Search Results (523)

Walnut (Juglans regia L.) is an important economic and oil-bearing tree species, and the nutritional quality of its kernels is influenced by multiple environmental factors. Elevation is an ecological gradient that integratively reflects variations in environmental conditions such as temperature and light availability and shows a certain degree of correlation with kernel nutritional quality. The aim of this study was to clarify the regulatory effect of elevation on the nutritional quality of walnut kernels in Chongqing and to optimize the layout of high-quality walnut production areas. This study used 181 walnut germplasm resources collected from 16 natural populations (production areas) in Chongqing. Six elevation ranges were defined (I: 200–600 m, II: 600–900 m, III: 900–1200 m, IV: 1200–1400 m, V: 1400–1600 m, VI: 1600–1800 m), and twelve nutritional traits of walnut kernels were systematically analyzed, including total fat, protein, soluble sugar, tannin, saturated fatty acids (stearic acid, palmitic acid, arachidic acid), and unsaturated fatty acids (oleic acid, palmitoleic acid, cis-11-eicosenoic acid, linoleic acid, α-linolenic acid). The results showed that the fat content of walnut kernels was generally higher than 60%, with the highest value in zone VI (62.93%). The protein content was the highest in zone III (17.71%) and the lowest in zone VI (16.06%). Soluble sugar and tannin contents were relatively low, both peaking in zone II (3.10% and 10.85%, respectively). The overall content of saturated fatty acids was low, being slightly higher in zone II, with little variation among components across elevations. Among monounsaturated fatty acids, oleic acid was dominant, showing a decreasing–increasing trend with rising elevation, with the lowest value in zone II (20.98%) and the highest in zone VI (26.93%), while palmitoleic acid and cis-11-eicosenoic acid were maintained at low levels. Polyunsaturated fatty acids were dominated by linoleic acid, ranging from 51.22% to 61.04%, with the highest content in zone II and the lowest in zone VI. Comprehensive evaluation and cluster analysis grouped the six elevation zones into three categories, with zone II showing the best nutritional quality, particularly in terms of soluble sugar, stearic acid, and linoleic acid, while zone I had the lowest score. These findings provide a theoretical basis for the selection of high-quality walnut production areas and the precision cultivation of nutrient-rich walnut fruits, as well as important data support for the scientific planning and high-quality development of the walnut industry in Chongqing. Full article

Studies in taurine breeds have shown that genetic selection can improve the fatty acid (FA) profile of bovine milk, but studies are scarce considering Zebu animals. In this study, genetic parameters for FA concentrations and unsaturation indexes in the milk fat of Zebu cows were estimated, with emphasis on Gir and Guzerá breeds. Milk samples from 299 Gir and 266 Guzerá cows belonging to 22 herds distributed throughout Brazil were analyzed using gas chromatography. Fourteen individual FAs, 11 FA groups, four nutritional indexes, and five unsaturation indexes were evaluated. Tri-trait Bayesian models were applied, including 305-day milk and fat yields as “anchor” traits. Systematic effects such as contemporary group, age at calving, diet, sampling age class, and days in milk were considered. Palmitic acid was the most abundant FA, followed by oleic, stearic, and myristic acids. Heritability estimates ranged from moderate to high: 0.28–0.66 in Gir cows, and 0.25–0.74 in Guzerá cows, for individual FAs and FA groups. Unsaturation indexes also showed moderate to high heritability. Genetic correlations were generally strong, with long-chain FAs negatively correlated with short- and medium-chain FAs. The results suggest that genetic selection can be applied to improve the nutritional profile of milk fat in Zebu cattle. Full article

Flavoromics and metabolomics were used to evaluate the effects of selenium-enriched yeast (SEY) in hen feed on the volatile flavor and nutritional quality indicators in the resulting chicken meats. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) were analyzed using GC-MS and odor activity value calculations. Ninety-eight VOCs were identified. The treatment group had more abundant VOCs, with mainly increased fat, mushroom, fruit, and vanilla odor. Modulating the nutritional profile of chicken meat through SEY feed can reduce saturated fatty acid levels, increase unsaturated fatty acid levels, and significantly reduce cholesterol levels in Dongxiang green-shell chicken (DX). Metabolomics analysis has elucidated the potential mechanisms, whereby adding SEY to the diet of DX reduces cholesterol levels through secondary bile acid biosynthesis pathways. Its related metabolic changes may also directly or indirectly promote the formation of key substances that give meat its flavor. Adding SEY to the diet of Jingfen laying hens affects the muscle metabolism environment via the propanoate metabolism pathway, increasing the grassy notes of chicken meat while reducing its gamey taste. Full article

The excessive intake of saturated and trans fats is associated with several chronic disorders. Reformulating foods to reduce total and saturated fats has therefore become a global health priority. However, the structural and sensory roles of saturated fats often hinder direct reduction. Oil structuring technologies, such as gelled emulsions, have emerged as effective strategies to replace solid fats with liquid vegetable oils, improving nutritional quality. This study evaluated the effects of partially replacing pork backfat (33% and 66%) with oil-in-water gelled emulsions prepared using pumpkin seed oil and orange peel flour (PS-GE) in English breakfast sausages. Reformulated samples exhibited higher moisture contents, whereas fat and protein levels were reduced compared with the control. Increasing the proportion of PS-GE substitution led to a progressive rise in total unsaturated fatty acids accompanied by a decrease in total saturated fatty acids. Lipid oxidation was not affected by the reformulation in raw sausages. Sensory evaluation confirmed comparable acceptability among all samples, indicating that fat replacement did not negatively influence product quality. Overall, the use of orange peel flour and pumpkin seed oil as a gelled emulsion presents a promising strategy for producing healthier English breakfast sausages with enhanced nutritional profiles and maintained technological and sensory properties. Full article

Background: Pediatric obesity exemplifies the paradox of energy excess coexisting with nutritional inadequacy. Despite high caloric intake, children with obesity often display deficiencies in essential macro- and micronutrients that impair growth, metabolic regulation, and long-term health. This review critically examines the mechanisms underlying malnutrition in pediatric obesity, emphasizing the interplay between dietary quality, inflammation, microbiota alterations, and biomarker profiles, and identifies research gaps limiting precision nutrition approaches. Methods: A comprehensive narrative review of studies addressing macro- and micronutrient intake, metabolic and inflammatory biomarkers, and gut microbiota–host interactions in pediatric obesity was conducted. Evidence from both clinical and experimental models was integrated to evaluate mechanistic pathways, diagnostic criteria, and preventive strategies. Results: Obesity-related malnutrition arises from poor dietary quality, systemic inflammation, and microbiota dysbiosis, leading to impaired nutrient utilization and metabolic dysfunction. Deficiencies in vitamin D, calcium, iron, magnesium, and B vitamins are common and often coexist with macronutrient imbalances. Diets rich in saturated fats and refined carbohydrates exacerbate inflammation and metabolic risk, whereas plant-based proteins, unsaturated fats, and fiber support metabolic resilience. Precision nutrition and biomarker-guided monitoring show promise but require validation in pediatric cohorts. Evidence on microbiota modulation and nutrient–gene interactions remains inconsistent, reflecting methodological heterogeneity. Conclusions: Malnutrition in pediatric obesity should be recognized as a distinct clinical phenotype characterized by qualitative nutrient deficiency within a state of energy surplus. Addressing this paradox demands harmonized diagnostic criteria, longitudinal biomarker surveillance, and individualized dietary strategies informed by genetics and microbiome profiling. Multilevel interventions, linking clinical practice, policy, and food system reform, are essential to prevent lifelong metabolic complications and promote healthy growth trajectories. Full article

Background/Objectives: Nutrition during the reproductive years shapes women’s immediate health, fertility, pregnancy outcomes, and long-term offspring well-being. This position paper narratively synthesizes and critically appraises evidence on how dietary patterns, macro-/micronutrients, and supplementation influence women’s health, female fertility, and reproductive outcomes, to inform practical recommendations. Methods: We narratively reviewed recent reviews, cohort studies, clinical trials, and public-health guidance on macronutrients, key micronutrients, dietary patterns (with emphasis on the Mediterranean diet), ultra-processed food (UPF) intake, and targeted supplementation relevant to menstrual, metabolic, cardiovascular, skeletal, and reproductive outcomes. Results: Balanced, diverse diets rich in whole and minimally processed foods support hormonal regulation, ovulatory function, healthy gestation, and chronic-disease risk reduction. Priority nutrients include iron, folate, calcium, vitamin D, zinc, vitamin B12, and long-chain omega-3s (DHA), with supplementation considered when dietary intake or bioavailability is inadequate. Evidence consistently links Mediterranean-style eating to improved metabolic health, insulin sensitivity, IVF success, lower gestational diabetes risk, and favorable neonatal outcomes. High UPF consumption is associated with poorer diet quality, inflammation, adverse pregnancy outcomes, and potential reproductive impairment, warranting a reduction in favor of nutrient-dense foods. Diet also influences cardiovascular and bone health through effects on lipids, glycemia, blood pressure, and mineral/vitamin status, with fiber-rich carbohydrates, unsaturated fats (notably olive oil), and adequate calcium–vitamin D emerging as central levers. Conclusions: For women of childbearing age, a Mediterranean-aligned, minimally processed dietary pattern—tailored to individual needs and complemented by prudent use of folate, iron, vitamin D, calcium, B12, and DHA when indicated—offers robust benefits across reproductive, metabolic, cardiovascular, and skeletal domains. Public-health actions should improve access to healthy foods, curb UPF marketing, and embed personalized nutrition counseling in routine care; further longitudinal research from preconception through postpartum is needed. Full article

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune and neurodegenerative disorder of the central nervous system (CNS), characterized by demyelination, neuronal loss and physical disability. To date, the exact causes of MS remain unknown. Lifestyle factors, in particular diet, have received growing attention due to their impact on human health, their role in modulating disease pathogenesis, and their influence on gut microbiota composition and activity. As a result, numerous studies have been conducted to examine how specific nutrients, and thereby distinct dietary patterns, may affect the onset and progression of MS. In this narrative review, we aim to explore the most recent and updated evidence concerning the role of fatty acids, carbohydrates, proteins and fibers macronutrients in MS development and progression by evaluating the most relevant literature findings from preclinical models, and clinical trials on people with MS. Dietary macronutrients influence MS pathology through immune and gut–brain axis modulation. Diets rich in saturated fats and refined carbohydrates exacerbate neuroinflammation, promote Th1/Th17 polarization, and worsen disease severity. Conversely, monounsaturated and omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, dietary fibers, and adequate tryptophan metabolism exert anti-inflammatory effects, enhance regulatory T cell (Treg) activity, and improve clinical outcomes. Fiber-derived short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and omega-3 metabolites also support gut barrier integrity and suppress astrocyte activation. Evidence on dairy, meat and gluten remains inconclusive, though certain milk proteins and certain components of red/processed meat and of wheat may promote inflammation. Overall, anti-inflammatory and fiber-rich diets, such as those emphasizing unsaturated fats and low sugar intake, appear to confer protective effects in MS. The clarification of the role of dietary components in relation to the disease could help to guide patients toward a healthy and balanced diet, with positive effects on their overall health. Full article

Sesame seed oil is a bioactive-rich lipid source, notable for lignans, tocopherols, and unsaturated fatty acids that underpin its antioxidant and cardioprotective properties. This study optimized two innovative, non-thermal extraction techniques—pulsed electric field (PEF) and ultrasound bath-assisted extraction (UBAE)—to maximize yield and preserve oil quality for functional food applications. A blocked definitive screening design combined with response surface methodology modeled the effects of energy power (X₁, 60–100%), liquid-to-solid ratio (X₂, 10–20 mL/g), and extraction time (X₃, 10–30 min) on fat content, DPPH antiradical activity, and oxidative stability indices (Conjugated Dienes, CDs/Conjugated Trienes, CTs). UBAE achieved the highest fat yield—59.0% at low energy (60%), high X₂ (20 mL/g), and short X₃ (10 min)—while PEF maximized DPPH to 36.0 μmol TEAC/kg oil at high energy (100%), moderate X₂ (17 mL/g), and short X₃ (10 min). CDs were minimized to 19.78 mmol/kg (UBAE, 60%, 10 mL/g, 10 min) and CTs to 3.34 mmol/kg (UBAE, 60%, 12 mL/g, 10 min). Partial least squares analysis identified X₂ and X₃ as the most influential variables (VIP > 0.8), with energy–time interplay (X₁ × X₃) being critical for antioxidant capacity. Compared to cold-pressing and Soxhlet extraction, PEF and cold-pressing retained higher antioxidant activity (~19 μmol TEAC/kg) and oxidative stability (TBARS ≤ 0.30 mmol MDAE/kg), while Soxhlet—though yielding 55.65% fat—showed the poorest quality profile (Totox value > 560). Both non-thermal techniques can deliver bioactive-rich sesame oil with lower oxidative degradation, supporting their application in functional foods aimed at improving dietary antioxidant intake and mitigating lipid oxidation burden. PEF at high energy/short time and UBAE at low energy/short time present complementary, scalable options for producing high-value edible oils aligned with human health priorities. As a limitation, we did not directly quantify lignans or tocopherols in this study, and future work will address their measurement and bioaccessibility. Full article

To enhance the nutritional value of sheep fat, high-melting-point solid fat (HSO) and low-melting-point liquid oil (LSO) were prepared from Altay sheep rump fat via solvent fractionation. The effects of HSO and LSO on lipid metabolism and intestinal health were evaluated in a mouse model. Results showed that HSO, rich in saturated fatty acids (SFA), induced obesity, dyslipidemia, and colonic inflammation in mice. These adverse effects were associated with the upregulation of hepatic lipid synthesis genes such as Sterol regulatory element-binding protein 1c (SREBP-1c) and Fatty acid synthase (FAS), as well as increased expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines including Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and Interleukin-6 (IL-6) in the colon. In contrast, LSO, which was predominantly composed of unsaturated fatty acids (UFA), did not cause significant metabolic disorders. Instead, it promoted the upregulation of fatty acid oxidation-related genes such as Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPARα) and Acyl-CoA oxidase 1 (Acox1), helped maintain intestinal microbial balance, and enhanced the production of beneficial short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), particularly butyrate and propionate. In conclusion, solvent fractionation effectively modulates the fatty acid composition of sheep fat, thereby influencing lipid metabolism and inflammatory responses through the regulation of key gene expression and modulation of the gut microenvironment. Full article

The black soldier fly (BSF), Hermetia illucens, has gained increasing attention as a sustainable protein source for animal feed. This study investigated the effects of dietary supplementation with hemp seed oil (HSO) at 0.5–6% concentrations on the growth performance and nutritional composition of black soldier fly larvae (BSFL). Larval development, survival rate, body weight, and adult longevity were evaluated under controlled conditions. In addition, chemical characterization of HSO was performed, and the proximate composition, mineral content, and amino acid profile of dried larvae were analyzed. The results indicated that HSO supplementation had no statistically significant effect on developmental time, survival rate, biomass accumulation, or adult lifespan compared to the control. Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) profiling of HSO revealed a wide range of bioactive compounds, including unsaturated fatty acids (UFAs), phytosterols, cannabinoids, and tocopherols. The BSFL showed high levels of fat and energy, with essential amino acids and minerals present in favorable concentrations for feed applications. The HSO improves the protein levels at the 0.5–1.0% concentration, with negative correlations at higher concentrations. The findings suggest that HSO can be integrated into BSFL diets without adverse effects on growth performance, while potentially enhancing the functional value of the larvae. This supports the feasibility of incorporating hemp by-products into insect-rearing systems to promote circular and value-added feed production. Full article

The incorporation of Camelina sativa and its by-products (oil, meal, seeds, and expellers) into ruminant diets improves feed efficiency and reduces environmental impacts. This systematic review and meta-analysis, conducted in line with PRISMA guidelines, identified 79 studies, of which 8 met strict inclusion criteria, yielding 23 comparisons. Data were analyzed using random-effects models in R with additional meta-regression and sensitivity analyses. Camelina supplementation significantly reduced dry matter intake (DMI; MD = −0.63 kg/day, p = 0.0188) with high heterogeneity (I² = 98.6%), largely attributable to product type and dosage. Although the pooled effect on daily milk yield was non-significant (MD = −1.11 kg/day, p = 0.1922), meta-regression revealed a significant positive dose–response relationship (β = 0.3981, p < 0.0001), indicating higher milk yield at greater Camelina inclusion levels. Camelina oil and its mixtures reduced rumen pH and methane emissions, consistent with polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA)-mediated suppression of methanogenesis. Impacts on milk fat and protein are inconsistent, but improvements in unsaturated fatty acid profiles, including omega-3 and conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), have been reported. Camelina also lowered milk urea (MD = −1.71 mmol/L), suggesting improved nitrogen utilization. Despite promising outcomes, substantial variability and limited sample sizes restrict generalizability, underscoring the need for standardized, long-term trials. Full article

The Aubrac cattle breed, native to France and increasingly adopted in Eastern Europe, is known for producing tender, flavorful, and well-marbled beef. Despite its growing popularity, limited data exist on its nutritional profile and implications for human health. This study evaluates carcass traits and protein quality in the Longissimus dorsi muscle of male and female Aubrac cattle raised under semi-intensive systems. Special attention was given to essential and semi-essential amino acids, which exceeded FAO/WHO reference requirements by 60.25%, 97.43%, and 221.49% for children, youth individuals, and adults, respectively, confirming superior protein quality. The high amino acid concentration (up to 30.59 g/100 g protein) and biological value confirm superior protein quality. Furthermore, the fatty acid profile reveals a favorable balance between saturated and unsaturated fats, with oleic acid predominance and a moderate atherogenic index, suggesting cardiovascular benefits. These findings support classifying Aubrac beef as a functional protein source with potential health advantages, reinforcing its role in sustainable cattle production, dietary planning, and consumer education. This study provides insights into factors influencing beef quality, connecting cattle breed and production system with nutritional value and health benefits. Full article

Oleogels are a new trend in food technology aimed at enhancing the nutritional value of products that contain solid fats. Solid fats are rich in nutritionally unfavorable saturated fatty acids (FAs), but oleogels (lipid systems derived from oleogelator and oils) are in unsaturated FAs. The use of oils rich in oxidation-prone unsaturated FAs in pastry products requires the use of an antioxidant, such as green tea extract (GTE). However, new products with altered composition should also be acceptable to consumers. The purpose of this study was to carry out a sensory evaluation of short-dough biscuits obtained with 1% of GTE and high-oleic oleogels and to find what may influence consumers’ anticipated perception. Products with monoacylglycerols (MAG) and candelilla wax (CLX) oleogels and non-gelled high-oleic rapeseed oil (HORO) were found to have equal or better sensory quality compared to products with traditional baker’s (palm) fat (PF). In terms of sensory attributes, products with ethyl cellulose oleogels were the most distinct from the other biscuits. Their sensory qualities were significantly lower, with a more noticeable rancid odor and taste. Products with CLX and MAG oleogels were more preferred than those with PF, as consumers were more likely to purchase them based on sensory impressions. Information about the presence of GTE and HORO in the formulation was shown to affect the perception of the product. Similarly, the information about the low saturated fat content encouraged consumers to purchase such products. Based on this, it can be concluded that displaying this type of information can help educate consumers, support better decision-making, and promote the selection of more nutritious options. Full article

Objectives: The rapid aging of the U.S. population has raised concerns about age-related cognitive decline and Alzheimer’s disease. Therefore, we aimed to characterize diet quality, nutrient intake, and to examine the associations between specific dietary components and cognitive performance in older adults. Design: Cross-sectional observational study. Setting: Community-based recruitment. Participants: Data from 72 community-dwelling adults aged 65 years and older was analyzed. Measurements: Cognitive performance was assessed using subtests from the Consortium to Establish a Registry for Alzheimer’s Disease (CERAD) battery, evaluating episodic memory (Word List Memory/Recall/Recognition), visuospatial skills (Constructional Praxis), and executive function (Verbal Fluency). A composite cognitive score was calculated from memory and visuospatial subtests. Habitual dietary intake was evaluated using structured 24-h recalls to calculate nutrient intake and the Healthy Eating Index score, supplemented by the Short HEI questionnaire. Demographics, health history, depressive symptoms (Patient Health Questionnaire-9), and sleep quality (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index) were also collected. Results: Participants demonstrated suboptimal diet quality (mean HEI score 62.9 ± 10.69; recommended >80), with only 9.7% meeting fiber recommendations, 11% meeting calcium or vitamin A recommendations, and 1.4% meeting vitamin D requirements. In bivariate comparisons, higher cognitive performance was observed in younger participants (75.5 vs. 79.5 years; p < 0.01) and females (78% vs. 50%; p = 0.024). Regression models identified significant positive associations between cognitive scores and intakes of dietary fiber (p = 0.007), unsaturated fats (mono- and polyunsaturated; p = 0.012–0.033), protein (p = 0.018), carotenoids (α-carotene, p = 0.001; β-carotene, p = 0.026; lutein + zeaxanthin, p = 0.016), vitamins A (p = 0.044) and E (p = 0.034), and minerals including magnesium (p = 0.006), potassium (p = 0.004), copper (p = 0.008), zinc (p = 0.024), and calcium (p = 0.035). Refined grain intake was inversely associated with cognition (p = 0.011). Conclusions: In this population, dietary components like fiber and micronutrients were positively associated with better cognitive function, and the overall nutrient intake shortfalls observed highlight the need for targeted dietary interventions to support healthy brain aging. Therefore, this work advances our understanding by highlighting potential modifiable nutritional targets for clinical trials focused on delaying or preventing cognitive decline. Full article

Background/Objectives: Marine-derived oils rich in long-chain polyunsaturated fats have long been associated with positive effects on plasma lipid levels and anti-inflammatory responses. Abalone viscera are rich in oils that are rarely extracted and made available. Methods: Abalone viscera oil (AVO) was extracted by multistage countercurrent extraction using ethanol as a solvent, and its oil quality, fatty acid composition, and in vitro antioxidant activity were determined. Meanwhile, the anti-hyperlipidemic effect of AVO on HFD-induced hyperlipidemia mice was evaluated. Results: The abalone viscera were extracted at a solid–liquid ratio of 1:3 with an oscillation frequency of 300 rpm for 40 min, and the extraction rate was 81.18% after four-stage countercurrent extraction. The acid value, iodine value, peroxide value, vitamin E, and astaxanthin of AVO were 1.26 mg KOH/g, 140.9 g/100 g, 3.6 meq/kg, 105 mg/kg, and 533.8 mg/kg, respectively. The unsaturated fatty acids of AVO account for 56.60%, with eicosapentaenoic acid (C20:5n3) and arachidonic acid (C20:4n6) the two predominant PUFAs, and oleic acid (C18:1n9) the most dominant MUFA. The DPPH, ABTS, and ·OH radicals scavenging capacities of AVO increased with concentration, and the IC₅₀ values were 6.30 mg/mL, 0.45 mg/mL, and 8.95 mg/mL, respectively. Moreover, the administration of AVO significantly alleviated HFD-induced weight gain, liver fat accumulation, lipid disorder, and oxidative stress in mice. Conclusions: Collectively, our study provides a theoretical basis for the application of AVO and the comprehensive utilization of abalone viscera, which helps increase the additional value of abalone. Full article