The aim of this work was to evaluate the in vitro and in vivo effectiveness of thymol and carvacrol added to edible starch films and coatings against Colletotrichum gloeosporioides. In vitro evaluation consisted of determining minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) of carvacrol and thymol was determined at different pH values against Colletotrichum gloeosporioides. With MIC values, binary mixtures were developed. From these results, two coatings formulations were in vivo evaluated on mango and papaya. Physicochemical analysis, color change, fruit lesions and C. gloeosporioides growth were determined during storage. In vitro assay indicated that the MIC value of carvacrol and thymol against C. gloeosporioides was 1500 mg/L at pH 5. An additive effect was determined with 750/750 and 1125/375 mg/L mixtures of carvacrol and thymol, respectively. Coated fruits with selected mixtures of carvacrol and thymol presented a delay in firmness, maturity index and color change. Moreover, a fungistatic effect was observed due to a reduction of lesions in coated fruits. These results were corroborated by the increase in the lag phase value and the reduction of the growth rate. Carvacrol and thymol incorporated into edible films and coatings are able to reduce the incidence of anthracnose symptoms on mango and papaya.

Saffron is derived from the stigmas of the flower Crocus sativus L. The drying process is the most important post-harvest step for converting C. sativus stigmas into saffron. The aim of this review is to evaluate saffron’s post-harvest conditions in the development of volatile compounds and its aroma descriptors. It describes saffron’s compound generation by enzymatic pathways and degradation reactions. Saffron quality is described by their metabolite’s solubility and the determination of picrocrocin, crocins, and safranal. The drying process induce various modifications in terms of color, flavor and aroma, which take place in the spice. It affects the aromatic species chemical profile. In the food industry, saffron is employed for its sensory attributes, such as coloring, related mainly to crocins (mono-glycosyl esters or di-glycosyl polyene).

This review aims to evaluate the state of saffron’s main bioactive compounds and their relationship with its commercial quality. Saffron is the commercial name for the dried red stigmas of the Crocus sativus L. flower. It owes its sensory and functional properties mainly to the presence of its carotenoid derivatives, synthesized throughout flowering and also during the whole production process. These compounds include crocin, crocetin, picrocrocin, and safranal, which are bioactive metabolites. Saffron’s commercial value is determined according to the ISO/TS3632 standard that determines their main apocatotenoids. Other techniques such as chromatography (gas and liquid) are used to detect the apocarotenoids. This, together with the determination of spectral fingerprinting or chemo typing are essential for saffron identification. The determination of the specific chemical markers coupled with chemometric methods favors the discrimination of adulterated samples, possible plants, or adulterating compounds and even the concentrations at which these are obtained. Chemical characterization and concentration of various compounds could be affected by saffron’s geographical origin and harvest/postharvest characteristics. The large number of chemical compounds found in the by-products (flower parts) of saffron (catechin, quercetin, delphinidin, etc.) make it an interesting aromatic spice as a colorant, antioxidant, and source of phytochemicals, which can also bring additional economic value to the most expensive aromatic species in the world.

Environmental, social, and economic factors are decisive for susceptibility to infectious diseases caused by opportunistic pathogens, such as Candida. Their incidence has increased significantly in recent years, mainly due to a greater number of immunocompromised people, the social and economic environment in which they develop and the current environmental crisis, climate change, which exacerbates health inequalities. Therefore, a literature review was conducted on the main social and environmental determinants of health and virulence factors as determinants of Candida spp. infection. Several studies provide valuable insights into the main predisposing determinants of Candida colonization and infection in relation to the health status of people and the virulence factors of the aetiological pathogen itself. Although there are some studies on the prevalence of Candida in different social classes, there are still few criteria to derive or claim an objective opinion on the social conditions under which this opportunistic pathogen occurs. Therefore, an overall picture that takes into account not only the intrinsic factors of the individual (human biology, health status, etc.) but also the social determinants of health, which may be related to differences in colonization and infection by different Candida species, is still lacking.

Fungal biodiversity and ethnomycological knowledge are fundamental components of the biocultural identity of communities within the La Malinche National Park (PNM), a region of ecological and cultural significance in Mexico. This study documented the diversity of wild fungi and their uses in San Miguel Canoa, Puebla, through field excursions with local mushroom gatherers, interviews, and qualitative analysis. Key species such as Russula delica, Boletus aff. edulis, and Amanita basii were identified, playing a vital role in local gastronomy with traditional recipes like mole and pipián. Intergenerational knowledge transmission, crucial for identifying edible fungi and avoiding intoxications, highlights the importance of oral tradition. However, deforestation, illegal logging, and land-use change threaten fungal diversity, a problem exacerbated by the lack of effective conservation policies. The discussion highlights the interplay between biodiversity and culture, emphasizing the significance of the Wild Mushroom Fair organized by the Yolaltepetl collective as an effort to disseminate ethnomycological knowledge and promote the conservation of the PNM. Such community-driven initiatives represent a sustainable model that integrates environmental protection with cultural strengthening. The study concludes that protecting the PNM requires a holistic approach, merging ecological conservation with the recognition of biocultural knowledge. This is essential to preserve both biodiversity and cultural heritage, ensuring their sustainability for future generations.

Food security among college students is an increasing concern, with potential implications for their health, academic performance, and future well-being. This study investigated food security within a college community in Mexico, focusing on food availability, access (both economic and physical), and consumption patterns. A mixed-methods approach was employed at Ciudad Universitaria, BUAP, Mexico, between 2023 and 2024. Stratified random sampling was used, resulting in a final sample of 606 students. Data were collected through structured questionnaires covering sociodemographic characteristics and eating habits, the ELCSA, structured cafeteria observations, semi-structured interviews with key informants, and three focus groups. Statistical analysis was performed using chi-square tests (p < 0.05). Post hoc analysis with Bonferroni adjustment confirmed that origin (p = 0.0017), mode of transportation (p = 2.31 × 10⁻⁵) and private vehicles (p = 1.77 × 10⁻⁵) were the key determinants. Although the environment offered a variety of options, processed and ultra-processed products dominated the food choices. A total of 95.9% of students purchased food on campus, yet only 21.8% reported engaging in healthy eating habits. Focus groups revealed that students’ food choices were influenced by availability, access, and perceptions of affordability and convenience. These findings highlight the urgent need for targeted interventions to improve food security and promote healthier dietary practices within the college setting.