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- Evaluation of total mercury content in fish and seafood available in Portuguese marketPublication . Santiago, Susana; Nascimento, Ana Claúdia; Santos, MarianaIn Portugal, there is a tradition of high consumption of fish and seafood, higher than in the European Union (EU) countries, and above both EU and world averages. Although fish and seafood are important sources of high biological value proteins, omega 3 fatty acids and essential minerals, it can contain environmental contaminants, such as mercury compounds, which undergo bioaccumulation in the aquatic food chain. Long-lived predatory fish species, such as tuna or swordfish, are an important human exposure source. Methylmercury, the most toxic mercury form, mainly targets the central nervous system. The most susceptible population to the toxic effects of methylmercury are pregnant women’s and children and the prenatal period represents a period of greatest vulnerability regarding neurodevelopmental effects on the fetus. However, due to the fact that it is not possible to eliminate mercury from environment or fish, and that fish remains an important food in the Portuguese diet, recommendations for fish consumption for Portuguese population were prepared. The aim of this research was to determine mercury contamination in fish and seafood available in Portuguese markets. For this study, a total of 24 different species of fish and fishery and aquaculture products, representative of Portuguese consumption, were selected and acquired on the market during 2014 and 2015. Total mercury (THg) content was determined in the samples by thermal decomposition and amalgamation atomic absorption spectrophotometry (TDA/AAS), in compliance with ISO/IEC 17025. All the analyzed samples have revealed THg levels above the limit of quantification of the method (LoQ = 1.1 µg/kg), but within the legislated limit. The values ranged between 4.2 µg/Kg (catfish) and 574 µg/Kg (scabbard fish). These results provide information regarding analytical data of chemical substances of interest and are a contribution to food risk assessment. It also reinforce the importance of disseminating the recommendations for fish consumption for the Portuguese population as a risk communication strategy, in order to either protect susceptible populations from exposure to this chemical, and simultaneously promoting the important health benefits associated with fish consumption.
- Comprehensive typing and genetic analysis of L. monocytogenes isolates: implication for food safety and antibiotic resistance surveillancePublication . Silva, Adriana; Silva, Vanessa; Borges, Vítor; Coelho, Anabela; Batista, Rita; Esteves, Alexandra; Igrejas, Gilberto; Saraiva, Cristina; Gomes, João Paulo; Poeta, PatríciaListeria species are commonly found in various environments and contaminated food, with livestock serving as a significant source of foodborne pathogens. Among these species, Listeria monocytogenes (L. monocytogenes) is particularly noteworthy as it can affect both livestock and humans. Antibiotics are frequently used in food animals for disease treatment and prevention on a large scale. This practice can lead to the selection of antibiotic-resistant bacterial strains, which can then spread to humans through the food chain. Consequently, L. monocytogenes, a ubiquitous foodborne pathogen, has been associated with global outbreaks of foodborne illnesses. To address this concern, the aim of the study was to conduct comprehensive typing and genetic analysis of 13 L. monocytogenes isolates obtained from food and food-processing environments.Among the 13 L. monocytogenes isolates, eight sequence types (ST) were identified: two isolates were identified as belonging to ST9; one as ST155; four as ST3, two as ST121, one as ST8; one as ST87; one as ST1; and one new ST belonging to CC121. Core-genome clustering analysis of L. monocytogenes was made to assess the genetic relatedness among the isolates. The core genome Multilocus Sequence Typing (cgMLST) analysis revealed three genetic clusters of high closely related isolates (≤7 allelic differences (ADs)): cluster 1. Regarding L. monocytogenes typing, ST3 was the most prevalent among the isolates, found in 4 isolates, followed by ST9 and ST121. Some of these isolates, like ST1, ST9 and ST87, were previously associated with human clinical cases. We used Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) alongside epidemiological data to link strains to human illnesses and potential food sources. Through cgMLST analysis, we identified genetic clusters of closely related isolates, all linked to the same producers. This approach helped us pinpoint common sources of contamination and gain insights into the transmission dynamics of L. monocytogenes in the context of food safety and public health. The escalating antibiotic resistance in Listeria species, particularly in L. monocytogenes, emphasizes the need for heightened surveillance and improved hygiene practices in the food industry to curb the spread of antibiotic resistance and ensure food safety.
- Occurrence of contaminants and food additives in the Portuguese food chain: data collection and transmission of official control samples to EFSA from 2017 to 2023Publication . Brazão, Roberto; Ravasco, Francisco; Tomé, Sidney; Dias, Maria da GraçaIntroduction: The collection of accurate, reliable and comparable data on food and feed is essential to monitor their safety and to support informed dietary exposure and risk assessments and management, contributing to higher consumer safety and health. The National Institute of Health Doutor Ricardo Jorge (INSA) is responsible for gathering, harmonising and electronically submitting to the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), according to their reporting requirements, the information on food and feed contaminants and food additives from the official control plans in Portugal and from studies performed in INSA laboratories. We aim to present the process of data collection and transmission to EFSA and the main results during the period 2017-2023 (samples collected in 2016-2022). Methodology: Annually, INSA gathers information on contaminants and additives from the official control plans of the Portuguese authorities and from INSA studies. This information was reported according to the EFSA Standard Sample Description for Food and Feed (SSD2), complemented by FoodEx2, a standardised system for classifying and describing food, to ensure data harmonisation, standardisation and quality. It were used EFSA’s Excel Tools and Catalogue Browser to facilitate the process. Results: Between 2017 and 2023, 62963 analytical results were gathered and transmitted to EFSA according to SSD2, almost entirely on contaminants (61054). These results correspond to 12214 food samples collected. During this period, of all the reported results evaluated (59021) only 0.2% (129) were non-compliant (6.3% (3942) were not evaluated because they corresponded to studies). Animal feed data were reported in 2023 but can only be accounted for next month. Conclusions: The use of the SSD2 and FoodEx2 data model and system and all other tools made available by EFSA ensure data harmonisation, standardisation, and overall quality, consistency, and reliability in the information reported. During the period under review, there was a high level of compliance (99.8%) in the results of samples collected under the Portuguese official control plans.
- Plant-based foods on the Portuguese market: a salutary alternative to animal-origin counterparts?Publication . Brazão, Roberto; Fernandes, Paulo; Lopes, Andreia; Dias, Maria da GraçaThe consumption of animal-origin products (AOP) has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease, diabetes and cancer and significant environmental issues. The growing interest for plant-based foods (PBF) have been raising important questions about their overall healthiness. In this context, this study aims to assess the nutritional quality of PBF available in the Portuguese market, analyzing their nutrient profiles and comparing them with AOP and nutrient reference values established. Evaluating if PBF are a salutary viable alternative, we expect to contribute to the promotion of healthier and more sustainable food choices and help inform public health policies. Collection and comparison of the nutritional information of PB burgers, sausages and breaded food products and their AOP equivalents and with the reference values of the Integrated Strategy for the Promotion of Healthy Eating (EIPAS) and of the Directorate-General of Health Label Decoder. A cross-sectional survey of nutrients was conducted on 207 PBF and 253 AOP equivalents. When compared, all PBF categories had higher energy, carbohydrate and sugars. The PB burgers had lower levels of fat, saturates and protein but higher salt content. The PB sausages had lower levels of saturates and salt but higher fat and protein contents. The PB breaded food products had higher levels of fat, saturates, protein and salt. When jointly evaluated sugars and salt, 99.5% of all PBF did not meet EIPAS reference values. The nutritional composition of the PBF studied vary widely. Although some presented lower saturates levels others had higher fat, sugars and salt compared to AOP, with 99.5% not meeting EIPAS sugars and salt reference values. In this context, public health actions to address the nutritional quality of PBF, normally perceived as healthier, are needed, namely food literacy initiatives and legislative measures concerning the labeling and reformulation of PBF products.
- Characterization of breakfast habits among Portuguese school-aged children – Missão Continente School Program 2021/2022Publication . Cabral, Mariana; Martins, Fatima; Mendes, Sofia; Figueira, Ines; Rito, AnaIntrodução: O pequeno-almoço (PA) desempenha um papel importante nos hábitos alimentares das crianças, constituindo parte de uma dieta saudável e equilibrada fundamental para o seu crescimento e desenvolvimento. Objetivos: Caracterizar os hábitos de PA de crianças em idade escolar participantes no Programa Escola Missão Continente (EMC), quanto à sua composição, frequência e local, associando estes fatores ao estado nutricional infantil. Metodologia: No âmbito do Programa EMC, decorrido no ano letivo 2021/2022, foi desenvolvida uma análise transversal, contando com uma amostra de 573 crianças (51.5% sexo masculino, idades 6-8 anos) de 35 escolas de todos os distritos de Portugal Continental e Regiões Autónomas dos Açores e da Madeira. Foram recolhidos dados antropométricos (peso e estatura) para avaliar o estado nutricional, utilizando a classificação no Índice de Massa Corporal e o referencial de curvas de crescimento da Organização Mundial de Saúde para crianças dos 5 aos 19 anos. A caracterização dos hábitos alimentares foi realizada através de um questionário aplicado aos Encarregados de Educação com questões relativas ao PA. Para o teste de hipóteses, aplicou-se o teste estatístico Qui-quadrado. Resultados: Verificou-se que a maioria das crianças consumia PA diariamente (94,5%) em casa (95,9%), sendo esta composto por produtos lácteos (24,6%), pão e equivalentes (20,7%) e cereais de pequeno-almoço (17,7%). O grupo de crianças que não consumia PA todos os dias da semana apresentava índices de pré-obesidade (25,8%) e obesidade (22,6%), significativamente superiores (p=0,01) comparativamente ao grupo de crianças que consumia pequeno-almoço diariamente (pré-obesidade = 17,0% e obesidade = 10.4%). Os resultados obtidos para os fatores local e composição não foram estatisticamente significativos. Conclusão: A frequência de PA parece estar associada com o estado nutricional infantil. Deste modo, torna-se fundamental implementar bons hábitos alimentares ao PA, desde a infância, em prol da promoção em saúde como parte de todo o desenvolvimento da criança.
- Strategies for the engagement of youth in health-related activities in Portugal: the CO-CREATE projectPublication . Mendes, Sofia; Figueira, Inês; Rito, AnaIntroduction: The lack of attention paid by policymakers to the views and role of young people in societal matters, including health, has been a contributor factor for the poor youth involvement in the development of health-related policies. The CO-CREATE (CC) project aims to collaborate with adolescents across Europe in developing policy ideas that contribute to overweight and obesity prevention. Aim: Present the strategies for the recruitment and engagement of youth in CC project in Portugal. Methods: In order to recruit for a diversity of youths, the Portuguese CC Team identified the scout organization CNE (Corpo Nacional de Escutas) as the most relevant gatekeeper, being the biggest Portuguese youth association. The principles of youth-led participatory action research were employed to design 3 Youth Alliances, temporal gathering of a group of young people that work together towards a common goal: Scout groups of Oeiras, Parque das Nações and São Domingos de Rana. Results: Several opportunities were created to promote the Portuguese youth engagement in the project such as the planning and organization of local and national Dialogue Forums and the presentation of youth policy ideas to three political parties of the Portuguese Parliament. Recommendations from the CC youth for encouraging youth involvement in the development of policies are highlighted below: - Promote training and empower youth, for example, through and in schools; - Create opportunities for youth to be part of national and international projects as active partners is needed, and facilitating youth promoting this via their channels; - Establish partnership with existing youth organizations to foster synergies; - Use tools that ensure equal and balanced participation in discussions between youth and stakeholders. Conclusion: Nowadays young people’s voices remain underrepresented in health policy processes, however CC is an example of a successful initiative that was able to motivate and mobilize youth in Portugal.
- Obesity dialogues – fostering policy options in Western Balkans and Central AsiaPublication . Spiroksi, I.; Abdrakhmanova, S.; Rito, Ana; Racovak, I.; Heinem, M.; Whiting, S.; Williams, J.; Wickramasinghe, K.Introduction: Obesity has been identified as a serious public health challenge globally and a major determinant of premature death and disability in the WHO European Region. More than 50% of adults and one in three children around the Region are living with overweight or obesity, with prevalence close to 70% in several countries. In 2022, The WHO European Office for the Prevention and Control of Noncommunicable Diseases (NCD office) organized two policy dialogues with the objectives to highlight the obesity situation, present possible interventions and prioritize policy actions to tackle this public health issue in the regions of Western Balkans and Central Asia. Methods: Two key professionals and decision makers per country/territory were invited to discuss the current state as well as challenges and opportunities related to prevention and management of obesity in Skopje, North Macedonia (MKD) for the Western Balkans countries/territory and in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan (KGZ) for the Central Asian countries. Dialogues were kindly supported by the Ministries of Health of the host countries with personal presence of the Ministers of Health and in MKD with the presence of the First Lady of the country. Results: WHO’s representatives presented on the burden of obesity in the countries of the Region by providing comprehensive data collected by the NCD Office through regular surveillance, as well as a summary of possible multisectoral actions listed in the recently published WHO European Obesity Report and other documents like the “Best Buys” to tackle NCDs. Country experiences were shared on implementing policies to reduce obesity burden like the public health tax in Hungary and the SSB tax and food marketing regulation in Portugal and also double duty actions to address the burden of both undernutrition and obesity, particularly important in the Central Asian countries. Participating countries, as final exercise of the one-day event, were asked to prioritize actions, according to the national context, and to assess the feasibility of its implementation over the short, medium, and long term. Conclusions: Participating countries at both events found that this activity was a novelty in their national approaches to tackle obesity in Western Balkans and the double burden of obesity and malnutrition in Central Asia and increased their knowledge on a whole-of government multicomponent approach to address obesity. Both the representatives of the European Region of the WHO and the participating countries concluded that dialogues among stakeholders at national level, as initiated at these meetings, should be stimulated, and executed if any success in tackling rising trends of obesity should be expected. Follow up on countries’ priorities should be performed to assess the progress and to support experts and policy makers in evidence-informed decision making for obesity.
- Evaluation of the nutritional characteristics of sweet pastry products available in the Portuguese market in 2023Publication . Ferreira, J.; Albuquerque, T.G.; Silva, M.A.; Costa, H.S.Non-communicable diseases are a public health concern that results in several deaths each year. Diseases like diabetes, hypertension, obesity, among others, continue to increase, being the majority of the cases associated with behavioural factors, such as poor dietary habits. This study aimed to evaluate the nutritional characteristics of sweet pastry products, available in the Portuguese market in 2023, through the comparison of the nutritional information with two front-of-pack schemes (traffic light and Nutri-Score) and with the recommendations from the Integrated Strategy for the Promotion of Healthy Eating (EIPAS). Information for 52 pastry products was collected, between January and February 2023, from the websites of supermarket chains available in Portugal. The data set included information concerning: ingredients list, traffic light, Nutri-Score, and nutrition declaration, among others. Products were grouped into 8 categories and some had subcategories. None of the studied products were in line with EIPAS recommendations in terms of sugar and salt contents. According to Nutri-Score, 98% of the products were classified as C (8%), D (57%) or E (33%). For salt, 96% of the products are classified as amber (medium content) and none of the products as red (high content). However, more than half of the products were classified as red (high content) for fat (56%), saturated fatty acids (63%) and sugars (62%). A considerable number of the studied sweet pastry products still have high amounts of saturated fatty acids and sugars. Therefore, it is of utmost importance to reformulate these products, not only envisaging to decrease its content on the harmful nutrients, but also increasing the content of nutrients linked with health benefits, like dietary fibre and unsaturated fatty acids.
- Levels of manganese, iron, zinc and mercury in vegetarian foodsPublication . Nascimento, A.; Santiago, S.; Lopes, M.; Santos, M.The increasing popularity of vegetarian diet has induced science to better study this foods. As long as it includes the necessary intake of nutrients, such as minerals, can be beneficial to health. In addition, concern about food safety has increased in recent years, leading to studies to evaluate food contamination by toxic metals, regarding food poisoning prevention and public health improvement. The purpose of this work was to quantify manganese, iron, zinc and mercury contents in different foods for a plant-based diet. Mineral levels were determined by Inductive Plasma Coupled Optical Emission Spectrometry (ICP-OES). Total mercury content was determined by a thermal decomposition and amalgamation atomic absorption spectrophotometry (TDA/AAS). Manganese level ranged from 0.10 mg/100g (
- Nutritional evaluation of branded bakery and pastry products available in the Portuguese marketPublication . Albuquerque, T.G.; Ferreira, J.; Silva, M.A.; Costa, H.S.Branded bakery and pastry products are greatly appreciated by the population, especially by the youngest ones. However, these products are often considered poor from a nutritional quality point of view because they are a source of fat, saturated fat, sugar, and salt. A high intake of these foods is considered a major risk factor for the development of non-communicable chronic diseases, such as obesity, diabetes, hypertension, cancer, among others. This study aimed to develop a branded food database for bakery and pastry products, to assess the current situation on nutritional quality and to define further needs in terms of reformulation. Between January and March of 2023, a branded food database with data for 1062 products was developed by compiling the existing information on the websites of major supermarket chains available in Portugal and websites of manufacturers and retailers. The collected information was analysed regarding: i) evaluation of nutritional adequacy; ii) application of traffic light system; and iii) application of Nutri-score. After data cleaning and checking the absence of nutrition declaration, 966 foods were evaluated. Salt was above 0.3 g/100 g in 88.7% of the products and sugars were higher than 5 g/100 g in 79.1% of the products, which are goals of the Integrated Strategy for the Promotion of Healthy Eating, in Portugal. In the traffic light label analysis, the following percentages of foods are marked with red, meaning a high content: 53.5% for fat, 56.8% for saturated fatty acids, 53.9% for sugars and 9.4% for salt. According to Nutri-Score, 34.6% of the products are classified as “E” and 36.7% as “D”, indicating the poorest nutritional foods. It is of utmost importance to follow up this study and include other categories of foods. Moreover, strategies for the reformulation of bakery and pastry products to promote public health are still needed.