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Your next handbag could start with mushrooms

Researchers have developed a durable, compostable leather-like fabric from mycelium fibers. The production process is promising and could enable large-scale production of affordable, eco-friendly materials.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Applied Bio Materials·DateAug 6, 2026
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Microbes contribute a surprisingly large array of proteins in fermented foods

A new study found that microbial proteins make up to 11% of the total protein content in fermented foods and comprise 60% of identified proteins. These microbes convert raw substrates into nutritious products, influencing gut physiology and potentially impacting health outcomes.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalFood & Function·TypeMeta-analysis·DateApr 22, 2026

Selective oxidation of 3-hydroxypropionic acid to malonic acid over Pd/C: Mechanistic and kinetic study

Researchers at University of Wisconsin-Madison develop a systematic study for sustainable production of malonic acid via oxidation of 3-hydroxypropionic acid with a Pd/Carbon catalyst. The kinetic model validated the network, displaying excellent agreement and providing insight into conditions that maximize MA production.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Institute for Sustainability, Energy, and Environment·JournalApplied Catalysis B Environment and Energy·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 16, 2026

Researchers combine flavor and nutritional value in Amazonian chocolate

Researchers found that combining fermented and unfermented cocoa beans can balance flavor and nutritional value, increasing the market potential of Amazonian cocoa. The study also identified new molecules with antioxidant properties, suggesting Amazonian cocoa as a superfood

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 16, 2026
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.

Natural dye produced by Amazonian fungus can be used in cosmetics

The study found that the extract reduced cell damage compounds by over 75% and preserved skin health with over 60% of cells remaining alive. The researchers developed a natural dye, produced by Talaromyces amestolkiae fungus, which can be used in cosmetic formulations while maintaining safety and functionality.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalACS Omega·DateMar 4, 2026

Urine tests confirm alcohol consumption in wild African chimpanzees

A recent study has confirmed that wild African chimpanzees consume significant quantities of alcohol, with 17 out of 20 urine samples containing ethyl glucuronide, a metabolic byproduct of ethanol. The chimps' diet likely consists of fermented fruits, which provide around 14 grams of ethanol per day.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalBiology Letters·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 24, 2026

Early warning for wine spoilage glow's in the dark

A living biosensor made of bacteria detects acetic acid levels in wine, alerting wineries to potential spoilage. The sensor works in real-time and can detect volatile acetic acid in the air above wine bottles, enabling early intervention before damage is done.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalMicrobial Biotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 26, 2026
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.

Flour choice shapes sourdough microbial communities

A study found that different flour types shape the microbial composition of sourdough starters, with yeast strains like Kazachstania dominating all samples. The bacterial diversity varied by flour type, with whole wheat flour favoring Companilactobacillus and bread flour favoring Levilactobacillus.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalMicrobiology Spectrum·DateDec 17, 2025

Jeonbuk National University researchers explore the impact of different seasonings on the flavor perception of Doenjang soup

Jeonbuk National University researchers examine how different seasonings shape kokumi perception in doenjang soup, influencing consumer acceptance. They found that umami is a major sensory driver of kokumi perception and can be enhanced to improve the flavor quality of fermented foods.

SourceJeonbuk National University, Sustainable Strategy team, Planning and Coordination Division·JournalFood Quality and Preference·TypeSurvey·DateDec 15, 2025

How to turn water into wine, with raisins

Researchers from Kyoto University found that soaking sun-dried raisins in water can create wine. The process facilitates the growth of yeast and results in higher ethanol concentrations.

SourceKyoto University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 25, 2025
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Green chemistry for sustainable personal care

Biosurfactants, such as rhamnolipids and sophorolipids, have been found to be highly effective and biodegradable alternatives to synthetic surfactants in shampoo formulations. They offer improved environmental compatibility and are suitable for sensitive skin, with properties that surpass those of traditional surfactants.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalJournal of Dermatologic Science and Cosmetic Technology·TypeLiterature review·DateNov 17, 2025

Five science-backed ways to make cheese production greener

A literature review of cheese fermentation and ripening identified five underused, evidence-based measures to improve efficiency and sustainability in cheese production. By exploiting whey and encapsulating lactic acid bacteria, dairies can reduce waste and optimize production processes.

SourceTechnical University of Denmark·JournalTrends in Food Science & Technology·DateOct 31, 2025

A nose for microbes: how hunger tunes the brain

A study from the Champalimaud Foundation found that when fruit flies are deprived of essential amino acids, their brains upregulate two olfactory receptor genes involved in smell, leading to a refined sense of smell that guides them to protein-rich yeast and gut bacteria. This interplay between smell and taste regulates feeding behavior.

SourceChampalimaud Centre for the Unknown·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 27, 2025

Making yogurt with ants

Scientists recreated a traditional Balkan yogurt recipe using ants, finding that the insects' natural chemicals and microbes can kickstart the fermentation process. The researchers tested live, frozen, and dehydrated ant products, concluding that only live ants are suitable for yogurt making.

SourceCell Press·JournaliScience·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 3, 2025
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Giving food waste fermentation a ‘jolt’ increases chemical production

Researchers at Ohio State University discovered that adding an electrical jolt to fermentation increases the yield and speed of platform chemicals from industrial food waste. Combining two bacterial species also enhances targeted chemical production and produces hydrogen gas as a byproduct, reducing waste and greenhouse gas emissions.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Environmental Chemical Engineering·DateSep 4, 2025

How chefs and scientists are using kombucha and kimchi to study microbiology

Researchers partnered with food experts and public to examine microbial communities in fermented foods. The study found diverse microbial communities in kimchi made with different ingredients and no specific species associated with green tea vs black tea in kombucha.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalMicrobiology Spectrum·TypeObservational study·DateAug 19, 2025

Fermentation method transforms unripe fruits into specialty coffees

Researchers developed a fermentation method using unripe fruit beans, producing high-quality beverages comparable to those made from ripe fruits. The process, known as self-induced anaerobic fermentation, adds value to the product while minimizing its defects, making it attractive to domestic and foreign markets.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalFood and Bioprocess Technology·DateAug 13, 2025

Ready for market: New process boosts clean, cost-efficient chemical production

Researchers developed a new metabolic engineering strategy to boost the yield of succinic acid production in yeast, improving its efficiency and cost-effectiveness. The new process reduces the minimum product selling price by 25% and is expected to save companies millions of dollars annually.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Institute for Sustainability, Energy, and Environment·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 11, 2025

Chemical fermentation-induced porous bio-carbon with embedded Ni–Fe alloy for ultra-efficient oxygen evolution electrocatalysis

Researchers introduce a novel electrocatalyst design strategy using chemical fermentation, creating a multilevel porous carbon architecture embedded with Ni–Fe alloy nanoparticles. This approach achieves ultra-efficient oxygen evolution reaction performance, with a record-low overpotential of 165 mV at 10 mA cm−2.

SourceShanghai Jiao Tong University Journal Center·JournalNano-Micro Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 30, 2025
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.

Fruit and microbes boost biogas production and fermentation

Researchers found a new recipe to improve biogas production from alfalfa by adding fruit waste and an anaerobic microbe, boosting methane production by 33% and reducing costs. The added ingredients also increased the nutritional content of remaining plant matter.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalmSphere·DateMay 6, 2025

Nonalcoholic beer yeasts evaluated for fermentation activity, flavor profiles

Researchers evaluated 11 commercially available yeasts to identify their strengths based on chemical analysis and sensory panel opinions. Maltose-negative yeasts offer different benefits, including the ability to produce style-specific, high-quality nonalcoholic beers with desired flavor profiles.

SourceUniversity of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture·JournalACS Food Science & Technology·DateApr 17, 2025
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.

The gut health benefits of sauerkraut

A study published in Applied and Environmental Microbiology suggests that sauerkraut's metabolites can maintain intestinal cell integrity and support long-term gut health. The researchers found that both store-bought and lab-made sauerkraut samples protected gut function, with no noticeable difference between the two.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateApr 14, 2025

Lactic acid bacteria can improve plant-based dairy alternatives

A new study maps how specific lactic acid bacteria can reduce off-flavours and degrade anti-nutrients in plant-based dairy alternatives. Fermentation with these bacterial strains increases nutrient bioavailability and enhances product nutritional profiles.

SourceTechnical University of Denmark·JournalComprehensive Reviews in Food Science and Food Safety·DateApr 8, 2025
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.

Saturn's moon Titan could harbor life, but only a tiny amount, study finds

A recent study suggests that Saturn's moon Titan could support simple, microscopic life forms due to its abundant organic content. However, the amount of biomass that can exist in this environment is likely to be extremely limited, possibly only a few pounds.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalThe Planetary Science Journal·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 7, 2025

An answer to green energy in hydrogen-generating marine microbes

Researchers found two new types of gene clusters capable of producing large volumes of hydrogen in marine bacteria. The study suggests that the diversity in these clusters is related to speciation and ecological niches, with some species producing higher levels of hydrogen than others.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalCurrent Microbiology·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 2, 2025

Miso made in space tastes nuttier, researchers find

Scientists successfully fermented miso on the International Space Station, discovering differences in bacterial communities and flavor profiles compared to Earth-made miso. The study's findings suggest that food fermentation can thrive in space, opening up new possibilities for astronaut well-being and performance.

SourceCell Press·JournaliScience·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 2, 2025

Tapuy rice wine fermentation yields possible anti-aging superfood

Filipino researchers found a way to enhance tapuy lees for high polyphenol content and antioxidant activity, extending test animal lifespan and health. The study suggests repurposing tapuy lees as a health food to combat aging and oxidative stress-related diseases.

SourceAteneo de Manila University·JournalDiscover Food·DateMar 14, 2025
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.

Researchers see breakthrough with biofuel

Researchers from UC and Oak Ridge National Laboratory have made a breakthrough in understanding how alcohol damages microbes that produce it. The study reveals the primary location of toxicity is in the cell membrane, which can be stabilized to increase efficiency in biofuel production.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalLangmuir·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 4, 2025

Using sugars from peas speeds up sour beer brewing

Researchers have developed a novel ingredient using sugars derived from field peas to accelerate sour beer production. The experimental beers achieved comparable attributes to commercial Belgian-style sours with significantly shorter brewing times.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateFeb 5, 2025

Researchers see potential in cultivation of a special microalga

A new study from DTU National Food Institute finds that temperature and light intensity play a crucial role in the yield of various nutrients produced by the microalga Nannochloropsis oceanica. The research suggests a two-stage cultivation process to optimize nutrient production, paving the way for sustainable food production.

SourceTechnical University of Denmark·JournalMarine Drugs·DateJan 30, 2025
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Gruyère cheese, or a history of the domestication of bacteria

A study published in Nature Communications reveals that bacteria used to produce Gruyère, Emmental, and Sbrinz cheese show signs of ancient domestication. The researchers analyzed genetic and phenotypic characteristics of the bacterial strains over a 50-year period, finding low genetic diversity and high stability of traits specific to...

SourceUniversity of Lausanne·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 17, 2024

New, simple, and natural method for producing vitamin B2

A team of researchers from DTU has successfully produced vitamin B2 using a novel, cost-effective, and climate-friendly method involving food-approved lactic acid bacteria. The production process requires only basic fermentation tools and can be integrated into traditional foods, enhancing public health and reducing environmental impact.

SourceTechnical University of Denmark·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateDec 11, 2024
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Jabuticaba peel improves nutritional characteristics of bread

The addition of jabuticaba peel flour increased the bread's fiber content by over 50% and raised its antioxidant capacity by 1.35-3.53 times, leading to improved blood sugar control and insulin response. The study found that satiety increased after consuming the bread with jabuticaba peel flour, suggesting a lower glycemic index.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalFoods·DateDec 9, 2024

ETSU secures $900k defense grant

The US Department of Defense has awarded East Tennessee State University's Research Corporation over $900,000 to create a biomanufacturing facility that turns waste streams into valuable products. The project aims to bolster domestic bioindustrial manufacturing and advance sustainable manufacturing goals in Northeast Tennessee.

SourceEast Tennessee State University·DateDec 4, 2024

Making scents of aromas that differentiate beer and wine

Researchers identified key compounds that distinguish beer from wine aromas, enabling the creation of more flavorful, non-alcoholic substitutes. Stronger fruity aromas made drinks smell more like wine, while scented compounds played a bigger role in beer versus wine-like aroma perception.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateOct 29, 2024
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.

Finding could help turn trees into affordable, greener industrial chemicals

Researchers at North Carolina State University identify molecular property of lignin that determines ease of using microbial fermentation to turn trees into industrial chemicals. The discovery could lead to more sustainable alternatives to petroleum-based chemicals.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 18, 2024

Fruit juice offers a fresh take on kombucha

Researchers have successfully fermented fruit juices, including apple and passion fruit, using a SCOBY to create kombucha-like beverages with boosted antioxidant levels. The resulting drinks showed promise as an alternative to traditional kombucha, with the apple juice variant ranking high in taste testing.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Agricultural Science & Technology·DateSep 27, 2024

Bronze age lactobacillus genomes clarify kefir history

A recent study reconstructed ancient Lactobacillus genomes from Bronze Age kefir cheese, providing new insights into the evolution of dairy fermentation practices and human-fermentative microbial interactions. The findings suggest that ancient peoples learned kefir production techniques from Eurasian steppe populations.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalCell·DateSep 25, 2024

Greenhouse gas emissions from silage fed to livestock

Researchers estimate that silage from maize, alfalfa, and sorghum crops can produce substantial amounts of nitrous oxide, a potent greenhouse gas. Chlorate addition may significantly lower N2O emissions, primarily due to denitrifying bacteria.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateSep 24, 2024
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Killer yeasts may help remedy a craft beer brewing bother

Researchers found that certain proteins called killer toxins produced by brewer's yeast can suppress diastatic strains and prevent spoilage. Adding these killer yeasts at the point of contamination may be a remediation procedure to curb the issue.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateSep 12, 2024

What’s in the microbiome of the foods we eat?

Researchers have developed a comprehensive database of the 'food microbiome' by sequencing metagenomes from 2,533 foods, identifying 10,899 food-associated microbes. The study shows that these microbes can influence human health and provide insights into how to improve food quality, safety, and authenticity.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 29, 2024

Cheese of the future: Consumers open to animal-free alternatives

A study published in Future Foods found that German consumers are willing to try and buy cheese produced through precision fermentation. Emphasizing high product quality and environmental benefits increases acceptance, while concerns about traditional agriculture reduce willingness to purchase.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalFuture Foods·TypeSurvey·DateAug 1, 2024
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.

New discovery boosts bioethanol production efficiency and profits

Researchers at DTU Biosustain have developed a new technique to monitor contamination in bioethanol production, revealing how strain dynamics impact process performance. The study could lead to significant improvements in efficiency and environmental benefits, with potential applications beyond bioethanol production.

SourceDanmarks Tekniske Universitet The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 8, 2024

iFAB awarded $51 million EDA Tech Hubs grant to propel Central Illinois as a biomanufacturing leader

The Illinois Fermentation and Agriculture Biomanufacturing (iFAB) Tech Hub has been awarded a $51 million EDA grant to position Central Illinois as a global leader in biomanufacturing and precision fermentation. The grant will support the growth of biomanufacturing businesses, creating jobs and driving economic growth.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·DateJul 2, 2024

Fluctuating cellular energy drives microbial bioproduction

A study led by Fuzhong Zhang found that microbes respond differently to various carbon sources, with acetate inducing high ATP levels in E. coli and oleate in Pseudomonas putida. This research provides insights into microbial energy homeostasis and offers a strategy to enhance bioproduction by choosing beneficial feedstocks.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 1, 2024
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.