INS 551: Sand in our food?
- A to Z, Food Safety, Health & Wellness, Resources
- September 12, 2022
Report A recent study in the journal Food and Waterborne Parasitology revealed that Blastocystis spp. contaminates edible plants worldwide. Researchers analyzed data to understand how this microorganism spreads through contaminated food and water worldwide. Key Findings: High Contamination in Fruits and Leafy Greens The study, which analyzed 27 studies across 15 countries, found that 9.4%
READ MOREAuthors: Sunitha Poulose, Athira D, Biya V. Jomon Introduction No one wants to take a spoonful of yoghurt only to find mould and have the moment ruined. Moisture-rich foods like yoghurt are more likely to get mould and yeast contamination. One such yeast, Robbauera albescens, from the Debaryomycetaceae family, is a growing concern. While harmless
READ MOREAuthors: Athira D, Biya V. Jomon & Sunitha Poulose Introduction Peanut Spicy Masala, known for its distinct flavour, is vulnerable to microbial contamination due to improper roasting, handling, and storage. The thin, porous peanut shell allows moisture, air, and fungal spores to easily infiltrate, creating conditions that promote microbial growth. Moisture, particularly from high humidity
READ MOREAuthors: Sunitha Poulose, Kochurani Abraham & Linda Joise George Introduction Roasted peanuts, a staple in Kerala’s culinary tradition, are highly prone to contamination by yeasts and moulds due to their direct contact with soil, which harbours a variety of microorganisms. Soil moisture and organic matter create favourable conditions for microbial growth. As peanuts mature, their
READ MOREAuthors: Sunitha Poulose, Athira D, Biya V. Jomon Introduction Unniyappam, a cherished traditional snack, is prepared using ingredients such as rice flour, jaggery, bananas, and coconut. However, its high moisture content makes it particularly susceptible to microbial contamination, especially from yeast and mould. Processing challenges, including improper fermentation, insufficient drying, and prolonged exposure to moisture,
READ MOREAuthors: Kochurani Abraham, Linda Joise George & Sunitha Poulose Introduction The mixture, a widely consumed Indian snack known for its vibrant colours and diverse flavours, is traditionally composed of gram flour noodles, peanuts, puffed rice, and spices. To enhance its visual appeal, many vendors incorporate artificial food dyes, including yellow, red, and green. However, the
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