Culture, religion, and conspicuous consumption-nexus triad fueling food waste

Background: This narrative review offers vital contribution to the discourse on sustainability, food security, and sociocultural transformation; it furnishes a compelling interdisciplinary exploration of the complex drivers of food waste in Nigeria. It highlighted how in Nigeria, the phenomenon is a multifarious issue profoundly rooted in the country’s cultural norms, religious practices, celebrations, exacerbated by excessive consumerism, conspicuous consumption and lavish spending particularly during festivals and religious ceremonies. Furthermore, the article alluded that the background of the problem transcends logistical inefficiencies or lack of infrastructure; they are complexly tied to societal values and perceptions of status and hospitality. Methods: This article uses comparative analytical lenses to synthesize existing literature to provide an intricate and balanced consideration of diverse issues that have relevance to the phenomenon under consideration. Multiple data sources, especially academic databases such as ResearchGate, DOAJ, Scopus, and JSTOR were searched for relevant studies and articles that have bearing on food wastage. The review is hinged on the theory of Planned Behavior and Social Practice Theory. Findings: In line with the tenents of theory of Planned Behavior this review especially revealed that food wastage occur among individuals and households in Nigeria because people believe food wastage is innocuous, a sign of abundance and hospitality. Also, corroborating the Social Practice Theory, this review uncovered that food wastage in Nigeria is largely related to everyday routines and skills that shape how people buy, store, cook, and consume food. Conclusion: This article concluded that food wastage issue in the country is driven not by the surplus or low cost of food but mostly by the caprices of individuals. As a departure from other articles and research on the phenomenon, this article has put plate food waste and misjudging food quality on a pedestal as also weighty factors that contribute subtly but significantly to the food waste phenomenon in the country. The article recommended amongst others that food waste reduction should tackle issues across the entire supply chain, from preparation to consumer behavior while emphasizing the need to discard outdated and inefficient practices and reevaluate cultural norms around celebrations and religious festivals. Novelty/Originality of this article: Majority of contemporary articles on food wastage focused chiefly on factors such as poor storage facilities and supply chain inefficiencies, with little to no attention given to the social causation of the phenomenon which is a primary focus of this review

Composition of species, utilization, and conservation status of plant species in the sugar palm (Arenga pinnata) agroforestry system

Background: The goal of agroforestry is to integrate perennial crops, seasonal crops, and livestock to increase income, protect the environment, and support sustainable resource management by maintaining soil fertility, biodiversity, and food security. The agroforestry system's principal components, such as trees, agricultural crops, and livestock, are interdependent to optimize and sustainably utilize resources. This study aims to determine the composition of plant species in sugar palm (Arenga pinnata) agroforestry, to identify plant utilization, and to assess the conservation status of plant species within the sugar palm agroforestry system. Methods: This study employed a quantitative approach, using survey methods and plant data collection by exploring the research site and observing all plant species present, accompanied by photography using a digital camera.  Findings: The results indicate that the sugar palm (Arenga pinnata) agroforestry system has significant potential in supporting environmental sustainability and community welfare. A total of 31 plant species were identified, with 12 of them having recorded data in the IUCN with a Least Concern category. Conclusion: Based on data from the IUCN Red List, 10 identified species are distributed in Sulaw esi Island, including Pangium edule Reinw, Arenga pinnata (Wurmb) Merr., Musa acuminata Colla, Hellenia speciosa (J.Koenig) S.R.Dutta, Macaranga tanarius (L.) Müll.Arg., Mimosa pudica L., Ficus septica Burm.f., Tacca leontopetaloides (L.) Kuntze, Ceiba pentandra (L.) Gaertn., and Ficus minahassae (de Vriese & Teijsm.) Miq. Novelty/Originality of this article: The novelty of this research lies in its comprehensive exploration of plant species composition, utilization, and conservation status within the sugar palm (Arenga pinnata) agroforestry system

Sustainability business in the culinary sector: A systematic literature review

Background: Business sustainability issues arise in the culinary sector due to the need to balance growth with environmental, social, and economic impacts. The purpose of this study is to analyze the business strategies used by culinary businesses to achieve sustainability. Methods: This research uses the Systematic Literature Review (SLR) method with the PRISMA protocol. Literature searches were conducted on the Google Scholar database using keywords such as "sustainability business," "culinary business," and "Indonesia." Using Harzing's Publish or Perish application, 17 articles were selected that met the criteria. Finding: This research uses the Systematic Literature Review (SLR) method with the PRISMA protocol. Literature searches were conducted on the Google Scholar database using keywords such as "sustainability business," "culinary business," and "Indonesia." Using Harzing's Publish or Perish application, 17 articles were selected that met the criteria. Conclusion: The study concludes that the sustainability of culinary businesses in Indonesia depends on the ability to integrate environmental, social, and economic strategies simultaneously. Novelty/Originality: This article provides originality by being one of the first Systematic Literature Reviews (SLR) that specifically maps sustainability strategies in Indonesia’s culinary sector using the PRISMA protocol

Integrating natural resource potential and technological innovation: An interdisciplinary study on the development of seaweed-based bioplastics in indonesia as an alternative to conventional plastics

Background: Plastic usage has become an integral part of modern life, spanning applications from food packaging and single-use bags to large-scale industrial uses. With plastic waste ranking as the second largest type of waste in Indonesia—and with Indonesia identified by a Nature journal (9 September 2024) as the world’s third largest contributor of plastic pollution at 3.4 million metric tons per year—the environmental impact is significant, especially considering plastic's persistence for hundreds to thousands of years. Methods: This research employs a qualitative approach, analyzing relevant literature, policy documents, and industry reports to assess the opportunities and challenges in developing bioplastics made from seaweed in Indonesia. Findings: he study finds that seaweed-based bioplastics, which are naturally degradable within four to six weeks and even edible, offer a promising alternative to conventional plastics. Indonesia’s position as the second-largest seaweed producer globally presents a unique opportunity to harness social, economic, and environmental benefits. However, challenges remain in scaling sustainable seaweed aquaculture, adopting efficient technologies, and formulating supportive policies, with international cooperation in knowledge and technology transfer deemed essential. Conclusion: The development of seaweed-based bioplastics in Indonesia could serve as a sustainable solution to the plastic waste crisis, provided that targeted research, policy reforms, and industry collaborations are implemented. Novelty/Originality of this article: This research uniquely integrates environmental, economic, and social perspectives to advance the emerging field of seaweed-based bioplastics, highlighting the potential for international partnerships to drive sustainable innovation in Indonesia

Bruceshield: Internet of things integrated biometric and food detection system to eradicate brucellosis milk contamination

Background: Brucellosis is a zoonotic infectious disease caused by the bacteria of the genus Brucella spp. that causes abortion and chronic disease in animals and humans, resulting in economic losses worldwide. Brucellosis remains endemic in ruminant livestock in Indonesia, with a prevalence rate of 40% in ruminants and the highest incidence of cases is in Java Island. Vaccination, livestock movement monitoring, and diagnostic methods such as PCR can prevent this disease, but those methods are challenged by cost and a lack of trained personnel. Methods: The methodology used in this article is a literature review. Design ideas were identified from various international and national journal literature with the main focus on test methods consisting of Multiple Cross Displacement Amplification - Lateral Flow Biosensor (MCDA-LFB) test, Retinal Biometric system, Static QR-Code system, and Internet of Things (IoT). Findings: Bruceshield is a complete entity combining animal retinal biometrics, food detection using MCDA-LFB technology, and IoT for accurate identification, rapid detection, and effective data collection of IoT-ready devices. Some of these methods include MCDA-LFB for DNA analysis, retinal biometric systems for animal identification, and static QR codes that report parasite detection and enable traceability to the consumer in dairy products. Conclusion: Bruceshield presents an innovative solution to support the vision of 'Brucellosis Free Indonesia 2025' by integrating advanced diagnostic and monitoring systems, contributing to Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) number 3 and the One Health paradigm. This system holds the potential to enhance disease prevention, improve livestock traceability, and promote transparency and safety within the dairy and livestock industry. Novelty/Originality of this article: This study introduces Bruceshield, an integrated system combining retinal biometrics, MCDA-LFB technology, and IoT for accurate livestock identification, rapid disease detection, and effective data collection.

Building resilience in Indonesian agrarian communities: Adaptation strategies and institutional barriers in response to climate change

Background: Climate change has become a real threat to the agricultural sector in Indonesia, with significant impacts on productivity, food security, and the welfare of farmers. Rising global temperatures, shifting rainfall patterns, and extreme climate events have increased the risk of crop failure and reduced the adaptive capacity of agrarian communities. This study aims to examine the adaptation and resilience strategies of agrarian communities in responding to climate change, as well as to identify the structural and institutional barriers they face. Methods: The research employs a qualitative approach with a case study design in several climate-vulnerable areas, including Wonosobo, Bima, and Maros. Data was collected through participatory observations, in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, and document analysis. The Sustainable Livelihood Framework is used to analyze five types of capital that influence farmers' adaptive capacity: natural, human, social, physical, and financial capital. Thematic analysis is applied to explore narrative patterns of farmers' adaptation to climate change. Findings: The findings of this research are expected to contribute to the formulation of community-based adaptation policies and the strengthening of climate-resilient agricultural systems. Conclusion: This study highlights the significant impact of climate change on agricultural livelihoods in Indonesia, while also revealing the adaptive resilience strategies developed by communities through various livelihood assets. Novelty/Originality of this article: This study also highlights the importance of institutional support, adaptive technologies, and the preservation of local wisdom as integral components of strategies to enhance the resilience of agrarian communities in Indonesia

A web-based educational information system for urban agriculture management as a solution to urban land conversion

Background: Urban industrial development is directly correlated with population density. Data from BPS (Statistics Indonesia) during 1998-2002 indicates a significant conversion of agricultural land to non-agricultural purposes, approximately ±110,000 hectares annually. This highlights the inevitability of urban infrastructure development. As urban expansion reduces agricultural land, population density and food security needs inversely correlate with current land availability. Methods: This research uses problem identification, literature review, potential analysis, and strategy design methodology to address agricultural challenges in urban settings. Finding: Based on these challenges, we propose the "Soperku (My Agricultural Solution)" website as an innovative solution. Soperku is an internet-integrated platform that facilitates knowledge exchange about urban agriculture preservation and agricultural entrepreneurship. The platform implements urban farming concepts such as vertical farming, hydroponics, and rooftop gardening for urban residences. A key feature is the involvement of competent stakeholders, ensuring the validity of information through a triple helix model, which includes academics, business practitioners, and government entities. These stakeholders collaborate within an integrated framework of information chains, public services, and product marketing. Academic institutions can disseminate research through the Soperku platform, while government support is crucial in creating favorable economic regulations to attract agricultural businesses. Conclusion: The Soperku website aims to provide educational services to society and foster agricultural environments in urban industrial settings, making it easier to learn and implement agricultural practices. This initiative benefits younger generations who will become future drivers of Indonesia's economy. Novelty/Originality: By integrating triple helix stakeholders and modern agricultural techniques, Soperku offers a novel approach to maintaining agricultural practices in increasingly urbanized environments.

Evaluation and modelling the effect of size, surface area and moisture content on breaking characteristics of African mango nut

Background: African mango nut is a valuable but underutilized forest product due to dearth of research. This study was conducted to evaluate and model the effect of size, surface area, and moisture content on breaking characteristics of African mango nut, for appropriate selection and development of the nut cracking machine to minimize seed damage, curb energy wastage, and improve the processing operation. Method: This study was carried out at African mango nut moisture content range of 15–20% wet basis using standard methodologies from literature. Findings: Results showed that breaking of African mango nut requires compressive strength ranging from 411.23–414.18 N/cm2 for nut of sizes between 3.24–3.49 cm and surface areas varying from 8.66–11.11 cm2. The values of the yield strength recorded during the force-deformation (compression) process followed the same trend. Also, the compressive strength was found to increase with increase in moisture content and the consequential effect of increasing the moisture content as from 15 to 20 % on compressive force is higher than the resultant impact noticed in increasing the size between 3.24 and 3.49 cm and the surface area between 8.66 and 11.11 cm2. The linear models developed were statistically significant at P < 0.05 with coefficient of determination (R2) of 0.9902 and 0.9730 for compressive and yield strengths, respectively. Conclusions: The findings contribute to sustainable nut processing practices and energy-efficient food production in tropical regions. It also shows that a good relationship exists between the dependent and independent variables studied. Novelty/Originality of this article: Farmers and processors of African mango seeds could, select, design and create, or assess the cracking/breaking contrivance with the developed model equations

Development of hybrid protein cookies with a two-phase natural preservation system: Sustainable functional food innovation for nutritional and environmental sustainability

Background: Global food security faces significant challenges, particularly with projected rapid population growth and limited natural resources. In an effort to support sustainable food security, this study aims to develop hybrid protein cookies that combine animal and plant proteins and implement a two-phase natural preservation system. Previous studies have shown that the use of hybrid proteins can improve the nutritional quality of food products, while natural preservation systems can reduce dependence on harmful synthetic preservatives. Methods: This study used a comprehensive literature review method to formulate optimal formulation, as well as experiments to evaluate the effectiveness of a combination of whey protein, pumpkin seed flour, and mung bean in improving the nutritional profile and shelf life of cookies. Findings: The results showed that these hybrid protein cookies have a higher protein content, a softer texture, and a shelf life up to 40% longer compared to conventional cookies. Conclusion: These findings support the importance of utilizing dairy industry waste such as whey protein, as well as local resources in improving sustainability and food security. In conclusion, this hybrid protein cookie innovation offers a new solution in creating nutritious, environmentally friendly food products and supporting local economic empowerment. Novelty/Originality of this article: The original aspect of this research is the application of a natural preservation system using mangosteen peel extract, which provides a new contribution to the development of sustainable functional food products

Model pembangunan pertanian desa palur

Agricultural development plays a crucial role in Indonesia's economic growth, particularly because the majority of its population relies on the agricultural sector. However, this sector faces several challenges, such as structural, institutional, and technological issues. To address these challenges, Palur Village, Mojolaban District, Sukoharjo Regency, is the focus of this study. Through descriptive analysis method, primary and secondary data were obtained through interviews, observations, and recordings. Palur Village's potential includes significant agricultural land and productive human resources, but it faces issues of resource allocation and a lack of interest in agriculture. Structural transformation indicates a shift from the agricultural sector to the industrial or service sectors, but with low incomes. Institutional transformation, on one hand, shows continuity in existing institutional functions without major changes, but the success and changes occurring in local financial institutions indicate the need for further transformation. Technology transfer, especially through the use of modern tools and technology in agriculture, has brought positive changes but still faces challenges in adopting innovations. Based on this analysis, the appropriate agricultural development model for Palur Village is The Diffusion Model, which emphasizes education and the dissemination of technology to enhance productivity and address the challenges faced by local farmers. With proper implementation, this model can serve as a foundation for improving welfare and economic growth in Palur Village and similar areas