Comparative analysis of spectroscopic methods for rapid authentication of hazelnut cultivar and origin
Hazelnut market prices fluctuate significantly based on cultivar and provenance, making them susceptible to counterfeiting. To develop an accurate authentication method, we compared the performances of three spectroscopic methods: near infrared (NIR), handheld near infrared (hNIR), and medium infrared (MIR), on over 300 samples from various origins, cultivars, and harvest years. Spectroscopic fingerprints were used to develop and externally validate PLS-DA classification models. Both cultivar and origin models showed high accuracy in external validation. The hNIR model effectively distinguished cultivars but struggled with geographic distinctions due to lower sensitivity. NIR and MIR models showed over 93 % accuracy, with NIR slightly outperforming MIR for geographic origin. NIR proved to be a fast and suitable tool for hazelnut authentication. This study is the first to systematically compare spectroscopic tools for authenticating hazelnut cultivar and origin using the same dataset, offering valuable insights for future food authentication applications.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.saa.2024.125367
Meeting the challenge of varietal and geographical authentication of hazelnuts through lipid metabolite fingerprinting
Hazelnuts are high-quality products with significant economic importance in many European countries. Their market price depends on their qualitative characteristics, which are driven by cultivar and geographical origin, making hazelnuts susceptible to fraud. This study systematically compared two lipidomic fingerprinting strategies for the simultaneous authentication of hazelnut cultivar and provenance, based on the analysis of the unsaponifiable fraction (UF) and triacylglycerol (TAG) profiles by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry coupled with chemometrics. PLS-DA classification models were developed using a large sample set with high natural variability (n = 309) to discriminate hazelnuts by cultivar and origin. External validation results demonstrated the suitability of the UF fingerprint as a hazelnut authentication tool, both tested models showing a high efficiency (>94 %). The correct classification rate of the TAG fingerprinting method was lower (>80 %), but due to its faster analysis time, it is recommended as a complementary screening tool to UF fingerprinting.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.foodchem.2024.141203
Root sweet root: how date palm uses osmotic adjustment to thrive in arid climates
Date palm has developed a variety of adaptation strategies to survive and even thrive in extreme environments such as deserts. Franzisky et al. (2025) investigated the different early acclimation processes that help date palm to survive harsh, arid conditions. They employed a wide range of approaches to uncover how date palm endures drought and high temperatures, providing valuable insights for developing drought-tolerant and productive genotypes—a topic of increasing importance as climate change intensifies aridity in many regions.
https://doi.org/10.1093/jxb/eraf022
Understanding the photosynthesis in relation to climate change in grapevines
Due to predicted global climate change, there have been significant alterations in agricultural production patterns, which had a negative impact on ecosystems as well as the commercial and export prospects for the production of grapevines. The natural biochemistry of grapevines, including their chlorophyll content, net photosynthetic rate, Fv/Fm ratio, photorespiration, reduced yield, and quality is also anticipated to be negatively impacted by the various effects of light, temperature, and carbon dioxide at elevated scales. Grapevine phenology, physiology, and quality are impacted by the inactivation of photosystems (I and II), the Rubisco enzyme system, pigments, chloroplast integrity, and light intensity by temperature and increasing CO2 levels. Grape phenological events are considerably altered by climatic conditions; in particular, berries mature earlier, increasing the sugar-to-acid ratio. In enology, the sugar-to-acid ratio is crucial since it determines the wine's final alcohol concentration and flavour. As light intensity and CO2 levels rise, the biosynthesis of anthocyanins and tannins declines. As the temperature rises, the production of antioxidants diminishes, affecting the quality of raisins. Table grapes are more sensitive to temperature because of physiological problems like pink berries and a higher sugar-to-acidity ratio. Therefore, the systemic impact of light intensity, temperature, and increasing CO2 levels on grapevine physiology, phenology, photosystems, photosynthesis enzyme system, and adaptive strategies for grape producers and researchers are highlighted in this article.
https://doi.org/10.1007/s12064-025-00435-w
Optimization of irrigation on walnut through the IRRIFRAME water balance model.
In recent years, reduced summer precipitation frequencies related to climate change have raised the probability of water scarcity, even in the Po Valley of Italy, thus requiring an optimization of the irrigation management for walnut cultivation which has become very present in the area. The aim of the present study was to evaluate, during four consecutive seasons (2018–2021), the physiological (stem water potential Ψw, leaf photosynthesis A and stomatal conductance gs), yield (nut weight, shelled yield, kernel colour) and water use efficiency (WUE) responses of walnut trees to different irrigation levels (100% ETc, 75% ETc, and 50% ETc) in order to obtain an improved water balance model, fit for walnut production under Emilia Romagna conditions. Water supply in 100% ETc (CTRL) was managed according to the IRRIFRAME water balance model. CTRL trees generally showed higher stem Ψw at midday, than those irrigated at 75% (DI75) and 50% ETc (DI50). Less sensitivity was found for gs and A, than for Ψw, to the different water regimes: in fact, differences among treatments occurred only in the first two years, when yield was reduced by 50% ETc irrigation, compared to 100% and 75% ETc. No differences were registered for shelled yield and kernel colour during the experimental period. On the contrary, irrigation treatments affected WUE in all the seasons, with CTRL being the less efficient treatment, followed by DI75 and DI50.
https://doi.org/10.1007/s00271-025-01006-z
Labeling Update: March 2025
EU: Türkiye Applies for Protected Designation of Origin for “Aydın Çam Fıstığı” Pine Nuts
An application was published on January 31, 2025, in the Official Journal of the European Union for a protected designation of origin for the “Aydın Çam Fıstığı” pine nuts from Türkiye.
According to the application, "Aydın Çam Fıstığı" is produced within the boundaries of Aydın province, a historically important settlement due to its geographical location. Aydın shares its borders with Izmir to the north, Manisa to the northeast, Denizli to the east, Muğla to the south, and the Aegean Sea to the west. The region’s landscape is charachterized by mountain ranges running perpendicular to the Aegean Sea and the plains separating them. Aydın province has 17 districts: Efeler, Bozdoğan, Buharkent, Çine, Germencik, İncirliova, Karacasu, Karpuzlu, Koçarlı, Köşk, Kuyucak, Kuşadası, Nazilli, Söke, Sultanhisar, Didim and Yenipazar. Among these, Koçarlı stands out as the leading producer, with 10,000 hectares of pine trees.
Japan: Allergy Labeling to Be Mandated for Cashews and Recommended for Pistachios
On January 21, 2025, Japan’s Consumer Affairs Agency (CAA) announced that Japan intends to mandate allergy labeling on cashews from the current recommended status by the end of the Japanese fiscal year 2025 (April 2025-March 2026), according to a new USDA GAIN report. The CAA also intends to add pistachios to the list of recommended allergy labeling ingredients.
USA: FDA Delays Implementation of "Healthy" Claim Rule
Following a memorandum issued on January 20, 2025, by U.S. President Donald Trump, titled “Regulatory Freeze Pending Review,” the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has postponed the implementation of the final rule, “Food Labeling: Nutrient Content Claims; Definition of the Term ‘Healthy,’” until April 28, 2025. Originally announced in December 2024, the updated rule —under which nuts now qualify as “healthy”— was set to take effect on February 25, 2025, but has been delayed by approximately two months. In 2023, the INC submitted comments to the FDA in support of updating the “healthy” claim definition to include nuts.
USA: FDA Proposes Requiring At-a-Glance Nutrition Information on the Front of Packaged Foods
In January, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a proposed rule that would require a front-of-package (FOP) nutrition label on most packaged foods. The proposed FOP nutrition label, also referred to as the “Nutrition Info box,” provides information on saturated fat, sodium, and added sugars content in a simple format showing whether the food has “Low,” “Med” or “High” levels of these nutrients. It complements the FDA’s Nutrition Facts label, which gives consumers more detailed information about the nutrients in their food. The deadline to submit comments on the proposed rule is May 16, 2025.
Food Safety Update: March 2025
EU: Hazelnuts and Pistachios Returned Due to Tenuazonic Acid
Two RASFF notifications have been filed in the past two weeks for tenuazonic acid (TEA), an Alternaria toxin, in tree nuts: hazelnuts from Türkiye on February 28 and pistachios from the USA on March 7. In both cases, the indicative level for TEA in tree nuts set in Commission Recommendation 2022/553 (100 μg/kg) was exceeded and the nuts were returned to the consignor. (The indicative level set for dried figs is considerably higher at 1,000 μg/kg.) RASFF database information suggests that these are the first RASFF notifications for TEA in tree nuts.
Producers are advised to remain vigilant and are reminded that the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) is gathering data on Alternaria toxins in foodstuffs including tree nuts and dried figs. For this year’s annual call, food business operators and other stakeholders may submit data until June 30, 2025. As of now, the EU has not established a specific deadline or timeline for setting maximum levels for Alternaria toxins.
EU: EFSA Publishes Mandate to Evaluate Impact of Reducing MLs for SO2
The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has published the mandate it received from the European Commission last year to evaluate the impact of reducing the maximum levels of sulfur dioxide (SO2) on dietary exposure. For dried apricots specifically, EFSA has been asked to estimate dietary exposure to SO2 under two scenarios:
- Scenario 1: maximum permitted level 2,000 mg/kg
- Scenario 2: maximum permitted level 1,500 mg/kg
EFSA’s assessment will be completed by June 30, 2025.
EU: Plant Protection Products Update
In January, after concluding that the long‐term intake of residues resulting from the use of potassium phosphonates under the reported agricultural practices is unlikely to present a risk to consumer health, EFSA raised the maximum residue level (MRL) for potassium phosphonates in apricots from 2 mg/kg to 50 mg/kg.
The Commission published an Implementing Decision postponing the expiry date of the approval of cypermethrin for use in biocidal products of product-type 8 until November 30, 2027. It also published an Implementing Decision postponing the expiry date of the approval of spinosad for use in biocidal products of product-type 18 until October 31, 2027.
India: Plant Quarantine Order Updated to Facilitate Australian Macadamia Imports
In February, the Government of India amended its Plant Quarantine (Regulation of Import into India) Order, 2003, to facilitate the import of Australian macadamias, according to the Australian Macadamia Society. The amendment changes the treatment requirements for macadamia kernels. India's regulations previously mandated fumigation with methyl bromide at a concentration of 32 g/m3 for 24 hours at 21°C or higher, or an extended heat treatment. The new regulations now recognize heat treatment at 60°C for one minute as an effective alternative.
UK: Draft Increased Official Controls on Peanuts and Peanut Products
The UK has published a consultation on proposed amendments to the lists within assimilated Commission Implementing Regulation 2019/1793. Among other changes, this proposal would add peanut products from Paraguay —including in-shell peanuts, shelled peanuts, peanut flour, peanut paste, peanut meal, and peanut butter— to Annex I of the Regulation, mandating 10% frequency checks on these products for aflatoxins. The deadline to submit comments is April 9, 2025.
USA: FDA Releases Draft Guidance on Low-Moisture Ready-to-Eat Foods
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has published a draft guidance document entitled Establishing Sanitation Programs for Low-Moisture Ready-to-Eat Human Foods and Taking Corrective Actions Following a Pathogen Contamination Event. Examples of manufactured/processed low-moisture ready-to-eat (LMRTE) foods that fall within the scope of the guidance include peanut butter, other nut spreads, and processed tree nuts.
The draft guidance is intended to help manufacturers/processers of LMRTE human foods comply with 21 CFR part 117 (Current Good Manufacturing Practice, Hazard Analysis, and Risk-Based Preventive Controls for Human Food). The guidance outlines the FDA’s current thinking regarding:
- Establishing and implementing a sanitation program and environmental monitoring program
- Conducting root cause investigations following a pathogen contamination event
- Applying a sanitizing treatment when remediating a pathogen contamination event
- Taking steps to identify affected food
- The limitations of relying solely on a product testing program to verify that pathogen contamination has been eliminated
USA: New MRL for Cyprodinil in Cranberries
On February 26, 2025, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency issued a final rule establishing a maximum residue level (MRL) of 0.4 ppm for residues of cyprodinil, including its metabolites and degradates, in cranberries.
Uruguay: New Draft MLs for Aflatoxins in Peanuts
Uruguay has notified the World Trade Organization of a draft resolution, submitted for public consultation, that would change the maximum levels for aflatoxins in peanuts, including peanuts intended for further processing, from 20 µg/kg to 15 µg/kg. The deadline for public comment is April 27, 2025.
Latest Trade News and Agreements: March 2025
Trump’s Tariff Shifts Spark Global Retaliation and Uncertainty
New US tariffs, countermeasures, and reversals create a chaotic trade landscape
The blanket 25% tariffs on Mexico and Canada announced by US President Donald Trump in early February took effect on March 4, 2025, as reported by CNN. Trump also doubled the new tariff on China, which is imposed on top of existing tariffs on Chinese goods, from 10% to 20%.
China and Canada quickly retaliated with tariffs on American goods. Canada announced a 25% tariff on US$20.7 billion of US goods, including on peanut butter, effective March 4. China announced its own retaliatory measures on March 4, including an additional 10% tariff on most US tree nuts, dried fruits, and peanut butter, among other agricultural products (see table below).
Shortly thereafter, Trump abruptly backtracked on some of the measures. On March 5, he granted a one-month reprieve on automotive tariffs on Canada and Mexico. The following day, he said he would suspend the 25% tariff on products traded under the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement, but implied that other tariffs on Canadian and Mexican products would be coming in April.
On March 12, the European Union announced countermeasures in response to Trump’s 25% tariff on European steel and aluminum, which had just come into effect. Firstly, the suspension of existing 2018 and 2020 countermeasures against the US will be allowed to lapse on April 1, whereupon 25% duties will come into effect on US peanut butter and dried cranberries. Secondly, the European Commission put forward a package of new countermeasures on US goods, which are expected to come into force by mid-April, after a public consultation open until March 26 as well as consultation with EU Member States. The list of US products that could be targeted by these measures includes in-shell and shelled almonds as well as crude peanut oil. The amount of the additional duties that will be charged under these new countermeasures was not announced.
At the time of this report, uncertainty reigned as businesses and trade partners scrambled to assess the evolving tariff landscape, with exemptions, retaliatory measures, and policy reversals unfolding rapidly.
| Nuts and dried fruits affected by China’s new additional 10% tariff on US goods, effective March 10, 2025 | |||
| Almonds, in-shell (080211) | Hazelnuts, in-shell (080221) | Pine nuts, shelled (080292) | Dates (080410) |
| Almonds, shelled (080212) | Hazelnuts, shelled (080222) | Pistachios, in-shell (080251) | Dried apricots (081310) |
| Brazil nuts, in-shell (080121) | Macadamias, in-shell (080261) | Pistachios, shelled (080252) | Cranberries (200893) |
| Brazil nuts, shelled (080122) | Macadamias, shelled (080262) | Walnuts, in-shell (080231) | Figs (080420) |
| Cashews, in-shell (080131) | Pecans, in-shell (08029910) | Walnuts, shelled (080232) | Dried grapes (080620) |
| Cashews, shelled (080132) | Pine nuts, in-shell (080291) | Peanut butter (20081130) | Prunes (081320) |
HS codes in parentheses. Source: Ministry of Finance of the People's Republic of China. (2025, March 4). Announcement of the State Council Tariff Commission on imposing additional tariffs on some imported goods originating from the United States. https://gss.mof.gov.cn/gzdt/zhengcefabu/202503/t20250304_3959228.htm. For more information, see this USDA GAIN report.
India: Import Levies on US Almonds, Walnuts, and Cranberries May Be Lowered
Indian and American officials are in talks that could lead to the reduction or elimination of import duties on US almonds, walnuts, and cranberries, the Economic Times has reported. The two sides are seeking to reach a deal by the end of the year with the goal of reaching US$500 billion in bilateral trade by 2030.
Argentina: Resolutions to Reduce Bureaucratic Hurdles in Fruit Trade
On February 11, 2025, Argentina’s Minister of Deregulation and State Transformation announced the implementation of two resolutions aimed at reducing bureaucratic hurdles in the fruit trade. Resolution 21/2025 simplifies the registration process for establishments involved in packing, storing, and processing fruits, with key changes including a unified, digital registration system and a shift to “acceptance at destination” for product verification. Resolution 22/2025 aims to ease the administrative burden in exporting fruits, including dried fruits and nuts, by offering greater flexibility in harvest timing, simplifying packaging requirements, and strengthening traceability to ensure compliance with international standards.
Indonesia: Chilean Walnuts Gain Market Access
Indonesia has confirmed the sanitary approval for the import of six new Chilean products, including shelled and in-shell walnuts, as reported by Chile Alimentos. The announcement was made by Chile's Minister of Agriculture, along with the head of ProChile and representatives of other key organizations, including Chilenut.
Iran: Two-Month Export Ban on Dates
Iran has imposed a two-month export ban on dates, effective from February 24, 2025, according to the Tehran Times. This measure aims to stabilize domestic prices ahead of the holy month of Ramadan, a period of increased demand.
Kyrgyzstan: Partnership With Uzbek Exporter to Boost Nut and Dried Fruit Exports
As reported by the Times of Central Asia, Kyrgyzstan has secured a trade agreement with EcoFruit, a leading Uzbek exporter of dried fruits, creating a pathway for regular food exports to Europe and the Persian Gulf. The products encompassed by the agreement include dried apricots, prunes, walnuts, and pistachios. EcoFruit also announced plans to open an office in Kyrgyzstan, indicating a commitment to long-term cooperation.
Uzbekistan-Turkmenistan: Free Trade Deal Comes Into Effect
The free trade deal between Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan came into effect on February 25, 2025, eliminating customs duties on most goods produced in both countries, according to the Times of Central Asia.
Sustainability Update: March 2025
EU: Commission Presents Vision for Agriculture and Food
In February 2025, the European Commission has presented its “Vision for Agriculture and Food,” a strategic roadmap to secure the future of the agri-food sector in Europe. The vision aims to strengthen the competitiveness and sustainability of farming and food production by 2040, focusing on areas such as innovation, climate adaptation, and fair working conditions in rural areas. It includes measures to reduce unfair trading practices, enhance market transparency, and support young people entering agricultural careers.
EU: Omnibus Package Proposes Changes in CSRD, CSDD, and Taxonomy
The European Commission has adopted a so-called “Omnibus” package of proposals aimed at simplifying EU rules, boosting competitiveness, and unlocking additional investment capacity. Particularly relevant are the proposed changes to the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD), and the EU Taxonomy rules:
Key proposed CSRD changes:
- Only companies with >1,000 employees and either a turnover of >€50 million or a balance sheet total of >€25 million will be required to comply with the CSRD.
- Reporting requirements for large companies that have not yet started implementing the CSRD and listed SMEs will be postponed by two years.
- The sector-specific standards requirement will be eliminated.
Key proposed CSDDD changes:
- The initial reporting deadline will be postponed from July 26, 2027, to July 26, 2028.
- Full due diligence will only be required for the value chain beyond direct business partners only in cases where the company has plausible information suggesting that adverse impacts have arisen or may arise there.
- Companies will be required to assess direct suppliers every five years instead of annually.
- The information that companies may request from SME and small midcap business partners (i.e. companies with <500 employees) will be limited to the information specified in the CSRD voluntary sustainability reporting standards.
Key proposed EU Taxonomy changes:
- Voluntary Taxonomy reporting for companies within the future CSRD scope (large companies that have more than 1,000 employees) with a net turnover up to 450 million.
- Simplification of the reporting templates, leading to a reduction of data points by almost 70%.
- Exemption of companies from assessing Taxonomy-eligibility and alignment of their economic activities that are not financially material for their business (e.g. those not exceeding 10% of their total turnover, capital expenditure, or total assets).
The proposal is currently under review by the European Parliament and Council.
EU: Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation Enters Into Force
The EU’s Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation entered into force on February 11, 2025, and will generally apply 18 months later. Annex V, which contains prohibited packaging formats, will apply from January 1, 2030.
USA: USAID Reinstates Canceled Contracts for Peanut-Based Therapeutic Food for Malnourished Children
Contracts between the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) and MANA Nutrition, a US company that makes peanut-based ready-to-use therapeutic food (RUTF), were reinstated on March 2 after being abruptly canceled the previous week, according to reporting by CNN. The cancellation of the contract for RUTF, a special paste distributed in pouches to severely malnourished children around the world, was part of the Trump administration’s efforts to drastically slash federal spending, led by the Department of Government Efficiency, a new government agency led by Elon Musk. In late February, the CEO of MANA Nutrition told CNN that the company had approximately 400,000 boxes of USAID-branded RUTF ready for shipment. He estimated that if USAID didn’t pay for these boxes, MANA could face a loss of at least US$10 million in wasted peanut butter pouches. On March 10, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced that the Trump administration had cancelled 83% of USAID programs, and that the remaining programs would be administered under the State Department.
In other news related to the use of US peanuts in lifesaving food assistance, in February the American Peanut Council met with two UN agencies, the World Food Programme and the Food and Agriculture Organization. The meetings focused on the possibility of future collaboration on RUTF production, the APC’s role in supporting US RUTF producers, and potential challenges for both US growers and global food assistance efforts stemming from the closure of USAID.
February 2025 News Brief
INC Pavilion Shines at Gulfood 2025 Showcasing the Global Nut and Dried Fruit Industry
26 co-exhibitors joined the INC in Dubai for one of the world’s largest food and beverage trade fairs
The INC Pavilion at Gulfood 2025 in Dubai served as a key hub for the global nut and dried fruit industry, featuring 26 co-exhibitors from 10 countries. It offered a dynamic platform for showcasing innovations, fostering collaborations, and strengthening business ties, highlighted by the popular INC Happy Hour networking event. Key trends at Gulfood resonated with the nut and dried fruit sector and included a focus on sustainability with eco-friendly packaging and zero-waste initiatives, technological advancements like AI-driven agriculture to optimize crop yields, and the growing demand for plant-based and alternative proteins, where nuts and dried fruits naturally align as nutritious, sustainable choices. Gulfood reaffirmed its status as a major event, shaping the future of the food sector, with the INC playing an integral role in driving growth in the nut and dried fruit industry. [Read more] [View photos]
The INC Executive Committee Meets to Discuss Exciting New Initiatives for 2025 and Beyond
Setting the path for sustainability and industry growth
On February 16, the INC Executive Committee gathered to discuss key initiatives aimed at driving industry growth for 2025 and beyond. The meeting highlighted the launch of the new INC Sustainability Institute, which will promote sustainable practices within the nut and dried fruit sector, with its official unveiling at the INC Congress in May. The committee also reviewed the continuation of the Country Outreach Program and the Multi-Country Dissemination Plan targeting Gen Z in China, India and Latin America. Other highlights included preparations for the upcoming Congress in Mallorca, updates on the NUTPOOL Project, and the Foundation’s financial status. [Read more]
Register for the Exclusive INC Congress!
Save your spot at the premier event for the nut and dried fruit industry!
From May 8-10, Palma de Mallorca will welcome 1,500+ company owners, presidents, and CEOs from top global companies. This flagship event offers a unique opportunity to learn, network, and conduct business with industry leaders from 65 countries. With 1,100+ professionals from 387 companies already registered, don’t miss your chance to be part of this exclusive gathering. [Register now]
Enroll on the On-site Technical Visit
Elevate your congress experience!
Experience the stunning landscapes of southern Portugal and Spain from May 4-7, 2025, with exclusive, behind-the-scenes tours of cutting-edge orchards and processing facilities. Explore industry innovations, gain insider knowledge, and connect with top professionals. Key stops include top companies like De Prado Almonds, ISFA, Nuevos Cultivos Agrarios, Calconut, and the Port of Valencia. Dive deep into supply chain insights, hands-on learning, and leave with an official certification. Open to 2025 INC Congress participants and Academia Alumni. Under 35? Enjoy a 25% discount on your Congress registration when you join this visit! [Enroll now]
Get Ready for Action: Join the INC Golf or Tennis Experience!
Start your INC Congress journey with a day of sport, networking, and unforgettable experiences
Kick off the INC Congress with a day of sport, networking, and unforgettable experiences on May 7, 2025! Whether you're a golf enthusiast or a tennis fan, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Golf at Son Gual Golf Club: Challenge yourself on a beautiful 18-hole championship course, surrounded by stunning landscapes and exciting obstacles. Tennis at the Rafa Nadal Academy: With two unforgettable experiences on offer, you can either join a tennis clinic led by expert coaches, or unwind at the pool, spa, and gym. Either way, you’ll have the chance to explore the academy's world-class facilities, including the museum. Secure your spot today! [Sign up now]
Apply Now for the INC Sustainability or Innovation Awards
Showcase your initiatives to 1,500+ top industry professionals
These prestigious awards celebrate groundbreaking efforts in two key areas: SUSTAINABILITY: Back to the Planet (Environmental) or Back to the People (Social) categories, and INNOVATION for transformative products and services. Choose the award that best represents your project and showcase your impact on the industry. Submission deadline: March 25, 2025, at 12:00 CET. Don’t miss the chance to stand out in the global spotlight! Whether you’re making a positive impact in sustainability or launching a groundbreaking innovation, this is your opportunity to showcase your work to over 1,500 industry professionals. [Apply now]
Research Supports Eating Pecans as a Heart-Healthy Snack
Consuming pecans instead of usual snacks may lead to better cholesterol levels and diet quality
A recent study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition examined how substituting common snack foods with pecans affects vascular health, risk factors for cardiometabolic diseases, and diet quality. The study was a 12-week randomized controlled trial involving 138 adults who had at least one criterion for metabolic syndrome and were free of cardiovascular disease. Participants were randomly assigned to one of two groups: the control group, which followed their usual diet, or the intervention group… [Read more]
Study Finds Home-Based Peanut Immunotherapy Effective for Children with High-Threshold Peanut Allergy
The findings point to a convenient, low-cost alternative to total peanut avoidance
A recent study published in the prestigious journal NEJM Evidence found that children with high-threshold peanut allergies who consumed gradually increasing doses of peanut butter over 18 months were able to tolerate significantly larger amounts of peanut protein without allergic reactions. Researchers conducted a randomized controlled trial to assess the effectiveness of peanut oral immunotherapy in children aged 4 to 14 years who could initially tolerate at least half of a peanut before having an allergic reaction. [Read more]
Virus-Like Particle Vaccine Shows Promise for Peanut Allergy Treatment
The findings provide hope for long-term relief from allergic reactions
A recent study published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology suggests that a novel virus-like particle vaccine targeting peanut allergy may have the potential to provide a safe and effective alternative to existing treatments. Researchers developed a vaccine using a cucumber mosaic virus-like particle expressing the peanut allergen component Ara h 2. This approach aims to reprogram the immune system to tolerate peanut exposure rather than trigger allergic reactions. The study assessed the vaccine’s tolerogenic properties… [Read more]
Sustainability Updates
The INC’s latest sustainability roundup covers trilogue negotiations on the EU’s proposed Green Claims Directive, a project in Argentina to improve raisin quality through sustainable biocontrol, a project in Spain to develop biomethane using almond hulls, and more. [Read more]
International Trade News
This month, the INC’s trade update includes news about the Trump tariff rollout in the US, proposed EU tariffs on agricultural products from Russia and Belarus, the approval of Brazilian macadamia imports into the US without a phytosanitary certificate, and more. [Read more]
Food Safety Updates
The INC’s latest food safety news includes information about new procedures in the EU for Common Health Entry Documents, as well as updates on plant protection products in Japan and the EU. [Read more]
Labeling Updates
This month, the INC’s labeling update focuses on new labeling requirements for certain food and beverage products sold in Abu Dhabi, UAE, under the Nutri-Mark scheme. [Read more]