Please help us test our new pre-print finding feature by giving the pre-print link a rating. A 5 star rating indicates the linked pre-print has the exact same content as the published article.
Please help us test our new pre-print finding feature by giving the pre-print link a rating. A 5 star rating indicates the linked pre-print has the exact same content as the published article.
Please help us test our new pre-print finding feature by giving the pre-print link a rating. A 5 star rating indicates the linked pre-print has the exact same content as the published article.
Please help us test our new pre-print finding feature by giving the pre-print link a rating. A 5 star rating indicates the linked pre-print has the exact same content as the published article.
Please help us test our new pre-print finding feature by giving the pre-print link a rating. A 5 star rating indicates the linked pre-print has the exact same content as the published article.
Abstract: Abstract The German debate about genetically engineered crops for human consumption (GE) has been polarized for nearly three decades. Efforts to overcome this polarization generally involve distributing information, but research indicates that information has little to no impact on GE attitudes, especially among those with extreme positions. Recent studies suggest that moral value concerns drive GE opposition. However, the specific moral values underlying both support and opposition for GE are unknown, as is whether these values differ between GE supporters and opponents. The present research addresses these questions through latent content analysis. Findings show that most arguments in the debate address moral value concerns related to loyalty, often focusing on trust issues. Trust issues are more prevalent than moral concerns about preventing harm and risks. Furthermore, moral value conflicts are likely since GE supporters emphasize concerns related to authority, fairness, and liberty, while GE opponents focus more on values related to care and purity. This paper discusses these findings and recommends steps for improved science communication. PubDate: 2024-07-30 DOI: 10.1007/s00003-024-01519-3
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Abstract: Abstract A simple and effective heuristic approach was developed and validated to predict the concentration of non-relevant metabolites (nrM) of pesticides in groundwater and drinking water resources based on the simulated concentrations in leachate as used in product authorizations. The evaluation of extensive monitoring data for 50 nrM has demonstrated that the heuristic has a high predictive performance, i.e., concentrations of < 10 µg/l in shallow leachate in the unsaturated zone of the soil in 1 m depth are protective of 1 µg/l in groundwater and raw water in 98 % of cases (49/50 nrM). The reason for the excellent predictive power of the heuristic approach is the large concentration attenuation from leachate to groundwater and to raw water, which was determined to be, on average, 25- and 45-fold, respectively. PubDate: 2024-07-26 DOI: 10.1007/s00003-024-01512-w
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Abstract: Zusammenfassung Lebensmittel gelten gemäß Artikel 14 der Verordnung (EG) Nr. 178/2002 (BasisVO) als gesundheitsschädlich, wenn sie wahrscheinlich Gesundheitsschäden bei Verbraucherinnen und Verbraucher verursachen. Dieser Artikel argumentiert am Beispiel von Cannabidiol (CBD), dass Lebensmittel auch bei Substanzexpositionen unterhalb des LOAEL (lowest observed adverse effect level) als gesundheitsschädlich eingestuft werden können und sollten, um den gesundheitlichen Verbraucherschutz zu gewährleisten. Hierzu wird ein Vergleich zwischen einer approximativ-probabilistischen und einer klassisch-deterministischen Risikobewertung durchgeführt. PubDate: 2024-07-15 DOI: 10.1007/s00003-024-01517-5
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Abstract: Abstract The Taiwan Food and Drug Administration has implemented a three-tier quality control system to enhance food safety. This system includes self-management of food businesses, external certification, and government inspection. Ten categories of food businesses are required to comply with this system. By the end of 2023, over 90% of the food businesses successfully completed the second-tier certification. Statistical analysis revealed no significant correlation between non-conformity counts and factors such as capital amount, food industry type, or times of certifications. Non-conformity issues mainly arose from violations of good hygiene practices and discrepancies between the actual execution and the established hazard analysis and critical control point (HACCP) system in food businesses. These issues, potentially due to a lack of hygiene and safety awareness among employees, will not cause an immediate hazard for the time being but allow for early identification of potential risks, thereby improving overall food safety. PubDate: 2024-07-11 DOI: 10.1007/s00003-024-01518-4
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Abstract: Zusammenfassung Toxikologische Schwellenwerte wie die duldbare tägliche Aufnahmemenge (Acceptable Daily Intake, ADI), die akute Referenzdosis (ARfD) und die niedrigste Dosis mit beobachteter schädlicher Wirkung (Lowest Observed Adverse Effect Level, LOAEL) sind entscheidend für die Bewertung der Sicherheit von Lebensmitteln. Sie berücksichtigen potenzielle Risiken durch Kurz- und Langzeitexposition gegenüber bestimmten Inhaltsstoffen und Kontaminanten in Lebensmitteln. Dieser Artikel erläutert die Bedeutung und Verwendung dieser Schwellenwerte im Sachverständigengutachten und deren aktuelle Beurteilung in der Rechtsprechung, die zwischen Verbraucherinteressen und wirtschaftlichen Interessen von Lebensmittelbetrieben abwägen muss. PubDate: 2024-07-09 DOI: 10.1007/s00003-024-01515-7
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Abstract: Abstract This study examines the drivers of purchase frequency for fair-trade products using an extended theory of planned behavior (TPB) model. The impacts of behavioral control, subjective norms, and attitudes on behavioral intention and purchase frequency were analyzed. Additionally, the study explores how altruistic values, reflecting benefits for producers and the environment, influence attitudes toward fair-trade products and how gender and spirituality moderate the relationships between behavioral intention and its predictors. A survey of 2,174 fair-trade coffee consumers in France was conducted, and data were analyzed using structural equation modeling in AMOS software. The findings indicate that attitude, social norms, and behavioral control significantly affect behavioral intention, which in turn influences purchase frequency. Attitudes toward fair-trade products were predicted only by the benefits to producers. Gender and spirituality significantly moderated the relationships between behavioral control and subjective norms with behavioral intention, but not between attitude and behavioral intention. This study validates the TPB in the context of fair-trade consumption and extends the theory to include the moderating roles of spirituality and gender. Insights from this research can help managers and policymakers refine communication and marketing strategies to promote fair-trade product consumption. PubDate: 2024-07-04 DOI: 10.1007/s00003-024-01514-8
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Abstract: Abstract The international working group “Development of methods for identification of foodstuffs produced by means of genetic engineering techniques” was established pursuant to § 64 of the German Food and Feed Code (LFGB). It has developed a guideline for implementing and verifying digital PCR methods previously validated as real-time PCR techniques. While event-specific methods in testing of genetically modified organisms (GMO) have traditionally relied on real-time PCR, new digital PCR technologies offer significant advantages and therefore, leading to an increased use by control laboratories. This guideline provides practical recommendations for transferring the real-time PCR to digital PCR and for verifying the digital PCR method. The guideline is applicable to analysis of GMO in food, feed and seed and is freely available on the website of the Federal Office of Consumer Protection and Food Safety (BVL). PubDate: 2024-06-25 DOI: 10.1007/s00003-024-01516-6
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Abstract: Abstract Nineteen cannabinoids, including Δ9-THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol), were quantified in 22 CBD oils, 2 CBG (cannabigerol) oils, and 2 CBN (cannabinol) oils, marketed as food supplements, aroma oils, or cosmetic preparations. Analyses were conducted using high-performance liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS/MS). The declared concentrations of CBD (or CBG, CBN) in the oils ranged from 2.5 to 20%. Actual concentrations compared to declared concentrations ranged from 81 to 226%. CBD concentrations of up to 9 mg per drop were found. Δ9-THC was detected in 20 of 26 samples, with concentrations ranging from 5 to 1576 mg/kg (mean = 536 mg/kg). Considering the highest daily intake suggested by one manufacturer (20 drops) and a body weight of 70 kg, the measured Δ9-THC concentration in 50% (n = 13) of the products would exceed the acute reference dose (ARfD) of 1 µg/kg body weight (bw) derived for Δ9-THC by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). For 7 samples, only 2 drops of oil would be sufficient to exceed the ARfD of Δ9-THC. PubDate: 2024-06-20 DOI: 10.1007/s00003-024-01513-9
Please help us test our new pre-print finding feature by giving the pre-print link a rating. A 5 star rating indicates the linked pre-print has the exact same content as the published article.
Please help us test our new pre-print finding feature by giving the pre-print link a rating. A 5 star rating indicates the linked pre-print has the exact same content as the published article.
Abstract: Zusammenfassung Gesetzliche Regelungen legen fest, welchen Vorgaben E-Zigaretten entsprechen müssen, damit sie rechtmäßig in Verkehr gebracht werden können. Diese Regeln gelten auch für Einweg-E-Zigaretten, deren Nutzung insbesondere unter Jugendlichen verbreitet ist. Im Rahmen amtlicher Untersuchungen in verschiedenen deutschen Bundesländern wurden im Jahr 2022 bei 250 Einweg-E-Zigaretten einige dieser rechtlichen Vorgaben mit Blick auf die Verkehrsfähigkeit untersucht. Neben der Kennzeichnung (Nikotingehalt, Füllvolumen/Zuganzahl, Nikotinwarnhinweise, Beipackzettel, Gefahrstoffkennzeichnung) wurden auch die Produktsicherheit (Kindersicherung) sowie Aspekte der Täuschung von Verbraucherinnen und Verbrauchern und die Erfüllung der Meldepflicht im einheitlichen elektronischen Portal der EU (EU-CEG) (https://health.ec.europa.eu/eu-common-entry-gate-eu-ceg/providing-information-tobacco-products-e-cigarettes-and-refill-containers-eu-common-entry-gate-eu_de%20%20Zugriff:%2013.05.2024) betrachtet. Keine der untersuchten Einweg-E-Zigaretten erwies sich als verkehrsfähig, da mindestens bei einem beanstandungsfähigen Kriterium erhebliche Mängel festgestellt wurden. PubDate: 2024-06-09 DOI: 10.1007/s00003-024-01510-y
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Abstract: Abstract This study aimed to measure the food safety knowledge, attitude, and practices among food vendors engaged in Nigeria’s ongoing Home-grown School Feeding Program. A cross-sectional survey was conducted in face-to-face interviews with 240 food vendors from 3 states in northeast Nigeria involved in the school feeding program using a structured questionnaire. Multiple linear regression results revealed that increased education and access to information through radio, television, and food inspection institutions increased food safety knowledge. Food safety attitudes score increased with more years of vending experience and accessing food safety information via radio, food inspection institutions, and the Internet. An increase in household size and food safety information from friends and colleagues negatively affected food safety attitude scores. As a result, we emphasize the need for dissemination of improved food safety information via radio, television and food safety inspection institutes. Food vendors in the SFP should be selected after passing a food safety training and gaining food handling experience. Higher education should be a priority criterion in the hiring process. PubDate: 2024-06-01 DOI: 10.1007/s00003-023-01476-3
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Abstract: Abstract This study was conducted to determine the antimicrobial resistance profiles of Escherichia coli isolated from food samples received at the National Food Safety Agency in Burkina Faso. A total of 155 isolates from dairy foods (29), fish-based dishes (7), mango juices (4), lettuces (35), RTE salads (21), sandwiches (32), and sesames (27) were included for testing with the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method. PCR targeting ampicillin (blaTEM, blaSHV, temA, and temB), tetracyclines [tet(A) and tet(B)], sulfamethoxazole (sul1 and sul2), aminoglycosides (StrA and aadA) and quinolones (GyrA) resistance genes were performed to elucidate the genotypic resistance mechanism. Of the 155 isolates, 105 (67.7%) were resistant to at least one antimicrobial agent. Resistances to tetracycline (33.5%), ampicillin (32.9%), cefoxitin (18.7%), gentamycin (15.5%), amoxicillin-clavulanate acid (15.5%), nalidixic acid (12.9%), chloramphenicol (11.6%), trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (11.6%), and ciprofloxacin (8.4%) were observed. Multidrug resistance was recorded in 26.5% of the isolates. Antimicrobial resistance genes including blaTEM (19/51, 37.3%), blaSHV (19/51, 37.3%), temB (17/51, 33.3%), tet(A) (24/52, 46.2%), tet(B) (9/52, 17.3%), sul1 (8/18, 44.4%), sul2 (4/18, 22.2%), aadA (11/24, 45.83%) and GyrA (31/36, 86.1%) were detected. All E. coli isolates resistant to at least 2 antibiotics were positive for the class 1 integron gene (intI1). These findings raise concerns about food safety and public health and demonstrate the need for strict government control and continuous monitoring. PubDate: 2024-06-01 DOI: 10.1007/s00003-024-01493-w
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Abstract: Staphylococcus aureus is a significant pathogen associated with various illnesses, including food poisoning. The development of effective treatments is challenging, necessitating the exploration of novel antimicrobial options. Bacteriophages (phages) have emerged as promising candidates in this regard. In this study, a virulent phage called mSA4 was isolated and characterized. Furthermore, its efficacy in combating S. aureus biofilms and growth in various food products was evaluated. Phage mSA4 demonstrated a broad host range, targeting both S. aureus and methicillin-resistant S. aureus strains. Belonging to the Myoviridae family, it exhibited rapid adsorption (over 50% in 3 min), a short latent period (20 min), and a burst size of 97 phage particles per infected bacterial cell. Furthermore, phage mSA4 displayed stability across a wide range of pH values and temperatures, and effectively degraded established biofilms. Its performance was evaluated in chocolate milk, beef meat, and iceberg lettuce, resulting in significant reductions in bacterial counts (2.1 log CFU/mL, 2.8 log CFU/cm2, and 3.2 log CFU/cm2, respectively). These findings underscore the potential of phage mSA4 as a natural biocontrol agent against S. aureus. Graphical abstract PubDate: 2024-06-01 DOI: 10.1007/s00003-024-01479-8
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Abstract: Abstract When approving plant protection products, exposure data are required for risk analysis. Exposure data can be collected for various exposure pathways, such as dermal, inhalation or ground sediment. For measuring exposures, pyranine, a fluorescent dye, and a collector can be used. However, the choice of collector material depends on the specific exposure pathway. This study aims to determine the most suitable collector, in combination with the tracer pyranine, for recording exposure through different pathways in practical trials. Seven different collectors (Tyvek®, labels, plastic patches, paper patches, nylon filters, fibreglass filters, petri dishes) were subjected to laboratory and field tests to assess various quality parameters. Blank values, recovery rates, storability, and fluorescence degradation under UV-radiation were measured. Based on the results, a matrix was created summarizing which collector might be best suited to capture each exposure pathway. Almost all collectors demonstrated high recovery rates (Tyvek® 100%; labels 100%; plastic patches 100%; paper patches 100%; nylon filters 95%; fiberglass filters 60.9%) as well as good storability. Furthermore, all plastic-based collectors (labels, Tyvek®, plastic patches, petri dishes) showed a very good recovery rate above 95% when exposed to UV-radiation. However, nylon filters were not suitable for utilization under field conditions due to the rapid degradation of fluorescence under UV-radiation (recovery rate: 20–56%). Nevertheless, nylon filters showed stable recoveries under protected conditions and can be used to assess inhalation exposures under these conditions. Fibreglass filters, with recovery rates of 84–86%, were well-suited for testing inhalative exposures outdoors when a correction factor was applied. Tyvek® was the most suitable material for detecting total dermal exposure under field conditions. This is due to its quality characteristics and availability in a variety of sizes. Finally, petri dishes were ideal for collecting ground sediments. PubDate: 2024-06-01 DOI: 10.1007/s00003-024-01498-5
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Abstract: Microplastics are small polymeric particles formed after the degradation and environmental erosion of plastic waste. They pose a significant threat to the environment, animal, and human health. For humans, food is an important route for the transmission of microplastics. In this study, the presence of microplastics in raw milk is investigated. Samples from various milk-producing animals were collected in Turkey’s Marmara Region, a prominent industrial and agricultural area (n:588). Rigorous quality control measures were applied to prevent contamination during sampling and analysis. Microplastics were identified, classified, and measured through microscopic analysis, and their surface morphology and chemical composition were assessed using advanced techniques such as Scanning Electron Microscope Energy Dispersive X-Ray Spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) and Attenuated Total Reflection-Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR). Results reveal that microplastics were present in 89% of the milk samples. They exhibited diverse colours, shapes, and sizes, with fibrous particles (52%) being the most common. ATR-FTIR analysis identified 7 types of microplastics, with ethylene propylene being the most prevalent (77%). This study highlights the potential risk of microplastic contamination in raw milk. Graphical abstract PubDate: 2024-06-01 DOI: 10.1007/s00003-023-01477-2
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