Uncovering the sensory properties of commercial and experimental clean label almond milks
Almond milk is the largest category of plant-based milk alternatives in the United States, and it is manufactured by suspending ground almond paste in water. Nevertheless, this method limits the amount of almonds that can be added to almond milk, and most almond milks on the market have low protein despite almonds themselves being nutritionally dense. The use of sustainable aqueous and enzyme-assisted aqueous extraction processes offers an alternative method for producing almond milks with enhanced nutritional content. However, it is currently unclear how the sensory properties of such milks compare to those of commercial almond milks. In this study, we conducted a sensory descriptive analysis with 14 trained panelists on 12 commercial almond milk samples and 14 formulated ones (seven aqueous and seven enzyme-assisted aqueous extracted milks). The purpose of this study was to understand how sensorially diverse commercial almond milks are, as well as to determine how aqueous and enzyme-assisted aqueous extracted almond milks compare to commercial methods. We found that formulated samples were significantly different from commercial products, and that all commercial products could be distinguished from each other. Furthermore, commercial milks were more differentiated than were formulated samples. Given the sensory diversity of almond milks on the market, this study suggests that there is potential for introducing new products in the almond milk category. Finally, this study also showed that descriptive analysis can be successfully conducted with two distinct groups of products in the same panel.
https://doi.org/10.1111/1750-3841.70007
Development of a dietary fiber-rich, high-value food ingredient from cashew juice processing for use in plant-based products
Cashew bagasse, often referred to as “cashew meat” in producing regions, is a by-product of cashew apple juice processing. Unfortunately, this biomass is typically discarded as waste by processing industries. However, it possesses valuable compounds like carotenoids and polyphenols that can be extracted. The remaining fiber has unique sensory characteristics in appearance and texture that resemble animal protein, making it a promising raw material for plant-based food formulations. To utilize it as a food ingredient, appropriate treatment is necessary. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of pretreatment involving sequential soaking and pressing cycles and various drying processes to enhance its suitability for meat analog products. Cashew bagasse was treated using three fiber-to-water ratios (1:1, 1:1.5, and 1:2 w/w) across five sequential soaking/pressing cycles. The methods assessed included freeze drying, oven drying, and tray drying. Croquette formulations were developed with 30%, 40%, and 50% cashew fiber, along with soy protein, to increase the overall protein content. Physicochemical and sensory evaluations of the treated fibers indicated that acidity, soluble solids, phenolic compounds, and cashew flavor were significantly reduced after the second soaking/pressing cycle, suggesting that fewer cycles may be sufficient. Additionally, the amount of water used did not significantly affect the outcomes. Freeze drying yielded the best drying results. Although the croquette formulations received high sensory acceptance, the one with 50% cashew fiber had a pronounced cashew flavor, which limited its appeal. In conclusion, the bagasse treatment can be optimized to two soaking/pressing cycles, and freeze-drying of the treated fiber provides the best technological results. A cashew fiber content of up to 40% is suitable for use in plant-based croquettes.
https://doi.org/10.1007/s11694-024-03052-1
Nano-adsorbents obtained from walnut and almond shells for the effective removal of aflatoxin B1
In the present study, new nano-adsorbents were prepared from the walnut (WSN) and almond (ASN) shells for the sequestering of aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) contamination. The nano-adsorbents were characterized via SEM, EDS, XRD, and FTIR spectroscopy techniques to discover valuable data about the morphology, surface, and chemical configuration of the nano-adsorbents. The adsorption process was further optimized by altering the biosorbent dosage, AFB1 concentration, pH, time, and temperature. Among the tested biosorbents, the WSN and ANS presented a significant removal of AFB1 compared with the walnut and almond shell powders (WSP and ASP). The maximum removal using WSN and ASN was achieved as 93.70% and 83.81% using 10 mg/mL of nano-adsorbent, pH 5.0 at 45 °C for 45 min. Langmuir was the best fitting model for each adsorption data with adsorption capacities of WSP, ASP, WSN, and ASN were 47.6, 36.1, 176.3, and 161.1 mg/g, respectively, with a leading monolayer form adsorption. Kinetic data followed the pseudo-second-order with fast AFB1 uptake. However, thermodynamics studies indicated the spontaneity and endothermic nature of the adsorption process. Furthermore, no significant decline in AFB1 adsorption was recorded after reusability up to five times. The production of nano-adsorbents in this study offers the possibility of dropping the cost of production, controlling agro-waste, and reducing toxins and other organic materials. Finally, the adsorption presentation confirmed the ability of this novel, cost-effective, environment-friendly, and non-toxic biosorbent to remove AFB1 effectively.
https://doi.org/10.1007/s13399-025-06590-w
Carbon Sequestration Potential of Cashew (Anacardium occidentale L.) Plantations Across Climatic Gradients in Togo
The current study seeks to estimate the carbon sequestration capability of a cashew plantation in Togo as a function of climate gradient. The research was conducted in the Guinean and Sudanian climatic zones, on farmers' cashew plantations. The study was run from March to October 2023. This study was carried out in ten (10) cashew farms (five per climatic zone) which have ten years old. Cashew trees were classed based on their diameter at breast height (0-5 cm, 5-10 cm, 10-15 cm, and > 15 cm). To measure carbon stock in the biomass, allometric equations were utilized, and soil carbon stock was assessed using laboratory analysis. The Guinean zone has a higher soil carbon stock (86.89 ± 4.06 t C/ha) compared to the Sudanian zone (80.23 ± 3.78 t). The same trend can be observed in the various cashew tree components (trunk, branches and leaves). In general, the tree trunk had 79% of the carbon supply, compared to 19% and 2% in the branches and leaves, respectively. Carbon sequestration in the soil varies depending on the climatic zone and the soil depth (0-25 cm; 25-50 cm). Cashew-based cropping systems might be deemed carbon-efficient.
https://doi.org/10.9734/ijecc/2025/v15i14672
Halotolerant Pseudomonas-induced alleviation of salt stress and promotion of growth in peanut (Arachis hypogaea)
Salinity stress is a major abiotic factor limiting crop productivity, particularly in sensitive crops like peanuts (Arachis hypogaea). This study evaluated the potential of Pseudomonas geniculata ND09 in alleviating salt stress impacts on peanut growth under controlled and field conditions. In pot experiments, salt stress significantly reduced root and shoot lengths, biomass, and pod yield while increasing the Na+/K+ ratio and stress markers such as antioxidant enzyme activities and proline accumulation. Inoculation with P. geniculata ND09 effectively mitigated these effects, improving root and shoot lengths by 23.5% and 19.6%, respectively, and enhancing biomass and pod yield by 31.8% and 26.4% compared to untreated, salt-stressed plants. Field trials corroborated these findings, with P. geniculata ND09-inoculated plants irrigated with saline water showing 20.7% and 19.3% higher pod and haulm yields than untreated controls. These results demonstrate the potential of P. geniculata ND09 as a biotechnological solution for improving salinity tolerance and yield in peanut cultivation, addressing critical agricultural challenges posed by soil salinity.
https://doi.org/10.1080/01140671.2025.2454619
Land Use/Change and Local Population Movements in Stone Pine Forests: A Case Study of Western Türkiye
One of the important distribution areas of stone pine (Pinus pinea L.), a native tree species of the Mediterranean Basin in Türkiye, is the Kozak Basin. Pine nut production plays an important role in the livelihood of the rural people of the Kozak Basin. However, in recent years, as a result of mining activities, climate change, and damage caused by the alien invasive species, the western conifer seed bug (Leptoglossus occidentalis Heidemann 1910 (Hemiptera; Coreidae), the decrease in cone and seed yield in the basin has reached significant dimensions. This process has caused the local people’s income sources to decrease. In this study, land use and land cover (LULC) changes and population changes in the Kozak Basin were discussed during the process, where changing forest land functions, especially economic effects, triggered vulnerable communities due to various factors such as climate change and insect damage. LULC classes of the Kozak Basin and their changes in three time periods are presented using the maximum likelihood method. In addition, the exponential population growth rates of the local people in three different time periods were calculated and these rates were interpolated in the spatial plane with a Kriging analysis. In conclusion, the responses of vulnerable communities to the cone and seed yield decline in the Kozak Basin are manifested by LULC changes and migration from the basin. Therefore, in the management of P. pinea areas, the creation of regulations within the framework of sustainability understanding regardless of ownership difference, stakeholder participatory approach management, close monitoring of ecological events occurring in the basin, awareness of vulnerable communities, and alternative livelihoods can be supported.
https://doi.org/10.3390/f16020243
Labeling Update: February 2025
UAE: New Labeling Requirements Under Nutri-Mark Scheme
From June 1, 2025, certain food and beverage products sold in Abu Dhabi, UAE, will be subject to labeling requirements under the Nutri-Mark scheme. The affected foods are packaged and non-packaged breads and pastries; beverages; fats, oils, and fat emulsions; and food targeting children. The Abu Dhabi Quality and Conformity Council has notified the World Health Organization of its Nutri-Mark certification scheme for food and beverages as well as its guidelines for the use of the Nutri-Mark.
Latest Trade News and Agreements: February 2025
USA: Uncertainty Remains Amid Trump Tariff Rollout
On February 1, 2025, US President Donald Trump imposed a 25% tariff on goods from Canada and Mexico and a 10% tariff on goods from China. On February 3, as Canada and Mexico were preparing retaliatory measures, Trump agreed to postpone implementation of the tariffs on both countries for at least 30 days. The tariff on China went into effect on February 4 and China announced a series of retaliatory tariffs. Trump later ordered a 25% tariff on steel and aluminum imports from all countries that will come into effect on March 12, raising the specter of further retaliatory measures.
INC members are invited to consult our overview of the tariffs in major nut and dried fruit importing countries in the members’ area of our website. (Login required.)
EU: Proposed Tariffs on Agricultural Products From Russia and Belarus
The European Commission has adopted a proposal to impose tariffs on a number of agricultural products from Russia and Belarus. If adopted by the European Parliament and the Council, the goods listed in Annex I of the proposal (including edible fruit and nuts under HS code 08) will be subject to an additional 50% ad valorem tariff customs duty on top of the applicable Common Customs Tariff rate.
EU-Chile: Interim Trade Agreement Enters Into Force
The EU-Chile Interim Trade Agreement has entered into force, following the completion of Chile’s ratification process.
The modernized trade agreement between the EU and Chile consists of two parallel legal instruments:
- The Advanced Framework Agreement, which includes a) the political and cooperation pillar, and b) the trade and investment pillar, subject to ratification by all EU Member States.
- The Interim Trade Agreement, which covers only those parts of the trade and investment pillar of the Advanced Framework Agreement that fall under the EU’s exclusive competence, and which was adopted via the EU-only ratification process.
While the Interim Trade Agreement is now in force, the Advanced Framework Agreement will enter into force once all EU Member States have completed their respective ratification processes. The Interim Trade Agreement will then cease to exist and will be replaced by the Advanced Framework Agreement.
EU-Malaysia: Free Trade Agreement Negotiations Relaunched
On January 20, 2025, the EU and Malaysia announced the resumption of negotiations towards a free trade agreement. Talks between the two parties had been on hold since 2012.
EU-Mexico: Conclusion of Negotiations on Modernized Global Agreement with Mexico
Political negotiations have concluded to modernize the Global Agreement between the EU and Mexico. According to a statement released by the EU, the agreement creates a framework to deepen and widen EU-Mexico political dialogue, cooperation and economic relations, and will create new economic opportunities for both sides, including growth potential for EU agri-food exports to Mexico.
USA: Brazilian Macadamias Granted Market Access Without Phytosanitary Certificate
The United States has approved the import of macadamias from Brazil without requiring a phytosanitary certificate, according to a statement published by the Brazilian government.
Sustainability Update: February 2025
Argentina: UN-Funded Project to Improve Raisin Quality Through Sustainable Biocontrol
The National University of San Juan has been selected by the United Nations to receive funding for a project aimed at improving raisin quality in Argentina. The project, titled “Biocontrol of ochratoxigenic fungi in raisins promoting food security, safety and regional economies within a One Health approach,” will investigate the use of native yeasts as bio-inputs to inhibit the growth of harmful fungi that produce ochratoxin A. Involving researchers from Argentina, Chile, Brazil, Uruguay, and Mexico, the project aims to provide a chemical-free alternative to traditional fungicides, improving the quality of the region’s raisins through technological solutions.
EU: Trilogue Negotiations Begin on Green Claims Directive
On January 28, 2025, the Parliament, Council and Commission began trilogue negotiations on the proposed Green Claims Directive, which deals with the substantiation and communication of explicit environmental claims. At this first session, the Parliament and the Council presented their mandates and priorities.
EU: Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation Published
On January 22, 2025, Regulation (EU) 2025/40, on packaging and packaging waste, was published in the Official Journal of the European Union. It will apply from August 12, 2026.
Annex V of the Regulation lists packaging formats that will be restricted. Article 25 stipulates the following: “By 12 February 2027, the Commission shall publish guidelines, in consultation with Member States and the European Food Safety Authority, which explain Annex V in more detail, including examples of the packaging formats in scope, and any exemptions from the restrictions, and provide a non-exhaustive list of fruits and vegetables that are excluded from point 2 of Annex V.”
Spain: Project to Develop Vehicular Biomethane Using Almond Hulls
The European project Life Chandelier aims to develop an innovative, efficient, traceable and sustainable system for the production of vehicular biomethane on a small and medium scale using agricultural waste —including almond hulls— in rural areas. This project, which is co-funded by the EU and will run through 2027, seeks to foster the circular economy through the use of waste and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions while boosting sustainability in rural areas by promoting energy self-sufficiency in these regions.
Food Safety Update: February 2025
EU: New Procedures for Common Health Entry Documents
On January 14, 2025, the Commission changed the conditions under which a separate Common Health Entry Document (CHED) must be submitted for consignments leaving a border control post for a control point where identity and physical checks are to be performed. Under the new rules, when consignments are transferred to a control point other than the border control post, operators are required to submit and link two separate CHEDs.
EU: Plant Protection Products Update
In January 2025, the Commission approved the use of Pythium oligandrum B301, with expiration of approval set for February 10, 2035. The Commission also approved the use of the Bacillus velezensis strains RTI301 and RTI477 as low-risk active substances. In both cases, expiration of approval was set for February 12, 2040. In addition, the Commission modified the conditions of approval of the low-risk active substance aqueous extract from the germinated seeds of sweet Lupinus albus and approved the basic substance Vitis vinifera L. seed extract. Finally, the Commission renewed the approval of mepiquat chloride, with expiration of approval set for February 29, 2040.
The Commission has published the following new maximum residue levels (MRLs):
Substance | Commodity | MRL (mg/kg) |
Acetamiprid(1)
|
Apricots
Grapes |
0.08 |
Cranberries | 0.7 | |
Zoxamide(2) | Fruits, fresh or frozen; tree nuts
Oilseeds and oil fruits (including peanuts) |
0.01 |
Fenbuconazole(3) | Apricots
Plums Grapes Cranberries Oilseeds |
0.01 |
Penconazole(3)
|
Apricots | 0.07 |
Plums | 0.15 | |
Grapes | 0.4 |
(1) This regulation shall apply from August 19, 2025. More information
(2) This regulation shall apply from August 19, 2025. More information
(3) This regulation shall apply from August 24, 2025. More information
Japan: Draft Revision of MRL for Mandestrobin
Japan has notified the World Trade Organization of a draft revision of agricultural chemical residue standards, under which the maximum residue limit (MRL) for mandestrobin in grapes would increase from 10 ppm to 20 ppm.