Microbes are everywhere. Their ability to adapt to environmental conditions means they can survive on surfaces and enter the food manufacturing chain where they continue to multiply. This presents a daunting uphill battle for food manufactures to maintain hygiene and prevent contamination.

Of the more than 200 pathogenic organisms that cause foodborne illness, Listeria monocytogenes is among the most concerning for public health.

The team of Dr. Aliyar Cyrus Fouladkhah, Associate Professor at Tennessee State University, has pioneered validation studies offering invaluable insights into how high-pressure techniques can be adapted to decontaminate food such as ready-to-eat products. In doing so their work is and will be instrumental in making the food we eat safe and improving public health in the USA and worldwide.

Read the original article: https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms12091858

Shrinkflation is the practice of reducing product sizes while keeping prices the same – a subtle form of inflation many consumers overlook.

In this episode, we explore new research by Aljoscha Janssen at Singapore Management University, examining how widespread shrinkflation is in retail, why consumers react differently to size changes than price rises, and what this means for transparency and consumer protection.

Read the original research: https://doi.org/10.1287/mksc.2024.0948

Menopause affects every woman differently, but for many the symptoms are significant and long-lasting. Yet despite effective treatments being available, many women never seek help.

This podcast from NHS Ayrshire and Arran explains how hormone replacement therapy works, the different forms it can take, and how to use it safely and effectively to manage the symptoms of perimenopause and menopause. One size does not fit all when it comes to HRT, and patient knowledge and understanding of the options available is essential for safe and effective use.

For more information, speak to your GP, practice nurse or pharmacist, or visit the links below.

NHS Inform: nhsinform.scot/tests-and-treatments/medicines-and-medical-aids/types-of-medicine/hormone-replacement-therapy-hrt

Women's Health Concern: womens-health-concern.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/27-WHC-FACTSHEET-HRT