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 […]

Effect of Oxygen-Reducing Atmospheres on the Safety of Packaged Shelled Brazil Nuts during Storage

This work reports the application of oxygen-(O(2)-) reducing atmosphere methods on stored shelled Brazil nut (Bertholletia excelsa H.B.K.) packs aiming to evaluate the degree of aflatoxin degradation; nuts lipid oxidative stability; fungi control; and hygienic conditions improvement. The methods applied were (a) ozone: O(3); (b) carbon dioxide: CO(2); and (c) O(2) absorber pads with and […]

Metabolic resistance mechanisms to phosalone in the common pistachio psyllid; Agonoscena pistaciae (Hem.: Psyllidae)

The common pistachio psyllid; Agonoscena pistaciae; is the most damaging pest of pistachio in Iran; and is generally controlled by insecticides belonging to various classes especially; phosalone. The toxicity of phosalone in nine populations of the pest was assayed using the residual contact vial and insect-dip methods. The bioassay results showed significant discrepancy in susceptibility […]

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 […]

Further mycotoxin effects from climate change

Climate change will affect mycotoxins in food. The 2007 Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change report is reinterpreted herein to account for what may occur with mycotoxins. Warmer weather; heat waves; greater precipitation and drought will have various impacts; depending on which regions of the world and mycotoxin systems are considered. The humidity issues are more […]

Risk of salmonellosis from consumption of almonds in the North American market

Salmonellosis outbreaks from consumption of raw almonds in 2001 and 2004 led to regulations that require mandatory treatment of almonds sold in North America to give a minimum 4-log reduction of Salmonella. This study aims to: 1) assess the risk of salmonellosis associated with almond consumption in North America; with current treatments in effect; 2) […]