In this study, soybean protein hydrolysates (SPHS) and soybean seed hull polysaccharides (SSPS) were used to investigate the effects of ultrasonic treatment on the structural characteristics and functional properties of...In this study, soybean protein hydrolysates (SPHS) and soybean seed hull polysaccharides (SSPS) were used to investigate the effects of ultrasonic treatment on the structural characteristics and functional properties of their complexes. The results revealed that after treatment at 300 W ultrasonic power, the particle size of the complex system decreased from 454 nm to 236 nm, the absolute zeta potential values of all complexes were above 32 mV, and the antioxidant activity increased from 90% to 96%. Moderate ultrasound improved dispersion, interfacial stability, and antioxidant capacity of the complexes through structural rearrangement and enhanced intermolecular interactions. These findings suggest that controlled ultrasonication offers foundational structural and functional insights into SPHS-SSPS complexes, supporting their potential as promising candidates for the further development of plant-based stabilizer systems.
Parvalbumin (PV), a Ca-binding 12 kDa protein unique to vertebrates, represents a major allergen in teleost fish. Considering that its IgE reactivity is primarily conformation-dependent, this study aimed to identify the...Parvalbumin (PV), a Ca-binding 12 kDa protein unique to vertebrates, represents a major allergen in teleost fish. Considering that its IgE reactivity is primarily conformation-dependent, this study aimed to identify the conformational IgE-binding epitopes of teleost fish PVs, using Pacific mackerel (Scomber japonicus) PV as a model. By examining the relative IgE reactivity of various single-residue substitution mutants to the wild-type PV, two epitope regions (epitope 1 with 12 residues and epitope 2 with 5 residues) were identified on the molecular surface. The degree of conservation of the identified epitope residues is consistent with the strong cross-reactivity among teleost fish PVs and the weak cross-reactivity between teleost fish PVs and PVs of cartilaginous fish, amphibians, reptiles and birds. In mammalian PVs, three epitope residues (A48, D79 and K107) are substituted with amino acids of different properties, which is presumably the molecular basis for no cross-reactivity with teleost fish PVs.
Converting invasive Caulerpa prolifera and Ulva intestinalis waste from Mar Menor into functional biopolymers is essential for the circular bioeconomy. This study establishes a systematic techno-functional mapping by pri...Converting invasive Caulerpa prolifera and Ulva intestinalis waste from Mar Menor into functional biopolymers is essential for the circular bioeconomy. This study establishes a systematic techno-functional mapping by prioritising green extraction methods (distilled water, 1% citric acid and microwave) alongside traditional 0.5 N HCl and 0.25 M NaCl. Analysis included yield, composition, and functional via FESEM assays. Yields exceeding reported literature were achieved using 1% citric acid: 49.0% for Ulva intestinalis and 37.0% for Caulerpa prolifera. Results confirmed that pH modulates morphology: acid extraction produced dense aggregates with superior water holding capacity (>89%), while alkaline methods favoured porous fibrillar networks with a higher water absorption index (3.39 g/g). A current limitation is the high pigment content in alkaline extracts, requiring further purification. Future research should focus on detailed structural elucidation and gelation kinetics to optimise packaging. These findings validate the efficient transformation of ecological waste into high-performance functional biopolymers for sustainable applications.
The processing of Mesona chinensis Benth generates substantial by-products (McBP), rich in dietary fiber, yet this resource remains largely underutilized across Asia. Despite extensive research on M. chinensis Benth, McB...The processing of Mesona chinensis Benth generates substantial by-products (McBP), rich in dietary fiber, yet this resource remains largely underutilized across Asia. Despite extensive research on M. chinensis Benth, McBP is underutilized, and systematic studies are lacking. Unlocking the high-value utilization of McBP therefore represents a pressing challenge and a core objective in plant-derived food processing. To this end, we summarize its dietary fiber content and monosaccharide composition, specifically evaluating extraction methods coupled with modification strategies to enhance soluble dietary fiber ratios and functional properties. Furthermore, the review explores practical applications of McBP in food products and identifies critical knowledge gaps regarding physicochemical properties and interactions within complex food systems. This work offers valuable insights for developing modification methods to transform McBP from an agricultural waste stream into a functional food ingredient, thereby promoting its food applications in the food industry and innovative product development.
The global rise in convenience food consumption raises health concerns. This study examined the effects of ready-to-eat beef (RTE-B) versus freshly cooked beef (B) on protein digestibility, oxidative stress, gut microbio...The global rise in convenience food consumption raises health concerns. This study examined the effects of ready-to-eat beef (RTE-B) versus freshly cooked beef (B) on protein digestibility, oxidative stress, gut microbiota, and colonic metabolome in Wistar rats (n = 14) over 10 weeks. RTE-B increased oxidative stress markers, including colon advanced protein oxidation products (1582 vs. 369 nmol/mg; p < 0.001). Gut microbiota composition shifted significantly, with a marked expansion of Akkermansia (18.5% vs. 0.5%; p < 0.01) and downward trends in several beneficial commensals. Metabolomics revealed elevated protein and lipid oxidation byproducts (e.g., 4-oxo-proline, DL-2,6-diaminopimelic acid) and reduced functional metabolites (e.g., spermidine, fumarate, and TMAO). These findings indicate that RTE-B promotes oxidative stress, impairs protein utilization, disrupts microbial balance, and alters colonic metabolic pathways, highlighting potential risks of oxidized proteins in processed meats for metabolic and intestinal health.
This study investigated the assembly mechanisms, interfacial properties, and structure-function relationships of soybean protein isolate (SPI) via the synergistic effects of pH regulation and heat treatment. Two molten g...This study investigated the assembly mechanisms, interfacial properties, and structure-function relationships of soybean protein isolate (SPI) via the synergistic effects of pH regulation and heat treatment. Two molten globular (SPG), three aggregated (SPA), and one fibrous (SPF) SPI conformations were successfully prepared. SPG had reduced random coil content; among them, SPG-12 showed the highest solubility (71.6%) and lowest surface hydrophobicity (5025), thus exhibiting optimal emulsifying and foaming properties. Heat induction and pH cycling enhanced SPI solubility and promoted the formation of nanoparticles smaller than 200 nm, while isoelectric point-induced aggregation inhibited ordered structures (e.g., SPA-2 with particle size over 500 nm). SPF formed through three steps: unfolding, then hydrolysis, and finally aggregation; during this process, disulfide bond content first dropped from 63.4% to 32.2% and then recovered to 64.1%, and SPF had improved foaming capacity but reduced stability. This work provides theoretical support for developing plant-based emulsifiers and foaming agents.
Gallic acid (GA), a naturally occurring polyphenol and antioxidant present in many foods, poses health risks when consumed in excess. Therefore, engineering new analytical devices for monitoring and quantifying GA is ess...Gallic acid (GA), a naturally occurring polyphenol and antioxidant present in many foods, poses health risks when consumed in excess. Therefore, engineering new analytical devices for monitoring and quantifying GA is essential. In this work, we have developed a carboxylic acid-functionalized carbon black@iron disulfide (FeS₂@f-CB) nanocomposite by integrating hydrothermally synthesized FeS₂ with ultrasonically prepared f-CB. The oxygen-containing groups on the f-CB promote uniform FeS₂ dispersion, prevent agglomeration and enhance interfacial contact. These synergistic effects markedly improve electrocatalytic activity, enabling reliable GA detection. The FeS₂@f-CB/GCE sensor achieved a detection limit of 0.58 μM, a linear range of 0.872348 μM, and a sensitivity of 0.19 μA μM cm. Real-sample analyses demonstrated satisfactory recovery values, while reproducibility and anti-interference assessments confirmed the robustness of the sensor. These findings establish FeS₂@f-CB nanocomposites as a promising platform for accurate and practical GA monitoring in complex matrices.
This study provides a comprehensive comparison of dried fruit and leaf of Ziziphus jujuba, integrating phytochemical profiling, antioxidant activity, and enzyme inhibition assays. Ultrasound-assisted extraction was optim...This study provides a comprehensive comparison of dried fruit and leaf of Ziziphus jujuba, integrating phytochemical profiling, antioxidant activity, and enzyme inhibition assays. Ultrasound-assisted extraction was optimized via Response Surface Methodology, revealing higher total phenolic, flavonoid, and triterpenoid contents in leaves, correlating with stronger DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP activities and enhanced α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibition. Leaf extracts were successfully nanoencapsulated using chitosan-TPP nanoparticles (≈182 nm, 87.6% encapsulation efficiency), improving phenolic stability, in vitro bioaccessibility, and controlled release, predominantly governed by diffusion as indicated by Higuchi modeling. Nanoencapsulation further enhanced enzyme inhibitory activity compared to free extracts. These findings highlight the potential of Ziziphus jujubа leaf as a high-value functional ingredient and demonstrate that nanoencapsulation is an effective strategy to preserve and deliver plant-derived bioactives. The integrative approach provides novel insights into extraction, formulation, and functional evaluation of jujube leaf phytochemicals.
Irradiation, as a non-thermal processing technology, can effectively improve the quality of dried foods. This study explored the effects of irradiation on flavonoids and volatile flavor compounds in Citri Grandis Exocarp...Irradiation, as a non-thermal processing technology, can effectively improve the quality of dried foods. This study explored the effects of irradiation on flavonoids and volatile flavor compounds in Citri Grandis Exocarpium. The color parameters of Citri Grandis Exocarpium had no significant changes after different doses of irradiation. 11 key flavonoid metabolites in Citri Grandis Exocarpium were obtained by flavonoid-targeted metabolomics, and 9 key flavor-active volatile compounds were analyzed by HS-GC-IMS with the analysis of the relative odor activity values. Moreover, the metabolic pathways of irradiation-induced flavonoid and flavor remodeling in Citri Grandis Exocarpium were finally elaborated, and the irradiation treatments were associated with the pathways of flavonoid biosynthesis, flavone and flavonol biosynthesis, phenylpropanoid biosynthesis, and fatty acid metabolism. The findings could provide a theoretical and research foundation for the application and development of irradiation technology in dried foods, as well as for the enhancement of flavonoids and flavor compounds.
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are hazardous carcinogens formed during food processing. This study compared the PAH-inhibitory effects of four flavonoids in a glucose simulation system and roasted lamb cake usin...Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are hazardous carcinogens formed during food processing. This study compared the PAH-inhibitory effects of four flavonoids in a glucose simulation system and roasted lamb cake using GC-MS/MS. Dose-response tests showed apigenin and luteolin dose-dependently inhibited PAHs in lamb cake, and 15 mg/L was selected for comparison. The inhibitory order reversed between systems, suggesting a strong matrix effect: baicalein > luteolin > apigenin > chrysin in glucose system, while apigenin > luteolin > baicalein ≈ chrysin in lamb cake system. DPPH results suggested that free radical scavenging was the main evidence-supported factor under the present glucose model conditions. In lamb cake system, apigenin showed both the strongest PAH inhibition and the highest predicted myoglobin-binding affinity, whereas the other flavonoids did not strictly follow the docking ranking. These findings suggest that predicted myoglobin binding may be a complementary factor associated with PAH inhibition in the real meat matrix.
This study evaluated the bioactivity and phytochemical profiles of Eutrema japonicum cultivated under two systems: land-grown wasabi leaves (LWL) and water-grown wasabi leaves (WWL), with the aim of assessing how cultiva...This study evaluated the bioactivity and phytochemical profiles of Eutrema japonicum cultivated under two systems: land-grown wasabi leaves (LWL) and water-grown wasabi leaves (WWL), with the aim of assessing how cultivation conditions influence antibacterial and anti-quorum sensing (QS) properties. Antibacterial activity against key bacterial pathogens and QS inhibition (QSI) in Chromobacterium violaceum were examined. LWL showed significantly stronger antibacterial and QS inhibitory activities than WWL, which correlated with higher levels of all quantified compounds. The isolated compounds were further evaluated using bioactivity assays. In silico absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity (ADMET) analysis indicated favorable pharmacokinetic properties and low toxicity, while molecular docking demonstrated strong interactions with bacterial proteins associated with pathogenicity. Overall, cultivation conditions appear to influence metabolite composition and bioactivity. The superior antibacterial and QSI effects of LWL extracts highlight their potential as natural anti-infective agents for food preservation and functional ingredient applications.
Near-infrared spectroscopy enables rapid quantitative prediction of plant constituents; however, extracting informative features from complex and overlapping spectral data remains a persistent challenge. To address this...Near-infrared spectroscopy enables rapid quantitative prediction of plant constituents; however, extracting informative features from complex and overlapping spectral data remains a persistent challenge. To address this issue, this study proposes a framework that integrates Ensemble Empirical Mode Decomposition (EEMD) with an Extra Trees-Gradient Boosting Feature Extraction (EGFE) method. A total of 90 turnip samples (70 for calibration, 20 for validation) were analyzed to predict polysaccharides and saponins contents. The spectral data were decomposed via EEMD into multiple intrinsic mode functions (IMFs) and a residual component. Feature importance was then evaluated using a composite scoring strategy, and the optimal subset was selected by sequential forward selection (SFS). The developed EEMD-EGFE-PLSR model achieved coefficients of determination (R) of 0.7734 for polysaccharides and 0.9027 for saponins. These results indicate that the proposed framework provides an effective approach for the quantitative determination of bioactive compounds in Xinjiang turnip.
We developed a liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry-based method for the simultaneous quantification of proteins from all 21 allergenic foods regulated by the Korea Ministry of Food and Drug Safety. First, a systemati...We developed a liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry-based method for the simultaneous quantification of proteins from all 21 allergenic foods regulated by the Korea Ministry of Food and Drug Safety. First, a systematic process was employed to discover, verify, and validate allergenic food protein marker peptides, resulting in 62 validated marker peptides. All marker peptides showed excellent sensitivity. At least one marker peptide for each allergenic food demonstrated limits of detection at sub-ppm levels, except pine nut (3-6 ppm). Second, a LC-MS multiple reaction monitoring method was optimized to simultaneously identify and quantify all marker peptides in a single LC-MS analysis. Third, application of our optimized method to representative commercial processed foods as a pilot-level screening suggested the potential occurrence of undeclared allergenic food contaminations. These findings underscore the need for broader and more accurate allergenic food analysis, and for stricter allergenic food-labeling policies to protect consumers with food allergies.
Oyster umami peptides were valued in food applications, yet critical gaps remain in identifying optimal enzyme species, key peptide, and elucidating T1R1/T1R3 interactions. This study evaluated oyster enzymolysates produ...Oyster umami peptides were valued in food applications, yet critical gaps remain in identifying optimal enzyme species, key peptide, and elucidating T1R1/T1R3 interactions. This study evaluated oyster enzymolysates produced by 8 enzymes, optimized conditions, and investigated umami peptides' mechanisms. Results showed the umami intensity of the enzymolysates was evaluated by electronic tongue with 0.025%-0.3% MSG as the standard control and sensory evaluation. The trypsin-hydrolyzed product exhibited the strongest umami, with a sensory score of 7.73 ± 0.96. The optimized enzymolysis conditions were determined as follows: enzyme dosage of 1%, solid-to-liquid ratio of 1:30, and hydrolysis time of 3 h. Peptidomics identified 4472 peptides, most being umami and mainly derived from Filamin-C, paramyosin, and myosin. Seven peptides (MPSKKKVELK, KEREIQIITK, SKKKVELK, TGVTTGDLKT, AQLRNDKHA, KKPDGTVDVD, EKKIDVK) via molecular docking, electronic tongue, and sensory evaluation showed strong umami. Molecular dynamics simulations confirmed stable peptide-T1R1/T1R3 binding, with AQLRNDKHA, KEREIQIITK, and KKPDGTVDVD showing superior stability. MM-PBSA analysis indicated that electrostatic interactions (mainly mediated by side chains) were the dominant binding force. This study provides direct technical support for the development of natural and highly effective oyster-derived umami enhancers by optimizing the trypsin hydrolysis protocol and identifying high-activity umami peptides. It also establishes a novel integrated workflow for high-throughput screening and elucidating the mechanisms of seafood-derived umami peptides, thereby enriching the diversity of oyster umami peptides and deepening the understanding of their receptor interaction mechanisms.
In enzyme-modified cheese (EMC), controlling the release of specific free fatty acids (FFAs) by lipases remains challenging. Eight plant extracts were screened, and Mentha haplocalyx and Cuminum cyminum showed pronounced...In enzyme-modified cheese (EMC), controlling the release of specific free fatty acids (FFAs) by lipases remains challenging. Eight plant extracts were screened, and Mentha haplocalyx and Cuminum cyminum showed pronounced regulatory effects on lipolysis. These extracts were further fractionated, purified, and identified. This study demonstrates that epicatechin and 7-hydroxycoumarin can selectively modulate lipase-mediated fatty acid release, promoting the accumulation of aroma-active medium-chain free fatty acids while suppressing long-chain fatty acid release during EMC production. The results revealed a concentration-dependent, bidirectional "pendulum effect," where changing additive levels shifted lipase selectivity and apparent activity, enabling tunable FFA profiles. Sensory evaluation confirmed the chemical data, identifying one desirable-aroma EMC and two low off-flavor EMCs. Integrated AlphaFold3 modelling, molecular dynamics, docking, machine-learning analyses, and kinetic experiments firstly provided molecular-level insights into the mechanisms underlying the promotion of medium-chain fatty acid release and the suppression of long-chain fatty acid liberation during EMC production.
Branched fatty acid esters of hydroxy fatty acids (FAHFAs) comprise a recently identified class of endogenous lipid molecules that are closely linked to diseases such as type 2 diabetes, obesity, and cancer. They exhibit...Branched fatty acid esters of hydroxy fatty acids (FAHFAs) comprise a recently identified class of endogenous lipid molecules that are closely linked to diseases such as type 2 diabetes, obesity, and cancer. They exhibit a range of biological activities, including metabolic regulation, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory effects. FAHFAs have attracted considerable scientific interest since their initial discovery. Advances in analytical technologies have enabled the identification of numerous FAHFA family members and isomers in various food sources. In parallel, their biological activities and physiological roles have been elucidated. This review comprehensively summarizes the current research progress on FAHFAs, covering their structural characteristics, endogenous synthesis and metabolism, detection and identification techniques, dietary occurrence, and physiological functions. It aims to establish a theoretical foundation and systematic research framework to promote further investigation into FAHFAs, clarify their mechanisms of action in health and disease, and offer insights into the development of targeted functional foods.
This study investigated the contamination, source tracing analysis and risk assessment of 22 polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in 58 samples of Ganoderma lucidum products. The range of ∑22PAHs in samples was 71.59...This study investigated the contamination, source tracing analysis and risk assessment of 22 polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in 58 samples of Ganoderma lucidum products. The range of ∑22PAHs in samples was 71.59 to 421.76 μg/kg, with ∑PAH4 ranging from 13.56 to 58.34 μg/kg and ∑16 US EPA PAHs 66.77 to 386.15 μg/kg. The composition of seven PAHs is mainly composed of 2 to 4 rings, with the detection rates of 100% and they always played an important role in the carcinogenicity and mutagenicity of the samples. Analysis of the source tracing characteristics revealed that PAHs in samples are mainly derived from petroleum, oil vehicle exhaust, coal combustion and biomass combustion. The cancer risk level of samples is relatively low, older adults have a higher lifetime risk of cancer than children, females have a higher risk than males, and rural areas have a higher risk than urban areas, but the overall risk can be ignored.
Composition and functionality of milk fat globule membrane (MFGM)-based ingredients being prepared at either laboratory or industrial scale vary with their processing history. Using confocal microscopy (with raw milk ref...Composition and functionality of milk fat globule membrane (MFGM)-based ingredients being prepared at either laboratory or industrial scale vary with their processing history. Using confocal microscopy (with raw milk reference) and label-free proteomics, this study systematically compared four bovine MFGM-related materials: whey-derived acid whey powder (AWP), cream-derived buttermilk powder (BMP), refined commercial whey-fat concentrate (WFC), and laboratory-prepared MFGM fraction (MFGM-lab). Microscopy revealed substantial processing-induced structural alterations. Proteomics identified 1128 proteins in MFGM-lab, the highest among all samples, with MFGM-associated proteins constituting 36% of its proteome, compared to 20% in WFC. A fundamental compositional dichotomy was uncovered: WFC was enriched in key extracellular vesicle (EV)-associated proteins (e.g., tetraspanins) and immunomodulatory proteins, whereas MFGM-lab contained a comprehensive profile of both canonical MFGM and intracellular proteins. These findings enable a targeted selection of MFGM ingredients - WFC for EV-oriented bioactivities or MFGM-lab for proteomic coverage - bridging fundamental research with product innovation.
The multi-scale structural evolution and fermentation characteristics of four types of lentil resistant starch (RS2, RS3, RS4, RS5) were examined during vitro human fecal fermentation. Structural analyses indicated a sig...The multi-scale structural evolution and fermentation characteristics of four types of lentil resistant starch (RS2, RS3, RS4, RS5) were examined during vitro human fecal fermentation. Structural analyses indicated a significant reduction in molecular weight for RS2, RS4, and RS5. Crystalline forms were maintained in RS2 (C-type), RS3 (B-type), and RS4 (A-type), whereas RS5 (V-type) underwent a polymorphic transition to an A-type crystalline pattern. Increases in double-helical order and relative crystallinity were observed in RS2 and RS4, indicating preferential microbial degradation of amorphous regions. Scanning electron and confocal laser microscopy revealed extensive structural deterioration, including pitting, surface erosion, and internal fragmentation in RS2, RS4, and RS5, whereas RS3 exhibited only minor surface alterations. Short-chain fatty acid production was highly dependent on specific multi-scale structural features, including crystalline polymorph, molecular weight, and double-helical order. RS2 generated the highest levels of acetate and propionate, whereas RS3 yielded the greatest quantities of butyrate and valerate. Although microbial diversity decreased across all RS groups, distinct taxonomic changes were detected. Specifically, RS2 and RS4 promoted the growth of Ruminococcus, RS3 enriched Roseburia, and RS5 markedly stimulated Bifidobacterium and Megamonas. These findings demonstrate that the specific structure of resistant starch governs its fermentability, SCFA profile, and impact on microbial composition, highlighting the potential for structurally tailored RS to modulate gut health.
This study developed epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG)-loaded alginate-starch liquid-core beads (LCBEx) as a novel approach to modulating starch digestion. The incorporation of EGCG noticeably altered the physicochemical p...This study developed epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG)-loaded alginate-starch liquid-core beads (LCBEx) as a novel approach to modulating starch digestion. The incorporation of EGCG noticeably altered the physicochemical properties of the beads, leading to a reduction in average diameter and porosity, and the emergence of a more dense mesh architecture. Mechanism studies revealed that the EGCG-enriched beads (LCBE) strongly quenched the innate fluorescence property of α-amylase and α-glucosidase via a mixed quenching mechanism (both dynamic and static). Circular dichroism spectroscopy further revealed EGCG-induced conformational adjustments in both enzymes, characterized by increased α-helix and random coil contents and decreased β-sheet structures. Molecular docking simulations confirmed the spontaneous binding of EGCG to the catalytic sites of the enzymes, mainly through van der Waals interactions and hydrogen bonding, with binding energies of -7.9 kcal/mol for α-amylase and -5.6 kcal/mol for α-glucosidase. Consequently, the in vitro digestibility of starch was remarkably altered. With 1% EGCG loading, the resistant starch content significantly increased from 43.00% to 61.88%, while the estimated glycemic index decreased from 67.99 to 57.58. Overall, these findings highlight the potential of polyphenol-functionalized hydrogel beads as an effective strategy for designing starch-based foods with controlled glycemic response.