scholarly journals The Effects of Commercial Freezing on Vitamin Concentrations in Spinach (Spinacia oleracea)

2021 ◽  
Vol 15 (1) ◽  
pp. 9
Author(s):  
Konrad Samsel ◽  
Abizar Meghani

Commercial food processing has had a significant impact on reducing food spoilage and increasing accessibility to nutrient-dense vegetables. The commercial freezing process, in particular, has given producers the ability to store vegetables with minimized risk of microbial and enzymatic spoilage. Despite the effectiveness of freezing as a preservation method, there is evidence that pre-freezing procedures and prolonged storage can reduce the concentration of vitamins present within certain vegetables. Spinach, one of the most widely produced and consumed vegetables, is particularly susceptible to nutrient loss during the commercial freezing process due to its large surface area and high mineral content. This review summarizes the known effects of the freezing process on hydrophilic and lipophilic vitamins including vitamin C, thiamin, riboflavin, β-carotene, and α-tocopherol. There are two key mechanisms that lead to decreased vitamin concentrations, with the first being attributed to pre-freezing processes including washing and blanching which favours the leaching of hydrophilic vitamins. The second mechanism of vitamin loss is attributed to residual enzymatic activity during storage, where the degree of residual activity can be partially attributed to differences in blanching protocols and freezing practices. Understanding the mechanisms and extent of vitamin loss that the commercial freezing process imparts on leafy green vegetables can help inform future research on improved food processing methods that minimize nutrient loss. Implementing procedures that maintain nutrient retention in frozen vegetables has the potential to assist individuals in achieving their recommended daily intakes of micronutrients.

2020 ◽  
Vol 8 (12) ◽  
pp. 882-887
Author(s):  
Chaitali Bose ◽  

Moringa oleifera commonly known as drumstick tree or horseradish tree is widely distributed in India and other subtropical and tropical parts of the world. Besides its conventional culinary uses, Moringa has profound contribution to herbal medicine, agricultural and livestock development, water purification, bio-fuel production and so on. Being one of the richest sources of different macro and micro nutrients, antioxidants and other bioactive compounds, this miracle tree recently has gained popularity in food processing industry with the aim to curb the sprawling malnutrition. In some countries like African countries, either fresh or dried Moringa leaf, seed and flower powder are being used to fortify different foods. Improved texture, sensory and nutritional quality and extended shelf life of the target products have been making this tree important for food industry. So the aim of this review is to reveal the present application of Moringa as food fortificant in food processing industries in different countries, factors those restrain its further applicability and also to focus on the need of future research in this regard.


2009 ◽  
Vol 15 (3) ◽  
pp. 259-265 ◽  
Author(s):  
Laila Khandaker ◽  
Md. Babar Ali ◽  
Shinya Oba

Seven cultivars of red amaranth (Amaranthus tricolor L.) with different leaf color were evaluated for their betacyanin and chlorophyll content at two stages of development. The effects of food processing factors such as thermal treatment, light, H2O 2, and prolonged storage on betacyanin extracts were also examined. Betacyanin concentrations were highly correlated with the leaf color index and the cultivars (Rocto joba, BARI-1, and Altopati) with better color index tended to be associated with high betacyanin. Within a shoot canopy, the apical leaves accumulated higher betacyanin than those of middle and basal leaves. While the highest concentrations of chlorophyll were found in BARI-1, however Red queen had the lowest concentrations. Color index of leaves and betacyanin concentrations were increased and chlorophyll concentrations were decreased with the plant age, which indicate that change of these colorant pigment concentrations with plant age enhance the red leaf formation in red amaranth. Low temperature, darkness, and free or low oxidants maintained the stability of betacyanin concentrations of red amaranth; prolonged storage degraded the betacyanin. Variable factors such as the cultivar of red amaranth, its degree of maturity, and the food processing factors have been shown to have a quantitatively important influence on betacyanin yields and preservation.


2013 ◽  
Vol 2013 ◽  
pp. 1-5 ◽  
Author(s):  
Min-Hui Wu ◽  
Lin Zhu ◽  
Zhen-Zhen Zhou ◽  
Yu-Qing Zhang

Bombyx mori silk fibroin is a macromolecular biopolymer with remarkable biocompatibility. It was degummed and subjected to a series of treatments, including dissolution and dialysis, to yield an aqueous solution of silk fibroin, which was introduced rapidly into excess acetone to produce crystalline silk fibroin nanoparticles (SFNs), which were conjugated covalently with naringinase using glutaraldehyde as the cross-linking reagent. The SFN naringinases are easily recovered by centrifugation and can be used repeatedly. Naringinase is a bienzyme consisting of α-L-rhamnosidase and flavonoid-β-glucosidase. The enzyme activity and its kinetics were similar to those of the native form, and the optimum reactive temperature for both is 55°C. In our study, centrifugation allowed the separation of enzyme and substrate; after eight cycles the SFN naringinases retained >70% residual activity. The highly efficient processing technology and the use of SFN as a novel vector for a bienzyme have great potential for research and the development of food processing such as the debittering of naringin-containing juices.


2014 ◽  
Vol 26 (2) ◽  
pp. 79-90 ◽  
Author(s):  
Elazar Fallik ◽  
Zoran Ilic

ABSTRACT Grafting of vegetable seedlings is a unique horticultural technology, practised for more than 50 years, to overcome problems associated with intensive cultivation on limited arable land. Grafting vegetables can protect against soil-borne diseases and nematodes, against abiotic stresses such as high/low temperatures, salinity, drought or excessive soil-water content, and against elevated soil concentrations of heavy metals and organic pollutants. In addition, the grafted plant takes up water and nutrients from the soil more efficiently and retains its vitality for longer periods during the growing season. However, rootstock/scion combinations may affect and alter the final size, yield, and quality of fruits from grafted plants, both immediately postharvest and during prolonged storage. These alterations may be attributed in part to differing production environments and methods, the type of rootstock/scion combinations used, and harvest date. The aim of this paper is to review the most recent literature on the effects of grafting on postharvest quality of fruits/vegetables: tomato, watermelon, melon, eggplant, cucumber and pepper. The review will conclude by identifying several prospects for future research aimed at improving the quality of grafted fruit/vegetable products.


2021 ◽  
Vol 940 (1) ◽  
pp. 012016
Author(s):  
S Ishmah ◽  
D Metusala ◽  
Nisyawati ◽  
J Supriatna

Abstract The genus Grammatophyllum (Orchidaceae) has two sections with a very different habitus. The Grammatophyllum from section “Grammatophyllum” has a long cylindrical pseudobulb with linear leaves, while the Grammatophyllum section “Gabertia” has a shorter pseudobulb with a larger diameter and broader lanceolate shaped leaves. The study is aimed to compare the anatomical characters of leaf and root between G. speciosum (representation of “Pattonia” section) and G. scriptum (representation of “Gabertia” section). Leaf and root sections were obtained using the mini-microtome with liquid preservation method in 10 replications. Data were analyzed statistically using a t-test at 5% significance. The results showed significant differences between the two species in the leaf’s primary vascular bundle area, velamen area, number of velamen layers, root’s cortex area, and stele area. Future research with more organs and parameters being explored and experimental research regarding its anatomical response to drought is suggested.


2018 ◽  
Vol 2 ◽  
pp. 57 ◽  
Author(s):  
Abhinendra Kumar ◽  
Sharayu Mhatre ◽  
Sheela Godbole ◽  
Prabhat Jha ◽  
Rajesh Dikshit

Background: Limited infrastructure is available to collect, store and transport venous blood in field epidemiological studies. Dried blood spot (DBS) is a robust potential alternative sample source for epidemiological studies & bio banking. A stable source of genomic DNA (gDNA) is required for long term storage in bio bank for its downstream applications. Our objective is to optimize the methods of gDNA extraction from stored DBS and with the aim of revealing its utility in large scale epidemiological studies.  Methods: The purpose of this study was to extract the maximum amount of gDNA from DBS on Whatman 903 protein saver card. gDNA was extracted through column  (Qiagen) & magnetic bead based (Invitrogen) methods. Quantification of extracted gDNA was performed with a spectrophotometer, fluorometer, and integrity analyzed by agarose gel electrophoresis.  Result: Large variation was observed in quantity & purity (260/280 ratio, 1.8-2.9) of the extracted gDNA. The intact gDNA bands on the electrophoresis gel reflect the robustness of DBS for gDNA even after prolonged storage time. The extracted gDNA amount 2.16 – 24 ng/µl is sufficient for its PCR based downstream application, but unfortunately it can’t be used for whole genome sequencing or genotyping from extracted gDNA. Sequencing or genotyping can be achieved by after increasing template copy number through whole genome amplification of extracted gDNA. The obtained results create a base for future research to develop high-throughput research and extraction methods from blood samples. Conclusion: The above results reveal, DBS can be utilized as a potential and robust sample source for bio banking in field epidemiological studies.


Author(s):  
Balaganesh Pandiyan ◽  
Vasudevan Mangottiri ◽  
Natarajan Narayanan

Abstract:: Biochar-Amended Composting (BAC) plays an integral role in sustainable agricultural practices due to its multiple benefits in crop production, soil nutrient retention, carbon sequestration and environmental protection. Although accepted as a traditional method, there is lack of understanding in defining its suitability and efficiency on various base-materials and conditions. Being two carbon-based entities with plentiful nutrients and surface activity, biochar and compost find application in agricultural fields together or separately for improving the soil properties and crop productivity. Recent studies focus on defining the optimum conditions for their preparation, mixing, application and monitoring under various feed, soil, crop and climatic conditions. However, due to the complexity and specificity of the system, many influencing aspects of their interaction are yet unknown in detail. In this review, we analyze the recent advancements in the selection and preparation of new materials for BAC, and explain the mechanisms of Organic Matter (OM) degradation/sequestration happening in soil based on possible chemical/morphological transformations of organic carbon. Most of the performance results are in agreement with the previous records, but a few contradictions observed under diverse experimental conditions. In general, BAC enhanced the mineralization of carbon and sequestration of heavy metals, and stabilized labile fraction of OM due to the development of carbonyl, phenolic and aromatic functional groups on its surface. In addition, aging of biochar resulted in stable N-C=O and amino groups for the adsorption of nitrogen compounds thus decreasing the potential greenhouse gas emissions. The study further identifies potential future research gaps in this area.


2019 ◽  
Vol 47 (1) ◽  
pp. 101-110 ◽  
Author(s):  
Rachel Bleiweiss-Sande ◽  
Jeanne Goldberg ◽  
E. Whitney Evans ◽  
Kenneth Chui ◽  
Jennifer Sacheck

Background. Parent-aimed guidance on the topic of processed foods may help limit highly processed foods in children’s diets, but little is known about parent understanding and perceptions of these products. Aims. To determine how parent perceptions of processing align with processing classification systems used in research, and to identify opportunities for future research in communicating information about processed foods. Method. Six focus groups with lower income, racial/ethnic minority and immigrant parents of fourth to sixth graders ( n = 37) were conducted. Parents were asked to discuss their views on terminology related to food processing, classification of foods according to their processing level, the healthfulness of select foods, and criteria for choosing snacks for their children. Focus groups were guided by a thematic approach. NVivo 12 (QSR International) was used to facilitate analyses. Results. Thirty mothers and seven fathers participated. Two thirds (62%) were foreign-born; 38% identified as Hispanic. The term “processing” lacked consistent meaning among parents, with variation by immigrant status. Participants associated highly processed foods with convenience, packaging, and added ingredients; “less-processed” versions of foods (e.g., fresh; homemade) were perceived as healthier. Children’s preferences were the main criteria for choosing snacks. Foreign-born parents were more likely to associate processed foods with positive characteristics (e.g., properly cooked). Conclusion. The concept of food processing is an area of misconception among parents, providing an opportunity for education that may be extended to larger audiences. A universally accepted definition of food classification by processing level is necessary to effectively communicate the link between processing and healthfulness.


1996 ◽  
Vol 47 (2) ◽  
pp. 227 ◽  
Author(s):  
M Morrison ◽  
RI Mackie

This review presents an outline of our current understanding of ruminal nitrogen metabolism from three perspectives: proteolytic microorganisms and their enzymes, intraruminal recycling of microbial protein, and enzymes of ammonia assimilation. Some of the pending advances and future research opportunities in these areas are also discussed. The 'smugglin' concept appears to offer the potential to inhibit peptide-utilizing bacteria selectively in the rumen, as demonstrated by initial studies with Prevotella ruminicola. The relative contributions of protozoa-, bacteriophage-, and self-mediated lysis of bacteria to intraruminal recycling of microbial protein are not yet quantified, and further efforts to understand the biology and dynamics of ruminal bacteriophage and protozoa populations are warranted. In Ruminococcus flavefaciens and Prevotella ruminicola, glutamate dehydrogenase (GDH) appears to be the predominant route of ammonia assimilation irrespective of ammonia concentration, and peptides modulate GDH activity in P. ruminicola. The physiological basis behind the difference between optimal ammonia concentrations for ruminal fibre digestion and microbial protein synthesis remains unclear. Molecular biology techniques extend beyond their application in pursuit of the 'superbug' concept, by offering new and exciting opportunities to understand better microbial physiology, diversity, and ecology. Fundamental research in these areas must be continued if further advances in feed utilization and nutrient retention are to be realized.


2021 ◽  
Vol 11 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Wencke Krings ◽  
Charlotte Neumann ◽  
Marco T. Neiber ◽  
Alexander Kovalev ◽  
Stanislav N. Gorb

AbstractThe forces exerted by the animal’s food processing structures can be important parameters when studying trophic specializations to specific food spectra. Even though molluscs represent the second largest animal phylum, exhibiting an incredible biodiversity accompanied by the establishment of distinct ecological niches including the foraging on a variety of ingesta types, only few studies focused on the biomechanical performance of their feeding organs. To lay a keystone for future research in this direction, we investigated the in vivo forces exerted by the molluscan food gathering and processing structure, the radula, for five stylommatophoran species (Gastropoda). The chosen species and individuals have a similar radular morphology and motion, but as they represent different body mass classes, we were enabled to relate the forces to body mass. Radular forces were measured along two axes using force transducers which allowed us to correlate forces with the distinct phases of radular motion. A radular force quotient, AFQ = mean Absolute Force/bodymass0.67, of 4.3 could be determined which can be used further for the prediction of forces generated in Gastropoda. Additionally, some specimens were dissected and the radular musculature mass as well as the radular mass and dimensions were documented. Our results depict the positive correlation between body mass, radular musculature mass, and exerted force. Additionally, it was clearly observed that the radular motion phases, exerting the highest forces during feeding, changed with regard to the ingesta size: all smaller gastropods rather approached the food by a horizontal, sawing-like radular motion leading to the consumption of rather small food particles, whereas larger gastropods rather pulled the ingesta in vertical direction by radula and jaw resulting in the tearing of larger pieces.


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