Development and characterization of gelatin-based biodegradable films incorporated with pistachio shell hemicellulose
This study aimed to incorporate pistachio shell hemicellulose into a film of gelatin and glycerol for the production of biodegradable films. The gelatin and glycerol are chosen because of their functional properties, which make it extensively used in food industry. The film composition was defined after a statistical optimization by central composite face-centered design and response surface methodology. The hemicellulose/gelatin ratio of 35.93% and the glycerol ratio of 18.02% were the optimum conditions to obtain lower film water solubility, higher tensile strength, and elongation at break values. The physical, structural, mechanical, and barrier properties of the developed hemicellulose-gelatin film were analyzed and compared with those of the gelatin film. Tensile strength and film water solubility values were reduced significantly with hemicellulose incorporation from 20.41 to 16.64 MPa and 49.57 to 39.21%, respectively, while EB was enhanced by 4.34 times. In addition, hemicellulose incorporation enhanced the water vapor permeability and the film degradation in the soil. The films were also examined by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and differential scanning calorimetry. The novelty of this study is to use pistachio shell hemicellulose in the production of an edible film for the first time. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13197-024-05968-4
Effect of pilot-scale high-temperature short-time processing on the retention of key micronutrients in a fortified almond-based beverage: implications for fortification of plant-based milk alternatives
The effect of thermal processing treatments on key micronutrients in fortified almond-based beverages has not been well characterized. An almond-based beverage was produced in a pilot plant, fortified with vitamin A palmitate, vitamin D2, riboflavin (vitamin B2), calcium carbonate, and zinc gluconate, and was processed using various high-temperature short-time (HTST) pasteurization treatments. Naturally present micronutrients in the base ingredients included several B vitamins (vitamin B1 [thiamin], total vitamin B3 [sum of nicotinamide and nicotinic acid], and total vitamin B6 [sum of pyridoxal, pyridoxamine, and pyridoxine]) and minerals (magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium). The prepared almond-based beverage was homogenized and thermally processed using HTST pasteurization with a temperature range from ~94 to 116°C for a constant time of 30 s. The samples were analyzed for vitamin A palmitate, vitamin D2, target B vitamins (thiamin, riboflavin, total vitamin B3, and total vitamin B6), and minerals (magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, and zinc). The results showed that amounts of vitamin A, vitamin D2, riboflavin, and total vitamin B6 did not significantly (p > 0.05) change after the HTST treatments, whereas thiamin significantly (p < 0.05) decreased by 17.9% after HTST treatment at 116°C. Interestingly, total vitamin B3 content significantly (p < 0.05) increased by 35.2% after HTST treatment at 116°C. There was no effect of processing on the minerals that were monitored. The results from this study indicate that the majority of key micronutrients assessed in this study are stable during HTST processing of an almond-based beverage and that fortification of plant-based milk alternatives may be a viable process to enhance the micronutrient content consumers receive from these products. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnut.2024.1468828
Experimental Analysis and Development of Novel Drying Kinetics Model for Drying Grapes in a Double Slope Solar Dryer
This experimental study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of natural and forced convective drying techniques in reducing the moisture content of the grapes in comparison with the conventional open sun drying method. Moisture effective diffusivity and activation energy were graphically determined using the Arrhenius equation. In the initial three-day period, forced convection drying significantly reduced moisture from 2000 g to 353 g, with a minimum loss of 14 g. In the next three days, natural convection reduced moisture from 2787 g to 468 g, with a minimum loss of 11 g. These outcomes were then compared to the results of open-sun drying. The investigation showed that open drying and natural convection methods eliminated 25.05 % and 82.35 % of the moisture content, respectively. However, for three days, open-sun drying removed 30.5 % of grape moisture, while forced convection achieved an impressive 83.21 % reduction. The study's innovative mathematical model explained drying curve characteristics, supported by correlation coefficients and parity plots. The comparison shows that the experimental moisture ratios and those predicted by the new correlation exhibit R2 values ranging from 0.984 to 0.994.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.renene.2024.121508
Incorporating date palm fibers for sustainable friction composites in vehicle brakes
The demand for eco-friendly materials in automotive components has spurred research into natural fibers as sustainable alternatives for brake pads. This study examines the potential of date palm fibers, particularly the palm frond midrib (PFM), in brake pad composites. The effects of epoxy, PFM, and calcium carbonate on the composites’ mechanical and tribological properties were analyzed. The optimal formulation (25% epoxy, 30% PFM, 35% calcium carbonate) exhibited superior properties, including a hardness of 87 HRB, wear rate of 1.5E-03 mg/mm, and COF of 0.73, surpassing commercial pads. Additionally, an inverse relationship between PFM/calcium carbonate content and compressibility was observed, with increased calcium carbonate enhancing wear resistance. This research underscores the potential of utilizing date palm resources in eco-friendly brake manufacturing, reducing the environmental and health impacts of traditional materials. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-024-73275-1
Phenolic compounds from macadamia husk: An updated focused review of extraction methodologies and antioxidant activities
This review explores the potential of agri-food waste materials, with a particular focus on macadamia nut by-products. Industrial processing of macadamia nuts yields a significant volume of by-products, including green husk and woody shell. Recent research has highlighted these by-products as readily available, cost-effective rich sources of phenolic compounds, renowned for their potent antioxidant and antibacterial properties. This paper emphasizes the importance of selecting an optimal extraction method to fully harness the bioactive potential of these phenolic compounds. In this work, we provide a comprehensive overview of conventional and advanced extraction techniques that are used to extract phenolic compounds from macadamia by-products, with a particular focus on the methods applied to macadamia green husk. Among the various techniques, it appears that ultrasound-assisted extraction, especially when combined with aqueous organic solvents, is more efficient than other methods for this purpose. This review also addresses the challenges in phenolic compound recovery, primarily due to the lack of a standardized extraction process. This often results in the extensive use of extraction solvents to achieve an extract that is rich in phenolic compounds. Overall, this research offers a valuable understanding of the most effective methods for the extraction and recovery of phenolic compounds from macadamia by-products and discusses the potential for scaling up these extraction processes. Hence, it can serve as a useful resource for researchers and industry professionals interested in sustainable and efficient utilization of by-products of the nut industry. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fbp.2024.09.014
Cashew Nut Shell Waste Derived Graphene Oxide
The particular properties of graphene oxide (GO) make it a material with great technological potential, so it is of great interest to find renewable and eco-friendly sources to satisfy its future demand sustainably. Recently, agricultural waste has been identified as a potential raw material source for producing carbonaceous materials. This study explores the potential of cashew nut shell (CNS), a typically discarded by-product, as a renewable source for graphene oxide synthesis. Initially, deoiled cashew nut shells (DCNS) were submitted to pyrolysis to produce a carbonaceous material (Py-DCNS), with process optimization conducted through response surface methodology. Optimal conditions were identified as a pyrolysis temperature of 950 °C and a time of 1.8 h, yielding 29.09% Py-DCNS with an estimated purity of 82.55%, which increased to 91.9% post-washing. Using a modified Hummers method, the Py-DCNS was subsequently transformed into graphene oxide (GO-DCNS). Structural and functional analyses were carried out using FTIR spectroscopy, revealing the successful generation of GO-DCNS with characteristic oxygen-containing functional groups. Raman spectroscopy confirmed the formation of defects and layer separations in GO-DCNS compared to Py-DCNS, indicative of effective oxidation. The thermogravimetric analysis demonstrated distinct thermal decomposition stages for GO-DCNS, aligning with the expected behavior for graphene oxide. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) further corroborated the morphological and compositional transformation from DCNS to GO-DCNS, showcasing reduced particle size, increased porosity, and significant oxygen functional groups. The results underscore the viability of cashew nut shells as a sustainable precursor for graphene oxide production, offering an environmentally friendly alternative to conventional methods. This innovative approach addresses the waste management issue associated with cashew nut shells and contributes to developing high-value carbon materials with broad technological applications. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29174168
Food Safety Update: October 2024
Australia: Products Containing Chlorthal Dimethyl Cancelled Immediately
The Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) has cancelled all 12 products containing the herbicide chlorthal dimethyl, citing an immediate risk of serious injury or illness resulting from the use of these products. Farmers and retailers may continue to hold product until further notice, but must not use it. The use of chlorthal dimethyl as an agricultural chemical product is now illegal.
EU: EFSA Collecting Data on Alternaria Toxins
The European Commission recommended that EFSA gather data on Alternaria toxins —alternariol, alternariol monomethyl ether and tenuazonic acid, among others— in foodstuffs including tree nuts and dried figs. Member States and food operators should provide to EFSA, by June 30 of each year, Alternaria toxin occurrence data from the previous year. No deadline has yet been set for the establishment of a maximum level.
EU: Restrictions on Use of PFHxA and Related Substances in Packaging
On September 19, 2024, the European Commission adopted restrictions on the use of undecafluorohexanoic acid (PFHxA) and PFHxA‑related substances in paper and cardboard used as food contact materials. The maximum levels (MLs) established are 25 ppb for the sum of PFHxA and its salts and 1,000 ppb for the sum of PFHxA-related substances. These MLs will apply both to products used and placed on the market. The new rules will apply as of October 10, 2026.
EU: Plant Protection Products Update
The European Commission has published new maximum residue levels (MRLs) for various substances in or on nuts and dried fruits. Click here for more information.
On September 27, 2024, the Official Journal of the European Union published Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2024/2570, regarding methoxychlor. A concentration limit of 0.01 mg/kg is established for methoxychlor as an unintentional trace contaminant in substances, mixtures and articles.
On October 3, 2024, the Journal published Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2024/2576, approving prallethrin as an active substance for use in biocidal products of product-type 18 (insecticides, acaricides and products to control other arthropods), subject to the conditions set out in the Annex.
EU: Sorbates Update
Regulation (EU) 2024/2597 was published in the Official Journal of the European Union on October 7, 2024. This regulation amends Annex II to Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008 of the European Parliament and of the Council as regards the use of sorbic acid (E 200) and potassium sorbate (E 202) and the Annex to Commission Regulation (EU) No 231/2012 as regards the specifications for sorbic acid (E 200), potassium sorbate (E 202) and propyl gallate (E 310).
EU: Official Controls Update
On September 25, 2024, the Official Journal of the European Union published Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2024/2104 supplementing Regulation (EU) 2017/625 as regards the cases where and the conditions under which competent authorities may request operators to notify the arrival of certain goods entering the Union.
Under this regulation, competent authorities may request operators to notify the arrival of certain goods where the following conditions are met:
- the notification is necessary, taking into account:
- identified risks to human, animal or plant health, animal welfare or, as regards genetically modified organisms and plant protection products, also to the environment, associated with the goods concerned; or
- the history of compliance with the requirements established by the rules referred to in Article 1(2) of Regulation (EU) 2017/625 applicable to the goods concerned;
- the goods concerned are subject to official controls at border control posts in accordance with Article 44(3), point (b), of Regulation (EU) 2017/625
This Regulation will apply as of March 3, 2025.
Japan: Draft MRLs for Fluopyram, Cartap, Thiocyclam and Bensultap
Japan has notified the World Trade Organization (WTO) of draft maximum residue levels (MRLs) for various substances in or on nuts and dried fruits. Click here for more information.
Latest Trade News and Agreements: October 2024
Africa: Draft African Standard on Production, Handling and Processing of Dried Fruits and Vegetables
Kenya has notified the World Trade Organization (WTO) of a draft African Standard, developed by the African Organization for Standardization (ARSO), entitled Production, handling and processing of dried fruits and vegetables — Code of practice. The proposed date of adoption is December 31, 2024.
Australia-UAE: Trade Deal Secured
On September 17, 2024, Australia announced that negotiations on the Australia-United Arab Emirates Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement had been concluded. Under this agreement, over 99% of Australian products will enter the UAE tariff-free. Australia and the UAE are now working to formalize the legal treaty text in preparation for signing later this year.
Brazil: Macadamias Gain Market Access in Four Countries
Brazil has received sanitary approvals to export dried macadamias to Angola and South Korea and to export processed dried macadamias to Australia and the United Kingdom, according to a statement from the Brazilian Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock.
EU: Concerns on Aflatoxin Contamination in Iranian Pistachios
On October 18, 2024, at an event in Brussels, Belgium, organized under the umbrella of FRUCOM-CEEREAL, officials from the European Commission’s DG for Health and Food Safety (DG SANTE) took part on a panel discussion on import control measures (Regulation 2019/1793).
Participants expressed concern over a potential ban on the import of Iranian pistachios due to aflatoxin risk —which is slated for discussion in November according to FRUCOM. Iranian pistachios are currently placed in Annex II of the Increased Controls Regulation, subject to 50% checks.
EU: Trade Agreement With Colombia, Peru and Ecuador
On October 14, 2024, the Council of the European Union adopted a decision to conclude the trade agreement between the European Union and its member states, on one hand, and Colombia and Peru, on the other, as well as a decision to conclude the protocol concerning Ecuador's accession to this agreement. This move will allow the full implementation of the agreement as of November 1, 2024.
Indonesia: New Import Requirements for Agricultural Shipments
Earlier this year, the Indonesian Quarantine Agency (IQA) announced that exporters will be required to submit a “prior notice” in the IQA’s new system before shipping any agricultural commodities to Indonesia. The new requirements came into effect on October 6, 2024. A recent USDA GAIN report provides guidance on compliance with this requirement.
Kenya: Macadamia Export Ban Extended for Six Months
The government of Kenya has decided to extended a grace period allowing the export of raw macadamia nuts for an additional six months, as reported by Nation. The move comes less than two months before a ban on macadamia exports was set to resume on November 2, 2024.
Tanzania: Raw Walnut Kernels Specification
Tanzania has notified the World Trade Organization (WTO) that the Draft Tanzania Standard AFDC 19 (1127) DTZS, Raw Walnut Kernels – Specification has been adopted by the Tanzanian Ministry of Industry and Trade. A draft version of the specification, notified to the WTO in 2022, is available here.
Marketing Orders: October 2024
USA: Continuance Referendum on Hazelnuts Marketing Order
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Agricultural Marketing Service has directed that a referendum be conducted among eligible Oregon and Washington hazelnut growers to determine whether they favor continuance of the marketing order regulating the handling of hazelnuts grown in Oregon and Washington. The referendum will be conducted from October 28 to November 18, 2024. Only current hazelnut growers who have grown hazelnuts within the designated production area during the period July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, are eligible to vote in this referendum.
Sustainability Update: October 2024
UN: Capacity-Building Project to Reduce Post-Harvest Cashew Losses in The Gambia
Stakeholders from The Gambia’s cashew industry participated in a weeklong capacity-building program in Türkiye in early October. Implemented by the UN Technology Bank for Least Developed Countries with expertise from the TÜBİTAK MAM Food Research Group, the training was part of an ongoing project to reduce post-harvest cashew nut losses in The Gambia. The program, which included lectures on post-harvest management and site visits to processing production lines, aimed to show how low-cost technologies and post-harvest processing can enhance cashew yields.
Côte d’Ivoire-Ghana: Deal to Deepen Cooperation on Cashews
Côte d’Ivoire and Ghana have reached a deal to deepen their cooperation on the cultivation, processing and marketing of cashews, a key driver of both countries’ agricultural economies. As reported by The Statesman, President Alassane Ouattara of Côte d’Ivoire and President Nana Akufo-Addo of Ghana agreed to enhance their cooperation. Ministers of both countries have been instructed to strengthen the competitiveness and sustainability of the cashew industry to improve farmers’ livelihoods and promote economic growth.
UK: Sustainability Reporting Standards
In its 2023 green finance strategy, the UK government laid plans for assessing the endorsement of two standards of the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) Foundation —namely General Requirements for Disclosure of Sustainability-related Financial Information (IFRS S1) and Climate-related Disclosures (IFRS S2). If endorsed, these would become the UK Sustainability Reporting Standards. The government aims to make endorsement decisions on the two standards by the first quarter of 2025. These standards will form part of a wider Sustainability Disclosure Reporting framework led by the UK Treasury. Once the assessment process is complete, and subject to a positive endorsement, the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) will use these standards to require UK-listed companies to report sustainability-related information to their investors, pending a consultation process.
USA: New Traceability Recordkeeping Requirements for Certain Foods
New requirements are set to come into effect on January 20, 2026, under the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) final rule on Requirements for Additional Traceability Records for Certain Foods (Food Traceability Final Rule). This rule establishes traceability recordkeeping requirements, beyond those in existing regulations, for persons who manufacture, process, pack, or hold foods on the Food Traceability List, which includes nut butters.
USA: Study Highlights Previously Unrecognized Wildfire Threat to Nut Trees
Given the rising incidence of megafires across the globe, a recent study published in Nature Plants examined the effect on nut trees of prolonged exposure to dense wildfire smoke over several days or weeks. The authors present compelling evidence that dense smoke plumes negatively impact carbohydrate stores in almond, pistachio and walnut trees. The findings show that smoke causes a significant decrease in total non-structural carbohydrates, which persists through the trees’ dormancy period into the next season’s bloom, leading to a reduced yield.