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Abstract: One of the aims of the EuroFIR project is to establish a quality framework for national food composition databases. This paper discusses quality requirements of the data compilation process. Following the analytical production of food composition data, the compilation process is the next most important step in production of food composition data. The internationally recognised and recommended systematic approach to the identification, evaluation and control of significant hazards, Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points (HACCP), was used as a starting point. All steps in the compilation process are listed and presented as a generic EuroFIR flowchart describing the overall food data compilation process and identifying hazards and critical control points. The flowchart and standard operating procedures, documenting how to assure hazards at critical control points, are considered mandatory elements of the EuroFIR quality framework. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Summary: The seasonal variation of key bioactivities in ethyl acetate extracts of chub mackerel (Scomber colias), an underutilised fish species, was evaluated through a complete monthly sampling. The phenolic content had a seasonal variation, ranging from 39 ± 5 mg GAE/100 g ww (February) to 340 ± 6 mg GAE/100 g ww (October). Ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) increased from 1.3 ± 0.4 μmol Fe2+ Eq/g ww (January) to 10.3 ± 0.1 μmol Fe2+ Eq/g ww (September). ABTS had no antioxidant activity between June and December, being the highest value in February, 64.3 ± 6.3 μmol Trolox Eq/100 g ww. For phenolic content and FRAP, there was a strong seasonality, which was similar to that of the lipid content. Therefore, correlations were high, being R2 0.95 for lipid vs. phenolic contents. Anti‐inflammatory activity did not show large changes throughout most part of the year, remaining high in the 70–80% of COX‐2 inhibition. This finding and the seasonality of the antioxidant properties warrant further research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The term "nutrient profile" (NP) has been associated with several concepts arising from the need to regulate the choice of food products, and to allow consumers to make informed and healthier food choices. The use of NP models as a policy tool to improve public health nutrition and reduce the prevalence of non-communicable diseases, is receiving increasing attention. To clarifying the importance of NP models as tools to establish public health interventions concerning consumers' food choices, a literature review of the guiding principles to implement NP models was conducted. The covered topics include main characteristics, advantages, disadvantages, and associated gaps of the considered NP models. From the selected studies, a total of 85 documents were included. Nutrient profiling has a wide range of applications including front-of-pack (FoP) food labelling, regulation of food marketing to children, regulation of health and nutrition claims and school food standards. Sodium, saturated fatty acids (SFA), and total sugars were the nutrients most frequently to limit; on the contrary fibre was the most used qualifying nutrient. This review gathers, through a holistic approach, the scientific basis behind the development of the NP model, reinforcing the importance of these tools, and enabling regulators with information to establish an appropriate model. • A 'healthy' diet requires informed and healthy food choices by the consumers. • Nutrient Profile (NP) models result from the need to promote healthier food choices. • NP models can be a useful tool to help consumers choose healthier food. • Different nutrient profile models are needed for different purposes. • Key points should be considered in the development and sustainable application of NP models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: The elemental composition and bioaccessibility of the Azorean macroalgae Petalonia binghamiae, Osmundea pinnatifida and Halopteris scoparia were studied. H. scoparia had the highest Cr, Mn, Co and Ni contents. Iodine content was also the highest in H. scoparia, 1098 ± 54 mg kg dw−1. Content reductions due to rehydration were in the 75%–90% range. Steaming led to similar reductions with exception of Cr, Mn, Co, Ni and Zn in O. pinnatifida. For P. binghamiae and O. pinnatifida, bioaccessibility percentages varied between elements. Variation due to rehydration and culinary treatment was narrower, particularly for P. binghamiae. Whereas I bioaccessibility was low in O. pinnatifida, 11%–14%, it reached 57%–69% in P. binghamiae. On the basis of bioaccessibility, to meet the I DRI, 2.7 g dried P. binghamiae, 16.9–23.8 g rehydrated P. binghamiae and 12.7 g steamed P. binghamiae everyday are required. For O. pinnatifida, 5.0 g, 19.0–33.3 g and 12.9 g of dried, rehydrated and steamed red seaweed, respectively, are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Salmonella enterica serovars Heidelberg and Minnesota frequently display several genetic mobile elements making them potential spreaders of resistance genes. Here, we phenotypically determined the antibiotic resistance profile and subsequently performed whole-genome sequencing on 36 isolates recovered from samples of fresh poultry meat, within the Portuguese Official Inspection Plan for Imported Foodstuffs. Several isolates of both serovars showed high genetic relatedness either with isolates from raw poultry meat imported to the Netherlands from Brazil or with isolates from samples from the broiler production chain in Brazil. The multidrug-resistant (MDR) character was common to the vast majority (94.4%) of isolates from both serovars, and several isolates carried the plasmid IncA/C2 containing the β-lactamase gene blaCMY-2 and IncX1 containing a type IV secretion system. These results somehow mirror the scenario observed in the Netherlands, showing the introduction, through fresh imported poultry meat in compliance with European legislation, of MDR Salmonella enterica serovars Heidelberg and Minnesota in Europe, with the potential spread of resistance markers. These data suggest the need to revise the hygiene criteria for foodstuffs monitoring before its placement on the market, with the determination of the resistome being an invaluable contribute to limit the dissemination of resistance markers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The seasonal variation in chemical and lipid composition of chub mackerel (Scomber colias) was evaluated monthly over one year (proximate chemical composition and lipid profile: fatty acid (FA) and lipid classes distribution). Significant seasonal changes regarding fat content were noticed (1.3–10.3 g/100 g), with the lowest fat content obtained in February (during spawning period), and the highest in September. Regarding the FA profile, the main fluctuations were recorded in saturated (SFA) and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA). The highest SFA content was registered between March and August (25.3–32.3%). PUFA (the most abundant group) reached its maximum percentual content between December and February (60.9 and 66.9%, respectively). In absolute terms, PUFA attained 5352.6 mg/100 g edible part in September, where 2473.8 mg/100 g of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, C22:6n-3), representing 46.2% of total PUFA. DHA lowest level was 519.8 mg/100 g, registered in low-fat chub mackerel. Together DHA and EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid, C20:5n-3) represented 75% of the total PUFA and 84% of n-3 PUFA. Triacylglycerols (TAG) with 82.2–92.1% of total lipid content) and phospholipids (4.4–8.4%) were the main lipid classes. Polar lipid fraction (phospholipids), was predominantly constituted by PUFA (68.6–74.5%), mainly DHA (45.2–55.1%), with the highest percentage recorded in low-fat chub mackerel. High relative contents of PUFA (36.6–49.1%) were also found in TAG. Having into account the data obtained, chub mackerel is a privileged source of DHA even in a lean species whereby its consumption should be recommended as part a healthy dietary regime. • Lipid content and chemical composition of chub mackerel varies widely throughout the year. • Chub mackerel is rich in n-3 PUFA, especially in DHA. • Consumption of chub mackerel could help improving the imbalanced ratio n-6/n-3 of modern diets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: On the basis of a Total Diet Study, the Br, As, Cd and Pb contents in relevant food groups consumed in Portugal were determined. The studied groups were meat products, fatty fish, lean fish, shellfish, cephalopods, fresh and dried fruit, crucifers and other vegetables. It was observed that the concentrations of As, Br, Cd and Pb in fruit, vegetables and meat products were much lower than in seafood. Fresh fruit exhibited the lowest elemental contents. The concentrations of As, Br, Cd and Pb did not show any dependence on season. With respect to proximate composition, elemental content dependence on protein or ash was weak. PCA showed relevant associations: between Br and ash contents in fatty fish; between Cd, Pb and protein contents in crucifers; and between As, fat and protein contents in the other vegetables group. Therefore, the effect of the proximate composition on the studied elemental contents warrants investigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Pacific oyster (Crassostrea gigas) culture has been expanding, thereby leading to a greater importance of hatcheries. Broodstock conditioning is very important in the hatchery process, in which diet composition may have a strong influence on the offspring production and quality. Therefore, the current study evaluated elemental composition and bioaccessibility of oysters fed different ratios of dietary seaweed (SW) and microalgae. The dietary conditioning consisted of direct replacement of microalgae by SW at four substitution levels (0%, 25%, 50%, and 100% diet). It was observed that oysters fed 100% SW had the highest levels of Be, Cu, Zn, Sr, and Cd. The most important trend was a concentration decline of most elements with progressively lower levels of SW substitution for microalgae in the feeds. No Cd or Pb hazard (contents below 1.0 mg/kg for Cd and 1.5 mg/kg for Pb) was found in oyster meat. Regarding elemental bioaccessibility, values were similar, near 100% in the cases of Cu, Br, and I. Only for Mn and Pb, bioaccessibility percentages deviated more from 100%. Indeed, the value for Pb was 50% ± 7% (initial group), and for Mn, all values were equal or lower than 29% ± 2% (final group of oysters fed microalgae). It was observed that Mn, Cd, and Pb bioaccessibility increased with a growing share of microalgal biomass in the feed. Therefore, this study showed that SW incorporation into the feed influences elemental composition and bioaccessibility of the oysters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • The highest contents in the three oligoelements were in fish group. • The lowest contents were in meat (I) and dairy products (Se and Fe). • Larges variations were observed for iodine and selenium contents in national FCDBs. • Iodine accounting for 40% RNI and selenium exceeds 1.5 times RNI. • Iron maximum contribution for RNI was in bovine meat. Abstract Iodine, selenium and iron are micronutrients essential for thyroid hormone synthesis causing their low plasma levels an additional risk of autoimmune thyroid diseases. A Portuguese TDS pilot study representative of diets in Portugal was carried out, since foods are the main natural sources of these micronutrients. Six hundred and twenty-four samples were collected based on local markets and later analysed in pools of ten meat samples, twenty-seven fish, nine chicken eggs and six cow dairy products. The iodine and selenium contents were determined using ICP-MS after alkaline (iodine) or acid digestion (selenium) and iron by ICP-OES after acid digestion. The highest content of three oligoelements was detected in fish. Meat had lower iodine content and the dairy products lower selenium and iron levels. Sardine presented significant different levels in summer and winter for iodine, and in summer and autumn for selenium, mackerel had diverse contents of iron in summer and autumn. The contribution of salmon and milk for iodine RNI was around 40%, for children and adults. Shrimp is also the food with more selenium, exceeding 1.5 times the % RNI for children and adults females, while iron maximum contribution was observed in meat for children and adult males. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • Mineral characterization of Rocha pear was done by ICP-MS. • Chemometric techniques (PCA, HCA and LDA) were applied to the data. • Geographical origins were discriminated based on mineral content. • Tl, Mn, Al, Ni and Na were the elements with highest variability between regions. Abstract This work aims at characterizing the mineral profile of a Portuguese variety of pear, Rocha pear, and study the relationship between the nutritional profile and geographical origin. Multielement analysis of twenty-four elements (Al, As, B, Be, Ca, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, K, Li, Mg, Mn, Mo, Na, Ni, P, Pb, Se, Sn, Sr, Tl, Zn) was performed using an ICP-MS and ICP-OES, on 50 samples originating from two regions, one with Protected Designation of Origin (PDO), known as "Pera Rocha do Oeste", and the other without (nPDO). Correlation analysis was performed to check for potential relationships between elements. Results from PDO and nPDO regions were compared using chemometric tools, namely Principal Component Analysis, Hierarquical Cluster Analysis and Linear Discriminant Analysis (LDA). The predictive model, built and validated, classified samples according to their regional origin with 100% accuracy. The present study shows that multielement analysis combined with the appropriate statistical tools can be a valuable contribution from the identification of the geographical provenance of Rocha Pears. It provides important nutritional information regarding the mineral composition of Rocha pears, not available until know, promoting the linkage between the nutritional profile and geographical origin, filling the gap of absent values in FCDBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Increasing forest wildfires in Portugal remain a growing concern since forests in the Mediterranean region are vulnerable to recent global warming and reduction of precipitation. Therefore, a long-term negative effect is expected on the vegetation, with increasing drought and areas burnt by fires. The strawberry tree (Arbutus unedo L.) is particularly used in Portugal to produce a spirit by processing its fruits and is the main income for forestry owners. Other applications are possible due to the fruit and leaves’ anti-oxidant properties and bioactive compounds production, with a potential for clinical and food uses. It is a sclerophyllous plant, dry-adapted and fire resistant, enduring the Mediterranean climate, and recently considered as a possibility for afforestation, to intensify forest discontinuity where pines and eucalypts monoculture dominate the region. To improve our knowledge about the species’ spatial distribution we used 318 plots (the centroid of a 1 km2 square grid) measuring the species presence and nine environmental attributes. The seven bioclimatic variables most impacting on the species distribution and two topographic features, slope and altitude, were used. The past, current and future climate data were obtained through WorldClim. Finally, the vulnerability of the strawberry tree to the effects of global climate change was examined in the face of two emission scenarios (RCP 4.5 and 8.5), to predict distribution changes in the years 2050 and 2070, using a species distribution models (MaxEnt). The reduction of suitable habitat for this species is significant in the southern regions, considering the future scenarios of global warming. Central and northern mountainous regions are putative predicted refuges for this species. Forest policy and management should reflect the impact of climate change on the usable areas for forestry, particularly considering species adapted to the Mediterranean regions and wildfires, such as the strawberry tree. The distribution of the species in the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM) and Mid-Holocene (MH) agrees with previous genetic and paleontological studies in the region, which support putative refuges for the species. Two in the southern and coastal-central regions, since the LGM, and one in the east-central mountainous region, considered as cryptic refugia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study endeavoured to provide an overview of the bromine, Br, arsenic (As, a metalloid) and metal (cadmium, Cd, and lead, Pb) relative risk associated with the consumption of relevant food groups (lean fish, fatty fish, bivalves, cephalopods, fresh fruit, dried fruit, and green vegetables) in Portugal. Though As, Cd, and Pb have been frequently studied, a comprehensive overview applying the same state-of-the-art methodology to a wide array of foods is missing. Besides, there is a large deficit of content information and risk assessment studies on Br. Thus, it is important to apply a mathematically realistic and innovative methodology (extreme value theory) to recent and accurate databases for the aforementioned food groups and elements. Best fits to Br, As (total), Cd, and Pb concentrations were attained through different functions, ranging from the normal distribution to the Weibull distribution. A semi-probabilistic risk assessment approach on the basis of four alternative scenarios (one monthly meal; one weekly meal; three weekly meals; one daily meal) showed low relative risk regarding Br and Pb in the selected food groups, including bivalves, which contained the highest Br and Pb contents. With respect to total As, high relative risk values were calculated for seafood, but it should be emphasized that this As is overwhelmingly organic, thus presenting low risk. For Cd, substantial relative risk associated with bivalves' and cephalopods' consumption, particularly with one or more weekly meal(s), was found. However, the current study enables us to compare between the relative risk of the studied food groups and scenarios, and other studies encompassing the whole diet and following long-term dietary patterns are needed for the assessment of absolute risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • F. spiralis is a good dietary source of iodine. • This seaweed presented low Cd, Pb, and Hg levels. • Essential and contaminant elements displayed high bioaccessibility percentages. Abstract Fucus spiralis is an edible brown seaweed (SW) found in the Portuguese Coast that is still undervalued and not very well studied. However, SW are known to be nutritious and healthy foods, in part, for their potential to supply mineral nutrients to the body. Nevertheless, with the increasing levels of pollution in the coastal areas, SW can also accumulate some contaminants. Therefore, to expand the knowledge about this marine resource, the contents of Mg, Mn, Co, I, Cd, Pb, As and Hg in fresh and freeze-dried Fucus spiralis were determined before and after in vitro human digestion simulation. Magnesium was the major element with 11.86 mg/g dry weigh (DW), but it must be highlighted that I in this SW presented concentration values of approximately 135 μg/g DW. Concerning contaminants, F. spiralis seems to have low levels of Cd, Pb, and Hg. The elements' bioaccessibility was always high, ranging between 45.8% (I – Fresh SW) and 88.5% (Hg – FD SW). The freeze-drying process seemed to enhance element bioaccessibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated amino acids, antioxidant capacity, and arsenic species present in Indica and Japonica rice cultivars ( Oryza sativa L.) grown in similar regions, as well as brown rice. Essential amino acids in brown rice exhibited a greater abundance when compared to white rice. Lysine was the only essential amino acid with higher concentration in white rice than in brown rice. Results showed antioxidant activity of 0.46 IC 50 (mg mL −1 ) and TPC 0.11 mg eq. GA/g of sample. Total arsenic content in rice samples was about 200 µg/kg. HPLC-ICP-MS determinations revealed iAs as the predominant species in bran samples. Through Spearman’s correlation, negative correlations between six amino acids and total arsenic content in japonica white rice were observed. Sulphur amino acid cysteine presented the highest negative correlation ( ρ = −0.758, p-value = 0.011). Based on our results, a regular benefit-risk assessment for rice products to enhance the consumption choice is recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Effects of processing on the contents of five folate vitamers in quinoa, amaranth and buckwheat were analysed using a trienzymatic extraction method followed by LC–MS/MS. Total folate (TF) content, corresponding to the sum of folic acid (FA), 5-methyltetrahydrofolate (5-MTHF) and 10-formyltetrahydrofolate (10-CHOTHF) expressed as folic acid equivalent, in raw quinoa, amaranth and buckwheat were 309 ± 8.07, 228 ± 24.2 and 153 ± 12.4 μg/100 g dw, respectively, being dominantly 5-MTHF. Boiling and steaming reduced the TF in amaranth by 58% and 22%, respectively, whereas up to a 10–15% increase was observed in quinoa. Boiling and steaming did not significantly alter the TF content in buckwheat although significant changes were observed in some individual folate vitamers. Malting, on the other hand significantly increased TF content in amaranth by 21% (276 ± 14.2 μg/100 g dw) and buckwheat by 27% (193 ± 20.0 μg/100 g dw), whereas no significant change in quinoa was observed. Based on the EFSA recommendations, a portion of amaranth and quinoa (either boiled, steamed or malted) may contribute up to more than 25% of the dietary reference value for folates, whereas buckwheat may contribute only 14% when cooked and 19% when malted. Results demonstrate that quinoa, amaranth and buckwheat are good sources of folates, regardless of processing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multivariate analysis was applied to test the adequacy of pooling samples versus single units as a sampling strategy to estimate dietary intake and risk assessment of chemical elements in nonalcoholic beverages. The contents of 18 minerals and trace elements (Cr, Mn, Cu, Zn, As, Se, Mo, Sr, Co, Cd, Sn, Pb Fe, Mg, Ca, P, Na, and K) in fruit juices and nectars were determined by inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometry and inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry. Arsenic speciation was done with high-performance liquid chromatographer-inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry. The data obtained in pooled samples and single units were then studied by analysis of variance and least significant difference tests, Spearman's correlation, principal component analysis, and cluster analysis. Analysis of variance and least significant difference tests were used to evaluate analytical data from pooled samples and single units. Values of individual units and pooled samples were statistically different with the exception of Se ( P < .05), illustrating pooling as an inadequate strategy. Spearman's correlation displayed significant correlations between the following pairs: P-K (0.924), Mo-K (0.888), Mo-P (0.876), and Ca-Mg (0.846), indicating that chemical elements could be from the same source, having a natural occurrence, or the same exposure sources. By applying principal component analysis and cluster analysis, it was possible to classify juices and nectars by fruit type and geographical origin. It was observed that 2 principal components accounted for 59% of the total variance in the data. Cluster analysis classified samples into 5 clusters. Combined chemometric tools are suited to select appropriate laboratory sampling strategies for risk assessment. Application of chemometric methods to analytical data may be useful to group samples by similar characteristics for the purpose of Total Diet Studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, the liquefaction of both regular and sweet potato peels was conducted to investigate the bio-oil produced, the sugar and total phenolic content, and antioxidant activity. Initially, the bio-oil obtained after liquefaction was partitioned into two different fractions, a hydrophilic fraction and the other consisted of the portion that contained the apolar compounds. Afterward, the samples of the whole bio-oil, aqueous extract, and organic phase of both cultivars were analyzed by attenuated total reflection-Fourier Transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy, hydroxyl number, and acid value. This was done in combination with assessment of the sugar and total phenolic contents and antioxidant activity. The samples demonstrated a considerable content of phenolic moieties in their composition. The antioxidant activity, which was assessed by the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical method, revealed that the antioxidants of the liquefied products and its extracts were generally better than that of butylated hydroxytoluene. Glucose, sucrose, and maltose were identified and quantified within all of the samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Iodine is an essential trace element, and its nutritional importance is well established. The iodine content of school meals of Portuguese children aged between 6 and 10 years (collected in the metropolitan area of Lisbon) was analyzed by ICP-MS. The samples were cooked with and without iodized salt and additionally some complementary foods were purchased as supplements to the main meals or to the other meal along the day. The results report six meals per day and they suggest that at least one main meals (lunch or dinner) prepared with iodized salt is enough to reach the recommended daily iodine intake (AI), 90 µg/day, not exceeding the tolerable upper intake (UL) level of 300 µg/day. When both main meals are cooked without iodized salt, 11 % of the hypotheses present an iodine content less than 90 µg/day. However, when lunch and dinner are prepared with iodized salt, 1 % exceeds the value of the UL. The food groups with the highest levels of iodine are daily products and fish. These results presuppose a balanced diet without any dietary restrictions. So, for ideological or medical reasons, special attention must be paid to diets with some limitations, such as vegetarian, lactose or high content of proteins free diets. [Display omitted] • Plant based foods had the lowest levels of naturally occurring iodine. • Animal based foods had the highest naturally occurring iodine content. • Foods cooked with iodized salt presented the highest iodine content. • Main meals cooked without iodized salt - 11 % were below of recommended daily intake. • The intake of foods containing appropriate iodized salt noncommittal UL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Chub mackerel is a rich source of EPA, DHA, Se, & vitamin B12. • Fatty acid bioaccessibility percentages were usually high, being mostly above 60%. • Se bioaccessibility was 91–95% & vitamin B12 bioaccessibility was 77–83% • Based on bioaccessibility, meeting Se requirement would entail 107–114 g mackerel/day. • For EPA + DHA & vitamin B12, 15–51 g mackerel/day would meet nutrient needs. Chub mackerel (Scomber colias) is an underutilised fish abundant in the North Atlantic and a nutritious food with high docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), selenium (Se), and vitamin B12 contents, affected by seasonality. Hence, the bioaccessibility of fatty acid (FA), Se, and vitamin B12 in chub mackerel was studied. Daily consumptions of 51 g, 35 g, and 14 g of March, June, and October chub mackerel, respectively, would ensure EPA + DHA requirements. Vitamin B12 requirements would be met by daily consumptions of 15–18 g of chub mackerel. For Se, larger amounts would be needed, 126–133 g/day. For FA, bioaccessibility often exceeded 80 %. Additionally, Se and vitamin B12 bioaccessibilities were 91–95 % and 77–83 %, respectively. Thus, bioaccessibility-based consumption frequencies for meeting dietary requirements are similar to those above, being the highest consumption frequencies associated to Se requirements, 137–146 g/day. Chub mackerel proved to be an excellent source of bioaccessible essential nutrients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Port and Douro wines are produced in the Douro Demarcated Region using different wine making processes. This works aims at evaluating the influence of the geographical origin and the wine making process in their multielement (Li, Be, B, Al, Cr, Mn, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Se, Rb, Sr, Mo, Ag, Cd, Sn, Tl, Pb, Fe, Mg, P, Ca, Na, K) and isotopic compositions (87Sr/86Sr, δ11B, xPb/yPb, δ18O). Fifteen samples of each were analysed. ANOVA identified significant differences for Ca, Na, Rb, Zn, Cu, Cr, Se, 206Pb/204Pb, 207Pb/204Pb, 206Pb/207Pb and δ11B. PCA revealed that Cr, Se and Cu are the main contributors for discrimination by type of wine. 87Sr/86Sr and δ18O are region specific and not influenced by the winemaking process or storage. Thus, make good natural tracers for geographical origin of this region. HCA suggested a common profile in Port and Douro in white wines, for Sr and K, which should be further investigated. • Inorganic analysis was used to study the geographical authenticity of wines. • Port and Douro wines have different inorganic signatures. • The wine making process influences the multielement fingerprint. • Cr, Se and Cu are the main contributors for discrimination by type of wine. • 87Sr/86Sr and δ18O are specific to the region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quinoa ( Chenopodium quinoa ), amaranth ( Amaranthus caudatus ) and buckwheat ( Fagopyrum esculentum ) represent the main protein source in several diets, although these pseudocereals are not currently present in the FCDB nutrient profile information. The aim of this work is to characterise the AA profile of these pseudocereals and compare them with rice. Total protein content revealed to vary from 16.3 g/100 g (quinoa Salta) to 13.1 g/100 g (buckwheat) and lower values were found in rice samples (6.7 g/100 g). For pseudocereals the most abundant essential AA was leucine. Quinoa-Salta evidences the highest leucine content (1013 mg/100 g) and the minor methionine content (199 mg/100 g). Buckwheat was the cereal with the highest phenylalanine content (862 mg/100 g). Rice ( Oryza sativa ) presents the lowest content for all AA. Results showed pseudocereals as the best source of AA. EuroFIR guidelines where strictly followed and proved to be a crucial tool to guarantee data interchangeability and comparability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A EuroFIR quality management framework was developed to assure data quality of food composition data, incorporating several recommendations developed or improved during the EuroFIR projects. A flow chart of the compilation process with standard operating procedures to assure critical steps was the starting point. Recommendations for food description, component identification, value documentation, recipe calculation, quality evaluation of values, guidelines to assess analytical methods, document and data repositories and training opportunities were harmonized as elements of the quality framework. European food composition database organizations reached consensus on the EuroFIR quality framework and started implementation. Peer reviews of the European compiler organizations were organized to evaluate the quality framework, focusing on what was achieved and on improvements needed. The reviews demonstrated that European food database compilers have made good use of standards and guidelines produced by EuroFIR, as well as a common understanding that a quality framework is essential to assure food composition data quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] Characterisation of pseudocereals allows their selection based on accurate measurements. [•] Andean cereals are better sources of iron, copper, manganese and zinc, than rice. [•] Quinoa, amaranthus, and purple corn showed higher protein content than rice. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Highlights: [•] Approaches to estimate uncertainty using empirical approaches for inorganic contaminants. [•] Evaluation of classical model over experimental models. [•] Contributions of uncertainty of analytical procedures that support Total Diet Studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] Risk/benefit assessment showed that grilled is the best culinary treatment. [•] Culinary treatments affected the proximate composition due to moisture reduction. [•] EPA and DHA were increased as a result of culinary treatments. [•] More retention was observed for As in grilled meagre. [•] Higher content of Me-Hg in grilled and roasted meagre. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A wide variation in Na and K contents within the TDS Food groups were observed in our study. • Na contents ranged from 1.20 mg/100 g in bottled water to 2108 mg/100 g in raw cured (or seasoned) meat. • Highest content of K (1583 mg/100 g) was found in cod Atlantic and Na/K ratio was, in general, higher for processed foods. • Data generated through TDS-PT, can be useful to identify contribution of core foods to daily intake of Na, K and Na:K ratio. Eating a varied diet will help ensure an adequate supply of most minerals for healthy people, however excessive sodium (Na) intake leads to an increase in blood pressure, and potassium (K) intake to a balance between the two ions, contributing to the regulation of blood pressure. This work aimed to assess Na and K food sources and evaluate Na:K ratio for the studied food groups. The samples analyzed (n = 169), were selected based on Portuguese food consumption data, and were grouped according to the FoodEx2 level 1 food classification system. Na and K levels were determined using an Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectrometer. Na contents ranged from 1.20 mg/100 g in bottled water to 2108 mg/100 g in raw cured (or seasoned) meat. The highest content of K (1583 mg/100 g) was found in cod Atlantic. The Na/K ratio was, in general, higher for processed foods. The Portuguese Total Diet Pilot Study (PT-TDS), after additional samples are analyzed, could potentially be useful, for evaluating diet-disease risks associated with high Na and low K intake from different foods or food groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Amino acid content of foods included in Portuguese Total Diet Study was analysed. • Red meat is the major source of dietary amino acids among Portuguese adults. • Fatty fish and white and red meat provide the highest contribution to %RI of EAA. The amino acid content of foods commonly consumed by specific populations is rarely measured systematically, especially if we take into account the different ways that foods are usually processed or cooked. The objective of this study is to evaluate the amino acid profile of the representative foods on the Portuguese diet, with a particular focus on indispensable amino acids. We also aim to assess the amino acid intake of the population and the most common sources of amino acids within the Portuguese diet. To achieve these goals, the amino acid intake of Portuguese adults was assessed combining data of food consumption with the food analysis data from samples collected according to the Total Diet Study methodologies. Results of the amino acid profiles of food groups typically consumed in Portugal are reported in this paper. We found that red meat consumption is the most common source of amino acids of the Portuguese population, followed by white meat and fish. The main contribution of individual portions to the recommended intakes of essential amino acids were: cheese, 88%88 %; red meat, 83 %; fatty fish, 81 % and seitan with 74 %. This data could be used to show alternative amino acid sources within commonly consumed foods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Folates are essential vitamins for human life and must be taken as part of the diet. It is known that some lactic bacteria are capable to produce folates during fermentation, which represents an interesting strategy as alternative to fortification with folic acid. The aim of this work was to study the effect of fermentation with a probiotic folate-producing Lactobacillus sakei strain in vegan spread products. Two products were manufactured with Andean potato and amaranth -with and without chia- and emulsified with other ingredients. Nutritional, textural, structural and sensorial analysis were performed. Products were also studied during 28 days of refrigerated storage. After 24 h fermentation bacterial growth achieved 11.0 log CFU/g and folate concentration reached 1900 ng/g, both values were kept during conservation period. No changes in firmness, viscosity, syneresis or particle size were observed after fermentation and storage, all parameters associated with products stability. Sensory analyses showed that the product without chia, fermented during 6 h, reached a good acceptability score, especially among vegetarian population. These results demonstrated the feasibility of bio-enrich novel spread vegan products throughout lactic fermentation with no changes in technological parameters. Image 1 • Spread vegan products made with Andean potato, amaranth and chia were fermented. • A probiotic folate-producing strain improved vitamin content through bio-enrichment. • Nutritional, textural, structural and sensorial features were studied. • No changes in firmness, viscosity or syneresis occurred in fermentation and storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Most world countries are experiencing a remarkable aging process. Meanwhile, 50 million people are affected by Alzheimer's disease (AD) and related dementia and there is an increasing trend in the incidence of these major health problems. In order to address these, the increasing evidence suggesting the protective effect of dietary interventions against cognitive decline during aging may suggest a response to this challenge. There are nutrients with a neuroprotective effect. However, Western diets are poor in healthy n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFAs), such as docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), iodine (I), and other nutrients that may protect against cognitive aging. Given DHA richness in chub mackerel ( Scomber colias ), high vitamin B9 levels in quinoa ( Chenopodium quinoa ), and I abundance in the seaweed Saccorhiza polyschides , a functional hamburger rich in these nutrients by using these ingredients was developed and its formulation was optimized in preliminary testing. The effects of culinary treatment (steaming, roasting, and grilling vs. raw) and digestion on bioaccessibility were evaluated. The hamburgers had high levels of n-3 PUFAs in the range of 42.0-46.4% and low levels of n-6 PUFAs (6.6-6.9%), resulting in high n-3/n-6 ratios (>6). Bioaccessibility studies showed that the hamburgers could provide the daily requirements of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) + DHA with 19.6 g raw, 18.6 g steamed, 18.9 g roasted, or 15.1 g grilled hamburgers. Polyphenol enrichment by the seaweed and antioxidant activity were limited. The hamburgers contained high levels of Se and I at 48-61 μg/100 g ww and 221-255 μg/100 g ww, respectively. Selenium (Se) and I bioaccessibility levels were 70-85% and 57-70%, respectively, which can be considered high levels. Nonetheless, for reaching dietary requirements, considering the influence of culinary treatment and bioaccessibility, 152.2-184.2 g would be necessary to ensure daily Se requirements and 92.0-118.1 g for I needs.

This study addresses the effect of various cooking approaches on total Hg (Hg T ) and total Se (Se T ) contents in three predatory fish species. For this purpose, samples of swordfish, dogfish, and tuna from regular French (fish) markets were cooked by boiling, steaming, grilling, and frying, respectively. The levels of Hg T and Se T in raw and cooked samples were determined by inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry. The data showed a significant increase in Hg T and Se T levels between raw and cooked samples (33% of the samples for Se T and 67% for Hg T ) due to the water loss during the cooking. High intra-species variation related to Hg T and Se T levels was found. Considering the level of exposure to Hg T through fish consumption and taking also into account the possible protective effect of Se (expressed here via the Se/Hg molar ratio), the safest cooking approach corresponds to grilled swordfish, fried tuna, and steamed dogfish, which show Se/Hg molar ratios of (1.0 ± 0.5), (4.3 ± 4.2), and (1.0 ± 0.6), respectively.

Proper nutrition in infancy and early childhood is crucial to ensuring optimal child development, growth, and better health outcomes later in life. The nutrient profile model proposed by WHO/Europe aims to assess the nutritional quality and promotional/marketing aspects of commercial baby foods aimed at children up to 36 months. We used commercial data from 191 baby foods collected between March 2021 and July 2021, from eight supermarket chains in the Lisbon Metropolitan area. According to the model specifications and the NOVA classification system, we assessed the nutritional quality and promotion aspects and the degree of processing, respectively. The presence of at least one sugar-contributing ingredient was found in 34.0% of the products; 13.9% of products listed sugars and 15.0% listed fruit juices or concentrates as an ingredient. The claim “No added sugar” was present in 69.6% of products. Only 35.1% of products comply with all the nutritional requirements of the model. Concerning processing classification, 61.8% of products were ultra-processed, and about 57.0% were indicated for children < 12 months. These findings reinforce the importance of implementing measures to ensure that commercial foods for infants are marketed appropriately and to promote foods with a lower degree of processing.

This study was designed to estimate the dietary intake of lead, arsenic and cadmium by schoolchildren population (aged 6 to 12) of northwest Argentina. Calculations were based on a 24-h dietary recall survey. A total of 1027 completed surveys were analyzed in both provinces. From the observed consumption, 22 composite samples were prepared from individual food items and water samples. For lead, 30% of the food samples were found below the LOD and 40% below the LOQ. For cadmium, 76% of the samples were below the LOD and 16% below the LOQ. For arsenic, only one sample showed values higher than LOD and LOQ. The exposure was similar to that observed in other studies, with mean results of 0.6 μg/kg bw/day for lead, 0.002 μg/kg bw/day for cadmium and 1.7 μg/kg bw/day for arsenic in the locality with this pollutant present in water. Although exposure levels do not exceed the limits established by the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives, the presence of these contaminants in food should be monitored, taking into account that children are more susceptible to their neurotoxic effects.

Despite being highly appreciated and consumed, the nutritional value of Chaceon maritae from Namibe (Angola) had never been studied. In the present work, edible tissues (muscle, ovaries, and hepatopancreas) of boiled female C. maritae caught off Namibe coast in two distinct seasons were analyzed in terms of proximate chemical composition (fat, ash, protein, and moisture), fatty acid and amino acid profiles, cholesterol, essential minerals (macro and trace) and toxic elements. Results showed that, in both seasons, C. maritae muscle was a valuable source of protein, essential amino acids, polyunsaturated fatty acids, and essential elements, especially zinc, selenium, iodine, and copper. Ovaries and hepatopancreas are also good sources of protein, but were richer in fat, particularly when caught in October. Ovarian fat is rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids and that of hepatopancreas has higher values of monounsaturated and saturated fatty acids. Hepatopancreas and ovaries are also good sources of copper and, especially ovaries, of zinc. Moreover, in both seasons, all the edible tissues of C. maritae analyzed presented very low contents of heavy metals (mercury, cadmium, lead, and arsenic).

Food integrity is a general term for sound, nutritive, healthy, tasty, safe, authentic, traceable, as well as ethically, safely, environment-friendly, and sustainably produced foods. In order to verify these properties, analytical methods with a higher degree of accuracy, sensitivity, standardization and harmonization and a harmonized system for their application in analytical laboratories are required. In this view, metrology offers the opportunity to achieve these goals. In this perspective article the current global challenges in food analysis and the principles of metrology to fill these gaps are presented. Therefore, the pan-European project METROFOOD-RI within the framework of the European Strategy Forum on Research Infrastructures (ESFRI) was developed to establish a strategy to allow reliable and comparable analytical measurements in foods along the whole process line starting from primary producers until consumers and to make all data findable, accessible, interoperable, and re-usable according to the FAIR data principles. The initiative currently consists of 48 partners from 18 European Countries and concluded its "Early Phase" as research infrastructure by organizing its future structure and presenting a proof of concept by preparing, distributing and comprehensively analyzing three candidate Reference Materials (rice grain, rice flour, and oyster tissue) and establishing a system how to compile, process, and store the generated data and how to exchange, compare them and make them accessible in data bases.

Analytical methodology is a key factor in food composition databases and specific criteria, at the component level, is needed for comparison of analytical data from different sources. The aim of this work is to describe how EuroFIR guidelines for assessment of methods of analysis are created and made available to users. Comprehensive information for macronutrients, vitamins, minerals and trace elements addressing all aspects of analytical procedures was obtained from international standards, and scientific literature. Documentation was compiled in a confluence wiki format provided for each component: background information, description of reference methods of analysis and critical steps, available reference materials, proficiency testing schemes, other analytical methods and relevant references. The information for each nutrient was collated, edited and presented with hypertext links to additional pages where more detailed information can be accessed using full text searches. The wiki format is a useful tool for preparing information and disseminating to users., (Copyright © 2015. Published by Elsevier Ltd.)