|
Organic Agriculture
Journal Prestige (SJR): 0.308  Citation Impact (citeScore): 1 Number of Followers: 5  Hybrid journal (It can contain Open Access articles)ISSN (Print) 1879-4238 - ISSN (Online) 1879-4246 Published by Springer-Verlag  [2468 journals]
|
- Miticidal effect of Guajava pyrifera L. against Suidasia pontifica
Oudemans-
Free pre-print version: Loading...
Abstract: Abstract The present study aims to assess the bioactivity of guava leaf extract (GLE) against Suidasia pontifica, a stored grain mite. The current study aimed to analyze the chemical components and miticidal effect of GLE against the S. pontifica population. The generated information can be used in organic agriculture practices and promoting the utilization of natural products in managing stored product mite. Based on the biological responses of the test mite, the projected minimum effective concentration (MEC) of GLE that provides 100% mortality of mite population was 1.75 g/L. Fifty-four compounds were detected in GLE under GCMS analysis. The major constituents were the following: oleyl alcohol methyl ether (13.91%), γ-sitosterol (13.05%), globulol (8.26%), 10,10-dimethyl-2,6-dimethylenebicyclo[7.2.0]undecane (7.45%), α-terpineol (5.13%), and β-caryophyllene (4.58%). Meanwhile, GLE (1.75 g/L) is generally superior in volume concentration and potency to commercially available miticides in the market (coumaphos 2.00 g/L) regarding mite population control. It shows that the main chemical and other derivatives of GLE may have cooperated synergistically, augmenting the toxic activity that leads to death.
PubDate: 2023-11-24
-
- Anaerobic digestion of dairy cattle slurry—long-term effects on crop
yields and chemical soil characteristics-
Free pre-print version: Loading...
Abstract: Renewable energy in the form of biogas can be produced by anaerobic digestion (AD) of animal manure. However, there is still a lack of knowledge on the long-term effects of AD-treated manure on soil characteristics and crop productivity, compared with untreated manure. A field experiment was established in a perennial grass-clover ley in 2011 to study the effects on important soil and crop characteristics when the slurry from a herd of organically managed dairy cows is anaerobically digested. While the rate of manure application affected soil concentrations of extractable nutrients and pH, these variables were unaffected by AD. Soil organic matter (SOM) concentrations decreased in all plots and faster on the plots with high intrinsic SOM. The decrease was similar with application of untreated (non-digested) slurry (US) and anaerobically digested slurry (ADS), and it was not affected by application rates. The general decline may be explained by the initial high SOM content, the long-term effect of drainage, and higher temperatures with climatic change. US and ADS gave similar yields of grass-clover ley (2 cuts/year) and green fodder, on average 0.79 and 0.40 kg DM m−2, respectively. Clover yield was similar in manured treatments and the non-fertilized control. With respect to crop yields and chemical soil characteristics, long-term (10 years) effects of AD in an organic dairy cow farming system seem to be minor. The benefits of extracting energy from the slurry did not compromise grassland productivity or soil quality in the long term. Graphical
PubDate: 2023-11-20
-
- Incidence of four genera of fungi in organic and low-input farming
-
Free pre-print version: Loading...
Abstract: Abstract Bread wheat can be infected and/or contaminated by several genera of mycotoxin-producing fungi. In the European Union, several mycotoxins are subject to defined limits for human consumption. Speculation has arisen about the potential higher contamination level of mycotoxins produced by Fusarium species in organic compared to conventional production systems. So far, many studies have focused on the level of mycotoxins, highlighting comparable levels in organic and conventional farming. In this long-term study, we monitored, each year over a 13-year period in several sites in France and for a set of bread wheat genotypes, the incidence of four fungal genera on bread wheat grains from both conventional low-input and organic farming. During this long period of monitoring, we used the same morphological characterization of fungal colonies. The results obtained highlighted two general trends. First, the incidence of the genus Fusarium in grains was generally lower than or equal to 1% in more than 60% of “year × site” combinations, both in low-input and organic farming conditions. In contrast, the genus Alternaria was dominant in the vast majority of combinations. Second, the main explanatory factors of the incidence of fungus on grains, independently of the genus and the farming conditions, were the year and the “year × site” interaction, suggesting the dominant influence of the environmental conditions of the year and the site on the relative development of the fungal genera in/on grains. According to these results, organic or low-input production of bread wheat does not represent a significant risk for the development of Fusarium head blight in France.
PubDate: 2023-11-13
-
- Toward climate-resilient and biodiverse agriculture in the Mediterranean
region: experiences and perceptions of farmers engaged in sustainable food
production-
Free pre-print version: Loading...
Abstract: Abstract The abandonment of smallholder agriculture and the expansion of conventional intensive agriculture pose a potential threat to the multifunctionality of agriculture. The adoption of intensive conventional practices generates negative outcomes, such as increased greenhouse gas emissions, biodiversity loss, and degradation of land, water, and ecosystems. An ecological transition in agriculture is urgently needed. This paper collects and systematizes the opinion of farmers in Spain, engaged in different food production systems (e.g., organic agriculture, biodynamic agriculture, regenerative agriculture, and conservation agriculture), as alternatives to intensive conventional agriculture. In collaboration with agricultural associations and networks in Spain, we co-created an exploratory online survey including qualitative and quantitative questions. Based on 60 in-depth questionnaires, we assess (1) the practices used by the consulted farmers, (2) the perceived effects following the introduction of sustainable practices, and (3) the challenges and opportunities for farm profitability. Our preliminary results show that farmers apply nine out of 14 sustainable practices, on average, and 65% of our sample consciously adapt their practices to climate change. Farmers perceived positive changes in soil properties, biodiversity, and pests after using these practices. They mentioned the low income as the most significant challenge. Finally, we conducted an online discussion with representatives of the associations. Farmers’ perceptions of positive changes presented in this paper are not intended to be representative of farmer communities across Spain, but provide a first overview of those engaged in the ecological transition.
PubDate: 2023-11-09
-
- The influence of packaging design visual elements on consumers’ purchase
intention: a comparison study on organic food and non-food products-
Free pre-print version: Loading...
Abstract: Abstract Consumers are showing a growing interest in organic products. This study investigates how visual packaging design elements influence the consumers’ purchase intention toward organic food products compared to organic non-food products. We apply a questionnaire and ask respondents to rate the different packaging designs for organic dry pasta and soap bars. We use the orthogonal design method to obtain representative stimulus designs and conduct a conjoint analysis to determine the utilities of each design and assess the relative importance of color, material, and tagline typeface. Our results reveal that for the organic food and non-food products, packaging color is the most decisive factor, followed by material and typeface, independently to the participants’ demographic characteristics. The combination of visual elements with the highest utility score includes plastic for the packaging material, the color cream, and the typewritten typeface for the organic claim for both organic pasta and organic soap. This study also integrates a benefit-based segmentation approach with conjoint analysis. Our study contributes to understanding consumers’ preferences with valuable insights for the organic industry.
PubDate: 2023-11-08
-
- Towards the organic agriculture development: a strategic analysis in
Northern Iran-
Free pre-print version: Loading...
Abstract: Abstract Organic agriculture is a potential approach to achieving a healthy and safe food system to reach sustainable agricultural development. This study’s goal was to evaluate the strategic situation of organic farming development in Mazandaran province in the north of Iran. This inquiry is qualitative in terms of paradigm, is applied in terms of the type of research, and is descriptive in terms of research method, which was done using the classic Delphi technique in three stages. Data collection was done using a survey technique. The statistical population including organic agriculture experts were interviewed as a sample using the snowball sampling method until reaching theoretical saturation. Data analysis was done using the SWOT technique and QSPM method. The results of compiling the four strategies of development (SO), diversification (ST), review (WO), and defensive (WT) showed that organic agriculture is within the range of development strategies (SO) which, based on the results of the QSPM matrix, the most attractive SO’s strategy was to “adopt suitable incentive policies for producers and exporters of organic products.” The results of this research can be used for policymaking and appropriate decision-making in the development of organic agriculture.
PubDate: 2023-10-18
-
- Eco-packaging in organic foods: rational decisions or emotional
influences'-
Free pre-print version: Loading...
Abstract: Abstract The introduction of biodegradable and compostable packaging has been a significant milestone in reducing conventional plastic use, particularly in sectors that prioritize sustainability like the organic food industry. This study explores the factors influencing the selection of such packaging, with a specific focus on the role of emotions in a representative sample of Italian consumers. Two models, the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) and the Rational-Emotional Model (REM), were evaluated and compared. The TPB model confirms that positive attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control influence the intention to choose biodegradable and compostable packaging. The REM reveals that environmental concern, cognitive benefits, and emotions significantly impact purchase intentions. The REM explains a greater variance in intention compared to the TPB model, highlighting the importance of combining rational and emotional components. Biodegradable and compostable packaging aligns well with the target consumers of organic food, making it an excellent solution for organic produce. Emotions play a crucial role in shaping consumer intentions and behaviors. Marketing strategies should appeal to consumers’ emotional responses, address cognitive concerns, and highlight the specific benefits of sustainable packaging. This research emphasizes the relevance of bioplastic packaging for organic products and underscores the significance of emotions in influencing consumer behavior.
PubDate: 2023-09-27
-
- A triple hurdle model of organic vegetable awareness, adoption, and
production among smallholder farmers in Ekiti and Oyo states of Nigeria-
Free pre-print version: Loading...
Abstract: Abstract Organic agriculture is still in its early development stage in Nigeria. As a result, its awareness and participation are still in development. Hence, the study identified factors influencing awareness, adoption, and quantity produced of organic green leafy vegetables, tomatoes, and peppers in Ekiti and Oyo states of Nigeria. A multistage sampling technique was employed to sample 384 vegetable farmers. Primary data was collected using a structured survey questionnaire instrument. The data was analysed using the triple hurdle model, which consists of three stages of decision-making. Probit was used to model the first and second stages of the triple hurdle for awareness and adoption, respectively. The third stage for adoption intensity was modelled using log–log multiple regression. According to the findings, farmers who were members of cooperatives and received extension services were more likely to be aware of and adopt organic vegetables. However, the use of radio was lowly used to promote organic agricultural awareness. On the other hand, the amount of labour used, and total revenue increased the quantity of organic vegetables produced. As a result, we conclude that the use of extension agents was pivotal in engineering the development of organic farming in Nigeria. Therefore, establishing an organic information hub would be an appropriate strategy for increasing awareness, adoption, and intensity in organic green leafy vegetable, tomato, and pepper production. This would help foster extension activities, and information transfer, as well as connect producers with buyers.
PubDate: 2023-09-01
DOI: 10.1007/s13165-023-00431-8
-
- Opportunities and challenges of bio-based fertilizers utilization for
improving soil health-
Free pre-print version: Loading...
Abstract: Abstract Bio-based fertilizers (BBFs) have been promoted as a solution to help manage bio-waste problems and improve soil health conditions. Their potential is to replace mineral fertilizers due to nonrenewable energy dependency and the accumulation that threatens environmental issues. Currently, laboratory and field-based literature have been growing since European Union (EU) looks BBFs as the future of agriculture bio-based products. Nevertheless, it is worth to summarizing the results on a regular basis. The added value of this work is to study the opportunities of bio-based fertilizer utilization to sustain plant productivity and investigate the challenges to water footprints and human health. This study found that contamination of heavy metals and pathogens is the main problems of BBFs implementation which need more attention to develop the technology process including the environmental risk assessments. Furthermore, compared to mineral fertilizers, BBFs have obstacles to getting social acceptance due to the challenges of transportation and production cost, the concentration of nutrients, matching crops, and policy framework. To sum up, BBF is a long-run scheme that should be started to tackle global issues since the potency as energy alternative sources to support the circular economy paradigm.
PubDate: 2023-09-01
DOI: 10.1007/s13165-023-00432-7
-
- Conventional farmers’ attitude toward the organic farming: a study on
North 24 Parganas, West Bengal, India-
Free pre-print version: Loading...
Abstract: Abstract Organic farming is an important sustainable farming approach in the present day, and this farming is gaining popularity all around the world. Despite widespread awareness of the potential environmental degradation and climatic change that sustained inorganic farming practices may cause, the majority of farmers in the Gangetic delta region still produce their crops inorganically. This paper envisages the intention of conventional farmers toward organic farming in the Gangetic delta region of the West Bengal based on the 162 conventional farmers’ interviews. The Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) provided the framework for formulating the study’s theoretical framework. Age, educational background, gender, farm size, cost, benefits, and attitude of organic farming are correlated with significant relationships (p ≤ 0.05). Chi-square analysis was applied to evaluate the research hypothesis, while descriptive statistics and factor analysis were used to describe the research outcome. Five out of nine variables are accepted as an effective aspect, which affects respondents’ perception toward organic farming.
PubDate: 2023-09-01
DOI: 10.1007/s13165-023-00433-6
-
- The social-ecological resilience indicators of organic rice production in
Northeastern Thailand-
Free pre-print version: Loading...
Abstract: Uncertainties in agriculture have been posing serious threats to organic farmers, especially the marginal ones in developing countries such as Thailand. Building resilience appears the most workable strategy to help them cope with those threats since its definitions and operation fundamentally focus upon the capacity to adapt to all types of change to be better in consequences. In this study, the author used a participatory principle and qualitative data analysis as tools. Sixty-two experienced organic farmers from four provinces in Northeastern Thailand were purposively selected as the informants. They were asked individually regarding the resilience concepts in agroecological contexts and related theories to generate a specific set of indicators whose qualities can maintain and recover organic rice production against ongoing change. Consequently, guided by three processes of qualitative study and the nominal group technique (NGT) aimed at converting abstract ideas into practical features aligned with resilience theories in agroecosystems, the organic farmers developed 28 indexes known as social-ecological resilience indicators (SERIs). The SERIs capture important components related to diversity and resource accessibility, such as ownership of legal credit sources and types of organic certification, to enhance adaptive capacity. The SERIs can serve as both quantifiable evaluation and qualitative guidance because the informants’ social, ecological, and cultural contexts are integrated. The SERIs are effective to provide empirical insights into practices and assets for building resilience. The SERIs are also vital to propose policies to encourage organic farmers to conduct adaptations and transformation during a period of change.
PubDate: 2023-08-21
DOI: 10.1007/s13165-023-00441-6
-
- Key factors influencing farmers’ adoption of sustainable innovations: a
systematic literature review and research agenda-
Free pre-print version: Loading...
Abstract: Abstract Despite the benefits of sustainable innovations in the agricultural sector being widely recognized, their adoption rate remains below the level designated by the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals. To understand the reasons behind this phenomenon, the current systematic literature review (SLR) provides a comprehensive overview of factors affecting farmers’ innovation adoption behavior in developed countries. A total of 44 studies, published since 2010, were identified, analyzed, and summarized. The analysis revealed that specific innovation characteristics foster the innovation adoption process, together with individual psychological and socio-demographic features. It emerged that the path to adopting sustainable innovations can be driven by environmental values; for example, when comparing organic and conventional farming, organic farmers have a stronger environmental view and are more likely to take less into account economic gains. On the contrary, complexity of innovation, a high degree of innovation aversion, and a low perceived control over innovation are among the core barriers to the innovation adoption. Findings provide important insights on potential research avenues that could further depict farmers’ adoption dynamics of sustainable innovations.
PubDate: 2023-08-16
DOI: 10.1007/s13165-023-00440-7
-
- Survey of farm-gate N and P balances on arable and dairy organic and
conventional farms in Sweden—basis for improved management-
Free pre-print version: Loading...
Abstract: Abstract About half of all N and P loads to Swedish waters originate from agriculture and must decrease to reach environmental goals. Studying nutrient management at farm level can provide an understanding of nutrient recycling and the risk of losses. In a survey of organic and conventional dairy and arable farms in three southern counties of Sweden, farm-gate N and P balances and N use efficiency (NUE) were analysed. Crop distribution differed significantly between organic and conventional farms, with organic dairy farms having higher proportions of ley and pulse crops and organic arable farms having a much higher proportion of N-fixing crops than corresponding conventional farms. Conventional dairy and arable farms had on average 70% and 40% higher N surplus than corresponding organic farms. Farm-gate P surplus was larger on conventional dairy farms and much larger on organic arable farms, mainly due to purchase of P-rich organic fertilisers. Organic dairy farms had higher NUE than corresponding conventional farms, but the opposite was true for arable farms. However, in the southernmost county Skåne, where soil fertility and yield potential are high, NUE was similar on all arable farms. Total inputs of N and P were positively correlated with N and P surpluses, especially on dairy farms. Improved manure and crop residue management, reduced use of purchased mineral N fertilisers coupled to more uniform within-farm distribution of manure, use of catch crops, intercropping and organic fertilisers with appropriate N:P ratio are measures that can reduce farm nutrient surpluses and improve nutrient management on both organic and conventional farms.
PubDate: 2023-08-04
DOI: 10.1007/s13165-023-00436-3
-
- Characterization, nitrogen availability, and agronomic efficiency of
fermented composts in organic vegetable production-
Free pre-print version: Loading...
Abstract: Abstract Fermented composts obtained from a mixture of raw materials and a microbial inoculant, known as “bokashi,” are alternatives used by many farmers worldwide. We evaluated the chemical composition, fermentation pathways, N availability, and agronomic efficiency of fermented compost obtained from different plant-based raw materials. The standard compost formulation composition was 60% wheat bran and 40% castor bean bran; this formulation gradually replaced wheat bran by the coffee husk, brewery residue, and elephant grass bran, and leguminous bran replaced castor bean bran. Incubation tests evaluated nutrient content (C, N, P, K, Ca, Mg), pH, electrical conductivity, and fermentation pathways (by the organic acids lactic, acetic, propanoic, butyric, and ethanol). A bioassay in greenhouse conditions accessed N availability. Additionally, a field experiment evaluated the agronomic efficiency of 5 formulations and 4 doses (0 to 400 kg N ha−1) in successive vegetable production. The formulations with a balanced C/N ratio could combine desirable fermentative and nutritional characteristics with good N availability and plant growth. Some formulations drastically changed the compost characteristics, especially the complete replacement of wheat bran for coffee husk and elephant grass, which presented undesirable fermentation pathways. Leguminous bran maintained the fermentative quality and increased the soil’s biological activity but decreased the nutrient content, N availability, and vegetable productivity. The brewery residue showed the most prominent fermentation quality, nutrient content, and N availability. The addition of 30% coffee husk resulted in agronomic performance and nutrient accumulation in arugula and lettuce plants similar to the standard compost. The study demonstrates the potential of raw materials to produce fermented composts with fermentative and nutritional quality that result in vegetable grow and soil quality.
PubDate: 2023-07-29
DOI: 10.1007/s13165-023-00439-0
-
- Effect of fulvic acid on yield performance of organic bell pepper
(Capsicum annuum L.) under open-field conditions in Tennessee-
Free pre-print version: Loading...
Abstract: Abstract Two field experiments were carried out at Tennessee State University (TSU) organic farm, Nashville, TN, for two successive seasons of 2021 and 2022. The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of soil and foliar application of fulvic acid (FA) at various concentrations on fruit yield parameters of bell pepper cv. Revolution in open field conditions under an organic management system. FA was applied as a soil drench to the plant root area and foliar spray on the leaf surface at 4 different concentrations (0.0, 2.3, 5.5, 7.8, 10.9 ml L−1). Data was collected on yield and its components (fruit length, fruit diameter, fruit firmness, fruit fresh weight, number of fruit, marketable yield, and total yield). In 2021, foliar treatment of FA at 5.5 ml L−1 and 7.8 ml L−1 produced significantly (P ≤ 0.05) higher number of fruits (29.13 and 29.47 fruit per plant, respectively) which subsequently lead to an increase in marketable yield (4.28 kg and 4.13 per plant, respectively) compared to the control. In 2022, soil treatment at 7.8 ml L−1 produced the highest number of fruits (21 fruit per plant) with an increase in marketable yield (2.61 kg per plant) compared to the control. Overall, our study demonstrated that soil and foliar application of FA at 5.5 ml L−1 and 7.8 ml L−1 was effective to enhance yield, and it is a promising treatment that is environmentally safe to be used to obtain higher marketable yield in organically grown bell pepper.
PubDate: 2023-07-22
DOI: 10.1007/s13165-023-00437-2
-
- Assessing changes in soil quality indicators, turmeric (Curcuma longa L.)
yield, and monetary returns under different years of organic nutrient
management-
Free pre-print version: Loading...
Abstract: Abstract Turmeric is a significant and widely grown spice crop in the western agro-climatic zone of Tamil Nadu, India. In recent decades, it is cultivated organically with different sources of nutrients. Unraveling the influence of different nutrient management regimes under long-term practice of organic farming on soil quality indicators and turmeric yield may help to develop a sustainable organic nutrient management practice for ensuring better yield and soil health besides doubling the farmer’s income. The study was conducted in the seven farmer’s fields involving organic nutrient management (ORG) practices with different years (4, 5, 6, 7, 12, 13, and 28 years) of practice in the western agro-climatic zone of Tamil Nadu, India. The analyzed chemical properties, viz., soil reaction, electrical conductivity, and nutrients (both macro and micro), and biological indicators, viz., soil organic carbon (SOC), organic matter, microbial biomass carbon (MBC), MBC/SOC ratio, culturable microbes, earthworm activity, dehydrogenase, and phosphatase activities, from the collected soil samples were found to be biologically and chemically more active in 28 years of organically managed soils than others. Turmeric rhizome yield was enhanced by about 48% and profitability by 62% in terms of net return in the same 28 years ORG field compared to recently converted ORG field (4 years). Established Pearson’s correlation highlighted interrelationships between soil properties and rhizome yield as well as years of organic farming. The findings clearly indicate that the long-term practice of organic nutrient management aids in enhancing the soil quality, attaining maximum turmeric yield, and doubling the farmer’s income in the Western zone of Tamil Nadu.
PubDate: 2023-07-18
DOI: 10.1007/s13165-023-00438-1
-
- Assessing the effect of various doses of organic manures on herbage yield,
essential oil, and compositions of sage grown under climate chamber and
field conditions-
Free pre-print version: Loading...
Abstract: Abstract Considering the importance of sage and the affirmative effects of organic sourced fertilizers on plant health and agronomic attributes, we designed to compare the effects of chemical and organic fertilizers on some quantitative and qualitative traits of sage grown under field conditions and climate chamber. This study was conducted to determine the effect of organic manures on sage quality to find the better sustainable fertilization practice for sage cultivation under pot-based experiment and field conditions. In this context, three different organic manures as sheep (SM) (5, 7.5, 10, 12.5 t ha−1), chicken (CM) (5, 7.5, 10, 12.5 t ha−1), and vermicompost (VM) (0.5, 1, 1.5, 2 t ha−1) with a control (no manure) and conventional fertilizer (0.15 t ha−1 ammonium sulfate (AS) and 0.12 t ha−1 diammonium phosphate (DAP)) were used in both experiments. Regarding the parameters considered for analysis based on the two-cuttings, we have estimated some agronomic attributes including plant height, branch number, fresh weight, and dry weight, as well as essential oil yield and compounds in sage seedlings. Accordingly, we have observed that the 1st cutting was superior in essential oil (EO) amount (0.90–2.08%), and also the 1st cutting had a high fresh and dry herb weight (61.62–226.44 and 29.78–99.67 g plant−1) under field condition. However, the 1st cutting was superior in EO amount (0.41–1.87%), and the 2nd cutting had also a high fresh and dry herb weight (4.94–16.78 and 1.23–3.58 g plant−1) in pot experiments. In addition, manool (ranging from 5.24 to 40.61%) was identified as the predominant compound whereas α-thujone and camphor were the other main compounds in both experimental conditions. Highest total fresh and dry weight were obtained from plants grown with IOF, VM3 (1.5 t ha−1), and VM4 (2 t ha−1) in pot experiments, while CM4 (12.5 t ha−1) application yielded the highest total fresh and dry weight under field conditions. In addition, sage plants treated with SM at a rate of 7.5 t ha−1and 12.5 t ha−1 accumulated the higher content of essential oil under field condition. On the other hand, CM2 (7.5 t ha−1) and CM3 (10 t ha−1) treatments increased essential oil content in pot experiments. Also, the highest content of manool, a major compound, was observed at SM and VM applications in pot and under field conditions. Correlation and PCA analysis showed that field experiment conditions had higher correlation compared to pot experiment. The present study clearly indicated that chemical fertilizer could be replaced by organic fertilizers due to the higher positive impacts on herb and essential oil yield.
PubDate: 2023-06-23
DOI: 10.1007/s13165-023-00434-5
-
- Investigations on riboflavin production by wild-type yeast strain for
supplementation of organic feed-
Free pre-print version: Loading...
Abstract: Abstract Supplementation of vitamin B2 (riboflavin) in poultry feeding is essential. For economic and environmental reasons, riboflavin is now produced biotechnologically, which, in most industrial production, is based on genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Due to legislation, organic animals must be fed with GMO-free feeds, which also applies to the production processes of vitamin additives in the feed. Therefore, the main objective of experiments in this paper is the screening of GMO-free wild-type yeast strains overproducing riboflavin as a starting point to develop GMO-free riboflavin production lines that ensure the continuous supply of riboflavin for organic livestock. A screening of wild-type, non-GMO microorganisms overproducing riboflavin was conducted. The wild-type yeast Meyerozyma guilliermondii DSM 11947 produced the highest riboflavin concentration in the screening procedure. In order to provide a feasible and affordable certified organic animal vitamin B2 supplement, the possibility of minimizing the expensive media component, yeast extract, was shown. This work shows the possibility of using a wild-type strain to achieve higher levels of riboflavin by means of bioprocess engineering and without metabolic engineering. A fermentation strategy at the laboratory scale is provided, where a yield of 30 mg riboflavin per g dry matter of yeast cells was achieved.
PubDate: 2023-06-16
DOI: 10.1007/s13165-023-00435-4
-
- The role of stakeholder involvement in EU research and innovation policy:
a case study of Technology Platform Organics-
Free pre-print version: Loading...
Abstract: Abstract This paper analyses the importance that participatory approaches may play in shaping the innovation policy in the context of the EU research framework programme. The paper reports case study research on the role of “TP Organics”, a European Technology Platform (ETP) that supports research and innovation in organic farming in the EU. The case study is based on data concerning the relevance of resources pertaining to organic farming in the EU’s most recent framework programmes for research and development (FP7 and Horizon 2020). We use process tracing to analyse the causal effects of the participatory approach used by TP Organics in defining policies and promoting funding for the organic sector. Data concerning textual content analysis on research calls and budget disaggregation for EU research funding are used to test the hypothesis that the engagement of stakeholders provides substantial effects in terms of the number of research projects explicitly oriented to organic farming and the amount of research funding made available. Results refer to the outcomes of a structured testing sequence for the key hypotheses supporting the causal model. They show that the impact of TP Organics relies on its successful multi-stakeholder participatory processes, which have improved the relevance of research themes related to organic farming and have ultimately yielded an increase in financed research projects and financial contributions to research on organic farming in the EU. Conclusions provide some theoretical generalisations on the importance of stakeholder engagement in successfully lobbying for research policy.
PubDate: 2023-03-10
DOI: 10.1007/s13165-023-00427-4
-
- Productivity gains, evolution of productive performances, and
profitability of organic ruminant farms: farm size and feed
self-sufficiency matter-
Free pre-print version: Loading...
Abstract: Abstract We analyzed the productive and economic performances of a constant sample of 58 organic ruminant farms between 2014 and 2018, in a mountain grassland area (French Massif Central). Over this 5-year period, these farms expanded without increasing their labor productivity or animal density per hectare of forage area. While animal productivity has been maintained, we observed a decrease in feed self-sufficiency, and thus, an increase in feed purchases. Over the period, the volume of inputs used has increased more rapidly than agricultural production, resulting in a decline in the productivity surplus (PS) at a rate of −2.6%/year. As the prices of products and inputs were relatively stable, this decrease in PS was financed at 41% by an increase in public aid (drought aid, agri-environmental climate measures) and at 49% by a decrease in profitability for the farmer (the farm income per farmer fell by 40%). A binary choice estimation model, i.e., which variables determine the positive or negative sign of the PS, showed that farm size was a negative determinant of the PS, as was system specialization, while feed self-sufficiency was a positive determinant. More statistically robust references on price indices of organic farming (OF) products and inputs, as well as long-term follow-ups of OF farms, are needed to validate these original results, which were based on a small sample size and a short period of time.
PubDate: 2023-01-21
DOI: 10.1007/s13165-023-00422-9
-
