Studies of Resistance of PP/Natural Filler Polymer Composites to Decomposition Caused by Fungi
The article discusses the grain morphology of the natural filler from hazelnut and walnut shell flour. It was observed that the geometry of both meals is similar to each other and resembles uneven balls in shape. The heterogeneity and well-developed outer surface of the flour grains allow for filling the voids with the polymer matrix. The analysis of the surface of the SEM images allowed to observe the presence of natural filler flour grains in the entire volume of the produced polymer composites, uneven distribution and small agglomerates, as well as the presence of voids, distributed in the matrix and in the matrix/filler interface. As a result of the visual evaluation of the activity of microorganisms (mycelium) on the surface of the produced polymer composite materials PP/hazelnut and walnut shell flour with a different % share, different fraction, it was found that the best fungistatic effect was shown by the samples marked with the symbol hazelnut at the fraction 315-443 µm. The least fungistatic material was found to be the samples with walnut shell meal filler at the fraction 315-443 µm (F2 and F4), on which the microorganisms achieved significant growth (more than 50% of the test area). The highest value of contact angle was obtained for samples with hazelnut filler fraction 315-443 (C2 and C4), which also confirms its best fungistatic effect.
https://doi.org/10.3390/ma14061368
Shelf-Life Evolution of the Fatty Acid Fingerprint in High-Quality Hazelnuts (Corylus avellana L.) Harvested in Different Geographical Regions
Hazelnuts are characterized by a relatively high abundance of oleic acid and poly-unsaturated fatty acids, which give this fruit a high nutritional value. As a counterbalance, such a lipid profile is more susceptible to autoxidation and/or degradation reactions under enzymatic catalysis. Lipid oxidation occurs on fatty acids (FAs), both esterified on triacylglycerols and in free form (after lipolysis), but with favorable kinetics on the latter. In this study, the quali-quantitative changes in FA profiles (both free and esterified) were monitored during the shelf life (time 0, 6, and 12 months) as a function of different drying and storage conditions and different cultivars and geographical areas. A derivatization/extraction procedure was performed to quantify the profile of free and esterified fatty acids accurately. The overall profile of the free and esterified fatty acids concurred to create a biological signature characteristic of the cultivar and of the harvest region. The free and esterified forms' characterization enabled the efficient monitoring of the effects of both the hydrolytic activity (increment in overall free fatty acids) and the oxidative process (decrease in unsaturated free fatty acids versus esterified fatty acids) over the 12 months of storage.
https://doi.org/10.3390/foods10030685
AIEgens enabled ultrasensitive point-of-care test for multiple targets of food safety: Aflatoxin B 1 and cyclopiazonic acid as an example
Food safety is currently a significant issue for human life and health. Various fluorescent nanomaterials have been applied in the point-of-care test (POCT) for food safety as labeling materials. However, previous fluorescent nanomaterials can cause aggregation-caused quenching (ACQ), thus reducing the detection sensitivity. Conversely, aggregation-induced emission luminogens (AIEgens) are promising candidates for POCT in the food safety field because they can enhance detection sensitivity and throughput. Mycotoxins, such as aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) and cyclopiazonic acid (CPA), are a primary threat to human life and health and a significant food safety issue, and their on-site detection from farm to table is needed. Herein, an ultrasensitive point-of-care test was developed based on TPE-Br, a blue-emissive tetraphenylethylene derivative AIEgen. Under optimal conditions, this AIEgen-based lateral-flow biosensor (ALFB) allowed for a rapid response of 8 min toward AFB1 and CPA detection, with considerable sensitivities of 0.003 and 0.01 ng/mL in peanut matrices, respectively. In peanut matrices, the recoveries were 90.3%-110.0% for both mycotoxins, with relative standard deviations (RSDs) below 6%. The ALFB was further validated via UPLC-MS/MS using spiked peanut samples. AIEgens open an avenue for on-site, ultrasensitive, high-throughput detection methods and can be extensively used in point-of-care tests in food safety.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bios.2021.113188
Expression of AhATL1, an ABA Transport Factor Gene from Peanut, Is Affected by Altered Memory Gene Expression Patterns and Increased Tolerance to Drought Stress in Arabidopsis
Arachis hypogaea abscisic acid transporter like-1 (AhATL1) modulates abscisic acid (ABA) sensitivity by specifically influencing the importing of ABA into cells, and is a key player in plant stress responses. However, there is limited information on ABA transporters in crops. In this study, we found that the level of AhATL1 expression and AhATL1 distribution increased more rapidly in the second drought (D2) compared with in the first drought (D1). Compared with the first recovery (R1), the AhATL1 expression level and ABA content remained at a higher level during the second recovery (R2). The heterologous overexpression of AhATL1 in Arabidopsis changed the expression pattern of certain memory genes and changed the post response gene type into the memory gene type. Regarding the proline and water content of Col (Arabidopsis thaliana L. Heynh., Col-0), atabcg22, and AhATL1-OX during drought training, the second drought (D2) was more severe than the first drought (D1), which was more conducive to maintaining the cell osmotic balance and resisting drought. In summary, drought stress memory resulted in a rapid increase in the AhATL1 expression and AhATL1 distribution level, and then raised the endogenous ABA content and changed the post response gene type into the memory gene type, which enhanced the drought resistance and recovery ability.
https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms22073398
INC’s Real Power for Real People Campaign Shows the “Real Power” of Nuts and Dried Fruits to Millions Around the World
April 22, 2021. Launched on October 27, 2020, the Real Power for Real People messaging focused on the concept that consuming nuts and dried fruits provides your body with the “real power” needed to face everyday challenges and be immune to everything. The campaign will be expanded during 2021/2022 to reach new audiences and build on the Real Power for Real People concept.
The campaign’s main video, which encourages consumers to add nuts and dried fruits to their daily diet, received over 1,750,000 views on YouTube. The INC also partnered with 30 social media influencers from 17 countries around the world, utilizing their more than 7,000,000 combined followers to further spread the message. In total, influencer posts garnered over 1,500,000 interactions and the campaign’s hashtag #ShareYourNutfruitPower gained over 330 publications.
The campaign’s main video, which encourages consumers to add nuts and dried fruits to their daily diet, received over 1,750,000 views on YouTube. The INC also partnered with 30 social media influencers from 17 countries around the world, utilizing their more than 7,000,000 combined followers to further spread the message. In total, influencer posts garnered over 1,500,000 interactions and the campaign’s hashtag #ShareYourNutfruitPower gained over 330 publications.
Moreover, the INC developed a toolkit which enabled INC members to join in and share the Real Power for Real People concept in their own markets. Over 80 INC members signed up to help to spread the goodness of nuts and dried fruits.
INC Executive Director, Goretti Guasch said of the campaign, “Immunity has been pushed to the forefront of all conversations due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and I am thrilled to see the success this campaign has had in positioning nuts and dried fruits as a healthy option for consumers. We are looking forward to what next year will bring and how we can expand on this message.”
INC’s Real Power for Real People Campaign Shows the “Real Power” of Nuts and Dried Fruits to Millions Around the World
April 22, 2021. Launched on October 27, 2020, the Real Power for Real People messaging focused on the concept that consuming nuts and dried fruits provides your body with the “real power” needed to face everyday challenges and be immune to everything. The campaign will be expanded during 2021/2022 to reach new audiences and build on the Real Power for Real People concept.
The campaign’s main video, which encourages consumers to add nuts and dried fruits to their daily diet, received over 1,750,000 views on YouTube. The INC also partnered with 30 social media influencers from 17 countries around the world, utilizing their more than 7,000,000 combined followers to further spread the message. In total, influencer posts garnered over 1,500,000 interactions and the campaign’s hashtag #ShareYourNutfruitPower gained over 330 publications.
The campaign’s main video, which encourages consumers to add nuts and dried fruits to their daily diet, received over 1,750,000 views on YouTube. The INC also partnered with 30 social media influencers from 17 countries around the world, utilizing their more than 7,000,000 combined followers to further spread the message. In total, influencer posts garnered over 1,500,000 interactions and the campaign’s hashtag #ShareYourNutfruitPower gained over 330 publications.
Moreover, the INC developed a toolkit which enabled INC members to join in and share the Real Power for Real People concept in their own markets. Over 80 INC members signed up to help to spread the goodness of nuts and dried fruits.
INC Executive Director, Goretti Guasch said of the campaign, “Immunity has been pushed to the forefront of all conversations due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and I am thrilled to see the success this campaign has had in positioning nuts and dried fruits as a healthy option for consumers. We are looking forward to what next year will bring and how we can expand on this message.”
COVID-19 Update: April 21, 2021
The COVID-19 pandemic continues with its rising trend. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), global new cases have been rising for nearly two consecutive months, reaching a total of 141 million reported cases and causing more than 3 million deaths. India, the US and Brazil have experienced high caseloads, accounting for around 40% of last week’s total infections worldwide.
The vaccination efforts so far have allowed more than 900 million vaccine doses across 156 countries to be administered, with an estimated rate of 16.1 million jabs per day. So far, the number of doses given is enough to immunize around 5% of the global population. However, the distribution has been rather unequal, with the world’s wealthiest economies accounting for nearly 40% of the global vaccinations.
In a recent summit organized by the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), the WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said that “Vaccine equity is the challenge of our time”, however, the “dramatic” inequity in vaccine coverage, among others, have led to an alarming spike in new cases and deaths. Moreover, the WHO chief urged countries possessing large quantities of vaccines to make immediate donations to COVAX.
The vaccination efforts so far have allowed more than 900 million vaccine doses across 156 countries to be administered, with an estimated rate of 16.1 million jabs per day. So far, the number of doses given is enough to immunize around 5% of the global population. However, the distribution has been rather unequal, with the world’s wealthiest economies accounting for nearly 40% of the global vaccinations.
In a recent summit organized by the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), the WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said that “Vaccine equity is the challenge of our time”, however, the “dramatic” inequity in vaccine coverage, among others, have led to an alarming spike in new cases and deaths. Moreover, the WHO chief urged countries possessing large quantities of vaccines to make immediate donations to COVAX.
UN
In a recent speech at the Financing for Development (FfD) Forum, the United Nations (UN) Secretary-General António Guterres said that “An enormous push at the highest political level” is needed to address the challenges posed by COVID-19. Mr. Guterres indicated that an equitable global response to recover from the pandemic was needed, such as closing the funding gap of the UN-backed vaccine initiative, COVAX, and actions aimed to address the debt crises.
UNCTAD
A recent publication by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) reported that investment flows from the private sectors to developing and transition economies in sectors relevant for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), fell by one-third in 2020 because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Compared to developed economies, the decline in SDG-relevant investment was much larger in developing and transition economies, most notably in infrastructure development and in the food and agriculture sector.
Compared to developed economies, the decline in SDG-relevant investment was much larger in developing and transition economies, most notably in infrastructure development and in the food and agriculture sector.
UNECE
According to a press release published by the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) on April 13, the UNECE Task Force set up under the Transport, Health and Environment Pan-European Programme (THE PEP), has developed a set of key recommendations for green and healthy sustainable transport to assist Member States in the post-COVID-19 recovery. The recommendations range from supporting active mobility, by improving infrastructures and promoting activities such as cycling, to increasing investment for eco-friendly public transports.
WHO
In a recent press release, the WHO Chief Dr. Ghebreyesus reportedly said that the COVID-19 pandemic is “a long way from over”. The remark came after a further increase in infections worldwide was reported by the agency. However, the WHO Chief added that the pandemic could be brought under control in a few months with more consistent public health measures and a more equitable vaccination program.
Under the ongoing COVAX vaccination program, the WHO recently announced that more than 38 million doses of AstraZeneca, Pfizer-BioNTech and COVISHIELD COVID-19 vaccines have been transported globally so far. According to its latest supply forecast, COVAX expects to deliver at least 2 billion doses of vaccines in 2021.
On April 12, the WHO and partners published an interim guidance with proposals for a ban on sales of live wild mammals in traditional food markets, also known as “wet markets”, in efforts to prevent the emergence of new deadly diseases, such as COVID-19.
In addition to halting sales of wild animals, the guidelines also call for governments to enforce stricter food safety, hygiene and environmental standards in traditional food markets to reduce transmission of zoonotic diseases.
Under the ongoing COVAX vaccination program, the WHO recently announced that more than 38 million doses of AstraZeneca, Pfizer-BioNTech and COVISHIELD COVID-19 vaccines have been transported globally so far. According to its latest supply forecast, COVAX expects to deliver at least 2 billion doses of vaccines in 2021.
On April 12, the WHO and partners published an interim guidance with proposals for a ban on sales of live wild mammals in traditional food markets, also known as “wet markets”, in efforts to prevent the emergence of new deadly diseases, such as COVID-19.
In addition to halting sales of wild animals, the guidelines also call for governments to enforce stricter food safety, hygiene and environmental standards in traditional food markets to reduce transmission of zoonotic diseases.
WTO
On April 12, the World Trade Organization (WTO) has issued a call for proposals for this year’s Public Forum, “Trade beyond COVID-19: Building Resilience”, which is expected to be held from 28 to 30 September 2021. The Forum will revolve around the effects of the pandemic on trade and how countries can build resilience against future crises.
Following a recent meeting with the United States Trade Representative Katherine Tai, the WTO Director-General Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala said that a sustainable and inclusive economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic could only be achieved with equitable access to vaccines, especially in developing and least-developed countries.
Following a recent meeting with the United States Trade Representative Katherine Tai, the WTO Director-General Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala said that a sustainable and inclusive economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic could only be achieved with equitable access to vaccines, especially in developing and least-developed countries.
Australia
Australia keeps maintaining a low number of new cases, thanks to rapid response to emerging new clusters of infections and strict quarantine measures imposed on arrivals. The country’s vaccination campaign, however, has recently suffered a setback due to the decision to restrict the inoculations of the AstraZeneca vaccine to people aged 50 or more. The new recommendation followed after European regulators indicated the possibility of links between the AstraZeneca shot and reports of rare cases of blood clots. Moreover, last week the Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison said that plans to provide at least one vaccine dose to all the country’s population by year-end will inevitably be postponed.
Brazil
The country is still reporting a very high number of new cases and record deaths, topping more than 4,000 casualties on April 10. According to a recent news release from Reuters, the populous state of Sao Paulo has warned that its healthcare system is on the verge of collapsing, due to shortages of medications and a very high occupancy rate of the hospital’s intensive care units.
Moreover, research conducted by the public health institute Fiocruz into the variants circulating in Brazil found that the P1 coronavirus variant (commonly known as the Brazil variant) is still mutating. The researchers believe this could make the virus more resistant to vaccines.
Moreover, research conducted by the public health institute Fiocruz into the variants circulating in Brazil found that the P1 coronavirus variant (commonly known as the Brazil variant) is still mutating. The researchers believe this could make the virus more resistant to vaccines.
China
China is currently ramping up its vaccination efforts: according to Associated Press, the Government has recently announced that it’s aiming to reach the goal of vaccinating 560 million people by June.
On April 19, a news release published by Reuters reported that Chinese researchers are testing the mixing of COVID-19 vaccine doses with the aim of boosting their efficacy. Moreover, the Chinese pharmaceutical company CanSino has recently announced it is starting clinical trials for a new COVID-19 vaccine that can be administered by inhalation.
On April 19, a news release published by Reuters reported that Chinese researchers are testing the mixing of COVID-19 vaccine doses with the aim of boosting their efficacy. Moreover, the Chinese pharmaceutical company CanSino has recently announced it is starting clinical trials for a new COVID-19 vaccine that can be administered by inhalation.
EU
On April 16, the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) published its latest weekly situation report. Based on the data collected by the agency, the 14-day case notification rate for the EU/EEA was 464 per 100,000 population, slightly decreasing compared to last week. Hospitalizations have been increasing in most EU/EEA countries, while the mortality rate has been stable in the past six weeks. However, recent increases have been observed in nine countries (Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Finland, Germany, Poland and Slovakia).
On April 9, the European Council approved additional funding from the EU budget, amounting to €121.5 million, to address urgent needs related to the COVID-19 pandemic. The funds, drawn from the Solidarity and Emergency Aid Reserve, will support actions such as the development of new assays to better detect coronavirus variants and improved monitoring. These funds will also support preparatory work for digital green certificates to facilitate free movement during the COVID-19 pandemic.
On April 12, the European Commission announced its proposition to exempt from Value Added Tax (VAT) goods and services made available by the European Commission, EU bodies and agencies to Member States and citizens during times of crisis.
“The COVID-19 pandemic has taught us that these kinds of crises are multifaceted and have a wide-ranging impact on our societies. A rapid and efficient response is essential, and we need to provide the best response now in order to prepare for the future. Today's proposal supports the EU's goal to react to crises and emergencies in the EU. It will also ensure that the financial impact of EU-level relief efforts to fight the pandemic and support the recovery is maximized,” said the EU Commissioner for the Economy Paolo Gentiloni.
According to a recent press release, the European Council agreed on a mandate for negotiations with the European Parliament on the proposal for a Digital Green Certificate. This certificate would facilitate free movement during the pandemic by providing proof that a person has either been vaccinated against COVID-19, received a negative test result or recovered from the disease. Two legislations have been proposed, one concerning EU citizens, the other applying to third-country nationals legally staying or legally residing in the territory of a Member State.
On April 9, the European Council approved additional funding from the EU budget, amounting to €121.5 million, to address urgent needs related to the COVID-19 pandemic. The funds, drawn from the Solidarity and Emergency Aid Reserve, will support actions such as the development of new assays to better detect coronavirus variants and improved monitoring. These funds will also support preparatory work for digital green certificates to facilitate free movement during the COVID-19 pandemic.
On April 12, the European Commission announced its proposition to exempt from Value Added Tax (VAT) goods and services made available by the European Commission, EU bodies and agencies to Member States and citizens during times of crisis.
“The COVID-19 pandemic has taught us that these kinds of crises are multifaceted and have a wide-ranging impact on our societies. A rapid and efficient response is essential, and we need to provide the best response now in order to prepare for the future. Today's proposal supports the EU's goal to react to crises and emergencies in the EU. It will also ensure that the financial impact of EU-level relief efforts to fight the pandemic and support the recovery is maximized,” said the EU Commissioner for the Economy Paolo Gentiloni.
According to a recent press release, the European Council agreed on a mandate for negotiations with the European Parliament on the proposal for a Digital Green Certificate. This certificate would facilitate free movement during the pandemic by providing proof that a person has either been vaccinated against COVID-19, received a negative test result or recovered from the disease. Two legislations have been proposed, one concerning EU citizens, the other applying to third-country nationals legally staying or legally residing in the territory of a Member State.
France
Currently under lockdown, France reported an average of more than 30,000 daily infections last week. The country plans to vaccinate the majority of the adults by the end of summer. On April 9, the French national health authority announced that people below 55 who received their first AstraZeneca dose of the COVID-19 vaccine will receive a different vaccine for their second dose.
On April 14, Euronews reported that France has suspended all flights to and from Brazil, citing the decision to suspend as an attempt to limit the introduction of the Brazil coronavirus variant.
On April 14, Euronews reported that France has suspended all flights to and from Brazil, citing the decision to suspend as an attempt to limit the introduction of the Brazil coronavirus variant.
Germany
On April 12, Germany surpassed 3 million reported COVID-19 cases. With more than 100,000 weekly new infections and high numbers of hospitalizations, the German Health Minister Jens Spahn recently urged federal states to impose further restrictions to try to slow down a third wave of the coronavirus.
Following the country’s decision to no longer offer the AstraZeneca vaccine to people aged under 60, people in the younger age group who had already received a first AstraZeneca dose will be offered either the Pfizer/BioNTech or the Moderna jabs for their second dose.
Following the country’s decision to no longer offer the AstraZeneca vaccine to people aged under 60, people in the younger age group who had already received a first AstraZeneca dose will be offered either the Pfizer/BioNTech or the Moderna jabs for their second dose.
Italy
According to Reuters, the Italian Health Minister Roberto Speranza recently announced that the country will aim to vaccinate every person above 60 years of age by the end of June. The announcement was made after Italy suspended the inoculation of the newly received doses of the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine on April 14, following reports of blood clotting events in the US.
Netherlands
On April 13, the number of COVID-19 vaccine jabs administered in the Netherlands reached 4 million. So far, more than 21% of the adult population has received at least one dose of the vaccine. New cases and deaths around the country are slowly falling compared to the last weeks, following a steep surge last March.
The Dutch Government recently announced it had suspended the administration of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine, pending the outcome of the European Medicine Agency’s (EMA) investigation.
The Dutch Government recently announced it had suspended the administration of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine, pending the outcome of the European Medicine Agency’s (EMA) investigation.
Spain
Following the Easter holidays, new COVID-19 cases are increasing in several of Spain’s autonomous communities. According to the latest Health Ministry report, the 14-day cumulative number of coronavirus cases per 100,000 inhabitants now stands at 199, well above the “maximum risk” threshold set by the Government. In most communities, coronavirus restrictions are currently the same as before Easter (such as perimetral lockdowns and nighttime curfews).
Despite this, Spain’s vaccination program is ramping up: nearly all of the people aged over 80 have received at least one vaccine dose. Moreover, around 24% of people in the 60-to-79 age group have received at least one dose as well. Nearly 8% of the country’s population is now fully vaccinated against COVID-19.
Despite this, Spain’s vaccination program is ramping up: nearly all of the people aged over 80 have received at least one vaccine dose. Moreover, around 24% of people in the 60-to-79 age group have received at least one dose as well. Nearly 8% of the country’s population is now fully vaccinated against COVID-19.
India
With a record 200,000 new COVID-19 cases reported on April 14, India continues its upward trend in infections, bringing the total tally at 14 million. In New Delhi, weekend lockdowns allow only essential shops to be open, while in Mumbai a new set of lockdown measures determined the closure of most business, public spaces and curbs the movement of people for at least 15 days.
On April 19, New Delhi entered into a week-long lockdown, after reporting more than 25,000 new infections and 191 deaths in one day. According to the newspaper Die Welle, the measure is being introduced as hospitals in the Indian capital start to run out of beds and oxygen supplies.
On April 19, New Delhi entered into a week-long lockdown, after reporting more than 25,000 new infections and 191 deaths in one day. According to the newspaper Die Welle, the measure is being introduced as hospitals in the Indian capital start to run out of beds and oxygen supplies.
Japan
According to a recent press release, the governors of Tokyo, Kyoto and Okinawa have taken tougher measures in an attempt to curb a fresh surge of infections. The new measures, including shorter operating hours for the hospitality sector, should stay in place until May.
South Korea
On April 12, South Korea announced that it plans to begin local production of the COVID-19 vaccine developed by Novavax in June. The government reportedly indicated it would support local production of coronavirus vaccines by providing Korean pharmaceutical companies 68.7 billion won ($61.1 million).
Turkey
On April 14, Turkey entered into a two weeks “partial” lockdown, coinciding with the beginning of the holy month of Ramadan. The measures, imposed after a recent surge in new infections and deaths, include longer curfew hours, travel restrictions and restaurants being able to serve on a “takeaway” only basis.
United Kingdom
Throughout March and most of April, UK’s COVID-19 daily cases have been staying well below 10,000. Nearly 40 million AstraZeneca and Pfizer vaccine doses have already been administered. Since April 14, England also began the rollout of the Moderna jab, offering an alternative to the AstraZeneca vaccine for under-30s.
United States
In the US, the 7-day average of new cases showed an increase of infections since the end of March. Hospitalizations have also been rising recently, with more than 45,000 patients in hospitals around the country. However, the vaccination campaign is rapidly progressing, with more than 23% of the population now fully vaccinated.
On April 13, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) called for a pause on the use of Johnson & Johnson’s coronavirus vaccine following reports of a rare blood clotting disorder emerging in six women.
The information above is a review of actions the INC has compiled from government sources, international organizations and press media. This news article is not intended to be exhaustive and it does not reflect the opinions of the INC. While the publishers believe that all information contained in this publication was correct at the time of publishing, they can accept no liability for any inaccuracies that may appear or loss suffered directly or indirectly by any reader as a result of any advertisement, editorial, photographs or other materials published in this news article.
On April 13, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) called for a pause on the use of Johnson & Johnson’s coronavirus vaccine following reports of a rare blood clotting disorder emerging in six women.
The information above is a review of actions the INC has compiled from government sources, international organizations and press media. This news article is not intended to be exhaustive and it does not reflect the opinions of the INC. While the publishers believe that all information contained in this publication was correct at the time of publishing, they can accept no liability for any inaccuracies that may appear or loss suffered directly or indirectly by any reader as a result of any advertisement, editorial, photographs or other materials published in this news article.
COVID-19 Update: April 21, 2021
The COVID-19 pandemic continues with its rising trend. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), global new cases have been rising for nearly two consecutive months, reaching a total of 141 million reported cases and causing more than 3 million deaths. India, the US and Brazil have experienced high caseloads, accounting for around 40% of last week’s total infections worldwide.
The vaccination efforts so far have allowed more than 900 million vaccine doses across 156 countries to be administered, with an estimated rate of 16.1 million jabs per day. So far, the number of doses given is enough to immunize around 5% of the global population. However, the distribution has been rather unequal, with the world’s wealthiest economies accounting for nearly 40% of the global vaccinations.
In a recent summit organized by the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), the WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said that “Vaccine equity is the challenge of our time”, however, the “dramatic” inequity in vaccine coverage, among others, have led to an alarming spike in new cases and deaths. Moreover, the WHO chief urged countries possessing large quantities of vaccines to make immediate donations to COVAX.
The vaccination efforts so far have allowed more than 900 million vaccine doses across 156 countries to be administered, with an estimated rate of 16.1 million jabs per day. So far, the number of doses given is enough to immunize around 5% of the global population. However, the distribution has been rather unequal, with the world’s wealthiest economies accounting for nearly 40% of the global vaccinations.
In a recent summit organized by the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), the WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said that “Vaccine equity is the challenge of our time”, however, the “dramatic” inequity in vaccine coverage, among others, have led to an alarming spike in new cases and deaths. Moreover, the WHO chief urged countries possessing large quantities of vaccines to make immediate donations to COVAX.
UN
In a recent speech at the Financing for Development (FfD) Forum, the United Nations (UN) Secretary-General António Guterres said that “An enormous push at the highest political level” is needed to address the challenges posed by COVID-19. Mr. Guterres indicated that an equitable global response to recover from the pandemic was needed, such as closing the funding gap of the UN-backed vaccine initiative, COVAX, and actions aimed to address the debt crises.
UNCTAD
A recent publication by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) reported that investment flows from the private sectors to developing and transition economies in sectors relevant for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), fell by one-third in 2020 because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Compared to developed economies, the decline in SDG-relevant investment was much larger in developing and transition economies, most notably in infrastructure development and in the food and agriculture sector.
Compared to developed economies, the decline in SDG-relevant investment was much larger in developing and transition economies, most notably in infrastructure development and in the food and agriculture sector.
UNECE
According to a press release published by the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) on April 13, the UNECE Task Force set up under the Transport, Health and Environment Pan-European Programme (THE PEP), has developed a set of key recommendations for green and healthy sustainable transport to assist Member States in the post-COVID-19 recovery. The recommendations range from supporting active mobility, by improving infrastructures and promoting activities such as cycling, to increasing investment for eco-friendly public transports.
WHO
In a recent press release, the WHO Chief Dr. Ghebreyesus reportedly said that the COVID-19 pandemic is “a long way from over”. The remark came after a further increase in infections worldwide was reported by the agency. However, the WHO Chief added that the pandemic could be brought under control in a few months with more consistent public health measures and a more equitable vaccination program.
Under the ongoing COVAX vaccination program, the WHO recently announced that more than 38 million doses of AstraZeneca, Pfizer-BioNTech and COVISHIELD COVID-19 vaccines have been transported globally so far. According to its latest supply forecast, COVAX expects to deliver at least 2 billion doses of vaccines in 2021.
On April 12, the WHO and partners published an interim guidance with proposals for a ban on sales of live wild mammals in traditional food markets, also known as “wet markets”, in efforts to prevent the emergence of new deadly diseases, such as COVID-19.
In addition to halting sales of wild animals, the guidelines also call for governments to enforce stricter food safety, hygiene and environmental standards in traditional food markets to reduce transmission of zoonotic diseases.
Under the ongoing COVAX vaccination program, the WHO recently announced that more than 38 million doses of AstraZeneca, Pfizer-BioNTech and COVISHIELD COVID-19 vaccines have been transported globally so far. According to its latest supply forecast, COVAX expects to deliver at least 2 billion doses of vaccines in 2021.
On April 12, the WHO and partners published an interim guidance with proposals for a ban on sales of live wild mammals in traditional food markets, also known as “wet markets”, in efforts to prevent the emergence of new deadly diseases, such as COVID-19.
In addition to halting sales of wild animals, the guidelines also call for governments to enforce stricter food safety, hygiene and environmental standards in traditional food markets to reduce transmission of zoonotic diseases.
WTO
On April 12, the World Trade Organization (WTO) has issued a call for proposals for this year’s Public Forum, “Trade beyond COVID-19: Building Resilience”, which is expected to be held from 28 to 30 September 2021. The Forum will revolve around the effects of the pandemic on trade and how countries can build resilience against future crises.
Following a recent meeting with the United States Trade Representative Katherine Tai, the WTO Director-General Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala said that a sustainable and inclusive economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic could only be achieved with equitable access to vaccines, especially in developing and least-developed countries.
Following a recent meeting with the United States Trade Representative Katherine Tai, the WTO Director-General Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala said that a sustainable and inclusive economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic could only be achieved with equitable access to vaccines, especially in developing and least-developed countries.
Australia
Australia keeps maintaining a low number of new cases, thanks to rapid response to emerging new clusters of infections and strict quarantine measures imposed on arrivals. The country’s vaccination campaign, however, has recently suffered a setback due to the decision to restrict the inoculations of the AstraZeneca vaccine to people aged 50 or more. The new recommendation followed after European regulators indicated the possibility of links between the AstraZeneca shot and reports of rare cases of blood clots. Moreover, last week the Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison said that plans to provide at least one vaccine dose to all the country’s population by year-end will inevitably be postponed.
Brazil
The country is still reporting a very high number of new cases and record deaths, topping more than 4,000 casualties on April 10. According to a recent news release from Reuters, the populous state of Sao Paulo has warned that its healthcare system is on the verge of collapsing, due to shortages of medications and a very high occupancy rate of the hospital’s intensive care units.
Moreover, research conducted by the public health institute Fiocruz into the variants circulating in Brazil found that the P1 coronavirus variant (commonly known as the Brazil variant) is still mutating. The researchers believe this could make the virus more resistant to vaccines.
Moreover, research conducted by the public health institute Fiocruz into the variants circulating in Brazil found that the P1 coronavirus variant (commonly known as the Brazil variant) is still mutating. The researchers believe this could make the virus more resistant to vaccines.
China
China is currently ramping up its vaccination efforts: according to Associated Press, the Government has recently announced that it’s aiming to reach the goal of vaccinating 560 million people by June.
On April 19, a news release published by Reuters reported that Chinese researchers are testing the mixing of COVID-19 vaccine doses with the aim of boosting their efficacy. Moreover, the Chinese pharmaceutical company CanSino has recently announced it is starting clinical trials for a new COVID-19 vaccine that can be administered by inhalation.
On April 19, a news release published by Reuters reported that Chinese researchers are testing the mixing of COVID-19 vaccine doses with the aim of boosting their efficacy. Moreover, the Chinese pharmaceutical company CanSino has recently announced it is starting clinical trials for a new COVID-19 vaccine that can be administered by inhalation.
EU
On April 16, the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) published its latest weekly situation report. Based on the data collected by the agency, the 14-day case notification rate for the EU/EEA was 464 per 100,000 population, slightly decreasing compared to last week. Hospitalizations have been increasing in most EU/EEA countries, while the mortality rate has been stable in the past six weeks. However, recent increases have been observed in nine countries (Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Finland, Germany, Poland and Slovakia).
On April 9, the European Council approved additional funding from the EU budget, amounting to €121.5 million, to address urgent needs related to the COVID-19 pandemic. The funds, drawn from the Solidarity and Emergency Aid Reserve, will support actions such as the development of new assays to better detect coronavirus variants and improved monitoring. These funds will also support preparatory work for digital green certificates to facilitate free movement during the COVID-19 pandemic.
On April 12, the European Commission announced its proposition to exempt from Value Added Tax (VAT) goods and services made available by the European Commission, EU bodies and agencies to Member States and citizens during times of crisis.
“The COVID-19 pandemic has taught us that these kinds of crises are multifaceted and have a wide-ranging impact on our societies. A rapid and efficient response is essential, and we need to provide the best response now in order to prepare for the future. Today's proposal supports the EU's goal to react to crises and emergencies in the EU. It will also ensure that the financial impact of EU-level relief efforts to fight the pandemic and support the recovery is maximized,” said the EU Commissioner for the Economy Paolo Gentiloni.
According to a recent press release, the European Council agreed on a mandate for negotiations with the European Parliament on the proposal for a Digital Green Certificate. This certificate would facilitate free movement during the pandemic by providing proof that a person has either been vaccinated against COVID-19, received a negative test result or recovered from the disease. Two legislations have been proposed, one concerning EU citizens, the other applying to third-country nationals legally staying or legally residing in the territory of a Member State.
On April 9, the European Council approved additional funding from the EU budget, amounting to €121.5 million, to address urgent needs related to the COVID-19 pandemic. The funds, drawn from the Solidarity and Emergency Aid Reserve, will support actions such as the development of new assays to better detect coronavirus variants and improved monitoring. These funds will also support preparatory work for digital green certificates to facilitate free movement during the COVID-19 pandemic.
On April 12, the European Commission announced its proposition to exempt from Value Added Tax (VAT) goods and services made available by the European Commission, EU bodies and agencies to Member States and citizens during times of crisis.
“The COVID-19 pandemic has taught us that these kinds of crises are multifaceted and have a wide-ranging impact on our societies. A rapid and efficient response is essential, and we need to provide the best response now in order to prepare for the future. Today's proposal supports the EU's goal to react to crises and emergencies in the EU. It will also ensure that the financial impact of EU-level relief efforts to fight the pandemic and support the recovery is maximized,” said the EU Commissioner for the Economy Paolo Gentiloni.
According to a recent press release, the European Council agreed on a mandate for negotiations with the European Parliament on the proposal for a Digital Green Certificate. This certificate would facilitate free movement during the pandemic by providing proof that a person has either been vaccinated against COVID-19, received a negative test result or recovered from the disease. Two legislations have been proposed, one concerning EU citizens, the other applying to third-country nationals legally staying or legally residing in the territory of a Member State.
France
Currently under lockdown, France reported an average of more than 30,000 daily infections last week. The country plans to vaccinate the majority of the adults by the end of summer. On April 9, the French national health authority announced that people below 55 who received their first AstraZeneca dose of the COVID-19 vaccine will receive a different vaccine for their second dose.
On April 14, Euronews reported that France has suspended all flights to and from Brazil, citing the decision to suspend as an attempt to limit the introduction of the Brazil coronavirus variant.
On April 14, Euronews reported that France has suspended all flights to and from Brazil, citing the decision to suspend as an attempt to limit the introduction of the Brazil coronavirus variant.
Germany
On April 12, Germany surpassed 3 million reported COVID-19 cases. With more than 100,000 weekly new infections and high numbers of hospitalizations, the German Health Minister Jens Spahn recently urged federal states to impose further restrictions to try to slow down a third wave of the coronavirus.
Following the country’s decision to no longer offer the AstraZeneca vaccine to people aged under 60, people in the younger age group who had already received a first AstraZeneca dose will be offered either the Pfizer/BioNTech or the Moderna jabs for their second dose.
Following the country’s decision to no longer offer the AstraZeneca vaccine to people aged under 60, people in the younger age group who had already received a first AstraZeneca dose will be offered either the Pfizer/BioNTech or the Moderna jabs for their second dose.
Italy
According to Reuters, the Italian Health Minister Roberto Speranza recently announced that the country will aim to vaccinate every person above 60 years of age by the end of June. The announcement was made after Italy suspended the inoculation of the newly received doses of the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine on April 14, following reports of blood clotting events in the US.
Netherlands
On April 13, the number of COVID-19 vaccine jabs administered in the Netherlands reached 4 million. So far, more than 21% of the adult population has received at least one dose of the vaccine. New cases and deaths around the country are slowly falling compared to the last weeks, following a steep surge last March.
The Dutch Government recently announced it had suspended the administration of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine, pending the outcome of the European Medicine Agency’s (EMA) investigation.
The Dutch Government recently announced it had suspended the administration of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine, pending the outcome of the European Medicine Agency’s (EMA) investigation.
Spain
Following the Easter holidays, new COVID-19 cases are increasing in several of Spain’s autonomous communities. According to the latest Health Ministry report, the 14-day cumulative number of coronavirus cases per 100,000 inhabitants now stands at 199, well above the “maximum risk” threshold set by the Government. In most communities, coronavirus restrictions are currently the same as before Easter (such as perimetral lockdowns and nighttime curfews).
Despite this, Spain’s vaccination program is ramping up: nearly all of the people aged over 80 have received at least one vaccine dose. Moreover, around 24% of people in the 60-to-79 age group have received at least one dose as well. Nearly 8% of the country’s population is now fully vaccinated against COVID-19.
Despite this, Spain’s vaccination program is ramping up: nearly all of the people aged over 80 have received at least one vaccine dose. Moreover, around 24% of people in the 60-to-79 age group have received at least one dose as well. Nearly 8% of the country’s population is now fully vaccinated against COVID-19.
India
With a record 200,000 new COVID-19 cases reported on April 14, India continues its upward trend in infections, bringing the total tally at 14 million. In New Delhi, weekend lockdowns allow only essential shops to be open, while in Mumbai a new set of lockdown measures determined the closure of most business, public spaces and curbs the movement of people for at least 15 days.
On April 19, New Delhi entered into a week-long lockdown, after reporting more than 25,000 new infections and 191 deaths in one day. According to the newspaper Die Welle, the measure is being introduced as hospitals in the Indian capital start to run out of beds and oxygen supplies.
On April 19, New Delhi entered into a week-long lockdown, after reporting more than 25,000 new infections and 191 deaths in one day. According to the newspaper Die Welle, the measure is being introduced as hospitals in the Indian capital start to run out of beds and oxygen supplies.
Japan
According to a recent press release, the governors of Tokyo, Kyoto and Okinawa have taken tougher measures in an attempt to curb a fresh surge of infections. The new measures, including shorter operating hours for the hospitality sector, should stay in place until May.
South Korea
On April 12, South Korea announced that it plans to begin local production of the COVID-19 vaccine developed by Novavax in June. The government reportedly indicated it would support local production of coronavirus vaccines by providing Korean pharmaceutical companies 68.7 billion won ($61.1 million).
Turkey
On April 14, Turkey entered into a two weeks “partial” lockdown, coinciding with the beginning of the holy month of Ramadan. The measures, imposed after a recent surge in new infections and deaths, include longer curfew hours, travel restrictions and restaurants being able to serve on a “takeaway” only basis.
United Kingdom
Throughout March and most of April, UK’s COVID-19 daily cases have been staying well below 10,000. Nearly 40 million AstraZeneca and Pfizer vaccine doses have already been administered. Since April 14, England also began the rollout of the Moderna jab, offering an alternative to the AstraZeneca vaccine for under-30s.
United States
In the US, the 7-day average of new cases showed an increase of infections since the end of March. Hospitalizations have also been rising recently, with more than 45,000 patients in hospitals around the country. However, the vaccination campaign is rapidly progressing, with more than 23% of the population now fully vaccinated.
On April 13, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) called for a pause on the use of Johnson & Johnson’s coronavirus vaccine following reports of a rare blood clotting disorder emerging in six women.
The information above is a review of actions the INC has compiled from government sources, international organizations and press media. This news article is not intended to be exhaustive and it does not reflect the opinions of the INC. While the publishers believe that all information contained in this publication was correct at the time of publishing, they can accept no liability for any inaccuracies that may appear or loss suffered directly or indirectly by any reader as a result of any advertisement, editorial, photographs or other materials published in this news article.
On April 13, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) called for a pause on the use of Johnson & Johnson’s coronavirus vaccine following reports of a rare blood clotting disorder emerging in six women.
The information above is a review of actions the INC has compiled from government sources, international organizations and press media. This news article is not intended to be exhaustive and it does not reflect the opinions of the INC. While the publishers believe that all information contained in this publication was correct at the time of publishing, they can accept no liability for any inaccuracies that may appear or loss suffered directly or indirectly by any reader as a result of any advertisement, editorial, photographs or other materials published in this news article.
Monitoring EU Agri-food Trade: Developments January-December 2020
The European Commission has recently released its "Monitoring EU agri-food trade" analysis highlighting the latest statistics relating to EU trading relationships and product categories, and identifying notable developments. Results showed that, despite the difficult environment, from January to December 2020, the value of agri-food trade (exports + imports) reached €306.5 billion, 1% up from 2019.
In 2020 compared to 2019, the categories i) Fruit, fresh or dried (excluding citrus and tropical fruit) and ii) Preparations of vegetables, fruit or nuts reported gains of €491 million, 8.8% and €218 million, 6.4%, respectively.
One of the top origins, for which the value of EU27 agri-food imports increased in 2020, was Turkey (+€456 million, an 11% from 2019 - nuts and citrus fruits, preparations of vegetables and fruit).
In 2020 compared to 2019, the categories i) Fruit, fresh or dried (excluding citrus and tropical fruit) and ii) Preparations of vegetables, fruit or nuts reported gains of €491 million, 8.8% and €218 million, 6.4%, respectively.
One of the top origins, for which the value of EU27 agri-food imports increased in 2020, was Turkey (+€456 million, an 11% from 2019 - nuts and citrus fruits, preparations of vegetables and fruit).
Iranian Pistachio YTD Shipment Report
Total monthly international shipments accounted for over 22,400 metric tons (open in-shell, closed shell, natural kernels, green peeled and split kernels and others), up 55% compared to 2019 crop year. Year-to-date exports have reached a peak of around 144,400 metric tons, the second highest since the record crop year of 2007. Considering a total production of 190,000 MT (in-shell basis), around 75% of the crop has already been shipped during the first half of the marketing year.
The Far East has been the largest market through March, accounting for 69,400 MT, almost three times over the previous year for the same period. Exports bounded for the Indian subcontinent were also increased by 64%, reaching 17,700 MT.
Although open in-shell pistachios account for around 80% of Iranian international exports, demand for natural kernel is increasing: year-to-date kernel shipments have reached 12,900 MT (in-shell equivalent), 41% above the previous 4 years average.
The Far East has been the largest market through March, accounting for 69,400 MT, almost three times over the previous year for the same period. Exports bounded for the Indian subcontinent were also increased by 64%, reaching 17,700 MT.
Although open in-shell pistachios account for around 80% of Iranian international exports, demand for natural kernel is increasing: year-to-date kernel shipments have reached 12,900 MT (in-shell equivalent), 41% above the previous 4 years average.