2025

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listelement.badge.access-status Open Access ,
Prospects of Anthriscus, Chaerophyllum, and Myrrhoides Species Utilization and Biofortification with Selenium
(Tech Science Press, 2025-12-29) Golubkina, Nadezhda; Kharchenko, Viktor; Krainyuk, Ekaterina; Riff, Lubov; Lapchenko, Vladimir; Lapchenko, Helene; Moldovan, Anastasia; Plotnoikova, Uliana; Murariu, Otilia-Cristina; Caruso, Gianluca
Despite their remarkable content of biologically active compounds, highly valuable for human health, wild relatives of Umbelliferous plants show limited utilization. The aim of the present work was the evaluation of the antioxidant status of Anthriscus, Chaerophyllum, and Myrrhoides species gathered in different climatic zones (from Mediterranean to Arctic) and of their suitability to produce valuable functional food for optimizing the human Se status. Among the Crimean plants, A. sylvestris, C. bulbosis, and M. nososa showed the highest antioxidant status, while the lowest was recorded in A. cerefolium and A. caucalis, displaying a significant correlation between the antioxidant activity (AOA) and polyphenols (TP) (r = 0.93; p < 0.001). A positive correlation between the longitude and AOA, and TP was detected for A. sylvestris (r = 0.95 and r = 0.93, respectively; p < 0.001). The high adaptability and wide geographical distribution of the latter species, as well as its significant content in natural antioxidants, make it an interesting product for Se biofortification. Foliar supplementation of sodium selenate allowed to obtain a new functional food with high TP content (36.4 mg GAE g−1 d.w.), ascorbic acid (42 mg 100 g−1 f.w.), and AOA (72 mg GAE g−1 d.w. ). Moreover, Se level exceeded 3 mg kg−1 d.w., which suggests the plant suitability for the human Se status optimization, especially in Se-deficient Arctic zone, particularly referring to Nikel settlement with relatively low levels of Se in human hair (377 ± 13 μg kg−1), bread (58 ± 3 μg kg−1), and freshwater fish (359 ± 22 μg kg−1). The high antioxidant status of Myrrhoides nodosa indicates the need for detailed investigation of plant biochemistry and the identification of its utilization prospects.
listelement.badge.access-status Open Access ,
A Comprehensive Review of Improving the Durability Properties of Agricultural Harrow Discs by Atmospheric Plasma Spraying (APS)
(MDPI, 2025-05-25) Corneliu Munteanu; Melnic, Iurie; Istrate, Bogdan; Hardiman, Mark; Gaiginschi, Lidia; Lupu, Fabian Cezar; Arsenoaia, Vlad-Nicolae; Chicet, Daniela Lucia; Zirnescu, Constantin; Badiul, Vladimir
This paper presents a comprehensive analysis of recent advancements in the application of thermal spraying techniques to enhance the durability and wear resistance of agricultural machinery components, with a particular focus on disc harrow assemblies. Given the harsh conditions under which tillage tools operate—characterized by abrasive wear, impact stresses, and chemical exposure from various soil types—thermal sprayed coatings have emerged as a viable solution to extend the service life of these components. The study discusses various deposition methods, particularly Atmospheric Plasma Spraying (APS), and evaluates their effectiveness in creating high-performance surface layers that resist wear, corrosion, and mechanical degradation. The review also summarizes experimental and field test results for coatings based on materials such as NiCrBSi, WC-Co-Cr, TiO2, Al2O3, Cr2O3, and ceramic–metal composites, highlighting their significant improvements in hardness, friction reduction, and resistance to delamination and oxidation. The paper highlights research using thermal spraying techniques, especially APS for agricultural applications, with emphasis mostly on components intended for soil processing and requiring good resistance to abrasive wear.
listelement.badge.access-status Open Access ,
Analysis of Food Purchasing Behavior and Sustainable Consumption in the North-East Region of Romania: A PLS-SEM Approach
(MDPI, 2025-03-15) Ungureanu, Bianca-Antonela; Jităreanu, Andy Felix; Ungureanu, George; Costuleanu, Carmen-Luiza; Ignat, Gabriela; Prigoreanu, Ioan; Leonte, Elena
Food consumption plays a fundamental role in human life, shaping not only daily nutrition but also economic and social behaviors. Household expenditures on food remain among the highest, and the time allocated to food purchasing and preparation is significant. Beyond biological necessity, food represents a cultural and social phenomenon, influencing consumer habits, market trends, and lifestyle choices. This study explores the key factors influencing purchasing decisions in the agro-food sector in the North-East Region of Romania, focusing on socio-cultural influences, product attributes, brand trust, tradition, and lifestyle. The research employs a quantitative approach, utilizing a structured questionnaire to collect data from 337 residents through a convenience sampling strategy. The collected data were analyzed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) via SmartPLS 4.0 to examine the interrelationships between subjective norms, product attributes, price, consumer trust, and purchasing decisions. The findings indicate that social norms, price, product attributes, brand trust, customer satisfaction, and lifestyle have a significant and positive impact on consumer purchasing decisions. By understanding the key drivers behind sustainable food choices, businesses can optimize product offerings and enhance consumer engagement, while policymakers can design initiatives that promote sustainable consumption at both regional and national levels.
listelement.badge.access-status Open Access ,
Effect of Biostimulant Formulation on Yield, Quality, and Nitrate Accumulation in Diplotaxis tenuifolia Cultivars Under Different Weather Conditions
(MDPI, 2025-08-04) Tallarita, Alessio Vincenzo; Simister, Rachael; Vecchietti, Lorenzo; Cozzolino, Eugenio; Stoleru, Vasile; Murariu, Otilia-Cristina; Maiello, Roberto; Cozzolino, Giuseppe; De Pascale, Stefania; Caruso, Gianluca
Perennial wall rocket (Diplotaxis tenuifolia L.—DC.) exhibits genotype-dependent responses to biostimulant applications, which have not yet been deeply investigated. A two-year greenhouse factorial experiment was carried out to assess the interactions between five cultivars (Mars, Naples, Tricia, Venice, and Olivetta), three biostimulant formulations (Cystoseira tamariscifolia L. extract; a commercial legume-derived protein hydrolysate, “Dynamic”; and Spirulina platensis extract) plus an untreated control, and three crop cycles (autumn, autumn–winter, and winter) on leaf yield and dry matter, organic acids, colorimetric parameters, hydrophilic and lipophilic antioxidant activities, nitrate concentration, nitrogen use efficiency, and mineral composition, using a split plot design with three replicates. Protein hydrolysate significantly enhanced yield and nitrogen use efficiency in Mars (+26%), Naples (+25.6%), Tricia (+25%), and Olivetta (+26%) compared to the control, while Spirulina platensis increased the mentioned parameters only in Venice (+36.2%). Nitrate accumulation was reduced by biostimulant application just in Venice, indicating genotype-dependent nitrogen metabolism responses. The findings of the present research demonstrate that the biostimulant efficacy in perennial wall rocket is mainly ruled by genotypic factors, and the appropriate combinations between the two mentioned experimental factors allow for optimization of leaf yield and quality while maintaining nitrate concentration under the regulation thresholds.
listelement.badge.access-status Open Access ,
An assessment of the influence of elevated hygiene hazards and quality management systems on the safety of laminated and unlaminated films employed in the food sector
(Springer, 2025-07-24) Marc, Romina Alina; Mureşan, Crina Carmen; Postolache, Alina Narcisa; Stoica, Florina; Crivei, Ioana-Cristina; Veleşcu, Ionuţ‑Dumitru; Raţu, Roxana-Nicoleta
Packaging can be a major source of food contamination. To ensure the safety of the final packaging for the food industry, it is imperative to undertake a thorough assessment of potential contaminants that may come into contact with the food. This examination begins with evaluating the materials used in the production process of the packaging. To manufacture these packages for the food sector, the production units must comply with the first operating programs, develop a HACCP plan that conforms to the revised codex standards (which will take effect in 2023), and adopt IFS PACsecure (version 2, planned for 2023). The objective of this study is to assess the risks to the safety of laminated and unlaminated films utilized in the food business, in accordance with existing regulatory regulations and IFS Food Packing safety standards, within a food industry packaging manufacturing facility.
listelement.badge.access-status Open Access ,
Explicit FEM Analysis of Soil–Disc Interaction for APS-Coated Notched Harrow Discs in Representative Agricultural Soils
(MDPI, 2025-12-30) Munteanu, Corneliu; Tufescu, Ana; Lupu, Fabian Cezar; Istrate, Bogdan; Benchea, Marcelin; Melnic, Iurie; Vișanu, Vitali; Arsenoaia, Vlad-Nicolae
The present work develops an explicit dynamic finite element model of soil–disc interaction for a notched harrow disc, aiming to quantify how APS coatings, soil type and disc–soil friction influence stresses in the disc and surrounding soil. The model reproduces a four-gang offset harrow operating at 7 km/h, 0.15 m working depth, with 18°disc angle and 15° tilt angle, and compares an uncoated steel disc with three APS-coated variants (P1 Metco 71NS, P2 Metco 136F, P3 Metco 45C-NS). Mechanical properties of the substrate and coatings are obtained from micro-indentation tests and introduced via a bilinear steel model and Johnson–Cook plasticity for the coatings, while disc–soil friction coefficients are calibrated from microscratch measurements. Soil behaviour is described using the AUTODYN Granular model for four representative agricultural soils, spanning sandy loam to saturated heavy clay. Results show that the uncoated disc develops von Mises stresses in the disc–soil contact region of ≈150–220 MPa, with intermediate-stiffness soils being most critical. APS coatings significantly alter both the level and distribution of stresses: P2, the stiffest ceramic, yields the highest stresses (≈421–448 MPa), P1 keeps stresses near the baseline while shielding the substrate through extended plastic zones, and P3 provides an intermediate, more uniformly distributed stress regime. Increasing disc–soil friction systematically amplifies von Mises stresses in the contact region, especially for P2. Overall, the calibrated explicit model captures the coupled influence of soil properties, coating stiffness and friction, and indicates that P1 is better suited for light-to-medium soils, P3 offers the most balanced response in medium-to-stiff soils, whereas P2 should be reserved for highly abrasive conditions and used with caution in cohesive soils.
listelement.badge.access-status Open Access ,
Fruit Quality and Production Parameters of Some Bitter Cherry Cultivars
(MDPI, 2025-01-14) Perju, Ionel; Mineață, Iulia; Sîrbu, Sorina; Golache, Iuliana Elena; Ungureanu, Ionuț Vasile; Jităreanu, Carmenica-Doina
Bitter cherries (Prunus avium var. sylvestris Ser.) represent a valuable raw material in the traditional Eastern European food industry with high potential within the horticultural chain and circular economy in the context of global food security due to exceptional nutritional properties. The present study was carried out in the period 2022–2024 and had as its main purpose the evaluation of the fruit quality and production indices of some bitter cherry cultivars suitable for the technological norms specific to industrial processing. Five bitter cherry cultivars (C1-Amaris, C2-Amar Maxut, C3-Amar Galata, C4-Silva, C5-Amara) were studied and analyzed in terms of fruit quality—morpho-physiological and organoleptic traits, and physical and chemical parameters—and general productivity—tree vigor, fruiting, and yield indices. The results highlighted a wide variability in the physical characteristics of bitter cherries, with an average weight between 3.3 and 4.9 g and the color of the skin varying from yellow with redness to dark red and blackish. Regarding the chemical attributes, antioxidant activity was relatively higher in fruits with a more intense bitter taste (89.3 μg Trolox·g−1 f.w for C2 and 89.1 μg Trolox·g−1 f.w. for C4 and C5), a fact also found in the content total of polyphenols (with a maximum value of 743.2 mg GAE·100 g−1 f.w at C2). Total soluble solids content had an average value of 20.51°Brix and titratable acidity of 0.85 g malic acid·100 g−1 f.w. The influence of local environmental factors on the productivity of bitter cherry cultivars was highlighted by significant statistical differences (p < 0.05) between cultivars. Thus, the resistance to frost in the full flowering phenophase had an average value of 86.69%, and regarding the resistance to fruit cracking, the highest percentage was found in C1, with 99.79% unaffected fruits. The productivity index per tree had an average value of 0.24 kg per cm2 trunk cross-section area. The physico-chemical properties of the fruits and the productivity of bitter cherry cultivars support the possibility of their efficient use in processing and the food industry, yielding high-quality products with nutraceutical value.
listelement.badge.access-status Open Access ,
Impact of the Biostimulants Algevit and Razormin on the Salinity Tolerance of Two Tomato Cultivars
(MDPI, 2025-01-29) Covașă, Mihaela; Slabu, Cristina; Marta, Alina-Elena; Ostaci, Ștefănica; Jităreanu, Carmenica-Doina
The global water crisis and the expansion of saline soils present significant challenges to agricultural sustainability. To address these issues, innovative solutions are needed to harness seawater and adapt plants to high-salinity conditions. Biostimulants represent an innovative strategy for mitigating the adverse effects of salinity on crops. This study examined the impact of two biostimulants, Algevit (based on marine algae) and Razormin (based on plant extracts), on the salinity tolerance of two Romanian tomato varieties, Buzau 4 and Buzau 22. The research was conducted under greenhouse conditions and assessed parameters such as plant height, flower and fruit counts, photosynthetic fluorescence, chlorophyll content, stomatal conductance, and proline concentration. The results showed that Algevit had a more significant impact compared to Razormin, enhancing plant growth, maintaining higher chlorophyll levels (in the Algevit variants, values ranged from 27.43 to 44.99 SPAD units, while in the Razormin variants, they ranged from 24.23 to 41.63 SPAD units), and improving photosynthetic efficiency. Both tomato varieties responded positively to the treatments, with Buzau 4 demonstrating greater salinity tolerance, especially when treated with Algevit. These findings suggest that integrating biostimulants into crop management can effectively reduce the negative effects of salinity and support sustainable agriculture in salt-affected regions. The study highlights the importance of applying biostimulants in managing soil salinity and freshwater scarcity in the context of climate change.
listelement.badge.access-status Open Access ,
The Impact of Fertilizer Gradient on High Nature Value Mountain Grassland
(MDPI, 2025-11-06) Samuil, Costel; Nazare, Adrian-Ilie; Sîrbu, Culiță; Grigoraș, Bogdan; Vîntu, Vasile
High nature value (HNV) grasslands in mountain areas are important ecosystems for biodiversity maintenance and offer a multitude of ecosystem services, but they are constantly threatened by abandonment or intensive fertilization. The aim of this study was to assess the effects of organic and mineral fertilization, under mulching and abandonment scenarios, on the floristic composition and diversity of Nardus stricta-dominated grasslands located in the North-Eastern Carpathians (Romania). The field experiment included 11 variants (control, low, moderate, and high inputs), analyzed as communities with cluster, ordinations, indicator species, and α indices. The results showed a clear separation of communities along the input gradient, from the oligotrophic grassland dominated by Nardus stricta (control variant) to mesotrophic/eutrophic communities dominated by Dactylis glomerata, Festuca pratensis, and Trifolium pratense at moderate and high inputs. Moderate fertilization (10–20 t ha−1 manure; N50P50K50–N100P100K100) maximized species richness (37–38 species), Shannon diversity (H′ = 2.5–2.6), and evenness (E = 0.70–0.75). High inputs reduced diversity and favored competitive grasses. Indicator species analysis highlighted a multitude of species that show the plant communities’ response to adaptive management. Moderate fertilization provides a viable trade-off between productivity and biodiversity, while abandonment or overfertilization accelerates biodiversity loss.
listelement.badge.access-status Open Access ,
Agricultural sustainability in the European Union: a review of concepts, policies and economic perspectives
(Frontiers Media, 2025-11-26)
Introduction: Sustainability in European Union (EU) agriculture has become a priority in both academic research and public policy, reflecting its central role in shaping resilient and balanced development models. The European agricultural landscape is characterized by significant agronomic diversity, including cereals, oilseeds, protein crops, industrial crops, vegetables, fruits, and fodder crops that support the livestock sector. These are integrated into multiple production systems: conservation agriculture, organic farming, integrated crop management, permanent pastures, and agroforestry, each contributing differently to environmental protection, economic efficiency, and social equity. Land use structures reveal a mosaic of arable land, permanent pastures, permanent crops, and mixed systems, reflecting the climatic and socio-economic diversity of Europe. In this context, the study examines how the economic, social, and environmental dimensions of sustainability are conceptualized and integrated into EU agricultural strategies.Methods: The study uses a multi-level methodological approach, integrating conceptual, legislative, empirical, and bibliometric analyses. First, key concepts of agricultural sustainability were examined through a systematic review of academic literature and EU policy documents. Second, a legislative analysis assessed the regulatory framework shaping sustainability, with a focus on the common agricultural policy and related instruments. Third, empirical evidence from recent studies on the economic and financial performance of EU farms was synthesized to identify the structural determinants of viability. Finally, a bibliometric assessment mapped publication dynamics and emerging research themes, allowing for the triangulation of results across methodological dimensions.Results: The findings indicate a significant intensification of academic and political interest in sustainable agriculture after 2016, driven mainly by climate change pressures, digital transformation, and structural changes in rural areas. Research trends highlight an increasing focus on eco-efficiency, digitalization, and performance-based sustainability indicators. Although the CAP remains the central policy instrument supporting the transition to sustainable agriculture, its effects are mixed: it provides income stability and supports environmental commitments, but also contributes to persistent disparities between countries and farm types. Empirical studies show that the economic viability of EU agriculture is strongly influenced by the financial management of farms, their capacity for innovation, and the degree to which policies are tailored to national and regional specificities.Discussion: The literature and policy evidence converge on the conclusion that the sustainability of EU agriculture cannot be based on one-size-fits-all solutions. Instead, it requires flexible, integrated, and context-sensitive approaches that are aligned with the heterogeneity of European agricultural systems. The social dimension, in particular the involvement of farmers, generational renewal, and the resilience of rural communities, is emerging as an essential pillar of the green transition, alongside technological innovation and digitalization. The study emphasizes that achieving long-term sustainability in EU agriculture depends on balancing productivity with environmental restoration and ensuring equitable socio-economic opportunities across all Member States.
listelement.badge.access-status Open Access ,
European Digital Innovation Hubs and the Agri-Food Sector: A Scoping Review of Current Knowledge and Sectoral Gaps
(MDPI, 2025-11-05) Toma-Constantin, Irina; Brumă, Ioan-Sebastian; Coca, Oana; Ștefan, Gavril
The European Digital Innovation Hub (EDIH) network represents the EU’s first program for accelerating digital technology adoption by SMEs and public organizations. However, academic literature on EDIHs remains fragmented with notable sectoral imbalances—particularly underrepresentation of the agri-food sector. This scoping review systematically examines existing EDIH publications to identify knowledge gaps and propose a research agenda. Searches were conducted in Web of Science, Google Scholar, and MDPI databases (Jan–May 2025), complemented by snowballing techniques, identifying 84 publications categorized by methodology, interaction levels, and sectoral relevance. Results reveal uneven distribution across four EDIH interaction levels, with ecosystem-level research dominating while internal dynamics and European network-level coordination remain understudied. Only 1.7% of EDIH beneficiaries receiving services by September 2024 originate from agriculture, confirming the sector’s marginal participation. Most contributions lack empirical validation, relying on theoretical frameworks or isolated case studies with limited geographic scope. As the first comprehensive review addressing EDIHs in agri-food contexts, this study provides timely insights at the end of the first EDIH implementation cycle and outlines priorities for future research to support equitable and evidence-based digital transformation.
listelement.badge.access-status Open Access ,
Comparative Analysis of Pesticide Residues in Hive Products from Rapeseed (Brassica napus subsp. napus) and Sunflower (Helianthus annuus) Crops Under Varying Agricultural Practices in Romania During the 2020–2021 Beekeeping Seasons
(MDPI, 2025-07-31) Bodescu, Dan; Fătu, Viorel; Șapcaliu, Agripina; Bădic, Elena-Luiza; Zaharia, Roxana; Tăpăloagă, Dana; Robu, Alexandru-Dragoș; Moraru, Radu-Adrian
Over the past years, increasing attention has been drawn to the adverse effects of agricultural pesticide use on pollinators, with honeybees being especially vulnerable. The aim of this study was to evaluate the levels of residues detectable and/or quantifiable of neonicotinoid pesticides and other pesticides in biological materials (bees, bee brood, etc.) and beehive products (honey, pollen, etc.) applied as seed dressings in rapeseed and sunflower plants in two growing seasons (2020–2021) in fields located in three agro-climatic regions in Romania. The study involved the comparative sampling of hive products (honey, pollen, adult bees, and brood) from experimental and control apiaries, followed by pesticide residue analysis in an accredited laboratory (Primoris) using validated chromatographic techniques (LC-MS/MS and GC-MS). Toxicological analyses of 96 samples, including bees, bee brood, honey, and pollen, confirmed the presence of residues in 46 samples, including 10 bee samples, 10 bee brood samples, 18 honey samples, and 8 pollen bread samples. The mean pesticide residue concentrations detected in hive products were 0.032 mg/kg in honey, 0.061 mg/kg in pollen, 0.167 mg/kg in bees, and 0.371 mg/kg in bee brood. The results highlight the exposure of honeybee colonies to multiple sources of pesticide residue contamination, under conditions where legal recommendations for the controlled application of agricultural treatments are not followed. The study provides relevant evidence for strengthening the risk assessment framework and underscores the need for adopting stricter monitoring and regulatory measures to ensure the protection of honeybee colony health.
listelement.badge.access-status Open Access ,
Influence of Sea Buckthorn Fruit Part on Physical, Quality and Bioactive Properties of White Chocolate Under the Circular Economic Framework
(MDPI, 2025-10-02) Murariu, Otilia-Cristina; Lipșa, Florin-Daniel; Ulea, Eugen; Florin Murariu; Ciobanu, Marius-Mihai; Frunză, Gabriela; Cârlescu, Petru-Marian; Stoica, Florina; Diaconu, Nicoleta; Caruso, Gianluca
The addition of sea buckthorn(Hippophae rhamnoides L.) fruits as well as their extracted juice or, even more interestingly, related by-products into chocolate results in manufacturing an innovative functional food rich in bioactive substances. Thirteen treatments derived from the factorial combination of three types of H. rhamnoides materials (total fruit powder; fruit by-product powder; and fruit juice) and four concentrations (10%, 15%, 20% and 25%), plus an untreated control, were compared in terms of texture, quality, colour, antioxidant, mineral and sensorial properties of white chocolate. The untreated control showed the highest values of most of the texture parameters, as well as of pH, dry matter, soluble solids and colour component ‘L’. The colour component ‘b’ was best influenced by the 10% by-product addition to chocolate, whereas mineral substances, ash and colour component ‘a’ augmented with the increasing concentration of added H. rhamnoides materials. Compared to the untreated control, protein and fat contents in chocolate decreased with the rising added concentration of sea buckthorn fruit juice but showed the opposite trend under the integration of the whole fruit and its by-products. The antioxidant compounds and activity increased from the untreated chocolate to the highest concentration of added sea buckthorn materials. The juice addition to the chocolate best affected vitamin C, total carotenoids, β-carotene and lycopene, whereas the whole fruit integration led to the top levels of flavonoids, polyphenols and antioxidant activity. Potassium and zinc contents decreased from the untreated control to the highest H. rhamnoides material addition, whereas opposite trends were shown by calcium, magnesium, sodium and phosphorus. The integration of H. rhamnoides fruit materials into chocolate presents a valuable strategy to produce innovative health beneficial functional food.
listelement.badge.access-status Open Access ,
Value-Added Carp Roe Salad Supplemented with Orange Carrot Pomace Powder
(MDPI, 2025-10-23) Rațu, Roxana-Nicoleta; Oncică, Genica-Florina; Stoica, Florina; Constantin, Oana-Emilia; Stănciuc, Nicoleta; Aprodu, Iuliana; Andronoiu, Doina-Georgeta; Banožic, Marija; Cujic Nikolic, Nada; Râpeanu, Gabriela
Carrot pomace is the solid residue left after juice extraction from carrots. Carrot pomace, typically seen as waste, is gaining recognition for its sustainability and potential to mitigate food waste while offering essential nutrients (phenolics, carotenoids, and β-carotene), which are recognized for their nutraceutical effects and health benefits. A study was conducted to develop a process for creating an innovative product, specifically a carp roe salad with added value, by incorporating carrot pomace. The innovative aspect is represented by using different proportions of carrot powder, 6% and 12%, when creating new varieties of roe salad. The study assesses the impact of carrot pomace powder on the salad’s antioxidant content, physicochemical properties, color, texture, rheological characteristics, and sensory qualities. The value-added products thus obtained are differentiated by superior phytochemical and nutritional characteristics, especially levels of carotenoids (84.01 ± 3.39–111.01 ± 1.68 mg/100 g DW), and the antioxidant activity (550.66 ± 9.25–588.32 ± 9.41 μM TE/g DW) of the developed salad. The obtained products displayed an improved color and texture profile. The sensory evaluation reveals that the carp roe salad with 12% carrot powder was favorably received by consumers, who valued the nuanced changes in flavor and the improved coloration of the product. Rich in antioxidants, fibers, and natural colorants, carrot pomace enhances the product’s value by increasing antioxidant activity and positively influencing sensory properties such as color and aroma. This research highlights the potential of using food by-products to create innovative, value-added products with improved health benefits.
listelement.badge.access-status Open Access ,
Development and Characterization of Meat-Based Pasta Enriched with Apple and Sugar Beet Fibers
(MDPI, 2025-11-09) Manoliu, Diana-Remina; Ciobotaru, Mihai-Cătălin; Ciobanu, Marius-Mihai; Boișteanu, Paul-Corneliu
The global trend toward sustainable and health-promoting foods has encouraged the reformulation of meat products that strategically incorporate high-quality animal proteins and functional compounds derived from plants. This study focuses on a complex food concept: meat-based pasta formulated from pork, semolina, and dietary fibers (apple and sugar beet). The quality attributes and the effects of different formulations were evaluated in comparison with a control sample. The findings show that the addition of dietary fibers significantly impacted the chemical composition, lowered the pH and increased water activity. The incorporation of the apple and sugar beet fibers increased the total dietary fiber content from 2.94% (control) to 9.59% and 11.15%, respectively, at the highest level of inclusion. Moreover, texture profile analysis of the raw samples revealed an enhancement in hardness (from 8.01 N in the control to maximum values of 21.23 N and 26.37 N), gumminess (from 3.28 N to 10.43 N and 12.36 N), and slight improvements in cohesiveness (from 0.41 to maximum values of 0.49 and 0.51) with the addition of apple and sugar beet fibers, respectively. The color parameters (L*, a*, b*) varied depending on the fiber source, with beet fiber imparting higher lightness and redness, while apple fiber contributed to darker tones. An initial consumer acceptability test revealed a positive perception of the innovative product, particularly for formulations with low and medium percentages of fiber addition. Overall, the results demonstrate that meat-based pasta can be successfully formulated with dietary fibers, providing an innovative and feasible alternative that meets current consumer expectations for novel, healthy, and sustainable foods.
listelement.badge.access-status Open Access ,
PVA-Cellulose Fibers Composites Impregnated with Antimicrobial Particles: The Solvent Effect
(MDPI, 2025-09-10) Grigoraș, Anca Giorgiana; Popescu, Irina; Grădinaru, Luiza Madalina; Mihalache, Gabriela; Lipșa, Florin-Daniel; Nica, Simona-Luminița; Grigoraș, Vasile Cristian
Nowadays, utilizing biodegradable and bio-inspired substances and combining them in innovative ways is a prerequisite for obtaining new and useful materials. In this paper, we designed and characterized eco-friendly materials as alternatives for packaging and medical applications. Thus, cellulose fibers of medical gauze or filter paper were coated with a mixed solution containing poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA), plant-based synthesized silver particles (AgPs), and magnetite (MG). The composites and their components were studied using UV-Vis, FTIR, and Energy-Dispersive X-ray (EDX) spectroscopy, Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) to evidence the presence, size, surface charge, morphology, and chemical composition of particles in the composites, as well as particle interactions. Their proven hydrophobic and antibacterial character could recommend them for the design of antifouling medical coatings and food packaging.
listelement.badge.access-status Open Access ,
Nutrient enhanced yogurt dressing using microencapsulated anthocyanins from red onion by-products for functional food applications
(Nature Research, 2025-10-31) Stoica, Florina; Rațu, Roxana-Nicoleta; Andronoiu, Doina-Georgeta; Aprodu, Iuliana; Stanciuc, Nicoleta; Râpeanu, Gabriela; Jităreanu, Gerard
Red onion skins, typically discarded as waste, are a rich source of anthocyanins—bioactive compounds with antioxidant properties but low stability. This study developed a yogurt dressing enriched with microencapsulated red onion (Allium cepa L.) skin extract to enhance anthocyanin stability and bioavailability. Microencapsulation using biopolymer blends improved protection, with powder G1 (higher in polysaccharides than G2) showing greater encapsulation efficiency (87.18 ± 0.92%) and storage stability. In vitro results confirmed that increased carbohydrate concentration offers better anthocyanin protection. The resulting stable powder was incorporated into yogurt dressing at 1% and 3% concentrations. These formulations were evaluated for physicochemical properties, antioxidant activity, and sensory quality. The addition of the microencapsulated extract increased antioxidant activity (15.64–23.05 µmol TE/g dw) and protein content (7.74–7.82 g/100 g), while also acting as a natural colorant. Higher powder concentrations improved texture and rheological properties, contributing to better structural integrity and compaction with higher powder concentrations. Sensory evaluation indicated favorable consumer acceptance. This study demonstrates that microencapsulation effectively preserves anthocyanin bioactivity and enhances the functional and visual properties of yogurt dressing. The approach offers a sustainable solution for utilizing red onion skin by-products in functional food development.
listelement.badge.access-status Open Access ,
Occurrence of Pestalotiopsis sp. on Ornamental Plants Camellia japonica L. in Romanian Public Gardens
(MDPI, 2025-01-15) Florea, Andreea-Mihaela; Gafencu, Andrei-Mihai; Lipșa, Florin-Daniel; Gabur, Iulian; Ulea, Eugen
Camellias are evergreen shrubs native to the eastern and southern regions of Asia. In Romania, camellias are popular ornamental plants grown in pots. Pestalotiopsis species have a worldwide distribution and are pathogenic to a wide range of hosts. They also represent an important group of endophytes capable of producing a variety of bioactive secondary metabolites. This paper reports the occurrence of grey blight and twig or branch dieback caused by Pestalotiopsis sp. on Camellia japonica L. grown in pots and used in the landscaping of a public garden located in Iasi city, Romania (GPS coordinates: 47°09′24.0″ N 27°35′15.6″ E). Pestalotiopsis species were identified based on morphological characteristics and Sanger sequencing. Genomic analysis of the fungal isolate coded P_CJ_24, obtained from living plants, was based on ribosomal internal transcribed spacer region amplification using the LSU primers. This first report of Pestalotiopsis species infection of ornamental plants in Romania suggests that new plant pathogens can be introduced in new environmental conditions through plant pods and their incidence increases with the widespread of plant material among gardens.
listelement.badge.access-status Open Access ,
Fruit Characteristics of In Situ Collected Sweet Cherry (Prunus avium L.) Genotypes
(MDPI, 2025-03-20) Sîrbu, Sorina; Oprică, Lăcrămioara; Popovici, Lucia-Florina; Sîrbu, Culiță; Mineață, Iulia; Ungureanu, Ionuț-Vasile; Golache, Iuliana-Elena
Native genotypes of fruit species are an important source of phenotypic variability for breeding and provide valuable material for the creation of new cultivars. Therefore, the present study was conducted to characterize and decipher the phenotypic variability of 39 native cherry genotypes (Prunus avium L.) with some bitter taste from spontaneous or cultivated flora from the Northeast European region, in Romania. The research was conducted during 2018–2022 and aimed to analyze the biochemical composition and physical characteristics of the fruits in order to identify the most useful traits for dissemination. All genotypes presented small fruits but with exceptional nutraceutical properties. The highest fruit weight was observed in G10 and G11 (3.2 g). The highest total soluble solids was found in G19 and G25 (28.2°Brix and 26.0°Brix, respectively), and in terms of antioxidant capacity, the highest level was observed in G32 and G33 (98.22% and 96.71%, respectively). In the cluster analysis, wild cherry accessions were clustered into five groups of related genotypes, indicating that they were useful for evaluating the characterization of cherry germplasm due to the superior fruit weight and phenolic compounds content. The genotypes studied represent valuable phenotypic resources for enriching the cherry gene pool and improving important horticultural traits for increasing production and thus nutrition.
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Economic and Energy Assessment of Emissions from European Agriculture: A Comparative Analysis of Regional Sustainability and Resilience
(MDPI, 2025-03-14) Șargu, Lilia; Ignat, Gabriela; Timuș, Angela; Prigoreanu, Ioan; Șargu, Nicu
This study analyzes the economic and energy dimensions of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from agriculture at the European level, making a regional comparison for the period 2000–2022. The research assesses the sustainability and resilience of agricultural systems through regional comparisons, analyzing emissions at the farm and agricultural land level using indicators such as emissions per capita, emissions relative to economic value and emissions per hectare of agricultural land, providing insights into the disparities between Eastern, Northern, Southern and Western European regions. The results reveal significant variations in emissions intensity and sustainability practices between regions, with Northern Europe showing the highest emissions per unit due to intensive agriculture, Southern and Eastern Europe showing lower emissions influenced by climatic conditions and economic transitions, and Western Europe showing a balance between agricultural intensification and sustainability due to early adoption of advanced technologies. The study underlines the importance of adapting regional strategies to increase sustainability and energy resilience in agriculture, providing valuable insights for integrating renewable energy sources, optimizing resource use and implementing targeted policies to reduce emissions.

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