Food Safety

Background: Food safety has been recognized as a matter of importance to the airlines industry and airports must have the capacity to ensure a safe environment for passengers using point of entry facilities, including flight catering and other potential risks. The risk of food getting contaminated depends largely on the knowledge and practice of proper food hygiene measures among food handlers. The study aimed to assess the hygiene conditions in airlines catering services units at Khartoum Airport; to evaluate the level of knowledge and practice of food handlers towards food hygiene in addition to identify the microbial load on food handler’s hands.Methodology: Four airlines catering services units at Khartoum International Airport were studied. The data were collected by using structured questionnaire to assess food handler's knowledge onfood hygiene and their practices including 100 samples (56 samples from catering 1, 22 catering 2, 12 catering 3 and 10 samples from catering ...

The COVID-19 pandemic has spread rapidly around the world since late 2019. Measures taken to curb infection ratescurfews, border closures, closure of markets, and movement restrictions-have disrupted food systems and affected food environments. There is limited evidence of the effects of the pandemic on food environments, especially in the informal neighborhoods/slums of urban towns or cities. This study characterizes the food environment (formal and informal outlets) in low-and middle-income urban neighborhoods of Nairobi, Kenya during the current COVID-19 pandemic. It also analyses the social economic effects of government measures, taken to curb the pandemic, on different types of food outlets in these communities. The study uses primary data collected in December 2020 from 1,005 food vendors (543 located in slums and 462 in non-slum areas). Survey questions focused on business characteristics and the food commodities traded, food safety, COVID-19 awareness, and the effects of the pandemic on their businesses. Data on price trends before COVID-19, during lockdown, and post-lock down were collected using recall and analyzed using descriptive analyzes. About 90% of traders in both slum/non-slum locations are informal vendors. Fresh vegetables are the most traded food commodities with significantly higher numbers of fresh vegetable vendors in slum than non-slum areas. More non-slum vendors are sensitive to food safety concerns than slum vendors. Government measures to reduce the spread of COVID-19, such as curfews and lockdowns, have negatively affected businesses in both slum and non-slum locations. More slum businesses were significantly affected by curfews compared to non-slum ones. Prices for almost all food commodities increased between the period before COVID-19 (December 2019) and first lockdown period (April-August, 2020) and then decreased again post lockdown (August-December, 2020). Price increments are observed during lockdowns for most commodities with greater increases seen for the vendors in the slums compared to those in non-slum locations.

The emergence of a ‘new normal’ life caused by pandemic Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) leads to consumer perception and business practices changes. However, there is limited data on the current market demand and condition on consumer purchase intention of organic food associated with food safety knowledge. Thus, this study aimed to examine consumer perception toward organic food in a new normal life. A total of 330 valid responses were received for analysis using Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) and PROCESS. The data were collected in Malaysia using an online questionnaire mainly because of physical distances and Movement Control Order (MCO). The finding revealed that personal attitude, perceived social pressure, and perceived autonomy influence organic food purchase intention in a new normal life. However, it is not perceived as green trust. Besides, food safety knowledge significantly moderates the relationship between personal attitudes toward organic food purchase intention. ...

Amidst most indigenous groups in Mexico, traditional knowledge still prevails which constitutes local strategies that address the issue of food insecurity. This study aims to analyze the body of Traditional Agroecological Knowledge (TAK) of Nahuatl indigenous community of Ocotal Texizapan, Tatahuicapan, Veracruz, to understand the strategies practiced to achieve food security. Participatory observation and semi-structured and in-depth interviews at the household level (n = 20 families) revealed that Traditional Agroecological Knowledge and local life strategies are linked to the "milpa" (traditional agroecosystem), home gardening, gathering, hunting and fishing activities which are key components to achieve food security at the family level. Rain-fed and "tapachole" (residual humidity) milpa, based on sowing maize intercropped with several crops, are closely-related to direct empirical knowledge, the rational use of available natural resources, family labour, and local knowledge. Currently, changes in land use and the use of agrochemicals are increasing in the study community and depleting biodiversity affecting food security at the family level: a situation that endorses the importance of traditional agriculture (milpa), backyard livestock (hens, ducks, pigs) together with gathering, hunting and fishing among the Nahuatl families.

Son yıllarda çarpıcı bir şekilde gelişen ve "bacasız sanayi" olarak tanımlanan turizm, dünyada ve ülkemizde bir çok yörenin İktisadî kalkınmasında lokomotif görevi yapmaktadır. Bilindiği üzere, bir bölgede turizmin gelişmesinde doğal ve/veya kültürel çekicilikler doğrudan etki etmektedir. Bu bağlamda, temiz, ılıman ve güneşli bir hava, kumsallar, denizler, göller, akarsular, çağlayanlar; ormanlar, mağaralar ve dağlar gibi doğal çekiciliklerden birine veya bir kaçma birden sahip olan yöreler, güvenli kısa ve kolay bir ulaşıma sahip İseler, yeterli bîr tanıtım ile turist çekim merkezleri olabilmektedirler. Bu bakışla İncelendiğinde Sinop, Gelincikbumu çevresindeki (Ayancık) topoğrafîk şekiller; Akliman'daki biyojenetik şekiller; Hamsilos limanı; Sarı kum ve Karakum plajları; İnaltı (Ayancık) ve Buzluk (Durağan) mağaraları; Akgöl ve Sarıkum gölü gibi mesire yerleri İle gerçekten önemli doğal turistik çekiciliklere sahip bulunmaktadır.

The European Union has adopted a comprehensive strategy to prevent and fight agro-food frauds (AFFs).This strategy is based on many Regulations focusing in several aspects of AFFs. The most important are:Regulation (EC) n.178/2002, setting up the general principles and requirements of a food law, establishing the European Food Authority (EFSA) and laying down procedures regarding matters of food safety. In addition, it has set up a regulatory system according to the principles of subsidiary principle and risk analysis. From this regulation, a set of EU regulations has emerged under the so-called the “hygiene package”; Regulation (EU) No. 1169/2011, setting the rules for the provision of food information to consumers, harmonizing the various national laws and overcoming the requirements of the previous Directive 2000/13/EC; Regulation (EU) no. 1151/2012 on quality schemes for agricultural products and foodstuffs produced with designation of origin, geographical indication or traditio...

Food safety is an important public health issue and governments across the world are intensifying their efforts to improve the quantity, quality and the safety of national food supplies. Bacteria, especially Salmonella species, present in or on chicken meat and hens' eggs in particular are the most common causes of food poisoning and the major sources of human salmonellosis. Literature reveals little information on the risk factors for salmonellae infection in Africa. The aim of this study was to determine which, if any, bacteria, especially Salmonella species, are present in and on hens' eggs. Representative bacterial colonies were confirmed with Gram staining and then identified using the MALDI-TOF Biotyper assay. The genera identified were Escherichia coli (34%), Enterococcus faecalis (14%), Proteus mirabilis (9%), Klebshiella pneumoniae (7%), Salmonella Typhimurium (6%), Enterobacter cloacae (1%), Stenotrophomonas maltophilia (0.6%), Salmonella Dublin (0.6%) and Salmonella Braenderup (0.2%). Raw hens' eggs and products containing raw hens' eggs may contain pathogenic bacteria, thereby exposing a large number of consumers to the risk of contracting food poisoning when undercooked or uncooked hens' eggs are consumed. • Enterobacteriaceae counts are used as an indicator to evaluate the hygienic quality of food. The presence of Salmonella species and other Enterobacteriaceae in raw hens' eggs poses a health risk to consumers. • Any product in which raw eggs are used must be provided with a conspicuous label stating that it may contain pathogenic bacteria.

Purpose The purpose of this study was to explore school nutrition employees’ perceptions of FTS activities and whether the numbers of activities differ based on management type of school foodservice operation and length of FTS participation. Methods The state with the most FTS programs from each of the eight national FTS regions was selected. A total of 369 questionnaires were distributed to school nutrition employees through school nutrition directors at 12 individual schools in each of the eight states (96 schools total). Employees self-reported FTS activities by selecting from a list of 13 FTS activities provided. Length of participation (three years or less, more than three years) and management type were also self-reported by employees. Paired sample t-tests were used to analyze differences between management type and number of FTS activities, as well as between different lengths of FTS participation and number of FTS activities. Results A total of 239 questionnaires were retur...

Background Foodborne diseases are among the most serious public health problems and young adults are an important target group as they often engage in risky food handling practices. The purpose of this study was to assess the level of food safety knowledge and its determinants among Pakistani university students. Method A cross-sectional study was conducted among university students during the academic year 2018-2019. A convenient sample of 1417 students completed a structured questionnaire containing forty-four questions on food safety and hygiene. Results Overall, participants showed a moderate level of food safety knowledge with a mean percentage score of 62.5±8.4. Students had a good level of knowledge about causes of foodborne diseases (66.3±16.9). However, the lowest level of knowledge was identified in foodborne diseases' symptoms (55.2±14.3). In general, females and participants from health-related degree program scored significantly higher (p<0.01) in all knowledge s...

Background Foodborne diseases are among the most serious public health problems and young adults are an important target group as they often engage in risky food handling practices. The purpose of this study was to assess the level of food safety knowledge and its determinants among Pakistani university students. Method A cross-sectional study was conducted among university students during the academic year 2018-2019. A convenient sample of 1417 students completed a structured questionnaire containing forty-four questions on food safety and hygiene. Results Overall, participants showed a moderate level of food safety knowledge with a mean percentage score of 62.5±8.4. Students had a good level of knowledge about causes of foodborne diseases (66.3±16.9). However, the lowest level of knowledge was identified in foodborne diseases' symptoms (55.2±14.3). In general, females and participants from health-related degree program scored significantly higher (p<0.01) in all knowledge s...

Purpose -The authors aimed to identify the opinions of young adult consumers regarding food processing companies' (FPCs) credibility in terms of food safety (FS). Design/methodology/approach -The authors surveyed Generation Z (GenZ) consumers. The authors assessed the reliability of the research questionnaire using Cronbach's alpha statistics. The authors used descriptive statistics and one-way ANOVA analysis of variance in the data analysis to determine intergroup variability. The authors performed statistical analyses using IBM SPSS Statistics. 27. Findings -The most valued determinants for consumers were competence and skills, and the most valued family members' opinions on FS, followed by experts' opinions. FS concerns are more associated with FPCs than with farmers. The ethics of conduct and moral responsibility play an important role in assessing the FPCs' credibility. Research limitations/implications -The questionnaire did not focus on specific food industries, such as fruit and vegetables, fish, meat, dairy, etc. In the future, a similar survey on producers' credibility should consider the issue of FS risks associated with the specifics of a particular industry. Originality/value -The authors proposed a set of factors that may determine young adult consumers' perception of the FPCs' credibility, which they may use for research within other consumer groups.

Theoretical background: Ensuring food safety requires the development of an appropriate food safety culture, including its important subculture -just culture (JC). JC is a fair, proportional, and transparent way in which individuals are held accountable for errors. JC in the food sector is an element of food safe-

Purpose: The aim of the article is to present a proposal for a just culture (JC) assessment tool and the results of its verification. Methods: In the research process the case study method, supported by analysis of the company's documentation, unstructured interview, statistical analysis, and the method of synthesis and logical reasoning were used. Results: It was confirmed that the JC assessment tool used by the studied organization is reliable. The study succeeded in establishing both the overall and partial levels of JC. Although the level of JC can be considered satisfactory, there are important management aspects that need more care than before. Areas for improvement were proposed. Conclusions: Employees' opinions are not statistically different from each other. Employees equally perceive the need for necessary training, safety as a priority at work, the convenience of reporting errors, and the need to respond to problems. Opinions on JC are not dependent on employee work experience.

The extensive use of chemical pesticides poses risks to the environment and human health due to the toxicity and poor biodegradability. Alternative natural practices, including the use of natural molecules, are needed to achieve more sustainable production methods to meet consumer and societal expectations. Plants contain a wide range of potential phytochemicals that target a specific target, are rapidly biodegradable, are environmentally friendly, and have a variety of therapeutic effects, making them a treasure trove of biological materials. Methods Toxicity of hot Capsicum annuum extracts was tested against 3 rd instar larvae of Culex pipiens and Musca domestica. LC₅₀ values were determined using serial concentrations, and phytochemical profiling was performed to identify active compounds with molecular docking studies. Results In this study, different exposure periods of various Capsicum annuum extracts showed high insecticidal activity against mosquito and housefly larvae. The petroleum ether (CAPe) extract from C. annuum was the most effective (100 MO%) against Culex pipiens (LC 50 = 150.46 ppm) and Musca domestica larvae (LC 50 = 0.18 mg/ml) 24 h after treatment. The LC 50 dose of the CAPe extract led to a negative effect on the insect metabolism process represented by a significant decrease in the activity level of protease, lipase, α-amylase, and invertase enzymes in both mosquito and fly larvae. Antimicrobial activity tests showed that the CAPe extract killed all of the microbes that were tested, except for Penicillium glabrum. The UPLC/MS comparison of the four Capsicum extracts led to the possible identification of eighty metabolites. The large amounts of flavonoids, phenolic acids, and capsaicinoids were in line with what has been written about the genus Capsicum. Moreover, the multivariate data analysis showed that capsaicinoids, sophorolipids, triterpenoids, and phenolic acids were abundant in the methanol extract compared to flavonoids, triterpenoids, and fatty acids for the petroleum ether extract. Simultaneously, the docking results showed that all of the docked compounds could fit into the digestive lysosome active site of M. domestica (2H5Z). Conclusions The major compounds in petroleum ether extract were able to interact with essential amino acids at the target sites of both Cx. pipiens and M. domestica, and therefore the insects' life-supporting functions were negatively affected. Overall, CAPe extract from Capsicum annuum could be a promising ecofriendly bioinsecticide.

The camel milk trade in Kenya has evolved significantly from a small-scale business undertaken in local villages to its current status involving a large number of different stakeholders supplying urban towns, particularly Nairobi City. Despite the evident growth pattern, the supply of camel milk to Nairobi has largely remained informal, with minimal enforcement of regulations. The aim of this study was to characterise the camel milk system supplying Nairobi and assess its governance, main challenges and the potential food safety risk practices. A value chain analysis framework was used to carry out data collection between August 2014 and July 2015. Qualitative and quantitative data were collected through focus group discussions and key informant interviews with stakeholders operating in different nodes of the value chains. Three milk value chains supplying Nairobi were identified and mapped: the Isiolo chain, the Kajiado chain and the camel milk processing company chain. Overall, th...

to data collection, analysis and reporting in gratefully acknowledged. At ILRI-Nairobi, Emily Ouma, Isabelle Baltenweck, Francis Wanyoike, and Robert Ouma all contributed significantly to data analysis and reporting. In both Ghana and Tanzania, a large number of other partners contributed their time and support to the research through assisting stakeholder consultation and data collection. We are also grateful to the many small farmers and traders who took valuable time from their daily routines to provide us with information about their enterprises.

This dissertation consists of two complementary essays that investigate current product recall strategies in the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulated food sector. These studies address operations and supply chain factors that influence recall effectiveness with two theoretically-based, empirical approaches. The first essay examines recall effectiveness as measured by time to recall, a proxy for potential consumer exposure to hazardous products (Hora, Bapuji & Roth, 2011) using duration analysis techniques. The unit of analysis is a recall event as documented by the product recall press release. Essay 1 addresses the following question: how do supply chain competencies related to integration and monitoring systems between supply chain partners, in addition to supply chain complexity factors, relate to time to recall? The second essay investigates individual consumer perceptions of operational and supply chain information in the context of a product recall announcement. Consumer perceptions of product recalls are important indicators of recall effectiveness since they are linked, theoretically and empirically, with future consumer behavior; and therefore can affect future market share . The unit of analysis is the consumer and a behavioral experiment is implemented to capture the effects of salient factors on consumer perceptions. Essay 2 examines the following question: how does information provided regarding operational and supply chain management aspects of product failure affect consumer perceptions and repurchase intent when a product is recalled? iii The first essay, "An Econometric Analysis of Product Recall Strategies and Time to Recall in the Food Industry," subjects firms' proactive versus reactive product recall strategies to rigorous empirical scrutiny. In addition, we operationalize supply chain recall detection competence (SCRDC), which reflects the combined operational monitoring, integration and coordination systems across supply chain business partners. We use detection entity as a proxy for SCRDC, with the notion that superior SCRDC will be reflected, in part, by recall defects that are detected internally (i.e., by a supplier or the firm conducting the recall) rather than externally (i.e., by a consumer or a regulatory agency). We integrate multiple secondary data sources and apply duration analysis methods to test our model. Time to recall is an important aspect of recall effectiveness, since perishable products have a finite shelf life; consequently, there is a small window of opportunity in which a recall can be conducted in a way that actually reduces consumer exposure. We find that internal detections (i.e., defects detected by a supplier, or the recalling firm, rather than a consumer or a regulatory agency) have a shorter time to recall than external detections. In addition, our proxy for a firm's quality process maturity (i.e., the number of days of production affected by a particular defect) has a direct effect on time to recall (i.e., longer affected production periods are related to a longer time to recall). These findings have significant implications for future research, practice and policy, in part, because they suggest what types of supply chain strategies and governmental regulations might be implemented to reduce time to recall. Essay 1 contributes to operations and supply chain management theory and product recall research by extending quality management theory Roth,

The provision of safe food which protects customers' integrity and provides consumers with the desired taste is expected to remain the major priority in world food markets in the foreseeable future. While reducing microbial contamination, chemical contaminants and pesticide residues will gain in importance, ethical products and functional foods are the emerging priorities. Food businesses will need to give much greater attention towards minimising water use and pollution, more sustainable production systems, worker welfare and waste management. Recyclable packaging, conservation and biodiversity, food miles and reducing salinity and land degradation are the emerging environmental issues. Country-of-origin is perceived to be the most important indicator of food quality both now and in the foreseeable future. Identifying which food preservatives, food colourings and flavour enhancing compounds have been used in the food will continue to grow in importance as consumers move towards more natural, unadulterated food products. Identifying the presence of potential allergens is critically important for the growing number of susceptible consumers. The food energy content and the use of sugar and artificial sweeteners are the emerging issues, with the presence of genetically modified organisms and eco-labelling poised to become more prominent in the long-term.

Iceberg lettuce, and enhanced nutritional values during storage in sliced carrots better than chlorine. Colour and texture objective measurements did not show differences between treatments for Iceberg lettuce; however there were differences in colour in sliced carrots, showing greater change in colour values in samples treated with chlorine. Calcium lactate washing treatments prevented the bleaching effect on saladcut lettuce and sliced carrots and also diminished the appearance of white surfaces over storage. The ascorbic acid decreased during storage independently of the type of treatment used for both vegetables, however the carotenoid content showed higher values in sliced carrots treated with calcium lactate than treated with chlorine at the end of the storage. A sensory panel could not find significant acceptability differences between treatments at the end of storage for either vegetable. Mesophiles, psycrophiles and lactic acid bacteria counts were not significantly different between both treatments. The calcium lactate (3 %) maintained quality of the vegetables as good as 120 ppm of chlorine, thus it can be considered as a good alternative washing treatment from a quality point of view.

The study examined consumers' perceptions of the food safety practices of motorcycle-based food delivery services. The objectives were to assess the consumer perception of safety on motorcycle-based food delivery services and measures implemented in handling, transporting, and delivering food to consumers in Takoradi. The study employed a quantitative research approach. The study targeted three sets of respondents: food sellers, delivery riders, and consumers. The sample size for the study was 200 individuals, consisting of 15 sellers, 25 delivery riders, and 160 consumers. Questionnaires were used to gather the primary data. The research findings indicate consumers exhibit a moderate level of trust in motorcycle-based food delivery services, particularly concerning food safety over delivery speed. The study recommended that health departments, educational institutions, and food safety organisations should develop and implement targeted programs to enhance consumer, seller and food delivery personnel's knowledge of food safety principles.

Over half of all infant formula sold in the United States is purchased through the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC). Typically, WIC State agencies obtain substantial discounts in the form of rebates from infant formula manufacturers for each can of formula purchased through the program. The cost to WIC for each can of formula provided through the program has two components: (1) net wholesale price, which is equal to the wholesale price of formula minus the amount of the rebate; and (2) retail markup, which is equal to the retail price minus the wholesale price. This analysis suggests that retail markup accounts for most of the cost to WIC of infant formula in most States. However, both cost components have increased over time. The recent increase in both net wholesale price and retail markup coincides with the introduction of higher priced supplemented infant formulas. Conditions may change after the market adjusts to these new formulas.

Concerns have been raised over microbial contamination in frozen fish, particularly from bacteria such as Salmonella sp., Vibrio spp., Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Escherichia coli. This study assessed the impact of transportation on the chemical composition and microbial quality of frozen imported Sardinella spp. sold in markets within Wukari, Taraba State. Proximate composition and microbial analyses were conducted. Results showed that fish from Marmara market had the highest protein level (72.50±5.20), followed by samples from New market (68.22±2.11) and Old market (65.46±4.76). Bacterial counts were highest in New market (1.94 × 10⁴), while Old market and Marmara market had 0.97 × 10³ and 1.1 × 10³ respectively. Fungal load was 5.0 × 10³ in New market, 4.0 × 10³ in Old market, and 4.1 × 10³ in Marmara. Pathogens including S. aureus, P. aeruginosa, and E. coli were isolated in both Old and New markets (37.5% occurrence each), whereas Marmara market samples contained E. coli and S. aureus (25%). Overall, the values obtained fell within safe consumption limits.

Resumen: Cronobacter sakazakii (C. sakazakii) es un microorganismo perteneciente a la familia Enterobacteriaceae asociado con patologías como meningitis y septicemia en recién nacidos. Las fórmulas lácteas infantiles (FLI) han sido reconocidas como el vehículo más importante de transmisión de C. sakazakii, por condiciones inadecuadas durante su producción o preparación. El objetivo de la presente investigación fue evaluar el efecto de la temperatura de refrigeración y el calentamiento de las FLI en el crecimiento de C. sakazakii. Las muestras de FLI reconstituidas se contaminaron con 102, 104 y 106 UFC/mL de C. sakazakii y se refrigeraron durante cuatro horas a 4°C, 6°C y 10°C, posterioriormente, se calentaron en baño hidrotérmico hasta 37°C. Las muestras fueron sembradas al tiempo "0" (postrefrigeración) y luego del calentamiento hasta 37°C en placas con agar cromogénico y se incubaron a 35°C por 24h. Para el análisis de los datos se utilizó la prueba de Wilcoxon. Según los datos obtenidos no hubo variación significativa en la población de C. sakazakii en las FLI luego de 4 horas en refrigeración a 4°C, 6°C y 10°C; sin embargo, al calentar las fórmulas hasta 37°C, hubo en todos los casos una reducción de un ciclo logarítmico en la población de C. sakazakii con un valor de p = 0.0056 y Z= 2.752. Se concluye que el calentamiento a 37°C post-refrigeracion de las muestras, disminuye la población de C. sakazakii en FLI (p<0,05).

Microbial activity is considered as an important cause for the manifestation of food spoilage. The detection of chemical signals sharing information between food spoilage bacteria present in food products has initiated a new dimension to formulate an alternate preventive strategy against these spoilage bacteria. Quorum sensing or cell-to-cell communication is employed by a diverse group of bacteria talking to each other through the signaling autoinducer molecules. Based on potential of these molecules, Quorum-Sensing Inhibitors (QSI) or Quorum Quenching (QQ) compounds can be used as novel biopreservatives which abrupt the virulence of food spoilage microbes to uphold the nutritional quality of packaged and Ready To Eat (RTE) food and food by products. Through the pharmaceutical interventions and molecular mechanisms of intracellular, intercellular and interspecies communication via signaling molecules, preventive strategies can be formulated for production of pathogen free food products. Though identification of species specific signaling pathways is a challenging task for the food microbiologists and pharamacists but proper implementation of QSI molecules would be helpful for the food manufacturers in food processing plants through critical follow ups of Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) to maintain the food quality and sound public health. This review draws the attention of researchers involved in dairy microbiology, meat and fish processing industries, packaging channels and neutraceuticals and pharmaceutical industries to explore the library of QS and QSI molecules to put forward and apply them as bio-preservatives for production of safe food products to meet the global food demands of growing world population.

The trade of fishery products is increasing, raising the concerns regarding their sanitary and environmental conditions. In fact, recent foodborne incidences involving fishery products induced importers&#39; countries to adopt stringent border inspections and risk analysis. Using Mozambican exports to its main destinations as a case study, this study test whether the sanitary and environmental indicators are determinant for the demand of shrimps and prawns exported, based on the export demand model. The regression indicates that sanitary and environmental issues (represented by the cases detected at the importer&#39;s borders) are significantly and negatively correlated with the demand of shrimps and prawns.

The mycotoxin PAT (4-hydroxy-4H-furo[3,2c]pyran-2[6H]-one) is a secondary metabolic product of molds such as Penicillium, Aspergillus, and Byssochlamys species. PAT is a common contaminant of fruit and vegetable based products, most notably apples. Despite PAT&#39;s original discovery as an antibiotic, it has come under heavy scrutiny for its potential to impart negative health effects. Studies investigating these health effects have proved its toxic potential. PAT occurrence in the food commodities poses a serious threat and necessitates novel and cost-effective mitigation methods to remove it from food products. It also creates a demand to improve handling and food processing techniques. With this being the case, several studies have been devoted to understanding the key biological and chemical attributes of PAT. While past research has elucidated a great deal, PAT contamination continues to be a challenge for the food industry. Here, we review its influence within the mammalian s...

The food industry is becoming more customer-oriented and needs faster response times to deal with food scandals and incidents. Good traceability systems help to minimize the production and distribution of unsafe or poor quality products, thereby minimizing the potential for bad publicity, liability, and recalls. The current food labelling systems cannot guarantee that the food is authentic, good quality and safe. Therefore, traceability is applied as a tool to assist in the assurance of food safety and quality as well as to achieve consumer confidence. This paper presents comprehensive information about traceability systems and the evolution concerning the actors involved and the information about safety and quality in the food supply chain administrated within the systems. Some inventive factors, which influence the traceability systems adoption, are underlined.

The food industry is becoming more customer-oriented and needs faster response times to deal with food scandals and incidents. Good traceability systems help to minimize the production and distribution of unsafe or poor quality products, thereby minimizing the potential for bad publicity, liability, and recalls. The current food labelling systems cannot guarantee that the food is authentic, good quality and safe. Therefore, traceability is applied as a tool to assist in the assurance of food safety and quality as well as to achieve consumer confidence. This paper presents comprehensive information about traceability systems and the evolution concerning the actors involved and the information about safety and quality in the food supply chain administrated within the systems. Some inventive factors, which influence the traceability systems adoption, are underlined.

Integration in European Union assumes obtaining certain benefits. Fisheries and aquaculture can provide a key contribution to food security and poverty alleviation. Employment in the sector has grown faster than the world’s population, providing jobs and supports the livelihoods of hundreds of millions.  Fish continues to be one of the most-traded food commodities worldwide being very important for developing countries. However, productivity gains in fisheries do not always imply long-term increases in supply. Developing countries are continuing their efforts to clarify the linkage between development activities and sustainable resource use. Both population and economic growth are putting enormous additional pressures on inland and marine fisheries resources as contributors to food security and providers of a social safety net. At the same time, the use of domestic fisheries to generate foreign exchange is exacerbating allocation issues between artisan and industrial fleets. The act...

The traceability of quality and safety of products is under of the attention of governments, food enterprises management and consumers. Food safety remains is a critical issue with outbreaks of foodborne illness resulting in substantial costs to individuals, the food industry and the economy. Therefore, the paper investigates and discusses the difficulties, incentives and performance of traceability system adoption in fishery process enterprises based on the review of previous researches, reports and case studies.

This paper presents the structure design of a traceability system in fishery supply chain based on artificial intelligence and information technology for data acquisition and processing. The design activity takes into consideration the need of the Romanian fisheries to get an effective and practical quality safety monitoring tool for fish and fishery products. The traceability system development is based on the European and national legal framework, which was reviewed and on the all stakeholder’s informational needs, which were identified by interviews with the stakeholders within the fish and fish products supply chain.

The paper aims to provide information about the framework of the traceability of fish and fish products and the implementation of the traceability systems in the Romanian fish industry. The research is based on the results of the empirical studies conducted in Romania regarding the barriers and incentive factors that that influences Romanian fish industry to adopt the traceability system and the Romanian consumers to be aware about its importance.

The aim of this article is to analyze the changes in the structure of growth of animals for slaughter production in the Polish regions in the years 2004-2014, according to the sector of animals for slaughter using the classical shift share method. The study evaluates the rate of growth of volumes of animals for slaughter production. Furthermore, it identifies and estimates the share of structural and regional changes in the size of the effect of the global (total animals for slaughter production in Poland) in the regional breakdown.

The study was to find out the extent at which tertiary students in Ghana use Smartphone, and to examine the level of awareness regarding security risks that accompany the use of smartphones among tertiary students. A cross-sectional survey design was employed to collect data in four tertiary institutions. Data was collected from 150 tertiary students. These tertiary students were randomly sampled during visits to the various institutions. Data was gathered through questionnaire for all participants. The data was analysed using frequency counts and percentages to answer research questions. The results indicated that, generally, most tertiary students in Ghana use android operating system smartphones. Besides, some of the tertiary students are not aware of the security threat and vulnerability that affect their smartphones. Furthermore, majority of the tertiary students in Ghana do not do enough to protect their smartphone from being attacked. Finally, the study suggests a training pr...

Olive oil has proven nutritional value and can command a high market price for farmers and processors. It promises significant income generating potential as well as social empowerment. To meet consumers' expectations for quality, safety and authenticity‚ olive oil products should be grown, harvested and processed according to internationally recognized food safety management standards. Instead of retrospectively inspecting and testing the end-product‚ a preventative approach that anticipates potential biological, chemical and physical hazards at all stages of the value chain should be incorporated to preserve the quality and ensure the safety of olive oil and olive fruits. In this research paper‚ we overlay a HACCP food safety management system on the olive oil value chain in Tunisia. Given the importance of Tunisia in the international market of olive oil‚ we discuss HACCP in context of the country specificities and we analyze the possibilities and challenges of implementing HACCP in the Tunisian olive oil industry. HACCP promises several advantages including the preservation of product quality and safety for human consumption. Moreover, HACCP can aid Tunisian export sales‚ improve customers satisfaction and enhance Tunisian branding and marketing. However‚ this food safety management system requires the commitment of significant resources and the engagement of all stakeholders in the plan.

Background and Aim: The widespread use of antibiotics in livestock production enhances growth and prevents disease but contributes to antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and food contamination through residual accumulation in animal-derived products. Limited national-level data exist for Kazakhstan, where livestock farming is a major agricultural sector. This study aimed to evaluate antibiotic residues in meat and feed samples collected from across Kazakhstan and assess their implications for public health and food safety.

Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted between December 2023 and March 2025 across 14 regions of Kazakhstan. A total of 1,026 meat samples (beef, horse, chicken, lamb, and pork) and 150 feed samples (succulent, coarse, concentrated) were collected from licensed facilities. Samples were processed under standard protocols and analyzed using the Evidence Investigator biochip system (Randox, UK), employing Antimicrobial Array I Ultra and Antimicrobial Array II Plus panels. Statistical analyses, including analysis of variance, were performed using International Business Machine Statistical Package for the Social Sciences v25, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05.

Results: Residual antibiotics were detected in all categories of meat and feed, with several concentrations exceeding permissible limits. Succulent feeds showed the highest contamination (streptomycin 86.43 ppb; quinolones 35.56 ppb). Among meats, chicken contained the highest residue levels (quinolones up to 91.97 ppb; streptomycin up to 492.00 ppb), followed by beef (sulfadimethoxine 18.26 ppb; dapsone up to 285.14 ppb). Statistically significant differences were observed among meat types for quinolones (p = 0.000), ceftiofur (p = 0.000), thiamphenicol (p = 0.003), tylosin (p = 0.000), and tetra­cyclines (p = 0.005). Streptomycin levels varied widely but were not statistically significant (p = 0.072).

Conclusion: The findings highlight uncontrolled antibiotic use in Kazakhstan’s livestock sector, particularly in poultry farming. The presence of elevated antibiotic residues in meat and feed underscores urgent food safety concerns and the potential acceleration of AMR. Strengthened regulatory oversight, strict adherence to drug withdrawal periods, and adoption of sustainable alternatives such as probiotics and phytogenic feed additives are crucial. Establishing a national monitoring program and expanding laboratory surveillance capacity are essential steps to safeguard public health and promote safe, sustainable livestock production.


Keywords: antibiotics, antimicrobial resistance, feed, food safety, Kazakhstan, meat, residues.

Detailed inrorrnation o n tirm level food safety costs is reported. Survey data for small and very small meat processors are modeled. Economies ol' scale in implementing Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) \?sterns are investigated. Results indicate that even after controlling for scale, very sinall plants incur higher co~npliunce costs. Diseconomies of scope are :tssessed using the probability and n ~~n l b e r of products discontinued duc to HACCP Such "partial exit" is positively related t o the current range of items produced and the need for facility nloditication. However. n o evidence is found for higher levels of partial exit in \cry small plants.

This study examines the various factors affecting household expenditures on fresh and processed fruit and vegetables in the U.S. using the 1992 Consumer Expenditure Survey. Empirical results suggest that higher income, better educated, larger, and older householdsspend more on fresh and processed fruit and vegetables than do other households. Seasonal and regional variations are also evident.

This study examines the impact of consumers' use of food labels on selected nutrient intakes of Americans. Endogenous switching regression techniques are employed to control for heterogeneity in the label use decision. When the nutrient intakes of label users and the expected nutrient intakes of label users in the absence of labels are compared, food label use decreases individuals' average daily intakes of calories from total fat and saturated fat, cholesterol, and sodium by 6.90%, 2.10%, 67.60 milligrams, and 29.58 milligrams, respectively. In addition, consumer nutrition label use increases average daily fiber intake by 7.51 grams.

This study has offered an extensive analysis of the effectiveness of Oman's food supply chain's quality and safety management. The study focused on the complex relationships among several variables, such as information technology, food traceability, supply chain risks, performance measures, and food safety regulations, and how these elements all work together to shape the e ciency of the food supply chain. The research examined data gathered from middle-and top-level managers in Oman's food supply chain using a practical research strategy that combined quantitative and qualitative approaches and employed structural equation modelling to investigate the interconnections and effects on the performance of the supply chain from the previously listed factors. The key ndings of this research have demonstrated the vital signi cance of strict food safety measures by revealing a substantial positive association between food safety standards and the performance of the food supply chain. Information technology has been found to be a signi cant catalyst for improving regulatory compliance and supply chain performance. The mediation study has highlighted how information technology is interdependent with other elements and demonstrated how it supports the robustness, agility and resilience of supply chains. This study further established that improving food safety standards, utilising cutting-edge information technology to enhance compliance and traceability, implementing thorough risk management plans, encouraging cooperation among supply chain participants and raising consumer knowledge of food safety are important suggestions to improve public health and economic growth. These suggestions are meant to assist Oman's food supply chain in being robust, effective and safe. The research provided valuable insights for supply chain professionals, policymakers, and researchers who are interested in food safety and supply chain management, especially in the context of Oman and other GCC countries.

This qualitative and quantitative research explored UK consumer views and priorities in relation to our responsibilities around food hygiene and safety, but also around wider interests the public see critical in shaping their food choices and lives including: health and nutrition environment and ethics price quality and convenience consumer versus business power potential food futures The top priorities for consumers, and where they would like action taken on their behalf, are around ensuring: hygiene and safety standards are maintained or strengthened equitable access to safe, healthy, affordable food easy informed decision making trustworthy food information In the context of the UK, they would like to ensure farmers and UK agriculture are protected and that locally produced food is accessible. In the wider context of the system, consumers would like action on animal welfare and waste (food and packaging), and in the long term a steer towards fair, ethical and sustainable food sys...