Pecan production increased by larger vegetation-free area surrounding the tree

Vegetation control with herbicides is a common practice in pecan [Carya illinoinensis (Wangenh.) K. Koch] orchards that benefits both non-bearing and bearing trees. However; the appropriate size for the vegetation-free area surrounding bearing trees had not been resolved. Vegetation-free circles centered on the Tree 0; 0.9; 1.8; 3.7; and 7.3 m in diameter were established […]

The impact of a Mediterranean diet and healthy lifestyle on premature mortality in men and women

BACKGROUND: The Mediterranean diet has been associated with reduced mortality; few studies have investigated the combined impact of the Mediterranean diet with other modifiable lifestyle factors. OBJECTIVES: The objectives were to investigate the association between adherence to the Mediterranean diet and total mortality and to estimate the overall impact of a combined healthy lifestyle on […]

Effect of irradiation; active and modified atmosphere packaging; container oxygen barrier and storage conditions on the physicochemical and sensory properties of raw unpeeled almond kernels (Prunus dulcis)

BACKGROUND: The present study investigated the effect of irradiation; active and modified atmosphere packaging; and storage conditions on quality retention of raw; whole; unpeeled almonds. Almond kernels were packaged in barrier and high-barrier pouches; under N(2) or with an O(2) absorber and stored either under fluorescent lighting or in the dark at 20 °C for […]

A review of composition studies of cultivated almonds: Macronutrients and micronutrients

Prunus dulcis; the cultivated sweet almond; has long been recognized as a source of nutrients in many traditional diets; and is increasingly promoted as a healthy snack and ingredient. This paper reviews the global research over the past 50 years that has contributed to knowledge on the composition and characterization of almond macronutrients and micronutrients; […]

Brazil nuts intake improves lipid profile; oxidative stress and microvascular function in obese adolescents: a randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND: Obesity is a chronic disease associated to an inflammatory process resulting in oxidative stress that leads to morpho-functional microvascular damage that could be improved by some dietary interventions. In this study; the intake of Brazil nuts (Bertholletia excelsa); composed of bioactive substances like selenium; alpha- e gamma- tocopherol; folate and polyunsaturated fatty acids; have […]

In vivo Antigenotoxic and Anticlastogenic Effects of Fresh and Processed Cashew (Anacardium occidentale) Apple Juices

Cashew apple juice and cajuina (processed juice) are drinks widely consumed in northeast Brazil. In vitro studies have shown that both juices have antimutagenic activity as well as antioxidant effects. These juices contain vitamins; carotenoids; and phenolic compounds. This in vivo study assessed the antigenotoxic and anticlastogenic effects of both drinks against genotoxicity and mutagenicity […]

In-shell pistachio nuts reduce caloric intake compared to shelled nuts

It was hypothesized that consuming in-shell pistachios; compared to shelled pistachios; causes individuals to consume less. A convenience sample of students at a mid-western university (n=140) was recruited; asking them to evaluate a variety of brands of pistachios. A survey at the end of class determined fullness and satisfaction. Subjects entering the classroom were given […]

Application of emerging technologies to control Salmonella in foods: A review

Salmonella is one of the major causes of foodborne illnesses in United States and many other parts of the world. The ubiquitous nature of the organisms and innumerous serotypes present in various foods make it challenging for researchers to strive for its elimination. In the past decade; various novel technologies have emerged with great potential […]