Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) represents over 90% of diabetes cases worldwide and continues to rise in prevalence due to aging populations, sedentary lifestyles, obesity, and nutritional transitions. The disease is characterized by progressive insulin resistance, pancreatic β-cell dysfunction, chronic hyperglycemia, oxidative stress, and low-grade inflammation, leading to multi-organ complications including cardiovascular, renal, neural, and ocular damage. Emerging evidence identifies gut microbiota dysbiosis and metabolic endotoxemia as central contributors to T2DM pathogenesis. Reduced microbial diversity, impaired short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) production, and increased intestinal permeability facilitate lipopolysaccharide (LPS) translocation, triggering inflammatory cascades that may interfere with insulin signaling. Dietary bioactive compounds capable of modulating gut microbial composition and supporting intestinal barrier integrity have therefore gained attention as adjunctive therapeutic strategies. This review analyzes the mechanistic effects of three phytochemically rich plant sources—flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum), sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides), and cornelian cherry (Cornus mas) - in the context of T2DM. Flaxseed lignans and fermentable fibre may enhance SCFA production, potentially suppress hepatic gluconeogenesis, and attenuate inflammatory signaling. Sea buckthorn polyphenols may help reshape microbial ecology, activate AMPK-dependent pathways, improve lipid metabolism, and are associated with multi-organ protection. Cornelian cherry iridoids and anthocyanins may modulate antioxidant and inflammatory pathways, contribute to improved insulin sensitivity, and support vascular and endothelial function. Collectively, these plant-derived bioactives converge on shared metabolic nodes, including restoration of gut barrier integrity, reduction of metabolic endotoxemia, activation of AMPK signaling, suppression of hepatic glucose production, enhancement of peripheral glucose uptake, and improvement of lipid homeostasis. Targeting the gut–liver–pancreas axis through microbiota-mediated mechanisms may represent a rational adjunctive strategy for mitigating insulin resistance and limiting the progression of T2DM and its complications.
The pervasive reliance on non-biodegradable plastics in food packaging poses significant environmental and public health challenges. This critical issue has promoted the development of sustainable alternatives, particularly bioplastics, which can be further enhanced into active packaging systems. This comprehensive review highlights the significant potential of antioxidant and antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) as key bioactive additives in this emerging field. Derived from diverse biological sources (animals, plants, microorganisms), these short amino acid sequences (typically 2-20 AAs) exhibit a broad spectrum of bioactivities, including potent antioxidant, antimicrobial, antiviral, and antidiabetic effects. Their effectiveness is rooted in diverse mechanisms such as free radical scavenging, metal chelation, and direct microbial membrane disruption, which collectively contribute to prolonging food shelf life and enhancing safety. The aim of this review is to provide an up-to-date perspective on the application, sources, and underlying mechanisms of antimicrobial and antioxidant peptides in active and biodegradable food packaging. While offering immense benefits for food preservation and sustainability, widespread adoption hinges on addressing critical challenges related to their long-term stability, cost-effective production, standardized regulatory frameworks, and consumer acceptance. Ultimately, advanced research in peptide extraction, synthesis, and formulation holds the key to unlocking their full potential and transforming the food packaging industry towards more secure and environmentally sustainable practices.
Food microbiome has a big influence on food safety, standards, and shelf life. Microbial dynamics also change while food is being stored for a variety of reasons. The use of metagenomic techniques to decipher the complicated relationships between food microbiota and storage conditions is examined in this review, offering fresh perspectives on microbial interactions and community dynamics. The limitations of traditional culturing techniques have led to the development of metagenomic methodologies, which provide unmatched insights into food storage microbiology by exposing complete microbial communities, their interactions, and functional alterations. The paper compares traditional and metagenomic techniques and highlights important aspects influencing microbial dynamics during storage, it also emphasises the need of taking food microbiome and microbial alterations during storage into account. This review provides insights into microbial behaviour and its impact on food safety and quality by demonstrating the application of metagenomic analysis to these food categories. The review also addresses the effects of microbial changes brought on by storage on the nutritional value, sensory qualities, spoiling hazards, and shelf-life estimation of food. Finally, it looks at new developments that could enhance storage procedures and guarantee food safety in the future, like real-time monitoring, predictive modelling, and combining metagenomics with other omics technologies.
Tomatoes represent a suitable substrate for the growth of microscopic filamentous fungi and yeasts, including potentially toxigenic species. The aim of this study was to compare the mycocenosis of tomatoes from retail chains in Slovakia and Hungary, with an emphasis on species diversity and the ability of selected isolates to produce mycotoxins. A total of 30 tomato samples (Slovakia, n = 21; Hungary, n = 9) were analysed. Fungal genera were identified based on macro- and micromorphological characteristics, while identification at the species, section, or group level was performed using standard taxonomic keys. Selected isolates of the genera Penicillium, Aspergillus, Alternaria, and Fusarium were tested for their ability to produce selected mycotoxins in vitro using thin-layer chromatography (TLC). Yeasts were identified using MALDI-TOF MS. In total, nine genera of filamentous fungi were identified. The dominant genus was Penicillium (73.3%), followed by Alternaria (30.0%). The most frequently isolated taxa were Penicillium olsonii (56.7%) and the Alternaria arborescens species group (36.6%), both detected in Slovak and Hungarian samples. Several isolates of Penicillium, Aspergillus, Alternaria, and Fusarium demonstrated the ability to produce at least one mycotoxin, including aflatoxins B1 and G1, patulin, citrinin, roquefortine C, penitrem A, cyclopiazonic acid, griseofulvin, alternariol, alternariol monomethylether, T-2 toxin, HT-2 toxin, and zearalenone. The results revealed differences in fungal species diversity and toxigenic profiles between Slovak and Hungarian tomatoes and highlight the potential food safety risks associated with the presence of mycotoxigenic fungi in fresh tomatoes.
Olive leaves are a rich source of phytochemicals, particularly phenolic compounds and flavonoids with various biological activities. HPLC analysis confirmed that oleuropein was the predominant phenolic constituent in the extract. In this study, olive leaf extract (OLE) was utilized as a natural bio-reductant for the green synthesis of ZnO nanoparticles (OLE/ZnO-NPs). The antidiabetic potential of OLE and OLE/ZnO nanoparticles was evaluated using streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats, in addition to physicochemical characterization of the synthesized nanoparticles. UV-visible spectroscopy showed a new absorption peak at 350 nm, while FT-IR analysis indicated the involvement of the extract's functional groups in nanoparticle reduction and stabilization. TEM revealed spherical nanoparticles with an average size of 15-40 nm. Zeta potential analysis confirmed negatively charged particles (-15.58 +/- 4.49 mV). In vivo, treatment with OLE/ZnO-NPs significantly reduced fasting blood glucose levels compared to diabetic controls. Improvements were also observed in HbA1c, insulin levels, adiponectin, leptin, and lipid profile, along with a reduction in the leptin/adiponectin ratio and insulin resistance index. In vitro, erythrocyte glucose uptake was significantly increased following treatment with the extract or its nano-formulation. These findings suggest that the antidiabetic effect of OLE and OLE/ZnO-NPs may be mediated through enhanced glucose uptake, improved antioxidant values, and modulation of adipokines.
The research is focused on GC-MS identification of heterocyclic compounds (HCCs) in commercially most accepted medium roasted specialty coffee beans from renowned harvesting sites from Africa and America and their precursors in green beans. Obtained GC-MS data showed the most abundant HCCs group in medium roasted coffee was furan derivates and pyrazine derivates, reaching an average of 24.17% in African samples, 22.27% in American samples, and 13.41% and 17.62%, respectively. Pyridine derivates reached similar concentrations, 5.02% in African and 5.27% in American samples. The least abundant group was pyrrole derivates, reaching only 2.79% in African and 1.91% in American samples. Pearson's correlation proved weak positive correlations between all HCCs (furan derivates, pyrrole derivates, pyrazines derivates, and pyridine derivates) and volatiles hydrocarbons measured in green samples. Further correlation analysis proved the positive correlation between aldehydes, furanes, and pyrazines. However, Pearson's correlation coefficient proved a weak correlation (0.273 - 0.455). ANOVA pointed out that after the roasting, only pyrazine derivates showed geographical dependence, suggesting there might be other precursors that need to be studied to better understand safety and quality issues from the perspective of origin and roasting of the commodity.
The increasing demand for natural food preservatives is driven by growing consumer concerns regarding health and environmental sustainability, posing a significant challenge in food preservation technology. Although synthetic additives have long been used to extend the shelf life of foods, the health risks they pose have led to a search for safer alternatives. This study explores the potential of tomatillo calyx extracts (Physalis ixocarpa Brot ex. Hornem.) as natural preservatives, addressing the knowledge gap regarding their efficacy and safety. Sonication was employed as a novel extraction method to enhance polyphenol yield and improve bioactivity of the extracts. Antioxidant activity was evaluated using in vitro assays (ABTS center dot+, DPPH center dot, and FRAP). Antimicrobial efficacy was assessed against pathogenic and food-spoiling microorganisms. Inaddition, toxicity was evaluated using the Artemia salina nauplii assay. The results demonstrated that sonication significantly increased the extraction of phenolic compounds, leading to robust antioxidant activity. The extracts effectively inhibited S. aureus and A. niger, showing potential as antimicrobial agents, although no activity was observed against E. coli and C. albicans. The brine shrimp assay revealed median lethal doses below 100 & micro;g/mL, indicating potential bioactivity. Hence, tomatillo calyx extracts exhibit promising antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, suggesting their utility in food preservation. These findings contribute to the valorization of agricultural waste and propose a sustainable alternative to synthetic preservatives. Future research should focus on optimizing extraction methods, expanding the analysis of the antimicrobial spectrum, and evaluating the extracts in food models.
This study evaluates the influence of roasting degree and time-temperature profiles on the physicochemical properties and bioactive compound composition of Coffea arabica. Two specialty coffee samples differing in post-harvest processing (wet and dry) were subjected to five roasting conditions: light, medium, dark, low-temperature long-time (LTLT), and high-temperature short-time (HTST), with green coffee serving as control (n = 16). Statistical evaluation was performed using analysis of variance (ANOVA, alpha = 0.05), and multivariate relationships were explored by Principal Component Analysis (PCA). Roasting significantly affected all monitored parameters. pH decreased from green coffee (5.33-5.38) to light and medium roasts (4.66-4.92), followed by an increase in dark roasts (5.51-5.74), reflecting the formation and subsequent degradation of organic acids. Dry matter increased from approximately 90.5% in green coffee to similar to 98% in roasted samples, while water activity decreased from 0.49-0.52 to similar to 0.19-0.23. Total antioxidant capacity declined with roasting intensity (from similar to 85-88% DPPH inhibition in green coffee to similar to 58-61% in dark roast), whereas total polyphenol content showed variability depending on processing method. Chlorogenic acids exhibited substantial degradation, decreasing from similar to 25-28 g.kg(-1) DM in green coffee to similar to 7-12 g.kg(-1) DM in dark and HTST samples, while caffeine content remained relatively stable (similar to 7.5-9.1 g.kg(-1) DM). Roasting dynamics significantly influenced compound retention. LTLT roasting preserved chlorogenic acids (similar to 9.4-9.6 g.kg(-1) DM) and antioxidant capacity at levels comparable to medium roast, whereas HTST resulted in the highest degradation (similar to 60-75% loss). PCA confirmed roasting conditions as the primary factor driving compositional variability, with secondary contributions from post-harvest processing. These findings demonstrate that peak temperature is the dominant factor governing bioactive compound stability and highlight the potential of controlled roasting strategies to optimize coffee quality.
Global demand for functional gluten-free products has driven the search for new bioactive ingredients. This study evaluated the impact of medicinal mushroom extracts from shiitake (Lentinula edodes) and maitake (Grifola frondosa) on the physicochemical, bioactive, and sensory properties of gluten-free pasta and rice-flour-based crackers. The total phenolic content was determined using the Folin-Ciocalteu method, while antioxidant activity was assessed via the DPPH radical scavenging assay. Chemical composition, including crude protein and ash content, was analysed according to AOAC standards, and sensory quality was evaluated by a trained panel using a hedonic scale. The results confirmed that the addition of extracts significantly increased (p<0.05) the total phenolic content and antioxidant activity in both product types. Furthermore, the incorporation of extracts led to a significant increase in ash content, reflecting an enhanced mineral profile, while a slight relative decrease in crude protein proportion was observed in certain variants. In pasta, a crucial interplay between mushroom extracts and egg fortification was demonstrated; egg-based variants showed markedly better texture and overall sensory acceptance than egg-free samples. Regarding the rice crackers, the 5% shiitake extract variant was identified as optimal for overall impression. The study suggests that shiitake and maitake extracts are promising ingredients for developing functional gluten-free foods with high nutritional value and a favourable sensory profile.
This study investigated the microencapsulation of Capsicum chinenseJacq. Habanero Red extract (HRE), focusing on the preservation of its bioactive components and physicochemical stability. We analyzed total polyphenol content (TPC), antioxidant activity (AA), capsaicinoid levels, and selected polyphenols in both pure andspray-dried form. Microencapsulation was achieved using a blend of maltodextrin (MD) and gum Arabic (GA) in a 3:2 ratio, with an inlet temperature of 120 degrees C. Key microencapsulation efficiency parameters were evaluated, including phenolic retention, antioxidant preservation, solids recovery, moisture content (MC), and water activity (aw) in the microencapsulated powder. Our results showed high phenolic retention (70.37 +/- 5.55%) and antioxidant capacity preservation (90.51 +/- 0.72%) in the spray-dried HRE powder, even though solids recovery was below 50% (44.46 +/- 0.51%). This powder had values for MC (5.50 +/- 0.75%) and aw(0.352 +/- 0.004) within the microbiologically stable range. The findings indicate that microencapsulation effectively retains bioactive components, supporting the stability and potential application of HRE in functional food formulations. Essentially, the pilot study generated an initial data focusing on polyphenol and AA preservation under the selected conditions and it can provide a basis for larger-scale or more comprehensive studies utilizing these parameters to enhance the encapsulation efficiency and stability of diverse bioactive compounds.
Acinetobacter baumnnii (A. baumannii) represents a significant threat to public health, severely limiting the effectiveness of existing antimicrobial treatments. Currently, colistin is used as a last-resort treatment for infections caused by multidrug-resistant and extensively drug-resistant A. baumannii, due to the increasing rates of resistance to both first- and second-line antibiotics. Regrettably, reports of colistin resistance (CoR) in A. baumannii clinical isolates have been growing frequently. This study aims to investigate the incidence of mutations in the pmrCAB operon, characterize the alterations found within isolates, and examine the diversity and complexity of colistin resistance in A. baumannii. In this study, 46 unique isolates of A. baumannii from hospitalized patients are identified using the Phoenix BD Diagnostic System, which serves for bacterial identification and antimicrobial susceptibility profiling. Additionally, these isolates are confirmed through PCR analysis of the blaOXA-51-like gene. Based on CLSI 2024 guidelines, a significant proportion of isolates were multidrug-resistant 25 (54.4%), extensively drug-resistant 18 (39.1%), or pandrug-resistant 6 (6.5%). High resistance rates were observed for meropenem (93.4%) and imipenem (91.3%). Colistin resistance was detected in 6.5% (3/46) of isolates, all of which were positive for pmrCAB genes. Additionally, this study identified point mutations in the pmrC gene, resulting in a specific amino acid alteration (Val42 -> Ile) in the EptA protein, located within the transmembrane region. In conclusion, this study highlights the high prevalence of MDR-XDR A. baumannii clinical isolates, emphasizing the urgent requirement for effective control strategies. Furthermore, pmrC point mutations and distinct amino acid substitutions may contribute to low-to-moderate modification of lipid A within the lipopolysaccharide, which may contribute to colistin resistance. However, direct impact on bacterial virulence requires further investigation.
Obesity and diabetes mellitus are chronic metabolic disorders with widespread effects on physiological functions, including reproduction. This study aimed to investigate the influence of Cornus mas L. (Cornelian cherry) administration on the microscopic structure of testes and epididymides in obese rats. Fifty male Zucker diabetic fatty (ZDF) rats were used in a three-month experiment. Experimental groups received varying doses and forms of C. mas (pulp, stone, or both) administered orally via gastric probe. Morphometric and histological analyses were performed on testicular and epididymal tissues, followed by statistical evaluation of structural parameters. Significant changes (p < 0.05) were observed in seminiferous epithelial and interstitial area proportions, while spermatogenic cell counts showed higher mean values in group receiving a dose of 500 + 250 mg/kg of pulp and stone combination without statistically significant differences. The epididymal lumen width increased and epithelial height decreased, although these changes were not statistically significant. The results indicate that Cornus mas induces dose-dependent structural changes in testicular histoarchitecture in obese rats. These findings suggest a modulatory effect on reproductive tissue under metabolic stress conditions.
Fungi of the genus Penicillium provide an almost inexhaustible source of biologically active metabolites with a wide range of activities due to their physiological and biochemical features. Penicillium funiculosum Thom can adopt various lifestyles, ranging from soil saprotrophs and endophytic mutualists. P. funiculosum represent a resource for the discovery of new biologically active molecules and biocatalysts. The aim of the research was to investigate the antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, and phytotoxic activities of endophytic and saprotrophic P. funiculosum strains. Methods. The antibacterial and antifungal activities of P. funiculosum strains were determined using the agar well diffusion method. Antiviral activity was tested in vitro using the tobacco mosaic virus (TMV, strain U1) model. Phytotoxic effects were assessed using corn seedlings test and the bioassay method for Chlorella. Results. Saprotrophic P. funiculosum strains demonstrated a high level of antibacterial activity against plant pathogenic bacteria, the growth inhibition zones were 15 to 45 mm. Endophytes had selective antibacterial activity against these test cultures. The absence antifungal activity of all investigated P. funiculosum strains was shown. Saprotrophic strains inhibiting the growth of corn roots and sprouts by 4-61%, while endophytic strains proved to be non-phytotoxic. Endophytic and saprotrophic strains expressed the anti-viral activity against TMV. Conclusion. The biological activities of endophytic and saprotrophic P. funiculosum strains indicate significant differences between these two ecological-trophic groups. The differences in certain physiological and biochemical characteristics of these two groups of strains and suggest that these traits may serve as markers for their differentiation.
This investigation aimed to evaluate the toxic effects of potassium dichromate (K2Cr2O7) on the adrenal glands of pregnant rats and the potential of selenium (Se) and zinc chloride (ZnCl2) supplementation in ameliorating these deleterious impacts. Seventy pregnant Albino Wistar rats (180-250 g) were divided into five groups (n=14 per group) and received a single subcutaneous (s.c.) treatment on the third day of gestation: Group I (Control: 0.9 % NaCl); Group II (K2Cr2O7: 10 mg/kg); Group III (K2Cr2O7 + Se: 0.3 mg/kg); Group IV (K2Cr2O7 + ZnCl2: 20 mg/kg); and Group V (K2Cr2O7 + Se + ZnCl2). On the 20th day of gestation, hormonal profiles, oxidative stress biomarkers, mitochondrial dynamics, and histomorphometric parameters were assessed. Our results demonstrated that K2Cr2O7 exposure significantly elevated plasma adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) levels and increased both absolute and relative adrenal gland weights. In the adrenal mitochondria, chromium induced a sharp increase in mitochondrial swelling, mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP) opening, and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels. Conversely, plasma cortisol levels and reduced glutathione (GSH) content were significantly diminished, while the activities of antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and glutathione S-transferase (GST) were markedly altered. Histopathological and histomorphometric examinations further confirmed significant structural remodeling of the adrenal architecture. Notably, supplementation with selenium and/or zinc demonstrated a robust protective action, modulating the harmful effects induced by K2Cr2O7 through the restoration of antioxidant homeostasis and the preservation of mitochondrial and endocrine integrity.
Background: Biofilm-associated urinary tract infections (UTIs) caused by Enterobacter cloacae represents a significant clinical challenge due to antimicrobial resistance. Natural plant-derived products such as Tea Tree Oil (TTO) gained attention as an antibiofilm agent. Methods: A total of 23 clinical E. cloacae isolates sampled from Iraqi patients with UTIs, identified using morphological characteristics, biochemical tests and Vitek-2 compact system. Biofilms forming ability was determined using 96-wells polystyrene flat plate assay. Minimum bactericidal concentrations (MBCs), minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) and sub-MICs (SMICs) of TTO determined using resazurin-based assay. Antibiofilm activity was determined via crystal violet assay, at different TTO concentrations by measuring optical densities. The presence of csgA detected via PCR technique and expression levels of csgA quantified via real-time PCR, normalized to the housekeeping gene and analyzed using 2(-Delta Delta Ct). Results: All E. cloacae isolates were capable of forming biofilms with optical densities ranged from 0.150 to 0.700. Tea tree oil exhibited antibiofilm activity in a concentration-dependent manner. MBCs level significantly reduced biofilm (p < 0.0001), with reductions exceeding 50% in several strong and moderate biofilm-formers. MIC levels showed moderate inhibition, whereas SMICs demonstrated limited but detectable inhibition. Molecular analysis revealed that, exposure to TTO resulted in significant downregulation of the csgA compared to control. Conclusion: TTO at the level of MBCs, MICs and SMICs demonstrates potential anti-biofilm activity against E. cloacae and may be considered as potential natural In vitro anti-biofilm agent, however, further In vivo studies are required to evaluate its possibility to control biofilm associated-UTIs and molecular levels highlighted these findings.
Utilizing Miconia crenata leaf aqueous extract as a bio-capping agent, the current study establishes an easy, sustainable process for manufacturing silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs). We investigated the possible activities of M. crenata leaf extract in converting silver ions. The UV demonstrated Surface Plasmon Resonance of Ag NPs, with a visible absorption peak at 400-410 nm and a band gap energy of 3.2 eV. The functional groups of silver oxide are correlated with the peaks found in the FT-IR spectrum, which range from 469.92 to 686.66 cm(-1). Using diffractogram sizes at 37.1 degrees, 43.4 degrees, 65.1 degrees, and 76.8 degrees, XRD spectra were used to identify the production of crystalline Ag Nps. SEM revealed a spherical nature with a diameter of 17.58 nm. The presence of elemental Ag was confirmed by EDX analysis, which showed a high absorption peak at 3 keV. The purity level of elemental silver was 30.24%, whereas that of Ag was 79.56%. Significant antibacterial activity was observed against Escherichia coli, Streptococcus pyogenes, and Staphylococcus aureus at 60 & micro;g/mL. Similarly, antifungal activity against Candida albicans and MIC was observed at 40 & micro;g/mL with a 1.2mm, respectively. Ag NPs mediated by M. crenata showed an IC50 value of 104 & micro;g/mL and 95.90% scavenging activity at 200 & micro;g/mL concentration. Additionally, the anti-inflammatory activity of Ag NPs was demonstrated by protein denaturation at the IC50 of 268.81 & micro;g/mL. Additionally, the anti-arthritis activity decreased with increasing concentration. These studies revealed that M. crenata-derived Ag NPs contribute to the scientific knowledge of novel antimicrobial agents that combat drug-resistant microorganisms.
This study investigates green coffee beans' physicochemical properties and trace metal content from three major coffee-growing regions: America, Africa, and Asia. Results revealed that American beans had the highest dry matter content (92.00%), followed by African (91.58%) and Asian (91.06%) beans, with variations attributed to environmental factors and post-harvest practices. Water activity was lowest in African (0.47) and American (0.47) samples, suggesting microbial stability compared to Asian beans (0.544). Based on Anova we can see significantly higher differences in parameters water activity in Asian samples. The pH remained stable across all regions (5.75-5.76), indicating that pH is more influenced by genetic factors than environmental ones. Concentrations of nine trace elements were measured, with Pb and Cd being below detection limits in all samples, emphasizing coffee safety. Trace elements analysis using Linear Discriminant Analysis (LDA), and hierarchical clustering demonstrated (AHC) distinct regional differentiation based on metal profiles, particularly with Cu, Zn, and Cr. Water-soluble compound analysis revealed regional distinctions, with African samples showing higher variability. The correlation between bioactive compounds and trace metals indicated that elements such as Zn and Mn may enhance antioxidant activity, whereas excessive Cu could inhibit the biosynthesis of key antioxidants. These findings underscore the potential of using chemical profiles for origin authentication, quality control, and traceability in the coffee industry.
This study evaluated the microbiological safety and selected physicochemical parameters of retail and model-formulated deli salads. The dynamics of microbial contamination (total viable count-TVC, coliform bacteria, Bacillus cereus, microscopic filamentous fungi-MFF, and yeasts) and physicochemical parameters (pH, water activity, and salt content) were monitored with respect to sample type and storage conditions. Thirteen commercial deli salads were purchased from retail display counters and analysed immediately after purchase and after 24 h of storage at 4 degrees C. In the second part of the study, one commercial sample and four laboratory-prepared model salads simulating gastronomic practice were evaluated. All model ready-to-eat salads (Vla & scaron;sk & yacute; & scaron;al & aacute;t, a traditional Central European mayonnaise-based deli salad) contained identical ingredients but differed in the type of dressing (no dressing, mayonnaise, tartar sauce, or yogurt). Analyses were performed immediately after preparation and after 12, 24, and 48 h of storage at 3 degrees C and 8 degrees C. Among retail samples, the highest TVC was detected in Norwegian salad (3.38 log CFU/g) and "Devil's" salad (3.37 log CFU/g), while the lowest was observed in Dutch salad (1.91 log CFU/g). No statistically significant differences in TVC were observed during storage (P > 0.05), although a slight increase in counts was recorded. Coliform bacteria were detected in only one sample and remained within legislative limits. Microscopic filamentous fungi and yeasts occurred at low levels (<4 & times;101 CFU/g). pH remained stable, whereas two samples exceeded the permitted salt content. In model salads, storage temperature and time significantly influenced microbial growth (P < 0.05), with faster proliferation at 8 degrees C. Dressings showed an initial inhibitory effect which decreased after 48 h. After 48 h at 8 degrees C, the lowest TVC was observed in mayonnaise salad (5.22 log CFU/g) and the highest in yogurt salad (5.45 log CFU/g). Coliform bacteria were absent; however, yogurt salad exceeded the limit for Bacillus cereus (4.13 log CFU/g). Yeasts and filamentous fungi remained low in all samples. Storage caused slight increases in pH and water activity. All model salads prepared according to commonly available recipes exceeded the maximum salt content, except the yogurt variant. The results highlight the importance of storage temperature control and formulation factors in ensuring the microbiological safety of deli salads.
The work compared the quality of steamed cheese samples from Slovakia (group A - SR; unsmoked steamed, smoked steamed threads, o & scaron;tiepok cheeses or salami cheeses, parenica cheeses) and neighboring countries (group B - CZ, C - HU, D - PL, E - UA). From the point of view of the sensory analysis, it turned out that the evaluators evaluated sample A1 as the best cheese (unsmoked threads from Slovakia). Their surface was smooth, shiny and of a slightly yellowish color, the consistency was flexible to stiffer, slightly brittle, with separating fibers. The smoked threads from Ukraine (E2) was the worst in the evaluation. The consistency was extremely firm, very hard, not very flexible, with poorly separating fibers. We determined the lowest dry matter content in sample A1 (44.27 +/- 0.33), sample B1 did not reach the minimum required dry matter content of 48% declared (46.30 +/- 0.24). The sample E2 had the highest dry matter content (65.97 +/- 0.26) and also had the highest salt content (6.90 +/- 0.09). Statistical significance in the "parenica" group was confirmed in the parameters: Dry matter, Fat in dry matter, Salt content, pH and Titratable acidity at the level of statistical significance p < 0.001. Coagulasepositive staphylococci were detected in all examined samples. Lactic acid bacteria were isolated in each cheese sample. Micromycetes were detected in five samples, where in the case of parenica samples (B4 - CZ; D4 - PL; E4 - UA). During the year, the growth of micromycetes in the samples represented a statistical significance of p < 0.05.
