The role of wild fruits and vegetables in delivering a balanced and healthy diet

Going or Returning to Nature? Wild Vegetable Uses in the Foraging-Centered Restaurants of Lombardy, Northern Italy

Wild vegetables (WVs) have been an essential source of human nutrition since ancient times. Foraging is a millennia-old practice that has gained more attention recently and is becoming fashionable, especially in restaurants in urban areas, as they attract customers who see WVs as an innovative sensory element and specialty food. Some cooks have used very few WVs for decades, but most chefs have only recently introduced them in their modern restaurants. Our study aims to have a deeper understanding of the diversity of WVs used by restaurants in the Lombardy region in Northern Italy and to know how they are introduced onto different menus, as well as the source of knowledge and the innovation paths related to the use/introduction of WVs in the selected sample of restaurants. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 15 restaurant managers, chefs, and their professional foragers in the Lombardy region in Northern Italy in 2022; fifty-four wild plant taxa were recorded to be used in the considered restaurants. The collected data were analyzed to understand the current situation and the potential developments of this practice by exploring the reasons/motivations that underpin the inclusion of WVs in restaurants. A broad spectrum of restaurants was considered to evaluate the potential differences in handling and sourcing these ingredients. The results demonstrated that this trend has mainly been driven by attempts to revitalize traditional cuisines and to generate a positive impact on health, but the actual culinary preparations based upon WVs are often original and remarkably diverge from the Italian food ethnobotanical heritage. Moreover, concerns related to the environmental sustainability of these practices have been addressed.

The fate of Salmonella enterica and Listeria monocytogenes in the pulp of eight native Brazilian and exotic fruits

Despite the wide variety of native and exotic fruits in Brazil, there is limited understanding of their ability to support pathogens during storage. This study aimed to evaluate the behavior of Salmonella enterica and Listeria monocytogenes inoculated into the pulp of eight fruits native and exotic to Brazil: Jenipapo (Genipa americana L.), Umbu (Spondias tuberosa Arruda), Maná (Solanum sessiliflorum), Cajá-manga (Spondias dulcis), Physalis (Physalis angulata L.), Feijoa (Acca sellowiana), Cupuaçu (Theobroma grandiflorum) (average pH < 3.3) and in a low acidy fruit: Abiu (Pouteria caimito) (pH 6.11). The pathogens were inoculated into the different fruits and stored at 10, 20, 30 and 37 °C for up to 12 h and 6 days, respectively. Among the fruits evaluated, Abiu was the only one that allowed Salmonella growth, showing higher δ-values at 20 and 30 °C (5.6 log CFU/g for both temperatures). For Physalis and Feijoa, there was a small reduction in the pathogen concentration (<1 log-cycle), mainly at 10 and 20 °C, indicating its ability to remain in the matrices. For the other fruits, notable negative δ-values were obtained, indicating a tendency towards microbial inactivation. The survival potential was significantly affected by temperature in Abiu, Maná, Cupuaçu, and Cajá-manga (p < 0.05). The same phenomena regarding δ-value were observed for L. monocytogenes population, with the greatest survival potential observed at 20 °C in Abiu (3.3 log CFU/g). Regarding the exponential growth rates in Abiu, the highest values were observed at 30 and 37 °C, both for Salmonella (4.6 and 4.9 log (CFU/g)/day, respectively) and for L. monocytogenes (2.8 and 2.7 log (CFU/g)/day, respectively), with no significant difference between both temperatures. Regarding microbial inactivation, L. monocytogenes showed greater resistance than Salmonella in practically all matrices. Jenipapo and Umbu were the pulps that, in general, had the greatest effect on reducing the population of pathogens. Furthermore, the increase in storage temperature seems to favor the increase on inactivation rates. In conclusion, Salmonella and L. monocytogenes can grow only in Abiu pulp, although they can survive in some acidic tropical fruits kept at refrigeration and abusive temperatures.

Recent Advances in Polysaccharides from Chaenomeles speciosa (Sweet) Nakai.: Extraction, Purification, Structural Characteristics, Health Benefits, and Applications

This article systematically reviews the extraction and purification methods, structural characteristics, structure-activity relationship, and health benefits of C. speciosa polysaccharides, and their potential application in food, medicine, functional products, and feed, in order to provide a useful reference for future research. Chaenomeles speciosa (Sweet) Nakai. has attracted the attention of health consumers and medical researchers as a traditional Chinese medicine with edible, medicinal, and nutritional benefits. According to this study, C. speciosa polysaccharides have significant health benefits, such as anti-diaetic, anti-inflammatory and analgesic, anti-tumor, and immunomodulatory effects. Researchers determined the molecular weight, structural characteristics, and monosaccharide composition and ratio of C. speciosa polysaccharides by water extraction and alcohol precipitation. This study will lay a solid foundation for further optimization of the extraction process of C. speciosa polysaccharides and the development of their products. As an active ingredient with high value, C. speciosa polysaccharides are worthy of further study and full development. C. speciosa polysaccharides should be further explored in the future, to innovate their extraction methods, enrich their types and biological activities, and lay a solid foundation for further research and development of products containing polysaccharides that are beneficial to the human body.

Substantial removal of four pesticide residues in three fruits with ozone microbubbles

Developing a straightforward method to remove pesticide residues from fruits is essential for food safety. In this study, ozone microbubble treatment was performed on three fruits (strawberry, cherry, and apricot) to remove four pesticide residues (emamectin benzoate, azoxystrobin, boscalid, and difenoconazole) while comparing removal efficiency. The concentration of hydroxyl radicals in different washing orientations was homogeneous at a concentration ranging between 8.9 and 10.2 μmol·L-1. Under long washing time (18 min), strawberry, cherry, and apricot obtained higher removal rates of 51 %∼65 %, 51 %∼59 % and 24 %∼70 %, respectively. Moreover, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and contact angle (CA) revealed that apricot has better hydrophobicity, leading to a higher pesticide removal of 45 ∼ 84 % with less water and more vigorous washing. Notably, vitamin C content in fruits remain largely unchanged following ozone microbubble treatment. This study demonstrated the effectiveness of ozone microbubble treatment as pollution-free method for enhancing food safety by removing pesticide residues on fruits.

Folk Knowledge and Perceptions about the Use of Wild Fruits and Vegetables-Cross-Cultural Knowledge in the Pipli Pahar Reserved Forest of Okara, Pakistan

Wild fruits and vegetables (WFVs) have been vital to local communities for centuries and make an important contribution to daily life and income. However, traditional knowledge of the use of wild fruits is at risk of being lost due to inadequate documentation. This study aimed to secure this knowledge through intermittent field visits and a semi-structured questionnaire. Using various ethnobotanical data analysis tools and SPSS (IBM 25), this study identified 65 WFV species (52 genera and 29 families). These species, mostly consumed as vegetables (49%) or fruits (43%), were predominantly herbaceous (48%) in wild and semi-wild habitats (67%). 20 WFVs were known to local communities (highest RFC), Phoenix sylvestris stood out as the most utilized species (highest UV). Surprisingly, only 23% of the WFVs were sold at markets. The survey identified 21 unique WFVs that are rarely documented for human consumption in Pakistan (e.g., Ehretia obtusifolia, Euploca strigosa, Brassica juncea, Cleome brachycarpa, Gymnosporia royleana, Cucumis maderaspatanus, Croton bonplandianus, Euphorbia prostrata, Vachellia nilotica, Pongamia pinnata, Grewia asiatica, Malvastrum coromandelianum, Morus serrata, Argemone mexicana, Bambusa vulgaris, Echinochloa colonum, Solanum virginianum, Physalis angulata, Withania somnifera, Zygophyllum creticum, and Peganum harmala), as well as 14 novel uses and five novel edible parts. Despite their ecological importance, the use of WFVs has declined because local people are unaware of their cultural and economic value. Preservation of traditional knowledge through education on conservation and utilization could boost economies and livelihoods in this and similar areas worldwide.

Morphological diversity and fruit production of wild Salacia kraussii (Celastraceae) on the Northern Coast of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

This study aimed to assess morphological diversity within Salacia kraussii, a fruit and medicinal wild plant species, based on morphological features and compared the fruit production among morphological types (morphotype) that naturally occur on the northern coast of KwaZulu-Natal. Following one species plant survey, a description of the qualitative morphological features revealed that S. kraussii individuals mainly differed in their leaf shapes, having elliptic, oblong, or obovate leaves. That led us to the identification of three morphotypes, namely Salacia kraussii 'elliptic', Salacia kraussii 'oblong' and Salacia kraussii 'obovate'. The analysis of variance (one-way ANOVA) of plant quantitative features indicated that plant height, stem diameter, branch number, leaf number and area, and fruit number were significantly different between plants from different sites (p-values < 0.05) and morphotypes (p-values < 0.01). Generally, S. kraussii grows in KwaZulu-Natal as a suffrutex with many stems and exhibits short plant height, small stem diameter, branches, and little foliage per stem. The average fruit number recorded per plant stem was likewise few. Plants growing in Sikhalasenkosi (site1) dominated in average plant height (35.58 cm), leaf number (45), number of branches (4), and number of fruits (5). Plants with elliptic leaves constantly dominated in average plant height (34.45 cm), foliage (36 leaves of 16.29 cm2 each), number of branches (4), and number of fruits (5). A few plants exhibited a strong vegetative vigor and produced more than 20 fruits. There was a highly positive correlation (CC = 0.8) between plant height and leaf number, branch number and leaf number, and branch number and fruit number. However, a negative correlation (CC = -0.1) was recorded between the leaf area and stem diameter. Overall, the study showed wide morphological diversity and fruit production within and between populations of S. kraussii, on the northern coast of KwaZulu-Natal.

Comparative antioxidant activity and phytochemical content of five extracts of Pleurotus ostreatus (oyster mushroom)

Reactive oxygen species reacts with numerous molecules in the body system causing oxidative damage, which requires antioxidants to ameliorate. Pleurotus ostreatus, a highly nutritious edible mushroom, has been reported to be rich in bioactive compounds. This study evaluated the comparative antioxidant activity and phytochemical contents of five extracts of P. ostreatus: aqueous (AE), chloroform (CE), ethanol (EE), methanol (ME) and n-hexane (HE). The phytochemical composition and antioxidant activity of the extracts were determined using standard in-vitro antioxidant assay methods. Results showed that the extracts contained alkaloids, tannins, saponins, flavonoids, terpenoids, phenolics, cardiac glycosides, carbohydrates, anthrocyanins, and betacyanins in varied amounts. CE had the highest flavonoid content (104.83 ± 29.46 mg/100 g); AE gave the highest phenol content of 24.14 ± 0.02 mg/100 g; tannin was highest in EE (25.12 ± 0.06 mg/100 g); HE had highest amounts of alkaloids (187.60 ± 0.28 mg/100 g) and saponins (0.16 ± 0.00 mg/100 g). Antioxidant analyses revealed that CE had the best hydroxyl radical activity of 250% at 100 µg/ml and ferric cyanide reducing power of 8495 µg/ml; ME gave the maximum DPPH activity (87.67%) and hydrogen peroxide scavenging activity (65.58%) at 500 µg/ml; EE had the highest nitric oxide radical inhibition of 65.81% at 500 µg/ml and ascorbate peroxidase activity of 1.60 (iU/l). AE had the best total antioxidant capacity (5.27 µg/ml GAE at 500 µg/ml) and ferrous iron chelating activity (99.23% at 100 µg/ml) while HE gave the highest guaiacol peroxidase activity of 0.20(iU/l). The comparative phytochemical and antioxidant characteristics (IC50) of the extracts followed the order: CE > AE > EE > ME > HE. Overall, chloroform was the best extraction solvent for P. ostreatus. The high content of phenolic compounds, flavonoids, and alkaloids in P. ostreatus makes it a rich source of antioxidants and potential candidate for the development of new therapies for a variety of oxidative stress-related disorders.

Lactiplantibacillus plantarum from Unexplored Tunisian Ecological Niches: Antimicrobial Potential, Probiotic and Food Applications

The continued exploration of the diversity of lactic acid bacteria in little-studied ecological niches represents a fundamental activity to understand the diffusion and biotechnological significance of this heterogeneous class of prokaryotes. In this study, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum (Lpb. plantarum) strains were isolated from Tunisian vegetable sources, including fermented olive and fermented pepper, and from dead locust intestines, which were subsequently evaluated for their antimicrobial activity against foodborne pathogenic bacteria, including Escherichia coli O157:H7 CECT 4267 and Listeria monocytogenes CECT 4031, as well as against some fungi, including Penicillium expansum, Aspergilus niger, and Botrytis cinerea. In addition, their resistance to oro-gastro-intestinal transit, aggregation capabilities, biofilm production capacity, adhesion to human enterocyte-like cells, and cytotoxicity to colorectal adenocarcinoma cell line were determined. Further, adhesion to tomatoes and the biocontrol potential of this model food matrix were analyzed. It was found that all the strains were able to inhibit the indicator growth, mostly through organic acid production. Furthermore, these strains showed promising probiotic traits, including in vitro tolerance to oro-gastrointestinal conditions, and adhesion to abiotic surfaces and Caco-2 cells. Moreover, all tested Lpb. plantarum strains were able to adhere to tomatoes with similar rates (4.0-6.0 LogCFU/g tomato). The co-culture of LAB strains with pathogens on tomatoes showed that Lpb. plantarum could be a good candidate to control pathogen growth. Nonetheless, further studies are needed to guarantee their use as probiotic strains for biocontrol on food matrices.

Knowledge, Perception and Consumption of Indigenous Foods in Gauteng Region, South Africa

Urbanisation in South Africa has led to a nutritional transition from traditional diets (mainly based on indigenous foods) to a Western diet. Currently, the country is one of the most concerned about the prevalence of associated malnutrition and non-communicable diseases. One should, therefore, question the position of indigenous foods (IFs) in the population's eating habits since their nutritional and health value is known. This study aimed to collect updated data on South Africans' true awareness and consumption of indigenous foods, especially in the Gauteng region (the most urbanised province of the country). A quantitative cross-sectional research survey was conducted (n = 746). Among a list of 18 IFs, grain sorghum 32.4% (n = 242), marula 32% (n = 239), pearl millet 21.7% (n = 162), amadumbe 19.3% (n = 144) and cowpea 18.6% (n = 139) were the best known. However, the study noticed a maximum consumption of 19.3% (grain sorghum). Overall, this consumption was seasonal, and its level was significantly defined by race (p < 0.05). Black people consume more IFs compared to coloured people, Indian people and white people. Participants mostly consumed these foods for nutritional and health reasons and pointed out the problem of availability. "Poor image" was rated the lowest by all races (black 5.8%, coloured 4.2%, Indian 7.0% and white 4.1%) regarding the reasons for no or low consumption of IFs. Whatever the race, the desire to increase IF consumption was positive. The promotion of their integration into South African diets should, therefore, be considered as an intervention strategy.

Ethnobotany for food security and ecological transition: wild food plant gathering and consumption among four cultural groups in Kurram District, NW Pakistan

BACKGROUND

In traditional food systems, especially those of rural populations around the world, wild food plants remain crucial. These resources need to be urgently documented to lay the foundations for sustainable livelihoods and food security.

METHODS

In the present field study, we gathered information about wild food plants and mushrooms consumed by four ethnic groups (Turis, Khushis, Hazaras, and Christians) living in Kurram District, NW Pakistan, by conducting semi-structured interviews and holding group discussions.

RESULTS

A total of 57 wild edible plants and mushrooms were reported, with the documented taxa belonging to 50 genera and 34 families. Turis reported the highest number of wild food plants (41), followed by Hazaras (37), Khushis (35), and then Christians, who reported only 11 plants. The most dominant families were Rosaceae, followed by Polygonaceae, Brassicaceae, Fabaceae, Lamiaceae, Moraceae, and Plantaginaceae. The comparative analysis we conducted with the pre-existing Pakistani ethnobotanical studies revealed that 23 wild edible plants have not been previously reported as food items in the area under study, which included Fragaria nubicola, Lepidium draba, Pinus wallichiana, Podophyllum emodi, Prunus jacquemontii, Sambucus nigra, Sideroxylon mascatense, and Thymus linearis. Four wild edible mushrooms are also reported for the area for the first time: Calvatia gigantea, Morchella esculenta, Pisolithus albus, and Tulostoma squamosum. The cross-cultural analysis of wild edible plants and their uses revealed remarkable similarity between Khushis and Hazaras. The overlapping pattern of wild edible plant use among these two groups, as well as Turis, confirms the existence of cross-cultural interactions among these communities, which have shared the same environmental and socio-cultural space for several decades. Food heritage and some unique dishes are linked to wild edible plants in the area, such as Zamda, prepared by Turis, and Saba, famous among Khushis and Hazaras.

CONCLUSION

This study suggests that some wild edible plants could be cultivated to protect a few threatened species from overexploitation, while the overall wild food plant heritage should be promoted and revitalized; for example, within educational platforms aimed at improving the wellbeing of local communities and the global ecological transition we must deal with.

Fruit Quality Characteristics of Service Tree (Sorbus domestica L.) Genotypes

In this study, agro-morphological properties, phenolic compounds, and organic acid contents in the fruits of service tree (Sorbus domestica L.) genotypes naturally grown in Türkiye (Bolu) were determined. The fruit weights of genotypes were found to be quite variable, ranging from 5.42 g (14MR05) to 12.54 g (14MR07). The highest L*, a*, and b* fruit external color values were found to be 34.65 (14MR04), 10.48 (14MR09), and 9.10 (14MR08), respectively. The highest chroma and hue values were recorded as 12.87 (14MR09) and 49.07 (14MR04), respectively. 14MR03 and 14MR08 genotypes exhibited the highest amount of soluble solid content and titratable acidity (TA) as 20.58 and 1.55%, respectively. The pH value was found to be in the range of 3.98 (14MR010)-4.32 (14MR04). Chlorogenic acid (14MR10, 48.49 mg/100 g), ferulic acid (14MR10, 36.93 mg/100 g), and rutin (14MR05, 36.95 mg/100 g) were predominant phenolic acids observed in the fruits of service tree genotypes. The predominant organic acid in all fruit samples was malic acid (14MR07, 34.14 g/kg fresh weight basis), and the highest quantity of vitamin C was detected at 95.83 mg/100 g in genotype 14MR02. Principal component analyses (%) were performed to determine the correlation between the morphological-physicochemical (60.6%) and biochemical characteristics of genotypes (phenolic compounds: 54.3%; organic acids and vitamin C: 79.9%). It was determined that measured genotypes were important genetic resources in terms of nutritional value.

Factors Associated with Normal-Weight Abdominal Obesity Phenotype in a Representative Sample of the Peruvian Population: A 4-Year Pooled Cross-Sectional Study

To examine factors associated with abdominal obesity among normal-weight individuals from the Demographic and Health Survey of Peru (2018-2021). Cross-sectional analytical study. The outcome variable was abdominal obesity defined according to JIS criteria. Crude (cPR) and adjusted prevalence ratios (aPR) were estimated for the association between sociodemographic and health-related variables and abdominal obesity using the GLM Poisson distribution with robust variance estimates. A total of 32,109 subjects were included. The prevalence of abdominal obesity was 26.7%. The multivariate analysis showed a statistically significant association between abdominal obesity and female sex (aPR: 11.16; 95% CI 10.43-11.94); categorized age 35 to 59 (aPR: 1.71; 95% CI 1.65-1.78); 60 to 69 (aPR: 1.91; 95% CI 1.81-2.02); and 70 or older(aPR: 1.99; 95% CI 1.87-2.10); survey year 2019 (aPR: 1.22; 95% CI 1.15-1.28); 2020 (aPR: 1.17; 95% CI 1.11-1.24); and 2021 (aPR: 1.12; 95% CI 1.06-1.18); living in Andean region (aPR: 0.91; 95% CI 0.86-0.95); wealth index poor (aPR: 1.26; 95% CI 1.18-1.35); middle (aPR: 1.17; 95% CI 1.08-1.26); rich (aPR: 1.26; 95% CI 1.17-1.36); and richest (aPR: 1.25; 95% CI 1.16-1.36); depressive symptoms (aPR: 0.95; 95% CI 0.92-0.98); history of hypertension (aPR: 1.08; 95% CI 1.03-1.13), type 2 diabetes (aPR: 1.13; 95% CI 1.07-1.20); and fruit intake 3 or more servings/day (aPR: 0.92; 95% CI 0.89-0.96). Female sex, older ages, and low and high income levels increased the prevalence ratio for abdominal obesity, while depressive symptoms, living in the Andean region, and fruit intake of 3 or more servings/day decreased it.

Development of the Ethiopian Healthy Eating Index (Et-HEI) and evaluation in women of reproductive age

Ethiopia announced its first food-based dietary guidelines (FBDGs) on 15 March 2022. The present study aims to develop and evaluate the Ethiopian Healthy Eating Index (Et-HEI) based on the FBDG. Data were collected from 494 Ethiopian women of reproductive age sampled from households in five different regions. The Et-HEI consists of eleven components, and each component was scored between 0 and 10 points, the total score ranging from 0 to 110, with maximum adherence to the FBDG. The Et-HEI score was evaluated against the Minimum Dietary Diversity for Women (MDD-W) and the probability of nutrient adequacy. The average Et-HEI score for women of reproductive age was 49 out of 110. Adherence to the recommendations for grains, vegetables, legumes, fat and oils, salt, sugar and alcohol contributed the most to this score. Most women had low scores for fruits, nuts and seeds, and animal-sourced foods, indicating low intake. The Cronbach's alpha coefficient, indicating the reliability of the Et-HEI to assess its diet quality, was 0⋅53. The low mean Et-HEI score agreed with a low mean score of the MDD-W (3⋅5 out of 10). Also, low nutrient adequacies confirmed poor adherence to nutrient-dense components of the FBDG. The Et-HEI was not associated with the intake of vitamin B12, vitamin C and calcium in this study population. Women who completed secondary school and above had relatively lower Et-HEI scores. The newly developed Et-HEI is able to estimate nutrient adequacy while also assessing adherence to the Ethiopian FBDG though there is room for improvement.

Effects of Growth Period and Storage Methods on Primary Metabolite Contents and Antioxidant Activities of Morus alba L. Leaf

(1) Background: Mulberry leaves have been widely consumed due to their richness in bioactive substances and high antioxidant activity. The choice of storage method to ensure the quality of mulberry leaves is a challenge in the supply process. (2) Methods: The differences in primary metabolites of freeze-dried mulberry leaf powder after 30 days of storage under different storage conditions (i.e., vacuum or non-vacuum, 4 °C or room temperature) were investigated. (3) Results: A low temperature and vacuum had better preservation effects on the types and activity of the primary metabolites of mulberry leaves, with vacuum preservation being the best. However, the types of primary metabolites in mulberry leaves were significantly reduced after non-vacuum storage at room temperature compared to those with other storage methods. Among the metabolites detected, including dehydroascorbic acid, various phenolic acids, amino acids, lipids, and carbohydrates showed a significant decrease in their contents of more than 40%, and there was a significant increase in the contents of various compounds of the muconic acid biosynthetic pathway compared to those in other storage methods. Moreover, the antioxidant activity of mulberry leaves stored at room temperature under non-vacuum conditions was also significantly reduced. (4) Conclusions: Vacuum storage is the most ideal storage method for preserving mulberry leaves.

Potassium Application Enhanced Plant Growth, Mineral Composition, Proximate and Phytochemical Content in Trachyandra divaricata Kunth (Sandkool)

Wild leafy vegetables are commonly included in the diet of people in rural homesteads. Among various wild edible vegetables in South Africa, Trachyandra divaricata (Sandkool) is one of the most abundant but underutilized due to the dearth of literature on its cultivation and nutritional value. In the present study, the effect of potassium application and pruning on growth dynamics, mineral composition, and proximate and phytochemical content in T. divaricata were evaluated. Treatments consisted of three potassium concentrations (0.0072, 0.0144, and 0.0216 M) supplemented in the form of potassium sulphate (K2SO4) with four pruning levels (unpruned, 5, 10, and 15 cm) applied in each treatment. The potassium doses were added to the nutrient solution, while the control treatment was sustained and irrigated with nutrient solution only. The results revealed a significant increase in flower bud yield, height, total dry and wet weight of shoots and roots, as well as ash and neutral detergent fibre in plants irrigated with 0.0072 M of K2SO4 without pruning. Conversely, chlorophyll content and Ca were comparable among treatments, while the highest yield of Na, P, N, and Zn was recorded in treatment 100 mL of K2SO4 with 10 cm pruning. Likewise, the highest antioxidant value (Polyphenols, Flavonol and DPPH) was obtained from plants irrigated with 0.0072 M of K2SO4 with 10 cm pruning. Based on these findings, T. divaricata is a promising leafy vegetable as a minimum dose (0.0072 M) of K with moderate pruning optimised its productivity in terms of growth, biomass parameters, nutritional content, and antioxidant potential. Due to its rich nutritional value, the plant should be domesticated and studied further for its potential nutraceutical benefits.

Nutritional Composition, Antinutrient Contents, and Polyphenol Compounds of Selected Underutilized and Some Commonly Consumed Vegetables in East Wollega, West Ethiopia

In Ethiopia, some plants (Ethiopia kale, Swiss chard, and celery) remain underutilized for human consumption, as information on their nutritional potential remains limited. As a result, the purpose of this study was to determine the proximate, mineral, antinutrient, and phytochemical content of Ethiopia kale (Brassica carinata), Swiss chard (Beta vulgaris), carrot (Daucus carota), tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum), and cabbage (Brassica oleracea) using standard analytical methods. The moisture, crude protein, crude fiber, crude fat, total ash, total carbohydrate, and energy contents were found to be 6.44–16.62%, 6.76–33.64%, 9.19–54.86%, 0.50–4.00%, 1.00–2.75%, 7.28–68.73%, and 141.06–333.28 kcal/100 g, respectively. Ethiopia's kale had a high protein content, while celery had a high fat and fiber content. The calcium, magnesium, iron, phosphorous, potassium, zinc, and sodium content (mg/100 gdb) ranged between 8.00 and 306.00, 8.10–11.83, 0.64–4.85, 11.34–63.00, 2.83–810.00, 0.15–41.65, and 1.50–443.80 mg/100 g, respectively. Swiss chard contained magnesium, potassium, and sodium, whereas celery was high in calcium and iron. The total oxalate, condensed tannin, and phytate (mg/100 gdb) ranged as follows: 0.88–4.92, 138.27–892.19, and 69.14–265.99, respectively. Ethiopia’s kale recorded a comparatively low amount of tannin and phytate. High mineral bioavailability, such as calcium, iron, and zinc, was obtained in Ethiopia kale. The results also showed that Ethiopia's kale contained a good amount of total phenolic and flavonoid content. The findings indicated that Ethiopia kale was a significant source of protein, had low antinutrient content with high mineral bioavailability, and had the potential to formulate nutrient-rich infant and young child foods using staple cereals and pulse grains.

Indigenous Knowledge on the Uses and Morphological Variation among Strychnos spinosa Lam. at Oyemeni Area, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

The majority of rural communities in South Africa are characterised by insufficient nutrition and food insecurity at the household level. Due to a lack of information about indigenous fruit trees and their use, food-insecure households are missing out on the nutrition that these fruits provide. Strychnos spinosa Lam. (monkey orange; umHlala) has been identified as one of southern Africa’s top priority fruit species for domestication. However, indigenous information on S. spinosa usage and morphological diversity is still lacking. Indigenous knowledge of species characteristics might be a good place to start when attempting to understand variations in key phenotypic traits. Information on the use and morphological variation of S. spinosa was collected from participants of 100 randomly selected homesteads. Participants were interviewed using a structured questionnaire. The results indicate that S. spinosa is a multi-purpose tree with numerous uses. Most respondents (97%) mentioned that they use it for fermented maize meal (umBhantshi); and others mentioned fermented porridge (amaHewu); alcohol; fruit; juice; jam; homestead protection; snakebite; firewood; food allergy; livestock increase; and only 7% mentioned for stomachache. Morphological variation was observed in leaf colour and shape, fruit rind colour, size, rind texture, pulp colour, pulp texture, and taste. However, the most mentioned variety featured green (78%), rounded leaves (78%) and green (39%), large (46%), smooth-textured rind (73%) fruits that had brown pulp (54%) and tasted sweet (58%). Understanding local knowledge systems and preferences can thus inform the selection of ethno-varieties that hold importance to local people and the potential to improve livelihoods in externally led domestication and development programs.

Dynamic Changes in Ascorbic Acid Content during Fruit Development and Ripening of Actinidia latifolia (an Ascorbate-Rich Fruit Crop) and the Associated Molecular Mechanisms

Actinidia latifolia is one of the very few kiwifruit genotypes with extremely high ascorbic acid (AsA) content. However, a transcriptome atlas of this species is lacking. The accumulation of AsA during fruit development and ripening and the associated molecular mechanisms are still poorly understood. Herein, dynamic changes in AsA content at six different stages of A. latifolia fruit development and ripening were determined. AsA content of A. latifolia fruit reached 1108.76 ± 35.26 mg 100 g−1 FW at full maturity. A high-quality, full-length (FL) transcriptome of A. latifolia was successfully constructed for the first time using third-generation sequencing technology. The transcriptome comprises 326,926 FL non-chimeric reads, 15,505 coding sequences, 2882 transcription factors, 18,797 simple sequence repeats, 3328 long noncoding RNAs, and 231 alternative splicing events. The genes involved in AsA biosynthesis and recycling pathways were identified and compared with those in different kiwifruit genotypes. The correlation between the AsA content and expression levels of key genes in AsA biosynthesis and recycling pathways was revealed. LncRNAs that participate in AsA-related gene expression regulation were also identified. Gene expression patterns in AsA biosynthesis and metabolism exhibited a trend similar to that of AsA accumulation. Overall, this study paves the way for genetic engineering to develop kiwifruits with super-high AsA content.

Composition of Phenolic Compounds in South African Schinus molle L. Berries

The Schinus molle tree is notoriously invasive in most parts of the world, and yet as a pseudospice, its berries potentially possess some significant health benefits which need to be explored. Therefore, polar metabolome of seed + husks (SH), husks (H), and de-hulled (DH) berries were profiled and quantified by untargeted metabolomics approach using UPLC-QTOF-MS. A total of 13 gallotannins, three phenolic acids, a phenolic acid glucoside, three phenolic acid esters, an organic acid, a gallotannin derivative, and nine flavonoids were detected and quantified. Phenolic acids ranged between 12.2–295.7; 4.9–77; and 89.7–1613.1 mg/kg in SH, DH seeds and H respectively. Flavonoids ranged between 1.8–267.5; 73.4–80.4; and 124–564.3 mg/kg in SH, DH seeds and H respectively. Gallotannins ranged between 1.1–146.6; 14.8–21.8; and 48.1–664.8 mg/kg in SH, DH seeds and H respectively. Feruloyltartaric A, quercetin 3-O-glucuronide, catechin digalloylshikimic acid B as well as digalloyl quinic acid were some of the dominant secondary metabolites revealed. These results indicate that S. molle berries are a rich source of secondary metabolites with elevated concentrations in the husks, while DH seeds possess lower concentrations to none. These findings open important insights into the potential of S. molle berries as a natural source of antioxidants for the food and pharmaceutical industries.

Ethnobotanical study of wild edible fruits in eastern Bhutan

BACKGROUND

In the past, wild edible fruits (WEFs) were a significant source of food and nutrition in Bhutan. These nutrient-rich species can enhance food security and alleviate poverty in Bhutan. However, recent developments like the introduction of improved fruit varieties, changes in dietary choices, and infrastructure development are expected to influence indigenous knowledge and consumption of WEFs. We aimed to document the species diversity of WEFs and their uses in eastern Bhutan and examine how the knowledge and consumption of WEFs vary with socio-demographic factors.

METHODS

A total of 97 households in two districts were selected to participate in the survey. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to interview a selected adult from each household. Comparative analysis of indigenous knowledge and consumption of WEFs among the socio-demographic factors was performed using one-way ANOVA and a Chi-square test on R software.

RESULTS

The present study reported 52 species of WEFs belonging to 35 families. The prevalence of WEF consumption was found to be 42%. WEF consumption differed significantly between districts, age groups, and indigenous knowledge levels. Similarly, indigenous knowledge of WEFs was significantly associated with districts and age groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Eastern Bhutan has a rich diversity of WEFs, but their consumption has been decreasing. Recent agricultural and infrastructure developments may have impacted the consumption and indigenous knowledge of WEFs in this region. Thus, domestication and agro-processing of WEFs should become a major focus in Bhutan to utilize their nutritional value and potential economic benefits to enhance food security in the country. Additionally, incorporating WEF-related knowledge in the school curriculum is essential to educate younger generations on WEFs.

Nutritional Characterization of Strychnos madagascariensis Fruit Flour Produced by Mozambican Communities and Evaluation of Its Contribution to Nutrient Adequacy

The indigenous fruit Strychnos madagascariensis is usually processed to flour, called nfuma, being highly consumed during staple food shortage. This study aimed to evaluate the nutritional composition of nfuma and its nutrient adequacy. Flours from four districts of Mozambique were analyzed using AOAC methods for proximate composition, HPLC for sugar, amino acids (AA), vitamin E and carotenoids and ICP-MS and FAAS for minerals. The results showed that nfuma stands out for its high content of fat (26.3–27.8%), mainly oleic acid, fiber (>6%), vitamin E (6.7 to 8.0 mg/100 g) and carotenes (2.2 to 2.6 mg/100 g). The main amino acids of nfuma protein were Arg, Asp and Glu, and Lys was the limiting one. The mineral composition reveals K (~1200 to 1700 mg/100 g) as the main macromineral followed by Mg > Ca > Na. The main trace element was Mn (~4 mg/100 g) followed by Fe > Zn > Cu > Cr > Co. Aluminum (~3 mg/100 g) was the main non-essential element and Rb, Ni, Sr, Ba, V, Cd were also quantified. Assuming the daily consumption of 50 g, nfuma provides 82% of Vitamin A dietary reference value for toddlers, while the consumption of 100 g contributes to 132% and 60% of Mn and vitamin A DRV for adults, respectively. Despite the nutritional advantages of nfuma, this flour can be a source of Ni, highlighting the importance of the study of good practices in its preparation to decrease the exposure to non-essential elements.

Pigmented Potatoes: A Potential Panacea for Food and Nutrition Security and Health?

Although there are over 4000 potato cultivars in the world, only a few have been commercialized due to their marketability and shelf-life. Most noncommercialized cultivars are pigmented and found in remote regions of the world. White-fleshed potatoes are well known for their energy-enhancing complex carbohydrates; however, pigmented cultivars are potentially high in health-promoting polyphenolic compounds. Therefore, we reveal the comprehensive compositions of pigmented cultivars and associated potential health benefits, including their potential role in ameliorating hunger, food, and nutrition insecurity, and their prospects. The underutilization of such resources is a direct threat to plant-biodiversity and local traditions and cultures.

Impacts of oxidants and antioxidants on the emergence and progression of Alzheimer's disease

The brain shows a high sensitivity to oxidative stress (OS). Thus, the maintenance of homeostasis of the brain regarding the reduction-oxidation (redox) situation is crucial for the regular function of the central nervous systems (CNS). The imbalance between the reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the cellular mechanism might lead to the emergence of OS, causing profound cell death as well as tissue damages and initiating neurodegenerative disorders (NDDs). Characterized by the cytoplasmic growth of neurofibrillary tangles and extracellular β-amyloid plaques, Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a complex NDD that causes dementia in adult life with severe manifestations. Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2) is a key transcription factor that regulates the functional expression of OS-related genes and the functionality of endogenous antioxidants. In the case of oxidative damage, NRF2 is transferred to the nucleus and attached to the antioxidant response element (ARE) that enhances the sequence to initiate transcription of the cell-protecting genes. This review articulates various mechanisms engaged with the generation of active and reactive species of endogenous and exogenous oxidants and focuses on the antioxidants as a body defense system regarding the NRF2-ARE signaling path in the CNS.

A 20-Year Journey Through an Orphan African Baobab (Adansonia digitata L.) Towards Improved Food and Nutrition Security in Africa

The African baobab (Adansonia digitata L.) is a multipurpose orphan tree species of the semi-arid and sub-humid Sub-Saharan Africa where it plays an important role in rural livelihoods. Its wide distribution and dense nutrition properties make it an important species for food and nutrition security in Africa. However, despite the increasing interest in the species over the past two decades, the full potential of baobab remains underexploited. This review highlights strides made over the past 20 years (2001–2020) towards harnessing and unlocking the potential values of baobab in Benin, West Africa, to contribute to food and nutrition security. Challenges and threats are identified, and next steps suggested to guide research and development initiatives for orphan tree fruit species like baobab to address hunger and malnutrition in Africa.

Phenolic Profiles and Biological Activities of Extracts from Edible Wild Fruits Ehretia tinifolia and Sideroxylon lanuginosum

Ehretia tinifolia Linnaeus (Boraginacea) and Sideroxylon lanuginosum Michaux (Sapotaceae) are wild fruits consumed in North America and are appreciated for their pleasant flavor and sweet taste. However, details regarding their composition and biological properties in the available literature are scarce. This study reports the phenolic composition, antioxidant, antiproliferative activities, and digestive enzymatic inhibition of amberlite-retained methanolic extracts from both fruits. Results revealed that these wild fruit extracts are rich in antioxidants. S. lanuginosum had lower phenolic but higher flavonoid contents (21.4 ± 1.5 mg GAE/100 g FW and 6.42 ± 0.9 mg CE/100 g FW) than E. tinifolia (64.7 ± 2.6 mg GAE/100 g FW and 5.1 ± 0.4 mg CE/100 g FW). HPLC-DAD-MS/MS analysis showed rosmarinic acid as a major polyphenol in E. tinifolia and quercetin glucoside in S. lanuginosum. Polyphenols content in E. tinifolia was related to a significant free radical scavenging ability: DPPH (EC50 = 0.32 ± 0.03 mg/mL), TEAC (4134 ± 9.7 μM TE/g dry extract), and hemolysis inhibition (IC50 = 58.55 ± 2.4 μg/mL). Both extracts were capable of inhibiting α-glucosidase, partially inhibiting α-amylase, and showed no inhibition against lipase, while showing antiproliferative activity against HeLa, HT-29 and MCF-7 cancer cell lines. Our study revealed that these wild fruit extracts are rich in health-beneficial phytochemicals and hold significant potential for elaborating functional foods.

Polyphenolic composition and antioxidant potential of underutilized Himalayan wild edible berries by high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with electrospray ionization quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry

The Himalayan wild berries Myrica esculenta, Duchesnea indica, Prunus cerasoides, and Berberis lycium were studied for the first time for polyphenolic compositions using high-performance liquid chromatography/electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry. The chemical analysis of extracts resulted in the identification of 69 polyphenols, including 11 anthocyanins, 28 phenolic acids, 19 flavanoids, 10 ellagitannins, and 1 dihydrochalcone. The caffeoylquinic acids, quercetin, kaempferol, and cyanidin are the common moieties in studied wild berries. In addition, seven phenolic compounds, that is, gallic acid, vanillic acid, caffeic acid, rutin, ferulic acid, quercetin, and myricetin were quantified. Among anthocyanins, cyanidin-3-O-glucoside was the majorly quantified anthocyanin that ranged from 2.52 to 6.18% followed by delphinidin-3-O-glucoside (0.6%-5.53%). The samples were assessed for total phenolics, total anthocyanin content, and antioxidant potential. The results showed that M. esculenta and B. lycium had the highest total phenolic and anthocyanin content and exhibited promising antioxidant activity with IC₅₀ of 32.100 ± 0.42 and 48.44 ± 0.46 μg/mL, respectively. Principal component analysis was able to clearly differentiate between four underutilized Himalayan wild edible berries. The wide variability of polyphenolic constituents supports the consumption of these berries not only to achieve the nutrient requirements among local people but also as promising sources of antioxidants for the food industry.

Morphological and Chemical Diversity and Antioxidant Capacity of the Service Tree (Sorbus domestica L.) Fruits from Two Eco-Geographical Regions

Service tree, Sorbus domestica L., is a rare and neglected wild fruit tree species of southern and central Europe. Being distributed in different eco-geographical regions, with fragmented and low-density populations, S. domestica represents an interesting model case for investigating patterns of within- and between-population diversity at geographical and environmental scales. This study aimed to analyze the proximate composition, antioxidant activity, and morphometric fruit characteristics. We examined the diversity and population divergences of 49 S. domestica individuals originating from seven populations across continental and Mediterranean eco-geographical regions. In addition, tests of isolation by distance and environment were performed to detect the magnitude of divergence explained by geographic and environmental variables. Significant differences between the studied populations were found in almost all of the studied morphometric and chemical fruit characteristics. The studied service tree populations were characterized by high phenotypic variation despite the low number of trees per population. Model-based population structure analysis using morphometric and chemical fruit characteristics revealed three groups of service tree populations. We concluded that non-effective pollen and seed dispersal along with genetic drift and specific environmental factors resulted in a distinct phenotype with a specific chemical composition in the isolated island population. In addition, a pattern of isolation by the environment was revealed. We infer that morphological and chemical differences between the studied populations in the true service tree from different eco-geographical regions were mediated by adaptation to the specific environmental conditions.

Wild edible plants traditionally collected and used in southern Yemen

BACKGROUND

The local wild edible plants (WEPs) are still used traditionally in the rural communities in Yemen, but this traditional knowledge is still undocumented and has been never reported before. Therefore, this study is the first ethnobotanical survey on WEPs conducted in Yemen.

METHODS

The study is based on two field surveys made in two periods 1988-1992 and 2014-2016 to document the wild plants used as edible by local indigenous peoples in 23 districts belonged to five governorates, in southern Yemen. Information data were collected by oral face-to-face interviews from 250 informants. Citations numbers were calculated for each species.

RESULTS

A total of 58 plant species belonged to 37 genera and 21 families are reported as wild edible plants consumed in southern Yemen. Apocynaceae was the dominant plant family with 18 species followed by Asteraceae (6) and Malvaceae (5). The most widely used edible parts are stem, leaf and fruit with more than 17 species for each. Herbs were reported as the most important sources (31 species), followed by shrubs (16) and trees (9). Most of reported wild edibles (48 species parts) are consumed in raw form; only 12 of them are cooked. Seven wild edible plants were collected in dry season, 16 species throughout the year and 38 in rainy season. In this study, 58 wild plants were reported for the first time as food in Yemen. Comparing the southern Yemeni findings to those from other world countries, 12 of them are new WEPs eaten only in southern Yemen, while 46 species are shared in the use in different world countries practically in East Africa and Arab countries.

CONCLUSIONS

The results data reflect the strong relationship between the local peoples and the local WEPs as potential sources insure food security. The traditional use of these WEPs is attributed to food shortage, nutritional values and local cultural tradition. The study is of great importance in preserving the traditional and knowledge heritage from being lost due to the risks of time, war and immigration.

Kefir and Its Biological Activities

Kefir is a fermented beverage with renowned probiotics that coexist in symbiotic association with other microorganisms in kefir grains. This beverage consumption is associated with a wide array of nutraceutical benefits, including anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative, anti-cancer, anti-microbial, anti-diabetic, anti-hypertensive, and anti-hypercholesterolemic effects. Moreover, kefir can be adapted into different substrates which allow the production of new functional beverages to provide product diversification. Being safe and inexpensive, there is an immense global interest in kefir’s nutritional potential. Due to their promising benefits, kefir and kefir-like products have a great prospect for commercialization. This manuscript reviews the therapeutic aspects of kefir to date, and potential applications of kefir products in the health and food industries, along with the limitations. The literature reviewed here demonstrates that there is a growing demand for kefir as a functional food owing to a number of health-promoting properties.

Using the Major Components (Cellulose, Hemicellulose, and Lignin) of Phyllostachys praecox Bamboo Shoot as Dietary Fiber

Bamboo shoots are a renewable and abundant biomass containing cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin. Although many studies have explored the applications of each of these components in the preparation of biochemicals and biopolymers, few studies have evaluated the utility of these components as a dietary fiber supplement. In this study, a powder consisting of the main components of bamboo shoots (cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin) was prepared from fresh Phyllostachys praecox shoots and characterized by scanning electron microscopy, infrared spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction. To evaluate the potential utility of these components as a dietary fiber supplement, we conducted an experiment in which this powder was supplemented in the diet of mice for 7 weeks. The experiment included three diet groups (n = 10/group): a low-fat control diet (LFC), high-fat diet (HFD), and high-fat diet with bamboo shoot powder (HFBSP). Compared with HFD mice, the body weights of LFC and HFBSP mice were lower, indicating that the addition of bamboo shoot powder could reduce the weight gain associated with the HFD. Bamboo shoot powder supplementation could also reduce the levels of triglycerides (TG), blood glucose (GLU), total cholesterol (CHOL), high-density lipoprotein (HDL-C), and low-density lipoprotein (LDL-C) in HFD mice. The fat histology images indicated that obesity was alleviated in HFBSP mice, and the liver histology images indicated that the addition of bamboo shoot powder to the HFD could reduce the risk of fatty liver disease. The addition of bamboo shoot powder to the HFD might also improve the gut microbiota of mice. Thus, the major components of bamboo shoot powder (cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin) could be used as beneficial natural additives in the food industry.

In vitro bioavailability-based assessment of the contribution of wild fruits and vegetables to household dietary iron requirements among rural households in a developing country setting: The case of Acholi Subregion of Uganda

Wild fruits and vegetables (WFV) are believed to contain substantial quantities of micronutrients and are commonly consumed in rural areas of developing countries endowed with natural vegetation. Previous studies that provided evidence on the contribution of WFV to household micronutrient intake in a developing country setting did not consider the effect of antinutritional factors. Therefore, applying the in vitro bioavailability assessment technique and using the Acholi subregion of Uganda a case area, this study examined the contribution of commonly consumed WFV to the pooled annual household dietary requirement for iron. Laboratory analysis showed that the concentration of antinutrients varied with plant species but the pool was dominated by phytate (10.5-150 mg/100 g) and phenolic substances (38.6-41.7 mg GAE/g). In vitro iron bioavailability varied with plant species was quantitatively higher from vegetables than fruits by 27% although total concentration of the micronutrient was higher in fruits than vegetables by 142%. Nutritional computation, taking into account, household composition, and physiological status revealed that consumption of WFV resulted in a median contribution of 1.8% (a minimum of 0.02 and a maximum of 34.7%) to the pooled annual household dietary iron requirements on the basis of bioavailable iron fraction. These results demonstrate that WFV contributes meagerly to household iron needs but may serve other dietary and non-nutrient health purposes.

Evaluation of nutritional and elemental compositions of green and red cultivars of roselle: Hibiscus sabdariffa L

Roselle—Hibiscus sabdariffa L. leaves at different stages of growth, calyces and seeds were analyzed for nutritional and anti-nutritional factors. All the treatments contained a good but varied proportion of carbohydrate in a range of 26.93–54.13%, crude protein from 5.7 to 27.06%, crude fat 1.16–13.09%, crude fibre 15.75–36.10%, energy 631.36–1065 kJ, ash 6.08–13.74% and moisture content 6.00–9.7%. The vitamins A, C and E were also found to be present in all the treatments in a different but substantial amount. The calcium, magnesium and iron contents in all the treatments were higher than the recommended daily allowance of 1250, 350, and 15 mg for adults, while the phosphorus and sodium values in all the treatments were below 1000 and 1500 mg RDA for adults. However, the Na + /K + for all the treatments were lower than 1. The values of anti-nutrients in the samples were small except post-flowering red which had high phytate content of 21.02%, although this can be easily reduced during processes like boiling and cooking. Thus, both cultivars of roselle contain high nutritional, elemental, and vitamins compositions and small content of anti-nutrients.

Inclusion of Baobab (Adansonia digitata L.) Fruit Powder Enhances the Mineral Composition and Antioxidative Potential of Processed Tigernut (Cyperus esculentus) Beverages

The functional beverage market has recently increased due to the health benefits in addition to their nutritional and thirst-quenching functions. Tigernut is an economic crop with reported health benefits. This study evaluates the antioxidative potential of processed tigernut extracts fortified with baobab fruit pulp powder. The ferric reducing antioxidant potential, 2,2’-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid), and 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl were used to determine the antioxidant capacity, while the Folin-Ciocalteu method was used to measure the total phenolic content of the beverages. The inclusion of baobab fruit significantly (P<0.05) increased the total phenolic content by 18% (from 31.06 to 36.83 mg gallic acid equivalent/100 mL) and the flavonoid content by 15∼20%, while the vitamin C content peaked at 39.6 mg/100 mL. There was a significant correlation between the phenolic and vitamin C contents. Overall, the antioxidant potentials were elevated with the inclusion of baobab powder. All the beverages included in this study are good sources of Ca, P, and K; the contents of Ca, P, and K in the roasted tuber extracts with baobab peaked at 210.91, 8.70, and 93.35 μg/mL, respectively. However, the K:Na ratio was greater than 5:1. Although, baobab increased the acidity of the beverages, it did not significantly diminish the consumer acceptability, with the values ranging from 7.62 to 8.40 on a 9-point Hedonic scale. The beverages have potential for use as natural antioxidants and could be recommended for consumers with diets deficient in Ca and K, particularly in food insecure communities. They could also be used as a replacement for sugar-sweetened carbonated beverages.

Comparative Chemical Profiles of the Essential Oils from Different Varieties of Psidium guajava L

Guava (Psidium guajava) leaves are commonly used in the treatment of diseases. They are considered a waste product resulting from guava cultivation. The leaves are very rich in essential oils (EOs) and volatiles. This work represents the detailed comparative chemical profiles of EOs derived from the leaves of six guava varieties cultivated in Egypt, including Red Malaysian (RM), El-Qanater (EQ), White Indian (WI), Early (E), El-Sabahya El-Gedida (ESEG), and Red Indian (RI), cultivated on the same farm in Egypt. The EOs from the leaves of guava varieties were extracted by hydro-distillation and analyzed with GC-MS. The EOs were categorized in a holistic manner using chemometric tools. The hydro-distillation of the samples yielded 0.11-0.48% of the EO (v/w). The GC-MS analysis of the extracted EOs showed the presence of 38 identified compounds from the six varieties. The sesquiterpene compounds were recorded as main compounds of E, EQ, ESEG, RI, and WI varieties, while the RM variety attained the highest content of monoterpenes (56.87%). The sesquiterpenes, β-caryophyllene (11.21-43.20%), and globulol (76.17-26.42%) were detected as the major compounds of all studied guava varieties, while trans-nerolidol (0.53-10.14) was reported as a plentiful compound in all of the varieties except for the RM variety. A high concentration of D-limonene was detected in the EOs of the RM (33.96%), WI (27.04%), and ESEG (9.10%) varieties. These major compounds were consistent with those reported for other genotypes from different countries. Overall, the EOs' composition and the chemometric analysis revealed substantial variations among the studied varieties that might be ascribed to genetic variability, considering the stability of the cultivation and climate conditions. Therefore, this chemical polymorphism of the studied varieties supports that these varieties could be considered as genotypes of P. guajava. It is worth mentioning here that the EOs, derived from leaves considered to be agricultural waste, of the studied varieties showed that they are rich in biologically active compounds, particularly β-caryophyllene, trans-nerolidol, globulol, and D-limonene. These could be considered as added value for pharmacological and industrial applications. Further study is recommended to confirm the chemical variations of the studied varieties at a molecular level, as well as their possible medicinal and industrial uses.

Study of the Influence of Sociodemographic and Lifestyle Factors on Consumption of Dairy Products: Preliminary Study in Portugal and Brazil

Sociodemographic characteristics, including regional variations, have been associated with different food consumption patterns. Behavioral factors and lifestyle variables may also contribute to different food dietary trends. In this way, the present study intended to investigate the consumption habits of the most relevant types of dairy products around the world and relate them to sociodemographic factors, for example, age, sex, education and country as well as with some anthropometric and behavioral aspects, for example, body mass index, satisfaction with body weight and exercise or sedentary lifestyles. One other objective of the study was to categorize the lifestyles of the participants, according to measured variables linked with hours of inactivity or exercise, in order to use these as possible differentiating variables for the consumption of dairy products. The study involved a questionnaire survey undertaken on a non-probabilistic convenience sample of participants from Portugal (PT) and Brazil (BR), and participation was voluntary and anonymous. The data analysis involved different statistical techniques: basic statistics, chi-square tests, factor analysis, cluster analysis and tree classification analysis. The results showed that semi skimmed milk is never consumed by about half of the participants (47.4% for PT and 46.7 for BR), and those numbers increase for skimmed (64.8% for PT and 50.9% for BR), chocolate flavored milk (82.6% for PT and 65.6% for BR) and enriched milks (94.8% for PT and 85.3% for BR). Cheeses are also consumed in the two countries by small numbers of people. The number of participants consuming imported cheeses in both countries was particularly low (only 4.0% consume these more than once a week in both countries), suggesting national products may be preferred. It was further observed that those who consume cheese do it seldom (once a week) or sometimes (2–3 times per week). Butter is also consumed by only about half of the adult population (43.8% for PT and 49.5% for BR), but the percentage of those who never consume butter increases for skimmed butter (66.0% for PT and 82.6% for BR) and unsalted butter (70.2% for PT and 69.1% for BR). The consumption of yogurts also follows similar low consumption patterns. The most frequently consumed yogurt types in Portugal are liquid (30.5% consume regularly) and natural yogurts (34.8% consume regularly), while in Brazil the most frequent are creamy fruit pulp yogurt (14.4% consume regularly), liquid (13.7% consume regularly) and Greek type yogurt (10.2% consume regularly). A factor analysis and a cluster analysis established groups according to lifestyles, as follows: 1—Screeners, 2—Exercisers, 3—Travelers and 4—Others. These lifestyles were found to be influential in the consumption of dairy products for all classes of dairy tested: milk, cheese, yogurt and butter. For example, the screeners were found to consume more milk, more butter, more cheese and more yogurt. Additionally, other influential factors were age, sex, education, BMI and satisfaction with body weight. Nevertheless, country was not a meaningfully discriminant variable in relation to the other variables included in the classification analysis. The results concluded that, despite some small differences in the patterns of consumption of dairy products in both countries, the levels of consumption of dairy products are extremely low, for all classes studied (milk, cheese, yogurt or butter). Additionally, it was concluded that some factors are influential on the level of consumption of dairy products, and therefore decision makers can plan their interventions according to the characteristics of the targeted segments of the population, according to lifestyle, age, sex, education, BMI and satisfaction with body weight.

Using a multi-stakeholder approach to increase value for traditional agroforestry systems: the case of baobab (Adansonia digitata L.) in Kilifi, Kenya

The baobab tree (Adansonia digitata L.) is an integral component of many dryland farming systems in sub-Sahara Africa. Such traditional agroforestry systems can foster a variety of benefits; besides positive livelihood implications baobab can particularly address food security objectives due to its highly nutritious fruits. However, many bottlenecks persist inhibiting the broader potential of indigenous trees in farming systems and their increased utilisation and commercialisation. We suggest that traditional farming systems with baobab trees can be advanced by stimulating the emergence of local markets for baobab products while promoting businesses and innovations aimed at meeting the arising market demand. Increasing the perceived value of local agroforestry products in combination with facilitating additional commercialisation pathways will in turn lead to food security and livelihood benefits. Using a multi-stakeholder approach such considerations were put into practice in Kilifi, Kenya, by initiating a community-based enterprise development producing high-quality baobab powder and oil. Initial results demonstrate behavioural changes, an improved practical knowhow with regard to baobab management and utilisation, and an increased consumption of baobab, which may already contribute to food security objectives. Baobab is increasingly seen as a valuable resource as opposed to 'food for the poor' and a tree possessed by evil spirits. This may lay the groundwork for further value addition activities and enterprise development in the communities. With baobab being a common, yet so far underutilised feature of local farming systems in Kilifi, activities based on its increasing commercialisation can be complementary and easily integrable to prevailing livelihood strategies.

An Exploratory Study on the Diverse Uses and Benefits of Locally-Sourced Fruit Species in Three Villages of Mpumalanga Province, South Africa

Globally, the potential of indigenous and neglected fruit species is continuously being recognized. In the current study, we explored the uses and benefits of locally available fruit species among the Mapulana people in Bushbuckridge Local Municipality. An ethno-botanical survey was conducted using in-depth interviews to record the names of the fruit species, their uses, seasonal availability, and occurrence in three villages, namely, Mokhololine, Motlamogatsane, and Rooiboklaagte B. Forty-one (41) participants aged 23 to 89 years old, identified by community members as knowledgeable on the utilization of fruit species, were interviewed. The frequency of citation (FC), use value (UV), and use report (UR) of the locally sourced fruit species were determined. The study revealed thirty-one (31) indigenous/naturalized plants belonging to 17 families with Anacardiaceae (four species) and Rubiaceae (three species) as the dominant ones. Approximately 48% of the 31 plants had FC of 100%, suggesting their high popularity in the study area. The identified plants had diverse uses that were categorized into six (6) groups and mainly dominated by food (59%) and medicine (34%). Strychnos madagascariensis had the highest (0.56) UV while Berchemia discolor, Parinari capensis, Parinari curatellifolia, and Sclerocarya birrea had the highest (6) URs. Overall, these locally sourced fruit species still play a significant role in the daily lives of the Mapulana people. The identified fruit species have the potential to be considered as alternative sources to meet the dietary requirements and health needs, especially in rural communities.

Factors affecting the fruit and vegetable intake in Nepal and its association with history of self-reported major cardiovascular events

BACKGROUND

The World Health Organization recommends consumption of a minimum of 400 g of fruits and vegetables per day for prevention of cardiovascular disease. Low fruit and vegetable intake is associated with an increased risk of stroke by 11% and ischemic heart disease by 31%. The present study aims to explore factors affecting the fruit and vegetable intake in Nepal and its association with history of self-reported major cardiovascular events (myocardial infarction and stroke).

METHOD

Data for this cross-sectional study were collected as part of the study "Community Based Management of Hypertension in Nepal" initiated in the Lekhnath Municipality in 2013. Demographic and nutrition information were collected using the WHO STEPwise approach to a surveillance tool. Descriptive statistics identified the frequency and percentage of fruit and vegetable intake. A Chi-square test examined the association between fruit and vegetable intake and history of self-reported cardiovascular events, socio-demographic and cardiovascular risk factors. Binary logistic regression analysis identified odds ratio with 95% confidence intervals between fruit and vegetable intake and history of self-reported cardiovascular events.

RESULTS

The mean and median intake of fruits and vegetables were 3.3 ± 0.79 and 3 servings respectively. Of the 2815 respondents, 2% (59) reported having a history of major cardiovascular events. The adjusted odds of having a history of major cardiovascular events was 2.22 (95%CI, 1.06-4.66) for those who consumed < 3 servings compared to those who consumed ≥3 servings of fruits and vegetables a day.

CONCLUSION

The respondents who consumed < 3 servings of fruits and vegetables a day had higher odds of a history of major cardiovascular events in comparison to those who consumed ≥3 servings. This finding may carry a policy recommendation for those settings where the current recommendation of having ≥5 servings of fruits and vegetables a day is not possible. Our findings also suggest that surviving a major cardiovascular event was not enough in itself to modify nutritional intake. As many Nepali consumes low amount of fruits and vegetables, appropriate measures should be taken to increase this consumption to prevent cardiovascular morbidity and mortality.

Dietary consumption and its effect on nutrition outcome among under-five children in rural Malawi

BACKGROUND

Despite remarkable progress in reducing under five mortalities in Malawi, a relative proportion of under nutrition among children still exist.

OBJECTIVES

The study examines dietary consumption factors and their effect on under nutrition outcomes among children under five years' children in rural Malawi.

METHODS

Using the 2015-16 Malawi Demographic and Health Survey, in which 4,150 children were reported of under nutrition statuses, the study used nested logistic regression models to estimate factors influencing the prevalence of under nutrition among children.

RESULTS

Based on the results, exclusive breast feeding among children under five years, after controlling for parental socioeconomic factors, was found to reduce the levels of wasting (ODDS RATIO [OR] = 0.763; p < 0.05), underweight (OR = 0.548; p < 0.001) and stunting (OR = 0.709; p < 0.005). Furthermore, it was found that despite the perceived adequacy among women in accessing fruits and vegetables, carbohydrates and micro-nutrient supplements, their children under five years, still experiences public health challenges and suffers from wasting, underweight and stunting.

CONCLUSION

There is need to implement extensive pro-rural under five nutritional and health educational advocacy using community-based approaches, targeting parents, emphasizing the significance of exclusive breast feeding and consistencies in giving dietary foods, if and only if the persistent public health challenges due to under nutrition among children under five years, is to be sustainably dealt with, in Malawi.

Wild Edible Plant Nutritional Contribution and Consumer Perception in Ethiopia

The scarcity, high cost, and unreliable supply of healthy food in developing countries have resulted in the search for cheap and alternative sources of healthy and nutritious food. Wild edible plants (WEPs) are one of the alternative sources of healthy and nutritious food, and they are crucially important in supporting the global food basket in all parts of the world in general and in sub-Saharan Africa in particular. These wild edible plants have played a significant role in supplying food and nutritional requirements and increasing the health status of poor communities in many rural parts of the world. In Ethiopia, rural communities use wild edible plants as a means of survival especially during times of drought and famine and during other forms calamities and crises. Wild edible plants have high nutritional content, including proteins, vitamin B2, and vitamin C, which can be used as alternatives to conventional plant-based human diets. The available literature has revealed that some wild edible plants also have medicinal properties. Even though wild edible plants are important for food security, they are usually overlooked and perceived as food for poor families. This review indicates that fruits are the most commonly used WEPs, both for consumption and medicinal value, and most plant parts are eaten directly in raw forms. This review focuses on the commercial exploitation of wild edible plants as a source of dietary supplements and alternative medicines and as a means to generate income; it also focuses on consumer perception toward wild edible plants in Ethiopia. Despite easy accessibility and availability, the consumption of wild edible plants is challenged by numerous factors. This review suggests that nutrition policies have to promote the utilization of wild edible plants as one pillar of food and nutrition security. Bioactive compound contents and antinutritional factor contents of wild and medicinal plants need further investigation.