In this week's news: Mealworm protein extraction, Aldi sells 100% cage free eggs and US children see fewer unhealthy food and drink ads
Mealworm protein extraction shows anti-diabetic benefits
In a study conducted by Korea University in Seoul, the research examined mealworms, which were first recognised as a novel food by the European Union in 2015. As traditional livestock farming poses increasing environmental challenges, edible insects have emerged as a promising solution and alternative protein.
Rich in protein and with a small carbon footprint, mealworms are seen as a promising option for sustainable food production. Maximising nutritional value and industrial scalability were at the core of the research when comparing new methods. Read more.
Aldi succeeds in cage-free mission
Aldi has announced that it has hit its commitment to sell 100 percent cage-free eggs more than a year ahead of schedule.
Britain’s fourth-largest supermarket has been working with its suppliers to move to higher hen welfare in recent years, with all of its UK stores now only selling cage-free eggs. Read more.
The return of the blue-green menace that threatens so many
Lough Neagh, the largest freshwater lake in the British Isles, is facing an environmental crisis of unprecedented scale. Once a haven for wildlife and a crucial source of drinking water, the lake turned a murky green in the summer of 2023 due to a massive bloom of bacteria. As the lake’s condition worsens, urgent questions about its future and the responsibilities of those tasked with protecting it remain unanswered. Here, Professor Chris Elliott considers the impact on food safety and reflects on the testing that has taken place so far. Read more.
US children now see fewer unhealthy food and drink ads, but exposure remains high
For the University of Illinois Chicago study , published in JAMA Network Open, researchers compared trends in children watching food and beverage television commercials in the US between 2013 and 2022. The study authors found that a dramatic decline in food and drink advertisements during children’s shows did not fully eliminate children’s exposure to ads for products high in saturated fat, trans fat, total sugars, and sodium. Read more.
Episode 57: Tackling food insecurity
Leah Hockley is joined by Erika Thiem , Chief Supply Chain Officer at Feeding America , to discuss how the nationwide network of food banks, food pantries and local meal programmes is improving access to food for consumers across the US that are facing food insecurity in the US.