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Better plants for biofuels

Recent research suggests that plant-derived biofuels could meet 30% of the global demand for liquid transportation fuels without affecting food production. Scientists have identified non-edible plants as a promising area of research to produce biofuels sustainably.

SourceFaculty of 1000·JournalF1000 Biology Reports·DateMay 2, 2012

Reducing salt in crisps without affecting the taste

Researchers at the University of Nottingham have discovered a way to accelerate salt delivery to the tongue, allowing for significant salt reduction in snack foods while maintaining flavor. This breakthrough has the potential to tackle high salt intake, linked to health issues like high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalFood & Function·DateFeb 17, 2012

Ready-to-bake cookie dough not ready-to-eat, study of E. coli outbreak finds

A recent investigation into a 2009 multistate outbreak of Shiga toxin-producing E. coli identified commercial prepackaged cookie dough as the culprit. The study recommends that manufacturers reformulate their product to make it safer and provides guidance for consumers on how to prevent illness by baking the dough before consuming.

SourceInfectious Diseases Society of America·JournalClinical Infectious Diseases·DateDec 9, 2011

Unlocking jams in fluid materials

Researchers developed a theoretical model to understand how to best avoid jamming of soft matter, which can be applied in food and cosmetics production. The model takes into account common properties between three classes of materials: soft matter, metallic liquids, and granular materials.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal E·DateOct 5, 2011

300 years of history in a tomato

The University of Leicester historian's book 'Pomodoro! A history of the tomato in Italy' sheds light on the tomato's journey from a botanical curiosity to a staple ingredient. The study reveals how the tomato became closely linked with other foodstuffs like pizza and pasta, and how its uses were subject to change over time.

Global study of salmon shows: 'Sustainable' food isn't so sustainable

The study found that the world can achieve greater environmental benefits by focusing on improvements to key aspects of salmon production and distribution. Farmed salmon feeding, wild salmon catching, and transportation methods have a significant impact on climate change, ocean acidification, and habitat loss.

SourceEcotrust·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateNov 24, 2009

Cooling the planet with crops

By selecting crop varieties with higher solar reflectivity, researchers estimate a global cooling of over 0.1°C, equivalent to 20% of the total global temperature increase since the Industrial Revolution. The study proposes issuing farmers with carbon credits for growing such crops.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJan 15, 2009

GM rice will not end hunger in China

Despite China's genetically modified (GM) rice ambitions, poverty and unequal land distribution will persist, hindering efforts to eliminate hunger. The Lancet notes that GM technology is not a solution to food insecurity, but rather a Band-Aid on the symptoms of deeper issues.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateMay 19, 2005

Challenges facing a changing rural America

The book Challenges for Rural America in the 21st Century examines rural social change, economic transformation, and policy implications. Key findings include unevenly spread gaming benefits, elder care challenges, and the need for rural communities to adapt to a decentralized system.

Thought for food

A recent study published in The Lancet found that global obesity rates among children have more than doubled between 1975 and 2003. This significant increase poses serious health risks for the millions of children affected by childhood obesity worldwide.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateNov 13, 2003

Energy density labels do not encourage overeating

A study published in the journal Appetite found that energy density labels do not lead to increased food intake among normal-weight women. The research suggests that people take the same portion sizes regardless of calorie content, making it easier for manufacturers and restaurants to create healthier products.

SourcePenn State·JournalAppetite·DateOct 21, 2002

Foods of the future

Researchers explore biotechnology for healthier foods, enzymes for proper digestion, rapid pathogen detection, and advanced packaging materials. These advancements aim to delay chronic disease, improve mental and physical performance, and enhance food safety.