Investigating the influence of pin-to-plate atmospheric cold plasma on the physiochemical, nutritional, and shelf-life study of two raisins varieties during storage
Cold plasma technology, a non-thermal food processing method, significantly enhances food quality and safety by modifying its physicochemical and nutritional attributes. Additionally, this treatment extends the shelf-life of food products, ensuring prolonged freshness and improved overall quality. The present study systematically examined the effect of cold plasma treatment on various attributes, including moisture content (MC), pH, hardness (H), antioxidant activity (AOA), total phenolic content (TPC), rehydration ratio (Rr), browning index (BI), and color difference (ΔE) in black raisins (BR) and golden raisins (GR). The comprehensive analysis delivers valuable insights into the transformative influences of cold plasma on the physicochemical and nutritional characteristics of these raisin varieties. A Box–Behnken experimental design (BBD) combined with response surface methodology (RSM) was used to determine the optimization of treatment time (5, 10 and 15 min) and voltage (10, 20 and 30 kV). The optimized time and voltage for black raisins was 10 kV with 15 min, whereas, for golden raisins, it was 20 kV with 10 min. Furthermore, the experimentation of shelf-life studies for both raisins illuminated the substantial impact of cold plasma treatment, notably enhancing H, Rr, BI, AOA and TPC. Concurrently, a decline in MC and pH was observed throughout the storage period. Furthermore, plasma treatment improved the quality of raisins by reducing the total mesophilic aerobic bacteria count as compared to untreated ones from 4.65–2.42 to 4.71–2.40 log CFU/g for BR and GR, respectively, and similar results were also noticed in mold and yeast count during the 15 days of storage period. However, Future research of this study should delve into long-term storage effects, scalability for commercial applications, and the underlying mechanisms driving these improvements in raisin quality.
https://doi.org/10.1007/s11694-024-02764-8
Macadamia (Macadamia integrifolia) Nut-Based Beverage: Physicochemical Stability and Nutritional and Antioxidant Properties
The present work presents an investigation of the effects of xanthan gum (XG) and soy lecithin (SL) on the physicochemical stability, fatty acid profile (FAP), and antioxidant capacity (AC) of macadamia nut-based beverages with thermal treatment (TT), as well as physicochemical changes during storage and sensorial acceptability. An extreme vertices mixture design was used, varying the macadamia nut, SL, and XG. The results show that adding XG and SL decreased the Sauter (D[3,2]) and Brouckere (D[4,3]) diameters of particles in macadamia beverages and increased the zeta potential (ZP), which represents greater stability. After applying TT in beverages, D[3,2], D[4,3], and ZP increased. After processing and TT, the FAP and fat nutritional indices changed due to reducing SFA and PUFA and increasing MUFA relative to macadamia nut. No significant difference (p ≥ 0.05) was observed in the FAP of beverages with and without TT. The AC determined by DPPH and ABTS decreased in most beverages upon TT application. During storage for two months, the beverage particle size increased, there was a decrease in brightness, and no significant difference (p ≥ 0.05) was observed in ZP. Sensory analysis showed that the most stable beverage was not the most acceptable due to its viscosity.
https://doi.org/10.3390/beverages10030058
Unveiling the "hidden quality" of the walnut pellicle: a precious source of bioactive lipids
Tree nut consumption has been widely associated with various health benefits, with walnuts, in particular, being linked with improved cardiovascular and neurological health. These benefits have been attributed to walnuts’ vast array of phenolic antioxidants and abundant polyunsaturated fatty acids. However, recent studies have revealed unexpected clinical outcomes related to walnut consumption, which cannot be explained simply with the aforementioned molecular hallmarks. With the goal of discovering potential molecular sources of these unexplained clinical outcomes, an exploratory untargeted metabolomics analysis of the isolated walnut pellicle was conducted. This analysis revealed a myriad of unusual lipids, including oxylipins and endocannabinoids. These lipid classes, which are likely present in the pellicle to enhance the seeds’ defenses due to their antimicrobial properties, also have known potent bioactivities as mammalian signaling molecules and homeostatic regulators. Given the potential value of this tissue for human health, with respect to its “bioactive” lipid fraction, we sought to quantify the amounts of these compounds in pellicle-enriched waste by-products of mechanized walnut processing in California. An impressive repertoire of these compounds was revealed in these matrices, and in notably significant concentrations. This discovery establishes these low-value agriculture wastes promising candidates for valorization and translation into high-value, health-promoting products; as these molecules represent a potential explanation for the unexpected clinical outcomes of walnut consumption. This “hidden quality” of the walnut pellicle may encourage further consumption of walnuts, and walnut industries may benefit from a revaluation of abundant pellicle-enriched waste streams, leading to increased sustainability and profitability through waste upcycling.
https://doi.org/10.3389/fpls.2024.1395543
Resistance of pistachio grafted on different Pistacia rootstocks against Verticillium wilt under field conditions
Verticillium wilt of pistachio (Pistacia vera), caused by Verticillium dahliae, is one of the most important diseases in this crop. The most effective and economical control measure is the use of resistant rootstocks. The main objective of this work was to evaluate the resistance of five rootstocks commonly used in pistachio against the disease under field conditions. Pistachio plants (cv. Kerman) grafted on the rootstocks Pistacia atlantica, Pistacia integerrima, Pistacia terebinthus and cv. Platinum and UCBI hybrids, were planted in a field with high inoculum density of V. dahliae in the soil. Plants grafted on P. terebinthus, followed by P. integerrima, showed significantly higher disease severity values than the rest of the rootstocks almost 53 months after planting; also, plants grafted on P. atlantica were more resistant than those grafted on P. integerrima. These results highlighted the intraspecific variability in resistance to the disease. In addition, the disease was monitored in pistachios grafted onto P. terebinthus or UCBI in an established commercial field with three different zones of V. dahliae inoculum density in the soil (none, low or high). In the high-density zone, the percentage of diseased plants was significantly lower for plants grafted on UCBI than for those grafted on P. terebinthus. The results indicate the importance of rootstock species and specific genotype or seed population used, concentration of V. dahliae inoculum in the soil, and previous history of crops on the plot, on the development of the disease under natural conditions.
https://doi.org/10.1111/ppa.13978
Dendrochronological Analysis of Pinus pinea in Central Chile and South Spain for Sustainable Forest Management
Pinus pinea is an important Mediterranean species due to its adaptability and tolerance to aridity and its high-quality pine nuts. Different forest types located in Mediterranean native and non-native environments provide the opportunity to perform comparative studies on the species’ response to climate change. The aims of this study were to elucidate growth patterns of the species growing in native and exotic habitats and to analyze its response to climatic fluctuations, particularly drought, in both geographical contexts. Understanding stone pine (Pinus pinea) growth responses to climate variability in native and exotic habitats by comparing natural stands and plantations may provide useful information to plan adequate management under climate change. By doing so, we enhance the understanding of P. pinea’s adaptability and provide practical approaches to its sustainable management. In this study, we reconstructed and compared the stem radial growth of seven stone pine stands, two in southern Spain and five in central–southern Chile, growing under different climatic conditions. We quantified the relationships between growth variability and climate variables (total rainfall, mean temperature, and SPEI drought index). Growth was positively correlated with autumn rainfall in plantations and with autumn–winter rainfall in natural stands. Growth was also enhanced by high autumn-to-spring rainfall in the driest Chilean plantation, whereas in the wettest and coolest plantation, such correlation was found in winter and summer. A negative impact of summer temperature was found only in one of the five Chilean plantations and in a Spanish site. The correlation between SPEI and tree-ring width indices showed different patterns between and within countries. Overall, exotic plantations showed lower sensitivity to climate variability than native stands. Therefore, stone pine plantations may be useful to assist in mitigating climate change.
https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13080628
Enhancing nutritional status, growth, and fruit quality of dried figs using organic fertilizers in rain-fed orchards: A case study in Estahban, Iran
The majority of Iranian fig production is exported, making it one of the world's most well-known healthy crops. Therefore, the main objective of the current experiment was to investigate the effects of various types of organic fertilizers, such as animal manure (cow and sheep), bird manure (partridge, turkey, quail, and chicken), and vermicompost, on the nutritional status of trees, vegetative and reproductive tree characteristics, fruit yield, and fruit quality traits in dried fig cultivar ("Sabz"). According to the findings, applying organic fertilizers, particularly turkey and quail, significantly improves vegetative and reproductive characteristics. However, other manures such as sheep, chicken, and vermicompost had a similar effect on the growth parameters of fig trees. Additionally, the findings indicated that except for potassium, use of all organic fertilizers had an impact on macro and microelements such as phosphorus, nitrogen, and sodium amount in fig tree leaves. Also, based on fruit color analysis in dried figs, the use of all organic fertilizers improved fruit color. Moreover, the analyses fruit biochemical showed that the use of some organic fertilizers improved that TSS and polyphenol compounds such as coumarin, vanillin, hesperidin gallic acid and trans frolic acid. In general, the results indicated that the addition of organic fertilizers, especially turkey manure, led to increased vegetative productivity and improvement in the fruit quality of the rain-fed fig orchard.
https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0300615
July 2024 News Brief
Join the INC Academia Today
Gain cutting-edge insights and skills from the industry's top professionals!
In September, the 2024/2025 course of our acclaimed INC Academia will officially launch, offering students the chance to develop their skills with our updated and cutting-edge material! Enroll now to enjoy 40% off with early-bird discounts.
Developed by respected industry and academic experts, over 300 students from leading companies have already benefited from our extensive programs.
Why join the INC Academia?
- Tailored Content: There are two program options to choose from, enabling students to tailor their learning and develop their professional skills based on their own needs.
- Industry Know-How: Students will gain a broad understanding of the nut and dried fruit sector, advancing their careers and adding value to their companies.
- Self-Paced Learning: Online learning lets students set their own pace, focusing on challenging topics and moving more quickly through familiar material.
- INC Certified: Students will become certified by the International Nut and Dried Fruit Council at the end of the course.
Act now to invest in your company's success! [Enroll now]
Elevate Your Global Presence & Join the INC Pavilion at Gulfood
Apply before September 1 for early-bird rates
Join us at Gulfood in Dubai from February 17-21, 2025, where the INC Pavilion will be the premier spot for the nut and dried fruit industry. Secure early-bird rates by registering before September 1. Don’t miss out —apply today to reserve your spot! Our strategically placed Pavilion offers co-exhibitors unparalleled opportunities to connect with high-profile leads, enhance brand visibility and network with industry leaders. Spaces are limited, so act quickly to highlight your brand at this leading global event! [Apply here]
Check Out the Latest Issue of Nutfruit Magazine
July issue available online
The July 2024 issue of Nutfruit is now available on the INC website. This edition covers a wide range of topics and provides valuable insight into the nut and dried fruit industry. You can read about how the INC is targeting Latin American consumers by appealing to Gen Z's appetite and look back on the highlights of this year’s INC Congress in Vancouver. In the Feature Articles section, you can learn about an ambitious soil health study in California, discover how beekeeping is helping Ghanaian smallholder farmers increase yields and diversify their incomes, and more. This issue also features interviews with Andrea Carlson, the Michelin-starred chef of Vancouver’s Burdock & Co, as well as Zeeshan Tarique, Senior Brand Manager, PLANTERS®. You can also learn about pistachios from California in this edition of the Country/Product Spotlight and read up on the latest industry statistics in our Global Statistical Review. Download to read it now! [Read Nutfruit online]
Adherence to Planetary Health Diet May Reduce Risk of Death
This diet calls for consumption of nuts and fruits to more than double
A study published recently in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition assessed the impact of adherence to the Planetary Health Diet (PHD) on total and cause-specific mortality in three cohorts of men and women in the United States. Proposed by the EAT-Lancet Commission in 2019, the PHD is a healthy dietary pattern that could feed the growing global population sustainably while also reducing food waste and improving agricultural practices. The PHD calls for consumption of nuts and fruits, among other plant-based foods… [Read more]
Study Finds Pistachios May Improve Cognitive Performance and Mood in Overweight Young Adults
Significant improvements in waist circumference and cholesterol were also observed
A new study published in Food Chemistry evaluated the impact of pistachio consumption on cognitive performance and mood in overweight young adults. A baseline-final, uncontrolled nutritional intervention was performed in which overweight young adults ate 28 grams of pistachios daily for 28 days. Psychometric tests were applied to estimate cognitive performance and mood. Anthropometric evaluation and biochemical analysis were also carried out and plasma antioxidant activity was measured. Pistachio consumption was associated with statistically significant… [Read more]
Comprehensive Review Compiles Myriad Health Benefits of Almonds
Almond consumption may improve cardiovascular disease risk factors, gut microbiome and much more
A study published recently in Nutrients provides a systematic and updated perspective on the benefits of almond consumption for cardiovascular health and the gut microbiome. The authors conducted a comprehensive review of studies investigating the effects of almond consumption on cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors and gut health. According to their findings, regular intake of almonds has been shown to improve lipid profiles by reducing low-density lipoprotein (“bad”) cholesterol and enhancing the functionality... [Read more]
Sustainability News
The INC’s latest installment of sustainability news includes updates on a California bill that would allocate US$386 million for climate-resilience initiatives, reporting requirements that will be introduced under Canada’s new Federal Plastics Registry, and the publication of the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive in the Official Journal of the European Union. [Read more]
International Trade Updates
The latest trade news compiled by the INC includes information about a new trade deal between Kenya and the European Union, new EU rules regarding the notification of the arrival of consignments of certain types of agri-food goods, the EU’s decision to grant protected designation status to “Osmaniye Yer Fistiği” peanuts from Türkiye, and more. [Read more]
Food Safety News
The INC’s latest food safety update covers new draft MLs for MOSH/MOAH in the European Union, China’s new draft national food safety standard for dried fruit, a new pre-border biosecurity treatment provider scheme in Australia, a new allergen verification sampling program in the US, and more. [Read more]
Labeling Updates
This month, the INC’s labeling update features information about a new bill signed by the Governor of Hawaii that prohibits misleading “Hawaii-grown” claims and requires products containing macadamia nuts grown outside the state to disclose this fact on the label. [Read more]
Effective Co2+ removal from aqueous solution and industrial wastewater using ZIF-7 and MnFe2O4-modified walnut shell biochar composite
In this study, we developed a novel magnetic composite of walnut shell biochar (WSB) and modified it with ZIF-7 for the purpose of removing Co2+ ions. We conducted a comprehensive evaluation of its performance in Co2+ removal, considering various factors such as contact time, temperature, adsorbent dose, pH, and initial Co2+ concentration. Utilizing response surface methodology-central composite design (RSM-CCD), we examined the interactions between these variables. The specific surface area and magnetic saturation value of the WSB/MnFe2O4/ZIF-7 composite were determined as 170.560 m2.g−1 and 23.469 emu.g−1, respectively. ANOVA analysis indicated that our model effectively captures the interactions between variables, with a high R2 value of 0.9982, explaining 99.82 % of the experimental data. Optimal conditions for maximum Co2+ adsorption efficiency (99.05 %) were identified as follows: a contact time of 44.82 min, pH of 6.04, adsorbent dose of 0.947 mg.L-1, temperature of 25.55 °C, and Co2+ concentration of 11.13 mg.g−1. Kinetic studies revealed that the Pseudo 2nd order kinetic model provided the best fit to the experimental data. The negative entropy parameter indicated a decrease in disorderliness during the adsorption process, while the exothermic nature of adsorption was confirmed by enthalpy values of −92.751 and −40.511 kJ.mol−1 for WSB/MnFe2O4/ZIF-7 and WSB, respectively. Furthermore, the Langmuir isotherm model demonstrated excellent fitting to the isotherm results, suggesting the dominance of homogeneous surfaces in adsorption. The maximum adsorption capacities for Co2+ using WSB/MnFe2O4/ZIF-7 and WSB were determined to be 29.26 and 22.39 mg.g−1, respectively. The WSB/MnFe2O4/ZIF-7 magnetic composite demonstrates promising potential for efficiently removing Co2+ from both natural water sources and industrial wastewater, highlighting its versatility and effectiveness in environmental remediation applications. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.seppur.2024.128574
A meta‐analysis of the effects of ultrasonic pretreatment on the characteristics of dried fruits and vegetables
Parameter selection in ultrasonic pretreatment is closely related to the quality of dried fruits and vegetables, so it is essential to investigate the impact of various parameters of ultrasonic pretreatment on the product quality. In this paper, data from 67 relevant literatures were collected to evaluate the effects of ultrasonic pretreatment on dried fruits and vegetables through meta-analysis. Overall, the findings indicated that ultrasonic pretreatment could shorten drying time, reduce hardness and improve color appearance of dried products. Subgroup analysis showed that high power ultrasound (P ≥ 300 W) could increase total phenol content and antioxidant activity of dried fruits and vegetables. Additionally, applying short-duration ultrasound (t < 15 min) increased antioxidant activity, while medium-duration ultrasound (15 min < t < 30 min) simultaneously enhanced flavonoid content and antioxidant activity. In summary, the application of ultrasonic pretreatment has a positive impact on processing high quality dried fruits and vegetables and obtains better-quality products in a shorter time compared to direct drying technology. https://doi.org/10.1111/jfpe.14689
Investigation of antioxidant edible coating and modified atmosphere packaging for enhancing storability of hazelnut kernels
This study investigated the effects of antioxidant edible coating and modified atmosphere packaging for improving storability of dried hazelnut kernels by delaying lipid oxidation and color degradation. Hazelnut kernels were coated with different coating matrix (methylcellulose and chitosan) that contain different antioxidant substances (DL-α-tocopherol acetate, cinnamon essential oil, rosemary essential oil and hazelnut oil) and subjected to an accelerated storage condition at 35 °C for 270 days. Hazelnut kernels were also packed under modified atmosphere (MAP) with 100 % N2 in mylar bags and stored at 35 °C for 180 days. Lipid oxidation (free fatty acids, K232 and K270, peroxide values) and color (browning index) were measured for investigating quality changes during the storage. The free fatty acids of kernels from two packaging experiments remained stable during storage. K232 value of MAP kernels was significantly lower (2.20) than that of control (2.90) at the end of the storage, showing delayed production of conjugated dienes. The chitosan based edible coating with encapsulated cinnamon essential oil and oleic acid (CH/ECO/OA) resulted in significantly (P < 0.05) lower PV values (0.53 meq/kg oil), and all the coated samples had the positive effect on reducing browning index with 12–25 compared with control. K270 (0.04–0.18) remained relatively low throughout the long-term storage. As a result, modified atmosphere packaging performed better than edible coatings. This study demonstrated the importance of implicating proper postharvest technology for reducing lipid oxidation and quality deteriorations of hazelnut kernels during prolonged storage. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jafr.2024.101246