Vandita Agrawal is an established freelance investigative journalist, published in The Times of India, indiatimes.com, and captain-planet.net. Her in-depth stories on US politics, international affairs, human rights, and climate change always ruffle a few feathers.

The Story Behind The Man Who Had 116 Nails Removed From His Stomach

15 Aug 2022  |  www.grunge.com  |  English  |  Unusual Incidents

Surgeons in Rajasthan, India, removed 116 iron nails, a long wire, and an iron pellet from Bhola Shankar's stomach after he complained of severe stomach pain. This incident is part of a broader pattern of individuals consuming non-food items, often linked to rare eating disorders like pica or mental health issues such as schizophrenia and OCD. Similar cases include Maksood Khan, who had 263 coins and 100 nails removed, and a policeman in Amritsar who had 40 pocket knives removed. Medical professionals use various tools to safely extract these objects, with some preferring specific methods for different types of foreign bodies.

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The Spartan Medical Research Journal The Free Press Journal National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations Guinness World Records Hindustan Times CNN DW Healthline Walden Behavioral Care American Gastroenterological Association

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Mohamed Ali is a journalist based in Nairobi, Kenya.

New Eco-Friendly Thermal Insulation and Sound Absorption Composite Materials Derived from Waste Black Tea Bags and Date Palm Tree Surface Fibers

25 Oct 2024  |  MDPI  |  English  |  Sound Absorption

Researchers at King Saud University have developed new eco-friendly composite materials using waste black tea bags and date palm surface fibers. These materials, bound with polyvinyl acetate resin, exhibit promising thermal insulation and sound absorption properties, potentially competing with synthetic petrochemical-based materials. The study highlights the environmental benefits of utilizing biodegradable waste materials, reducing landfill contributions, and offering a sustainable alternative to fossil-fuel-based products. The composites demonstrate thermal stability up to 291°C and low moisture content, making them suitable for building applications.

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Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations King Saud University

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Mariangela Ciavarella is a journalist based in Bologna, Italy.

Cricket Flour: Nutritional Profile, Safety, and Sustainability

28 Feb 2023  |  www.ilgiornaledelcibo.it  |  Italian  |  Science & Environment

Cricket flour is emerging as a novel food product with potential benefits in nutrition, safety, and sustainability. The European Union has approved the commercialization of edible insects, including cricket flour, as part of a broader initiative to address protein cost and demographic growth. Cricket flour is a rich source of protein, good fats, Omega 3, and other nutrients, and is considered more sustainable than traditional flours. Despite cultural skepticism, experts like nutritionist Livia Galletti highlight its potential to diversify and sustainably enhance food resources. The EU's stringent health regulations ensure the safety of cricket flour before it enters the market.

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EFSA (European Food Safety Authority) FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations) European Union

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Peter Guest is a writer, editor, producer and photographer, based in Southeast Asia. His work has appeared in Nikkei Asian Review, the Atlantic, Newsweek, the Financial Times, Wired, the Guardian, the Wall Street Journal and others. He has reported from more than 40 countries across five continents,...

Botswana Is Running Out of Water, And It Could Undo Its Economic Success

01 Oct 2023  |  www.vice.com  |  English  |  Climate Change

Botswana is facing a severe water crisis that threatens its economic success, particularly in the capital, Gaborone. The drought, exacerbated by climate change, has led to rolling water outages, affecting businesses and daily life. The government is investing in large-scale infrastructure projects to mitigate future crises, but challenges remain, including the need for better water management and valuation. The situation is mirrored in neighboring countries like South Africa and Zimbabwe, highlighting a regional issue. Experts emphasize the need for sustainable water use and infrastructure improvements to address the ongoing crisis.

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Government of Botswana Food and Agriculture Organization of the UN United Nations Development Program

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Fred Harter is the Ethiopia correspondent for The Times of London. He also writes for The Independent and the Africa Report, and appears regularly on Times Radio and the BBC World Service.

He is available available for print stories, radio phoners, research and corporate work.

Aid Reaches Ethiopia's Tigray Region as Ceasefire Allows for Humanitarian Access

17 Nov 2022  |  allAfrica.com  |  English  |  Conflict in Tigray

International aid has resumed in Ethiopia's Tigray region following a ceasefire agreement that ended a months-long blockade. The World Food Program (WFP) reported the arrival of its trucks in northwest Tigray, with more supplies on the way. Additionally, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) delivered medical supplies to Mekelle, the capital of Tigray. The conflict in the region has displaced approximately 2.5 million people and left many in need of aid. A test flight by the ICRC also reached Shire, indicating the potential resumption of airlifts. The ceasefire agreement, signed in Pretoria, includes security guarantees for humanitarian workers and promises to facilitate aid access, although communication and banking services are still disrupted in Tigray.

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International Committee of the Red Cross World Food Program Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations

Luqman Yussuf Hassan is a journalist based in Mogadishu, Somalia.

With prolong experience in the industry working  with International media houses like the China News Agency ( Xinhua ), I believe cooperation with anyone seeking my services of shooting will be satisfied and assignments done ...

Bilal Hussain is an independent journalist and columnist with a wealth of experience in covering South Asia, and the Middle East with a particular emphasis on the socio-political landscape of Kashmir. His reporting has been featured in prominent news outlets and organizations such as Voice of ...

The Indus Equation: Geopolitics and Cooperation

05 Apr 2023  |  thediplomat.com  |  English  |  Water Cooperation

The article discusses the geopolitical tensions and cooperation potential surrounding the Indus basin, shared by Afghanistan, China, India, and Pakistan. It highlights the recent suspension of the Indus Water Commissioners meeting by India, which could lead Pakistan to approach the International Court of Justice. China's blocking of water flows for hydropower plant construction is also mentioned. The article emphasizes the ecological and economic importance of the Indus basin, citing data on water quality, irrigation, and hydroelectric potential from various reports, including the FAO and the Pakistan Water Partnership. It suggests the formation of a joint river basin institution for the sustainable management of the Indus basin and highlights the potential role of hydro-diplomats, multilateral institutions like the World Bank, and NGOs in fostering cooperation among the countries involved.

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Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations Pakistan Water Partnership World Bank

A journalist based in Karachi, Pakistan with 16 years of experience. From news room to exploring stories that affects human and social issue, dedicated to unveil new angles as an effort to create impact for betterment. Worked with Pakistan’s leading news media Geo News English online, The News ...

Pakistan’s Floods: A Looming Crisis for Pregnant Women and Infants

29 Sept 2022  |  Pakistan Standard -  |  English  |  Maternal and Infant Health

The article discusses the aftermath of the devastating floods in Pakistan, which have affected over 33 million people and destroyed millions of acres of farmland, leading to a food insecurity crisis and damaging healthcare infrastructure. The situation is particularly dire for pregnant women and infants, with many having to travel long distances for medical care. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations had already warned about food insecurity in the affected areas, and the United Nations Population Fund has assessed the urgent care needs of pregnant women. Healthcare providers emphasize the need for accurate data to prevent a disaster. The article also highlights the efforts of NGOs like Sujag Sansar to provide healthcare to flood victims and the challenges faced in collecting data on maternal mortality rates and dengue patients due to the floods. The health minister of Sindh acknowledges the difficulty in data collection. The article calls for strategies to minimize risks to women and prevent deaths as the country moves from rescue to rehabilitation.

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United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) United Nations Population Fund Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations Pakistan Medical Association Sujag Sansar Directorate General Health Services Sindh

I'm passionate about pursuing environmental and cultural stories and just as obsessed in capturing cinematic moments in human stories. I write and I film. I've been published and broadcast by Al Jazeera, BBC, VOA, National Geographic, Bloomberg Quicktake, CCTV News (Now CGTN), Dutch Channel VPRO, ...

Vertical Farming: The Future of Agriculture and Space Exploration

23 Jan 2023  |  euronews  |  English  |  Space Exploration

The article discusses the innovative agricultural project 'Space Farms', co-founded by Tusya Garibashvili in Tbilisi, Georgia. Space Farms is an indoor vertical farm that grows vegetables using less space and water, without pesticides. The farm recycles water, using 80% less than traditional farms, and supplies fresh vegetables to Café Stamba. Tusya and her team have overcome initial challenges to create a successful vertical farming operation. The farm also has an ambitious project, the Ninth Millenium Project, which aims to grow Georgian grapevines in space, with successful trials already conducted for growing them in enclosed spaces. The article highlights the potential of vertical farming in addressing climate change and advancing human ambitions of living on other planets.

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Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations Georgian Space Research Agency

Lea Lang is a journalist based in Timișoara, Kreis Timiș, Romania. 
Right now she is working for the German program at Radio Romania Timisoara providing news, event tips, book/film/theatre revisions and producing broadcasts for youth.

Scovian Lillian is a freelancer writer and a Communications  professional with six years of experience in Journalism and a year of experience in Public Relations based in Nairobi Kenya. She is passionate about Science, Health and Agribusiness and environment. With experience in Journalism and ...

From lab to land: Real research should impact end users

15 Oct 2024  |  www.universityworldnews.com  |  English  |  Agricultural Innovation

Professor Jane Ambuko's research focuses on reducing food loss and waste (FLW) in Kenya, particularly in the horticultural sector. Her work emphasizes transitioning innovative solutions from the lab to practical applications for end users, such as farmers and processors. Key innovations include low-cost cold storage and drying technologies, supported by organizations like the Rockefeller Foundation and the World Food Programme. Ambuko highlights the importance of addressing FLW for sustainable food systems, climate change mitigation, and food security. She advocates for education and training to improve postharvest practices and calls for a multidisciplinary approach to tackle FLW challenges.

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Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations World Food Programme University of Nairobi National Commission for Science, Technology and Innovation Rockefeller Foundation

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Gamuchirai Masiyiwa is a journalist based in Zimbabwe who has 6 years experience in the media industry.

After Waiting Nearly 10 Years, Hungry Families in Arid Zimbabwe Thirst for Promised Water

12 Jan 2024  |  globalpressjournal.com  |  English  |  Humanitarian Aid

In Chingwizi, an arid area in southeast Zimbabwe, over 3,000 families face severe food insecurity nearly a decade after being displaced by the Tokwe Mukosi dam flood. Despite government claims of grain self-sufficiency, reports indicate that millions require food assistance. The region's minimal and erratic rainfall, coupled with insufficient land, hampers agricultural output. Promised government irrigation programs have yet to materialize, leaving the community reliant on food aid and personal resilience to survive.

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United States Department of Agriculture Agricultural and Rural Development Authority Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations Zimbabwe Vulnerability Assessment Committee Famine Early Warning System Network Zimbabwe Farmers Union

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Ellen Nemitz is a Brazilian journalist based in Curitiba covering politics, human rights, science and environment.

Can AI help us build a more sustainable food system?

03 May 2023  |  www.fairplanet.org  |  English  |  Climate Change

Argentina and Brazil's rise as major food producers has contributed significantly to greenhouse gas emissions in Latin America. The FAO emphasizes the need for a green transition in agriculture. Vegan diets are suggested as a way to reduce carbon footprints, and the plant-based food industry is growing. Artificial intelligence is being explored for plant-based food processing, with potential to revolutionize food production from farms to factories. AI can assist in forecasting weather, identifying crop issues, speeding up production, and tracking food origins. However, experts caution against over-reliance on AI without critical assessment and emphasize the need for human professionals in quality control. Investments in connectivity and reductions in machine costs are necessary for the transition to a data-driven food industry.

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International Climate and Forest Initiative State University of Campinas University of California Federal University of Sergipe Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations Stanford University Greenpeace

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Matthew Newman is a journalist based in Brussels, Belgium.

Berry tasty: The fruits emerging from new breeding and processing

06 Feb 2024  |  phys.org  |  English  |  Food Technology

Research initiatives are enhancing the resilience and nutritional value of strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries in response to climate change. Projects like BreedingValue and FRIETS, funded by the EU, are focusing on increasing genetic diversity, improving disease and water resistance, and developing new dehydration techniques to extend shelf life and create healthier snacks. These efforts aim to meet growing consumer demand, reduce waste, and offer tailored nutritional options, contributing to more sustainable and healthy food systems in Europe.

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Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations National Technical University of Athens Norwegian Institute of Bioeconomy Research Marche Polytechnic University Natural Resources Institute Finland European Union

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CHI NGUYEN
Chi Nguyen is a freelance journalist based in Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon) Vietnam. She is also a TV journalist from National Television VTV
She is journalism and media studies lecture, journalism and media studies facilitator,
Interpreter and translator
Public Relation ...

Antibacterial Activity against Escherichia coli and Cytotoxicity of Maillard Reaction Product of Chitosan and Glucosamine Prepared by Gamma Co-60 Ray Irradiation

13 Nov 2023  |  MDPI  |  English  |  Glucosamine

The study explores the preparation and properties of a Maillard reaction product (MRP) derived from chitosan (CTS) and glucosamine (GA) using gamma Co-60 ray irradiation. The resulting CTS-GA MRP powder demonstrated good water solubility, high antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli, and non-cytotoxicity on mouse fibroblast cells. The research highlights the potential of CTS-GA MRP as a natural preservative for food and cosmetics, free from toxic byproducts like 5-hydroxymethylfurfural.

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Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations World Health Organization Vietnam Atomic Energy Institute

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Aisling Ní Chúláin is a video journalist based in Dublin, Ireland.

Are edible insects the food of the future?

30 Oct 2023  |  fr.africanews.com  |  French  |  Environmental Impact

In his Parisian restaurant, Chef Laurent Veyet creates gastronomic dishes featuring insects, promoting an eco-responsible culinary vision for sustainable food in the future. The FAO estimates a 70% increase in food production is needed to meet future demand, and edible insects offer a viable solution with their low environmental impact and high nutritional value. Wageningen University's Arnold Van Huis emphasizes the need for dietary changes due to the environmental challenges of traditional livestock farming. Despite initial reluctance, Chef Veyet has become a fervent advocate for insect consumption in Europe.

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FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations) Wageningen University

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Malaka Rodrigo is a journalist based in Colombo, Sri Lanka.

Sri Lankans skip meals as food prices soar

01 Nov 2022  |  phys.org  |  English  |  Food Insecurity

Sri Lanka is facing a severe economic crisis, leading to skyrocketing food prices and widespread food insecurity. Food inflation has reached 94.9%, with staple foods like rice and chicken becoming unaffordable for many. The crisis has been exacerbated by a ban on agrochemicals, which has led to reduced agricultural yields. A report by the FAO and WFP indicates that a significant portion of the population is not consuming an adequate diet, and many households are adopting coping strategies such as reducing meal sizes or selling assets. The government, along with organizations like the WFP and the Sarvodaya Shramadana Movement, is implementing measures to provide emergency food assistance and promote community resilience. However, the food security situation is expected to worsen in the short term.

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Ministry of Health World Food Program Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations Medical Research Institute Sarvodaya Shramadana Movement

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LISA SCHLEIN is a freelance journalist based in Geneva, Switzerland.  My reporting is largely centered around United Nations activities, including human rights, humanitarian (refugee and migration) issues, international political events, health, environment and development with a focus on Africa.  
...

Africa: Conflict, Climate Change Increase Hunger and Malnutrition Across Africa

16 Oct 2024  |  allAfrica.com  |  English  |  Conflict

Despite global food production being sufficient, hunger and malnutrition persist due to conflict, climate change, and economic challenges. The UN and humanitarian organizations highlight severe food shortages and malnutrition in Africa, particularly in regions like Lake Chad and Southern Africa. UNICEF and the World Food Program appeal for international support to address the crisis, with millions at risk of severe malnutrition and food insecurity. The situation is exacerbated by climate events like droughts, impacting millions of lives and requiring urgent international intervention.

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World Food Program International Committee of the Red Cross Food and Agriculture Organization United Nations UNICEF

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ํYiamyut Sutthichaya is a journalist.

High Rice Prices Worldwide Likely to Continue Into 2024

27 Dec 2023  |  allAfrica.com  |  English  |  Climate Impact on Agriculture

Global rice prices are expected to remain high into 2024 due to geopolitical tensions, climate anomalies, and India's export restrictions. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations reports that while other grain prices have declined, rice prices have surged, impacting food security in Asia and Africa. India's export controls have removed significant quantities of rice from the market, affecting countries like the Philippines, Nigeria, and Vietnam. Experts predict that continued high prices could lead to increased food insecurity. Climate factors, such as El Niño, are also expected to affect rice production in major producing regions. Recommendations include greater private sector involvement in rice trading and sustainable farming practices to mitigate the impact.

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U.S. Department of Agriculture International Food Policy Research Institute Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations World Bank MASIPAG Asian Bank Development U.S. National Weather Service

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Tshekiso Tebalo is a Photojournalist in  Botswana. Sharing his expertise with Xinhu News Agency, Tebalo has over a decade of experience as a photojournalist, he worked with local newspaper Botswana Guardian, The Midweek Sun, The Press Photo, AFP, AP and Getty Images.

Botswana launches legal hub on sustainable wildlife management

11 Mar 2023  |  African News Agency  |  English  |  Legal Frameworks

Botswana has launched a legal hub under the Sustainable Wildlife Management program to streamline access to comprehensive legal information on wildlife management. The hub aims to consolidate legislation and provide a user-friendly platform for communities, policymakers, and investors. Minister Wynter Mmolotsi highlighted its role in addressing inaccessible laws, while Carla Mucavi from the FAO emphasized its importance in enhancing community well-being and preserving Botswana's natural legacy.

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Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations Sustainable Wildlife Management program

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Bruno Torquato is a journalist based in Belo Horizonte, Brazil.

I'm a member of the Lena Santos Collective of Black Journalists. I have extensive experience in corporate communications and journalism, having worked in Press, Internal Communications, Content Production, and Press Relations for ...

End of grain agreement between Russia and Ukraine could impact inflation in Brazil, experts say

01 May 2023  |  CNN Brasil  |  Portuguese  |  Agriculture

The grain export agreement between Russia and Ukraine, facilitated by Turkey, is at risk as Russia threatens to end it, citing non-compliance by Ukraine and Western countries. Experts warn that the termination could exacerbate global food insecurity and increase grain prices, impacting inflation in countries like Brazil. The agreement, which unlocked three Ukrainian ports and allowed for the export of 5 million tons of cereals per month, is crucial for global food security. The potential end of the agreement raises concerns for Brazil, where food inflation could be affected, influencing the Central Bank's interest rate decisions. The UN has highlighted the agreement's role in preventing a further 100 million people from falling into extreme poverty by reducing basic food prices.

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Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations United States Department of Agriculture United Nations G7 Turkish Government Russian Government Ukrainian Government Brazilian Central Bank Brazilian Federal Government Center for Brazilian International Relations

Brian Yatich is a journalist based in Nairobi, Kenya.

Siaya County Government To Unlock Ksh 4 Billion For Sustainable Fishing

28 Nov 2023  |  The East African Business Times  |  English  |  Economic Development

Siaya County Government has launched an initiative to promote sustainable fishing, aiming to unlock a Ksh 4 billion market. Governor James Orengo announced measures including training for fishers and promoting value addition. The county relies heavily on Lake Victoria and Kanyaboli for fisheries, producing 30,000 metric tons of fish annually. The initiative is supported by organizations like FAO, ABDP, and ASDSP, and was highlighted during the World Fisheries Day 2023 celebrations. The county aims to expand fish value addition industries to enhance sustainable fishing and economic opportunities.

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Agriculture Sector Development Support Program Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations Siaya County Government Aquaculture Business Development Program

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