In order to overcome the notable limitations of current methods for monitoring grain storage states, particularly in the early warning of potential risks and the analysis of the spatial distribution of grain temperatures within the granary, this study proposes a multi-model fusion approach [...] Read more.

In order to overcome the notable limitations of current methods for monitoring grain storage states, particularly in the early warning of potential risks and the analysis of the spatial distribution of grain temperatures within the granary, this study proposes a multi-model fusion approach based on a deep learning framework for grain storage state monitoring and risk alert. This approach combines two advanced three-dimensional deep learning models, a grain storage state classification model based on 3D DenseNet and a temperature field prediction model based on 3DCNN-LSTM. First, the grain storage state classification model based on 3D DenseNet efficiently extracts features from three-dimensional grain temperature data to achieve the accurate classification of storage states. Second, the temperature prediction model based on 3DCNN-LSTM incorporates historical grain temperature and absolute water potential data to precisely predict the dynamic changes in the granary’s temperature field. Finally, the grain temperature prediction results are input into the 3D DenseNet to provide early warnings for potential condensation and mildew risks within the grain pile. Comparative experiments with multiple baseline models show that the 3D DenseNet model achieves an accuracy of 97.38% in the grain storage state classification task, significantly outperforming other models. The 3DCNN-LSTM model shows high prediction accuracy in temperature forecasting, with MAE of 0.24 °C and RMSE of 0.28 °C. Furthermore, in potential risk alert experiments, the model effectively captures the temperature trend in the grain storage environment and provides early warnings, particularly for mildew and condensation risks, demonstrating the potential of this method for grain storage safety monitoring and risk alerting. This study provides a smart grain storage solution which contributes to ensuring food safety and enhancing the efficiency of grain storage management.Full article

Supplementary material:
Supplementary File 1 (ZIP, 488 KiB)

Pepper is one of the most widely consumed foods around the world. China is the leading producer, while Mexico is the primary exporter. To support these roles, the responsible use of agrochemicals is essential. Additionally, investigating the factors influencing pesticide dissipation is critical [...] Read more.

Pepper is one of the most widely consumed foods around the world. China is the leading producer, while Mexico is the primary exporter. To support these roles, the responsible use of agrochemicals is essential. Additionally, investigating the factors influencing pesticide dissipation is critical to ensure that residue levels do not exceed established Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs) and to achieve the required pre-harvest interval (PHI). This is essential to prevent trade-related issues and mitigate potential health risks to consumers. Consequently, this study aims to evaluate the dissipation dynamics of acetamiprid, azoxystrobin, and β-cyfluthrin residues in jalapeño peppers cultivated under both greenhouse and open-field conditions. Three applications of a manufacturer’s suggested dosage were evaluated, with 7-day intervals between each. The residual content was quantified after 1 h and 1, 3, 7, 14, and 21 days following each application. A QuEChERS method utilizing ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS) and gas chromatography equipped with a micro electron capture detector (GC-µECD) to determine the pesticide residues was optimized and validated, obtaining suitable performance, with satisfactory linearity, detection and quantification limits, recovery rates, and accuracy. The dissipation curves were constructed from the residues and dissipation percentages of the pesticides over time, elucidating the initial residuality, accumulation, half-life, residence time, and total persistence of the active ingredient. In addition, an analysis was carried out, relating climatic conditions to the cumulative dissipation of pesticides. The results show an increase in the initial residues, half-life, and residence time of pesticides in the greenhouse. Otherwise, in the open field, the residues of the pesticides acetamiprid and azoxystrobin increased over the initial applications. Climatic conditions, mainly evapotranspiration during crop growing, involve the dissipation of pesticides in jalapeño pepper. The validation method demonstrated satisfactory parameters, aligning with the guidelines provided by the US EPA and SENASICA. All concentrations quantified in real samples were found to be below the MRLs, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. Additionally, the dissipation kinetics played a critical role in elucidating key aspects such as residence times, latency periods, and marketing timelines for ensuring food safety. This kinetics provided essential insights into the behavior and persistence of the residues, contributing to a more comprehensive understanding of their dynamics in agricultural and commercial contexts. We believe these findings underscore the reliability and applicability of the method for monitoring pesticide residues in real-world scenarios.Full article

The gut microbiome of women can change after menopause, and during this phase women can also be more susceptible to vaginal dysbiosis. Recent studies have explored the probiotic potential ofLactobacillus crispatus BC4 andLactobacillus gasseri BC9 against various pathogens and their use [...] Read more.

The gut microbiome of women can change after menopause, and during this phase women can also be more susceptible to vaginal dysbiosis. Recent studies have explored the probiotic potential ofLactobacillus crispatus BC4 andLactobacillus gasseri BC9 against various pathogens and their use as co-starters in foods. However, their effects on the gut microbiota of post-menopausal women, who are more prone to dysbiosis, have not been examined. This study investigated the effects of predigested soy beverages (INFOGEST) containing BC4 and BC9 (encapsulated or not) on the composition and metabolic activity of the gut microbiota in post-menopausal women, using a fecal batch culture model. Parameters such as pH, gas, SCFAs, and microbiota composition (targeted qPCR and 16S rRNA gene sequencing) were assessed. The study, while highlighting a strong variability among donors, showed differences in gut microbiota response to the tested products. For instance, donor 2 showed a significant increase in bifidobacteria with BC4 + BC9 and E-BC9, while BC4 increasedRuminococcaceae in donors 1 and 3, and E-BC4 and E-BC9 enhancedAkkermansia in donor 1. BC4, E-BC4, E-BC9, and E-BC4 + BC9 significantly impacted metabolic activity, as measured by SCFAs, compared to other samples. However, no significant differences in gas production were observed.Full article

Peony mead, an emerging fermented beverage, has attracted attention because of its unique flavor and health benefits. The dynamic changes in sensory quality and the molecular mechanisms involved during post-fermentation are still unclear, limiting its industrial production. In this study, GC-IMS (gas chromatography-ion [...] Read more.

Peony mead, an emerging fermented beverage, has attracted attention because of its unique flavor and health benefits. The dynamic changes in sensory quality and the molecular mechanisms involved during post-fermentation are still unclear, limiting its industrial production. In this study, GC-IMS (gas chromatography-ion mobility spectrometry) and UHPLC-MS/MS (ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry) were employed to systematically analyze the variations in aroma and quality of peony mead across aging stages. During the aging process, titratable acid content increased significantly, while soluble solids and reducing sugars decreased. Total phenol content initially rose but subsequently declined. Sensory analysis demonstrated that the sweet–acid balance and polyphenol content were critical in shaping the sensory characteristics of the product. Seventeen key volatile metabolites were identified via GC-IMS, with the 2-methyl-1-propanol dimer/polymer and 3-methyl-1-butanol dimer/polymer serving as potential characteristic markers. These key volatile metabolites underwent physicochemical reactions, yielding complex and coordinated aroma characteristics. UHPLC–MS/MS analysis revealed that nonvolatile metabolites changed significantly, which were driven by nonenzymatic reactions such as redox reactions, hydrolysis, and condensation. In addition, correlation analysis identified mechanisms by which key metabolites potentially contributed to sensory properties such as floral aroma, fruit fragrance, sweetness, sourness, etc. This study provided insights into quality changes during aging and supported the development of high-quality fermented beverages.Full article

This review examines the current state of the supply chain management forDicentrarchus labrax (sea bass) andSparus aurata (sea bream), two key commercial fish species in the Mediterranean. It provides a comprehensive analysis of sustainable innovations in aquaculture, processing, and packaging, with [...] Read more.

This review examines the current state of the supply chain management forDicentrarchus labrax (sea bass) andSparus aurata (sea bream), two key commercial fish species in the Mediterranean. It provides a comprehensive analysis of sustainable innovations in aquaculture, processing, and packaging, with particular attention to circular economy-based biopreservation techniques. A major focus is on the Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA) system, an advanced farming approach that enhances sustainability, promotes circular resource utilization, and improves fish welfare. By fostering ecological balance through the co-cultivation of multiple species, IMTA contributes to the overall quality of fish products for human consumption. Beyond aquaculture, the review addresses the critical challenge of food loss, which stems from the high perishability of fish during storage and processing. In this regard, it highlights recent advancements in biopreservation strategies, including the application of antagonistic microorganisms, their metabolites, and plant-derived extracts. Particular attention is given to the development of edible antimicrobial films, with a focus on the valorization of citrus processing by-products for their production. By centering on innovations specific to the Mediterranean context, this review underscores that a holistic, integrative approach to supply chain management is essential for transitioning the aquaculture sector toward greater efficiency and sustainability.Full article

Supplementary material:
Supplementary File 1 (ZIP, 97 KiB)

The increasing demand for sustainable and nutritionally rich protein sources has led to a growing interest in edible insects as a viable alternative to traditional meat. This study evaluates the potential of mealworm (Tenebrio molitor) flour as a partial meat replacer [...] Read more.

The increasing demand for sustainable and nutritionally rich protein sources has led to a growing interest in edible insects as a viable alternative to traditional meat. This study evaluates the potential of mealworm (Tenebrio molitor) flour as a partial meat replacer in the formulation of dry fermented sausages (salchichón). Four formulations were prepared, replacing 0%, 5%, 10%, and 15% of pork meat with mealworm flour, and their microbiological, physicochemical, rheological, technological, and sensory properties were analyzed. Results showed that the incorporation of mealworm flour did not compromise the growth of lactic acid bacteria or Gram-positive catalase-positive cocci, both essential for fermentation and curing. The inclusion of mealworm flour significantly increased the protein, fiber, and polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) content of the sausages, improving their nutritional profile. Notably, despite the higher PUFA content, lipid oxidation was reduced, as evidenced by lower concentrations of oxidation-derived volatile compounds. Significant changes were also observed in color, particularly at higher replacement levels, which resulted in a noticeable darkening of the sausages. Sensory evaluation indicated that replacing up to 5% of pork meat maintained product acceptability, whereas higher levels caused significant changes. The partial replacement of pork by mealworm flour shows interesting possibilities to produce more sustainable and functional dry fermented meats.Full article

This study investigated the immunomodulatory effect of polysaccharides fromPorphyra haitanensis (PHP) using a hydrocortisone-induced immunosuppressive model. Immunocompromised mice were treated with varying doses of PHP and the effects on macroscopic indicators, macrophage function, and both cellular and humoral immune functions were comprehensively [...] Read more.

This study investigated the immunomodulatory effect of polysaccharides fromPorphyra haitanensis (PHP) using a hydrocortisone-induced immunosuppressive model. Immunocompromised mice were treated with varying doses of PHP and the effects on macroscopic indicators, macrophage function, and both cellular and humoral immune functions were comprehensively assessed. The results showed that PHP significantly increased the body weight and indexes of the spleen and thymus, improved the disorder of blood cell populations, and enhanced macrophage activity. Furthermore, PHP improved T lymphocyte subtypes and differentiation and regulated the CD4⁺/CD8⁺ ratio. PHP also promoted the expression of T-Bet and GATA-3 while maintaining immune homeostasis, alongside promoting cytokine secretion. PHP facilitated the production of antibody-generating cells, serum hemolysin, and antibodies. Western blot results revealed that PHP activates the TLR4/NF-κB pathway. These findings suggested that PHP exerts immunomodulatory effects on both the innate and adaptive immune systems.Full article

Supplementary material:
Supplementary File 1 (ZIP, 493 KiB)

The brown seaweedSaccharina latissima is an abundant, although yet underutilized, source of natural bioactive compounds commonly found in western regions. In recent years, brown algae have garnered attention as promising sources of polyphenols, particularly phlorotannins. The recovery of these relevant components by [...] Read more.

The brown seaweedSaccharina latissima is an abundant, although yet underutilized, source of natural bioactive compounds commonly found in western regions. In recent years, brown algae have garnered attention as promising sources of polyphenols, particularly phlorotannins. The recovery of these relevant components by eco-friendly and energy-efficient methods with solvents GRAS (Generally recognized as safe) contributes to minimizing environmental impact, and promotes sustainability. Pressurized liquid extraction (PLE) and microwave-assisted extraction (MAE) optimized by Box–Behnken design (BBD) were explored for this purpose. The methods were evaluated considering the process yield and the quality of the recovered extracts by phenolic and phlorotannin levels, and their antioxidant capacity was assessed by DPPH and ABTS assays. The optimized MAE techniques (80 °C, 2% EtOH/Water at 40 mL g⁻¹) and PLE2 (80 °C with water) showed the highest extract yields, with increases of 65.76% and 37.36%, respectively, compared to CRE. PLE2 also achieved higher TPC and antioxidant capacity (ABTS) values by 61.88% and 80.39%, respectively. MAE (optimized) increased TPC and ABTS by 53.90% and 36.42%, respectively. Regression analysis of MAE confirmed the accuracy of the models in assessing interaction parameters (adjustmentp < 0.05 and adequacy R² > 0.86). Therefore, the study presents eco-efficient approaches for recovering phenolic compounds and antioxidants from brown algae, contributing to the valorization of these resources in the industry and enhancing their application.Full article

Two typical fish products—fermented mandarin fish and semi-dried yellow croaker—are associated with biogenic amines (BAs), which are harmful to human health. The objective of this study was to investigate the bacterial ecology of the two fish products and to determine their capacity for [...] Read more.

Two typical fish products—fermented mandarin fish and semi-dried yellow croaker—are associated with biogenic amines (BAs), which are harmful to human health. The objective of this study was to investigate the bacterial ecology of the two fish products and to determine their capacity for producing BAs. Putrescine and cadaverine were major BAs detected in the fish products. Concentrations of BAs were significantly corrected with microbial count (p < 0.05). BA-producing isolates (33) in the two fish products were all multiple BA producers. Several of them, includingLactobacillus sakei,Bacillus cereus andHafnia alvei isolated from fermented mandarin fish, as well asShewanella baltica,Aeromonas veronii, andPhotobacterium phosphoreum isolated from semi-dried yellow croaker, showed remarkable BA-producing capacity.Hafnia alvei produced the greatest abundance of putrescine, cadaverine, tyramine and 2-phenylethylamine.Lactobacillus sakei mainly produced tryptamine and putrescine.Photobacterium phosphoreum showed the strongest histamine-producing capacity.Full article

In this study, three types of non-meat proteins, including soybean protein, wheat gluten, and whey protein, were used as additives to improve the 3D printing performance of chicken meat. The effects of non-meat proteins on rheological behavior, textural properties, moisture characteristics, and the [...] Read more.

In this study, three types of non-meat proteins, including soybean protein, wheat gluten, and whey protein, were used as additives to improve the 3D printing performance of chicken meat. The effects of non-meat proteins on rheological behavior, textural properties, moisture characteristics, and the microstructure of gels were investigated. Chicken meat paste without non-meat proteins added was taken as a control. Rheological results showed that the addition of non-meat proteins increased the apparent viscosity and the storage modulus of chicken meat paste. Textural properties of gels, including hardness, chewiness, cohesiveness, springiness, and resilience were also improved. The microstructure of gels with non-meat protein addition became denser and more compact, with improved connectivity. Nuclear magnetic resonance showed that the signals of bound water, immobilized water, and free water moved to the left towards lower relaxation time (p < 0.05) and part of immobile water and free water changed to bound water. The samples containing 15% soybean protein exhibited good shape-forming and shape-keeping capacities. There was an obvious increase in hardness (1991.40 ± 88.22 g), springiness (0.92 ± 0.00), cohesiveness (0.72 ± 0.01), gumminess (1299.14 ± 21.21), and resilience (0.34 ± 0.01) in these samples. The cooking loss of samples containing 15% soybean protein was 2.46 ± 0.36%, which was significantly lower than that of other treatments (p < 0.05). In summary, 15% soybean protein-added samples showed great potential for 3D printing.Full article

To investigate the metabolic differences and mechanisms during the fermentation process of coffee-grounds craft beer, HS-SPME-GC/MS untargeted metabolomics technology was used to study the metabolic differences during the fermentation process of coffee-grounds craft beer. Multivariate statistical analysis and pathway analysis were combined to [...] Read more.

To investigate the metabolic differences and mechanisms during the fermentation process of coffee-grounds craft beer, HS-SPME-GC/MS untargeted metabolomics technology was used to study the metabolic differences during the fermentation process of coffee-grounds craft beer. Multivariate statistical analysis and pathway analysis were combined to screen for significantly different metabolites with variable weight values of VIP ≥ 1 andp < 0.05. The results indicate that at time points T7, T14, T21, and T28, a total of 183 differential metabolites were detected during the four fermentation days, with 86 metabolites showing significant differences. Its content composition is mainly composed of lipids and lipid-like molecules, organic oxygen compounds, and benzoids, accounting for 63.64% of the total differential metabolites. KEGG enrichment analysis of differentially expressed metabolites showed a total of 35 metabolic pathways. The top 20 metabolic pathways were screened based on the correctedp-value, and the significantly differentially expressed metabolites were mainly enriched in pathways such as protein digestion and absorption, glycosaminoglycan biosynthesis heparan sulfate/heparin, and benzoxazinoid biosynthesis. The different metabolic mechanisms during the fermentation process of coffee-grounds craft beer reveal the quality changes during the fermentation process, providing theoretical basis for improving the quality of coffee-grounds craft beer and having important theoretical and practical significance for improving the quality evaluation system of coffee-grounds craft beer.Full article

The potential migration of chemical compounds from plastic food packaging poses significant health risks, necessitating continuous monitoring and enhanced safety protocols. This study aimed to investigate the migration of nine chemical groups, including alanine, acetic acid, cyano derivatives, urea, amines, amides, benzene derivatives, [...] Read more.

The potential migration of chemical compounds from plastic food packaging poses significant health risks, necessitating continuous monitoring and enhanced safety protocols. This study aimed to investigate the migration of nine chemical groups, including alanine, acetic acid, cyano derivatives, urea, amines, amides, benzene derivatives, nitrites, and non-specified compounds, across different food categories. A total of 195 packaged food samples from eleven food categories were analyzed using Headspace Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) to identify and quantify chemical migrants. Statistical analysis revealed significant differences in migration levels among food categories (p < 0.05). Cheese, candies, and chips exhibited the highest concentrations of alanine (65.95 ± 0.6384 mg/kg), acetic acid (57.80 ± 0.6383 mg/kg), and benzene derivatives (59.96 ± 1.844 mg/kg), respectively, while frozen raw meat and seafood showed the lowest levels for most compounds. High benzene and nitrite concentrations in certain samples raised particular concern due to their carcinogenic and toxicological effects. Regression analysis confirmed that food matrix type is a strong predictor of migration levels for several compounds. The findings emphasize the urgent need for stricter regulation, improved analytical techniques, and the development of safer packaging materials to reduce chemical migration risks and protect public health.Full article

With the constantly escalating demand for safe food packaging, the utilization of biodegradable polysaccharide-based nanocomposite films is being explored as an alternative to traditional petrochemical polymer films (polyvinyl alcohol, polybutylene succinate, etc.). Polysaccharide-based films have excellent mechanical properties, water vapor transmission rates, and [...] Read more.

With the constantly escalating demand for safe food packaging, the utilization of biodegradable polysaccharide-based nanocomposite films is being explored as an alternative to traditional petrochemical polymer films (polyvinyl alcohol, polybutylene succinate, etc.). Polysaccharide-based films have excellent mechanical properties, water vapor transmission rates, and other physical characteristics. Films can fulfill numerous demands for fruit packaging in daily life. Additionally, they can be loaded with various types of non-toxic and non-biocidal materials such as bioactive substances and metal nanomaterials. These materials enhance bacterial inhibition and reduce oxidation in fruits while maintaining fundamental packaging functionality. The article discusses the design and preparation strategies of polysaccharide-based nanocomposite films and their application in fruit preservation. The types of films, the addition of materials, and their mechanisms of action are further discussed. In addition, this research is crucial for fruit preservation efforts and for the preparation of polysaccharide-based films in both scientific research and industrial applications.Full article

The reliability of the “last mile” of cold-chain logistics is crucial for food safety. This study investigated the effect of different packaging treatments on the quality of anhydrously preserved liveRuditapes philippinarum (R. philippinarum) in “last mile” cold chain disruption. The temperature [...] Read more.

The reliability of the “last mile” of cold-chain logistics is crucial for food safety. This study investigated the effect of different packaging treatments on the quality of anhydrously preserved liveRuditapes philippinarum (R. philippinarum) in “last mile” cold chain disruption. The temperature profiles of three packaging treatments at ambient temperature (25 °C) were monitored. Quality assessment was conducted based on sensory scoring, survival rate, total viable count (TVC), water-holding capacity (WHC), pH, total volatile basic nitrogen (TVB-N), thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances (TBA), color, and texture. Low-frequency nuclear magnetic resonance (LF-NMR) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were utilized to characterize the water state profile. The findings demonstrated a progressive increase in internal package temperature throughout the “last mile”, with packages containing additional ice packs more effectively maintaining lower temperature and restricting the migration of “hot spots” towards the center. Specifically, the package with three ice packs maintained a markedly lower temperature, which effectively inhibited microbial activity, lipid oxidation, and the production of alkaline substances, resulting in higher survival rates, water-holding capacity, texture, sensory acceptability, and immobilized water fraction. Furthermore, LF-NMR relaxation parameters showed strong correlations with various physicochemical indices, suggesting a potential approach for real-time quality monitoring. This study provides insights for maintaining liveR. philippinarum quality during the “last mile”.Full article

The objective of this study is to optimize the allocation of storage positions in a cold storage facility for meat products, guaranteeing compliance with the cold chain and improving logistical efficiency. To this end, a mathematical optimization model was designed and applied that [...] Read more.

The objective of this study is to optimize the allocation of storage positions in a cold storage facility for meat products, guaranteeing compliance with the cold chain and improving logistical efficiency. To this end, a mathematical optimization model was designed and applied that strategically assigns storage locations based on inventory turnover and product accessibility. Different configurations were evaluated based on space utilization criteria, access times, and operating costs. Based on the analyzed data, the findings indicate a significant improvement in storage efficiency, with utilization reaching 71.87% in U1, U2, U3, and UE units and 75% in C1 and C2 units. In addition, the new distribution minimized handling times and reduced the risk of product spoilage. Based on these findings, it is demonstrated that optimizing cold storage distribution not only improves inventory management and operational logistics but also contributes to system sustainability by reducing waste and costs associated with inefficient handling of perishable products.Full article

Supplementary material:
Supplementary File 1 (ZIP, 29777 KiB)

Mackerel is widely favored by consumers as a high-yield, delicious marine fish. However, by-products generated during its processing, such as fish skins, are often underutilized, resulting in significant resource waste. This study aimed to extract high-activity mackerel protein peptides (HA-MPPs) from mackerel skins [...] Read more.

Mackerel is widely favored by consumers as a high-yield, delicious marine fish. However, by-products generated during its processing, such as fish skins, are often underutilized, resulting in significant resource waste. This study aimed to extract high-activity mackerel protein peptides (HA-MPPs) from mackerel skins through targeted enzymatic hydrolysis (using a composite protease). The peptides were purified using ultrafiltration and HPLC, and their biological activity was evaluated through infrared imaging and antioxidant assays. Mass spectrometry identified the main peptide fragments (P1, P2, and P3). The optimal conditions for enzymatic hydrolysis were 0.22% enzyme concentration, a 2.03 h hydrolysis time, 55.05 °C, and a 1:3 solid-to-liquid ratio, yielding 59.66%. Infrared imaging showed that HA-MPPs exhibited significant biological repair activities, penetrating the hair cuticle to restore keratin and enhance hair strength. Additionally, antioxidant assays confirmed their abilities to reduce oxidative damage. This study presents a novel method for the targeted enzymatic extraction of HA-MPPs from mackerel by-products and the high-value utilization of their biological activity. It also demonstrates the potential of these peptides in hair repair, providing a theoretical foundation for the future development of hair care products with reparative functions.Full article

Supplementary material:
Supplementary File 1 (ZIP, 1718 KiB)

In this study,Lacticaseibacillus paracasei LAB47 (LAB47) andLevilactobacillus brevis WCP02 (WCP02) were selected for the fermentation of isoflavone-enriched soybean leaves (IESLs) according to their survival capability under artificial gastric acid, β-glucosidase activity, γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) production ability, and isoflavone contents. The strain [...] Read more.

In this study,Lacticaseibacillus paracasei LAB47 (LAB47) andLevilactobacillus brevis WCP02 (WCP02) were selected for the fermentation of isoflavone-enriched soybean leaves (IESLs) according to their survival capability under artificial gastric acid, β-glucosidase activity, γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) production ability, and isoflavone contents. The strain ratio and fermentation duration with LAB47 and WCP02 for IESLs were 1:1 (per 2.5%,v/v) with a fermentation time of 72 h. Finally, the fermented IESLs (FIESLs) were compared with the raw and steamed IESLs (RIESLs and SIESLs, respectively) to determine the fatty acids, free amino acids, isoflavones, antioxidant activities, digestive inhibitory activities, and DNA protection capacity. The contents of total fatty acids (1295.67 mg/100 g), GABAs (101.39 mg/100 g), total phenolics (33.73 gallic acid equivalents mg/g), total flavonoids (13.93 rutin equivalents mg/g), and isoflavone aglycones (2588.85 μg/g) were higher in FIESLs than in RIESLs and SIESLs. In addition, the IC₅₀ inhibition of glucosidase (2.85 mg/mL) and pancreatic lipase (4.38 mg/mL) and DNA damage protection activities were superior in FIESLs than in RIESLs and SIESLs. Therefore, FIESLs with LAB47 and WCP02 increased the phytochemical and antioxidant activities of IESLs and may be used as functional foods.Full article

Integrating algae (microalgae and seaweeds) into monogastric animal diets presents significant opportunities to improve meat quality, safety, and sustainability. This review synthesizes current knowledge on the nutritional and bioactive compounds found in key microalgae (e.g.,Chlorella vulgaris, Spirulina, andNannochloropsis) and [...] Read more.

Integrating algae (microalgae and seaweeds) into monogastric animal diets presents significant opportunities to improve meat quality, safety, and sustainability. This review synthesizes current knowledge on the nutritional and bioactive compounds found in key microalgae (e.g.,Chlorella vulgaris, Spirulina, andNannochloropsis) and seaweeds (e.g.,Ascophyllum nodosum,Ulva), emphasizing their potential benefits for animal health and meat production. Algae-enriched diets substantially increase meat omega-3 fatty acid content and antioxidant capacity, thereby enhancing nutritional value, sensory appeal, and shelf life by mitigating lipid and protein oxidation during storage. Additionally, bioactive compounds in algae demonstrate potent antimicrobial activities capable of reducing pathogenic bacteria such asSalmonella,Escherichia coli, andCampylobacter, significantly contributing to improved meat safety. Environmentally, algae cultivation reduces dependency on arable land and freshwater, promotes nutrient recycling through wastewater use, and substantially decreases greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional livestock feeds. Nevertheless, challenges persist, including high production costs, scalability concerns, variability in nutrient composition, potential contamination with heavy metals and other toxins, and regulatory constraints. Overcoming these limitations through advancements in cultivation technologies, optimized inclusion strategies, and comprehensive market and regulatory analyses is essential to fully realize the potential of algae in sustainable monogastric livestock feeding systems.Full article

In this study, headspace gas chromatography–ion mobility spectrometry, headspace gas chromatography–mass spectrometry, and lipidomics were used to explore the effects of three oil temperatures (210 °C, 180 °C, 150 °C) with single- and traditional triple-oil-splashing processes (210 °C → 180 °C → 150 [...] Read more.

In this study, headspace gas chromatography–ion mobility spectrometry, headspace gas chromatography–mass spectrometry, and lipidomics were used to explore the effects of three oil temperatures (210 °C, 180 °C, 150 °C) with single- and traditional triple-oil-splashing processes (210 °C → 180 °C → 150 °C) on the formation of key chili oil aromas. A total of 31 key aroma compounds were identified, with 2,4-nonadienal, α-pinene, α-phellandrene, and β-ocimene being found in all treatment groups. Lipidomics suggested that oleic acid, linoleic acid, and α-linolenic acid were highly positively correlated with key chili oil key aroma compounds, such as (E)-2-heptenal, 2-methylbutyraldehyde, limonene, (E, E)-2,4-heptadienal, 2,4-nonadienal, and 2,4-decadienal. The temperature and frequency of oil splashing significantly affected the chili oil aroma profile (p < 0.05). The citrus, woody, and grassy notes were richer in chili oil prepared at 150 °C, malty and fatty aromas were more prominent at 180 °C, and the nutty aroma was stronger in 210 °C prepared and triple-splashed chili oil. The present study reveals how sequential oil splashing processes synergistically activate distinct lipid degradation pathways compared to single-temperature treatments, providing new insights into lipid-rich condiment preparation, enabling chefs and food manufacturers to target specific aroma profiles.Full article