The competition brings seven teams together to pitch optics and photonics technologies with cash prizes and industry mentorship. Previous winners include Max-IR Labs, Advanced Optronics, and Coalesenz.
SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·DateAug 11, 2026
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%.
SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 4, 2026
Apple iPhone 17 Pro
Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.
A new Perspective in Nature Sustainability proposes industry-specific net-zero blueprints to ensure corporate climate action is grounded in science. The plan aims to provide a common scientific foundation for companies to set targets and track progress, reducing the reliance on carbon credit markets and planetary limits.
SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalNature Sustainability·DateJul 30, 2026
A randomized controlled trial found that medically tailored grocery deliveries improved blood sugar control among adults living with type 2 diabetes who have public health insurance. The study also showed benefits for food-related outcomes, filling an evidence gap in the integration of food-based interventions into routine diabetes care.
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.
SourceTaylor & Francis Group·TypeObservational study·DateJun 24, 2026
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.
The RMIT Food Innovation Hub will bring together food technology and nutrition expertise to address industry challenges and support sustainable innovation. The Hub aims to create knowledge, build future workforce skills, and translate research into practical applications for the Australian food system.
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.
SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalApplied Surface Science Advances·DateJun 22, 2026
The rapid rise of GLP-1 weight-loss drugs in high-income countries could lead to a shift in food purchasing patterns and marketing strategies. This could result in stronger corporate lobbying, more aggressive marketing, and expansion into urban markets in low- and middle-income countries.
SourceThe Alliance of Bioversity International and the International Center for Tropical Agriculture·JournalGlobalization and Health·DateJun 16, 2026
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.
A new Brookings Institution study found that ICE surges have caused significant job losses in cities where enforcement is most active. Between 51,000 and 297,000 American-born workers lost their jobs due to the surges, which also led to widespread disruptions throughout industries such as construction.
A new study found limited evidence that front-of-pack food labels help lower sugar intake among disadvantaged groups. Simplified nutrition labels can influence consumer behavior overall, but their effectiveness for lower-income or disadvantaged populations is unclear.
SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalObesity Reviews·TypeSystematic review·DateMay 28, 2026
A new report from Stockholm Environment Institute challenges the notion that industrial insect farming is a climate solution, citing varying environmental performance depending on production systems and energy use. The sector faces financial headwinds and regulatory barriers limit its potential for low-impact production.
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.
SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalFood Quality and Preference·DateMay 26, 2026
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.
New research reveals that see-through or cut-out product packaging on a shelf increases the psychological desire to own it. Customers rely on various cues when making purchasing decisions, with visibility of a product influencing choices.
SourceCity St George’s, University of London·JournalInternational Journal of Marketing·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 20, 2026
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.
SourceCranfield University·JournalFood Control·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 5, 2026
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.
SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·DateApr 30, 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.
Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed a machine learning model that can predict chick embryo mortality using hyperspectral imagery, reaching accuracy of up to 97%. They also successfully identified male embryos with high accuracy, potentially reducing the culling of male chicks in hatcheries.
SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalBritish Poultry Science·DateApr 28, 2026
A new study found that FDA 'healthy' labels increase consumer selections of healthier snacks and command a price premium. The study, led by researchers at Oregon State University, examined consumer purchasing preferences for snack products with and without healthy labels.
SourceOregon State University·JournalFood Quality and Preference·DateApr 21, 2026
A new study suggests that ultra-sensitive food safety tests may drive food waste and unavailability without significant public health benefits. The researchers propose using more flexible risk-based approaches to align food safety policies with sustainability goals.
A study by Frontiers in Science argues that ultra-sensitive food safety tests may drive food waste and unavailability, but not always translate to health risk. The researchers propose a more balanced approach that considers trade-offs between food safety, sustainability, and nutritional health.
SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Science·TypeLiterature review·DateMar 17, 2026
A recent study in the Journal of Nutrition Education and Behavior highlights the impact of digital transformation on food access, emphasizing opportunities for innovative interventions and policy approaches to promote health equity.
SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Nutrition Education and Behavior·TypeContent analysis·DateMar 5, 2026
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.
Researchers propose a hybrid approach of combining conventional and microwave frying to achieve lower oil content without compromising flavor and texture. The study found that microwave frying resulted in faster moisture loss, shorter cooking time, and lower oil intake, suggesting an economically feasible option for industrial production.
SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalCurrent Research in Food Science·DateMar 4, 2026
A new study from the University of East Anglia found that the human brain continues to respond to tempting food cues even after eating enough. The research used EEG brain scans to monitor volunteers' brain activity as they played a reward-based learning game with food.
SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalAppetite·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 28, 2026
A study found that voice AI ordering encourages customers to choose indulgent food options due to mental fatigue. Adding a friendly avatar to the interface can reduce this effect and lead to more balanced decisions.
SourcePenn State·JournalInternational Journal of Hospitality Management·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 26, 2026
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.
Researchers at the University of Granada found that Nutri-Score labels do not accurately reflect the true nutritional value of soluble cocoa. The study analyzed 54 products from 19 brands and discovered no correlation between Nutri-Score categories and actual nutritional composition, especially regarding bioactive compounds.
SourceUniversity of Granada·Journalnpj Science of Food·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 24, 2026
The Cacao of Excellence programme has announced its 2025 Edition, recognising 50 highest-ranking cacao producers from across four regions. The programme evaluates high-performing cacao through blind technical and sensory assessment, establishing an internationally comparable reference framework for cacao flavour.
SourceThe Alliance of Bioversity International and the International Center for Tropical Agriculture·DateFeb 24, 2026
A new study by Binghamton University School of Management reveals that businesses can improve their performance when they openly discuss and address cybersecurity issues. The research found a positive correlation between cybersecurity readiness and firm performance, suggesting that proactive measures can lead to better outcomes.
SourceBinghamton University·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 12, 2026
A new study suggests that releasing pollack closer to their natural catch depths can significantly improve their chances of survival. The research found that releasing fish at these depths can increase survival rates from 56% to over 80%. This could have a positive impact on the long-term sustainability of recreational pollack fisheries.
SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalFisheries Management and Ecology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 12, 2026
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.
Researchers developed a comprehensive framework for dynamic digital product passports to track lifecycle changes in perishable goods, enabling earlier interventions to prevent spoilage and reduce waste. The technology could support more circular supply chains and improve transparency across food and drink supply chains.
SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalNature Reviews Clean Technology·DateFeb 3, 2026
A recent review of bamboo consumption found promising health benefits, including improved metabolic health, reduced inflammation, and antioxidant activity. However, caution is advised due to potential risks associated with raw or improperly prepared bamboo.
SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalAdvances in Bamboo Science·DateJan 14, 2026
Households taking GLP-1 medications reduce grocery spending by an average of 5.3%, while spending at fast-food restaurants and coffee shops also decrease. Ultra-processed foods see significant declines, whereas yogurt, fresh fruit, and meat snacks experience modest increases.
SourceCornell University·JournalJournal of Marketing Research·TypeSurvey·DateDec 22, 2025
The event brings together industry experts to explore the convergence of agriculture and biotech for resilient food supply, sustainable protein sources, and open-access technology. Tufts University's Center for Cellular Agriculture is positioned at the forefront of food sustainability research and innovation.
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.
A team of researchers has developed a two-in-one nanostructured SERS sensor integrated into a stretchable and antimicrobial wrapper that monitors food directly on the surface and actively preserves it. The proposed technology enables real-time, non-destructive detection of nutritional components and tracks spoilage progression over time.
SourceHanbat National University Industry–University Cooperation Foundation·JournalSmall·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 26, 2025
Researchers from George Washington University and the Meituan Group developed a system to coordinate nighttime transshipment and dynamic pricing, reducing spoilage by 20% and improving profitability. The system transformed perishable inventory from a loss driver to a source of profit and sustainability.
SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·DateNov 12, 2025
Researchers mapped greenhouse gas emissions associated with producing meat for cities across the contiguous US, providing city-specific information to reduce environmental impact. The study found that cutting half of beef consumption can result in similar greenhouse gas savings, and transportation emissions are not a major factor.
SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalNature Climate Change·DateOct 20, 2025
A new smartphone-based AI system accurately predicts avocado firmness and internal quality with high accuracy, enabling consumers to avoid overripe avocados. The technology has the potential to assess the ripeness and quality of other foods, reducing global food waste by 50% by 2030.
SourceOregon State University·JournalCurrent Research in Food Science·DateOct 13, 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.
Researchers at the University of Missouri found that using blockchain to track ingredients through the supply chain reduces consumer uncertainty about food safety and increases willingness to pay premium prices. The technology also provides clear information about the source of ingredients, boosting trust in sustainable foods.
SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalBritish Food Journal·DateSep 26, 2025
Vietnam's food environments are transforming, with modern retail and processed foods becoming increasingly prevalent. The country's policy response has not kept pace with these changes, leading to rising rates of childhood overweightedness and obesity. Experts recommend aligning incentives and capacity to make healthy diets the easier ...
SourceThe Alliance of Bioversity International and the International Center for Tropical Agriculture·TypeSystematic review·DateSep 26, 2025
Research highlights that wealthy countries waste more food, but urbanization is narrowing this gap. Global food waste has increased by 24% since 2004, with rising waste in middle-income countries driven by economic growth and urbanization.
SourceCell Press·JournalCell Reports Sustainability·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateSep 26, 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 Cacao of Excellence Programme has selected the 2025 Best 50 cacaos and their producers from 191 samples representing 45 origins. This recognition puts smallholder farmers on the global stage, providing international visibility and opportunities for quality recognition and market access.
SourceThe Alliance of Bioversity International and the International Center for Tropical Agriculture·DateSep 23, 2025
New research from Uppsala University reveals how plant-based meat alternatives became popular in Sweden through a combination of business, consumer and societal factors. Key findings include the role of documentaries like An Inconvenient Truth and the Swedish National Food Agency's sustainability recommendations.
SourceUppsala University·JournalTechnological Forecasting and Social Change·DateSep 17, 2025
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
The Leopoldina webinar discusses the conditions and practical recommendations for sustainable freshwater aquaculture in Germany and Brazil. The report highlights the potential of this method to contribute significantly to global food security, reduce water and land consumption, and promote a circular economy.
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.
A Spanish study quantifies the health damage caused by the environmental impacts of food demand, revealing that meat, fish, and seafood consumption accounts for 55% of harm. Replacing these with plant-based options could prevent up to 35% of the impact, equivalent to over 400,000 years of healthy life lost.
SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalEnvironmental Research·TypeMeta-analysis·DateAug 11, 2025
A new metaphor, inspired by the mangrove plant, offers a more resilient and diverse approach to sustainable food systems. The model depicts food systems as interconnected root systems that nourish outcomes such as nutrition, health, and well-being.
SourceUniversity of Rhode Island·JournalNature Food·TypeNews article·DateJul 14, 2025
Researchers have developed a novel 3D printable gel using sorghum protein, which can encapsulate medicine or carry hydrophobic compounds and nutrients. The protein's unique structure enables stable 3D printing results with optimal formulation and parameters.
SourceUniversity of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture·JournalInternational Journal of Biological Macromolecules·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 2, 2025
A new study developed a powerful method for detecting simultaneous nitrogen and water deficiencies in field-grown sesame using deep learning and multiple data sources. The integration of hyperspectral, thermal, and RGB imaging enabled identification of combined nutrient and water-related deficiencies.
SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalISPRS Journal of Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 29, 2025
A recent study evaluated the content of 39,763 US grocery store products and found that 19% contain synthetic food dyes. Products marketed to children were more likely to have these dyes, which are linked to behavioral problems and poor health outcomes.
SourceGeorge Institute for Global Health·JournalJournal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 25, 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.
A study published in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics found that 19% of packaged foods and beverages sold in the US contain synthetic food dyes. Synthetic dyes are particularly prevalent in products marketed to children, with confectionery and sugar-sweetened beverages being the top categories.
SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 25, 2025
Australians waste 7.6 million tonnes of food annually, with poor label design and inconsistent packaging being key reasons for this problem. Clearer date labels and storage advice could drastically reduce edible food waste.
A recent study by the Leibniz Institute for Food Systems Biology at the Technical University of Munich shows that less bitter-tasting pea protein hydrolysates can form bioactive peptides during digestion, which induce satiety signals via bitter taste receptors. The study reveals molecular mechanisms that can be used to optimize the tas...
SourceLeibniz-Institut für Lebensmittel-Systembiologie an der TU München·JournalFood Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 27, 2025
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.
A new study highlights the presence of synthetic chemicals in food packaging and processing, increasing health risks from ultra-processed foods. The research emphasizes the need for safer food systems, better testing methods, and policy reforms to address this growing public health issue.
SourceFood Packaging Forum Foundation·JournalNature Medicine·TypeLiterature review·DateMay 16, 2025
Researchers found that service robots with male characteristics can be more persuasive when interacting with women who have a low sense of power. Conversely, cute features in robot design can reduce the effect of portrayed gender on persuasiveness, making them effective for both male and female customers.
SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Hospitality and Tourism Management·TypeSurvey·DateMay 6, 2025
Imperial scientists launched a miniature laboratory into Earth orbit to engineer microbes that can produce food, pharmaceuticals, fuel, and bioplastics in microgravity. This partnership aims to create environmentally friendly and affordable non-animal foods, reducing the cost of space travel.
A new study from the University of Illinois examines how food manufacturers navigate different state regulations, revealing four response options: updating products, maintaining separate versions, removing from stricter markets, or ignoring regulations. The researchers found that firms choose their responses based on factors like cost ...
SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·TypeCase study·DateApr 14, 2025
New research found pet dogs disturb and directly harm wildlife, even when leashed, leading to reduced animal activity and avoided areas. Dog waste contributes to water pollution and inhibits plant growth.
SourceCurtin University·TypeLiterature review·DateApr 9, 2025
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.
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
A recent investigation reveals how the advertising industry is targeting councils with warnings of financial losses if they restrict junk food ads, leading to some councils shelving their plans. Experts are urging a national ban on out-of-home HFSS advertising to combat childhood obesity rates projected to increase by 50% by 2050.
SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·TypeNews article·DateApr 8, 2025
A recent study from the University of Vaasa found that SMEs' ability to innovate is strongly tied to the learning and decision-making skills of their CEOs. The research identified three key managerial mechanisms: learning, reflection, and alignment, which play a significant role in driving innovation.
A University of Illinois study utilizes ChatGPT for sensory evaluation of brownies, revealing a positive bias in the AI's responses. The research highlights potential benefits of leveraging AI in food development, including saving time and money by narrowing down recipe options before human testing.
SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalFoods·DateMar 28, 2025
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.
A new study found that high sodium intake is linked to a higher risk of both general and abdominal obesity in Finnish adults. The study showed that participants with high dietary sodium intake or high urine sodium concentration were more likely to have general or abdominal obesity.
SourceEuropean Association for the Study of Obesity·DateMar 26, 2025