Nourish from Nature

Warm Water Accelerates Melting of the 'Doomsday Glacier' Introduction: A recent study reveals that warm and high-pressure seawater is melting the Thwaites Glacier in West Antarctica, often referred to as the 'Doomsday Glacier,' at an alarming rate. This process could lead to significant revisions in global sea-level rise predictions. The Impact of Warm Seawater: Researchers from the University of California, Irvine, utilized high-resolution satellite radar data to uncover the extent of seawater intrusion beneath the glacier.  This interaction between ocean water and the glacier's base is causing rapid melting, a phenomenon likely occurring throughout Antarctica and Greenland, necessitating a reevaluation of sea level projections. Insights from ICEYE Satellite Mission: To understand how ocean water affects glacial melting, data from Finland's ICEYE satellite mission was analyzed.  These satellites use interferometric synthetic aperture radar (InSAR) to mo...

Japan Introduces 'Electric Salt Spoon' to Enhance Flavor | and Promote Healthier Eating Introduction: Over recent years, the push for healthier lifestyles has led to various innovative technologies. One standout innovation from Japan is the 'Electric Salt Spoon,' developed by Kirin Holdings, launched on May 20, 2024, and priced at 19,800 yen (approx. ₹10,536). Promoting Healthier Eating: With growing awareness of the health risks associated with excessive sodium intake, the 'Electric Salt Spoon' offers a unique solution. This electrified spoon enhances salty flavors without the need for extra salt, potentially reducing sodium consumption. Award-Winning Technology: The spoon's technology, which won the 2023 Ig Nobel Prize for its unconventional approach, uses a weak electric current to amplify the salty and umami flavors in food. This not only helps in promoting healthier eating habits but also adds to the culinary experience. Features and Usability: W...

Why Ethylene Oxide is Used in Spices | FISS Explains Introduction: Ensuring Health Safety with Ethylene Oxide: Ashwin Nayak, Chairman of the Federation of Indian Spice Stakeholders (FISS), emphasizes that ethylene oxide is used in spices to protect public health.  Spices that are not properly processed can harbor harmful microorganisms like Salmonella, E. Coli, Aflatoxin, and Coliform, which pose serious health risks.  Treating these spices with ethylene oxide helps eliminate these dangerous pathogens, making the spices safer for consumption. The Global Reputation of Indian Spices: Indian spices are renowned worldwide for their unique flavors and health benefits. However, recent concerns have emerged over the safety of these spices in the global market.  Reports of ethylene oxide residues in exported spices have tarnished India's reputation as a leading spice producer. FISS aims to clarify the use of ethylene oxide in spices to address these concerns. Understandi...

Is It Beneficial to Eat Just Fruits for Dinner? Exploring the Health Implications of Fruits diet Introduction: A fruit-only diet for dinner might sound appealing to those seeking a lighter meal option or aiming for weight loss.  However, while fruits are packed with essential nutrients, relying solely on them for dinner can have long-term negative effects on your health.  This article explores the potential health impacts of consuming only fruits for dinner. Nutritional Benefits of Fruits: Fruits are undeniably nutritious. They are rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, making them a great addition to any diet.  These nutrients are vital for maintaining good health and boosting immunity.  Fruits provide essential micronutrients that support various bodily functions and contribute to overall well-being. The Downside of a Fruit-Only Dinner: Despite their health benefits, consuming only fruits for dinner may not be a wise choice. A balanced meal should...

FDA and US EPA have Concluded that Consumption of ETO Treated Spices is Safe | Understanding the Controversy Introduction: Ethylene Oxide in Spices: The use of ethylene oxide (ETO) in the treatment of spices has sparked controversy, with recent actions by Hong Kong and Singapore against certain spice variants manufactured by Indian brands MDH and Everest Food Products.  However, the American Spice Trade Association (ASTA) asserts that ETO-treated spices are deemed safe for consumption in the United States. The Safety Debate: In response to concerns raised by Hong Kong and Singapore, the ASTA clarified that both the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) have determined ETO-treated spices as safe for consumption.  This stance contrasts with the actions taken by Hong Kong and Singapore, which suspended sales and ordered recalls of certain spice blends due to elevated levels of ethylene oxide. Ethylene Oxide Usage: Et...

Kolkata's Battle with Heat Waves 2024 | A Wake-up Call to Climate Change Introduction :  The Growing Threat of Urbanization: Kolkata, one of India's bustling metropolises, is grappling with an alarming rise in heat waves. This surge in temperatures is not merely a weather anomaly but a stark reminder of the looming threat of climate change.  Town planners are sounding the alarm, cautioning against the unchecked pace of urbanization that exacerbates this heat crisis.  The call for action is clear: the creation of more green spaces is imperative to mitigate the adverse effects of rapid urban development. The Heat Wave Reality: India's rapid industrialization and urbanization are fueling the frequency and intensity of heat waves. Urban Land Cover Change (ULCC) is on the rise, leading to higher Land Surface Temperature (LST) and air temperature.  The year 2023 marked the hottest on record, with global temperatures soaring above pre-industrial levels. Climate sci...

Amul's Vision | The Way for Organic Products, Protein-rich Innovations, Biogas Initiatives Introduction: Amul, renowned in the dairy industry, is embarking on a journey of innovation, expanding its product lines and sustainability efforts.  In an exclusive interview with Moneycontrol, Jayen Mehta, Managing Director of Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation (GCMMF), Amul's parent company, shared insights into Amul's commitment to quality, innovation, and sustainable practices. Expanding Ice Lounge Experience: Amul's Ice Lounge concept, aimed at offering diverse Indian ice cream flavors globally, is rapidly expanding. With successful launches in cities like Pune, Mumbai, and Jaipur, Amul plans to establish 15 to 20 lounges across India and explore international markets.  The vision is to introduce Indian ice cream flavors to the world, with plans for 100 lounges nationwide. Franchising Model for Growth: Acknowledging the success of the Ice Lounge mode...