scienctists

Agriculture and food systems form the backbone of global nutrition and economy, encompassing all processes involved in feeding the population from crop cultivation and livestock production to food processing, distribution, and consumption. These systems not only provide food but also create employment, contribute to national GDPs, and support rural development. Understanding the intricate links between agriculture and food systems is vital to address global challenges like hunger, poverty, and environmental degradation. Sustainable agriculture is at the heart of modern food systems. It involves using natural resources efficiently while ensuring soil health, biodiversity, and ecological balance. Practices such as crop rotation, organic farming, agroforestry, and precision agriculture aim to reduce the negative environmental impact of farming. A sustainable food system ensures that future generations can produce and access sufficient, nutritious food without exhausting the Earth’s re...

Frozen foods are items preserved at low temperatures to extend shelf life and maintain freshness. Common examples include fruits, vegetables, ready meals, meats, seafood, and bakery items. Freezing slows down decomposition by turning water into ice, thus preventing microbial growth . It’s an essential method used in modern food systems to reduce waste and offer convenience. Consumers can enjoy seasonal produce year-round, and busy households rely on frozen meals for quick preparation. From nutritional frozen berries to microwaveable dinners, this category caters to a wide range of tastes and dietary needs. Frozen foods offer convenience, longer shelf life, and minimal waste. Unlike fresh produce that can spoil quickly, frozen items are preserved at peak ripeness, retaining most nutrients. They’re pre-washed, cut, and ready to use, saving time in the kitchen. Families, students, and professionals rely on frozen meals for hassle-free dinners. Nutritionally, many frozen vegetables are...

Food waste is one of the most pressing challenges in the global food system. Each year, about one-third of all food produced—approximately  billion tons—is wasted, according to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). This waste occurs at every stage of the supply chain, from farms and factories to supermarkets and homes. The consequences are severe, affecting food security, economic resources, and the environment. While millions of people go hungry, perfectly edible food ends up in landfills, producing methane—a potent greenhouse gas. Reducing food waste isn’t just an environmental necessity; it’s also a moral and economic imperative. Governments, businesses, and individuals all have a role to play in addressing this issue. By increasing awareness and adopting smart practices, we can significantly reduce waste and make better use of the food we already produce. A more sustainable and efficient food system is within reach if we all take action. Food waste occurs for differen...

Eating smart is about making informed food choices that nourish your body and support overall well-being. Balanced nutrition includes the right mix of carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals to keep you energized and healthy. Carbohydrates provide the body with its main source of energy. Choosing whole grains, fruits, and vegetables over sugary snacks helps maintain steady energy levels and better digestion. Proteins are essential for growth and repair. Lean meats, dairy, legumes, and nuts offer quality protein that supports muscle health and immune function. Healthy fats like those found in avocados, nuts, and olive oil are vital for brain health and hormone balance. Avoid trans fats and limit saturated fats for a heart-healthy diet. Finally, staying hydrated and practicing portion control are key parts of smart eating. By making small, mindful changes, anyone can move toward a more balanced and nutritious lifestyle. Eating smart is about more than just avoiding junk...

  In today’s world of food safety and nutrition awareness, consumers and scientists alike are turning to innovative technologies to ensure what we eat is both healthy and accurately labeled. Among the most groundbreaking tools in food testing are paper-based microfluidic analytical devices —compact, affordable, and effective solutions that can detect essential nutrients like vitamin C and vitamin E right in your food . These tiny devices are changing how we monitor antioxidant levels in everything from juices to oils, making nutrition testing faster and more accessible than ever before. Microfluidic paper devices, also known as μPADs, function by guiding tiny amounts of liquid through paper channels using capillary action—no batteries, no pumps, just smart chemistry. Once a drop of food extract is applied, the paper interacts with the sample using embedded chemical reagents. In the case of vitamin C (ascorbic acid), these devices typically use a redox reaction that produces a col...

  Rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus) is not just a fragrant culinary herb—it's also a plant with powerful medicinal and antioxidant properties. In recent agricultural research, both animal- and plant-derived protein hydrolysates have emerged as sustainable biostimulants capable of enhancing the yield and quality of organically grown rosemary, especially in rainfed conditions. These hydrolysates, produced through enzymatic breakdown of proteins , act as natural fertilizers and growth enhancers by improving nutrient uptake, root development, and plant metabolism. Protein hydrolysates contain amino acids and peptides that stimulate physiological processes in plants. When applied to rosemary crops, they promote stronger growth and better stress resilience. Interestingly, animal-based hydrolysates often lead to more vigorous vegetative growth, while plant-derived versions tend to enhance the production of secondary metabolites like essential oils and polyphenols. This contrast suggests tha...

  When midweek cravings strike and your fridge looks bare, there’s one place savvy shoppers in Mexico turn to — Chedraui's Martimiércoles ! Every Tuesday and Wednesday, Chedraui rolls out unbeatable discounts on a wide range of fruits and vegetables, helping families eat fresh while staying on budget. These two days have become legendary for budget-conscious households who want quality produce without breaking the bank. From juicy mangoes to crispy lettuce, Martimiércoles is all about freshness. Shoppers can expect seasonal fruits like apples, papayas, bananas, and avocados at prices that often beat the local markets. Whether you’re prepping smoothies, salads, or just want a healthy snack, the produce on offer is top-quality and sourced responsibly. Chedraui also highlights local growers, bringing freshness from Mexican farms directly to your shopping cart. Beyond affordability, what makes Chedraui’s midweek deals so special is the wide variety. You’ll find traditional Mexican ...