In this study, we aimed to isolate and phenotypically characterize non-Saccharomyces yeast strains (NSYSs) from the skin of aromatic (Italy) and non-aromatic (Negra Criolla) grapes from vineyards in Moquegua, Peru, typically used for the production of pisco. Our second objective was to characterize the volatile compounds and sensory attributes of pisco made from these grapes. Pichia terricola (56%), Metschnikowia pulcherrima (31%), and Naganishia vaughanmartiniae (13%) were the main NSYSs isolated from the skin of aromatic Italy grapes and identified; meanwhile, Vishniacozyma carnescens (50%), Vishniacozyma heimaeyensis (30%), and Aureobasidium pullulans (20%) were identified on the skin of the non-aromatic Negra Criolla grapes. These NSYSs showed different capacities in terms of carbohydrate fermentation, polygalacturonase activity, ethanol tolerance, sulphite production, and nitrogen consumption. Moreover, the pisco resulting from these varieties of grape had different volatile profiles. Terpene alcohols such as citronellol, geraniol, linalool, and nerol were found in pisco made from Italy grapes, while higher contents of 2-phenylacetate and ethyl esters were found in Negra Criolla Pisco. Intermediate levels of both 1-hexanol and bencyl alcohol were also found in all the pisco. Sensory analysis performed by a trained pisco tasting panel showed that citric, floral, alcohol, and syrup descriptors were more marked in Italy Pisco, while nuts, syrup, alcohol, and floral were the most intense attributes of Negra Criolla Pisco. These results will contribute to determining the potential of indigenous grape yeasts from the Moquegua region as fermentation starters to improve the typical sensory qualities of the pisco produced in this region, which deserves further study.

Investigating Consumer Food Choice Behavior: An application combining sensory evaluation and experimental auctions

“Chicha Morada” also known as purple corn drink (PCD), is a traditional non-carbonated beverage commonly prepared at homes and restaurants in Peru. However, in recent years, it is being produced at an industrial scale aiming to extend its shelf-life, expand its marketing and make it known worldwide. Traditionally, this beverage, main component being purple corn (Zea mays L.), was made and consumed quickly, and in some cases, stored under refrigeration until consumption, but never beyond 24 to 48 hours. With its industrialization, factories are presented with challenges to design and provide adequate protection of the beverage, assuring its quality and safety. Although its production at an industrial level is very similar to other non-carbonated drinks containing fruit juice, several processing factors could affect the microbiological stability desired for this beverage, such as the storage of the purple corn drink extract. In this document, a critical review of the production process (raw materials, production stages and forms of commercialization) that can have a direct impact on the contamination of the beverage was made. Recommendations are made for improving the control points in the industrial process and to avoid potential microbiological problems.

Efecto del desamargado de la torta de semilla de moringa (Moringa oleífera) sobre su composición proximal y su perfil nutricional y toxicológico

Influenza pandemics are related to the viral flow of wild and migratory birds, passing to pigs and poultry (intermediate hosts), which would end up infecting humans. Process management through Good Farming Practices for animal production and Animal Welfare should be important preventive measures to avoid this contagion. In coronaviruses and Ebola there are ancestral hosts (such as bats) and intermediate hosts (such as Civettictis civetta or Paradoxurus hermaphroditus for SARS-CoV-1, dromedaries for MERS-CoV, and snakes and Manis javanica for SARS-CoV-2). In its natural state the inter-specie jump would take much longer to occur; however, the existence of wet markets, where animals are traded, would have allowed viruses to find a new host in humans. In addition to pneumonia, the invasion of SARS-CoV-2 produces temporary discomfort, such as diarrhea, due to the abundance of the ACE-2 receptor in both lung cells and enterocytes, where its replication would increase the probability of transmission by the fecal-oral route. This risk could be minimized by improving Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) procedures in the food industry. Future research should clarify the relationship between viruses and their hosts, as well as the effect of climate change and proteins availability for human consumption, on these pandemics.