therapeutic action: antimicrobial protection

Advances and Challenges in Smart Packaging Technologies for the Food Industry: Trends, Applications, and Sustainability Considerations

Smart food packaging is evolving from simple containers into intelligent systems that actively protect food and communicate its freshness to consumers. These packages use special materials, embedded sensors, and smart labels to monitor temperature, detect spoilage early, and provide real-time tracking information. While these technologies promise fresher food, longer shelf life, and reduced waste, they face challenges including cost, environmental impact, and privacy concerns that need to be addressed for widespread adoption.

Read More »

Applications of Natural Polymers in the Grapevine Industry: Plant Protection and Value-Added Utilization of Waste

Grapevines face significant challenges from drought, extreme temperatures, and fungal diseases. Natural polymers like chitosan, alginate, and cellulose can create protective coatings on grapes that help them retain water, resist pests, and stay healthy. Additionally, waste from grape processing can be recycled into valuable compounds and encapsulated in these polymers for use as plant strengtheners or in food and pharmaceuticals, creating a more sustainable wine industry.

Read More »

Sensory Characteristics of Probiotic-Containing Foods: A Multidisciplinary Perspective on Enhancing Acceptability and Consumer Adherence

This review explains why we don’t eat probiotic foods regularly even though we know they’re healthy: they often don’t taste, smell, or feel good. The authors show that improving the taste, texture, and appearance of probiotic foods can help people stick with them. They discuss how using different bacterial strains, better food formulas, and clever cooking techniques can make these foods more enjoyable while keeping their health benefits intact.

Read More »

Lactic acid bacteria: beyond fermentation to bio-protection against fungal spoilage and mycotoxins in food systems

Mold and fungal toxins spoil food and threaten human health, costing billions globally. While chemical preservatives work, many consumers want natural alternatives. Lactic acid bacteria (the same organisms used in yogurt production) produce natural antimicrobial compounds that can prevent mold growth and neutralize harmful toxins, offering a safer, more natural way to keep food fresh longer.

Read More »

Potential Protective Role of Amphibian Skin Bacteria Against Water Mold Saprolegnia spp

Frog populations are declining due to various diseases and environmental challenges. This research discovered that bacteria living on frog skin can protect against harmful water molds called Saprolegnia that attack amphibian eggs. Scientists found that different types of bacteria, particularly Bacillus species, can inhibit the growth of these water molds. The protective effect was strongest in nutrient-poor conditions similar to natural water environments, suggesting that the bacterial symbiosis with frogs may be an important defense mechanism.

Read More »

Potential Protective Role of Amphibian Skin Bacteria Against Water Mold Saprolegnia spp.

Researchers discovered that bacteria living on frog skin can protect against a dangerous water mold called Saprolegnia that kills amphibian eggs and young tadpoles. They tested 196 different bacteria from frogs in Portugal and found that certain bacteria, especially Bacillus species, could stop the mold from growing. Interestingly, these bacteria worked best in clean water environments with fewer nutrients, similar to natural pond conditions, suggesting nature has built-in protections for amphibians.

Read More »
Scroll to Top