Factors associated with the consumption of fruits and vegetables in latin american university students

Objective: Explore the association between compliance with recommended consumption (5-a-day) of fruits and vegetables (F&V) with sociodemographic factors of university students of Latin America. Subjects: We conducted an analytical cross-sectional study in which 4,880 university students from 10 Latin American countries completed a self-administered online survey. Methods: F&V consumption and other sociodemographic variables were measured according to a validated survey. Body mass index was self-reported. Ordinal logistic regression models were applied. Results: Regarding the consumption of F&V, 4.7% of men complied with the recommendation, while in women this value reached 7.7%. In the adjusted model, having a normal weight (OR= 0.59; 95% CI 0.44-0.7; p=<0.001), being female (OR= 0.67; 95% CI 0.49-0.89; p=<0.01), being enrolled in a health-related degree program (OR= 0,60; IC95% 0,45-0,78; p<0.001), having professional parents (OR= 0.75; 95% CI 0.60-0.95; p=<0.05) and practicing physical activity (OR= 0.34; 95% CI 0.27-0.42; p=<0.001) were associated with compliance to F&V consumption recommendations. In the analysis by country, physical activity was the variable most associated with F&V consumption. Conclusion: We observed a low consumption of F&V in university students. The variables associated with compliance to the F&V recommendation were being normal weight, female, being enrolled in a health-related degree program, having professional parents, and practicing physical activity, the latter being the most important variable.

Objetivo: Explorar la asociación de la frecuencia de cumplimiento de las recomendaciones de consumo (5 al día) de frutas y verduras (F&V) con factores sociodemográficos de estudiantes universitarios de América Latina. Metodología: Se realizó un estudio transversal analítico con 4.880 estudiantes universitarios de 10 países de América Latina, quienes completaron una encuesta en línea autoadministrada. Se midió el consumo de F&V y otras variables sociodemográficas según una encuesta previamente validada. El índice de masa corporal fue autoinformado. Se aplicaron modelos de regresión logística ordinal. Resultados: En cuanto al consumo de F&V, en los hombres el 4,7% cumple con la recomendación, mientras que en las mujeres este valor alcanza el 7,7%. En el modelo más ajustado, presentar normopeso (OR= 0,59; IC 95% 0,44-0,7; p=<0,001), ser mujer (OR= 0,67; IC 95% 0,49-0,89; p=<0,01), estar matriculado en carrera relacionada con la salud (OR= 0,60; IC95% 0,45-0,78; p<0,001), tener padres profesionales (OR= 0,75; IC 95% 0,60-0,95; p=<0,05) y realizar actividad física (OR= 0,34; IC 95% 0,27-0,42; p=<0,001) fueron las variables asociadas al cumplimiento del consumo de F&V. En el análisis por país, la actividad física fue la variable más asociada al consumo de F&V. Conclusión: Se observa un bajo consumo de F&V en estudiantes universitarios, y entre las variables asociadas al cumplimiento de la recomendación de F&V se encuentran estar normopeso, sexo femenino, estar cursando una carrera relacionada con la salud, tener los padres y la práctica de actividad física, siendo esta última la variable más importante.

Minerals Composition of Solanum aethiopicum L. and Amaranthus hybridus L. Leaves from Burkina Faso

Aim: Malnutrition remains a public health problem in children aged under five years in Burkina Faso. Research to find indigenous vegetables with high content of minerals can contribute to fight against children malnutrition. The aim of this study was to assess minerals composition of Solanum aethiopicum L. and Amaranthus hybridus L. leaves grown in Burkina Faso. Methodes: The leaves have been collected in three markets of Ouagadougou. For the two plants, the dry leaves have been analysed for the following minerals content: Potassium (K), Calcium (Ca), Magnesium (Mg), Sodium (Na), Phosphor (P), Iron (Fe) and Zinc (Zn). The analyses have been done using the atomic absorption spectrophotometer and flame photometer methodes. Results: The results showed high mean concentration in K, Ca and Mg in the leaves of the two plants. For Solanum aethiopicum leaves, the concentration in K, Ca and Mg was respectively 3064; 1048 and 666 mg/100 g. The trace elements content were also high: Fe (12 mg/100 g) and Zn (20 mg/100 g). For Amaranthus hybridus leaves, the concentration in K, Ca and Mg was respectively 3573; 606 and 475 mg/100 g. The leaves of Solanum aethiopicum had the highest content of following minerals: Ca, Mg, Na, P, Fe and Zn compared to Amaranthus hybridus leaves. Conclusion: This study showed that both plants are good sources of important minerals. They are essential to be included in the diet of children to promote growth and contribute to fight against malnutrition.

Intake of Fruits and Vegetables as Self Prescribed Weight Reducing and DASH Diets among Obese-Hypertensive Individuals Attending Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital Irrua, Edo State, Nigeria

Background: Five servings of fruits and vegetables each day, along with relatively unprocessed whole grains or legumes with each meal, are essential for reducing the risk of obesity, hypertension and other related non communicable diseases. While being low or relatively low in calories, fruits and vegetables include a large amount of dietary fiber and a range of micronutrients, antioxidants and phytochemicals which are all essential for health. Aims: To investigate the intake of fruits and vegetables as self prescribed weight reducing and DASH (Dietary Approach to Stop Hypertension) diets among obese - hypertensive individuals attending Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital Irrua, Edo State. Methods: A descriptive cross sectional study design was used with a sample size of 440 obese hypertensive individuals (with body mass index of = or > 30Kg/m2 and blood pressure of = or > 140/90mmHg). Questionnaires, personal interviews and anthropometric measurements were used to collect data using purposive sampling technique. Data collected were analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (IBM SPSS) 22 Version. Results: A total of 440 respondents were used in the study and data were elicited from all of this number giving a 100% response rate. A total of 242 (55.0%) and 215 (48.9%) of the respondents consumed fruits and vegetables only one to two days per week with only 36 (8.2%) and 26 (5.9%) consuming fruits and vegetables every day. Conclusion: It can be concluded based on the key findings of this study that there is statistically significant mean difference in fruits and vegetables consumption amongst obese - hypertensive individuals attending Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital, Edo State, Nigeria (p<0.05).

Effect of Brine Concentration on Bacteria Isolated from Leafy Vegetables (Talinum triangulare, Telfairia occidentalis and Vernonia amygdalina)

The effect of brine on bacteria isolated from leafy vegetables was evaluated. Fresh waterleaf (Talinum triangulare), Pumpkin leaves (Telfairia occidentalis) and Bitter leaves (Vernonia amygdalina) including cooking salt were bought from vendors in Mile 3 market, Port Harcourt, Rivers State. Brine concentrations of 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5% were prepared by dissolving appropriate grams of salt in distilled water. Nine millilitres of the respective concentrations were transferred into clean test tubes, labelled, stoppered with foil and autoclaved at 121? for 15 minutes at 15psi. Sterile distilled water served as a control. The test isolates were standardized based on 0.5McFarland and 1mL each was introduced into different brine concentrations. The standard plate count was used to monitor brine effects on isolates and this was done hourly for six hours. Inoculated plates were incubated at 37? for 24 hours. After incubation, enumerated colonies were used to deduce isolate mortality. The total heterotrophic bacterial (THB) load of bitter, Pumpkin and water leaves were 3.49±0.4×106, 3.25±0.4×106 and 1.99±0.2×106 CFU/g, respectively. The staphylococcal counts for bitter, Pumpkin and water leaves were 1.65±0.3×104, 3.13±0.5×104 and 1.55±0.4×104 CFU/g, respectively. Total coliform counts for bitter, Pumpkin and water leaves were 1.52±0.8×105, 2.85±0.1×105 and 1.75±0.6×105 CFU/g, respectively. Staphylococcal counts of pumpkin leaves were significantly (P?0.05) higher than those obtained for bitter leaf and water leaf. There was no significant difference(P>0.05) in the THB and Coliform counts of all samples. E. coli was predominant in Pumpkin and water leaves while Staphylococcus sp was predominant in bitter leaves. The LC50 values for E. coli, Klebsiella, Staphylococcus, and Bacillus sp were; 5.39, 3.88, 1.62, and -0.41mg/ml, respectively. The LC50 showed that the brine was very lethal on Bacillus sp and Staphylococcus sp. High brine concentration is recommended to achieve reduced bacterial load.

Determinación social del consumo de frutas y verduras en Florida (Valle del Cauca, Colombia) / Social Determinants of Fruit and Vegetable Consumption in Florida, Valle del Cauca ­ Colombia / Determinação social do consumo de frutas e verduras na Flórida, Valle del Cauca, Colômbia

Introducción: el consumo de frutas y verduras como proceso protector de la salud se ha analizado principalmente desde la perspectiva de los estilos de vida individuales; sin embargo, procesos de tipo estructural como los modelos de producción de alimentos y las políticas de alimentación determinan su producción, disponibilidad y acceso. Se planteó como objetivo analizar los procesos de determinación social del con- sumo de frutas y verduras en el municipio de Florida (Valle del Cauca, Colombia). Materiales y métodos: estudio cualitativo, tipo estudio de caso, con enfoque de determinación social. Incluyó revisión documental de políticas alimentarias y grupos de discusión con actores clave; el análisis de contenido permitió explicitar mensajes y discursos. Resultados: en la dimensión general, resaltan como procesos críticos de determinación, que limitan la producción y el acceso de frutas y verduras, el uso y tenencia inequitativa de la tierra y la explotación de las fuentes hídricas, y unas políticas que desde la lógica de libre mercado reducen cada vez más las estrategias locales de autosostenimiento y autoconsumo. En la dimensión particular, el conflicto armado (como proceso crítico adverso) y los ejercicios de soberanía alimentaria (como proceso crítico favorable al consumo de frutas y verduras). Conclusiones: la política alimentaria nacional y local reconoce, de manera discursiva, las determinaciones sociales de la seguridad alimentaria, pero en la práctica privilegia estrategias focalizadas y contingentes que no apuntan a la solución de condiciones estructurales que limitan la producción, disponibilidad, acceso y, por ende, el consumo de frutas y verduras

Introduction: Fruit and vegetable consumption as a preventive health measure depends mainly on the perspective of individual lifestyle. The structural processes such as food production models and food policies determine their production, availability, and access. This study aimed to analyze the social determinants of fruit and vegetable consumption in the municipality of Florida, Valle del Cauca, Colombia. Materials and Methods: This is a qualitative case study using a social determination approach. This study includes a documentary review of food policies and discussion groups among key stakeholders. A content analysis was conducted to allow an explicit analysis of the messages and speeches. Results: In the general dimension, deemed as critical processes of determination, the unequal use and possession of land and the exploitation of water sources and policies, from the logic of the free market, increasingly reduce the local strategies for self-support and self-consumption and limit the production and access of fruits and vegetables. In the particular dimension, a critical adverse process includes the armed conflict. However, the exercise of food sovereignty favors the consumption of fruits and vegetables. Conclusion: Food policy at the national and local level discursively recognizes the social determinants of food security; however, in practice, contingent strategies that do not aim at addressing the structural conditions that limit produc- tion, availability, access and, therefore, the consumption of fruits and vegetables, should be evaluated.

Introdução: o consumo de frutas e verduras como processo de proteção à saúde tem sido analisado principalmente na perspectiva dos estilos de vida individuais, porém processos estruturais como modelos de produção de alimentos e políticas alimentares determinam sua produção, disponibilidade e acesso; o objetivo do estudo foi analisar os processos de determinação social do consumo de frutas e verduras no município da Flórida, Valle del Cauca, Colômbia. Materiais e métodos: estudo qualitativo, do tipo estudo de caso, com enfoque na determinação social; incluiu uma revisão documental de políticas alimentares e grupos de discussão com atores-chave; a análise de conteúdo permitiu explicitar mensagens e discursos. Resultados: na dimensão geral, destacam-se o uso e posse desigual da terra e a exploração dos recursos hídricos como processos determinantes críticos que limitam a produção e o acesso a frutas e verduras; e políticas que, baseadas na lógica do livre mercado, reduzem cada vez mais as estratégias locais de autossustentabilidade e autoconsumo. Na dimensão particular, destaca-se o conflito armado como processo crítico adverso, e o exercício da soberania alimentar, como processo crítico favorável ao consumo de frutas e verduras. Conclusões: a política alimentar a nível nacional e local reconhece, de forma discursiva, as determinações sociais da segurança alimentar, mas na prática privilegia estratégias focalizadas e contingentes que não visam resolver condições estruturais que limitam a produção, a disponibilidade, o acesso e, portanto, o consumo de frutas e verduras.

ÉVALUATION DES RISQUES DE CONTAMINATION DE L'ENVIRONNEMENT ET DES HUMAINS PAR LES PRATIQUES D'UTILISATION DES PESTICIDES DANS LA PRODUCTION DES LÉGUMES À MBANZA – NGUNGU (RDC)

The objective of this study was to assess the knowledge and practices of market gardeners in Mbanza – Ngungu regarding the use of pesticides, but also to consider the risks of contamination of the environment and related humans. To do this, surveys were conducted with 111 market gardeners in the study area, randomly selected and distributed in six market gardening sites, on the use of pesticides. The results obtained reveal the use of certain pesticides canceled in the DRC and the EU; a lack of supervision and training of market gardeners on pesticide management; poor management of pesticides considering the observed aspects; the appearance of signs of pesticide poisoning in some market gardeners; the decrease in amphibians (toad) and clarias in the Loma site, a fact attributed to the excessive use of pesticides; the involvement of children in the management of these products which are so dangerous for them. In order to reduce the risk of intoxication of market gardeners and consumers of vegetables, and of environmental pollution, it is already urgent and important that a certain number of suitable measures, in the immediate future, be taken by political and administrative decision-makers and to promote the training of market gardeners in Mbanza - Ngungu for the judicious use of pesticides.

Association of Dietary and Physical Activity Patterns and Hypertension in Western Rajasthan, 2022

Introduction: Hypertension (HTN) is a modifiable risk factor for coronary artery disease, heart failure, cerebrovascular disease and chronic renal failure. HTN affects about 1 billion people globally; by 2025, up to 1.58 billion adults worldwide are likely to suffer from complications of HTN. This study was done to know the diet and physical activity patterns and HTN among the population of three districts of Western Rajasthan. Objectives: To study the dietary and physical activity patterns among the population of Western Rajasthan. and to compare key findings among three districts Pali, Jodhpur and Barmer so that lifestyle changes can be recommended. Methods: A case-control study was done among attendees of NCD clinics of tertiary-level centers in Pali, Barmer and Jodhpur. Hospital Controls were matched to age (± 5 years) and gender Considering the prevalence of HTN to be 20%*, the proportion of exposure in the general population as 0.2, odds ratio to be 2.2, power =80%, alpha=5% sample size is estimated to be 102 cases & 102 controls (from each district). Results: Overall being married (OR= 3.3), having diabetes Cardiac disease (OR= 2.6), excessive salt consumption (OR= 2.7), moderate physical exercise less than 30 minutes (OR=1.9), using oil other than vegetable oil(OR=1.8) , Age >?60 years (OR =1.4) were the key risk factors. It was found that high BMI (BMI>27), consumption of non-vegetable oils (12.7%) was highest in Jodhpur, lack of moderate exercise for at least 30 minutes (81%), lack of sports activity (92%) was highest in Pali, least number of days/week of fruits and vegetables consumption (~1.64 days) was seen in Barmer. Conclusions: Change in quantity of salt consumption and incorporation of moderate physical exercise for >30 minutes was most followed in control of HTN among the attendees of NCD Clinics from the multiple advise given.

Heavy Metal Contaminants in Popularly-consumed Vegetables of Freetown, Sierra Leone

The contamination of the environment with heavy metals is one of the challenges that make up Sierra Leone's environmental problem, with urbanization being one of the main causes; due to the lack of proper waste dumpsites and landfills for infrastructural development, rivers, and streams are polluted. The loss of biodiversity, but river and stream pollution have a significant impact on aquatic life. Animals and plants in contaminated water sources "may perish or reproduce improperly". This study assessed the level of concentration of heavy metals namely; chromium (Cr), iron (Fe), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), and lead (Pb) in some commonly-consumed vegetables like Manihot esculenta (Cassava) leaves, Ipomoea batatas (Potato) leaves, Amaranthus viridis (African spinach), Corchorus olitorius (Krain krain); Solanum lycopersicum (Tomatoes); Cucumis sativus (Cucumber); Brassica oleracea (Cabbage); Abelmoschus esculentus fruits (Okra); Capsicum annuum (Bell Pepper); and Lactuca sativa (Lettuce) which were all purchased at local market places in Freetown. The vegetable samples were analyzed using an X-ray fluorescence machine (XRF) to determine their heavy metal concentration. The goal was to determine the food safety status of the vegetables by comparing the results to the maximum permissible limit (MPL) for vegetables, as set by WHO/FAO. The levels of Zn, Cr, Fe, Cu, and Pb in all vegetable samples varied from 4.70 – 5.69 %; 3.46 – 4.58 %; 4.00 – 4.52 %; 2.87 – 3.42 %; and 0.5 – 1.2 %, respectively. This result indicates that the metals were present at unsafe levels. According to the result, the maximum concentration values are much higher than the MPL value suggested by WHO/FAO for vegetables, implying that eating vegetables from the source market sites in this study may pose a health risk to humans. Heavy metals in vegetables should be monitored on a regular basis to prevent excessive accumulation of these heavy metals in the human food chain. When it comes to vegetable marketing, certain precautions should be implemented.

Assessment of Spoilage and Pathogenic Bacteria in Selected Fruits and Vegetables from Retail Sources and Home-gardens

Consumption of fruits and vegetables which are known to be highly nutritious has been linked to foodborne disease outbreaks which constitute food safety and public concern. This study aimed to assess the safety of selected fruits and vegetables from fruit markets and home gardens, within the South-West region of Nigeria. A total of fifty-three (53) samples of watermelon, cucumber, tomatoes and garden eggs were collected and subjected to microbiological analysis. Isolated bacteria were screened for their pathogenicity and spoilage potential using haemolysis and amylase production tests respectively. A total of 146 bacteria were isolated, 75 (45.7%) were from retail samples and 71 (43.3%) from the home garden. The genera: Bacillus (15.9%), Corynebacterium (11.0%), Lactobacillus (1.2%), Listeria (1.8%), Staphylococcus (12.8%), Enterococcus (1.2%), Micrococcus (1.2%), Acinetobacter (3.7%), Aeromonas (2.4%), Alcaligenes (0.6%), Brucella (0.6%), Vibrio (0.6%), and the family Enterobacteriaceae (36.0%) were identified. Isolates with haemolytic potentials were 51 (31%) while 49 (30%) could cause spoilage. The overall microbiological quality and safety of fruit and vegetable samples analysed in this study is low, as they were contaminated by diverse pathogenic, and spoilage microorganisms. The presence of these pathogens in retailed and home garden fruits and vegetables is a pointer to public health risks and food safety threats. Hence, the need for improved hygienic practice through training handlers along the supply chain.

Psychosocial aspects related to fruit and vegetable consumption in adolescents / Aspectos psicossociais relacionados ao consumo de frutas e hortaliças em adolescentes

Abstract This study aimed at assessing the association between psychosocial aspects and fruit and vegetable consumption in adolescents. Cross-sectional study developed with 327 adolescents from a public school in Brazil. A questionnaire developed for adolescents was applied to assess the influence of self-efficacy, family, peers, and body image on the consumption of fruits and vegetables. Specific questions assessed the intake frequency of fruits and vegetables, and the mean consumption was estimated using two 24-hour recalls. Scores related to psychosocial aspects were described as mean and median and the weight status was classified based on the body mass index. The average daily consumption of fruits and vegetables was 36.2 g and 45.4 g, respectively. Self-efficacy and the influence of peers were associated with an increase in the amount and frequency of fruits and vegetables consumption. Adolescents with higher scores of self-efficacy had greater average consumption of fruits and vegetables when compared to those with lower scores. The same was observed for the influence of peers. Self-efficacy and the influence of peers were the factors that most influenced the consumption of fruits and vegetables in adolescents.

Resumo O objetivo do estudo foi avaliar a associação entre aspectos psicossociais e o consumo de frutas e hortaliças em adolescentes. Estudo transversal desenvolvido com 327 adolescentes de uma escola pública do Brasil. Um questionário desenvolvido para adolescentes foi aplicado para avaliar a influência da autoeficácia, família, pares e imagem corporal sobre o consumo de frutas e hortaliças. Questões específicas avaliaram a frequência de ingestão de frutas e hortaliças e o consumo foi estimado por meio de dois recordatórios de 24 horas. Os escores relacionados aos aspectos psicossociais foram descritos por média e mediana e a condição de peso foi classificada com base no índice de massa corporal. O consumo diário médio de frutas e hortaliças foi de 36,2 g e 45,4 g, respectivamente. A autoeficácia e a influência dos pares associaram-se ao aumento da quantidade e da frequência de consumo de frutas e hortaliças. Os adolescentes com maiores valores no escore para autoeficácia apresentaram maior média de consumo de frutas e hortaliças quando comparados àqueles com menores escores. O mesmo foi observado para a influência dos pares. A autoeficácia e a influência dos pares foram os fatores que mais influenciaram o consumo de frutas e hortaliças em adolescentes.

Extrato de espinafre como fonte de nitrito em linguiça frescal: atributos de qualidade e estabilidade durante o armazenamento refrigerado / Spinach Extract as a source of nitrite in fresh sausages: quality attributes and stability during refrigerated storage

Introdução: Os consumidores têm inúmeras preocupações em relação à saúde, dentre as quais o consumo elevado de aditivos químicos, como os conservantes, que ao reagir com substâncias presentes nos alimentos podem produzir compostos cancerígenos. Alguns vegetais, como o espinafre, podem ser fontes naturais desses conservantes, e sua aplicação pode aumentar a saudabilidade dos produtos cárneos. Objetivo: Avaliar os efeitos do extrato de espinafre como fonte de nitrito para conservação de linguiças frescais, armazenadas durante 35 dias sob refrigeração. Material e Método: Quatro formulações foram produzidas: controle positivo, com sal de cura comercial (CP), controle negativo, sem sal de cura (CN), extrato de espinafre (EE) e extrato de espinafre pré-convertido por bactérias nitrato-redutoras (EEPC). As linguiças foram avaliadas através da composição centesimal, cor, teor residual de nitrito, TBARS e avaliação microbiológica. Resultados: O sal de cura (CP) resultou em menores alterações na coloração das linguiças frescais. O TBARS aumentou aproximadamente 2,5 vezes (p<0,05) ao longo dos 35 dias, em todas as formulações, e os menores valores, ao final desse período, foram encontrados nas formulações CP e EEPC. Estas mesmas formulações apresentaram os maiores teores residuais de nitrito e menor contagem de BAL e enterobactérias (35 dias), o que comprova que o EEPC é tão eficiente quanto o sal de cura comercial como conservante em linguiça frescal armazenada sob refrigeração. Conclusão: O uso de EEPC pode ser uma alternativa promissora para a indústria cárnea, possibilitando o desenvolvimento de produtos clean label que atendam à demanda por produtos mais saudáveis.

Introduction: Consumers express concerns about chemical additives in the diet, including preservatives, which can produce carcinogenic compounds when interacting with substances present in food. Some vegetables, such as spinach, can be natural sources of preservatives, and their application can increase the healthiness of meat products. Objective: To evaluate the effects of spinach extract as a source of nitrite for the preservation of fresh sausages during 35 days of refrigerated storage. Material and Method: Four formulations were produced: positive control, with commercial curing salt (CP), negative control, without curing salt (CN), spinach extract (EE) and spinach extract pre-converted by nitrate-reducing bacteria (EEPC). The sausages were evaluated for proximate composition, color parameters, residual nitrite content, TBARS, and microbiological characterization. Results: The curing salt (CP) led to a few changes in the color of the fresh sausages. TBARS increased approximately 2.5 times (p<0.05) during the 35 days for all formulations, and the lowest values were found for the formulations CP and EEPC at the end of the storage. These formulations had the highest residual nitrite levels and the lowest LAB and enterobacteria count (35 days), which proves that EEPC is an effective preservative to replace commercial curing salt in fresh sausages subjected to refrigerated storage. Conclusion: The use of EEPC can be a promising alternative for the meat industry, enabling the development of clean-label products that meet the demand for healthier products.

Segurança alimentar e consumo de frutas e vegetais entre pré-escolares: estudo exploratório durante a pandemia da COVID-19 / Food security and fruit and vegetable consumption among preschoolers: an exploratory study during the COVID-19 pandemic

Estudos que avaliem a insegurança alimentar e sua associação com o consumo de frutas, legumes e verduras (FLV) podem auxiliar na identificação de grupos e fatores de risco para um consumo alimentar inadequado, a fim de propor intervenções nutricionais assertivas. O objetivo deste estudo foi descrever o consumo de FLV por crianças em diferentes situações de segurança alimentar. Trata-se de um estudo exploratório de caráter transversal, conduzido com pais/ responsáveis de 44 crianças de zero a quatro anos. A versão curta da Escala Brasileira de Insegurança Alimentar e um Questionário de Frequência Alimentar foram aplicados aos pais/responsáveis via entrevista telefônica. As crianças tinham em média 2,6 anos, 56,8% eram do sexo feminino, 67,5% estavam eutróficas, e 70,5% das famílias estavam em situação de insegurança alimentar. Para os domicílios em situação de segurança alimentar, a mediana de consumo de FLV foi 213,4 g/dia (P25=97,89; P75=425,91). Já aqueles em situação de insegurança alimentar, a mediana de FLV foi de 105,4 g/dia (P25=33,58; P75=205,16). Concluiu-se que o consumo de FLV pelas crianças de famílias em situação de segurança alimentar é superior ao das crianças em situação de insegurança alimentar, as quais são fortemente influenciadas pela oferta de alimentos baratos e de baixa qualidade nutricional. Políticas públicas são necessárias para favorecer a garantia de acesso à FLV de qualidade e com custo acessível a todas as famílias.

Studies that assess food insecurity and its association with the consumption of fruits, legumes, and vegetables (FLV) can help identify groups and risk factors of inadequate food consumption, in order to propose assertive nutritional interventions. The aim of this study was to describe FLV consumption by children in different food security situations. This is an exploratory cross-sectional study, conducted with parents/guardians of 44 children from zero to four years old. The short version of the Brazilian Food Insecurity Scale and a Food Frequency Questionnaire were applied to parents/guardians via a telephone interview. The children were 2.6 years old on average, 56.8% were female, 67.5% were eutrophic, and 70.5% of the families were in a situation of food insecurity. For households in a situation of food security, the median consumption of FLV was 213.4 g/day (P25=97.89; P75=425.91). As for those in a situation of food insecurity, the median FLV was 105.4 g/day (P25=33.58; P75=205.16). It was concluded that the consumption of FLV by children from families in a situation of food security is higher than that of children in a situation of food insecurity, who are strongly influenced by the offer of cheap food with low nutritional quality. Public policies are needed to favor the guarantee of access to FLV of quality and at an affordable cost for all families.

Quantitative Risk Assessment for Salmonella in Lettuce (Lactuca sativa) Consumed in Benin, West Africa

The present study aims at quantitatively assessing the risk associated with Salmonella in lettuce (Lactuca sativa) consumed in Benin (West Africa). To that end, a survey was conducted involving 550 respondents to determine the conditions under which the product is handled along the supply chain and its consumption pattern. The prevalence and concentration of Salmonella in lettuce were collected from the literature. The consumption data and the data on Salmonella concentrations in lettuce were combined to estimate the exposure to Salmonella using a probabilistic risk assessment method. The @Risk software package (Palisade USA) was used to run Monte Carlo simulations with 10,000 iterations. Three dose-response models were used to assess the risk of salmonellosis. Different scenarios were tested to identify factors that could influence the risk of salmonellosis. The results showed that lettuce is exposed to temperature abuse under inappropriate hygienic conditions. In 90% of the cases, the exposure to Salmonella was between 3 and 7 log CFU/serving. The risk of salmonellosis per serving varied from 7.7% to 95% depending on the dose-response used with the scenario taking into account the current handling conditions of the lettuce. In contrast, when considering the scenario where the cold chain is respected along the supply chain, the risk of salmonellosis varied from 0% to 3.3% depending on the dose response used. The study highlights the importance of the cold chain, good agricultural practices and good hygienic practices to reduce exposure to Salmonella through the consumption of lettuce and thus the risk of salmonellosis.

Impact of Climate Change on Microbiological Hazards in Food and Drinking Water in Sweden

Objective and scope: To increase our knowledge on how climate change can affect microbiological food safety in Sweden, during this century, a risk profile was developed. The focus of the report is to identify existing and emerging microbiological hazards (pathogenic microorganisms and toxins) that may be of concern and may affect the safety of food and water consumed in Sweden. Specific issues addressed are how the different stages in the food chain can be affected, and which hazards are most relevant for different food groups. The report is based on published scientific literature and governmental reports. Climate change scenarios: Human emissions of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases affect a range of climate-related factors and lead to changes beyond those natural variations that have always occurred. These climate changes are already evident and will, according to various scenarios, continue during the rest of the century. The scenario assessed in the report was RCP8.5. Globally, this means higher annual average temperatures, changing precipitation patterns, reduced access to freshwater in many regions, rising sea levels, and acidification of the oceans. In Sweden, the climate will become warmer compared to today, especially in winter. Rainfall will generally increase, mostly in winter and spring, especially in the northern parts of Sweden. In the southeastern part of the country, increased drought and water shortages are expected. Climate change is also expected to lead to more frequent extreme weather, for instance floods and heat waves. Impact on food safety: A changed climate will have several effects on the environment and society that can affect food safety. Examples of such effects are changing conditions for crop production, livestock production, infrastructure, energy supply, and water availability. Climate change can influence food safety in different ways and through different routes along the entire food chain. Much of the impact occurs at the first stage, primary production, and can then propagate in the rest of the chain. Two scenarios were highlighted in the report, both of which are relevant for all stages of the food chain, although they may be of varying importance depending on the stage and type of operation considered: The first scenario includes the impact on food safety due to a change in the normal conditions with higher average temperature, increased precipitation or drought, and milder winters. The second scenario includes an increased frequency of extreme events such as torrential rains, floods, and dry periods, with potential consequences such as power failures and other disruptions of infrastructure that can have a major impact on the food chain and, in turn, on food safety. Climate change adaptations: In order to address the challenges associated with new “normal conditions”, climate change adaptation is needed in the production chains of food and drinking water. The normal conditions in Sweden may become similar to the current situation in southern Europe. This description of the new potential situation in this scenario is useful for communication purposes, and gives the stakeholders an idea of what adaptation measures may be needed. Additionally, an increased preparedness is needed to prevent and manage extreme events in the second scenario that can lead to an increased occurrence of pathogens and toxins in the raw materials and in drinking and process water as well as to increased frequency of disturbances in infrastructure. To some extent, changed conditions in primary production can be addressed through the application of Good Agricultural Practice and/or certification standards. However, despite these frameworks, the challenges in this first stage of the food chain can be expected to be particularly high. It is more difficult to implement direct management measures here than at later stages of the food chain. There, HACCP-based procedures and PRPs such as good hygiene practices and good production practices have been used with good results. Microbiological hazards: Assessing the impact of climate change on microbiological hazards is complex. This is partly because the changes that will take place are interrelated and can affect our environment in several different ways. It is also due to the fact that the available studies on which the assessment is based vary greatly, both in terms of the hazards that are studied and in terms of scope and methodological designs. Bacteria that are likely to increase in the environment, water, animals, plants, and/or food raw materials due to a changing climate, and for which the level of evidence is considered high, are Bacillus anthracis, Francisella tularensis, Salmonella spp., Shigella spp., and Vibrio spp. Potentially, all food-borne viruses are expected to increase in occurrence due to climate change. However, the level of evidence is intermediate for noroviruses and low for hepatitis A virus and hepatitis E virus. Most parasites will potentially increase in occurrence due to climate change, but the level of evidence is low for most. For Cryptosporidium spp., Giardia intestinalis, and Toxoplasma gondii, the level of evidence is intermediate. Among the mycotoxins, it is estimated that all Fusarium toxins addressed (DON, T2/HT2, ZEN, and fumonisins) will increase, of which the evidence level is highest for DON and fumonisins. Further, aflatoxins are expected to increase with a high level of evidence. In addition to the microbiological hazards listed, several other species of bacteria, viruses, and parasites as well as types of mycotoxins are also considered likely to increase, but due to a lack of data and in some cases conflicting indications, these assessments are uncertain. None of the microbiological hazards discussed in the report have been assessed likely to decrease in occurrence due to climate change. However, it should be noted that some climatic factors may influence microbiological hazards in both positive and negative directions. At the local level, it may thus be the case that certain hazards that have been assessed as potentially increasing instead remain unchanged or even decrease in occurrence. The final outcome also depends on the effectiveness of measures taken to address the challenges of climate change. Microbiological hazards and food groups: The microbiological hazards increasing in importance due to a changing climate are likely to vary for different food groups. The pathogenic microorganisms and toxins judged potentially to increase in occurrence and of relevance in different food groups due to a changed climate have been compiled (Table 1). It has not been possible, on the basis of existing data, to rank the hazards. The assessment suggests that it is of greatest importance to consider which pathways and types of hazards (properties, resistance) may be relevant in the different food groups because the control measures will in most cases be similar for different types of hazards. Capture4.PNG Concluding remarks: Many sources of uncertainty for the assessments were identified. The main sources include knowledge gaps associated with data on the extent to which the climate will impact on microbiological hazards, difficulties in identifying causal relationships based on correlations, knowledge gaps associated with the methodology of carrying out this type of complex assessment against uncertain future scenarios, and knowledge gaps regarding the future climate and its effects. A further contributing uncertainty is knowledge gaps on potential feedback mechanisms between climate change and its effects. Despite the uncertainties, the increased food safety challenges qualitatively identified in this report are considered likely. These challenges are the consequences of the impacts that climate change under the RCP8.5 scenario may have on several of the microbiological hazards in terms of increased or potentially increased occurrence in the environment, water, animals, plants, and/or food raw materials. Conclusions on the change of specific microbiological hazards, the extent of the impact, and the rate of change are subject to significantly greater uncertainty. This is not least because the impact of climate change depends on the accuracy of the climate scenarios and on what measures are put in place. The risk profile is an initial and general compilation of knowledge that can form a basis for further and more detailed studies and activities in the various sectors in the food chain. The complete report can be downloaded from: L 2021 — No 19 — Microbiological hazards (livsmedelsverket.se).

Contaminação parasitária em hortaliças comercializadas no município de Jataí-GO / Parasitic contamination in vegetables commercialized in the city of Jataí-GO

Introdução: a prevalência de doenças parasitárias transmitidas por alimentos tem apresentado um aumento significativo em nível mundial, destacando principalmente as hortaliças, consumidas in natura, em razão da sociedade moderna que procura hábitos de vida mais saudáveis. Objetivo:avaliar a contaminação de hortaliças comercializadas no município de Jataí, GO, por enteroparasitos. Metodologia: foi realizada uma pesquisa experimental para detecção de estruturas parasitárias em hortaliças de cultivo tradicional e hidropônico, obtidas de nove estabelecimentos: três supermercados, três hortas e três feiras livres. Foram obtidas 54 amostras de alface (Lactuca sativa), 54 de rúcula (Chicarium sp.) e 18 de agrião (Nasturtiumofficinale). As amostras foram lavadas com água destilada e solução Tween 80 e submetidas as técnicas de sedimentação espontânea e por centrifugação. Foi realizado um mapeamento da área de estudo para identificação da localização dos estabelecimentos. Resultados: a positividade para estruturas parasitárias foi de 94,4% (119/126). A alface apresentou maior prevalência de parasitos 96,2% (52/54). Foi observada diferença estatística significativa ao comparar o emprego das duas técnicas (p < 0,05). Ashortaliças submetidas a técnica de sedimentação espontânea apresentaram maior positividade 115/126 (91,3%). Não foi observada diferença estatística significante quanto ao tipo de cultivo, porém, houve forte associação em relação ao local de cultivo e contaminação das hortaliças (OR: 3,625). Verificou-se maior percentual de positividade nos estabelecimentos localizados próximos aos rios. Conclusão: a positividade de enteroparasitos detectada nas hortaliças foi alta, ressaltando a necessidade de implementar medidas que visam a conscientização da população, em relação às práticas de higienização das hortaliças antes do consumo.

Introduction: the prevalence of parasitic diseases transmitted by food has shown a significant increase worldwide, especially vegetables, consumed in natura, due to modern society that seeks healthier lifestyles. Objective: to evaluate the contamination of vegetables commercialized in the city of Jataí, GO, by enteroparasites. Methodology: an experimental research was carried out to detect parasitic structures in vegetables of traditional and hydroponic cultivation, obtained from nine establishments: three supermarkets, three vegetable gardens and three street markets. Fifty four samples of lettuce (Lactuca sativa), 54 of arugula (Chicarium sp.) and 18 of watercress (Nasturtium officinale) were obtained. The samples were washed with distilled water and Tween 80 solution and submitted to spontaneous sedimentation and centrifugation techniques. A mapping of the study area was carried out to identify the location of the establishments. Results: positivity for parasitic structures was 94.4% (119/126). Lettuce had a higher prevalence of parasites 96.2% (52/54). A statistically significant difference was observed when comparing the use of the two techniques (p < 0.05). Vegetables submitted to the spontaneous sedimentation technique showed higher positivity 115/126 (91.3%). There was no statistically significant difference regarding the type of cultivation, however, there was a strong association in relation to the place of cultivation and contamination of vegetables (OR: 3.625). There was a higher percentage of positivity in establishments located near the rivers. Conclusion: the positivity of intestinal parasites detected in vegetables was high, highlighting the need to implement measures aimed at raising awareness of the population regarding the practices of cleaning vegetables before consumption.

State of Fruit and Vegetable Consumption in N'Djamena, Chad

Food plays a significant role in health. Fruits and vegetables are an important component of a healthy diet and, when consumed daily in sufficient quantities, they could help to prevent major conditions, such as cardiovascular disease and certain cancers. The objective of the study is to assess the state of consumption of fruits and vegetables by the population of the city of N'Djamena. Through a descriptive cross-sectional analysis, this study will provide information on fruit and vegetable consumption of 440 households in the 10 districts in the city of N'Djamena in Chad from February 20 to June 20, 2015. The study described the hygiene conditions of fruits and vegetables, the timing of fruit consumption and the portions of fruits and vegetables consumed per day in N'Djamena. The results show that 60% of those surveyed are male and 40% female. The age group (25-40 years) represents 79.31% of the respondents, followed by the group (41-55 years) with 17.93% and 2.75% for the age group between 56 and 75 years. As for the socio-professional category, the results reveal that 31.72% of those surveyed are civil servants. The results show that households whose size varies between 0 and 5 people represent 45.51% against 31.03% for households whose size varies from 6 to 10 people. It should be noted that 11.03% of households spend a daily food ration less than or equal to 1,5 $, 24.13% of households spend between 1,5 to 3 $ per day for their daily food ration and 28.27% of households use a sum ranging from 3 to 4,5 $. The majority of respondents (93.79%) do not respect hygienic practice while 20% of respondents consume one serving of fruits and vegetables per day (per person) and 39.31% consume two portions. The impact of socio-economic difficulties on fruit and vegetable consumption is confirmed. The high household size and low daily expenses for food does not allow them to consume the 5 recommended portions. This insufficient consumption of fruits and vegetables is part of a context of galloping urbanization and rising food prices. One prospect raised is to consider further surveys in population subgroups accompanied by nutrition education in order to improve the consumption of this food group.

Isolation and Genetic Characterization of Gram-negative Bacteria from Different Fresh Retail Vegetables in Nigeria

Aim: The proportion of food borne disease outbreaks as a result of contaminated products has increased over the years. In this study, the genetic characteristics of antibiotic resistant Gram-negative bacteria from different fresh retail vegetables in Okada, Edo state Nigeria was investigated. Place and Duration of Study: In April-May 2021, the study was carried out in the Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology, Igbinedion University Okada Edo state Nigeria. Methodology: One hundred and eight isolates were isolated from sixteen different retail leafy and salad vegetable samples. Recovered isolates from samples were identified using standard microbiological techniques. Species identification for ten randomly selected isolates was performed by Matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight (MALDI-TOF) mass spectrometry and ribosomal multilocus sequence typing (rMLST). Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was performed using the Kirby-Bauer method for 15 antibiotics. Isolates were characterized by whole genome sequencing (WGS). Results: Species identification using MALDI-TOF-MS and ribosomal MLST assigned the 10 randomly selected isolates to four different species. Identified isolates include Proteus mirabilis, Proteus vulgaris, Acinetobacter baumanii and Klebsiella quasipneumoniae. Out of the 10 randomly selected isolates, 60% (6/10) were antibiotic resistant in the antibiotic susceptibility test. WGS data confirmed the identities of the isolates except Proteus vulgaris identified as P. terrae. More than one resistant determinant was detected on the draft genome sequence of 80% (8/10) of the randomly selected isolates especially the regulatory system modulating antibiotic efflux CRP and the plasmid mediated quinolone resistant determinant qnrD1. Significantly, one Proteus mirabilis isolate was sensitive to the antibiotics in the phenotypic testing but had resistance determinants present. Conclusion: This study provides genomic characterization of antibiotic resistant isolates from retail leafy and salad vegetables from Nigeria. Further study is important to understand the public health importance of such resistance and the amount of risk posed to human health by these resistant organisms.

Human and Environmental Reservoirs of Intestinal Parasites in the City of Yaoundé, Cameroon: An Update in the Context of COVID-19 Pandemic

Aims: Intestinal parasitic infections are persistent in Africa, and we questioned here whether prevention measures imposed by the occurrence of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 could alleviate this threat in lowlands of the city of Yaoundé, Cameroon. Study Design: We monitored the trend of intestinal parasites in human and environmental samples from the seven subdivisions of the city of Yaounde, before (November-December 2019) and during (July-August 2020, November-December 2020) the COVID-19 pandemic. Methodology: Parasitological analysis were performed to check for the presence of helminths and protozoans in stools from inhabitants as well as in water, soil and fresh vegetables, using standard Kato Katz and Formol Ether methods.The minimum effective sample size considered for the estimation of parasite richness, parasite infection and contamination indexeswas 30 for human and 30 for environmental samples (i.e. soils, water and vegetables) per location. Results: Of the 19 parasite species identified in human and the environments, twelve were helminths and seven protozoans. The overall parasite species richness reached 16 in 2019 (12 helminths and 4 protozoans) and 19 in 2020 (12 helminths and 7 protozoans), with about 62.5-68.4% of species shared by human and environments. The parasite frequencies in human (21.03%) and water/soils (32.3%) in 2019 did not differ statistically with those of 2020 (14.6-20.3% and 10.8-35.4%, respectively). The contamination rate of vegetables (i.e. carrots, lettuce, basil, celery, etc.) has increased from 2019 (6.1-9.1%) to 2020 (9.1-24.2%), and was frequently due to roundworms, hookworms, Entamoeba and Cryptosporidium cysts. The findings suggest persistent risk associated with intestinal parasite irrespective to measures imposed by COVID-19 in study locations. Conclusion: The current control approaches may therefore integrateecological epidemiology of the intestinal parasite infections as complementary strategy in African cities.

Starch And Cellulose Based Bio-Polyethylene: A Review

In current year, there has been enhancing in the usage of plastic and disposal of waste coming from daily life. Various type of plastics are using for our daily needs, in order to reduce the impact of petroleum based plastics and other waste to be considered and focused on green plastics. Polyethylene are the polymers which can be produced by repeating the single units. It is one of the bittersweet coinage for human's better life. But this coinage causes a lot problems to the environment. To overcome this problem an alternative and eco-friendly Polyethylene is introduced called bio- polyethylene. Bio-polyethylene are from natural biomass sources. Among various source, starch has chief role in production of bio-polyethylene due to its low cost and nature abundance with plasticizers such as glycerol and vinegar. Starch based bio-polyethylene has good mechanical properties, tensile strength and biodegradability. Cellulose also used as source in development of biodegradable polyethylene. In this review starch and cellulose has led to their great innovative uses in food packaging and to improved biodegradation and mechanical properties.

Consumo de frutas y verduras en mujeres Jefas de Hogar. Un estudio cualitativo

RESUMEN Introducción: La ingesta de frutas y verduras (FV) es reconocida como un factor protector de la salud cardiovascular y ciertos tipos de cáncer. Objetivo: identificar las opiniones de mujeres chilenas, asociadas al consumo de FV. Métodos: estudio de investigación cualitativa, mediante el empleo del análisis del discurso y la interpretación del lenguaje. La muestra estuvo constituida por 40 mujeres de edades entre los 20 y 65 años, con Nivel Socioeconómico (NSE) medio y medio bajo que participaban en el Programa Mujeres Jefas de Hogar (PMJH) en Chillán. A través de cuatro grupos de discusión se identificaron las opiniones de mujeres en torno a motivaciones, barreras, gastos asociados y conocimientos respecto al consumo de FV. Resultados: Entre las principales motivaciones para el consumo de FV por parte de las mujeres, se encontraron los beneficios para la salud y calidad de vida. Respecto a los obstáculos para no consumir FV, se encontró el costo económico. Las mujeres manifestaron conocer las recomendaciones de consumo, reconociendo el papel del personal de salud. Las mujeres destacaron a los niños como principales consumidores de FV en el hogar. Conclusiones: Las mujeres reconocen la importancia de consumir FV para mantener un óptimo estado de salud, sin embargo, el precio condiciona su consumo

ABSTRACT Introduction: Fruit and vegetable (FV) consumption is a recognized protective factor for cardiovascular health and certain types of cancer. Objective: to identify the opinions of Chilean women associated with the consumption of FV. Methods: Qualitative research study, using discourse analysis and language interpretation. The sample consisted of 40 women aged between 20 and 65 from a medium to low-medium socioeconomic level who participated in the Female Headed Household survey (abbreviation per name in Spanish, PMJH) in Chillán. Through four discussion groups, the opinions of women regarding motivations, barriers, associated costs, and knowledge regarding the consumption of FV were identified. Results: Among the main motivations for the consumption of FV by women were benefits for health and quality of life. Regarding the obstacles to not consuming FV, economic cost was noted; women stated knowing dietary recommendations, recognizing the role of health personnel. Women highlighted children as the main consumers of PV in the home. Conclusions: Women recognized the importance of consuming VF to maintain optimal health, however, price determined consumption