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Utilizing Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) multispectral technology offers a non-destructive and efficient approach to monitoring plant health and stress responses by analyzing reflectance data across various wavelengths. This study integrates UAV-based multispectral imagery with ground-measured sample data to evaluate the impact of atrazine (ATR) on chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, carotenoids, and anthocyanins in Red Cos lettuce. The results indicate a significant increase (p < 0.05) in ATR concentration in lettuce with soil application, leading to notable reductions in pigment concentrations. Heatmap analysis reveals that EVI shows the strongest negative correlations with pigment classes (coefficients ranging between −0.75 to −0.85), while NDVI, GNDVI, and BNDVI exhibit the strongest positive correlations with pigments (coefficients > 0.75). These findings highlight the potential of this innovative technique in predicting pigment concentrations and emphasize its importance in monitoring pesticide effects for sustainable agriculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plantain flour (PLF) and soy flour (SF) were used to substitute wheat flour (10% and 20% w/w) in composite bread. Physicochemical, phytochemical, and sensory properties were investigated. Partial substitution by PLF significantly increased (p <.05) starch, amylose, ascorbic acid, and potassium content in bread samples. In contrast, a significant improvement (p <.05) in protein, fat, amylopectin, and calcium content was observed with SF substitution. Composite bread with PLF and SF together lowered the hydrolysis index (HI) and glycemic index (GI) as compared with whole wheat flour. The molar phytate to minerals (iron, zinc, and calcium) ratio in all composite loaves was lower than reported critical values, except for phytate to iron. Significant differences (p <.05) were found in color, specific volume, and texture characteristics of loaves made from partial substitution with PLF and SF. Sensory evaluation revealed that bread with 10% PLF exhibited better scores for appearance and willingness to pay than the control. In contrast, SF negatively affected (p <.05) the appearance, texture, color, overall acceptance, and willingness to pay. The trade‐off analysis indicated that PLF can be utilized to produce bread that meets consumers' demands, while incorporating SF as an alternative high‐nutrient density bread will be beneficial to health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A green synthesis of Ag/AgCl with an exceptional SPR and photocatalysis property is greatly benefit to the environmental application especially pollutant removal. In this work, a novel green plasmonic photocatalysis of Ag/AgCl nanocatalyst using aqueous garlic extract (Allium Sativum L.) was successfully synthesized. The allicin and organosulfur compounds in the garlic can act as reducing agents in the green synthesis process. The nanocatalyst properties were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and X-ray diffractometer. The light-harvesting property was investigated by UV-vis absorption spectra which reveals its visible light absorption capability owing surface plasmon resonance behavior of Ag nanoparticles. The degradation and mineralization of methylthioninium chloride (MC) using this photocatalyst were evaluated under visible light and natural solar irradiation. Surface plasmon resonance of Ag nanoparticles and the presence of organosulfur from the garlic extract facilitated adsorption of MC onto the particle surface, promoting greater degradation. The photocatalytic reaction under visible light can be explained by the pseudo first-order pattern with the highest reaction rate of 0.5829 mg L−1 min−1 at pH 10. The photocatalytic activity of the Ag/AgCl under the natural sunlight reached 90% and 75% for MC and total organic carbon (TOC), respectively. The intermediate products detected during MC degradation under sunlight irradiation before final transformation to CO2, H2O, HNO3, and H2SO4 were also reported. The simplicity of Ag/AgCl green synthesis with the photocatalysis properties under visible light and sunlight can offer the convenience of applying these nanoparticles for pollutant removal in water treatment processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: The present study investigated the effect of ripening stages and chemical precursors on acrylamide formation in deep‐fried chips of five plantains and one cooking banana. The highest level of acrylamide was found in the cooking banana, followed by False Horn plantain and French plantain, respectively. French plantain hybrids exhibited a significantly lower (P < 0.05) level of acrylamide when compared to French plantain. The ripening stage demonstrated a positive Pearson correlation (P < 0.05, r = 0.57) with acrylamide formation. As ripening progressed, the levels of glucose and fructose significantly increased (P < 0.05) and showed a positive correlation with acrylamide formation (r = 0.85 and 0.96, respectively). The level of the amino acid asparagine during ripening was not correlated with acrylamide formation. In contrast, the level of histidine, arginine, iso‐leucine and cystine during ripening was positively correlated (P < 0.05, r > 0.60) with acrylamide formation in fried chips. The higher level of TP was significantly related (P < 0.05) to the lower level of acrylamide (r = −0.62). The reduced levels of carotenoid isomers, except lutein, during fruit ripening were positively correlated (P < 0.05) with acrylamide formation, especially trans‐BC (r = 0.72) and 9‐cis‐BC(r = 0.64). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Functional properties of cereal-legume based composite flours were investigated. • Protein and fat content in sample substituted with rice flour were improved. • Minerals absorption was not affected by oxalate content in samples. • Aflatoxin level of sample substituted with wheat flour was higher than 4.0 µg/kg. • Composite flours can be recommended for the resource-poor in low-income countries. Abstract Cassava, rice, and banana flours were used individually to replace wheat flour in cereal-legume-based composite flours. The proximate composition, mineral content, antinutritional effect, mineral molar ratios, and aflatoxin level were investigated. Replacing wheat flour with rice flour significantly (P < 0.05) improved protein, fat, potassium, and phosphorus content in samples. The molar ratios of phytate or oxalate to minerals (calcium and zinc) in all composite flours were lower than the reported critical values, except phytate to iron. However, all samples, except full replacement by rice flour, might not provide adequate zinc bioavailability when the effect of calcium and phytate on zinc absorption was collectively considered. Although all composite flours were contaminated with aflatoxins, only the control composed of wheat flour did not meet the EU regulatory threshold (4.0 µg/kg) for total aflatoxins. The findings showed that nutritional properties and aflatoxin content of composite flours can be improved by replacement with local crops. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dietary patterns for consumers among the elite and middle‐income classes in developing countries are shifting rapidly toward the consumption of more animal‐based products. Although this shift presents opportunities, there are significant market failures affecting their preferences and willingness to pay (WTP). This study used a multistage sample survey of 309 consumers from three different communities of Bukavu, Eastern DRC, to examine the effect of socioeconomic/socio‐demographic characteristics and quality attributes on consumers' purchasing decisions and WTP for meat products. The results suggested that about 53% of the respondents were dissatisfied with meat products in the market due to their high price, low quantity, unhealthiness, and harmful effects. Older female respondents living in urban areas were more likely to purchase meat products. Their WTP was significantly determined by attributes such as color, in‐mouth texture, and availability. Nutrition, harmful effects, and availability of meat products are the important factors that influence purchasing decisions among higher income groups. Addressing these market failures could have an impact on the meat market, improving the nutrition of low‐income consumers and ensuring food safety standards in DRC and other developing countries with similar challenges. Congolese household meat consumption and their preference for meat products were investigated. Healthiness, price, quantity, and harmful effect were important attributes for consumer preference in meat products. Socio‐demographic variables such as living area, gender, and age influence/determine purchasing decisions and willingness to pay. A different household income caused a different purchasing decision and willingness to pay. Availability was the most significant product attribute influencing the willingness to pay. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aflatoxins are noxious secondary metabolites, of certain fungal species, found in food and feed. Contamination of a commodity with aflatoxins is associated with production and storage losses, and subsequently less food availability. Aflatoxins can also pose human health risks and represent a barrier to the development of trade, in both domestic and international markets. In this study, samples of cassava, maize, groundnut, beans, soybean, sorghum and milk, and their processed products were collected from local markets in Burundi and Eastern DRC. In order to investigate the levels of aflatoxin, crop samples were analyzed using a single step lateral flow immunochromatographic assay (Reveal Q+), while enzyme‐linked immune‐sorbent assay (ELISA) was used to analyze aflatoxin‐M1 in milk, yogurt, and cheese samples. The results revealed the presence of aflatoxins in all samples from both countries, with levels ranging from 1.3 to 2,410 μg/kg. Samples collected from Burundi contained relatively higher (p > 0.0.5) levels of aflatoxins. In 51% of all the crops samples, total aflatoxin contamination was above the EU maximum tolerable level of 4 μg/kg. Processed products, particularly from groundnut, maize, and sorghum, had the highest levels of aflatoxin contamination when compared to unprocessed grain. With regard to milk and dairy products, the level of aflatoxin‐M1 ranged from 4.8 to 261.1 ng/kg. Approximately 29% of milk and yogurt samples had aflatoxin‐M1 higher than the EU regulatory limit of 50 ng/kg, whereas 20% of cheese samples were found to be contaminated at levels higher than the maximum limit of 250 ng/kg. These results can serve as the basis for pre‐ and postharvest approaches to reduce aflatoxin contamination in agricultural commodities in Burundi and Eastern DRC in order to reduce health risk, avoid reduced production in livestock, and open up export markets. The occurrence of aflatoxins in crops, milk, and their processed products were assessed. The percentage of aflatoxin positive samples was 100%. The processed samples presented higher aflatoxin contamination when compared to unprocessed samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The efficacy of cellulose paper consolidated with cellulose acetate and mixed adsorbents (bentonite: activated clay: celite = 37.5: 50: 12.5 g with 1 g citric acid/100 g mixed adsorbents) on the physico-chemical properties of oil was evaluated during deep-fat frying of chicken nuggets for 7 days. Cellulose fiber and cellulose acetate were produced from waxy corn husks. Using adsorbents supported on cellulose fiber with or without cellulose acetate resulted in lower poly-unsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), trans -fatty acid, free fatty acid (FFA), peroxide value (PV), and total polar materials (TPMs) compared with results from commercial filter paper (control). The L*, a*, and b* changes of treated oils were better than in control. Limiting the polarity in cellulose acetate might influence TPMs reduction but was more effective in overall quality improvement. The PUFAs, total trans -fatty acid, FFA, PV, and TPMs decreased by 1.8, 7.4, 37.0, 133.3, and 20.5%, respectively when compared with control. Therefore, the use of cellulose paper and cellulose acetate obtained from corn husks was found to significantly lengthen the life cycle of frying oil. Highlights • Cellulose fiber and cellulose acetate were extracted from waxy corn husk. • Frying oil qualities were significantly improved by using mixed adsorbents. • Cellulose acetate showed lower potential in reducing total polar materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Despite efforts to reduce aflatoxin contamination and associated mycotoxin poisoning, the phenomenon continues to pose a public health threat in food and feed commodity chains. In this study, 300 samples of cassava, maize, and groundnut were collected from farmers’ households in Eastern DRC and analyzed for incidence of aflatoxins. In addition, the farmers’ level of knowledge of the causes and consequences of contamination and the measures for prevention were also examined by administering questionnaires to a cross section of 150 farmers. The results showed the presence of aflatoxins in all samples, with levels ranging from 1.6 to 2,270 μg/kg. In 68% of all samples, total aflatoxin contamination was above 4 μg/kg, the maximum tolerable level set by the European Union. Farmers ranked high humidity, improper storage practices, and poor soils as potential causes of aflatoxin contamination and changes in color, smell, and taste, and difficulty in selling crops as consequences. They identified crop management practices as the most effective way to control contamination. The results also revealed that most farmers apply preharvest crop management practices as a means of controlling contamination. More educated households were more knowledgeable about aflatoxins. Female‐headed and married households were less likely to be willing to pay for aflatoxin control. About 28% of farmers claimed to be willing to allocate resources to seed intervention while a smaller proportion agreed to pay for training and information services. The result further suggests that an adoption of pre‐ and postharvest technologies together with awareness creation is still required to reduce aflatoxin contamination in the country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects were studied of two different adsorbent combinations (com I; bentonite: activated carbon: celite = 3:4:1 and com II; bentonite: activated clay: celite = 3:4:1 + 1% citric acid) on the physico-chemical changes of oil used continuously for deep-fat frying of chicken drumsticks. The results showed that the % FFA was reduced by 44.3, PV by 50.2, and FOS reading by 40.1% in com I whereas reductions of 41.6, 44.9, and 32.8%, respectively, were found in com II. The oil treated with com II exhibited a lighter color than with com I. The changes of oil color in com I were L ∗ 30.7, a ∗ 1.7, and b ∗ 31.9%; in com II they were 53.2, 19.1, and 39.5% respectively. The higher the L ∗ observed, the better the oil quality obtained because of the bleaching ability of adsorbents. Therefore, the use of such adsorbents is recommended for poultry processing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aflatoxins are mainly produced by certain strains of Aspergillus flavus , which are found in diverse agricultural crops. In many lower-income countries, aflatoxins pose serious public health issues since the occurrence of these toxins can be considerably common and even extreme. Aflatoxins can negatively affect health of livestock and poultry due to contaminated feeds. Additionally, they significantly limit the development of international trade as a result of strict regulation in high-value markets. Due to their high stability, aflatoxins are not only a problem during cropping, but also during storage, transport, processing, and handling steps. Consequently, innovative evidence-based technologies are urgently required to minimize aflatoxin exposure. Thus far, biological control has been developed as the most innovative potential technology of controlling aflatoxin contamination in crops, which uses competitive exclusion of toxigenic strains by non-toxigenic ones. This technology is commercially applied in groundnuts maize, cottonseed, and pistachios during pre-harvest stages. Some other effective technologies such as irradiation, ozone fumigation, chemical and biological control agents, and improved packaging materials can also minimize post-harvest aflatoxins contamination in agricultural products. However, integrated adoption of these pre- and post-harvest technologies is still required for sustainable solutions to reduce aflatoxins contamination, which enhances food security, alleviates malnutrition, and strengthens economic sustainability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many studies have reported the occurrence of mycotoxin in human foods and animal feeds in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Aflatoxins, ochratoxins, fumonisins, and zearalenone are among the most hazardous mycotoxins produced by fungal species, mainly in the genera Aspergillus , Penicillium , and Fusarium . Due to their high stability, mycotoxins are a cause of concern not only during crop production, but also in storage, transport, processing, and post-processing steps. Mycotoxin contamination is one factor that reduces the competitiveness of agricultural commodities from SSA for export. Moreover, these impurities negatively impact the health of humans and livestock which affects household security, livelihood, productivity, and income and leads to significant costs and economic losses for the producing countries. Limited knowledge or awareness of most actors along the food and feed chain is considered to be one of the major problems delaying effective counter measures. In the last decades, various accurate and sensitive analytical methods have been developed to detect levels of mycotoxins on food and feed samples such as HPLC, LC-MS, immuno-based assays, and optical methods. Nevertheless, immuno-based techniques are still the most useful for identifying mycotoxins in the field and farm levels as they can be conducted onsite. Although tolerable limits for mycotoxins have been established in many SSA countries, most contamination still exceeds maximum thresholds and these toxins continue to pose considerable risk to public health. To address mycotoxin problems in SSA, therefore, possible intervention strategies should provide support for capacity building and supply chain coordination, increased public awareness, and knowledge through education and extension, as well as improved incentives for management of respective fungal species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to assess the feasibility of a multi-sensor approach for predicting shrinkage of papaya during drying using computer vision methods in combination with optical scattering analysis of light at 650 nm. The top-side area and total surface area derived from computer vision were analyzed, while the illuminated area and light intensity from optical scattering images were used to interpret photon migration in the fruit tissue. The relationship between moisture content and shrinkage in terms of volume and area reduction during drying was satisfactorily explained by a linear model. The results demonstrated that the prediction of papaya shrinkage during drying from top and total surface areas of the sample was possible, but can potentially be improved. Multivariate correlations of computer vision parameters and optical scattering properties showed the enhanced performance for shrinkage prediction. This multi-sensor approach could possibly be applied as a fast, accurate and non-invasive technique for in-line quality control to monitor shrinkage in the production of dried fruits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Papaya has been identified as a valuable source of nutrients and antioxidants, which are beneficial for human health. To preserve the nutritional properties after drying, appropriate storage specifications should be considered. This study aimed to investigate the quality and stability of air-dried papaya in terms of quality dynamics and behavior of bio-active compounds during storage for up to 9 months in two packaging materials: aluminum laminated polyethylene and polyamide/polyethylene. Samples with moisture content (MC) of 0.1328 g g −1 and water activity ( a w ) of 0.5 were stored at 30 °C and relative humidity (RH) of 40–50%. The MC, a w , degree of browning (DB) and 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) content were found to notably increase as storage progressed. On the contrary, there was a significant decrease in antioxidant capacity (DPPH, FRAP and ABTS), total phenolic (TP) and ascorbic acid (AA) contents. Packaging in aluminum laminated polyethylene under ambient conditions was found to better preserve bio-active compounds and retard increases in MC, a w and DB, when compared to polyamide/polyethylene. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The impact of airflow direction, namely through-flow and over-flow modes, on drying kinetics of osmotically-pretreated papayas was investigated in a convective-type dryer under varied conditions (temperature, humidity and velocity). The Newton model was used to describe thin-layer drying characteristics and the dependence of drying air parameters on the drying constant ( k ) was expressed by an Arrhenius-type relationship. It was found that a more uniform airflow distribution in the through-flow chamber resulted in higher product temperature as well as faster drying rate, especially during the initial stage of drying. For both airflow modes, drying kinetics was most significantly influenced by temperature and velocity of the air, whereas the specific humidity had less effect on the drying rate. The value of k increased in parallel with temperature and velocity of the drying air, whereas it was reduced by increasing humidity. A model incorporating the conditions of drying air was developed for each airflow mode, which can help with optimization of practical drying operations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Moisture sorption dynamics and isotherms of fresh, osmotically-pretreated and dried papayas at temperatures of 30, 50 and 70 °C and water activity in the range of 0.113–0.907 were investigated. Chemical composition as well as volume, density, porosity and microstructure of the fruits were analysed. Results showed that the time required to reach equilibrium moisture content was mainly dependent on temperature, water activity level and processing method. The difference in moisture sorption characteristics between fresh, pretreated and dried papayas was attributed to (i) changes in the contents of sugars after osmotic dehydration and (ii) structural modifications caused by drying, which were corroborated by examination of micrographs. The differences in sorption were also proven by the selected isotherm models. The modified Halsey equation described the sorption behaviour of the pretreated and dried papayas, whereas the untreated, fresh samples were better predicted by the modified Oswin equation. Further indication that osmotic pretreatment and drying influenced the interaction between the sorption sites and water molecules was imparted by the values of isosteric heat of sorption ( Q st ) for fresh and dried papayas at different temperatures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to investigate the effect of air drying parameters such as temperature, specific humidity and velocity, on non-enzymatic browning behaviour and on bio-active compounds and antioxidant properties of osmotically pretreated papayas. Convection drying was conducted under through-flow mode at four temperatures (50, 60, 70, 80 °C), three air velocities (0.2, 0.5, 0.7 m/s) and two specific humidity levels (10, 25 g/kg dry air). Higher drying temperatures resulted in a significant decrease in moisture content and polyphenol oxidase activity, while degree of browning and 5-hydroxymethylfurfural increased. The antioxidant activity and total phenolic compounds increased with temperature and as well with decreasing air velocity. In contrast, specific humidity did not have a major effect on quality attributes of dried samples, except for carotenoid contents. This study has shown that drying parameters can decompose and/or enhance carotenoids contents in dried papayas. To obtain the product with highest level of bio-active compounds and lowest possible melanoid formation, treatment with temperature of 70 °C, specific humidity of 10 g/kg dry air and velocity of 0.2 m/s proved to be the most suitable option. Based on these results, optimization of the process, particularly drying temperature, should be considered with respect to preserving product colour and biochemical properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Non-invasive, sensor-based technologies are increasingly considered as preferred methods for evaluating quality attributes of agricultural products. This study investigated the feasibility of a laser light backscattering analysis at three wavelengths (532, 650, 780 nm) for predicting moisture content (MC), shrinkage (S), lightness (L*), chroma (C*) and hue (h*) changes of papaya during drying. Convective hot air drying was conducted at four temperatures (50, 60, 70, 80 °C), during which time the product was sampled and subjected to non-destructive optical analysis as well as reference measurements. From laser images, the illuminated area (A I ) and light intensity (I L ) were used to assess the backscattering profiles that represent photon migration in the fruit tissue. As expected, drying temperatures significantly affected the quality attributes of dehydrated papayas. Increasing drying temperature resulted in a decrease in MC, L*, and C* values, whereas h* and S values were increased. The results also revealed that each backscattering factor obtained can potentially be used to describe each quality change, except for C* value. In addition, multivariate correlations of measured A I and I L parameters at 650 nm wavelength were found to precisely yield the best fit for MC, L*, and h* predictions (R 2 > 0.92). Therefore, the study concludes that the use of laser backscattering methods provides a useful tool for quality control as a rapid, consistent, non-intrusive and objective method for in-line measurement of product quality in fruit drying processes. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

This study explored the effects of calcium chloride ( Ca Cl2) and calcium lactate ( Ca- L) pretreatments prior to osmotic dehydration on physicochemical characteristics and consumer acceptance of dried papaya. Three different calcium concentrations [0.5, 1.5 and 2.5% (w/v)] were applied to samples before they were soaked in a 30 °Brix sucrose solution and subsequently dried at 70 °C. The results showed that the dried samples treated with calcium exhibited significantly lower moisture content, water activity, apparent density and shrinkage, while volume was higher when compared to the control. Calcium applications did not obviously influence sugar content of samples and maintained the quality of dried papaya in terms of colour and textural characteristics. Calcium chloride at 2.5% (w/v) was found to particularly impart undesirable bitterness to the dried papaya. In contrast, using 2.5% (w/v) Ca- L provided the best acceptance scores. Thus, the use of Ca- L could be an alternative to Ca Cl2 in the pretreatment of fruits prior to drying as it offers improved quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this research was to study the effect of osmotic pretreatment with combined anti-browning agents (acid, glycerol and/or trehalose) on the colour characteristics of dried litchi after drying and during 5 months of storage compared to samples without pretreatment. The pretreated samples showed good inhibition of polyphenol oxidase activity when compared with the control, while the total phenolic contents in the dried products were not reduced. The results demonstrated that water activity, lightness difference, chroma, degree of browning (DB), and 5-hydroxymethylfurfural values of all pretreated samples increased, while hue angle decreased with storage time. Samples pretreated with glycerol showed the best potential for browning retardation, followed by glycerol combined with trehalose, and trehalose, respectively. In addition, the colour parameters were used to calculate the luminescence values, representing the data in grey scale, which were correlated with a non-enzymatic browning index. The results showed grey value could be adequately used to represent the DB of dried litchi with r2 value of 0.92. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• pVACs in 16 plantain cultivars were investigated. • The highest concentration of carotenoids was found in ripe pulp of all cultivars. • pVACs were affected by ripening stage, cultivar, bunch type, location, and interaction between factors. • Consumption of plantain could meet the daily estimated vitamin A. • Plantains can be recommended for reducing VAD in low-income countries. In this study, the effect of ripening stage (R), cultivar (C), bunch type (T), and location (L) on the variability of provitamin A carotenoids (pVACs) in 16 plantain cultivars grown in Cameroon and Gabon was investigated. For the sixteen plantain cultivars, fruits were collected at stages 1 (unripe), 5 (ripe), and 7 (overripe) from three different bunch types (French, False Horn, and True Horn) across 13 locations in Cameroon and Gabon. For all cultivars, the highest concentration of carotenoids was found in ripe pulp (p < 0.05). For bunch type, a higher level of pVACs was observed in the French type compared with the False Horn and True Horn types at all ripening stages. In addition, the concentration of pVACs at each ripening stage varied greatly across locations. In both countries, the interaction between the four factors, particularly between R × C, R × T, R × L, R × C × L, and R × T × L, contributed significantly (p < 0.05) to the variability of pVACs in plantain. Daily consumption of 100 g of ripe plantain could meet 36.2–101.7 % of the dietary reference intakes (DRIs) for children 1–5 years old, 20.7–58.1 % for adult women, and 16.1–45.2 % for adult men. These findings can serve as a guide to reducing vitamin A deficiency (VAD) in Africa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solar drying is one of the most efficient and cost-effective, renewable, and sustainable technologies to conserve agricultural products in Asian and sub-Saharan African (SSA) countries. This review paper presents the different types of solar dryers that are widely used in Africa and Asia. In addition, the pre-eminent effects of their use on product quality, as well as their economic, environmental, and social impacts, are highlighted. Since financial, external, and structural factors play a key role in the adoption and scaling of solar dryers, this paper also discusses the impact of these factors on the effectiveness of solar drying technologies in selected Asian and SSA countries. Image 1 • An application of solar dryers in Asian and SSA countries is reviewed. • Solar dryers of different types or designs are available, depending on the respective requirements. • Solar drying has positive impacts on quality as well as economic, environmental, and social aspects. • Financial and technical efforts are required to promote an adoption of solar dryers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The physico-chemical and microstructural properties of fried rice crackers were studied as a function of spray-frying. Fried rice crackers were produced using the spray- and deep-frying techniques and their moisture content, oil uptake, color, texture (i.e., hardness, expansion ratio, and bulk density), and microstructure were compared. For spray-frying, the heat distribution inside the frying chamber, the effects of spraying rate of oil (0.3, 0.5, and 0.7 L/s), and spinning speed of the frying basket (60, 80, and 100 rpm) were evaluated. Although the average temperature varied at each depth of the fryer, it did not influence overall heat distribution. Results also revealed that higher spraying rate and spinning speed resulted in higher moisture loss, higher oil uptake, darker color, and less crispiness. Compared with deep-frying, the oil uptake of spray-fried samples was lower by 45.4%. The color of the spray-fried crackers was better than that of the deep-fried samples. SEM micrographs showed that the cellular structure and integrity of the cell wall of deep-fried rice crackers were more deformed. They also had larger pore diameter and deeper and larger cavities, leading to higher oil content and crispier texture than spray-fried samples. Rice crackers fried using a spraying rate of 0.7 L/s and spinning speed of 100 rpm resulted in the most desirable physico-chemical qualities. Although the texture properties of the resulting rice crackers could still be improved, spray-frying could be an alternative technique in producing high-quality rice crackers with very low oil content. • Spray-frying results in lower oil uptake in rice crackers than deep-frying. • Spray-frying improves the color of fried rice crackers. • Spray-fried samples had less expansion ratio compared to deep-fried samples. • The oil spraying rate and spinning speed affect the quality of products. • The cellular structure and integrity of cell walls were more damaged in deep-fried rice crackers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The impact of far‐infrared and conventional heaters on heat distribution and physicochemical qualities of chicken nuggets and frying medium were investigated. For chicken nuggets, moisture content, fat content, color (L*, a*, and b*), and texture characteristics were determined, while free fatty acid (FFA), peroxide value (PV), total polar materials (TPMs), and color were used to measure the quality of frying oil. A higher heating rate and more uniform heat distribution were observed in the far‐infrared frying. Physicochemical qualities of chicken nugget were not significantly influenced by type of heater, except the fat content in the crust was significantly higher (p < 0.05) in far‐infrared fried samples. The FFA, TPM, and color values of frying oil were better in far‐infrared frying. Far‐infrared frying can be used for about 56 and 115 more cycles than conventional frying when using FFA of 0.8% and TPM of 25%, respectively as an indicator to discard the oil. Practical application: These results present a novel technology for using far‐infrared radiation in deep‐fat frying process. The far‐infrared radiation provides a way of uniform heating of food. In addition, it therefore shortens frying time, saves energy, and prolong the shelf life of frying medium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to investigate the influence of various pre‐treatments on the physicochemical and sensory characteristics of vacuum‐fried (VF) banana chips (120°C, 41.3 kPa) and consequently compare them to atmospheric‐fried (AF) banana chips (170°C). Pre‐treatments comprised of osmotic dehydration with sucrose solution (ODSu), osmotic dehydration with salt solution (ODSa), microwave heating (MV), and hot air‐drying (HD). The moisture content, oil content, L*, b*, and index of firmness of all pre‐treated banana chips were significantly decreased, whereas values for a*, volume shrinkage, and hardness were increased when compared to those without pre‐treatment. The ODSu sample provided the lowest oil content. The highest volume shrinkage was obtained from HD and MV treatments. Sensory evaluation revealed that VF chips exhibited the highest scores in color, crispiness, and oiliness when compared to AF chips. ODSu and ODSa samples positively affected the color, crispiness, and taste properties. Practical applications: Although there have been several techniques aimed at reducing the oil content of chips, the particular method investigated in the current work, pre‐treatment before VF, has not so far been investigated. The application of pre‐treatment processes prior vacuum or atmospheric frying in this study could reduce oil absorption and increase the score in sensory properties of fried banana chips. This process could be applied in other fried products in commercial scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In response to growing food demand, edible insects are perceived as an opportunity to alleviate food insecurity. With its wide edible insects' biodiversity, the Democratic Republic of Congo is one of Africa's most critical entomophagous. This study aimed at giving a first insight on inventory showing diversity, perception, consumption, availability, host plants, harvesting techniques and processing techniques of edible insects in South-Kivu, DRC. It recorded twenty-three edible insects belonging to nine families and five orders, some of which are consumed in the larval, adult, egg and pupa stages. Rhyncophorus phoenicis, Alphitobius diaperinus, Macrotermes subhyalinus and Acheta domesticus were the most preferred edible insects in Fizi Territory, Ruspolia differens and Apis mellifera larvae in Kabare Territory, Imbrasia oyemensis, Imbrasia epimethea, Rhynchophorus ferrugineus and Rhyncophorus phoenicis in Mwenga Territory, Ruspolia differens, Macrotermes subhyalinus, Gryllotalpa africana, Nsike, Nomadacris septemfasciata and A. mellifera larvae in Walungu Territory. Ruspolia differens, I. oyemensis, A. mellifera larvae, G. africana and Nsike, were preferred for their taste. Acheta domesticus, A. diaperinus and A. mellifera larvae were abundant throughout the year, while others were only available for 9 months or less per year. Numerous plants have been recorded as their hosts, including plants used for food and income. Harvesting strategies and period, processing methods and preservation techniques depend on insect species, local knowledge and practices. These findings suggest similar and thorough studies on entomophagy across the country while encouraging the rearing of edible insects to address their existing high demand and environmental concerns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The litchi is a fruit essential for the economies of several Southeast Asian countries, but markets regularly reject it, mainly due to spoilage. Drying extends the shelf-life of litchis, but in Thailand the optimal characteristics of the dried product have not yet been determined. The purpose of this study was to determine the optimum physicochemical properties of dried litchis - those suitable for Thai consumers. The dried fruits were submitted to physicochemical measurement and consumer evaluation, with datasets subsequently integrated using circular ideal-point regression analysis. Response surface methodology was then used to predict the optimum physicochemical properties of the fruits. It was found that Thai consumer preferences with regard to dried litchis are for the fruits to be of golden-yellow color (L* ranging around 54; H ranging around 79°), to have a soft flesh (SMF ranging between 13 and 14 kN/100 g) and to have a sweet taste (TSS:TA ranging between 25 and 28). The results may be used in the future to prescribe pretreatments and drying conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pesticides have been frequently used in agricultural fields. Due to the expeditious utilization of pesticides, their excessive usage has negative impacts on the natural environment and human health. This review discusses the successful implications of nanotechnology-based photocatalysis for the removal of environmental pesticide contaminants. Notably, various nanomaterials, including TiO 2 , ZnO, Fe 2 O 3 , nanoscale zero-valent iron, nanocomposite-based materials, have been proposed and have played a progressively essential role in wastewater treatment. In addition, a detailed review of the crucial reaction condition factors, including water matrix, pH, light source, temperature, flow rate (retention time), initial concentration of pesticides, a dosage of photocatalyst, and radical scavengers, is also highlighted. Additionally, the degradation pathway of pesticide mineralization is also elucidated. Finally, the challenges of technologies and the future of nanotechnology-based photocatalysis toward the photo-degradation of pesticides are thoroughly discussed. It is expected that those innovative extraordinary photocatalysts will significantly enhance the performance of pesticides degradation in the coming years. • Nanotechnology-based photocatalysis could remove environmental pesticide contaminants. • Studies elucidate the degradation pathway of pesticide mineralization. • Studies discuss challenges of nanotechnology toward the degradation of pesticides. • Innovative extraordinary photocatalysts could significantly enhance the pesticides degradation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]