Association between socioeconomic factors and fruit and vegetable consumption in Brazilians aged ≥ 50 years: ELSI-Brazil data / Associação entre consumo de frutas, legumes e verduras e fatores socioeconômicos em brasileiros com 50 anos ou mais: dados do ELSI-Brasil

OBJECTIVE: Daily fruit and vegetable consumption is a critical factor in health, especially aging. This study aimed to evaluate the association between socioeconomic factors and daily fruit and vegetable consumption in men and women aged ≥ 50 years. METHODS: This cross-sectional study used 2015-2016 data from the Brazilian longitudinal study of aging (ELSI-Brazil), which included 8665 individuals aged ≥ 50 years. Daily fruit and vegetable consumption was the dependent variable, and income, education, sex, age, and race were the independent variables. Associations between fruit and vegetable consumption and the independent variables were determined using Poisson regression. RESULTS: Individuals who had completed higher education (OR 2.40; 95% CI 2.07-2.78), whose income was > 3 times the minimum wage (OR 2.42; 95% CI 2.18-2.68), and those aged > 80 years (OR 1.44; 95% CI 1.27-1.63) were more likely to consume fruits and vegetables. However, men (OR 0.63; 95% CI 0.58-0.67), Blacks (OR 0.74; 95% CI 0.65-0.84), and people of mixed race (OR 0.68; 95% CI 0.63-0.73), were less likely to consume fruits and vegetables. CONCLUSIONS: The results show inequality in fruit and vegetable consumption among people aged ≥ 50 years, which was lower among men, people of Black or mixed race, people with low income and education, and those with younger age. Interventions are needed to promote fruit and vegetable consumption, and thus healthy aging, among these groups

OBJETIVO: O consumo diário de frutas, legumes e verduras (FLV) é um fator primordial à saúde, especialmente no envelhecimento. Este estudo teve o objetivo de avaliar a associação entre fatores socioeconômicos e o consumo diário de FLV em pessoas com idade de ≥ 50 anos, de ambos os sexos. METODOLOGIA: Trata-se de um estudo transversal, com dados do ELSI-Brasil 2015 - 2016, realizado com 8.665 indivíduos com idade acima de 50 anos. O consumo diário de FLV foi a variável dependente e renda, escolaridade, sexo, idade e cor de pele foram as variáveis independentes. A regressão de Poisson foi usada para verificar a associação entre o consumo de FVL e as variáveis independentes. RESULTADOS: Indivíduos que possuíam ensino superior (odds ratio ­ OR 2,40; intervalo de confiança ­ IC95% 2,07 - 2,78), que recebiam mais que três salários-mínimos (OR 2,42; IC95% 2,18 - 2,68) e com idade superior a 80 anos (OR 1,44; IC95% 1,27 - 1,63) tinham maior probabilidade de consumir FLV. Por outro lado, homens (OR 0,63; IC95% 0,58 - 0,67) de cor de pele parda (OR 0,68; IC95% 0,63 - 0,73) e preta (OR 0,74; IC95% 0,65 - 0,84) tiveram menor chance de consumo de FVL. CONCLUSÕES: Os resultados revelam desigualdades no consumo de FLV entre pessoas com idade acima de 50 anos, com maior magnitude entre os com baixa renda, baixa escolaridade, menor idade, sexo masculino e cor de pele parda e preta, demonstrando, assim, a necessidade de estratégias de intervenção para aumentar o consumo desses alimentos, buscando a promoção do envelhecimento saudável

Relationship between nutrient-related dietary pattern and mild cognitive impairment in middle-aged and elderly people in 15 provinces of China / 中华流行病学杂志

Objective: To explore the relationship between nutrient-related dietary pattern and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) in middle-aged and elderly people. Methods: A total of 6 444 middle-aged and elderly people aged ≥55 years were selected in 2018 China Health and Nutrition Survey. MCI was evaluated by Mini-Mental State Examination, and the intakes of various foods were obtained by consecutive 3-day 24-hour dietary survey and weighing method. The intakes of various nutrients and total dietary energy were calculated based on the food composition table. Demographic and social information, lifestyle and health status of the respondents were obtained through questionnaire survey and physical measurements. In this study, vitamin C, vitamin E, zinc, iron, copper and selenium were selected as dependent variables. Nutrient-related dietary patterns were extracted by reduced rank regression method, and the relationship between dietary patterns and MCI was analyzed by multivariate logistic regression model. Results: Six dietary patterns were extracted in this study, and dietary pattern 1 with the highest explanatory degree was selected for subsequent analysis. Dietary pattern 1 was characterized by higher intakes of legume products, vegetables, fruits, nuts, pork, aquatic products and plant oil. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that the risk of MCI was lower in Q4 dietary score group than in Q1 dietary score group (OR=0.69, 95%CI: 0.49-0.98) in the 55-64 age group. In people with sleep duration of 8 hours per day, the risk of MCI was reduced in Q2, Q3 and Q4 dietary score groups compared with the Q1 dietary score group, with OR values of 0.68 (95%CI: 0.51-0.92), 0.67 (95%CI: 0.49-0.92) and 0.65 (95%CI: 0.45-0.92), respectively. Interaction analysis showed that the risk for MCI increased in those aged 65-74 years and ≥75 years compared with those aged 55-64 years in Q1 dietary score group. However, the risk for MCI decreased in both age groups as dietary pattern scores increased. Compared with those with sleep duration less or more than 8 hours per day in Q1 dietary score group, those with sleep duration of 8 hours per day in Q2 and Q3 dietary score groups had a reduced risk for MCI. Conclusion: Dietary patterns with higher intakes of legume products, vegetables, fruits, nuts, pork, aquatic products, and plant oil are negatively associated with MCI in people aged 55-64 years and those who slept 8 hours per day, and may reduce the risk of MCI with aging.

Special issue: molecular nutrition and chronic diseases / 浙江大学学报（英文版）（B辑：生物医学和生物技术）

"Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food"-the ancient adage proposed by Greek philosopher Hippocrates of Kos thousands of years ago already acknowledged the importance of the beneficial and health-promoting effects of food nutrients on the body (Mafra et al., 2021). Recent epidemiological and large-scale community studies have also reported that unhealthy diets or eating habits may contribute heavily to the burden of chronic, non-communicable diseases, such as obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), hypertension, cardiovascular disease (CVD), cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, arthritis, chronic kidney disease (CKD), and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (Jayedi et al., 2020; Gao et al., 2022). Emerging evidence highlights that a diet rich in fruits and vegetables can prevent various chronic diseases (Chen et al., 2022). Food bioactive compounds including vitamins, phytochemicals, and dietary fibers are responsible for these nutraceutical benefits (Boeing et al., 2012). Recently, phytochemicals such as polyphenols, phytosterols, and carotenoids have gained increasing attention due to their potential health benefits to alleviate chronic diseases (van Breda and de Kok, 2018). Understanding the role of phytochemicals in health promotion and preventing chronic diseases can inform dietary recommendations and the development of functional foods. Therefore, it is crucial to investigate the health benefits of phytochemicals derived from commonly consumed foods for the prevention and management of chronic diseases.

Influencia de ácidos grasos en parámetros sanguíneos y adipogénesis. Estudio experimental en pollos eclosionados / Influence of fatty acids on blood parameters and formation of adipocytes at early age

Introducción: La alimentación en la primera infancia influencia la instauración del tejido adiposo y el desarrollo de diversas patologías en la edad adulta. Objetivo: Evaluar la influencia del consumo de tres fuentes de ácidos grasos sobre parámetros sanguíneos y tejido adiposo en pollos recién eclosionados. Materiales y métodos: Se utilizaron 76 pollitos Cobb 500 distribuidos aleatoriamente en cuatro tratamientos, que fueron alimentados durante siete días con una de las cuatro dietas (T1: 97% Dieta basal (DB); T2: DB +3% de manteca vegetal parcialmente hidrogenada; T3: DB +3% de aceite de quinua y T4: DB +3% de aceite de pescado). Al finalizar, se evaluó en sangre glucosa, colesterol, triglicéridos y tamaño de adipocitos del tejido adiposo subcutáneo y visceral. Se aplicó ANOVA considerando 0,05 de significancia y en el caso de variables no distribuidas normalmente, se aplicó el test no paramétrico de Kruskal-Wallis mediante el programa R-Studio. Resultados: Se obtuvieron diferencias significativas con disminución de los niveles de glucosa y colesterol en animales suplementados con elevada proporción de aceites insaturados (T3 y T4) en comparación a T2. Los tratamientos T3 y T4 promovieron una formación hiperplásica de adipocitos, diferenciándose significativamente de T2, que promovió la hipertrofia en dichas células, esta respuesta fue similar en ambos depósitos subcutáneos. Conclusiones: El consumo de aceite de quinua y aceite de pescado promueve la formación de tejido adiposo saludable, y reducen los niveles de glucosa y colesterol. Contrariamente el consumo de manteca vegetal propicia la hipertrofia de adipocitos de gran tamaño e incrementa los parámetros bioquímicos evaluados(AU)

Introduction: Feeding in early childhood influences the establishment of adipose tissue, and therefore also in the development of various pathologies in adulthood. Objective: To evaluate the influence of the consumption of three sources of fatty acids on blood parameters and adipose tissue at an early age. Materials and methods: 76 Cobb 500 chicks randomly distributed in four treatments were used, who were fed for seven days with one of the four diets (T1: Basal diet; T2: DB +1.0% vegetable shortening partially hydrogenated; T3: DB +1.0% quinoa oil and DB +1.0% fish oil) until the seventh day of life. At the end, glucose, cholesterol, triglycerides and adipocyte size of the subcutaneous and visceral adipose tissue were evaluated. A completely randomized design with ANOVA considering 0.05 significance was applied and in the case of non-normally distributed variables, the non-parametric Kruskal-Wallis test was applied using the R-Studio program. Results: Significant differences were obtained with a decrease in glucose and cholesterol levels in animals supplemented with unsaturated oils (T3 and T4) compared to T2. Regarding the size of adipocytes, treatments T3 and T4 promoted a hyperplastic formation of adipocytes, differing significantly from T2, which promoted hypertrophy in these cells, this response was similar in both subcutaneous deposits. Conclusions: The consumption of quinoa oil and fish oil promote the formation of healthy adipose tissue, in addition to reducing glucose and cholesterol levels. In contrast, the consumption of vegetable shortening favors the hypertrophy of large adipocytes and increases the biochemical parameters evaluated(AU)

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.

Avaliação do microambiente alimentar em estabelecimentos fornecedores de alimentos em um município do trairí do Rio Grande do Norte / Evaluation of the food microenvironment in establishments supplying foods in acity of Trairi ofRio Grande do Norte / Evaluación del microambiente alimentario en provedores de alimentos en unmunicipio de Trairi doRio Grande do Norte

Introdução:As pessoas passaram a consumir alimentos prontos e ultraprocessados cada vez mais e diminuíram o consumo de alimentos naturais. Consequentemente, têm aumentado o desenvolvimento de obesidade e outras doenças crônicas não transmissíveis. Esse processo de transição nutricional e epidemiológico tem sido influenciado pelo ambiente alimentar. Objetivo:avaliar o microambiente alimentar em mercados e restaurantes do município de Santa Cruz, Rio Grande do Norte. Metodologia:Trata-se deuma pesquisa transversal e descritiva, de abordagem quantitativa, realizada em 60 estabelecimentos comerciais fornecedores de alimentos naturais, industrializados e refeições prontas. Foram aplicados questionários, de acordo com a classificação do tipo deestabelecimento para verificação da disponibilidade, variedade, preço e qualidade de alimentos naturais e ultraprocessados. Resultados:A maior parte dos estabelecimentos participantes eram mercados locais ou de bairros, localizados no centro da cidade, evidenciando as desigualdades territoriais.Foi visto que a disponibilidade de frutas e hortaliças era inferior aos ultraprocessados. Os alimentos apresentaram qualidade satisfatória e os menores preços de frutas foram encontrados nos supermercados e mercadinhos, enquanto os das hortaliças na feira livre. Conclusões:ficou evidente a necessidade de políticas públicas de incentivo a descentralização do comércio de alimentos e o incentivo à venda de alimentos mais saudáveis e acessíveis física e financeiramente (AU).

Introduction:People have started to consume more and more ready-to-eat foods and have reduced their consumption of fruit and vegetables. Consequently, the prevalence of overweight and chronic non-communicable diseases have increased over the years. This dietary and epidemiological transition process has been influenced by the food environment in which they are inserted. Objective:to evaluate the food microenvironment in markets and restaurants in the city of Santa Cruz, Rio Grande do Norte.Methodology:This is a cross-sectional and descriptive research, with a quantitative approach, carried out in 60 commercial establishments supplying natural and processed foods and ready-to-eat meals. Questionnaires were applied, according to the classification of the type of establishment, to check the availability, variety, price and quality of natural and ultra-processed foods.Results:Most of the participating establishments were local or neighborhood markets,located in the downtown, highlighting territorial inequalities. It was noted that the availability of fruits and vegetables is lower than the ultra-processed foods. All foods showed satisfactory quality, and the lowest prices for fruits were found in supermarkets and grocery stores, while vegetables were found in the street market. Conclusions:the need for public policies to encourage the decentralization of the food trade and the incentive to sell healthier and more affordable foodsphysically and financially became evident (AU).

Introducción: Las personas pasaron a consumir alimentos listos y ultraprocessados cada vez más y disminuyeron el consumo de alimentos naturales. Consecuentemente, las prevalencias de sobrepeso y enfermedades crónicas no transmisibles han aumentado con los años. Este proceso de transición alimentaria y epidemiológica ha sido influenciado por el entorno alimentario en el que se encuentran. Objetivo: evaluar el microambiente alimentario en mercados y restaurantes del municipio de Santa Cruz, Rio Grande do Norte.Metodología: Se trata de una investigación transversal y descriptiva, de abordaje cuantitativo, realizada en 60 establecimientos comerciales proveedores de alimentos naturales, industrializados y comidas preparadas. Se aplicaron cuestionarios de acuerdo con la clasificación del tipo de establecimiento para verificar la disponibilidad, variedad, precio y calidad de los alimentos naturales y ultraprocesados. Resultados: La mayor parte de los establecimientos participantes eran mercados locales o de barrios, localizada en el centro de la ciudad, destacando las desigualdades territoriales. Se ha visto que la disponibilidad de frutas y hortalizas es inferior a los ultraprocesados. Los alimentos presentaron calidad satisfactoria y los menores precios de frutas fueron encontrados en los supermercados y mercadillos, mientras que las hortalizas en la feria libre.Conclusiones: quedó evidente la necesidad de políticas públicas de incentivo a la descentralización del comercio de alimentos y el incentivo a la venta de alimentos más saludablesy asequibles física y financieramente (AU).

Association between eating behaviors and positive self-perception of health in Brazilian Adults

Healthy eating habits are related to a lower prevalence of chronic diseases. Objective: Verify the relationship between eating behaviors and self-perceived health (SPH) in young, middle-aged, and older adults. Materials and methods: This is a cross-sectional study with 52166 Brazilian adults aged 18 years and over. The dependent variable was positive SPH, whereas the independent variable was the eating behavior (exchanging lunch for snacks; exchanging dinner for snacks; intake of beans, ultra-processed food the previous day, fruits, vegetables, and processed juices/soft drinks). Poisson regression with robust adjustment for variance was used in the data analysis. Results: The relationship between eating behaviors and SPH was similar between genders. However, a more evident relationship was observed among young adults, regarding the age group. The consumption of fruits and vegetables was most clearly associated with SPH among the investigated behaviors. Furthermore, the higher the number of positive eating behaviors, the higher the prevalence of positive SPH in both genders and all age groups. Conclusion: The findings of this study reinforce the importance of healthy eating behaviors for health and indicate a more direct relationship between these and positive SPH in young adults and as a habit of regularly consuming fruits and vegetables(AU)

Los hábitos alimentarios positivos se relacionan con una menor prevalencia de enfermedades crónicas. Objetivo: Verificar la relación entre las conductas alimentarias y la salud auto percibida (SA) en adultos jóvenes, de mediana edad y ancianos. Materiales y métodos: Se trata de un estudio transversal con 52166 adultos de 18 años o más en Brasil. La variable dependiente fue la SA positiva, mientras que la variable independiente fue la conducta alimentaria (cambio de almuerzo por refrigerio; cambio de cena por un refrigerio, consumo de frijoles, comida ultra procesada, fruta, verdura y zumos/refrescos artificiales el día anterior a la entrevista). En el análisis de datos, se utilizó la regresión de Poisson con ajuste robusto para la varianza. Resultados: La relación entre las conductas alimentarias y la SA fue similar entre los géneros, pero en relación al grupo de edad, se observó una relación más evidente en adultos jóvenes. De los comportamientos investigados, el consumo de frutas y verduras fueron los que se asociaron más claramente con la SA. Cuanto mayor es el número de conductas alimentarias positivas, mayor es la prevalencia de SA positiva, en ambos sexos y en todos los grupos de edad. Conclusión: Los hallazgos de este estudio refuerzan la importancia de un comportamiento alimentario saludable para la mejorar y mantener la salud e indican que, aparentemente, existe una relación más explícita entre éste y la SA positiva en adultos jóvenes, al igual que con el hábito de consumir frutas y verduras con frecuencia(AU)

Com as mãos na terra: estratégias de promoção em nutrição agroecológica / Hands on earth: promotion strategies in agroecological nutrition

Introdução: É notório que a alimentação e a nutrição adequada constituem requisitos indispensáveis para a promoção e a proteção da saúde. Objetivo: Contribuir para a melhoria do acesso a alimentos saudáveis de famílias em um Bairro da periferia urbana do Município de Sobral através de hortas comunitárias, orgânicas e sustentáveis como estratégia de promover Educação Alimentar e Nutricional. Métodos e Materiais: Estudo descritivo com características de intervenção comunitária sob a abordagem qualitativa. A amostra inclui 15 pessoas de famílias beneficiárias do Programa Bolsa Família, acompanhadas pelo Centro de Saúde da Família. Foram realizados quatro encontros educativos sobre alimentação saudável com enfoque na inclusão de frutas, legumes e verduras. Além, do manejo de hortas para o cultivo do próprio alimento. Resultados: Os encontros tiveram duração de 8 horas ao dia, totalizando 24 horas. O momento foi oportuno para treinamento ofertado por um técnico em olericultura orgânica pela entidade parceira, que transmitiu os conhecimentos de maneira prática, em que os participantes aprenderam a preparar a terra, a semear, plantar, regar, colher. No decorrer do treinamento a nutricionista pesquisadora, transmitiu informações nutricionais. Os encontros aconteceram em dias seguidos, nos turnos manhã e tarde. Conclusão: Diante do que foi vivenciado, a pesquisa se mostrou útil para melhoria do grau de conhecimento das participantes, promoveu reflexão crítica sobre a segurança alimentar e nutricional. Ressaltou a importância de se cultivar o próprio alimento para torná-lo acessível.

This study aims at contributing to the improvement of access to healthy food for families in a neighborhood of the urban outskirts of the Municipality of Sobral through community organic and sustainable vegetable gardens as a strategy to promote Food and Nutrition Education. It is a descriptive study with characteristics of community intervention using a qualitative approach. The sample includes 15 people from families benefited from the Family Grant Program (Bolsa Família), accompanied by the Family Health Center. Four educational meetings were held on healthy eating with a focus on the inclusion of fruits and vegetables. In addition, the participants were also taught how to manage vegetable gardens for the cultivation of the food itself. The meetings lasted 8 hours a day, totaling 24 hours. The moment was ideal to provide training offered by an organic olericulture technician provided by the partner entity, who shared the knowledge in a practical way, where the participants could learn how to prepare the earth, to sow, to plant, to water, and to harvest. During the training, the nutritionist researcher also shared nutritional information. The encounters took place on consecutive days, during the morning and afternoon shifts. In view of what was experienced, the research proved to be useful for improving the participants' knowledge on the topic, promoting a critical reflection on food and nutritional security. It also emphasized the importance of cultivating the food itself to make it accessible.

Contribution of the carbonized rice husk added to the substrate in the production of vegetable seedlings

The carbonized rice husk (CRH) is an agro-industrial residue with great potential for use in mixtures with other substrates for the production of vegetable seedlings. Thus, the purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of the addition of CRH to the commercial substrate for the production of greenhouse seedlings. The evaluated vegetables were lettuce, broccoli and mustard, cultivated in polystyrene foam (Styrofoam®) trays. Five treatments were evaluated: 100% of the commercial substrate (CS); 25% of CRH + 75% of CS; 50% of CRH + 50% of CS; 75% CRH + 25% CS; and 100% CRH, in a completely randomized design with twelve replicates. The substrates were evaluated for their physical and chemical characteristics. The morphometric evaluations were: number of leaves per plant, plant height, shoot fresh matter yield, root length, and shoot and root dry matter yield. The data were submitted to regression analysis, and the homogeneity of the variance between the experiments was confirmed by the Cochran test. With the addition of CRH to the substrate, there was an increase in total porosity and P content and a reduction in density, water holding capacity, cation exchange capacity, electrical conductivity, and N, K, S, Ca and Mg contents. The carbonized rice husk added to the commercial substrate is a viable alternative for the production of lettuce, broccoli and mustard seedlings. The quality of the vegetable seedlings was higher when there was a 25% CRH + 75% CS mixture.

Detection of enteroparasites in foliar vegetables commercialized in street- and supermarkets in Aparecida de Goiânia, Goiás, Brazil / Detecção de enteroparasitas em hortaliças comercializadas em feiras e supermercados em Aparecida de Goiânia, Goiás, Brasil

Foliar vegetables contaminated with fecal residues are an important route of transmission of intestinal parasites to humans. The aim of this study was to evaluate the presence of parasitic forms of protozoa and helminths on lettuces (Lactuca sativa) and collard greens (Brassica oleracea) sold in street- and supermarkets in the city of Aparecida de Goiânia, Goiás, Brazil. A total of 30 samples of each vegetable (15 samples from each supermarkets and street markets) was analyzed. All samples were processed by spontaneous sedimentation method and centrifugal flotation. In 45% of the samples, immature forms of intestinal parasites were identified with 66.7% helminths eggs and 33.3% protozoan cysts or oocysts. Significantly more lettuce samples were contaminated with eggs, cysts or oocyst of at least one parasite than collard green samples (U=216; Z=-3.45; P <0.001). The parasitic forms were identified morphologically up to the family level with eggs of Ancylostomatidae, Strongyloididae, Ascarididae and Taeniidae, or oocysts of Eimeriidae, to the genus with Cystoisospora sp. and Toxocara sp., and to the species level with Cystoisospora canis, Dipylidium caninum and Hymenolepis nana. The presence of these infective agents in lettuce and collard green from both street- and supermarkets highlights the high risk of spreading parasites by eating raw vegetables sold in Aparecida de Goiânia.

Hortaliças contaminadas com resíduos fecais são importantes vias de transmissão de parasitas intestinais ao homem. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a presença de formas parasitárias de protozoários e helmintos em alface (Lactuca sativa) e couve (Brassica oleracea) vendidas em feiras e supermercados na cidade de Aparecida de Goiânia, Goiás, Brasil. Um total de 30 amostras de cada vegetal (15 amostras de supermercados e 15 de feiras livres) foi analisado. Todas as amostras foram processadas pelos métodos de sedimentação espontânea e centrífugo-flutuação. Em 45% das amostras foram identificadas formas imaturas de parasitas intestinais sendo 66,7% ovos de helmintos e 33,3% de cistos ou oocistos de protozoários. Significativamente, mais amostras de alface estavam contaminadas com ovos, cistos ou oocistos de pelo menos um parasita do que as amostras de couve (U = 216; Z = -3,45; P <0,001). As formas parasitárias foram identificadas morfologicamente ao nível de família com ovos de Ancylostomatidae, Strongyloididae, Ascarididae e Taeniidae ou oocistos de Eimeriidae, dos gêneros Cystoisospora sp. e Toxocara sp., e ao nível de espécies com Cystoisospora canis, Dipylidium caninum e Hymenolepis nana. A presença desses agentes infecciosos em alface e couve, provenientes tanto de feiras quanto de supermercados, ressalta o alto risco de veiculação de parasitas pela ingestão de hortaliças cruas comercializadas em Aparecida de Goiânia.

Parasitic contamination of fresh vegetables sold in open markets: a public health threat / Contaminação parasítica de vegetais frescos vendidos em mercados abertos: uma ameaça para a saúde pública

Vegetables eating raw are a leading source of transmission of infective forms of pathogenic internal parasites among human beings. This research was conducted from April to October, 2017 to assess the parasitic contamination of vegetables sold at main vegetable markets in districts Lower Dir and Peshawar, Pakistan. Eight hundred specimens of different vegetables were purchased and soaked in physiological saline solution, shaken with a mechanical shaker for 20 minutes and processed by sedimentation concentration method. Results revealed that only 19.7% (n=158/800) of the vegetables were found to be contaminated with single or multiple parasite species. Ascaris lumbricoides (the large round worm) 12.3% (n=99/800) was the most commonly detected pathogen and Taenia saginata (the beef tapeworm) 1.62% (n=13/800) was the least frequently detected one. Interestingly, significant p value (p>0.05 at 95%CI) between the number of examined and contaminated for all the variables studied including education status of the vendors, markets location, type of vegetables, means of display, washed before display, washing source of water and market type. The findings of this study evidenced that consumption of raw vegetables possesses great risk of getting parasitic infections in Lower Dir and Peshawar districts, Pakistan. Instructing the sellers and the public about parasitic disease transfer and their hygiene can reduce the infection rate of parasites of human origin.

Os vegetais crus são a principal fonte de transmissão de formas infecciosas de parasitas internos patogênicos entre os seres humanos. Esta pesquisa foi realizada de abril a outubro de 2017 para avaliar a contaminação parasitária de vegetais vendidos nos principais mercados de vegetais nos distritos de Lower Dir e Peshawar, Paquistão. Oitocentos exemplares de diferentes vegetais foram adquiridos e embebidos em solução salina fisiológica, agitados em agitador mecânico por 20 minutos e processados pelo método de concentração por sedimentação. Os resultados revelaram que apenas 19,7% (n = 158/800) das hortaliças estavam contaminadas com uma ou várias espécies de parasitas. Ascaris lumbricoides (o verme redondo grande) 12,3% (n = 99/800) foi o patógeno mais comumente detectado e Taenia saginata (a tênia da carne) 1,62% (n = 13/800) foi o menos freqüentemente detectado. Curiosamente, valor de p significativo (p> 0,05 em IC de 95%) entre o número de examinados e contaminados para todas as variáveis estudadas incluindo escolaridade dos vendedores, localização dos mercados, tipo de vegetais, meios de exposição, lavado antes da exposição, fonte de lavagem de água e tipo de mercado. Os resultados deste estudo evidenciaram que o consumo de vegetais crus possui grande risco de contrair infecções parasitárias nos distritos de Lower Dir e Peshawar, no Paquistão. Instruir os vendedores e o público sobre a transferência de doenças parasitárias e sua higiene pode reduzir a taxa de infecção de parasitas de origem humana.

Reaction of biofortified lettuce genotypes to different strains of Xanthomonas campestris pv. vitians

Lettuce bacterial leaf spot caused by Xanthomonas campestris pv. vitians is an aggressive disease that is difficult to control. So far there are no reports of the reaction of biofortified lettuce genotypes to different isolates of the bacteria. Thus, the objective was to evaluate the aggressiveness of X. campestris pv. vitians, as well as the reaction of biofortified lettuce genotypes to bacterial spot. Two experiments were performed in two distinct seasons (winter and summer), in greenhouse at the Vegetable Experimental Station of the Federal University of Uberlândia (UFU). The experimental design in both experiments was a randomized block design, in a factor scheme of 5 × 4 (five genotypes and four strains), with four repetitions. Were evaluated the severity and the area under the disease progress curve. In general, the biofortified lettuce 'Uberlândia 10000' was more resistant to most bacterial strains in the summer cultivation, and in the winter period UFU 'Crespa 206'. The commercial cultivar Robusta was the most susceptible to the strains during both seasons. The UFU E125 strain was the most aggressive for most genotypes in both seasons.

Detection of enteropathogens and research of pesticide residues in Lactuca sativa from traditional and agroecological fairs / Detecção de enteropatógenos e pesquisa de resíduos de agrotóxicos em Lactuca sativa de feiras tradicionais e agroecológicas

Agroecological production represents a new reality in vegetable farming. Thus, the study aimed to search for the presence of pesticides in agroecological samples and microbiological and parasitological contamination in Lactuca sativa L. of agroecological and conventional fairs in Alagoas. Thirty-two samples were collected, a hygienicsanitary checklist was performed, along with coliform, Salmonella spp., Staphylococcus aureus research and Gas Chromatography with Mass Spectrometer (GC-MS) for pesticide research; using two methodologies for parasitological studies. Thirty-two samples were analyzed, with a sanitary adequacy level at 45% and 38% for fairs (agroecological and conventional) respectively, with three samples (9.4%) in total, being adequate to the microbiological pattern according to RDC no. 12/2001. Among the 23 samples which were tested positive for parasites, 69.5% originated from samples extracted at conventional fairs, and 53% of every positive samples presented Entamoeba coli as the main contaminant. All together, no traces of deltamethrin were detected, but in two of the samples a peak retention for diphenoconazole was detected. In conclusion, the fairs represent an adequate environment for human pathogens and indicators. Therefore greater hygiene training of vegetable traders and consumers in the state of Alagoas is required, especially in conventional fairs, which presented more critical microbiological and parasitological indexes comparing to fairs with agroecological products; however, the presence of difenoconazole in two samples of agricultural fairs suggests accidental contamination or indiscriminate use of this chemical in the production of Lactuca sativa, however, products with agroecological origin represents a better choice for the consumers.

A produção agroecológica representa uma nova realidade no cultivo das hortaliças. Assim, o estudo teve como objetivo verificar a presença de agrotóxicos em amostras agroecológicas e analisar a contaminação microbiológico e parasitológico em Lactuca sativa L. de feiras agroecológicas e convencionais de Alagoas. Foram coletadas 32 amostras, realizando checklist higiênico-sanitário, análises de coliformes, Salmonella spp., Staphylococcus aureus e Cromatografia Gasosa com Espectrômetro de Massas (GC-MS) para pesquisa de agrotóxicos; utilizando-se duas metodologias para estudos parasitológicos. Foram analisadas 32 amostras, com nível de adequação sanitária de 45% e 38% para feiras (agroecológicas e convencionais) respectivamente, sendo três amostras no total (9,4%) adequadas a padrão microbiológico segundo RDC n° 12//2001; Dentre as 23 amostras positivas para parasitos, 69,5% teve origem em amostras de feiras convencionais, e 53% de todas as amostras positivas apresentaram Entamoeba coli como principal contaminante, juntamente, não foi detectado traços de deltametrina, porem foi visualizado em duas amostras, pico de retenção para padrão de difenoconazol. Concluindo-se que as feiras representam um ambiente adequado para patógenos humanos e indicadores, necessitando de uma maior higienização e treinamento dos comerciantes e consumidores de hortaliças do estado de Alagoas, principalmente em feiras convencionais, que apresentaram índices microbiológicos e parasitológicos mais críticos em relação a feiras com produtos agroecológicos; mas, a presença de difenoconazole em duas amostras de feiras agroecológicas sugerem contaminação acidental ou uso indiscriminado deste químico em produção da Lactuca sativa L., todavia os produtos de origem agroecológica representam uma melhor escolha para o consumidor.

Preliminary assessment of weed population in vegetable and fruit farms of Taif, Saudi Arabia / Avaliação preliminar da população de plantas daninhas em fazendas de hortaliças e frutas de Taif, Arábia Saudita

A significant level of yield losses in the vegetable and fruit farms are attributed to the weed populations of the area. This study was conducted for eighteen months during 2019-2020 to assess the presence of various weed families, related species, and their densities in the vegetable (CROP A) and fruit (CROP B) farms of Taif, Saudi Arabia. During the study, fourteen and ten weed families were noted in the vegetable and fruit farms of the studied area, respectively. Poaceae family weeds (729) were significantly higher in numbers followed by the families Asteraceae (414), Chenopodiaceae (338), and Gisekiaceae (153). In the vegetable farms, two weed species of the family Poaceae including Setaria viridis (437) and Eleusine indica ssp (277) were present in the higher numbers followed by Chenopodium murale (166) of the Chenopodiaceae family. In the fruit farms, the weed species Cynodon dactylon of the family Poaceae represented the highest weed density (172) followed by Gisekia pharnaceoides L. species (153) of family Gisekiaceae and Portulaca oleracea (59) belonging to the family Portulacaceae. The vegetable and fruit farms of the Taif region face severe weed pressure that affects the cultivated crops. This study depicts a comprehensive picture of weed diversity and density in the vegetable and fruit farms of the area. The results of this study will be beneficial in developing effective weed management practices for better crop production.

Um nível significativo de perdas de rendimento nas fazendas de hortaliças e frutas é atribuído às populações de ervas daninhas da área. Este estudo foi conduzido por dezoito meses durante 2019-2020 para avaliar a presença de várias famílias de ervas daninhas, espécies relacionadas e suas densidades nas fazendas de vegetais (CROP A) e frutas (CROP B) de Taif, Arábia Saudita. Durante o estudo, catorze e dez famílias de plantas daninhas foram observadas nas fazendas de hortaliças e frutas da área estudada, respectivamente. As plantas daninhas da família Poaceae (729) foram significativamente maiores em número, seguidas pelas famílias Asteraceae (414), Chenopodiaceae (338) e Gisekiaceae (153). Nas hortas, duas espécies de plantas daninhas da família Poaceae, incluindo Setaria viridis (437) e Eleusine indica ssp (277), estavam presentes em maior número, seguidas por Chenopodium murale (166) da família Chenopodiaceae. Nas fruticulturas, a espécie de plantas daninhas Cynodon dactylon da família Poaceae representou a maior densidade de plantas daninhas (172) seguida das espécies Gisekia pharnaceoides L. (153) da família Gisekiaceae e Portulaca oleracea (59) pertencentes à família Portulacaceae. As fazendas de hortaliças e frutas da região de Taif enfrentam uma forte pressão de ervas daninhas que afeta as culturas cultivadas. Este estudo apresenta um quadro abrangente da diversidade e densidade de plantas daninhas nas fazendas de hortaliças e frutas da região. Os resultados deste estudo serão benéficos no desenvolvimento de práticas eficazes de manejo de plantas daninhas para uma melhor produção das culturas.

Evaluation of vegetables grown in dry mountainous regions for soil transmitted helminths contamination / Avaliação de vegetais para contaminação por helmintos transmitida pelo solo em quatro distritos da divisão de Malakand: noroeste do Paquistão

Infection caused by geo-helminth parasites are called geohelminthiasis are one of the global health problems. Vegetables eaten raw is the principal source of transmission of geo-helminth parasites. Pakistani people believe that eating raw vegetables are a significant source to get important vitamins and minerals. Based on the high incidence of pathogenic parasites and cultivating different vegetable types in the study areas, we conducted this study to evaluate the geo-helminth contamination of raw vegetables in northwest Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. This is a descriptive study comprised, 1942 samples of 25 various types of vegetables. The samples were examined in physiological saline solution using sedimentation and centrifugation methods. The findings were analyzed by Graph-Pad version 5. P value less than 0.05 (95% CI) was considered significant. Results showed that 16.5% (n=322) of all vegetables were contaminated with one or more type of geo-helminth parasites. Garlic was the highest (35%) and cauliflower the lowest (4%) contaminated samples respectively. Ascaris lumbricoides was the most common geohelminth found followed by hook worm species while Trichuris trichura was the least in all the vegetable samples. Leafy vegetables were highly contaminated 25.3% than vegetables with root parts 21.2% and fruity 9.09%. More than half of the contaminated vegetables were contaminated with single species of geo-helminth (P<0.05) while less than half with multiple types of geo-helminth contamination. Ninety two vegetables samples were contaminated with 2 species of parasites (P<0.05) and 45 with 3 (P>0.05) species of geo-helminth parasites. Education level of vendors and means of display were not significantly associated while types of vegetable used were significantly associated with the prevalence of parasites. The findings of this study provide evidence that consumption of raw vegetable has a high risk of acquiring geo-helminth infections. The authors believe that preventing the human to enter to the vegetable farmland for defecation, avoiding the irrigation of agricultural fields via night soil, and educating the people on proper washing and cooking of vegetables may be useful in reducing parasitic infections.

As infecções causadas por parasitas geo-helmínticos são chamados de geohelmintíases e são um dos problemas de saúde globais. Os vegetais comidos crus são a principal fonte de transmissão dos parasitas geo-helmínticos. O povo paquistanês acredita que comer vegetais crus é uma fonte significativa para obter vitaminas e minerais importantes. Com base na alta incidência de parasitas patogênicos e no cultivo de diferentes tipos de vegetais nas áreas de estudo, conduzimos este estudo para avaliar a contaminação por geo-helmintos de vegetais crus no noroeste de Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Paquistão. Trata-se de um estudo descritivo composto por 1942 amostras de 25 tipos diversos de vegetais. As amostras foram examinadas em solução salina fisiológica utilizando métodos de sedimentação e centrifugação. Os achados foram analisados pelo Graph-Pad versão 5. O valor de P menor que 0,05 (IC 95%) foi considerado significativo. Os resultados mostraram que 16,5% (n = 322) de todas as hortaliças estavam contaminadas com um ou mais tipos de parasitas geo-helmínticos. O alho foi a amostra mais contaminada (35%) e a couve-flor a menos (4%), respectivamente. Ascaris lumbricoides foi o geo-helmíntico mais comum encontrado, seguido por espécies de verme-anzol, enquanto Trichuris trichura foi o menos encontrado em todas as amostras de vegetais. Os vegetais folhosos foram altamente contaminados 25,3% do que os vegetais com partes de raiz 21,2% e frutados 9,09%. Mais da metade dos vegetais contaminados estavam contaminados com uma única espécie de geo-helmintos (P <0,05), enquanto menos da metade com vários tipos de contaminação com geo-helmintos. Noventa e duas amostras de vegetais estavam contaminadas com 2 espécies de parasitas (P <0,05) e 45 com 3 (P> 0,05) espécies de parasitas geo-helmínticos. O nível de escolaridade dos vendedores e os meios de exibição não foram significativamente associados, enquanto os tipos de vegetais usados foram significativamente associados à prevalência de parasitas. Os resultados deste estudo fornecem evidências de que o consumo de vegetais crus tem um alto risco de adquirir infecções por geo-helmintos. Os autores acreditam que impedir que o ser humano entre na terra de hortaliças para defecação, evitar a irrigação de campos agrícolas via solo noturno e educar as pessoas sobre a lavagem e cozimento adequados de vegetais pode ser útil na redução de infecções parasitárias.

Análisis del consumo, utilización y aprovechamiento de frutas y verduras entre los años 2019 y 2021 / Analysis of consumption, use and utilization of fruits and vegetables between 2019 and 2021

En 2021 se conmemoró el Año Internacional de las Frutas y Verduras (FyV). Estos alimentos cumplen un rol indispensable en la dieta, sin embargo, un amplio sector de la población no las consume en la variedad y cantidad recomendadas. A esto se suma la problemática de las pérdidas y desperdicios de alimentos, situación que trae consigo un impacto negativo a nivel social, ambiental y económico. El objetivo del presente artículo fue analizar el consumo, utilización y aprovechamiento de FyV desde las perspectivas de salud y sostenibilidad. Para esto, se realizaron cuatro encuestas entre 2019 y 2021 que evaluaron diferentes dimensiones relacionadas con estos alimentos: adecuación del consumo, variedades consumidas, criterios de calidad de FyV apreciados por los consumidores y prácticas de sostenibilidad y consumo responsable. Sólo el 19% de los encuestados presentó consumos adecuados de FyV (5 o más porciones diarias). La variedad de frutas consumidas es menor que la de hortalizas, concentrándose en tres de ellas: manzana, banana y naranja. Los principales factores identificados como limitantes del consumo de FyV fueron el precio, la elevada perecibilidad de estos alimentos y la preferencia hacia otros productos. En relación a las prácticas de alimentación sostenible y los principales criterios de calidad valorados por los consumidores se observó un bajo aprovechamiento de partes comestibles de frutas o verduras, menos del 27% de los encuestados consume la fruta con cáscara, y un mayor desaprovechamiento de partes comestibles de verduras, dónde el 64% de los encuestados tira partes como tallos u hojas, aún cuando existen vías de aprovechamiento con fines no alimenticios. Por último, el factor de calidad más apreciado por los consumidores es la apariencia (30%), el valor nutricional no fue un parámetro de gran valoración (6%)(AU).

In 2021, the International Year of Fruits and Vegetables (FyV) was commemorated. These foods play an essential role in the diet; however, a large sector of the population does not consume them in the recommended variety and quantity. Added to this is the problem of food losses and waste, a situation that brings about a negative impact at a social, environmental and economic level. The objective of this article was to analyze the consumption, use and utilization of F&V from the perspectives of health and sustainability. For achiving this, four surveys were carried out between 2019 and 2021 that evaluated different dimensions: adequacy of consumption, varieties consumed, F&V quality criteria appreciated by consumers, and sustainability practices and responsible consumption. Only 19% of those surveyed presented adequate consumption of F&V (5 or more daily servings). The variety of fruits consumed is less than that of vegetables, concentrating on three of them: apple, banana and orange. The main factors limiting the consumption of F&V were the price, the high perishability of these foods and the preference for other products. In relation to sustainable eating practices and the main quality criteria valued by consumers, a low use of edible parts of fruits or vegetables was observed, less than 27% of respondents consume fruit with peel, and a greater waste of edible parts of vegetables, where 64% of respondents throw away parts such as stems or leaves, even when there are ways of using them for non-food purposes. Finally, the quality factor most appreciated by consumers is appearance (30%), nutritional value was not a highly valued parameter (6%)(AU).

Advances in the molecular regulation of anthocyanins in solanaceous vegetables / 生物工程学报

Anthocyanins are widely distributed water-soluble pigments that not only give the fruit colorful appearances, but also are important sources of natural edible pigments. In recent years, the interest on anthocyanins of solanaceous vegetables is increasing. This paper summarized the structure of anthocyanins and its biosynthetic pathway, the structural genes and regulatory genes involved in the biosynthesis of anthocyanins in solanaceous vegetables, as well as the environmental factors affecting the biosynthesis. This review may help clarify the synthesis and regulation mechanism of anthocyanins in solanaceous vegetables and make better use of anthocyanins for quality breeding of fruit colors.

Distribution and risk factors of self-reported cancer cases in adults in China, 2015 / 中华流行病学杂志

Objective: To analyze the prevalence and risk factors of self-reported cancer in adults in China in 2015. Methods: The data used in this study were from China Chronic Disease and Risk Factors Surveillance in 2015. The frequency and proportion of the classified variables were analyzed by descriptive statistics, the disordered classified variables were compared by χ2 test, and the possible risk factors of cancer patients were screened by univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses. Results: In 2015, there were 1 809 self-reported tumors patients in China, including 689 males (0.63%), 1 120 females (1.03%), 769 (0.71%) in the eastern region, 465 (0.43%) in the central region and 575 (0.53%) in the western region. The patients were mainly distributed in people aged 45- and 55- years old, being overweight or obese, living in eastern urban area, having low education level, being married, having low annual household income and being occupational population. The results of multivariate logistic regression showed that compared with the western region, the prevalence rate of cancer was higher in the eastern region (OR=1.05, 95%CI: 1.04-1.06), while lower in the central region (OR=0.94, 95%CI: 0.93-0.95); the risk for cancer in people with family history of malignancy was higher than that in people without family history of malignancy (OR=1.95, 95%CI:1.94-1.96) the risk for cancer in people with an annual household income of less than 10 000 yuan or between 10 000 and 50 000 yuan was higher than that in people with an annual household income of more than 50 000 yuan (<10 000 yuan: OR=1.59, 95%CI: 1.58-1.60; between 10 000 and 50 000 yuan: OR=1.27, 95%CI: 1.26-1.28); and the risk for cancer in people living urban areas was lower than that in people living in rural areas (OR=0.98, 95%CI: 0.97-0.99). In terms of personal behavior and diet, the risk for cancer in smokers was 1.25 times higher than that in non-smokers (OR=1.25, 95%CI: 1.24-1.26), and the risk for cancer in alcoholics was 1.16 times higher than that in non-alcoholics (OR=1.16, 95%CI: 1.15-1.17), the risk for cancer in people with insufficient vegetable and fruit intakes was 1.29 times and 1.03 times higher than those in people with sufficient intakes of vegetables and fruits, respectively (OR=1.29, 95%CI: 1.28-1.30;OR=1.03,95%CI: 1.02-1.04). People with low frequency of high-intensity exercise had a higher risk for cancer compared with those with high frequency of high-intensity exercise (OR=1.32, 95%CI: 1.31-1.33), the risk for cancer was higher in people with low frequency of moderate exercise than in people with high frequency of moderate exercise (OR=1.08, 95%CI: 1.07-1.09). The risk for cancer in people with sedentary time less than 2 hours was higher than that in those with sedentary time more than 2 hours (OR=1.69, 95%CI: 1.68-1.70), and the risk for cancer in people who ate moderate amount of red meat was lower than that in people who ate excessive amount of red meat (OR=0.86, 95%CI: 0.85-0.87). Conclusions: The number of female self-reported cancer was more than that in males, and the number of self-reported cancer in the eastern region was higher than that in the central and western regions. Living in eastern region, with family history of malignancy, having low annual household income, smoking, drinking, insufficient vegetable intake, insufficient fruit intake and low frequency of high-intensity exercise and low frequency of moderate intensity exercise were the main risk factors for cancer, while living in central region, living in urban area and low red meat intake were protective factors.

A follow-up study on the introduction of vegetables and fruits during infants aged 4-8 months in Beijing and Chenzhou City of Hunan Province / 北京大学学报(医学版)

OBJECTIVE@#To investigate the introduction of vegetables and fruits in 4-8 months old infants, and to describe the maternal and infants' characteristics associated with the introduction of vegetables and fruits.@*METHODS@#Mother-infant dyads (n=228) were recruited from 12 to 16 weeks postpartum and formally entered the study at 4 months of age. Data collected via face to face interview at 4-8 months postpartum, including the timing and types of added vegetables and fruits, as well as a variety of maternal and infant characteristics (n=204). Rank sum test and multiple linear regression were used to analyze the maternal and infant characteristics related to the introduction of vegetables and fruits.@*RESULTS@#The time of introducing vegetables was concentrated at the age of 7 months, and the time of adding fruits was mainly at 6 months. Fruits were added earlier than vegetables (P < 0.001), and the variety of the added fruits was higher than that of vegetables (P=0.045). 48% (n=98) of infants had no more than three types of fruits and vegetables at 8 months. Only 9.8% (n=20) had added more than 10 kinds of fruits and vegetables at 8 months. Green leafy vegetables were the most commonly added vegetable, and apple was the most popular fruit. Compared with women who were 35 years of age or younger, women beyond 35 years old introduced vegetables to their babies 0.6 months later. 4-month-old exclusively breastfed infants had vegetables 0.4 months later than mixed-fed infants. Women with a bachelor's degree or above added 2-3 more types of fruits and vegetables to their babies than those with junior high school education and below.@*CONCLUSION@#The adding time of fruits was earlier than that of vegetable. Apples and green leafy vegetables are commonly added. Women with lower educational backgrounds add fewer types of fruits and vegetables to their babies. Mothers who choose exclusive breastfeeding and those over 35 years of age at childbirth add vegetables to their babies later than others. They should be targeted for health promotion programs that aim to improve the intake of fruits and vegetables among infants.