Journal of Nutrition and Food Security

A Letter to the Editor

Prashant Ramdas Kokiwar — Sat, 02 May 2026 10:28:21 +0000

The Article Abstract is not available.

Artificial Intelligence in Food Safety: Applications and Opportunities

Ameneh Marzban, Payam Emami, Mohsen Dowlati — Sat, 02 May 2026 10:36:37 +0000

The Article Abstract is not available.

Utilization of Inulin as a Fat Replacer in the Development of Low-Fat Yogurt

Sat, 02 May 2026 10:44:06 +0000

Background: Yogurt is now recognized for its broader nutraceutical potential in promoting health and managing various conditions. This work aims to develop inulin-enriched low-fat yogurt using Streptococcus thermophilus, optimize inulin levels for improved texture, and assess physicochemical and sensory properties. Methods: This study formulated low-fat yogurt using inulin as a fat replacer and assessed its effects at varying concentrations on yogurt quality. T0 served as the control (3.5% milk fat, no inulin), while T1–T3 were treatments prepared with 0.2% milk fat and fortified with 1%, 2%, and 3% inulin, respectively, along with corresponding levels of skim-milk powder. Skim-milk powder was incorporated to standardize total solids across all samples. Key parameters, including sensory attributes, titratable acidity, pH, and, chemical compositions were analyzed, following standard procedures. Results: T₂ exhibited the highest moisture content (86.74%) and it remained higher than the control sample, while T₃ showed the lowest (86.58%). Ash content was notably higher in the experimental yogurts, with T₁ showing the highest value at 1.02%, followed by T₂ (0.95%) and T₃ (0.87%). Protein content was also greater in the experimental yogurts, with T₁ showing the highest protein level (4.49%), followed by T₃ (3.95%) and T₂(3.94%). The addition of inulin had minimal influence on pH and acidity during storage. Sensory evaluation revealed no significant differences in aroma, taste, or overall acceptability between treatments. Moreover, the control yogurt was rated highest in color, appearance, and aroma, while both the control and T₃ received the highest taste scores. T₃ achieved the highest overall acceptability (7.5), but T₁ offered the best cost-benefit balance with comparable quality to the control. Conclusion: Finally, inulin proved to be an effective fat replacer in low-fat yogurt, with T₁ offering the best cost-quality balance and T₃ achieving the highest overall acceptability.

Polyphenol Intake and the Risk of Pancreatic Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Observational Studies

Sat, 02 May 2026 10:50:30 +0000

Background: Considering the antioxidant effects of polyphenols, it remains unclear whether dietary polyphenols can affect the risk of pancreatic cancer. This study assessed the association between polyphenol intake and the risk of pancreatic cancer. Methods: Articles published until April 2023 in PubMed, Scopus, and the Web of Science (ISI) were searched. Observational studies on the association between dietary polyphenol intake and the odds of pancreatic cancer were also included. Odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were used as effect sizes. Furthermore, standard methods were used to evaluate the heterogeneity, sensitivity, and publication bias. The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS) was used for quality assessment. Results: Eight studies were included. Although this systematic review and meta-analysis revealed no relationship between the intake of total flavonoids, flavan-3-ols, flavones, flavonols, flavanones, anthocyanidins, and pancreatic cancer odds; in qualitative analysis, a positive relationship was observed between genistein and the aflavin intake and pancreatic cancer risk. Conclusions: No relationship was observed between polyphenol intake and pancreatic cancer odds. Polyphenols have poor bioavailability and bioaccessibility, which may have affected their results. Therefore, more high-quality studies with precise designs are required to determine whether a relationship exists

The Effect of Active Compounds in Raisins on the Inhibitory Activity and Free Radical-Scavenging Capacity of Fortified Yogurt

Raghad Saad Al Musa, Esraa S. Ethafa — Sat, 02 May 2026 10:53:45 +0000

Background: Awareness has recently increased because of the reliance on plant extracts such as raisin extracts to enhance biological properties and produce functional products such as dairy products fortified with these extracts. Methods: In this study, the active compounds in aqueous and alcoholic extracts of black and yellow raisins were evaluated by GC‒MS. The yogurt fortified with extracts was manufactured, and the diameter of the inhibition zone was estimated against Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The free radical-scavenging capacity (DPPH%) was estimated at concentrations of 0, 5, 10, and 15 mg/ml. The letters also refer to antioxidants (A1) and (A2) in yogurt with alcoholic and aqueous extracts of black raisins and (A3) and (A4) in yogurt with alcoholic and aqueous extracts of yellow raisins. Results: The findings revealed the emergence of many active compounds, including alcohols, hydroxymethylfurfural, vitamins, alkanes, alkynes, phenolics, long-chain saturated fatty acids, organic acids, and other active compounds of different percentages. The highest inhibition zone of yogurt fortified with alcoholic extracts for black raisins was against Bacillus cereus, which reached 8, 20, and 23 mm, respectively, and increased in yogurt fortified with aqueous extracts for black raisins to 9, 21, and 24 mm, respectively. The free radical-scavenging capacities of the A1, A2, A3, and A4 samples were 38.17, 39.12, 39.46, and 39.89%, respectively, at a concentration of 15 mg/ml, whereas that of ascorbic acid was 85.90%. Conclusion: This study showed that consuming yogurt fortified with raisin extracts provides the body with functional benefits.

17-Beta Estradiol Levels, Dietary Intake, Anthropometric Indices, and Determination of the Q36R Polymorphism in the Kiss1 Gene in Infertile Women: A Case-Control Study

Mozhgan Soltan Mohammadi, Tahereh Khalili, Marziyeh Ghasemi, Zinat Mortazavi — Sat, 02 May 2026 10:58:31 +0000

Background: This study compares serum 17-beta-estradiol (E2), dietary intake, anthropometric indices, and the Kiss1 gene Q36R polymorphism between infertile women and a healthy control group in Zahedan, Southeast Iran. Methods: In a case-control study, forty-five infertile women (cases) and 45 healthy women (controls) were assessed for anthropometric indices (weight, height, waist circumference, and body mass index). Food intake was then evaluated using a food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). Serum 17-beta-estradiol levels were measured via ELISA, and PCR determined the Kiss1 gene Q36R polymorphism. Finally, data were analyzed using the t-test, the Mann-Whitney U test, Fisher's exact test, and the chi-square test. Results: Mean serum E2 levels were significantly lower in the case group (61.40±128.15 ng/ml) compared to the control group (117.24±84.26 ng/ml) (P<0.001). Anthropometric variables did not differ significantly between groups. However, t-tests and Mann-Whitney tests revealed significant differences in most nutritional factors between cases and controls. The allelic distribution of the Kiss1 Q36R polymorphism was not significant between the two groups. Conclusion: The case group exhibited significantly lower mean serum E2 levels compared to controls, but the Kiss1 Q36R polymorphism's allelic distribution was similar in both groups. Further research should investigate the roles of Kiss1 polymorphisms and dietary factors in infertility

Calcium and Iron Intake, and Sport Habit as A Determinant of Dysminorrhea on Adolescents

Sat, 02 May 2026 11:04:04 +0000

Background: Pain during menstruation or dysmenorrhea is described as pain in the lower abdomen, back, and a feeling of bloating. It causes pain and inconveniece during menstruation. Inadequate nutrient intake or dietary habits become one of the factors that affect this condition. This study aims to investigate calcium and iron intake as well as sports habits as determinants of dysmenorrhea. Methods: The population in this study included 396 female adolescents in Tuban District, they were who experienced dysmenorrhea. The sample was selected using a cluster random sampling technique of 199 respondents who met the inclusion criteria, including female adolescents aged 16-18. The Spearman correlation test was used for analysis in this study. Results: The regression analysis revelaed that iron intake was significantly associated with dysmenorrhea scores (β=0.845; 95% CI: 0.760–0.931; P<0.001), while calcium intake (β=0.009; 95% CI: –0.132–0.149; P=0.900) and sport habits (β=–0.161; 95% CI: –0.399–0.077; P=0.183) were not significantly associated. Conclusion: There was a significant correlation between iron intake and the incidence of dysmenorrhea. Meanwhile, calcium and sports habits had a weak correlation.

Fortification of Functional Yogurt with Dragon Fruit (Hylocereus polyrhizus) Pulp: A Nutritional Approach

Sat, 02 May 2026 11:15:56 +0000

Background: The incorporation of fruit pulp into yogurt has created a new dimension in the field of functional foods. Dragon fruit (Hylocereus polyrhizus) is a highly nutrient rich food which offers a range of health benefits, enriched in water-soluble fiber, vitamin C and antioxidants. The present study was aimed to evaluate antioxidant and antibacterial activities of both fresh and cold stored yogurts fortified with dragon fruit pulp. Methods: Laboratory made set yogurt was divided into four categories. The first one was used as control (T0) while the other three T1, T2 and T3 were fortified with 5, 7.5 and 10% dragon fruit pulp, respectively. Antioxidant activity was measured using DPPH method, pH was determined by a pH meter, syneresis was measured by centrifugation procedure, and antibacterial properties were assessed by disk diffusion method. Results: The experimental results showed that the pH of the yogurts decreased with the addition of dragon fruit pulp. Syneresis in yogurts increased with the addition of dragon fruit pulp. Treatments with 5%, 7.5%, and 10% dragon fruit pulp showed a significant increase in DPPH scavenging activity compared to the control group. Yogurt supplemented with 10% dragon fruit pulp demonstrated the most effective growth-inhibiting properties against the pathogens A. hydrophila, Bacillus cereus, E. coli, and K. pneumoniae. Conclusion: The results suggest that incorporating dragon fruit pulp to yogurt fortification improves its functional properties, especially its antibacterial and antioxidant activities, with the most significant benefits demonstrated at 10% fortification.

Hygiene Practices’ Knowledge of Sales Staff and Microbiological Quality Assessment of Frozen Meat in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso

Sun, 03 May 2026 05:03:54 +0000

Background: Meat is a vital source of nutrients essential for human health, but it can become a vector for diseases. System practices deficiencies, however, prevent consistent refrigeration safe storage in Ouagadougou. This situation can lead to hygiene lapses and microbiological contamination. Therefore, this study was performed to assess the current situation of frozen meats with the aim of encouraging a change in behavior in the event of lapses. Methods: Surveys were conducted at 10 sales sites to document hygiene practices, and samples were analyzed using microbiological standard methods. Results: Key findings revealed that 90% of samples exceeded the acceptable limit of 10⁶ CFU/g for total aerobic mesophilic flora, and 80% had thermotolerant coliforms above the permissible limit of 10³ CFU/g. Additionally, 90% of the samples were unsatisfactory for Bacillus cereus and Staphylococcus aureus, with significant differences (P=0.002); however, 40% of the samples tested positive for Salmonella/Shigella. Finally, surveys highlighted inadequate hygiene practices, including uncontrolled freezer temperatures (90%) and poor personal hygiene among sales staff (90%). The presence of pathogens such as Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus cereus poses significant public health risks. Conclusion: This study revealed a high prevalence of meat by several pathogenic bacteria. Most people apply freezing to preserve meat but have poor knowledge of hygiene practices and do not control their freezer temperature during meat storage. This finding underscores the urgent need for strict hygiene training and regulatory oversight of preservation techniques to ensure the safety of frozen meat in Ouagadougou.

The Effect of Caffeinated Chewing Gum on the Levels of VO2 Max among Physically Active Individuals

Sun, 03 May 2026 05:29:19 +0000

Background: Caffeine is one of the most popular ergogenic aids widely used by coaches and athletes. Caffeinated chewing gums can be rapidly absorbed and may improve endurance as measured by VO₂ max. This study investigates the effect of caffeinated chewing gum on the levels of VO₂ max among physically active individuals. Methods: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, matched-pair trial design was used. Twenty-two physically active men were recruited and completed this study. Participants were then divided into two groups: A caffeinated chewing gum group (CG) and a placebo group (PG), with eleven participants in each group. Results: No adverse effect was reported by the participants during this study. The findings showed that caffeinated chewing gum was not effective in improving right or left handgrip and back or leg dynamometer but effectively increased VO₂ Max (PG: 1.45±2.44 ml/kg vs CG: 4.14±2.12 ml/kg; P<0.012). Conclusion: This study concluded that a caffeine dose of ~180 mg or ~3 mg/kg body weight in chewing gum increases maximal oxygen uptake among physically active individuals.

Household Food Demand Elasticities in Urban and Rural Iran, 2020–2022: Policy Insights on Essential Goods

Mitra Sarmadikia, Ranasadat Abedi, Yalda Nabizadeh — Sun, 03 May 2026 05:32:16 +0000

Background: Rising food prices and inflation have posed major challenges for household food security in Iran. Understanding how households respond to price changes is essential for nutrition and policy planning. This study aimed to estimate and compare the price elasticity of demand for major food groups among urban and rural households in Iran during 2020–2022. Methods: Household food consumption and price data were obtained from the National Center for Statistics of Iran. Price elasticities were calculated for eight food groups using standard demand elasticity models, with separate analyses for urban and rural households. Results: Across all three years, most food groups exhibited inelastic demand (elasticity values between 0 and 1), confirming their essential role in household diets. Oils and fats were the only group with elasticity greater than 1, indicating high sensitivity to price changes. Overall demand elasticity was consistently higher in urban households compared to rural households. Conclusion: The predominance of inelastic demand for staple foods highlights their essential nature despite rising inflation. These findings provide important insights for food and nutrition policy, particularly in designing subsidies and support programs for vulnerable groups.

The Association between Therapeutic and Nutritional Care with the Control of Type 2 Diabetes Based on an Observational Study in Kermanshah, Iran

Mohammad Seddigh Saedi, Seyed Mostafa Nachvak, Amir Bagheri, Fatemeh Sadeghi — Sun, 03 May 2026 05:37:39 +0000

Background: The measures and interventions which contribute to the control of diabetes may play an important role in the disease prognosis. This study was conducted with the aim of evaluating the effect of medical and nutritional care in the control of type 2 diabetes. Methods: This work as retrospective cohort, was conducted on 200 patients diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, utilizing medical records of those receiving medical care. The participants completed the Diabetes Self-Management Questionnaire (DSMQ), which assesses self-care activities pertaining to glycemic control. Additionally, demographic information, disease history, treatment monitoring, self-monitoring of blood sugar, diet data, physical activity, and biochemical tests were obtained for analysis. Results: Out of the 200 patients with type 2 diabetes studied, 45% were male and 55% were female. The majority of patients (90%) lived in urban areas. The study found that patients who received nutritional education, including information on portion sizes, glycemic index, and adherence to weight loss diets, and who were followed up by a nutritionist, had better control of their diabetes. Patients who were aware of normal blood glucose levels and the consequences of uncontrolled diabetes also showed a significant relationship with better control of the disease. Conclusion: Overall, these findings highlight the importance of incorporating nutritional education into the management plan for patients with type 2 diabetes, as it can have a significant impact on both short-term and long-term health outcomes.

Anthropometric Changes Over Two Years in Patients Undergoing Mini-Gastric Bypass, Gastric Bypass, and Sleeve Gastrectomy

Sun, 03 May 2026 05:44:43 +0000

Background: Obesity is a significant public health issue with increasing global prevalence. Bariatric surgery is currently the most effective intervention for sustained weight loss and improvement in obesity-related comorbidities. This study aimed to compare anthropometric and body composition changes over 24 months following three bariatric procedures, mini-gastric bypass (MGB), sleeve gastrectomy (SG), and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB), in an Iranian population. Methods: This study was performed on 6,390 patients who underwent MGB, SG, or RYGB between 2020 and 2022 in Tehran. Anthropometric indices and body composition variables [body mass index (BMI), excess weight loss percentage (EWL%), fat mass, visceral fat, and muscle mass] were measured before surgery and at 3, 6, 12, and 24 months after surgery. Generalized estimating equations (GEEs) were used to assess longitudinal changes and associated factors. Results: All procedures led to significant BMI and EWL% reductions over time (P<0.001). Compared with SG, MGB was associated with a greater BMI reduction and EWL% increase. No significant differences were found in fat mass or visceral fat between the groups, but males showed greater reductions over time. Muscle mass was better preserved in RYGB patients, especially among males. Age and sex were also significant predictors of postsurgical outcomes. Conclusion: Compared with SG, MGB resulted in superior weight loss. RYGB was more effective in preserving muscle mass. Patient characteristics such as age and sex influence surgical outcomes and should be considered in personalized postoperative care.

The Effect of Ellagic Acid Supplementation on Inflammatory Markers and Adiponectin Levels in Patients with Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: A Randomized Double-Blind Clinical Trial

Sun, 03 May 2026 05:49:47 +0000

Background: The progression and pathogenesis of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) are intimately connected to elevated oxidative stress and chronic inflammatory responses. With the antioxidant qualities of Ellagic acid (EA), this study aims to assay the impact of EA on inflammatory markers and adiponectin hormone in individuals with NAFLD. Methods: In a double-blind, controlled clinical trial, 44 people meeting the study criteria were randomly assigned to consume 180 mg of EA per day (EAG, n=22) or placebo (PG, n=22) over an 8-week period. Measurements of anthropometric indices, food intake, physical activity levels, inflammatory markers, and adiponectin were taken at both the beginning and conclusion of the trial. The results were evaluated with the help of SPSS software. Results. No meaningful statistical variations were noticed between the EA and placebo groups regarding anthropometric variables, dietary intake, or physical activity levels before and after the intervention (P>0.05). After receiving the supplement, the average changes of inflammatory agents, interleukin 6 (IL-6) (from 8.69±3.07 to 5.11±1.24 mg/dl, P=0.04), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) (from 15.09±3.52 to 10.61±2.44 pg/ml, P=0.037), at the start and end of the study, were significantly reduced (P<0.05). In addition, a notable increase in the level of adiponectin was noted in the EAG group (P<0.05). Conclusions. In light of the outcomes, EA can be utilized as an effective therapeutic intervention to ameliorate complications derived from NAFLD.

BMI and Systemic Inflammation Mediating the Gender-Specific Association between Food Insecurity and Circadian Syndrome in US Adults: A Cross-sectional Study from the NHANCE

Sun, 03 May 2026 05:59:00 +0000

Background: This study aimed to investigate gender-specific associations between food insecurity (FI) and circadian syndrome (CircS) among US adult, and to explore whether body mass index (BMI) and systemic inflammation [white blood cell (WBC) count] mediate these associations. Methods: Cross-sectional data from 12, 601 participants (≥20 yers) in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2005–2016 survey were analyzed. FI was assessed using the United States Department of Agriculture food security scale module. CircS was defined as the presence of ≥4 of the following components: central obesity, hypertension, elevated fasting glucose, reduced HDL-C, elevated triglycerides, short sleep duration, and depressive symptoms. Finally, weighted logistic regression and mediation analyses were performed to evaluate associations between FI and CircS, and the mediating roles of BMI and WBC count. Results: FI was significantly associated with increased odds of CircS [Adjusted odds ratio (AOR)]: 1.46; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.26–1.70), particularly among women (AOR: 1.69; 95% CI: 1.39–2.05). BMI and WBC count partially mediated this relationship in women, accounting for 37.5% and 18.6% of the total effect, respectively. Conclusions: The findings highlight the role of metabolic and inflammatory dysregulation, particularly among women, as potential mechanisms linking FI and circadian health disturbances. Targeting FI through public health strategies that address these pathways may reduce the burden of CircS and related condition, and support the integration of circadian health into nutrition and chronic disease prevention policies.

Household Food Insecurity and Coping Strategy in War-Torn Hawzien District, Tigray Regional State, Ethiopia

Sun, 03 May 2026 06:04:37 +0000

Background: The Tigray war, characterised by the deliberate targeting of food systems, created a severe humanitarian crisis. However, empirical evidence on household-level food security during the conflict is limited. This study aimed to examine the food security status and coping mechanisms of households during the war. Method: Primary data were collected from 219 households from the Hawzien district, which were randomly chosen from three peasant associations within the district. Furthermore, data were collected from a household survey and focus group discussions. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis. Results: The findings reveal a catastrophic level of food insecurity: 94.1% of households were classified as food-insecure. To survive, households resorted to negative coping strategies, most notably relying on less preferred foods (97.2%), selling productive assets (90%), and consuming seed stock intended for planting (62.5%). Conclusion: The war has not only caused immediate, widespread food insecurity but has also forced households into survival strategies that actively erode their productive base and long-term resilience.

Nutrition Labeling in Iran: Evolution, Outcomes, and Future Directions: A Comprehensive Narrative Review

Amirhossein Ataei Kachouei — Sun, 03 May 2026 06:07:37 +0000

Background: Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are the leading causes of mortality worldwide. As healthy nutrition significantly contributes to the prevention of NCDs, several nutritional policies have been implemented globally to improve dietary patterns, including nutrition labeling policies. In 2014, the Iranian government launched the traffic light labeling (TLL) policy, with the mandatory phase implemented in 2016. However, no comprehensive review has been conducted to examine the TLL policymaking process in Iran, its effectiveness, and potential improvement strategies. Methods: This narrative review aims to explore the evolution, outcomes, and future directions of nutrition labeling in Iran. Results: The high prevalence of NCDs, alongside the government’s commitment to controlling these diseases and addressing major dietary risk factors, served as a political driver for TLL implementation. International influences, such as the experiences of other countries with similar policies, also contributed. However, the policy has faced criticism, including the absence of sufficient educational programs, lack of an accurate monitoring system, limited evidence-based decision-making, and the use of back-of-package (BOP) rather than front-of-package (FOP) labeling. Conclusion: Despite the limitations, several studies indicate positive effects of TLL on food-related behaviors among the Iranian population. Nevertheless, large-scale research is required to more rigorously evaluate the effectiveness of TLL. Further improvements could include relocating TLL to the FOP, considering alternative labeling systems such as Nutri-Score, promoting educational initiatives, and establishing transparent and effective monitoring systems.