Artículos (Nutrición y Bromatología, Toxicología y Medicina Legal)

URI permanente para esta colecciónhttps://hdl.handle.net/11441/26073

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Green optimization of microwave and ultrasound-assisted extraction of zeaxanthin from dehydrated goji berries using corn oil as a solvent
(Elsevier, 2025-08) Stinco Scanarotti, Carla Maria; Benítez González, Ana; Escudero Gilete, María Luisa; Vicario Romero, Isabel; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Nutrición y Bromatología, Toxicología y Medicina Legal; Universidad de Sevilla
This research aimed to investigate and compare the extraction of zeaxanthin from lyophilised goji berries using ultrasonic-assisted extraction (UAE) and microwave-assisted extraction (MAE), employing food-grade corn oil as a green solvent. Optimisation of both processes was carried out using Response Surface Methodology (RSM). The selected combinations of variables studied were the ultrasonic amplitude and treatment time for UAE and microwave power and treatment time for MAE. The zeaxanthin-enriched corn oils and the commercial corn oil were characterised for carotenoids content, colour and oxidative stability. The highest extraction yields were obtained for UAE (68 %; 151.8 mg zeaxanthin/kg oil), while for MAE (54.5 %; 116.88 ± 1.77 mg zeaxanthin/kg oil). Both extraction methods result in enriched oils with darker, deeper, and more vivid orange colours than the original corn oil, with oxidation stability like that of the no enriched corn oil. In terms of environmental impact, MAE had lower energy consumption and CO2 emissions than UAE, but the latter achieved the highest oil enrichment. Compared to conventional organic solvent-based methods, the proposed solvent-free approach using edible oil minimizes toxicity, eliminates the need for post-extraction solvent removal, and allows direct application of the enriched product in food systems. Although the extraction condition providing maximum yield was not the greenest, MAE represented a more sustainable alternative. These findings highlight the need to balance extraction efficiency and environmental impact when designing green extraction processes. The resulting zeaxanthin-enriched corn oil could be used as a functional ingredient and natural colourant for the food industry.
Safety of frozen and dried forms of whole yellow mealworm (Tenebrio molitor larva) as a novel food pursuant to Regulation (EU) 2015/2283
(Wiley, 2024-01-16) Turck, Dominique; Bohn, Torsten; Cámara, Montaña; Castenmiller, Jacqueline; Henauw, Stefaan de; Hirsch-Ernst, Karen Ildico; Jos Gallego, Ángeles Mencía; McArdle, Harry J.; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Nutrición y Bromatología, Toxicología y Medicina Legal
Following a request from the European Commission, the EFSA Panel on Nutrition,Novel Foods and Food Allergens (NDA) was asked to deliver an opinion on the safetyof frozen, dried and powder forms of whole yellow mealworm (Tenebrio molitor larva)as a novel food (NF) pursuant to Regulation (EU) 2015/2283. The term yellow meal-worm refers to the larval form of the insect species T. molitor. The NF consists of thefrozen and dried forms of the whole yellow mealworm. The frozen form mainly con-sists of water, crude protein, carbohydrates and fat, whereas the dried forms consistof crude protein, fat and carbohydrates. The Panel notes that the levels of contami-nants in the NF highly depend on the occurrence levels of these substances in theinsect feed. The Panel notes that there are no safety concerns regarding the stabilityof the NF if the NF complies with the proposed specification limits during its entireshelf life. The NF has a protein content that ranges between 13 and 48 g/100 g. ThePanel acknowledges that the true protein content is overestimated when using thenitrogen-to-protein conversion factor of 6.25 due to the presence of non-protein ni-trogen from chitin. The applicant proposed to use the NF as food ingredient in vari-ous food products. The target population proposed by the applicant is the generalpopulation. Considering the composition of the NF and the proposed conditionsof use, the consumption of the NF is not nutritionally disadvantageous. The Panelnotes that no safety concerns arise from the toxicological information of the NF. ThePanel considers that the consumption of the NF might trigger primary sensitisationto yellow mealworm proteins and may cause allergic reactions in subjects allergic tocrustaceans, dust mites and molluscs. Additionally, allergens from the feed may endup in the NF. The Panel notes that allergic reactions may occur upon consumption.The Panel concludes that the NF is safe under the proposed uses and use levels.
Safety of a change of specifications of phytosterols/phytostanols as a novel food pursuant to Regulation (EU)2015/2283
(Wiley, 2025-01-27) Turck, Dominique; Bohn, Torsten; Cámara, Montaña; Castenmiller, Jacqueline; Henauw, Stefaan de; Hirsch-Ernst, Karen Ildico; Jos Gallego, Ángeles Mencía; McArdle, Harry J.; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Nutrición y Bromatología, Toxicología y Medicina Legal
Following a request from the European Commission, the EFSA Panel on Nutrition,Novel Foods and Food Allergens (NDA) was asked to provide an opinion on thesafety of a change of the specifications of the authorised NF ‘phytosterols/phyto-stanols’ as a novel food (NF) pursuant to Regulation (EU) 2015/2283. This author-ised NF concerns phytosterols extracted from plants and which may be presentedas free sterols and stanols or esterified with food grade fatty acids. It has to con-tain less than 81% β-sitosterol, less than 35% β-sitostanol, less than 40% camp-esterol, less than 15% campestanol, less than 30% stigmasterol and less than 3%brassicasterol. Regarding the maximum limit of the specification parameter ‘othersterols/stanols’, the applicant asks for an increase from currently less than 3% toless than 7% to better reflect and cover the natural composition and proportionsof sunflower-based phytosterols/phytostanols, noting that the existing specifica-tions have been established largely based on the NF when sourced from soy. Noevidence was found from the literature for the genotoxicity, subchronic toxicity,chronic toxicity and carcinogenicity, and reproductive toxicity of four phytosterolswhich have been identified by the applicant in the NF when produced from sun-flower oil. These four phytosterols, albeit at lower concentrations, are also foundin the NF if produced from soy. The Panel also notes the history of multiple safetyassessments of phytosterols performed by Member States and EFSA, in addition tothe group ADI established by JECFA. The Panel also considers that an increase fromless than 3 to less than 7% for the maximum specification limit for ‘other phytos-terols’ is of no relevance regarding nutritional considerations. The Panel concludesthat the NF is safe under the proposed change of the specifications.
Pacran®, a powder obtained from cranberries, and defence against bacterial pathogens in the lower urinary tract: Evaluation of a health claim pursuant to Article 13(5) of Regulation (EC) No 1924/2006
(Wiley, 2025-04) Turck, Dominique; Bohn, Torsten; Cámara, Montaña; Castenmiller, Jacqueline; Henauw, Stefaan de; Hirsch-Ernst, Karen Ildico; Jos Gallego, Ángeles Mencía; Siani, Alfonso; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Nutrición y Bromatología, Toxicología y Medicina Legal
Following an application from Givaudan, submitted for authorisation of a healthclaim pursuant to Article 13(5) of Regulation (EC) No 1924/2006 via the CompetentAuthority of Italy, the EFSA Panel on Nutrition, Novel Foods and Food Allergens(NDA) was asked to deliver an opinion on the scientific substantiation of a healthclaim related to Pacran® and defence against bacterial pathogens in the lowerurinary tract. The Panel considers that the food Pacran®, a powder obtained fromcranberries, is sufficiently characterised. Defence against bacterial pathogens inthe lower urinary tract is a beneficial physiological effect. The applicant identi-fied two human intervention studies which investigated the effect of Pacran® onthe incidence of urinary tract infections (UTI) as being pertinent to the claim. Inweighing the evidence, the Panel took into account that one human interventionstudy showed a beneficial effect of Pacran® consumed daily at doses of 500 mg for6 months on the incidence of symptomatic, culture-confirmed UTI in women witha history of recurrent UTI, whereas such an effect was not consistently observedin another study under similar conditions. The Panel also took into account thatlimited evidence has been provided for a mechanism by which Pacran® could exertthe claimed effect. The Panel concludes that the evidence provided is insufficientto establish a cause and effect relationship between the consumption of Pacran®and the defence against bacterial pathogens in the lower urinary tract.
Nutritional safety and suitability of a specific protein hydrolysate manufactured by Fonterra Co-operative Group Ltd derived from a whey protein concentrate and used in infant formula and follow-on formula
(Wiley, 2025-01-22) Bohn, Torsten; Cámara, Montaña; Castenmiller, Jacqueline; Henauw, Stefaan de; Hirsch-Ernst, Karen Ildico; Jos Gallego, Ángeles Mencía; Turck, Dominique; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Nutrición y Bromatología, Toxicología y Medicina Legal
The European Commission asked EFSA to deliver an opinion on the nutritional safety and suitability for use in infant and follow-on formula of a specific protein hydrolysate from whey protein concentrate manufactured by Fonterra Co-operative Group Ltd. Fonterra Co-operative Group Ltd. submitted a dossier to the European Commission to request an amendment of Regulation (EU) 2016/127 with respect to the protein sources that may be used in the manufacture of infant and/or follow-on formula. The protein hydrolysate under evaluation is sufficiently characterised with respect to the hydrolysed protein. In the pertinent intervention study provided, an infant formula manufactured from the protein hydrolysate with a protein content of 2.0 g/100 kcal and consumed as the sole source of nutrition by infants for 3 months led to a growth similar to a formula manufactured from intact cow's milk with the same protein content. Data on gastrointestinal tolerance of the formula did not raise any concerns. No experimental data have been provided on the nutritional safety and suitability of this protein source in follow-on formula. Given that follow-on formula is consumed with complementary foods and the protein source is nutritionally safe and suitable in an infant formula that is the sole source of nutrition of young infants, the Panel considers that the protein hydrolysate is also a nutritionally safe and suitable protein source for use in follow-on formula. The Panel concludes that the protein hydrolysate under evaluation is a nutritionally safe and suitable protein source for use in infant and follow-on formula, as long as the formula in which it is used contains a minimum of 2.0 g/100 kcal protein and complies with the compositional criteria of Regulation (EU) 2016/127 and the amino acid pattern in its Annex IIIA.
Nutritional safety and suitability of a specific protein hydrolysate derived from sources of skimmed cow's milk andwhey protein concentrates and used in infant and follow-onformula manufactured from hydrolysed protein by Healthcare Reckitt B.V.
(Wiley, 2025-01-29) Bohn, Torsten; Cámara, Montaña; Castenmiller, Jacqueline; Henauw, Stefaan de; Hirsch-Ernst, Karen Ildico; Jos Gallego, Ángeles Mencía; Turck, Dominique; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Nutrición y Bromatología, Toxicología y Medicina Legal
The European Commission (EC) requested the European Food Safety Authority toevaluate the nutritional safety and suitability of a specific protein hydrolysate de-rived from sources of skimmed cow's milk (including non-fat) and whey proteinconcentrates for use in infant and follow-on formula manufactured by HealthcareReckitt B.V. Healthcare Reckitt B.V. submitted a dossier to the EC seeking an amend-ment to Regulation (EU) 2016/127 regarding the protein sources permissible in themanufacture of infant and/or follow-on formula. The protein hydrolysate underevaluation is sufficiently characterised with respect to the hydrolysed protein. Inthe pertinent intervention study provided, an infant formula manufactured fromthe protein hydrolysate with a protein content of 2.3 g/100 kcal and consumed asthe sole source of nutrition for 3 months led to growth that is similar to an infantformula manufactured from intact cow's milk protein with a protein content of1.9 g/100 kcal. Data on adverse events and tolerance of the formula did not raiseany concerns. No experimental data have been provided on the nutritional safetyand suitability of this protein source in follow-on formula. Given that follow-onformula is consumed with complementary foods and the protein source is nutri-tionally safe and suitable in an infant formula that can be the sole source of nu-trition of young infants, the Panel considers that the protein hydrolysate is alsoa nutritionally safe and suitable protein source for use in follow-on formula. ThePanel concludes that the protein hydrolysate under evaluation is a nutritionallysafe and suitable protein source for use in infant and follow-on formula, as longas the formula in which it is used contains a minimum of 2.3 g/100 kcal proteinand complies with the compositional criteria of Regulation (EU) 2016/127 and theamino acid pattern in its Annex IIIA.
Deciphering the synthesis in Saccharomyces cerevisiae of the bioactives melatonin, serotonin, indoleacetic acid, hydroxytyrosol and tyrosol from glucose by using 13C labelling precursors and UHPLC-MS
(Elsevier, 2025-09) González Ramírez, Marina; Masuero, Domenico; Cerezo López, Ana Belén; Troncoso González, Ana María; Vrhovšek, Urška; García Parrilla, María del Carmen; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Nutrición y Bromatología, Toxicología y Medicina Legal; Ministerio de Ciencia, Innovación y Universidades (MICIU). España; Junta de Andalucía
Saccharomyces cerevisiae produces bioactive compounds such as melatonin (MEL), serotonin (SER), indoleacetic acid (IAA), hydroxytyrosol (HT), and tyrosol during alcoholic fermentation. Previous research shows that tryptophan and tyrosine are precursors. This study aimed to investigate whether S. cerevisiae can synthetize these bioactives from glucose. Using [U13C]-glucose as the fermentation substrate and UHPLC-MS for analysis, the research traced unequivocally the formation of these compounds. Results confirmed that MEL, SER, IAA, tyrosol, and HT are partly derived from glucose. Different 13C-labelled forms of HT, tyrosol, and tyrosine were identified which allows to propose a biosynthetic pathway leading to the formation of HT through reactions between intermediates from the pentose phosphate pathway, glycolysis, additionally to the Erlich pathway. The proposed pathway includes L-DOPA and catechol which were detected in their 13C-labelled forms. Understanding HT synthesis opens opportunities to enhance the bioactive potential of fermented beverages.
Evaluación de la seguridad in vitro e in vivo de compuestos azufrados naturales para su uso potencial en el ámbito agroalimentario
(Asociación Española de Toxicología, 2024) Cascajosa Lira, Antonio; Prieto Ortega, Ana Isabel; Pichardo Sánchez, Silvia; Guzmán Guillén, Remedios; Jos Gallego, Ángeles Mencía; Aguinaga Casañas, M. A,; Baños, Alberto; Cameán Fernández, Ana María; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Nutrición y Bromatología, Toxicología y Medicina Legal; Junta de Andalucía
Recientemente, el interés por los compuestos organosulfurados ha aumentado debido a sus numerosas propiedades beneficiosas en el ámbito agroalimentario y de la salud. En este estudio se han evaluado diversas propiedades relacionadas con aspectos de la seguridad de compuestos orgánicos de azufre a través de ensayos in vitro e in vivo. Los resultados señalan que los compuestos derivados s-propilglutatión y s-propilcisteína no presentan una actividad citotóxica o genotóxica relevante en estudios realizados en cultivos celulares. Además, el propilpropano tiosulfonato, propilpropano tiosulfinato, s-propilglutatión, s-propilcisteína y el sulforafano no exhiben efectos genotóxicos en estudios realizados in vivo. Así mismo, se observó que el propilpropano tiosulfonato, el propilpropano tiosulfinato y el sulforafano muestran un perfil seguro a largo plazo en ensayos subcrónicos realizados en roedores. Estos hallazgos confirman la seguridad de los compuestos organosulfurados evaluados, subrayando la necesidad de realizar estudios toxicológicos completos para comprender plenamente sus efectos en sistemas biológicos y garantizar su uso seguro en aplicaciones agroalimentarias.
Bioactive and agroindustrial potential of Amazonian fruit species: a review
(Taylor and Francis, 2025-01-15) Cuéllar Álvarez, Liceth Natalia; García-Chacón, Juliana María; Heredia Mira, Francisco José; González-Miret Martín, María Lourdes; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Nutrición y Bromatología, Toxicología y Medicina Legal; Junta de Andalucía
its high biodiversity makes the Amazon rainforest a strategic place to carry out bioprospectingof fruit and plant species with nutritional, biofunctional, and technological value. This reviewhighlights some Amazonian fruits such as açaí (Euterpe oleracea), arazá (Eugenia stipitata),camu-camu (Myrciaria dubia), canangucha (Mauritia flexuosa), cocona (Solanum sessiliflorum),and uva caimarona (Pourouma cecropiifolia), which deserve and need further and deeperexploration of their chemical composition, bioactive properties, and potential applicationswithin the food industry, especially those grown in the colombian Amazon region. Therefore,this article aims to contribute to the obtention and formulation of new and innovative foodproducts that can increase the shelf life of fruits and preserve their bioactive properties, andin some cases, improve their sensory acceptance. Additionally, it identifies the challenges inthe production and marketing chain as a strategy to promote the consumption andcommercialization of these Amazonian fruits, offering opportunities for research anddevelopment.
Beyond current quality indices: Quantitative volatilomics unrevealed cultivar traits, harvesting practices impact, and aroma blueprint of extra-virgin olive oils
(Elsevier, 2025-01) Caratti, Andrea; Fina, Angelica; Trapani, Fulvia; Liberto, Erica; Jiménez-Herrera, Brígida; Arce, Lourdes; Callejón Fernández, Raquel María; Cordero, Chiara; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Nutrición y Bromatología, Toxicología y Medicina Legal; P18-TP-2850; US-1380836
Virgin olive oil, derived from Olea europaea L., is a staple in the Mediterranean diet and is classified into quality categories by EU regulations and the International Olive Council. Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO), the highest quality, is valued for its nutritional and sensory attributes, driving consumer willingness to pay a premium. However, this makes EVOO susceptible to fraud, necessitating robust quality control methods. This study combines advanced untargeted fingerprinting and quantitative volatilomics using headspace solid-phase microextraction (HS-SPME) coupled to comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography with parallel mass spectrometry and flame ionization detection (GC×GC-MS/FID) on EVOOs from Hojiblanca and Picual cultivars to define robust markers of quality, named cultivar markers and cultivation practice indicators. The comprehensive analysis identified over 190 peak features and 84 compounds, revealing distinct volatile profiles influenced by cultivar, cultivation methods, and ripening stages. Of the 125 diagnostic volatile features (Fisher value > 4) for cultivar discrimination, alkenes, carbonyls, and alcohols predominate. Key compounds, such as (E)-2-octenal, (E)-2-hexenal, and (Z)-3-hexen-1-ol, reflect lipoxygenase pathway activity and maturation stages across cultivars. Quantification confirmed distinct aroma blueprints between cultivars, driven by differences in OAVs of key-odorants. However, minimal differences between odor active markers for organic and conventional cultivation practices, suggest consumers are unlikely to perceive variations in aroma between the two.
Alterations in acetylcholinesterase activity and oxidative stress parameters induced by pure cylindrospermopsin in brain of orally exposed rats and determination of potential metabolites
(Springer, 2025-04-13) Plata Calzado, Cristina; Prieto Ortega, Ana Isabel; Cameán Fernández, Ana María; Jos Gallego, Ángeles Mencía; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Nutrición y Bromatología, Toxicología y Medicina Legal; Ministerio de Ciencia, Innovación y Universidades (MICIU). España; Agencia Estatal de Investigación. España; European Union (UE)
Cylindrospermopsin (CYN) is a secondary metabolite produced by cyanobacteria. In view of its toxic efects, CYN is frequently classifed as a cytotoxin, although it has been associated with neurotoxicological efects. Despite this, few studies have explored the impact of CYN on the nervous system and none of them have been conducted in mammals. Therefore, the objective of the present work was to evaluate the efect of diferent doses of pure CYN (7.5–75.0 µg/kg body weight) on the brain of rats after gavage exposure for 48 h. For this purpose, the activity of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) enzyme and diferent biomarkers of oxidative stress were assessed. A signifcant inhibition of AChE activity was observed at all doses tested. Additionally, the results showed a dose-dependent increase in lipid peroxidation (LPO) levels, as well as alterations in superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) activities. These changes could be produced by CYN metabolites detected in brain samples by ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled to a tandem mass spectrometry system (UHPLC-MS/ MS). These fndings suggest that metabolites of pure CYN could cause alterations in the brain of rats after oral exposure and highlight the need for further studies focusing on CYN’s neurotoxicity and its potential role in neurodegenerative diseases.
Obtention and Characterisation of Antioxidant-Rich Peptides from Defatted Grape Seed Meal Using Different Enzymes
(Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute (MDPI), 2025-04-03) Rodríguez Muñoz, María del Rosario; Mora Garrido, Ana Belén; Heredia Mira, Francisco José; Cejudo Bastante, María Jesús; González-Miret Martín, María Lourdes; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Nutrición y Bromatología, Toxicología y Medicina Legal; Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación (MICIN). España; Programa Iberoamericano de Ciencia y Tecnología para el Desarrollo (CYTED)
Defatted grape seed meal (DGSM) is a residue obtained from grape pomace and is an important source of protein. The aim of this study was to select peptides with optimal antioxidant and colour properties, obtained using enzymes of different origins and proteolytic character, for application in winemaking. For this purpose, the assay was performed using novo-ProD (NP), alcalase (AL), novozym (NZ), pepsin (PE), flavourzyme (FZ), and papain (PA) enzymes. The peptide percentage, peptide yield, molecular size of the peptide fractions, total amino acid, peptide content, antioxidant activity, and CIELAB colour coordinates of the hydrolysates were determined. The peptide hydrolysates obtained using PE showed the significantly (p < 0.05) highest percentages of peptides (93%), amino acid content (188 mg aa/g hydrolysate), and lightness (L*, 70.3). On the other hand, NP peptide hydrolysates displayed the significantly (p < 0.05) highest antioxidant activity (154 µmol TE/g hydrolysate) and peptide yield (39%). Regarding molecular weight (MW), PE led to hydrolysates with a lower proportion of low-MW peptides (MW < 1 kDa). In conclusion, the peptide hydrolysates obtained by NP and PE exhibited the greatest chemical characteristics for further application, both separately and combined in targeted hydrolysis, as colour stabilisers and antioxidant capacity enhancers in warm climate winemaking.
Assessment of the Chemical Diversity and Functional Properties of Secondary Metabolites from the Marine Fungus Asteromyces cruciatus
(Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute (MDPI), 2024-12-24) González Troncoso, María Paz; Landeta-Salgado, Catalina; Munizaga, Javiera; Hornedo Ortega, Ruth; García Parrilla, María del Carmen; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Nutrición y Bromatología, Toxicología y Medicina Legal; Centre for Biotechnology and Bioengineering-CeBiB
Natural compounds derived from microorganisms, especially those with antioxidant and anticancer properties, are gaining attention for their potential applications in biomedical, cosmetic, and food industries. Marine fungi, such as Asteromyces cruciatus, are particularly promising due to their ability to produce bioactive metabolites through the degradation of marine algal polysaccharides. This study investigates the metabolic diversity of A. cruciatus grown on different carbon sources: glucose, Durvillaea spp., and Macrocystis pyrifera. Crude extracts of fungal biomass were analyzed for total phenolic content (TPC), antioxidant capacity (TAC), toxicity, and phenolic compound identification using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with high-resolution electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS). The analysis revealed the presence of anthraquinone compounds, including emodin (0.36 ± 0.08 mg/g DW biomass) and citrereosein in glucose medium and citrereosein and endocrocin in M. pyrifera medium. No such compounds were detected in Durvillaea spp. medium. The glucose-grown extract exhibited the highest TPC (3.09 ± 0.04 mg GAE/g DW) and TAC (39.70 ± 1.0 µmol TEq/g biomass). Additionally, no detrimental effects were observed on a neuronal cell line. These findings highlight the influence of carbon sources on the production of bioactive metabolites and their functional properties, providing valuable insights into the biotechnological potential of A. cruciatus.
Safety of oil from Schizochytrium
(European Food Safety Authority-Efsa, 2025) Turck, Dominique; Bohn, Torsten; Cámara, Montaña; Castenmiller, Jacqueline; de Henauw, Stefaan; Hirsch-Ernst; Jos Gallego, Ángeles Mencía; McArdle, Harry J.; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Nutrición y Bromatología, Toxicología y Medicina Legal
Following a request from the European Commission, the EFSA Panel on Nutrition,Novel Foods and Food Allergens (NDA) was asked to deliver an opinion on thesafety of an oil derived from the microalga Schizochytrium sp. (strain ATCC-20889)as a novel food (NF) pursuant to Regulation (EU) 2015/2283. The NF is a mixtureof triglycerides in which docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) represents 40%–43% offatty acids. The available evidence indicates that the source organism (strain ATCC-20889) belongs to the species Schizochytrium limacinum. The applicant intendsto market the NF as an ingredient in infant formulae (IF) and follow-on formulae(FOF). The use levels proposed by the applicant were derived from Regulation (EU)2016/127, which states the mandatory presence of DHA to IF and FOF at the levelsof 20–50 mg/100 kcal. Schizochytrium limacinum was attributed the qualified pre-sumption of safety (QPS) status with the qualification ‘for production purposesonly’. Data provided by the applicant demonstrated the absence of viable cells inthe NF. No toxicological studies were performed with the NF. However, based onthe available toxicological data on oils derived from Schizochytrium sp., the QPSstatus of the source of the NF, the production process, the composition of the NF,the absence of marine biotoxins and viable cells in the NF, the Panel considers thatthere are no concerns with regard to the toxicity of the NF. The Panel concludesthat the NF is safe under the proposed conditions of use.
A MALDI-MSI-based approach to characterize the spatial
(Elsevier Ireland Ltd, 2025) Casas Rodríguez, Antonio; Lopez-Vazquez, Cristina Maria; Guzmán Guillén, Remedios; Ayala, Nahum; Cameán Fernández, Ana María; Jos Gallego, Ángeles Mencía; Chicano-Galvez, Eduardo; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Nutrición y Bromatología, Toxicología y Medicina Legal; Ministerio de Ciencia, Innovación y Universidades (MICIU). España; Agencia Estatal de Investigación. España; European Union (UE)
Global warming and eutrophication of water bodies are driving the increase in cyanobacterial blooms, which produce toxins such as cylindrospermopsin (CYN). This compound has multiple toxic effects, and following CYN exposure, its distribution in the body varies, particularly in organs such as the liver and kidneys, suggesting its potential for bioaccumulation in key tissues. Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry imaging (MALDI-MSI) enables visualization of the spatial distribution of a wide range of molecules. In this study, using MALDI-MSI, a new method was developed and optimized for the detection of CYN, and its quantitative spatiotemporal distribution was analyzed for the first time in intestinal samples from rats orally exposed to this toxin (500 μg/kg body weight) and sacrificed 0, 2, 4, 6 and 24 h after exposure. Furthermore, the impact of CYN on the intestinal lipid profile was evaluated. The method was validated in terms of linearity, sensitivity, and precision, measuring CYN in mimetic tissue sections at different concentrations (1–100 ppm), allowing its successful application to visualize CYN distribution in rat intestines. The results revealed alterations in different lipid families involved in the inflammatory response, increased oxidative stress, and progressive damage to the integrity of the cell membrane.
Safety of oil from Schizochytrium limacinum (strain ATCC-20889) for use in infant and follow-on formula as a novel food pursuant to Regulation (EU) 2015/2283
(Wiley, 2025-01-22) Turck, Dominique; Bohn, Torsten; Cámara, Montaña; Castenmiller, Jacqueline; Henauw, Stefaan, de ; Jos Gallego, Ángeles Mencía; Hirsch-Ernst, Karen Ildico; McArdle, Harry J.; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Nutrición y Bromatología, Toxicología y Medicina Legal
Following a request from the European Commission, the EFSA Panel on Nutrition,Novel Foods and Food Allergens (NDA) was asked to deliver an opinion on thesafety of an oil derived from the microalga Schizochytrium sp. (strain ATCC-20889)as a novel food (NF) pursuant to Regulation (EU) 2015/2283. The NF is a mixtureof triglycerides in which docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) represents 40%–43% offatty acids. The available evidence indicates that the source organism (strain ATCC-20889) belongs to the species Schizochytrium limacinum. The applicant intendsto market the NF as an ingredient in infant formulae (IF) and follow-on formulae(FOF). The use levels proposed by the applicant were derived from Regulation (EU)2016/127, which states the mandatory presence of DHA to IF and FOF at the levelsof 20–50 mg/100 kcal. Schizochytrium limacinum was attributed the qualified pre-sumption of safety (QPS) status with the qualification ‘for production purposesonly’. Data provided by the applicant demonstrated the absence of viable cells inthe NF. No toxicological studies were performed with the NF. However, based onthe available toxicological data on oils derived from Schizochytrium sp., the QPSstatus of the source of the NF, the production process, the composition of the NF,the absence of marine biotoxins and viable cells in the NF, the Panel considers thatthere are no concerns with regard to the toxicity of the NF. The Panel concludesthat the NF is safe under the proposed conditions of use.
In silico and in vitro evaluation of potential agonistic and antagonistic estrogenic and androgenic activities of pure cyanotoxins, microcystin-LR and cylindrospermopsin
(Elsevier, 2025) Casas Rodríguez, Antonio; Cascajosa Lira, Antonio; Puerto Rodríguez, María; Cameán Fernández, Ana María; Jos Gallego, Ángeles Mencía; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Nutrición y Bromatología, Toxicología y Medicina Legal; Ministerio de Ciencia, Innovación y Universidades (MICINN). España; Agencia Estatal de Investigación. España; European Union (UE)
The potential endocrine disruption activity of cyanotoxins, particularly their effects on estrogen and androgen receptors (ER, AR), remains poorly understood. In the present study, the potential agonistic/antagonistic estrogenic and androgenic activities of MC-LR and CYN have been determined for the first time with validated OECD Test Guidelines No. 455 and 458, respectively. The data show that only MC-LR demonstrated weak estrogenic agonistic effects (LogPC10 value of − 9.85 M), while both toxins displayed antagonistic effects on the ER, with LogIC30 values of − 4.4 and − 6.4 for MC-LR and CYN, respectively. In addition, neither MC-LR nor CYN exhibited agonistic/antagonistic activities in AR. Docking studies revealed potential interactions between both toxins and AR, with CYN showing a higher predicted affinity for this receptor. In vivo studies, particularly those investigating androgen disruption, are warranted to confirm the endocrine disrupting potential of MC-LR and CYN.
Estimation of the post-mortem interval: a review
(Elsevier, 2025) Ruiz López, Juan Luis; Partido Navadijo, Manuel; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Nutrición y Bromatología, Toxicología y Medicina Legal
Determination of the time of death and post-mortem interval (PMI) is a major task for Legal and Forensic Medicine, given the implications it entails. In this respect, depending on the proximity to the moment of death, this PMI estimation will be simpler or more complex. Traditionally, the estimation of the PMI has centred upon the analysis of corporeal rigidity, body temperature and the concentration of potassium within the vitreous humour. However, in recent years, innovative methodologies that facilitate an increasingly precise prediction of the PMI have been developed. Therefore, this article aims to compile and present a comprehensive overview of these PMI estimation techniques, in order to serve as a basic guide and reference point to understand the latest advances in this area, as well as to identify their limitations and to explore the potential future directions of this discipline.
Safety of mineral salt containing
(Wiley, 2025) Turck, Dominique; Bohn, Torsten; Cámara, Montaña; Castenmiller, Jacqueline; de Henauw, Stefaan; Jos Gallego, Ángeles Mencía; Hirsch-Ernst, Karen Ildico; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Nutrición y Bromatología, Toxicología y Medicina Legal
Following a request from the European Commission, the EFSA Panel on Nutrition,Novel Foods and Food Allergens (NDA) was asked to deliver an opinion on amineral salt, containing potassium and magnesium, as a novel food (NF) pursu-ant to Regulation (EU) 2015/2283. The NF is a mineral salt that consists mainly ofmagnesium potassium trichloride hexahydrate. The information provided on thecomposition is sufficient for characterising the NF and does not raise safety con-cerns. The production process is sufficiently described and does not raise safetyconcerns. The NF is intended to be added to meat, sausages and dishes based onpasta, rice and other cereals. Taking into account the composition of the NF andthe proposed use and use levels, the Panel considers that the consumption of theNF is not nutritionally disadvantageous. Regarding the presence of bromide in theNF, the Panel notes that the combined daily intake of bromide from the NF andthe background diet does not exceed the tolerable daily intake of bromide of 0.4mg/kg body weight (bw) per day. Based on its physicochemical characteristics andsolubility data, the NF is expected to be dissociated in the gastrointestinal tract.Taking into account the composition and the nature of the NF, the Panel considersthat no toxicological studies with the NF are required. The Panel concludes thatthe NF (i.e. a mineral salt containing potassium and magnesium) is safe under theproposed conditions of use.
Insight into the chemical and nutritional fat profile of Tenebrio molitor larvae reared on different Agri-food by-products
(Elsevier, 2025) Morales Gómez, María Lourdes; Segura Borrego, María del Pilar; Aguilera-Velázquez, José Raúl; Callejón Fernández, Raquel María; Gutiérrez-Praena, Daniel; Úbeda Aguilera, Cristina; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Nutrición y Bromatología, Toxicología y Medicina Legal; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular; Ministerio de Ciencia, Innovación y Universidades (MICINN). España; Agencia Estatal de Investigación. España; European Union (UE)
Insects are capable of feeding with a variety of substrates, being possible obtaining products rich in protein using by-products from agri-food industry. Hence, the aim of this work was evaluating the effect of different diets based on three agri-food industry by-products of Tenebrio molitor larvae’s total fat contents and fatty acid profiles. Stabilized Alperujo (ALP), Pleorotus ostreatus spent substrate (POS) and olive leaf flour (OLF) were used mixed with wheat bran, control diet, at different percentages (20–100 %). All substrates studied modified the parameter analysed respect to the control diet. OLF subtract led to the greatest effects on the total fat content at percentage higher than 40 %. Respect to fatty acid profile, the most relevant changes were the increases of total MUFA content in samples from all T. molitor larvae fed with ALP and in most of those fed with POS, due to the specific increases of oleic acid content. On the contrary, total PUFA content decreased in most cases except for OLF substrate when the addition percentages were lower than 100 %. Moreover, OLF substrate enhanced the presence of ω-3. Finally, according to European regulations on nutritional claims, this fat fraction could be labelled as “source of ω-3”, “high in monounsaturated fat” and “high in unsaturated fats”. We can therefore conclude that feeding T. molitor with these agri-food by-products, especially from olive oil industry, enhanced the fatty acids profile of their fat fraction.

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