Recent advancements in food packaging have transitioned from passive containment toward innovative smart systems that integrate active and intelligent functionalities to improve product preservation, safety, and consumer interaction. This review examines the evolution of these technologies, focusing on biodegradable polymers and nanomaterial-enhanced substrates that combine environmental sustainability with superior barriers and antimicrobial performance. Developments in embedded sensing systems, including chemical, temperature, and humidity sensors, enable the continuous monitoring of food quality and environmental conditions, supporting extended shelf-life and early contamination detection. Intelligent packaging further incorporates indicators, sensors, and data carriers that enhance transparency and traceability across supply chains. These systems are often connected through blockchain and Internet of Things (IoT) platforms for real-time data analysis. The review also addresses consumer engagement via interactive labels and personalized nutritional feedback, along with the economic, behavioral, and regulatory aspects influencing large-scale adoption. Life cycle assessments are analyzed to evaluate trade-offs between enhanced functionality and environmental impact, emphasizing recyclability and end-of-life strategies within circular economy frameworks. Finally, the article discusses current technical challenges while highlighting emerging trends such as AI-driven predictive analytics and IoT-enabled connectivity as key enablers of sustainable, efficient, and safe food packaging systems.

Animal biodiversity is essential for maintaining the functionality of local food systems and ensuring sustainable livelihoods. Starting in 2000, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (F.A.O.) has drawn attention to the decline in cattle populations, including the Transylvanian Pinzgau breed from Romania. Renowned for its hardiness, adaptability, and enhanced resistance to diseases and climate change, the Transylvanian Pinzgau is regarded as an important genetic asset for advancing livestock production. As a result, tracking genetic diversity has become a key focus in breeding programs, particularly for small, endangered local populations that play a vital role in regional agro-ecological systems. This research paper sought to assess the genetic diversity of a group of 24 head of cattle from the Transylvania region by analyzing two mtDNA markers, cytochrome b and D-loop sequences, both widely recognized for their relevance and importance in the analysis of genetic diversity of cattle and phylogenetic studies. The findings, derived through statistical analysis of nucleotide sequences using specialized software, indicated that the analyzed cattle are part of the ancestral T haplogroup, with a direct lineage tracing back to Bos taurus. This information can aid in developing crossbreeding programs focused on conserving essential genetic resources, improving other cattle breeds, and protecting biodiversity.

Legislative frameworks about contamination are often limited to foods and underestimate the role of animal nutrition for safe production. This study aims to assess mineral oil hydrocarbon (MOH) contamination in feed and identify the technological factors that are contributing to this issue, particularly focused on mechanised harvesting and processing. Three dairy farms, classified by contamination risk (low, medium, and high), were selected, and fifteen feed samples were analysed using the coupled liquid chromatography–gas chromatography–flame ionisation detection (LC–GC–FID) method, with a microwave-assisted saponification (MAS) step to determine mineral oil saturated (MOSH) and aromatic (MOAH) hydrocarbon levels. Important contamination levels were observed depending on the technological development of each farm. MOSH levels ranged from 11.4 mg/kg to 81.40 mg/kg, while MOAH levels ranged from 0.5 mg/kg to 4.6 mg/kg. MOAH accounted for 4.74% of the total MOH content. The results showed a connection between feed production technologies and MOH contamination levels. Factors such as the mechanisation, the machinery used, and the storage conditions were potentially contributors to contamination, while chemical treatments had no direct impact but some potential risks. The contamination levels varied across farms, indicating certain contamination sources beyond technological factors. Advanced technological measures and proper equipment maintenance are suggested to mitigate MOH contamination risks in feed.

The Aubrac cattle breed, native to France and increasingly adopted in Eastern Europe, is known for producing tender, flavorful, and well-marbled beef. Despite its growing popularity, limited data exist on its nutritional profile and implications for human health. This study evaluates carcass traits and protein quality in the Longissimus dorsi muscle of male and female Aubrac cattle raised under semi-intensive systems. Special attention was given to essential and semi-essential amino acids, which exceeded FAO/WHO reference requirements by 60.25%, 97.43%, and 221.49% for children, youth individuals, and adults, respectively, confirming superior protein quality. The high amino acid concentration (up to 30.59 g/100 g protein) and biological value confirm superior protein quality. Furthermore, the fatty acid profile reveals a favorable balance between saturated and unsaturated fats, with oleic acid predominance and a moderate atherogenic index, suggesting cardiovascular benefits. These findings support classifying Aubrac beef as a functional protein source with potential health advantages, reinforcing its role in sustainable cattle production, dietary planning, and consumer education. This study provides insights into factors influencing beef quality, connecting cattle breed and production system with nutritional value and health benefits.

The absence of standardized reference values for wild rodent species underscores the need for comprehensive hematological and biochemical profiles. This study established robust reference intervals (RIs) for Myocastor coypus raised in captivity, analyzing 30 nutrias (10 males, 10 females, and 10 juveniles) at a private farm in northeastern Romania. Leukocyte (WBC) counts averaged 11.85 (10³/µL) in males, 10.51 (10³/µL) in females, and 11.63 (10³/µL) in juveniles, indicating a consistent immune response. Hemoglobin was 11.81 g/dL in males, 11.97 g/dL in females, and 15.42 g/dL in juveniles, with hematocrit levels around 45%. Juveniles displayed higher MCH (38.59 pg) and MCHC (38.58 g/dL), reflecting growth-related adaptations. Platelet counts were lower in adults. Biochemical findings showed lower cholesterol (14.89 mg/dL) and higher glucose (236.26 mg/dL) in juveniles, indicating intense energy metabolism. Total proteins were significantly elevated in juveniles (33.17 g/dL). Creatinine and uric acid levels were higher in adults, although calcium exceeded reference ranges in males (12.04 mg/dL). Hepatic enzyme ALT was higher in males. These findings establish baseline health parameters for captive nutrias, aiding in monitoring and improving rearing practices.