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Abstract Antiseizure medications (ASMs) constitute the principal of treatment for patients with epilepsy, where long‐term treatment is usually necessary. The purpose of this systematic review is to provide practical and useful information regarding various aspects of the interactions between ASMs and foods and drinks. MEDLINE and ScienceDirect, from the inception to July 15, 2023, were searched for related publications. In both electronic databases, the following search strategy was applied, and the following keywords were used (in title/abstract): “food OR drink” AND “antiepileptic OR antiseizure.” The primary search yielded 738 studies. After implementing our inclusion and exclusion criteria, we could identify 19 studies on the issue of interest for our endeavor. Four studies were identified in the recheck process and not by the primary search. All studies provided low level of evidence. Interactions between foods and ASMs are a common phenomenon. Many factors may play a role for such an interaction to come to play; these include drug properties, administration route, and administration schedule, among others. Drugs‐foods (‐drinks) interactions may change the drug exposure or plasma levels of drugs (e.g., grapefruit juice increases carbamazepine concentrations and the bioavailability of cannabidiol is increased 4–5 folds with concomitant intake of fat‐rich food); this may require dosage adjustments. Interactions between ASMs and foods and drinks may be important. This should be taken seriously into consideration when consulting patients and their caregivers about ASMs. Future well‐designed investigations should explore the specific interactions between foods (and drinks) and ASMs to clarify whether they are clinically important. Plain Language Summary Interactions between antiseizure medications and foods and drinks may be important. This should be taken into consideration in patients with epilepsy.

Abstract Children under‐5 years of age are particularly vulnerable to severe acute malnutrition (SAM), and the risk factors associated with relapse to SAM are poorly understood. Possible causes are asymptomatic or symptomatic infection with enteric pathogens, with contaminated food as a critical transmission route. This cross‐sectional study comprised a household survey with samples of child food (n = 382) and structured observations of food preparation (n = 197) among children aged 6–59 months that were discharged from treatment in community management of acute malnutrition (CMAM) programmes in South Sudan. We quantified Escherichia coli and total coliforms (TCs), measured in colony forming units per g of food (CFU/g), as indicators of microbial contamination of child food. A modified hazard analysis critical control point (HACCP) approach was utilised to determine critical control points (CCPs) followed by multivariate logistic regression analysis to understand the risk factors associated with contamination. Over 40% (n = 164) of samples were contaminated with E. coli (43% >0 E. coli CFU/g, 95% CI 38%–48%), and 90% (n = 343) had >10 TCs (CFU/g) (>10 TC CFU/g, 95% CI 87%–93%). Risk factors associated (p

Abstract EFSA was asked for a scientific opinion on the risks for animal and human health related to the presence of polychlorinated naphthalenes (PCNs) in feed and food. The assessment focused on hexaCNs due to very limited data on other PCN congeners. For hexaCNs in feed, 217 analytical results were used to estimate dietary exposures for food‐producing and non‐food‐producing animals; however, a risk characterisation could not be performed because none of the toxicological studies allowed identification of reference points. The oral repeated dose toxicity studies performed in rats with a hexaCN mixture containing all 10 hexaCNs indicated that the critical target was the haematological system. A BMDL20 of 0.05 mg/kg body weight (bw) per day was identified for a considerable decrease in the platelet count. For hexaCNs in food, 2317 analytical results were used to estimate dietary exposures across dietary surveys and age groups. The highest exposure ranged from 0.91 to 29.8 pg/kg bw per day in general population and from 220 to 559 pg/kg bw per day for breast‐fed infants with the highest consumption of breast milk. Applying a margin of exposure (MOE) approach, the estimated MOEs for the high dietary exposures ranged from 1,700,000 to 55,000,000 for the general population and from 90,000 to 230,000 for breast‐fed infants with the highest consumption of breast milk. These MOEs are far above the minimum MOE of 2000 that does not raise a health concern. Taking account of the uncertainties affecting the assessment, the Panel concluded with at least 99% certainty that dietary exposure to hexaCNs does not raise a health concern for any of the population groups considered. Due to major limitations in the available data, no assessment was possible for genotoxic effects or for health risks of PCNs other than hexaCNs.

Abstract Background Urinary pH manipulation by therapeutic foods or supplements is part of the treatment for urolithiasis. The effectiveness of these diets and supplements should be studied to determine which of these strategies is most effective. Hypothesis/Objectives To assess the effect of the oral supplementation of potassium citrate, an ammonium chloride solution (Urical) and two dry therapeutic foods—Hill's® Prescription Diet® u/d® Canine (u/d diet) and Royal Canin® Urinary S/O dog (S/O diet)—on a dog's urinary pH at different time points over 8 h. Animals Seven healthy adult male research beagle dogs. Methods A prospective interventional study lasting 31 days. The dogs either received a supplement (potassium citrate or rical) with a dry adult maintenance diet (control diet) or the therapeutic diet (u/d diet or S/O diet). Each treatment had a duration of 2–5 days, with 2‐ to 4‐day washout periods in between. Urinary pH measurements were performed every 2 h between 07h00 and 15h00, with the food being given at 07h00 and 15h00, right after urine collection. The pH measurements obtained in each of the four treatments were compared to control (same dogs fed the control diet exclusively). Results When compared to the control diet at the same time points, biologically relevant changes in urinary pH (defined as ≥0.5) were: increase with potassium citrate at 7h00 and 13h00; increase with u/d diet at 9h00, 13h00, and 15h00; decrease with S/O diet at 9h00 and 11h00; Urical did not have a detectable effect on urinary pH. Conclusions and Clinical Importance The present study confirms that therapeutic foods S/O and u/d, and potassium citrate supplement affected acid‐base balance in healthy adult male beagle dogs, with the tested diets being more effective than the administered doses of the tested supplements at influencing urinary pH.

Abstract Food security is based on a variety of factors, including how well agricultural production is doing, how much food we import, how many people are employed in the food industry, what public policies are put in place to improve food production strategy and food security of the household. Food is important for human beings so that everyone can have enough of it. A lack of food in the long term can lead to people becoming hungry and starving, which can be dangerous. There are many ways to boost food production and improve self‐sufficiency and food security. One way is to develop small‐scale irrigation schemes. In this study, multistage sampling was used to collect data from 400 sample rural households, and results showed that age, family size, market information, and price of the product are significant at 1% significance level, along with the non‐farm income, and irrigation participation at 5% significance level. It was also found that education is significant at 10% significance level. Governments and relevant parties need to work together to address the issues of food security by disseminating current data on the irrigation industry to boost the agricultural product, enhance irrigation facilities, and provide extension agents with training to increase the level of food security in the country.

Abstract Diet‐related chronic diseases are becoming more common where many consumers and nutritionists are seeking food and lifestyle interventions to improve health and standard of living. To supplement regular dietary intake, scientists are seeking to develop new crops that are productive and nutritious, which can improve health outcomes. This review focused on the history of Huangjing as a medicine, healthy food as part of a diverse diet and as an input into pharmacology uses. The sustainable production of Huangjing and the development of health‐promoting Huangjing products are reviewed through consulting the “Chinese Pharmacopoeia” along with other herbal textual research and modern research publications. Hence, the potential development of Huangjing as a regular part of a healthy diet is discussed. Huangjing has been used as medicine and food in China for over 2000 years. While it contains no starch, it is rich in fructan, saponins, and flavonoids, which have been reported to prevent and treat chronic diseases such as diabetes and obesity. As part of a healthy diet, Huangjing has been developed into innovative products used in meals, snacks, drinks, health foods, and drugs. Furthermore, Huangjing is a perennial plant, is suitable for cultivation in forests, and does not occupy fertile farmland. It is proposed to use the achievements of genomics and targeted precision breeding to make in‐forest cultivation of Huangjing more productive, comprehensively nutritious, and environmentally friendly and obtain high‐quality food from forests and mountains, providing Chinese wisdom for the global food and nutrition security issue.

Abstract The European Commission asked EFSA to update its 2011 risk assessment on polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) in food, focusing on 10 congeners: BDE‐28, ‐47, ‐49, ‐99, ‐100, ‐138, ‐153, ‐154, ‐183 and ‑209. The CONTAM Panel concluded that the neurodevelopmental effects on behaviour and reproductive/developmental effects are the critical effects in rodent studies. For four congeners (BDE‐47, ‐99, ‐153, ‐209) the Panel derived Reference Points, i.e. benchmark doses and corresponding lower 95% confidence limits (BMDLs), for endpoint‐specific benchmark responses. Since repeated exposure to PBDEs results in accumulation of these chemicals in the body, the Panel estimated the body burden at the BMDL in rodents, and the chronic intake that would lead to the same body burden in humans. For the remaining six congeners no studies were available to identify Reference Points. The Panel concluded that there is scientific basis for inclusion of all 10 congeners in a common assessment group and performed a combined risk assessment. The Panel concluded that the combined margin of exposure (MOET) approach was the most appropriate risk metric and applied a tiered approach to the risk characterisation. Over 84,000 analytical results for the 10 congeners in food were used to estimate the exposure across dietary surveys and age groups of the European population. The most important contributors to the chronic dietary Lower Bound exposure to PBDEs were meat and meat products and fish and seafood. Taking into account the uncertainties affecting the assessment, the Panel concluded that it is likely that current dietary exposure to PBDEs in the European population raises a health concern.

Abstract Background Earth and all its inhabitants are threatened by a planetary crisis; including climate change, deforestation, biodiversity loss and pollution. Dietitians and nutrition professionals have a responsibility to lead transformational change in contemporary food and health systems to help mitigate this crisis. The study aims to develop a conceptual framework to support dietitians towards personal, population and planetary health. Methods Non‐empirical methods were used by the co‐researchers to explore and explain the application of an international framework ‘Next‐Generation Solutions to Address Adaptive Challenges in Dietetics Practice: The I + PSE Conceptual Framework for Action’. Results A non‐sequential pathway guide to personal, population and planetary health for nutrition professionals was developed including several key guiding principles of Agency, Action, Ascension, Alignment, Alliance and Allyship, and Advocacy and Activism. Each guiding principle features descriptors and descriptions to enhance dietitian and nutrition professional Agency (i.e. vision, self‐belief, confidence, strength and responsibility), Action (i.e. start, shift, translate, achieve and commit), Ascension (i.e. build, overcome, manage, challenge and progress), Alignment (i.e. leadership, transparency, diplomacy, values and systems), Alliance and Allyship (i.e. support, collaborate, represent, community and citizenship) and Advocacy and Activism (i.e. disrupt, co‐design, transform, empower and urgency). The framework and its descriptors support enhanced understanding and are modifiable and flexible in their application to guide the participation of dietitians and nutrition professionals in transformational change in personal, population and planetary health. This guide acknowledges that First Nations knowledge and customs are important to current and future work within this field. Conclusions Alongside the international body of work progressing in this field, this framework and visual guide will support dietitians and nutrition professionals to achieve urgent, transformational change in personal, population and planetary health.

Abstract Copepods play a critical role in the carbon cycle of the planet – they mediate the sequestration of carbon into the deep ocean and are the trophic link between phytoplankton and marine food webs. Global change stressors that decrease copepod productivity create the potential for catastrophic positive feedback loops. Accordingly, a growing list of studies examine the evolutionary capacity of copepods to adapt to the two primary stressors associated with global change: warmer temperatures and lower pH. But the evolutionary capacity of copepods to adapt to changing food regimes, the third major stressor associated with global change, remains unknown. We used experimental evolution to explore how a 10‐fold difference in food availability affects life history evolution in the copepod, Tisbe sp. over 2 years, and spanning 30+ generations. Different food regimes evoked evolutionary responses across the entire copepod life history: we observed evolution in body size, size‐fecundity relationships and offspring investment strategies. Our results suggest that changes to food regimes reshape life histories and that cryptic evolution in traits such as body size is likely. We demonstrate that evolution in response to changes in ocean productivity will alter consumer life histories and may distort trophic links in marine foodchains. Evolution in response to changing phytoplankton productivity may alter the efficacy of the global carbon pump in ways that have not been anticipated until now.

Abstract Objective Metabolic and morphological adaptations of the intestine have been suggested to play a role in the various therapeutic benefits of Roux‐en‐Y Gastric Bypass (RYGB) surgery. However, the precise underlying mechanisms remain unclear. In this study, the effects of physical properties of ingested food and redirection of biliopancreatic secretions on intestinal remodeling were investigated in RYGB operated rats. Methods RYGB employing two different Roux Limb (RL) lengths was performed on high fat diet induced obese rats. Post‐operatively, rats were fed either Solid or isocaloric Liquid diets. Metabolic and morphological remodeling of intestine was compared across both diet forms (Solid and Liquid diets) and surgical models (Short RL and Long RL). Results RYGB surgery in rats induced weight loss and improved glucose tolerance which was independent of physical properties of ingested food and biliopancreatic secretions. Intestinal glucose utilization after RYGB was not determined by either food form or biliopancreatic secretions. The GLUT‐1 expression in RL was not influenced by physical properties of food. Furthermore, both physical properties of food and biliopancreatic secretions showed no effects on intestinal morphological adaptations after RYGB. Conclusion Results of this study demonstrate that physical properties of food and bile redirection are not major determinants of intestinal remodeling after RYGB in rats.

Abstract Plastics are ubiquitously, becoming part of our everyday life. Recently, the issue of human exposure to micro‐ and nanoplastic particles and potentially resulting toxicological consequences has been broached, triggered by the discovery of microplastics in foodstuff and dietary exposure via contaminated food and beverages. Within this EU‐FORA fellowship project, a determination and quantification of plastic polyester plastics oligomers in food samples was performed to assess exposure at these categories of ‘nanoplastics’, evaluating them as potential contaminants or as indicators and marker compounds of the exposure to specific nanoplastics/microplastics from polyesters, such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polybutylene terephthalate (PBT). UHPLC‐TOF–MS/MS analysis has been set‐up for 10 PET and PBT oligomers and analysis has been performed in foods and drinks. Moreover, the project focused also on the effects of these oligomers in in vitro and ex vivo experiments. These data would be combined with EFSA Comprehensive Food Consumption Database, for the exposure and risk assessment of these ‘Nanoplastics’.

Abstract The evolutionary theory of life histories predicts that there is a trade‐off between survival and reproduction: since adult survival in long‐lived organisms is high, then breeding investment is more variable and more dependent on conditions (e.g. food availability and individual experience). Clutch features influence fitness prospects, but how a bet hedger builds its clutch in temporally varying environments is quite unknown. Using 27‐year data on 2847 clutches of known‐age breeders, we analyse how Audouin's gulls (Larus audouinii), a species showing a combination of conservative and adaptive bet‐hedging breeding strategies, can allocate energy by laying clutches and eggs of different sizes. Results show that both food availability and age influenced clutch size and total egg volume in a clutch. Interestingly, we found an interaction between food and age on egg parameters: total volume in two‐egg clutches, laid mostly by younger breeders, did not significantly change with food availability and the quadratic pattern in clutch size over the range of ages was less marked as long as food conditions became harsher. With increased food, females invested more by building larger first eggs, whereas they were more conservative on second and third eggs. Furthermore, asymmetries in egg volume within three‐egg clutches increased with food availability for old females. Egg size profiles of two‐egg clutches suggest that gulls should exhibit progressive reduction of the size of the third egg before shifting to a two‐egg clutch size. Food availability influenced all parameters studied, whereas age affected the amount of energy allocated for producing eggs (their size and number) but not the way of allocating those energies (i.e. asymmetries within the clutch). Despite the range of factors affecting the clutch, results suggest that females can allocate the amount of resources in a clutch optimally to increase their fitness under variable environments via bet‐hedging.

Abstract With the continuous improvement of people's living standards, food intake, bioactivity, and bioavailability have mainly concerned people. Therefore, the digestion and absorption of this kind of food have attracted people's attention. Some food has very high nutritional, medicinal, and medical value. However, because of its low conversion rate and utilization rate, the human body digests and absorbs less material, so the use of human value will be significantly reduced. Therefore, simulation and testing of digestion and absorption in vitro may be significant for dietary intake of bioactive substances. This paper reviews the organs and pathways of simulated food digestion and absorption in vitro and specific processing methods. In an in the vitro simulation system, the role of the human digestive system and absorption system in food digestion and absorption is described, and the performance of various simulation models, exceptionally dynamic in vitro models, is compared. Widespread use and refinement of these models will expand our understanding of the complex interplay of food substrates and digestive and absorptive systems. Therefore, it will be possible to design food with better bioavailability, more benefits to human health, and more targeted delivery, which is also in line with the development trend of food in the future.

Abstract Limited studies have examined the associations between diet quality and gestational weight gain (GWG) among Chinese pregnant women, adopting Chinese GWG guidelines. We prospectively investigate the associations of diet quality, using the Chinese Healthy Diet Index for Pregnancy (CHDI‐P), which assessed diet quality from ‘Diversity’, ‘Adequacy’ and ‘Limitation’ dimensions with overall 100 points, with GWG among participants enroled in Southwest China. Food consumption was collected by 24 h dietary recalls for three consecutive days and CHDI‐P scores were divided into tertiles. GWG was calculated according to the weight measured before delivery and classified into adequate weight gain (AWG), insufficient weight gain (IWG) and excessive weight gain(EWG) following Chinese GWG guidelines. Multinomial regression analyses and stratified analyses by pre‐pregnancy body mass index were performed to estimate the association between CHDI‐P and GWG. A total of 1416 participants were recruited in early pregnancy, and 971 and 997 participants were respectively followed up in middle and late pregnancy. The mean CHDI‐P score was 56.44 ± 6.74, 57.07 ± 7.44 and 57.38 ± 7.94 points in early, middle and late pregnancy, respectively. Women in the lowest CHDI‐P scores group had an increased risk of EWG in middle (OR = 1.53, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.08–2.17) and late pregnancy (OR = 1.71, 95% CI = 1.21–2.41) than women in the highest group, while overweight/obese women had a greater risk of EWG in late pregnancy (OR = 4.25, 95% CI = 1.30–13.90). No association was found between the CHDI‐P scores and IWG. Poor diet quality in middle and late pregnancy was associated with a higher risk of EWG.

Abstract The agrifood literature suggests that trust is one of the most prominent and critical aspect for not only the effectiveness of collaboration, but also for improving sustainability performance. In this sense, the understanding of how trust works in agrifood supply chains is essential to find better paths to improve the functioning of those structures. The purpose of this article was to carry out a meta‐analysis on the relationships of trust among the stakeholders in agrifood supply chains, to obtain data on previous publications as well as to justify future research on the search topics. For the bibliometric study, the R software in RStudio and the R packages bibliometrix and biblioshiny were used. The documents were extracted from the Scopus and Web of Science databases. Documents related to the researched topics, that were published in the last 11 years, were collected to the following meta‐analysis. Of 277 documents published from 1995 to 2021, 11 review articles and 74 papers were analyzed. From these publications, we obtained data on the main authors and sources related to trust among the stakeholders in agrifood supply chains, on the methodologies used, as well as on trends for future researches. The present work brings forward data in a unique and up‐to‐date way.

Abstract EFSA was asked for a scientific opinion on the risks to public health related to the presence of N‐nitrosamines (N‐NAs) in food. The risk assessment was confined to those 10 carcinogenic N‐NAs occurring in food (TCNAs), i.e. NDMA, NMEA, NDEA, NDPA, NDBA, NMA, NSAR, NMOR, NPIP and NPYR. N‐NAs are genotoxic and induce liver tumours in rodents. The in vivo data available to derive potency factors are limited, and therefore, equal potency of TCNAs was assumed. The lower confidence limit of the benchmark dose at 10% (BMDL10) was 10 μg/kg body weight (bw) per day, derived from the incidence of rat liver tumours (benign and malignant) induced by NDEA and used in a margin of exposure (MOE) approach. Analytical results on the occurrence of N‐NAs were extracted from the EFSA occurrence database (n = 2,817) and the literature (n = 4,003). Occurrence data were available for five food categories across TCNAs. Dietary exposure was assessed for two scenarios, excluding (scenario 1) and including (scenario 2) cooked unprocessed meat and fish. TCNAs exposure ranged from 0 to 208.9 ng/kg bw per day across surveys, age groups and scenarios. ‘Meat and meat products’ is the main food category contributing to TCNA exposure. MOEs ranged from 3,337 to 48 at the P95 exposure excluding some infant surveys with P95 exposure equal to zero. Two major uncertainties were (i) the high number of left censored data and (ii) the lack of data on important food categories. The CONTAM Panel concluded that the MOE for TCNAs at the P95 exposure is highly likely (98–100% certain) to be less than 10,000 for all age groups, which raises a health concern.

Abstract Background Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) are chronic gastrointestinal diseases that negatively affect the enjoyment of food and engagement in social and cultural gatherings. Such experiences may promote psychosocial challenges, an aspect of IBD often overlooked and under‐supported in clinical settings and research. Objectives This study explored the psychosocial experiences that young adults with IBD have with food via a qualitative patient‐led research process. Methods Trained patient researchers conducted this study by engaging peers via semi‐structured interviews and focus groups in a three‐step co‐design process. Participants (n = 9) identified the research topic (SET), explored the topic and identified emerging themes (COLLECT), refined themes and made recommendations for healthcare system change (REFLECT). Results Themes that emerged included: ‘Experimenting with Food’, ‘Evolution Over Time’, ‘Diet Changes are Emotional’ and ‘Role of Stigma’. Participants identified the significance and frustrations of repeated testing and experimenting with food compatibility, and noted nuances in food relationships as they gain knowledge and experience over time. They emphasized the importance of maintaining a sense of hope throughout and wished to impart this to newly diagnosed patients. Conclusion Participants experience numerous psychosocial challenges as they strive to manage their diet, noting gaps in support available from IBD practitioners. Participants made practical recommendations for healthcare system change to improve patient outcomes, highlighting the importance of sharing stories and collaboratively including patients in the development of new services and protocols. Authors recommend further research in this area to build a body of knowledge and support that helps IBD patients maintain hope while navigating challenges with food. Patient or Public Contribution The first four authors on this paper were the lead researchers in this study's design and analysis and identify as patients; they conducted the research with this identity at the forefront following a peer‐to‐peer research model. These authors were mentored by patient researchers who also contributed to the manuscript, and the research process itself was co‐lead and directed by other patient participants and consultants. Results and recommendations coming from this paper came directly from patient participants.

Abstract Background Current guidelines call for peer‐reviewed evidence of efficacy and safety for commercial weight loss programs to be recommended as options for those seeking to lose weight. Objectives This study investigated the Ideal Protein (IP) system, a commercial weight loss program, compared to a guideline‐based, low‐calorie/low‐fat (LCLF) dietary behavioral intervention on body weight and CVD risk factors in adults with obesity. Methods In this randomized, assessor‐blinded, parallel‐group trial, 192 participants with body mass index (BMI) ≥30 and ≤49 kg/m2 were assigned to either the IP Phase I diet or LFLC diet interventions. The IP Phase I is focused on lean protein and vegetables with avoidance of fruit and dairy, while the LFLC diet goals include

Abstract Objective One path to improving weight management may be to lessen the self‐control burden of physical activity and healthier food choices. Opportunities to lessen the self‐control burden might be uncovered by assessing the spatiotemporal experiences of individuals in daily context. This report aims to describe the time, place, and social context of eating and drinking and 6‐month weight change among 209 midlife women (n = 113 African–American) with obesity receiving safety‐net primary care. Methods Participants completed baseline and 6‐month weight measures, observations and interviews regarding obesogenic cues in the home environment, and up to 12 ecological momentary assessments (EMA) per day for 30 days inquiring about location, social context, and eating and drinking. Results Home was the most common location (62%) at times of EMA notifications. Participants reported “yes” to eating or drinking at the time of nearly one in three (31.1% ± 13.2%) EMA notifications. Regarding social situations, being alone was significantly associated with less frequent eating and drinking (OR = 0.75) unless at work in which case being alone was significantly associated with a greater frequency of eating or drinking (OR = 1.43). At work, eating was most common late at night, whereas at home eating was most frequent in the afternoon and evening hours. However, eating and drinking frequency was not associated with 6‐month weight change. Conclusions Home and work locations, time of day, and whether alone may be important dimensions to consider in the pursuit of more effective weight loss interventions. Opportunities to personalize weight management interventions, whether digital or human, and lessen in‐the‐moment self‐control burden might lie in identifying times and locations most associated with caloric consumption. Clinical trial registration: NCT03083964 in clinicaltrials.gov

Abstract Background Placing limitations on advertising of food and nonalcoholic drinks to children is an effective strategy in addressing childhood obesity. The industry maintains that further restrictions are unnecessary. Aims To ascertain whether the advertising campaigns were successful according to the industry evaluations and more specifically the effects of marketing on children. Materials & Methods A total of 117 case studies (1980–2016) published by the advertising industry which evaluate the effects of advertising campaigns were reviewed. This industry data source had been previously used to analyze the effects of alcohol advertising campaigns. The nutrition profile of the products was assessed by applying the World Health Organisation Nutrition Profile model designed to restrict the marketing of foods and beverages to children. Results The food and drink industry advertising campaigns target specific consumers including children, use several persuasive marketing techniques (utilizing celebrities and gamification), often position unhealthy products as healthy, and lead to increased sales of the advertised product with good returns on investment. The health‐related claims made, and aspects of the campaigns related to the marketing of the products to children are summarized. Discussion Our analysis of food and non‐alcoholic drinks case studies aligns with similar analyses of tobacco and alcohol advertising Conclusion This analysis, based on internal industry data, presents important evidence on the effects of advertising on consumption‐related outcomes and the mechanisms by which they are achieved.

Abstract Cassava (Manihot esculenta. Crantz) is a starch‐rich, woody tuberous, root crop important for food, with little being done to investigate its potential as a bioenergy crop despite its enormous potential. The major bottleneck in the crop being able to serve this dual role is the competition of its storage roots for both purposes. The major cassava production regions primarily use the tuberous roots for food, and this has resulted in its neglect as a bioenergy crop. The use of non‐food cassava parts as a feedstock in cellulosic biofuel production is a promising strategy that can overcome this challenge. However, in non‐tuber parts, most of the sugars are highly sequestered in lignin complexes making them inaccessible to bacterial bioconversion. Additionally, cassava production in these major growing areas is not optimal owing to several production constraints. The challenges affecting cassava production as a food and bioenergy crop are interconnected and therefore need to be addressed together. Cassava improvement against biotic and abiotic stresses can enhance productivity and cater for the high demand of the roots for food and bioenergy production. Furthermore, increased production will enhance the usability of non‐food parts for bioenergy as the bigger goal. This review addresses efforts in cassava improvement against stresses that reduce its productivity as well as strategies that enhance biomass production, both important for food and bioenergy. Additionally, prospective strategies that could ease bioconversion of cassava for enhanced bioenergy production are explored.

Abstract With the improvement of living standards over the years, the demand for “delicious food” has been increasing rapidly. Accordingly, the hidden risks associated with these kinds of food have gradually been attracting attention and purines have especially become of great interest. Food‐derived purines are one of the important sources of purine in the body. Eventually, it is metabolized by the body to produce uric acid, which may lead to hyperuricemia and gout. Thus, detecting the purine content in foods could be a significant guidance for dietary intake. Here, this article reviews purine pretreatment and detection methods as well as the purine content of common foods. Perchloric acid hydrolysis and high‐performance liquid chromatography were found to be the most commonly used pretreatment and quantification methods in purine detection. In addition, total purine content was in the order of plant foods

Abstract Background Depression and overweight/obesity often cooccur but the underlying neural mechanisms for this bidirectional link are not well understood. Methods In this functional magnetic resonance imaging study, we scanned 54 individuals diagnosed with depressive disorders (DD) and 48 healthy controls (HC) to examine how diagnostic status moderates the relationship between body mass index (BMI) and brain activation during anticipation and pleasantness rating of food versus nonfood stimuli. Results We found a significant BMI‐by‐diagnosis interaction effect on activation in the right inferior frontal gyrus (RIFG) and anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) during food versus nonfood anticipation (p

Abstract The new severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) that was first found in 2019 in Wuhan, China, caused coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19). It then spread worldwide rapidly, causing the 2019–2020 coronavirus pandemic. To date, it has been indicated that various transmission ways might be participated in outbreaks of COVID‐19. Among these, food products, whether raw or processed, might be carriers for SARS‐CoV‐2. Therefore, this study was aimed to evaluate the effect of cooking and microwave process of meat products and bread on the stability of SARS‐CoV‐2. In this regard, sausages and hamburger as meat products and toast bread were inoculated with a viral load of 5.70 log fifty percent tissue culture infective dose (TCID50)/mL in order to create a simulated cross‐contamination condition. The results showed that frying of hamburger at 225ºC for about either 6 or 10 min resulted in complete inactivation of SARS‐CoV‐2. Furthermore, a 5‐log decrease in SARS‐CoV‐2 load was observed in sausages as a consequence of cooking process at 78ºC for either 20 or 30 min. Additionally, the effect of microwave oven at power of 630 watt on stability of SARS‐CoV‐2 showed that exposing toast bread for either 30 s or 1 min in this power led to a 5‐log decrease in SARS‐CoV‐2 load in the toast bread.

Abstract Background The increased prevalence of atopic dermatitis (AD) in dogs necessitates research in its disease etiology. Objectives To explore the association between puppyhood dietary exposures and prevalence of owner‐reported allergy/atopy skin signs (AASS) after the age of 1 year. Animals Four thousand and twenty‐two dogs were eligible, 1158 cases, and 2864 controls. Methods This cross‐sectional hypothesis‐driven observational study was extracted from the DogRisk food frequency questionnaire. Forty‐six food items and the ratio of 4 major diet types were tested for their association with AASS incidence later in life. Potential puppyhood dietary risk factors for AASS incidence were specified using binary multivariable logistic regression. The model was adjusted for age and sex. Results Eating raw tripe (odds ratio, 95% confidence intervals OR, 95% CI = 0.36, 0.16‐0.79; P = .01), raw organ meats (OR, 95% CI = 0.23, 0.08‐0.67; P = .007), human meal leftovers, and fish oil supplements as well as eating more that 20% of the diet as raw and/or

Abstract That phytochemicals are a critical part of enhancing healthspan is in our minds a linchpin of responsible public health messaging, yet, recent dietary guidelines and strategies for implementing precision nutrition largely ignore roles of phytochemicals. Epidemiological evidence points strongly to beneficial effects of phytochemical‐rich foods on the prevention of essentially all chronic diseases. An extraordinary multitude of phytochemicals have been shown in preclinical settings to be potent allies in our fight against the entire spectrum of chronic diseases and many acute conditions such as infections. Yet unequivocal proof of this concept is problematic due to the nature of the clinical trials that must be part of such a proof. More rigor in the design and implementation of such trials is essential. Artificial intelligence, machine learning, metabolomics, microbiomics, proteomics, and other high‐powered data processing modalities, may inform the phyto‐dynamic actions on very specific metabolic pathways. As phytochemical abundance appears to be declining in our food supply, the need for better and more strategically focused science is great.

Abstract EFSA was asked by the European Commission to evaluate synthetic biology (SynBio) developments for agri‐food use in the near future and to determine whether or not they are expected to constitute potential new hazards/risks. Moreover, EFSA was requested to evaluate the adequacy of existing guidelines for risk assessment of SynBio and if updated guidance is needed. The scope of this Opinion covers food and feed risk assessment, the variety of microorganisms that can be used in the food/feed chain and the whole spectrum of techniques used in SynBio. This Opinion complements a previously adopted Opinion with the evaluation of existing guidelines for the microbial characterisation and environmental risk assessment of microorganisms obtained through SynBio. The present Opinion confirms that microbial SynBio applications for food and feed use, with the exception of xenobionts, could be ready in the European Union in the next decade. New hazards were identified related to the use or production of unusual and/or new‐to‐nature components. Fifteen cases were selected for evaluating the adequacy of existing guidelines. These were generally adequate for assessing the product, the production process, nutritional and toxicological safety, allergenicity, exposure and post‐market monitoring. The comparative approach and a safety assessment per se could be applied depending on the degree of familiarity of the SynBio organism/product with the non‐genetically modified counterparts. Updated guidance is recommended for: (i) bacteriophages, protists/microalgae, (ii) exposure to plant protection products and biostimulants, (iii) xenobionts and (iv) feed additives for insects as target species. Development of risk assessment tools is recommended for assessing nutritional value of biomasses, influence of microorganisms on the gut microbiome and the gut function, allergenic potential of new‐to‐nature proteins, impact of horizontal gene transfer and potential risks of living cell intake. A further development towards a strain‐driven risk assessment approach is recommended.

Abstract Synthetic biology (SynBio) is an interdisciplinary field at the interface of molecular engineering and biology aiming to develop new biological systems and impart new functions to living cells, tissues and organisms. EFSA has been asked by the European Commission to evaluate SynBio developments in agri‐food with the aim of identifying the adequacy and sufficiency of existing guidelines for risk assessment and determine if updated guidance is needed. In this context, the GMO Panel has previously adopted an Opinion evaluating the SynBio developments in agri‐food/feed and the adequacy and sufficiency of existing guidelines for the molecular characterisation and environmental risk assessment of genetically modified plants (GMPs) obtained through SynBio and reaching the market in the next decade. Complementing the above, in this Opinion, the GMO Panel evaluated the adequacy and sufficiency of existing guidelines for the food and feed risk assessment of GMPs obtained through SynBio. Using selected hypothetical case studies, the GMO Panel did not identify novel potential hazards and risks that could be posed by food and feed from GMPs obtained through current and near future SynBio approaches; considers that the existing guidelines are adequate and sufficient in some Synbio applications; in other cases, existing guidelines may be just adequate and hence need updating; areas needing updating include those related to the safety assessment of new proteins and the comparative analysis. The GMO Panel recommends that future guidance documents provide indications on how to integrate the knowledge available from the SynBio design and modelling in the food and feed risk assessment and encourages due consideration to be given to food and feed safety aspects throughout the SynBio design process as a way to facilitate the risk assessment of SynBio GMPs and reduce the amount of data required.

Abstract Spices are often used in dried form, sometimes with significant microbial contamination including pathogenic and food spoilage bacteria. The antibiotic resistance represents an additional risk for food industry, and it is worthy of special attention as spices are important food additives. During our work, we examined the microbiological quality of 50 different spices with cultivation methods on diverse selective media. The identification of the most representative bacteria was carried out using 16S rDNA gene sequence analysis. Antibiotic resistance profiling of twelve identified Bacillus species (B. subtilis subsp. stercoris BCFK, B. licheniformis BCLS, B. siamensis SZBC, B. zhangzhouensis BCTA, B. altitudinis SALKÖ, B. velezensis CVBC, B. cereus SALÖB isolate, B. tequilensis KOPS, B. filamentosus BMBC, B. subtilis subsp. subtilis PRBC2, B. safensis BMPS, and B. mojavensis BCFK2 isolate) was performed using the standard disk‐diffusion method against 32 antibiotics. The study showed that the majority resistance was obtained against penicillin G (100%), oxacillin (91.67%), amoxyclav (91.67%), rifampicin (75%), and azithromycin (75%). Our findings suggest that spices harbor multidrug‐resistant bacteria.

Tribology is the science of measuring friction between surfaces. While it has been widely used to investigate texture sensations of food applications, it is seldom applied in pure edible oil systems. In this research, we measured friction, viscosity, and solid fat content (SFC) of nine vegetable oils at 30 and 60°C. Polarized static microscopy was used to assess crystal formation between 60 and 30°C. Descriptive sensory analysis and quantification of oral oil coatings were performed on the oils at 60°C. Expressing the friction factor of oil over the Hersey number (calculated using high sheer-viscosity values) showed no differences in friction between 30 and 60°C, except for shea stearin. Static microscopy revealed crystallization occurred at 30°C for shea stearin, whereas no or few crystals were present for other oils. At 30°C, friction at 1 × 10 -2  m/s showed an inverse correlation with SFC (R = -0.95) and with high shear rate viscosity (R = -0.84), as well as an inverse correlation (R = -0.73) with "oily mouthcoating" perception. These results suggest that friction could be a predictor of fat-related perceptions of simple oil systems. Additionally, we hypothesize that the presence of crystals in oils could lower friction via a ball-bearing lubrication mechanism., (© 2024 The Authors. Journal of Texture Studies published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

Issue Addressed: This study assessed Australian adults' attitudes towards government actions to protect children from digital marketing of unhealthy food and drink products., Methods: An online survey was undertaken by Australian adults aged 18-64 recruited via two national panels in December 2019 (N = 2044)., Results: Most respondents (69%) agreed the Government should protect children from unhealthy food and drink marketing and advertising broadly. Those who agreed most commonly indicated children should be protected up to age 16 (34%) or 18 (24%). There was widespread support for government actions to stop unhealthy food and drink marketing on digital platforms (e.g., internet sites) (68%-69%) and various digital marketing techniques (e.g., advertising by brands on social media) (56%-71%). A total ban on targeting unhealthy food and drink marketing to children online received the highest level of support (76%). Most respondents (81%) disagreed unhealthy food and drink companies should be able to collect children's personal information for marketing purposes. Support for examined actions was generally higher among older adults, more educated adults and more frequent internet users, lower among males, and similar between parents and non-parents., Conclusions: There is public perception that the government is responsible for protecting children, well into adolescence, from unhealthy food and drink marketing broadly. Widespread public support extends to specific actions to reduce children's exposure to digital marketing of unhealthy food and drink products. SO WHAT?: Implementation of policies to protect children from digital marketing of unhealthy food and drink products would be well received by the Australian public., (© 2023 Australian Health Promotion Association.)

A 240-mg single tablet has been developed with the focus of reducing the pill burden of the apalutamide daily dose of 240 mg (4 × 60-mg tablets). An open-label, randomized, single-dose phase 1 study with a 2-sequence and 2-period crossover design in healthy men determined the bioequivalence of a 240-mg single tablet versus the currently available 4 × 60-mg tablets (Part 1, N = 74) and assessed effect of a high-fat meal (Part 2, N = 21) on apalutamide maximum plasma concentration (C max ) and the area under the plasma concentration-time curve (AUC 0-72 h ). The 90% confidence interval of geometric mean ratios for C max and AUC 0-72 h fell between 80% and 125% for both Part 1 and Part 2. No new safety concerns with the 240-mg single tablet were observed. To support the use of different food vehicles as well as nasogastric (NG) tubes for alternative administration, we conducted in vitro compatibility studies to evaluate the purity, dose, and stability of 240-mg tablets dispersed in applesauce/yogurt/orange juice/green tea as well as in NG tubes (polyurethane/silicone/polyvinyl chloride). The studies confirmed the alternative administrations do not affect the purity, dose-accuracy, or stability of apalutamide. The apalutamide 240-mg tablet is bioequivalent to 4 × 60-mg tablets and compatible with the tested food vehicles and NG tubes., (© 2023 Johnson and Johnson. Clinical Pharmacology in Drug Development published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American College of Clinical Pharmacology.)

Issue Addressed: Supporting healthy behaviours (quality diet, physical activity, sleep) through home-based interventions is feasible to improve postnatal mental health. Involving stakeholders in developing interventions is essential for maximising accessibility, implementation and scale-up. This study aimed to identify factors affecting the sustainable implementation and scalability of the Food, Move, Sleep (FOMOS) for Postnatal Mental Health program, including strategies to enhance research-practice translation., Methods: Stakeholders (n = 13) involved in promoting physical activity, healthy eating, postnatal and mental health, public health and/or policy participated in semi-structured interviews. Interviews, based on PRACTIS Guide recommendations for implementation and scale-up, explored perceptions of program design, implementation and scalability. Reflexive thematic analysis was undertaken. Identified implementation and scale-up strategies were mapped against the Expert Recommendations for Implementing Change compendium and PRACTIS Guide., Results: Individual-level: Targeting multiple systems (primary, tertiary, community-based care) and entry points (early, mid-postpartum) for uptake was important. For equity, screening women in public hospitals, engaging with community agencies and targeting most at-risk women, was suggested. Provider-level: Stakeholders identified strategies to enhance future roll-out (organisations assisting with recruitment). Factors impacting sustainability included high demand for the FOMOS program, and governance around screening and funding; online delivery, connecting with partners and providers and integration into existing services may enhance sustainability. Systems-level: Political support and community champions were perceived important for program dissemination. Nine strategies addressing program uptake, reach, implementation, potential scalability and sustainability were identified., Conclusions: For sustainable implementation and potential scalability of a home-based multi-behaviour postnatal intervention, multi-level implementation and scale-up strategies, aligned with existing health systems, policies and initiatives to support postnatal mental health should be considered. SO WHAT?: This paper provides a comprehensive list of strategies that can be used to enhance sustainable implementation and scalability of healthy behaviour programs targeting postnatal mental health. Further, the interview schedule, systematically developed and aligned with the PRACTIS Guide, may serve as a useful resource for researchers conducting similar studies in future., (© 2023 The Authors. Health Promotion Journal of Australia published by John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd on behalf of Australian Health Promotion Association.)

Rewards are a broad category of stimuli inducing approach behavior to aid survival. Extensive evidence from animal research has shown that wanting (the motivation to pursue a reward) and liking (the pleasure associated with its consumption) are mostly regulated by dopaminergic and opioidergic activity in dedicated brain areas. However, less is known about the neuroanatomy of dopaminergic and opioidergic regulation of reward processing in humans, especially when considering different types of rewards (i.e., social and nonsocial). To fill this gap of knowledge, we combined dopaminergic and opioidergic antagonism (via amisulpride and naltrexone administration) with functional neuroimaging to investigate the neurochemical and neuroanatomical bases of wanting and liking of matched nonsocial (food) and social (interpersonal touch) rewards, using a randomized, between-subject, placebo-controlled, double-blind design. While no drug effect was observed at the behavioral level, brain activity was modulated by the administered compounds. In particular, opioid antagonism, compared to placebo, reduced activity in the medial orbitofrontal cortex during consumption of the most valued social and nonsocial rewards. Dopamine antagonism, however, had no clear effects on brain activity in response to reward anticipation. These findings provide insights into the neurobiology of human reward processing and suggest a similar opioidergic regulation of the neural responses to social and nonsocial reward consumption., (© 2024 The Authors. Human Brain Mapping published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

Objective: Food avoidance is central to patients with anorexia nervosa-restrictive type (AN-R). Competing accounts in experimental psychopathology research suggest that food avoidance may result from automatic, habitual responses or from elevated inhibitory control abilities. This study investigated behavioral trajectories of food avoidance in a novel virtual reality stopping task., Method: Sixty patients with AN-R and 29 healthy controls with normal weight were investigated using a novel, kinematic task in virtual reality. We recorded spatial displacement in stop- and go-trials to virtual food and control objects. Inhibitory control abilities were operationalized by the VR task in stopping performance (i.e., interrupted movement in stop-trials), whereas we also measured habitual avoidance of virtual food across both go- and stop-trials (i.e., delayed movement relative to nonfood objects)., Results: In patients with AN-R, hand displacements were shorter to food versus nonfood across stop- and go-trials, reflected in a Stimulus × Group interaction. Healthy controls showed no differences. Importantly, the food-specific effect in AN-R was identical across stop- and go-trials, indicating habitual food avoidance. Moreover, stop error rates (i.e., stop-trials with response) were lower in patients with AN-R., Discussion: The findings suggest food-specific habitual avoidance and heightened generalized inhibitory control in AN-R. The continuously delayed displacements during active hand movements across stop- and go-trials indicated the persistence of patients' avoidance of food., Public Significance: Experimental research investigates the mechanisms underlying mental disorders such as anorexia nervosa. In this study, we measured interrupted hand movements in response to food pictures or neutral pictures (shoes) in patients with anorexia nervosa and healthy controls. A virtual reality scenario was used. Findings indicated that patients were slower at approaching food, interrupted or not. Key mechanisms of food avoidance can be translated into habit-based treatment options in future research., (© 2024 The Authors. International Journal of Eating Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

Background: Anorexia nervosa (AN) is associated with altered processing of disorder-relevant stimuli. Event-related potentials (ERP) - such as the Late Positive Potential (LPP) - give information about the underlying mechanisms of central nervous stimulus processing., Methods: Patients with AN (22 adolescents, 23 adults) and healthy controls (HCs; 17 adolescents, 24 adults) were included. Neutral, low, and high calorie food-images were rated for valence and arousal; EEG activity was recorded and LPPs (early: 350-700 ms; late: 800-1200 ms) were extracted. Effects of patient status, age group, and stimulus category were analyzed via mixed 2 × 2 × 3-AN(C)OVAs., Results: Patients with AN rated high calorie stimuli lower in valence and higher in arousal than HCs. Controlling for hunger, food stimuli elicited higher early LPPs than neutral ones in patients and HCs. For the late LPP, patients with AN showed larger amplitudes., Conclusion: Results suggest a highly automatic attentional bias towards low-calorie foods. Patients with AN seem to have more intense cognitive processing independent of stimulus material. More research is needed to validate and clarify differences between early and late LPP measures as well as the operationalization and relevance of hunger status., (© 2023 The Authors. European Eating Disorders Review published by Eating Disorders Association and John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Abstract Although nitrogen (N) deposition is increasing globally, N availability still limits many organisms, such as microorganisms and mesofauna. However, little is known to which extent soil organisms rely on mineral‐derived N and whether plant community composition modifies its incorporation into soil food webs. More diverse plant communities more effectively compete with microorganisms for mineral N likely reducing the incorporation of mineral‐derived N into soil food webs. We set up a field experiment in experimental grasslands with different levels of plant species and functional group richness. We labeled soil with 15NH415NO3 and analyzed the incorporation of mineral‐derived 15N into soil microorganisms and mesofauna over 3 months. Mineral‐derived N incorporation decreased over time in all investigated organisms. Plant species richness and presence of legumes reduced the uptake of mineral‐derived N into microorganisms. In parallel, the incorporation of mineral‐derived 15N into mesofauna species declined with time and decreased with increasing plant species richness in the secondary decomposer springtail Ceratophysella sp. Effects of both plant species richness and functional group richness on other mesofauna species varied with time. The presence of grasses increased the 15N incorporation into Ceratophysella sp., but decreased it in the primary decomposer oribatid mite Tectocepheus velatus sarekensis. The results highlight that mineral N is quickly channeled into soil animal food webs via microorganisms irrespective of plant diversity. The amount of mineral‐derived N incorporated into soil animals, and the plant community properties affecting this incorporation, differed markedly between soil animal taxa, reflecting species‐specific use of food resources. Our results highlight that plant diversity and community composition alter the competition for N in soil and change the transfer of N across trophic levels in soil food webs, potentially leading to changes in soil animal population dynamics and community composition. Sustaining high plant diversity may buffer detrimental effects of elevated N deposition on soil biota.

Abstract Background Associations of diet with dilated cardiomyopathy are under investigation. Objectives That cardiac assessment would show abnormalities in healthy dogs eating grain‐free (GF) diets or diets with Food and Drug Administration (FDA)‐listed ingredients of concern (peas, lentils, or potatoes) as top 10 ingredients (FDA‐PLP), but not in dogs eating grain‐inclusive (GI) diets or diets without FDA‐listed ingredients of concern (PLP) in the top 10 ingredients (NoFDA‐PLP). Animals One hundred eighty‐eight healthy Doberman Pinschers, Golden Retrievers, Miniature Schnauzers, and Whippets. Methods This study was an observational cross‐sectional study. Echocardiograms, cardiac biomarkers, and blood and plasma taurine concentrations were compared between dogs eating GF (n = 26) and GI (n = 162) diets, and between FDA‐PLP (n = 39) and NoFDA‐PLP (n = 149) diets, controlling for age and breed. Demographic characteristics, murmurs, genetic status, and ventricular premature complexes (VPCs) during examination were compared between dogs eating different diet types. Results No differences in echocardiographic variables, N‐terminal pro‐B‐type natriuretic peptide or whole blood taurine were noted between dogs eating different diet types. Dogs eating GF diets had higher median high‐sensitivity cardiac troponin I (hs‐cTnI) (GF 0.076 ng/mL [Interquartile range (IQR), 0.028‐0.156] vs. GI 0.048 [IQR, 0.0026‐0.080]; P

Abstract EFSA was requested to deliver a statement on a recent publication revisiting the evidence for genotoxicity of acrylamide (AA). The statement was prepared by a Working Group and was endorsed by the CONTAM Panel before its final approval. In interpreting the Terms of Reference, the statement considered the modes of action underlying the carcinogenicity of AA including genotoxic and non‐genotoxic effects. Relevant publications since the 2015 CONTAM Panel Opinion on AA in food were reviewed. Several new studies reported positive results on the clastogenic and mutagenic properties of AA and its active metabolite glycidamide (GA). DNA adducts of GA were induced by AA exposure in experimental animals and have also been observed in humans. In addition to the genotoxicity of AA, there is evidence for both secondary DNA oxidation via generation of reactive oxygen species and for non‐genotoxic effects which may contribute to carcinogenesis by AA. These studies extend the information assessed by the CONTAM Panel in its 2015 Opinion, and support its conclusions. That Opinion applied the margin of exposure (MOE) approach, as recommended in the EFSA Guidance for substances that are both genotoxic and carcinogenic, for risk characterisation of the neoplastic effects of AA. Based on the new data evaluated, the MOE approach is still considered appropriate, and an update of the 2015 Opinion is not required at the present time.

Abstract High‐pressure processing (HPP) is a non‐thermal treatment in which, for microbial inactivation, foods are subjected to isostatic pressures (P) of 400–600 MPa with common holding times (t) from 1.5 to 6 min. The main factors that influence the efficacy (log10 reduction of vegetative microorganisms) of HPP when applied to foodstuffs are intrinsic (e.g. water activity and pH), extrinsic (P and t) and microorganism‐related (type, taxonomic unit, strain and physiological state). It was concluded that HPP of food will not present any additional microbial or chemical food safety concerns when compared to other routinely applied treatments (e.g. pasteurisation). Pathogen reductions in milk/colostrum caused by the current HPP conditions applied by the industry are lower than those achieved by the legal requirements for thermal pasteurisation. However, HPP minimum requirements (P/t combinations) could be identified to achieve specific log10 reductions of relevant hazards based on performance criteria (PC) proposed by international standard agencies (5–8 log10 reductions). The most stringent HPP conditions used industrially (600 MPa, 6 min) would achieve the above‐mentioned PC, except for Staphylococcus aureus. Alkaline phosphatase (ALP), the endogenous milk enzyme that is widely used to verify adequate thermal pasteurisation of cows’ milk, is relatively pressure resistant and its use would be limited to that of an overprocessing indicator. Current data are not robust enough to support the proposal of an appropriate indicator to verify the efficacy of HPP under the current HPP conditions applied by the industry. Minimum HPP requirements to reduce Listeria monocytogenes levels by specific log10 reductions could be identified when HPP is applied to ready‐to‐eat (RTE) cooked meat products, but not for other types of RTE foods. These identified minimum requirements would result in the inactivation of other relevant pathogens (Salmonella and Escherichia coli) in these RTE foods to a similar or higher extent.

Abstract Intelligent food packaging refers to packages with the ability to sense foodstuff changes and to inform customers of the packaging content variations. They are often accompanied by smart detecting devices. Providing a suitable platform to include these devices into packaging polymers has always been discussing. Electrospun nanofibers produced through the electrospinning have been recently utilized as an outstanding and novel platforms for this purpose. Thus, the main aim of this study is to investigate recent trends in producing intelligent food packaging using electrospinning technique. In this regard, this paper was categorized into two chief sections, including (a) the principal of electrospinning technique to fabricate fine nanofibers and the parameters affecting the quality of electrospun fibers, and (b) the role of nanofibers as a platform to cover pH indicators in intelligent food packaging.

Abstract We had previously shown that the intake of scallop mantle tissue resulted in the death of mice and rats. In this study, we investigated the liver injury caused by mantle tissue to clarify the mechanism behind its toxicity. Mantle toxin increased lipid peroxidation and decreased the reductive thiol content as well as the DPPH radical scavenging activity, catalase activity, and glutathione content in the liver of the mice. These results suggested that the mantle tissue diet caused oxidative stress through the decrease in antioxidants. In addition, mantle toxin increased the mRNA expression of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress‐ and inflammation‐induced genes and the protein expression of caspase‐3 and Bax (which induce apoptosis), suggesting that the mantle tissue diet causes apoptosis through oxidative stress, ER stress, and inflammation in the liver tissue. Such liver injury may be an essential cause of the rodent demise.

Abstract Aim To investigate the effect of a communication tool about diet used in public health nurse consultations with parents compared with standard consultations concerning the 2‐year‐old child's diet. Design A cluster randomized controlled trial. Methods Ten municipalities were selected randomly and matched in pairs. In each pair, the control or intervention group was randomly allocated. Parents were recruited to participate from January 2015 to January 2017. In intervention clusters, a communication tool about diet was used to help the parents (N = 140) to focus on a healthy diet for their child. In the control clusters, parents (N = 110) attended standard consultations. The participants completed semi‐quantitative food frequency questionnaires at baseline and end point. Results No effect of the intervention was seen on the child's daily intake of vegetables or saturated fat, or body mass index. Significantly fewer parents desired more information about food for toddlers in the intervention than in the control group.

Abstract Chinese pangolin is the world's most heavily trafficked small mammal for luxury food and traditional medicine. Although their populations are declining worldwide, it is difficult to monitor their population status because of its rarity and nocturnal behavior. We used site occupancy (presence/absence) sampling of pangolin sign (i.e., active burrows) in a protected (Gaurishankar Conservation Area) and non‐protected area (Ramechhap District) of central Nepal with multiple environmental covariates to understand factors that may influence occupancy of Chinese pangolin. The average Chinese pangolin occupancy and detection probabilities were Ψ^ ± SE = 0.77 ± 0.08; p^ ± SE = 0.27 ± 0.05, respectively. The detection probabilities of Chinese pangolin were higher in PA ( p^ ± SE = 0.33 ± 0.03) than compared to non‐PA ( p^ ± SE = 0.25 ± 0.04). The most important covariates for Chinese pangolin detectability were red soil (97%), food source (97.6%), distance to road (97.9%), and protected area (97%) and with respect to occupancy was elevation (97.9%). We recommended use of remote cameras and potentially GPS collar surveys to further investigate habitat use and site occupancy at regular intervals to provide more reliable conservation assessments.

Abstract Reported COVID-19 deaths in Germany are relatively low as compared to many European countries. Among the several explanations proposed, an early and large testing of the population was put forward. Most current debates on COVID-19 focus on the differences among countries, but little attention has been given to regional differences and diet. The low-death rate European countries (e.g. Austria, Baltic States, Czech Republic, Finland, Norway, Poland, Slovakia) have used different quarantine and/or confinement times and methods and none have performed as many early tests as Germany. Among other factors that may be significant are the dietary habits. It seems that some foods largely used in these countries may reduce angiotensin-converting enzyme activity or are anti-oxidants. Among the many possible areas of research, it might be important to understand diet and angiotensin-converting enzyme-2 (ACE2) levels in populations with different COVID-19 death rates since dietary interventions may be of great benefit.

Abstract Aim This study assessed the practice of pica among pregnant women in the Ho Teaching Hospital. Design Descriptive cross‐sectional. Methods Systematic sampling technique was used to recruit 286 pregnant women. Questionnaire was used to collect data. Data entered into Statistical Package for Social Sciences for analysis. Result Of the 286 pregnant women, 21.2% and 17.8% considered white clay and ice respectively as nutritious. Prevalence of pica was 47.5%, while 44.9% of pregnant women who practised pica reported they feel uncomfortable when they do not eat pica as 63.3% considered intake of pica as harmful. Among women who received education against pica practice, 49.4% have ever taken pica as 50.9% of them with education on effects of pica were currently engaged in the activity (χ2 = 1.93 p = .17). Conclusion Health professionals, especially midwives must intensify education on effects of pica among pregnant women.

Abstract Background Seizures triggered by eating (STE) behavior are very rare in humans and have not been documented previously in dogs. Objectives To document the occurrence of STE in dogs and describe their clinical features. Animals Ten client‐owned dogs with STE diagnosed at 5 European referral centers. Methods A call for suspected cases of STE was made online. This call was followed by a retrospective review of medical records, combined with a questionnaire to be completed by both the owner and the board‐certified neurologist who made the diagnosis. Cases were included if >50% of the seizures that occurred were related to eating and if a minimum diagnostic evaluation for seizures had been performed. Results Four cases only had STE and 6 cases had both STE and spontaneous seizures. Four of the dogs were retrievers. The most common seizure type was focal epileptic seizures evolving to become generalized. Nine dogs were diagnosed with idiopathic epilepsy. One dog had a presumptive diagnosis of glioma involving the margins of the parietal, temporal, and frontal cortex (the perisylvian region), an area known to have a key role in eating‐associated epilepsy in people. Treatment strategies included a combination of pharmacological management and eating habit changes. Conclusions and Clinical Importance We have identified a form of reflex epilepsy in dogs, with STE behavior. Further studies are warranted to improve the characterization and management of STE.

Abstract The quality of domesticated crickets depends on the choice of feed substrate that has a direct impact on the economic viability of the farming operation. This study assessed the popular local cricket feeds in the Lake Victoria region. Data were collected through individual interviews, focus group discussions, personal observations, and growth experiments. Kales, sweet potato leaves, ugali, and banana peels were the most preferred by the farmers. Crickets fed on kales and sweet potatoes had a significantly higher weight gain and maturity rate than those fed on ugali and banana peels (p