Next In Natural, a firm specializing in bespoke operations for emerging organic food and beverage companies, announced the expansion of a new M&A division and the appointment of Ted Tieken as chief future officer at its helm.

A Prepared Foods infographic highlighting 2024 trends in Natural & Organic seen at Natural Products Expo West.

Prepared Foods surveys natural sweetener ingredients for use in food and beverage product development.

Food and beverage manufacturers will be able to see the difference natural colors make for themselves in a wide variety of applications in the Beverage, Candies & Confections, Snacks & Bakery Goods, Meat Alternatives, and Nutraceutical categories. Colors are available in liquid, concentrate, and California Natural Color’s proprietary crystal color technology.

Just in time to provide real immune support throughout the winter, these gourmet elderberry gummies are made from fresh, sustainable, wild picked California elderberries. 

The FDA considers the term “natural” to mean that nothing artificial or synthetic (including all color additives regardless of source) has been included in, or has been added to, a food that would not normally be expected to be in that food.

In the rush to eliminate these sugars, developers often overlook the variety, richness, and culinary versatility that natural caloric sweeteners provide. Such sugars—also termed “nutritive sweeteners”—not only offer sweetness but can add layers of flavor, color, and even nutritional benefits, all in a clean-label format. 

The expansion will enable the company to increase its capacity to process and store excess food, handle repackaged goods and increase the number of trucks loading inventory.

Armina, a natural stone importer and fabrictor headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is expanding into the South Florida market by opening two new locations. 

The global fruit pulp market is expected to grow from $1.9 billion in 2024 to $2.8 billion by 2031, at a CAGR of 5.4%.

Children's Geographies; 02/01/2024
(AN 175911758); ISSN: 14733285
Academic Search Premier

The Office National des Forêts expansion by Atelier Delalande Tabourin in Versailles blends architecture with the surrounding forest environment.

The post Naturalistic Study of Ketamine in the Treatment of Depression was curated by information for practice.

by Wm. Steven Humphrey

GOOD MORNING, SUNDAY! It's the perfect time to catch up on some of the great reporting and stories the Mercury churned out this week! (PRO TIP: If you despise being "the last to know," then be one of the first to know by signing up for Mercury newsletters! All the latest stories shipped directly to your email's in-box... and then... YOUR HEAD.)

• Lawsuits Allege Deceit and Greenwashing by Oregon’s Largest Gas Utility

Advocates hope two lawsuits filed this month against gas utility NW Natural lead to change. The lawsuits say NW Natural has lied to customers and shared greenwashing propaganda, including spreading misinformation about a state climate policy.

• POP QUIZ PDX!

It's the spooooky HALLOWEEN edition of your fave weekly trivia quiz! This week: creepy Trump statues, ghost cars, and Portland's most HAUNTED locales! OoooOOOoooooh! (That's our imitation of a ghost, btw. ????) See how well YOU score!

• The Mercury's November 2024 VOTER CHEAT SHEET!

Filling out your ballot this weekend? GOOD! Need help? Voila, here's your 100% accurate Mercury Endorsement Cheat Sheet to help you fill out your ballot lickety-split!

• How Portland Became a Roller Derby Mecca

Twenty years ago, Portland's first modern roller derby league emerged. It's now the largest derby league in the world. Now, the four-time global champion Rose City Rollers will compete for another title win this weekend at the Veterans Memorial Coliseum.

• Could the James Beard Public Market Rise From the Corpse of Corporate Failure?

Long envisioned as Portland's version of Seattle's Pike Place, the James Bear Public Market would also provide an answer to downtown’s dearth of fresh produce.

• What to Expect From Portland’s New Government

Good news: Portland is getting a (much needed) new form of city government in January. But what exactly is changing for our elected officials? And, perhaps more importantly, how will all of this impact you?

• THE TRASH REPORT

If you're looking for the trashiest gossip from this election season, then you've found the right garbage can. ???? ????

• TICKET ALERT

Get those tickets now for the shows you don't want to miss, including Tyler, The Creator, country pop princess Kelsea Ballerini, and Berlin-based pianist, composer, and producer Nils Frahm!

• Infinite Life: A Play About Pain That Hurts So Good

Third Rail Repertory kicks off its 2024-25 season with a work by contemporary theater star Annie Baker. Never before have six actors worked their respective chaise lounges with such verve.

• Don't Miss the Mercury's ELECTION NIGHT WATCH PARTY!

Looking for fun on election night? Join your friends at Mississippi Studios for the Mercury's official election night watch party—hosted by the hilarious Alex Falcone and Shain Brenden! (And what? IT'S FREE!)

WOW, THAT IS A LOT OF GOOD READIN'. I hope you didn't have any other plans this weekend! Dig in, and remember: Producing all this hard work costs moolah—so please consider contributing to the Mercury to keep it all coming! Thanks!

Makaronina.Ru has compiled a list of natural antidepressants, namely indoor plants that have the ability to positively affect a person's emotional state. One such plant is lavender, whose aroma can help alleviate headaches, anxiety, and stress. The plant's essential oils, which are actively released into the air, can also reduce high blood pressure and combat insomnia. Basil is another plant that can have a positive impact on both the cardiovascular system and emotional state, while lemon is effective in combating stress, anxiety, and tension.

Digital Science's flagship product Dimensions has launched a beta of a new AI-based Natural Language to Query search technology.

Natural flood management: is geology more important than trees?  British Geological Survey

Beauveriolides, including the main beauveriolide I {systematic name: (3R,6S,9S,13S)-9-benzyl-13-[(2S)-hexan-2-yl]-6-methyl-3-(2-methyl­prop­yl)-1-oxa-4,7,10-tri­aza­cyclo­tridecane-2,5,8,11-tetrone, C27H41N3O5}, are a series of cyclo­depsipeptides that have shown promising results in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease and in the prevention of foam cell formation in atherosclerosis. Their crystal structure studies have been difficult due to their tiny crystal size and fibre-like morphology, until now. Recent developments in 3D electron diffraction methodology have made it possible to accurately study the crystal structures of submicron crystals by overcoming the problems of beam sensitivity and dynamical scattering. In this study, the absolute structure of beauveriolide I was determined by 3D electron diffraction. The cyclo­dep­si­peptide crystallizes in the space group I2 with lattice parameters a = 40.2744 (4), b = 5.0976 (5), c = 27.698 (4) Å and β = 105.729 (6)°. After dynamical refinement, its absolute structure was determined by comparing the R factors and calculating the z-scores of the two possible enanti­omorphs of beauveriolide I.

The crystal structure of the salt calcium (2R,3R)-tar­trate tetra­hydrate {sys­tem­atic name: poly[[di­aqua­[μ4-(2R,3R)-2,3-di­hydroxy­butane­dioato]calcium(II)] di­hydrate]}, {[Ca(C4H8O8)(H2O)2]·2H2O}n, is reported. The absolute configuration of the crystal was established unambiguously using anomalous dispersion effects in the diffraction patterns. High-quality data also allowed the location and free refinement of all the H atoms, and therefore to a careful analysis of the hy­dro­gen-bond inter­actions.

Three organoplatinum(II) complexes bearing natural aryl­olefin and quinoline derivatives, namely, [4-meth­oxy-5-(2-meth­oxy-2-oxoeth­oxy)-2-(prop-2-en-1-yl)phen­yl](quinolin-8-olato)platinum(II), [Pt(C13H15O4)(C9H6NO)], (I), [4-meth­oxy-5-(2-oxo-2-propoxyeth­oxy)-2-(prop-2-en-1-yl)phen­yl](quinoline-2-carboxy­l­ato)platinum(II), [Pt(C15H19O4)(C10H6NO2)], (II), and chlorido­[4-meth­oxy-5-(2-oxo-2-propoxyeth­oxy)-2-(prop-2-en-1-yl)phen­yl](quinoline)­plat­inum(II), [Pt(C15H19O4)Cl(C9H7N)], (III), were synthesized and structurally characterized by IR and 1H NMR spectroscopy, and by single-crystal X-ray diffraction. The results showed that the cyclo­platinated aryl­olefin coordinates with PtII via the carbon atom of the phenyl ring and the C=Colefinic group. The deprotonated 8-hy­droxy­quinoline (C9H6NO) and quinoline-2-carb­oxy­lic acid (C10H6NO2) coordinate with the PtII atom via the N and O atoms in complexes (I) and (II) while the quinoline (C9H7N) coordinates via the N atom in (III). Moreover, the coordinating N atom in complexes (I)–(III) is in the cis position compared to the C=Colefinic group. The crystal packing is characterized by C—H⋯π, C—H⋯O [for (II) and (III)], C—H⋯Cl [for (III) and π–π [for (I)] inter­actions.

Cancer-causing chemicals that occur naturally in foods are far more numerous in the human diet than synthetic carcinogens, yet both types are consumed at levels so low that they currently appear to pose little threat to human health, a committee of the National Research Council said in a report released today.

A new report from the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine identifies strategies for improving the reliability of bolts used in offshore oil and gas drilling rigs, thereby reducing the risk that a bolt failure could cause a spill of oil, drilling fluids, or natural gas into the environment.

Improved understanding of the coupled natural-human coastal system will help promote resilience of coastal communities and ecosystems under rapidly changing environmental conditions and support informed decision-making, says a new report from the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine.

The Gulf Research Program (GRP) of the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine today announced a new funding opportunity under its Healthy Ecosystems Initiative.

A National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine study that is now underway aims to identify best practices for collecting, recording, and reporting death and illness data during and immediately after large-scale weather disasters.

Over the next five years, the U.S. Department of Defense’s Biological Threat Reduction Program (BTRP) should encourage and be among co-leaders in the federal government’s development of an enduring interagency mechanism to address an array of biological threats – including natural disease outbreaks, accidental releases, and intentional attacks -- to deployed U.S. forces and to the nation itself, says a new report from the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine

The Gulf Research Program (GRP) of the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine today announced grant awards totaling $5.27 million for six new projects. These projects, planned to span two to three years, aim to improve understanding of how natural processes and human activities interact to affect coastal ecosystems in the U.S. Gulf Coast region.

In the wake of this year’s record-breaking wildfire and hurricane season, efforts are ramping up to rebuild communities and natural ecosystems in places devastated by fire and storms. Restoring natural ecosystems requires replacing the trees, grasses, flowers, herbs, shrubs, and other plants that have evolved and occur naturally in a particular region.

Explore the art of natural perfumery at the UC Botanical Garden at Berkeley with Jessica Mennella of FLWR Napa Valley. Learn the foundation and techniques of natural perfumery using the Slow Scent® method of perfuming developed by renowned perfumer Mandy Aftel. Jessica Mennella, trained by Aftel, will be your instructor for this hands-on and interactive class. During the workshop, you will have the opportunity to explore 18 botanicals whose complexity of scent is linked directly to the plants and flowers from which they are derived. You will also learn the basic structure of Slow Scent® natural perfume formulation and blending techniques. No prior experience is necessary, and all materials will be provided. By the end of the workshop, you will have created your own signature perfume using the formula you developed in class. Additionally, you will receive a guide to the process of making natural perfumes. The art of natural perfumery is rooted in the history and beauty of botanical materials. And among our senses, scent has the unique ability to instantly transform our mood and life experience. Come perfume in the gardens and discover for yourself how scent can take you to another place and time. Whether you are new to natural perfumery or have attended previous workshops, you are welcome to join us!

Supernatural teamed up with King Arthur Baking Company and Vital Farms to launch ten brand-new kits for baking festive treats like gingerbread houses, Hanukkah sugar cookies, buttermilk doughnuts, themed sprinkle sets, and more.

The crisps will be available in 4.94-oz. resealable bags at select retailers nationwide and online at Amazon starting June 15, with a SRP of $6.99–$8.99.

AAK now offers a line of natural plant-based specialty lecithin emulsifier solutions that help improve nutrition, functionality, and processing of a wide variety of food and beverages.

Bob’s Natural has introduced Pinole Chips, featuring the super-power of Pinole—an organic corn treated with lime—chia seeds, and dates.

Artisan salame maker Columbus Foods recently launched a ready-to-bake pizza line called Pizza Naturale.

Parabel USA Inc, producer of plant protein ingredients, has announced the discovery of a natural plant-based source of Vitamin B12 in its water lentil crop.

The all-natural pie company expands into the healthy frozen snack category with almond butter and fruit sandwiches.

DINO BARS are wrapped in edible paper, and all bars are non-GMO, USDA certified organic and free from nuts, gluten, soy, and dairy.

Brothers All Natural is excited to announce the launch of its 1-oz. Freeze-Dried Fuji Apple and Mango Fruit Crisps. 

To support consumers in making conscious decisions, Cabosse Naturals has deepened its collaboration with the Upcycled Food Association.

Comprehensive range from three berry species offering various organoleptic properties, actives compounds, and health benefits.

Producers can harness the supplier’s maple syrup and sugar for pastries and other items.

The trend, termed ‘Regeneration Rising,’ involves new palettes and factors consumers want.

RW Garcia's high level of innovation has catalyzed an ever-expanding customer base for its gluten-free, non-GMO tortilla chips and crackers.

100% natural Ziggy Bars are packed with essential nutrients and fiber and are a way to support digestive health.

The Laars NeoTherm XTR condensing natural gas boiler or volume water heater is available in several MBH sizes all with Laars Linc.

The natural gas meter may be the textbook example of something that is said to be “hidden in plain sight.” Every structure – from house to hospital and grocery store to commercial warehouse – that uses natural gas as the feedstock for its furnaces, stoves or water heaters has at least one of the (usually) gray boxes bolted to its exterior.

The natural energy solutions market is growing as consumers turn to healthy and clean label alternatives for energy.

With all baby boomers at least 65 or older by 2030, beverage-makers should consider what this demographic needs as their shopping habits evolve.

Natural and organic retailers anticipate certain consumer trends for the year.

New beverages today are turning more and more to natural colors as clean label and holistic views of health connect with an increasing consumer base.