#consumer goods market research reports

[tritonmarketresearchamey]

Exploring the Rising Popularity of Processed Food in Modern Diet

Between 2000 and 2021, UNCTAD reported a remarkable increase of 350% in global food trade, with the total value reaching an astounding $1.7 trillion. Food accounts for about 8% of total global merchandise trade. Evidently, due to a rise in food production and trade, the trade of processed foods has also seen substantial growth.

Processed foods encompass a broad range of items that have been altered from their natural state. This includes simple processes like freezing and canning, as well as more complex processes like adding preservatives, flavorings, and other ingredients. In many developed countries, processed foods constitute a significant portion of daily dietary intake. For instance, in the United States, a staggering 57.5% of daily calories come from ultra-processed foods. This heavy reliance on processed foods is linked to poorer nutritional quality, as these foods typically have lower levels of essential nutrients like protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Conversely, they are often high in carbohydrates, added sugars, and saturated fats.

As processed foods comprise a majority of our diets, their nutritional value is a primary concern. Let us examine how companies fortify and enrich processed foods to make them healthier.

Are Processed Foods Nutritious?

As mentioned previously, these foods typically have lower levels of essential nutrients like protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. This is due to the processing techniques involved in processed foods. These processes cause the original food to lose nutritional value. Here are some specific ways processing affects nutrient content:

Heat: High temperatures used in cooking, canning, or pasteurizing can destroy heat-sensitive nutrients like vitamins C and B.

Light and Oxygen: Exposure to light and air can degrade vitamins A, C, and E.

Water: Water used in boiling or blanching can leach away water-soluble nutrients like vitamins B and C.

While these nutrient losses are often unavoidable, companies are employing methods to enhance the nutritional value of processed foods, such as fortification and enrichment. For example, adding vitamins and minerals to cereals or fortifying milk with vitamin D.

Kellogg’s: Fortifies its breakfast cereals with essential nutrients such as iron, B vitamins, and folic acid.

General Mills: Enriches products like Cheerios and other cereals with iron and B vitamins, contributing positively to daily nutritional intake, particularly for children.

Health Concerns Regarding Processed Food: Everything You Need to Know

While processed foods have become a staple in many diets due to their convenience and are considered as quick meal solutions, their health implications raise significant concerns. The primary health concern associated with processed foods is their contribution to obesity, type 2 diabetes, and high cholesterol.

Studies have shown that diets with higher consumption of ultra-processed foods are strongly correlated with increased caloric intake and weight gain. A study by Dr. Kevin D. Hall and his team at the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) found that individuals consuming ultra-processed foods ingested approximately 500 more calories per day compared to when they consumed minimally processed foods. This led to an average weight gain of about 2 pounds during the ultra-processed diet phase.

Another study conducted by various institutions in the Netherlands and the UK found a connection between ultra-processed food (UPF) consumption and the incidence of type 2 diabetes in a Dutch cohort. It revealed that a 10% increase in UPF intake raises the risk of developing type 2 diabetes by 25%.

Processed foods are also often high in trans fats and saturated fats, which are known to elevate LDL (bad) cholesterol levels and lower HDL (good) cholesterol levels. This imbalance contributes to the development of cardiovascular diseases, including heart disease and stroke. High sodium content in processed foods further exacerbates this risk by contributing to hypertension.

Even though these findings are alarming, it is important to note that moderate consumption of processed foods can be part of a balanced diet. Making informed choices and prioritizing minimally processed foods occasionally and in moderation can help mitigate health risks.

The Upside of Processed Food Popularity: Convenience and Nutrient Fortification

Globally, packaged food, processed meats, processed beverages, and frozen foods have become the most popular processed foods consumed by people. In fact, Different types of processed foods are popular in different regions. For example, processed meats and frozen foods are highly popular in North America, while bakery products and packaged foods have high consumption in Europe.

In recent decades, due to the convenience offered by them, especially in developing regions like Africa and Asia, the availability of cheaper processed foods has played a crucial role in reducing overall hunger and improving food security. Higher incomes have enabled increased food consumption and decreased rates of undernutrition.

However, these benefits have come with some challenges, such as a rise in obesity rates, partly due to a significant share of increased food demand being met by processed foods. About 20% of Africans, or more than 250 million people, still go to bed hungry every day. Nonetheless, the reduction in hunger and undernutrition highlights the important role processed foods have played in improving lives across the region.

Future Trends in food processing technology

The upcoming prospects in food processing technology will focus on enhancing methods to address current challenges and drawbacks faced by the processed food industry. Influenced by contemporary movements such as the clean label movement, the goal is to ensure that processing methods and ingredients are more natural, simple, and transparent. A primary concern is mitigating the loss of nutritional content during processing and reducing high-fat content.

Cold Plasma is an emerging non-thermal food processing technology and method that uses ionized gas to eliminate bacteria and extend the shelf life of food without compromising the quality of the nutritional content in the food. It is particularly promising for fresh produce, preserving texture, flavor, and nutritional value better than traditional methods.

Food fortification: This method involves adding essential micronutrients to foods to address deficiencies. Various technologies support this process, such as premixing for even nutrient distribution, extrusion for cereals, and spray drying for powdered products. Companies like Vitaliz Biosciences specialize in nutritional ingredient formulations for various food products, and VitaKey develops a platform for precision nutrient delivery.

With these innovations, food fortification processes will continue to improve, addressing nutritional deficiencies more effectively.

In Conclusion,

The rapid growth of processed foods in global markets reflects both their convenience and the advances in food processing technology that make them appealing to consumers. However, this rise comes with significant health implications, necessitating a balanced approach to consumption. Consequently, the future trends in food processing are geared towards making these products healthier, more sustainable, and better tailored to individual needs.

[amey-inkwood]

Transformative Role of AI & AR in K-Beauty Products Market

Korean-Beauty Products, originating from South Korea, have revolutionized the global beauty industry due to their innovative formulations and unique approach. Known for their emphasis on achieving healthy and radiant skin, these products are gaining traction mainly owing to their natural composition, coupled with the integration of cutting-edge technology. According to Inkwood Research, the global K-beauty products market is estimated to register a CAGR of 9.71% during the projection period of 2023 to 2032, reaching a revenue of $29,285.70 million by 2032.

The K-beauty trend is gaining popularity globally, especially in Southeast Asia, East Asia, South Asia, and the Western world, focusing on hydration and brightening effects. Moreover, its all-inclusive range of products further contributes to its widespread appeal. Korean businesses are also investing in R&D to create personalized cosmetic and skincare products with positive cosmeceutical outcomes.

Request a FREE Sample of the K-Beauty Products Market : https://www.inkwoodresearch.com/reports/k-beauty-products-market/request-free-sample

Blending Innovation & Personalization: AI, AR, and K-Beauty

Some of the most recent innovations in Korean-Beauty Products incorporate the latest tech solutions, such as artificial intelligence (AI), big data analysis, and augmented reality (AR). Their swift adoption and development on a global scale are significantly influenced by the shift towards digital space in the Korean cosmetics sector. These advancements highlight how the nation’s strength lies not only in aesthetic procedures, such as plastic surgeries, but also in cosmetic products with advanced innovation and promising results.

The Role of AI & AR in the K-Beauty Products Market

Personalized Skincare & Makeup

AI-driven skincare apps and devices analyze individual skin types and concerns to recommend personalized products. For instance, L’Oreal Perso, the world’s first AI-powered device for skincare and cosmetics, uses artificial intelligence to create custom skincare formulas based on user-specific needs. Future makeup offerings from the device are expected to incorporate real-time trend information and color-matching technology.

Similarly, AI chatbots and virtual beauty advisors offer personalized recommendations, tips, and skincare routines, helping consumers navigate the vast K-beauty product landscape. Estée Lauder’s Facebook Messenger bot, for example, provides a complete shopping experience for customers. Users can search for products, try on lipsticks, browse collections, and purchase cosmetics—all within the same Facebook Messenger environment.

Virtual Try-Ons

AR-powered virtual try-on tools allow consumers to ‘test’ Korean-Beauty Products virtually. These solutions enable users to see how different makeup products will look on their skin before making a purchase. Sephora’s augmented reality feature allows users to upload a selfie to virtually ‘try on’ products that can be purchased from the store. A new update to the feature (from the developer ModiFace) will enable users to view themselves moving in real-time with the digital makeup.

As per Parham Aarabi, the CEO of ModiFace, “We believe the ability to see yourself with products can impact sales online; thus, the integration on Sephora will, based on our expectation, result in increased conversions and user engagement.” Accordingly, Inkwood Research anticipates that e-commerce will be the fastest-growing distribution channel, with a CAGR of 10.04% between 2023 and 2032.

Interactive Shopping Experiences

AR-enhanced shopping experiences, like those by K-beauty brand AmorePacific (South Korea), enable customers to explore product information, watch tutorials, and virtually apply makeup in-store, enhancing engagement and decision-making. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the brand placed QR codes next to all products on display to limit the risk of virus spread. Customers could directly check product details using their mobile phones instead of interacting with the staff.

In another development, the brand’s in-store augmented reality (AR) mirror provides consumers the ability to virtually try on products, effectively minimizing contact time and resolving the need for in-store sampling and try-on experiences. The AR mirror works by taking a photograph of the customer’s face and analyzing it. Subsequently, it recommends products based on skin texture while addressing blemishes, dark circles, and wrinkles. Customers can also see a computer-generated image (CGI) of what they would look like wearing a wide range of eye products, foundations, blush, and lipsticks.

Stay Up-to-Date with the Latest Global K-Beauty Products Market : https://www.inkwoodresearch.com/global-k-beauty-products-market/

Korean Skincare and K-beauty hair care products are renowned for their benefits and uniqueness, with formulations that emphasize natural ingredients and innovative technologies. The demand for K-beauty skincare products and women's demand for K-beauty products are driven by the high standards of Korean beauty and the effectiveness of these products.

The dynamics of the K-beauty products market are influenced by several factors, including the increasing popularity of K-beauty men’s cosmetics, the use of unique ingredients in K-beauty products, and the focus on Korean beauty standards. Additionally, Korean skincare brands continue to innovate and expand their offerings, including Korean sunscreen products and K-beauty personal care products.

AI and AR technologies are at the forefront of transforming Korean-Beauty Products and the global beauty industry. By offering personalized experiences, innovative product development, and data-driven insights, these technologies enhance customer engagement and satisfaction. With future cosmetic preferences significantly influenced by virtual reality, especially in the post-pandemic era, these advancements are set to provide the global K-beauty products market with lucrative growth opportunities.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) –

1.     What are some notable K-beauty trends expected in the near future? A: Emerging trends in the global K-beauty products market include a higher inclination toward sustainable, clean beauty products, as well as the significant influence of social media and celebrity endorsements.

2.     Which is the fastest-growing region in the global K-beauty products market? A: North America is set to be the fastest-growing region in the global market during the forecast period, 2023 to 2032.

[mrudula01]

Molded Pulp Packaging Market: Sustainability Innovates Packing Processes

According to United Nations Environment Programme, around 36% of all plastics produced are applied in packaging, including single-use plastic containers. However, plastic pollution is a grave environmental concern, with around 85% of plastic packing ending up in landfills or as unregulated waste. The widespread plastic contamination has fostered the growth of plastic-free packaging solutions like molded pulp. Based on our estimates, the molded pulp packaging market is set to advance significantly over the forecast period 2023-2030, with a CAGR of 7.19%.

Molded pulp or molded fiber packaging has been restricted to niche segments, including egg trays. However, the growing use of various wood and non-wood pulp sources in manufacturing has expanded its application scope to various sectors, including beauty, food, and electronics. For instance, Knoll Packaging introduced its 100% Ecoform molded pulp compacts (using bamboo, wood, and sugarcane fibers) to replace conventional plastic compacts.

Consumer inclination towards greener products has dramatically increased molded fiber inclusion across multiple consumer goods industries, especially food packaging.

Sustainability Reforms Packaging Approach

Food packaging is among the major application categories in the molded pulp packaging market. Since the material is fabricated of a microporous structure enabling water absorption, its demand for perishable food packing has elevated. Moreover, its lightweight and high-strength properties have fueled its adoption for ready-to-eat meals and beverages. Plates, clamshells, cups, and bowls are widely adapted as packing solutions for various consumables, including vegetables, fruits, and juices. As per the World Economic Forum, the food industry accounts for over a third of global greenhouse gas emissions, which significantly drives the demand for sustainable solutions like molded pulp fibers.

Our analysis shows that Asia-Pacific leads the molded pulp packaging market globally. The rising disposable income and strategic initiatives heavily prompt the region’s growth. For instance, in March 2023, PulPac announced Nippon Molding Co Ltd as its first licensee in Japan, expanding its dry molded fiber production to Asia. Further, in April 2023, Sanofi and Haleon associated with PA Consulting and PulPac’s Bottle Collective Mission to develop a recyclable high-speed, low-cost dry molded fiber bottle production process. Such steps are thus expected to widen the scope of the studied market across the APAC region.

Technology-Driven Packaging: A Step Ahead for Molded Pulp

Advanced technologies like 3D printing have made molded pulp packaging manufacturing less energy-intensive. One such instance is HP’s Molded Fiber Advanced Tooling Technology, which enables fast and advanced design and production of molder fiber in 2 weeks as opposed to 4-6 weeks via conventional methods. As per the company, the end-to-end solution helps reduce maintenance and offers mass customization capabilities.

Over the past years, manufacturing technology has advanced immensely, giving final products smoother surfaces and refined designs. This upgraded appearance has also expanded the application range of pulp packaging across healthcare, industrial, and personal care industries. Based on the premise of eliminating costly production, 3D printing further emerges as an eco-friendly manufacturing solution. This ultimately creates opportunities for molded pulp manufacturers.

E-Commerce Expansion Amplifies Molded Packaging

Online shopping trends have existed for several years. However, COVID-19 accelerated its growth, resulting in e-commerce sales surging from 16% to 19% in 2020, as per UNCTAD report. Particularly, the food delivery sector witnessed robust growth, leading to the expansion of various delivery applications, including UberEats, Postmates, and DoorDash. Since molded pulp packaging offers easy transportation and supports recycling, several e-commerce players have adopted this packaging method. Therefore, expanding online sales creates a profitable market space for molded pulp in the packaging industry.

FAQs:

Q1) Which are the key types in the molded pulp packaging market?

Thick wall, thermoformed, transfer, and processed as key molded types in the market.

Q2) Which are the major molded pulp manufacturers?

Genpak LLC, UFP Technologies Inc, Sabert Corporation, Eco-Products Inc, Thermoform Engineered Quality LLC, Huhtamaki OYJ, Pro-Pac Packaging Group, Brodrene Hatmann AS, Sonoco Products Company, and Fabri-Kal are major molded pulp manufacturers.

[astuteanalyticablog]

Smart Speakers and Privacy Issues: What People Need to Know

Only a few languages are supported by smart speakers, and adoption rates are still low worldwide. Virtual assistants will eventually be able to speak every major language, greatly expanding their user base. Millions of homes in English-speaking nations already use smart speakers regularly.

Smart speaker manufacturers updating their basic product lines with an emphasis on providing high sound quality at reasonable pricing. Thus, it is anticipated to fuel the market growth. In addition, according to a research report by Astute Analytica, the Global Smart Speaker Market is likely to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 18.2% over the projection period from 2023 to 2031.

Privacy concerns with smart speakers

Concerns around privacy have increased with the introduction of the first smart speakers. Consider the fact that people are bringing a device into their personal space that can record their conversations, gather information about their behaviors, and create consumer profiles. That much privacy must be sacrificed to use a smart speaker conveniently. Numerous instances of people accidentally activating virtual assistants have been documented. Then, the devices collected conversations they weren't supposed to and forwarded those recordings to independent contractors who were attempting to increase the accuracy of voice recognition. Although tech companies assert that they only review a small number of anonymized recordings to enhance their products and services, these recordings frequently have enough information to identify individuals. People can never be certain of the security, access, or storage methods for our data. As the number of smart equipment in our homes increases, privacy, and security issues must be addressed head-on.

How to improve people's privacy and security?

Create a separate network just for IoT devices: Discussions with people on smart speakers could be overheard if hackers have gained access to their house Wi-Fi. People advise creating a network specifically for their smart home systems and IoT devices.

Don't talk about personal stuff: When the speaker is on, it's advisable to avoid discussing their credit card information, passwords, and personal information. People chats might be overheard by unaffiliated criminals, contractors, or even the geeky neighbor down the street.

Please remove people recordings: People may be able to erase a person's complete dictation history depending on the model of their smart speaker. In that case, anyone who gains access to their Amazon, Apple, or Google accounts will be unable to view their recordings.

Apply a VPN: People's chance of being hacked is reduced with a virtual private network, which secures their traffic and conceals their IP address. Up to six separate devices may be protected under a single VPN account. Their entire household is protected if they enable it on their network.

Control the settings: By altering the settings on a person's smart speaker, they can stop manufacturers from sharing their recordings with other contractors so they can provide better services.

Make secure passwords: Make sure to fill up personal passwords using uppercase and lowercase, special characters, and digits. The same password shouldn't be used across all of their accounts.

Content Source: - Smart Speaker Market

[tritonmarketresearch]

Dietary Fibers Market: Fueling Healthy F&B Choices

Across the globe, constipation is a prevalent medical disorder intricately linked to insufficient fiber consumption. According to the World Gastroenterology Organization, the prevalence of constipation varies across countries, ranging from 2% to 30% in the general population. Beans, broccoli, berries, avocados, popcorn, whole grains, apples, dried fruits, nuts, and so forth are excellent sources of dietary fiber and help GI disorders. Thus, the burgeoning awareness surrounding nutrition and health among individuals and the inclination towards nutraceutical products is pushing the dietary fibers market.

Globally, the dietary fibers market is expected to reach $13421.33 million by 2030, with a CAGR of 8.77% from 2023 to 2030.

Dietary fibers possess natural laxative properties that stimulate and promote the frequency of bowel movements. By regulating the digestive system’s rhythmic functioning and preventing stool stagnation in the colon, these fibers actively alleviate the discomfort of constipation. Including fibers in a diet can effectively support regular bowel movements, ensuring optimal digestive health.

A Spectrum of Product Offerings: Soluble and Insoluble Dietary Fibers

Regarding product categorization, the market is segmented into two distinct subcategories, soluble dietary fibers and insoluble dietary fibers. Soluble fibers in food sources such as apples, bananas, barley, oats, and beans offer exceptional nutritional value. On the other hand, insoluble fibers derived from whole grains, various vegetables, wheat bran, and legumes provide an impeccable foundation for dietary enrichment. Premium food skillfully incorporates soluble and insoluble fibers, achieving a harmonious fusion of nutritional excellence.

In 2022, soluble dietary fibers emerged as the dominant segment, with a remarkable revenue of $3764.84 million. Exceptional properties and wide-ranging applications are the top drivers of the segment.

Soluble dietary fibers dissolve in water, forming a gel-like substance that offers various functional benefits. They find extensive applications across the food and beverage industry, allowing manufacturers to enhance the nutritional profile of their products while improving texture, stability, and overall quality.

Few Notable Examples:

Kerry Group PLC offers Emulgold Fibre, a soluble dietary fiber renowned for its digestibility. This product enhances texture and enhances flavor, particularly in reduced sugar systems.

Tate & Lyle produces STA-LITE Polydextrose. This easily utilized soluble fiber imparts minimal color or off-flavor, making it an ideal choice for products aiming to reduce calories and sugar while maintaining desirable texture and taste.

Addressing Nutritional Deficiencies

Developing countries face significant challenges in public health and nutrition, characterized by insufficient access to balanced diets and nutrient deficiencies that impact millions of individuals. However, the food and beverage industry has undergone a transformative shift driven by increasing awareness of dietary fibers pivotal role in maintaining optimal health.

For instance, the Indian Council of Medical Research emphasizes a minimum daily consumption of 40 grams of dietary fiber. Consequently, the country’s population has enthusiastically embraced incorporating fiber-enriched products into their diets, acknowledging their potential to enhance digestive abilities and overall well-being.

Tata NQ’s product FOSSENCE® is a versatile prebiotic dietary fiber supplement. This product, derived from fermented cane sugar, is 100% water soluble. Through clinical studies, the company has demonstrated the positive impact of FOSSENCE® on the gut microbiome, particularly in enhancing the relative abundance of lactobacillus and bifidobacteria. Also, a healthy microbiota, supported by FOSSENCE®, can improve immunity, nutrient absorption, lipid transport, and overall digestive and bowel health.

As per our experts, the Asia-Pacific dietary fibers market is projected to exhibit a promising growth rate, with a projected CAGR of 8.69% from 2032 to 2030.

Navigating the Future: A Fiber-Rich World

As the market expands, businesses must stay informed about evolving regulations and compliance requirements. Additionally, consumer education about the health benefits of dietary fibers and their role in a balanced diet is paramount. Food manufacturers are increasingly fortifying their products with dietary fibers. This approach allows them to leverage various fiber sources, including locally available options like carrots, chicory root, asparagus, Jerusalem artichoke, leeks, and whole grains. By incorporating these fibers, they can create food products with elevated fiber content, catering to the growing demand for high-fiber options. This trend extends to the functional food category, where fiber-based supplements are also gaining traction.

Examples of consumer goods manufacturers fortifying their dietary fibers products are:

KIND offers a variety of cereal bars with dietary fibers. They use ingredients like whole grains, oats, and chicory root fiber to enhance the fiber content and nutritional value of their bars.

Nature Valley incorporates fiber-rich ingredients such as whole-grain oats, wheat bran, and inulin to provide a satisfying and nutritious snack.

Fiber One uses a combination of soluble and insoluble fibers, such as chicory root extract and wheat bran, to boost the fiber content of their bars and promote digestive health.

[rohittriton]

Cellulite Treatment Market: Advanced Procedures Supplement Growth

In recent years, the demand for cellulite treatments has skyrocketed, and one of the key driving factors is the alarming rise in obesity rates globally. According to WHO, obesity has nearly tripled since 1975, with over 650 million adults classified as obese. As obesity rates continue to climb, individuals are seeking effective solutions to tackle the unwanted dimples and uneven skin texture caused by cellulite. This further widens the scope of the global cellulite treatment market, which as per Triton’s estimates, is set to grow at a CAGR of 9.48% during the forecast period 2023-2030.

Another notable trend is the rise in medical tourism, which has influenced the demand for affordable and advanced cellulite reduction procedures across various destinations. By leveraging medical tourism, players are able to tap into distinct clientele by offering competitive costs, advanced therapies, and skilled professionals.

In this blog, we explore the widely preferred cellulite treatments, along with the initiatives by market contenders.

Combating Cellulite: Revolutionary Treatments Facilitate Reduction

Cellulite is caused by various issues, including hormones, lymphatic drainage, medical conditions, pregnancy, and aging. Although completely removing cellulite might not be possible, several targeted methods and lifestyle changes may help reduce its appearance. Some of the key procedure types include:

Non-invasive procedure type captures the highest share of the cellulite treatment market. Factors like a short hospital stay, quick recovery time, painless procedure, and lower cost significantly elevate the preference for non-invasive therapies. Some widely opted non-invasive methods include radiofrequency, suction massage, cryolipolysis, and high-frequency focused ultrasound. For instance, cryolipolysis freezes and eliminates fat cells, which the body later removes naturally. Whereas treatments like radiofrequency and ultrasound heat skin and stimulate collagen production, which reduces cellulite.

Our analysis shows North America dominated the market with revenue worth $811.68 million in 2022. The rising demand for advanced procedures, disposable income, and technological innovation primarily drives the treatment scope in North America. As per industry sources, in 2020, about 357,938 non-invasive procedures were performed in the US. This further led to various initiatives by key players. For instance, in 2021, Soliton launched RESONIC, a rapid acoustic pulse device, to non-invasively improve cellulite appearance. These factors thus boost the North America cellulite treatment market, directed by the US.

Minimally invasive procedures are gaining immense traction, expected to witness the fastest growth at a CAGR of 9.56% during the forecast period 2023-2030. As the name suggests, this treatment option limits the size of incisions, significantly reducing wound healing time and associated pain. In this regard, subcision is a minimally invasive remedy using a tiny blade to cut the connective tissue holding fat. Further, laser therapy includes inserting tiny laser fibers beneath the skin.

The growing focus on streamlined, cost-effective procedures has supplemented the category’s growth, prompting various strategic launches in recent years. Key examples include:

In May 2022, Revelle Aesthetics unveiled Aveli, a minimally invasive device to temporarily reduce cellulite appearance on the buttocks and thigh in a single session.

AirSulpt Technologies Inc, in August 2022, introduced AirSculpt Smooth, which facilitates the complete removal of stubborn cellulite dimples.

Topical procedures such as vacuum suction have gained significant prominence, mainly to increase blood flow and lower fat buildup. This treatment method includes using various creams containing ingredients such as caffeine, theophylline, and others. Besides this, some creams include minerals and vitamins to treat soft cellulite type. Presently, soft cellulite captures the majority share in the cellulite type segment. The growing demand for topical therapies due to ease of application and availability of a range of products drives the category’s growth.

Cosmetic Appearance: An Expanding Facet

While medical tourism and obesity are key driving aspects, beauty consciousness also widens the scope of the cellulite treatment market. With the rise of social media, consumer focus on their appearance has soared over the past decade. This has soared the number of cosmetic procedures, including cellulite reduction treatments. For instance, in Japan, approximately 174,5621 cosmetic therapies were performed in 2021. The rising medical tourism for aesthetic treatments across India, China, Japan, and South Korea, contributes heavily to the studied market’s expansion.

Additionally, given the rise in beauty consciousness, several beauty clinics are capitalizing on innovative solutions to boost client satisfaction and revenue. For example, Cynosure Inc’s TempSure RF platform delivers monopolar radiofrequency energy via unique massage heads to reduce cellulite appearance. Hence, focus on aesthetic appearance and technological advancements creates novel opportunities for the cellulite treatment market.

[mostlysignssomeportents]

Tech monopolists use their market power to invade your privacy

On SEPTEMBER 24th, I'll be speaking IN PERSON at the BOSTON PUBLIC LIBRARY!

It's easy to greet the FTC's new report on social media privacy, which concludes that tech giants have terrible privacy practices with a resounding "duh," but that would be a grave mistake.

Much to the disappointment of autocrats and would-be autocrats, administrative agencies like the FTC can't just make rules up. In order to enact policies, regulators have to do their homework: for example, they can do "market studies," which go beyond anything you'd get out of an MBA or Master of Public Policy program, thanks to the agency's legal authority to force companies to reveal their confidential business information.

Market studies are fabulous in their own right. The UK Competition and Markets Authority has a fantastic research group called the Digital Markets Unit that has published some of the most fascinating deep dives into how parts of the tech industry actually function, 400+ page bangers that pierce the Shield of Boringness that tech firms use to hide their operations. I recommend their ad-tech study:

https://www.gov.uk/cma-cases/online-platforms-and-digital-advertising-market-study

In and of themselves, good market studies are powerful things. They expose workings. They inform debate. When they're undertaken by wealthy, powerful countries, they provide enforcement roadmaps for smaller, poorer nations who are being tormented in the same way, by the same companies, that the regulator studied.

But market studies are really just curtain-raisers. After a regulator establishes the facts about a market, they can intervene. They can propose new regulations, and they can impose "conduct remedies" (punishments that restrict corporate behavior) on companies that are cheating.

Now, the stolen, corrupt, illegitimate, extremist, bullshit Supreme Court just made regulation a lot harder. In a case called Loper Bright, SCOTUS killed the longstanding principle of "Chevron deference," which basically meant that when an agency said it had built a factual case to support a regulation, courts should assume they're not lying:

https://jacobin.com/2024/07/scotus-decisions-chevron-immunity-loper

The death of Chevron Deference means that many important regulations – past, present and future – are going to get dragged in front of a judge, most likely one of those Texas MAGA mouth-breathers in the Fifth Circuit, to be neutered or killed. But even so, regulators still have options – they can still impose conduct remedies, which are unaffected by the sabotage of Chevron Deference.

Pre-Loper, post-Loper, and today, the careful, thorough investigation of the facts of how markets operate is the prelude to doing things about how those markets operate. Facts matter. They matter even if there's a change in government, because once the facts are in the public domain, other governments can use them as the basis for action.

Which is why, when the FTC uses its powers to compel disclosures from the largest tech companies in the world, and then assesses those disclosures and concludes that these companies engage in "vast surveillance," in ways that the users don't realize and that these companies "fail to adequately protect users, that matters.

What's more, the Commission concludes that "data abuses can fuel market dominance, and market dominance can, in turn, further enable data abuses and practices that harm consumers." In other words: tech monopolists spy on us in order to achieve and maintain their monopolies, and then they spy on us some more, and that hurts us.

So if you're wondering what kind of action this report is teeing up, I think we can safely say that the FTC believes that there's evidence that the unregulated, rampant practices of the commercial surveillance industry are illegal. First, because commercial surveillance harms us as "consumers." "Consumer welfare" is the one rubric for enforcement that the right-wing economists who hijacked antitrust law in the Reagan era left intact, and here we have the Commission giving us evidence that surveillance hurts us, and that it comes about as a result of monopoly, and that the more companies spy, the stronger their monopolies become.

But the Commission also tees up another kind of enforcement: Section 5, the long (long!) neglected power of the agency to punish companies for "unfair and deceptive methods of competition," a very broad power indeed:

https://pluralistic.net/2023/01/10/the-courage-to-govern/#whos-in-charge

In the study, the Commission shows – pretty convincingly! – that the commercial surveillance sector routinely tricks people who have no idea how their data is being used. Most people don't understand, for example, that the platforms use all kinds of inducements to get web publishers to embed tracking pixels, fonts, analytics beacons, etc that send user-data back to the Big Tech databases, where it's merged with data from your direct interactions with the company. Likewise, most people don't understand the shadowy data-broker industry, which sells Big Tech gigantic amounts of data harvested by your credit card company, by Bluetooth and wifi monitoring devices on streets and in stores, and by your car. Data-brokers buy this data from anyone who claims to have it, including people who are probably lying, like Nissan, who claims that it has records of the smells inside drivers' cars, as well as those drivers' sex-lives:

https://nypost.com/2023/09/06/nissan-kia-collect-data-about-drivers-sexual-activity/

Or Cox Communications, which claims that it is secretly recording and transcribing the conversations we have in range of the mics on our speakers, phones, and other IoT devices:

https://www.404media.co/heres-the-pitch-deck-for-active-listening-ad-targeting/

(If there's a kernel of truth to Cox's bullshit, my guess it's that they've convinced some of the sleazier "smart TV" companies to secretly turn on their mics, then inflated this into a marketdroid's wet-dream of "we have logged every word uttered by Americans and can use it to target ads.)

Notwithstanding the rampant fraud inside the data brokerage industry, there's no question that some of the data they offer for sale is real, that it's intimate and sensitive, and that the people it's harvested from never consented to its collection. How do you opt out of public facial recognition cameras? "Just don't have a face" isn't a realistic opt-out policy.

And if the public is being deceived about the collection of this data, they're even more in the dark about the way it's used – merged with on-platform usage data and data from apps and the web, then analyzed for the purposes of drawing "inferences" about you and your traits.

What's more, the companies have chaotic, bullshit internal processes for handling your data, which also rise to the level of "deceptive and unfair" conduct. For example, if you send these companies a deletion request for your data, they'll tell you they deleted the data, but actually, they keep it, after "de-identifying" it.

De-identification is a highly theoretical way of sanitizing data by removing the "personally identifiers" from it. In practice, most de-identified data can be quickly re-identified, and nearly all de-identified data can eventually be re-identified:

https://pluralistic.net/2024/03/08/the-fire-of-orodruin/#are-we-the-baddies

Breaches, re-identification, and weaponization are extraordinarily hard to prevent. In general, we should operate on the assumption that any data that's collected will probably leak, and any data that's retained will almost certainly leak someday. To have even a hope of preventing this, companies have to treat data with enormous care, maintaining detailed logs and conducting regular audits. But the Commission found that the biggest tech companies are extraordinarily sloppy, to the point where "they often could not even identify all the data points they collected or all of the third parties they shared that data with."

This has serious implications for consumer privacy, obviously, but there's also a big national security dimension. Given the recent panic at the prospect that the Chinese government is using Tiktok to spy on Americans, it's pretty amazing that American commercial surveillance has escaped serious Congressional scrutiny.

After all, it would be a simple matter to use the tech platforms targeting systems to identify and push ads (including ads linking to malicious sites) to Congressional staffers ("under-40s with Political Science college degrees within one mile of Congress") or, say, NORAD personnel ("Air Force enlistees within one mile of Cheyenne Mountain").

Those targeting parameters should be enough to worry Congress, but there's a whole universe of potential characteristics that can be selected, hence the Commission's conclusion that "profound threats to users can occur when targeting occurs based on sensitive categories."

The FTC's findings about the dangers of all this data are timely, given the current wrangle over another antitrust case. In August, a federal court found that Google is a monopolist in search, and that the company used its data lakes to secure and maintain its monopoly.

This kicked off widespread demands for the court to order Google to share its data with competitors in order to erase that competitive advantage. Holy moly is this a bad idea – as the FTC study shows, the data that Google stole from us all is incredibly toxic. Arguing that we can fix the Google problem by sharing that data far and wide is like proposing that we can "solve" the fact that only some countries have nuclear warheads by "democratizing" access to planet-busting bombs:

https://pluralistic.net/2024/08/07/revealed-preferences/#extinguish-v-improve

To address the competitive advantage Google achieved by engaging in the reckless, harmful conduct detailed in this FTC report, we should delete all that data. Sure, that may seem inconceivable, but come on, surely the right amount of toxic, nonconsensually harvested data on the public that should be retained by corporations is zero:

https://pluralistic.net/2024/09/19/just-stop-putting-that-up-your-ass/#harm-reduction

Some people argue that we don't need to share out the data that Google never should have been allowed to collect – it's enough to share out the "inferences" that Google drew from that data, and from other data its other tentacles (Youtube, Android, etc) shoved into its gaping maw, as well as the oceans of data-broker slurry it stirred into the mix.

But as the report finds, the most unethical, least consensual data was "personal information that these systems infer, that was purchased from third parties, or that was derived from users’ and non-users’ activities off of the platform." We gotta delete that, too. Especially that.

A major focus of the report is the way that the platforms handled children's data. Platforms have special obligations when it comes to kids' data, because while Congress has failed to act on consumer privacy, they did bestir themselves to enact a children's privacy law. In 2000, Congress passed the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA), which puts strict limits on the collection, retention and processing of data on kids under 13.

Now, there are two ways to think about COPPA. One view is, "if you're not certain that everyone in your data-set is over 13, you shouldn't be collecting or processing their data at all." Another is, "In order to ensure that everyone whose data you're collecting and processing is over 13, you should collect a gigantic amount of data on all of them, including the under-13s, in order to be sure that not collecting under-13s' data." That second approach would be ironically self-defeating, obviously, though it's one that's gaining traction around the world and in state legislatures, as "age verification" laws find legislative support.

The platforms, meanwhile, found a third, even stupider approach: rather than collecting nothing because they can't verify ages, or collecting everything to verify ages, they collect everything, but make you click a box that says, "I'm over 13":

https://pluralistic.net/2023/04/09/how-to-make-a-child-safe-tiktok/

It will not surprise you to learn that many children under 13 have figured out that they can click the "I'm over 13" box and go on their merry way. It won't surprise you, but apparently, it will surprise the hell out of the platforms, who claimed that they had zero underage users on the basis that everyone has to click the "I'm over 13" box to get an account on the service.

By failing to pass comprehensive privacy legislation for 36 years (and counting), Congress delegated privacy protection to self-regulation by the companies themselves. They've been marking their own homework, and now, thanks to the FTC's power to compel disclosures, we can say for certain that the platforms cheat.

No surprise that the FTC's top recommendation is for Congress to pass a new privacy law. But they've got other, eminently sensible recommendations, like requiring the companies to do a better job of protecting their users' data: collect less, store less, delete it after use, stop combining data from their various lines of business, and stop sharing data with third parties.

Remember, the FTC has broad powers to order "conduct remedies" like this, and these are largely unaffected by the Supreme Court's "Chevron deference" decision in Loper-Bright.

The FTC says that privacy policies should be "clear, simple, and easily understood," and says that ad-targeting should be severely restricted. They want clearer consent for data inferences (including AI), and that companies should monitor their own processes with regular, stringent audits.

They also have recommendations for competition regulators – remember, the Biden administration has a "whole of government" antitrust approach that asks every agency to use its power to break up corporate concentration:

https://www.eff.org/deeplinks/2021/08/party-its-1979-og-antitrust-back-baby

They say that competition enforcers factor in the privacy implications of proposed mergers, and think about how promoting privacy could also promote competition (in other words, if Google's stolen data helped it secure a monopoly, then making them delete that data will weaken their market power).

I understand the reflex to greet a report like this with cheap cynicism, but that's a mistake. There's a difference between "everybody knows" that tech is screwing us on privacy, and "a federal agency has concluded" that this is true. These market studies make a difference – if you doubt it, consider for a moment that Cigna is suing the FTC for releasing a landmark market study showing how its Express Scripts division has used its monopoly power to jack up the price of prescription drugs:

https://www.fiercehealthcare.com/payers/express-scripts-files-suit-against-ftc-demands-retraction-report-pbm-industry

Big business is shit-scared of this kind of research by federal agencies – if they think this threatens their power, why shouldn't we take them at their word?

This report is a milestone, and – as with the UK Competition and Markets Authority reports – it's a banger. Even after Loper-Bright, this report can form the factual foundation for muscular conduct remedies that will limit what the largest tech companies can do.

But without privacy law, the data brokerages that feed the tech giants will be largely unaffected. True, the Consumer Finance Protection Bureau is doing some good work at the margins here:

https://pluralistic.net/2023/08/16/the-second-best-time-is-now/#the-point-of-a-system-is-what-it-does

But we need to do more than curb the worst excesses of the largest data-brokers. We need to kill this sector, and to do that, Congress has to act:

https://pluralistic.net/2023/12/06/privacy-first/#but-not-just-privacy

The paperback edition of The Lost Cause, my nationally bestselling, hopeful solarpunk novel is out this month!

If you'd like an essay-formatted version of this post to read or share, here's a link to it on pluralistic.net, my surveillance-free, ad-free, tracker-free blog:

https://pluralistic.net/2024/09/20/water-also-wet/#marking-their-own-homework

Image: Cryteria (modified) https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:HAL9000.svg

CC BY 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/deed.en

[knitmeapony]

Thinking about starting a subreddit for people who want to find furniture, sports equipment, etc (anything but clothes) for people who are fat or tall or otherwise don't fit standard dimensions.

Basically 'consumer reports for people who are more than 250lbs and/or 6ft tall'

Reasons why subreddit:

allows people to post their own questions

allows for reasonable moderation already

gives pretty good SEO out of the gate

allows for tagging so people can filter posts

has decent search engine built in

allows for NSFW/18+ content with tags so questions about sex toys, etc can be asked

Rules I'm already thinking of:

Recommendations and questions both allowed, but no self-promotion on individual posts or maybe on one day a month or something (keeps down the spammers!)

Related: no surveys/market research

No diet talk at all

No judgement (about things that are usually disability related but get shamed, like 'best way to put on my socks when I have trouble bending over')

This is generally for goods, not services, so no asking about therapists, doctors, etc.

This is not a complaint forum, but you can post your personal negative experiences as an anti-recommendation on a question. (What I don't want: a post that's just 'I hate this company because of a single bad experience!' What I would be OK with: a post about yoga equipment where someone shares that their foam blocks from X company collapsed after a few uses)

Anyone else on Reddit interested in helping? Is this something that already exists elsewhere I can just join?

[nanavn]

For @shanastoryteller who asked for the gut bacteria expert's* recipe:

The professor's green energy smoothie

Ingredients

(two servings, according to the original)

half an avocado

half an apple

the juice from half a squeezed lemon

1 pinch fresh ginger

10 grapes or half a kiwi

5 dried walnuts

1 sheet nori (the kind used for sushi)

4 bunches of spinach

1 bunch parsley

a handful of broccoli

a handful of bean sprouts

half a glass of herbal tea

Preparation

Prepare the vegetables and fruits by removing the core from the apple, the peel from the kiwi, etc.

Put the vegetables in the blender with the herbal tea (cooled) and blend until it becomes a very fine-grained, green and fragrant smoothie.

Garnish with fresh herbs according to your taste preferences.

From https://livsstil.tv2.dk/mad/opskrift/professorens-groenne-energigroed (translation: https://livsstil-tv2-dk.translate.goog/mad/opskrift/professorens-groenne-energigroed?_x_tr_sl=auto&_x_tr_tl=en&_x_tr_hl=da)

My tips

The taste is pretty neutral (YMMV) but if you substitute ingredients, it may affect the taste - cabbages in particular

I usually double the recipe and have it over two days - I can't be bothered to keep half an apple lying around

I use a tall container with a volume of 1,6L/3.4 pint - that's on the small side for my version

I wouldn't make bigger portions than can be eaten over two days, and unless consumed straight away it must be kept in the fridge - you're risking a bacteria bomb instead of a nice smoothie...

I rarely use lemon, but use a few good slices of ginger (peel the whole chunk, slice and freeze for less fuss)

If you live near an Asian market, they probably have bigger packs of nori. I buy one with 50 sheets - it's *much* cheaper per sheet than the supermarket's price

I skip the parsley (can't be bothered) and buy chopped (see next bullet point) frozen spinach and add to taste

Instead of broccoli (expensive; doesn't last long in the fridge) I buy whatever cabbage is cheapest and use a large handful of it chopped up some (the fibres in cabbage and whole spinach leaves does not play well with my blender - YMMV)

I use a large mug of herbal tea and add psyllium husk for more fibre

In general I substitute/add veggies/fruits if I have something going a bit overripe (buying a load of bananas cheap and freezing them if they go brown before eating: also great for this); if I'm out of grapes, I add raisins ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

IIRC he's a proponent of using organic prooduce. As you can tell from my notes I'm cheap and/or poor cost conscious, so I buy the cheapest. It's up to you :)

I eat this in addition to whatever fruits&vegs I usually have - it's an easy way to up my intake and get some things I don't eat a lot of (e.g. cabbage, spinach)

I make my own beansprouts - but this is already too long, so it's in the next post

*Oluf Borbye Pedersen - from the link:

Intestinal Microbiome Research OP is a leading partner in the EU-Metahit initiative (www.metahit.eu) which delivered the first and second gut microbial gene catalogue of 3.3 and 9.9 mio microbial genes, respectively, from the human intestinal tract.  With quantitative metagenomics he and his team demonstrated in a population sample that about a fourth of adults is markedly deficient in gut microbiota diversity. The same individuals were featured by insulin resistance, overweight, dyslipidaemia and proinflammation. OP et al. reported the first quantitative metagenomics study of gut microbiota in type 2 diabetes, prediabetics and women with gestational diabetes and they discovered a new biological fingerprint, gut enterotypes of the human host. In addition, in recent studies of the human gut microbiome, Pedersen and colleagues have teased out drug effects versus disease effects on gut bacteria composition and function. Recently, they reported the first example of gut microbes linked to human insulin resistance. Mechanistically the investigators extended and validated their findings in in rodents. The Pedersen team has done several interventions targeting the human gut microbiome and blood metabolome including the impact of broad-spectrum antibiotics and of dietary gluten content, respectively. Studies that influence dietary and medical practice.

[bomberqueen17]

who let me out

Most of the time I spend on Tumblr has been taken up in writing these Aubreyad book recaps so I haven't been talking about my own life but there's not a lot to say.

However!

I am making a voyage to England next week which is extremely exciting, and yes I'm going to see the museum exhibit about that archaeology dig I was so excited about. I have been so stressed lately that I have barely thought about this and in fact last night I finally was like "do i need like. socks n underwear for this trip. idek." and i haven't even looked at weather reports so I don't know what clothes I need. But I did live in the UK for a while once so I'm fairly confident that my good raincoat and new waterproof boots will be a good start towards an autumn wardrobe.

So I hope to talk about that more, coming up.

Meanwhile, rambling about personal life stuff

The last stint at the farm was so fucking stressful. I had to work the market sometimes, which means a full day of work on Saturday. We had so much work to get through, and several people who help us weren't available, so we had to do it all ourselves, and that meant some ten-hour days, meant some exhausting slogs. At the end I was like "do you know what I'm not going to do while I'm on vacation?" "no, what" "ever touch raw chicken." I singlehandedly had to package like 1000 pounds of raw chicken in two days, after having packaged 200 whole chickens the day before. I was just so tired of the way raw cold chicken feels in my hands. Ugh ugh ugh.

I got so stressed I just wasn't sleeping, which sucked. Oh, I'd get into bed, and I'd fall asleep at my normal time-- usually around 10pm-- and then I'd wake up at 2am and that was it, I was up for the day. I tried various things-- went to bed at 9, woke up at 1-- lay there pretending to sleep-- got up and wrote-- got up and walked around-- one night I watched the entirety of the Master & Commander movie from 2003 on YouTube. Why not! I did remember some of it from 20 years ago, how funny.

(My dad liked that movie. His favorite thing to do during movies was to quibble about historical inaccuracies. But this movie had so much fanservice for reenactors in it that he was quietly delighted. His quibble was that the violin and cello duets were too good, they should've recorded amateurs. He had a point.)

Anyway. I was researching various methods of helping one sleep-- the only one at my disposal was weed gummies and I spent one very miserable night just lying there high and bored and not sleeping and wasn't totally sober when morning came and that fucking sucked. I commute on foot or I never would have risked it, but being very slightly still high and exhausted and trying to do repetitive physical work was really, really dispiriting.

but we got everything done. In the end. And I left. And once I got home I went to sleep and I have not had really any appreciable trouble sleeping since. I can even nap, sometimes!

Heck.

One of the things I'd meant to take care of while I was at the farm was that of course on my birthday, my fucking driver's license expired. On the one hand, thank you DMV, it used to be that everyone's license expired on the same day, so you'd have to go wait in massive lines to get it dealt with. Now it's... not evenly distributed exactly, because people's birthdays are a random distribution, but it's a perfectly logical and reasonable way to organize expiration dates. But it meant that in the midst of this exhausting miserable stint of work when I didn't have time to do anything really fun for my birthday (don't cry for me, my mom made me a cake and my BIL bought me ice cream treats) I also was consumed with angst about needing to renew my license. i was so sure they'd yell at me because I hadn't renewed before it expired-- but they wanted me to do an eye test, and I could not, could not coordinate that, I'm overdue for an optometrist appointment by several years and I just could not fucking make it happen.

So I went to the DMV yesterday and was like "i both want to renew this license and upgrade it to the enhanced version since that will be required for planes soon" and they were like "we need both your passport and your social security card and two proofs of residency." and i was like you need the social security card and proof of residency to get the passport. and they were like yeah but we need all four things too. so I went back home with the form and found the various necessary proofs, but then I was able to make an appointment to go back. Great!

(They say, "make an appointment online!" but if you look up the DMV website there's nowhere to do it, and if you go to the website of that branch of the DMV there's nowhere to do it. Want to know why? Because it's not through the DMV it is through the county clerk's office. Now U Know: Go to the county clerk's office and navigate to their section on the DMV. It's separate! Who fuckin knew! Now you do! [In my case this was erie.gov because that is my county, but it may vary for you and if you are not in new york state i have no advice for you.]

All having an appointment means is that you are in a separate queue to be seen, which is likely faster than the general pool but may not be. Still, I thought it was a good idea.

And then it was early for my appointment and I was getting my shit together and I had my social security card and an old W-2 with my address and social security number and my old license with my address on it and for some reason I thought I could use my checkbook but that's not what they mean by a cancelled check but whatever. I had just a random pile of shit. And

where was my passport

where is my passport?

i'd had it in my pocket but i was sure i'd removed it from the pocket and put it into my purse. but it wasn't in my purse. "did you see it inside the house," asks dude patiently, who also is prone to losing shit and who knows me very well. "I don't know," I have to answer. "I remember putting it in my purse and it isn't there." I search the place I put my purse a thousand times, I go through the desk where I was sitting to collect the other proofs but i knew, I knew I had not brought it in there. Time is slipping away, I will miss my appointment. God time is slipping away and I can't find the thing. I ransack the house. I finally run out to the car, did I leave it on the seat in the car? It is not in the car.

In desperation, as it is fully time to leave the house and I will be late if I don't, I gather up all my other papers and go out to the car. "I will just go," I say, "and ask them, did they find it, because that is the last place I am absolutely sure I had it." Because the woman had looked at it to see if I had my social security card between the pages. And she'd handed it back to me. But my memory is such that the rest of what I did is not certain; I remember taking it, I remember putting it into my pocket, but this might be a story I am telling myself. This is the way in which I am a very good liar, because I do not remember things very well, and my well-honed abilities as a storyteller mean I am very, very good at instantly constructing what it would make the most sense to have done, and telling that story even to myself. But. here's the horrible truth: i don't know if it really happened that way. Many things I have witnessed, important things, I remember the story of but I'm not entirely certain they happened that way. Any story I tell may be fictionalized, and I usually dont' know it.

So anyway.

Got out to my car and there on the ground in the road (I am parked in the street) there is my passport lying next to the driver's side door of the car. When I had checked the car earlier, I had only gone to the near side, the passenger side, and looked in the window. It had never occurred to me that my memory of putting it into my purse might have been me just setting it on my purse and it not going in, which is clearly one hundred percent what happened.

So that was. A fucking wild ride, and I did not cry but only because I was too overwhelmed. I made it to the appointment and I could not hear the very nice clerk very well so I kept nodding at her in blank incomprehension and then not doing what she'd asked me to do. But this is the thing-- if you think of the most brutally competent people on the entire face of the planet Earth you might be tempted to imagine like, IDK, Marines or something, but that would be wrong, it is the clerks at the DMV. They will Get It Done, whatever the fuck it is, and they will NOT put up with your shit, but they will also not be mean to you. They will not usually waste time in smiles or gratuitous displays of humanity, but they are never cruel, they are implacable and pitiless but they are fair and they will help you and they will not smile about it but they will tell you which option to tick off on the form so that you don't have to pay a bunch of extra money, and they will be understatedly kind if you are frightened, and they will calmly and impassively repeat their instructions until they penetrate your uncomprehending skull, and you will get what you need to get because this is deadly serious and they are the kind of bureaucrat that actually make the world go round. It is not sunshine and rainbows but it will absolutely get done even if it takes months and years.

Anyway there's some kind of divinity in low-level bureaucrats who actually have to talk to frightened people, I tell you what.

The only time my clerk smiled at me was when I didn't hear her and she had to repeat that the screen was asking me if I wanted to register to vote, which is an automatic part of all their transactions. "Oh, no," I said, "I'm already registered," and she said "then press no," and I said "I do really appreciate the reminder though," and she smiled at that.

(They also ask you to enroll as an organ donor. NYS is an opt-in state, and many people just don't opt in; opt-out states have much higher enrollment for obvious reasons. Please opt in unless your religion or beliefs proscribe it! There are never enough organs and your grieving family will almost never remember to opt you in at the moment of extremity. You could save so many lives, and improve so many others. This PSA brought to you by someone who spent the pandemic lockdown in the home of a member of the local hospital's liver transplant team, who was so busy because all the New York hospitals had shut down their transplant facilities in order to turn the ventilators over to Covid patients, so everyone in New York who was getting a liver was getting it in Rochester. From my guy's team. So it was a stressful time. But I am successully re-enrolled as an organ donor. I am quite sure I already was one but the only two options were Yes or No so I checked Yes.)

Anyway I have so much to do and am so burned-out that I'm repeatedly getting stuck staring at things in odd rooms, so. We'll see how this goes. I have five days left to get ready for this trip wish me luck.

[dropintomanga]

AI Can't Be the Whole Solution for Manga

So this week I found out out a Japanese start-up called Orange, who wants to be the Netflix of manga by translating a lot of manga with new apps and tools for the world to fight against online piracy. And to do so, the company will use AI to machine translate all of their manga into English. They also received $20 million USD in funding (one of their investors is Shogakukan) for their goal. This company wants to release up to 500 titles a month at some point.

I honestly don't know how to feel about this.

I read a more in-depth report from Deb Aoki of ComicsBeat and Mangasplaining about this whole startup. There's a lot of tout given by Orange about how this will help the manga industry overseas. Terms like deep learning, accessible content, influencers, reducing cost of localization, etc. are thrown around. Orange already has done some work for Shueisha for some of its MangaPlus titles. While it's apparent that the North American market only gets a small fraction of the manga published in Japan, there's concerns over whether this endeavor will end well.

A good number of manga translators and editors in the North American localization scene have commented on how bad this can be. AI machine translation is far from perfect. While DeepL (a Japanese language translation app similar to Google Translate) is arguably better than Google Translate, there's still errors abound. AI machine translation doesn't seem to be at a stage where you can just show it off to the world and have it translate something like a research paper with context. And even if the translation was good, there still needs to be people to fix errors AI will miss and the jobs to fix those errors don't necessarily pay well since they're the equivalent of "data entry" jobs.

And speaking as someone who reads up on mental health news, AI is not good for picking up nuances and differences that can help people for the better. It's only good for standardizing universal treatments. AI can not be open to the vulnerabilities of other people. One recent story I read last year was about a eating disorder helpline that created a chatbot to help those with eating disorders and how it bombed. There were complaints about how the bot didn't address patients' concerns that they were feeling down or bad about their bodies. Even worse, the chatbot gave some horrible advice by telling people to follow behaviors that led to their eating disorders in the first place. The support staff was fired in favor of the chatbot and while the chatbot was taken down after the complaints, it still left a bad taste in my mouth because mental health problems can never be solved without the human element.

I see this with what's apparently going to happen with manga. I don't see this creating a better world for manga readers. I'm well aware that there are a few professional manga translators in the scene who aren't doing a good job, but I feel they're doing fine for the most part. There's a glaring issue though that most people aren't thinking about - the amount of content we have out there.

We're in a golden age of having so much catered to us that it's ridiculous. Anime, manga, webtoons, video games, board games, music, etc. There's a lot out there. And to have a Japanese startup proclaim that they want to put out up to 500 titles a month, who realistically has the time to read all of them? I wonder if that's the point of these ventures - beat down consumers with so much material to consume that they become apathetic to what's going on behind the scenes.

I do want people to read manga, but I don't want them to become so overwhelmed to the point of burnout and numbness. That's the last thing any manga fan should want. I'm already hearing complaints from my fellow manga peers about the amount of manga we're getting here. It's nice to see bookshelves and libraries filled with manga, but which titles are really being read?

I also think there seems to be no universal standard that EVERYONE can agree with regards to localization. You have the professional side that knows a lot due to being inside the industry, but can be hindered by the Japanese publishing side and pestered by fans who think they know better. And you have the fan side that thinks they know everything because of scanlations and miscellaneous fan translations.

If you're a professional, it's a rough job and I applaud all manga freelancers who do it. Sometimes, I may not agree with the localization choices. But I'm not going to raise a pitchfork and treat them like they're witches. I know a few of those folks in-person and see the human in them.

If you're a fan, you can't expect a very casual reader to understand Japanese terms being spoken out right off the bat. It takes a while to get used to those terms. I'll use myself as an example as a riichi mahjong player. I throw out terms like suji, kabe, mentanpin, ryanmen, etc. to my fellow players. However, if there's an absolute beginner I'm talking to, they will have no idea what the hell I'm talking about.

I know some fans are like "Whatever, understanding those terms make me stand out. Yeah, I'm different! Screw the normal world!" But that makes it sound like gatekeeping to a certain degree. It's fine to have that kind of knowledge, but binding it to the very fabric of your identity is not healthy when circumstances change.

Orange seems to want a universal standard for manga translation by incorporating a variety of people into their process, but the fact that people will only be involved AFTER the translation makes me skeptical and the company is being called out for some things on their website. Both professionals and consumers will be screwed here. AI is being pushed so hard by corporations because it can readily applied to real life jobs and regular people in many ways, compared to cryptocurrency/NFTs, which applies only to people with a crap ton of money to spend. I've seen instances of AI usage at the company I work at - some of it good, some of it bad.

But nothing will beat the will and heart of the people. I think that's what scares AI-promoting people. Turning us into total mindless consumers prevents us from being mindful people that want to do right by others. Sure, reading manga makes me happy. But I don't want to be the only one who's happy. I also want people to make informed choices about what to consume.

I also want some people to stop assuming that Japan is the most "anti-woke" country alive out of their rage against localization because it's totally not. Japan has problems and there's people living there speaking out against them. They're "woke" in their own way. I swear that almost everyone who thinks Japan is better than the West hasn't lived there at all and are basing things from a very filtered point of view. I actually feel sorry for them because their lives are just so focused on consuming without thinking for themselves - a perfect market for the AI-pushing crowd.

I'll finish by saying that this AI-powered manga translation venture needs to happen with the right kind of people already on the table through the whole process and where everyone benefits. Everything bad with AI, as far as I've seen, has left people behind with no compassion or empathy. Manga has taught the wonders of compassion and empathy for all and I don't see the Japanese business side of things preaching what their works speak.

[tritonmarketresearchamey]

From Barrel to Bottle: Exploring the World of Alcoholic Spirits

Amidst the most consumed beverages, alcoholic spirits have played a significant role in human culture, shaping societies and traditions for centuries. In fact, according to National Geographic, by 1770, there were over 150 rum distilleries in New England. Over time, the evolution of beverage history reflects a rich tapestry of innovation, trade, and cultural exchange. Originating in the Caribbean sugar plantations, people during the 17th century discovered that molasses, a byproduct of sugar production, could be fermented into alcohol. Here is a deeper insight into some interesting aspects of alcoholic spirits.

Demystifying the Process of Aging in Alcoholic Spirits

The aging process of spirits is considered an art form that significantly influences the final product’s flavor and character. Aging spirits in oak barrels is a tradition that dates back centuries. The interaction between the spirit and the wood, known as barrel aging, imparts complex flavors and aromas essential to the spirit maturation process.

Various aging techniques have been developed to enhance the flavor development of spirits. The choice of wood, climate conditions, and duration all play crucial roles in determining the unique characteristics of each aged spirit. These factors demystify the intricate aging process that transforms raw spirits into refined beverages.

Beyond Basics: Understanding Spirit Categories

Liquor classification is an essential aspect of the spirits industry, providing consumers with the knowledge needed to explore and select beverages that suit their preferences. Let us explore the diverse categories of spirits, each with distinct production methods and flavor profiles.

Whiskey: It is classified based on the grain used and the aging process. Scotch whisky is made from malted barley and aged for at least three years, often with a smoky flavor. Bourbon, an American whiskey, is made from at least 51% corn and aged in new charred oak barrels, giving it a sweet, rich flavor. Irish whiskey is typically triple-distilled, resulting in a smooth and slightly sweet taste, while Rye whiskey, made from at least 51% rye, offers a spicy, fruity profile.

Vodka: It is distilled to be as neutral as possible, allowing it to be a versatile base for cocktails. However, regional variations can be found. Russian vodka often uses wheat, resulting in a smooth texture, while Polish vodka made from potatoes can have a richer, creamier texture.

Gin: This type of alcoholic spirit is flavored with juniper berries and other similar berries. London Dry Gin is known for its strong juniper flavor, while Plymouth Gin is softer and slightly sweeter. There are also contemporary gins that experiment with unique botanicals, offering a modern twist on the classic spirit.

Rum: Classified by its aging and flavor profile, white rum is light and clear, perfect for cocktails. Golden rum is aged longer, providing richer flavors with notes of vanilla and caramel. Dark rum is aged in heavily charred barrels, resulting in a deep, complex flavor with molasses and spice notes. Spiced rum is infused with spices like cinnamon and vanilla, offering a warm, aromatic profile.

Tequila: It is classified into several types based on aging. Blanco (or silver) tequila is unaged, offering a pure agave flavor. Reposado is aged for 2 to 12 months, gaining subtle oak flavors, while Añejo is aged for 1 to 3 years, resulting in a richer, more complex profile.

Craft spirits and specialty spirits further expand the alcoholic spirits, offering unique and often artisanal products that showcase creativity and expertise. Thus, spirits brands consistently innovate, introducing new products and reviving traditional methods to cater to evolving tastes.

How Regional Ingredients and Climates Influence Versatile Flavors in Spirits

Climate influence, along with temperature fluctuations and humidity levels, affect the rate of maturation and flavor development of spirits. Its impact on spirits imparts unique qualities to the final product. Regional spirits are profoundly influenced by local ingredients and climatic conditions, creating distinct profiles unique to their place of origin.

For instance, Scotch whisky derives its unique characteristics from the natural resources of Scotland due to barley, water, and peat used in its production to create a distinct flavor profile. Similarly, Islay Scotch, known for its smoky flavor, is made with peat from the island’s bogs, while Speyside Scotch tends to be sweeter and fruitier due to the region’s fertile soil and pure water sources.

Interestingly, tequila’s flavor is deeply influenced by the blue agave plants and the region in which they are grown. Tequila from the highlands of Jalisco tends to be sweeter and more floral, while lowland tequila has a more earthy and robust profile. The volcanic soil and climate of these regions contribute to these distinct differences.

Sustainable Byproducts of Spirits Production

Spirit production generates various byproducts, often overlooked but crucial for sustainable practices. For example, the leftover grains from whiskey production, known as ‘spent grains,’ are rich in nutrients and are commonly used as animal feed or in biofuel production. In brandy production, the grape skins, seeds, and stems left after pressing, known as “pomace,” can be distilled into grappa or composted as natural fertilizer in vineyards.

Reusing byproducts reduces waste and minimizes the environmental impact of distillation processes. Hence, innovative distillers are finding new uses for these byproducts, from animal feed to biofuel production. This commitment to sustainability is shaping the future of the spirits industry, highlighting the importance of environmental stewardship.

Future of Alcoholic Spirits

Emerging trends and shifting consumer preferences are shaping the future of alcoholic spirits. Consumers are increasingly seeking authenticity, quality, and unique experiences, driving innovation and diversification within the market. Hence, the spirits industry is witnessing a growing interest in craft spirits, sustainable practices, and premium products.

As the industry evolves, the rich history and cultural significance of alcoholic spirits continue to influence modern trends. The future holds exciting possibilities, with new flavors, techniques, and sustainable practices ensuring that the world of spirits remains dynamic and captivating.

[amey-inkwood]

From Niche to Mainstream: The Booming CBD Skincare Market

According to Inkwood Research, the global CBD skincare market is anticipated to register a significant CAGR of 21.97% during the forecast period from 2024 to 2032. CBD-infused skincare products have witnessed a notable surge in popularity, carving a niche across a wide range of offerings – from serums and sunscreens to chapsticks, lotions, and cleansers.

This rise in demand can be attributed to individuals seeking relief from conditions such as sleep disorders, anxiety, and chronic pain, given that CBD has applications in both oral and topical treatments.

Consequently, the CBD skincare market has expanded its reach, venturing into high-performance cosmetics and specialized products tailored for sensitive and acne-prone skin. CBD’s incorporation into various skincare formulations has become increasingly prevalent in beauty supply stores, catering to a growing market segment seeking alternative solutions for skin-related concerns.

Request a FREE sample of the CBD Skincare Market : https://www.inkwoodresearch.com/reports/cbd-skin-care-market/#request-free-sample 

CBD Skincare Market: Just Another Fad or Does CBD Really Work?

CBD skin care benefits include improving the appearance of aging skin, lowering inflammation, brightening the complexion, and various other advantages. It also has strong antioxidant qualities, enabling it to reduce the visible symptoms of free radical damage. CBD-infused skincare has been found to regulate various processes in the skin, including:

CBD plays a role in the skin’s immune response and inflammation, which can help lessen the redness and swelling caused by common skin diseases.

The ingredient regulates cell proliferation and differentiation, essential for maintaining healthy skin and preventing skin problems.

It may influence sebum production in the skin, which can cause skin oiliness and lead to the development of skin-related conditions such as acne.

In addition to regulating skin sensitivity, CBD also helps control sensations like pain and irritation.

Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant qualities are fundamental elements in effective anti-aging formulations. Conversely, for skincare tailored to acne-prone skin, a combination of anti-inflammatory effects and sebum regulation is crucial.

Extensive research has established that CBD oil exhibits potent anti-inflammatory properties upon topical application. Leveraging CBD in skincare formulations not only addresses inflammation but also provides soothing benefits, particularly beneficial for sensitive skin, thereby promoting a healthier complexion for those prone to acne.

 Available Formulations in the CBD Skincare Market

CBD-infused products include elixirs, serums, correctors, and moisturizers that address a variety of skin issues. These products are made using broad-spectrum CBD oil, full-spectrum CBD oil, as well as CBD isolate.

- Full-spectrum CBD oil has all of the chemicals found in hemp, including trace quantities of THC.

- Broad-spectrum CBD oil contains a variety of terpenes, CBD-derived cannabinoids, and flavonoids, but no THC.

- CBD’s purest form is available as CBD isolate, ideal for facial skin since it is pure, does not clog pores, and contains skin-rejuvenating antioxidants.

So far, there is no consensus on CBD dosage for topical application, and some cosmetic products will specify the CBD content in milligrams. Others, on the other hand, will specify a percentage, which represents how much CBD is utilized in the product. The most typical recommendation for CBD content in cosmetics is around 1%, but concentrations can vary significantly.

Stay up-to-date with what’s trending in the Global CBD Skincare Market : https://inkwoodresearch.com/global-cbd-skincare-market/ 

 Overcoming CBD Skincare Market Regulatory Hurdles

CBD skincare providers working with CBD should be aware of current regulatory considerations as well as the limited evidence available for cosmetic use. Several nations have already amended their national laws to allow CBD-infused products as therapeutics; however, cosmetic standards are constantly changing and shifting legality over the world.

In this regard, the FDA in the United States has continued to issue warning letters to CBD skincare brands for several years, with a significant increase in 2019. Most places permitting the use of CBD oil have regulations that require the oil to contain minimal or no THC.

Ongoing research on cannabis phytochemicals and their medicinal applications is limited, owing mostly to legal issues; as a result, existing data on their safety and efficacy is limited. Greater regulation of CBD and additional research will push forward developments and its use in a broader fashion. This is especially true for the CBD skin care industry, subsequently boosting its applications in the global CBD skincare market during the forecast period.

In conclusion, the CBD skincare market is poised for significant growth, driven by increasing demands for CBD skincare products, particularly CBD skin care oils, and the rising preference for natural cosmetics and organic skin care products. The production of cannabis-based products and CBD beauty products is expanding, reflecting the growing interest in cannabis in skincare products and personal care products. The CBD-based cosmetic products segment is set to thrive, catering to consumers seeking effective, natural, and holistic skin care routines.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. Is CBD skin care effective for acne?

A: The adoption of CBD skincare products can be useful for acne since it has anti-inflammatory characteristics that help reduce the redness and swelling associated with acne breakouts. Additionally, CBD’s ability to regulate oil production can help prevent acne.

2.  How can CBD cream benefit the face?

A: When applied to the face, CBD-infused cream can provide hydration and reduce inflammation, making it useful for conditions such as dry skin, redness, and irritation. Its antioxidant capabilities also serve to shield the skin from external stresses.

3. Can CBD benefit your skin?

A: Yes, CBD skincare products are generally beneficial to the skin, and the demand for CBD skincare products is rising due to their moisturizing, anti-inflammatory, and calming effects. These properties can help address a number of skin issues, adding to overall skin health.

4. Is CBD-infused cream effective for pain?

A: Some CBD-infused cream formulations show promise for addressing pain, thereby boosting the adoption of CBD skincare products—but it’s also worth noting that the effectiveness of a CBD-infused cream for pain management can vary according to the individual, the level of pain, and the quality of the CBD cream formulation.

[mrudula01]

Trends to Leverage in the Global Pet Food Market 2023

Pet animal adoption has escalated majorly post 2020, mainly as a result of COVID-19-induced loneliness. Statistics suggest that 85 million families across the world own some kind of pet. This has consequently increased the sales of food products for these companion animals, which is expected to propel the global pet food market at a CAGR of 7.91% in the forecast period 2023-2030.

An interesting trend driving this growth is that of pet humanization, as owners are increasingly treating their pets like family members. And thus, pet care trends now mirror human trends, especially the soaring demand for high-quality food. Also, due to heightened awareness of their pets’ nutritional needs, owners are willing to spend more on health-focused and premium quality food products.

Premiumization Trend underpins Growth Prospects

As the pet humanization trend gathers momentum and disposable income rises, owners are more likely to splurge on luxurious products for their pets. According to FEDIAF, Europeans spent over $20.3 billion on pet food, supplies, and services in 2021, which is reflective of the increasing pet ownership in the region. Increased spending by buyers is expected to drive the Europe pet food market at a CAGR of 7.41% over the forecast period.

Premium pet food is sourced from superior quality ingredients, and has high protein content to cater to the taste buds and health needs of carnivores like cats and dogs. To cater to its growing demand, manufacturers are coming up with innovative products that are free of antibiotics, synthetic hormones, artificial colors & flavors, preservatives, etc.

Japan-based Inaba Foods Co Ltd is one such market player, which has gained prominence as one of the leading brands offering premium dry and wet cat food. Furthermore, several manufacturers have expanded their premium product portfolio with distinct offerings for various breeds, kittens, puppies, and lactating mothers. Organic and vegan pet foods, as well as gourmet and artisanal pet foods, have also emerged as favorites, in line with the premiumization trend.

Physical v/s Digital Stores: How are Distributors Competing for Buyer Attention?

While e-commerce sites have always been a reliable purchasing medium, the pandemic brought about a paradigm shift in the way people shop. Due to the easy availability of pet food online, the e-commerce distribution channel is anticipated to witness the fastest CAGR of 8.89% during 2023-2030.

In addition to convenience and comfort, online shopping allows buyers to thoroughly research products and compare costs & benefits before making a purchase. With the help of established e-com platforms like Amazon and Chewy, several pet food providers have been able to increase the sales and subscriptions for their products.

However, this has placed a degree of pressure on physical pet food outlets, such as supermarkets and specialty stores, thus pushing them to innovate. In June 2021, Australian retail giant Coles rolled out a “self-serve doggy treat bar” at its physical stores, in a bid to attract customers in light of the growing online competition.

The humanization and premiumization trends are encouraging pet owners to turn to retail stores, especially pet superstores, as they offer specialized care and products that meet increasingly segmented, high-end demand. Store-based distribution channels dominate the market, with the highest revenue of $94947.82 million in 2022.

Countering Challenges with Targeted Solutions

Based on a 2018-2019 study by the American Pet Products Association, an estimated 56 million cats and 50 million dogs are overweight. The alarming statistics are a result of factors like overindulgence of certain foods and treats; sedentary lifestyles of owners and their pets; inappropriate nutritional advice from veterinarians; and a failure to acknowledge the seriousness of even slightly extra body fat.

However, the lack of transparency on nutritional labels of products is also a major contributor to the growing obesity epidemic, which can cause several chronic illnesses. In this regard, therapeutic diets and nutritional supplements are recommended, as their intake ensures adequate nutrient balance for optimum health of pet animals. Supplements containing vitamins, probiotics, fish oil, and even CBD, are becoming increasingly popular, which is contributing to the global animal nutrition market growth.

Call to Sustainability – Manufacturers Aim to Lower their Carbon Pawprint

Humanization has enabled pet owners to have a more hands-on approach towards their fur babies, which has resulted in them becoming more conscious of their purchase decisions. This has enlarged the spotlight on sustainability and compelled market players to rethink all aspects of their offerings, from ingredient sourcing to manufacturing to packaging.

Sustainable packaging is particularly witnessing high demand. And realizing its growth potential, several players in the global pet food packaging market have started offering sustainable solutions. For example, in November 2020, US-based pet food giant, Mars Petcare Ltd, announced its decision to incorporate recycled polypropylene plastic for packaging some of its popular products.

Premium brands stand to largely benefit from the rising ethical consciousness and sustainability demands of pet parents. As the trends of pet humanization and premiumization evolve further in the years to come, the companies that stay informed and adapt to these changes will shape the outlook of the pet food market.

FAQs:

Q 1) What are the revenue estimates for the global market?

Estimates by Triton Market Research suggest that, the global pet food market, which was valued at $124579.70 million in 2022, will reach a revenue of $227690.72 million by 2030.

Q 2) Which are the food types covered in the market report?

Dry food, wet food, and other food types are covered in the market report.

Q 3) Which are the other animals studied in the animal type segment?

Other animals include pets like birds, rabbits, tortoises, lizards, and fish.

[afeelgoodblog]

These are The Best News of Last Week

🎼 — Meet the Grammy of the Grammys 😊

1. Man gives $12,000 worth of classroom supplies to 150 middle school teachers

Bryan Tsiliacos has the goal of completing 30 acts of kindness before his 30th birthday, and he just completed his third on Wednesday.

2. Lab-grown meat cleared for human consumption by U.S. regulator

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the first time cleared a meat product grown from animal cells for human consumption.

UPSIDE Foods, a company that makes cell-cultured chicken by harvesting cells from live animals and using the cells to grow meat in stainless-steel tanks, will be able to bring its products to market once it has been inspected by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)

Reduces emissions, reduces food and water consumption, greatly reduces the risk of foodborne illness, potentially cheaper for consumers, prevents the raising and killing of animals — this is a win all-around.

3. Police dog finds lost Michigan hunter, 80, who fell in river

An 80-year-old Michigan hunter who got lost and repeatedly fell into a river was rescued by canoe after a police dog tracked down the soaked man.

The man’s wife called Michigan State Police on Wednesday evening after her husband, failed to return home after three hours. State police said her concerns grew when she heard her husband shooting several shots, which meant he was lost, MLive.com reported. The hunter was unharmed, but cold and wet due to falling into the river three times, police said.

4. Researchers Rediscover the Black-Naped Pheasant-Pigeon, a Bird Lost to Science for 140 Years

The camera’s display was tiny, but there was no mistaking the creature it showed: the Black-naped Pheasant-Pigeon, a species that hasn’t been documented by scientists since it was first described in 1882.

“To find something that’s been gone for that long, that you’re thinking is almost extinct, and then to figure out that it’s not extinct, it feels like finding a unicorn or a Bigfoot,” says John C. Mittermeier, director of the lost birds program at American Bird Conservancy

5. Puppy Mill Rescue Dog Becomes ‘Helper Dog’ for Dogs Overcoming Trauma

Lolly was one of the over 500 under-socialized, scared dogs that the ASPCA rescued from neglectful conditions at an Iowa puppy mill in Nov. 2021, and now the canine is helping other pups.

Lolly’s journey from “nervous” puppy mill rescue to hero helper dog started last year after the ASPCA pulled Lolly from the Iowa breeding facility. Following her rescue, Lolly went to an emergency shelter operated by the ASPCA for initial exams and treatment.

6. Angela Álvarez crowned best new artist at Latin Grammys — aged 95

Cuban American, who started recording career at 90 after decades of performing for family and friends, says ‘it’s never too late’.

The Cuban American musician’s crowning moment came after decades of writing songs but performing them only for friends and family — until, at the age of 90, she went to the Avalon, the historic Hollywood nightclub, and gave her first concert.

7. Lost dog hands itself in at Loughborough Police Station

A lost dog has been reunited with its owners after walking into a police station.

CCTV footage from Loughborough Police Station captured the moment the border collie arrived and took a seat in the waiting room. Leicestershire Police staff fetched some water and gave her a fuss before calling the number on her ID tag.

Good reminder to keep a collar on your dog.

. . .

That’s it for this week. If you liked this post you can support this newsletter with a small kofi donation:

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Have a great week ahead :)

[tritonmarketresearch]

Rising Nutritive Awareness to Drive the Global Dietary Fibers Market

Triton Market Research presents the ‘Global Dietary Fibers Market’ report sectioned by Product (Soluble Dietary Fibers {Beta Glucan, Corn Fibers, Inulin, Pectin, Other Soluble Dietary Fibers}, Insoluble Dietary Fibers {Cellulose, Hemicellulose, Lignin, Chitin & Chitosan, Oat Bran, Wheat Fibers, Other Insoluble Dietary Fibers}), by Raw Material (Cereals & Grains, Nuts & Seeds, Fruits & Vegetables, Legumes), by Application (Pharmaceuticals, Food & Beverages, Animal Feed, Other Applications), and by Regional Outlook (Middle East and Africa, North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America).

The report further discusses the Market Summary, Industry Outlook (Impact of COVID-19, Market Maturity Analysis, Porter’s Five Forces Analysis, Industry Components, Regulatory Framework, Key Market Strategies, Key Buying Impact Analysis, Drivers, Challenges, Opportunities, Analyst Perspective), Competitive Landscape, Research Methodology & Scope, Global Market Size, Forecasts & Analysis (2023-2030).

As per the report by Triton Market Research, the global dietary fibers market is anticipated to develop at CAGRs of 8.77% (by revenue) and 8.73% (by volume) in the forecast years from 2023 to 2030.

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https://www.tritonmarketresearch.com/reports/dietary-fibers-market#request-free-sample

 Dietary fiber is an important component of plant-based foods with various health benefits. One of the key aspects behind the growth of the global dietary fibers market is the growing awareness among consumers regarding nutrition and health. This trend has intensified after the pandemic, as consumers have become even more focused on their well-being. Additionally, as disposable income continues to rise worldwide, healthcare expenditures are also increasing, further supporting the dietary fibers market’s growth.

However, too much fiber too quickly can negatively affect overall health and well-being. Excessive fiber intake can cause bloating, gas, and constipation, as the fiber binds to water in the gastrointestinal tract and creates a large bulk that can be difficult to pass. When there is not enough water to support this process, it can lead to hard, bulky stools and digestive problems. Thus, consuming high quantities of dietary fibers can harm consumers’ health and hinder the market’s growth.

The North American region is expected to witness the fastest growth in the global market over the forecasted period, largely due to the increasing awareness of the importance of a healthy diet. As consumers in the region have become more health-conscious, the demand for functional foods has also risen. This, coupled with the increasing awareness of the health benefits of dietary fibers and their application across a range of industries, supports the North America market’s growth.

A few notable companies functioning in the dietary fibers market are Beneo GmbH, Tate & Lyle Plc, Batory Foods Inc, Nexira SAS, The Archer-Daniels-Midland Company (ADM), Lonza Group AG, Ingredion Incorporated, Roquette Freres, Cargill Incorporated, and Kerry Group Plc.  

The presence of a number of manufacturers is likely to increase the entry barriers for aspiring players. However, strategic collaborations and a growing focus on innovation are likely to facilitate their entry. Furthermore, the rising investments in R&D activities for enhancing products’ functionality are likely to provide new opportunities for overall market growth.

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