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- Aquaponics as a Novel and Alternative Food Production System: Integrating Health and Environmental Sustainability PerspectivesPublication . Assunção, Ricardo; Motta, Carla; Santos, Mariana; Batista, Rita; Albuquerque, Tânia; Bento, AlexandraAim: In an era marked by climate change, environmental resource depletion, and growing global population, the need for sustainable and resilient food systems has become increasingly urgent. Conventional food production systems contribute significantly to environmental degradation and inefficient resource use. In response, key international strategies emphasize the development of innovative solutions that foster circular economies and ensure access to nutritious and sustainable diets. Aquaponics, a closed-loop system that combines aquaculture and hydroponics, has emerged as a promising alternative, known for its efficient resource use and potential to produce nutrient-dense foods. This study aims to explore and critically assess the health and environmental sustainability impacts of aquaponically produced foods compared to conventional food systems. Method: A structured literature review and critical evaluation of peer-reviewed studies were conducted to identify key health and environmental sustainability indicators associated with aquaponic food production. Health-related factors included the presence of nutrients and potential contaminants (chemical and microbiological), while environmental assessment focused on Life Cycle indicators such as global warming potential, eutrophication, water footprint, land use, acidification, and ecotoxicological impact. Studies were selected based on comparability to conventional food production systems. Results: The obtained results indicated that aquaponic systems can produce foods with comparable or enhanced nutritional profiles relative to conventional systems. On the environmental side, aquaponics demonstrated reduced water use, land requirements, and nutrient discharge, though energy use and system complexity vary depending on design and operational parameters. Life Cycle indicators highlighted significant reductions in eutrophication and land use impacts, particularly when fish and plants are optimally integrated. Conclusion: Aquaponics presents a viable and innovative approach to future food production, offering measurable health and environmental benefits compared to traditional systems. However, broader adoption will require further research to provide evidence-based integration into food policy frameworks. These findings support the potential of aquaponics as a sustainable alternative aligned with the food system transformation goals.
- Biodegradable whey protein films with cardoon extract as natural alternatives to natamycin in cheese preservationPublication . Barbosa, Cássia H.; Andrade, Mariana A.; Vilarinho, Fernanda; Sanches Silva, Ana; Fernando, Ana LuísaNowadays, consumers demand more natural foods with fewer synthetic additives, which drives research into biodegradable active packaging enriched with plant extracts, essential oils, or agro-industrial by-products rich in bioactive compounds. Cardoon (Cynara cardunculus L.) is a multipurpose crop whose flower is traditionally used in cheesemaking, while its leaves, a major by-product, are rich in antimicrobial and antioxidant compounds. Whey, another by-product of the cheese industry, can be used to produce biodegradable films and coatings, whose functionality can be enhanced by incorporating natural extracts. In cheesemaking, natamycin is widely applied to prevent fungal growth, but concerns over its excessive use highlight the need for safer, natural alternatives. This study aimed to evaluate the potential of whey protein-based films incorporated with cardoon leaf extract (0.5, 1.0, and 2.0 % w/v) to extend the shelf life of cheese in order to understand if it can be a substitute to natamycin. Cheeses were wrapped in the active films and stored at 5 ± 2 °C for 30 days. Samples were analysed for microbial growth, physicochemical parameters (moisture, pH, titratable acidity), and lipid oxidation. Results indicate that active films, particularly the whey protein film with 2.0 % cardoon extract, were effective in delaying microbial development in both rind and interior, presenting the lowest counts of total viable microorganisms (6.77 ± 0.52 Log CFU/g), moulds and yeasts (5.38 ± 0.12 Log CFU/g), and Enterobacteriaceae (4.26 ± 0.10 Log CFU/g) compared to control samples (untreated and without extract). The films also helped retain rind moisture and limited titratable acidity increases, indicating delayed microbial metabolism. Lipid oxidation remained at low levels, with films containing 2.0 % cardoon extract showing the strongest antioxidant effect. Overall, the incorporation of cardoon-based extracts into whey protein films demonstrated antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, contributing to improved cheese preservation during refrigerated storage. This sustainable approach reduces reliance on synthetic preservatives while valorising agro-industrial by-products.
- Bioremediation of Bacteria, Histamine and Animal DNA by Black Soldier Fly Larvae for Safe Food Waste ValorisationPublication . Oliveira, Joana; Ligeiro, Carolina; Carvalho, Carina; Souza, Clarice; Grilo, Miguel L.; Fantatto, Rafaela; Trindade, Alexandre; Murta, Daniel; Assunção, RicardoBy 2050, the global population is expected to reach 9.8 billion, increasing pressure on agri-food systems and worsening food waste. In the European Union (EU), around 59 million tonnes of food are wasted annually, enough to feed 1.26 hungry billion people per year. This waste has major public health impacts. Tackling it through safe, sustainable strategies is, therefore, essential. Black soldier fly larvae (BSFL; Hermetia illucens) offer a promising solution by converting food waste into high-value products like protein, fat, and organic fertiliser. However, EU legislation currently prohibits using food waste as insect feed due to possible contamination with prions, and other foodborne hazards such as bacteria and histamine. This study evaluates the food safety potential of BSFL by assessing their ability to reduce pathogenic bacteria and histamine, and to determine whether they bioaccumulate animal DNA (pork, beef, chicken). To test this, 2 tonnes of heterogeneous food waste were transformed into BSFL substrate and used in a bioconversion assay. Larvae in the test group showed improved performance, with higher bioconversion and growth rates and a lower feed conversion ratio compared to the control group. Analyses were conducted on food waste substrate, larvae, BSFL meal, and frass, including controls. Bacterial enumeration followed ISO protocols; histamine was quantified using an ELISA kit; DNA was extracted and then analysed via PCR and agarose gel electrophoresis.BSFL significantly reduced Salmonella spp. and Vibrio spp. in the test group (p = 0.002), and Bacillus cereus and Vibrio spp. in the control (p = 0.015). Histamine levels decreased significantly (p = 0.029). No animal DNA was detected in larvae (p = 0.029), though traces persisted in frass, indicating excretion rather than bioaccumulation. These findings support the safe use of BSFL in food waste valorisation and their integration into circular, One Health food systems focused on safety and sustainability.
- Cardoon leaves as a nutrient food source: promoting sustainability and circular economyPublication . Barbosa, Cássia H.; Andrade, Mariana A.; Tomé, Sidney; Vilarinho, Fernanda; Fernando, Ana Luísa; Sanches Silva, AnaAgro-industrial by-products are a substantial source of bioactive compounds and nutrients. The valorisation of these by-products has the potential to promote environmental sustainability and a circular economy. This practice can lead to a significant advancement in sustainable food production. Cardoon (Cynara cardunculus L.) is a multipurpose crop, and its flowers are used as a natural coagulant in the cheesemaking process in countries such as Portugal and Spain. Cardoon leaves are rich in bioactive compounds, yet they are still often discarded as waste. These leaves can be directly consumed or used as an active ingredient in food packaging, thereby promoting resource efficiency and waste reduction. This study aims to evaluate the nutritional composition of cardoon leaves and their potential as a food ingredient. Fresh cardoon leaves were analyzed according to their content of moisture, ash, total protein, total fat, total dietary fiber, and total sugars, as well as their fatty acid profile. The results, expressed based on the weight of the fresh product, show that cardoon leaves contain 2.4 g/100 g, indicating a rich mineral composition. The total fat content is low, at 0.2 g/100 g, with only 0.05 g/100 g of saturated fat. The protein content (4.2 g/100 g) is considered adequate, highlighting its potential as a plant-based protein source. Additionally, the high fiber content (7.9 g/100 g) supports digestive health, while the low sugar content (0.9 g/100 g) further enhances its nutritional profile. Although cardoon leaves are often considered waste products, they offer substantial nutritional value, boasting high levels of protein, fiber, and minerals, as well as low levels of sugar and fat. Their effective valorisation can create a more sustainable system of food production. By incorporating cardoon leaves into the human diet and food packaging, their full potential can be achieved while minimizing waste and promoting sustainable consumption.
- Comparing the nutritional composition and quality of plant-based foods. A cross-market studyPublication . Brazão, Roberto; Batista, Rita; Fernandes, Paulo; Lopes, Andreia; Dias, Maria da GraçaBackground: The growing demand for healthier, sustainable, and eco-friendly foods has led to the rise of plant-based processed foods (PBF). Although plant-based diets are regarded as healthful, the prevalence of these products in processed/ultra-processed forms rises concerns about their nutritional quality and potential adverse health impacts. This study assed the nutritional composition and quality of PBF in the Portuguese market (PTm), by comparing their nutritional profiles with established reference values (RVs), as well as with animal-origin foods (AOF) from PTm, and equivalent products from the UK market (UKm). The goal is to contribute to the promotion of healthier food choices, and provide insights to inform public health policies. Methods: Collection and comparison of the nutritional data of PBF and AOF in PTm and UKm. These were compared within and between markets, as well as with the RVs of Integrated Strategy for the Promotion of Healthy Eating (EIPAS) and of Directorate-General of Health Label Decoder (DGS-LD). Results: A total of 1170 PBF and 2452 AOF were analysed. 92.9% PBF in PTm, and 95.4% in UKm exceeded EIPAS RVs for sugars and salt when jointly evaluated. PBF often had higher energy, carbohydrates, and fibre but lower levels of fat, saturates and protein than AOF. According to the DGS-LD, 17.7%, 18.1%, and 29.0% of PBF in PTm, and 18.4%, 22.6%, and 26.7% in UKm had high levels of fat, saturates, and salt, respectively. Conclusions: Nutritional variability was observed across multiples parameters within and between food categories, product types and markets. While some PBF had lower fat and saturates than AOF, many showed higher energy, carbohydrates and salt, with the majority failing to meet EIPAS RVs. These findings reinforce the need of public health policies and consumer awareness initiatives regarding PBF, including measures on food (re)formulation, labeling, taxation of unhealthy products, potential marketing restrictions, and food literacy. Main messages: PBF have highly variable nutritional composition and quality. Some offer better profiles than AOF, but many are high in fat, sugars, and salt. Consumer awareness and regulatory actions are needed to promote healthier food choices.
- Contribution of Updating the Portuguese Food Composition Table to Healthy and Sustainable Food ChoicesPublication . Ravasco, Francisco; Dias, Maria da GraçaBackground and Objectives: Portuguese Food Composition Table (FCT) is an essential tool for healthcare professionals, researchers, food industry, and consumers, providing detailed information on the nutritional value of foods. In the current context, where the promotion of healthier and more sustainable diets is a priority, the continuous updating of the FCT is indispensable to accurately reflect changes in food production, product reformulation, and consumption patterns. This work aims to highlight the priorities of updating the Portuguese FCT in order to fill gaps in existing data. Method: The update of the FCT is a continuous and internationally harmonized process, using FoodCASE® software, which is used by nine countries and various European projects following EuroFIR requirements. Data are generated according to EuroFIR standards, ensuring quality and comparability. The inclusion of new foods is based on the National Food and Physical Activity Survey (2015-2016), with a special focus on plant-based foods, following dietary tendencies and identifying gaps. Laboratory analyses are conducted at the National Institute of Health Doutor Ricardo Jorge, using samples representative of national consumption. New foods are compiled using analytical data, extrapolation from analogous foods, international databases, and nutritional labelling. Results: Identification of new foods has been based on the National Food and Physical Activity Survey (2015-2016), with a focus on those consumed by individuals following a vegetarian diet. The new version of the FCT (v 7.0 - 2025) will include 1339 foods, classified in FoodEX2 up to the 3rd level and 50 components/nutrients, will include results for iodine and selenium and for the first time results for 6 carotenoids in vegetables and fruits. Introduces 9 new foods and 1417 changes, including descriptions, removal of obsolete items, addition of edible portions, and value updates, considering the reduction of salt, sugars, and saturated fats in line with public health guidelines and industry trends. FCT is freely available online, allows searches by keyword, food group, components, and alphabetical list, nutritional comparisons between foods within the same or different groups. Conclusions: Updating the FCT is a fundamental step to ensure the quality and reliability of the nutritional information available. Regular updates will help guide public policy, support nutrition research, and promote healthier, more sustainable food choices. Strengthening international cooperation and leveraging new technologies for data collection and analysis will be key to ensuring a robust and up-to-date food composition database.
- Cyanara cardunculus L. by-products as a sustainable source of bioactive compounds for industrial applicationsPublication . Barbosa, Cássia H.; Andrade, Mariana A.; Duarte, Maria Paula; Mateus, Ana Rita; Vilarinho, Fernanda; Fernando, Ana Luísa; Sanches Silva, AnaCynara cardunculus L. (cardoon) is a versatile perennial crop that thrives in challenging environments with high productivity. Its flowers are valued for their coagulating properties in cheesemaking, while its leaves, rich in bioactive compounds, are normally discarded. This study aimed to assess the antioxidant and antimicrobial potential of ethanolic and methanolic extracts from fresh and dried cultivated cardoon var. altilis DC leaves (FCC and DCC, respectively) to evaluate the impact of oven-drying with forced air circulation on the bioactive profile of the leaves. Dried cultivated cardoon leaf extracts exhibited stronger antioxidant activity than fresh leaf extracts, although fresh leaves contained a greater variety of polyphenolic compounds. Among the 16 identified compounds, chlorogenic acid, apigenin, and luteolin were the most abundant. The best antioxidant activity was observed in dried leaf extracts for both methanolic (EC50 = 0.8 mg/mL, AAC = 279.67) and ethanolic (EC50 = 2.1 mg/mL, AAC = 448.06) solvents. Regarding antimicrobial properties, Gram-positive bacteria showed higher sensitivity to both ethanolic and methanolic extracts compared to Gram-negative bacteria. The dried leaf ethanolic extract demonstrated stronger antimicrobial activity, with lower minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) values (125–2000 μg/mL) across most tested microorganisms. Dried leaf extracts exhibited better antimicrobial efficacy than fresh leaf extracts, although only mild inhibition was observed against Aspergillus fumigatus. In conclusion, the findings suggest that dried cardoon leaves are a valuable by-product as a source of bioactive compounds for various industrial applications, particularly in the food industry, as well as in cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries. In this sense, the use of active compounds obtained from cardoon leaves is aligned with the concepts of circular economy and sustainability. More specifically, it is aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 12, Ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns. This approach promotes both environmental and economic sustainability by transforming high-value by-products into innovative applications.
- Development of National recommendations for fish consumption in Portugal considering methylmercury exposurePublication . Fernandes, Paulo; Afonso, Cláudia; Bico, Paula; Bandarra, Narcisa; Borges, Marta; Carmona, Paulo; Carvalho, Catarina; Correia, Daniela; Gonçalves, Susana; Lopes, Carla; Lourenço, Helena; Monteiro, Sarogini; Nabais, Pedro; Oliveira, Luísa; Santiago, Susana; Severo, M.; Torres, Duarte; Dias, Maria da GraçaIntroduction: Fish is an important part of the Portuguese diet and a major source of long-chain omega-3 fatty acids. However, it also represents the main dietary source of methylmercury (MeHg), a neurotoxic compound especially harmful during critical stages of development such as pregnancy and early childhood. In response to European Commission Recommendation EU 2022/1342, Portugal undertook a national initiative to assess MeHg exposure and derive population-based consumption guidelines. Methodology: A multidisciplinary working group comprising six public institutions and coordinated by the Directorate-General for Food and Veterinary (DGAV) was established in 2018. The team performed a quantitative risk–benefit assessment (RBA) combining national data on MeHg, EPA, and DHA levels in commonly consumed fish species with food consumption data from the National Food and Physical Activity Survey (IAN-AF 2016). The assessment considered both the toxicological risks of MeHg and the nutritional benefits of omega-3 fatty acids. Results: The RBA showed that, for the general population, the benefits of fish consumption outweigh the risks of MeHg exposure. However, for vulnerable groups - pregnant and breastfeeding women and children under 10 years—the risks were more significant. As a result, differentiated dietary recommendations were developed. For the general population, a frequency of 4–7 servings per week of any fish species was advised. For vulnerable groups, 3–4 servings per week of fish species with medium to low MeHg levels were recommended, while species with high MeHg content (e.g., fresh tuna, swordfish, shark) should be avoided. Conclusions: The resulting recommendations were disseminated through a multilingual infographic, public presentation, and press release. Additional outreach actions targeting health professionals and school meal providers are planned to increase awareness among at-risk populations. Topic relevance: This work exemplifies a science-based approach to public health policy, combining food safety and nutrition to inform national dietary guidelines, with direct implications for risk communication and health promotion.
- Exposure to mycotoxins in the Portuguese adult populationPublication . Maris, Elias; Namorado, Sónia; Chen, A.; Pero-Gason, Roger; De Boevre, Marthe; De Saeger, Sarah; Silva, Maria João; Alvito, PaulaMycotoxins are toxic fungal metabolites commonly found in food, posing health risks such as immunosuppression, carcinogenicity, and endocrine disruption. Despite regulatory limits, chronic low-level exposure remains a concern. Understanding real-life exposure in populations is essential for effective risk assessment. This study aims to investigate mycotoxin exposure among young adults in Portugal, contributing to evidence-based public health interventions. This study leveraged data and biospecimens from the INSEF-ExpoQuim survey, a cross-sectional study nested within thPortuguese National Health Examination Survey (INSEF). Data was collected via REDCap-assisted telephone interviews, covering sociodemographic and exposure-relevant variables. A subset of 295 first morning urine samples was collected from adults aged 28–39 years between May 2019 and March 2020. Urine samples were analyzed by a newly optimized and validated LC-MS/MS method targeting 40 mycotoxins and/or their corresponding metabolites in urine. Urinary creatinine was measured using a validated colorimetric method to allow adjustment and standardization of mycotoxin concentrations, ensuring accurate exposure assessment and comparability. This methodological approach enabled a robust characterization of mycotoxin exposure in a representative Portuguese population cohort.The study included 58% females and 42% males. Most participants had medium to high education, and urbanization was nearly evenly split between towns/suburbs (36.9%) and rural areas (35.9%), with fewer living in cities (27.1%). The majority were employed, and sampling was primarily conducted in summer and autumn. The number of mycotoxin co-exposures in the Portuguese population ranged from 0 to 5, with two simultaneous exposures being most common (n = 160). Among the 40 mycotoxins analysed, deoxynivalenol and tenuazonic acid were most frequently detected, with frequency of detection of 85% and 96%, respectively. This study offers robust biomonitoring data on mycotoxin exposure in Portuguese young adults using a validated LC-MS/MS method. The high prevalence of deoxynivalenol and tenuazonic acid suggests low level dietary contamination. These findings support the need for continued monitoring and the integration ofhuman biomonitoring into national food safety strategies. Detailed sociodemographic analyses are planned to further clarify exposure patterns and enable targeted public health interventions.
- Functional foods enriched with melon by products: A sustainable strategy to improve amino acid profilePublication . Silva, M.A.; Costa, H.S.; Oliveira, M.B.P.P.; Félix, N.; Albuquerque, T.G.The global population is projected to grow rapidly, posing a significant challenge in ensuring access to safe, nutritious, and healthy food for everyone. Often discarded, fruit by-products are a valuable source of fiber, protein, and bioactive compounds. Incorporating these by-products into new or enhanced food products could play a crucial role in addressing hunger and malnutrition, which remain major public health challenges. This approach also promotes the sustainable and efficient use of natural resources. This study aimed to develop four innovative types of bread enriched with melon by-products: bread with blanched melon peel flour (BBMPF), bread with blanched melon seed flour (BBMSF), bread with roasted melon peel flour (BRMPF) and bread with roasted melon seed flour (BRMSF). Additionally, a control bread was developed. The protein content and amino acid profile of these breads were evaluated. In 2022, by-products from melon production and distribution companies were recovered. The melon peels were dehydrated, and the seeds were oven-dried. Both by-products were ground to produce melon peel flour and melon seed flour. These flours were then subjected to either blanching or roasting, and used to develop the innovative types of bread. The total protein content was evaluated by Kjeldhal method, and the amino acid profile was determined using UHPLC with diode array detection. Protein content ranged from 6.3 g/100 g (BBMPF) to 8.8 g/100 g (BRMSF). The most abundant essential amino acids found in the breads were leucine, phenylalanine and valine. Breads with melon seed flours have a higher increase in amino acid content than those with melon peel flours. BRMPF (1959 mg/100 g), BBMSF (2219 mg/100 g) and BRMSF (2341 mg/100 g) had higher essential amino acid levels than the control bread (1849 mg/100 g). These results suggest that using melon flour, especially seeds flour, may be an effective strategy to improve the amino acid profile in functional foods. Furthermore, these findings not only contribute to improving public health, but also promote the valorisation of melon by-products, reducing the economic, social, and environmental impacts of these currently discarded by-products, meeting the Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations.