Validity of FFQ Estimates of Total Sugars, Added Sugars, Sucrose and Fructose Compared to Repeated 24-h Recalls in Adventist Health Study-2 Participants

Sugar intake is a potentially important aspect of diet which has not previously been validated in the Adventist Health Study-2 (AHS-2). We sought to validate the food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) measurement of total sugars, added sugars, sucrose, and fructose against multiple 24-h dietary recalls (recalls) in AHS-2 participants. Food consumption data from a self-administered FFQ and six recalls from 904 participants were combined with nutrient profile data to estimate daily sugar intake. Validity was evaluated among all participants and by race. FFQ and recall means were compared and correlation coefficients (Spearman’s, energy-adjusted log-transformed Pearson’s, deattenuated Pearson’s) were calculated. Mean total energy, total sugars, and fructose intake were higher in the FFQ, whereas added sugars and sucrose were higher in recalls. The energy-adjusted (log-transformed) deattenuated correlations among all participants were: total sugars (r = 0.42, 95% CI 0.32–0.52), added sugars (r = 0.50, 95% CI 0.36–0.59), sucrose (r = 0.32, 95% CI 0.23–0.42), and fructose (r = 0.50, 95% CI 0.40–0.59). We observed moderate validity for added sugars and fructose and low-moderate validity for total sugars and sucrose measured by the AHS-2 FFQ in this population. Dietary sugar estimates from this FFQ may be useful in assessing possible associations of sugars intake with health outcomes.

Does FGF21 Mediate the Potential Decrease in Sweet Food Intake and Preference Following Bariatric Surgery?

The liver-derived hormone fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) has recently been linked to preference for sweet-tasting food. We hypothesized, that surgery-induced changes in FGF21 could mediate the reduction in sweet food intake and preference following bariatric surgery. Forty participants (35 females) with severe obesity (BMI ≥ 35 kg/m²) scheduled for roux-en-y gastric bypass (n = 30) or sleeve gastrectomy (n = 10) were included. Pre- and postprandial responses of intact plasma FGF21 as well as intake of sweet-tasting food assessed at a buffet meal test, the hedonic evaluation of sweet taste assessed using an apple juice with added sucrose and visual analog scales, and sweet taste sensitivity were assessed before and 6 months after bariatric surgery. In a cross-sectional analysis pre-surgery, pre- and postprandial intact FGF21 levels were negatively associated with the hedonic evaluation of a high-sucrose juice sample (p = 0.03 and p = 0.02). However, no changes in pre- (p = 0.24) or postprandial intact FGF21 levels were found 6 months after surgery (p = 0.11), and individual pre- to postoperative changes in pre- and postprandial intact FGF21 levels were not found to be associated with changes in intake of sweet foods, the hedonic evaluation of sweet taste or sweet taste sensitivity (all p ≥ 0.10). In conclusion, we were not able to show an effect of bariatric surgery on circulating FGF21, and individual postoperative changes in FGF21 were not found to mediate an effect of surgery on sweet food intake and preference.

Relationship between Sucrose Taste Detection Thresholds and Preferences in Children, Adolescents, and Adults

To address gaps in knowledge, our objectives were to (1) to determine whether there are age-related changes in sweet taste detection thresholds, as has been observed for sweet taste preferences, and (2) determine whether detection thresholds and taste preferences were significantly related to each other from childhood to adulthood. We combined data from studies that used the same validated psychophysical techniques to measure sucrose taste detection threshold and the most preferred sucrose concentration in children (n = 108), adolescents (n = 172), and adults (n = 205). There were significant effects of age group on both sucrose detection thresholds (p < 0.001) and most preferred sucrose concentration (p < 0.001). While children had higher sucrose detection thresholds than adolescents, who in turn tended to have higher detection thresholds than adults, both children and adolescent most preferred sucrose concentrations were higher than that of adults (all p < 0.05). Among each age group, and when combined, the lowest sucrose concentration detected was not significantly correlated with the most preferred sucrose concentration (all p > 0.18). These data provide further evidence that age-related changes in sucrose taste preferences that occur during adolescence cannot be explained by changes in taste sensitivity and that these two dimensions of sweet taste undergo distinct developmental trajectories from childhood to adulthood.

Nutrient composition databases in the age of big data: foodDB, a comprehensive, real-time database infrastructure

OBJECTIVES

Traditional methods for creating food composition tables struggle to cope with the large number of products and the rapid pace of change in the food and drink marketplace. This paper introduces foodDB, a big data approach to the analysis of this marketplace, and presents analyses illustrating its research potential.

DESIGN

foodDB has been used to collect data weekly on all foods and drinks available on six major UK supermarket websites since November 2017. As of June 2018, foodDB has 3 193 171 observations of 128 283 distinct food and drink products measured at multiple timepoints.

METHODS

Weekly extraction of nutrition and availability data of products was extracted from the webpages of the supermarket websites. This process was automated with a codebase written in Python.

RESULTS

Analyses using a single weekly timepoint of 97 368 total products in March 2018 identified 2699 ready meals and pizzas, and showed that lower price ready meals had significantly lower levels of fat, saturates, sugar and salt (p<0.001). Longitudinal analyses of 903 pizzas revealed that 10.8% changed their nutritional formulation over 6 months, and 29.9% were either discontinued or new market entries.

CONCLUSIONS

foodDB is a powerful new tool for monitoring the food and drink marketplace, the comprehensive sampling and granularity of collection provides power for revealing analyses of the relationship between nutritional quality and marketing of branded foods, timely observation of product reformulation and other changes to the food marketplace.

Alaska Native Children Do Not Prefer Sugar-Sweetened Fruit Drinks to Sugar-Free Fruit Drinks

BACKGROUND

Alaska Native children, including children of Yup'ik descent, consume large volumes of sugar-sweetened fruit drinks, which contain added sugars that contribute to obesity, diabetes, and dental caries. To date, taste preference evaluations have not been conducted on commercially available sugar-free fruit drinks.

OBJECTIVE

The study tested the hypothesis that children would have equal preference for sugar-free and sugar-sweetened fruit drinks.

DESIGN

This was an experimental two-alternative forced-choice paired preference test.

PARTICIPANTS/SETTING

The study focused on a convenience sample of Yup'ik children, aged 7 to 10 years, recruited and enrolled from the Yukon-Kuskokwim Health Corporation dental clinic in Bethel, AK (N=89).

INTERVENTION

Children evaluated four different commercially available sugar-free fruit drinks paired with the sugar-sweetened versions of each flavor. Order of flavor pair presentation was alternated across children, and order of presentation within each of the four pairs was randomized across pairs.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The outcome was taste preference for the sugar-free versus the sugar-sweetened version of a fruit drink.

STATISTICAL ANALYSES PERFORMED

A test of equivalence was run across all four flavors and separately for each flavor using two one-sided tests.

RESULTS

The data failed to demonstrate equivalence of the sugar-free and sugar-sweetened fruit drinks across all four flavors (P=0.51) or separately for each flavor. However, this was not because of a preference for sugar-sweetened drinks. The preference for sugar-free drinks overall and for each flavor was >50%. Although the lower bounds of the 90% CIs were within the range of equivalence (40% to 60%), the upper bounds were outside the range of equivalence (>60%). According to post hoc analyses, similar preferences were observed for Yup'ik and non-Yup'ik children, boys and girls, and children of different ages.

CONCLUSIONS

Taste preference findings suggest that sugar-free fruit drinks may be a well-tolerated alternative to sugar-sweetened fruit drinks for Yup'ik children in Alaska Native communities.

A Disaggregation Methodology to Estimate Intake of Added Sugars and Free Sugars: An Illustration from the UK National Diet and Nutrition Survey

Various and inconsistent definitions for free and added sugars are used in the consideration and assessment of dietary intakes across public health, presenting challenges for nutritional surveillance, research, and policy. Furthermore, analytical methods to identify those sugars which are not naturally incorporated into the cellular structure of foods are lacking, thus free and added sugars are difficult to estimate in an efficient and accurate way. We aimed to establish a feasible and accurate method that can be applied flexibly to different definitions. Based on recipe disaggregation, our method involved five steps and showed good repeatability and validity. The resulting Free Sugars Database provided data for seven components of sugars; (1) table sugar; (2) other sugars; (3) honey; (4) fruit juice; (5) fruit puree; (6) dried fruit; and (7) stewed fruit, for ~9000 foods. Our approach facilitates a standardized and efficient assessment of added and free sugars, offering benefit and potential for nutrition research and surveillance, and for the food industry, for example to support sugar reduction and reformulation agendas.

Sugar and energy content of carbonated sugar-sweetened beverages in Haidian District, Beijing: a cross-sectional study

OBJECTIVE

The consumption of carbonated sugar-sweetened beverages (CSSBs) is associated with a range of health problems, but little is known about the sugar and energy content of CSSBs in China. The study aimed to investigate the sugar and energy content of CSSBs in Beijing, China.

STUDY DESIGN

We carried out a cross-sectional survey in 15 different supermarkets from July to October 2017 in Haidian District, Beijing.

METHODS

The product packaging and nutrient labels of CSSBs were recorded by a snapshot in time to obtain company name, product name, serving size, and nutrient content, that is, carbohydrate, sugar and energy. For CSSB labels not showing sugar content, we used carbohydrate content as substitute. The sugar and energy content of CSSBs within each type of flavour were compared using Kruskal-Wallis test. The sugar content within the recommended levels was described using frequency. We also compared the sugar and energy content of top 5 CSSBs in terms of sales among three countries (China, UK and USA).

RESULTS

A total of 93 CSSB products were found. The median sugar content was 9.3 (IQR: 5.7-11.2) g/100 mL, and the energy content was 38 (IQR: 23-46) kcal/100 mL. There were 79 products labelled 'Red' (high) per serving based on the criteria set in the UK (>11.25 g/100 mL). We found 62.4% of CSSBs had sugar content per serving that exceeds the daily free sugar intake for adults (25 g) recommended by the WHO. Some of the branded products sold in China had higher sugar content when they were compared with those in Western countries.

CONCLUSIONS

CSSBs in Beijing, China have high sugar and energy content. Reduction in sugar content and serving size of CSSBs and taxation policy on beverages will be beneficial in reducing sugar intake in China.

Cross-sectional survey of the amount of sugar and energy in cakes and biscuits on sale in the UK for the evaluation of the sugar-reduction programme

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the variation in sugar and energy content of cakes and biscuits available in the UK.

DESIGN

We carried out a cross-sectional survey in 2016 of 381 cakes and 481 biscuits available in nine main UK supermarkets.

METHODS

The sugar and energy content was collected from product packaging and nutrition labelling of cake and biscuit products.

RESULTS

The average sugar content in cakes and biscuits was 36.6±7.6 and 30.0±9.2 g/100 g, respectively. The mean energy content was 406±37 for cakes and 484±38 kcal/100 g for biscuits. There was a large variation in sugar and energy content between different cake and biscuit categories and within the same category. 97% of cakes and 74% of biscuits would receive a 'red' (high) label for sugar.

CONCLUSIONS

This research makes available baseline data of the cakes and biscuits market in the UK for future evaluation of the recently launched sugar-reduction programme. The study showed that reductions in sugar and energy content of cakes and biscuits are possible, since there was a large variation in sugar and energy content between different cake and biscuit categories and within the same category. A reduction in sugar and energy content, and overall cake and biscuit consumption, can help reduce overall sugar and energy intake in the UK and thus reduce the risk of obesity and dental caries.

Influence of sucrose concentration on electric conductivity of banana pulp during ohmic heating

Ohmic heating is a substitutive rapid heating method for food products. In this study, banana pulp with different concentrations of sugar is ohmically heated and the influence of sucrose concentration on electrical conductivity was investigated. The electrical conductivity, pH, total soluble solids, acidity, ascorbic acid content before and after ohmic heat treatment were also analysed. As the sucrose concentration increased, heating time at various voltage gradients 13.33, 20 and 26.66 V/cm increased, and the electrical conductivity decreased. As the voltage gradient increased, the pH and TSS of treated pulp with different sugar concentration increased followed by decrease in colour and acidity.

Effect of Radiation on Sucrose Detection Thresholds of Mice

Radiotherapy is one of the most common treatments for head and neck cancers, with an almost obligate side effect of altered taste (Conger AD. 1973. Loss and recovery of taste acuity in patients irradiated to the oral cavity. Radiat Res. 53:338-347.). In mice, targeted irradiation of the head and neck causes transient repression of proliferation of basal epithelial cells responsible for taste cell replacement, leading to a temporary depletion of taste sensory cells within taste buds, including Type II taste cells involved in detection of sweet stimuli (Nguyen HM, Reyland ME, Barlow LA. 2012. Mechanisms of taste bud cell loss after head and neck irradiation. J Neurosci. 32:3474-3484.). These findings suggest that irradiation may elevate sucrose detection thresholds, peaking at 7 days postirradiation when loss of Type II cells is greatest. To test this hypothesis, sucrose detection thresholds (concentration detected in 50% of presentations) were measured in mice for 15 days after treatment of: 1) irradiation while anesthetized, 2) anesthetic alone, or 3) saline. Mice were trained to distinguish water from several concentrations of sucrose. Mice were irradiated with one 8 Gy dose (RADSOURCE-2000 X-ray Irradiator) to the nose and mouth while under 2,2,2-tribromethanol anesthesia (Avertin). Unexpectedly, mice given anesthesia showed a small elevation in sucrose thresholds compared to saline-injected mice, but irradiated mice show significantly elevated sucrose thresholds compared to either control group, an effect that peaked at 6-8 days postirradiation. The timing of loss and recovery of sucrose sensitivity generally coincides with the reported maximal reduction and recovery of Type II taste cells (Nguyen HM, Reyland ME, Barlow LA. 2012. Mechanisms of taste bud cell loss after head and neck irradiation. J Neurosci. 32:3474-3484.). Thus, even a single dose of irradiation can significantly alter detection of carbohydrates, an important consideration for patients undergoing radiotherapy.

Cross-sectional surveys of the amount of sugar, energy and caffeine in sugar-sweetened drinks marketed and consumed as energy drinks in the UK between 2015 and 2017: monitoring reformulation progress

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the sugar, energy and caffeine content of sugar-sweetened drinks marketed and consumed as energy drinks available in the UK.

STUDY DESIGN

We carried out a cross-sectional survey in 2015 and 2017 of energy drinks available in the main UK retailers.

METHODS

The sugar (sugars g/100 mL), energy (kcal/100 mL), caffeine (mg/100 mL) and serving size were collected from product packaging and nutrition information panels of energy drinks available in the nine main UK grocery retailers, three health and beauty retailers and one convenience store.

RESULTS

The number of formulations (per 100 mL) and number of products (per serving) have fallen (from 75 to 49 and from 90 to 59) between 2015 and 2017, respectively. Energy drinks surveyed showed a 10% reduction in sugar, from 10.6 to 9.5 g/100 mL (P=0.011) and a 6% reduction in energy content (P=0.005) per 100 mL between 2015 and 2017. The average caffeine content of energy drinks, with a warning label, has remained high at 31.5±0.9 in 2015 and 31.3±1.0 mg/100 mL in 2017. Despite there being reductions, sugar, energy and caffeine content remain at concerning levels in 2017.

CONCLUSIONS

To reduce the harmful impact of energy drinks, further reduction in sugar and a reduction in caffeine by reformulation are urgently needed. Other measures such as ban on the sale of energy drinks to children and smaller product sizes should also be explored, while warning labels should be kept. A reduction in sugar, energy and caffeine content and overall energy drinks consumption could be beneficial in reducing sugar, energy and caffeine intake of consumers of energy drinks.

Beverage Consumption Patterns among Overweight and Obese African American Women

The goal of this research was to assess patterns of beverage consumption and the contribution of total beverages and classes of beverages to overall energy intake and weight status. We conducted an analysis in a community-based study of 280 low-income overweight and obese African American women residing in the rural South. Participants provided baseline data including demographic characteristics, weight and two 24-h food and beverage dietary recalls. Mean energy intake from beverages was approximately 273 ± 192 kcal/day or 18.3% of total energy intake. The most commonly reported beverage was plain water, consumed by 88.2% of participants, followed closely by sweetened beverages (soft drinks, fruit drinks, sweetened teas, sweetened coffees and sweetened/flavored waters) consumed by 78.9% of participants. In multiple regression analyses total energy and percent energy from beverages and specific categories of beverages were not significantly associated with current body mass index (BMI). It is widely accepted that negative energy balance may lead to future weight loss. Thus, reducing consumption of beverages that contribute energy but not important nutrients (e.g., sugar sweetened beverages) could be an effective strategy for promoting future weight loss in this population.

Dietary Risk Factors by Race/Ethnicity, Age-Group, and Gender in a Representative Sample of US Older Adults

OBJECTIVE

To explore the relationships among ethnicity/race, gender, demographics, age-group and dietary health in a nationally representative sample of older adults.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional study.

SETTING

Data for this study were collected by interview in the mobile examination centers from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys, 2011 - 2012.

PARTICIPANTS

U.S. representative sample of adults aged 55 years and older (N = 1860) from five ethnic/racial groups. All participants read, understood, and signed informed consent forms under data collection procedures by trained individuals.

MEASUREMENTS

Sociodemographics were collected by trained interviewers using a general questionnaire. Food groups were determined by 24-hour recall using the validated USDA Automated Multiple-Pass Method. Data were presented by cross-tabulation and logistic regression to investigate relationships among race/ethnicity, gender, and age groups.

RESULTS

Over 70% of older adults failed to consume 2.75 cups of combined fruits and vegetables. Other Hispanics (Hispanics excluding Mexican Americans) had higher Odds of sugar-containing food consumption compared to non-Hispanic Whites (adjusted model). Being older and female were protective factors for over-consumption of sugar.

CONCLUSION

Older Americans are not meeting dietary guidelines and there are differences by gender and ethnicity. Since diet has been associated with quality of life and medical costs, public health interventions can benefit by knowing age-, gender- and racial/ethnic- specific dietary behaviors.

Evaluation of dairy products available on the Polish market in the context of nutrient profiles. Clear arguments for reformulation of foodstuffs

BACKGROUND

Dairy products, which are one of the main groups of products in the diet, are expected to have high nutritional value. The development of food technology often involves changing the nutritional parameters of foodstuffs.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to determine the nutritional value of dairy products, in the context of nutrient profiles.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The tested products included yoghurts, yoghurt drinks, kefir, cream cheeses and milk desserts available on the Polish market, basing on the information from unit product packaging.

RESULTS

The average sugar content in the group of all products was 11 g/100 g. Milk desserts contained the largest amount of sugar (average 14.7 g/100g), whereas kefir – the smallest amount (average 6 g/100 g) (p <0.0001). Yoghurts and yoghurt drinks intended for children had higher sugar content than products for the general population (14.4 g vs. 10.5 g/100 g) (p <0.0001). As many as 75% of products were sweetened. Taking into account the natural content of lactose, the estimated amount of added sugar ranged from 6.9 - 12.3 g/100 g. The average fat content in the group of all products amounted to 3.8 g/100 g. In the view of WHO profiles, 71% of products exceeded the permissible sugar content (≤ 10 g/100 g) and 36% exceeded the permissible content of saturated fatty acids (≤ 2 g/100 g). Using more liberal profiles developed by the food industry, the proportion of such products was smaller, but still quite high (34% in case of sugar and 26% in case of saturated fatty acids). In terms of the sugar content, according to regulation introduced in Poland, only 29% of the analyzed dairy products could be offer for children at schools. Among them there are all natural (not sweetened) yoghurts and kefir and only 6% of other sweetened products.

CONCLUSIONS

There is a justified need for the reformulation of dairy products, especially in terms of added sugar.

Cross-sectional survey of the amount of free sugars and calories in carbonated sugar-sweetened beverages on sale in the UK

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the free sugars and calorie content of carbonated sugar-sweetened beverages (CSSB) available in the main UK supermarkets.

STUDY DESIGN

We carried out a cross-sectional survey in 2014 of 169 CSSB.

METHODS

The free sugars (sugars g/100 mL) and calorie (kcal/100 mL) were collected from product packaging and nutrient information panels of CSSB available in 9 main UK supermarkets.

RESULTS

The average free sugars content in CSSB was 30.1±10.7 g/330 mL, and 91% of CSSB would receive a 'red' (high) label for sugars per serving. There was a large variation in sugars content between different flavours of CSSB and within the same type of flavour ranging from 3.3 to 52.8 g/330 mL. On average, ginger beer (38.5±9.9 g/330 mL) contained the highest amounts of sugars and ginger ale (22.9±7.7 g/330 mL) contained the lowest. Cola flavour is the most popular flavour in the UK with an average free sugars content of 35.0±1.1 g/330 mL. On average, the supermarket own brand contained lower levels of sugars than branded products (27.9±10.6 vs 31.6±10.6 g/330 mL, p=0.02). The average calorie content in CSSB was 126.1±43.5 kcal/330 mL. Cola flavour had a calorie content of 143.5±5.2 kcal/330 mL. Among the 169 products surveyed, 55% exceeded the maximum daily recommendation for free sugars intake (30 g) per 330 mL.

CONCLUSIONS

Free sugars content of CSSB in the UK is high and is a major contributor to free sugars intake. There is a wide variation in the sugars content of CSSB and even within the same flavour of CSSB. These findings demonstrate that the amount of free sugars added to CSSB can be reduced without technical issues, and there is an urgent need to set incremental free sugars reduction targets. A reduction in sugars content and overall CSSB consumption will be very beneficial in reducing obesity, type 2 diabetes and dental caries.

Short- and long-term effects of carbohydrate limitation on sugar and organic acid accumulation during mandarin fruit growth

BACKGROUND

The physiological roles of organic acids in fruit cells are not fully understood, especially in citrus, whereas the decline in titratable acidity during ripening shown by many citrus fruits is due to the utilization of citric acid. We induced carbohydrate depletion by removing source leaves at two key periods in mandarin development (early and full citric acid accumulation). Then, we assessed the resulting changes in the short term (within 48 h) and long term (several weeks until ripening).

RESULTS

Control mature fruits were characterized by elevated fresh weight, large diameters and high quantities of malic acid, citric acid and sucrose. At the same stage, fruits subjected to early or late defoliation had higher glucose, fructose, citric acid concentrations and lower sucrose concentrations. They differed only in their malic acid concentrations, which were higher in early defoliation fruits and similar in late defoliation fruits when compared to control fruits. Finally, fruits subjected to late defoliation were characterized by high proline and γ-aminobutyric acid concentrations, and low fructose and glucose concentrations.

CONCLUSION

We have shown that short- and long-term carbohydrate limitation modifies sugar and organic acid metabolism during mandarin fruit growth. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry.

[Consumption status and trend of added sugar containing food among Chinese from 2002 to 2012]

OBJECTIVE

To understand the status and trend of added sugar containing food consumption from 2002 to 2012.

METHODS

Using dietary data from the Chinese Nutrition and Health Survey in 2002 and the Chinese Nutrition and Health Surveillance in 2010-2012, to analyze the consumption status of added sugar containing food in these two years and to compare the difference between the past ten years in China.

RESULTS

From 2002 to 2012, consumption rate of added sugar containing food increased from 20.4% to 26.9%, the consumption rate of all ages in 2012 was higher than in 2002 (t = -3.75, P = 0.0133), female higher than male (t = 0.86, P = 0.3991). The percentage of total calories from added sugar containing food was decreasing from 9.48% in 2002 to 9.09% in 2012, the difference was statistically significant (t = 4.16, P < 0.0001). From 2002 to 2012, species composition ratio of sugar-sweetened beverages (11.7% and 8.5%), dairy products (8.1% and 15.0%), instants food (26.6% and 39.0%) was increasing in some degree.

CONCLUSION

The consumption level of added sugar in China is low, which still under the recommended limits (10%) of WHO, but the consumption rate of food containing added sugar is increasing generally.

How much sugar is hidden in drinks marketed to children? A survey of fruit juices, juice drinks and smoothies

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the amount of sugars in fruit juices, juice drinks and smoothies (FJJDS) marketed to children.

DESIGN

We surveyed the sugars content (per 100 ml and standardised 200 ml portion) of all FJJDS sold by seven major UK supermarkets (supermarket own and branded products). Only products specifically marketed towards children were included. We excluded sports drinks, iced teas, sugar-sweetened carbonated drinks and cordials as being not specifically marketed towards children.

RESULTS

We identified 203 fruit juices (n=21), juice drinks (n=158) and smoothies (n=24) marketed to children. Sugars content ranged from 0 to 16 g/100 ml. The mean sugars content was 7.0 g/100 ml, but among the 100% fruit juice category, it was 10.7 g/100 ml. Smoothies (13.0 g/100 ml) contained the highest amounts of sugars and juice drinks (5.6 g/100 ml) contained the lowest amount. 117 of the 203 FJJDS surveyed would receive a Food Standards Agency 'red' colour-coded label for sugars per standardised 200 ml serving. Only 63 FJJDS would receive a 'green' colour-coded label. 85 products contained at least 19 g of sugars-a child's entire maximum daily amount of sugars. 57 products contained sugar (sucrose), 65 contained non-caloric sweeteners and five contained both. Seven products contained glucose-fructose syrup.

CONCLUSIONS

The sugars content in FJJDS marketed to children in the UK is unacceptably high. Manufacturers must stop adding unnecessary sugars and calories to their FJJDS.

Ultra-processed foods and added sugars in the US diet: evidence from a nationally representative cross-sectional study

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the contribution of ultra-processed foods to the intake of added sugars in the USA. Ultra-processed foods were defined as industrial formulations which, besides salt, sugar, oils and fats, include substances not used in culinary preparations, in particular additives used to imitate sensorial qualities of minimally processed foods and their culinary preparations.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional study.

SETTING

National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2009-2010.

PARTICIPANTS

We evaluated 9317 participants aged 1+ years with at least one 24 h dietary recall.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Average dietary content of added sugars and proportion of individuals consuming more than 10% of total energy from added sugars.

DATA ANALYSIS

Gaussian and Poisson regressions estimated the association between consumption of ultra-processed foods and intake of added sugars. All models incorporated survey sample weights and adjusted for age, sex, race/ethnicity, family income and educational attainment.

RESULTS

Ultra-processed foods comprised 57.9% of energy intake, and contributed 89.7% of the energy intake from added sugars. The content of added sugars in ultra-processed foods (21.1% of calories) was eightfold higher than in processed foods (2.4%) and fivefold higher than in unprocessed or minimally processed foods and processed culinary ingredients grouped together (3.7%). Both in unadjusted and adjusted models, each increase of 5 percentage points in proportional energy intake from ultra-processed foods increased the proportional energy intake from added sugars by 1 percentage point. Consumption of added sugars increased linearly across quintiles of ultra-processed food consumption: from 7.5% of total energy in the lowest quintile to 19.5% in the highest. A total of 82.1% of Americans in the highest quintile exceeded the recommended limit of 10% energy from added sugars, compared with 26.4% in the lowest.

CONCLUSIONS

Decreasing the consumption of ultra-processed foods could be an effective way of reducing the excessive intake of added sugars in the USA.

The Truth about Sugar

Sugars are used by the industry to enhance the attractiveness of foods and drinks. These added sugars, or 'free sugars', are not easily identified in food or drink labels. Certain manufactured foods and drinks with 'safe' names, such as dried fruit and fruit juice, still contain free sugars and can be confusing. Guidance states that daily consumption of free sugars should be less than 10% of total energy intake (no more than 5% in the UK). However, it is found that both tooth decay and obesity are associated with consumption of free sugars in large quantities and at inappropriate times.

Culinary preparation of beetroot (Beta vulgaris L.): the impact on sensory quality and appropriateness

BACKGROUND

Beetroot is a diverse vegetable available in different shapes and colours. The objectives of this study were to evaluate sensory qualities, and sugar and dry matter content of five beetroot varieties in relationship to the appropriateness for raw, boiled and pan-fried preparation.

RESULTS

Sensory evaluation by descriptive sensory analysis and consumer tests showed clear distinctions between red varieties Taunus, Rocket and Pablo, and the pink-white striped Chioggia and yellow Burpee's Golden in raw preparations. However, variety delimination was more difficult after boiling and pan-frying. Different sensory qualities were important for beetroot appropriateness in raw, boiled and pan-fried preparations. Appropriateness of raw beetroots was associated with high sensory scores in beetroot flavour, crispness and juiciness, and low scores in bitterness. Appropriateness of boiled beetroots was related to high scores in beetroot and earthy flavours. Pan-fried beetroot appropriateness was associated with high scores in beetroot flavour, colour intensity and crispness.

CONCLUSION

This study showed that the quality of raw materials is integral in culinary preparations. These results can be used to guide consumers in the use of beetroot in culinary preparations and subsequently increase consumption.

Contents of total fat, fatty acids, starch, sugars and dietary fibre in Swedish market basket diets

The typical dietary supply of total fat, fatty acids, starch, sugars, polyols and dietary fibre in Sweden was assessed from analyses of market baskets (MB) purchased in 2005 and 2010. MB were based on food balance sheets, with each basket comprising about 130 foods, which represented more than 90% of annual dietary supply. Foods were divided into ten to twelve categories. In 2010, total fat contributed 34% of energy (E%), SFA 14.3 E%, MUFA 12.8 E%, PUFA 4.6 E%, n-6 fatty acids 3.6 E%, n-3 fatty acids 1.0 E% and trans-fatty acids (TFA) 0.5 E%. Glycaemic carbohydrates contributed 47 E%, monosaccharides 9 E%, sucrose 11 E%, disaccharides 15 E% and total sugars 24 E%. Added sugars contributed about 15 E%. Dietary fibre content was about 1.7 g/MJ in the 2010 MB. Compared with the 2005 MB, the dietary supply of TFA and dietary fibre was lower, otherwise differences were small. The present MB survey shows that the content of SFA and added sugars was higher than the current Nordic Nutrition Recommendations, while the content of PUFA and especially dietary fibre was lower. TFA levels decreased and dietary supply was well below the recommendations of the WHO. These results emphasise a focus on quality and food sources of fat and carbohydrates, limiting foods rich in SFA and added sugars and replacing them with foods rich in dietary fibre and cis-unsaturated fatty acids.

The nutritional content and cost of supermarket ready-meals. Cross-sectional analysis

•

Over-reliance on convenience foods, including ready-meals, may contribute to obesity.

•

We surveyed supermarket own-brand ready-meals in ten UK supermarkets.

•

Overall, ready-meals tended to be high in saturated fat and salt, and low in sugar.

•

20% of meals were low in fat, saturated fat, salt and sugar.

•

There was little evidence that healthier meals necessarily cost more.

Background: Over-reliance on convenience foods, including ready-meals, has been suggested as one contributor to obesity. Little research has systematically explored the nutritional content of supermarket ready-meals. We described the nutritional content and cost of UK supermarket ready-meals. Methods: We conducted a survey of supermarket own-brand chilled and frozen ready-meals available in branches of ten national supermarket chains in one city in northern England. Data on price, weight and nutritional content of meals in four ranges (‘healthier’, luxury, economy and standard) and of six types (macaroni cheese, meat lasagne, cottage pie, chicken tikka masala, fish pie, and sweet and sour chicken) were collected. Nutritional content was compared to ranges used to identify low, medium and high fat, saturated fat, sugar and salt in nationally recommended front-of-pack labelling. Results: 166 ready-meals were included from 41 stores. Overall, ready-meals were high in saturated fat and salt, and low in sugar. One-fifth of meals were low in fat, saturated fat, salt and sugar, including two-thirds of ‘healthier’ meals. Meals that were low for three out of the four front-of-pack nutrients were the cheapest. Conclusions: Supermarket ready-meals do not have a healthful nutritional profile overall. However, a number of healthier meals were available – particularly amongst meals specifically marked as ‘healthier’. There was little evidence that healthier meals necessarily cost more. Further effort is required to encourage producers to improve the nutritional profile of the full range of ready-meals, and not just those specifically labelled as ‘healthier’.

Crop load and harvest maturity effects on consumer preferences for apricots

BACKGROUND

Improving apricot fruit quality delivered to consumers is key to ensuring a successful apricot industry. Previous studies have focused on effects of either soluble solids content (SSC) or fruit firmness on consumer preferences, and results have been equivocal. This study evaluated the effects of crop load and harvest maturity how they affected on fruit SSC and firmness, and on subsequent consumer preferences.

RESULTS

SSC of apricots was an important factor only when fruit were firmer than 15 N and not immature. When fruit were softer than 15 N, SSC had little influence on consumer liking. In general, consumers preferred fruit that were grown on trees thinned to approximately 10-20% less than typical commercial crop loads and were harvested in a more mature condition. Consumers also preferred fruit that had a higher sugar/acid ratio or BrimA value, which is the °Brix - k × titratable acidity, where k is a constant that varies between species and cultivars depending on the specific acids and sugars present. High apricot flavour and juiciness were associated with greater sweetness.

CONCLUSION

Management practices that increase fruit SSC and sugar/acid ratio, such as reducing crop load, will improve consumer satisfaction as long as fruit are harvested at an adequate maturity stage and are maintained in storage so that they do not soften too quickly.

Assessment of a portable device to quantify vitamin A in fortified foods (flour, sugar, and milk) for quality control

BACKGROUND

Simple-to-use quantitative methods are needed to check the adequacy of vitamin A fortification levels.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the capacity of a portable fluorometer (iCheck FLUORO) and its test kit vials (iEx Mila) to quantify retinyl palmitate in fortified milks, flours (wheat, maize), and sugar.

METHODS

The portable fluorometer was assessed in a three-step procedure to determine its working range and linearity, intra-assay precision, and interperson precision. Measurements were compared with the results obtained by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), commonly regarded as the standard method for vitamin A analysis.

RESULTS

The portable fluorometer (iCheck FLUORO) and its test kit vials (iEx Mila) precisely determined the vitamin A contents in fortifed flours, sugar, and milks. Its working range was 1 to 10, 0.5 to 3.0, and 5 to 15 mg retinol equivalents (RE) kg(-1) for flours (wheat and corn), milks, and sugar, respectively; these values are in accordance with the World Health Organization recommendations for food fortification in least developed countries. The limits of detection are higher than those of HPLC but are all satisfactory (< 1.46 mg RE kg(-1)). The coefficients of variation within and between observers were satisfactory, especially for sugar and milk.

CONCLUSIONS

The linear relationship between the data from the portable fluorometer and the HPLC data confirms that the portable fluorometer provides a good determination of the vitamin A content of the fortified products in the tested range.

Acute anti-hyperglycaemic effects of an unripe apple preparation containing phlorizin in healthy volunteers: a preliminary study

BACKGROUND

The health-promoting properties of apples are directly related to the biologically active compounds that they contain, such as polyphenols. The objective of this study was to prepare a low-sugar, fibre- and phlorizin-enriched powder from unripe apples and to gain insight regarding its anti-hyperglycaemic activity in healthy volunteers.

RESULTS

The unripe apples (Malus domestica Borkh.) were collected 30 days after the full bloom day; blanched and pressed to obtain apple pomace which was then processed with a food cutter, oven-dried and milled to prepare apple powder. The concentrations of total sugars, water-soluble pectin and phlorizin in the apple preparation were 153.44 ± 2.46, 27.73 ± 0.51 and 12.61 ± 0.15 g kg(-1), respectively. Acute ingestion of the apple preparation improved glucose metabolism in the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) in six healthy volunteers by reducing the postprandial glucose response at 15 to 30 min by approximately two-fold (P < 0.05) and by increasing urinary glucose excretion during the 2- to 4-h interval of the OGTT by five-fold (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The results obtained indicate that the dried and powdered pomace of unripe apples can be used as a health-promoting natural product for the reduction of postprandial glycaemia and to improve the health of patients with diabetes.

Valorization of traditional foods: nutritional and bioactive properties of Cicer arietinum L. and Lathyrus sativus L. pulses

BACKGROUND

The use of traditional foods can enrich our diet, perpetuating important elements of local knowledge and cultural inheritance. Raw, soaked and cooked samples of two Fabaceae species (Cicer arietinum L. and Lathyrus sativus L.) were characterized regarding nutritional and bioactive properties.

RESULTS

L. sativus gave the highest carbohydrate, protein, ash, saturated fatty acid and polyunsaturated fatty acid content, and lowest fat and energy value. Furthermore, it also showed the highest concentration of flavonoids and antioxidant activity. Cicer arietinum gave the highest concentration of sugars, organic acids and tocopherols. The soaking process did not significantly affect macronutrients, but cooking (boiling) decreased protein, ash, sugars and organic acids, and increased carbohydrates, fat, tocopherols, bioactive compounds and antioxidant activity. No differences were obtained for fatty acid composition.

CONCLUSION

The present study highlights the nutritional profile and bioactive properties of these agricultural varieties of C. arietinum and L. sativus pulses, and valorizes their traditional consumption and the use in modern diets.

Local news media framing of obesity in the context of a sugar-sweetened beverage reduction media campaign

OBJECTIVE

This study examined local news media's framing of obesity preceding and surrounding the Philadelphia sugar-sweetened beverage reduction media campaign.

METHODS

Using key search terms pertaining to obesity and sugary beverages, the authors searched the LexisNexis database and gathered local news stories (n = 167) that were aired or published between October, 2010 and March, 2011. They conducted a content analysis, coding for framing-related outcome measures (underlying factors, action steps, and contextual agents).

RESULTS

Overall, the news media employed individual-level framing in the majority of stories when discussing obesity, both before and after the campaign launch. After the campaign launched, however, stories were significantly more likely to mention systemic-level contextual agents such as food companies (P = .008), beverage companies (P = .03), and champions or advocates (P = .001).

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

The researchers observed a shift in the local news media discourse toward more thematic framing of obesity, and suggest that public health officials consider the potential impact of news media frames on garnering public support for future policy implementations.

Hydrogen sulfide extends the postharvest life and enhances antioxidant activity of kiwifruit during storage

BACKGROUND

Exogenous hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) treatment can prolong the postharvest life of cut flowers and strawberries. Little work has been done to explore the effects of H₂S on respiratory climacteric fruits such as kiwifruits during storage. Therefore the aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of H₂S treatment at concentrations of 15–1000 µmol L⁻¹ on the postharvest life of kiwifruit during 25 °C storage and the role of H₂S in regulating the antioxidant defensive system of kiwifruit.

RESULTS

Treatments with 45 and 90 µmol L⁻¹ H₂S significantly inhibited the increase in soluble sugar content and the decrease in vitamin C (Vit C), chlorophyll content and firmness, inhibited ethylene production and both superoxide production rate (O(·2)⁻) and hydrogen peroxide content. Kiwifruits with 45 and 90 µmol L⁻¹ H₂S exhibited significantly higher activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase and peroxidase. Treatment with 180 µmol L⁻¹ H₂S promoted the ripening of kiwifruits.

CONCLUSION

Treatments with 45 and 90 µmol L⁻¹ H₂S could delay the maturation and senescence of kiwifruits and maintain higher titratable acid (TA) and Vit C during eating-ripe storage by inhibiting ethylene production, improving protective enzyme activities and decreasing the accumulation of reactive oxygen species to protect the cell membrane during storage.

Sensory preferences among general Japanese consumers and physicochemical evaluation of deep-fried peanuts

BACKGROUND

The development of food that satisfies consumer preferences is very important for producing commodities. In the present study, 132 Japanese consumers carried out sensory evaluation of deep-fried peanuts with varying frying times (2, 4, 6, 9, 12 and 15 min) at 150 °C, and the relationships among sensory elements and physicochemical properties were investigated.

RESULT

The sensory scores for colour, bitterness, and deep-fried peanut aroma increased (darker or stronger) with frying time, whereas the sweetness score was relatively high (strong) for frying times of 2, 4, 6 and 9 min, and then decreased (weaker) with increasing frying time. Frying times of 4, 6 and 9 min scored higher in overall liking than other times. Multiple-regression analysis indicated that the overall liking score was positively correlated with sweetness (standardised regression coefficient, β = +0.51) and deep-fried peanut aroma (β = +0.26) scores but negatively correlated with bitterness score (β = -0.25). Multiple-regression analysis also indicated a difference in sensory preference by gender. Sensory elements were closely related to the physicochemical properties, including the colour indexes (CIELAB colour space) and the sucrose and water contents. When L(*) (CIELAB colour space, lightness index) was 53-64 and water content was 10-30 g kg(-1), the mean overall liking score was relatively high implying acceptable fried peanut quality.

CONCLUSION

Relationships among individual sensory elements were confirmed. Multiple-regression analysis indicated a strong positive correlation between sweetness and overall liking and a small difference in sensory preference by gender. Sensory evaluations can thus be expressed by physicochemical properties.

Estimated intakes and sources of total and added sugars in the Canadian diet

National food supply data and dietary surveys are essential to estimate nutrient intakes and monitor trends, yet there are few published studies estimating added sugars consumption. The purpose of this report was to estimate and trend added sugars intakes and their contribution to total energy intake among Canadians by, first, using Canadian Community Health Survey (CCHS) nutrition survey data of intakes of sugars in foods and beverages, and second, using Statistics Canada availability data and adjusting these for wastage to estimate intakes. Added sugars intakes were estimated from CCHS data by categorizing the sugars content of food groups as either added or naturally occurring. Added sugars accounted for approximately half of total sugars consumed. Annual availability data were obtained from Statistics Canada CANSIM database. Estimates for added sugars were obtained by summing the availability of "sugars and syrups" with availability of "soft drinks" (proxy for high fructose corn syrup) and adjusting for waste. Analysis of both survey and availability data suggests that added sugars average 11%-13% of total energy intake. Availability data indicate that added sugars intakes have been stable or modestly declining as a percent of total energy over the past three decades. Although these are best estimates based on available data, this analysis may encourage the development of better databases to help inform public policy recommendations.

Sugar-sweetened beverages and prevalence of the metabolically abnormal phenotype in the Framingham Heart Study

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between usual sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB) consumption and prevalence of abnormal metabolic health across body mass index (BMI) categories.

METHODS

The metabolic health of 6,842 non-diabetic adults was classified using cross-sectional data from the Framingham Heart Study Offspring (1998-2001) and Third Generation (2002-2005) cohorts. Adults were classified as normal weight, overweight or obese and, within these categories, metabolic health was defined based on five criteria-hypertension, elevated fasting glucose, elevated triglycerides, low HDL cholesterol, and insulin resistance. Individuals without metabolic abnormalities were considered metabolically healthy. Logistic regression was used to examine the associations between categories of SSB consumption and risk of metabolic health after stratification by BMI.

RESULTS

Comparing the highest category of SSB consumers (median of 7 SSB per week) to the lowest category (non-consumers), odds ratios (95% confidence intervals) for metabolically abnormal phenotypes, compared to the metabolically normal, were 1.9 (1.1-3.4) among the obese, 2.0 (1.4-2.9) among the overweight, and 1.9 (1.4-2.6) among the normal weight individuals.

CONCLUSIONS

In this cross-sectional analysis, it is observed that, irrespective of weight status, consumers of SSB were more likely to display metabolic abnormalities compared to non-consumers in a dose-dependent manner.

Differences between easy- and difficult-to-mill chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) genotypes. Part III: free sugar and non-starch polysaccharide composition

BACKGROUND

Parts I and II of this series of papers identified several associations between the ease of milling and the chemical compositions of different chickpea seed fractions. Non-starch polysaccharides were implicated; hence, this study examines the free sugars and sugar residues.

RESULTS

Difficult milling is associated with: (1) lower glucose and xylose residues (less cellulose and xyloglucans) and more arabinose, rhamnose and uronic acid in the seed coat, suggesting a more flexible seed coat that resists cracking and decortication; (2) a higher content of soluble and insoluble non-starch polysaccharide fractions in the cotyledon periphery, supporting a pectic polysaccharide mechanism comprising arabinogalacturonan, homogalacturonan, rhamnogalalcturonan, and glucuronan backbone structures; (3) higher glucose and mannose residues in the cotyledon periphery, supporting a lectin-mediated mechanism of adhesion; and (4) higher arabinose and glucose residues in the cotyledon periphery, supporting a mechanism involving arabinogalactan-proteins.

CONCLUSION

This series has shown that the chemical composition of chickpea does vary in ways that are consistent with physical explanations of how seed structure and properties relate to milling behaviour. Seed coat strength and flexibility, pectic polysaccharide binding, lectins and arabinogalactan-proteins have been implicated. Increased understanding in these mechanisms will allow breeding programmes to optimise milling performance in new cultivars.

Genotypic variability for antioxidant and quality parameters among tomato cultivars, hybrids, cherry tomatoes and wild species

BACKGROUND

Wide germplasm diversity and transferability of antioxidant parameters is the primary requirement for the development of high-antioxidant tomato cultivars. The present study was conducted to screen tomato genotypes including hybrids, varieties, cherry tomatoes, wild species, elite germplasm lines, interspecific hybrids and backcross populations for antioxidant activity and other quality parameters to select high-antioxidant lines with good total soluble solids (TSS) for further usage in crop improvement programmes.

RESULTS

Wild species and interspecific hybrids between LA-1777 (Solanum habrochaites) and an elite genotype 15SBSB recorded very high antioxidant capacity (FRAP), DPPH radical-scavenging ability, and high phenols and flavonoids. Interspecific hybrids also recorded very high total soluble solids (TSS). Significantly higher total carotenoids, lycopene and vitamin C were observed in IIHR-249-1 with moderately higher TSS. Cherry tomato lines IIHR-2866, 2865 and 2864 recorded four to five times more β-carotene than commercial hybrids/varieties.

CONCLUSION

Tomato line IIHR-249-1 can be used for improving antioxidant capacity, total carotenoids and lycopene in tomato breeding programmes. Cherry tomato lines IIHR-2866, 2865 and 2864 can be used for improving β-carotene content. LA-1777 and interspecific hybrids could be used for developing tomato lines rich in antioxidants as well as TSS.

Pomegranate juice adulteration by addition of grape or peach juices

BACKGROUND

Pomegranate juice has gained a high reputation for its health properties and consequently is now a highly demanded product. However, owing to the limited production and high price of fresh pomegranates, adulteration of pomegranate juice seems to be happening. Hence it is imperative to establish criteria for detecting adulteration.

RESULTS

Addition of grape juice significantly increased the contents of Ca, Mg and Fe and especially tartaric acid and proline and simultaneously decreased the content of K. Addition of peach juice up to 10% (v/v) only resulted in a significant increase in sucrose content. Regarding the volatile composition, adulteration of pomegranate juice with grape juice resulted in significant increases in acetic acid, isoamyl butyrate and especially 1-hexanol and linalool, while adulteration with peach juice resulted in significant increases in butyl acetate, isobutyl butyrate, benzyl acetate and especially isoamyl butyrate.

CONCLUSION

The control protocols used in this study can serve as a basis for identification of pomegranate juice adulteration. It is important to highlight that it is necessary to simultaneously analyze and have results from several parameters to conclude that a particular pomegranate juice has been adulterated by mixing with another fruit juice.

Definition and documentation of traditional foods of the Black Sea Area Countries: potential nutrition claims

BACKGROUND

Nutrition and health claims are permitted in foods marketed in the European Union under Regulation 1924/2006. Quality products such as traditional foods might benefit from this act, as it can highlight their nutritional richness. In this study the nutritional content of 33 traditional foods from the Black Sea Area Countries was evaluated against the thresholds of the Regulation for nutrition claims.

RESULTS

Most of the foods were eligible to bear several nutrition claims, mostly related to their fat, sugar, fiber and sodium content. The average number of claims per traditional food was two, with a range between zero and nine. Overall, about 72 nutrition claims were potentially relevant for the 33 traditional foods studied. Foods linked with the most claims were nuts and seeds.

CONCLUSION

The inclusion of traditional foods under this standardized European scheme could be an efficient way to highlight their possible beneficial nutritional properties. The production and marketing of traditional foods could be of benefit to both the health of consumers and the economic viability of producers, especially small- and medium-size enterprises.

Yield, chemical composition and nutritional quality responses of carrot, radish and turnip to elevated atmospheric carbon dioxide

BACKGROUND

Future concentration of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere is very important due to its apparent economic and environmental impact in terms of climate change. However, a compressive assessment of its effect on the nutritional and chemical characteristics of food crops has yet to be established. In the present study the impact of elevated atmospheric CO2 on the yield, chemical composition and nutritional quality of three root vegetables, carrot (Daucus carota L. cv. T-1-111), radish (Raphanus sativus L. cv. Mino) and turnip (Brassica rapa L. cv. Grabe) has been investigated.

RESULTS

The yield of carrot, radish and turnip increased by 69, 139 and 72%, respectively, when grown under elevated CO2 conditions. Among the proximate composition, protein, vitamin C and fat contents decreased significantly for all the vegetables while sugar and fibre contents were increased. Response of the vegetables to elevated CO2 , in terms of elemental composition, was different with a significant decrease in many important minerals. Elevated CO2 decreased the amount of majority of the fatty acids and amino acids in these vegetables.

CONCLUSIONS

It was observed that elevated CO2 increased the yield of root vegetables but many important nutritional parameters including protein, vitamin C, minerals, essential fatty acids and amino acids were decreased.

The nutritional role of flavored and white milk in the diets of children

BACKGROUND

Some schools are removing flavored milk from lunchrooms based on the perception that consumption has a negative impact on the overall dietary quality. The goal of this study was to assess the contribution of flavored and white milk in the diets of children.

METHODS

Intake data from children 2 to 18 years (N = 7332) participating in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2003-2006 were obtained from in-person 24-hour dietary recalls. Mean ± standard error of energy and nutrients were determined.

RESULTS

Flavored and white milk contributed, respectively, 2-6% of total energy consumed, 3-12% of saturated fats, 1-3% of sodium, and 4-0% of added sugars. The percent contribution of white milk to intakes of vitamin A (21%), vitamin D (54%), calcium (29%), potassium (17%), magnesium (12%), and phosphorus (19%) exceeded 10% of total intake. Consumption of flavored milk contributed a smaller percentage to total intake. For total dairy consumed the percent contribution to intake of vitamins A and D, calcium, potassium, magnesium, and phosphorus ranged from 19% to 68%.

CONCLUSIONS

Milk has an important nutritional role in the diets of children. More research is needed to understand the barriers to consuming milk and potential unintended nutrition consequences of removing flavored milk from the lunchrooms.

Acrylamide reduction in potato chips by selection of potato variety grown in Iran and processing conditions

BACKGROUND

Acrylamide as a possible carcinogen is known to form in heated carbohydrate-rich food such as potato chips. In this study, the effect of three potato varieties (Agria, Sante and Savalan) and two blanching conditions (75 °C for 9 min and 83 °C for 2.5 min) on the concentration of precursors and acrylamide reduction in potato chips was investigated.

RESULTS

Results revealed that potato variety and blanching time-temperature were important parameters for acrylamide formation in potato chips. Acrylamide content in Sante variety potatoes, which contained the highest amount of reducing sugars, was found to be the highest (8825 µg kg(-1)). However, Savalan, containing the highest asparagine concentration, showed the lowest amount of acrylamide due to its lower reducing sugar content. Blanching reduced acrylamide formation; it was more efficient at 75 °C for 9 min, with an average reduction of 74%. The effect of three frying temperatures (170, 180 and 190 °C) on acrylamide formation was also studied just for the Agria potato variety. Increasing frying temperature led to a significant increase in acrylamide formation.

CONCLUSION

Potato variety and processing conditions were important parameters for acrylamide formation in potato chips. The combination of a suitable variety and appropriate processing conditions could considerably reduce acrylamide content.

Measurement of the distribution of non-structural carbohydrate composition in onion populations by a high-throughput microplate enzymatic assay

BACKGROUND

Non-structural carbohydrate (NSC; glucose, fructose, sucrose and fructan) composition of onions (Allium cepa L.) varies widely and is a key determinant of market usage. To analyse the physiology and genetics of onion carbohydrate metabolism and to enable selective breeding, an inexpensive, reliable and practicable sugar assay is required to phenotype large numbers of samples.

RESULTS

A rapid, reliable and cost-effective microplate-based assay was developed for NSC analysis in onions and used to characterise variation in tissue hexose, sucrose and fructan content in open-pollinated breeding populations and in mapping populations developed from a wide onion cross. Sucrose measured in microplates employing maltase as a hydrolytic enzyme was in agreement with HPLC-PAD results. The method revealed significant variation in bulb fructan content within open-pollinated 'Pukekohe Longkeeper' breeding populations over a threefold range. Very wide segregation from 80 to 600 g kg(-1) in fructan content was observed in bulbs of F2 genetic mapping populations from the wide onion cross 'Nasik Red × CUDH2150'.

CONCLUSION

The microplate enzymatic assay is a reliable and practicable method for onion sugar analysis for genetics, breeding and food technology. Open-pollinated onion populations may harbour extensive within-population variability in carbohydrate content, which may be quantified and exploited using this method. The phenotypic data obtained from genetic mapping populations show that the method is well suited to detailed genetic and physiological analysis.

Application of near infrared reflectance spectroscopy for the evaluation of yam (Dioscorea alata) germplasm and breeding lines

BACKGROUND

Thousands of yam (Dioscorea spp.) accessions are maintained in germplasm collections. The physico-chemical characteristics of the tubers are rarely characterised. Unless a simple, low cost, screening tool is available, it is difficult to evaluate the quality of varieties and breeding lines. We investigated the potential of near infrared reflectance spectroscopy (NIRS) as an alternative method for predicting the major constituents of the yam tuber.

RESULTS

Two hundred and sixty-five accessions, belonging to seven different Dioscorea spp., were analysed for starch, amylose, sugars, proteins, minerals and cellulose. The comparison of the NIR spectra and the chemical values allowed the establishment of equations of calibration for the prediction of starch, sugars and proteins (equivalent N). The r(2) pred values for starch, sugars and proteins (respectively 0.84, 0.86 and 0.88) are high enough to allow good estimates of their contents. Values for the ratio of performance to deviation (RPD) of 4.046 and 3.641 for the sugars and proteins models also allow good quantitative predictions to be made. Amylose, cellulose and minerals could not be predicted precisely. A second calibration conducted by adding the calibration and validation sets (260 accessions) revealed an improvement of the RPD values for starch, sugars and proteins, indicating that the models can be improved. Discriminant analysis conducted using 2151 wavelengths (in nanometres) as variables was applied to a set of 214 accessions of D. alata and the results were compared to the principal component analysis of chemical data. Accessions can be classified according to the amylaceous fraction of the chemotype.

CONCLUSION

NIRS could be used in yam breeding programmes to characterise rapidly and at low cost the numerous accessions and breeding lines.

The use of sensory attributes, sugar content, instrumental data and consumer acceptability in selection of sweet potato varieties

BACKGROUND

As eating quality is important for adoption of new varieties, nine orange-fleshed and three cream-fleshed sweet potato varieties were assessed for sensory characteristics, dry mass and free sugar content, instrumental texture and colour and consumer acceptability (n =  216) in a peri-urban South African setting.

RESULTS

Cream-fleshed varieties were higher in yellow-green colour and sweet potato-like flavour and lower in graininess. Orange-fleshed varieties were higher in pumpkin-like flavour, orange colour, discolouration and sucrose content. Partial least squares regression analysis showed that the most accepted varieties (Impilo, Excel, Resisto, 2001_5_2, Serolane, W-119 and Monate) were associated with sweet flavour, dry mass and maltose content, while the least accepted varieties (Beauregard, Khano and 1999_1_7) were associated with wateriness. Pearson correlation analysis highlighted correlations of sensory attributes yellow and orange with instrumental colour measurements (colour a* and colour b*), instrumental firmness with sensory firmness, dry mass with sensory wateriness, and maltose content with sensory sweet and sweet potato-like flavour. The varieties were clustered into three groups. Consumer acceptability for eating quality correlated with maltose content, dry mass and sweet flavour.

CONCLUSION

Chemical and instrumental measurements were identified to evaluate key attributes and will be useful in the intermediate phases of sweet potato varietal development.

Effects of brassinosteroid analogues on total phenols, antioxidant activity, sugars, organic acids and yield of field grown endive (Cichorium endivia L.)

BACKGROUND

Cichorium endivia L., either cooked or eaten raw in salads, is a favourite cultivated vegetable around the world and the popularity is attributed to its healthy properties, which are mainly due to its high levels of antioxidant compounds and high content of minerals, provitamin A and vitamins. Brassinosteroids are a family of hormones that are found in plants and which serve as potent growth promoters. The effects of two brassinosteroid analogues, DI-31 and DI-100, were evaluated at concentrations of 4, 8 and 12 ppm together with a seaweed extract and amino acid mixture called Tomex Amin to enhance their activity.

RESULTS

All treatments with DI-100 and DI-31 resulted in the highest production increases. The chemical variables related to endive quality, such as moisture, carbon and nitrogen content, sugar and organic acid content were similar in the control and treated endives. Total antioxidant activity and total phenols increased significantly in endive treated with brassinosteroid analogues.

CONCLUSION

The results showed that sprayed brassinosteroid analogues mixed with Tomex Amin may play an important role in increasing the yield and the contents of total antioxidant activity and total phenols of field grown endives.

Pectin methyl esterase treatment on high-methoxy pectin for making fruit jam with reduced sugar content

BACKGROUND

Pectin methyl esterase (PME) has been postulated to catalyse the transacylation reaction between pectin molecules. The present study aimed to prove the occurrence of this reaction. The feasibility of applying PME-catalysed transacylation between high-methoxy pectin molecules in making fruit jam with reduced sugar content was also investigated.

RESULTS

PME treatment increased the turbidity and particle size in pectin solution and the molecular weight of pectin, while it decreased the number of methoxy ester linkages and the intensity of the CH₃ absorption peak in the Fourier transform infrared spectrum without changes in the number of total ester linkages in pectin molecules. These findings support the occurrence of PME-catalysed transacylation between pectin molecules. Higher values of hardness, gumminess and chewiness were found in a jam containing PME-treated citrus pectin (10 g L⁻¹) and sugar (350 g L⁻¹) as compared with either a jam containing untreated citrus pectin (10 g L⁻¹) and sugar (350 g L⁻¹) or strawberry jam containing pectin (10 g L⁻¹) from the fruit and sugar (650 g L⁻¹).

CONCLUSION

The demand for sugar in jam making can be greatly reduced by the use of PME-treated high-methoxy pectin.

Use of caloric and noncaloric sweeteners in US consumer packaged foods, 2005-2009

Our understanding of the use of caloric and noncaloric sweeteners in the US food supply is limited. This study uses full ingredient list and Nutrition Facts label data from Gladson Nutrition Database and nationally representative purchases of consumer packaged foods from Nielsen Homescan in 2005 through 2009 to understand the use of caloric sweeteners (including fruit juice concentrate) and noncaloric sweeteners in consumer packaged foods. Of the 85,451 uniquely formulated foods purchased during 2005 through 2009, 75% contain sweeteners (68% with caloric sweetener only, 1% with noncaloric sweetener only, 6% with both caloric and noncaloric sweeteners). Caloric sweetener are in >95% of cakes/cookies/pies, granola/protein/energy bars, ready-to-eat cereals, sweet snacks, and sugar-sweetened beverages. Noncaloric sweetener are in >33% of yogurts and sport/energy drinks, 42% of waters (plain or flavored), and most dietetic sweetened beverages. Across unique products, corn syrup is the most commonly listed sweetener, followed by sorghum, cane sugar, high-fructose corn syrup, and fruit juice concentrate. Also, 77% of all calories purchased in the United States in 2005-2009 contained caloric sweeteners and 3% contained noncaloric sweeteners, and 73% of the volume of foods purchased contained caloric sweetener and 15% contained noncaloric sweetener. Trends during this period suggest a shift toward the purchase of noncaloric sweetener-containing products. Our study poses a challenge toward monitoring sweetener consumption in the United States by discussing the need and options available to improve measures of caloric sweetener and noncaloric sweetener and additional requirements on Nutrition Facts labels on consumer packaged foods.

Effect of shading on yield, sugar content, phenolic acids and antioxidant property of coffee beans (Coffea Arabica L. cv. Catimor) harvested from north-eastern Thailand

BACKGROUND

Environmental conditions, including shading, generally influence the physical and chemical qualities of coffee beans. The present study assessed the changes in some phenolic compounds, antioxidant activity and agronomic characters of coffee beans (Coffea arabica L. cv. Catimor) as affected by different shading conditions including full sun, three artificial shading conditions using a saran covering (50% shade, 60% shade, and 70% shade) and lychee shade.

RESULTS

Bean weight and bean size increased significantly (P < 0.05) when the shade level was progressively increased. The coffee beans grown under lychee shade exhibited superior bean yield, 1000-bean weight, total phenolic content and antioxidant activity compared to all other beans. Chlorogenic acid was the most predominant phenolic acid in all samples studied, being the highest in the beans grown under lychee shade, followed by 60% shade, 70% shade, 50% shade and full sun, respectively. In contrast, bean grown under full sun had the highest amount of vanillic acid and caffeic acid.

CONCLUSIONS

Antioxidant activity was highly positively associated with chlorogenic acid content. The content of total sugar (fructose, glucose and sucrose) was found highest in coffee beans grown in 60% shade, with fructose the predominant sugar. Under climatic conditions similar to this experiment, it is advisable that growers provide shade to the coffee crop to reduce heat from direct sunlight and promote yield as well as obtain good quality coffee beans.

Non-destructive evaluation of ripening and quality traits in apples using a multiparametric fluorescence sensor

BACKGROUND

The detection of pigments and colourless flavonoids in apples can provide a useful indication of fruit quality. Optical methods are preferable because they are fast and non-destructive. In this study, a fluorescence-based portable sensor was used in order to non-invasively determine the content of chlorophylls, anthocyanins and flavonols in Fuji, Granny Smith and Golden Delicious apple cultivars. The aim was to define new non-destructive optical indices of apple quality.

RESULTS

The anthocyanin index (ANTH) in Fuji was higher in the sunny (i.e. sun-exposed) side of the fruit compared to the shady side. For all cultivars, the flavonol index (FLAV) was higher in the sunny side compared with the shady side. The chlorophyll index (CHL) for the shady sides of Granny Smith and Golden Delicious was significantly higher than for the sunny sides. Fine linear regressions were found between the ANTH, FLAV and CHL indices and the actual anthocyanin, flavonol and chlorophyll concentrations, respectively, which were determined destructively on the apple peel extracts. A negative correlation was found between the apple sugar content and the chlorophyll fluorescence in the far-red spectral band.

CONCLUSION

Our results indicate that a single multiparametric fluorescence-based sensor can provide valuable non-destructive markers of ripening and quality in apples.

An endogenous bile acid and dietary sucrose from skin secretions of alkaloid-sequestering poison frogs

The skins of Madagascar poison frogs (Mantella) and certain Neotropical poison frogs (Epipedobates, Dendrobates) secrete the new bile acid tauromantellic acid (1), which was found in both wild-caught and captive-born frogs. This is the first molecule of endogenous origin detected in skin secretions from these taxa. Sucrose was also detected in secretions from wild-caught Mantella but not in captive-born frogs, suggesting a dietary origin.