#food review ph

[moralesk]

With its clean and cozy atmosphere, Forward Cafe provides a pleasant dining experience, earning a strong 4 out of 5. The outdoor dining area is a nice touch that enables customers to take pleasure in their meals outside. However, the cafe may find it difficult to differentiate itself due to its proximity to rival establishments.

The cheesy bacon fries and beef nachos at Forward Cafe are unquestionably tasty. The beef nachos are stuffed with savory toppings that leave you craving more, while the fries' satisfying flavor combination of gooey cheese and crispy bacon. The same cannot be said about the beverages though. Despite being beautifully presented, the matcha espresso and caramel macchiato lacked the strong flavors and depth that one would expect from such expensive beverages.

The cost is one drawback that deserves attention. The prices at Forward Cafe are higher than those at other nearby cafes. Although the food is of good quality, the drinks' poor flavor does not make the above-average price tag justified. It's critical to remember that customers might have nearby alternatives that provide comparable quality at a lower cost. However, the Forward Cafe is worthwhile a visit if you're willing to splurge a little on the delicious cheesy bacon fries and beef nachos.

[shoyoist]

just had the spiciest steamed momos ever and i'm feeling so alive rn

[beingjellybeans]

Indulge your Mexican food cravings on a Budget at Dos Tacos PH

Craving a hearty Mexican meal without denting your wallet? Look no further than Dos Tacos PH, a hidden gem nestled in the vibrant Food District Signatures on 5th food court of One Bonifacio High Street Mall in BGC. Dos Tacos is the epitome of affordable yet delectable Mexican cuisine, bringing freshly made Mexican flavors that will tantalize your taste buds without burning a hole in your…

[rottenpumpkin13]

You're a new Shinra employee who gets lost in the building while looking for a microwave to heat up your lunch. You encounter AGSZC/Turks/execs during your search. Describe their various levels of helpfulness. 😀

Cloud: Tries to be helpful but also accidentally makes it worse. "You're looking for a microwave? I can help! Follow me." He confidently leads you down three different hallways, up a flight of stairs, and past several doors he shouldn't have access to but somehow does. After about fifteen minutes, you realize he's lost. He won't admit it. Frowning at the directory map like it's a philosophical riddle. "Strange. I could've sworn it was near the gym..." Eventually, he just sighs, tells you "sometimes we have to accept our circumstances" and walks away. You never get to heat up your lunch and now you've suffered -20 confidence.

Sephiroth: Useless, but in an elegant way. He stares at you like you've just asked him to explain quantum physics, then his gaze drifts into the distance as if contemplating the meaning of existence itself. "A… microwave?" You repeat the question. He considers it deeply, like he's never once in his life had to think about the existence of a microwave. Which, to be fair, he probably hasn't. "That is beyond my expertise. Try the cafeteria." You check the cafeteria. There is no microwave. The lunch lady cackles at you. You return to the hallway, and Sephiroth is gone. Vanished. Never to be seen again.

Reeve: Extremely helpful, but there are consequences. "Oh! A microwave? Okay, follow me!" He personally walks you to the break room, making small talk, and waits while you heat your food. You are grateful. Finally, someone normal. Then you turn around. Cait Sith is standing there. Staring at you. Grinning. "Yer wee lunch smells like somethin' a chocobo dragged in!" You nearly drop your food. You wonder if you were drugged. "Hope ye enjoy it, pal! Wouldnae be me first choice, but hey, some folks got no taste!" You leave in terror.

Reno & Rude: Different approaches, same chaos. Reno goes "Oh yeah, there's one in the Turk lounge. Follow us." They do lead you to a microwave. However, it is very clearly stolen from another department, has a questionable stain inside, and occasionally sparks when it runs. Reno tells you "It's got personality." Rude tells you "Don't worry about the weird noise." Your lunch explodes one minute later.

Tseng: Too busy for this nonsense but actually helps. You approach Tseng while he's reviewing documents. He listens patiently as you ask where the microwave is. Then, without breaking stride, he calls someone on his PHS. "Elena, please escort an employee to the nearest kitchen facility." He hangs up. Elena appears out of nowhere. She walks you to the break room, smiling the entire time, and leaves before you can even thank her.

Rufus: Too rich to care. Rufus blinks at you like you've just asked him where to find peasant food. "A microwave? I've never used such appliance in my life." You confirm. He sighs, rubs his temples, and just gestures vaguely toward the hallway. "Ask the help." You do not find the microwave. You do not find the help. You do, however, find Darkstar, who follows you for the next hour and politely begs for some of your lunch.

Hojo: Dear god, why did you ask him? You were desperate. You made a mistake. "Hmph. You require heat? Intriguing. Perhaps you should consider alternative methods of molecular excitation. There is a reactor chamber on the lower levels that could perform the task at a much more efficient—" You run. You don't stop running. You eat your food cold.

Genesis: Turns this into a critique of your food choices. He gasps when he sees what you're holding. "You're going to eat that?" You explain that yes, you were planning to. He looks disgusted. "Absolutely not. Do you want to die before Act V is discovered?" Then he picks up your lunch and throws it directly into the trash. "Come. We're going to the cafeteria. I will not let you disgrace yourself with that excuse for a meal." You have no choice but to follow him. You do, however, end up with a very fancy lunch.

Zack: Has zero patience for this and decides to improvise. "A microwave? Pfft, who has time for that?" Before you can stop him, he grins, holds up a hand, and casts Fire. Directly at your lunch. Your lunch ignites. "—oh!" He frantically pats it down, nearly burning his hands in the process. The entire hallway now smells like charred failure. "Okay, okay, so that didn't work—but it was a cool idea, right?" He ends up buying you something from the vending machine as an apology.

Angeal: Has made it his life mission to find you a microwave. The moment you ask, Angeal gives you a serious nod. "A hot meal is important. No one should have to eat cold food." Then he dedicates himself entirely to the task. You have never seen a man take a quest this seriously. He interrogates security guards. He questions other SOLDIERs. He even asks Lazard about the corporate policies on employee kitchen access. "Shinra should be providing more break room amenities." Lazard disagrees and points out the several microwave incidents that have happened at SOLDIER alone. Angeal and Lazars start going at it, arguing. You stand there awkwardly. You require help.

[jokeroutsubs]

[📝ENG TRANSLATION] The most personal conversation with Nace Jordan of Joker Out: "I wanted to justify being in the band"

Original article written by Alma Rahne for Metropolitan, published 14.11.2024. English translation by @weolucbasu, review by IG 10_anja, proofread by @flowerlotus8

Full article under the cut 👇

Prior to the release of the long-awaited Joker Out's third studio album we had a chat with their member, the bassist Nace Jordan. For him this is an especially huge milestone in his career, as this is the first album after he joined the band in 2022 after the previous bassist Martin Jurkovič left.

When Nace Jordan joined Joker Out two years ago, he probably didn't think he'd experience such a rich musical journey. During this time he performed at Eurovision, their song 'Carpe Diem' won the hearts of foreign audiences like a magnet. This was followed by a long European tour, creating new musical material in London and later in Hamburg. The boys also had a rich festival summer.

(Ph: Primož Lukežič)

The year and a half since it all began with the Eurovision song 'Carpe Diem' and up until today, has been rounded off with a new studio album 'Souvenir Pop' by Nace Jordan, Bojan Cvjetićanin, Kris Guštin, Jan Peteh and Jure Maček. The album will be released on the 15th of November. On it there are a collection of 10 songs in Slovene, English and Serbian.

"From every trip each of us usually takes some kind of memorabilia or a so-called 'souvenir'. That's basically what 'Souvenir Pop' represents," clarifies this time's guest, Nace with whom we talked about the creation of new material and his musical beginnings. We also found out after who his new family member got his name from, what food he eats and for how many years he hasn't been drinking alcohol.

(Ph: Mark Pirc)

Rocker bassist, who doesn't drink alcohol

Nace Jordan grew up in Kranj. Perhaps he was a newbie for most two years ago, but before joining Joker Out Nace had already professionally worked with music for over 10 years. He collaborated with most Slovene performers, including Jan Plestenjak, Samuel Lucas, Katarina Mala... and as he tells he "at least once in his life accompanied all the main Slovene musicians on an instrument."

When he turned 18, he went on a cruise ship where he gained invaluable experience. He always stood up for those who were weaker in school, even if that meant he got the short end of the stick. Likeable and almost always in a good mood, he admits that he also has a bad day sometimes.

(Ph: Nace Jordan's private archive)

"I'm definitely a positive person, but I also have days when I'm the complete opposite of myself and on those days, nothing is good enough, nothing is okay, everything sucks. Actually, the way I'm on stage I'm also privately. When I'm in a bad mood you notice it quickly, because I can't hide it. Which maybe isn't always the best." (smiles)

(Ph: Profimedia)

Alongside music, he's also enthusiastic about cooking, where he transfers his creative approach onto how preparing dishes. He especially likes dishes with polenta and he explores recipes without gluten. A few years ago he even applied to a goulash cooking competition in Kranj with a friend, where they won. He still keeps the medal and the pot at home. Even though he has gotten used to gluten-free food, he explains, with a sparkle in his eyes that he sometimes misses a really "good, freshly baked donut".

During our conversation, Nace confides in us that he hasn't been drinking alcohol for 10 years. If anyone encourages him, to drink something stronger, he playfully declines: "When you have a baby, I will drink to their health." And he stays true to this. He maybe drinks once or twice per year, at a really special opportunity or dinner.

He joined the group without any greater expectations

His integration into the group happened at the speed of light. "When me and Bojan (Cvjetićanin) got together for a drink, he mentioned that Martin is leaving the group and they're looking for a new member. According to him, I was the most appropriate for that and they wanted to meet up with me at their place (practice space), so we could play something together. This was actually before the concert in Križanke (9th September 2022). In the beginning, I was careful, because I've been in situations where I came into a band and we didn't get along. Being in a group isn't easy. Back then I told Bojan: "Let's get together and get a feel for each other." Prior to that, I didn't know the other members. I entered slightly reserved, without any greater expectations," he describes the beginning of his collaboration with the other members of Joker Out.

(Ph: Aleksandra Saša Prelesnik)

"Then we played together a bit. After Križanke, we didn't see each other for a bit, because Kris went to travel in Peru. When he returned, we started practicing again, because we had a performance waiting for us. Martin decided he wouldn't play anymore, I had not yet been an official member of the band, but I did go and play with them." And the rest is, as we like to say, history.

"I wanted to justify being in the band"

The new third album of Joker Out, 'Souvenir Pop' is especially dear to Nace, as it is, as previously mentioned, his first album that he created together with the rest of the band members.

"Maybe I slept a bit worse the final nights when we were finishing up the album. Maybe because of that I was slightly more nervous, because I wanted to justify being in the band and the fact that some new good songs were made. For example, the single 'Carpe Diem', which was accepted greatly, as well as 'Šta bih ja' and 'Bluza', which are amazing songs to me. I also want the same for the other songs on the album. More or less, I felt some kind of pressure that this album has to be really good."

The new album of course has a whiff of foreign countries, as we find songs in two other languages besides Slovene: English and Serbian. But for sure, this album will not have an identical sound as the previous two albums.

(Ph: Vita Orehek)

"I think that everything that Bojan sings and we play is Joker Out. You can't escape that. But for sure, it doesn't sound the same as the previous albums. We all played those songs so often that you want something different in a while to make the concert more interesting. The song 'Carpe Diem' already doesn't sound the same as the previous album to my ears. Maybe the new album sounds more closely like a combination of 'Carpe Diem', 'Šta bih ja' and 'Everybody's Waiting'. That's the genre we're moving in. But there are definitely some surprises on the album, which caused some doubt in me during the middle stage, where I was wondering if this even fits on the album. But now that I listen to the album as a whole, I actually really like it," he says and is satisfied with the final product.

The order of the songs on the album is placed into a story. "I think that Kris described it very well in an interview. The first part of the album takes place right after Eurovision, this hype (circus, noise), confidence, this kind of power, surreality. The second part of the album represents the time after you've taken a step back and summarised all of this. At the same time, some dark things can come out during that time. The second half is a bit more dark and I think we nicely captured the transition into this," he clarifies.

Album cover taken between the sheets

If their last album covers were in colour, this one is black and white. On it, the boys pose in between the sheets. The picture was taken on the morning of the Eurovision final.

"Maybe none of us is perfect in this picture, but we all agreed that this picture isn't just some visual image, but it also has some kind of energy, which tells us exactly what was happening then. You look at this picture and you see some kind of energy between us, a bit of nervousness..." describes Nace.

Album cover of their new album 'Souvenir Pop'. (Ph: Joker Out archive)

The bassist likes it, if the songs jump from genre to genre on albums. "So you don't get bored, when you listen to it as a whole." Each song carries its own story and a kind of emotional charge. Between the new songs you can find ones that especially touched him.

"The first one that really touched me is for sure 'Carpe Diem', it's our first song together after all. Then the seventh song on the album ('Lips'), because is contains the most of me. Already the idea for it was created on a laptop in bed and not at the place with the band. The creative process alone connected me with it, it for sure is one of the most different, striking songs. When you'll listen to it, you'll see what I mean. The ninth song ('Sonce') is a ballad. When I listen to it, it doesn't matter how I'm feeling at that moment, it always touches me. With that song I like: the topic of the song, the lyrics itself and how Bojan serves it. When I played it to my mum, she got teary-eyed."

(Ph: Nace Jordan's private archive)

They experimented with different instruments on this album. Nace first and foremost plays bass, but recently he also bought a Wurlitzer piano (a type of piano which you plug into electricity). "It's a very dear instrument to me and I finally got to buy it. The same week I bought it, I put it into a new song," excitedly tells the 30-year old, who, for the album, alongside the bass also recorded another guitar, marracas and other pianos and programmed the drums, where there are no acoustic drums.

He often takes on the role of an older brother

In the group Nace takes place of someone who takes care of all the studio things. "I already did this in the past and I felt at home with it. When we were finishing up the album, I took care that the album was be finished on time. The last three weeks before the album was finished, I shared our Producer's Žare Pak's biorhythm which means I was up from 4pm until 10 am." (smiles)

As he is the oldest, turning 30 this year, he often takes on the role of an older brother. With his responsibility and mature approach he takes care of the other members: "Boys, today let's maybe hold back a bit, we have a long weekend ahead of us. Sometimes they make fun of me because of it, but the following day at least one of them is probably grateful." (smiles)

"We encourage each other"

It doesn't happen often that members of a band are also privately good friends. We can say that this certainly isn't true when it comes to Joker Out. As friends they support each other at all moments, go on holiday together, spend their free time together, hang out during social evenings, which creates a unique energy amongst them, which can be felt by the audience at every concert. This friendhsip gives their music additional depth and energy, because of which their fans feel as though they are a part of their story.

(Ph: Damon Baker)

The dynamic between members naturally changes and develops through time. Together they experience new challenges, creative processes and personal transitions, which effects their relationships. Slowly, special bonds are created between them because of this - with some they connect on a deeper emotional level, with some more in a business sense.

"When I feel bad or I want to talk about deeper matters with someone that person will certainly be Bojan. Because he really knows how to get close to a person in that moment and give them good advice. With Kris we are both more business orientated and we have almost daily conversations about what we have to do and what we have to improve. Because of this we often go and grab a coffee and we see each other the most. With Jure you will never just be sitting down, but you have to do another activity as well. A love for keyboards connects me and Jan, we talk the most about music. Jan also often inspires me with his manner of playing," say Nace, who with Jan forms a fantastic guitar duo on stage.

(Ph: Vita Orehek)

Their collaboration is energetic, synchronised and soaked with the right amount of improvisation, which concert goers already feel during the first chords. Their connection is expressed through music, as they can easily communicate through looks alone while playing and improve their performance. This authentic relaxed chemistry between then is something so natural that they have also moved this to the audience.

(Ph: Profimedia)

He takes care of his stamina at night

The Jokers are famous for their dynamic performances, where stamina comes in handy. "It's definitely easier, if you have some stamina. I try to keep it up. Sometimes a bit better, sometimes a bit worse. When I come on stage, I want to support what I'm doing with movement, with my body and to someone in the audience, who is looking at you and wants your attention, I try to give it back tenfold. I try to put myself into the shoes of a fan because I know exactly what I would like. We provide each other with energy, so it's very important that we're in a good mood during our performances. We encourage each other, support each other."

Recently he spends a lot of time at the piano, which relaxes him. As a true Gorenjska local he also loves mountains, but he's recently been running out of spare time. "I like going to the hills very much, but I sadly go so rarely that I'm almost embarassed to say. The walking really relaxes me. I would also like to fish more. Me and Bojan are very amateur fishermen, but that's our common interest."

He mentions that he also likes to run and swim. "I am the funniest runner in the world, because I run between 11pm and midnight. I often look behind me and also run faster. (laughter) Getting out of the door is the most difficult. I admit, it's sometimes torture, but the satisfaction after I'm finished is then that much greater. Running also helps my mental health a lot."

(Ph: Vita Orehek)

New family member - dachshund Pino

A few months ago, Nace's life was enriched by a new family member, an adorable dachshund named Pino. He was named after the amazing English bassist with Italian roots, Pino Palladino, who performed with Adele, Paul Young, The Who, Nine Inch Nails and others. At first, Pino was a bit shy, but he quickly won his heart over.

"In the beginning I always needed a sitter for him. Now we've progressed so far that he can be home alone a bit longer. It's definitely some kind of additional responsibilty, but he made my life better. When I come home he is very honestly happy to see me. Nothing can replace this feeling. Everyone who has a dog knows this well. He also won a right to the bed, he sleeps with me. I spoiled him a bit much," he honestly admits while laughing.

In the past months Nace's life is being made better by the dachshund Pino. (Ph: Nace Jordan's private archive)

Even though taking care of a dog is an additional responsibilty, Nace is grateful for his new furry friend and the feeling of unconditional love, which can only be understood by those, who have a dog.

For the ending, we were interested in what has been the greatest lecture he has learned in the past year, "Oof, great question. I don't now if I've learned it, but I'm still trying. At the moment when something wasn't going my way, I always wanted to do anything to solve it. Now, I've realised that it's much better to take a step back and look at things from a different perspective and then return."

[fungus-gnats]

my "miracle fruit" plant, Synsepalum dulcificum, is fruiting :3

these fruits make sour foods taste sweet! they contain miraculin, a glycoprotein which binds to the membrane of the sweet taste receptor and causes acidic foods (etc. lemons) to be perceived as sweet.

At neutral pH, miraculin binds to hT1R2-hT1R3 (sweet taste receptor), which may inhibit further receptor activation by a second sweet-tasting compound, thus dampening the sweetness of another substance (note: some studies report no change in perceived sweetness). At low pH levels (acidic, e.g. 4.8-6.5), miraculin is activated by H+ ions - the conformational change in shape of miraculin allows for its active site (the carbohydrate part of the molecule) to bind to the hT1R2 unit of the hT1R2-hT1R3 sweet receptor. This activates the receptor, and we register a sweet taste.

The effect may last from 30s to 2h, as the action of miraculin produces a sweet taste each time a sour food is tasted, until salivary amylase dissociates the miraculin from taste receptors.

Overall, miracle fruits decrease the perceived sourness and increase the sweetness in acidic foods, as well as alters the perception of sweet, bitter, and salty tastes at low pH conditions :)

sources under the cut:

[nobodyimportant41]

Hi! This is a translated version of my own challenge that i'm doing also in tmblr (so sorry if i spell something wrong!), i call it:

"The aspirations challenge"

Before we start:

You must complete the aspiration of the generation (the one they name after)

This challenge is going to be really long because of how many aspirations

At least for now, im NOT incluiding the aspirations that come with busting the dust, high school years and the refresh of spa day.

The order of the gen may be not in alphabetic order just for the sake of storytelling

You can use any mods of cc

You can't use cheats for advantage, but you can use them for storytelling or certain goals (like having twins)

The sims can look whatever you like, but they must reflect they personality

Knowing that new aspirations will come, this challenge will change

You are complety free to skip/change certain rules in case you dont have the dlc

Gen 1; serial romantic:

Story:You always were able of getting everything you wanted with your beauty, this made it super hard to be in an commitment to you.

When you turn a young adult, you decide to challenge yourself by starting an stable job! But you will go easy on you, so you would spend the rest of the time clubling and woohooing anyone! And when you mean ANYONE,you REALLY mean it!

Traits:

Romantic

Non committal

Materialistic

goals:

Max the wellness and charisma skill

Max the style influencer career (trend setter branch)

Leave at least two sims at the altar

Have only one kid

Once per in game year,have a plastic surgery (with mods or "cas.fulleditmode), each cost 10,000 simoleons.

Never get married

Never get caught cheating

PH character values:

Irresponsable

Gen 2;soulmate:

Story:you always feel inferior, everyone else were better at sports, at arts, at making friends. Everyone you care about only used for your beauty....

Even after that,you feel the need of helping the others by becoming a doctor. You thought you were married to your soulmate but..one of your workmates is REALLY making you questione it....

Traits:

Good

Melancholic

Socially ackward

Goals:

Max the bakery and knitting skills

Max the doctor career

Donate something each weekend

Go to charity with your family and/or friends once per week

Adopt at least one kid, this will be the heir

As an elder, retire and dedicate that time to your family and dotanions

PH character values:

Compassionate

Uncontrolled emotions

Gen 3; friend of the animals:

Story:you weren't mentally sane, so almost everyone ignored you, this make you love pets,since they are unable of judging, so when you see a hurted dog in the streets, you decided whats your all time goal is going to be:BUILD THE BEST VET IN THE WORLD! No no.. IN THE GALAXY!of course, with some borrowed things..

Traits:

Kleptomaniac

Erratic

Animal enthusiast

Goals:

Max the mischief and pet training skills

Have a five stars vet clinic, and steal objects for this one.

Never use friendly or funny interactions with sims -except ask to move in-

Have each type of "pet" (like hamsters,rabbits, birds,etc)

Have 4 cats and/or dogs (im deeply sorry)

Have at least 2 well mantain cowplants (do they even count as animals?)

PH character values:

Uncontrolled emotions

Gen 4;master chef:

Story:You grown up being neglected,you had to clean, educate and cook for yourself, doing this you realized that you were born for opening a restaurant! This was your life goal, you will do ANYTHING just for getting a better review, and if that implies marrying a food critic you don't love, you WILL DEFINETLY do it!

Traits:

Foodie

Unflirty

Perfeccionist

Goals:

Max the gourmet cooking and cooking skills

Max the culinary career (chef brand), retire and open a five star restaurant

Become a three stars celebrity (remember, youre a very important chef)

Marry a food critic and have a toxic relationship with them

Become a spice hound

Learn all the recipes in town

PH character values:

Good manners

Responsable

Gen 5;Master mixologist:

Story:To escape your family situation, you were mostly in CRAZY parties with your friends, you honestly feel they as your family! But, even after that, when your parent die you feel... bad,you feel that you were always in their shadow, you only want to surpass them.. Or do you really want to impress them?

Traits:

Party animal

Ambitious

Dance machine

Goals:

Max the dance and mixology skills

Max the culinary career (mixologist branch)

Have a party club with your friends

Have a club meeting every saturday

Have 5 partners

Drink at least once every drink

Marry a sim with the party animal or dance machine trait

Gen 6;Academic:

Story:You grew up in a very poor household because your parents spend most of the money in their stupid parties. You hate the idea or being as stupid as them, so you spend most of the time thinking about ways to make money...and to win debates! You REALLY like winning, especially debates!

As an adult, you decide that you will go to university to learn more about robotics and so you do!

Traits:

Genius

Self centred

Ambitious

Goals:

Max the robotics and reserch and debate skill

Max the engineer career

Make at least two servos,max one of them (or both, if you hate yourself)

Date/marry the first person you debate with, then divorce/leave it to marry one of your servos

Get at least 2 A+

Gen 7;Archaeology Scholar:

Story:If you had to say whats your favorite place is it would be definitly be the museum,you always had being an history euthusiast!. You all time dream is becoming a famous archaeologist who is know for their INCREDIBLE talented made books!

Traits:

Creative

Ambitious

Active

Goals:

Max the archaelogy and writing skills

Work in odds jobs, then in your adulthood leave it to only dedicate to write books about archaelogy

Become at least a two stars celebrity

Have max friendship with a jungle adventure skeleton

Complete the archaelogy relics collection

Have an alien baby (adoption,abandoned kid,etc, you choose)

Gen 8;Computer whiz:

Story:Even tho you were an alien, you always feel like you were part of the family. So,when your blood family wanted to contact with you, you decided it was time to use your natural talent with numbers and start learning about rockets to avoid it; But hey! At least you discovered your passion!

Traits:

Genius

Geek

Ambicious

Goals:

Max the programming and video games skills

Max the tech guru career

Create at least 10 apps

Explore sixam, but never tell it to your kids

Marry a geek sim

Have two failed relationships before getting married

Have a family game night each week

Gen 9;Nerd brain:

Story:You always been obssesed with space, but your parents always told you about how dangerous it was. You were already mad, but things got even worst when you discovered that your parents WENT TO SPACE?! You were furious, you couldn't even think of getting into a rocketship because of the SAME PEOPLE who WENT TO SPACE. From now on, you will desobey whatever they say to you!... at least you have your grandparents....

Traits:

Adventurous

Active

Ambicious

Goals:

Max the handiness and rocket science skills

Enter the athletic career,then, when you discover your parents secrets, leave it and max the astronaut career

Upgrade to the max your rocketship

Leavo someone at the altar

Visit the secret lot in Oasis Spring

Marry an alien

Gen 10;Renaissance Sim:

Story:You always were a prodigy. Everyone knows that. But the thing that no one understands is that being excellent brings more problems than solutions. You always liked art, especially the violin! But people tells you to stop thinking in arts and focuse in science because it will pay you more. Will you follow your dreams or the others dreams?...

Traits:

Genius

Art lover

Ambicious

Goals:

Max the violin and two other skills and reach level 6 in six other skills

Enter to, at least three different careers,max the last one

Have twins

Have a kid with all the positive parenthood character values and the other with all the negative ones

Have a big change in apperance and whises after your midlife crisis

Gen 11;Spellcraft & Sorcery:

Story:Yeah....you always were the black sheep of the family. While your sibling was showing up their straight As you were just thinking about magical spells and your favorite tunes with your Fs.You couldn't help but don't care! After all, people will recognize you as THE spellcaster. Capable of dominate the strongest spells and of course, your "innofensive" jokes!...And maybe your voice

Traits:

Lazy

Music lover

Goofball

Goals:

Max the mischief and singing skills

Work in odds jobs

Complete the brooms collection

Have an enemies to lovers type of relationship

Declare as an enemy a sage

"Accidentally" kill one/your enemy with your spells

Learn all of the untamed and mischief spells

Gen 12;Master vampire:

Story:You never had many friends because everyone knew the reputation of your parent. In one of daily visits to the school library, you found a book that you hadn't saw before.It was a vampire book, you liked fantasy but never read this one! You become OBSESSED with this one.Will it be better to become a nocturn beast?

Traits:

Bookworm

Socially akward

Neat

Goals:

Max the vampire folcklore and writing skills

Work publishing vampire books (turn off fame)

Have a well mantain garden (vampires also can love plants!)

Live in a victorian manor

Cut your relationship with your parents when you move out

Marry an human, then transform it

Have at least three kids

Gen 13;Angling ace:

Story:When you were a kid, you used to fish something and go back to your parents to ask for help for feeding those poor little kittens. It wasn't long when this become an habit! After all, they are only four things that you adore the most: Helping people,your family,cats,cooking Oh! And of course: water! Specially fishing! You REALLY like fishing

Traits:

Family oriented

Cat lover

Child of the oceans

Goals:

Max the fishing and gourmet cooking skills

Max the conservatist career

Become a merperson

Complete the fish collection and pin each one of them on the wall

Go to charity every friday

Have at least two cats

Gen 14;Country caretaker:

Story:You always had an....complicated relationship with your parents,while they wanted to go fishing to put that poor animal in a simple wall or even worse:FOR COOKING, you always see animals as your besties!. One day,the fight went so bad that you decided to move to a small cottage in an even smaller town, no friends,no family,no electricy or water..but you still being happy because you could afford a cow,a horse and two chickens!

Trait:

Animal entushiast

Vegeterian

Loves the outdoors

Goals:

Max the gardening and cross stiching skills

Never get a formal job,instead become a farmer and sell your products

NEVER eat or sell your animals

Live in a lot with the off the grid and simple living lot traits

Participate in every Henford-on-Bagley fair

Never use a mean interactions on animals

Gen 15;The curator:

Story:Your family teach you all about farming so that you run the family farm, thing that you didn't liked much. You know that you could do much better! Your all time dream was completing collections! You only wanted to move to Willow creek and be charismatic enough to exchange collectables!... sadly, you focused so much in collection that you forgot your family...

Traits:

Self centred

Ambicious

Eco fiend

Goals:

Max the gardening and charisma skills

Max the gardener career

Complete the crystals, elements and one more collection

Open a shop with your collections

Have triplets, at least one has to be taken away

When gen 14 pass away, decide with your siblings (if you have them) whos going to run the farm if you don't have siblings, sell it to a random townie or friend

Gen 16;Eco inovator:

Story:Growing up rich, you were mostly careless,you had the most expensive clothes, food and even bed! But, as a teen you discovered that not everyone cares about nature as much as your family; the world was becoming each day more contamineted! You never cared about helping too much. Could this be a change in your life?

Traits:

Childish

Self centred

Glutton

After drinking the re-trait potion:

Self assured

Dog lover

Eco maniac

Goals:

Max the handiness and fabrication skills

Max the civil designer career

As you turn into a young adult, drink a re-trait potion

Rescue two or more stray dogs

Live in one of the greenest city lots in the world

Have an affair with a celebrity

Gen 17;Freelance botanist:

Story:Yeah... you never were the most sane; while your siblings were playing or chatting you were also talking, BUT TO PLANTS. You become so obssesed with plants that your all time dream is become a plant-sim! But sadly, nobody believes you when you say they exist...

Traits:

Erratic

Loves the outdoors

Lactose intolerant

Goals:

Max the flower arraiging and gardening skills

Sell your plants with a stall

Become a plant sim

Plant a money tree

Complete the plant collection and plant each one of them

Have a greenhouse

Gen 18;Jungle explorer:

Story:If theres a word that describes you is materialistic; if theres another word that describes you is mischievious. When you discovered that they were lots of valuable relics in Selvadorada, you didn't doubt to go. You only went to scam people, but when THAT client come to your stall you fell in....love? Sadly they were mad at you because of the prices!

Traits:

Materialistic

Slob

Kleptomaniac

Goals:

Max the selvadorian culture and logic skills

Sell the things you find/steal (mark up prices to 300%)

Marry a client and have an enemies to lovers relationship

Learn all the selvadorian recipes

Get married only after your midlife crisis

Make enemies with a good sim

Gen 19;Purveyor of Potions:

Story:In Selvadorada, you always knew that there were lots of things that can cause sickness; thing that always drive you crazy! Whats the fun in going into nature if your getting dirty and sick!?! Your all time dream is becoming a succesful doctor! But you aren't really good at seeing blood.... if you could only make curative potions....

Traits:

Squeamish

Neat

High mantiance

Goals:

Max the wellness and painting skills

Max the doctor career

Make at least once every potion

Own a potion shop

Live in an haunted house

Complete the broom colection

Gen 20;Outdoor enthusiast:

Story:When you were little, your biggest dream was becoming a florist! But finally in your adulthood you accepted that you couldn't make many money off of it.... But in one of your trips to Granite Falls, you discovered your talent!: Painting landscapes...maybe you could work in painting!

Traits:

Creative

Outgoing

Lves the outdoors

Goals:

Max the painting and flower arraiging skills

Sell your flower arraigings as a young adult, stop it when you become an adult and max the painter career

Marry a loner sim

Have a painting club and have meetings every week

Divorce to marry your soulmate

Complete the insects collection

Gen 21;Championship Rider:

Story:Your parents were the definition of happy bohos.They loved painting and nature...while you didn't really liked it. Your biggest dream is becoming one of the most popular influencers! One day,while you were looking up the tendencies, you discovered that the most popular one was...horses?..yeah,you didn't like it,but if it makes you famous...

Traits:

Ambicious

Mean

Romantic

Goals:

Max the riding and video making skills

Become a simtuber

Become a five star celebrity

Have an affair with a fellow celebrity

Win at least 10 competitons (i recommend to write the progress somewhere)

When you move out, dont talk to your parents ever again

Have twins and only care for one

Gen 22;Expert nectar maker:

Story:You were the neglected from the family. The only ones who really cared about you were your grandparents! But,sadly,your parent didn't let you go with them very often.So you often spend your time looking up for your horses,reading cooking books and;your favorite one:baking and making mermelades! Your two dreams were getting out of the house and sell your bakes good. But without money,how are you going to make it?

Traits:

Horse lover

Foodie

Vegetarian

Goals:

Max the nectar making and bakery skills

Sell your nectar and bake goods

Make every nectar at least one

Have at least 3 mini goats and/or sheeps

As an elder,try to reconnect to your sibling (you decide if you success or not)

Have three failed relationships before you find your partner

Rescue an stray animal

Gen 23;Beach life:

Story:You admire your parents. You feeled that they had a PERFECT and organized life while you...lets say that you couldn't be in only one thing..So,to celebrate becoming young adult,your parents give you a free trip to Sulani since you adore the beach and they wanted you to relax and think about your future;little they you that you will become OBSSESED with the beach!..and with your partner

Traits:

Child of the ocean

Child of the island

Non-committal

Goals:

Max the wellness and fishing skills

As a teen, work as a lifeguard and max the athletic career

Have at least five partners

Marry your first partner

Have at least six Kava parties

Become friends with an island elemental

Have at least four kids

Gen 24;city living:

Story:You always feeled different,while your siblings were playing in the beach, you were playing videogames or playing the piano;or ehy not: a videogame about pianos! Things go even worse with your parent's dead (gen 23s partner), the family was even more separated;you love them but..it was too much! You decided to move temporally to San Myshuno,not knowing that you will stay there FOREVER!

Traits:

Geek

Outgoing

Insider

Goals:

Max the videogaming and singing skills

Max the tech guru career

Complete the My sims figure collection

Have a club meeting every week,go most of the time to karaoke bars

Go to every San Myshuno's festival

Meet your partner at a blind date

Gen 25;Mt. Komorebi Sightseer:

Story:You always work as hard as you can so that,someday,you can become a really important military officer! You first move to Strangerville for work. But when you discovered the shady things your workmates were doing,you escaped to the farest place you could go: Mt. Komorebi. Of course, you first didn't really liked the place. But,slowly your liking it more and more everyday!

Traits:

Ambicious

Paranoid

Active

Goals:

Max the fitness and skiing skills

Max the military career (officer branch)

As a young adult move to Strangerville.Close to becoming an adult,move to Mt. Komorebi

Declare as an enemy one of your bosses

Go to every Mt. Komorebi festival

Have at least one science baby (next heir)

Have a bad relationship with your kid/s

Gen 27;Strangerville mystery:

Story:You grown up fighting with your parent because they won't accept that you LOVED Strangerville and wanted to discovered what was behing the whole mystery. And things went even worse when you started dating the child of your parent enemy...but you decided that you didn't wanted to become a puppet of your parent. So you decided to escape with your couple to Strangerville!...while both of you were just TEENS only to discover the town mystery...

Traits:

Paranoid

Hot hetted

Ambicious

Goals:

Max the logic and fitness skills

Max the militar career

As a teen,move to Strangerville with your partner without telling your parents

Become best friends with the owner of the curio-shop at the moment

See your partner getting possesed

Became enemies with a fellow militar and/or scientist

Gen 28: Fount of Tomarani Knowledge:

Story:You always were kind of jealous of your parents. They were so in love, while you couldn't help but always broke up with your partners because you only cared about gossips...

As an adult, you decide to move to Tomarang, not because you like it, but because it was pretty well known that not for nothing it was known as the "capital of the gossips"; even more than San myshuno! But when you started to talk to the natives, you started to LOVE the tomarani culture!

Traits:

Un-flirty

Child of the village

Nosy

Goals:

Max the mischief and charisma

Make money by odd jobs

Break up with at least two sims

Marry a child of the village

Live since you become a young adult until you died as a tenant in Tomarang

Complete the tassels collection

Gen 29; Chief of mischief:

Story:As a child, you used to spend most of your time telling the younger ones about how the monster under the bed was going to kill them. The reason behind it? It was super fun for you watching how they run away in tears...

When you grew up,of course you still doing it! But,OF COURSE that now your classmates weren't kids,they were teens and will insult you with justification. The fact that half of the class hated you and the other half didn't care. Except for your best friend! You were both partners in crime! And maybe also for woohoo...

Traits:

Mean

Goofball

Cringe

Goals:

Max the mischief and videogames skills

Max the tech guru career

Have a woohoo partner which is also your partner in crime

As a part of you mid-life crisis, start to date them (you decide how this ends)

Even after graduation,still annoying your classmates

Have two kids with different sims

Gen 30;Public enemy:

Story:Your older sibling hated you,your parent's enemy's children hate you, kids in school hated you...You were mostly alone, building machines that only you liked... But as an young adult, you finally realized that you didn't wanted to be a crybaby anymore, you wanted to be respected! It doesn't matter if it because your great or bad reputation, they will learn NOT to mess with you because your reputation!

Traits:

As a teen:

Melancholic

Generous

After turning a young adult:

Mean

Kleptomaniac

Evil

Goals:

Max the mischief and handiness skills

Max the criminal career (boss career)

Kill at least one of the sims that reject you when you were younger

Grow at least one cowplant (they can kill!)

Be in a gang (with Extreme violence or with a club)

Drink the re-trait potion

Gen 31; Seeker of secrets:

Story: Since you were a child, you daydreamed of being a popular influencer! You didn't knew yet what your channel will be about; but you knew that it will be the number one! For becoming popular among your classmates, you started to inventing juicy gossip! The thing you didn't think about was that they will mostly dislike you instead of admiring you...

Traits:

Nosy

Self centred

Goofball

Goals:

Max the video making and charisma skills

Become a simtuber

Become at least a three stars celebrity

Have at least two secret lovers

Have only one kid

Gen 32;

[rgenvs3000f23]

Blog 5

Hey! This week we were asked to write whatever was on our minds (presumably still related to nature interpretation).

This semester I’m in the process of completing an independent research project on aquatic plants, so needless to say they’ve been on my mind quite a bit recently. I thought my some of my experiences with the project and things I’ve learned so far fit in well with this class. There are two topics I wanted to write about today, the first being aquatic ecosystems in general, and the second being science communication and some thoughts on the readings for this week. The project I’m working on focuses on freshwater macrophytes. Macrophytes are aquatic plants that function as carbon sinks and important sources of oxygen, in addition to providing food and habitats to a variety of species (Bornette & Puijalon, 2011). I’m looking at their physiology, and determining how abiotic environmental parameters contribute to their survival and success. Specifically, my project focuses on pH (how acidic or basic the water is), and how aquatic plants respond to changes in water pH. The pH of freshwater systems is affected by climate change, in ways that are less predictable than marine systems (Hasler et al. 2016). If the pH of a lake changes to a level that its macrophytes can’t handle as well, they are at much greater risk of being outcompeted by photosynthetic algae (Sayer et al. 2010). This contributes to algal blooms, an issue that’s become quite prevalent recently. So, having a greater understanding of aquatic plants can assist with preventing algal blooms, as well as restoring damaged freshwater ecosystems. Reviews have found that most research on aquatic plants focuses on marine ecosystems, and very little research is done on freshwater ecosystems (Hasler et al. 2016). In my own (very non-qualitative) analysis from watching nature documentaries, it definitely seems like there’s a much greater focus on marine environments. While there is certainly more water in oceans than anywhere else, I think it’s important not to forget about freshwater ecosystems. So many of us, especially in Canada, get to enjoy being surrounded by so many beautiful lakes and rivers. It can definitely be easy to take them for granted. The readings for this week focused on interpreting nature through science, which is something I’ve been learning a lot about while working on my project. Currently, I’m in the process of learning how to communicate something I care about in a way that’s accessible to a variety of audiences. Part of the course is writing papers on the topic, as well as giving presentations. It’s made me realize how easy it can be in the sciences to get excited about a relatively niche topic (ex: freshwater botany) and essentially start speaking in a language that few people are going to understand. And if someone can’t understand a topic, they’re probably a lot less likely to care about it. So, it’s made me think about how important communicating science is when it comes to nature interpretation, as well as conservation.

References: Bornette, G. & Puijalon, S. (2011). Response of aquatic plants to abiotic factors: a review. Aquat Sci, 73, 1–14.

Hasler, C.T., Butman, D., Jeffrey, J.D. & Suski, C.D. (2016). Freshwater biota and rising pCO 2 ? Ecol Lett, 19, 98–108.

Sayer, C.D., Burgess, A., Kari, K., Davidson, T.A., Peglar, S., Yang, H., et al. (2010). Long-term dynamics of submerged macrophytes and algae in a small and shallow, eutrophic lake: implications for the stability of macrophyte-dominance. Freshwater Biology, 55, 565–583.

[glassboxdiaries]

Shrimp Vs Snails - What's The Best Option For Your Aquarium?

🛒 Check Out My Product Review Videos On Amazon – https://glassboxdiaries.com/amazonpage 💻 Check Out My Fish-Keeping Tutorials On My Website - https://glassboxdiaries.com

My Video On Getting Rid Of Black Bearded Algae - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rjXGlPT-ZZs

Shrimp Vs Snails - What's The Best Option For Your Aquarium?

Thinking of adding a clean-up crew to your aquarium but not sure whether shrimp or snails are the better fit? In today’s video, I break down everything you need to know to make the right choice for your tank. I’ve kept cherry shrimp (Neocaridina), Amano shrimp, nerite snails, and ramshorn snails in a wide variety of setups, and I’m sharing my honest experiences with each.

We’ll start by diving into their roles in algae control. Amano shrimp and nerite snails are widely regarded as primary algae eaters—especially when it comes to soft green algae and the occasional bits of hair algae. That said, they often prefer leftover food over tougher algae types, so their effectiveness can vary depending on your tank’s conditions and feeding routine. I’ve had great results using them for maintenance in established tanks, particularly when algae issues are still minor.

Cherry shrimp and ramshorn snails, on the other hand, shine as secondary algae eaters. They don’t actively eat healthy hair algae in my experience, but they are excellent at grazing on soft algae and biofilm. I’ve seen dramatic results in tanks overrun with soft green algae after introducing these two species—especially when nutrient levels were brought under control.

Beyond their utility, aesthetics matter too. Let’s face it—if you’re going to spend hours looking at your tank, you want your clean-up crew to look good too. Amano shrimp aren’t the flashiest creatures, though they may show subtle color changes after molting. Nerite snails come in some patterned varieties like Zebra and Clithon types, but are typically chosen more for their function than flair.

In contrast, ramshorn snails and cherry shrimp really bring the color. Ramshorns are available in a rainbow of morphs—including pink, blue, and even leopard-patterned variations—while Neocaridina cherry shrimp come in nearly every shade imaginable. From bright reds to deep blues, vivid yellows, and even rare orange-eyed strains, there’s a shrimp for every aquascape style.

When it comes to compatibility, I’ve never had issues with Neocaridina shrimp, Amano shrimp, ramshorn snails, or nerite snails bothering tank mates. Just be cautious not to confuse peaceful species with aggressive look-alikes like whisker shrimp, which are often mistaken for ghost shrimp but can be surprisingly predatory.

Breeding is another big factor. If you’re looking for a self-sustaining population, cherry shrimp and ramshorn snails are ideal. They breed easily in freshwater and can quickly build up a colony. Just be aware that overfeeding can cause a snail population boom. On the flip side, Amano shrimp and nerite snails won’t reproduce in a standard freshwater tank, which can be a plus if you're trying to avoid overpopulation—but also a drawback if you're hoping to breed them.

Feeding both shrimp and snails is a breeze. They’ll eat just about anything from algae wafers and fish food to blanched vegetables and decaying plant matter. In planted tanks or Walstad-style setups, they often thrive on biofilm and detritus alone. That said, feeding granules or wafers can sometimes lead to snails crowding out the shrimp, so I’ve started experimenting with flake and microgranule foods that spread more evenly across the substrate.

As for water parameters and care, all four species are surprisingly adaptable. Despite not using shrimp-specific salts anymore, I’ve bred countless Neocaridina shrimp in water with a pH of 6.4, KH of 3, and GH of 4. I’ve also kept them—and my snails—in much harder water without issues, thanks to Seiryu stone gradually increasing the mineral content. Unless you’re seeing failed molts (especially with a white ring around the body), I’d say there’s no need to overcomplicate things. Just aim for stability, and these hardy inverts will thrive.

TIMESTAMPS

00:00 - Intro 00:23 - Keeping Shrimp And Snails Together 00:42 - Clean-Up Crew 04:52 - Aesthetics 08:08 - Tank Mates 10:12 - Breeding 12:38 - Feeding 14:05 - Water Parameters 16:12 - Plant Saftey 18:45 - Wrapping It Up

Disclaimer: Some of the links above may be affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission from purchases.

[best-testing-lab-uae]

How to Choose the Best Fertilizer Testing Laboratory in Abu Dhabi? | +971 554747210

Fertilizer quality plays a crucial role in ensuring healthy crop yields and sustainable agriculture. In Abu Dhabi, where agriculture faces unique challenges due to arid conditions, reliable fertilizer testing laboratories help farmers and agricultural businesses verify product quality and compliance with regulatory standards. Choosing the right fertilizer testing laboratory is essential to optimize productivity and maintain soil health. This guide will help you select the best testing lab for your needs.

Why Fertilizer Testing is Important

Fertilizers contain essential nutrients like nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K), which are vital for plant growth. However, improper formulation or contamination can lead to poor crop performance and environmental harm. A fertilizer testing laboratory evaluates:

Nutrient composition and balance

Presence of harmful heavy metals

pH levels and solubility

Microbial contamination

Compliance with UAE regulations

By using a trusted fertilizer testing laboratory, farmers and suppliers can ensure that their fertilizers are safe, effective, and compliant with local and international standards.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Fertilizer Testing Laboratory in Abu Dhabi

1. Accreditation and Certification

One of the most critical factors in selecting a fertilizer testing laboratory is accreditation. Ensure the lab holds certifications from recognized authorities such as:

ISO/IEC 17025: International standard for laboratory competence.

Emirates National Accreditation System (ENAS): Ensures compliance with UAE regulatory requirements.

Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority (ADAFSA): Governs agricultural product quality and safety.

2. Range of Testing Services

A comprehensive fertilizer testing laboratory should offer various tests, including:

Nutrient analysis (NPK ratio, micronutrients)

Heavy metal screening (lead, cadmium, arsenic, etc.)

pH and salinity testing

Moisture content analysis

Microbiological assessment (fungi, bacteria)

Organic and synthetic fertilizer evaluations

3. Compliance with UAE Regulations

The UAE has strict regulations for fertilizers to ensure product safety and environmental protection. A reputable fertilizer testing laboratory in Abu Dhabi should be familiar with:

Federal Law No. 5 of 2009 on Fertilizers and Soil Conditioners

Ministerial Decision No. 758 of 2015 regulating fertilizers and soil amendments

Abu Dhabi’s local agricultural standards

A laboratory that understands these regulations can help you navigate compliance efficiently.

4. Advanced Testing Technology

The best fertilizer testing laboratories use cutting-edge technology for precise and reliable results. Look for labs that utilize:

Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS) for heavy metal detection

Inductively Coupled Plasma (ICP) for nutrient analysis

Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) for contaminant screening

High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) for organic compound testing

5. Turnaround Time and Efficiency

Agricultural businesses need timely results to make informed decisions. A reputable fertilizer testing laboratory should offer:

Quick sample processing (standard tests within 5-7 days)

Emergency or express testing options

Digital reporting for easy access to results

6. Expertise and Reputation

Experienced laboratories with a proven track record in fertilizer testing provide more reliable and insightful analysis. Look for:

Years of experience in agricultural testing

Qualified scientists and agronomists on staff

Positive client reviews and testimonials

Case studies showcasing past success stories

7. Cost and Value for Money

While cost is an important consideration, choosing the cheapest option can sometimes compromise quality. Instead, compare pricing with the scope of services offered. Consider labs that provide:

Transparent pricing structures

Discounts for bulk testing

Value-added services like consultation and data interpretation

8. Customer Support and Consultation

A quality fertilizer testing laboratory should provide excellent customer support, including:

Pre-testing guidance on sample collection and submission

Post-testing consultation to help interpret results

Recommendations for improving fertilizer formulations

Conclusion

Selecting the best fertilizer testing laboratory in Abu Dhabi is crucial for ensuring agricultural success and regulatory compliance. By focusing on accreditation, range of services, regulatory expertise, advanced technology, and customer support, you can find a lab that meets your needs and enhances your agricultural productivity.

Investing in quality fertilizer testing helps farmers, suppliers, and agribusinesses improve soil fertility, crop yield, and environmental sustainability in Abu Dhabi’s unique farming landscape. Choose wisely and ensure your fertilizers meet the highest standards of safety and effectiveness.

[nursingwriter]

¶ … Prebiotic Potential of Chitosans Prebiotic Potential Of Chitosan "The favourable properties like biocompatibility, biodegradability, pH sensitiveness, mucoadhesiveness, etc. has enabled these polymers to become the choice of the pharmacologists as oral delivery matrices for proteins" (George & Abraham, 2006, Abstract section).). In the study, "Polyionic hydrocolloids for the intestinal delivery of protein drugs: Alginate and chitosan- a review," M. George and T.E. Abraham (2006) discuss the contemporary challenge in the design of oral delivery of peptide or protein drugs. Consequently, as the majority of "the synthetic polymers are immunogenic and the incorporation of proteins in to these polymers require harsh environment which may denature and inactivate the desired protein" George and Abraham (2006, Abstract), pH sensitive hydrogels such as alginate and chitosan have begun to attract increasing attention. Due to its hydrophilic nature and simple solubility in acidic medium, chitosan possesses only limited ability to control the release of encapsulated compound. Simple covalent modifications of the polymer, albeit, may change its physicochemical properties and, in turn, make it suitable for the peroral drug delivery purpose. During this qualitative case study, which investigates the prebiotic potential of chitosan, the researcher examines the following components: 1. Prebiotics 2. Chitosan 3. prebiotic potential of chitosan The primary research question this study addresses queries: What is the prebiotoc potential of chitosan? The two research sub-questions contributing support to answer the primary research question include? 1. How chitosans are currently utilized? 2. What concerns contribute to challenges for utilizing chitisans in prebiotics? The hypothesis for this study asserts: When current research resolves current challenges regarding the factors hindering the potential of prebiotics in chitisans, then the efficiency of prebiotics will increase. Prebiotics Katherine Zeratsky, R.D., L.D. (2009), the Mayo Clinic, asserts in the journal article, "Prebiotics: What are they?" that prebiotics constitute nondigestible nutrients certain beneficial bacteria that naturally live in one's intestines use as an energy source. "Prebiotics are sometimes known as fermentable fiber" (Zeratsky, ¶ 1). In contrast, probiotics, consist of the beneficial, or friendly, bacteria themselves. As a food source for probiotics, prebiotics give the probiotic bacteria the opportunity to exert their influence. These friendly bacteria possess a number of health benefits, including digesting to boosting one's immunity. Stress, certain medical conditions, medications, a poor diet, and other factors, however; may decrease the number of healthy bacteria. Eating a diet that includes prebiotics may help restore the friendly bacteria. Zeratsky (2009) asserts that currently, the role of prebiotics in regard to the treatment of disease proves controversial, which necessitates the need for further studies to determine their potential usefulness. Figure 1 depicts certain conditions that preliminary evidence proposes that prebiotics may have a role in: Figure 1: Conditions Prebiotics May Help Alleviate (adapted from Zeratsky, 2009, ¶ 3). Zeratsky (2009) explains that prebiotics occur naturally in various foods, particularly in high-fiber foods, including certain fruits, grains and vegetables. The primary food sources of prebiotics include: "Artichokes, Bananas, Barley, Berries, Chicory, Dairy products, Flax, Garlic Greens, such as dandelion greens, chard and kale, Honey, Leeks, Legumes, Onions and Wheat and whole grains, such as oatmeal" (Zeratsky, ¶ 4). Manufacturers also add prebiotics to numerous dietary supplements, as well as to some processed foods, including drink mixes and meal-replacement bars, and yogurt. Not all products with naturally-occurring prebiotics, however, are labeled as such. Prebiotic supplements may be taken as capsules or tablets that one swallows or chews or may be sprinkled on one's food, and/or stirred into beverages. No specific guidelines exist regarding how many grams of prebiotics one needs to consume. Some studies suggest that one should consume from 3 to 8 grams a day to obtain the full benefits of prebiotics, however, in some instances, use of prebiotics may stimulate intestinal gas. Zeratsky (2009) recommends that one, checks with his/her doctor before taking any dietary or herbal supplements to ensure they will be safe for his/her situation. The article, "Prebiotics: A Consumer Guide for Making Smart Choices," (N.D.) asserts that the three criteria are currently required for a prebiotic effect: Resistance of the prebiotic to degradation by stomach acid, mammalian enzymes or hydrolysis; Fermentation (breakdown, metabolism) of the prebiotic by intestinal microbes; and Selective stimulation of the growth and/or activity of positive microorganisms in the gut. ( Prebiotics: A Consumer…, N.d., ¶ 2). Good prebiotics remain stable under heat and also when dried. They may be stored at room temperature for months. "A daily dose of 5-8g/d fructooligosaccharides (FOS) or galactooligosaccharides (GOS) has a prebiotic effect in adults. & #8230;Both fibre and prebiotics are typically non-digestible carbohydrates, and both are typically fermented by gut bacteria" Prebiotics: A Consumer…, N.d., ¶ ¶ 3 & 6). A prebiotic differs from fibre, however, only beneficial members of the gut microbial community selectively use it in the gut. Although a number of manufacturers refer to prebiotics as fibre, as fibre constitutes a more familiar term for consumers, prebiotics are historically more closely linked to the probiotic concept than to the fibre one. Chitosan Becca Goodyear (2009), affiliate of Vanderbilt University, defines chitosan in the article, "Chitosan." Chitosan, "a modified carbohydrate polymer derived from the chitin component of the shells of crustacean, such as crab, shrimp, and cuttlefish & #8230;is deproteinized, demineralized and de-acetylated. & #8230;Chitosan is composed of a NH4+ (ammonium) group attached to a polyglucosamine chain" (Goodyear, 2009, p. 1). Because chitosan is a dietary fiber, the digestive enzymes of a person cannot digest it. Chitin, a primary by-product of the crabbing and shrimp canning industry also depicts the main source of surface pollution in coastal areas. Since the 1990s, studies on chitin and chitosan have expanded to seek value-added uses of these polysaccharides that reveal exceptional biological properties. Figure 2 depicts these particular properties. Figure 2: Excellent Biological Properties of Polysaccharides (adapted from Argin, 2007, p. 9). Chitin, Argin (2007) explains, constitutes the second most prevalent natural polysaccharide; present in crustacea, insects and yeasts. Alkaline deacetylation of chitin produces chitosan, poly-?-(1-4)-D-glucosamine, the only natural cationic polysaccharide. Chitin and chitosan demonstrate a molecular weight of ranges "between several hundred thousands to 1 million Dalton" (Argin, 2007, p. 9). As the degree of acetylation (DA) affects chitosan's biodegradation capability, solubility, gelling and its reactivity, DA constitutes a significant property of chitosan molecules. "The unique properties of chitosan arise from its amino groups that carry positive charges at pH values below 6.5, enabling it to bind to negatively charged materials such as enzymes, cells, polysaccharides, nucleic acids, hair and skin" (Argin, 2007, p. 9). Chitosan, a linear polysaccharide, possess both reactive amino groups and hydroxyl groups that may be utilized to modify its physical and solution properties Chitin and chitosan, currently being extensively utilized in the pharmaceutical industry, may be found in artificial skin, cosmetics, contact lenses and wound dressing. They are also routinely used in manufacturing animal feed, chromatography, dietary supplements, paper, photography components, solid state batteries, and for waste water treatment. Chitosan, Argin (2007) further explains is not soluble at alkaline and neutral pH, however, it is soluble in inorganic and organic acids, "such as hydrochloric acid, acetic acid, lactic acid and glutamic acid. Water soluble chitosan can be formed when hydrogen-bond formation is prevented by partial re-acetylation of chitosan molecules by several means" (Argin, 2007, p. 10). In addition, significant research has been invested to investigate the use of chitosan as a drug delivery vehicle, particularly for the treatment of ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, and other colon diseases. Research also includes the exploration of chitosan as a dietary supplement to lower cholesterol and to help control weight. Generally, chitosan for human oral administration is accepted as safe and approved for food use in Italy, Norway, and Japan. "In the U.S., chitosan… approved as a food additive by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)" (Argin, 2007, p. 10). In 1985, however, the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) approved chitosan for its use in animal feed; provided the level does not exceed 0.1% of the feed. Figure 3 depicts the molecular structure of chitosan; while Figure 3 portrays the chemical structure of chitosan. Figure 3: Molecular Structure of Chitosan (Baynes-Clarke & Taylor, 2001, Molecular Structure section…). Figure 4: Chemical Structure of Chitosan (Baynes-Clarke & Taylor, 2001, Molecular Structure section…). Chitin-Chitosan in Clinical Practice In the publication, "Chitin-Chitosan: The power of crab shell," Stephen Levine, (2007), Biochemist from UC Berkeley, reports that Dr. Akira Matsunaga (2007), the first doctor in Japan to use chitin-chitosan in clinical practice, explains the differences in processing chitin and chitosan: Chitin-chitosan (CC) is a mixture of chitin and chitosan. The chitin, the component of the crab shell, becomes chitosan upon enzymatic treatment. Chitin may be "the primordial form" of some of the first living things on earth, existing much earlier than dinosaurs. In order to extract only the chitin from crab shell, a chemical process is used consisting of 5% hydrochloric acid, which removes the calcium, and 5% sodium hydroxide, which dissolves the protein. If the chitin is deacetylated (by treating it with 45% sodium hydroxide (or caustic sodium) at a high temperature), chitosan is produced (Levine, 2007, p. 1). This treatment, albeit, does not produce 100% chitosan, but basically produces a mixture of 10-15% chitin plus 85-90% pure chitosan, called "pure CC." In the U.S., chitosan constitutes a mixture of approximately7% chitin plus approximately 93% chitosan. Outside of cost-effectiveness, the biological effects of chitin produced from each source appears identical. "Chitosan oligosaccharides (CO) takes chitosan a big step further," Matsunaga (2007 explains. "When CC is ingested, a small amount of it is broken down into very small molecular particles by the enzymes of the body, thus producing CO. CO can also be manufactured by using an enzymatic process" (Matsunaga, as cited in Levine, p. 1). The body more readily absorbs CO, although CO contains less fiber than regular CC. In Case History 1: Low Pulmonary (Lung) Function, Matsunaga (Levine, 2007) treats his first patient, also his father, with the administration of CC. Previous treatments had yielded no results for Matsunaga's father who suffered from diminished lung function, which resulted from lung surgery to treat tuberculosis 30 years previously. Dependent on an oxygen tank, Matsunnaga's father could only walk a few steps each day. "After taking only two capsules of chitosan twice per day (a total of 120 mg) for one week, Matsunaga's father was able to walk around the house without his oxygen tank" (Levine,, p. 1). By the tenth day, Matsunaga's father could leave the house. He quit taking medications, yet he did not experience any adverse effects; living three years of additional improved health and life quality before he died at age 81. Matsunaga (Levine, 2007) describes Case History 2, relating details of a patient with skin cancer. Other doctors had recommended that the ear lobe of the 75-year-old man, with skin cancer on his ear, had to be removed. Once more, following a myriad of ineffective treatments, Matsunaga prescribed the identical dosage he had given to his father; 2 caps of chitosan 2x per day. The cancer reportedly started to shrink within one week. Following four more days of treatment with chitosan, the cancer completely disappeared. As a result of the impressive results, Matsunaga began to implemtn the use of chitosan on a wider scale in his clinical practice; carefully documenting detail. Typically, "he found that weak patients became stronger, and healthy patients became healthier; that often symptoms resistant to medications were alleviated; common daily complaints such as constipation, shoulder stiffness, low back pain, etc., disappeared" (Levine, p. 1). Patients generally were able to reduce their medication dosages by an average of 30%; lessening side effects experienced from medication. The quality of life for those terminally ill patients treated with chitosan also significantly improved, Matsunaga reports. From his studies, Matsunaga (Levine, 2007) found that chitosan proved effective in treating a wide variety of health conditions. These conditions included: "Circulatory and heart diseases, dermatoligical diseases (atopic dermatitis, etc.), opthamological (eye) conditions, ENT (ear, nose & throat) conditions, hemorrhoids, and a multitude of problems affecting all organs of the body" (p.1). In 1982, through the Ministry of Agriculture and Fishery, in response to the as massive piles of unused crab shells accumulating at numerous crab meat processing plants, the Japanese government initiated a ten-year project to develop ways to utilize unused biomass. Following the funding of a six billion dollar grant by the Ministry of Education for "A New Extension of Basic and Clinical Researchers on Chitin-Chitosan and Their Enzymes," 13 universities began research relating to chitosan. Findings from some the research during this time included: Animal Studies Cholesterol & Liver Health: Findings revealed that "CC lowered cholesterol and neutral fats, and prevented liver dysfunction." The livers of the group not treated with CC appeared inflamed and fatty livers. The livers of the chitosan group, albeit, appeared completely normal. Findings from a number of animal studies revealed that CC absorbs LDLcholesterol and transports it out of the body through the intestines. It also raises HDL cholesterol (Levine,, 2007, p. 2). Cancer CC reportedly possess anticancer action, and prevents metastases of cancer cells; studies reported that macrophage and natural killer cells were strengthened. (Levine, 2007, p. 2). Blood Pressure As chitosan inhibits ACE activity, it removes chlorine, and in turn, no hypertension results (Levine,, 2007, p. 2). Table 1 depicts a summary of several abstracts reflecting extensive research on chitosan-oligosaccharide, along with numerous potential benefits for health: Table 1: Comparison of Chiosan-oligosaccharide Studies (adapted from Levine,, 2007, p. 2). Author(s), Date Title of Study Purpose/Method Results of Study H.W. Lee, Y.S. Park, J.S. Jung & W.S. Shin; Chitosan oligosaccharides, dp 2-8, have prebiotic effect on the Bifidobacterium bifidium and Lacto-bacillus sp. To investigate the prebiotic potential of chitosan oligosaccharide (COS), the effect of COS on bacterial growth was studied... The effects of COS on the growth of bifidobacteria and lactic acid bacteria were compared with those of fructooligosaccharide (FOS). Chitosan oligosaccharide can promote the growth of friendly bifidobacteria and lactobacillus. Unlike fructooligo saccharides (FOS), which promote the growth of only three probiotic strains, chitosan oligosaccharide supports almost all bifido- and lacto-bacillus species. Y. Yan, L. Wanshun, H. Baoqin, L. Bing, & F. Chenwei; May 2006. Protective effects of chitosan oligosaccharide and its derivatives against carbon tetrachloride-induced liver damage in mice. To examine the protective effects of chitosan oligosaccharide (COS), dglucosamine (GlcNH (2)) and N-acetyl-d-glucosamine (GlcNAc) on carbon tetrachloride (CCl (4))-induced hepatotoxicity and the possible mechanisms that involved were investigated in male ICR mice. Chitosan oligosaccharide has been shown to protect the liver from damage by carbon tetrachloride in mice. H.J. Yoon, H.S. Park, H.S. Bom, Y.B. Roh, J.S. Kim & Y.H. Kim; September 2005. Chitosan oligosaccharide inhibits 203HgCl2-induced genotoxicity in mice: micronuclei occurrence and chromosomal aberration. To investigate the effect of chitosan oligosaccharide on mercury- induced chromosome aberration; mice in each condition were supplied with 203HgCl2 and chitosan oligosaccharide ad libitum. Chitosan oligosaccharide has been shown to protect against mercury toxicity in mice. H.W. Lee, Y.S. Park, J.W. Choi, S.Y. Yi & W.S. Shin; August 2003. Antidiabetic effects of chitosan oligosaccharides in neonatal streptozotocin-induced noninsulin-dependent diabetes mellitus in rats. To examine the antidiabetic effect of chitosan oligosaccharide (COS) in neonatal streptozotocin (STZ)-induced noninsulin- dependent diabetes mellitus rats. In non-insulin-dependent diabetic rats, chitosan oligosaccharide had an anti-diabetic effect. The fasting glucose level was reduced by about 19% in diabetic rats after treatment with 0.3% COS. Glucose tolerance was lower in the diabetic group compared with the normal group J.S. Moon, H.K Kim, H.C. Koo, Y.S. Joo, H.M. Nam, Y.H. Park & M.I. Kang; March 2007. The antibacterial and immunostimulative effect of chitosan-oligosaccharides against infection by Staphylococcus aureus isolated from bovine mastitis. Based on previous study, this study evaluates the in vivo cure efficacy of chitosan on bovine mastitis, a more water-soluble chitosanoligosaccharide (OCHT) with a high degree of deacetylation and low molecular weight was prepared to obtain high antibiotic efficacy. The growth of Staphylococcus aureus isolated from bovine mastitis was inhibited within 10 min of treatment with OCHT in concentrations ranging from 0.0001 to 0.5% in the mice for this study. Chitosan oligosaccharide has been shown to have antibacterial and immunostimulative effects against infection by Staphylococcus aureus. As chitosan's molecular weight consists of several hundred thousands to several millions, Matsunaga explains, chitosan binds well to heavy metals and efficiently excretes the metal particles from the body. When chitosan binds to them, the heavy metals cannot remain ionized. They become enclosed within the chitosan molecules. Originally, pure chitosan is white or off-white, however, when excreted bound to a heavy metal, chitosan converts to the color of that metal. Copper in chitosan, for example, "comes out as dark blue, nickel comes out as light blue, cobalt -- pink, iron -- light yellowish brown, chrome -- brown, etc. (Levine, 2007, p. 3). Matsunaga suggests the ability of chitosan to bond to metal could prove particularly helpful to individuals who consume a diet high in fish diet, such as the Japanese, as they may be ingesting high amounts of mercury. Chitosans' heavy metal binding benefits, however, extend beyond the human body. As chitosan, a natural material is not toxic, and massive amounts of it do not negatively affect the environment, it may also be utilized to treat heavy metals that waste product, produced by industry, contain (Levine, 2007). Read the full article

[testing-services]

How to Choose an ISO Certified Lab Near Me for Water and Air Quality Testing?

Ensuring the safety and purity of water and air is crucial for public health, industrial compliance, and environmental sustainability. Whether you are a business, an organization, or a homeowner, finding a reliable ISO certified lab near me for water and air quality testing is essential. ISO-certified laboratories provide accurate and standardized testing that meets international regulations. In this guide, we will discuss the key factors to consider when choosing the right ISO-certified lab for water and air quality testing.

What is an ISO Certified Lab?

An ISO-certified lab follows internationally recognized standards set by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). These labs undergo rigorous assessments to ensure quality, accuracy, and consistency in their testing procedures. The most relevant accreditation for testing labs is ISO 17025, which guarantees that the lab has the technical competence to perform tests and calibrations correctly.

Why is Water and Air Quality Testing Important?

Public Health Protection – Contaminated water and poor air quality can lead to serious health issues, including respiratory diseases and waterborne illnesses.

Regulatory Compliance – Businesses must comply with environmental regulations to avoid fines and legal consequences.

Industrial and Commercial Standards – Manufacturing plants, food production units, and healthcare facilities must maintain air and water quality for operational efficiency.

Environmental Conservation – Monitoring air and water quality helps reduce pollution and ensures sustainable resource use.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing an ISO Certified Lab Near Me

1. Check the Lab’s ISO Certification

Ensure the laboratory is accredited with ISO 17025, which is the gold standard for testing laboratories. You can verify the certification by checking the lab’s website, accreditation body databases, or requesting a copy of their ISO certificate.

2. Expertise and Testing Capabilities

Different laboratories specialize in various testing services. Make sure the lab you choose offers:

Water Testing Services: pH levels, microbial contamination, heavy metals, pesticide residues, dissolved oxygen, and chemical pollutants.

Air Quality Testing Services: Particulate matter (PM2.5, PM10), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), carbon monoxide (CO), sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and mold testing.

3. Advanced Testing Equipment and Technology

A well-equipped lab with modern instrumentation ensures precise and reliable results. Look for labs that use spectrophotometers, gas chromatography, mass spectrometry, and advanced microbiological testing methods for water and air analysis.

4. Turnaround Time for Results

If you need quick results for compliance or emergency situations, choose a lab that provides fast turnaround times without compromising accuracy. Some labs offer same-day or expedited services for urgent testing needs.

5. Accreditation from Government and Regulatory Bodies

Apart from ISO certification, a reputable lab should be recognized by local and international regulatory authorities such as:

Environmental Protection Agencies

Municipal Health Departments

Food and Drug Authorities (for food-related water testing)

Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) for workplace air quality

6. Reputation and Customer Reviews

Customer feedback is a great indicator of a lab’s reliability. Look for online reviews, testimonials, and case studies to see if the lab has a history of providing excellent service. You can also ask for references from other businesses or organizations that have used their services.

7. Cost-Effectiveness

While choosing an ISO certified lab near me, consider the cost of testing. Prices can vary based on the type of analysis, sample volume, and urgency. Request quotes from multiple labs and compare their pricing against the services offered.

8. Customer Support and Consultation Services

A good lab should provide professional guidance on test results and offer recommendations based on findings. If the lab offers consultancy services on improving water and air quality, it’s a sign of their commitment to customer satisfaction.

Top Benefits of Using an ISO Certified Lab for Water and Air Quality Testing

Accuracy and Reliability – ISO-certified labs follow strict guidelines to deliver precise results.

Global Recognition – ISO accreditation ensures compliance with international regulatory standards.

Improved Health and Safety – Helps businesses and households maintain safe drinking water and clean air environments.

Better Decision-Making – Reliable test results allow industries and authorities to take corrective actions to reduce pollution and contamination.

Final Thoughts

Finding the best ISO certified lab near me for water and air quality testing requires careful consideration of certification, expertise, equipment, and reputation. Prioritizing ISO 17025-accredited laboratories ensures that you receive accurate, reliable, and compliant test results. Whether you are a business owner, a manufacturer, or a concerned citizen, choosing the right lab will help you safeguard public health and meet regulatory requirements effectively.

[didanawisgi]

“A few days ago I wrote about glutathione (GSH), G6PD, and cancer. The topic was controversial, and I lost a few FB friends as a result.

So, to continue this controversial discussion, today, let us find out what can go wrong, if anything at all, when you supplement with GSH or thiol precursors such as NAC. After all, GSH and NAC are effective antioxidants, what can possibly go wrong, right? Wrong.

If you have a bacterial infection, I suggest you stay clear of thiols such as GSH. Why?

A peer-reviewed study published last year reported that GSH can be responsible for the activation of virulence gene expression and contributing to enhanced biofilm formation. You can see how GSH increases the expression of virulence genes in three different, common bacteria during infection in the diagram below [1].

😖In addition, the report indicated that GSH, contrary to observations in some works, can enhance and increase the formation of biofilms [1]. The controversy in exogenous GSH treatment lies in the fact that for exogenous GSH to inhibit biofilms in vitro, a large concentration is necessary. At those concentrations, GSH becomes highly acidic. 20 mM of GSH has a pH of 3.92. A study reported that 30 mM GSH at neutral pH of 7.2 did not decrease the viability of biofilm formation; whereas 30 mM GSH at unbuffered pH significantly decreased biofilm viability [2]. So you have to ask, how likely it is that you can take enough GSH to stop biofilm formation, and do you want such an acidic pH inside your body, assuming, of course, that the body does not react to buffer the acidity.

😱Furthermore, GSH can be broken down into hydrogen sulfide (H 2S). H2S is associated with the virulence of several bacteria. One that may interest you is the Treponema denticola, an oral spirochete bacterium associated with periodontal disease. This bacteria can break down GSH into H2S, which is responsible for the pathogenesis of periodontal disease including soft tissue damage. And if you take NAC, be aware of the fact that E. coli converts cysteine into H2S!

🙀 Most shocking of all is the fact that the spirochette Borrelia burgdorferi, responsible for lyme disease can increase GSH metabolism in macrophages by 10-fold in individuals with lyme disease. Increased GSH metabolism results in a lowered GSH:GSSG ratio, which then translates into the suppression of cytokine responses against the infection to benefit the bacteria [1] See diagram below.

Does it surprise you that GSH is one of the most important redox systems in many bacteria for maintaining their metabolism and homeostasis, and that GSH plays a critical role in bacterial pathogenicity by maintaining optimal bacterial growth and survival? What effects do you thing will result from taking GSH during bacterial infections, lyme disease, periodontal disease, just to name a few?

Like I said in the previous post on GSH, nothing is 'black' or 'white'. Context matters.

Have you had your MEL and AA today?*

* Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Ascorbic acid, melatonin and any other product mentioned is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.” - Doris Loh

References:

[1] Ku, J. W. K.; Gan, Y.-H. New Roles for Glutathione: Modulators of Bacterial Virulence and Pathogenesis. Redox Biol 2021, 44, 102012. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.redox.2021.102012.

[2] T. Das, D. Paino, A. Manoharan, J. Farrell, G. Whiteley, F.H. Kriel, T. Glasbey, J. Manos

Conditions under which glutathione disrupts the biofilms and improves antibiotic efficacy of both ESKAPE and non-ESKAPE species

[best-testing-lab-saudi]

How to Choose a Reliable Food Shelf Life Testing Lab in Ajman for Your Business? | +971 554747210

For food manufacturers and exporters in Ajman, ensuring product safety, quality, and compliance with regulations is essential. Choosing a reliable food shelf life testing lab near me is a crucial step in maintaining product integrity and meeting global standards. These labs help businesses determine the longevity of their products, optimize packaging, and ensure compliance with health and safety regulations.

The Importance of Food Shelf Life Testing for Businesses in Ajman

Food shelf life testing provides essential data to help businesses:

Ensure Product Safety: Identify potential risks related to bacterial growth, chemical changes, and environmental factors.

Meet Regulatory Standards: Comply with local and international food safety requirements.

Optimize Storage and Distribution: Extend product shelf life to reduce waste and maximize profitability.

Enhance Brand Reputation: Deliver high-quality, safe food products that build consumer trust.

Choosing the right food shelf life testing lab in Ajman can help businesses improve their production processes and successfully enter competitive markets.

Key Factors to Consider When Selecting a Food Shelf Life Testing Lab in Ajman

When looking for a reliable food shelf life testing lab near me, businesses should evaluate several critical factors:

1. Accreditations and Certifications

Ensure the lab is ISO 17025 accredited, which signifies compliance with international laboratory testing standards.

Check if the lab is approved by the Emirates Authority for Standardization and Metrology (ESMA) and other regulatory bodies.

Look for affiliations with global food safety organizations to ensure credibility.

2. Range of Testing Services

A top-tier food shelf life testing lab should offer a comprehensive range of services, including:

Microbiological Testing: Detects bacterial contamination, yeast, and mold growth.

Chemical Analysis: Measures pH, moisture content, oxidation levels, and ingredient stability.

Nutritional Testing: Ensures that products meet labeling requirements.

Sensory Evaluation: Examines changes in texture, taste, color, and odor.

Packaging Integrity Testing: Assesses how packaging affects product freshness and safety.

Accelerated Shelf Life Testing: Uses controlled conditions to predict product stability over time.

3. Industry Experience and Expertise

Choose a lab with experience in testing food products similar to yours (e.g., dairy, bakery, frozen foods, beverages).

Look for a team of qualified microbiologists, chemists, and food scientists.

Check if the lab has worked with major food brands and exporters.

4. Turnaround Time and Efficiency

Timely results are critical for businesses looking to launch products or meet export deadlines.

Inquire about standard and expedited testing options.

Ensure the lab has the latest technology to deliver accurate results quickly.

5. Customer Support and Consultation Services

A reliable lab should provide guidance on improving shelf life and food safety.

Choose a lab that offers post-testing consultations to help businesses implement necessary changes.

Consider whether the lab provides on-site support and sampling services.

6. Reputation and Client Reviews

Research online reviews and testimonials from other food businesses in Ajman.

Ask for references or case studies showcasing past success stories.

A well-established lab with a positive track record is a safer choice.

7. Compliance with International Export Standards

For businesses targeting international markets, a food shelf life testing lab must comply with:

GCC Food Safety Regulations (for exports within the Gulf region)

European Union (EU) Standards

US FDA Guidelines

Codex Alimentarius Guidelines

A lab that understands global compliance will ensure seamless market entry.

Benefits of Partnering with a Reliable Food Shelf Life Testing Lab in Ajman

1. Minimized Product Recalls and Rejections

Accurate shelf life testing ensures that food products remain safe throughout their expected lifespan, reducing the chances of costly product recalls.

2. Improved Profit Margins

By optimizing shelf life, businesses can minimize waste, reduce losses, and improve profitability.

3. Enhanced Consumer Trust

High-quality, well-tested products establish credibility, leading to greater customer loyalty and repeat purchases.

4. Regulatory Peace of Mind

Reliable testing ensures businesses remain compliant with Ajman Municipality Food Control, UAE food safety laws, and international export standards.

How to Get Started with a Food Shelf Life Testing Lab in Ajman

If you're ready to work with a food shelf life testing lab near me, follow these steps:

Research and Shortlist Labs: Compare different labs based on services, certifications, and client feedback.

Request a Consultation: Speak with lab representatives to understand their capabilities and process.

Submit Food Samples: Provide necessary food samples for testing under different storage conditions.

Review the Test Report: Analyze the results and take necessary action to improve product shelf life.

Implement Changes: Work with your testing lab to enhance product stability, packaging, and overall safety.

Conclusion

Selecting the right food shelf life testing lab in Ajman is essential for food manufacturers and exporters looking to ensure product safety, compliance, and market competitiveness. By considering factors like accreditation, expertise, and service range, businesses can find a lab that meets their unique needs. Investing in professional shelf life testing helps businesses reduce waste, enhance product quality, and build consumer trust in Ajman’s growing food industry.

[vishvajit123]

Global Liquid Hand Soap Market: Product Type Analysis, Market Size, Regional Insights, Company Share, Key Player Profiles, and Forecast (2025–2035)

Liquid Hand Soap Market Overview

The global liquid hand soap market was valued at USD 3.43 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 7.45 billion by 2035, growing at a CAGR of 7.3% (2025–2035). The market is driven by increasing hygiene awareness, demand for antibacterial solutions, and innovations in eco-friendly packaging. Consumers are shifting towards liquid soaps due to their perceived cleanliness and convenience compared to traditional bar soaps.

Get free sample Research Report - https://www.metatechinsights.com/request-sample/1979

Market Dynamics

Growing hygiene awareness and changing handwashing habits are key market drivers. Research indicates that 75% of consumers increased handwashing post-pandemic, boosting demand for liquid soaps. Government and NGO-led hygiene campaigns, along with stricter sanitation regulations in public spaces, continue to reinforce this habit. Additionally, sustainable packaging and the use of natural ingredients are influencing consumer choices. Brands are increasingly offering biodegradable packaging, refillable solutions, and plant-based formulations to meet eco-conscious consumer preferences. Ingredients such as aloe vera and essential oils are gaining popularity as consumers seek gentler, skin-friendly options.

However, price sensitivity remains a challenge for premium liquid hand soap variants. Many budget-conscious consumers prefer affordable private-label brands and bulk refills over high-end organic or antibacterial soaps. While sustainability is a growing priority, the higher cost of eco-friendly packaging and natural ingredients limits widespread adoption in price-sensitive regions.

E-commerce and direct-to-consumer (DTC) sales are reshaping the market landscape. Online shopping platforms enable consumers to access customized soaps, subscription-based refills, and bulk discounts while comparing ingredients and reviews. Digital marketing strategies, influencer partnerships, and quick-commerce delivery services further drive market expansion. Additionally, functional innovations in hand soaps are gaining traction, with brands introducing antibacterial, pH-balanced, and skincare-infused formulations to meet diverse consumer needs. Seasonal fragrances and aromatherapy-infused soaps enhance brand loyalty and consumer engagement.

Read Full Research Report  – https://www.metatechinsights.com/industry-insights/liquid-hand-soap-market-1979

Segment Analysis

By product type, antibacterial liquid soap dominates the market, driven by heightened hygiene concerns post-COVID-19. Healthcare facilities, food service businesses, and public institutions are major consumers due to strict sanitation regulations. To address concerns about dryness from frequent washing, brands are introducing moisturizing antibacterial soaps with dermatologist-tested formulas.

By packaging, pump bottles lead the market due to their hygienic and convenient dispensing. They are widely used in households, workplaces, and public restrooms. However, refill packs are gaining traction among environmentally conscious consumers who prefer waste-reducing solutions over single-use plastic bottles.

Regional Insights

North America holds the largest market share due to strong retail and e-commerce infrastructure, high hygiene awareness, and a preference for premium and organic products. Consumers in the U.S. and Canada favor liquid soaps with natural ingredients and dermatologist-recommended formulations. Leading brands are focusing on sustainability by launching refillable packaging and eco-friendly formulations to attract environmentally conscious buyers.

The Asia-Pacific region is the fastest-growing market, driven by increasing urbanization, rising disposable incomes, and growing awareness of hygiene practices. Countries like China, India, and Japan are witnessing a shift from traditional bar soaps to liquid hand soaps due to their convenience and perceived hygiene benefits. Public health campaigns, expanding retail distribution, and a preference for herbal and organic products are further fueling market growth. Both global and local brands are introducing budget-friendly liquid soaps to cater to diverse consumer needs.

Buy Now https://www.metatechinsights.com/checkout/1979

Competitive Landscape

The liquid hand soap market is highly competitive, with leading players such as Procter & Gamble (P&G), Unilever, Colgate-Palmolive, and Johnson & Johnson investing in innovation, branding, and sustainability. Companies are focusing on eco-friendly packaging, digital marketing, and product diversification to strengthen their market position.

For instance, Procter & Gamble (P&G) leverages its extensive distribution network and brand reputation to maintain a dominant presence. Through its Safeguard brand, P&G offers a range of antibacterial and moisturizing liquid soaps. The company also invests in sustainable packaging solutions, such as refillable bottles and recyclable materials, to align with environmental trends. Digital marketing campaigns and e-commerce collaborations further enhance brand visibility and customer engagement.

[students-lives]

The 7 Principles of HACCP

The 7 Principles of HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points) set up by digitalia certifications are addressed in a systematic approach to the management of food safety.

Identifies potential biological, chemical, and physical hazards with food production.

Critical Control Points (CCPs), identifies the significant points in food processing at which control of the hazards needs to be controlled to ensure the product safety.

Sets critical limits for each CCP, such as temperatures or pH values.

Monitoring Procedures, whereby constant observation and testing ensure that CCPs lie between the critical limits.

Corrective Actions: it provides specific measures to be taken once there's been a deviation from a critical limit that would avoid unsafe food from reaching consumers.

Verification Procedures, which concern the review and audits of records and tests to verify the proper functioning of the HACCP system.

Record Keeping and Documentation is to manage every process and the monitoring results and corrective actions for traceability and compliance with regulations.

Overall, these principles, if properly implemented, serve to allow businesses at both the easy level and the complex processing level to maintain food safety, thus preventing contamination and compliance under international standards. Such emphasis is on the value of HACCP by digitalia certifications for consumer health and trust in the food industry.

For more information,

 Visit https://digitaliacertifications.com/

Or call 984 66 400 50.