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Mabhaudhi T, Hlahla S, Chimonyo VGP, Henriksson R, Chibarabada TP, Murugani VG, Groner VP, Tadele Z, Sobratee N, Slotow R, Modi AT, Baudron F, Chivenge P. Diversity and Diversification: Ecosystem Services Derived From Underutilized Crops and Their Co-benefits for Sustainable Agricultural Landscapes and Resilient Food Systems in Africa. Front Agron 2022; 4:859223. [PMID: 37680880 PMCID: PMC7615041 DOI: 10.3389/fagro.2022.859223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/09/2023]
Abstract
There are growing calls to adopt more sustainable forms of agriculture that balance the need to increase production with environmental, human health, and wellbeing concerns. Part of this conversation has included a debate on promoting and mainstreaming neglected and underutilized crop species (NUS) because they represent a more ecologically friendly type of agriculture. We conducted a systematic review to determine the ecosystem services derived from NUS and assess their potential to promote functional ecological diversity, food and nutritional security, and transition to more equitable, inclusive, sustainable and resilient agricultural landscapes and food systems in Africa. Our literature search yielded 35 articles for further analysis. The review showed that NUS provide various provisioning, regulating, cultural, and supporting ecosystem services and several environmental and health co-benefits, dietary diversity, income, sustainable livelihood outcomes, and economic empowerment, especially for women. Importantly, NUS address the three pillars of sustainable development-ecological, social, and economic. Thus, NUS may provide a sustainable, fit-for-purpose transformative ecosystem-based adaptation solution for Africa to transition to more sustainable, healthy, equitable, and resilient agricultural landscapes and food systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tafadzwanashe Mabhaudhi
- Centre for Transformative Agricultural and Food Systems, School of Agricultural, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
- International Water Management Institute-Ghana (IWMI-GH), West Africa Office, c/o CSIR, Accra, Ghana
- Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Sithabile Hlahla
- Centre for Transformative Agricultural and Food Systems, School of Agricultural, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
- Future Water Research Institute, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Vimbayi Grace Petrova Chimonyo
- Centre for Transformative Agricultural and Food Systems, School of Agricultural, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
- International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT)-Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Rebecka Henriksson
- Centre for Water Resources Research, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
| | - Tendai Polite Chibarabada
- Centre for Transformative Agricultural and Food Systems, School of Agricultural, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
| | - Vongai G. Murugani
- Centre for Transformative Agricultural and Food Systems, School of Agricultural, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
- Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Vivienne P. Groner
- Centre for Biodiversity and Environment Research, Department of Genetics, Evolution and Environment, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Zerihun Tadele
- Institute of Plant Sciences, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Nafiisa Sobratee
- Centre for Transformative Agricultural and Food Systems, School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
| | - Rob Slotow
- Centre for Transformative Agricultural and Food Systems, School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
- Department of Genetics, Evolution and Environment, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Albert Thembinkosi Modi
- Centre for Transformative Agricultural and Food Systems, School of Agricultural, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
| | - Frédéric Baudron
- Centre for Transformative Agricultural and Food Systems, School of Agricultural, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
- International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT)-Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Pauline Chivenge
- Centre for Transformative Agricultural and Food Systems, School of Agricultural, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
- African Plant Nutrition Institute, UM6P Experimental Farm, Benguérir, Morocco
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Sobratee N, Davids R, Chinzila CB, Mabaudhi T, Scheelbeek P, Modi AT, Dangour A, Slotow R. Visioning a food system for equitable transition towards sustainable diets. Sustainability 2022; 14:3280. [PMID: 37693306 PMCID: PMC7615045 DOI: 10.3390/su14063280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
The Global Goals to end hunger requires interpretation of problems, and change across multiple domains. We facilitated a workshop aimed at understanding how stakeholders problematise sustainable diet transition (SDT) among a previously-marginalised social group. Using the systems thinking approach, three sub-systems, access to dietary diversity, sustainable beneficiation of natural capital, and 'food choice for well-being', highlighted the main forces governing the current context, and future interventions. Moreover, when viewed as co-evolving processes within the multi-level perspective, our identified microlevel leverage points - multi-faceted literacy, youth empowerment, deliberative policy-making, promotion of sustainable diet aspirations - can be linked and developed through existing national macrolevel strategies. Thus, by reconsidering knowledge use in the pursuit sustainability, transformational SDT can streamline multiple outcomes to restructure socio-technical sectors, reconnect people to nature-based solutions and, support legitimate aspirations. The approach could be applied in countries having complex socio-political legacy and to bridge the local-global goals coherently.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Sobratee
- School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, P. Bag X01, Scottsville 3209, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
| | - R Davids
- School of Agricultural, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, P. Bag X01, Scottsville 3209, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
| | - C B Chinzila
- School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, P. Bag X01, Scottsville 3209, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
| | - T Mabaudhi
- Centre for Transformative Agricultural and Food Systems, School of Agricultural, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, P. Bag X01, Scottsville 3209, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
| | - P Scheelbeek
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - A T Modi
- Centre for Transformative Agricultural and Food Systems, School of Agricultural, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, P. Bag X01, Scottsville 3209, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
| | - A Dangour
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - R Slotow
- School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, P. Bag X01, Scottsville 3209, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
- Centre for Biodiversity and Environment Research, Department of Genetics, Evolution & Environment, University College London, London, UK
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Davids R, Scheelbeek P, Sobratee N, Green R, Häesler B, Mabhaudhi T, Chatterjee S, Venkateshmurthy NS, Mace G, Dangour A, Slotow R. Towards the Three Dimensions of Sustainability for International Research Team Collaboration: Learnings from the Sustainable and Healthy Food Systems Research Programme. Sustainability 2021; 13:12427. [PMID: 37692052 PMCID: PMC7615057 DOI: 10.3390/su132212427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
This paper highlights the potential for learning and virtual collaboration in international research teams to contribute towards sustainability goals. Previous research confirmed the environmental benefits of carbon savings from international virtual conferences. This paper adds the social and economic dimensions by using a combination of qualitative and quantitative methods to measure the constraints and benefits for personal development, economic costs, efficiency and team learning of holding international virtual conferences (VCs). Using the Sustainable and Healthy Food Systems (SHEFS) research programme as a case study, we analysed VC participant survey data to identify strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats of VCs. We estimated 'saved' GHG emissions, costs, and time, of using VCs as an alternative for a planned in-person meeting in Chennai, India. Hosting VCs reduced North-South, gender, and researcher inclusivity concerns, financial and travelling time costs, and substantially reduced emissions. For one international meeting with 107 participants, changing to a virtual format reduced the per capita GHG emissions to half the annual global average, and avoided 60% of travel costs. The benefits of VCs outweighed weaknesses. The main strengths were inclusivity and access, with 20% more early/mid-career researchers attending. This study identified opportunities for international research partnerships to mitigate their carbon footprint (environmental benefit) and enhance inclusivity of early/mid-career, women and Global South participants (social benefit), whilst continuing to deliver effective collaborative research meetings (economic benefit). In doing so, we present a holistic view of sustainability opportunities for virtual collaboration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rashieda Davids
- Centre for Transformative Agricultural and Food Systems, School of Agriculture, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg 3201, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| | - Pauline Scheelbeek
- Centre on Climate Change and Planetary Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London WC1E 7HT, UK
| | - Nafiisa Sobratee
- Centre for Transformative Agricultural and Food Systems, School of Agriculture, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg 3201, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| | - Rosemary Green
- Centre on Climate Change and Planetary Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London WC1E 7HT, UK
| | - Barbara Häesler
- Department of Pathobiology and Population Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, London E16 2PX, UK
| | - Tafadzwanashe Mabhaudhi
- Centre for Transformative Agricultural and Food Systems, School of Agriculture, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg 3201, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| | - Suparna Chatterjee
- Ashoka Trust for Research in Ecology and the Environment Royal Enclave, Sriramapura, Jakkur Post, Bangalore 560064, India
| | | | - Georgina Mace
- Department of Genetics, Evolution and Environment, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Alan Dangour
- Centre on Climate Change and Planetary Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London WC1E 7HT, UK
| | - Rob Slotow
- Department of Genetics, Evolution and Environment, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK
- School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg 3201, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
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Nhamo L, Rwizi L, Mpandeli S, Botai J, Magidi J, Tazvinga H, Sobratee N, Liphadzi S, Naidoo D, Modi AT, Slotow R, Mabhaudhi T. Urban nexus and transformative pathways towards resilient cities: A case of the Gauteng City-Region, South Africa. Cities 2021; 116:103266. [PMID: 37674556 PMCID: PMC7615023 DOI: 10.1016/j.cities.2021.103266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/08/2023]
Abstract
Challenges emanating from rapid urbanisation require innovative strategies to transform cities into global climate action and adaptation centres. We provide an analysis of the impacts of rapid urbanisation in the Gauteng City-Region, South Africa, highlighting major challenges related to (i) land use management, (ii) service delivery (water, energy, food, and waste and sanitation), and (iii) social cohesion. Geospatial techniques were used to assess spatio-temporal changes in the urban landscapes, including variations in land surface temperatures. Massive impervious surfaces, rising temperatures, flooding and heatwaves are exacerbating the challenges associated with rapid urbanisation. An outline of the response pathways towards sustainable and resilient cities is given as a lens to formulate informed and coherent adaptation urban planning strategies. The assessment facilitated developing a contextualised conceptual framework, focusing on demographic, climatic, and environmental changes, and the risks associated with rapid urbanisation. If not well managed in an integrated manner, rapid urbanisation poses a huge environmental and human health risk and could retard progress towards sustainable cities by 2030. Nexus planning provides the lens and basis to achieve urban resilience, by integrating complex, but interlinked sectors, by considering both ecological and built infrastructures, in a balanced manner, as key to resilience and adaptation strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luxon Nhamo
- Water Research Commission of South Africa (WRC), Lynnwood Manor, Pretoria 0081, South Africa
- Centre for Transformative Agricultural and Food Systems (CTAFS), School of Agricultural, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Scottsville, Pietermaritzburg 3209, South Africa
| | - Lameck Rwizi
- College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences (CAES), University of South Africa (UNISA), Florida, Johannesburg 1710, South Africa
| | - Sylvester Mpandeli
- Water Research Commission of South Africa (WRC), Lynnwood Manor, Pretoria 0081, South Africa
- School of Environmental Sciences, University of Venda, Thohoyandou 0950, South Africa
| | - Joel Botai
- South Africa Weather Services (SAWS), Ecoglades, Centurion 0157, Pretoria, South Africa
- Centre for Transformative Agricultural and Food Systems (CTAFS), School of Agricultural, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Scottsville, Pietermaritzburg 3209, South Africa
| | - James Magidi
- Geomatics Department, Tshwane University of Technology, Pretoria, 0001, South Africa
| | - Henerica Tazvinga
- South Africa Weather Services (SAWS), Ecoglades, Centurion 0157, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Nafiisa Sobratee
- School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Scottsville, Pietermaritzburg 3209, South Africa
| | - Stanley Liphadzi
- Water Research Commission of South Africa (WRC), Lynnwood Manor, Pretoria 0081, South Africa
- School of Environmental Sciences, University of Venda, Thohoyandou 0950, South Africa
| | - Dhesigen Naidoo
- Water Research Commission of South Africa (WRC), Lynnwood Manor, Pretoria 0081, South Africa
- Centre for Transformative Agricultural and Food Systems (CTAFS), School of Agricultural, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Scottsville, Pietermaritzburg 3209, South Africa
| | - Albert T. Modi
- Centre for Transformative Agricultural and Food Systems (CTAFS), School of Agricultural, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Scottsville, Pietermaritzburg 3209, South Africa
| | - Rob Slotow
- School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Scottsville, Pietermaritzburg 3209, South Africa
- Department of Genetics, Evolution and Environment, University College London, WC1E 6BT, United Kingdom
| | - Tafadzwanashe Mabhaudhi
- Centre for Transformative Agricultural and Food Systems (CTAFS), School of Agricultural, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Scottsville, Pietermaritzburg 3209, South Africa
- Centre for Water Resources Research (CWRR), School of Agricultural, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Scottsville, Pietermaritzburg 3209, South Africa
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Queenan K, Sobratee N, Davids R, Mabhaudhi T, Chimonyo M, Slotow R, Shankar B, Häsler B. A systems analysis and conceptual system dynamics model of the livestock-derived food system in South Africa: A tool for policy guidance. J Agric Food Syst Community Dev 2020; 9:021. [PMID: 32879750 PMCID: PMC7116013 DOI: 10.5304/jafscd.2020.094.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Global food production systems are currently under scrutiny, in particular the health, nutrition, and environmental impacts of livestock-derived food (LDF). Despite South Africa's recent socio-economic transformation and increased per-capita LDF consumption, the triple burden of malnutrition persists. Policy responses to such complex problems often fail because of linear thinking with short-term goals. However, a systems approach helps identify root causes, feedback mechanisms, potential unintended consequences, and opportunities for integrated, durable solutions. Participation in the systems-thinking process improves stakeholder understanding and buy-in. Our participatory workshop facilitated the development of a systems map for South African LDF, identifying key system elements, linkages, and nexus points. The latter included climate change, land access and management, livestock management and productivity, farming systems, food safety, policy articulation, agricultural knowledge, and income. Based on these findings, and an overview of related literature, we produced a conceptual system dynamics model of the LDF system. We identified key vari-ables and causal relationships, vicious and virtuous loops, system archetypes, conceptual stock and flows, and links to Sustainable Development Goals. The LDF system is complex and dynamic, with a dominance of commercial enterprises across agriculture and food retail, presenting barriers for small and medium-scale individuals. Other key elements relate to population growth and urbanization, land access, deregulation of international trade, climate change vulnerability, feed production limitations, and food safety. Our work provides a unique reference for policymakers, identifying the need for deep structural change, highlighting the possible unintended consequences, and thereby mitigating the risk of system destabilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Queenan
- Veterinary Epidemiology, Economics and Public Health (VEEPH) Research Centre, Department of Pathobiology and Population Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, AL9 7TA, United Kingdom
- Corresponding author: Kevin Queenan,
| | - Nafiisa Sobratee
- School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
| | - Rashieda Davids
- School of Agricultural, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
| | - Tafadzwanashe Mabhaudhi
- Centre for Transformative Agricultural and Food Systems, School of Agricultural, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
| | - Michael Chimonyo
- School of Agricultural, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
| | - Rob Slotow
- School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
- Department of Genetics, Evolution and Environment, University College London, United Kingdom
| | - Bhavani Shankar
- Centre for Development, Environment and Policy, School of Oriental and African Studies, London, United Kingdom
| | - Barbara Häsler
- Veterinary Epidemiology, Economics and Public Health (VEEPH) Research Centre, Department of Pathobiology and Population Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, AL9 7TA, United Kingdom
- Leverhulme Centre for Integrative Research on Agriculture and Health, Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom
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Sobratee N, Slotow R. A Critical Review of Lion Research in South Africa: The Impact of Researcher Perspective, Research Mode, and Power Structures on Outcome Bias and Implementation Gaps. Front Ecol Evol 2019. [DOI: 10.3389/fevo.2019.00081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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Mabhaudhi T, Chibarabada TP, Chimonyo VGP, Murugani VG, Pereira LM, Sobratee N, Govender L, Slotow R, Modi AT. Mainstreaming Underutilized Indigenous and Traditional Crops into Food Systems: A South African Perspective. Sustainability 2018; 11:172. [PMID: 37681213 PMCID: PMC7615043 DOI: 10.3390/su11010172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Business as usual or transformative change? While the global agro-industrial food system is credited with increasing food production, availability and accessibility, it is also credited with giving birth to 'new' challenges such as malnutrition, biodiversity loss, and environmental degradation. We reviewed the potential of underutilized indigenous and traditional crops to bring about a transformative change to South Africa's food system. South Africa has a dichotomous food system, characterized by a distinct, dominant agro-industrial, and, alternative, informal food system. This dichotomous food system has inadvertently undermined the development of smallholder producers. While the dominant agro-industrial food system has led to improvements in food supply, it has also resulted in significant trade-offs with agro-biodiversity, dietary diversity, environmental sustainability, and socio-economic stability, especially amongst the rural poor. This challenges South Africa's ability to deliver on sustainable and healthy food systems under environmental change. The review proposes a transdisciplinary approach to mainstreaming underutilized indigenous and traditional crops into the food system, which offers real opportunities for developing a sustainable and healthy food system, while, at the same time, achieving societal goals such as employment creation, wellbeing, and environmental sustainability. This process can be initiated by researchers translating existing evidence for informing policy-makers. Similarly, policy-makers need to acknowledge the divergence in the existing policies, and bring about policy convergence in pursuit of a food system which includes smallholder famers, and where underutilized indigenous and traditional crops are mainstreamed into the South African food system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tafadzwanashe Mabhaudhi
- Centre for Transformative Agricultural and Food Systems, School of Agricultural, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, P. Bag X01, Scottsville 3209, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
| | - Tendai Polite Chibarabada
- Centre for Transformative Agricultural and Food Systems, School of Agricultural, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, P. Bag X01, Scottsville 3209, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
- Soil, Crop and Climate Sciences, University of the Free State P.O Box 339, Bloemfontein 9300, South Africa
| | - Vimbayi Grace Petrova Chimonyo
- Centre for Transformative Agricultural and Food Systems, School of Agricultural, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, P. Bag X01, Scottsville 3209, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
- Plant Soil and Microbial Sciences Department, Michigan State University, 1066 Bogue St A286, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | - Vongai Gillian Murugani
- Centre for Transformative Agricultural and Food Systems, School of Agricultural, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, P. Bag X01, Scottsville 3209, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
| | - Laura Maureen Pereira
- School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, P. Bag X01, Scottsville 3209, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
- Centre for Food Policy, City University of London, Northampton Square, London EC1V 0HB, UK
| | - Nafiisa Sobratee
- School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, P. Bag X01, Scottsville 3209, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
| | - Laurencia Govender
- Centre for Transformative Agricultural and Food Systems, School of Agricultural, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, P. Bag X01, Scottsville 3209, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
| | - Rob Slotow
- School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, P. Bag X01, Scottsville 3209, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
- Department of Genetics, Evolution & Environment, University College, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Albert Thembinkosi Modi
- Centre for Transformative Agricultural and Food Systems, School of Agricultural, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, P. Bag X01, Scottsville 3209, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
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Sobratee N, Workneh TS. Modelling of Changes in Postharvest Quality Parameters of Stored Carrots Subjected to Pre- and Postharvest Treatments. International Journal of Food Engineering 2015. [DOI: 10.1515/ijfe-2015-0137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
The aim of this study was to develop qualitative models that enable prediction of quality of carrots. A full factorial experiment including preharvest biocatalyst application, dipping treatments and storage temperatures was employed. Eleven different biochemical and microbiological quality parameters of carrot (Daucus carota L.) were investigated. The effects of treatments on the shelf-life were investigated using discriminant analysis (DA). The lower storage temperatures (1°C) maintained the superior quality. Kinetic functions were applied to each parameter using the Levenberg–Marquardt algorithm to characterize the rate of change of quality. DAs significantly (P < 0.001) differentiated between the combined effects of the preharvest biocatalyst treatment and storage temperatures. Four discriminant functions factored the differentiation of the quality attributes based on storage time. The models fit well to the experimental data for storage at 1°C. The second-order reaction equations allowed for prediction of ascorbic acid, sucrose and sugar–hexose ratio. First-order reaction equations that allow estimation of fructose, sucrose equivalent, total coliform and total fungi and O2 were developed. The empirical evidence suggests that freshness was maintained in the carrots until day 14 (P < 0.001). Ascorbic acid, sucrose and sugar–hexose ratio were the most relevant parameters to rapidly detect the postharvest changes following the second-order decay rate.
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Sobratee N, Workneh TS. Evaluation of Chemical, Biochemical and Microbiological Quality in Tomato Using Multivariate Analysis. International Journal of Food Engineering 2015. [DOI: 10.1515/ijfe-2014-0099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Tomato quality is determined by metabolite content which is governed by post-harvest physiological changes. A 30-day full factorial experiment investigated pre-packaging, disinfection and storage temperatures on 18 different biochemical, microbiological, enzymatic and subjective quality attributes of tomato quality. Principal component analysis revealed associations among the variables such as PC1 (28.85%): coliform/enzymatic softening; PC2 (21.52%): free sugars/sweetness; and PC3 (18.20%): sucrose hydrolysis/microbial spoilage/defense metabolites. Discriminant analysis showed that some specific parameters were highly significant (P<0.001) in determining quality changes in relation to the washing procedures and storage temperature. The prominence of ascorbic acid was observed in the equations which discriminate mostly on the basis of microbial deterioration. Further works in this respect entail fine-tuning through model verification of the equations. Multivariate analysis techniques are, therefore, recommended in studies whereby understanding of the phenomenon driving the post-harvest system’s dynamics has to be understood through diverse interrelated metabolic parameters.
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Sobratee N, Mohee R, Driver MF. Variation of broth composition by addition of broiler litter composting substrate extracts: influence on faecal bacterial growth. J Appl Microbiol 2009; 107:1287-97. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2672.2009.04318.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Sobratee N, Mohee R, Driver MFB. Quantitative exposure of root crops to indicator enterobacteria from composted spent broiler litter under sub-tropical environment. Bioresour Technol 2009; 100:964-969. [PMID: 18700179 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2008.06.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2007] [Revised: 06/17/2008] [Accepted: 06/18/2008] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
The study aimed to quantify and compare the incremental exposure of root crops, at point of harvest, to enteric pathogens from untreated vs. composted spent broiler litter (SBL)/bagasse mix in field-crop application. An exposure assessment based on the Source-Pathway-Receptor approach was developed for bacterial indicator species, total coliforms, faecal coliforms, Escherichia coli and faecal enterococci. Event trees were constructed to model the pathways leading to the partitioning of pathogens present in the SBL blend during composting and after land application. The main barriers are induction of composting, high-rate thermophilic phase, maturation phase, and, decay and dilution of the indicator pathogens in the soil. The computed exposures have been expressed in terms of the arithmetic mean. TC, FC, E. coli and FE levels on root crops were reduced to very remote fractions of 0.01826, 0.00046, 0.000132 and 0.000013 kg(-1), respectively. The degree of by-pass (pi) of the treatment at operational scale showed that less than 1-log reduction has been by-passed during each turning event, revealing the effectiveness of turning for process control. The predicted E. coli counts on root crops at point of harvest provided a basis for estimating the exposure potential by the beta-Poisson model. Probability of exposure was 0.782 for raw SBL mix compared to 1.40x10(-11) with composting. It can be concluded that there is a definite advantage in optimally composting SBL mix before land application. The exposure assessment may essentially require modification and fine tuning as and when further data become available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nafiisa Sobratee
- Department of Agricultural and Production Systems, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Mauritius, Réduit, Mauritius.
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Mohee R, Driver MFB, Sobratee N. Transformation of spent broiler litter from exogenous matter to compost in a sub-tropical context. Bioresour Technol 2008; 99:128-36. [PMID: 17267211 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2006.11.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2006] [Revised: 11/17/2006] [Accepted: 11/20/2006] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Composting, an environmentally-sound treatment option for confined animal feeding operations (CAFO)-derived wastes, provides opportunities for stabilisation and hygienisation. A 110-day systematic composting study investigated Salmonella presence and survival of total coliforms, faecal coliforms, Escherichia coli and faecal enterococci in three experimental windrows consisting of SBL/bagasse mixture in a close-sided roofed facility. Salmonella was absent throughout the experiment. Log(10) reductions of -6.98, -8.03, -8.18 and -5.96 occurred in TC, FC, E. coli and FE concentrations respectively. As expected, FE exhibited resistance to high temperature compared to E. coli especially for the first 21 days. Temperature histories revealed hygienisation attainment. Differences in mean, representing benchmark stages of composting, were highly significant (P<0.05) for all pathogen indicators. VSRed (%) proved effective in depicting system progress. Final respiration rate of 0.000206 mg CO(2)g(-1) organic-C day(-1) with no phytotoxicity showed the stability achieved. Besides stabilisation, quantitative analysis of the sanitisation potential of composting is elemental for hygienic compliance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Romeela Mohee
- Department of Sugar and Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Mauritius, Réduit, Mauritius
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Abstract
AIMS The objective of this study was to deduce and analyse equations that best describe the behaviour of faecal bacterial indicators and two decomposition parameters during broiler litter composting. Mathematical models were fitted and the order of rate equations were identified. METHODS AND RESULTS The Levenburg-Marquardt algorithm was used to fit nonlinear mathematical models to total coliforms (TC), faecal coliforms (FC), Escherichia coli (EC), faecal enterococci (FE), organic-C and volatile solids reduction, VS Red, by the least squares procedure. The rate equations showed that TC, FC and EC reductions were expressed by second-order decay kinetics. FE reduction followed first-order decay. Temperature dependency of decomposition rate was effectively verified by applying empirically derived rate equations. CONCLUSIONS The governing mathematical models critically compare the inactivation kinetics of faecal indicators. TC, FC and EC were rapidly destroyed while FE was more resistant. Temperature elevation, organic-C and VS Red dynamics provide an accurate understanding of composting-induced decomposition of the broiler litter. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY The conservative performance of FE with respect to the other indicators has been established. Hence, FE presents better opportunities to encompass the totality of the composting process in terms of attainment of hygiene efficacy compared with EC.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Sobratee
- Department of Agriculture and Production Systems, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Mauritius, Reduit, Mauritius.
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