Journal of Nutrition and Food Security

The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Food Supply Chain Management during Natural Disasters

Ameneh Marzban, Fateme Sadeghi — Sat, 26 Jul 2025 12:56:20 +0000

The Article Abstract is not available.

Exploring the Interconnectedness of Income Inequality, Food Security, and Global Hunger

Ruen Apondar Sabando, Francis Ann Redublado Sy, Don Eliseo Lucero-Prisno III — Sat, 26 Jul 2025 12:56:31 +0000

This letter to the editor critically engages with the article “Agriculture-Based Food-Producing Countries Are Less Secure in Food” by Aktar and Islam (2025). It highlights the paradox that nations with high agricultural output often struggle with food security, emphasizing technological advancements in developed countries as a mitigating factor. The letter suggests integrating Global Hunger Index (GHI) and Gini Coefficient to provide a more comprehensive analysis of food security and income inequality. These metrics could strengthen the study’s insights by addressing structural barriers that limit food access and exacerbate disparities, reinforcing the need for inclusive policies to achieve global food security.

Quality Evaluation and Acceptability of Improved ‘Luam-Nahan’ Porridge Flour Developed from Maize, Cassava, Soybean, and Jatropha Tanjorensis for Preschool Children

Sat, 26 Jul 2025 12:56:39 +0000

Background: Preschool age is critical for continued growth and development in young children. This study evaluates the nutritional quality and acceptability of nutritionally enhanced luam-nahan Porridge flour for preschool children in low and middle-income countries (LIMCs). Methods: quality protein maize (QPM), Provitamin-A Cassava, Soybean and Jatropha tanjorensis leaves underwent pre-treatments including steeping, fermentation, and drying, then milled into flour and blended into ratios:44:44:10:2, 39:39:20:2, 34:34:30:2, and 29:29:40:2. At a ratio of 50:50, white maize and cassava mixture was also prepared as a control for comparison. The mixture was evaluated for proximate composition, energy, vitamin content, and functional properties using AOAC methods. Sensory acceptability was assessed by 30 caregiver-preschooler pairs using nine-point hedonic scale for caregivers and three-point scale for preschoolers. Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA and LSD test, and results were reported as means and standard deviations (P>0.05), indicating no statically significant difference among the samples. Results: Proximate analysis revealed higher protein (25.48 g/100 g) and fat (6.02 g/100 g) in the 29:29:40:2 mixture, with moisture content within the recommended limits. Vitamin A and B levels exceeded recommended dietary allowance in mixtures, and mixture 44:44:10:2 had the highest amount of vitamin A (1071.29 iu). Functional properties, such as bulk density, decreased with soybean content. Sensory evaluation favored the control for taste, while mixture 44:44:10:2 was the most acceptable improved mixture. Conclusion: Enhanced protein, vitamin content and functional properties of the improved Luam-Nahan porridge flour mixtures could help to meet the nutritional needs of preschoolers in LIMC. Mixture 44:44:10:2 ensured optimal taste and acceptability, making it a viable option for reducing malnutrition.

The Impact of Improved Dairy Cow Adoption on Smallholders' Food Security in Northern Ethiopia: An Endogenous Switching Regression Approach

Shishay Kahsay, Kidanemariam Gebrehiwot, Muuz Hadush, Alem Hailu, Ali Tefera — Sat, 26 Jul 2025 12:56:48 +0000

Background: Increased adoption of dairy cows is a significant factor in lowering food insecurity, but in northern Ethiopia, it is still overlooked. Therefore, this study aims to evaluate the impact of adapting improved dairy cows on smallholders' food security in Northern Ethiopia. Methods: This study used a total of 360 sample households, of which 176 and 184 were adopters and non-adopters, respectively. An Endogenous Switching Regression approach was used to address the potential selection biases of improved dairy cow adoption. Besides, the food security status for the adopters and the non-adopters was estimated using a Foster-Greer-Thorbecke index approach. Results: The results indicated that compared to the non-adopters, adopters had an increased calorie intake of 3.89%, and dietary diversity was increased by 10.5%. Moreover, compared to the adopters, food insecurity among the non-adopters was more prevalent and severe, with a higher gap in all Foster-Greer-Thorbecke index. Conclusions: Notably, this study calls upon policymakers to focus on the dissemination of improved dairy technologies within rural areas of Northern Ethiopia as a strategic intervention for addressing food insecurity.

The Function Analysis and Quality Assessment of Persian-Language Nutrition-Related Mobile Apps on Google Play and Iranian App Stores

Sat, 26 Jul 2025 12:57:52 +0000

Background: A growing variety of smartphone applications (apps) have been developed to provide nutritional information for promoting illness prevention and a healthy lifestyle. However, the effectiveness of these apps have not been extensively investigated. Thus, the current study aimed to assess the functionality and quality of Persian-language nutrition-related apps in Iran. Methods: Twenty-two eligible apps were included in the study according to the systematic search on Android Google Play and Iranian app stores. Then, each app underwent an overall quality assessment by six specialists in the fields of nutrition sciences and health information technology using the Mobile App Rating Scale (MARS). Results: The MARS mean scores for the investigated apps was 3.04. The functional effectiveness scope obtained the highest mean score of 3.43, followed by aesthetics scope (mean score of 2.95), engagement scope (mean score of 2.83), and content quality scope (mean score of 2.36), respectively. In addition, the subjective quality outcomes revealed that just less than 5% of apps were desirable for users to use enthusiastically more than 50 times over the next 12 months or recommend them to other individuals. However, 27.3% of apps were appraised appropriate depending on the user's intention to pay for the app. Conclusion: The present study indicated an acceptable overall MARS quality score among the Persian-language nutrition-related mobile apps in android Google Play and Iranian popular app stores.

Isolation and Characterization of Soluble Proteins from Moringa (Moringa Oleifera Lam) Seeds for Possible Use in Food Industries

Sat, 26 Jul 2025 12:58:00 +0000

Background: Proteins are crucial for the functional properties and sensory characteristics of foods. This study aims to isolate and characterize soluble proteins from Moringa oleifera seeds. Methods: The seeds were defatted using chloroform, methanol, and water (1:2:0.8). Protein isolates were prepared by aqueous extraction, 0.1M NaOH precipitation, and 60% (NH₄)₂SO₄ precipitation. Moreover, proximate composition of the dry seeds, and the protein yield, physicochemical properties, functional properties, and amino acid composition of the isolates were determined using standard methods. Results: 100 g of dry seed contained 29.09±0.40 g proteins. The aqueous extract had the greatest protein content (73.0±0.5 g/100g), followed by NaOH (54.0±0.2 g/100g) and (NH₄)₂SO₄ (45.0±0.3 g/100g). As a result, the aqueous extract showed a significantly (P<0.05) maximum in vitro digestibility (82.63±0.27g) after 6 hours. Strong UV absorption at 280 nm was recorded for all the protein isolates. All essential amino acids were present, and phenylalanine was the chief amino acid (8.93±0.67 mg/100g in (NH₄)₂SO₄fraction) which was significant at P<0.05. NaOH and (NH₄)₂SO₄fractions were most soluble at pH 10 which were significant at P<0.05. The NaOH fraction had the peak foaming capacity (28.0±0.4%) at pH 10, and the most stable foam was observed in the NaOH fraction after 10 minutes. Significantly (P<0.05) elevated in the (NH₄)₂SO₄fraction (32.0±0.6%), followed by aqueous extract (28.0±0.5%) at pH 10 was the emulsifying capacity. The (NH₄)₂SO₄fraction had significantly (P<0.05) more water-holding capacity (2.80±0.04 g/g); the prime oil-holding capacity was also observed in the aqueous extract (3.20±0.02 g/g). Conclusion: Moringa oleifera seeds possess essential amino acids and functional properties beneficial for food systems, potentially enhancing value or developing new products.

Antihyperglycemic Effects of Artocarpus Heterophyllus Leaf Extracts in Drosophila Melanogaster

Sat, 26 Jul 2025 13:01:51 +0000

Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a metabolic syndrome and a major cause of global mortality rate and concern to health sector. Exploring therapeutic properties of natural plant has attracted array of interests in managing this challenge. This study, therefore, aimed to explore the antihyperglycemic effects of leaf extracts from Artocarpus heterophyllus (A. heterophyllus) in high sucrose diet-treated Drosophila melanogaster (D. melanogaster). Methods: Flies were divided into two groups of 50 flies (both sexes), i.e., i. Survival tests: with high sucrose diet; aqueous extract of A. heterophyllus (AEAH); ethanolic extract of A. heterophyllus (EEAH); and ii. Treatment groups: with AEAH, EEAH, and 30% sucrose diet. Results: The results showed that there was a significant (P<0.05) increase in mortality rate, glucose and oxidative biomarkers such as H₂O₂, nitrite with a significant (P<0.05) decrease in locomotion (negative geotaxis), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), catalase (CAT), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities, as well as total thiol and GSH levels among the high-sucrose diet-treated group compared to normal flies. However, Treatment with AEAH and EEAH resulted in a significant reduction (P<0.05) in mortality rates, glucose levels, and oxidative biomarkers. Additionally, there was a notable increase (P<0.05) in locomotion, as well as in the activities of GPx, CAT, and SOD. This was accompanied by a rise in total thiol and GSH levels when compared to normal flies. Conclusion: Extracts of A. heterophyllus caused a reduction in mortality and enhanced locomotion in D. melanogaster possibly by amelioration of antioxidant imbalance and hyperglycemia.

Roasted Sorghum and Flower Powder-Enriched Edible Cutlery: Evaluating Nutritional, Sensory, and Textural Properties as a Sustainable Alternative to Single-Use Cutlery

Devatha Manivel, Raajeswari Paramasivam — Sat, 26 Jul 2025 13:02:00 +0000

Background: The widespread use of disposable cutlery, driven by rapid industrialization and population growth, has led to an escalation of solid waste and environmental damage. The research projects a sustainable solution: edible sorghum-based cutlery enriched with roasting the millet and antioxidant-rich flower incorporation providing an eco-friendly alternative to single-use plastic cutlery. Methods: Proximate analysis was used and antinutritional factor and antioxidant activity of sorghum cutlery were investigated through standardized procedures. Sensory evaluation was done by 30 semi-trained panelists, on a nine-point hedonic scale, while texture analysis was performed using a Shimadzu EZ-XS texture analyzer. To assess structural integrity, the cutlery was subjected to 29 °C, 80 °C, and 4 °C, and shelf life stability by monitoring changes in microbial count and weight over 120 days. Results: The sorghum cutlery, circular shaped, 10 cm x 2 cm x 2 mm (diameter, height, thickness), with a weight of 18 g, showed significant results in optical, sensory, and functional properties when hibiscus and rose flower powders were incorporated. Edible flowers and Roasted Sorghum Cutlery (SRK) resulted in enhanced antioxidant activity. Cutlery withstands cold and dry food for 60 minutes and hot food or beverages for 45 minutes without losing structural integrity. It demonstrated microbial stability with a shelf life of up to 120 days, maintaining a total plate count of 10-12 x 10¹ CFU/g. Conclusion: The sorghum edible cutlery provides a nutritious and eco-friendly alternative to plastic cutlery, meeting the increasing consumer demand for sustainable and less toxic food packaging solutions. Their adoption in food industry could significantly reduce plastic waste and promote environmentally responsible consumption practices.

Nutritional Assessment and Estimation of the Attributable Risk of Diabetes Mellitus to Simple Sugar Intake in Northern Iran: The PERSIAN Guilan Cohort Study

Sat, 26 Jul 2025 13:02:07 +0000

Background: Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is a non-communicable disease with an increasing rate across all age groups worldwide. It makes the body vulnerable to other chronic diseases. Besides medication therapy, DM can be controlled by following a healthy lifestyle. In this study, the dietary patterns of diabetic individuals assessed in the Prospective Epidemiological Research Studies of the Iranian Adults (PERSIAN) Guilan Cohort Study (PGCS) population. Methods: A comprehensive survey was conducted over three years among 10,276 individuals aged 35 to 70 in the PGCS population. Socio-demographic and food intake information of 2,531 diabetic patients was collected using a food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). Data analysis was conducted with SPSS software. The estimation of the attributable risk of DM related to the intake of simple sugars was performed using the population attributable risk (PAR) equation. Results: The intake of dietary fibers was lower than the recommended 25-38 g/day in these patients, while they consumed high carbohydrates (more than 65% of total calories/day) and simple sugars (more than 10% of total calories/day). More than 15% of total energy was provided by simple sugars in these patients. The average population attributable risk of DM (PAR_DM) in the total population was 17.84% based on the intake of fructose and glucose, which was close to the proportion of diabetic patients in this survey by considering the proportion of pre-diabetic patients. Conclusions: Regarding the significant effect of dietary patterns on the development of DM, the authors suggest developing educational programs to help individuals maintain a balanced diet to decrease the rate of DM in the coming years.

The Effect of Different Ethanol Concentrations on Functional Properties in Apple Macerates

Sat, 26 Jul 2025 13:02:15 +0000

Background: Apples are globally recognized for their nutritional value and being rich in bioactive compounds like polyphenols, which are associated with numerous health benefits, including reduced oxidative stress and lower risks of chronic diseases. This study investigates the impact of varying ethanol concentrations (20%, 40%, and 70%) on the extraction of polyphenols, vitamin C, and sugars from Jonagold apples (Malus domestica). Methods: The experiment involved macerating apple cubes in different ethanol concentrations for 30 days at 22 °C, followed by chemical analyses to quantify the extracted polyphenols, vitamin C, and sugars. Results: The highest polyphenol concentration (69.99 mg/100 g fresh weight) and sugar (0.936 g/100 g fresh weight) were found in the 40% ethanol macerate, while the highest vitamin C (0.043 mg/100 g fresh weight) contents was observed in the 20% ethanol macerate. The efficiency of extraction varied significantly with ethanol concentration, with the 40% ethanol solution being most effective for polyphenols and sugars and 20% for vitamin C and sugars. Conclusion: These findings highlight the importance of optimizing solvent concentration to maximize the extraction of specific bioactive compounds, offering valuable insights for the production of apple-based alcoholic beverages and nutraceuticals. The study underscores complex interactions between solvent polarity and compound solubility, which are crucial for enhancing the nutritional and therapeutic potential of apple-derived products.

Association between Serum Albumin and Mortality in Delta COVID-19 Patients in ICU and General Ward

Sat, 26 Jul 2025 13:02:24 +0000

Background: Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) primarily affects the respiratory system, with a mortality rate of 1.4 to 4%. Albumin, an acute-phase reactant protein with antioxidant properties, plays a key role in health assessment. Low serum albumin levels often indicate malnutrition, disease, or infection. This study examines the relationship between serum albumin levels and mortality in COVID-19 patients. Methods: This study is a retrospective cross-sectional analysis of 793 COVID-19 patients categorized into two groups based on serum albumin levels: hypoalbuminemia and normal albumin. Mortality rate, background diseases (e.g., hypertension, diabetes, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), cancer, cardiovascular disease), c-reactive protein, hospitalization duration, platelets, lymphocytes, and neutrophils were evaluated. The correlation between serum albumin levels and mortality was analyzed both independently and after adjusting for confounding factors to assess its impact on patient outcomes. Results: The results showed that the average duration of hospitalization, as well as neutrophil, lymphocyte, and platelet count was higher in hypoalbuminemia group. Although the average time of hospitalization and neutrophils in two groups did not differ (P>0.05), lymphocytes and platelets were significantly different in two groups (P<0.05). A significant interaction was observed between serum albumin and mortality in patients. These associations remained significant after adjusting for age, sex, underlying diseases, and the number of COVID-19 vaccine doses received (P=0.0001). Conclusions: Serum albumin levels is associated with the mortality rate in patients infected with delta coronavirus. It is recommended that future prospective studies evaluate the relationship between serum albumin levels and mortality rates.

Development of Protein-Based Films with Essential Oil Incorporation for Edible Packaging Applications

Sat, 26 Jul 2025 13:02:31 +0000

Background: The utilization of protein as a fundamental component in active packaging is an effective approach in manufacturing process, as it facilitates the incorporation of additives, such as antimicrobial agents. The objective of this study was to ascertain physical and microbiological characteristics of protein-based bioactive films with incorporating different essential oils. Methods: The films were produced using a completely randomized design with four treatments and five replications. The essential oils used were cinnamon (M1), clove (M2), basil (M3), and lemongrass (M4). The variables observed in this study included thickness, gelation time, FTIR analysis, microstructure, Energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) analysis, and antimicrobial activity against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. Statistical analysis was conducted using Analysis of Variance in SPSS 24.0. Results: Incorporating essential oils into whey-gelatin edible films significantly affected (P<0.01) thickness, gelation time, and antimicrobial efficacy. Films with cinnamon essential oil exhibited the lowest thickness. Gelation time varied with the chemical composition of oils, with clove essential oil delaying gelation and cinnamon and lemongrass oils accelerating it. FTIR and EDS analyses indicated changes in chemical structure and microstructure, enhancing antimicrobial properties. Clove essential oil demonstrated the highest antimicrobial activity, followed by cinnamon, lemongrass, and basil oils. Conclusion: The addition of essential oils markedly affected film characteristics, including thickness, gelation time, microstructure, and antimicrobial activity. FTIR and EDS analyses confirmed structural changes and interactions that enhanced stability and function. Clove essential oil exhibited superior antimicrobial properties, while cinnamon and lemongrass oils accelerated gelation, showcasing essential oils as promising natural additives for improving edible film performance.

Evaluation of pH, Microbial Contamination, and Aflatoxin M1 Levels in Raw Milk: A Health Risk Assessment

Mostafa Nemati, Elahe Khajehali, Azadeh Rashidimehr — Sat, 26 Jul 2025 13:02:38 +0000

Background: This research aimed to assess pH, microbial load, and aflatoxin (AF) M₁ levels in milk from cattle dairy farms and milk distribution and collection centers in Ilam province. Methods: In this study, a total of 84 raw milk samples from Ilam province, collected between April and June, were analyzed for total bacterial count (TBC), pH, and AFM₁ using high-performance liquid chromatography. Daily AFM₁ intake was calculated to assess health risks based on milk consumption, using different risk assessment indices. Results: The highest microbial load was found in farms Location 5 (7.84 log CFU/ml) and the lowest average microbial load was recorded in farms Location 4 (5.92 log CFU/ml), while collection centers showed an average microbial count of 5.48 log CFU/ml, also linked to Location 4. AFM₁ was found in 84 samples: 65 had levels below 20 ng/g, 17 ranged from 20 to 90 ng/g, and 2 exceeded 150 ng/g, surpassing safety standards. The analysis indicates that young children consuming milk may face health risks from AFM₁, notably liver cancer. The increased incidence of elevated liver cancer risk (LCR) and associated hazard index (HI) values in children under the age of seven necessitate the implementation of more stringent regulations regarding AFM₁ contamination in dairy products, specifically targeting this demographic. Conclusion: Although the risk of liver cancer declines with age, it is imperative to maintain vigilant monitoring of cumulative exposure to AFM₁. This is particularly important for older adults, who may represent a vulnerable population with heightened susceptibility to AFM₁-related health complications. Ensuring rigorous surveillance and enforcement of safety standards for aflatoxins levels in milk products is essential for protecting these at-risk groups from potential adverse health outcomes.

Vitamin C Supplementation as an Adjuvant Therapy for Major Depressive Disorder: A Randomized Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial

Sat, 26 Jul 2025 13:02:48 +0000

Background: Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a multifactorial disease that can affect patient's quality of life. Low intake of nutrients and antioxidants has been linked to depression. The present study was conducted with the aim of investigating the effect of adding oral vitamin C to the standard treatment of patients with MDD. Methods: This randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial was conducted on 88 MDD patients referred to psychiatric clinics of the Yazd University of Medical Sciences. Patients were randomly assigned into two groups of vitamin C (500 mg twice a day, n=44) and placebo (n=44) for 8 weeks. Also, The Hamilton depression questionnaire was employed at the baseline, and after 4 and 8-week follow up. Data analysis was performed using the SPSS version 18 software. Results: Out of 88 examined patients, no significant difference was detected regarding mean depression scores at the beginning of the study and also after 4 weeks of treatment (P=0.62 and P= 0.53, respectively). However, people in the vitamin C group revealed a significant improvement in average depression scores compared to those in the placebo group after 8 weeks (P=0.03). Conclusion: The results of the current investigation indicated that vitamin C may act as an effective adjuvant therapy for the treatment of patients suffering from MDD. Future studies are necessary in order to confirm the findings of this study.

Parent Satisfaction and Organizational Factors Associated with Curbside School Meal Distribution in Southern California during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Christine Betty Crocker, Jim E. Banta, Albin Grohar, Seth Wiafe, Khaled Bahjri — Sat, 26 Jul 2025 13:03:01 +0000

Background: During the COVID-19 pandemic, school meals served nationally in 2020 declined by 30%. However, meals increased by 147% in the Redlands Unified School District of Southern California, with United States Department of Agriculture waivers regarding the Universal Free Meals Program (UFM) and participation in the Farmers to Families Food Box Program (FFFB). The study examined parental assessments regarding weekly meal pick-ups and factors supporting school involvement in those government programs. Methods: A cross-sectional, anonymous survey was given per vehicle (n=2,889) at six sites during a weekly meal distribution service in November 2020. There were 2,356 complete surveys (79% response rate). Multivariable binary logistic regression was used to identify significant associations with high usage (3 to 4 times per month) of school meals pickups. Results: Those excited about FFFB were more likely to be frequent users, Odds Ratio 1.52, P<0.001. Most helpful communication for high usage was district website or referral, OR =1.38, P=0.034. Eighty-four percent of families had more than one child. Families with four to five children were 2.07 times more likely to be high users, P<0.001. Among optional comments (n=907), common messages were gratitude (85.8%) and positive customer service (45.3%). Substantial organizational changes such as renting refrigerated trucks and trailers and shifts beginning at 3:30 am, were needed to distribute meals successfully. Conclusion: Parental gratefulness for UFM ‘Grab and Go’ school meals program suggests that all-inclusive access to UFM may reduce food aid stigma. Programs such as FFFB could address food insecurity; but require schools to make operational changes.