Risk Assessment of Food Allergens – Part 2: Review and establish threshold levels in foods for the priority allergens.
Knowledge of thresholds constitutes a critical requirement to assessing the risk from allergens, as they are a characteristic of the hazard that allergens present to the food-allergic population. FAO and WHO reconvened the Ad hoc Joint FAO/WHO Expert Consultation on Risk Assessment of Food Allergens for a second meeting to provide scientific advice on review and establish threshold levels in foods for the priority allergens. The expert committee concurred that the benchmark dose/probabilistic hazard assessment approach aligned most closely with the requests of the Codex Committees. After extensive discussion, the expert committee reached a consensus on reference doses (RfD) for priority allergenic foods, meeting the criterion for HBGV that they should reflect a range of exposure without appreciable health risk. https://doi.org/10.4060/cc2946en
Microplastics reduce nitrogen uptake in peanut plants by damaging root cells and impairing soil nitrogen cycling.
Microplastic (MP) pollution severely impairs the sustainable development of modern agriculture. However, the mechanisms underlying the effects of MP contaminants on nutrient cycles in agroecosystems are poorly understood. In this study, we examined the impacts of two types of MPs, polypropylene (PP) and rubber crumb (RC), on nitrogen (N) transformation and N cycling in soil-peanut system. High concentrations of PP (1% w/w) and RC (1% w/w) inhibited vegetative growth and N uptake in peanut plants by damaging root cells and disturbing soil N cycling. These MPs damaged the plasma membranes of root cells and caused oxidative stress, as evidenced by the decreased number of xylem vessels, which in turn inhibited N uptake by roots. Integrated metagenomic and metabolomic analyses revealed that the differential soil metabolite levels in response to MP treatment affected the microbial community structure in the rhizosphere and the expression of key N cycling-related genes, resulting in altered N transformation and the decreased availability of N in rhizosphere soil. These findings provide the first evidence of the effects of MPs on N uptake in peanut plants and shed light on the importance of rational management of MPs for crop growth and yield in agroecosystems. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jhazmat.2022.130384
Honey bees save energy in honey processing by dehydrating nectar before returning to the nest.
Honey bees process nectar into honey by active evaporation on the tongue and passive evaporation involving nest ventilation and fanning behaviour, as well as enzymatic action. The elimination of excess water from nectar carries considerable energetic costs. The concentration of the nectar load is assumed to remain constant during transport. However, some of this water elimination may occur before foragers return to the nest and pass their nectar loads to receiver bees. In honey bees captured while foraging in Macadamia orchards, we show that the nectar in their crops has approximately twice the sugar concentration of the fresh nectar in flowers. This was true for four Macadamia cultivars, with up to 75% of the initial water content being removed. There is a further concentration increase in the crops of returning bees captured at the hive entrance. The only possible route of water elimination from the crop is via evaporation from the mouthparts. We calculate the savings in honey processing costs to be on average 35 times more than the reduction in flight costs due to reduced body mass. Pre-concentration of nectar in foraging honey bees may be widespread, and of crucial importance for honey storage. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-022-20626-5
Diversity of Legumes in the Cashew Agroforestry System in East Timor (Southeast Asia).
Cashew is an important export-oriented crop in several tropical countries, often under monocropping systems. Intercropping with legume species is promoted as a sustainable practice, enhancing agricultural productivity and providing nutritional food sources to rural communities. This study aimed to characterize the diversity of Leguminosae (or Fabaceae) in the cashew agroforestry systems of East Timor (Southeast Asia). Fourteen cashew orchards were sampled across the country, and information about leguminous species uses was collected from local populations. About 50 species are commonly part of the country's cashew agroforestry system, many of them simultaneously used as food, fodder, and in traditional medicine. Six bean species-Cajanus cajan (L.) Huth, Phaseolus lunatus L., Phaseolus vulgaris L., Vigna angularis (Willd.) Ohwi and H.Ohashi, Vigna radiata (L.) R.Wilczek and Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.-are largely used as food. The mineral contents of these beans revealed relevant differences between species and, in some cases, between types (seed colour) within species. Periods of hunger and low food variety are frequent in East Timor, reflecting a very poor nutritional state of the population. Knowing and using legumes for local nutrition, as well as for healthcare and well-being, adds great value to these species as components of East Timor cashew agroforestry systems. https://doi.org/10.3390/foods11213503
Effects of cashew nutshell ash on the thermal and sustainability properties of cement concrete.
The present study valorizes cashew nutshell ash (CNA) and uses it at 5-20 wt. % of cement for concrete production. The concrete grades of 25-40 MPa were used as mix design proportions. The thermal and mechanical properties of the concrete samples were determined on day 28 of curing. Regression models were used to predict the thermophysical properties of the concrete specimens. Also, the concrete's sustainability was estimated via the inventory of carbon and energy (ICE). The results revealed that CNA enhanced the thermal insulating characteristics of the concrete produced. Maximum compressive strength was obtained at 15 wt. % of CNA content, while the developed models yielded high precision. Compared with the control concrete, the sustainability index decreased as CNA content in the mix increased, indicating that incorporating CNA in concrete production improves the sustainability of such concrete. Therefore, the outcome of this work can be beneficial, especially in hot or arid climate regions, and at the same time, achieve a cleaner environment. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.heliyon.2022.e11593
Preliminary Evaluation of the Application of Algae-Based Biostimulants on Almond.
To improve almond performance under water limitations, the use of algae-based biostimulants may become a useful tool to reduce drought stress. However, besides possible effects on plant behavior, changes in fruit characteristics must also be considered. In this work, a preliminary study on the effect of two levels of an Ascophyllum nodosum-based biostimulant in the chemical characteristics of fruits from rain-fed cv. Marinada almond trees was carried out. The use of the recommended manufacturer's dosage resulted in a decreased content of soluble sugars and proteins when compared to the use of half the recommended dosage and the control assays (water only). Similarly, and although no significant differences were recorded, the content of bioactive compounds (ortho-diphenols, total phenolics, and flavonoids) tended to increase in non-treated trees. Finally, sensory analysis of treated and non-treated fruits did not record any changes in the perceived attributes, showing that no negative effects on consumers' acceptance will be caused by the application of this product. Long-term studies are needed to further confirm these results, also aimed at the monitoring of leaf gas exchange and water status parameters of trees. https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11223083
Growing health: global linkages between patterns of food supply, sustainability, and vulnerability to climate change.
Global food systems are developing rapidly, and have resulted in a large burden of disease and a high proportion of environmental resource use. We combined global data sources on food supply and trade, environmental footprints, burdens of disease, and vulnerability to climate change to explore patterns from 1990 to 2017. Four distinct patterns of food supply (animal sources and sugar, vegetables and nuts, starchy roots and fruits, and seafood and oils) were matched to health and environmental risks. The animal sources and sugar pattern was found to have the greatest environmental footprint and to be associated with a greater burden of chronic disease than any other pattern, although it was also associated with lower undernutrition. This pattern is globally predominant, but has begun to decrease in higher income countries. Countries where this pattern is predominant are generally among the least susceptible to climate change, whereas more susceptible countries tend to have more sustainable patterns of food supply. More countries that are susceptible to climate change are increasingly exporting a larger proportion than before of their cereals, fruit, and vegetables globally, which will lead to increased risks in global food security. To increase resilience to future shocks, dietary change towards more sustainable patterns should accelerate in high-income countries, and the food systems of the most susceptible countries should be protected. https://doi.org/10.1016/s2542-5196(22)00223-6
The 2022 Europe report of the Lancet Countdown on health and climate change: towards a climate resilient future.
In the past few decades, major public health advances have happened in Europe, with drastic decreases in premature mortality and a life expectancy increase of almost 9 years since 1980. European countries have some of the best health-care systems in the world. However, Europe is challenged with unprecedented and overlapping crises that are detrimental to human health and livelihoods and threaten adaptive capacity, including the COVID-19 pandemic, the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the fastest-growing migrant crisis since World War 2, population displacement, environmental degradation, and deepening inequalities. Compared with pre-industrial times, the mean average European surface air temperature increase has been almost 1°C higher than the average global temperature increase, and 2022 was the hottest European summer on record. As the world's third largest economy and a major contributor to global cumulative greenhouse gas emissions, Europe is a key stakeholder in the world's response to climate change and has a global responsibility and opportunity to lead the transition to becoming a low-carbon economy and a healthier, more resilient society. https://doi.org/10.1016/s2468-2667(22)00197-9
December 2022 News Brief
Register Now for the 2023 INC Congress in London
The INC Congress in London will be here before you know it, so take a few moments now and register to save your spot! From May 22-24, London will welcome the entire nut and dried fruit industry under the umbrella of the INC. It has been just over 25 years since the INC last gathered in London and this coming year is expected to be an unforgettable Congress. As always, the INC Congress is the heartbeat of the sector for three days where the top industry leaders gather to discuss the hottest topics. It is without a doubt the best place to network and grow your business contacts. So, register today! [Register Now]
The INC Pavilion in Gulfood 2023 Serves as a Meeting Point for the Sector
From February 20-24, 2023, the INC will return to Dubai to host its Gulfood Pavilion, and it serves as one of the best opportunities to meet the nut and dried fruit industry. The INC will host 18 co-exhibitors, making it ideal to meet new suppliers or traders. In total, Gulfood will welcome more than 4,000 companies from over 125 countries. So, if you'll be in Dubai, don't forget to come and say hello! [More information]
INC Attends the 35th European Trade Meeting in Hamburg
On November 18, 2022, the INC attended the 35th European Trade Meeting, organized by Waren-Verein der Hamburger Börse e.V., in Hamburg, Germany. The meeting brought together around 100 participants from various nut and dried fruit organizations and companies from 12 countries. Discussions focused on some of the most important topics for the nut and dried fruit industry such as sustainability, consumer trust, thoughts and perspectives from the sectors, EU-politics, food imports on the background of environmental challenges, and the importance of transparency in consumer communications. [Read more]
INC Participates in the UNECE Working Party on Agricultural Quality Standards
The UNECE 77th Session of the Working Party on Agricultural Quality Standards took place from November 14-16, 2022 at the Palais des Nations, Geneva, Switzerland. The meeting served as an opportunity to measure the progress of the Working Party and Specialized Sections, emphasizing the importance of UNECE standards in facilitating international trade in agricultural produce. Mr. Pino Calcagni, Chairman of the INC Sustainability, Scientific and Government Affairs Committee, provided updates on the INC Sustainability Agenda and the multi-country dissemination campaign, which has kicked off in China and will be launched in India next year. Mr. Calcagni also contributed to the roundtable on food loss & waste prevention and reduction, by highlighting the impacts of climate change and giving an overview of zero-waste actions in the nut and dried fruit industry. [Read more]
INC Joins FRUCOM's Open Discussion and Dinner
On November 17, 2022, the INC attended FRUCOM’s open discussion and dinner in Hamburg, Germany. The meeting was attended by around 40 participants from different nut and dried fruit organizations and companies, like the Aegean Dried Fruit Exporters Association (Türkiye), Almond Board of California (USA), American Peanut Council (USA), Blacksea Exporters Association (Türkiye), FoodDrinkEurope (Belgium), Istanbul Hazelnut and Hazelnut Products Exporters Association (Türkiye), NDFTA The Nut and Dried Fruit Trade Association (UK), NZV (Netherlands), Safe Food Alliance (USA), Waren-Verein der Hamburger Börse e.V. (Germany) and the INC. [Read more]
INC Highlights Latest Iran Pistachio Association Market Report
According to the latest Iran Pistachio Association market report, the 2022 crop post‐harvest estimate added up to 106,000 metric tons of dried in‐shell pistachios. With an estimated carry‐over of 15,000 MT, the estimated gross inventory at the beginning of the current marketing year stands at 121,000 MT. Exports during the first month of the current marketing year amounted to 7% of the gross inventory, vs. 14% during the same month of the previous year. September shipments to the CIS countries and the Indian Subcontinent have been relatively strong as compared to other destinations. [Read more]
INC Shares the 2022 Australian Macadamia Crop Result, As Announced by the Australian Macadamia Society
As reported by the Australian Macadamia Society, growers have recovered from the record rains and flooding in NSW and South East Queensland earlier this year to produce a higher than anticipated crop of 52,974 metric tons in-shell @ 3.5% moisture (56,800 MT in-shell @ 10% moisture). Growers in the hardest hit growing region —the NSW Northern Rivers— experienced lower losses and higher yields than expected, while new plantings in the largest growing region —Bundaberg— contributed to increased crop in that area. [Read more]
INC Updates on FDA’s “Healthy” Claim Proposed Rule
As announced in a previous article, on September 29, 2022, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a proposed rule to update the definition for the implied nutrient content claim “healthy”, which was set in 1994. This rule, if approved, will revise the requirements for when the term “healthy” can be used. Nuts, seeds, avocados and salmon are some examples of foods currently ineligible to bear the “healthy” claim based on the existing regulatory definition, but that would qualify...[Read more]
INC Shares Study on How Almond Consumption May Aid Weight Management
A new study published in the European Journal of Nutrition has examined how appetite-regulating hormones and self-reported appetite ratings change after consuming almonds versus an isocaloric carbohydrate-rich snack bar. Researchers conducted a randomized controlled trial in overweight and obese adults aged between 25 and 65 years old. A total of 140 participants were instructed to fast overnight and then consume a random snack, either almonds or a snack bar. In total...[Read more]
Study on the Positive Effects of Regular Brazil Nut Consumption Disseminated by INC
The journal Foods has published a study that analyzed the effects of regular Brazil nut consumption through a systematical review of clinical trials. The databases, PubMed, Embase®, and Scielo were searched and in total, the researchers found 24 clinical trials, of which 15 were non-randomized. In the studies analyzed, Brazil nuts were consumed in a free-living diet. The results showed that there was an improved antioxidant status through higher levels of selenium in all studies that looked at...[Read more]
INC Shares Latest Sustainability News
The INC’s latest sustainability update covers the FAO’s report "The State of Food and Agriculture 2022", which highlights the drivers of agricultural automation and other digital technologies. The update also includes further information from an FAO technical paper on forestry, the 27th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP27), and a WBCSD roadmap for the forest sector. More updates include news from Chile, the European Union, Germany, and Spain. These news pieces discuss a new study on bees, sustainability reporting, gender equality, corporate due diligence, and new laws aimed at regulated lobbies. [Read more]
International Trade News Monitored by INC
See the most recent updates on international trade with information on the thirteenth round of negotiations in a free trade agreement between the European Union and Australia, and a trade mission from the United States of America focused on Spain and Portugal. The trade mission is sponsored by the USDA and the goal is to engage directly with potential buyers from the Iberian Peninsula. Furthermore, read about a workshop between Vietnam and West Africa aimed at boosting cooperation in the cashew industry. The workshop featured the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce, the industry, and Arise Integrated Industrial Platforms. [Read more]
Food Safety Updates Gathered by INC
In the INC’s food safety update for November, you can read about an update on the phytosanitary requirements for the importation of dried date fruits produced in the UAE into Brazil, new standards and codes for dried fruits in East Africa, and various updates from the EFSA on sulfur dioxide and pest risk assessment. Moreover, see updates from Tanzania on their standards for walnut and pistachio oils, a mycotoxin test kit design from the USA, and the traceability of contaminated food. [Read more]
Labeling Updates and Marketing Orders Shared by INC
For labeling updates, see information on a proposed revision of Food Labeling Standards from the Consumer Affairs Agency of Japan that will amend to add walnuts to "specified ingredients" for allergen labeling. Regarding marketing orders, the INC has shared a new increased assessment rate for dried prunes produced in California and a requested extension for and revision of a currently approved information collection for pecan growers in the various U.S. States. [Read Labeling Updates] [Read Marketing Orders]
Almond Consumption May Aid Weight Management
A new study published in the European Journal of Nutrition has examined how appetite-regulating hormones and self-reported appetite ratings change after consuming almonds versus an isocaloric carbohydrate-rich snack bar.
Researchers conducted a randomized controlled trial in overweight and obese adults aged between 25 and 65 years old. A total of 140 participants were instructed to fast overnight and then consume a random snack, either almonds or a snack bar. In total 68 consumed almonds and 72 consumed the snack bar. The participants’ appetite-regulating hormones and self-reported appetite sensations were measured at 30, 60, 90, and 120 minutes following consumption. A subset of participants then consumed a meal challenge buffet to assess subsequent energy intake.
In conclusion, the study revealed that those who consumed almonds experienced 47% lower C-peptide responses, which can improve insulin sensitivity, 39% higher glucagon and 44% higher pancreatic polypeptide responses. These hormones are responsible for sending satiety signals to the brain and slowing digestion. Moreover, those who consumed almonds had a lowered energy intake by 300 kilojoules at the subsequent meal. The positive changes in appetite-regulating hormone responses were not reflected in the self-reported appetite ratings.
Carter, S., Hill, A. M., Buckley, J. D., Tan, S. Y., Rogers, G. B., & Coates, A. M. (2022). Acute feeding with almonds compared to a carbohydrate-based snack improves appetite-regulating hormones with no effect on self-reported appetite sensations: a randomised controlled trial. European journal of nutrition, 1-10.