights • PCR analysis shows diversity of toxin alleles in enterotoxigenic B. cereus strains. • 25-gene MLSA strategy with housekeeping genes shows genomic diversity in B. cereus. • Integrated WGS/MLSA analyses illustrates unique phylogeny among B. cereus strains. • Unified approach captures allelic variations among B. cereus complex isolates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract New Nordic Food has within the last decade received much media coverage with chefs of top restaurants using wild plants for foods. As part of a control campaign, the Danish Veterinary and Food Administration visited 150 restaurants and local food producers from May-October 2016 and investigated their use of plants picked from the wild, cultivated in private gardens or market gardens. Among the species used were the flowers from 23 plants. Here we present a safety evaluation of these flowers based on published phytochemical investigations and toxicological data in humans, farm animals, pets, or experimental animals. Of the 23 flowers reviewed, nine contained compounds with toxic or potentially toxic effects if eaten, two contained unidentified toxic compound(s), and four were flowers from plants with potentially toxic compounds present in other plant parts or related species. Many of the flowers may be considered novel, since a use to a significant degree in Europe prior to 15 May 1997 before Regulation (EC) 258/97 on novel food and novel food ingredients came into force could not be established. In conclusion, this review illuminates a striking lack of chemical and toxicological data of many of the proposed wild or cultivated flowers for food use. Highlights • Review of wild flowers used at restaurants shows a striking lack of safety data. • 13 plants contained potential toxic compounds in the flowers or other plant parts. • Limited historical data on food use from ethnobotanical surveys. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study reports results of total arsenic (As tot ) and various As species in 75 samples of cereals and cereal products bought on the Belgian market. In addition to rice, the samples were wheat, pasta, bread and some breakfast cereals. The inorganic species arsenite (As III ) and arsenate (As V ), and the organic As compounds dimethyl arsinate (DMA) and monomethyl arsonate (MA) were the only As species detected. Mean As tot was 0.150 ± 0.089 mg kg −1 in rice and 0.012 ± 0.008 mg kg − in the non-rice cereals. The inorganic arsenic fraction (As i  = As III + As V ) dominated in all samples and was in the range 55%–100%. Significantly higher As tot and As i concentrations were observed in white rice and brown rice compared to Basmati rice. Within the group of non-rice cereals bread and pasta showed significantly lower concentrations compared to wheat. All 30 rice samples were conform to the European maximum limits for As i , laid down in Commission Regulation (EU) 2015/1006. Although regulatory limits certainly can help to protect consumer health, our results suggest that the currently fixed European maximum levels are, in Belgium, not expected to have any impact on the human exposure to As i , which is a known carcinogenic substance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sterigmatocystin is a carcinogenic compound that affects several species of crops and several species of experimental animals. The sterigmatocystin biosynthetic pathway is the best known and most studied. The International Agency for Research on Cancer classifies sterigmatocystin in the Group 2B. Three groups of analytical methods to determine sterigmatocystin in food can be found: chromatographic, ELISA immunoassays and chemical sensors. In addition, sterigmatocystin is a precursor of aflatoxin B 1 in those cases where cereals and/or food are contaminated with fungi capable of producing aflatoxins. Chemical structures of sterigmatocystin and aflatoxin B 1 are similar. These mycotoxins are pathogens of animals and cereals, producing a major economic impact on biotechnology and agricultural and food industries. This review summarizes different aspects related to sterigmatocystin such as its biosynthesis, toxicological studies and analytical methods for its determination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Food consumption can lead to the accumulation of certain chemical compounds able to exert toxic activities against humans. Of mayor interests are those molecules generated during food processing and handling, since their occurrence and distribution depend of many intrinsic and extrinsic factors. Cholesterol – a lipid constituent of mammalian cells – is the precursor of several toxic molecules known as cholesterol oxidation products (COPs). In the last decades, it has been demonstrated that food processing can dramatically trigger COPs accumulation in meats, eggs, dairy products, fish and poultry. On the other hand, countless scientific evidences have pointed out the highly toxic and pathogenic activities of COPs, from cancer stimulation to neurodegenerative disorders, via molecular mechanisms that are largely unexplored. The aim of this review is to merge the evidence on COPs accumulation in foods and their toxic activities through dietary intake, as from in vivo and in vitro studies. We consider that it is imperative to systematically monitor the formation of COPs to bridge these quantitative efforts with a risk exposure assessment on sensitive populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A green and mild method for aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) removal from food and drinking is highly required due to its high toxicity to human. In this study, membrane technology was attempted firstly to remove AFB1 via two protocols, membrane adsorber and biocatalytic membrane. Four polyvinylidene fluoride microfiltration membranes with different pore size were used to prepare membrane adsorber through successively coating polydopamine (PDA) and polyethyleneimine (PEI) on the membrane surface, and laccase was then loaded on the PDA/PEI-coated membrane to prepare biocatalytic membrane. Although biocatalytic membrane could remove AFB1 by both adsorption and enzymatic degradation, membrane adsorber outperformed thanks to its greater AFB1 removal efficiency (71%) and permeate flux (60 L·m −2 ·h −1 ) under gravity-driven flow-through mode. Hydrogen bonding together with electrostatic attraction was its main adsorption mechanism, and thus alkaline cleaning could fully desorb AFB1 from the membrane and further degrade detached AFB1. The contaminative apple juice was treated by such membrane adsorber, which could achieve a constant AFB1 removal for 7 reuse cycles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antibiotics in environment can be of concern as they can enter the food chain posing risks to ecosystems and human health. Photodegradation has been considered as a promising way of naturally degrading antibiotics in environment. Antibiotics are usually present in mixtures in environment; however, previous studies focused on individual compounds. Therefore, this study investigated the effect of UV irradiation on the degradation of tetracycline (TC) and sulfathiazole (STH) in individual solutions and mixtures. Under dark conditions, the initial masses of TC and STH were reduced by about 35% and 26%, respectively, over a 35 d-reaction period. With UV irradiation TC and STH were completely removed within 14 d and 35 d, respectively, regardless of the initial concentrations. Both the TC and STH removals were faster (i.e., 2–4 times) when they were in mixtures. This may be partly attributed to the byproducts such as sulfate that can promote indirect photolysis and partly to the enhanced hydrolysis due to changes in the solution pH. Overall, this study suggests that when photodegradation is used to remove antibiotics in water, the removal kinetics of antibiotics individually and in mixtures can be considered to develop more efficient treatment technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Numerous critical reviews have evaluated exposure to toxic and carcinogenic hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) from a number of pathways; including workplace air, cement and packaging materials. The contribution of foodstuffs to dietary Cr(VI) has been increasingly under investigation, however no summary of this work has been carried out. The objective of this article is to review the last twenty years of chromium speciation research in foodstuffs. Alkaline extraction, used for chromium speciation in other solids, is the most widely-reported procedure. Previous measurement of Cr(VI) in foodstuffs is questionable due to the reducing power of organic matter and antioxidants, leading to the development of speciated isotope dilution mass spectrometry (SIDMS) techniques to monitor interconversions. Evaluation of the genotoxicity of trivalent chromium (Cr(III)), which acts through a different pathway to that of Cr(VI), requires reconsideration towards measurement of Cr(III), which is present at higher concentrations in foodstuffs following reduction of the more-bioavailable Cr(VI). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Monitoring the use of colored additives in food commodities due to their potential carcinogenic effects is important for regulating their safe use. Herein, we test the cytotoxicity of food dyes against human neuroblastoma cell (SH-SY5Y) and report the development and applications of a novel and sensitive electrochemical sensor based on carbamazepine functionalized silver nanoparticles (Cbz-AgNPs) for the simultaneous detection of two toxic food dyes; Orange II and Rhodamine B. The characterization of Cbz-AgNPs was performed by UV–Vis spectrophotometry, atomic force microscopy (AFM) and FT-IR analysis. Small size, large surface area and high conductivity of AgNPs while host-guest complexation ability of Cbz with dyes are the unique properties which when harnessed together in the form of Cbz-AgNPs are responsible for sensitive detection of the said toxins. Successful modification of electrode surface was ensured from electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The nanocomposite (Cbz-AgNP/GCE) based sensor was found to boost the oxidation signals of analytes remarkably as compared to individual Cbz or nanoparticles AgNPs modified electrodes. Detection limits measured as 1.2 nM for OR II and 1.0 nM for RB point towards excellent sensitivity of nanocomposite modified electrode. Low cost, easy fabrication, high sensitivity, and absolute discriminating ability for toxins even in the presence 200 times higher concentration of interfering agents than the analytes are unique characteristics which render the developed novel sensor highly favorable for the detection of food toxins. Theoretical calculations were done using ADF and results favored the experimental work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ethyl carbamate (EC), a chemical substance widely present in fermented food products and alcoholic beverages, has been classified as a Group 2A carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). New evidence indicates that long-term exposure to EC may cause neurological disorders. Formation of EC in food and its metabolism have therefore been studied extensively and analytical methods for EC in various food matrices have been established. Due to the potential threat of EC to human health, mitigation strategies for EC in food products by physical, chemical, enzymatic, and genetic engineering methods have been developed. Natural products are suggested to provide protection against EC-induced toxicity through the modulation of oxidative stress. This review summarizes knowledge on the formation and metabolism of EC, detection of EC in food products, toxic effects of EC on various organs, and mitigation strategies including prevention of EC-induced tumorigenesis and genotoxicity by natural products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Commission Regulation (EC) Regulation N. 488/2014, established the concentration limits for cadmium in specific products based on cocoa and chocolate products as from January 2019. Based on this information there is a need to determine ultratrace levels of elements that might be presents in cocoa and chocolate products. In this work, the concentrations of Arsenic, Antimony, Cadmium, Chromium, Lead, Selenium and Vanadium were evaluated in cocoa powder and chocolate by the validation of an ICP-MS method. Good selectivity/specificity, recovery, repeatability and within-laboratory reproducibility, LOD, LOQ, range of linearity, standard measurement uncertainty parameters for method validation were achieved, in accordance with Commission Regulation. The cocoa powder revealed the maximum metal concentrations of 0.303 ± 0.035 mg/kg for cadmium, 1.228 ± 0.146 mg/kg for lead and 0.094 ± 0.013 mg/kg for arsenic. A significant difference was found between cocoa powder and chocolate samples (p < .05). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Food safety is a growing concern for consumers, public authorities and food-chain stakeholders. Ensuring food safety is becoming increasingly important with regard to changing food habits and the globalization of food supply. This makes assessing chemical food safety a crucial issue, as food can be contaminated by various toxicants throughout the food chain. At farm level, raw materials can be contaminated by agrochemicals, including pesticides and veterinary drugs, as well as by environmental micropollutants such as POPs or heavy metals. Further chemical hazards associated to the occurrence of toxicants or to cross-contaminations can also arise during transport, processing or storage. This article presents and discusses recent advances in chemical food safety. Taking meat as a model, it gives an overview of promising novel approaches to better control the occurrence of chemical toxicants along the food chain, improve their risk assessment, and reduce their impact on human health by proposing novel mitigation strategies. Industrial relevance As meat may be contaminated by various chemical toxicants, its chemical safety is a growing concern for public authorities, industrials and consumers. This paper gives the different toxic contaminants potentially found in meat products and the possible strategies for their detection, mitigation and health impact assessment. This knowledge would permit industrials to develop new distinctive labels for safe food as well as to produce new ready-to-eat foods free of process-induced toxicants or original recipes to add to dishes to reduce the health impact of these toxicants. Knowing the toxicant bioaccessibility would also permit industrials to target precise food product composition depending on the raw materials and the consumers' class. It finally proposes emerging analytical approaches to enable a more systematic control of meat chain. All the strategies developed herein on meat products could be transposable to other food chains of industrial interest and with products potentially contaminated from farm to fork. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The contamination of a clouding agent with di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), a substitute emulsifier-containing compound used in a variety of foods was announced on May 23, 2011. The aims of this study were as follows (1) compare the urine phthalates (PAE) metabolites concentration and estimate the daily intake (DI) of PAEs in pregnant women before and after the tainted food scandal and (2) examine the effect of relatively high PAEs exposure on birth outcome. One-hundred twelve pregnant women in Northern Taiwan participated in this study from March to December 2010, i.e., before the tainted food scandal. After the tainted food scandal, we collected 69, 73, and 180 urine specimens (January 2013 to August 2014) from women whom were in their first, second, and third trimesters of pregnancy, respectively. We measure urinary DEHP metabolite concentrations to estimate the DI of DEHP and the hazard quotient (HQ) of subjects. This was the first study to assess the effects of DEHP-tainted food scandal exposure in pregnant women across the three trimesters of pregnancy. After the tainted food report, the concentrations of urine PAE metabolite were significantly decreased, especially those of DEHP metabolites. Based on different reference limit values, the percentages of pregnant women whose HQ DEHP value exceeded the limit ranged from 0.53% to 8.93%. Despite this low frequency, the higher ΣPAE exposure during the second trimester may significantly increase the risk of relatively low birth height compared to the lower exposure group (β = − 0.63 (− 1.20 to − 0.06)). Our results support the hypothesis that exposure to relatively high concentrations of DEHP in pregnant Taiwanese women may have an adverse effect on birth outcomes. The percentage of subjects whose exposure level exceeded the exposure limit was low; however, high PAEs exposure appears to be significantly associated with birth outcomes. Therefore, we suggest that reference dose for PAEs should be revised. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Persian bamboo shark ( Chiloscyllium arabicum ) was collected from two sites of the Khozestan province, northern basin of Persian Gulf, with the aim to identify differences in metal concentrations between fishing areas as well as the risk for human health due to consumption of the selected species. We analyzed Zn, Cu, Pb, Hg, Cd and Ni in muscle and liver tissues of specimens from both areas of study using atomic adsorption spectrometry. Statistical elaborations revealed higher bioaccumulation of metals in livers than muscle as well as in the site of worthy of Musa as regards Zn, Pb and Ni than the site of worthy of Darvis, due to the more intensive anthropogenic input. The risk for consumers is low for the most of metals, with the exception of the THQ for Hg, which resulted next to the level of risk with high frequencies of consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]