Association between nut consumption and low muscle strength among Korean adults

Nuts are an important component of a healthy diet, but little has been known about their effects on muscle health. Therefore, this study examined the association between nut consumption and low muscle strength among Korean adults. This cross-sectional analysis was conducted using single 24-h recall and handgrip strength data from 3962 younger adults 19-39 years, 6921 middle-aged adults 40-64 years and 3961 older adults ≥65 years participated in the seventh cycle (2016-2018) of the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Low muscle strength was defined as handgrip strength <28 kg for men and <18 kg for women. Sex-specific OR were obtained for younger, middle-aged and older adults using multivariable logistic regression analyses. About one in four Korean adults were consuming nuts (using a culinary definition) with peanut being the most frequently consumed type. After adjustment for age, BMI, total energy intake, household income, alcohol consumption, smoking, resistance exercise, medical history and dietary protein intake, nut consumption was associated with the lower risk of low muscle strength among older adults ≥65 years (men: OR 0·55, 95 % CI (0·38, 0·79); women: OR 0·69, 95 % CI (0·51, 0·93)); however, this association was not observed among younger adults 19-39 years or middle-aged adults 40-64 years. Our results suggest that consuming nuts might be beneficial in lowering the risk of low muscle strength among Korean older adults.

Nuts consumption and hypertension risks in children: a mediating role of circulating lipid metabolites

BACKGROUND

Although nuts play an important role in preventing cardiovascular disease, the metabolic cues by which nuts regulate blood pressure have not been fully understood.Aims:We conducted a nested case-control study in a prospective cohort study of Southwest China children to explore the potential lipid metabolites related to the relationship between nut dietary and blood pressure.

METHODS

Forty-three hypertension cases and 53 controls serum samples were obtained for lipidomic data analysis using a liquid chromatography mass spectrometry platform.

RESULTS

We identified four lipid metabolites that are associated with nut intake by a generalized linear model and logistic regression analysis, including phosphatidylglycerol 43:6 [PG (43:6)], phosphatidylcholine 18:0/20:3 [PC (18:0/20:3)], and two phosphatidylethanolamine (PE) compounds [PE (P-16:0/20:4) and PE (P-22:0/18:2)]. Logistic regression analysis indicated that the levels of PG (43:6) and PE (P-16:0/20:4) were negatively associated with hypertension in children, which might be useful biomarkers for predicting childhood hypertension. Further mediation analysis revealed that PG (43:6) and PC (18:0/20:3) function as mediating variables between nut intake and blood pressure levels.

CONCLUSION

This study provides scientific evidence that nut consumption induces some beneficial changes in lipid metabolism, which may reduce the risk of hypertension in children.

The correlation between nuts and algae-less diet and children's blood pressure: from a cross-sectional study in Chongqing

BACKGROUND

Nuts and algae have been shown to improve BP levels, but their effectiveness is controversial.

AIMS

This study aims to illustrate the effect of dietary pattern with nuts and algae-less on BP levels in children and adolescents from a cross-sectional study.

METHODS

A total of 5645 children from the Chongqing Children's Health Cohort, aged 9.34 ± 1.74 years with 52.05% males, were analyzed. Stratified analysis was conducted to explore the differences between the two dietary patterns in urban or rural areas, as well as the differences in different gender. Logistic regression was used to analyze the influence factors of increased BP. And a GLM was used to analyze the influence of the two dietary patterns on systolic blood pressure (SBP, mmHg), diastolic blood pressure (DBP, mmHg), and mean arterial pressure (MAP, mmHg).

RESULTS

Children with nuts and algae-less dietary patterns had higher SBP (104.68 ± 10.31 vs 103.81 ± 9.74, P = .006), DBP (64.27 ± 7.53 vs 63.55 ± 7.52, P = .002), and MAP (77.74 ± 7.75 vs 76.97 ± 7.52, P = .001) compared with those children with a balanced diet. After adjusting for covariates, the nuts and algae-less diet was a risk factor for hypertension in children when compared with the balanced diet(OR(95%CI):1.455(1.097,1.930), P = .009). The nuts and algae-less diet has a significant influence on SBP (104.68 ± 10.31 mmHg vs.103.81 ± 9.74 mmHg, P = .006). Stratified analysis by sex showed that nuts and algae-less dietary patterns had a more significant impact on females than males.

CONCLUSION

Nuts and algae-less dietary pattern correlated with increased BP levels in children, and a greater impact on SBP levels was found in females, suggesting that a balanced diet with appropriate nuts and algae should be proposed for children in China.

The relationship between nut consumption and premature coronary artery disease in a representative sample of Iranians: Iran-premature coronary artery disease (IPAD) study

OBJECTIVE

The cardioprotective effects of nuts are well established. However, the positive impacts of nuts in preventing CVD at a younger age, a condition known as premature coronary artery disease (PCAD), is still debated. Therefore, we aim to determine the association between nuts and PCAD occurrence and its severity in different Iranian ethnicities.

DESIGN

This case-control study was conducted within the framework of the Iran-premature coronary artery disease (I-PAD) study, an ongoing multi-centric study on Iranian patients of different ethnicities.

SETTING

This multi-centric case-control study was conducted in among 3253 persons under the age of 70 years in women and 60 years in men from different ethnicities in Iran.

PARTICIPANTS

Information on nut consumption was collected using a validated FFQ. Subjects were selected from among the candidates for angiography. Cases were those whose coronary angiography showed stenosis of more than 75 % in at least one vessel or more than 50 % of the left main artery, while the control group participants had normal angiography results.

RESULTS

In the crude model, compared to the first quartile, the highest quartile of nut consumption was significantly associated with a lower risk of PCAD (OR = 0·26, 95 % CI (0·21, 0·32); Pfor trend = 0·001). In the top quartile of nut intake, a substantial decrease in PCAD was observed after controlling for putative confounders (OR = 0·32; 95 % CI (0·24, 0·43); Pfor trend = 0·001). Additionally, a 75 % decrease in the risk of severe PCAD was observed in the participants in the highest quartile of nut intake.

CONCLUSION

A significant inverse association was observed between nut intake and the risk and severity of PCAD in the Iranian population. Large-scale clinical trials are required to confirm these findings.

Association of nut consumption with insulin resistance and blood lipid profile in Spanish university students

AIMS

To examine whether nut consumption was associated with insulin resistance and blood lipid parameters in a sample of young healthy adults.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 306 first-year students (aged 18-30 years) from the University of Castilla-La Mancha, Spain. Biochemical variables related to insulin resistance and blood lipid profile (glucose, insulin, HbA1c, total cholesterol (total-c), LDL-c, HDL-c, and triglycerides) were determined from morning fasting blood samples. Nut consumption was estimated using a 137-item Food-Frequency Questionnaire. The associations of walnuts, other nuts and total nut intakes with insulin resistance and lipid profile variables and surrogates were assessed by linear regression analysis. Differences in insulin resistance and lipid profiles between participants meeting or not meeting the nut consumption recommendations were examined by analysis of covariance (ANCOVA). Logistic regressions were used to analyze the likelihood of having higher levels of blood lipids or insulin resistance in participants who met or did not meet the recommended intake of nuts.

RESULTS

There was no association found between nut consumption, whether walnuts or other nut varieties, and insulin resistance and lipid profile variables. Additionally, there were no significant differences in insulin resistance or blood lipid profile variables between university students meeting or not meeting nut consumption recommendations. Finally, stratified analyses based on sex were consistent and did not substantially modify our estimates in the fully adjusted models.

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, our results suggest that walnuts, other types of nuts, and total nut consumption did not adversely influence metabolic or lipid profile variables among healthy young adults. Although nuts are recommended among healthy dietary patterns, our findings showed that nut consumption has a null effect on the cardiometabolic risk parameters explored in young healthy adults.

Trend in key mycotoxins and impacted countries

The demand for tree nuts has significantly grown in recent years as epidemiological studies and clinical intervention trials demonstrated an inverse relationship between tree nut consumption and chronic diseases. However, mycotoxins are one of the main hazards responsible for increased "Rapid Alert System for Food and Feed" (RASFF) notifications and border rejections on nuts and nut products exported to the E.U. countries in the past few years. Mycotoxins are secondary metabolites that present serious threats to human and animal health. The most prevalent, toxic, and carcinogenic mycotoxins observed in human food and animal feed are the aflatoxins (AFs). This work analyzed notifications from the RASFF on nuts and nut products contaminated with mycotoxins, for a 10-year period from 2011 to 2021. A total of 4752 mycotoxin notifications were published on RASFF for food products worldwide, 63% (n = 3000) were notified in "nuts, nut products and seeds". It was observed that 95% (n = 2669) notifications were due to AFs. Over half of these notifications (52%, n = 1545) were reported for groundnuts, where 29% (n = 441) of the notifications were received for groundnuts from China alone. Border rejection was reported for 91% (n = 2560) of the nuts and nut products which received the notifications from the E.U. countries. This study proffers understanding into the major reasons for RASFF notifications on nuts and nut products exported to E.U. countries. Also, the implications of this issue with some recommendations that could reduce the incidents of notifications for tree nuts have been outlined.

Nut consumption is associated with a lower risk of depression in adults: A prospective analysis with data from the UK Biobank cohort

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Evidence on the association between nut consumption and depression is mainly based on cross-sectional studies. This study aims to analyse whether nut consumption is prospectively associated with the risk of depression in adults.

METHODS

This study was conducted using the United Kingdom (UK) Biobank resource. Data from middle-aged and older UK adults who participated in this cohort between 2007-2012 (baseline) and 2013-2020 (follow-up) were analysed. Baseline information on nut consumption was obtained with the Oxford WebQ 24-h questionnaire. Depression, defined as a self-reported physician diagnosis of depression or antidepressant use, was assessed at baseline and follow-up. Hazard regression models estimating the predictive ability of nut consumption for the risk of developing depression were adjusted for sociodemographic, lifestyle, and health confounders.

RESULTS

A total of 13,504 participants (mean age 57.5 ± 7.2 years, 50.7% female) free of depression at baseline were included in the analyses. After a mean follow-up of 5.3 ± 2.4 years, 1122 (8.3%) incident cases of depression were identified. Compared with no nut consumption, the daily consumption of >0 to 1 serving of 30 g of nuts was associated with a lower risk of depression (hazard ratio, HR = 0.83; 95% confidence interval, CI: 0.71-0.97) regardless of all potential confounders considered. In stratified analyses, a decreased risk of depression was more clearly observed in UK adults with adequate weight control, a healthy lifestyle, and better health status than in their counterparts (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Low-to-moderate nut consumption (>0 to 1 serving of 30 g/day) was associated with a 17% lower risk of depression during a 5.3-year follow-up compared with no nut consumption in a large sample of middle-aged and older UK adults. This protective association is enhanced in the absence of other known risk factors for depression.

Nut and seed consumption is inversely associated with metabolic syndrome in females but not males: findings from the 2005-2018 NHANES data

PURPOSE

To assess the association between nut and seed consumption, both combined and separately, and metabolic syndrome and its components, including fasting glucose, triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, central obesity, and blood pressure.

METHODS

This cross-sectional analysis used data from 22,687 adults (aged ≥ 18 years) involved in seven cycles (2005-2018) of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Habitual nut and seed intakes were estimated by the Multiple Source Method using data from two 24-h dietary recalls. Metabolic syndrome was ascertained using biochemical data and self-reported medication use. Sex-specific effect estimates were obtained using logistic and linear regressions adjusting for lifestyle and socioeconomic confounders.

RESULTS

Compared to non-consumers, female, but not male, habitual consumers of either nuts or seeds had lower odds of having metabolic syndrome (OR: 0.83, 95% CI 0.71, 0.97). Both nut intake alone and seed intake alone were inversely associated with high fasting glucose and low HDL-cholesterol in females compared to non-consumers. When restricted to habitual consumers only, the combined intake of nuts and seeds at 6 g/day was associated with the lowest triglycerides and highest HDL-cholesterol in females. Combined consumption of nuts and seeds up to one ounce-equivalent (15 g) per day, but not in higher intake levels, was inversely associated with metabolic syndrome, high fasting glucose, central obesity, and low HDL-cholesterol in females.

CONCLUSIONS

Nut and seed consumption, both separately or combined, below 15 g/day was inversely associated with metabolic syndrome and its component conditions in females but not males.

Association between nut consumption and prostate cancer risk in adults: A systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis of observational studies

AIMS

Data on the association between nut consumption and prostate cancer risk are conflicting. Therefore, this systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis aimed to summarize available findings from observational studies on the associations of nut intake with risk of total, advanced, non-advanced, and fatal prostate cancers.

DATA SYNTHESIS

We searched the online databases of PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science as well as Google Scholar using appropriate keywords to identify eligible articles up to September 2022. In total, 11 articles with a total sample size of 287,786 participants and 32,213 cases of prostate cancer were included in the current systematic review and meta-analysis. By comparing the highest and lowest intake of total nuts, pooled relative risks (RRs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) for total, advanced, non-advanced, and fatal prostate cancers were 0.94 (95% CI: 0.85-1.04, P = 0.22), 1.10 (95% CI: 0.98-1.24, P = 0.12), 0.97 (95% CI: 0.85-1.11, P = 0.69), 0.97 (95% CI: 0.79-1.18, P = 0.73), respectively, which indicated non-significant inverse associations for total, non-advanced, and fatal prostate cancers and a non-significant positive association for advanced prostate cancer. In the dose-response analyses, we found no evidence of a linear or non-linear association between total nut intake and prostate cancer risk. Data on other types of nuts, including walnut, tree nuts, peanut, and peanut butter, were not sufficient for performing a meta-analysis.

CONCLUSION

We found no significant association between nut intake and risk of total, advanced, non-advanced, and fatal prostate cancer. Further studies are required to confirm our findings.

PROSPERO REGISTRATION CODE

CRD42022347094.

ETHICAL APPROVAL

Not required.

Demand elasticity of import nuts in Korea

This paper empirically analyzes import demand for nuts in Korea using Almost Ideal Demand System (AIDS). Six budget shares and prices demand equations for nuts group: almond, pistachio, walnut, cashew, hazelnut and macadamia are analyzed during the period 2009 to 2019. Empirical results show that all uncompensated own-price elasticities are negative, walnut and pistachio are own-price elastic while almond, cashew, hazelnut and macadamia are own-price inelastic. Uncompensated cross-price elasticities indicate that nuts have both complementary and substitutable relationships. Expenditure elasticities reveal that all import nuts are expenditure inelastic and they can be considered as necessary goods in Korea. Our research can help related to policy decision for the demand of Korea import nuts.

Functional foods and their impact on health

Functional foods play an important role in maintaining a healthy lifestyle and reducing the risk factors of various diseases. Most foods have a functional element which is responsible for improving the healthy state. All food substances such as fruits, vegetables, cereals, meat, fish, dairy contain functional ingredients. A wide range of naturally occurring substances from plant and animal sources having active components which play a role in physiological actions deserve attention for their optimal use in maintaining health. The market for functional food is keep on expanding, and the global market is projected to reach a value of at least 91 billion USD soon. Overwhelming evidence from preclinical (in vitro and in vivo) and clinical studies have shown that intake of functional foods could have an impact on the prevention of chronic diseases, especially cancer, cardiovascular diseases, gastrointestinal tract disorders and neurological diseases. Extensive research needs to be done to determine the potential health benefits for the proper application of these foods to improve health state and combat chronic disease progression. The aim of this review is to conduct a thorough literature survey, to understand the various classification of functional foods and their health benefits.

Investigation on the contents of heat-induced hazards in commercial nuts

The purpose was to investigate the contents of heat-induced hazards by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) in 44 commercial nuts. Results showed that content ranges of Acrylamide (AA), 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (5-HMF), N^ε-carboxymethyl-lysine (CML), N^ε-carboxyethyl-lysine (CEL), 3-Deoxyglucosone (3-DG), Glyoxal (GO), and Methylglyoxal (MGO) were ND-123.57 µg/kg, 0.57-213.42 mg/kg, 3.18-18.67 mg/kg, 3.98-57.85 mg/kg, 1.5-133.86 mg/kg, 0.45-1.59 mg/kg and 0.29-13.84 mg/kg, respectively. Sunflower seeds contained more heat-induced hazards followed by pistachios, cashews, almonds, walnuts and hazelnuts. The content of 5-HMF was positively correlated with the content of 3-DG. CML exhibited positive correlation with content of GO while no correlation between CEL and MGO. Higher levels of 3-DG and 5-HMF were observed in nuts produced with sugar and honey. Deep processing had a stronger promoting effect on CML and CEL formation. These data could provide a crucial guide for consumers to select nut products which might reduce heat-induced hazards intake.

Acute feeding with almonds compared to a carbohydrate-based snack improves appetite-regulating hormones with no effect on self-reported appetite sensations: a randomised controlled trial

PURPOSE

Early satiety has been identified as one of the mechanisms that may explain the beneficial effects of nuts for reducing obesity. This study compared postprandial changes in appetite-regulating hormones and self-reported appetite ratings after consuming almonds (AL, 15% of energy requirement) or an isocaloric carbohydrate-rich snack bar (SB).

METHODS

This is a sub-analysis of baseline assessments of a larger parallel-arm randomised controlled trial in overweight and obese (Body Mass Index 27.5-34.9 kg/m²) adults (25-65 years). After an overnight fast, 140 participants consumed a randomly allocated snack (AL [n = 68] or SB [n = 72]). Appetite-regulating hormones and self-reported appetite sensations, measured using visual analogue scales, were assessed immediately before snack food consumption, and at 30, 60, 90 and 120 min following snack consumption. A sub-set of participants (AL, n = 49; SB, n = 48) then consumed a meal challenge buffet ad libitum to assess subsequent energy intake. An additional appetite rating assessment was administered post buffet at 150 min.

RESULTS

Postprandial C-peptide area under the curve (AUC) response was 47% smaller with AL compared to SB (p < 0.001). Glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide, glucagon and pancreatic polypeptide AUC responses were larger with AL compared to SB (18%, p = 0.005; 39% p < 0.001; 45% p < 0.001 respectively). Cholecystokinin, ghrelin, glucagon-like peptide-1, leptin and polypeptide YY AUCs were not different between groups. Self-reported appetite ratings and energy intake following the buffet did not differ between groups.

CONCLUSION

More favourable appetite-regulating hormone responses to AL did not translate into better self-reported appetite or reduced short-term energy consumption. Future studies should investigate implications for longer term appetite regulation.

ANZCTR REFERENCE NUMBER

ACTRN12618001861246 2018.

Plant-Based Diets and Cancer Prognosis: a Review of Recent Research

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Although plant-based diets are recommended for cancer prevention, their role in cancer survival is still uncertain. The purpose of this systematic review is to summarize the association between postdiagnosis plant-based diets and prognosis in cancer survivors.

RECENT FINDINGS

There is indication that higher intake of plant-based foods was associated with improved prognosis in cancer survivors. For colorectal cancer survival, a better prognosis was observed for a high intake of whole grains and fibre. For breast cancer survival, a higher intake of fruit, vegetable and fibre and a moderate intake of soy/isoflavone were associated with beneficial outcomes. A higher vegetable fat intake was related to improved prognosis in prostate cancer survivors. Emerging evidence suggests benefits of postdiagnosis plant-based diets on prognosis in cancer survivors. However, given the high heterogeneity between studies, further research in cancer survivors, considering clinical factors (e.g. treatment, stage) and methodological aspects (e.g. timing of dietary assessment), is needed.

Effect of nuts on components of metabolic syndrome in healthy adults with overweight/obesity: A systematic review and meta-analysis

AIMS

Randomized controlled trials evaluating the effects of nut consumption on the metabolic profile of healthy adults with overweight/obesity have yielded conflicting results. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to summarize the effects of incorporating nuts into the diet on serum lipid profile, glycemic markers, and blood pressure in healthy adults with overweight/obesity.

DATA SYNTHESIS

PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library were searched up to April 2021. The random-effects model was used to determine the pooled effect sizes expressed as weighted mean difference (WMD) with % 95 confidence intervals (CIs). Ten eligible RCTs (with 12 arms) were included in the meta-analysis. The meta-analysis revealed that nut intake significantly decreased serum triglycerides (TG) (WMD: -13.19 mg/dL, 95% CI: - 25.90, - 0.48). Furthermore, subgroup analysis showed a significant reduction in serum LDL-cholesterol (LDL-C) following adherence to normocaloric, nut-enriched diets (WMD: - 4.56 mg/dL, 95% CI: - 8.24, - 0.88). However, nuts did not affect serum total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, glycemic markers, and blood pressure.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, incorporating nuts into the diet of healthy adults with overweight/obesity have favorable effects on serum TG and LDL-C. Thus, nuts might exert protective effects against dyslipidemia in this population.

REGISTRY NUMBER

PROPSPERO CRD42021250662.

Interlaboratory Evaluation of Enterococcus faecium NRRL B-2354 as a Salmonella Surrogate for Validating Thermal Treatment of Multiple Low-Moisture Foods

ABSTRACT

This multi-institutional study assessed the efficacy of Enterococcus faecium NRRL B-2354 as a nonpathogenic Salmonella surrogate for thermal processing of nonfat dry milk powder, peanut butter, almond meal, wheat flour, ground black pepper, and date paste. Each product was analyzed by two laboratories (five independent laboratories total), with the lead laboratory inoculating (E. faecium or a five-strain Salmonella enterica serovar cocktail of Agona, Reading, Tennessee, Mbandaka, and Montevideo) and equilibrating the product to the target water activity before shipping. Both laboratories subjected samples to three isothermal treatments (between 65 and 100°C). A log-linear and Bigelow model was fit to survivor data via one-step regression. On the basis of D80°C values estimated from the combined model, E. faecium was more thermally resistant (P < 0.05) than Salmonella in nonfat dry milk powder (DEf-80°C, 100.2 ± 5.8 min; DSal-80°C, 28.9 ± 1.0 min), peanut butter (DEf-80°C, 133.5 ± 3.1 min; DSal-80°C, 57.6 ± 1.5 min), almond meal (DEf-80°C, 34.2 ± 0.4 min; DSal-80°C, 26.1 ± 0.2 min), ground black pepper (DEf-80°C, 3.2 ± 0.8 min; DSal-80°C, 1.5 ± 0.1 min), and date paste (DEf-80°C, 1.5 ± 0.0 min; DSal-80°C, 0.5 ± 0.0 min). Although the combined laboratory D80°C for E. faecium was lower (P < 0.05) than for Salmonella in wheat flour (DEf-80°C, 9.4 ± 0.1 min; DSal-80°C, 10.1 ± 0.2 min), the difference was ∼7%. The zT values for Salmonella in all products and for E. faecium in milk powder, almond meal, and date paste were not different (P > 0.05) between laboratories. Therefore, this study demonstrated the impact of standardized methodologies on repeatability of microbial inactivation results. Overall, E. faecium NRRL B-2354 was more thermally resistant than Salmonella, which provides support for utilizing E. faecium as a surrogate for validating thermal processing of multiple low-moisture products. However, product composition should always be considered before making that decision.

HIGHLIGHTS

Association of nut consumption with CVD risk factors in young to middle-aged adults: The Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults (CARDIA) study

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Few studies have examined long-term associations of walnut, other nut, and no nut consumption with cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors. Results from prospective studies with long-term follow-up can provide further evidence for dietary guideline messaging to consume nuts. Therefore, we examined the associations of walnut, other nut, and no nut consumption with diet quality and CVD risk factors over 30 years of follow-up.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Data were analyzed from 3092 young adults enrolled in the Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults (CARDIA) study. Dietary intake, including walnuts and other nuts, was assessed 3 times over 20 years. CVD risk factors were measured at multiple exams. General linear regression evaluated the associations of walnut, other nut, and no nut consumption with CVD risk factors over 30 years (Y30) of follow-up. The 20-year cumulative mean intake of walnuts (0.74 oz/d), other nuts (1.6 oz/d), or no nut consumption was differentially associated with HEI-2015 and CVD risk factors by Y30. Generally, walnut consumers had significantly higher HEI-2015, lower body mass index, waist circumference, blood pressure, and triglyceride concentration, and gained less weight since baseline than other nut consumers (p ≤ 0.05 for all). Further, walnut consumers had lower fasting blood glucose than no nut consumers (p ≤ 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Study findings that walnut and other nut consumption was associated with better CVD risk factors and diet quality aligns with the 2020-2025 US. Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommendation to consume nuts, such as walnuts, within the context of a healthy diet.

Nut consumption is associated with a shift of the NMR lipoprotein subfraction profile to a less atherogenic pattern among older individuals at high CVD risk

BACKGROUND

Scientific evidence has accumulated on the beneficial effects of nut consumption on cardiovascular risk and cholesterol reduction, but few studies have examined the effects of nuts on advanced measures of lipoprotein atherogenicity determined by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. We analyzed associations between the amount and type of of nuts consumed and advanced measures of lipoprotein atherogenity and insulin resistance in older individuals at high cardiovascular risk.

METHODS

The present observational study was carried out within the framework of the Prevención con Dieta Mediterránea (PREDIMED) trial. Cross-sectional and longitudinal analyses after 1-year of follow-up were conducted in 196 men and women recruited in the PREDIMED-Reus (Spain) center. Dietary intake was assessed using a validated semi-quantitative food questionnaire. Baseline and 1-year fasting plasma lipoprotein and metabolite profiling were performed in plasma using NMR spectra Vantera^® Clinical Analyzer. Associations by tertiles of nut consumption between baseline and 1-year changes and advanced measures of lipoprotein atherogenicity, branched chain amminoacids, and measures of insulin resistance were tested by multivariable-adjusted ANCOVA models.

RESULTS

Compared to paticipants in the bottom tertile, those in the top tertile of total nut consumption showed higher levels of large HDL particles and HDL-cholesterol, lower levels of branched-chain amino acids (BCAA) and GlycA, and reduced lipoprotein insulin resistance and diabetes risk index. Participants in the top tertile of walnut consumption disclosed lower levels of very large VLDL, total LDL particles, LDL-cholesterol, and GlycA. Participants in the top tertile of non-walnut nut consumption displayed higher levels of total HDL particles, HDL-cholesterol and apoliporotein A1, lower BCAA and GlycA, and reduced lipoprotein insulin resistance. Participants in the top tertile of 1-year changes in walnut consumption showed increases in medium-sized HDL particles in comparison to the bottom tertile.

CONCLUSIONS

In older individuals at high cardiovascular risk, increasing nut consumption was associated with a shift of the NMR lipoprotein subfraction profile to a less atherogenic pattern, as well as lower circulating concentrations of BCAA and decreased insulin resistance. These results provide novel mechanistic insight into the cardiovascular benefit of nut consumption. Trial registration ISRCTN35739639; registration date: 05/10/2005; recruitment start date 01/10/2003.

Is my food safe? - AI-based classification of lentil flour samples with trace levels of gluten or nuts

An artificial intelligence-based method to rapidly detect adulterated lentil flour in real time is presented. Mathematical models based on convolutional neural networks and transfer learning (viz., ResNet34) have been trained to identify lentil flour samples that contain trace levels of wheat (gluten) or pistachios (nuts), aiding two relevant populations (people with celiac disease and with nut allergies, respectively). The technique is based on the analysis of photographs taken by a simple reflex camera and further classification into groups assigned to adulterant type and amount (up to 50 ppm). Two different algorithms were trained, one per adulterant, using a total of 2200 images for each neural network. Using blind sets of data (10% of the collected images; initially and randomly separated) to evaluate the performance of the models led to strong performances, as 99.1% of lentil flour samples containing ground pistachio were correctly classified, while 96.4% accuracy was reached to classify the samples containing wheat flour.

Inactivation of Foodborne Pathogens on Inshell Walnuts by UV-C Radiation

ABSTRACT

Inshell walnuts can be contaminated with pathogens through direct contact or cross-contamination during harvesting and postharvest hulling, drying, or storage. This study aimed to assess the efficacy of UV-C radiation in inactivating foodborne pathogens on inshell walnut surfaces. Intact inshell walnut surfaces were inoculated separately with Salmonella,Escherichia coli O157:H7, Listeria monocytogenes, and Staphylococcus aureus and then were subjected to UV-C radiation at doses of 29.4, 147.0, 294.0, 588.0, and 882.0 mJ/cm2. UV-C radiation inactivated the inoculated pathogens in a dose-dependent manner, and a tailing effect was observed for the inactivation of pathogens. UV-C radiation at 29.4 and 882.0 mJ/cm2 reduced the populations of Salmonella Enteritidis PT 30, Salmonella Typhimurium, E. coli O157:H7, L. monocytogenes, and S. aureus on inshell walnut surfaces by 0.82 to 1.25 and 1.76 to 2.41 log CFU per walnut, respectively. Scanning electron photomicrographs showed pathogenic bacterial cells in the cracks and crevices of the inshell walnut surface, and the shielding of microorganisms by the cracks and crevices may have contributed to the tailing effect observed during UV-C inactivation. No significant changes (P > 0.05) were found in walnut lipid oxidation following UV-C radiation at doses up to 882.0 mJ/cm2. Together, the results indicate that UV-C radiation could be a potential technology for reducing the populations of various foodborne pathogens on inshell walnut surfaces while maintaining the quality of walnuts.

HIGHLIGHTS

Microbiological Profile, Prevalence, and Characterization of Salmonella enterica in Peanuts, Pecans, Raisins, Sun-Dried Tomatoes, and Chocolate Sprinkles Sold in Bulk in Markets in Querétaro, Mexico

ABSTRACT

In Mexico, the prevalence of Salmonella enterica in low-water-activity foods and its link to outbreaks are unknown. The aim of this study was to determine the microbiological profile and the prevalence of S. enterica in several low-water-activity foods, including peanuts, pecans, raisins, sun-dried tomatoes, and chocolate sprinkles, purchased in retail establishments in Querétaro, Mexico. Seventy samples of each food item sold in bulk were purchased. Aerobic plate count, molds, yeasts, total coliforms, Escherichia coli, and Staphylococcus aureus were quantified in 10-g samples. The prevalence of S. enterica in 25-g samples was determined. From positive samples, S. enterica isolates (60) were characterized based on their antimicrobial susceptibility to 14 antibiotics, the presence-absence of 13 virulence genes, and serotype. The concentration of aerobic plate count, molds, yeasts, total coliforms, and E. coli ranged from 3.1 to 5.2 log CFU g-1, from 2.0 to 2.4 log CFU g-1, from 2.0 to 3.0 log CFU g-1, from 0.6 to 1.1 log most probable number (MPN) g-1, and from 0.5 to 0.9 log MPN g-1, respectively. S. aureus was not detected in any sample (<10 CFU g-1). The prevalence of S. enterica in chocolate sprinkles, raisins, peanuts, pecans, and sun-dried tomatoes was 26, 29, 31, 40, and 52%, respectively. Most isolates (68.3%) were resistant to at least one antibiotic. Chromosome-associated virulence genes were found in all isolates, and only one strain had sopE, and 98.3% of the isolates were grouped in the same virulotype. Among the isolates, the most frequent serotype was Tennessee (51 of 60). According to the characteristics evaluated, we grouped the isolates into 24 clusters. The elevated prevalence of S. enterica highlights the role of low-water-activity food items sold in bulk at markets as potential vehicles for pathogen transmission. Regardless of the low variability among S. enterica isolates, their characterization could be helpful to elucidate which strains are circulating in these foods for improving epidemiological surveillance.

HIGHLIGHTS

Dietary Mineral Intake from Nuts and Its Relationship to Hypertension Among Korean Adults

Accumulating evidence shows that nut consumption beneficially affects health outcomes. The purpose of this study was to investigate the association between the intake of nuts, focusing on their mineral contents, and the risk of hypertension in nationally representative samples in Korea. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 12,113 subjects (4762 men and 7351 women) aged 19-64 years using raw data from KNHANES 2016-2019. Daily intake of 20 nuts and 9 minerals from nuts was assessed using the 24-h recall method. The risk of hypertension according to the median mineral intake from nuts and nuts themselves was assessed using logistic regression analysis with adjustment for potential confounders. The average daily nut intake was 4.34 g for females and 3.78 g males. Among nut intake, chestnuts represented the highest value at 0.95 g/day, followed by peanuts (0.72 g/day), almonds (0.62 g/day), sesame seeds (0.62 g/day), perilla seeds (0.33 g/day), and walnuts (0.32 g/day). The daily intake of minerals from nuts was significantly higher in the nut-overmedian (OM) group than in the nut-undermedian (UM) group. Regarding mineral intake from nuts, each mineral-UM group showed higher odds of hypertension than the mineral-OM group in women, but not in men. After adjustment for potential confounders, an inverse association between nut consumption, including minerals obtained from nuts, and hypertension prevalence, especially in women, was observed. Based on our results, it is suggested that incorporation of nuts into a daily diet may yield beneficial effects and lower the risk of hypertension in adult Korean women.

Bioactives in the Food Supply: Effects on CVD Health

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Interest in preventing atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease extends beyond essential nutrients and dietary patterns. This article reviews the potential for bioactive compounds to play a role in prevention and the recent process in guidance for developing policy for bioactives.

RECENT FINDINGS

A framework for developing recommended intakes of bioactives dietary substances was recently developed and the first guideline expected is for a bioactive targeted for cardiometabolic health. Bioactives target endothelial health, the gut microbiome, serum lipids, blood pressure, inflammation, and oxidative stress. The evidence base is growing and will be enhanced further with the discovery of good biomarkers of exposure and health outcomes. A robust evidence base is essential to develop policy and influence clinical practice for bioactives, an exciting and growing area of research.

Nuts and legumes consumption and risk of colorectal cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Several case-control and prospective cohort studies have examined the association between the consumption of nuts and legumes and the risk of colorectal cancer. For the quantitative assessment of this association, we conducted a meta-analysis of observational studies. We searched PubMed and Web of Science databases along with hand searches for eligible studies published up to January 2022. A total of 13 studies (8 cohort studies and 5 case-control studies) on nuts consumption and 29 studies (16 cohort studies and 13 case-control studies) on legumes consumption were included in the meta-analysis. The pooled relative risks (RRs) of colorectal cancer for the highest versus lowest categories of nuts consumption and legumes consumption were 0.84 (95% CI: 0.71-0.99) and 0.90 (95% CI: 0.83-0.98), respectively. Based on the dose-response analysis, a 28 g/day (1 serving/day) increment of nut consumption was associated with a 33% lower risk of colorectal cancer, and 100 g/day (1 serving/day) increment of legumes consumption was associated with a 21% lower risk of colorectal cancer. By geographic region for nuts consumption, however, the inverse association for the highest versus lowest categories was only observed in Asia (RR = 0.44; 95% CI: 0.29-0.68) from 3 studies, and no association was found in America (RR = 1.01; 95% CI: 0.92-1.11) (P_difference = 0.003) or Europe (RR = 1.02; 95% CI: 0.84-1.25) (P_difference = 0.003). In addition, the associations tended to be weak when stratified by adjustment for confounders. Our findings suggest that the evidence for an association is currently weak, and thus further well-designed prospective studies are needed.

Associations of total nut and peanut intakes with all-cause and cause-specific mortality in a Japanese community: the Takayama study

Numerous epidemiological studies have suggested that nut intake is associated with a reduced risk of mortality. Although diets and lifestyles differ by regions or races/ethnicities, few studies have investigated the associations among non-white, non-Western populations. We evaluated the associations of total nut and peanut intakes with all-cause and cause-specific mortality in a population-based prospective cohort in Japan. Participants (age: ≥35 years at baseline in 1992; n 31 552) were followed up until death or the end of follow-up in 2008. Those with cancer, CHD or stroke at baseline were excluded. Dietary intake was assessed only at baseline by using a validated FFQ. In total, 2901 men died during 183 299 person-years and 2438 women died during 227 054 person-years. The mean intakes of total nuts were 1·8 and 1·4 g/d in men and women, respectively. Although peanut intake accounted for approximately 80 % of the total nut intake, total nut and peanut intakes were inversely associated with all-cause mortality in men after adjusting for all potential confounders. For example, compared with the lowest quartile category, the adjusted hazard ratio (95 % CI) of total nut intake for all-cause mortality in men of the highest quartile category was 0·85 (95 % CI 0·75, 0·96) (P_{for trend} = 0·034). Peanut intake was inversely associated with digestive disease mortality in men and CVD mortality in women. Total nut and peanut intakes, even in low amounts, were associated with a reduced risk of mortality particularly in men.

Spatial lipidomics of eight edible nuts by desorption electrospray ionization with ion mobility mass spectrometry imaging

Nuts have long been known for their health benefits which are mainly contributed by their lipid components. However, the spatial distribution of lipids in nuts has not been firmly established. In this study, desorption electrospray ionization combined with ion mobility and quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry in positive and negative ion modes was applied to visualize spatially the lipids in eight edible nuts, namely almonds, hazelnuts, cashews, walnuts, peanuts, peach seeds, bitter almonds, and Chinese dwarf cherry seeds. The glycerophospholipids were first imaged in nuts in the negative ion mode, while the glycerolipids and phosphatidylcholines were mainly detected in the positive ion mode. In total 87 characterized components, including 47 glycerophospholipids, 24 glycerolipids, eight alkyl phenolic acids, three fatty acid acyl metabolites, four oligosaccharides, and amygdalin, were visualized in the eight nuts, and the collision cross-sectional values of these components were obtained. The outer shell of the nut cotyledon concentrated more abundant components than the center, while for the hydrolyzed glycerophospholipids, the reverse was observed. The results provide a more comprehensive and in-depth understanding of the location of the diverse metabolite profiles in nuts and of their relationship to their respective health benefits.

Molecular identification of aflatoxigenic Aspergillus species in dried nuts and grains collected from Tehran, Iran

INTRODUCTION

Agricultural commodities contaminated by molds and mycotoxins can be considered as public health problems in less developed countries, particularly in Iran. Hence the main purpose of this study was to identify mold fungi and molecular analysis of the most important species of aflatoxin-B1-producing Aspergillus species in some dried nuts and grains in local markets in Tehran.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Two hundred fifty samples of wheat, rice, corn, pistachios, and peanuts were collected from the five different locations of Tehran between January 2018 and January 2019. The samples were analyzed by using direct seed inoculation method and grain crushing method. Fungal strains were identified as Aspergillus spp. on the basis of morphological characters and further confirmed by using of β-tubulin gene sequencing. To differentiate between aflatoxigenic and non-aflatoxigenic Aspergillus spp., the isolates were screened for the presence of aflatoxigenic genes (nor-1, ver-1, omtA, and aflR).

RESULTS

One-handed forty-eight aflatoxigenic Aspergillus isolates (144 A. flavus and 4 A. parasiticus) were identified and aflR gene was the most frequent gene in these species. Five isolates (4 A. flavus, 1 A. parasiticus) had quadruplet pattern, 64 isolates (63 A. flavus, 1 A. parasiticus) had more than 1 gene and 39 isolates (38 A. flavus,1 A. parasiticus) did not have any genes.

CONCLUSION

According to the contamination of dried nuts and grains by some aflatoxigenic fungi, an extensive surveillance is necessary to provide a wider view on these products. Moreover, effective and efficient aflatoxin control program requires identifying and managing key elements that are effective in reducing mycotoxin production at farm level or in storage conditions.

Pulsed Light (PL) Treatments on Almond Kernels: Salmonella enteritidis Inactivation Kinetics and Infrared Thermography Insights

Abstract

Extending the shelf-life and ensuring microbiological safety of food products while preserving the nutritional properties are key aspects that must be addressed. Heat processing of food matrices has been the golden standard during the last decades, while certain non-thermal processing options have recently gained ground. In the present study, experimental pulsed light (PL) surface inactivation treatments of Salmonella enteritidis on almonds kernels are performed. The PL system is set to test different operative conditions, namely power (1000, 1250, and 1500 W) and frequency (1.8, 3.0, and 100.0 Hz) at different treatment times (from 5 to 250 s), which result in applied fluence doses in the 0–100 J·cm⁻² range. Additionally, temperature measurements are collected at each operative condition on the almond surface (using infrared (IR) thermography) and at the superficial layer of the almond (1-mm depth using a thermocouple). The observed PL inactivation kinetics are then modelled using four different models. The best goodness-of-fit is found for the two-parameter Weibull model (R² > 0.98 and RMSE < 0.33 for all cases). The maximum achieved log-CFU reductions are 6.02 for the 1.8-Hz system, 4.69 for the 3.0-Hz system, and 3.66 for 100.0-Hz system. The offset between the collected temperature readings by the two sensors is contrasted against the inactivation rate (following the two-parameter Weibull model). It was found that the highest inactivation rate corresponds approximately to the point where the infrared camera detects a slowdown in the surface heating.

Graphical Abstract

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s11947-021-02725-9.

Comprehensive hospital-based regional survey of anaphylaxis in Japanese children: Time trends of triggers and adrenaline use

BACKGROUND

Since few studies have analyzed time trends in pediatric anaphylaxis, including triggers and adrenaline usage, this study aimed to reveal these issues in a comprehensive analysis of pediatric anaphylaxis cases.

METHODS

The Aichi Medical Association performed a comprehensive survey of pediatric anaphylaxis cases aged under 15 years from 87 secondary and 25 tertiary emergency care hospitals in Aichi Prefecture (population 7.5 million), Japan.

RESULTS

Between April 2016 and March 2020, 3423 cases of anaphylaxis were identified. Food items were the most frequent trigger (73%), followed by exercise after food ingestion (4.3%), and drugs (2.2%). Egg (19%) and milk (17%) specifically were the most frequent among food triggers, while the largest proportional increase was observed in tree nuts from 6.0% in 2017 to 15% in 2019. Overall, 1647 (48%) cases were admitted to the hospital, of which 26 (0.8%) were admitted to the intensive care unit. Drug-induced anaphylaxis was associated with the highest admission rate (71%). Of the 2493 food-induced anaphylaxis cases, 1107 (44%) were treated with adrenaline. Among them, 343 cases included previously prescribed adrenaline auto-injectors (AAI), with 225 (66%) usages prior to hospital arrival. There was no significant difference in the admission rate between the cases in which AAIs were used and those with adrenaline administered in the hospital (68% and 72%, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

The proportion of tree nuts in food-induced anaphylaxis increased significantly. Although prehospital AAI use has become widespread, it was not associated with lower admission rate compared to in-hospital adrenaline usage.

Effects of a Brazilian cardioprotective diet and nuts on cardiometabolic parameters after myocardial infarction: study protocol for a randomized controlled clinical trial

Background

Nut consumption has been related to improvements on cardiometabolic parameters and reduction in the severity of atherosclerosis mainly in primary cardiovascular prevention. The objective of this trial is to evaluate the effects of the Brazilian Cardioprotective Diet (DIetaCArdioprotetoraBrasileira, DICA Br) based on consumption of inexpensive locally accessible foods supplemented or not with mixed nuts on cardiometabolic features in patients with previous myocardial infarction (MI).

Methods

DICA-NUTS study is a national, multicenter, randomized 16-week follow-up clinical trial. Patients over 40 years old with diagnosis of previous MI in the last 2 to 6 months will be recruited (n = 388). A standardized questionnaire will be applied to data collection and blood samples will be obtained. Patients will be allocated in two groups: Group 1: DICA Br supplemented with 30 g/day of mixed nuts (10 g of peanuts, 10 g of cashew, 10 g of Brazil nuts); and Group 2: only DICA Br. The primary outcome will consist of LDL cholesterol means (in mg/dL) after 16 weeks of intervention. Secondary outcomes will consist of other markers of lipid profile, glycemic profile, and anthropometric data.

Discussion

It is expected that DICA Br supplemented with mixed nuts have superior beneficial effects on cardiometabolic parameters in patients after a MI, when compared to DICA Br.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier NCT03728127. First register: November 1, 2018; Last update: June 16, 2021. World Health Organization Universal Trial Number (WHO-UTN): U1111-1259-8105.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13063-021-05494-0.

Effects of extra virgin olive oil and pecans on plasma fatty acids in patients with stable coronary artery disease

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to determine the effects of a healthy diet supplemented with extra virgin olive oil or pecans on plasma fatty acids (PFAs) in patients with stable coronary artery disease (CAD).

METHODS

Patients 40 to 80 y of age were randomized to one of three dietary interventions (allocation ratio 1: 1: 1): healthy diet based on guidelines (control group [CG]), healthy diet supplemented with 30 g/d of pecans (PNG), or a healthy diet supplemented with 30 mL/d of extra virgin olive oil (OOG). PFAs were identified at baseline and at the end of follow-up (12 wk), and correlations between dietary fatty acids intake, PFAs, and clinical biomarkers of the lipid profile were also assessed before and after the interventions.

RESULTS

Among 149 participants included in the analysis (43 CG; 51 PNG; and 55 OOG), correlations were observed between food intake, PFAs, and lipid profile before and after interventions independent of statins used, but all were considered weak. At the end of the study, the OOG showed increased concentrations of oleic fatty acid independently of the type of statin in use (1.49%; 95% confidence interval, 0.08-2.89; P = 0.029); however, there were no significant differences between the groups regarding the final mean values of oleic fatty acid or in the other PFAs.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with stable CAD, there were no significant differences in PFAs after 12 wk according to dietary interventions evaluated.

Mediterranean diet enriched in extra-virgin olive oil or nuts modulates circulating exosomal non-coding RNAs

PURPOSE

Exosomes are extracellular vesicles secreted by cells, which can transport different molecules, including nucleic acids. Dietary habits may induce gene regulation through the modulation of exosomal RNAs. We aimed at characterizing exosomal lncRNAs, mRNA and miRNAs modulation after a 1-year adherence to a low-fat diet (LFD) or to Mediterranean-based diets enriched in extra-virgin olive oil (MedDiet + EVOO) or in a mixture of nuts (MedDiet + Nuts).

METHODS

Plasma samples were collected, at baseline and after 1 year of dietary interventions, from 150 participants included in the PREDIMED study (Reus Center). LncRNAs, mRNAs and miRNAs were isolated from plasma exosomes and screened. RT-qPCR validation was performed for miRNAs.

RESULTS

Compared with LFD, 413 lncRNAs and 188 mRNAs, and 476 lncRNAs and 235 mRNAs were differentially modulated in response to the MedDiet + EVOO and MedDiet + Nuts interventions, respectively. In addition, after 1 year of dietary interventions, 26 circulating miRNAs were identified as differentially expressed between groups. After 1 year of intervention, 11 miRNAs significantly changed in LFD group, while 8 and 21 were modulated in response to the MedDiet enriched with EVOO or nuts, respectively. Bioinformatic analyses of differentially expressed miRNAs and their validated target genes suggest certain metabolic pathways are modulated by LFD (PI3K-Akt and AMPK), MedDiet + EVOO (PI3K-Akt, NF-kappa B, HIF-1, and insulin resistance), and MedDiet-Nuts (FoxO, PI3K-Akt, AMPK, p53 and HIF-1) interventions.

CONCLUSION

Results show that 1-year MedDiet + Nuts and MedDiet + EVOO dietary interventions modulate exosomal RNA content, with the former affecting a higher number of miRNAs. The modulation of exosomal RNAs could help explain how the adherence to a Mediterranean diet may lead to beneficial effects and deserves further investigation.

Associations between nut intake, cognitive function and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in older adults in the United States: NHANES 2011-14

BACKGROUND

Nuts are nutrient-rich and reported to provide some cognitive and cardiometabolic health benefits, but limited studies have focused on older adults. This study investigated the cross-sectional relationship between habitual nut intake, dietary pattern and quality, cognition and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in older adults.

METHODS

Older adults (≥ 60 years) from the NHANES 2011-12 and 2013-14 cohorts, who had complete data on cognitive function (as CERAD total, delayed recall, animal fluency and digit-symbol substitution test) and variables to calculate the Fatty Liver Index (FLI), an indicator of NAFLD, were included (n = 1848). Nut intake and diet quality (Healthy Eating Index 2015) were determined using two 24-hour diet recalls. Participants were categorised into one of four groups based on their habitual nut intake: non-consumers (0 g/d), low intake (0.1-15.0 g/d), moderate intake (15.1-30.0 g/d) or met recommendation (> 30 g/d), with all outcomes compared between these nut intake groups.

RESULTS

Cognitive scores of older adults were the lowest in non-consumers and significantly highest in the moderate intake group, with no further increase in those who consumed nuts more than 30 g/d (p < 0.007). FLI was the lowest among older adults with moderate nut intake but the associations disappeared after adjusting for covariates (p = 0.329). Moderate nut intake was also associated with better immediate and delayed memory in older adults with high risk of NAFLD (FLI ≥ 60) (B = 1.84 and 1.11, p < 0.05 respectively). Higher nutrient intake and better diet quality (p < 0.001) were seen with higher nut intake but did not influence energy from saturated fat intake. Factor analysis revealed 'Nuts and oils' as one of the four major dietary patterns associated with better cognition and lower FLI scores.

CONCLUSIONS

Moderate nut intake (15.1-30.0 g/d) may be sufficient for better cognitive performance, but not NAFLD risk of older adults in the US.

Effects of supplementing a healthy diet with pecan nuts or extra-virgin olive oil on inflammatory profile of patients with stable coronary artery disease: a randomised clinical trial

The consumption of nuts and extra-virgin olive oil has been associated with suppression of inflammatory pathways that contribute to atherosclerosis, but its role on the modulation of the inflammatory profile in patients with established coronary artery disease (CAD) is unclear. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of adding pecan nuts or extra-virgin olive oil to a healthy diet on inflammatory markers in patients with stable CAD. In this randomised clinical trial, 204 patients were enrolled to three study groups: sixty seven to control group (CG: healthy diet), sixty eight to pecan nuts group (PNG: 30 g/d of pecans + healthy diet) and sixty nine to extra-virgin olive oil group (OOG: 30 ml/d of extra-virgin olive oil + healthy diet). High-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP, in mg/l), fibrinogen (mg/dl), IL 2, 4, 6, 10 (pg/ml) and interferon-γ (IFN-γ, in pg/ml), IL-6/IL-10, IL-2/IL-4 and IFN-/γIL-4 ratios were evaluated at baseline and after the follow-up (12 weeks). As main results, after adjustment for sex, statin used and relative body weight variation, there were no differences between groups regarding inflammatory markers at the end of the study. IL-6 levels (primary outcome) were reduced in 12 weeks when compared with baseline in all study groups (CG: difference: -0·593 (se = 0·159) pg/dL; PNG: difference: -0·335 (se = 0·143) pg/dl; OOG: IL-6 difference: -0·325 (se = 0·143) pg/dl). In conclusion, there was no significant effect of including pecan nuts or extra virgin olive oil to a healthy diet on inflammatory markers in individuals with CAD.

Effects of Mediterranean Diet on plasma metabolites and their relationship with insulin resistance and gut microbiota composition in a crossover randomized clinical trial

BACKGROUND & AIMS

The Mediterranean Diet (MedDiet) may decrease the cardiometabolic risk through modulation of metabolic pathways. Furthermore, the interplay between MedDiet, metabolites and microbial metabolism may improve our understanding on the metabolic effects of this diet. We aimed to evaluate the effect of the MedDiet compared to nuts supplementation on circulating metabolites and their relationship with cardiometabolic health. We further examined whether changes in the metabolomic profiles were associated with changes in gut microbiota composition in a multi-omics integrative approach.

METHODS

Forty-four adults with Metabolic Syndrome (MetS), (aged 37-65) participated in a randomized controlled, crossover 2-months dietary-intervention trial with a 1-month wash-out period, consuming a MedDiet or a non MedDiet plus nuts (50 g/day). Nutritional data were collected at the beginning and the end of each intervention period using 3-day dietary records, as well as fasting blood and fecal samples. Plasma metabolites (m = 378) were profiled using targeted metabolomics. Associations of these metabolites with the interventions were assessed with elastic net regression analyses. Gut microbiota composition was assessed by 16S rRNA sequencing. A sparse least regression analysis combined with a canonical correlation analysis was conducted between the plasma selected metabolites and genera in order to identify the relevant dual-omics signatures discriminating the dietary interventions.

RESULTS

Changes in 65 circulating metabolites were significantly associated with the MedDiet (mainly lipids, acylcarnitines, amino acids, steroids and TCA intermediates). Importantly, these changes were associated with decreases in glucose, insulin and HOMA-IR. The network analysis identified two main clusters of genera with an opposite behaviour towards selected metabolites, mainly PC species, ChoE(20:5), TGs and medium/long-chain acylcarnitines.

CONCLUSION

Following a MedDiet, rather than consuming nuts in the context of a non-MedDiet was associated with a specific plasma metabolomic profile, which was also related to metabolic improvements in adults with MetS. The identified correlated network between specific bacteria and metabolites suggests interplay between diet, circulating metabolites and gut microbiota. The trial was registered in the ISRCTN with identifier ISRCTN88780852, https://doi.org/10.1186/ISRCTN88780852.

A higher-protein nut-based snack product suppresses glycaemia and decreases glycaemic response to co-ingested carbohydrate in an overweight prediabetic Asian Chinese cohort: the Tū Ora postprandial RCT

Nut-based products may aid low-glycaemic dietary strategies that are important for diabetes prevention in populations at increased risk of dysglycaemia, such as Asian Chinese. This randomised cross-over trial assessed the postprandial glycaemic response (0-120 min) of a higher-protein nut-based (HP-NB) snack formulation, in bar format (1009 kJ, Nutrient Profiling Score, NPS, -2), when compared with an iso-energetic higher-carbohydrate (CHO) cereal-based bar (HC-CB, 985 kJ, NPS +3). It also assessed the ability to suppress glucose response to a typical CHO-rich food (white bread, WB), when co-ingested. Ten overweight prediabetic Chinese adults (mean, sd: age 47⋅9, 15⋅7 years; BMI 25⋅5, 1⋅6 kg/m2), with total body fat plus ectopic pancreas and liver fat quantified using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry and magnetic resonance imaging and spectroscopy, received the five meal treatments in random order: HP-NB, HC-CB, HP-NB + WB (50 g available CHO), HC-CB + WB and WB only. Compared with HC-CB, HP-NB induced a significantly lower 30-120 min glucose response (P < 0⋅05), with an approximately 10-fold lower incremental area under the glucose curve (iAUC0-120; P < 0⋅001). HP-NB also attenuated glucose response by approximately 25 % when co-ingested with WB (P < 0⋅05). Half of the cohort had elevated pancreas and/or liver fat, with 13-21 % greater suppression of iAUC0-120 glucose in the low v. high organ fat subgroups across all five treatments. A nut-based snack product may be a healthier alternative to an energy equivalent cereal-based product with evidence of both a lower postprandial glycaemic response and modulation of CHO-induced hyperglycaemia even in high-risk, overweight, pre-diabetic adults.

Socioeconomic and lifestyle factors modifies the association between nut consumption and metabolic syndrome incidence

BACKGROUND & AIMS

The aim of this study was to evaluate the association of nut consumption and its various types with metabolic syndrome (MetS) risk and to investigate whether lifestyle factors (physical activity and smoking status) and socioeconomic status (education and occupation) modulate the association of nut consumption and the risk of MetS.

METHODS

We prospectively studied 1915 participants of the Tehran Lipid and Glucose study, among whom 591 were diagnosed with MetS during 8.9 years of follow-up. Nut consumption and its various types were assessed using a validated semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire. Multivariable adjusted Cox regression was used to estimate Hazard Ratios (HRs) for MetS events across tertiles of nut consumption and its various types. Regarding interaction between nut consumption and physical activity levels, education levels, and smoking status on the risk of MetS, using joint classification, the effect modification of lifestyle factors and socioeconomic status on the association between nut consumption (<median and ≥ median) and risk of MetS was assessed by Cox regression.

RESULTS

Nut consumption was inversely associated with MetS risk in multivariable-adjusted models. The highest tertiles of the constituents of nuts including fiber, polyphenol, MUFA and PUFA reduced MetS risk compared with the lowest tertiles, after adjustment for confounders. Among various types of nuts, the multivariable-adjusted HRs of MetS were 0.78 (0.63-0.96) for walnuts, and 0.77 (0.63-0.94) for pistachios, compared with the lowest intake. Among adult population, consuming nuts higher than the median and having moderate to high physical activity levels resulted in significant reduction in the MetS risk (HRs: 0.74, CI: 0.55-0.98 for moderate and HRs: 0.63, CI: 0.47-0.86 for high physical activity level). Participants who did not smoke had lower risk of MetS regardless of their amount of nuts consumption (HRs: 0.67, CI: 0.47-0.94 for intakes < median and HRs: 0.71, CI: 0.53-0.93 for intakes ≥ median). Stratification based on education status resulted in reduction in the risk of MetS in participants consuming nuts ≥ median in both educated and not-educated group (HRs: 0.81, CI: 0.66-0.98 for the non-educated group and HRs: 0.63, CI: 0.47-0.84 for the educated group).

CONCLUSIONS

Incorporating nuts, especially walnuts, into dietary patterns reduced the risk of MetS, especially among individuals with more physical activity levels.

TCF7L2 polymorphisms, nut consumption, and the risk of metabolic syndrome: a prospective population based study

Background

The aim of this study was to investigate whether two variants of the TCF7L2 (rs7903146 and rs12255372) modify the association between nut consumption and the risk of metabolic syndrome (MetS). Additionally, the modifying effect of weight change during follow-up on these associations was investigated.

Material and methods

We prospectively studied 1423 participants of the Tehran Lipid and Glucose study aged 19–74 years who were followed-up for dietary assessment using a validated, semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire. Multivariable-adjusted Cox regression was used to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) for MetS events. Genotyping was performed by Human Omni Express-24-v1-0 chip.

Results

Over a median 8.9 years of follow-up, 415 new cases of MetS were documented. The median nut consumption was 20.0 g/week (Interquartile Range (IQR): 8.6–38.9 g/week). Regarding the rs7903146 genotype, in carriers of T allele (CT + TT), highest tertile of nut consumption was associated with a reduced risk of MetS after adjusting for confounders (HR: 0.67 (0.50–0.91)). Regarding the rs12255372 genotype, highest versus lowest tertile of nut consumption in participants with T allele (GT + TT) resulted in 34% reduction of MetS risk after adjustment for confounders (HR: 0.66 (0.49–0.69)). After stratification by weigh change (< 7% or ≥ 7% weight gain), in individuals with ≥ 7% weight gain, highest tertile of nut consumption was associated with reduced risk of MetS among the risk allele of rs7903146. In the risk allele of rs12255372, among individuals with < 7% weight gain, third tertile of nuts intake reduced the risk of MetS, after adjustment for confounders.

Conclusion

Higher consumption of nuts may reduces the risk of MetS in T-risk allele of the TCF7L2 rs7903146 and rs12255372 variants and weight change may modify this association.

Protocol for a randomized controlled trial to test the acceptability and adherence to 6-months of walnut supplementation in Chinese adults at high risk of cardiovascular disease

Background

Consumption of nuts improves cardio-metabolic risk factors in clinical trials and relates to lower risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in prospective observational studies. However, there has not been an adequately powered randomized controlled trial to test if nuts supplementation actually reduces incident CVD. In order to establish the feasibility of such a trial, the current study aimed to assess the acceptability and adherence to long-term nut supplementation amongst individuals at high CVD risk in China.

Methods

This protocol described a 6-month trial performed in Ningxia Province in China among participants with a history of CVD or older age (female ≥65 years, male ≥60 years) with multiple CVD risk factors. Participants were randomized to control (received non-edible gift), low dose walnut (30 g/d), or high dose walnut (60 g/d) groups in a 1:1:1 ratio. Walnuts were provided at no cost to participants and could be consumed according to personal preferences. Follow-up visits were scheduled at 2 weeks, 3 months and 6 months. The primary outcome was fasting plasma alpha linolenic acid (ALA) levels used as an indicator of walnut consumption. Secondary outcomes included self-reported walnut intake from the 24 h dietary recalls. The target sample size of 210 provided 90% statistical power with two-sided alpha of 0.05 to detect a mean difference of 0.12% (as percent of total fatty acid) in plasma ALA between randomized groups.

Results

Two hundred and ten participants were recruited and randomized during October 2019. Mean age of participants was 65 years (SD = 7.3), 47% were females, and 94% had a history of CVD at baseline. Across the three study groups, participants had similar baseline demographic and clinical characteristics.

Discussion

This trial will quantify acceptability and adherence to long-term walnut supplementation in a Chinese population at high risk of CVD. The findings will support the design of a future large trial to test the effect of walnut supplementation for CVD prevention.

Trial registration

NCT04037943

Protocol version: v3.0 August 14 2019

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12937-020-00660-7.

Modeling the Effects of Product Temperature, Product Moisture, and Process Humidity on Thermal Inactivation of Salmonella in Pistachios during Hot-Air Heating

ABSTRACT

Prior efforts to model bacterial thermal inactivation in and on low-moisture foods generally have been based on isothermal and iso-moisture experiments and have rarely included dynamic product and process variables. Therefore, the objective of this study was to test appropriate secondary models to quantify the effect of product temperature, product moisture, and process humidity on thermal inactivation of Salmonella Enteritidis PT30 on pistachios subjected to dynamic dry- or moist-air heating. In-shell pistachios were inoculated with Salmonella Enteritidis PT30, equilibrated in controlled-humidity chambers (to target water activities [aw] of 0.45 or 0.65), and in some cases, subjected to a presoak treatment prior to heating in a laboratory-scale, moist-air convection oven at multiple combinations (in duplicate) of dry bulb (104.4 or 118.3°C) and dew point (∼23.8, 54.4, or 69.4°C) temperatures, with air speed of ∼1.3 m/s. Salmonella survivors, pistachio moisture content, and aw were quantified at six time points for each condition, targeting cumulative lethality of ∼3 to 5 log. The resulting data were used to estimate parameters for five candidate secondary models that included combinations of product temperature, product moisture, aw, and/or process dew point (coupled with a log-linear primary model). A model describing the D-value as a function of temperature and dew point fit the data well (root mean squared error [RMSE] = 0.86 log CFU/g); however, adding a term to account for dynamic product moisture improved the fit (RMSE = 0.83 log CFU/g). In addition, product moisture content yielded better model outcomes, as compared with aw, particularly in the case of the presoaked pistachios. When validated at the pilot scale, the model was conservative, always underpredicting the experimental log reductions. Both dynamic product moisture and process humidity were critical factors in modeling thermal inactivation of Salmonella in a low-moisture product heated in an air-convection system.

HIGHLIGHTS

Tree Nuts and Peanuts as a Source of Natural Antioxidants in our Daily Diet

Tree nuts and peanuts are healthy foods with a proven track record of helping to reduce the incidence of chronic diseases, most notably cardiovascular disease. At the point of consumption, all nuts contain low moisture and ≥ 50% lipid contents, but this is where similarities end. The levels of key nutrients and bioactives including vitamin C, vitamin E, L-arginine, minerals (such as selenium and zinc), and phenolics can differ markedly. Distinctions in the types and quantities of phenolic constituents for tree nut species, as well as the impact of digestion, will affect the nuts' antioxidant potential in vivo. This work provides some insight into the different types of phenolics found in tree nuts and peanuts, the antioxidant potential of their phenolic extracts using in vitro chemical assays, the effect of thermal processing on the stability of the nuts' endogenous phenolics, and the impact on biomarkers of human health arising from randomized clinical trials. Key biomarkers include measures in the reduction of LDL oxidation as well as increases in the levels of vitamin E and selected phenolic compounds in blood plasma postprandially from those of baseline.

Effect of Blanching on Aflatoxin Contamination and Cross-Contamination of Almonds

ABSTRACT

Blanching of almonds was examined for reducing the aflatoxin content of contaminated nuts. Almonds with intact pellicles were spiked with aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) and blanched at 85°C. Following blanching, almond kernels and pellicles contained 20 and 19% of the spiked AFB1, respectively. The blanching water contained an additional 41% of the spiked AFB1. In a separate study, postblanching water was spiked with AFB1 and used for subsequent blanching of uncontaminated almonds. The resulting blanched kernels acquired 3.3% of the AFB1 from the spiked water, demonstrating a low level of cross-contamination from reused contaminated blanching water. The effect of the blanching temperature on partitioning of AFB1 from almonds to blanching water was significant at a 20-ppb spiking level, but not at 100 ppb. AFB1 levels that were unaccounted for in the mass balance of blanching components were presumed to be lost due to binding to water-solubilized almond components and were independent of pH and blanching time. Blanching reduced total aflatoxins in naturally contaminated almonds by 13 to 76%, depending on almond quality, as well as blanching time and temperature. These results indicate that the association between almond components and aflatoxin generated through mold contamination is more complex than in spiking experiments.

HIGHLIGHTS

Effect of roasting conditions on the formation and kinetics of furan in various nuts

In this study, the effect of roasting on the formation of furan in nuts was investigated. Nut samples were roasted at 150-200 °C for 5-25 min. As the roasting temperature and roasting time increased, the levels of furan in the nuts increased up to 348 ng/g. The concentration of furan was 2.76-224, 0.71-69.0, 1.46-348, 2.68-87.0, and 3.70-94.4 ng/g in almonds, peanuts, cashew nuts, hazelnuts, and sacha inchi, respectively. In kinetics analysis, the chemical reaction responsible for the production of furan in nuts followed the zero-order kinetic model, with reaction constants of 3.26 × 10^-9 to 16.5 × 10^-9mol/L.h at 200 °C. The apparent activation energy (Ea) was 125.0, 93.6, 86.5, 62.0, and 70.1 kJ/mol for almonds, peanuts, cashew nuts, hazelnuts, and sacha inchi, respectively. These results can be used to predict or to calculate furan formation in roasted nuts.

Monitoring of polar pesticides and contaminants in edible oils and nuts by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry

A single method was developed for the determination of polar pesticides (fosetyl-Al and its metabolite, phosphonic acid, and ethephon) and environmental contaminants (chlorate and perchlorate) in edible oils and nuts. Two extraction methods based on QuPPe-PO approach (Quick Polar Pesticides Method for products of Plant Origin) were optimized. In oils, a single extraction using water acidified with formic acid (1%) was performed, while in nuts, the clean-up step was modified. C18 was used as sorbent and an extra cleaning step with n-hexane was added. The extracts were analysed by liquid chromatography coupled to a triple quadrupole mass analyser (LC-QqQ-MS/MS). The method was validated and the limit of quantification was 0.01 mg kg^-1 for all analyte-matrix combination. Recoveries from 70 to 120%, and intra and inter-day precision values ≤20% were obtained. Forty samples of edible oils and nuts were analysed, detecting phosphonic acid in nuts at concentrations up to 4.6 mg kg^-1.

Perianorectal abscesses and fistula due to ingested jujube pit in infant: Two case reports

BACKGROUND

About 90% of perianal infection is caused by cryptoglandular infection. Only a few cases of peritonitis or intra-abdominal abscesses secondary to perforation of the digestive tract by an ingested foreign body have been reported. The most common sites of impaction and perforation include the appendix, cecum and the terminal ileum. The rectum is an unusual site of foreign body impaction. This report intends to highlight that ingested foreign body impacted in the rectum is an extremely rare cause of perianal abscess and subsequent fistula in infants.

CASE SUMMARY

Two cases of perianal abscess and fistula due to ingested jujube pit impacted in the rectum are reported. Both cases are infants with free previous medical history suffered from recurrent perianal infection. The caregivers of the two patients denied ingestion of a foreign body or any history of trauma. Physical examination combined with ultrasound or computed tomography scan established the diagnosis. Both of the patients underwent operation under general anesthesia. In case 1, a jujube pit with sharp ends was discovered embedded within a subcutaneous fistula. The jujube pit was then removed intact along with fistula resection. The wound was successfully laid open to allow healing by secondary intention. In case 2, a jujube pit was found with its sharp end puncturing the rectum, surrounded by pus and necrotic tissue. Subsequent incision and adequate drainage were performed. The whole jujube pit was then removed from the abscess cavity at the same time. Both patients received colonoscopy to rule out inflammatory bowel disease or other potential damages by the ingested jujube pit. The postoperative period was uneventful. At 1.5 year follow-up, no recurrent abscess or fistula were found in either patient.

CONCLUSION

An impacted foreign body must not be overlooked as an unusual cause of perianal abscess and fistula, especially in young children.

The effect of nut consumption (tree nuts and peanuts) on the gut microbiota of humans: a systematic review

There is increasing evidence linking the gut microbiota to various aspects of human health. Nuts are a food rich in prebiotic fibre and polyphenols, food components which have been shown to have beneficial effects on the gut microbiota. This systematic review aimed to synthesise the evidence regarding the effect of nut consumption on the human gut microbiota. A systematic search of the databases MEDLINE, PubMed, Cochrane CENTRAL and CINAHL was performed until 28 November 2019. Eligible studies were those that investigated the effects of nut consumption in humans (aged over 3 years old), utilising next-generation sequencing technology. Primary outcome measures were between-group differences in α- and β-diversity metrics and gut microbial composition. A total of eight studies were included in the review. Included studies assessed the effects of either almonds, walnuts, hazelnuts or pistachios on the gut microbiota. Overall, nut consumption had a modest impact on gut microbiota diversity, with two studies reporting a significant shift in α-diversity and four reporting a significant shift in β-diversity. Walnuts, in particular, appeared to more frequently explain shifts in β-diversity, which may be a result of their unique nutritional composition. Some shifts in bacterial composition (including an increase in genera capable of producing SCFA: Clostridium, Roseburia, Lachnospira and Dialister) were reported following the consumption of nuts. Nut intake may yield a modulatory effect on the gut microbiota; however, results were inconsistent across studies, which may be explained by variations in trial design, methodological limitations and inter-individual microbiota.

The Association between Nuts Intake and Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) Risk: a Case-Control Study

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common cause of chronic liver disease. Nuts are nutrient- and calorie-dense foods with several health-promoting compounds. In this case-control study, we investigated the association between nut intake and NAFLD risk. Hundred ninety-six subjects with NAFLD and eight hundred three controls were recruited. The participants' dietary intakes were assessed by a valid and reliable semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). Participants were categorized according to deciles of daily nuts intake. Multivariable logistic regression models were used with NAFLD as the dependent and deciles of daily nuts intake as an independent variables. Range of age was 18 to 75 years. Forty three percent of participants were male. Range of nuts intake was between 0 to 90.90 g/day. In model 3, after adjusting for potential confounding variables including, age, sex, BMI, alcohol consumption, smoking, diabetes and physical activity, the relation between daily nuts intake and risk of NAFLD was positive and significant in the deciles 9 and 10 compared to the lowest decile (odds ratio [OR], 3.22; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.04-7.49; p = 0.039 and OR, 3.03; 95% CI, 1.03-8.90; p = 0.046, respectively). However, in the final model after additional adjusting for energy intake, no significant association was found. According to the findings, there is not any significant relationship between nuts intake and NAFLD risk; while higher intake of nuts is related to the higher risk of NAFLD mediated by energy intake.

Effects of nut and seed consumption on markers of glucose metabolism in adults with prediabetes: a systematic review of randomised controlled trials

The primary aim was to investigate the effects of nut and seed consumption on markers of glucose metabolism in adults with prediabetes. Studies with a randomised controlled trial (RCT) design, comparing the effects of a diet containing nuts or seeds against a diet without nuts or seeds in adults with prediabetes, were considered eligible. Primary outcome measures included fasting plasma glucose (FPG), 2-h plasma glucose during oral glucose tolerance test and glycated Hb (HbA1c) concentrations. Studies were identified by searching PubMed and Scopus electronic databases and by checking full texts and reference lists of relevant records. Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane Collaboration's tool. We included five RCT involving 371 adults with prediabetes or at risk of diabetes; three RCT investigated the effects of whole nut consumption and two the effects of ground flaxseed consumption. Consumption of 57 g/d pistachios or mean intake of 60 g/d almonds for 4 months improved FPG and fasting plasma insulin (FPI) concentrations, insulin resistance, cellular glucose uptake in lymphocytes and β-cell function. Consumption of 56 g/d walnuts for 6 months was not found to affect FPG or HbA1c concentrations. Consumption of 13 g/d flaxseed for 3 months improved FPG and FPI concentrations and insulin resistance. In a second study, however, flaxseed consumption was not found to affect markers of glucose metabolism. The risk of bias was generally low, thus the reported results could be reliable. Further investigation of nut and seed consumption effects in the field of prediabetes is warranted.

Optimum cold plasma generating device for treatment of Aspergillus flavus from nuts surface

The objective of this research is to avail an optimum cold plasma generating device for inactivating Aspergillus flavus from nuts surface. For this purpose, a variety of tests were carried out using three applicable plasma generating devices such as atmospheric pressure capacitive coupled plasma (AP-CCP), direct current diode plasma (DC-DP), and inductively coupled plasma (ICP) for different values of input power, pressure, and irradiation time, using Argon gas. The experimental results were achieved upon performing irradiation of sample pistachio nuts by the aforementioned three devices. Finally, after data analysis based on two factors of toxin inactivation amount and cost feasibility for large scale industrial applications, the AP-CCP device was found to be as an optimum device with an acceptable 4 Logs fungi reduction. However, on the basis of single factor, i.e. toxin reduction rate, the DC-DP device works better with a highest fungi reduction rate of 5 Logs, using Argon in 1 Torr vacuum pressure, 300 W and 20 min irradiation.