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
Intercropping Systems: An Opportunity for Environment Conservation within Nut Production
Global population growth and intensive agriculture have both contributed negatively to the environment. As a result, there is increasing interest in the use of sustainable alternatives is increasing to promote better use of natural resources and create an equilibrium between agriculture and the environment. Intercropping, the simultaneous cultivation of multiple crops, aims to optimize land use economically while enhancing biodiversity through plant–microorganism interactions, thereby boosting crop productivity. This practice has particularly benefited nut production by combining the nutrient-sequestering capacity of trees with continuous annual crop production, improving soil nutrient and water utilization. Intercropping systems not only enhance nut yield and quality but also offer economic advantages to farmers. This review synthesized the existing literature with the aim of highlighting not only the positive aspects that intercropping brings to the production of nuts, but also the challenges and limitations faced in different regions when it comes to agricultural production. https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture14071149
Exploring the bioactive potential of dried fruit by-products: a focus on hazelnut, peanut, and almond teguments and shells
Dried fruits are renowned for their nutritional value, particularly their seeds. However, their skins, shells, and hulls also hold significant nutritional and commercial potential, yet remain largely unexplored for their bioactive compounds. This study examines the teguments and shells of three types of dried fruits – hazelnut, peanut, and two almond varieties. Ethanol extracts from these by-products reveal a variety of phytochemicals with antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral properties, confirmed through in vitro and in vivo assays. Teguments contain higher polyphenol levels compared to shells, with 24 compounds identified via HPLC analysis. The Achak almond tegument extract demonstrates strong antiradical activity, significant antimicrobial effects, and notable antiviral properties at a low concentration. Moreover, extracts from Achak almond tegument and hazelnut shells exhibit notable anti-inflammatory properties. This underscores the potential of utilizing dried fruit by-products to create innovative, value-added products, supporting environmental sustainability and boosting the competitiveness of the dried fruit industry. https://doi.org/10.1080/09603123.2024.2373174
Insights into the cashew production system in Guinea-Bissau: implications for agroecosystem sustainability
Introduction: West Africa, particularly Guinea-Bissau, heavily relies on cashew nut (Anacardium occidentale L.) production, which significantly impacts the countries’ economies. Cashew exhibits remarkable adaptability to impoverished and arid soils. Understanding producers’ socio-economic characteristics is crucial due to their potential influence on crop productivity and household income. Methods: This study aims to characterize the socio-economic, productive, and phytosanitary aspects of cashew production in Guinea-Bissau, through 151 interviews with producers across all administrative regions of the country. Results: Our findings reveal that cashew producers are mainly males aged 40 to 60, they typically manage plantations under 5 ha, with the smaller plantation areas located in Gabú, Cacheu, and Bolama. The age of the older trees averaged 31 years, with the highest age found in Biombo. Tree density averaged 286 trees per hectare, with higher values in Cacheu, Bafatá, and Bolama. Cashew nut yield in 2020 averaged less than 0.5 tons per hectare, with farmer-set prices generally lower than government determined prices. Oio, Tombali, and Bolama were the regions most affected by pests, while Oio and Cacheu (North) were the most affected by diseases. Top pests included termites, branch girdler, weaver ants, African grasshopper, and stem borer; while top diseases comprised gummosis, anthracnose, and dieback. Discussion: Characterization of cashew production system is crucial at both national and regional levels to identify region-specific limitations and strengths, aiding in the formulation of tailored strategies for sustainable production. Moreover, cashew production plays a crucial role in household incomes in Guinea-Bissau, underscoring the necessity of developing integrated management strategies. https://doi.org/10.3389/fsufs.2024.1439820
Labeling Update: July 2024
USA: Hawaii Adopts New Labeling Requirements for Macadamias
On July 3, 2024, the Governor of Hawaii signed a bill that increases transparency in macadamia nut labeling by requiring products containing nuts grown outside Hawaii to disclose this fact on the label. The bill also prohibits misleading “Hawaii-grown” claims and envisages stringent enforcement measures and penalties for violations.
Food Safety Update: July 2024
Australia: New BMSB Pre-Border Biosecurity Treatment Provider Scheme
The Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry has introduced AusTreat, a new pre-border biosecurity treatment provider scheme. AusTreat replaces the Offshore Brown Marmorated Stink Bug (BMSB) Treatment Providers Scheme and sets the conditions for the regulation of pre-border biosecurity treatment providers.
AusTreat is not pest- or pathway-specific. Instead, treatment providers register to conduct multiple treatment types (heat treatment, methyl bromide fumigation, sulfuryl fluoride fumigation) for multiple pests. Registration now lasts for three years, whereas under the previous scheme registration was renewed on a yearly basis. All treatment certificates, records of treatment and other treatment data must be submitted into the treatment certificate portal.
China: Draft National Food Safety Standard for Dried Fruit
China has notified the World Trade Organization of the publication of a draft of the National Standard for Food Safety Dried Fruit and Vegetable Products. If adopted, this new standard would replace GB 16325-2005 (“Hygienic Standard for Dried Fruits”). The standard would establish moisture index limits for dried apricots and raisins that are higher than those in the Codex Alimentarius international standard. The deadline for comment on this draft standard is September 9, 2024.
EU: Mineral Oil Hydrocarbons Update
According to FRUCOM, the European Commission has drafted new maximum levels (MLs) for mineral oil aromatic hydrocarbons (MOAHs) in various commodities.
| Commodity | Draft ML (mg/kg) |
| Groundnuts | 6.0 from January 1, 2026
4.0 from January 1, 2028 2.0 from January 1, 2030 |
| Tree nuts | 2.0 |
Relatedly, also according to FRUCOM, the Commission has drafted a recommendation on the monitoring of mineral oil hydrocarbons in food, under which Member States, in collaboration with food business operators, should monitor the presence of MOSH and MOAH in food during the years 2026, 2027, 2028 and 2029. The monitoring of MOSH should include oilseeds, tree nuts, tree-nut-based products, tree-nut-containing products, processed fruits and processed products containing fruits, among other foods. The monitoring of MOAH should include processed fruits, and processed products containing fruits, among other foods. The limits of quantification of the analytical methods should be below or at:
- 0.50 mg/kg for MOSH and MOAH in products with <4% fat/oil content
- 1.0 mg/kg for MOSH and MOAH in products with >4% and ≤ 50% fat/oil content
- 2.0 mg/kg for MOSH and MOAH in products with >50% fat/oil content
Further investigation of the causes of the contamination should be carried out when the following indicative levels are exceeded:
For MOSH:
- Oilseeds, oil fruits, tree nuts, processed fruits: 5.0 mg/kg
For MOAH:
- Processed fruits: 2.0 mg/kg
Where MOSH and MOAH are detected in food in concentrations above the indicative levels, Member States should carry out further investigations in the food business establishments in order to determine the possible source or sources
EU: Plant Protection Products Update
The European Union notified the WTO of a draft Commission Regulation regarding maximum residue levels (MRLs) for fenbuconazole and penconazole in or on certain products:
| Substance | Commodity | New MRL (mg/kg) |
| Fenbuconazole(1) | Apricots | 0.01 |
| Fenbuconazole(1) | Plums | 0.01 |
| Fenbuconazole(1) | Grapes | 0.01 |
| Fenbuconazole(1) | Cranberries | 0.01 |
| Fenbuconazole(1) | Peanuts | 0.01 |
| Penconazole(1) | Apricots | 0.07 |
| Penconazole(1) | Plums | 0.15 |
| Penconazole(1) | Grapes | 0.4 |
(1) Proposed date of adoption: January 24, 2025. More information
The European Commission published an Implementing Regulation approving the use of Onobrychis viciifolia (sainfoin) dried pellets as a nematicide in grapevines. The Regulation will enter into force on July 17, 2024.
The Commission published an Implementing Regulation renewing the approval of the active substance metconazole as a candidate for substitution. The Regulation shall apply from September 1, 2024.
According to another Implementing Regulation published by the Commission, the approval period for amisulbrom and S-abscisic acid has been extended until September 15, 2026 and the approval period for thiencarbazone and valifenalate has been extended until March 1, 2027.
EU: Draft Regulation on Sorbates as Food Additives
The European Commission has published a draft Commission Regulation (and draft Annex) regarding sorbates as food additives. These documents would amend 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 (E200), potassium sorbate (E 202) and propyl gallate (E 310).
Japan: MRLs Update
Japan has notified the World Trade Organization of new maximum residue limits (MRLs) for fluxapyroxad in various commodities.
| Substance | Commodity | New MRL (ppm) |
| Fluxapyroxad(1) | Apricots | 7 |
| Dimethomorph(2) | Grapes | 15 |
(1) More information
(2) More information
USA: New Allergen Verification Sampling Program
On August 1, 2024, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) will implement a new allergen verification sampling program at establishments that produce ready-to-eat products with labeling that claims the absence of at least one of 14 food allergens. The purpose of the program is to expand verification of industry compliance with labeling regulations. The allergens included in the new program include peanuts, almonds, Brazil nuts, cashews, hazelnuts, macadamias, pine nuts, pistachios and walnuts.