Goat milk yogurt, enriched with antioxidant compounds from black rice bran (including oryzanol, flavonoids, tocopherols, anthocyanins, and proanthocyanins), has been developed. In line with this, Brawijaya University conducted the production of goat milk yogurt enriched with black rice bran. The observed high levels of antioxidants in this product suggest that it is poised to expand its place in the industry as a functional food in the future.

Red yeast rice has been used in the production of alcoholic beverages and various fermented foods in China and Korea since ancient times. This red rice also holds significant potential as a medicinal food. It is anticipated to have beneficial effects on lipid metabolism and circulatory systems, suggesting that it could be consumed as a functional food in the coming years.

In a study published in the PNAS journal, researchers from Linköping University have developed a soilless cultivation method, commonly known as hydroponics, utilizing a “soil” that conducts electricity. Named eSoil, this cultivation substrate is electrically conductive and suitable for soilless agriculture. According to the researchers at Linköping University, barley seedlings grown in the conductive “soil” exhibited a 50% increase in growth within 15 days when their roots were stimulated with electricity.

Bioethanol serves as an energy source derived from cellulose fermentation. Coconut fiber, an agricultural residue, contains high potential levels of cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin, making it a viable source of bioethanol. Studies conducted at the University of Indonesia have reported successful biotechnological production of bioethanol from coconut fiber at promising rates, indicating its potential contribution on a commercial scale.

Absolut Vodka is set to become the first global spirits brand commercially offering single-use paper-based bottles in the United Kingdom as part of its journey to create a completely bio-based bottle. Initiating a three-month trial, Absolut Vodka aims to achieve a significant milestone by introducing these single-use paper bottles, marking the first instance of such paper-based bottles being commercially available in-store by a global beverage company. These bottles, integral to the pursuit of creating a bio-based container and reducing carbon emissions, will be available at the British supermarket chain Tesco. This signifies a pivotal achievement following earlier testing by Absolut at festivals in the United Kingdom and Sweden. Simultaneously, this step represents a substantial move towards achieving carbon neutrality by 2030—a precondition of which involves reducing the packaging’s carbon footprint.