Search

Gluten triggers celiac disease in people who are genetically intolerant to gluten protein around the globe. The productive remedy for this health disorder is eliminating the consumption of gluten throughout the lifespan with non-glutenous food sources. Thus, the demand for gluten-free foods is escalating swiftly. Bakery products largely manufactured from wheat flour in the contemporary world play a key role in the human diet because they provide a unique texture and taste along with convenience for the end-user. Hence, this review is mainly focused on gluten-free bakery products. However, substitution of wheat flour in bakery product is encountered with a huge challenge because; replacement may impart to alter nutritional, structural, and sensorial properties remarkably. However, a variety of gluten-free bakery products are available in the present-day market, but they are dearth in protein and largely more in carbohydrates. Therefore, gluten-free bakery products should be developed by incorporating protein sources while improving their nutritional profile. Plant protein is a good source of alternative to animal protein. Therefore, this review addresses an overview of different plant-based proteins and the challenges that arise when they are incorporated into bakery products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim Methods Results Conclusions Celiac disease (CeD) is increasingly diagnosed but significant disparities exist in awareness, practices, resources, and legislation worldwide. We conducted a global online survey with CeD experts to assess this disparity internationally.A 55 questions survey encompassing nine domains relevant to CeD care (awareness, gluten‐free [GF] foods availability/cost/quality, GF labeling, CeD dietician availability, insurance for CeD patients, medical training, research funding, patient support groups, and unmet needs) was generated and sent to CeD experts worldwide electronically. Countries were stratified based on per capita income as high‐income (HIC) and lower‐income countries (LIC) (including upper‐middle‐, lower‐middle‐, and low‐income countries). Survey responses were summarized as a single score using principal component analysis.Valid responses were obtained from 131(37.4%) [HIC: 71; LIC: 60] of contacted CeD experts from 63 countries. Compared with HIC, LIC experts perceived worse availability (HIC:80% vs LIC: 47%; P < 0.001), quality (52% vs 20%; P < 0.001), and legislation for labeling of GF foods (82% vs 37%; P < 0.001), with unfavorable reimbursement policies (27% vs 12%; P = 0.002), subsidies (32% vs 13%; P < 0.001), and insurance (76% vs 43%; P < 0.001) for CeD patients. LIC also lacked awareness about CeD among general physicians (69% vs 32%; P < 0.001), trained celiac dieticians (39% vs 12%; P = 0.002), and active CeD patient support groups (93% vs 50%; P < 0.001). All experts believed that GF foods were costly (94% vs 87%), frequently contaminated (27% vs 32%), and unfavorably taxed (97% and 93%). The experts agreed on key unmet needs and better research funding. Overall CeD preparedness score (median 58.3 vs 33.0; P < 0.001) was also associated with income.The present survey highlights the opinion of global experts on the challenges, opportunities, and preparedness related to CeD and differences worldwide by income. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rice is commonly utilized as a wheat bread substitute due to its low allergenicity. However, rice bread faces challenges in processing efficiency and the formation of a cohesive gel network structure, resulting in suboptimal taste Hence, this study compared four improvers—trypsin, whey protein (WPC), hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose (HPMC), and molecularly distilled monoglycerides (GMSs). The impacts of the four improvers on the processing attributes of rice dough were comprehensively assessed across fermentation, moisture content analysis, rheology, heat stability, and pasting characteristics. The findings indicated that the incorporation of trypsin, HPMC, and WPC resulted in 107%, 61%, and 1% increases in gas production of fermented rice dough, respectively, while reducing the regrowth values to 564.00 ± 7.21, 176.67 ± 0.58, and 611.00 ± 3.61 cP. Notably, the air‐holding capacity of HPMC‐fermented rice dough exhibited a 7% enhancement. All four types of improvers raised the enthalpy of melting (ΔH) and the difference in melting point (ΔT) of fermented rice doughs, with trypsin enhancing ΔH by 44% and ΔT by 40%. GMS, HPMC, and WPC increased the degree of water incorporation in fermented doughs. This study could serve as a benchmark for enhancing the fermentation attributes of rice dough and establish a groundwork for the future advancement of gluten‐free dietary options. Practical Application: The thorough analysis conducted in this experiment provides a theoretical framework for rice dough preparation during the fermentation process, addressing the dietary needs of individuals with coeliac disease and those following a gluten‐free diet. This study also paves the way for the development of improved gluten‐free rice products in future research pursuits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increased demand for gluten-free (GF) foods calls for the incorporation of novel ingredients to improve the technological drawbacks of GF formulations. This study aimed to evaluate the potential of a Gelidium amansii polysaccharide–based (GAP) flour as a structure-supporting ingredient in gluten-free foods in terms of its impacts on the functional, rheological, and thermomechanical properties of composite gluten-free (CGF) flours and doughs at three addition levels. The addition of GAP improved the functional properties of CGF flours and promoted starch pasting while retarding starch retrogradation during the pasting process. The steady shear and frequency sweeping tests demonstrated that GAP addition resulted in a dose-dependent increase in the apparent viscosity, G′, and G″ moduli of the dough accompanied by a slight decrease in tan (δ). Through measuring changes in the thermomechanical properties of GAP-added dough using Mixolab®, it was further confirmed that the presence of GAP increased the dough stabilization time with reductions in the consistency loss and retardation of starch re-association in the cooling phase. This study extended the application of seaweed polysaccharides to improve quality attributes of GF formulation and shed light on the use of cost-effective ingredients from algae as alternative hydrocolloids in starchy-based foods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Specific gluten protein fractions cause major health problems to individuals with coeliac disease. The aim of this study was to review gluten reduction in foods based on information disclosed in patents, a rarely cited source, with support from science. Overall, 89 patents on gluten reduction in foods were published up to August 2024, and 79% reported unique information, not mentioned in the scientific literature. The most popular topics were wheat and barley genes modifications, proteolytic enzymes for brewing, and proteolytic bacterial starters for bread making. Other gluten detoxification and removal techniques comprised kernels sorting, as well as separation, binding, heating, and chemical treatments. Extensive degradation of gluten‐containing ingredients impaired much food properties, especially in bread. Few patented inventions on gluten reduction would meet the needs of coeliac persons because gluten‐free foods need to be prepared with low‐gluten ingredients, as confirmed by proper analytical techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the ban of certain single-use plastics in the European Union, food contact materials (FCM) from biobased and/or biodegradable polymers are increasingly being used. Some FCM are made from wheat or rye and therefore contain gluten, which is a food allergen and known to cause celiac disease. Legislation currently does not require allergen labelling on FCM and there is only some first information that gluten from FCM can migrate into gluten-free foods. Our aim was to analyze the extent of gluten migration from six different FCM into a variety of liquid and solid foods to assess the risk of exposure for wheat allergy and celiac disease patients. We show that the extent of gluten migration depended on the properties of the material, the liquid or solid food it comes into contact with and contact time. There was no clear effect of temperature or pH value. Of the six FCM studied, wheat bran-based plates had the highest potential to release gluten with concentrations of up to 203.0 mg/L of gluten in deionized water after 30 min. To protect patients, it is important to raise awareness of the risk of gluten migration from such FCM and help patients identify and avoid gluten-containing FCM. Further, legislation needs to be adapted urgently to include mandatory labelling of allergens on these biodegradable FCM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Children in India who have been diagnosed with celiac disease deal with a variety of challenges and difficulties as a result of their condition. Understanding their experiences is important to help the patients adapt better to the demands of celiac disease and gluten-free diet. Methods: The present study has used a constructivism paradigm as a study design. Participants were recruited through purposive sampling. In-depth telephonic interviews were conducted with 10 children with celiac disease. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the interview data. Results: The main themes and sub-themes that emerged from the data were emotional responses (the feeling of deprivation, the feeling of being different from others, the novelty of gluten-free diet leading to excitement), physical health impact (getting tired easily, delayed growth), social constraints (social limitations brought on by celiac disease, peer pressure to eat gluten, and non-acceptance of celiac disease by others), future concerns (uncertainty about the future, improved physical health, celiac disease cure, dependency on others), navigating dietary changes (fear of cross-contamination, food restrictions caused by celiac disease, non-availability of gluten-free food, and limited food options outside the home), coping strategies, and management of celiac disease (eat home-cooked meals, receiving support from family, and friends, adhering to gluten-free diet). Conclusion: Governmental organizations and experts in mental health must acknowledge the needs of Indian children with celiac disease. The need of the hour is to improve gluten-free product labelling and raise awareness of celiac disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Across the world and within Europe, a growing number of consumers are choosing to buy gluten-free products. Motivations for a gluten-free diet and the consequences of consuming gluten are varied, from a medical necessity for those diagnosed with celiac disease to a range of health complications and discomfort for those who are gluten-intolerant. In this research, 7296 gluten-free consumers across 13 European countries responded to an online survey on the 33 types of gluten-free products purchased, how frequently they purchased them, their satisfaction with gluten-free quality and availability, the problems they have experienced, and the strategies they have employed to cope with these problems. The investigation examines whether and how these consumer attitudes and behaviors differ between those diagnosed with celiac disease, those who are gluten-intolerant, and those who are caregivers for others with a gluten-free diet. The results show that significant differences existed for all these habits and issues across the three gluten-free consumer groups. Specifically, caregivers purchased most of the gluten-free product types more frequently than the other two groups, experienced more availability problems, and were more likely to shop at multiple stores or make their own gluten-free products. Celiac-diagnosed consumers tended to buy gluten-free products more frequently than those who are gluten-intolerant, and they tended to be the most satisfied with the quality and range of gluten-free offerings. Despite purchasing frequency differences between the groups, the results suggest a similar hierarchy of gluten-free products that could provide the foundation for a European gluten-free food basket. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is important to understand how the composition and structure of proteins from other flours differ from proteins in wheat, in order to have a better option to substitute gluten products with gluten-free food products. The aim of this study was the characterization of gluten-free flours and comparison of their rheological and calorimetric properties against wheat flour, for its use as gluten-free alternative. Chemical composition analysis, water solubility index (WSI), water absorption index (WAI), texture and calorimetric profile were determined. The closest WAI to wheat flour (1.45 g gel/g sample) was corn flour (2.41 g gel/g sample), while the WSI of chickpea flour was 5.51% approaching that of wheat flour of 5.88%. The hardness and adhesiveness values closest to wheat (1.65 kgf and 0.03 mJ) were amaranth flour with 0.85 kgf and 0.01 mJ, respectively. The phenolic content and antioxidant capacity were higher in the corn and bean flours with 244.4 mg GAE/100 g, 148 mg GAE/100 g and 190 mg AAE/100 g and 170 mg AAE/100 g, respectively. The combination of these non-conventional flours can be an innovative source of gluten-free formulas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrothermal process alters physicochemical characteristics of flour by fully or partially gelatinizing starch. Despite the recognized nutritional advantages of millet, the utilization of millet flour in food processing applications is limited because of its limited shelf life. By improving the functional properties, the utilization of millets in the development of innovative and gluten-free food products can be improved. This study aims to examine the effects of hydrothermal treatment on the modification of the functional characteristics of pearl millet flour. Water absorption capacity (WAC), oil absorption capacity (OAC), water solubility index (WSI), emulsion capacity (EC), and viscometric behaviour of pearl millet flour were studied under various soaking and steaming conditions and were found to be significantly affected by the process variables. The WAC and WSI decreased with soaking time but increased with soaking temperature and steaming time, whereas OAC showed the opposite trend for the same treatment parameters. The flour suspensions exhibited shear-thinning behaviour at all treatments within the domain. Further, the process parameters were modelled and optimised using RSM and ANN-GA techniques. The findings of this study will encourage the application of pearl millet flour in the development of various food products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Legumes, rich in protein, fiber, and micronutrients, are increasingly popular in pulse-based and gluten-free foods despite global consumption stagnating at 21 g/day due to taste, low protein digestibility, anti-nutrients, and long cooking times. Bean resistance to cooking causes textural defects like the hardshell and hard-to-cook phenomena. The pectin–cation–phytate hypothesis explains why soaking beans in sodium salts reduces cooking time by enhancing pectin solubility in water. Gradoli Purgatory beans (GPB), from Italy′s Latium region, were malted, reducing phytic acid by 32% and oligosaccharides by 63%. This study evaluated the hardness of cooked GPB seeds in various conditions, including decorticated or malted states, using a modified standard method. Cooking at 98 °C for 7–75 min on an induction hob with a water-to-seed ratio of 4 g/g was tested. Soaking was applied before cooking for conventional seeds only, followed by texture analysis. Conventional GPBs were adequately cooked if their cotyledons disintegrated upon pressing, requiring a force peak of 250 to 220 N and cooking times of 52 to 57 min. Malted, decorticated, and split GPBs cooked similarly to raw decorticated and split ones, with times of 32 and 25 min, respectively. Faster cooking was due to bean coat removal and splitting, not chemical changes. Sodium or potassium carbonate/bicarbonate at 1–2 g/L improved cooking efficiency, with 2 g/L of sodium carbonate reducing cooking time to 13 min. Higher concentrations caused non-uniform cooking. Cooking malted, decorticated, and split GPBs in sodium-carbonated water reduced greenhouse gas emissions from 561 to 368 g CO2e/kg, meeting the demand for eco-friendly and nutritionally enhanced plant protein sources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Today, food scientists are interested in more rational use of crops that possess desirable nutritional properties, and buckwheat is one of the functional pseudocereals that represents a rich source of bioactive compounds (BACs) and nutrients, phytochemicals, antimicrobial (AM) agents and antioxidants (AOs), which can be effectively applied in the prevention of malnutrition and celiac disease and treatment of various important health problems. There is ample evidence of the high potential of buckwheat consumption in various forms (food, dietary supplements, home remedies or alone, or in synergy with pharmaceutical drugs) with concrete benefits for human health. Contamination as well as other side-effects of all the aforementioned forms for application in different ways in humans must be seriously considered. This review paper presents an overview of the most important recent research related to buckwheat bioactive compounds (BACs), highlighting their various functions and proven positive effects on human health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Foxtail millet prolamin, one of the major protein constituents of foxtail millet, has garnered attention due to its unique amino acid composition and function. Foxtail millet prolamin exhibits specific physicochemical and functional characteristics, such as solubility, surface hydrophobicity, emulsifying, and foaming properties. These characteristics have been exploited in the preparation and development of products, including plant-based alternative products, nutritional supplements, and gluten-free foods. Additionally, because of the favorable biocompatibility and biodegradability, foxtail millet prolamin is frequently used as a carrier for encapsulation and targeted delivery of bioactive substances. Moreover, studies have shown that foxtail millet prolamin is highly nutritious and displays various biological activities like antioxidant effects, anti-inflammatory properties, and anti-diabetic potential, making it a valuable ingredient in medicinal products and contributing to its potential role in therapeutic diets. This review summarizes the current knowledge of the amino acid composition and structural characteristics of foxtail millet prolamin, as well as the functional properties, biological activities, and applications in functional food formulation and drug delivery strategy. Challenges and future perspectives for the utilization of foxtail millet prolamin are also pointed out. This review aims to provide novel ideas and broad prospects for the effective use of foxtail millet prolamin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: The celiac population usually struggle finding nutritive gluten‐free (GF) baked goods. GF foods can be improved using legume flours. Eleven GF cake formulations were elaborated according to different percentages of lentil flour (LF), corn flour (CF) and rice flour (RF) using a simplex lattice design. Water holding capacity and particle size of flours were evaluated. Moisture, aw, pH, specific volume, texture profile, relaxation, color and alveolar characteristics were determined for crumbs of all formulations. An optimization process was used to enhance the technological and nutritional attributes, selecting the three best formulations containing LF: 46% LF + 54% RF (CLF+RF); 49% LF + 51% CF (CLF+CF); and 100% LF (CLF), evaluated in their proximal composition and sensory characteristics. Linear and quadratic models for predicting the behavior of GF lentil cakes were obtained. RESULTS: LF and CF could favor water incorporation and show more resistance to enzymatic digestion than RF. Formulations with LF showed an improvement in specific volume and alveolar parameters, while use of RF led to better cohesiveness, elasticity and resilience but with a deterioration in chewiness and firmness. CLF can be labeled as high in protein and fiber and presented the lowest amounts of lipids, carbohydrates and energy content. Consumer preference leaned towards CLF+RF. CONCLUSION: It was possible to elaborate GF cakes using LF, obtaining nutritive products that can be offered to people intolerant to gluten ingestion. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Considering the higher prevalence of psychological problems in patients with Celiac disease (CD), the current study aims to assess the prevalence of eating disorders (EDs) and body image disturbance in patients with CD and examine the possible correlation between EDs, body image dissatisfaction and distortion, and gluten-free diet (GFD) adherence in these patients. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 217 patients with CD (18–55 years old) were recruited randomly from the CD registry database. EDs and body image issues were assessed using the 26-item Eating Attitude Test (EAT-26) and Stunkard Figure Rating Scale (FRS), respectively. Adherence to GFD was evaluated by the Celiac Dietary Adherence Test (CDAT) questionnaire. Results: The prevalence of EDs was 43.5%. Furthermore, the prevalence of body dissatisfaction and distortion was 65.9% and 41.1%, respectively. The logistic regression demonstrated a significant negative association between adherence to the GFD and EDs (OR = 2.09, 95% CI: 1.11–3.91, P = 0.022). However, there was no significant association between following GFD and body image dissatisfaction (OR = 1.70, CI: 0.92–3.17, P = 0.090), and distortion (OR = 0.65, CI: 0.36–1.18, P = 0.163). Conclusion: Considering the high prevalence of EDs in patients with CD and owing to the inverse association between EDs and GFD adherence, nutritionists should consider the psychological barriers in adhering to a GFD when consulting patients with CD. Highlights: we determined the association between eating disorders (EDs), body image dissatisfaction with adherence to gluten free diet (GFD) in patients with celiac disease. The prevalence of EDs was 43.5%. The prevalence of body image dissatisfaction and distortion was 65.9% and 41.1%, respectively. We observed a significant negative association between adherence to the GFD and EDs. There was no significant association between following the GFD with body image dissatisfaction and distortion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

The ultra‐processed food (UPF) concept first emerged 15 years ago, and is now studied worldwide in different contexts, for example, human health, food behavior, socio‐economic, food consumption, food scoring, and food system sustainability. Briefly, UPFs are defined as containing at least one marker of ultra‐processing (MUP). MUPs are (1) cosmetic additives, (2) aromas, (3) some highly processed carbohydrates, proteins, fats, and/or fiber, and (4) drastic processes directly applied to food such as extrusion cooking or puffing. The first three categories of MUPs are on the food packaging in the list of ingredients, and are extracted, then purified, from raw foods or coming from artificial syntheses, leading to a‐matrix/a‐cellular compounds. Therefore, the core paradigm to define MUP is extreme food matrix degradation, and for UPF, matrix artificialization. Besides, UPFs are more than just junk food, encompassing numerous industrialized foods, falsely presented as healthy, for example, animal‐based food analogs, but also organic, vegan, gluten‐free, micronutrient‐enriched, and/or light foods. In this way, UPFs are "high‐quality junk foods." Otherwise, UPF being a holistic and indivisible concept by essence, we propose in this review to analyze ultra‐processing at four holistic levels corresponding to four important scientific issues: the food matrix, the dietary pattern, food system, and food scoring. We reached the main conclusion that UPFs should be first studied with a holistic and scientifically based approach, not a reductionist one. Otherwise, we take the risk of performing greenwashing and create still more new health threats at a global level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rice flour (100%, 97.4%, 94.7%, 89.5% (w/w)) and okra powder (2.6%-10.5%) were used to replace wheat flour to make gluten-free chiffon cakes. The effects of okra powder addition on the physicochemical, color, texture, moisture content, total phenolic content, antioxidant, and sensory scores of cakes were evaluated. The batter viscosity, chewiness, ash, protein, fat, total phenolics, and antioxidant activities (1,1-diphenyl-z-picrylhydrazyl hydrate and reducing power) of cakes showed an increasing trend with okra powder addition. Gluten-free chiffon cake containing 5.3% okra powder showed significantly (p < 0.05) higher protein and ash contents as compared to their control and chiffon cake made with wheat flour. Nevertheless, center height, volume index, L*, a*, and b* values, and white index of gluten-free cake decreased with increased okra powder levels. The sensory characteristics of wheat and gluten-free chiffon cakes substituted with 2.6%–5.3% okra powder showed no difference (p > 0.05). Nevertheless, the sensory scores of the 5.3% okra powder addition cake obtained a higher preference than other gluten-free cakes. Although the overall acceptability of gluten-free chiffon cake supplemented with 10.5% okra flour had a lower (p < 0.05) overall acceptability (2.84) than all cake samples, it was still shown acceptable to consumers. Gluten-free rice chiffon cakes with high nutrient contents and antioxidant activities can be processed by the incorporation of okra powder of less than 10.5% to increase the diversification of gluten-free foods. Gluten-free cakes with high amounts of okra powder addition would produce cake having high water content, total phenol content, 1,1-diphenyl-z-picrylhydrazyl hydrate radical scavenging activity, reducing power, hardness, chewiness, cohesiveness, batter viscosity, ash, and crude protein content through principal component analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This Special Issue of Foods contains ten articles that cover a range of topics related to food perception and consumer behavior. The articles explore subjects such as food certification, sustainability in food services, consumer understanding of food classification, and the influence of culture on food choices. The research presented in these articles investigates how digital marketing affects consumer behavior, the importance of animal welfare in consumer choices, and the perceptions of young people regarding sustainable food consumption. The articles also discuss the impact of artisan cooperatives on consumer perception, the understanding of food groups in dietary guidelines, and the popularity and misperception of "free-from" food products. Additionally, the studies examine the use of new food sources to create healthier products, the influence of menu item position and color on consumer choices, and the factors contributing to food neophobia. One article specifically focuses on the influence of personal and family knowledge and experience on individuals' interest in trying new foods, highlighting the distinction between food neophobia and food preferences. The article also emphasizes the prevalence of foodborne diseases caused by contaminated food and the role of consumers and food handlers in preventing these diseases through safe food handling practices. Furthermore, the article explores consumers' perceptions of food safety and risk, particularly in relation to tree nuts, finding that lower income and education levels may be associated with lower levels of food safety knowledge and risk perception. The article concludes by emphasizing the need for further research on consumer perception and understanding of food production and industrialization. [Extracted from the article]

The object of this study is the quality of bread using wheat flour mixed with sorghum flour. The implementation of the task of stable provision of the population with good quality bread and high nutritional value is based on improving the technology of bread using sorghum flour in accordance with the global trend of safe and healthy nutrition. The results on the chemical composition and nutritional value (amino acid content, mineral composition, and vitamins) of sorghum flour were obtained, a comparative analysis with wheat flour was carried out. An analysis of the amylographic characteristics of flour and dough with the addition of various amounts of sorghum flour, improvers, and enzyme preparations was carried out. As a source of nutrients, the effect of sorghum flour on the rheological and baking properties of wheat dough was studied. The effect of the studied flour on the quality of finished bread was established. The complex effect of the Emceft improver and the KAZenzym enzyme preparation on the quality of dough and bread, including from sorghum flour, was studied. The use of sorghum flour of the Kazakhstan 20 variety for the production of bread in combination with an improver and an enzyme preparation has improved the chemical composition, rheological and baking properties of the dough. Research shows that bread with the use of sorghum flour diversifies the diet and promotes human health due to its nutritional composition and potential as a gluten-free food. The scope and conditions of practical use of the results are the possibility of using sorghum for bread making. Achieving these capabilities is based on the developed technology of bread in combination with an improver and an enzyme preparation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of gluten-free ingredients in the baking of cookies is increasing due to gluten-associated disorder and other nutritional-related non-communicable diseases, and consumer's pursuit for health-promoting foods. In this study, gluten-free cookies (GFC) were made from biofortified yellow maize supplemented with sodium carboxyl methylcellulose (SCMC), a reference hydrocolloid, and Brachystegia eurycoma flour (BEF) at four different proportions (2.5, 5, 7.5, and 10%), respectively. The GFC were then assessed for their bioactive components (flavonoids, tannins, and saponins), carotenoids, starch-hydrolyzing enzymes (alpha-amylase and alphaglucosidase), and glycemic index. Cookies made from commercial wheat flour (100% CWF) served as control. The total flavonoid contents of the 100% BYF cookies (144.48 ± 0.18 mg/g) and saponins (1.04 ± 0.00 mg/g) were significantly (p < 0.05) higher than the 100% CWF cookies (93.84 ± 0.36 mg/g; 1.02 ± 0.00 mg/g). The total tannin contents of the cookies ranged from 3.12 ± 0.00 mg/g (100% CWF) to 4.87 ± 0.00 mg/g (2.5%BEF-97.5% BYF). The carotenoid profiles indicated the presence of lutein (range from 0.62 to 1.63 µg/g), ß-carotene (range from 3.81 to 6.06 µg/g), ß-cryptoxanthin (range from 0.19 to 1.75 µg/g) and zeaxanthin (range from 0.83 to 2.48 µg/g) in the cookies. Further, the GF cookies significantly (p < 0.05) inhibited the alpha-amylase (IC50 value ranged from 1.42 ± 0.01 µg/mL (100% BYF) to 2.63 ± 0.01 µg/mL (100% CWF)) and alpha-glucosidase with IC50 value range from 1.12 ± 0.01 µg/mL (2.5%SCMC-97.5% BYF) to 6.72 ± 0.01 (7.5%BEF-92.5% BYF). The GF cookies showed a low glycemic index (GI) value (GI < 50). The biofortified yellow maize-based GFC have significant amounts of bioactive compounds and anti-hyperglycemic properties, and low GI. Hence, they can serve as functional baked food with potential health benefits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Celiac disease (CD) is an autoimmune disorder that produces inflammation in the gut mucosa, affecting nutrient digestion and absorption. CD affects 0.3% to 1.0% of the world's population and only 15% have a clinical diagnosis. The only effective treatment is a gluten‐free diet. The objective of this study was to develop a dough for gluten‐free pasta prepared with mixtures of flours from corn, amaranth, soy, and rice. According to the FAO standard of 1975, the resultant mixtures should have a protein content greater than 11.0% and a chemical rating of not less than 70. Three mixtures were obtained: corn‒soy (81‐19), corn‒rice‒soy (48‐37‐15), and corn‒rice‒amaranth (49‐32‐14). To improve the handling of the pasta and its physical characteristics (sedimentation, degree of absorption, and cracked shaped pasta) compared to a control (commercial) gluten‐free pasta, carboxymethylcellulose, an emulsifier (distilled monoglycerides), and egg albumin were added at concentrations of 0.3, 0.5, and 5.0%, respectively. The corn flour was pregelatinized, and the extrusion was repeated twice. The experimental pasta had a protein content of 14.0%, which was higher than the commercial pasta (4.5%), and a gluten content of less than 20 mg/kg which, according to the Codex Alimentarius International Food Standard (2015), it is considered gluten‐free. The corn‒rice‒soy pasta obtained had an acceptance and liking similar to a commercial brand. This pasta may widen the gluten‐free products commercially available to CD patients in Mexico, which nowadays is limited and expensive. Practical Application: Raw materials available in our country were selected to promote their consumption and diversify the ingredients used in the production of gluten‐free products. The pasta obtained presented a higher nutritional content than a commercial gluten‐free pasta and was comparable to that of a pasta made with wheat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gluten-free foods (GF) availability on supermarket shelves is growing and it is expected to continue expanding in the years ahead. These foods have been linked to a lower content of fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides and polyols (FODMAPs), molecules that trigger gastrointestinal symptoms in sensitive persons. In this study, the FODMAP content of 25 cereal-based GF foods in Spain (breakfast cereals, pasta, bread, biscuits, bakery products, and dough and puff pastry) and 25 gluten-containing equivalents (GC) available in the same supermarket were analysed and compared. Lactose, fructose, glucose, sorbitol, mannitol, raffinose, stachyose and fructans were quantified. In a like-by-like analysis, GF foods were found to generally contain fewer FODMAPs than their GC counterparts. The ingredients used in the manufacture of GF cereal-based foods may contribute to this fact. When the individually wrapped size was considered, the proportion of samples classified as high-FODMAPs in GC and GF foods showed a trend towards fewer samples in the GF. However, not all the GF samples were low-FODMAP. Altogether, our findings provide essential information for FODMAP content databases of GF products in Spain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Nutritional quality of gluten-free (GF) food products is very important, as patients with celiac disease consume these products for lifelong. There is paucity of data on the nutritional content and cost of GF food products compared with their gluten-containing (GC) counterparts from India (Asia). Design: After a detailed market survey, packaged and labeled GF food products (n=485) and their packaged GC counterparts (n=790) from the supermarkets of Delhi (India) and e-commerce websites were included. Nutritional content and cost/100 g food (in US dollars) were calculated using the information on food label. Results: Gluten-free food products were 232% (range: 118% to 376%) more expensive than their GC counterparts. Energy content of all GF food products was similar to their GC counterparts, except cereal-based snacks (GF: 445 kcal vs. GC: 510 kcal, p<0.001). The protein content was significantly lower in GF pasta and macaroni products (single-grain: GF: 6.5 g vs. GC:11. 5 g, p-0.002; multigrain: GF:7.6 g vs. GC:11.5 g, p-0.027), cereal flours (single-grain: GF: 7.6 g vs. GC: 12.3 g, p<0.001; multigrain: GF:10.9 g vs. GC: 14.1 g, p-0.009) and nutritional bars (GF: 21.81 g vs. GC:26 g, p-0.028) than their GC counterparts. Similarly, the dietary-fiber content of GF pasta and macaroni products, cereal flours, cereal premix and nutritional bars of GF foods was significantly lower than their GC counterparts. Gluten-free bread and confectionary items, biscuits and cookies and snacks had higher total fats and trans-fat content than their GC counterparts. Gluten-free cereal-based snacks had higher sodium content than their GC counterparts (GF: 820 mg vs. GC:670 mg; p<0.001). Conclusion: GF foods are significantly more expensive, contain less protein and dietary fiber and higher fat, trans-fat and sodium than their GC counterparts. Strategies must be developed to reduce the cost and improve the nutritional profile of GF foods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. The rising prevalence of gluten-related disorders such as celiac disease explains the increased consumption of gluten-free foods (GFF). However, these foods must be safe in terms of both gluten content and contamination by pathogenic microorganisms in order to avoid food poisoning. Objective. The objective of this study was to assess the microbiological quality of gluten-free meals, naturally gluten free foods, and gluten free-labelled products. Material and Methods. We collected 62 GFF samples including 20 meals (M-GF), 22 naturally gluten free (N-GFF) and 20 labelled (L-GFF) products, which were investigated for microbiological contamination according to Moroccan regulations guidelines, issued by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). The analysis consisted of the detection of Salmonella and Listeria monocytogenes in each sample, and the quantification of the microbial load of the following six micro-organisms: total aerobic mesophilic flora, total coliforms, fecal coliforms, Staphylococcus aureus, Sulphite-Reducing Anaerobic, and yeasts and molds. Results. A total of 372 analyses were carried out, showing a microbiological contamination rate of 5.1%. This contamination concerned N-GFF in 8.3% (predominantly with yeasts and molds), and meals prepared at home in 11.7 (predominantly with Staphylococcus aureus and coliforms). Only one case (0.8%) of contamination was observed in products labelled gluten-free and no contamination was noticed in meals prepared in food services. Listeria monocytgenes and Salmonella were not detected in any samples of food analyzed. These results indicate a good compliance of L-GFP and M-GF prepared in food services, while unsatisfactory quality was observed in N-GFF and M-GF prepared at home. Conclusion. Therefore, rigorous hygienic practices and adequate corrective measures should be considered by celiac patients, especially regarding the N-GFF and M-GF prepared at home.

This document is a special issue of the International Journal of Molecular Sciences titled "Molecular and Cellular Advances in Atopic Diseases." Atopic diseases, which affect approximately one billion people worldwide, are characterized by complex molecular and cellular processes. The issue explores new insights into the molecular and cellular foundations of atopic diseases and presents innovative findings related to their regulation, treatment, diagnosis, and prevention. The document discusses the release of allergens from natural sources, the interaction of allergens with human epithelial barriers, and the role of environmental and genetic factors in the pathogenesis of diseases such as atopic dermatitis. It also examines the impact of food additives, chemical residues, viral pathogens, and dietary changes on the integrity of epithelial barriers. The document emphasizes the need for careful assessment of allergenic risks when introducing new plant-based food products into the market, especially for individuals with food allergies. Overall, this special issue provides valuable information for researchers and individuals interested in understanding the molecular and cellular aspects of atopic diseases. [Extracted from the article]

This study presents the development of a sandwich ELISA method for gluten detection in foods, using recombinant Fab antibody fragments against gliadin. The Fabs were chemically biotinylated and immobilized on streptavidin-coated plates as capture antibodies, while alkaline phosphatase-conjugated Fabs were used as detection antibodies. Four different gliadin-binding Fabs were tested and the Fab pair Fab8E-4 and Fab-C showed the best compatibility. An indirect sandwich immunoassay, using unmodified Fab8E-4 for capture and Fab-C as the detection antibody, achieved a detection limit of 26 ng/mL of gliadin, corresponding to 10 mg/kg of gluten in foods. No cross-reactivity was observed against 60 gluten-free species commonly used in the food industry. Analysis of 50 commercial products demonstrated consistent results compared to the standard method for gluten detection. The complete lack of cross-reactivity of the developed immunoassay with oat products potentially provides an advantage over other gluten detection systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was performed to examine the effects of individual and combined usage of psyllium husk powder (PHP) with guar gum (GG) or locust bean gum (LBG) on the production of gluten-free Turkish-type noodles. For this purpose, six different formulations were created with the total amount of variables being 3%, and samples' physical, chemical, cooking, textural and sensorial properties were performed. The results revealed no significant decrease or increase in moisture, ash, protein and fat contents. On the other hand, although individual usage of psyllium caused a slight decrease in carbohydrate content, this did not reflect energy values. The lowest L* and hue and the highest a* values were observed in the samples where only psyllium was used, and there was no significant difference in b* and saturation index values. Regarding cooking quality and textural analysis, the results from these two analyses supported each other, and there is a significant difference between the samples. An additional disliking that can be considered significant was not determined by using psyllium with or without other gums in noodle formulation. As a result, the dual combined psyllium with other gums in gluten-free noodle production could be appropriate without adversely affecting the quality of the product. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gluten‐free bakery products are the definitive solution for people with celiac disease and gluten sensitivity. In this study, the production of gluten‐free sponge cake was optimized using a mixture design methodology. Effects of the amount of ingredients, including quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa) (6–10 g), oleaster (Eleagnus Angustifolia) (1–2 g), and pumpkin powder (Cucurbita moschata) (1–4 g) on the physicochemical characteristics and sensory qualities (color, flavor, cutability, texture, appearance, and overall acceptability) of cakes were investigated. Significant regression models that explained the effects of different amounts of flour on all response variables were determined. The proposed model in this study had high R2 and R2 (adj). Therefore, the model was approved for fitting information. Finally, a gluten‐free sponge cake recipe was formulated using 1 g of oleaster flour, 1 g of pumpkin, and 10 g of quinoa flour to achieve the desired sensory quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The germination process of cereal and legumes has been used to improve their nutritional value. In this study, sorghum, oat, mung bean and barley were germinated for 96 hours. Dry matter, total ash content and phenolic content analyses of germinated samples were performed. Sprouts of germinated grains and legumes were dried and ground into flour. The obtained flour was used in the production of bread (20-40%), cake (5-15%) and rice pudding (10%). In the prepared bread, % baking loss and specific volume were calculated, and sensory analyses of rice pudding, glutenfree cake and bread samples were carried out. All samples' dry matter contents except sorghum decreased by the germination process. Germination caused a slight increase in ash contents of all samples except for barley. The total phenolic contents of mung bean and barley significantly increased during germination. All sprout flours added at 40% reduced the specific volume of the bread. Based on the results, it can be concluded that products with a substitution of sorghum sprout flour were more acceptable in sensorial properties compared to other samples. It can be concluded that it is feasible to produce high nutritional value tasty functional foods with germinated sorghum flour supplementation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reaction to food allergens is on the increase and so is the attending cost on consumers, the food industry, and society at large. According to FDA, the "big-eight" allergens found in foods include wheat (gluten), peanuts, egg, shellfish, milk, tree nuts, fish, and soybeans. Sesame was added to the list in 2023, making the target allergen list nine instead of eight. These allergenic foods are major ingredients in many food products that can cause severe reactions in those allergic to them if found at a dose that can elicit a reaction. Defining the level of contamination that can elicit sensitivity is a work in progress. The first step in preventing an allergic reaction is reliable detection, then an effective quantification method. These are critical steps in keeping contaminated foods out of the supply chain of foods with allergen-free labels. The conventional methods of chemical assay, DNA-PCR, and enzyme protocols like enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay are effective in allergen detection but slow in providing a response. Most of these methods are incapable of quantifying the level of allergen contamination. There are emerging non-destructive methods that combine the power of sensors and machine learning to provide reliable detection and quantification. This review paper highlights some of the critical information on the types of prevalent food allergens, the mechanism of an allergic reaction in humans, the measure of allergenic sensitivity and eliciting doses, and the conventional and emerging AI-based methods of detection and quantification—the merits and downsides of each type. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The technological and nutritional traits of food-grade sorghum hybrids, hulled/naked oat varieties and maize genotypes of different colors were studied for novel and healthier gluten-free foods. Oat genotypes showed the highest protein content, followed by maize and sorghum. The total starch and the total dietary fiber content were quite similar among the three species. Great variation was found in the amylose content, and the highest was in sorghum (27.12%), followed by oat 16.71% and maize 10.59%. Regarding the pasting profile, the rank of Peak Viscosity was sorghum (742.8 Brabender Unit, BU), followed by maize (729.3 BU) and oat (685.9 BU). Oat and sorghum genotypes had similar average breakdown (407.7 and 419.9 BU, respectively) and setback (690.7 and 682.1 BU, respectively), whereas maize showed lower values for both parameters (384.1 BU and 616.2 BU, respectively). The total antioxidant capacity, only in maize, significantly correlated with total flavonoid, phenolic and proanthocyanidin contents, indicating that all the measured compounds contributed to antioxidant capacity. The study indicated the importance of sounding out the nutritional and technological characteristics of gluten-free cereals in order to select suitable cultivars to be processed in different gluten-free foods with better and healthier quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wheat flour is a common raw material in the food industry; however, Andean grains, such as quinoa and kiwicha, are gaining popularity due to their quality proteins, fiber, and bioactive compounds. A trend has been observed toward the enrichment of products with these Andean flours, with them even being used to develop gluten-free foods. However, evaluating interactions between raw materials during industrial processes can be complicated due to the diversity of inputs. This study focused on evaluating the technofunctional and rheological properties of wheat, quinoa and kiwicha flours using a simple lattice mixture design. Seven treatments were obtained, including pure flours and ternary mixtures. Analyses of particle size distribution, water absorption index, subjective water absorption capacity, soluble material index, swelling power, apparent density and physicochemical properties were performed. Additionally, color analysis, photomicrographs and Raman spectroscopy were carried out. The results indicate significant differences in properties such as particle size, water absorption and rheological properties between the flours and their mixtures. Variations in color and microstructure were observed, while Raman spectroscopy provided information on molecular composition. These findings contribute to the understanding of the behavior of Andean flours in baking and pastry making, facilitating their application in innovative food products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gluten-enteropathy affects a significant number of people, making gluten a major concern in the food industry. With medical advancements, the diagnosis of allergies is becoming easier, and people who are allergic to gluten are recommended a complete gluten-free diet. Since wheat provides a major part of the energy and nutrition in the diet, its elimination affects nutrition intake of allergic population. Food scientists are working to formulate products using protein-rich gluten-free grains with quality attributes at par with gluten-containing products. Focused research has been done to provide nutrition and a variety of food to people suffering from gluten-related disorders. Efforts are being made to remove the gluten from the wheat and other gluten-containing grains, while applying different processing/treatments to enhance the properties of gluten-free grains. Hence, the present review summarizes the importance, processing, and products of different gluten-free grains. It also highlights the digestibility of gluten-free grains with clinical trials and gluten elimination strategies for gluten-containing grains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study presents a review of the application of legumes in the formulation of gluten-free foods (GFFs), with emphasis on their functional, nutritional, and nutraceutical importance. Consumption of GFF and abstinence from glutencontaining foods are the only options for managing celiac disease and gluten intolerance. Its formulation has also increased due to the increasing desire for healthy food by consumers. Recently, legume crops, such as Phaseolus vulgaris (bean), Brachystegia eurycoma (bean pod), Detarium microcarpum (sweet detar), Cetatonia siliqua (carob fruit), Cicer arietinum (chickpea), Pisum sativum (pea), Lens culinaris (lentil), and Vigna subterranean (Bambara nut) have been used in the production of GFFs. They belong to the family Leguminosae (Fabaceae), grown for their high protein content, and are the most important crop after cereals. Using legume flours as ingredients in GFFs formulation provides functional, nutritional, and nutraceutical benefits. They enhance the functional properties of GFFs, including volume, crumb, texture, and sensory qualities. They also improve the GFFs' nutritional properties, especially protein and dietary fiber, as well as their nutraceutical properties, such as laxative, antihyperglycemic, and antioxidant properties. Hence, adding legumes to GFF formulations might be a good way to enhance their functional, nutritional, and nutraceutical properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives The study aims to measure pharmacists' knowledge and perception of celiac disease. Methods A Google form was used to collect data randomly from 283 pharmacists. The effects of each of the following hypotheses towards early diagnosis of celiac disease and patient compliance were studied: pharmacist's experience in community pharmacies (H1), pharmacist's knowledge (H2), pharmacist's participation in continuing learning programmes (H3), and pharmacist's attitude and practice (H4). Key findings A robust relationship between the variables was confirmed and was expressed by the moderate mean effect of H1, H2, H3, and H4 (2.3332, 2.3386, 2.1731, and 2.5717, respectively, and the correlation coefficient [ r ] of 0.797). Findings suggest that H1 is moderately correlated with H2 and H3 but weakly correlated with H4 (0.568 and 0.518, 0.183, respectively). Around a third of the participants (33.9%) admit their lack of knowledge regarding the symptoms. A third of the participants would refer the patients with recurrent symptoms to the physician. Three-quarters of the participants (78.4%) have not attended any educational programme, but they show a high desire (84.1%) to participate in such events either in person (50.2%) or through distance learning applications (36.4%). Conclusion Pharmacists have crucial roles in early diagnosis, monitoring patient compliance, and providing counselling regarding celiac disease. Updating their knowledge should contribute to improving the overall health status of the patients and cutting off the expenses for the health sector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Nutri-score is a useful and comprehensible system of extended nutrition labeling of food, which is intended to provide the consumer with simple guidance in choosing food products, taking into account the consumer’s healthy diet. In several countries, in addition to the mandatory nutritional value of food indicated on the product packaging, the use of the so-called food traffic lights, which, based on a simple graphic display, make it easier for consumers to concentrate on choosing healthier food options. Objective. The aim of the work was to evaluate the nutritional composition of gluten-free food products based on the nutritional data indicated on the packaging of these products in order to find out how useful the use of Front-of-Pack labeling (FOPL) Nutri-score will be in distinguishing the nutritional value of products. Material and Methods. We analyzed 206 randomly selected gluten-free food products obtained from commercial retail chains (semi-finished products, other bakery products, biscuits, flour mixtures, porridges, pasta, muesli, snacks, confectionery, etc.) intended for celiacs. Based on the obtained data, we evaluated the composition of the products using a modified algorithm for calculating the Nutri-score. Results. We found that gluten-free products are a very rich source of energy, especially fats, carbohydrates and sugars, while the proportion of fiber and protein is very low. More than one third of the products had a nutritional score of category A or B, which are healthier variants, but over 40% of the analyzed products already fell into categories D or E. We found the lowest average energy value in the case of products classified in category B, the lowest average fat content and saturated fatty acids were found in products labeled A, the highest sugar content was found in products labeled D and E, the highest average protein content in products labeled A. The highest average salt content was found in products labeled C, fiber in products labeled B and A. Conclusions. Nutritional profiling can significantly contribute to several health-beneficial decisions, especially when choosing and buying healthier food options, including gluten-free foods.

Background: Food hypersensitivity (FHS) management requires daily risk assessments of all food and drinks consumed to prevent unpleasant and potentially fatal adverse reactions. Most research has focussed on food allergy in children and families. Little is known about the impact on adults or those with other FHS, such as food intolerance or coeliac disease. This study assessed differences in practices and risk assessment behaviours when eating out for adults with FHS. Methods: Adult UK residents (N = 930; 820 females, 90 males; 95% White; mean age 50 years [±16.6SD]), with food allergy (18%), food intolerance (23%) coeliac disease (44%) or multiple FHS (15%) completed an online survey. Results: Adults checked information to identify foods causing a reaction always or most of the time when eating out. However, adults with food intolerance reported checking significantly less often than adults with other FHS (all ps < 0.001). Adults reporting more severe FHS, medical rather than self‐diagnosis of FHS, previous anaphylaxis, had called an ambulance or been in hospital due to a reaction checked information significantly more often (all ps < 0.001), but were also less confident in the information provided (all ps < 0.05). Adults with allergy, coeliac disease or multiple FHS were also less confident in written and verbal information provided than those with food intolerance (p < 0.01). The type of FHS, greater perceived severity of FHS and having a medical diagnosis consistently predicted risk assessment behaviours when eating out (all ps < 0.001). Conclusion: Clinicians, patients and the food industry should be aware that the type of FHS, patient‐perceived severity and past experience of reactions affect risk assessment behaviours when eating out. This should be considered when providing clinical advice and emergency plans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The low-carb food trend keeps growing as a healthy option despite the absence of a health/ nutrition claim associated with carbohydrate content. Given the high carbohydrate content and popularity of cereal-based products, it is crucial to explore their reduction in this category through scientific literature and global market analysis. In this study, the low-carb cereal-based products were analyzed in depth. Literature search was conducted to retrieve all the publications about low-carb cereal-based products considering a range of time from 2000 until 2022. Using the same keywords, market search retrieved all product launches having the low-carb mention on their labels. Low-carb interest grew gradually, and it was evident in scientific literature and market launches. Bibliometric analysis showed that North America was the most prolific region in terms of publication number. Retrieved cereal-based products (bakery products, pasta and noodles, alongside snacks) were analyzed nutritionally to compare regular low-carb products to those gluten free. High diversity was found among the products due to the absence of regulation and statistically often significant differences were found in energy, carbohydrates, fiber, and protein contents. Overall, low-carb trends should be approached with caution and the carbohydrate type and portion should be carefully evaluated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The market of gluten-free food products has been growing exponentially in recent years. Consequently, it is necessary to conduct research on the effects of various compounds to enhance the quality of these products. The present study is aimed at investigating the effects of adding whey protein concentrate (WPC) and soy protein isolate (SPI) at three levels (0%, 5%, and 10%) and xanthan gum (XG) (0%, 0.15%, and 0.3%) on the textural and rheological characteristics of gluten-free batter and cake based on rice flour. The results showed that increasing the levels of XG, WPC, and SPI improved the apparent viscosity of the batter samples. The effect of WPC on the apparent viscosity was more pronounced than that of SPI, as the highest value (21.9 Pa·s) was related to the sample containing 10% WPC and 0.3% XG. The loss tangent values of the batter samples, measured at a frequency of 1 Hz, ranged from 0.531 to 0.8 for different levels of WPC/XG and from 0.466 to 0.699 for SPI/XG, indicating a gel-like behavior of the batter samples. The sample containing 10% SPI and 0.3% XG displayed the strongest gel with higher storage modulus (982.112 Pa) and loss modulus (458.039 Pa) compared to other samples. Increasing the levels of XG, WPC, and SPI resulted in higher specific volume, porosity, firmness, and springiness of the samples compared to the control sample (P < 0.05). The addition of WPC, SPI, and XG improved the overall acceptability of the cake samples, with the samples containing WPC/XG combination being the most preferred. Ultimately, the cake sample containing 10% WPC along with 0.3% XG introduced as optimal sample. This formulation not only can enhance the characteristics of gluten-free cake but also meets parts of the nutritional needs of consumers, particularly those with celiac disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, gluten‐free pancakes were prepared using rice flour and potato starch at a ratio of 50:50. Due to a lack of gluten networks in these ingredients, the hydrocolloid gums including carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) at 0.5%, 1%, and 1.5% and hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) at 1%, 2%, and 3% were added to improve the quality of the final products. The effects of these hydrocolloid gums on the physicochemical, textural, and sensory properties of the gluten‐free pancakes were evaluated. Pancakes prepared with wheat flour were used as a control sample. The results showed that the addition of both gums decreased the hardness and chewiness of the gluten‐free pancakes while increasing the springiness and their moisture content. Increasing the concentration of the gums resulted in an L* value (lightness) reduction, which produced a darker crust on the pancakes. Moreover, the gluten‐free pancakes containing CMC and HPMC had higher specific volumes than the gluten‐free samples made without CMC and HPMC. From a sensory point of view, the samples containing 2%, 3% HPMC and 1% CMC received the highest overall acceptance score. Thus, CMC and HPMC can be used as improvers in gluten‐free pancakes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: Numerous therapeutic and dietary interventions have been examined in the last thirty years for pediatric patients diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Our interventional study aimed to assess the effectiveness of the gluten-free, casein-free (GFCF) diet in a cohort of Egyptian children with ASD. Materials and Methods: The present clinical trial was conducted as a prospective 12-month, open-label, case-controlled interventional study. Thirty-six ASD children who were newly diagnosed and had not taken any prior psychiatric or rehabilitation therapy were included in this study. The patients were randomly assigned into two groups: group A, which received the GFCF diet, and group B, which served as the control group and was not restricted to food containing gluten and casein for 12 months. All patients were followed up for 1 year. Results: Following the implementation of the GFCF diet in group A, significant improvements in CARS scores were observed compared to group B after 6-month and 1-year follow-up periods. Conclusions: The introduction of the GFCF diet could be helpful and promising for autistic children. Conclusive evidence regarding the effectiveness of the GFCF diet remains a subject of controversy. Nonetheless, our study contributes some evidence supporting its potential benefits for children with ASD. It is recommended that future research on the GFCF diet employ a more sophisticated research design, incorporating a consistent baseline measure that can effectively assess the therapeutic effects of these interventions for individuals with ASD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The market demand for gluten-free food is increasing due to the growing gluten sensitivity and coeliac disease (CD) in the population. The market requires grass-free cereals to produce gluten-free food. This requires sorting methods that guarantee the perfect separation of gluten contaminants from the legumes. The objective of the research was the development of an optical sorting system based on hyperspectral image processing, capable of identifying the spectral characteristics of the products under investigation to obtain a statistical classifier capable of enabling the total elimination of contaminants. The construction of the statistical classifier yielded excellent results, with a 100% correct classification rate of the contaminants. Tests conducted subsequently on an industrial optical sorter validated the result of the preliminary tests. In fact, the application of the developed classifier was able to correctly select the contaminants from the mass of legumes with a correct classification percentage of 100%. A small proportion of legumes was misclassified as contaminants, but this did not affect the scope of the work. Further studies will aim to reduce even this small share of waste with investigations into optimising the seed transport systems of the optical sorter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: A lifelong gluten-free diet is the only treatment for coeliac disease. The cost and availability of gluten-free substitute food (GFSF) remain challenging. Some local areas in England have stopped gluten-free prescriptions for coeliac disease. The aim of this paper is to present the quantitative findings of the financial impact of prescription withdrawal on people with coeliac disease. Methods: A cross-sectional survey with adults in England who reported having been diagnosed with coeliac disease by a health professional. The postal survey was distributed by Coeliac UK to their members in 13 prescribing and 13 non-prescribing local areas that were matched for geographical location and level of deprivation. Additionally, an advertisement for the survey was placed on social media. The questionnaire contained items on the availability and use of prescriptions; the weekly amount spent on GFSF; amount of specific GFSF bought; affordability of GFSF; demographics and health-related variables. Data were analysed by descriptive statistics, analysis of variance and regression analysis. Results: Of the 1697 participants, 809 resided in areas that provided prescriptions and 888 in non-prescribing areas. Participants self-report of their prescription did not always match the local area prescription policy. There was no statistically significant difference between prescribing and non-prescribing areas in how easy or difficult participants found it to obtain GFSF (p = 0.644) and its availability in various locations. Participants in non-prescribing areas purchased most types of GFSF items in statistically significantly higher quantities and thereby spent an additional £11.32/month on GFSF items than participants in prescribing areas (p < 0.001). While taking into account the self-reported prescription status, the amount increased to £14.09/month (p < 0.001). Although affordability to buy GFSF did not differ based on local area prescription policy or self-reported prescription status, it was dependent on equivalised annual income. However, affordability did not influence spending on GFSF. Regression analysis indicated that males and households with additional members with coeliac disease spent more on GFSF. Conclusions: The study has highlighted that gluten-free prescription withdrawal can have financial implications for people with coeliac disease. Any future changes to the prescription policy of GFSF should consider the impact on the population, especially lower income households. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The growing demand for gluten-free products requires the study of alternatives to produce nutritionally and technologically favorable foods. The aim was to evaluate the content and antioxidant capacity of gluten-free bread enriched with whole flour of purple maize (PM) and how starch and bioaccessibility of antioxidant compounds were modified during in vitro digestion. Gluten-free bread was prepared with the addition of 34%, 50%, and 70% PM, and white maize bread served as control. The content of total polyphenols, anthocyanins, and antioxidant capacity through FRAP and TEAC was measured. Specific volume, crumb texture, and starch digestibility were determined in the breads. Simultaneously, in vitro digestion and dialysis by membrane were performed to evaluate the bioaccessible and potentially bioavailable fraction. Bread with 34% PM had a similar specific volume and crumb texture to the control, but higher content of polyphenols (52.91 mg AG/100 g), anthocyanins (23.13 mg c3-GE/100 g), and antioxidant capacity (3.55 and 5.12 µmol tr/g for FRAP and TEAC, respectively). The PM breads had a higher antioxidant content and capacity and higher slowly digestible and resistant starch than the control. These parameters increased as the PM proportion rose. After digestion, anthocyanins were degraded, polyphenols and antioxidant capacity decreased, but they remained potentially bioavailable, although to a lesser extent. Bread with 34% shows acceptable technological parameters, lower starch digestibility, and contribution of bioactive compounds with antioxidant capacity. This indicates that purple maize flour represents a potential ingredient to produce gluten-free bread with an improved nutritional profile. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article explores the use of 13C-depleted algae as a food source for in-vivo NMR experiments on organisms like Daphnia magna. By feeding the organisms with this algae, researchers were able to eliminate interference from the food source in NMR spectra, allowing for more accurate analysis of the organisms' responses to stressors. The study provides details on the experimental methods used and presents qualitative and quantitative analyses of the 13C-depleted algae. The authors suggest that this approach could also be applied to study xenobiotic transformations in organisms and expand the scope of environmental NMR studies. The research was funded by various organizations. [Extracted from the article]

Celiac disease (CeD) is a chronic autoimmune disorder triggered by the ingestion of gluten, affecting around 1% of the global population. It is a multifactorial disease involving both genetics and environmental factors. Nowadays, the only available treatment for CeD is a life-long gluten-free diet (GFD), which can cause a significant burden for patients, since symptoms and mucosal injury can persist despite apparent compliance with a GFD. This could also lead to psychological consequences and affect the quality of life of these patients. Thankfully, recent advances in understanding the pathogenesis of CeD and the availability of various targets have made it feasible to explore pharmaceutical treatments specific to CeD. Recently, the FDA has highlighted the unmet needs of adult patients on a GFD who experience ongoing symptoms attributed to CeD and also show persistent duodenal villous atrophy. This review will outline the limitations of a GFD, describe the targets of potential novel treatment of CeD and provide an overview of the primary clinical trials involving oral and injectable agents for a non-dietary treatment of CeD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of non‐starch polysaccharides of whole unripe plantain flour (WUPF) on the starch hydrolysis rate provides information on the potential glycemic impact of the use of this flour to produce gluten‐free foods. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of the non‐starch polysaccharides (dietary fiber (DF)) present in the peel of unripe plantain flour on starch digestion, texture, and DF content of laminated pasta. The unripe plantain pulp flour (UPF) is used as a reference. Pasta based on these flours is prepared by sheeting. Proximate composition, cooking quality, texture, polyphenol content, antioxidant activity, and starch hydrolysis rate of the pasta are evaluated. An appreciable higher DF content is recorded in the cooked WUPF pasta which is associated with the non‐starch polysaccharides of the peel. In general, the cooking quality and texture of both pastas are similar, falling within the range considered for good quality pasta. The resistant starch content is higher in the pasta of WUPF. The presence of polyphenols in the cooked WUPF pasta may also contribute to reducing the starch digestion rate. The WUPF can be an alternative to preparing gluten‐free pasta with reduced starch hydrolysis and high DF content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

All over the world, the development of products that resemble meat but contain predominantly plant‐sourced ingredients is a prime focus. Meat obtained by rearing animals is associated with a range of important issues related to the sustainability of the planet. Locally, the topic is trending and the cause of various debates among industry role players. This study aimed to explore and analyze plant‐based meat alternative (PBMA) products in the South African retail market as well as review internal (nutritional content and ingredients) and external (country of origin, cost/kg, and label claims) factors of the products. This study also compared the nutritional content of PBMA and comparative meat products. Seventy‐eight PBMA products were included: plant‐based sausages (n = 23), burgers (n = 31), chicken‐style (n = 11), mince (n = 8), and an "other" (n = 5) category providing for a variety of product lines. Information from product packaging (total fat, saturated fat, fiber, protein, sugar, sodium, carbohydrates, and energy density) was extracted for all PBMA (n = 78) and comparative meat product lines (n = 28). Meat products tended to be comparatively higher in saturated fat, while PBMAs were higher in carbohydrate, sugar, and dietary fiber content. Sodium content of plant‐based mince was approximately five times higher than beef mince. On‐pack claims for PBMAs included vegetarian/vegan/plant based (80% of products), high in/source of protein (48%), containing no genetically modified organisms (GMOs; 16%), and gluten free (26%). The plant protein trend has prompted innovation in PBMAs, however, wide nutrient ranges and higher sodium levels highlight the importance of nutrition guidelines for their development to ensure healthier product offerings to consumers. The findings of this study may assist in exploration of consumers' preferences/attitudes or engagement with PBMA products, which could, in turn, guide new product development within the category. However, information about possible barriers, drivers, consumer expectations, and attitudes toward these products is also required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Gluten is a triggering factor for gluten-related disorders. However, the present market provides expensive, less varied and poor nutritional products. Therefore, this study aims to develop gluten-free muffins and improve their nutritional profile, as well as evaluate the physical, chemical and sensorial aspects of them. Design/methodology/approach: A combination of pearl millet, buckwheat and amaranth was used to formulate gluten-free muffin using central composite rotatable design of response surface methodology for optimization of selected parameters (hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose [HPMC], baking temperature and baking time). The optimized muffins were incorporated with Moringa leaves powder. Finally, the final products were compared with the wheat muffins. Findings: The optimization range of selected variables was 1% HPMC, 170°C baking temperature and 30.33 min baking time with a desirability function of 0.75. The incorporation of 5% Moringa leaves powder enhanced the nutritional profile of gluten-free muffins – increased protein (38%), fiber (208%), iron (224%) and calcium (25%) values. However, the overall acceptability reduced due to decrease in flavor and odor. Originality/value: Nonetheless, the ease of accessibility of these convenience gluten-free muffins as well as the nutritional density can help the food research and nutritionists to bridge the gap in current gluten-free market. This puts focus on the use of underutilized crops such as millets and buckwheat which are nutritionally dense. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]