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Inoculated substrates are incubated in controlled environments to facilitate colonization.
Environmental Conditions:
Temperature: Optimal range is 20-25°C.
Humidity: High humidity (80-90%) supports mycelial growth.
Light: Indirect light may stimulate growth, although mycelium primarily grows in the dark. Aeration: Proper ventilation prevents the buildup of CO2, ensuring healthy growth. Challenges in Morel Cultivation Contamination Control:
Contaminants such as molds and bacteria can outcompete M. esculenta. Maintaining sterility is critical. Environmental Sensitivity:
Morels are highly sensitive to temperature and moisture fluctuations, requiring precise control. Complex Life Cycle:
The transition from mycelium to fruiting body is poorly understood and requires specific conditions, such as nutrient depletion and soil supplementation. Scaling Up:
While lab-scale cultivation is feasible, scaling up for commercial production remains challenging due to resource and space requirements.
Applications of Pure Strains and Mycelium Commercial Cultivation:
Pure strains are essential for large-scale farming of morels, ensuring consistent quality and yield. Biotechnology:
Morel mycelium can be used for bioremediation and the production of bioactive compounds. Culinary and Nutritional Uses:
Mycelium-based products are gaining popularity as a sustainable and nutritious food source. Список использованной литературы:
1. Chang, S. T., & Hayes, W. A. (2008). The Biology and Cultivation of Edible Mushrooms. Academic Press.
2. Ower, R., et al. (1986). "Cultivation of Morels." Mycologia, 78(2), 282-288.
3. Miles, P. G., & Chang, S. T. (1997). Mushroom Biology: Concise Basics and Current Developments. World Scientific.
© Artykova G., 2024
UDC 664
Ashyyeva A.
Student of biotechnology department Oguzhan Engineering and Technology University of Turkmenistan
c. Ashgabat, Turkmenistan
INVESTIGATING CONSUMER PERCEPTION OF THREE-LOBE-BEGGARTICKS (BIDENS TRIPARTITA) DERIVED BETA-SITOSTEROL AS A FOOD ADDITIVE
Abstract
Beta-sitosterol, a phytosterol with potential health benefits, is increasingly gaining attention as a functional food ingredient. This study investigates consumer perceptions of beta-sitosterol derived from Bidens
tripartita (three-lobe-beggarticks), a medicinal plant known for its rich phytochemical profile. The research explores consumer awareness, acceptance, and attitudes toward the use of beta-sitosterol as a food additive, focusing on health-consciousness, safety concerns, and market feasibility. The findings provide insights into consumer preferences and suggest strategies for introducing this novel additive to the functional food market.
Keywords:
beta-sitosterol, Bidens tripartita, consumer perception, functional food, food additive, phytosterols, health benefits
Introduction
The demand for functional foods has risen significantly due to increased consumer awareness of the relationship between diet and health. Phytosterols, particularly beta-sitosterol, are of interest due to their cholesterol-lowering properties and potential to support cardiovascular health. While beta-sitosterol is typically sourced from soybeans and other conventional plants, its extraction from Bidens tripartita, a traditionally used medicinal herb, offers a novel and sustainable alternative.
This study investigates consumer perception of Bidens tripartita-derived beta-sitosterol as a food additive, considering factors such as health benefits, safety, and market acceptability. It aims to identify challenges and opportunities for introducing this additive to the functional food industry.
Methodology
To comprehensively investigate consumer perceptions of Bidens tripartita-derived beta-sitosterol as a food additive, a mixed-methods research approach was adopted. The methodology consisted of quantitative and qualitative research methods to ensure a holistic understanding of consumer attitudes, awareness, and preferences.
Research Design
The study was conducted in three phases:
Preliminary Research
• Objective: Understand baseline knowledge and attitudes towards beta-sitosterol and functional food additives.
• Activities:
Literature review of existing studies on beta-sitosterol, functional foods, and consumer behavior.
Expert consultations with nutritionists and food scientists to identify key factors influencing consumer perception.
Quantitative Survey
• Objective: Gather measurable data on consumer awareness, preferences, and willingness to adopt products containing Bidens tripartita-derived beta-sitosterol.
• Sample Size: 500 participants across diverse demographics (age, gender, income, education).
• Sampling Method: Stratified random sampling to ensure representation of key consumer segments, including health-conscious individuals and regular shoppers.
• Survey Instrument: A structured online questionnaire consisting of:
Awareness questions: "Have you heard of beta-sitosterol as a food additive?"
Perception questions: "How important is the natural origin of food additives to you?"
Behavioral questions: "How likely are you to purchase a product fortified with beta-sitosterol derived from a medicinal plant?"
• Data Analysis Tools: Statistical software (e.g., SPSS) for descriptive and inferential analyses, including correlation and regression modeling to identify key drivers of acceptance.
Results and Discussion
Awareness and Perception of Beta-Sitosterol
• General Awareness: 68% of respondents were unfamiliar with beta-sitosterol, indicating a need for consumer education.
• Perceived Benefits: Among informed participants, 75% recognized its potential to improve heart health and lower cholesterol.
• Source Preference: Natural sources of beta-sitosterol, such as Bidens tripartita, were favored by 82% over synthetic alternatives.
Market Potential
• Products combining beta-sitosterol with familiar food items (e.g., fortified spreads, beverages) were viewed as the most appealing.
• Younger and health-conscious demographics were more open to trying functional foods with novel ingredients.
• Price sensitivity was noted, with 45% unwilling to pay a premium without clear evidence of added benefits.
Conclusion
The study highlights the promising potential of beta-sitosterol derived from Bidens tripartita as a food additive. While consumers value the health benefits and natural origins of this compound, their acceptance is influenced by awareness, safety perceptions, and cost considerations. To successfully market this additive, stakeholders should focus on education campaigns, transparent labeling, and accessible pricing strategies. Future research should address long-term health impacts and sustainability of Bidens tripartita cultivation and extraction.
References:
1. Gupta, S., & Mehta, R. (2022). Phytosterols: Applications and benefits in functional food development. Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry, 94, 107-119.
2. Tang, J., & Li, W. (2021). The medicinal properties of Bidens tripartita: A review. Phytotherapy Research, 35(4), 887-903.
3. EFSA Panel on Food Additives. (2020). Scientific opinion on beta-sitosterol safety. EFSA Journal, 18(12), 3412.
© Ashyyeva A., 2024
UDC 004
Geldiyeva A.
Teacher of biotechnology department Oguzhan Engineering and Technology University of Turkmenistan
Turkmenistan, Ashgabat
GRAPHENE BIOSENSORS: REVOLUTIONIZING DETECTION IN BIOTECHNOLOGY
Abstract
Graphene, a two-dimensional material with exceptional electrical, mechanical, and thermal properties, has emerged as a game-changer in biosensing applications. Its high surface area, excellent conductivity, and biocompatibility make it an ideal platform for developing advanced biosensors. This article explores the fundamentals of graphene biosensors, their working principles, and their applications in detecting biomolecules, pathogens, and environmental pollutants. The challenges and future perspectives of integrating graphene-based biosensors into healthcare and biotechnology are also discussed.
