In a study conducted by Zagreb University, a formulation of almond beverage enriched with a 25% aqueous plant extract containing bay leaf and fennel seed extracts was developed. The prepared almond beverage formulations were found to exhibit a 12-fold increase in antioxidant activity. This study aims to provide an alternative source to milk with its rich plant-based content.

As part of the #FoodFuture project, Unilever addresses the global crisis of food loss and waste, with one-third of globally produced food being lost or wasted. Unilever successfully reduces food waste by combining a real-time digitalization approach for setting specific targets, team training, and waste monitoring, emphasizing a culture and mindset change led by leadership, starting from its own operations. In an effort to accelerate the reduction of food waste, Unilever recommends governments and companies adopt transparent goals aligned with Sustainable Development Goal 12.3, develop an EU-compliant approach for measurement and reporting, and implement strategies to combat food waste from farm to table.

Researchers at Amazon are developing and testing state-of-the-art solutions to reduce or eliminate excessive packaging in their operations. One key hub for this effort involves testing the original packaging of a product at the Packaging Innovation Lab just outside Seattle, determining its eligibility for the ‘Frustration-Free Packaging’ program if it can be safely delivered to customers without an Amazon box or bag. Additionally, there’s a focus on collaborating with brands and partners to develop specialized packaging aimed at reducing waste and enhancing the overall customer experience.

Analyses conducted on organic compounds extracted from Ryugu asteroid and Murchison meteorite—known as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs)—have revealed that specific PAHs were formed not in hot regions close to stars, as previously thought, but in cold interstellar space. These findings offer novel prospects for examining extraterrestrial life and the chemistry of celestial objects in space.

High-value pectin has been obtained from pomegranate peel. It has been reported that polyphenol-enriched pectin can be efficiently obtained from pomegranate peel using an environmentally friendly method, presenting similar properties to commercial pectin, maintaining its quality, and having a high potential for use as a high-nutrient component or food supplement.

Scientists at North Carolina State University are pioneering the development of biopolymer films using shellfish and seaweed. These films exhibit exceptional strength, high visible light transparency, improved hydrostability, and high bactericidal activity. Researchers believe their R&D efforts represent a significant stride in biopolymer production.