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Study demonstrates improved nutrition and taste of plant-based milks thanks to pretreatment methods

Researchers at ITMO University improved the nutritional value and taste of plant-based milks by using pre-freezing and ultrasound treatment methods. These methods boosted the extraction of beneficial microelements like iron, potassium, and zinc, as well as polyphenols, resulting in improved antioxidant activity.

SourceSociety of Chemical Industry·JournalJournal of the Science of Food and Agriculture·DateDec 5, 2023

Tis the season to recognize chocolate: researchers highlight high quality cacao in Colombia

A study published in Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture proposes a framework to characterise the unique properties of cacao beans in the Buenaventura region. The research highlights the benefits of establishing Denominations of Origin for cacao, including higher market prices, cultural preservation, and sustainable practices.

SourceSociety of Chemical Industry·JournalJournal of the Science of Food and Agriculture·DateNov 30, 2023

Vertically farmed greens taste as good as organic ones

A recent study from the University of Copenhagen found that consumers rate vertically farmed greens similarly to organic ones. The study debunked consumer prejudices about vertically grown produce, showing that it can be just as healthy and natural.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalFood Quality and Preference·DateNov 30, 2023

Cultivating euglena in tomato juice

Researchers found that cultivating Euglena in tomato juice resulted in high cell densities and tightly packed chloroplasts, outperforming other beverages. The nutrient composition of tomato juice is suitable for Euglena growth, offering a promising solution to the shortage of animal protein and potential health benefits.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalSustainable Food Technology·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 16, 2023
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

How could global food production break down?

A new analysis by Aalto University reveals that industrial agriculture is highly sensitive to shocks in agricultural inputs such as synthetic fertilizers and pesticides. The study models the impacts of these shocks on crop yields and food availability globally, identifying high-risk areas for the greatest yield losses.

SourceAalto University·JournalNature Food·DateNov 15, 2023

Ammonia for fertilisers without the giant carbon footprint

Researchers at UNSW Sydney have developed a method to produce ammonia without high temperatures, pressures, and infrastructure. The new technique enhances energy efficiency and makes environmentally friendly ammonia economically feasible.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalApplied Catalysis B Environment and Energy·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 13, 2023

NSF funds holistic approach to help farmers adapt to climate change

The National Science Foundation has awarded $1.6 million to Emory University researchers to develop predictive models for farmers to adapt to climate change in Georgia, Iowa and Ohio. The project aims to create a public online tool to explore possible futures of agriculture at regional and state levels.

SourceEmory University·DateOct 30, 2023
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Fungi used in food production could lead to new probiotics

Researchers identified two fungus strains, Cyberlindnera jadinii and Kluyveromyces lactis, with potential probiotic effects on gut inflammation. These strains may offer a new way to develop probiotics and treat inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalmSystems·DateOct 26, 2023

New study: Pig welfare outweighs climate concerns for consumers

A new study finds that consumers are willing to pay more for pork with improved animal welfare, but not necessarily a lower carbon footprint. The majority of respondents prioritize animal welfare over climate considerations.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalLivestock Science·DateOct 25, 2023

Discovery finds ferns produce crop-saving insecticide

Researchers discovered a novel insecticidal protein in ferns that protects major crop plants from pests and is naturally produced by plants. The protein has features in common with known Bt proteins used extensively in agriculture for insect control.

SourceLa Trobe University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 23, 2023

Cut emissions and improve farming to protect wilderness

A study projects 2.7 million square kilometers of wilderness becoming newly suitable for agriculture over the next 40 years, threatening precious areas of biodiversity and cultural value. The research emphasizes the need to cut emissions and use farmland more efficiently to meet growing global demands.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalCurrent Biology·DateOct 19, 2023
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Pinpointing the emergence of muddy flavors in your fish

Researchers have pinpointed the emergence of muddy flavors in farmed fish by measuring the concentration of geosmin and other compounds. The study highlights the importance of water quality management to prevent the production of off-flavor compounds, which can impact aquaculture industry revenue and sustainability.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalFood Research International·DateOct 19, 2023

Setting trans fat limits in Kenya could save thousands of lives and cut costs

The Kenyan government and food industry could save billions USD by implementing trans fat limits, which would also reduce heart disease cases and prevent deaths. Experts urge food manufacturers to prioritize consumer health by removing trans fats from products now.

SourceGeorge Institute for Global Health·JournalBMJ Global Health·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 17, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Researchers show consequences of inaction on devastating banana disease

Banana Xanthomonas Wilt (BXW) could cause a 55% reduction in banana production in newly affected regions within 10 years. The disease is projected to result in significant economic losses, with consumers bearing 40% of the estimated $25 billion cost.

SourceThe Alliance of Bioversity International and the International Center for Tropical Agriculture·JournalFrontiers in Sustainable Food Systems·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 9, 2023

Pandemic boosted gardening, hunting in NYS

During the pandemic, New Yorkers increased their participation in wild and backyard food activities such as gardening, hunting, and foraging. Despite a general worsening of diets, these activities may have contributed to buffering those effects, with people consuming home-produced eggs and meat, and backyard-grown fruits and vegetables.

SourceCornell University·JournalFrontiers in Nutrition·DateOct 4, 2023

Ancient technology turns plant-based cheese into 'something we want to eat'

University of Copenhagen scientists have successfully produced plant-based cheeses with firm texture and improved aroma profile using natural fermentation processes. The study explores the potential of fermentation to develop flavor and texture in non-dairy cheese, paving the way for a more sustainable dairy-free alternative.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalFuture Foods·DateOct 4, 2023

New pipeline makes valuable organic acid from plants — saving money and emissions

Researchers at CABBI developed an economical method for producing succinic acid, a key chemical in food, agricultural, and pharmaceutical products, using acid-tolerant yeast. The new pipeline eliminates costly downstream processing steps, significantly reducing costs and emissions.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Institute for Sustainability, Energy, and Environment·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 3, 2023
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

How safe is your sushi?

Researchers warn of risks associated with eating sushi and sashimi, especially for individuals with weak immune systems. The study highlights the importance of adopting a broad approach to combat the spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria through animal and human health, food production, and environment.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·DateSep 27, 2023

Researchers create formula for first synthetic sugarcane molasses with fully reproducible composition

Researchers have developed a standardized synthetic molasses with a fully known composition that can be used as a culture medium for yeast fermentation. This breakthrough enables scientists to study the influence of specific components and develop bioprocesses worldwide, facilitating comparative research and industrial applications.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 27, 2023
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Earthworms contribute to 6.5% of global grain production, according to new CSU research

Earthworms play a significant role in global food production, contributing approximately 6.5% of grain yield and 2.3% of legumes produced worldwide annually. The research highlights the importance of soil biodiversity and its impact on crop productivity, suggesting that earthworms can increase plant growth by up to 25%.

SourceColorado State University·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 26, 2023

Is there more to palm oil than deforestation?

A study in Germany found that consumers struggle to grasp the environmental consequences of their buying choices, even with extra information. The research suggests introducing an eco-label could guide shoppers towards more informed decisions about sustainable palm oil production.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalSustainable Production and Consumption·DateSep 22, 2023

Using satellite data to enhance global food security

A new system using satellite data improves crop area and yield estimates, providing critical information for food security and sustainability planning. The WorldCereal project offers a cloud-based platform with diverse operational models to cater to various user communities.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalNature Food·DateSep 21, 2023

Plant-based food alternatives could support a shift to global sustainability

Replacing meat and milk with plant-based alternatives can significantly reduce agriculture's impact on the environment. By 2050, this shift could halve future declines in ecosystem integrity and contribute up to 25% of global land restoration needs. The study suggests that a 50% substitution scenario would substantially reduce environm...

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 12, 2023
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

To cut global emissions, replace meat and milk with plant-based alternatives

A new study suggests that substituting 50% of meat and dairy products with plant-based alternatives by 2050 can reduce greenhouse gas emissions from agriculture by 31%, save forests, and improve nutrition for millions of people. The study also found that restoring land spared from livestock production could contribute up to 25% of glob...

SourceUniversity of Vermont·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 12, 2023

Floating sea farms: A solution to feed the world and ensure fresh water by 2050

Researchers from the University of South Australia have designed a self-sustaining solar-driven system that evaporates seawater to recycle it into freshwater, growing crops without human involvement. The vertical floating sea farm has several advantages over other designs, including low energy consumption and high food production.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalChemical Engineering Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 10, 2023

The green power of fungi

Biologists at Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun synthesized silver nanoparticles using fungi, showing potential for medical applications. The method also improves crop protection by detecting plant pathogens and delivering nutrients to plants with minimal waste.

SourceNicolaus Copernicus University in Torun·JournalFrontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology·DateSep 8, 2023

Balancing biodiversity, climate change, food for a trifecta

Researchers from Michigan State University identify opportunities for win-win situations in land use, exploring the potential of legal reserves to balance agriculture with forest conservation. The study suggests an ecosystem restoration market could economically benefit regions with lower food production potential.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalScience of The Total Environment·DateSep 5, 2023

Prescription for fruits, vegetables linked to better heart health, food security

A new study found that people who received free produce prescriptions experienced increased fruit and vegetable consumption, leading to improved body mass index, blood sugar, and blood pressure levels. This research suggests that produce prescription programs may be an effective way to address food insecurity and promote health.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalCirculation·DateAug 29, 2023
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Starch discovery reaps benefits for brewing, baking and milling industries

Research has clarified how starch granules form in wheat seeds, unlocking diverse potential benefits for various industries. The discovery of the enzyme PHS1 crucial for B-type granule initiation offers opportunities to create variations in starch for different food and industrial applications.

SourceJohn Innes Centre·JournalThe Plant Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 25, 2023

NTU Singapore scientists develop a sustainable method to produce lactic acid, indispensable in industrial food production, using waste jackfruit seeds

Scientists at Nanyang Technological University have developed a sustainable method to produce lactic acid using discarded jackfruit seeds. The new process is cheaper and more efficient, reducing waste and environmental impact while addressing rising production costs.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalJournal of Functional Foods·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 24, 2023

Grow-your-own households eat more fruit and vegetables and waste less

A new study from the University of Sheffield found that households growing their own food produce more than half of the vegetables and 20% of the fruit they consume annually, resulting in a 70% increase in recommended 5-a-day portions. Households also waste less, with only 0.12 portions thrown out daily.

SourceUniversity of Sheffield·JournalPlants People Planet·DateAug 22, 2023

NTU Singapore scientists develop a sustainable way to convert kale waste into products for health and personal care

A new technique converts kale waste into phytochemicals for use in health and personal care products, preserving potency and using non-toxic solvents. The method reduces energy consumption and emissions, making it attractive for industry adoption and supporting a circular economy.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalSeparation and Purification Technology·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 16, 2023
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

KAIST presents a microbial cell factory as a source of eco-friendly food and cosmetic coloring​

Researchers at KAIST have developed microbial cell factories that can produce a variety of food and cosmetic compounds, including natural pigments, flavors, and functional compounds. These eco-friendly alternatives can help address global food shortages and environmental concerns.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalNature Reviews Bioengineering·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJul 28, 2023

Risk of forced labor is widespread in U.S. food supply, study finds

A study by researchers at Tufts University found that the majority of forced labor risks come from animal-based proteins, processed fruits and vegetables, and discretionary foods. The study aims to provide policymakers with information to create a just and sustainable food supply.

SourceTufts University·JournalNature Food·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 24, 2023

Living together: Microbial communities are more than the sum of their parts

Researchers found that most microbial pairs fail to coexist, challenging the long-held hypothesis that every pair of microbes must also coexist in a bigger community. This study highlights the need for new predictive tools to engineer successful microbial communities, essential for biotechnology applications.

SourceDelft University of Technology·JournalScience·TypeObservational study·DateJul 20, 2023
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Newly identified protein regulates the creation of cellulose in plant cells

A team at Penn State has identified a protein called calcium-dependent protein kinase 32 (CPK32) that modifies the cellular machinery responsible for producing cellulose. This new understanding could inform the design of more stable, cellulose-enriched materials for biofuels and other functions.

SourcePenn State·JournalNew Phytologist·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 11, 2023

Chocolate can be fruity or flowery — if you skip the roasting step

Research published in ACS' Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry shows that unroasted, 'raw' chocolate features compounds responsible for fruity flavors and sour tastes. Volatile flavor compounds were more pronounced in the roasted samples, but others with fruity or flowery aromas remained noticeable.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateJun 27, 2023
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Fish farms can become biogas producers

A University of Gothenburg study reveals that fish farm waste can be converted into biogas, reducing waste and generating nutrients for plants. The biogas can power the aquaponic farm, making it a sustainable energy source.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalAquacultural Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 20, 2023

New study reveals irrigation’s mixed effects around the world

A recent study analyzed over 200 previous studies to assess the impact of irrigation on regional climates and environments. The researchers found that while irrigation supplies 40% of the world's food, it also has significant effects on regional climates and environments, with some areas being already unsustainable or verging on scarcity.

SourceNew York University·JournalNature Reviews Earth & Environment·DateJun 20, 2023
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

A holistic approach to addressing food security in Africa

The article discusses the growing challenge of food security in Africa, particularly with regards to rice production and consumption. The research reveals that socioeconomic developments have a more substantial influence on rice availability than gradual climate change, but climatic anomalies pose a significant threat to stability. Div...

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalNature Food·DateJun 19, 2023

Shock to the crop system

A new study by University of Delaware researchers assesses the effects of climate variability on crop production in the US. The study reveals that fluctuations in planted and harvested areas contribute significantly to crop production shocks, which can have severe impacts on food stability.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalNature Sustainability·DateJun 15, 2023

Change food choices to increase chances of tackling global warming

A new study found that the global food system is responsible for a third of man-made greenhouse gas emissions, with beef and dairy consumption being the largest contributors. The study suggests that adopting a more plant-based diet could help reduce emissions and mitigate climate change.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalNature Food·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 15, 2023
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Seaweed farming may help tackle global food insecurity

Research suggests that seaweed farming could be a game-changer for addressing food insecurity globally. By reducing the need for land, freshwater, and chemical fertilizers, seaweed cultivation can lead to higher incomes for farmers in coastal regions of Africa and Southeast Asia. As demand for nutrient-rich seaweed products grows world...

SourceTufts University·JournalGlobal Food Security·DateJun 8, 2023

Robot ‘chef’ learns to recreate recipes from watching food videos

Researchers trained a robotic chef to watch and learn from cooking videos, enabling it to identify ingredients and actions. The robot recognized 93% of the correct recipe from 16 videos, including variations and new recipes, showcasing its potential for automated food production and cost-effective deployment.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalIEEE Access·DateJun 4, 2023
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Mapping the conflict between farming and biodiversity

A Japanese-led team used mapping techniques to quantify the impact of agriculture on high-priority conservation areas. The study found that commodities like beef, rice, and soybeans are often produced in high-conservation priority areas, while others like barley and wheat are sourced from low-priority areas.

SourceResearch Institute for Humanity and Nature·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 29, 2023

Algae combined with visible light may create ink for cultured meat

Researchers at POSTECH have developed a bioink using alginate from algae and visible light, resulting in enhanced cell viability and printing resolution. This innovation could lead to the creation of artificial organs and tissues, as well as cultivated meat with lower environmental impact.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalCarbohydrate Polymers·DateMay 24, 2023

Sexing chicken eggs by scent

A new method for sexing chicken eggs by scent has been developed by researchers at UC Davis, allowing for early identification of male embryos. The technology relies on detecting volatile organic compounds emitted by the developing embryo, which can be analyzed using gas chromatography/mass spectrometry.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 22, 2023