Research on food, its safety, and its effects. Covers nutrition advice and industry ties, meal timing, flavor chemistry, and plant-based diets.
Students' attitudes toward climate-friendly school meals were positively associated with considering climate important when choosing food, eating vegetarian food at school more often, and the food tasting good. Mixed attitudes toward modified recipes and all-vegetarian days were observed, with reducing meat in recipes being more accepted.
The American College of Cardiology emphasizes a plant-forward diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and healthy fats to prevent and manage cardiovascular disease. Consensus recommendations include a focus on overall dietary quality and sustainability over individual nutrients or trends.
A comprehensive review of the evidence links ultraprocessed foods to poorer cognitive outcomes and increased risk of dementia. The study highlights the need for further research to determine the causal relationship between these foods and brain health.
A preliminary study led by UC San Francisco found that reducing ultra-processed food intake significantly improved symptoms of depression and anxiety in participants, who reduced their intake by over 85%.
Researchers developed a biodegradable sensor using cobalt chloride to detect moisture levels in food packaging, enabling easy monitoring of crispiness and quality. The sensor changes color from blue to pink as moisture levels rise or fall, reflecting actual changes in storage conditions.
Researchers developed an AI-based method to predict bitterness of peptides, enabling de novo design of bitter peptides for improved flavor control. The method used a combination of a protein language model and an artificial neural network to analyze structural data, resulting in the identification of new bitter-tasting peptides.
A pooled data analysis of 51 prospective cohort studies found that higher ultra-processed food (UPF) intake is associated with greater risks of multiple chronic health issues, including cardiovascular events, cancer, obesity, metabolic syndrome/diabetes, and death. Consuming extra 100g of UPFs correspondsingly increases risks.
A systematic review and meta-analysis of 87 clinical trials found that consuming four to six servings of wholegrain per day can lower cardiovascular risk factors, including body weight, waist circumference, and total cholesterol levels. Benefits were most pronounced at intakes of 60 to 100 grams per day.
A new study implemented in Berkeley, Calif. supermarkets, drug stores, and mass-market retailers in 2021 found a link between a healthy checkout ordinance and a notable decrease in soda sales overall and small-package candy in supermarkets. The study also found that greater enforcement of the policy is essential for sustained public he...
A third of the UK government's nutrition advisors have significant ties to the food industry, including Coca Cola and Nestle, despite new rules banning such links. Experts argue that these conflicts should be removed immediately to maintain public health and scientific integrity.
Researchers found that meal timing programs the liver's daily rhythms and can have serious metabolic and health consequences when out of sync. The liver uses food signals to activate metabolic pathways, which can conflict with the body's natural circadian clock, leading to health issues.
Overfermentation of cocoa beans can cause smoky, leathery, and cheesy off-flavors, with elevated concentrations of short-chain carboxylic acids and phenols detected. A simple measurement using test strips can help detect the onset of overfermentation, preventing the development of off-flavors.
A new study identified why men struggle with weight loss, finding traditional diet programs are often perceived as too restrictive and female-focused. Support from spouses and incorporating sport or physical activity may be key to successful weight-loss initiatives tailored for men.
A study by the University of Copenhagen found that only 13% of workplaces in Denmark are ready to introduce more plant-based lunches, while 42% are resistant to change. Workplaces with high tertiary activities and employees who eat less meat tend to be more open to change.
A 6-month study of 5132 MyNetDiary users found that consistent food-tracking, even with fewer than 2 days per week, is associated with better weight loss outcomes. Users who tracked food 6-7 days per week lost an average of 11.33% of their body weight, while those who tracked only 2-3 days per week lost 7.35%.
Analysis of UK baby food pouches found they often contain high sugar and low nutrient levels, failing to meet guidelines for complementary foods. Only a small percentage met the desired criteria, raising concerns about the suitability of these products for young children.
A new study by the University of Illinois Chicago found that time-restricted eating may be a safe and effective tool to control blood sugar levels in adults with Type 1 diabetes. The study, led by Krista Varady, showed a significant reduction in blood sugar levels after six months, with no increased risk of extreme highs or lows.
Hiroshima University researchers demonstrate that food processing liquid waste can be reused to produce omega-3 fatty acids by cultivating Aurantiochytrium sp. The study shows that three types of pickle seasoning waste can be utilized by the thraustochytrid to produce DHA and EPA. Reusing the waste medium also produces DHA and EPA, but...
A shocking majority of exhibitors at the UK's biggest school food event supply foods high in fat, sugar, or salt, contradicting the government's plans to introduce updated school food standards. The findings raise concerns over the perpetuation of unhealthy eating habits in schools.
A study of behavior-related digital dieting apps found that photo-informed expert feedback increased app use and improved meal recording, while photo-based peer observation reduced engagement and did not affect food choices. The findings provide practical guidance for designing effective digital health apps.
Researchers are seeking 450 participants to explore the health effects of adopting a vegetarian or vegan diet among younger adults with overweight or obesity. Over 12 months, participants will follow a plant-based diet and have regular health checks to measure their health outcomes.
Researchers developed an edible coating made from agar, zinc, and tannic acid that reduces spoilage and maintains vitamin C and antioxidants in strawberries, grapes, and apple slices. The coating has a lower carbon footprint than refrigeration and can reduce food waste by up to 85%.
A study of 43 fathers, mothers, and newborns found that higher ultra-processed food consumption by fathers was associated with higher birth weights and greater fat accumulation in babies. The quality of the father's diet before conception may influence fetal development.
A national survey of over 1,000 U.S. adolescents found that nearly one-quarter of teens used mobile food delivery services during school hours, with fast foods and sugary beverages being popular options. Researchers raise concerns about the impact on learning environments and healthy nutrition for students.
A study found that 81% of toddler foods were classified as ultra-processed, with 49% failing to meet at least one nutrient standard. The majority exceeded recommended sugar and calorie levels, highlighting the need for warning labels on high-risk products.
A recent analysis of prebiotic sodas found that they often contain relatively little prebiotic fiber content and more sugar than marketing claims suggest. Many products include nutrition and functional claims that may be misleading, creating a 'health halo' among consumers.
Teenagers and young adults have the highest individual environmental impact from their diets, producing the highest per-capita food-related GHG emissions worldwide. Meanwhile, population ageing is contributing to an increase in global dietary greenhouse gas emissions, primarily due to older people living longer and having fewer children.
Researchers identified a precise gene edit that lowers cadmium in rice grains while maintaining yield and essential mineral nutrients. The OsNramp5 I441T mutation selectively limits cadmium translocation, reducing grain cadmium by 48% without compromising zinc or manganese uptake.
Researchers found that smelling dark chocolate odors increased training volume and suppressed hunger, while milk chocolate had no effect. The study suggests that food scents can trigger changes in body and mind similar to actual consumption.
A large European study found a correlation between ultra-processed food consumption and increased levels of harmful fatty acids in the blood. The study, which analyzed data from 15,200 participants, suggests that ultra-processed foods may contribute to metabolic stress and potential health risks.
Researchers propose a voluntary labelling scheme using 'STABILISED' to indicate products with minimal risk of Listeria infection. The scheme aims to help consumers choose safe products and reduce the number of people falling ill with Listeria infections.
Stanford researcher Ellen Kuhl's AI tool, BurgerAI, creates novel burger recipes optimized for deliciousness, sustainability and nutrition. The burgers were tested in a blinded taste test and found to be comparable to popular fast-food options.
A new UK study has found that plant-based alternatives contain twice as many additives as animal products, with a total of 199 versus 100. The study analyzed 71 like-for-like pairs of products from a UK supermarket range and found that plant-based products contained more ingredients and E-numbers.
Researchers found that adding small amounts of brown seaweed flour to gluten-free cookie recipes significantly increases phenolic compound content, antioxidant activity, and protein content. The study suggests potential use as a functional ingredient in the food industry.
A survey of nearly 1,000 Americans found that information-based policies on ultra-processed foods are widely supported. Restriction-based policies, such as limiting UPFs in schools, also gained majority support. However, taxation of UPFs was the only policy that did not achieve majority support.
Researchers analyzed TikTok videos discussing food noise, finding it's a relentless preoccupation with eating that affects daily activities. The study aims to bring evidence to differentiate between scientific claims and marketing purposes.
Researchers have designed a clay material that can absorb and retain ethylene gas, slowing down the ripening process of fruits and vegetables. This innovation has the potential to reduce food waste and improve fruit flavor by allowing for later harvesting in the ripening process.
Researchers from Institute of Science Tokyo found that postbiotic foods can improve gum health in adults with mild gingivitis, reducing gum bleeding and inflammation. The study suggests a simple way to support oral health without altering oral care habits.
A study found that regularly assessing gastric residual volume in critically ill children being enterally fed significantly improved nutritional achievement at 72 hours. Not routine assessments every 6 hours had similar results, demonstrating noninferiority.
A new study has found that standard antibody-based tests can fail to detect all gluten residues in barley beer, leading to concerns about the safety of gluten-free products. Researchers developed a new mass spectrometry method to identify celiac disease-active peptides, which were found in some 'gluten-free' beers.
A study found that implementing earlier egg introduction guidelines resulted in measurable decreases in egg allergy cases. The updated guidelines, based on randomized trial evidence, may contribute to a reduction in food allergy prevalence when effectively implemented.
Researchers developed a system to link polyphenol chemical structures with bitterness, acidity, and astringency. Polyphenols found in tea, cocoa, and other foods influence taste sensations, affecting food preferences and digestive responses.
A recent study of over 1,800 infants in Sweden found that most young children have sufficient vitamin D levels, but intake was too low for some. The research also explored the climate impact of foods providing vitamin D, concluding that plant-based alternatives are a climate-friendly source.
Research by Göttingen University found that colourful Nutri-Score labels on the shelf and price tag are more noticeable and influencing consumer choices. The study suggests that companies should display multi-coloured labels to support consumers in making health-conscious choices.
A new study by North Carolina State University found that teaching with food can increase preschoolers' understanding of scientific concepts four times more than traditional methods. The 'More PEAS Please!' program also improved vocabulary skills, with a 20% increase in the group that received the intervention.
Research by Dr. Hanim Diktas at Pennington Biomedical Research Center shows that combining GLP-1 receptor agonists with behavioral intervention leads to a greater reduction in 'food noise', a persistent thought about food disrupting daily life and healthy behaviors. The study found significant decreases in food noise for participants u...
A study of 65 countries found that consuming food away from home is consistently associated with obesity. Eating out is driven by sociodemographic factors such as sex, age, income, and education, and is linked to higher energy intake and body mass index.
A national survey in England found that over half of parents are frequently pressured by their children to buy unhealthy products, leading to almost three-quarters of these purchases. The study suggests the current food environment influences these requests, driven by instore and media marketing.
Researchers treated 75 children with peanut allergies using slow up-dosing and low maintenance dosing. After three years, 82% of the treatment group could eat at least 3.5 peanuts without an allergic reaction.
A study by Cranfield University found that almost all plant-based meat alternatives and beverages in the UK contained at least one mycotoxin, with multiple products containing more than one. The research highlights the need for effective mycotoxin management integrated within food safety standards.
A two-day symposium brought together leading researchers, clinicians, and policy experts to examine the science surrounding ultra-processed foods and their impact on human health. Key findings include the biological mechanisms linking ultra-processing to chronic disease and opportunities for policy action.
The São Paulo School of Advanced Science in FoodOmics aims to advance understanding of omics technologies in food and nutrition. The event will feature keynote lectures, workshops, and interactive sessions with renowned researchers from around the world.
A new study from the University of Copenhagen shows that Danish retailers can generate a net financial gain of €0.3-€0.8 per kilo by selling surplus food at discounted prices. Donating food to organizations that redistribute it to vulnerable people is often cheaper than disposal, with savings of €0.10-€0.20 per kilo.
Researchers at DTU discover three types of lactic acid bacteria that can effectively produce plant-based yoghurt alternatives, inhibiting harmful bacteria and breaking down sugars. The bacteria also improve the product's texture and extend shelf life.
Researchers at DTU have developed a new method to identify bacteria capable of producing vitamin B2 in soya drinks. A bacterium from bumblebee guts was found to thrive in plant-based dairy alternatives and produce the nutrient in high quantities.
A real-world study found that adults taking GLP-1 RAs for weight loss have significantly lower total energy and protein intake. The use of an AI-powered nutritional tracking app revealed that 88% of users were under national protein guidelines, with many skipping meals to reduce protein intake.
Researchers at Hokkaido University developed a mathematical model that can measure fish freshness in real time. The model uses the degradation pathway of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) in fish muscle after death to estimate current freshness and predict changes over time.
A new study found that older men are more likely to reach for saltshakers than women, who's behavior is influenced by factors such as diet quality and lifestyle. The research highlights the importance of reducing salt consumption, particularly in industrialized foods.
Researchers discovered that placing fruit and vegetable sections near supermarket entrances increases purchased portions by 2,525 per week. This led to improved women's diets and potential long-term health benefits.
A new study finds that dairy manure digesters are highly effective in reducing methane emissions from cow manure, with most systems performing well. However, occasional leaks of large magnitude offset the climate benefits, highlighting the need for thorough monitoring and verification.