Journal of Food and Agricultural Technology Research
Journal of Food and Agricultural Technology Research (JFATR) focused on innovation in food sciences, agricultural technology, and related fields under the umbrella of food security and climate change. The "Journal of Food and Agricultural Technology Research" is a scholarly publication focused on advancing knowledge in food science and agricultural technology. It covers various topics, including food processing, preservation, quality control, agricultural technology, and sustainable practices. The journal publishes original research articles, reviews, and technical notes contributed by experts and researchers from around the world. Its primary aim is to disseminate cutting-edge research findings and promote innovation in food and agricultural technology. By addressing contemporary challenges such as food security, nutrition, and environmental sustainability, the journal is a valuable resource for professionals, academics, and policymakers in the food and agriculture sectors.
Role of Dietary Fat Intake in Obesity and Its Association with Mental Health Among Adults of the University of Lahore: A Cross-Sectional Study
Fat in the diet is a vital macronutrient, which supplies energy and effects on body weight, chronic conditions and psychological health. The purpose of the current study was the relationship between food intake of fat and obesity risks with mental health of normal weight and underweight university students who may be at risk for obesity in later life. In this study, 271 adult participants (age range 18-35 years) were recruited using convenience sampling for the descriptive cross-sectional study of 4 months period in the University of Lahore. Data were collected through a structured self-administered questionnaire assessing dietary fat intake, body mass index (BMI), physical activity, eating habits, eating patterns, and psychological well-being. Most participants had a normal BMI (165/271, 60.9%), while 58 (21.4%) were underweight. Although the majority of children were not overweight, amongst the majority, they exhibited a variety of unhealthy eating habits such as late-night eating and food avoidance, including eating fatty foods, eating fat foods after foods were eaten, and feeling guilty after eating fat foods. The females were significantly more anxious than the males (p=0.000), and were more likely to eat fried or fast-food during stress (p=0.000). BMI was significantly related to changes in weight, late-at-night eating, avoidance of meals and guilt for eating fatty foods. Fried food intake and stress was significantly related to physical activity. When university students were excluded from the obese group, an unhealthy amount of dietary fat intake was also linked to psychological issues, especially anxiety and stress, especially among youth females. The results also emphasize the importance of nutrition and mental health education that should be offered in universities, no matter students' weight status.
dietary fat; obesity; mental health; body mass index; anxiety; stress; eating habits; physical activity; university students
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Enhancing Clonal Multiplication of Prosopis juliflora and Prosopis cineraria for Dryland Restoration and Genetic Resource Conservation
Prosopis juliflora and Prosopis cineraria are ecologically and economically important tree species that are found throughout arid and semi-arid regions of the world. However, large-scale propagation of unique genotypes is hampered due to physical seed dormancy, inconsistent germination, inbreeding depression, and genetic variability among seed-derived seedlings. The effects of two auxins, naphthalene acetic acid (NAA) and indole-3-butyric acid (IBA), administered at concentrations of 3000, 4000, and 5000 ppm, on adventitious root formation and shoot growth of stem cuttings of P. juliflora and P. cineraria were assessed in this study. Effects of two rooting substrates i.e. sandy loam soil and a mixture of sand, leaf compost, and soil (1:1:1) were also evaluated. Results showed a significant difference between species and treatments in terms of root length, shoot length, and root number. IBA produced the best root and shoot development, continuously outperforming NAA, especially at 5000 ppm. As compared to sandy loam alone, the combined rooting substrate further improved rooting performance. P. cineraria showed a more fibrous root system and reached maximum root production under the same treatment combination, but P. juliflora showed the greatest root length (18 cm) and root production in cuttings treated with 5000 ppm IBA grown in the mixed medium. Auxin application significantly enhanced root quality and vegetative growth, even while rooting percentages differed only slightly between treatments. These results show that the conservation, restoration, and deployment of superior Prosopis genotypes in dryland environments can be accomplished practically and economically by auxin-mediated clonal multiplication.
Adventitious rooting; auxins; clonal forestry; dryland restoration; IBA; NAA; Prosopis cineraria; Prosopis juliflora; vegetative propagation
Development of Caper berry (Capparis spinosa) pickle: Proximate, Minerals, Vitamins, Organic acids and Phytochemical analysis
This study aimed to evaluate the nutritional composition and phytochemicals contents of Kirir based pickle. Fresh samples were collected from selected locations, properly cleaned, and prepared by separating edible portions. The samples were divided into two groups i.e., unprocessed and processed groups. Unprocessed samples were dried at 55 °C, milled into a powder form and then stored for analysis, while processed samples were subjected to pickling and stored at −20 ±1 °C. Proximate composition, mineral content, organic acids, vitamins, and phytochemicals were determined using standard analytical methods. Pickled samples exhibited significantly (p<0.05) higher moisture content (68.01%), fat content (6.62%), ash, crude protein, carbohydrates and most of the minerals, citric acid, acetic acid, vitamin C and vitamin A (β-carotene) as compared to fresh sample whereas tartaric acid, oxalic acid, vitamin B-complex, alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, tannins and phenols were decreased significantly (p<0.05). It is concluded that the pickling process significantly enhanced nutritional profile of Kirir fruit which supports the utilization of under-utilized flora and fauna.
Assessment of Rice and Wheat Straw Management Practices in the Rice-Wheat Cropping System of Punjab, Pakistan
The rice-wheat cropping system is the output of agricultural production in Punjab, Pakistan. However, poor straw management techniques, open-field residue burning, and major risks to soil health and air quality. The purpose of this study was to analyze rice and wheat straw management techniques, identify major factors, and examine the adoption of major residue management technologies in District Sheikhupura. Primary data were collected from 154 rice and wheat farmers in five tehsils of Sheikhupura district using structured questionnaires, personal interviews, and field observations. The collected data were analyzed using SPSS. Widespread adoption of mechanized harvesting, with combines or Kubota harvesters used in about 93% of wheat and most rice areas. Wheat straw management was relatively sustainable, as 71.4% of farmers used straw choppers to produce fine straw, while only 2.6% practiced burning the residue. In rice, 88.3% of farmers managed straw without burning, although a small proportion continued to burn it due to lack of time, unavailability of machinery, and cost. Key barriers included high machinery operating costs (42.9%), limited access to appropriate equipment (29.9%), and concerns about the negative effects of incorporating residue on wheat germination (19.5%). Farmers showed strong awareness of the environmental and health impacts of residue burning, yet the adoption of environmentally friendly practices such as residue incorporation and mulching is limited due to economic, operational and technical barriers.
Straw management, rice–wheat cropping system, residue burning, combine harvesting, wheat straw chopper, Kubota harvester
Diabetes Detection and Forecasting using Machine Learning
Diabetes Mellitus is a major health concern globally, requiring early diagnosis for its proper treatment. This research seeks to analyze the effectiveness of various machine learning algorithms for detecting diabetes using datasets from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS). In this context, two datasets have been considered for analysis: the binarized unbalanced dataset (BRFSS2015) and its balanced counterpart. The machine learning algorithms considered in this study are Logistic Regression, Random Forest, Gradient Boosting, K-Nearest Neighbors, Decision Trees, XGBoost, Support Vector Machines (SVM), and Deep Neural Networks. Therefore, the Gradient Boosting classifier has achieved an accuracy of 96.75% on unbalanced data and 85.36% on balanced data, the best among the machine learning algorithms. However, the Deep Neural Network algorithm has achieved 96.86% accuracy on the unbalanced dataset and 85.16% on the balanced dataset.
A Feed-Forward Neural Network–Based Framework for Integrating Special Education Programs into Agriculture and Food Systems toward Sustainable Development
The present research examines the convergence of special education programs in agriculture and food systems to address significant concerns, including food insecurity, educational diversity, and inclusion, for sustainable development. The analysis uses data to investigate participation rates of individuals with specific food production requirements (inclusive versus non-inclusive), their satisfaction levels, and employment outcomes. Various machine learning models, including feedforward neural networks (FFNN), random forests (RF), k-nearest neighbors (KNN), support vector regression (SVR), linear regression, and polynomial regression, were used to predict outcomes and evaluate them against expected results across multiple parameter dimensions. The findings highlight the complementary benefits of integrating agricultural education into special education programs, indicating that it helps enhance cognitive abilities, social development, and career opportunities for individuals with special needs. This study underscores the significant role of agricultural education in improving nutritional literacy, fostering independence, and promoting global food security. This data-driven approach demonstrates the potential to optimize food-system education policies through interdisciplinary solutions, thereby contributing to a more equitable and environmentally conscious future for vulnerable populations. The study advocates for a comprehensive, integrated development paradigm that meets the nutritional needs of individuals with special requirements while advancing overall food security objectives.
Obesity and Overweight Prevalence and Its Association with Diet and Physical Activity Among Female Teachers
Obesity pervades all age groups, particularly among individuals with overnutrition and sedentary lifestyle. It is recognized globally as a serious health concern associated with various risks. A study investigated the prevalence of overweight and obesity involving 107 female teachers aged 25 to 55 years in Gilgit city’s schools and colleges. Chi-square tests were conducted to determine significant differences among categorical variables, with a significance level set at (p<0.05) for statistical test. Herein, results showed that among the participants, 56% of teachers were classified as obese, 25% as overweight and 19% as having a normal weight. Moreover, 57.8% led sedentary lifestyles, with 26.5% categorized as having low activity levels (p<0.05). Additionally, the intake of fruits and vegetables was alarming low (<1 serving size) in obese individuals, while their consumption of meat and fast/junk foods exceeded recommended intake levels (p<0.05). Conclusively, this study highlights that many obese or overweight participants maintain sedentary lifestyles, consume excessive amounts of fast foods, and have inadequate fruit and vegetable intake contrary to health recommendations. Thus, lower physical activity, frequent consumption of fast food, and limited intake of fruits and vegetables were significantly associated with higher rates of overweight and obesity among the teachers.
Obesity, Prevalence, Female teacher, BMI, Physical activity
Association of Ketogenic Diet Adherence with Body Weight and Adiposity in Overweight and Obese Adults in Islamabad, Pakistan
Obesity is a rapidly escalating public health concern in Pakistan, driven by urbanization, sedentary lifestyles, and dietary transitions. The ketogenic diet (KD), a high-fat and very lowcarbohydrate dietary approach has gained global interest for its potential to induce nutritional ketosis, enhance lipolysis and improve metabolic regulation. This study examined the association between self-reported adherence to a ketogenic diet and changes in body weight, lipid profile, fasting insulin and metabolic outcomes among overweight and obese adults in Islamabad, Pakistan. This cross-sectional analytical study included 300 adults (BMI ≥25 kg/m²), voluntarily adhered to a ketogenic diet for at least four weeks. Self-reported baseline and post-adherence anthropometric and biochemical data were analyzed. Outcomes included body weight, BMI, triglycerides, LDL-C (low density lipoprotein cholesterol) HDL-C (high density lipoprotein cholesterol) and fasting insulin. Sociodemographic and lifestyle factors were evaluated as secondary predictors. Paired t-tests and linear regression analyses were applied to estimate changes linked with ketogenic diet adherence with significant reductions in body weight and BMI (5–8 kg/m²) observed among obese males. In 67.7% of participants, improved Triglyceride levels while fasting insulin decreased in 78.7%, indicating enhanced metabolic efficiency. LDL-C responses were heterogeneous, with 33.0% reporting a decrease, 32.0% no change, and 29.3% an increase. Participants with higher baseline BMI, triglycerides, and fasting insulin experienced greater reductions (p < 0.05). Additionally, 63% reported increased energy levels, 76.3% expressed overall satisfaction, and adverse effects were minimal. In conclusion, ketogenic diet adherence was associated with reduced adiposity and improved metabolic markers in this self-selected cohort.
Ketogenic diet, Obesity, Body Mass Index, Triglycerides, Fasting insulin, Nutritional intervention.
Nutritional Powerhouses in Disease Prevention: The Role of Superfoods in Mitigating Non-Communicable Diseases
Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, cancer, and neurodegenerative disorders are among the leading causes of mortality worldwide. The rising prevalence of these conditions demands dietary interventions with proven preventive potential. This narrative review synthesized evidence from over 150 peer-reviewed studies published between 2000 and 2024. Superfoods have garnered attention for their ability to modulate metabolic pathways, reduce inflammation, and improve overall health outcomes. Notably, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) from green tea demonstrated measurable reductions in body fat and anti-atherosclerotic effects, while polyphenols such as anthocyanins from berries exhibited cardioprotective and anti-carcinogenic properties across multiple clinical trials. This review highlights critical gaps, including a lack of research on optimal dosages to avoid potential toxicity, as well as insufficient randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and cohort studies to fully elucidate health effects and underlying mechanisms of superfoods. The information about NCDs and superfoods was collected by using peer-reviewed literature from databases including PubMed and Google Scholar. Search terms encompassed "superfoods," "bioactive compounds," "non-communicable diseases," "dietary phytochemicals," and specific disease-related keywords. Emphasis was placed on clinical trials, cohort studies, and mechanistic studies evaluating the role of superfoods in NCDs prevention. Numerous superfoods demonstrated significant health-promoting effects. Their bioactive constituents, including flavonoids, polyphenols, omega-3 fatty acids, and anthocyanins, exhibit anti-inflammatory, anti-carcinogenic, antidiabetic, and antioxidant properties. The evidence from previous studies their role in modulating risk factors of non-communicable diseases such as hyperglycemia, oxidative stress, and lipid metabolism.
Superfoods, non-communicable diseases, cardiovascular diseases, bioactive compounds, neurodegenerative diseases
Exploring Dietary Diversity, Psychological Stress, and Domestic Violence in Pregnant Women: A Socio-Demographic Analysis from Rawalpindi, Pakistan
Pregnancy is one of the most vulnerable and significant stages a woman experiences in her lifetime. Yet, the simultaneous interplay of dietary diversity, stress, and violence in the Pakistani context remains poorly understood. Therefore, the current cross-sectional Rawalpindi-based survey study focused on differences in adequacy of dietary diversity, levels of stress, and prevalence of domestic violence concerning socio-economic status during pregnancy. The sample was selected through purposive sampling, and 381 participants attending different hospitals in Rawalpindi were interviewed using a structured questionnaire. The questionnaire consisted of socio-demographic characteristics, lifestyle attributes, obstetric history, the Diet Quality Questionnaire (DQQ), the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), the Abuse Assessment Screen (AAS), and an economic abuse assessment. Associations were assessed using multiple regression, and relationships between key variables were examined with Pearson correlation. The results showed that 28.9% of women had inadequate minimum dietary diversity for women (MDD-W), 100% of the individual consumed grains, a moderate percentage of individuals used pulses, dairy products, and other vegetables, and low consumption of nutrient-dense food groups. The 71.9% had moderate, and 19.7% had high-stress levels, but 22% of individuals screened positive for AAS, whereas Economic abuse prevailed in 32% of the participants. Socio-economic status significantly (p ≤ 0.0002) affected MDD-W, AAS, and economic abuse. The Pearson correlation among MDD-W, PSS, AAS, and economic abuse was negligible. The study highlighted that lower socio-economic status is the most vulnerable factor to provoking stress, domestic violence, and inadequacy of MDD-W. The results help us to analyze the domains where interference is needed based on the intensity of vulnerability.
Dietary diversity, Perceived stress scale, Economic abuse, Domestic violence, Abuse Assessment screen
Exploring Mixed Indigenous Microalgae for the Removal of Organic and Inorganic Nutrients from Pharmaceutical Wastewater
This study involved a comparative analysis of native mixed microalgae, collected from pond, river, hospital and industrial effluents for their nutrient (organic and inorganic) removal efficiency in pharmaceutical wastewater. After 6 days of cultivation, nitrate removal reached 62 – 74% and phosphate removal 86 – 92%. The highest nitrate removal efficiency was recorded with microalgae from the Malir River, while pond microalgae removed phosphates more efficiently. The chemical oxygen demand (COD) initially dropped but later increased in all reactors, with the highest COD observed in the reactor with industrial microalgae. Mixed microalgae from hospital wastewater revealed the highest biomass yield (2.6 g/L). This study demonstrates the potential of a microalgae consortium for pollutant removal from wastewater and subsequent biomass generation, which can be valorized into value-added products.
COD, Mixed microalgae, Nutrients, Pharmaceutical wastewater, Wastewater treatment
Comparative Assessment of Growth, Yield and Land Use Efficiency in Maize-Soybean Intercropping with Sole Cropping Systems
Intercropping is widely recognized as an efficient land use strategy to enhance the productivity and resource utilization compared with sole cropping. A 2-year (2023 and 2024) field experiment was conducted to evaluate the performance of maize-soybean intercropping system as compared to sole cropping systems. The experiment was laid out in randomize complete block design with four treatments is that sole maize, sole soybean, 2:2 maize: soybean and 4:4 maize: soybean strips, replicated thrice and standard agronomic practices were also followed. Results indicated that 4:4 maize: soybean strips treatment consistently enhanced plant height and yield component of maize where sole soybean produced the maximum pod per plant and 1000 seed weight. In terms of grain yield, sole maze performed best in 2023, while 2:2 maize: soybean strips were performed the highest yield in 2024. Soybean yield was significantly greater in sole cropping compared with intercropping treatments improved overall land productivity. The highest LER values (1.59 in 2023 and 1.62 in 2024) were achieved in the 4:4 maize: soybean strips system indicating significant advantages of intercropping over mono-cropping It is concluded that maize soybean intercropping, particularly with a 4:4 ridge arrangement, enhances resource-use efficiency and land productivity, and can therefore be recommended as a sustainable cropping system under the agro-climatic conditions of Faisalabad, Pakistan.
Crop diversification, RUE, Yield advantages, Suitable cropping system
Comparative Investigation of Solar-Based and Conventional Distillation Systems for the Extraction of Eucalyptus Camaldulensis Essential Oil
Essential oil of Eucalyptus camaldulensis (E. camaldulensis) is commercially valuable with dominant constituents, often 1,8-cineole (eucalyptol). Smallholders and decentralized processors are increasingly exploring solar thermal systems to reduce fuel costs and emissions without compromising oil quality and quantity. In current study, we conducted side-by-side water-cum-steam distillations of fresh E. camaldulensis leaves (5 kg per batch) using a fixed-focus Scheffler concentrator based solar distillation system and a methane gas fired conventional distillation still. Gas chromatography (GC-MS) analysis was used to profile the essential oils and analysis of variance (CRD) was used to test yield differences in both distillations systems. According to the results, average oil yields were 33.13 and 31.38 grams in the case of solar-based and conventional distillation systems, respectively. Eucalyptol was the major component in both oils (53.30% and 56.20% concentration), with β‑pinene, α‑pinene, and p-cymene present in both chromatograms. The overall efficiency of solar-based distillation system during trials was around 30% and cumulative energy-yield trends suggested an inception of appreciable oil release up to approximately 54 MJ of input energy and near-complete recovery at approximately 96 MJ for a 5 kg raw material load. Considering the yields and local fuel pricing, the solar-based distillation system reduced the payback period by 1.6 years relative to the conventional system due to savings in fuel consumption. This study concludes that solar-based distillation delivers desired yield and acceptable oil composition, comparable to conventional distillation system, while reducing energy consumption and cost. Suitability of solar distillation systems should be supported for on-farm and small-scale processors in sunny regions.
Solar-based distillation; Steam distillation; Eucalyptus camaldulensis; essential oil extraction; Scheffler concentrator; Gas-fired, techno-economics; Pakistan
Improving Growth, Physiological Attributes and Yield of Mungbean (Vigna radiata L.) Through Optimization of Irrigation Regimes in Arid Regions
Mungbean (Vigna radiata L.) growth and development are critically reduced by water deficit, necessitating optimized irrigation scheduling to achieve maximum economic yield. A field study was conducted over two consecutive growing seasons (2018 and 2019) at the Agronomic Research Station, Karor-Layyah, within an arid climatic zone to evaluate different irrigation regimes to optimize mungbean yield. The experiment was arranged in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with four replications to evaluate eight irrigation regimes viz. I₀: Control (no irrigation), I₁: One irrigation at 35 Days After Sowing (DAS), I₂: One irrigation at 45 DAS, I₃: One irrigation at 55 DAS, I₄: Two irrigations at 35 and 45 DAS, I₅: Two irrigations at 35 and 55 DAS, I₆: Two irrigations at 45 and 55 DAS, I₇: Three irrigations at 35, 45, and 55 DAS. The results of the study revealed that the application of three irrigations at 35,45 & 55 Days of Sowing (DAS) resulted in the highest recorded values for key physiological indices, including leaf area index (LAI), crop growth rate (CGR), and total dry matter (TDM) accumulation. Yield and yield attributes were also maximized under the same treatment. Moreover, relative water content (RWC) and chlorophyll concentration were also superior in plots receiving three irrigations, timed specifically at 35,45 & 55 DAS, compared to fewer or no irrigation treatments. A remarkable exception was observed in seed protein content, which was significantly greater in the non-irrigated control treatment compared to all irrigated plots. However, this treatment also resulted in the lowest water use efficiency (WUE), recorded at 2.02 and 1.87 kg ha⁻¹ mm⁻¹ for the 2018 and 2019 seasons, respectively. In contrast, the three-irrigation regime (35,45 & 55 DAS) demonstrated the highest Water Use Efficiency (3.55 and 3.52 kg ha⁻¹ mm⁻¹), establishing it as the most effective strategy for enhancing yield and optimizing water productivity in mungbean cultivation under arid conditions.
Mungbean (Vigna radiata L.); Irrigation Scheduling; Water Use Efficiency (WUE); Yield Attributes; Arid Region
Development and Experimental Study of a Diesel-Fired Heat Exchanger for Turmeric Drying in Pakistan
Turmeric is an important spice crop in Pakistan, where post-harvest drying is essential to extend shelf life and maintain quality. Traditional open-sun and conventional hot-air drying methods are inefficient, weather-dependent, and often compromise product quality. To address these limitations, this study aimed to design, develop, and evaluate a cost-effective, diesel-fired heat exchanger integrated into a turmeric dryer. The primary objective was to assess its thermodynamic performance and operational economics for both uncrushed and crushed rhizomes, while the secondary objective was to validate experimental findings through Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations. CFD analysis was employed to model airflow and heat transfer within the heat exchanger, providing insights into temperature distribution and aiding design optimization. Experimental results showed that the heat exchanger achieved a maximum air temperature of 96.8 °C with 1.6% relative humidity. For uncrushed turmeric, moisture content decreased from 80% to 9.67% in 30 hours, with a total moisture removal of 465.6 kg and a maximum dryer efficiency of 56.6%. The drying cost was PKR 55 per kilogram. Crushed turmeric reached 9.94% moisture in 8 hours at a cost of PKR 16 per kilogram. CFD predictions of outlet temperature closely matched experimental data, confirming model reliability, although non-uniform temperature zones were identified for future design improvements. These findings demonstrate that the developed system offers a practical, energy-efficient solution for turmeric drying in Pakistan.
Turmeric dryer; Agricultural dryer; Design and development; Fired heat exchanger
Climate-Smart Agriculture for Water Conservation and Improving Cotton Productivity: Evidence from Bahawalpur, Pakistan
Agriculture in many developing countries, including Pakistan, heavily relies on conventional farming practices. These practices attribute to low crop productivity and poor economic return. Climate-smart agricultural practices (CSAPs), such as laser land leveling, raised bed planting, and tensiometer-based irrigation, offer potential to improve yield and resource efficiency. In this regard, this study aimed to evaluate the effects of selected CSAPs on cotton yield, water savings, and economic returns. A field experiment was conducted during the 2024 cotton growing season at Basti Jameel Abad, District Bahawalpur, Punjab, Pakistan, using a randomized complete block design with four treatments: T1 (conventional practices), T2 (laser land leveling), T3 (laser land leveling and raised bed planting), and T4 (laser land leveling, raised bed planting and tensiometer-based irrigation). Cotton variety “IUB-18” was used. Results showed that T4 achieved the highest seed cotton yield (i.e., 1677.3 kg/ha), water savings (i.e., 42.72%), and benefit–cost ratio (i.e., 1.79), outperforming all other treatments. The findings demonstrate that integrating raised bed planting with tensiometer-based irrigation and laser land leveling can enhance water-use efficiency, improve economic returns, and contribute to sustainable cotton production in semi-arid regions.
Climate-smart agriculture; Cotton sowing; Water conservation; Bahawalpur; Pakistan
Physicochemical Properties and Organoleptic Assessment of Goat Milk Cheese
Global goat milk production was approximately 19.2 million metric tons in 2022, accounting for ~2% of total world milk output, with Asia contributing more than 50%. Goat milk is compositionally rich, containing ~3–4% protein, 4–5% fat, essential vitamins (A, D, B complex), minerals (Ca, P, Mg), and smaller fat globules, which enhance digestibility compared to cow milk. This study examines the physicochemical and sensory properties of goat milk cheese over a 28-day storage period. Initial pH levels varied across treatments (T0, T1, T2, T3, T4) and declined steadily from 6.34 (day 1) to 5.66 (day 28), indicating acidification. Total soluble solids increased from 41.67% to 42.95% and acidity from 0.66% to 0.81% during storage, reflecting compositional changes. Color parameters shifted, with L* values (lightness) decreasing from 41.38 to 35.36, indicating darkening, while a* (redness) and b* (yellowness) values increased, signifying enhanced redness and yellowness. Protein content declined from 12.58% to 11.07%, and fat content decreased from 13.28% to 12.19%. Ash content showed slight fluctuations, increasing overall from 3.25% to 3.86%. Sensory evaluations revealed changes in aroma, taste, and flavor, leading to a gradual decline in overall acceptability over time. Storage conditions and temperature significantly influenced cheese quality, highlighting the dynamic nature of its physicochemical and sensory properties. These findings guide optimizing production and meeting consumer preferences.
Goat milk cheese; Sensory evaluation; Physicochemical properties; Color analysis
Modelling the Crop Water and Irrigation Requirements Using CROPWAT Model: A Case Study in Arid and Semi-Arid Regions of Pakistan
Water is a key factor for successful crop cultivation. Declining water resources and increasing food demands require greater efficiency in water use, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions. Regulated deficit irrigation can reduce water consumption while minimizing adverse effects on yield. Models play a crucial role in developing practical recommendations for optimizing crop production under water-scarce conditions. This study estimates crop water requirements (CWRs), net irrigation requirements (NIRs), and effective rainfall (Peff) for wheat crop for the historical period (1986-2005) and four consecutive future time series (2020-2039, 2040 2059, 2060-2079 and 2080-2099) in arid (Bahawalpur) and semi-arid regions (Faisalabad) of Pakistan, using CROPWAT model. Results indicate that during the wheat growing season, CWR and NIR continued to increase. By the end of the 21st century, the CWR in semi-arid and arid areas of representative concentrated pathways (RCPs 4.5 and 8.5) increased by 3.01-6.86% and 2.46 5.64%, respectively. By 2099, under RCPs 4.5 and 8.5, the NIR in semi-arid and arid areas will increase by 5.49-10% and 2.41-5.86%, respectively. In the semi-arid and arid areas, the average seasonal Peff will be reduced by 9.79% (RCP 4.5), 10.07% (RCP 8.5), 2.81% (RCP 4.5), and 3.16% (RCP 8.5) respectively. Therefore, semi-arid areas will be more affected than arid areas, and changes in climatic conditions will threaten the agricultural system by reducing Peff.
Crop water requirements, Effective rainfall, Global climate models (GCMs), Net irrigation requirements
Nutritional Strategies for Type 2 Diabetes: A Comprehensive Review on Current Evidence and Future Perspectives
Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a growing global public health challenge characterized by chronic hyperglycemia resulting from insulin resistance and progressive β-cell dysfunction. Nutritional therapy plays a central role in both the prevention and management of T2DM. Objectives: This review synthesizes evidence from clinical and epidemiological studies on the effectiveness of various dietary approaches in improving glycemic control, insulin sensitivity, and metabolic health in individuals with or at risk of T2DM. Key Findings: Low-carbohydrate diets demonstrate superior short-term reductions in HbA1c compared to low-fat diets, while Mediterranean diets are consistently associated with improved cardiovascular outcomes and moderate glycemic benefits. Plant based diets show promise in enhancing insulin sensitivity and weight management, particularly when rich in whole grains and legumes. Calorie-restricted diets are effective in promoting weight loss and glycemic control, although adherence varies. The review also highlights the potential of personalized nutrition, interventions based on genetic makeup, metabolic status, and gut Microbiome composition to optimize therapeutic outcomes. Functional foods containing bioactive compounds such as polyphenols, peptides, and omega-3 fatty acids have shown favorable effects on glucose metabolism in preclinical and clinical settings. However, challenges remain in personalization and long-term adherence to these strategies, especially in diverse populations and real-world settings. Conclusion: Dietary interventions, particularly when personalized and integrated with lifestyle changes, offer promising avenues for sustainable management and prevention of T2DM. Future research should address the long-term efficacy and feasibility of such approaches, considering individual variability and adherence barriers.
Diabetes, Mediterranean diet, Personalized nutrition, Gut Microbiome, Nutritional therapy
Influence of Salt and Fermentation on the Antioxidant and Oxidative Stability of Camel Milk Butter
Butter is a dairy product, rich with fats and significant in terms of its nutritional and functional significance. The aim of this work was to determine the compositional, antioxidant, and oxidative stability properties of four varieties of camel milk butter, that is, sweet cream (salted and unsalted), cultured cream (salted and unsalted). The fatty acid composition of camel milk is unique because it has high content of unsaturated fatty acids, vitamins (A, E, C) and minerals relative to the bovine milk which could be beneficial in improving the antioxidant potential and oxidative stability of camel milk products. The churning and fermentation methods were standardized to prepare the butter samples before the analyses of chemical composition, DPPH radical scavenging activity, reducing power, total antioxidant capacity (TAC), peroxide value, induction period, and sensory properties. Findings showed that the moisture content, fat content and non-fat dry matter content of all types of butter were in compliance with the identity criteria that are set in regard to bovine butter. Antioxidant activity, reducing power, and TAC were measured at significantly higher in cultured cream butters than non-cultured ones, but salt addition did not affect them significantly. The parameters of lipid oxidation such as peroxide and conjugated diene values were low and maintained during the 90 days of storage, which revealed high oxidative resistance. This induction time was marginally less in cultured butter and this indicates greater proportion of unsaturated fatty acids. Sensory analysis revealed positive color, flavor and texture stability of all the treatments. All in all, the camel milk butter showed a high potential of antioxidant properties, oxidative stability and palatability, hence, indicating its potential usefulness as a functional dairy fat in substituting the traditional bovine butter.
Camel milk, butter, antioxidant activity, oxidative stability, sensory evaluation.
Cadmium and Lead Retention Efficiency in the Leaves of Ten Local Tree Species in Faisalabad
Pollution has major negative impact on human health. The discharge of gaseous volatile organic and inorganic contaminants from industries, factories, motor cars, aero planes, and ships causes a persistent decline in air quality, accomplished with outbreak of several disease and even mortality. This study estimated the concentration of Cd and Pd concentration in leaves in district Faisalabad which is the 3rd largest city of Pakistan and industrial zone. In the industrial city of Faisalabad, excessive traffic on the highways and industrial trash are seriously polluting the environment. Study revealed clear spatial and species-specific variations in Pb and Cd accumulation, with urban sites showing the highest concentrations, followed by suburban and rural areas, due to intense anthropogenic activities. Among species, Syzygium cumini and Alstonia scholaris demonstrated the greatest potential for Pb and Cd accumulation. The observed differences strongly reflect the influence of site-specific pollution load and leaf morphological traits on particulate retention.
. Pollution, Cd and Pb filtration, trees, Faisalabad
Reasons for Slow Adoption of Mechanical Transplanting of Rice in Punjab
.The study was conducted in two districts of Punjab, namely Sheikhupura and Okara, representing core and non-core rice sowing areas, to find out the reasons for the slow adoption of Mechanical Transplanters. A total of 84 farmers, 64 farmers (equivalent to 76.19%) from Sheikhupura district, and 20 farmers (equivalent to 23.80%) from Okara, were interviewed. The interviewed farmers were small (16.67%), medium (21.43%) and large (61.90%) farmers respectively. Amongst the interviewed farmers, 78.75% were adopters, whereas the remaining 21.42% were non-adopters. Amongst the adopters, 72.7% were large farmers having an average area of more than 25 acres, followed by small (18.2%) and medium farmers (9.1%). Amongst adopters, 54.5% were owner cum tenants followed by owners (39.4%) and remaining 6.1% as tenants meaning that Mechanical Transplanting is he technology for large farmers whether they are owners or owner cum tenants. Almost 88% of the MTR adopters had their tractors, whereas 94% had their tube wells as a source of irrigation, meaning resourceful farmers were adopting this technology. There is a significant difference in 1000 grain weight of different varieties falling in the category of fine, coarse and hybrid varieties but in field no distinction is being kept by the service providers as they are using on an average 10kg seed (100 trays per acre/100 gm seed per tray) for all varieties. Five most common reasons of slow adoption of mechanical transplanters by rice growers are i) lack of expertise on the part of machine operators (95.2%) ii) high mortality rate of seedlings (92.9%) iii) high seed rate in mechanical transplanting (85.7%) iv) non-availability of mechanical transplanters in the area (85.7%) v) Mechanical transplanting is not suitable for small holder farming. Almost 61% of the adopters reported increased yields with Mechanical Transplanting as compared to manual transplanting of rice.
Mechanical transplanter, Adoption, Tractor, Small farmers, Varieties
Analyzing Bilateral Trade in Major Crops Between Pakistan and China: Trends, Challenges, and Opportunities
Abstract: The dynamics of bilateral crop trade between Pakistan and China are investigated for regions such as Rawalpindi and Islamabad in this research. A sequential explanatory mixed methods approach was engaged, which incorporated quantitative data collection methods and qualitative approaches. Questionnaires with structured questions were distributed among 120 agricultural traders to collect quantitative data. Focus group interviews were conducted to gather qualitatively relevant information about barriers and opportunities in trade. Descriptive statistics and regression analysis were used in the analysis of the quantitative data, which shows that trade volume increased by 15% in the last five years, while wheat, rice, and cotton are the crops most traded. Qualitative findings highlighted key challenges such as logistical inefficiencies and tariff barriers and opportunities for the expansion of trade through improved infrastructure and policy reforms. The results highlight the growth potential of Pakistan-China agricultural trade and provide actionable insights for policymakers and stakeholders. This study contributes to the discourse on bilateral agricultural cooperation and offers recommendations for strengthening the economic partnership between the two countries. Practical application: • Assists in formulating policies to enhance agricultural trade. • Provides actionable insights for improving farm infrastructure. • Identifies market opportunities for Pakistani crops in China.
Bilateral trade, wheat, rice, cotton, trade dynamics, policy implications, economic partnership.
A Novel Concept Study on Key Factors Affecting Student Performance Using Machine Learning Algorithms
This study examines the correlation between critical aspects, including study hours, sleep hours, attendance rate, dietary habits, and extracurricular contribution, and their impact on assessment performance through various machine learning algorithms. Five models were examined to forecast student performance: Linear Regression (LR), Decision Tree (DT), Random Forest (RF), Support Vector Machine (SVM), and XGBoost. Data was generated for over 300 students, with each feature exerting a direct or indirect impact on the assessment performance. Each model has been developed on a training dataset and tested on a distinct test set to measure performance. The evaluation employed two principal metrics: Root Mean Squared Error (RMSE) and R-squared (R²). The XGBoost model exhibited optimal performance, evidenced by the lowest RMSE and maximum R², signifying its capacity to explain intricate relationships within the data. The Random Forest and Decision Tree models demonstrated favorable outcomes, with the Random Forest exhibiting greater resilience to overfitting compared to the Decision Tree. The SVM model, while successful, exhibited reduced efficiency owing to the non-linear correlations present in the data. Although interpretable, the Linear Regression model exhibited fewer errors than the alternative models. The study also examined learning curves, feature significance, and residual analysis to better understand the model's strengths and limitations. Scatterplots and histograms were employed to evaluate model performance and discern important features. The results indicate that XGBoost is a very efficient tool for performance forecasting, particularly in educational datasets characterized by numerous factors. This study evaluates machine learning models and illustrates how real-world variables influencing student performance can potentially be efficiently analyzed using complex algorithms, offering useful insights for educational stakeholders seeking to enhance student outcomes
Linear Regression, Decision Tree, Random Forest, Support Vector Machine, XGBoost, Root Mean Squared Error, R-squared
Effect of Ginger (Zingiber Officinale) and Aleo Vera (Aloe Barbadensis Miller) Extracts on Physicochemical Properties of Grape Juice Under 4℃ and 25℃
Abstract: This research aimed to investigate the impact of storage period on total phenolic content (TPC), ascorbic acid and nutritional values of functional noncarbonated drink. Drink was prepared with the utilization of herbal plants (Zingiber Officinale, Aloe Barbadensis Miller) with 8 ml, 6 ml, 4 ml, 2 ml & 2 ml,4 ml, 6 ml, 8 ml in 120ml of grape juice respectively different concentration and stored at 4°C and 25°C for 90 days. Findings of the current study showed presence of aleo vera significantly preserved TPC and led to increase in all beverage treatments on both storage conditions, however treatment 4 (X4) possessed the highest values of 3.7 and 3.65 mg GAE/g at 4°C and 25°C respectively. The storage period also increases the total sugar contents significantly and the acidity. Comparing all treatments, a significant increment was found in X4 with high aleo vera concentration. Total sugar and acidity were 5.677 % and 0.456 % in X4 respectively. Ascorbic acid content tends to decline from 22.22 % to 17.64 % within 15 days of interval at room temperature with the passage of storage time. Current research will provide the platform of herbal ingredients in beverages, profile and impact on health disorders. Practical application: Prepared non-carbonated functional drink is helpful to develop the herbal extract base commercialized beverage. Experimental investigation of aleo vera contained drink can preserve for a long time with high antioxidant activities.
Non-Carbonated Drink, Noncarbonated; Aleo vera; Functional beverage; Ascorbic acid, Total phenolic content
Advances in the Encapsulation and Delivery of Food Functional Factors: Micro- and Nano-Delivery Carrier Platforms in Bio-Manufacturing
The encapsulation and delivery of food functional factors represent a transformative and groundbreaking innovation in food science, enabling the protection, stabilization, and controlled release of sensitive bioactive compounds. This review comprehensively explores advanced micro- and nano-delivery carrier platforms, including pickering emulsions, micro-emulsions, microcapsules, and nanoparticles, which offer enhanced stability, improve bioavailability, and highly targeted delivery of nutrients and other bioactive substances. By addressing significant challenges such as the instability, degradation and low bioavailability of bioactive compounds, as well as the need for efficient, scalable, and versatile carrier designs, these technologies integrate seamlessly with sustainable bio-manufacturing processes. Applications in functional foods dietary supplements and nutraceutical demonstrate their vast potential to enhance consumer health outcomes and streamline food production systems with greater efficiency. Future research efforts must prioritize scaling these innovative technologies, ensuring regulatory compliance, and developing highly adaptable, multifunctional delivery systems to meet the rapidly growing demand for functional food and wellness solutions.
Encapsulation Technologies, Food Bio-Manufacturing, Nano-Delivery Systems, Functional Foods, Pickering Emulsions
Antioxidant Capacity and Oxidative Changes in Lipids of Cow and Buffalo Milk Yoghurt in Different Storage Temperatures
Yoghurt is normally kept at 34oC but majority of domestic and retail fridges keep at 8-10 C. The effects of high storage temperature on antioxidant and lipid oxidation of cow and buffalo milk yoghurt have not been well investigated. Fermentation of whole cow and buffalo milk used Streptococcus thermophilus and Lactobacillus bulgaricus to prepare yoghurt and stored them at 4, 8 and 12oC in 20 days. Alterations on fatty acid composition, free fatty acids, peroxide value, conjugated dienes, vitamins A and E, color, and flavor were assessed on day 0, 10 and 20. Storage at 4 and 8oC did not significantly influence the yoghurt composition and antioxidant activity after 20 days. After 20 days, the total antioxidant capacity in cow and buffalo yoghurt at 12oC reduced to 28.1 and 48.6 percent, respectively. In buffalo yoghurt kept at 12oC, the unsaturated fatty acids decreased up to 25.47%. Peroxide values increased to 0.51 MeqO2 /kg (cow) and 0.42 MeqO2 /kg (buffalo) and conversely, conjugated dienes were found to increase significantly during the same conditions. Vitamins A and E were found to be stable at 4 and 8oC but reduced dramatically at 12oC. The quality of flavors was kept at 4 and 8oC but worsened significantly at 12oC. Keeping yoghurt at a temperature above 8oC promotes oxidation of lipid and loss of antioxidant qualities as well as deterioration of flavor. Thus, it is necessary to keep the storage at a temperature not exceeding 8oC to retain nutritional and sensory values of cow and buffalo milk yoghurt.
Cow and Buffalo Milk Yoghurt, Storage Temperature, Antioxidant capacity, Lipid Oxidation
Biological Control of Alternaria Citri Causing Black Rot of Citrus in Pakistan
Citrus is a valuable fruit crop consumed mainly as fresh fruit or juice, known for its nutritional and health benefits due to its content of phytochemicals, ascorbic acid, limonoids, carotenoids, vitamin B complex, and related nutrients. However, citrus production suffers significant losses due to various diseases, with Alternaria citri causing severe damage through black rot of citrus, which deteriorates the fruit's quality. An experiment was conducted to develop a management strategy against Alternaria citri. Samples were collected from the field and analyzed in the lab. Pathogen isolation was done using the poisoned food technique, and different vitamins and plant extracts were assessed for their effectiveness against pathogen growth. Cloves showed the most significant inhibition of fungal growth, followed by mint, cinnamon, neem, and ginger. In a field experiment, thiamine treatment resulted in the lowest disease incidence, followed by pyridoxine and niacin. Environmental factors such as temperature, relative humidity, rainfall, and wind speed were recorded during the growth period. The data showed that relative humidity, temperature, and wind speed were positively correlated with disease incidence, while rainfall had a negative correlation. The experiment was conducted under Completely Randomized Design (CRD) and Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD), and statistical analysis confirmed the efficacy of vitamins and plant extracts against Alternaria citri.
Alternaria citri, Environmental factors, Thiamine, Pyridoxine
AMMI, BLUP, and WAASB Stability Models for the Selection of Stable Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) Genotypes in Different Agroecological Regions
The effect of genotype×environment interaction (GEI) presents a challenge in identifying genotypes that are stable across diverse environments. Present study was undertaken to check adaptability and stability of 16 chickpea genotypes in 10 different agro-ecological regions of Pakistan. Further, the importance of stability models like additive main effects and multiplicative interaction analysis, weighted average of absolute scores from singular value decomposition of BLUPs and best linear unbiased prediction was assessed to identify stable genotypes. AMMI ANOVA showed that main effects of genotype, environment along with GEI were significant and first two principal components explained about 64.2% of GEI variance. LMM-BLUP found that 98.8% phenotypic variance was due to GEI variance. G1 with low PC1 score in AMMI biplot analysis proved to be the most high yielding and stable genotype. Cross-validation conducted for BLUP and AMMI models identified BLUP as the most accurate model for the current dataset. Graphical display using BLUP based predicted grain yield ranked genotypes regarding stability and adaptability. However, Y× WAAS graphs were more useful as they categorized genotypes and environments into clear cut groups based on their productivity and stability. We concluded that AMMI, BLUP, and WAASB methods can be used to select well adapted and stable genotypes.
Multi Environment Testing, genotype-environment interaction, AMMI, BLUP, WAASB
Genetic Variability in High Yielding Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) Lines
Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) is considered the most valuable crop because of its high consumption in both developed and developing countries. Due to climatic and agronomic factors, there has been a gradual decrease in tomato production and quality in the world including Pakistan. In this research, an experiment was conducted at the research farm of MNS-UAM. Thirty tomato genotypes were sown under Randomize Complete Block Design with three replications and five plants per replication. The genotypes were planted in nursery trays in October 2023 and after one month, tomato seedlings were transferred to the field. The data were recorded for germination percentage (%), plant height(cm), stem pubescence, number of branches per plant, days to flowering(days), days to fruiting(days), fruit length(cm), fruit diameter (cm), fruit weight(g), number of fruits per plant, fruit yield per plant. The collected data was subjected to analysis of variance, correlation, and biplot analysis. There was a significant difference among all genotypes regarding all traits. Correlation analysis showed positive and negative associations among genotypes. The biplot analysis showed that LY06, LY48, CW04, CW06, and Naqeeb have the highest yield related to all other genotypes and are selected as high-yielding genotypes.
Tomato, Genetic Variability, Yield, Biplot, Correlation