Journal Of Agrobiotechnology (Journal of UniSZA - Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin)
Not a member yet
260 research outputs found
Sort by
Effects of Fermentation on Physical Properties and Lactic Acid Bacteria (LAB) Growth in Fermented Fish (Pekasam)d Fish (Pekasam)
No full textFermentation of fish is a food processing method that enables the storage of fish for extended periods. Pekasam is an example of freshwater fermented fish from Malaysia. Fermented fish or seafood causes the presence of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) such as Lactobacillus spp. to aid in the fermentation process. However, the fermentation process can alter the physical properties of the fish, which directly affect consumer acceptability and product quality. Therefore, there is a critical need to evaluate the physical changes occurring in freshwater fermented fish throughout the fermentation period. The goals of this study were to determine the physical properties of different freshwater fish before and after fermentation and to evaluate the colony of LAB during the production of fermented fish. Three species of freshwater fish, silver barbs, three-spot gourami, and climbing perch were prepared and fermented for 7 days. The water activity (aw), salt content, and protein composition were measured using the AOAC method. The LAB growth was measured using the total plate count method (TPC). The aw for all fishes, silver barb, climbing perch, and three-spot gourami significantly decreased after 7 days of fermentation from 0.96% to 0.77% due to the presence of salt in fermented fish. Silver barb recorded the highest salt content (2.70%) after 7 days of fermentation, followed by three-spot gourami (2.10%) and climbing perch (1.60%). The crude protein content for all fish species decreased significantly from a range of 78.07% to 59.82% before fermentation and 57.76% to 37.83% after fermentation due to the protein hydrolysis process. The result of the viability of the LAB growth showed that the three-spot gourami had the highest log CFU/mL, which was 7.46. This corresponds with its highest protein content among the three fish species
Meat Alternative Proteins for Food Security and Sustainability: A Mini Review
No full textProtein is a vital macronutrient for human body functions. It is present in rich amount in animal and plant food sources such as soy, legumes and mushroom. However, animal-based proteins are associated with an increase in chronic diseases such as heart attack and obesity. In addition, raising of the livestock required high land and water use, and significantly led to an increase in greenhouse gas emissions. The increase in worldwide population to 9.8 billion by 2050 underscores the urgent need to secure essential and sustainable food resources, notably protein, for human health. This review provides an insight of alternative proteins - plant-based proteins, insect proteins and cultured meat to meet global protein demand while reducing potential health risks and environmental impact, accordance with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Homology Modeling of Cu/Zn Superoxide Dismutase in Sweet Potato (Ipomoea batatas)
No full textSuperoxide dismutase (SOD) is a ubiquitous antioxidant enzyme essential for protecting cells from damage caused by reactive oxygen species. While the role of SOD in plant stress tolerance, particularly in crops like Ipomoea batatas (Sweet Potato), is well-established but high-resolution experimental structure for its isoenzymes is still lacking. This study aimed to predict the three-dimensional structure of the Cu/Zn SOD in I. batatas using the homology modelling method. Here, we focus on Cu/Zn SOD because it is the dominant isoform in photosynthetically active tissues and provides the fastest catalytic efficiency, making it the primary defence against reactive oxygen species (ROS) in plant. The target sequence was retrieved from the NCBI database, and a suitable template was identified via sequence alignment with 88.16% sequence identity. The model was generated using SWISS-MODEL and subsequently validated using established tools, including Ramachandran analysis, MolProbity, global model evaluation and local model evaluation including GMQE (Global Model Quality Estimate) QMEANDisCo global score and QMEAN Z-score analysis. The structural models provided insights into key functional regions, including the metal-binding active sites. The Cu/Zn active site displayed a distorted tetrahedral geometry, which is essential for superoxide detoxification. Evaluation of the model generated confirmed that it exhibits high reliability, high stereochemical quality, correct folding and strong suitability. These findings provide valuable insights into the action and regulation Cu/Zn SOD of I. batatas and a foundation for guiding targeted enzyme engineering, enhancing our molecular understanding of stress resilience in sweet potato, and supporting future agrobiotechnology efforts. Understanding the structural features of Cu/Zn SOD enables identification of stability-enhancing or activity-boosting residues that can be targeted through gene editing or molecular breeding. Such insights support the development of sweet potato varieties with improved oxidative stress tolerance, higher resilience in changing climates, and better overall crop performance.
Factor Influencing Customer To Revisit Hipster Cafes in Terengganu
No full textHipster cafes are known for offering unconventional and unique cuisine, targeting a youthful demographic with a wide variety of meals and internet access. In recent years, Terengganu has seen a surge in the number of such cafes, akin to mushrooms sprouting after rain. This study investigates the factors influencing customers' intentions to revisit hipster cafes in Terengganu, focusing on service quality, pricing, food quality, cafes ambience and customer satisfaction. Data were collected through an online questionnaire distributed via Google Forms, with responses from 95 individuals who have previously visited hipster cafes. Statistical analyses, including descriptive analysis, multiple linear regression, and normality tests, were conducted using SPSS version 25.0. The findings reveal that all the key factors of service quality, price, food quality, cafes ambience and customer satisfaction significantly influence customers' revisit intentions. In conclusion, the study successfully demonstrates that these factors play a pivotal role in encouraging customers to return to hipster cafes in Terenggan
Effects of Different Foaming Agent Types and Ratios on Physicochemical Properties of Foam Mat Freeze Dried Roselle Powder
No full textHibiscus sabdariffa L. has been utilised in traditional medicine and its roselle calyx extract offers potential as a natural colourant alternative to synthetic red colourant in food products. Fresh roselle calyxes have a limited shelf life thus, drying and processing into powder can improve its shelf stability and preserve the quality and nutritional content. The objective of this study is to study the effect of different foaming agent ratios on the physicochemical properties of foam mat freeze dried (FMFD) roselle powder. The roselle powder was produced by mixing 5% (w/v) maltodextrin with foaming agents, whey protein isolate (WPI) and egg albumen (EA) at concentrations of 5%, 15%, and 30% (w/v), followed by freeze-drying for 24 hours. The FMFD roselle powder produced was further analysed for its total soluble solids, moisture content, water activity, bulk density, tapped density, flowability, solubility, colour and vitamin C. From this study, the total soluble solids, bulk density, tapped density, flowability and solubility of the FMFD roselle powder increase significantly as the foaming agent concentration increases. However, the moisture content, water activity, colour, and vitamin C content of FMFD roselle powder decrease significantly as the concentration decreases. In comparison to EA, whey protein isolate exhibits better moisture removal, reduced water activity, increased solubility, and a higher vitamin C concentration when used as a foaming agent. Meanwhile, EA, as a foaming agent, retained the colour of FMFD roselle powder the most, compared to the control sample. As a recommendation, FMFD roselle powder can be used in the food industry as a natural food colourant in various food products
Precision Nitrogen Management in Rice Using NDVI and SPAD: A Systematic Review of Current Applications and Limitations
No full textThe management of nitrogen is necessary to maximize the productivity of rice and enhance the nitrogen use efficiency. Vegetation Index and other remote sensing tools have been extensively employed to determine the nitrogen status of crops, but they can be affected by environmental fluctuation. The study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of Vegetation Index in determining nitrogen status and predicting yield performance in rice systems. Scopus, ScienceDirect, and Web of Science were used to search the articles published between 2015 and 2025 by search query: (paddy OR rice) AND (NDVI OR Vegetation Index) AND (nitrogen). The methodology used was a four-step screening system, which left 13 applicable studies to be examined in detail. Results showed that Vegetation Index is highly correlated with nitrogen content and yield components, especially in late vegetative and reproductive periods. Diagnostic accuracy was further improved with SPAD chlorophyll meter and UAV-based images. Nevertheless, the diurnal variability of light, sensitivity to growth stages, and cultivar variability are a few of the challenges that decrease the uniformity of its implementation. Altogether, Vegetation Index is a useful non-destructive means of precision rice management if measurements are made under optimal conditions. Future research should focus on the integration of light quality and canopy structure parameters integration to enhance monitoring protocols and robust decision-making in sustainable rice production.
Starch Source as a Determinant of Physical Attributes in Deep-Fried Keropok Lekor (Malaysian Fish Sausage)
No full textKeropok lekor, a traditional Malaysian fish sausage, is typically prepared using fish and sago starch, with both ingredients strongly influencing its texture and sensory quality. This study investigated the effects of incorporating tapioca starch (TS) and potato starch (PS) into the formulation on the physical attributes of deepfried frozen keropok lekor. The evaluated properties included colour, moisture content, water-holding capacity, linear expansion, cooking yield and texture. The addition of tapioca starch decreased the L* value while increasing the b* value of the product surface, whereas potato starch reduced the a* value but enhanced the b* value. Keropok lekor made with potato starch exhibited improved moisture content, water-holding capacity and cooking yield. In terms of linear expansion, keropok lekor prepared with tapioca starch showed value comparable to the control made solely with sago starch. However, neither tapioca nor potato starch significantly affected the textural properties. These findings demonstrate that starch source influences the quality of deepfried frozen keropok lekor, thus offering opportunities for processors to improve product quality.
Malaysian Consumers' Perception Towards Yogurt in Kuala Lumpur
Get PDFYogurt, a fermented dairy product made with beneficial bacteria, is a rich source of calcium, protein, and probiotics, offering significant health benefits like improved digestion and immune support. Despite the recognized nutritional importance of dairy products, yogurt consumption in Malaysia and both children and adults fall short of meeting recommended daily dairy intake. This research investigates Kuala Lumpur consumers' perceptions of yogurt, addressing gaps in market supply and consumption data. Using a sample of 385 respondents, mainly aged 18–27 with high educational levels, the study explores factors influencing yogurt consumption, such as Knowledge factors and price. Findings show that most respondents (86%) like yogurt, consuming it 1–2 times per week, with strawberry flavor being most preferred. Price, taste, and store location were major motivators for purchase. Also, consumers showed a positive response to reduced yogurt prices; the price factors revealed significant effects related to consumer perception, indicating their sensitivity to pricing. The study applied the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB), along with descriptive statistics, confirmatory factor analysis, and binary regression, to reveal how attitudes, social influences, and perceived control shape yogurt consumption patterns in Kuala Lumpur. In summary, yogurt consumption in Kuala Lumpur is driven by health awareness, flavor preferences, and factors like price and promotions which influence trust. Consumers recognize yogurt's health benefits and associate it with a healthy lifestyle. The findings suggest that marketing strategies should focus on these preferences while leveraging the importance of promotions to enhance consumer appeal and market growth. This study's findings are limited by the narrow demographic focus, geographic scope, reliance on self-reported data, and lack of longitudinal analysis. The results guide yogurt producers and policymakers in tailoring strategies to enhance consumer trust, promote health awareness, and increase market reach
In Vitro Characterization and Identification of a Plant Growth-Promoting Bacteria Consortium from Malaysian Oil Palm (Elaeis guineensis) rhizosphere as a Potential Sustainable Biofertilizer
Get PDFReliance on chemical fertilizer has caused many challenges to soil health. The alternative to chemical fertilizer is biofertilizer that can be developed using beneficial bacteria. Thus, this study aims to characterize the potential plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) based on biochemical tests on bacterial isolates, and to identify the potential PGPR based on the 16S rRNA sequencing molecular method as a potential biofertilizer development. The PGPR strains were isolated from oil palm (Elaeis guineensis) rhizosphere in Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Share farm, Malacca, Malaysia on nutrient media agar. Then, the bacteria isolates were screened for nitrogen fixation, phosphate and potassium solubilization, indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) production, siderophore production and hydrolyzing enzyme production tests. The isolates AR 11 and AR 21 strains have presented the most convincing result across all tests, which showed positive results for nitrogen fixation, solubilized phosphate and potassium, and produced indole acetic acid (IAA), siderophore and hydrolyzing enzyme. The selected strains proceeded for molecular identification based on the 16S rRNA gene sequence using 1492R and 27F universal primers. The isolates AR 11 and AR 21 were identified as Acinetobacter seifertii and Aquitalea pelogenes respectively. Thus, the oil palm farming sector stands to gain from the beneficial PGPR isolate which is aligned with sustainable agriculture production and potential biofertilizer development. It also helps to reduce dependence on chemical fertilizer
Exploring Consumer Preferences on Cucumber (Cucumis sativus) Varieties in Besut, Terengganu
Get PDFCucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) agriculture production in Terengganu, Malaysia, could boost income due to widespread consumer demand and its nutritional value. Instead of merely cultivating and producing any variety of cucumber, this study looked at what purchasers genuinely want when deciding between three common cucumber varieties (Timun Hijau, Timun Ulam or Timun Jepun) in the Besut area. By verifying genuine options, it attempted to match supply with what consumers desire. The focus was on what makes someone prefer one variety of cucumber over another. Factors like taste, texture, appearance, price or if it is easy to find (availability) can impact decisions, but not much was understood before now. Without that intelligence, marketers and growers frequently guess wrong, which leads to unsold harvests stacking up. The main objectives of this study were to identify what attract consumers in cucumber varieties, measuring how much they prefer one variety over another, while also looking into reasons behind their choices. The study used a quantitative cross-sectional survey design (n=140), drawing on the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) to construct its structure, focusing on individual perceptions impacted by sensory attributes (Taste, Texture, Appearance) and practical accessibility of Perceived Behavioural Control (PBC) through market factors (Price and Availability) of individuals living in Besut, Terengganu. A pilot study confirmed strong reliability, with Cronbach’s alpha values exceeding 0.7 (the lowest was Appearance (0.731) and the highest was Price (0.906)) for all items (n = 20). The data were analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics (Version 25), applying descriptive analysis, Pearson correlation and regression analysis. The overall multiple regression model was statistically highly significant with [F (5, 134) = 12.506, p< 0.001], accounting for 31.8% of the variance in Consumer Preferences. However, hypothesis testing revealed a clear separation in predictive power. The factors representing PBC, which were Availability (β=0.362, p=0.002) and Price (β=0.253, p=0.035) emerged as the only statistically significant unique predictors. On the other hand, sensory traits like Taste, Texture or Appearance were not significantly influential in the final analysis, suggesting personal opinions on these features matter less compared to pragmatic factors. In Besut, purchasing decisions on cucumbers appeared to be influenced primarily by availability and accessibility, not necessarily their actual quality of the produce. As such, initiatives in biotechnology agriculture or regional farming may prove more effective if they concentrate on reliable distribution systems and consistent pricing, helping align supply with what consumers really respond to