CD23+IgG1+ memory B cells are poised to switch to pathogenic IgE production in food allergy

Food allergy is caused by allergen-specific immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies, but little is known about the B cell memory of persistent IgE responses. Here, we describe, in human pediatric peanut allergy, a population of CD23+IgG1+ memory B cells arising in type 2 immune responses that contain high-affinity peanut-specific clones and generate IgE-producing cells upon activation. The […]

Supplementation of the maternal diet with Brazil nut (Bertholletia excelsa HBK) prevents cognitive impairment in the offspring of obese mothers

Maternal obesity may trigger long-term neurodevelopmental disorders in offspring. Considering the benefits of the Brazil nut (Bertholletia excelsa H.B.K.), a rich source of nutrients such as selenium, this study aimed to evaluate its effect on the behavior of obese rat offspring and its relationship with oxidative stress. From 60 days of age until weaning, female […]

The Effect of Raisin (Currant) Intake on Anthropometric Indices and Blood Pressure: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomised Controlled Trials

Introduction: Raisins are a relatively healthy snack, particularly when compared to snacks with a high glycemic index, and can have beneficial effects on human health against chronic disorders. However, contradictory information has been reported on the effect of raisin consumption on anthropometric indices and blood pressure. This systematic review and meta-analysis sought to evaluate the […]

Metabolisable energy from nuts and patterns of nut consumption in the Australian population: a secondary analysis of the 2011-12 National Nutrition and Physical Activity Survey

Background: Nut intake is not associated with increased body weight, which may be explained by their metabolisable energy, among other factors. Therefore, total energy intake may be overestimated among nut consumers. This study aimed to describe the metabolisable energy from nuts and nut consumption patterns in the Australian population. Methods: A nut-specific database was expanded […]

Prunes preserve cortical density and estimated strength of the tibia in a 12-month randomized controlled trial in postmenopausal women: The Prune Study

Summary: Non-pharmacological therapies, such as whole-food interventions, are gaining interest as potential approaches to prevent and/or treat low bone mineral density (BMD) in postmenopausal women. Previously, prune consumption preserved two-dimensional BMD at the total hip. Here we demonstrate that prune consumption preserved three-dimensional BMD and estimated strength at the tibia. Purpose: Dietary consumption of prunes […]

Daily Cashew and Brazil Nut Consumption Modifies Intestinal Health in Overweight Women on Energy-Restricted Intervention: A Randomized Controlled Trial (Brazilian Nuts Study)

Background: Increased intestinal permeability and dysbiosis are related to obesity. Nuts can provide nutrients and bioactive compounds that modulate gut microbiota and inflammation, enhancing the beneficial effects of weight loss. Objectives: To evaluate the effect of consuming cashew nuts (Anacardium occidentale L.) and Brazil nuts (Bertholletia excelsa H.B.K) on intestinal permeability and microbiota, fecal SCFAs […]

Marketing Orders: February 2024

USA: Assessment Rate Decreased for California Walnuts A rule issued by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) implements a recommendation from the California Walnut Board to decrease the assessment rate for California walnuts handled under Marketing Order No. 984. This rule decreases the assessment rate for California walnuts handled under the Order from US$0.0125 per […]

Food Safety Update: February 2024

EU: Restrictions on Use of Flavoring Substances Commission Regulation (EU) 2024/238, published in the Official Journal of the European Union on January 16, 2024, introduces restrictions on the use of certain flavoring substances. Substance Food category Maximum level 2-Phenylcrotonaldehyde Processed fruits and vegetables 0.05 mg/kg 5-Methyl-2-phenylhex-2-enal Processed fruits and vegetables 1.10 mg/kg 4-Methyl-2-phenylpent-2-enal Processed fruits […]

Latest Trade News and Agreements: February 2024

EU: Increased Controls on Certain Organic Products The European Commission, together with the Group of Experts on Organic Production, has assessed the information in the Organic Farming Information System (OFIS) and concluded that increased control and reporting measures are necessary for certain imported products. The additional control measures will be applied to the following organic […]