Food and Energy Security

Methods for determination of 2- or 3-monochloropropanediols (2- or 3-MCPD) in foods at low µg/kg levels require analyte derivatization prior to GC-MS determination. We have developed a new derivatization scheme, which uses cyclohexanone as a derivatization agent and a sulfonated polymer as a solid-phase acidic catalyst. The derivatization uses a readily available derivatization reagent and does not require any postderivatization workup.

This article looks beyond the physical sciences to address the problems of hunger, malnutrition, and environmental degradation. It discusses the challenges and problems with global food security and where and why paradigm shifts are needed to meet those challenges in a fair and sustainable way.

Miscanthus has been considered a potential energy crop for lignocellulosic biomass production. Four Miscanthus species widely distributed in China were assessed for their biomass production, chemical composition, and saccharification efficiency.

The data presented showed that the three major enzymes (SOD, CAT, and APX) involved in the ROS detoxification/elimination are not strongly involved in Cu tolerance. Cell membrane is the primary site of Cu toxicity, as evidenced by the increased lipid peroxidation. Solanum nigrum plants capacity to cope with Cu toxicity and that its tolerance is based on cellular protective mechanisms (immobilization of Cu excess in the root) and intracellular chelation with phytochelatins and metallothioneins.

Pumping machine being used to lift water to fields from the murky waters of Jakara river. This study assessed how pollution due to urban agriculture poses a risk to food security in Kano, Nigeria.

Non-competitive uptake of Cu and Fe by potato plants under Cu toxicity. Phosphate use non-efficient potato has higher sensitivity to Cu excess. Vineyard soils with high Cu levels impaired potato growth.

Whilst an adequate supply of food can be achieved at present for the current global population, sustaining this into the future will be difficult in the face of a steadily increasing population. Wheat alone provides ≥20% of the calories and the protein for the world's population, and the value and need to increase the production is recognized widely.