Search Results (70)

The aim of the current study was to determine the scale and underlying causes for the waste of raw and processed fruits and vegetables in Polish households. A survey was conducted on a representative sample of 1100 respondents. The collected empirical data were analyzed using statistical tools such as non-parametric tests, multiple regression methods, and logistic regression. This study assessed the level and determinants of waste of raw and processed fruits and vegetables, identified the reasons for this waste and their impact on its extent, and analyzed the effect of waste prevention methods (including processing) on the scale of product losses. This study showed that the scale of waste of processed fruits and vegetables in Polish consumer households is significantly lower than that of raw products. The level of waste for both raw and processed products vary depending on place of residence, education, income, household size, and, in the case of processed fruits and vegetables, also the age of respondents. The main reason for fruit and vegetable losses in households is missing the product’s expiration date. Logistic regression analysis showed that the most effective strategies for reducing the waste of raw fruits and vegetables include purchasing the right quantities and freezing them. In contrast, practices such as donating food to others or composting were linked to a statistically significant decrease in the likelihood of reducing waste. Full article

The increasing disparity in global food distribution has amplified the urgency of addressing food waste and food insecurity, both of which exacerbate economic, environmental, and social inequalities. Traditional food bank models often struggle with logistical inefficiencies, limited accessibility, and a lack of transparency in food distribution, hindering their effectiveness in mitigating these challenges. This study proposes a novel Food Bank Network Redesign (FBNR) that leverages the Quito Metro system to create a decentralized food bank network, enhancing efficiency and equity in food redistribution by introducing strategically positioned donation lockers at metro stations for convenient drop-offs, with donations transported using spare metro capacity to designated stations for collection by charities, reducing reliance on dedicated transportation. To ensure transparency and operational efficiency, we integrate a blockchain-based traceability system with smart contracts, enabling secure, real-time tracking of donations to enhance stakeholder trust, prevent food loss, and ensure regulatory compliance. We develop a multi-objective optimization framework that balances food waste reduction, transportation cost minimization, and social impact maximization, supported by a mixed-integer linear programming (MIP) model to optimize donation allocation based on urban demand patterns. By combining decentralized logistics, blockchain-enhanced traceability, and advanced optimization techniques, this study offers a scalable and adaptable framework for urban food redistribution, improving food security in Quito while providing a replicable blueprint for cities worldwide seeking to implement circular and climate-resilient food supply chains. Full article

The intensification of agricultural practices, such as the extensive use of synthetic fertilizers, the expansion of irrigation systems, and land use conversion, has led to substantial biodiversity loss and the disruption of ecosystem functions. Traditional washing procedures for fresh produce involve substantial water usage and can generate wastewater, which requires proper management to prevent environmental contamination. By skipping the washing stage, these reduced water and energy inputs contribute to more sustainable agricultural practices. Although this approach may benefit sustainability and the environment, the market success of a product with a sustainable attribute ultimately depends on consumer acceptance and their willingness to pay (WTP) for it. This study investigates consumer preferences and WTP for a local potato variety called “Agria”, with a specific focus on the sustainability attribute concerning the sale of washed versus unwashed potatoes. We conducted an experimental study with consumers in northeastern Spain, where this potato variety is grown, and simulated market shares under varying price scenarios. The methodology involved a choice experiment that evaluated three characteristics: price, local origin, and presentation (washed versus unwashed). The methodology also incorporated attribute non-attendance (ANA) to capture all aspects of the decision-making process. The findings reveal that consumers preferred the locally grown variety over those from other origins and were willing to pay a premium. Although consumers preferred washed potatoes, they would purchase unwashed potatoes at a discount price of EUR 0.2/kg. The results provide marketing and pricing strategies for local producers and retailers and market share projections aligned with consumer preferences for local food. Empirically, the study contributes to the literature on consumer preferences and sustainable food systems by (i) integrating the “washed versus unwashed” attribute with local origin to inform more effective marketing strategies; and (ii) supporting local potato growers through the identification of viable lunch strategies for a differentiated, unwashed product that extends shelf life, reduces food waste, and promotes sustainability by lowering water and energy use in post-harvest processing. For methodologically, it applies ANA in the context of potato choice experiments—an approach rarely used in this domain—to enhance the understanding of consumer decision-making. Full article

Food safety is a critical global health concern, as the consumption of unsafe food can lead to various acute and chronic diseases. While various preservation methods are employed to prevent food spoilage, it remains a significant issue for the food industry, resulting not only in food waste but also significant economic losses for manufacturers and consumers alike. Furthermore, there is growing consumer concern regarding food quality and safety, leading to the rejection of chemical additives due to their associated health risks. Organic acids, naturally occurring compounds of plants and animals, and produced by various beneficial microorganisms, play an important role in enhancing food flavor, preserving nutritional quality, and extending the shelf life of food products. Recognized for their antimicrobial potential, organic acids are commonly utilized as food preservatives, thus contributing to food safety. This review focuses on organic acids as natural preservatives within the food industry. It delves into their chemical structures, mode of action in cells, the types commonly used in preservation along with their general properties, and their antimicrobial activity against bacteria, yeasts, and fungi. These insights are drawn from the published literature, providing comprehensive understanding of the role organic acids play in ensuring food safety and maintaining food quality. Full article

Active packaging using an edible coating could be an essential and sustainable alternative solution to preserve the properties of fruits and to prevent food loss and food waste. Fruits generate significant food wastes and losses. Reducing food waste is a global priority. For this research, nature-based solutions (NBSs) were applied, using micro-sized chitosan (CsMPs) and selenium microparticles (SeMPs), which are green-synthesized from black tea leaf extracts, and thyme essential oil. In this study, the effects of the new generation active food preservative coating agents formed from combinations of micro-sized chitosan (CsMPs) and selenium (SeMPs), and thyme essential oil (Oil) on the quality of “0900 Ziraat” sweet cherry fruits after harvest were investigated. After the fruits were coated with edible colloid solution, they were stored at 4 °C and 21 °C for 20 days, and quality parameter analyses were performed on days 0, 5, 10, 15, and 20. As a result of this study, it was determined that the application of CsMPs + SeMPs and the subsequent application of CsMPs + SeMPs + Oil from colloid solution coatings reduced weight loss, respiration, and decay rates. Also, it was determined that these applications were the most effective in preserving color values (L*, chroma, and hue), fruit firmness, total soluble solid (TSS) amount, acidity content and total phenolics, anthocyanin, and antioxidant capacity. These results show that CsMPs + SeMPs and CsMPs + SeMPs + Oil applications can be used as edible coatings to preserve the quality of sweet cherry fruits and extend their shelf life after harvest. This study’s results will contribute to obtaining micro-sized composite coating agents/agents produced with new technology to extend the shelf life. Full article

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the most common cause of irreversible loss of central vision in elderly subjects, affecting men and women equally. It is a degenerative pathology that causes progressive damage to the macula, the central and most vital part of the retina. There are two forms of AMD depending on how the macula is damaged, dry AMD and wet or neovascular AMD. Dry AMD is the most common form; waste materials accumulate under the retina as old cells die, not being replaced. Wet AMD is less common, but can lead to vision loss much more quickly. Wet AMD is characterized by new abnormal blood vessels developing under the macula, where they do not normally grow. This frequently occurs in patients who already have dry AMD, as new blood vessels are developed to try to solve the problem. It is not known what causes AMD to develop; however, certain risk factors (i.e., age, smoking, genetic factors) can increase the risk of developing AMD. There are currently no treatments for dry AMD. There is evidence that not smoking, exercising regularly, eating nutritious food, and taking certain supplements can reduce the risk of acquiring AMD or slow its development. The main treatment for wet AMD is inhibitors of VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor), a protein that stimulates the growth of new blood vessels. VEGF inhibitors can stop the growth of new blood vessels, preventing further damage to the macula and vision loss. In most patients, VEGF inhibitors can improve vision if macular degeneration is diagnosed early and treated accordingly. However, VEGF inhibitors cannot repair damage that has already occurred. Current AMD research is trying to find treatments for dry AMD and other options for wet AMD. This review provides a summary of the current evidence regarding the different treatments aimed at both forms of AMD with particular and greater attention to the dry form. Full article

Background/Objectives: Cancer cachexia is a multifactorial syndrome characterized by the progressive loss of skeletal muscle mass and adipose tissue. Dalbergia odorifer is widely used in traditional medicine in Korea and China to treat various diseases. However, its exact role and underlying mechanism in regulating cancer cachexia have not been elucidated yet. This research was conducted to investigate the effect of D. odorifer extract (DOE) in preventing the development of cancer-induced cachexia symptoms and figure out the relevant mechanisms. Methods: A cancer cachexia model was established in Balb/c mice using the CT26 colon carcinoma cell line. To evaluate the anti-cachexia effect of Dalbergia odorifer extract (DOE), CT26-bearing mice were orally administered with DOE at concentrations of 50 and 100 mg/kg BW for 14 days. C2C12 myotubes and 3T3L1 adipocytes were treated with 80% CT26 conditioned medium, DOE, and wortmannin, a particular AKT inhibitor to determine the influence of DOE in the AKT signaling pathway. Mice body weight, food intake, myofiber cross-sectional area, adipocyte size, myotube diameter, lipid accumulation, and relevant gene expression were analyzed. Results: The oral administration of DOE at doses of 50 and 100 mg/kg body weight to CT26 tumor-bearing mice resulted in a significant reduction in body weight loss, an increase in food intake, and a decrease in serum glycerol levels. Furthermore, DOE treatment led to an increase in muscle mass, larger muscle fiber diameter, and elevated expression levels of MyH2 and Igf1, while simultaneously reducing the expression of Atrogin1 and MuRF1. DOE also attenuated adipose tissue wasting, as evidenced by increased epididymal fat mass, enlarged adipocyte size, and upregulated Pparγ expression, alongside a reduction in Ucp1 and IL6 levels. In cachectic C2C12 myotubes and 3T3-L1 adipocytes induced by the CT26 conditioned medium, DOE significantly inhibited muscle wasting and lipolysis by activating the AKT signaling pathway. The treatment of wortmannin, a specific AKT inhibitor, effectively neutralized DOE’s impact on the AKT pathway, myotube diameter, and lipid accumulation. Conclusions: DOE ameliorates cancer cachexia through the expression of genes involved in protein synthesis and lipogenesis, while suppressing those related to protein degradation, suggesting its potential as a plant-derived therapeutic agent in combating cancer cachexia. Full article

Food loss and waste (FLW) is a primary focus topic related to all human activity. This phenomenon has a great deal of importance due to its effect on the economic and social aspects of human systems. The most integrated approach to food waste analysis is based on the study of FLW alongside the agrifood chain, which has also been performed in previous studies by the authors. This paper presents a modality of determination of food loss and waste effects with an emphasis on consumer segments in agrifood chains in the form of a predictive model based on statistical data collected based on specific methods in Romania. The determination is made comparatively, using two predictive machine learning-based methods and separate instruments (software), in order to establish the best model that fits the collected data structure. In this matter, a Decision Tree Approach (DTA) and a Neural Network Approach (NNA) will be developed, and common methodologies of the approaches will be applied. The results will determine predictive outcomes for a specific food waste (FW) agent (e.g., consumer) based on pattern recognition of the collected data. The results showed relatively high-accuracy predictions, especially for the NN approach, with lower performances using the DTA. The effects of the application of this predictive model will be expected to improve the food loss prevention measures within economic contexts when applied to real-life scenarios. Full article

The African swine fever virus (ASFV) causes severe disease in wild and domestic pigs, with high mortality rates, extensive spread, and significant economic losses globally. Despite ongoing efforts, an effective vaccine remains elusive. Therefore, effective diagnostic methods are needed to rapidly detect and prevent the further spread of ASF. This study assessed nine commercial kits based on real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) approved in the Republic of Korea using the synthesized ASFV plasmid, 20 food waste samples, and artificially spiked samples (ASSs). The kits were evaluated for their diagnostic sensitivity, specificity, cost per reaction, and reaction running time. In addition, the results were compared with those of the World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH) standard methods. Three commercial kits (VDx^® ASFV qPCR Kit, Palm PCR™ ASFV Fast PCR Kit, and PowerChek™ ASFV Real-time PCR Detection Kit Ver.1.0) demonstrated the highest sensitivity (100 ag/μL), cost-effectiveness (less than KRW 10,000), and shortest running time (less than 70 min). These kits are suitable for the monitoring, early diagnosis, and prevention of the spread of ASF. This is the first report on the performance comparison of ASFV diagnostic kits approved in the Republic of Korea, providing valuable information for selecting kits for testing with food waste samples. Full article

Spoilage fungi are a significant cause of financial loss in the food and beverage industry each year. These fungi thrive in challenging environments characterized by low acidity, low water activity and high sugar content, all of which are common in fruit fillings used in pastry products. Fruit fillings are therefore highly susceptible to fungal spoilage. Fungal growth can cause sensory defects in foods, such as changes in appearance, odor, flavor or texture, and can pose health risks due to the production of mycotoxins by certain mold species. To reduce food loss and waste and extend product shelf-life, it is critical that we prevent fungal spoilage. Synthetic chemicals such as sorbic acid and potassium sorbate are commonly used as preservatives to prevent fungal spoilage. However, with consumer demand for ‘natural’ and ‘chemical-free’ foods, research into clean-label preservative alternatives to replace chemical preservatives has increased. The objectives of this review are (i) to provide an overview of the sources of fungal contamination in fruit filling production systems, from pre-harvest of raw materials to storage of the final product, and to identify key control factors; and (ii) to discuss preservation techniques (both conventional and novel) that can prevent fungal growth and extend the shelf-life of fruit fillings. Full article

The agricultural industry has the potential to undergo a revolutionary transformation with the use of Internet of Things (IoT) technology. Crop monitoring can be improved, waste reduced, and efficiency increased. However, there are risks associated with system failures that can lead to significant losses and food insecurity. Therefore, a proactive approach is necessary to ensure the effective safety assessment of new IoT systems before deployment. It is crucial to identify potential causes of failure and their severity from the conceptual design phase of the IoT system within smart agricultural ecosystems. This will help prevent such risks and ensure the safety of the system. This study examines the failure behaviour of IoT-based Smart Irrigation Systems (SIS) to identify potential causes of failure. This study proposes a comprehensive Model-Based Safety Analysis (MBSA) framework to model the failure behaviour of SIS and generate analysable safety artefacts of the system using System Modelling Language (SysML). The MBSA approach provides meticulousness to the analysis, supports model reuse, and makes the development of a Fault Tree Analysis (FTA) model easier, thereby reducing the inherent limitations of informal system analysis. The FTA model identifies component failures and their propagation, providing a detailed understanding of how individual component failures can lead to the overall failure of the SIS. This study offers valuable insights into the interconnectedness of various component failures by evaluating the SIS failure behaviour through the FTA model. This study generates multiple minimal cut sets, which provide actionable insights into designing dependable IoT-based SIS. This analysis identifies potential weak points in the design and provides a foundation for safety risk mitigation strategies. This study emphasises the significance of a systematic and model-driven approach to improving the dependability of IoT systems in agriculture, ensuring sustainable and safe implementation. Full article

The EU’s goals by 2050 are to ensure food security, prevent bio-diversity loss, and strengthen the EU food system’s resilience. Recent scientific research and the situation in the global market show that the cultivation and processing of raspberries is currently completely unsustainable. This sector is experiencing a huge decline in Lithuania. Therefore, we chose the sustainability of raspberry growing (from farm) and processing (to fork) as an object. The aim of this article was (i) to analyze the raw material of the raspberry plant for product sustainable processing, (ii) to create a digital sustainability measurement model, and (iii) to present sustainable development solutions for effective raspberry growing and processing on Lithuanian farms using content and descriptive methods. This paper discusses how to help small raspberry growers and processors achieve sustainable economic, environmental, and social performance from field raw material to processed products. Analysis of the scientific literature has revealed qualitative and quantitative sustainability indicators for improving raspberry production. The assessment of the sustainability according to our created model revealed the (un)sustainable factors and the current situation in raspberry farms on a Likert scale from very unsustainable to very sustainable. Based on the evaluation we have determined sustainable development solutions. Raspberry growing and processing in Lithuania can contribute to environmental conservation, economic growth, and social well-being, fostering a more sustainable and resilient agricultural sector by investing in R&D, improving productivity, creating employment opportunities and supporting rural communities, establishing a robust waste management system, and embracing renewable energy sources. Raspberry growers and processors can use the digital model we created for the sustainability, efficiency, and development directions of their farm. Full article

In the past years, consumers have increased their interest in buying healthier food products, rejecting those products with more additives and giving preference to the fresh ones. Moreover, the current environmental situation has made society more aware of the importance of reducing the production of plastic and food waste. In this way and considering the food industry’s need to reduce food spoilage along the food chain, edible coatings have been considered eco-friendly food packaging that can replace traditional plastic packaging, providing an improvement in the product’s shelf life. Edible coatings are thin layers applied straight onto the food material’s surface that are made of biopolymers that usually incorporate other elements, such as nanoparticles or essential oils, to improve their physicochemical properties. These materials must provide a barrier that can prevent the passage of water vapor and other gasses, microbial growth, moisture loss, and oxidation so shelf life can be extended. The aim of this review was to compile the current data available to give a global vision of the formulation process and the different ways to improve the characteristics of the coats applied to both fruits and vegetables. In this way, the suitability of compounds in by-products produced in the food industry chain were also considered for edible coating production. Full article

Food losses and waste (FLW) reduction and mitigating climate impact in food chains are priorities in achieving sustainable development goals. However, many FLW-reducing interventions induce additional greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, for example, from energy, fuel, or packaging. The net effect of such interventions (expressed in GHG emissions per unit of food available for consumption) is not obvious, as is illustrated in a number of case studies. We recommend that in the decision to take on FLW-reducing interventions, the trade-offs on sustainability impacts (such as GHG emissions) are taken into consideration. Since FLW induce demand and extra operations in all stages along a supply chain, adequate representation of cumulative GHG emissions along the production and supply chain, including ‘hidden parts’ of the chain, is required, which is challenging in full LCA studies. As a workaround, the case studies in this paper are based on a generic tool, the Agro-Chain greenhouse gas Emission (ACE) calculator that includes metrics and data for common food product categories and supply chain typologies. The calculator represents the structure of a generic (fresh food) supply chain and offers data sets for, amongst others, crop GHG emission factors and FLW in different stages of the production and distribution chain. Through scenario calculations with different chain parameters (describing pre and post-intervention scenarios), the net effects of an intervention on GHG emissions and FLW per unit of food sold to the consumer can be compared with little effort. In the case studies, interventions at the production stage as well as in post-harvest operations, are analyzed. Results show that post-harvest activities (especially FLW) contribute substantially to the carbon footprint of supplied food products. The FLW-reducing interventions are considered to induce additional GHG emissions. In most case studies, FLW-reducing interventions lower total GHG associated with a unit of food supplied to a client or consumer. However, in one case study, the extra emissions due to the intervention were higher than the prevented emission from lowering food losses. Consequently, in the latter case, the intervention is not an effective GHG emission reduction intervention. Full article

Sustainable production and consumption in the food supply chain are critical for the United Nations’ sustainable development goals (SDGs). Therefore, it is significant to identify the factors that shape individuals’ food consumption behaviour. Türkiye prioritises sustainable food consumption and the prevention of food loss and waste as a national focus. Accordingly, this study aims to identify the drivers of individuals’ food consumption habits in Türkiye through a survey with the participants being households in Izmir, the third most populous city in Türkiye. More specifically, the study has two main objectives: (i) to identify the factors influencing households’ food consumption preferences and (ii) to demonstrate how the factors concerning sustainable food consumption interact through a survey conducted in Izmir. Based on the state-of-art literature, an online survey was completed by 515 respondents in Izmir. Through an analysis of the survey responses, this study provides a descriptive analysis of socio-demographic variables and a correlation analysis between socio-demographics and sustainable food consumption behaviours, including food shopping behaviour, food purchasing and consumption behaviour, dietary habits, and food waste behaviour. The results demonstrate that socio-demographic factors such as age, gender, education level, income level, and the number of residents in the household are significant for sustainable food consumption behaviour. The survey results also demonstrate that the respondents do not consider carbon footprint generation from food production and transportation in their decisions or behaviours. The study’s main limitation is that the survey is implemented in a single city, Izmir. Future research may extend the scope to other cities in Türkiye, allowing a comparative analysis. Full article