Precautions for seafood consumers: An updated review of toxicity, bioaccumulation, and rapid detection methods of marine biotoxins.

Seafood products are globally consumed, and there is an increasing demand for the quality and safety of these products among consumers. Some seafoods are easily contaminated by marine biotoxins in natural environments or cultured farming processes. When humans ingest different toxins accumulated in seafood, they may exhibit different poisoning symptoms. According to the investigations, marine toxins produced by harmful algal blooms and various other marine organisms mainly accumulate in the body organs such as liver and digestive tract of seafood animals. Several regions around the world have reported incidents of seafood poisoning by biotoxins, posing a threat to human health. Thus, most countries have legislated to specify the permissible levels of these biotoxins in seafood. Therefore, it is necessary for seafood producers and suppliers to conduct necessary testing of toxins in seafood before and after harvesting to prohibit excessive toxins containing seafood from entering the market, which therefore can reduce the occurrence of seafood poisoning incidents. In recent years, some technologies which can quickly, conveniently, and sensitively detect biological toxins in seafood, have been developed and validated, these technologies have the potential to help seafood producers, suppliers and regulatory authorities. This article reviews the seafood toxins sources and types, mechanism of action and bioaccumulation of marine toxins, as well as legislation and rapid detection technologies for biotoxins in seafood for official and fishermen supervision.

Advances and challenges in animal source food inspection legislation for Brazilian small-scale and artisanal producers / Avanços e desafios na legislação de inspeção de alimentos de origem animal para pequenos produtores e produtores artesanais no Brasil / Avances y desafíos en la legislación de inspección de alimentos de origen animal para pequeños productores y productores artesanos brasileños

Abstract: The strict sanitary inspection legislation of animal source food has been considered a trade barrier for smallholder farmers and small-scale producers in Brazil. In this sense, law flexibilization is suggested to facilitate national trade of these products. We conducted a social and sanitary analysis, presenting the current Brazilian conjuncture and difficulties for animal source food Brazilian inspection law flexibilization. By discussing inequalities, human rights issues, animal source food legislation, and international food safety standards, we evidenced critical barriers for legislative reform in Brazil. Among these barriers, the main ones are social inequalities; high zoonotic risk of animal source food products; the Brazilian political structure and its reflection on different inspection practices among country jurisdictions; and the lack of inspection services in most Brazilian municipalities. At the same time, we present positive updates in the normative framework, and point out game-changers to modify the actual safety and trade situations of Brazilian small-scale and artisanal animal source food products, including policies to strengthen state and municipal inspection services and harmonization initiatives based on international standards and national legislation. We also suggest policies to implement inspection services in municipalities, whether by municipal action or by a consortium, as well as policies to strengthen technical assistance and rural extension for small-scale and artisanal producers. These policies aim to reduce technical and sanitary education inequalities and build a fairer animal source food system.

Resumo: A rigorosa legislação de inspeção sanitária de alimentos de origem animal tem sido considerada uma barreira comercial para agricultores familiares e pequenos produtores no Brasil. Nesse sentido, sugestiona-se a flexibilização das leis para facilitar o comércio nacional destes produtos. Realizamos uma análise sociosanitária, apresentando a atual conjuntura brasileira e apontando as dificuldades para a flexibilização da lei de inspeção de alimentos de origem animal. Discutindo as desigualdades brasileiras, os direitos humanos, a legislação brasileira sobre alimentos de origem animal e as normas internacionais de segurança de alimentos, evidenciamos pontos críticos que constituem o desafio para a reforma da legislação, sendo eles: desigualdades sociais; alto risco zoonótico de produtos de origem animal; a estrutura política brasileira e seu reflexo nas diferentes práticas de fiscalização entre as jurisdições do país; e a falta de inspeção oficial na maioria dos municípios brasileiros. Ao mesmo tempo, apresentamos atualizações positivas no arcabouço normativo e apontamos divisores de águas para modificar a real situação de segurança e comércio dos produtos de origem animal brasileiros de pequena escala e artesanais, incluindo políticas relacionadas ao fortalecimento dos serviços de inspeção estaduais e municipais e iniciativas de harmonização com base em padrões internacionais e legislação nacional; políticas de implantação dos serviços de inspeção oficial nos municípios, seja por ação municipal ou por consórcio; e políticas de fortalecimento da assistência técnica e extensão rural para pequenos produtores e produtores artesanais, em prol da redução das desigualdades na educação técnica e sanitária e construção de um sistema alimentar de origem animal mais justo.

Resumen: La estricta legislación de inspección sanitaria de alimentos de origen animal ha sido considerada una barrera comercial para los agricultores familiares y pequeños productores en Brasil. En ese sentido, se sugiere flexibilizar la ley para facilitar el comercio nacional de estos productos. Realizamos un análisis sociosanitario, presentando la coyuntura actual brasileña y señalando las dificultades para flexibilizar la ley de Inspección de alimentos de origen animal. Al discutir las desigualdades brasileñas, los derechos humanos, la legislación brasileña sobre alimentos de origen animal y las normas internacionales de seguridad alimentaria, destacamos puntos críticos que constituyen el desafío para la reforma de la legislación, a saber: desigualdades sociales; alto riesgo zoonótico de los productos de origen animal; la estructura política brasileña y su reflejo en las diferentes prácticas de inspección entre las jurisdicciones del país; y la falta de inspección oficial en la mayoría de los municipios brasileños. A la vez, presentamos actualizaciones positivas en el marco normativo y señalamos parteaguas para cambiar la situación real de seguridad y comercio de los productos de origen animal brasileños de pequeña escala y artesanía, incluidas políticas relacionadas con el fortalecimiento de los servicios de inspección estatales y municipales e iniciativas de armonización con base en normas internacionales y legislación nacional; políticas para la implementación de servicios oficiales de inspección en los municipios, ya sea por acción municipal o por consorcio; y políticas para fortalecer la asistencia técnica y la extensión rural a pequeños productores y productores artesanos, para reducir las desigualdades en la educación técnica y sanitaria y construir un sistema de alimentos de origen animal más justo.

Designing Nutrition for Health-Incorporating Dietary By-Products into Poultry Feeds to Create Functional Foods with Insights into Health Benefits, Risks, Bioactive Compounds, Food Component Functionality and Safety Regulations.

This review delves into the concept of nutrition by design, exploring the relationship between poultry production, the utilization of dietary by-products to create functional foods, and their impact on human health. Functional foods are defined as products that extend beyond their basic nutritional value, offering potential benefits in disease prevention and management. Various methods, including extraction, fermentation, enrichment, biotechnology, and nanotechnology, are employed to obtain bioactive compounds for these functional foods. This review also examines the innovative approach of enhancing livestock diets to create functional foods through animal-based methods. Bioactive compounds found in these functional foods, such as essential fatty acids, antioxidants, carotenoids, minerals, vitamins, and bioactive peptides, are highlighted for their potential in promoting well-being and mitigating chronic diseases. Additionally, the review explores the functionality of food components within these products, emphasizing the critical roles of bioaccessibility, bioactivity, and bioavailability in promoting health. The importance of considering key aspects in the design of enhanced poultry diets for functional food production is thoroughly reviewed. The safety of these foods through the establishment of regulations and guidelines was reviewed. It is concluded that the integration of nutrition by design principles empowers individuals to make informed choices that can prioritize their health and well-being. By incorporating functional foods rich in bioactive compounds, consumers can proactively take steps to prevent and manage health issues, ultimately contributing to a healthier society and lifestyle.

Unhealthy food consumption among Ecuadorian children: A cross-sectional study in the context of the school food regulation / Consumo de alimentos poco saludables en niños ecuatorianos: estudio transversal en el contexto del reglamento de alimentación escolar

Introduction. The intake of energy-dense unhealthy food at school could influence the overall energy intake of children. Objective: To characterize the patterns of buying a snack at school and to analyze the association of these patterns with the source of the school snack (brought from home or bought at school) and screen time. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from October 2018 until May 2019 among school children (9 to 12-year-olds) from Cuenca-Ecuador. Intake of energy-dense unhealthy food groups, the source of the school snack, and screen time were assessed using questionnaires. Multiple correspondence analysis was used to identify intake patterns of unhealthy food groups, and logistic regression to assess the association between intake of energy-dense unhealthy food groups (FG) with the school snack source. Results: Among 1,028 children recruited 63%, 42%, 30% and 22% of the children reported consuming sweets/confiture, savory snacks, fast food, and pastry products, respectively, at least two days per week. Around 39% of the children were classified as "Frequent consumers of energy-dense unhealthy FG". Buying the snack at school was associated with a more frequent intake of sweets/confiture (OR=1.56, CI 95% =1.05-2.32) and fast food (OR=2.01, CI 95% =1.15-3.50) during the week, as well as with being classified in the "frequent consumer of energy-dense unhealthy FG" (OR=1.99, 95% CI=1.40-2.82). Conclusions: Ecuadorian children still consume prohibited unhealthy foods at school. These results reinforce the importance of evaluating, monitoring, and adapting strategies to promote a balanced diet(AU)

Introducción. La ingesta de alimentos poco saludables con alto contenido energético en la escuela podría influir en la ingesta energética total de los niños. Objetivo: Caracterizar los patrones de compra de snacks en el colegio y analizar la asociación de estos patrones con la procedencia del snack escolar (de la casa o comprada en el colegio) y el tiempo de pantalla. Materiales y métodos: Se realizó un estudio transversal (octubre 2018-mayo 2019) en escolares (9-12 años) Cuenca- Ecuador. La ingesta de grupos de alimentos (FG) no saludables altos en energía, la fuente del snack escolar y el tiempo de pantalla se evaluaron mediante cuestionarios. Se utilizó análisis de correspondencias múltiples para identificar patrones de ingesta de FG poco saludables y la regresión logística para evaluar asociación entre la ingesta FG no saludables con la fuente del snack escolar. Resultados: En 1.028 niños 63%, 42%, 30% y 22% declararon consumir dulces/golosinas, aperitivos salados, comida rápida y productos de pastelería, respectivamente, al menos dos/días/ semana. Un 39% fueron clasificados como "Consumidores frecuentes de FG poco saludables de alta densidad energética". La compra de los snacks en el colegio se asoció con una ingesta más frecuente de dulces/golosinas (OR=1,56; IC95%=1,05-2,32) y comida rápida (OR=2,01; IC95%=1,15-3,50) durante la semana y con la clasificación en el grupo" consumidores frecuentes de FG poco saludables de alta densidad energética" (OR=1,99; IC95%=1,40- 2,82). Conclusiones: Los niños ecuatorianos aún consumen alimentos no saludables prohibidos en la escuela. Estos resultados refuerzan la importancia de evaluar, monitorear y adaptar estrategias para promover una dieta balanceada(AU)

Current status, technology, regulation and future perspectives of essential oils usage in the food and drink industry.

Nowadays, essential oils (EOs) have a wide use in many applications such as in food, cosmetics, pharmaceutical and animal feed products. Consumers' preferences concerning healthier and safer foodstuffs lead to an increased demand for natural products, in replacement of synthetic substances, used as preservatives, flavourings etc. EOs, besides being safe, are promising alternatives as natural food additives, and much research has been carried out on their antioxidant and antimicrobial activity. The initial purpose of this review is to discuss conventional and 'green' extraction techniques along with their basic mechanism for the isolation of EOs from aromatic plants. This review aims to provide a broad overview of the current knowledge about the chemical constitution of EOs while considering the existence of different chemotypes, since bioactivity is attributed to the chemical composition - qualitative and quantitative - of EOs. Although the food industry primarily uses EOs as flavourings, an overview on recent applications of EOs in food systems and active packaging is provided. EOs exhibit poor solubility in water, oxidation susceptibility, negative organoleptic effect and volatility, restricting their use. Encapsulation techniques have been proven to be one of the best approaches to preserve the biological activities of EOs and minimize their effects on food sensory qualities. Herein, different encapsulation techniques and their basic mechanism for loading EOs are discussed. EOs are highly accepted by consumers, who are often under the misconception that 'natural' means safe. This is, however, an oversimplification, and the possible toxicity of EOs should be taken into consideration. Thus, in the final section of the current review, the focus is on current EU legislation, safety assessment and sensory evaluation of EOs. © 2023 The Authors. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.

Calidad de productos alimentarios anunciados por televisión antes y después del plan para mejorar su composición, 2017-2020 / Quality of food products announced on television before and after the plan to improve their composition, 2017–2020

Objetivo: Comparar la calidad nutricional de los alimentos y bebidas anunciados por televisión en España antes y después del plan para mejorar su composición. Método: Se grabaron las emisiones por televisión digital terrestre (TDT) en horario infantil de los canales más populares. Se registraron los productos anunciados en los cortes comerciales y su composición nutricional. Se comparó su distribución de frecuencias por categorías alimentarias y su adherencia al perfil nutricional de la Organización Mundial de la Salud en 2017 y 2020. Resultados: En 256 horas de emisión se identificaron 173 productos (78 en 2017 y 95 en 2020). Los más anunciados fueron los chocolates (26,9% en 2017 y 22,1% en 2020). El 76,3% de los productos anunciados eran no saludables (76,9% en 2017 y 75,8% en 2020; p = 0,86). Conclusiones: El perfil nutricional de los productos anunciados por televisión, mayoritariamente no saludables, no cambió tras la implantación del plan para mejorar su composición. Es preciso regular la publicidad alimentaria para proteger a los niños. (AU)

Objective: To compare the nutritional quality of the foods and beverages advertised on television in Spain, before and after the plan to improve their composition. Method: DTT broadcasts of the more popular channels were recorded in children's hours. Every advertised products in commercial breaks were registered and their nutritional data collected. We compared the distribution of frequencies by food categories and their adherence to the nutritional standards of the World Health Organization in 2017 and 2020. Results: In 256 h of broadcasting we identified 173 products (78 in 2017 and 95 in 2020). The most advertised products were chocolates (26.9% in 2017 and 22.1% in 2020). 76.3% of the products advertised were unhealthy (76.9% in 2017 vs. 75.8% in 2020; p = 0.86). Conclusions: The nutritional profile of the foods and drinks advertised on television, mostly unhealthy, did not change after the implementation of the plan to improve their composition. A regulation is needed to protect children from food advertising. (AU)

Labeling of ready-to-eat minimally processed vegetables sold in Brazil / Rotulagem de vegetais minimamente processados prontos para consumo comercializados no Brasil

Introduction: Ready-to-eat minimally processed vegetables (RTE-MPV) are vegetables subjected to several steps that modify their natural structure, while maintaining the same freshness and nutritional quality as the fresh produce. Since these products are sold in packages, they must be labeled, even though nutritional labeling is optional. Objective: The goal of this study was to assess the labeling aspects of several brands of RTE-MPV sold in Brazil, determining whether manufacturers adhered to the different types of food labeling legislation. Method: Photographic records of RTE-MPV packages were obtained in different regions of Brazil between October 2020 and August 2021, and labels were analyzed using a checklist that was prepared according to the different types of Brazilian food labeling legislation in force at the time of the study: RDC nº 259/2002, RDC nº 359/2003, RDC nº 360/2003 and Law nº 10,674/2003. Results: The labels of 288 RTE-MPV packages, belonging to 39 brands, were analyzed. Among these, 31 brands showed at least one aspect that was not in accordance with the legislation, such as the lack of information about place of origin, and the presence or absence of gluten. Although optional, most brands (38) adopted nutritional labeling, but the information was incomplete in ten of them. Conclusion: These data indicate that there are flaws in the labeling of RTE-MPV in Brazil, emphasizing the need for manufacturers to comply with the legislation. Moreover, the optional adoption of nutritional labeling by most brands is significantly important for consumers to have additional information about what they consume. (AU)

Introdução: Os vegetais minimamente processados (VMP) são submetidos a etapas que modificam sua estrutura natural, mantendo o frescor e qualidade nutricional dos produtos frescos. Por serem comercializados embalados, esses produtos devem ser rotulados, embora a rotulagem nutricional seja opcional. Objetivo: Este estudo analisou a rotulagem de diferentes marcas de VMP comercializados no Brasil, a fim de determinar a aderência dos produtores às legislações relativas à rotulagem de alimentos. Método: Foram obtidos registros fotográficos de embalagens VMP comercializados em diferentes regiões do Brasil entre outubro de 2020 e agosto de 2021, e os rótulos foram analisados por meio de um checklist elaborado com base nas legislações brasileiras de rotulagem de alimentos vigentes no período em que o estudo foi realizado: RDC nº 259/2002, RDC nº 359/2003, RDC nº 360/2003 e Lei nº 10.674/2003. Resultados: Foram analisados os rótulos de 288 embalagens de VMP, pertencentes a 39 marcas. Dentre essas, 31 marcas apresentaram pelo menos um item que não estava de acordo com as legislações de rotulagem vigentes, como falta de informação sobre o local de origem e a presença ou ausência de glúten. Apesar de opcional, a maioria das marcas (38) adotou a rotulagem nutricional, mas em dez delas as informações estavam incompletas. Conclusão: Esses dados indicam falhas na rotulagem de VMP no Brasil, enfatizando a necessidade das empresas de cumprirem essas regulamentações. Além disso, a adoção opcional da rotulagem nutricional pela maioria das marcas tem grande importância, pois fornece informações adicionais aos consumidores sobre os produtos que consomem. (AU)

(In)segurança da rotulagem de alimentos infantis à base de cereais em relação à legislação brasileira vigente / (In)safety of labeling of cereal-based infant foods in relation to current brazilian legislation

Introdução: Os cereais sãoamplamente utilizados na alimentação das crianças. Objetivo: avaliar a composição nutricional e a rotulagem de alimentos infantis à base de cereais, em relação à legislação vigente. Material e Métodos: Estudo transversal, analítico e descritivo que avaliou alimentos à base de cereais, bem como a conformidade da rotulagem em relação à legislação brasileira vigente. Resultados: Avaliaram-se 72 amostras de alimentos: cereal para alimentação infantil; mistura para o preparo de mingaus e farinha de cereais; 100% das amostras apresentaram alguma não conformidade em relação à legislação, incluindo a presença de falso conceito de vantagem e segurança, ilustrações não permitidas, ausência de advertências obrigatórias e ausência da idade mínima para consumo do produto. Nas análises bromatológicas e de rotulagem, o teor de carboidratos de todas as categorias ultrapassou 80% do valor energético total do produto. Os teores de proteínas, lipídios, carboidratos e energia da categoria cereal para alimentação infantil mostraram diferenças significativas, sendo, respectivamente, p=0,015, p<0,001, p=0,013 e p<0,001. A categoria "mistura para preparo de mingaus" também mostrou diferenças significativas para proteínas, lipídios, carboidratos e energia (p<0,001). Na categoria de farinhas de cereais, somente o teor de proteínas apresentou diferença (p=0,05). Conclusão: Considerando o universo amostral do estudo, é possível concluir que mesmo na vigência de legislações específicas, ainda encontramos não conformidades legais na rotulagem de alimentos à base de cereais destinados à alimentação infantil, sendo que esses alimentos apresentam composição nutricional diferente das informações apresentadas em seus rótulos, impactando negativamente a segurança alimentar de crianças.

Introduction: Cereals are widely used in children's nutrition. Objective: to evaluate the nutritional composition and labeling of cereal-based infant foods, in relation to current legislation. Material and Methods: cross-sectional, analytical and descriptive study that evaluated cereal-based foods, as well as labeling compliance with current Brazilian legislation. Results: 72 food samples were evaluated: cereal for baby food; mixture for the preparation of porridge and cereal flour. One hundred percent of the samples showed some non-compliance with the legislation, including the presence of a false concept of advantage and safety, illustrations not allowed, absence of mandatory warnings and, absence of the minimum age for consumption of the product. In bromatological and labeling analyses, the carbohydrate content of all categories exceeded 80% of the total energy value of the product. The protein, lipid, carbohydrate and energy contents of the cereal category for infant feeding showed significant differences, being, respectively, p=0.015, p<0.001, p=0.013 and p<0.001. The mix category for porridge preparation also showed significant differences for proteins, lipids, carbohydrates and energy (p<0.001). In the category of cereal flours, only the protein content showed a difference (p=0.05). Conclusion: considering the sample universe of the study, it is possible to conclude that even in the presence of specific legislation, we still find legal non-conformities in the labeling of cereal-based foods intended for infant feeding, and these foods have a nutritional composition different from the information presented on their labels, negatively impacting children's food safety.

Analysis and Screening of Commercialized Protein Supplements for Sports Practice.

Recent years have seen a rise in the popularity of the consumption of sports-related supplements. However, the hypothesis is raised that it is necessary to analyze the quality aspects of these supplements in relation to the information provided on the label, to avoid associated risks and obtain the greatest possible benefit from their consumption. Therefore, the aim of this study has been to carry out an analysis or screening of the protein supplements that are currently marketed in Spain. We analyzed the labels of 52 protein sports supplements available both in physical stores and online. The analysis consisted of addressing three relevant aspects considering the labeling: (a) the legislative framework in which the supplements are marketed, (b) the quality of the protein, and (c) the presence of other ingredients according to the specifications of the label. In the legislative context, there do not seem to be any specific regulations to guarantee consumer protection, which can lead to unfair practices and misleading advertising. Most of the supplements analyzed to comply with the requirements of their current regulations. However, claims about their benefits that are not allowed under European legislation have been found in some of them. Regarding composition and according to label information, the supplements have been found to provide a sufficient dose of protein in terms of recommended protein intake per serving. Regarding the presence of other ingredients and according to the information on the label, most of them, except for egg supplements, contain other ingredients. Colostrum was also found in one of the supplements evaluated. The conclusions of the study reveal that, due to a lack of knowledge or misleading advertising practices, supplements are often not used properly. The information provided is essential for both professionals and consumers to avoid the risks associated with consumption, such as unintentional doping, interactions between ingredients that reduce the quality of the supplement, and consumption of supplements inappropriately, among others.

From the most to the least flexible nutritional profile: Classification of foods marketed in Brazil according to the Brazilian and Mexican models.

Nutrient profiling is the science of classifying or ranking foods according to their nutritional composition, for reasons related to disease prevention and health promotion. To be effective, policies such as front-of-pack nutrition labeling (FoPNL) must have an adequate nutritional profile model, since it will determine which products will be eligible to receive a FoPNL. This study aimed to determine the percentage of packaged food and drink products available in Brazil that would be subject to FoPNL under two different legislations: Brazilian and Mexican. This is a cross-sectional study in which we collected information on food products (photos of the ingredients list, the front label, the barcode, and the nutrition facts table) from one of the largest stores of a supermarket chain in the city of Belo Horizonte-MG, Brazil, from March to May 2021 (~6 months after the publication of the Brazilian legislation about FoPNL and a year and a half before the legislation came into force). The products were classified in relation to the BNPM (added sugars, saturated fats, and sodium) and the MNPM (energy, free sugars, saturated fats, trans fats, sodium, non-sugar sweeteners, and caffeine). A total of 3384 products were collected and, after applying the exclusion criteria, 3,335 products were evaluated. Of these, 2,901 would be eligible to receive FoPNL in Brazil and 2,914 would be eligible to receive FoPNL in Mexico. According to the BNPM, 56.7% (95% CI 54.9; 58.5%) of the products were "high in" critical nutrients, 27.1% (95% CI 25.5; 28.7%) of the products in added sugars, 26.7% (95% CI 25.2; 28.4%) of the products in saturated fats, and 21.4% (95% CI 19.9; 22.9%) of the products in sodium. As for the MNPM, 96.8% (95% CI 96.1; 97.4%) of them were "high in" up to five critical nutrients and up to two warning rectangles (caffeine and non-sugar sweeteners), 45.8% (95% CI 44.0; 47.6%) of them in free sugars, 43.7% (95% CI 41.9; 45.5%) of them in saturated fats, and 47.9% (95% CI 46.1; 49.7%) of them in sodium. We concluded that the eligibility to receive FoPNL by BNPM and MNPM was relatively similar between products; however, almost all products would have at least one FoPNL and/or warning rectangles according to Mexican legislation, and nearly half of them would have at least one FoPNL, considering BNPM. The MNPM is much more restrictive than the BNPM. The Nutrient Profile Model (NPM) that regulates FoPNL, and other health policies, must be carefully defined to ensure that foods are properly classified according to their healthiness.

Idas y venidas del diseño de la política de alimentación saludable en el Perú: análisis comparativo de sus documentos regulatorios / The comings and goings of the design of the healthy eating policy in Peru: a comparative analysis of its regulatory documents

La venta de productos ultraprocesados y el sobrepeso y la obesidad han aumentado en América Latina en los últimos años. En el Perú, se aprobó la Ley N° 30021 en busca de reducir el sobrepeso y la obesidad en niños y adolescentes, sin embargo, el desarrollo de esta Ley se caracterizó por tener continuas modificaciones en los diversos documentos elaborados. El propósito de este artículo es identificar cambios esenciales en los documentos elaborados por el Gobierno y el Congreso en el marco de la Ley N° 30021, específicamente en los temas de regulación de la publicidad de alimentos y bebidas no alcohólicas, advertencias publicitarias y parámetros técnicos de nutrientes críticos. Los cambios identificados en los diferentes documentos muestran el dinamismo en el desarrollo de esta política donde la falta de evidencia científica oportuna, la oposición de la industria alimentaria y la falta de consenso político fueron los principales motivos.

The sale of ultra-processed products has increased in Latin America in recent years, as well as the prevalence of overweight and obesity. In Peru, Law No. 30021 passed in an attempt to reduce overweight and obesity in children and adolescents; however, the development of this law was characterized by constant modifications to the documents prepared in this regard. This article aims to identify essential modifications in the documents elaborated by the Government and the Congress within the timeframe of Law No. 30021, particularly those regarding the regulation of food and non-alcoholic beverage advertising, advertising warnings and technical parameters of critical nutrients. The lack of timely scientific evidence, the opposition by the food industry and the lack of political consensus were the main reasons for the detected modifications, which shows the dynamism during the development of this policy.

[Quality of food products announced on television before and after the plan to improve their composition, 2017-2020]. / Calidad de productos alimentarios anunciados por televisión antes y después del plan para mejorar su composición, 2017-2020.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the nutritional quality of the foods and beverages advertised on television in Spain, before and after the plan to improve their composition. METHOD: DTT broadcasts of the more popular channels were recorded in children's hours. Every advertised products in commercial breaks were registered and their nutritional data collected. We compared the distribution of frequencies by food categories and their adherence to the nutritional standards of the World Health Organization in 2017 and 2020. RESULTS: In 256h of broadcasting we identified 173 products (78 in 2017 and 95 in 2020). The most advertised products were chocolates (26.9% in 2017 and 22.1% in 2020). 76.3% of the products advertised were unhealthy (76.9% in 2017 vs. 75.8% in 2020; p=0.86). CONCLUSIONS: The nutritional profile of the foods and drinks advertised on television, mostly unhealthy, did not change after the implementation of the plan to improve their composition. A regulation is needed to protect children from food advertising.

Algae as Food in Europe: An Overview of Species Diversity and Their Application.

Algae have been consumed for millennia in several parts of the world as food, food supplements, and additives, due to their unique organoleptic properties and nutritional and health benefits. Algae are sustainable sources of proteins, minerals, and fiber, with well-balanced essential amino acids, pigments, and fatty acids, among other relevant metabolites for human nutrition. This review covers the historical consumption of algae in Europe, developments in the current European market, challenges when introducing new species to the market, bottlenecks in production technology, consumer acceptance, and legislation. The current algae species that are consumed and commercialized in Europe were investigated, according to their status under the European Union (EU) Novel Food legislation, along with the market perspectives in terms of the current research and development initiatives, while evaluating the interest and potential in the European market. The regular consumption of more than 150 algae species was identified, of which only 20% are approved under the EU Novel Food legislation, which demonstrates that the current legislation is not broad enough and requires an urgent update. Finally, the potential of the European algae market growth was indicated by the analysis of the trends in research, technological advances, and market initiatives to promote algae commercialization and consumption.

Trans-Fat Labeling in Packaged Foods Sold in Brazil Before and After Changes in Regulatory Criteria for Trans-Fat-Free Claims on Food Labels.

Consumption of industrially produced trans-fat acids (TFA) is a public health concern. Therefore, it is important that information on TFA in packaged foods be clearly informed to consumers. This study aimed to assess the evolution of TFA information presented in packaged foods sold in Brazil in 2010 and 2013, before and after the introduction of stricter regulatory requirements for TFA-free claims on food labels. A repeated cross-sectional study was performed through food label censuses of all packaged foods available for sale in two stores from the same supermarket chain, totaling 2,327 foods products in 2010 and 3,176 in 2013. TFA-free claims and information indicating TFA in the ingredients list and nutrition facts label were analyzed by descriptive statistics and Pearson's chi-square test. There was a 14% decrease in the use of ingredients containing or potentially containing industrially produced TFA (i-TFA), according to analysis of the ingredients list. However, when analyzing foods by groups, it was found that this decrease was significant only for group A (bakery goods, bread, cereals, and related products; from 59 to 35%, p < 0.001). By contrast, food group F (gravies, sauces, ready-made seasonings, broths, soups, and ready-to-eat dishes) showed a 5% increase in i-TFA. The use of specific terms for i-TFA decreased between 2010 and 2013, but there was an increase in the use of alternative terms, such as vegetable fat and margarine, which do not allow consumers to reliably identify whether a food product is a possible source of i-TFA. There was an 18% decrease in the use of TFA-free claims in products containing or potentially containing i-TFA. However, almost one-third of foods sold in 2013 were false negatives, that is, foods reported to contain 0 g of TFA in the nutrition facts label or with TFA-free claims but displaying specific or alternative terms for i-TFA in the ingredients list. The results indicate that adoption of stricter requirements for TFA-free claims on food labels in Brazil helped reduce the prevalence of such claims but was not sufficient to decrease i-TFA in industrialized foods sold in supermarkets.

Alimentos incluidos en la canasta básica tributaria de Costa Rica y su capacidad para suplir los requerimientos nutricionales en el caso de la población con menos ingresos / Food included in the basic tax basket in Costa Rica and its capacity to meet the nutritional requirements of the population with lower incomes

Resumen En el campo nutricional se han desarrollado diversas normas enfocadas en proteger a los sectores más vulnerables económicamente. Una de estas es el Reglamento de Canasta Básica Tributaria de Costa Rica (CBT), el cual establece una reducción en la carga impositiva a los alimentos consumidos por tales grupos, según la Encuesta Nacional de Ingresos y Gastos de los Hogares (ENIGH) de 2013. El objetivo de esta investigación es comparar el valor nutricional de la CBT y los requerimientos nutricionales para el caso del primer quintil de la ENIGH. El enfoque del estudio es cuantitativo y de tipo correlacional. La muestra la conforma el primer quintil de la ENIGH, 2013, compuesto por adultos sanos entre 19 y 60 años. El análisis se realizó durante el primer cuatrimestre de 2020, mediante un instrumento formulado en Excel, en el cual se elaboró un plan de alimentación con los productos de la CBT, calculando el contenido de energía, macronutrientes, ácidos grasos saturados, fibra, calcio, zinc, magnesio, vitamina E y vitamina D. Se identificó que el 46 % de ellos son fuente o buena fuente de alguno de los nutrientes en estudio y que 6 de los 11 nutrientes se adecuan satisfactoriamente a los requerimientos. Se concluyó que, a partir de dichos comestibles, se puede formular una dieta acorde a las necesidades nutricionales de una población, por cuanto la mayoría de los excesos y las deficiencias encontradas no son perjudiciales para la salud.

Abstract On a national level, several regulations have been developed with the aim of protecting the economically most vulnerable sectors of the population. One of these regulations is the Costa Ricas Basic Tax Basket Regulations (CBT by the Spanish acronym for Canasta Básica Tributaria), which establishes a decrease in the tax burden on food consumed by the most vulnerable population of the 2013 National Household Income and Expense Survey (ENIGH by the Spanish acronym for Encuesta Nacional de Ingresos y Gastos de los Hogares). The objective of this research is to compare the nutritional value of the foods included in the CBT and the nutritional requirements of the first quintile members of the 2013 ENIGH. The research is quantitative and co-relational in type. The sample is the first income quantile of the ENIGH of 2013 and is composed of healthy adults with ages between 19 and 60. The analysis was made during the first four months of 2020, using an instrument formulated in Excel, in which meal plans are formulated only with the foods that are part of the CBT, to calculate the content of energy, macronutrients, saturated fatty acids, fiber, calcium, zinc, magnesium, vitamin E and vitamin D. The results determined that 46% of CBT foods are classified as source or good source of some of the studied nutrients. As well as 6 of the 11 studied nutrients are satisfactorily adapted to the requirements of the population. The results allow to conclude that with the foods included in the CBT, an adequately balanced meal plan can be formulated, because excess or deficiency of nutrients found in the meal plan are not considered harmful to the health.

Food commercialization in schools: analysis of the regulatory process in Brazil / Comercialização de alimentos em escolas: análise do processo de regulamentação no Brasil

ABSTRACT Objective To identify and to describe the legal provisions that regulate the sale of food in Brazilian schools. Method Documentary analysis carried out in 2019, on the websites of the State, capital and Federal District Legislative Assemblies, via e-mail and/or telephone contact and publications on the subject review. The data were grouped by geographic region and a descriptive analysis was carried out. Results Data were obtained from 96% of the federative units (25 States and the Federal District). 62 legal provisions were found: 60% current, 11% revoked and 29% draft bills. Current legislation was found in 67% of States: 100% of the States in the South, Southeast and Center-West regions, 56% in the Northeast and 43% in the North. Most of the legal provisions prohibit the sale of ultra-processed foods and encourage the sale of fruits and fresh foods in the public and private school network. Conclusion Progress is observed in the school food regulatory process in this country, considering its coverage in the States and in the public and private school network, but still restricted to the South, Southeast and Midwest regions.

RESUMO Objetivo Identificar e descrever os dispositivos legais que regulamentam a comercialização de alimentos em escolas brasileiras. Método Análise documental realizada em 2019, nos sites das Assembleias Legislativas dos Estados, Capitais e Distrito Federal, via e-mail e/ou contato telefônico e publicações sobre o tema. Os dados foram agrupados por região geográfica e procedeu-se análise descritiva. Resultados Obteve-se dados de 96% das unidades federativas (25 Estados/Capitais e Distrito Federal). Foram encontrados 62 dispositivos legais: 60% vigentes, 11% revogados e 29% projetos de lei. Regulamentação vigente foi encontrada em 67% dos Estados brasileiros: 100% dos Estados das Regiões Sul, Sudeste e Centro-Oeste, 56% no Nordeste e 43% no Norte. A maioria dos dispositivos legais proíbe a comercialização de alimentos ultraprocessados e incentiva a venda de frutas e alimentos in natura, na rede pública e privada. Conclusão Constata-se avanço no processo de regulamentação no país, considerando abrangência nos estados/capitais e na rede pública e privada, porém ainda restrito às Regiões Sul, Sudeste e Centro-Oeste.

Commercial foods for infants under the age of 36 months: an assessment of the availability and nutrient profile of ultra-processed foods.

OBJECTIVE: Considering the negative impact of the consumption of ultra-processed foods on health, the current study assessed the availability and nutritional profile of commercial ultra-processed foods for infants in Natal, Brazil. DESIGN: A cross-sectional exploratory study. SETTING: Foods targeted at children under the age of 36 months sold in retail establishments located in high- and low-income areas of the one capital city of Brazil. PARTICIPANTS: 1645 food products consisting of ninety-five different types of food were available. The foods were assessed according to the NOVA classification: minimally processed, processed and ultra-processed. The nutritional content per 100 g was assessed according to processing classification. RESULTS: Half of foods founded were breast milk substitutes and cereal foods (31·6 and 26·3 %, respectively). The foods were predominantly ultra-processed (79 %) and only 4·2 % were minimally processed, with similar proportions of ultra-processed foods being found in both high- and low-income areas. After excluding breast milk substitutes and follow-up formulas, all cereals, food supplements and some of the fruit or vegetable purees were ultra-processed, higher in energy density, fat, carbohydrate and protein and low in fibre (P < 0·05). CONCLUSIONS: The findings reveal that ultra-processed foods for infants are widely available in Brazil, reaffirming the need to strengthen the regulation of foods for infants and young children by introducing complementary measures designed to promote the production and marketing of foods manufactured using lower levels of processing.

Avaliação do impacto de intervenção educativa em farmácias com promoção comercial de produtos que competem com o aleitamento materno / Impact assessment of an educational intervention in pharmacies that use commercial promotion of products competing with maternal breastfeeding / Evaluación del impacto de una intervención educativa en farmacias con promoción comercial de productos que compiten con la lactancia materna

A Norma Brasileira de Comercialização de Alimentos para Lactentes e Crianças de Primeira Infância, Bicos, Chupetas e Mamadeiras (Lei Federal nº 11.265/2006) visa controlar o marketing abusivo de produtos que competem com o aleitamento materno. O objetivo foi avaliar o impacto de uma intervenção educativa sobre o cumprimento da Lei em farmácias. Pesquisa de intervenção randomizada conduzida em 155 farmácias que infringiam a Lei na Zona Sul do Rio de Janeiro, Brasil. A prática comercial das farmácias foi avaliada antes e depois da intervenção com o farmacêutico e com o gerente, comparados ao grupo controle. O intervalo entre a intervenção e a segunda avaliação foi de um mês. Para aferir as mudanças no quantitativo de farmácias com infração à Lei, antes e depois da intervenção, foi utilizado o teste de McNemar. O teste de Wilcoxon foi usado para comparar a variação no número de infrações em cada grupo de alocação. Um mês após a intervenção houve redução de 16,1% (n = 25) no total de farmácias com infração. Houve redução de 18,7% para 12,9% em produtos cuja promoção comercial é proibida (p = 0,093) e de 92,9% para 80,5% nos produtos lácteos (p = 0,001), mas entre alimentos de transição houve aumento de 28,5% para 42,3% de farmácias com promoção ilegal (p = 0,006). O grupo intervenção com farmacêutico apresentou redução estatisticamente significativa nas infrações relacionadas a descontos de preço (p = 0,022) e a exposições especiais (p = 0,002). A intervenção educativa reduziu a quantidade de farmácias que infringia essa Lei, principalmente quando esta intervenção foi realizada com o farmacêutico.

The Brazilian Code of Marketing of Infant and Toddlers Food, Nipples, Pacifiers, and Baby Bottles (Federal Law n. 11,265/2006) aims to control the abusive marketing of products that compete with breastfeeding. The objective was to assess the impact of an educational intervention on compliance with this law by pharmacies. A randomized intervention study was conducted in 155 pharmacies that were infringing the law in the Southern Zone of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The pharmacies' commercial practices were assessed before and after the intervention with the pharmacist and manager, compared to the control group. The interval between the intervention and the second assessment was one month. McNemar test was used to measure changes in the number of pharmacies infringing the law before and after the intervention. Wilcoxon test was used to compare variation in the number of violations in each group. A month after the intervention, there was a 16.1% reduction (n = 25) in the number of pharmacies committing violations. There was a decrease from 18.7% to 12.9% in products whose commercial promotion is banned by the law (p = 0.093) and from 92.9% to 80.5% in milk products (p = 0.001), but among processed complementary food there was an increase from 28.5% to 42.3% of pharmacies with illegal promotions (p = 0.006). The intervention group with the pharmacists showed a statistically significant reduction in violations related to discount prices (p = 0.022) and special displays (p = 0.002). The educational intervention reduced the number of pharmacies that infringed the law, mainly when the intervention involved the pharmacist.

La Norma Brasileña de Comercialización de Alimentos para Lactantes y Niños de la Primera Infancia, Tetillas, Chupetes y Biberones (Ley Federal nº 11.265/2006) tiene como finalidad controlar el márketing abusivo de productos que compiten con la lactancia materna. El objetivo fue evaluar el impacto de una intervención educativa sobre el cumplimiento de la ley en farmacias. Se realizó una investigación de intervención aleatoria, llevada a cabo en 155 farmacias que infringían la ley en la zona sur de Río de Janeiro, Brasil. La práctica comercial de las farmacias fue evaluada antes y después de la intervención con el farmacéutico y con el gerente, comparadas con el grupo de control. El intervalo entre la intervención y la segunda evaluación fue de un mes. Para evaluar los cambios en lo cuantitativo de farmacias con infracción a la ley, antes y después de la intervención, se utilizó el test de McNemar. El test de Wilcoxon se utilizó para comparar la variación en el número de infracciones en cada grupo de asignación. Tras un mes de la intervención hubo una reducción de un 16,1% (n = 25) en el total de farmacias con infracción. Hubo una reducción desde un 18,7% a un 12,9% en productos cuya promoción comercial está prohibida (p = 0,093) y de un 92,9% a un 80,5% en productos lácteos (p = 0,001). Sin embargo, entre alimentos de transición hubo un aumento de un 28,5% a un 42,3% de farmacias con promoción ilegal (p = 0,006). El grupo de intervención con el farmacéutico presentó una reducción estadísticamente significativa en las infracciones relacionadas con descuentos de precio (p = 0,022) y respecto a exposiciones especiales (p = 0,002). La intervención educativa redujo la cantidad de farmacias que infringía esta ley, principalmente cuando la intervención educativa se realizó con el farmacéutico.

Efeito de cinco modelos de rotulagem nutricional frontal no tempo para escolhas alimentares entre brasilienses / Effectoffive front-of-packagenutritionallabeling models on time toselect food byBrazilians

Objetivo: Comparar o tempo necessário para realizar escolhas alimentares com diferentes modelos de rotulagem nutricional frontal entre adultos brasileiros. Métodos: Foram realizadas entrevistas com 150 participantes, que foram orientados a escolher o produto mais saudável entre dois alimentos, sendo apresentados oito pares de imagens. Um dos produtos de cada par apresentava advertências (alto em açúcares, sódio ou gordura saturada), testados em formatos diferentes de acordo com o grupo no qual o indivíduo era alocado: lupa, octógono, círculo, triângulo e semáforo. Foram contabilizados o número de acertos do produto mais saudável em cada par e o tempo para escolha correta do produto mais saudável. Resultados: Observou-se menor número de acertos do produto mais saudável entre os pares com semáforo, em comparação com qualquer outro modelo (p<0,001), sendo este também o formato no qual se observou maior tempo necessário para escolher corretamente o produto mais saudável (p<0,001). Não foram observadas diferenças significativas entre os demais formatos. Na análise individual dos produtos, o círculo teve melhor desempenho, sendo observado tempo significativamente menor para escolhas corretas em sete dos oito produtos. Conclusão: Para apoiar escolhas alimentares saudáveis, indica-se o uso de qualquer um dos formatos testados para a rotulagem nutricional frontal, exceto o do semáforo. O círculo aparenta ser uma boa opção para reduzir o tempo do consumidor frente a escolhas saudáveis.

Objective: to compare the time Brazilian adults required to make food choices with different models of front-of-pack nutrition labeling. Methods: Interviews were conducted with 150 participants, who were instructed to select the healthiest product between two foods, with eight pairs of images presented. One of the products in each pair had warnings (high in sugars, sodium, or saturated fat), evaluated in different formats according to the group in which the individual was allocated: magnifying glass, octagon, circle, triangle, and traffic light. The number of correct answers for the healthiest product in each pair and the time to correctly select of the healthiest product were measured. Results: A lower number of correct answers for the healthier product among the pairs occurred with traffic lights than with any other model (p <0.001), which is also the format in which the longest time was necessary to correctly select the healthiest product (p < 0.001). There were no significant differences between the other formats. In the individual analysis of the products, the circle performed better, with significantly less time required to make the correct choices in seven of the eight products. Conclusion: To support healthy food choices, any of the tested formats for frontal nutrition labeling are indicated, except for the traffic light. The circle appears to be a good option to reduce consumer's time to select healthy choices.