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Pre-agricultural origins of bread in the Near East

Researchers found charred food fragments at a Natufian site in northeastern Jordan dating back to 14,600 years ago, exhibiting characteristics of bread-like products. The discovery suggests that bread was made 4,000 years before the emergence of agriculture, but noncereal foods remained a staple during the Natufian period.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 16, 2018

Honeybees are struggling to get enough good bacteria

A new study suggests that human changes to the landscape, such as monoculture farming and forestry, are affecting honeybees' long-term food supply. The diversity of bacteria associated with bee bread, a crucial food source for young bees, is lower in hives near agriculturally improved grasslands and coniferous forests.

SourceLancaster University·JournalEcology and Evolution·DateApr 17, 2018

New study shows that Americans are not eating much bread

A new study published in the journal Nutrients shows that despite popular belief, Americans consume very little bread, with only less than 15% of total calories coming from grain foods. However, this small amount of grain food provides a disproportionately positive amount of critical nutrients, including dietary fiber, folate, and iron.

SourceThe Ginger Network·JournalNutrients·DateAug 31, 2017

Supermarkets could trick you into buying fewer calories

Researchers found that six out of eight products saw a 0-7% drop in calorie sales after recipe changes. However, some customers swapped reformulated products for higher-calorie alternatives. The study suggests 'silent' product reformulation may help combat obesity by reducing calorie intake at low cost.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalInternational Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity·DateAug 22, 2017

Is white or whole wheat bread 'healthier?' Depends on the person

A recent study found that different people react differently to white and whole wheat bread, with half responding better to processed flour and the other half to sourdough. The researchers developed an algorithm to predict individual responses, pointing towards a new paradigm in nutrition based on personal microbiomes.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Metabolism·DateJun 6, 2017

The key to a better mood for young men is a nut

A recent study by UNM Nutrition Professor Peter Pribis has found that consuming walnuts can significantly improve the mood of young men. The randomized trial involved 64 students aged 18-25 who were given either banana bread with walnuts or without for 16 weeks, with their mood measured at the end of each eight-week period.

SourceUniversity of New Mexico·JournalNutrients·DateNov 18, 2016

All yeasts are not created equal

A recent study published in Current Biology shows that the type of yeast used to make bread is less similar to the type that causes fungal infections than previously thought. This discovery may lead to the development of targeted drugs with limited side effects.

SourceConcordia University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateOct 19, 2016

Improved knowledge of shelf life of food

A recent study from Aarhus University found that Danes' knowledge of shelf life labels has improved, with 70% correctly identifying the difference between labels. However, many consumers throw away food after the 'best before' date without checking its edibility, highlighting a need for greater awareness and education.

Wholesome wholegrain

A study by Aarhus University found that wholegrain foods, such as rye bread, contain bioactive compounds called benzoxazinoids. These substances have been shown to pass through the gut wall and circulate in the body, potentially regulating the immune system.

Ancient going on nouveau

Researchers have evaluated the potential of ancient grains in modern agriculture, finding that they require reduced fertilization to prevent lodging. While they contain high amounts of protein, the quality is lower than in modern crops. However, these grains can enrich biodiversity and offer premium products through traditional methods.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalCrop Science·DateJan 13, 2016

Jewish cuisine punching above its paunch

A study by Professor Olivier Bauer found that Montreal's culinary heritage is influenced by Jewish cultural heritage, with bagels and smoked meat becoming iconic symbols of the city. The researcher notes that these foods have become popular among workers and tourists alike, despite their Jewish origins.

Iodine in bread not enough for pregnant women

A study from the University of Adelaide found South Australian women are mildly iodine deficient despite the inclusion of iodized salt in bread. Women taking an iodine supplement during pregnancy received healthy levels of iodine, while those not taking a supplement suffered from deficiency.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalNutrition Journal·DateJun 18, 2013