A study published in PLoS Biology reveals that fruit flies can detect and avoid the plant toxin L-canavanine using a modified glutamate receptor called DmXR. This detection is crucial for their survival, as consuming the toxin can lead to reproductive failure.
A Canadian study found that living in areas with more fast-food outlets and convenience stores than supermarkets has been associated with obesity. The proximity of these unhealthy environments is a significant risk factor for weight gain.
Researchers at the University of Minnesota have developed a new genome engineering tool to make model crop plants herbicide-resistant without significant DNA changes. This approach has the potential to provide sustainable solutions for producing food, fuel and fiber while minimizing concerns about genetically modified organisms.
A Rutgers study found that only 60% of Americans check their homes for recalled food products, and even fewer take action after finding a recall. The study suggests that personalizing communications about food recalls can increase consumer engagement.
Engineers at the University of Texas at Austin have developed a method to disperse chemically modified graphene in a wide variety of organic solvents. This breakthrough enables the use of graphene in various materials and applications, including conductive films, polymer composites, and energy storage devices.
A study by Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found that a higher density of 'healthy' food outlets is associated with lower BMI and obesity rates in New York City. The study surveyed over 13,000 adults and found that unhealthy food stores were not significantly linked to higher BMI or obesity.
Research links fast food establishments to increased stroke risk in neighborhoods, with a 1% relative risk for each restaurant. The study suggests targeting areas with high fast-food presence for prevention programs.
A growing threat of food counterfeiting and contamination is outpacing international regulatory systems, with the US Food and Drug Administration inspecting only 1.8% of its imported food supply. Michigan State University researchers are calling for increased corporate responsibility and risk-based inspections to address this issue.
Researchers discuss the potential of nanotechnology in improving food nutrition and safety. Dutch scientist Frans Kampers presents his work on creating nanostructures in food to deliver nutrients efficiently. However, concerns about nanoparticles' migration into human cells and potential health risks are also raised.
Only 3% of fast-food kids' meals met federal dietary guidelines, with fruit as a side dish and milk being common, while most exceeded sodium and added sugar limits. Researchers call on the industry to develop nutritious options and parents to make informed choices.
A study published in the Review of Agricultural Economics found that both fast food and table service restaurant meals are larger and have more calories than meals prepared at home. However, fast food meals tend to be smaller, resulting in fewer calories overall.
A novel mist bioreactor system enables the efficient production of murine interleukin-12 in genetically modified tobacco plants. This breakthrough could lead to the creation of new therapies for diseases such as Crohn's, psoriasis, and rheumatoid arthritis.
Researchers found that fast-food customers prioritize quickness, accessibility, and taste, but 21% also cite nutritious options. Studies suggest gradual changes in food choices can improve diet quality and meet dietary guidelines.
The new journal covers the principles and practice of food security, analyzing it from various disciplines. It aims to define constraints preventing one billion people from accessing adequate nutrition and address means to overcome them.
A recent study by JAMA Network found that households with adult smokers have lower rates of daily healthy food access compared to non-smoking households. This association is particularly concerning in low-income families, where food insecurity rates are already high.
Parents of children with food allergies experience high levels of anxiety and daily challenges due to lack of understanding from the general public and physicians. The study aims to increase knowledge among key groups to improve health and lives of children and families affected by food allergies.
A recent study by Ahmad Sattar Khan and Dr. Zora Singh found that combining modified atmosphere packaging with 1-methylcyclopropene can extend the storage life of Japanese plums to up to seven weeks. This breakthrough will allow fruit producers to export plums for longer periods, reducing losses and improving market availability.
A University of Missouri poverty expert found that the emotional stress associated with food stamp participation is higher than previously thought, particularly during the application and transition processes. The researcher suggests modifying the program by implementing a web-based application system to alleviate negative effects.
A recent study has compared the results of RPA with or without modified blow-hole colostomy in patients with acute sigmoid volvulus. The findings suggest that RPA with modified blow-hole colostomy provides satisfactory results in preventing anastomotic leak, making it a promising approach for this condition.
A new project aims to develop affordable sensors that can detect early indicators of food spoilage and set more meaningful best before dates, reducing food waste. The project, supported by Syngenta, will help slash the UK's food wastage bill.
A study published in Science reveals that genetically modified cotton (Bt cotton) reduces pest populations not only among the modified crops but also among nearby unmodified crops. This finding could offer promising ideas for controlling pests and maximizing crop yields in the future.
Researchers developed a method to preserve and visualize SARS-coronavirus replication complexes, revealing the dependence on modified host membranes for viral replication. The study provides insights into the interplay between viral proteins and host membranes, opening doors for new antiviral strategies.
Tiny amounts of food soil can act as a reservoir for pathogenic bacteria in food processing factories. The study suggests that using more precise methods to detect food residue and micro-organisms on surfaces can lead to improved hygiene practices, including the use of targeted cleaning products.
A study in Bangladesh found that treating children with severe pneumonia at local, first-level facilities instead of hospitals resulted in higher proportions being treated correctly. The modified guidelines allowed for local treatment with referral to hospital only for the most severe cases.
Despite having food allergies, many college students are not taking necessary precautions, such as carrying emergency medication and having a plan in place. Researchers found that only 50% of students with food allergies always avoid their allergenic foods, and 43% do not have an EpiPen on hand.
A study by researchers at the US Department of Agriculture's Agricultural Research Service found that certain romaine and 'crisphead' lettuce cultivars can stay fresh for longer when packaged using modified-atmosphere packaging. This innovation has the potential to improve shelf life, quality, and sales of pre-cut salads and lettuce.
Twelve investigators receive $5 million in grants to study food allergy causes, treatment, and prevention. The initiative aims to improve understanding of the condition and ultimately end its limitations on lives.
A new national study found that most Americans believe US-produced food is safe, but have concerns about imported food and the government inspection system. Many also worry about getting ill from food they eat, with certain groups, such as Hispanics and African-Americans, more likely to be concerned.
Researchers have developed a chemically modified protein that neutralizes inhibitor antibodies in people with Hemophilia A, offering a potential new treatment option. The modified protein, called electrophilic FVIII analog (E-FVIII), permanently inactivates these antibodies, paving the way for more effective blood clotting correction.
An obese population requires 18% more food energy to maintain daily living activities compared to a normal population, resulting in increased global food demand. Promoting walking and cycling through transport policies can reduce obesity and decrease food prices by reducing transportation fuel consumption.
Carnegie Mellon researchers argue that dietary choice, not food miles, determines a household's climate impact. Shifting to a local diet or reducing meat and dairy consumption can significantly lower greenhouse gas emissions. Eating more plant-based meals can reduce emissions by up to 8,000 miles driven per year.
A new trial aims to develop a preventive treatment for food allergies using immunotherapy. Researchers will administer increasing doses of peanut or egg protein to desensitize participants' immune systems. The goal is to achieve long-term results and offer relief from the daily fear of food.
The US food import system is a complex network of policies and procedures that regulate the entry of foreign foods into the country. The Food Policy Institute report provides an overview of current issues, processes, and proposed changes to the system.
Scientists have created a genetically modified pig model that carries the mutated gene responsible for cystic fibrosis, mimicking lung disease in humans. This breakthrough could lead to better understanding of the disease and development of new treatments.
Farmers perceive genetically modified (GM) crops as a means to reconcile high-quality food production with environmentally sensitive farming. They are more interested in the practical applications and potential benefits of GM crops rather than any moral or ethical concerns.
Families in the US can eat healthily without breaking the bank, with USDA estimates suggesting they could spend less than $189/week on food. The Low-Cost Food Plan provides guidance on affordable meal options rich in fruits, vegetables and milk products.
A modified version of the Atkins diet has been shown to significantly reduce epileptic seizures in adults with epilepsy. The high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet can lead to the production of ketones, which may help control seizures. While side effects were mild, compliance was a challenge for some patients.
Using modified-release prednisone significantly reduces morning stiffness duration in RA patients by adapting to circadian rhythms. The new formulation has a higher mean relative change of -22.7% and reduced morning stiffness time by 44 minutes compared to standard prednisone.
Genetic Alliance has named Genetic Testing as its official journal, a peer-reviewed publication reporting on genetic testing aspects. The alliance aims to advance healthcare through informed decision-making and partnership among stakeholders.
Researchers found that children from food-insecure households are two-thirds more likely to experience developmental risks compared to those from food-secure households. The study suggests providing nutritional interventions to young children and their families can decrease the need for later interventions.
Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine developed genetically modified carrots that increase the transport of calcium across plant cell membranes. The modified carrots can provide up to 41% more bioavailable calcium than regular carrots, making them a promising source for improving bone mineral density and treating osteoporosis.
The Modified MyPyramid for Older Adults prioritizes nutrient-dense foods, including whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, with a focus on fiber-rich options. Regular physical activity is also emphasized to reduce chronic disease risk and improve quality of life.
A University of Missouri-Columbia study found that weight gain, not the type of diet, is a key factor in developing diabetes in cats. The researchers compared glucose-tolerance tests between cats fed dry food and those fed canned food, finding no significant difference.
Researchers at Stevens Institute of Technology are developing functional polymers modified surfaces that can prevent bacterial adhesion and sensitize formed biofilms for antibiotic treatment. This project aims to combat the fourth leading cause of death in the US, hospital-acquired infections and diseases.
Women in Botswana and Swaziland who lack food are more likely to sell sex or engage in other risky behaviors. Nearly one in three reported food insufficiency, which increased the likelihood of inconsistent condom use and intergenerational relationships.
New research from Norwich BioScience Institutes and Medical University of Vienna found that only animal food proteins less than 54% identical to human equivalent can become allergenic. The study identified three protein families, including tropomyosins, EF-hand proteins, and caseins, which are responsible for most animal food allergies.
In the Wadden Sea, shore crabs use a takeaway meal strategy to avoid competition for food. They first attempt to catch prey at the richest food spot but then move it to a nearby poor spot with fewer competitors.
Food scientists and material scientists agree that communication is key to preserving the sensory quality of food. Researchers are working to bridge the gap between food scientists and material scientists to improve packaging materials.
Researchers at Virginia Tech have found that visible wavelengths of light cause taste and odor changes in food. The team is developing new packaging materials that can protect food from UV light damage, which can degrade nutrients and alter flavor profiles.
A genetically modified maize variety resistant to the severe maize streak virus has been created using pathogen-derived resistance, delaying symptom development and increasing survival rates. The research aims to alleviate Africa's food shortages and famine by providing a disease-resistant crop for local farmers.
A NASA researcher has created a new method to anticipate food shortages brought on by drought using satellite remote sensing of crop growth and food prices. The model can help humanitarian aid organizations and decision makers predict how much food will be available and its cost, taking climate variables into account.
A NASA researcher has developed a new method to anticipate food shortages brought on by drought using satellite remote sensing of crop growth and food prices. The model can help government and humanitarian aid officials plan and respond to drought-induced food price increases, reducing the risk of famine.
The CARVER + Shock program provides interactive questions to help food-processing companies identify vulnerabilities in their supply chain. The tool, developed by Sandia National Laboratories and the FDA, enables companies to evaluate their risk and protect their products.
A new study published in Science analyzed the environmental impact of genetically modified (GM) crops and found that they can have benefits for sustainable agriculture. The research used data from field experiments worldwide and found that Bt-crops, which produce an insecticide internally, can reduce the need for chemical spraying.
Researchers found a unique pattern of gene expression in rats that may be linked to a conditioned desire for food and excessive food intake. Food-associated cues triggered dramatic changes in brain regions involved in adaptive behavior, such as the amygdala and nucleus accumbens.
A study by the University of Liverpool found that obese and overweight children increased their food intake by over 100% after watching food adverts on TV. The obese group consistently chose high-fat products, while the overweight group opted for lower-fat options.
Researchers discovered that an investigational cancer drug selectively kills cancer cells due to its affinity for a modified version of heat shock protein 90. The modification, called acetylation, allows the drug to target and block the activity of this protein, promoting cell survival.
Researchers found that modified bone marrow cells reduced MS symptoms, nerve damage, and increased tissue debris clearance when injected into mice with EAE at disease peak. The study opens up further research avenues for human multiple sclerosis treatment.
Hormel was recognized for its outstanding achievements in food safety investments, including the development of high pressure processing technology, and pioneering efforts to ensure humane animal treatment. The award honors food companies that protect consumer health and improve satisfaction.
A new study in Current Anthropology examines the effect of genetically modified crops on farmers in Warangal District, India. The research reveals a pattern of 'agricultural deskilling' and reliance on social learning, exacerbated by the spread of Bt cotton seeds.