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High flavanol diet may lead to lower blood pressure

Researchers found that consuming flavanol-rich foods and drinks, such as tea and apples, can lead to significant reductions in blood pressure. The study used objective measures of thousands of UK residents' diet and found a comparable effect to Mediterranean and DASH diets.

SourceUniversity of Reading·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 21, 2020

Carnivores living near people feast on human food, threatening ecosystems

A study found that carnivores near people consume over half of their diets from human food sources, disrupting ecosystems. This reliance increases competition among predators, potentially leading to conflicts and detrimental ecological consequences.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 12, 2020

Low-hanging fruit

A study suggests that reducing indirect greenhouse gas emissions from UC campus food systems can be achieved through a shift towards more plant-based options. The researchers found that changing the food system could reduce emissions by 42-55% and align with the system's carbon neutrality goals.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalClimate Policy·DateOct 8, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

The Lancet Planetary Health: Restricting supermarket promotions of high-sugar food and drinks reduces sales without reducing store profits

A randomized controlled trial found that restricting merchandising of unhealthy products in stores reduced the purchase of sugar sweetened drinks and confectionery by 2.8%, resulting in a reduction of free sugar purchased from food and drinks by 2.8%. Despite these reductions, business performance was unaffected.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Planetary Health·DateOct 7, 2020

Watching your waste

A recent study led by ASU researcher Chris Wharton found that a values-based intervention can reduce household food waste by an average of 28%. The intervention used clear plastic bins to track food waste and highlighted the impact of cost, health, and environmental concerns. Participants reported that watching their waste build up pro...

SourceArizona State University·JournalResources·DateOct 5, 2020

The proof is in the pudding

Researchers at the University of South Australia found that increasing meal sizes can improve nutrition intake among aged care residents. The study showed a correlation between portion size and food consumption, with each kilojoule increase in served energy resulting in a 0.73 kilojoule increase in consumed energy.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalAustralasian Marketing Journal·DateSep 30, 2020
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.

Noise can put you off your food

A laboratory study replicates common restaurant noise levels and shows that even 'normal' background noise can be unpleasant to diners. The study suggests noise management strategies, including quiet dining areas for older and noise-sensitive individuals, to improve dining experiences.

SourceFlinders University·JournalApplied Acoustics·DateSep 29, 2020

FoodLAND: Food and local, agricultural and nutritional diversity

The FoodLAND project is developing innovations for local agriculture and aquaculture development in six African countries, aiming to strengthen agro-biodiversity and healthy diets. The project will create a network of 14 local Food Hubs to mobilise actors in rural and urban communities, testing and introducing technological innovations.

SourceUniversità di Bologna·DateSep 28, 2020
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.

'Front of package' nutrition labels improved nutrition quality

A new study analyzing 16 years of data on tens of thousands of products found that the adoption of nutrition data on 'front of package' (FOP) labels is associated with improved nutritional content. FOP labeling was linked to a 12.5% reduction in calories, 12.97% reduction in saturated fat, and other improvements in nutrients.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateSep 21, 2020

Biodiversity hypothesis called into question

A new study reveals that species are better equipped to thrive in both abundant and scarce food environments, contradicting the long-held 'gleaner-exploiter' trade-off theory. The researchers argue that a risk-taking trade-off to access food is more likely, explaining the diversity of biological species.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 21, 2020

Buffalo-based study aims to connect the dots on food access

Researchers surveyed local families and stakeholders to find effective strategies for addressing disparities in healthy food consumption. Key findings include increasing affordability, nutrition education, and mobile produce markets as preferred approaches.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalJournal of Hunger & Environmental Nutrition·DateSep 18, 2020

Could breadfruit be the next superfood? UBC researchers say yes

Researchers at UBC Okanagan found breadfruit protein is easier to digest than wheat, promoting healthy growth rates and body composition in mice. The study supports the use of breadfruit as part of a balanced diet due to its gluten-free, low glycemic index and nutrient-dense profile.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 17, 2020
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.

Algorithm boosts efficiency, nutrition for food bank ops

A new algorithm developed by Cornell researchers improves the efficient distribution of food resources among patrons, boosting nutrition levels. The Food Bank of the Southern Tier saw a 7.73% increase in efficiency from 2018 to 2019 using the optimized allocation system.

SourceCornell University·JournalOmega·DateSep 17, 2020

Devi mangiare! Why culture may be contributing to disordered eating among women

A University of South Australia researcher explores how Italian culture influences women's relationships with food, finding that 'food is everything' and 'making a good impression' are central themes. The study highlights the need for culturally sensitive support to address disordered eating among migrant women.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalHealth Care For Women International·DateSep 16, 2020

Some but not all US metro areas could grow all needed food locally, estimates study

A study by Tufts University researchers estimates that some but not all US metro areas could grow all the food they need locally, based on population, geography, and diet. The modeling study suggests that reducing animal products in the diet can increase the potential to produce sufficient food for a metro area.

SourceTufts University, Health Sciences Campus·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateSep 14, 2020
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

To recreate ancient recipes, check out the vestiges of clay pots

A study has discovered that unglazed ceramic cookware can retain the residue of not just the last meal cooked, but potentially earlier dishes, allowing for the reconstruction of ancient recipes. The research team analyzed chemical compounds adhering to and absorbed by the earthenware in which they were prepared.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 11, 2020

Malnutrition among a hunter-gatherer group

A San group in Namibia faces malnutrition due to a dysfunctional local food system, with no agency over food sources and limited access to traditional foods. The researchers recommend context-specific solutions, including eliminating movement restrictions and supporting traditional foodways to supplement diets with key nutritional groups.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalAppetite·DateSep 9, 2020

How your BMI might affect your spontaneous food purchases

A small study using mobile eye-tracking technology found that normal-weight consumers noticed and looked at their chosen food earlier and longer than those with overweight or obesity. The researchers also discovered a tendency for all consumers to focus on lower-energy-density foods like fruits and vegetables more often.

SourceEuropean Association for the Study of Obesity·DateSep 2, 2020
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Eating your vegetables is easier said than done

The EAT-Lancet Report proposes a universal healthy reference diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, but implementing this change requires unprecedented global cooperation. Policymakers must prioritize food systems as a top development agenda to realize the recommendations laid out in the report.

SourceThe Alliance of Bioversity International and the International Center for Tropical Agriculture·JournalNature Food·DateAug 31, 2020

Are all vegetarian diets healthy?

Research suggests that not all vegetarian diets are created equal, with healthier choices linked to maintaining normal blood pressure, blood lipids, and blood sugar. Whole grains, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and olive oil were found to be key contributors to better heart health.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·DateAug 27, 2020
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Changing landscapes, changing diets

Researchers analyzed fossilized teeth of ancient herbivores to reveal dietary shifts from woody vegetation to grasses and sedges, around 2.7-2 million years ago. The findings suggest that behavioral dietary changes can precede apparent morphological adaptations in hominins.

SourceGeorge Washington University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 25, 2020

Examining shifts in hominin diet

Researchers analyzed stable carbon isotope data from hominin fossils to determine the timing of dietary shifts. The study found that Paranthropus robustus and boisei had different diets, with P. boisei consuming C4-plant-based foods.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 24, 2020

Experts question need to wait days between introducing new solid foods to infants

A recent survey of pediatricians found significant variability in recommendations for solid food introduction, leading experts to question the relevance of current guidelines. The long waiting period may delay peanut introduction and limit food diversity, which can decrease the development of allergic diseases in infants.

SourceAnn & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateAug 17, 2020
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Nutrition labelling is improving nation's diet - new study

A new study finds that Front-of-Pack labelling on food products leads to a reduction in the quantity of labelled store-branded food purchased and an overall improvement in nutritional composition of consumers' shopping baskets. The study, published in the Journal of Health Economics, shows significant improvements in poorer households.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalJournal of Health Economics·DateAug 12, 2020

Experts urge evaluation of diet at routine check-ups

A new scientific statement from the American Heart Association recommends incorporating dietary screening into routine health care visits. The goal is to assess an individual's total dietary pattern and provide actionable next steps, helping patients set achievable dietary goals.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalCirculation·DateAug 7, 2020

Children's pester power a future target for interventions

A new study found that children's pester power significantly influences their family's dietary intake and parenting practices. The research suggests that children's influence on their homes may be an underdeveloped potential target for future interventions.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Nutrition Education and Behavior·DateAug 6, 2020
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.

Local food

The study found that the Pacific Island Countries (PICTs) are vulnerable to food insecurity due to their reliance on global supply chains. However, researchers suggest that bolstering local production and intraregional trade can strengthen the food system and protect against malnutrition. The PICTs have the potential to rely on traditi...

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalFood Security·DateAug 5, 2020

Food menu fit for pandemic times

A new study by Flinders University researchers highlights the importance of sustainable food choices, which not only benefit individuals but also the environment. The study found that people who participate in community gardening or local food swaps experience improved mental health and social connections.

SourceFlinders University·JournalHealth Promotion Journal of Australia·DateAug 3, 2020

Seafood products made from cells should be labeled cell-based

A Rutgers study suggests that companies commercializing cell-based seafood products should use the term 'cell-based' on product labels to meet FDA regulations. The study found that consumers view this name as equally nutritious and desirable as conventional seafood products, signaling a healthy, sustainable alternative.

SourceRutgers University·JournalJournal of Food Science·DateJul 28, 2020
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Study calls for review of rice and sugar in food subsidy programme

A new study found that subsidized rice and sugar may not improve long-term nutritional outcomes for children in India. The Public Distribution System aims to provide essential nutrients, but the research suggests that limited value foods like rice and sugar may perpetuate unhealthy dietary patterns.

SourceLancaster University·JournalJournal of Social Policy·DateJul 21, 2020

National funds advance helping hands kitchen garden at the UT Gardens, Knoxville

The U.S. Botanic Garden and American Public Gardens Association have awarded $378,000 to 28 public gardens in the US, including the Helping Hands Kitchen Garden at the University of Tennessee Gardens, Knoxville. The funds will help sustain urban agriculture programs and increase produce donations to local food banks.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture·DateJul 15, 2020
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Perceiving the flavor of fat: A Monell Center twins study

Researchers at the Monell Chemical Senses Center found that genetic traits shape an individual's preference for fatty foods. The study used identical and fraternal twins to test the relationship between fat content and flavor perception.

SourceMonell Chemical Senses Center·JournalChemical Senses·DateJul 13, 2020

What happens when food first touches your tongue

A new study from Ohio State University finds that food's molecular size and movement on the tongue influence how quickly we perceive taste. The researchers modeled flavor flow over papillae to understand why some tastes register faster than others.

SourceOhio State University·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateJul 9, 2020

Aquaculture's role in nutrition in the COVID-19 era

The article discusses four possible scenarios for the future of aquaculture, including a growth-first nationalistic approach, sustainable localized production, and a globally competitive market. These scenarios aim to maximize aquaculture's nutrition benefits while ensuring environmental sustainability.

SourceAmerican University·JournalReviews in Fisheries Science & Aquaculture·DateJul 9, 2020
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.

Study to evaluate app that automates calorie counting

A new study evaluates the PortionSize app, which analyzes pictures of users' meals to provide accurate calorie consumption. The app aims to overcome challenges in self-reporting methods and 'portion distortion', offering an affordable solution for weight management.

SourcePennington Biomedical Research Center·DateJul 8, 2020

The complex relationship between deforestation and diet diversity in the Amazon

A study in Peru found that shifting from subsistence farming to commercial agriculture is associated with less diverse diets and reduced access to food among local communities. The expansion of cash crops like palm oil and cocoa has led to simplified production systems and decreased agricultural biodiversity.

SourceThe Alliance of Bioversity International and the International Center for Tropical Agriculture·JournalFood Security·DateJul 7, 2020

Fussy eating -- and parents' stress -- remedied by online guide

A new online resource has been proven to alleviate parents' anxiety and encourage healthy eating habits in young children. The Child Feeding Guide, developed by experts at Aston University and Loughborough University, helps mums change their approach to feeding and reduces self-reported anxiety by nearly 20%.

SourceAston University·JournalNutrition Bulletin·DateJul 1, 2020
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.

Food taxes and subsidies would bring major health gains, study shows

Researchers estimate that a food tax on saturated fat, salt, and sugar would save the health system NZ$14.7 billion over time. This scheme would also lead to notable reductions in chronic disease rates, including a one quarter to one third reduction in diabetes incidence.

SourceUniversity of Otago·JournalThe Lancet Public Health·DateJun 30, 2020

Neuromarketing of taste

Marina Domracheva and Sofya Kulikova discovered a new method to analyze perceived similarity of food products using electroencephalography signals. They found that the power of gamma oscillations can reflect similarities in a cross-modal approach, providing a useful tool for neuromarketing studies.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalFood Quality and Preference·DateJun 26, 2020
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Coronavirus: A wake-up call to strengthen the global food system

A global pandemic has exposed the vulnerabilities of the interconnected food system, with supply chain disruptions leading to food shortages and price spikes. A systems approach is needed to address the challenges of a globally complex food system, incorporating systemic risk and opportunities into food-related policies.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalOne Earth·DateJun 19, 2020