Shaping an inclusive market: Kosher, Halal and Vegan certifications Transparency and inclusiveness are increasingly central aspects in the eyes of consumers. Reading the label of a product, be it food, cosmetics, or clothing, is often not enough to reassure about the origin of the ingredients it contains. The demand for sustainable products is a trend that will drive market growth in the coming years. On the other hand, in a multi-ethnic society, companies are also called upon to build bridges between different cultures. Kosher, Halal and Vegan certifications are no longer exclusively required for religious or ethical criteria but are now a guarantee for more attentive and aware consumers. Halal products for the Islamic world With a global presence of 1.8 billion people, 23% of the world’s population, Islamic consumers are a rapidly growing segment. A fact that has not escaped the attention of companies, which are committed to developing new products and services in line with the consumption needs of Muslims. In this regard, the offer of Halal-certified products has increased by 19% from 2018 to 2020. Halal certification is used to certify that food, cosmetics, and chemical-pharmaceutical products, but also industrial processes, comply with the ethical and hygienic-sanitary standards of Islamic law and doctrine. It is also applicable to services, such as financial, insurance and tourism services. It certifies the quality standards, the supply chain, and the products, including quality control systems, raw material procurement, transformation processes, internal logistics, storage, and transport to the final destination. The main requirements for obtaining certification are the following: absence of non-conforming substances (raw materials, ingredients, additives, etc., including those that do not appear on the label but come into contact with the product); Non-contamination between Halal and Haram ingredients (forbidden) through separation of production lines; traceability of products and raw materials; hygiene and safety; company quality system compliant with Halal production. The growth of the Kosher market Kosher products are registering increasingly high growth rates in countries such as the United States, Israel, Poland, Hungary, and Romania, but also in Italy. Kosher products are not only requested by consumers belonging to the Jewish community, but also by Muslims, Hindus, vegetarians, and vegans sensitive to the criteria of quality and traceability. It may be the fact that Kosher food is perceived as cleaner or healthier or that people want to be sure that a certain product does not contain potential allergens, such as shellfish. A Quartz study revealed that despite only 2% of the US population being Jewish, about 41% of all American packaged food is certified Kosher. Global Kosher food sales are expected to increase to nearly $60 billion in 2025, up from $24 billion in 2017. It is no surprise, then, that more and more companies are moving toward becoming Kosher certified. With Kosher we mean the set of norms that regulate food consumption according to the Torah. The certification is obtained as a result of an inspection process by a specialized rabbinical authority, which verifies the conformity of production to Jewish rules. The supervision concerns two aspects in particular: the ingredients, that is all the raw materials present in a product, which must be Kosher; the processing facilities, which cannot be contaminated with non-permitted foods. The vegan revolution There are an estimated 79 million vegans in the world and 55,000 products certified as vegan, including foods and beverages. The demand for vegan products is transversal: consumers are moving towards conscious and sustainable choices, such as those offered by a plant-based diet. We are facing a real revolution in consumption, destined to transform the market in the years to come. Different certifications are available for vegan products (such as Veganok, the most widespread in Europe), guaranteeing the absence of any substance of animal origin in every phase of their production. The certifications apply to any type of product and sector, but they are mainly used in the food, cosmetics, and textile industries. Ethics and inclusiveness: EPO’s choices Inclusiveness and respect are cornerstones of our code of ethics and one of our corporate objectives. For years we have been committed to offering our botanical extracts in accordance with the needs of each final consumer, ensuring full traceability of raw materials and transparency of production processes. Kosher and Halal certifications are an acknowledgment of the quality and safety of EPO’s products, as well as an opening to all customers around the world. Except for extracts made from bee products such as propolis and pollen, all other botanical extracts are suitable for a vegetarian and vegan diet: in fact, we do not use any substance of animal origin in our production process. More information about certifications and traceability of EPO’s extracts is available here.
Pets and the Pandemic: How the Lockdown Led to an Adoption Boom One of the most surprising side effects of the pandemic was the boom in pet adoptions seen during the early months of lockdown. Dogs and cats have helped their owners cope with feelings of anxiety and isolation linked to the spread of the COVID-19 virus. At the same time, an increased concern for the health and nutrition of our furry friends is leading to the growth of the pet food market. Discover more in this article. The increase in pet adoptions during the pandemic A study based on Google Trends found that searches related to dog, cat, and pet adoption in general were significantly higher in the early lockdown phase (April and May 2020), compared to the previous five years. Specifically, keywords like “dog adoption” and “cat adoption” were searched 250% more than during the same period in 2019. The analysis also shows how searches for “dog adoption” have declined since June 2020, returning to pre-pandemic levels. This can be attributed to the launch of COVID-19 vaccines, which have led to an easing of lockdown measures and a gradual restoration of normal life. In other words, a full-time return to physical offices has made owners worried about the separation from their pets, now forced to spend long hours alone at home. On the other hand, no significant concern was observed in the research regarding the possible transmission of the virus by dogs and cats. As the guidelines of the Ministry of Health specify, in fact, “there is no evidence that pets play an epidemiological role in the spread of SARS-CoV-2”. Pets, the best friends to fight pandemic stress Several studies have confirmed that animal companionship was a “crucial support” during the pandemic. With their presence, dogs and cats helped their owners deal with stress, anxiety, and depression due to isolation. Human-animal interaction offers numerous benefits for physical and mental health. Hugging and caressing an animal can induce the release of oxytocin, the so-called “love hormone” responsible for stress reduction. Owning a dog also encourages owners to exercise more and spend time outdoors, two significant advantages during the lockdown. According to a study by the American Pet Products Association, 72% of people said that spending time with their pets increased their sense of well-being during the pandemic. 60% bonded more strongly with their pets, while 39% engaged in more physical activity with them. Natural extracts for animal well-being As anticipated, the pandemic has led to a growth in demand for pet food and animal feed supplements. Many pet food companies have been able to capitalize on the moment, enhancing their e-commerce channels and increasing their reputation among consumers by offering high-quality products. According to Pet Dietary Supplements Market forecasts for 2022-2027, demand for premium products is expected to grow in the coming years, along with an increasing focus on pet health and well-being. Research is driving toward products with high nutritional and dietary benefits, made from natural, organic ingredients and with an emphasis on sustainability. Our catalog offers a wide range of plant extracts as natural ingredients for keeping dogs and cats healthy. One example is EkinACT, an extract of Echinacea purpurea (L.) Moench with multiple beneficial activities. To learn more about this topic, watch the recording of our webinar on botanical extracts for pet food formulations and discover our dedicated product range.
Anticholesterolemic Activity of Three Vegetal Extracts (Artichoke, Caigua, and Fenugreek) and Their Unique Blend A new study published in Frontiers in Pharmacology confirms the anticholesterolemic efficacy of vegetal extracts of artichoke, caigua, and fenugreek and their unique blend. Liver lipid and cholesterol dysregulation are recognized as a major cause of cardiovascular diseases. In this respect, nutraceutical formulations with anticholesterolemic activity like our OMEOlipid extract could be instrumental in hypercholesterolemia prevention and treatment, representing a valid alternative to current therapies such as statin administration and monacolin K. Download the paper
Ten Books to Read for Plant Lovers Thinking of snuggling up with a book this winter? With the holiday season knocking at the door, staying in with a good reading and a steaming cup of tea is an exquisite pleasure. Here you will find ten book recommendations for botany lovers: our reading list includes both classic and contemporary books, to explore the plant universe and its connections with other worlds, from history to art. 1. The Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants The encyclopedia edited by Andrew Chevallier brings together over 550 medicinal herbs from around the globe, with practical information on medicinal properties for the treatment of common ailments. Plants are listed alphabetically by their Latin names and are profiled with plenty of photographs and details about their habitat, cultivation, active constituents, therapeutic actions, and traditional uses. 100 of these plant species are given additional space, with a specific section on herbal preparations, home remedies, and tips for self-treatment. Reference: Chevallier A., The Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants, Dorling Kindersley, 1996. 2. Botanical Art. From Renaissance Herbaria to the 19th Century Plants and flowers have always influenced our imagination and the creativity of many artists who, over the centuries, have approached botanical illustration. From the pages of Dioscorides’ De Materia Medica to Renaissance herbaria, up to the work of Maria Sybilla Merian, the union between art and science has given life to authentic masterpieces. This book with an introduction by Chiara Nepi traces the fascinating history of botanical representation through refined color reproductions. It is a joy to flip through. Reference: Nepi C., Botanical Art. From Renaissance Herbaria to the 19th Century, VMB, 2018. 3. Garden Flora The volume every garden lover should keep on their bookshelf! Renowned garden designer Noel Kingsbury tells the story of 133 common plants, retracing the journey from their place of origin to our backyard and shedding light on the contribution of famous botanical explorers and gardeners in history. The book is richly illustrated with historical and modern photographs, as well as lavish reproductions of botanical illustrations. Reference: Kingsbury N., Garden Flora, Timber Press, 2016. 4. Florario. Miti, leggende e simboli di fiori e piante Alfredo Cattabiani is an Italian scholar of the history of religions and popular traditions, as well as a writer attracted to the plant universe. His book Florario is a journey into the religious and fantastic imagery, exploring the symbolic links between plants and pagan rituals, Jewish, Christian, Muslim, and oriental philosophies. It includes Biblical tales, but also myths, legends, fairy tales, and literary accounts inspired by plants and flowers. Reference: Cattabiani A., Florario. Miti, leggende e simboli di fiori e piante, Mondadori, 1996. 5. The Commentaries of P.A. Mattioli The Commentaries of Pietro Andrea Mattioli are a translation and expansion of Dioscorides’ De Materia Medica and a cornerstone of botanical literature. The Italian edition by Aboca is a reproduction of the large print published by Valgrisi in Venice in 1568. The specimen, now held at the Alessandrina Library in Rome, is renowned for the magnificent decorations by Gherardo Cibo. The work is completed by a commentary in Italian that examines the role of Mattioli and Cibo and their influence on modern botany and pharmacy. Reference: P. Andrea Mattioli, I Discorsi di P.A. Mattioli. The specimen painted by Gherardo Cibo, Aboca Edizioni, 2015. 6. The Botany of Desire: A Plant’s-Eye View of the World Michael Pollan’s fascinating essay explores the relationship between humans and plants in the way people cultivate and reduce the botanical world to their will. The author discusses four fundamental desires, linking each of them with a plant species: tulip for beauty, cannabis for intoxication, apple for sweetness, and potato for control. History, symbolism, psychology, and botany are woven into an original and unusual tale, perfect for lovers of unconventional reading. Reference: Pollan M., The Botany of Desire: A Plant’s-Eye View of the World, Random House Trade Paperbacks, 2002. 7. Taming Fruit Over the centuries, orchards have been places of worship, rest, and sustenance, as well as a source of inspiration for artists and writers. In this book, Bernd Brunner traces their history, focusing on how man has shaped nature according to his own desires. From the first fruit cultivation in the East to the vegetable gardens of medieval monasteries, the history of orchards is first and foremost a human story. The book offers plenty of anecdotes, as well as rich reproductions of paintings, photographs, and botanical illustrations. Reference: Brunner B., Taming Fruit, Greystones Books, 2021. 8. Mirabilia, la botanica nascosta nell’arte Flipping through this book by the Italian botanist Renato Bruni is like entering a Wunderkammer of fascinating plant specimens. Eighteen botanical stories are derived from the artworks of Dürer, Degas, Hokusai, Rivera, Duchamp, Warhol, Banksy, and many others. The volume also addresses complex topics, such as ecological dynamics, archaeobotany, and the latest frontiers of research. Recommended for art and botany enthusiasts, to satisfy their natural curiosity. Reference: Bruni R., Mirabilia, la botanica nascosta nell’arte, Codice, 2018. 9. The Incredible Journey of Plants In this brilliant essay, botanist Stefano Mancuso tackles the theme of botanical migrations, explaining how, generation after generation, plant species have moved around the planet to conquer new spaces, exploiting every means at their disposal. There are plants that use animals for their migrations, plants able to colonize inhospitable lands and even to travel by sea. It is a story of resilience and struggle for survival, reminding us of the potential involved in every act of migration. Reference: Mancuso S., The Incredible Journey of Plants, Other Press, 2020. 10. Around the World in 80 Trees Author and environmentalist Jonathan Drori collects the stories of 80 trees from around the world, using them to shed light on different aspects of human existence, from religion to creative inspiration, medicine, and nutrition. The book is populated with strange and bizarre tales, leading the reader from the tree-lined avenues of Berlin to the intricate forests of California, combining history, science, and a taste for anecdotes. The volume is completed by the illustrations of Lucille Clerc, who accompanies this literary journey with the delicate poetry of her style. Reference: Drori J., Around the World in 80 Trees, Laurence King Publishing, 2018.
Promoting biodiversity and local supply chains: EPO’s commitment The relationship between living beings and their environment is both complex and fragile. In a world undergoing profound change, ensuring the survival of the species and the harmony between humans and nature has become increasingly crucial. For years, our company has been working in line with the Sustainable Development Goals of the UN 2030 Agenda, to reduce the environmental impact of our production and guide our activities towards sustainable growth. One of the pillars of our action is sustainable sourcing, i.e. the selection of suppliers who meet particular requirements of social equity and sustainable production. Today, both clients and final consumers are more and more demanding and attentive to corporate responsibility. At the same time, many companies are turning to developing countries in search of low-cost labor and greater production capacity. While the global expansion of supply chains is beneficial in economic terms, it also has a negative impact on the companies’ reputation and the well-being of the planet. The climate emergency requires careful reflection and a change of mentality from the industry. The valorization of local supply chains, the protection of biodiversity and the preservation of less known plant species are the heart of our action. For this reason, we support several projects, especially in the agronomic field, in collaboration with Universities, research centers, and local communities. ‘EkinACT’ project for mountain supply chains The creation of a supply chain for officinal plants in mountain areas is one of our fields of intervention. This commitment has two main purposes: on one hand, it allows us to verify the phytochemical and biological properties of plants cultivated in pristine environments; on the other hand, it creates job opportunities for mountain communities. In this way, we can limit the depopulation of these areas and encourage the recovery of ancient crafts (otherwise destined to be lost forever), like that of the herbalist-gatherer. The ‘EkinACT’ project, developed together with Judicaria officinali of Borgo Chiese (Trento) and the University La Sapienza of Rome, meets both these requirements. The project has shown that the Echinacea purpurea cultivated in mountain areas is particularly rich in polyphenols, tannins and flavonoids, antioxidant molecules with important biological actions. This supply chain provides the raw material used in the production of our EkinACT extract, a natural booster for the immune system. The presence of echinacea also creates an ideal habitat for pollinating insects such as bees and butterflies, which are strongly attracted to this plant. A new supply chain for chestnut leaves In collaboration with the Consorzio Castanicoltori of Brinzio, Orino and Castello Cabiaglio and the University of Milan, we were involved in the cleaning and recovery of chestnut woods in the province of Varese. Chestnut trees were trimmed to restore their vigor while preserving cavities for birds and bats. As a result, a previously degraded place has once again become a natural heritage of biodiversity. The project has also laid the foundations for the development of a new supply chain for chestnut leaves, rich in active ingredients and used with expectorant and adjuvant properties in the treatment of cough. From Peru to Valcamonica: a short supply chain for caigua Together with the farm Il Castagneto and the University of the Mountain of Edolo, we have been supporting the creation of a short supply chain of caigua for nutraceutical use. Caigua is a herbaceous vine native to Peru with hypolipidemic and hypoglycemic properties, used to produce our OMEOlipid extract. Despite its distant origins, it has been cultivated for at least a century in some valleys of Lombardy for food use. The creation of a supply chain in Lombardy would make it possible to avoid transport from Peru, which is both expensive and environmentally unsustainable, reducing the carbon footprint of the production. Another positive aspect is the creation of new jobs, a real opportunity for mountain communities. To these special projects we have also dedicated a video: a celebration of the beauty of nature and the need to preserve our relationship with it.
Thymus vulgaris Essential Oil and Hydro-Alcoholic Solutions to Counteract Wooden Artwork Microbial Colonization The sustainable conservation of historic-artistic artifacts requires eco-compatible and non-toxic products, safe for both the environment and human health. In this study published on Applied Sciences, our Scientific Director Giovanna Nicotra and R&D Analyst Beatrice Bruno took part in a research on the use of Thymus vulgaris extract to counteract microbial colonization on wooden artwork. Decay, bacteria, fungi, and insects represent a threat to the conservation of wood, which can be accomplished by natural means. In this case, Thymus vulgaris essential oil and hydroalcoholic solutions were applied on a wooden sculpture, part of the Sogo Bò collection at the Museo Internazionale delle Marionette “Pasqualino Noto” in Palermo. Click here to download the full paper
Healthy mouth, healthy body: the link between oral health and systemic diseases The mouth is responsible for many daily actions, from nutrition to language and social interaction. For this reason, oral health deeply influences the quality of life: dental and periodontal pathologies such as periodontitis can affect the body as a whole. In this article, we will shed light on the link between oral and systemic health and explore some solutions for preserving the well-being of teeth and mouth. What is the relationship between oral health and overall health? The oral microflora includes up to approximately 1000 species of bacteria, fungi, viruses, archaea, and protozoa that live in our mouths. Under normal conditions, the different components of this microflora maintain a perfect microbial balance, a state called eubiosis, while its opposite, dysbiosis, is a situation of imbalance that leads to inflammation and disease. Historically, oral disorders have been treated separately from the rest of the body. However, in recent years several studies have emphasized that oral health is an integral part of our overall health. Some periodontal diseases can indeed lead to cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases, asthma, pneumonia, rheumatoid arthritis and osteoporosis, diabetes and complications of pregnancy. A connection that cannot be underestimated. The case of periodontitis and rheumatoid arthritis One of the most serious threats to the well-being of the oral microbiota is periodontitis, a chronic inflammation of the gums that, if not properly treated, can result in the progressive destruction of the tissues surrounding the teeth. Scientific studies have shown a bidirectional relationship between periodontitis and systemic diseases. We are facing a potential cause of chronic infection, which represents a risk factor for cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases, peripheral arterial disease, and low birth weight in newborns. But periodontitis is not the only threat. Recently, a research project at the Queen Mary University of London has identified a link between gum disease and rheumatoid arthritis. Researchers coordinated by Magdalena Flank have found that the oral bacterium Porphyromonas gingivalis exacerbates arthritis symptoms by interfering with anti-inflammatory molecules in the gut. Patients suffering from rheumatoid arthritis are more likely to have gum disease. After treatment for this disease, they often see improvements in their rheumatism symptoms. This is a significant finding if we consider that rheumatoid arthritis affects the lives of 2.3 million Europeans. How to promote the well-being of the oral microflora Proper and timely dental care is the most important factor in preserving eubiosis and destroying harmful bacteria. If toothbrush, floss and antibacterial mouthwash are the first line of defense, you may also limit (when not eliminate) bad habits such as smoking, overconsumption of alcohol, sugar and fizzy drinks. Diet also plays a key role in the composition of the microbial flora, as it can promote the colonization of some species over others. There is an ever-increasing demand for innovative ingredients for functional foods (sweets, chewing gum, fruit juices, drinks, etc.) and for food supplements for oral health with a eubiotic action. Planoràl, synergy for the hygiene of the oral cavity The new EPO extract, Planoràl, is a response to these very needs. Our blend of Skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora L.) and Cistus (Cistus × incanus L.) has been patented for its synergistic antibacterial action against Porphyromonas gingivalis and may be useful in the prevention of periodontitis. Skullcap is also effective against Streptococcus mutans, a bacterium responsible for dental caries and plaque. Planoràl preserves oral eubiosis and does not damage lactobacilli, unlike other chemical molecules commonly used in mouthwashes. Mouthwashes act against inflammation of bacterial origin, but may as well compromise the balance of the oral microflora, due to their indiscriminate bactericidal action. If oral and body health are interconnected, Planoràl is an ingredient with major benefits for the entire organism. Find out more about the new EPO extract in this in-depth study and download the brochure.
Planoràl, synergy in a unique blend The oral cavity forms an indispensable part of the human microbiome, for its unique and diverse microflora, which includes up to approximately 100 species of bacteria, fungi, viruses, archaea and protozoa. Some of these bacteria are implicated in the pathogenesis of oral diseases such as caries and periodontitis; Porphyromonas gingivalis is a main etiological factor in periodontal diseases. EPO’s new patented extract Planoràl is a unique blend of Skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora L.) and Cistus (Cistus x incanus L.), acting as antibacterial against Porphyromonas gingivalis to prevent periodontitis. The efficacy of Planoràl is also proved by the induction of beta-defensins release with and without the presence of inflammation. Click here to read more and download the brochure Not too long ago, literature evidence began to suggest a link between chronic oral inflammation and some systemic diseases. In fact, periodontitis is a constant potential source of infection and inflammation, and it has been considered a separate risk factor for cardiovascular, cerebrovascular and respiratory diseases, as well as a potential risk for increased morbidity and mortality for diabetes, insulin resistance, rheumatoid arthritis, obesity, osteoporosis and complications of pregnancy.
Protecting botanicals from adulteration: the importance of DNA barcoding A test that uniquely identifies each living species, similarly to a UPC barcode, can ensure the safety and compliance of botanical and herbal products. This is the essence of DNA barcoding, a technique with many important applications, including the fight against adulteration. Discover more in this article. What is DNA barcoding and how does it work? DNA barcoding is a method of species identification derived from molecular biology. This technique allows the identification of any animal or plant species based on what “is written” in its DNA, distinguishing it from all other species. DNA barcoding uses a small DNA sequence obtained from a standard part of the genome and compares it with the sequences contained in an official database, looking for the best match. To get a practical idea of how this works, just think of a supermarket scanner: the checkout reader scans the UPC barcode on an item and compares it with the reference database to identify the product in question, with all its associated features (price, discount, etc.). The technique of DNA barcoding was first introduced in 2003 by Canadian researcher Paul D. N. Herbert and has since become established worldwide. Its benefits and implications are many: It is an important tool for ecology and biodiversity conservation, as it facilitates the classification of species and their habitat; It is essential for the identification of cryptic species, i.e. species that are morphologically identical to others but genetically quite distinct; It is the most effective technique to ensure the quality and safety of botanical products, preventing counterfeiting and adulteration, as we will clarify below. In order to succeed, DNA barcoding requires databases (or molecular libraries) of different species. Many data are available in the international gene database, GenBank, while the international association for DNA barcoding (IBOL, International Barcode of Life) has created a dedicated database where researchers from all over the world can deposit the DNA sequences of each organism. DNA barcoding as a technique for botanical species identification As mentioned, DNA barcoding is crucial in the correct identification of botanical species. This applies not only to plants but also to botanical extracts present in many different everyday products (food, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, etc.). For companies in the field of plant extracts, adopting techniques such as DNA barcoding allows them to ensure the quality and safety of raw materials and the final product. Companies like ours rely on international suppliers: the raw materials used for our extracts usually arrive in the warehouse dried and cut, making their morphological analysis sometimes difficult. Even the analytical techniques provided by the Pharmacopoeia can fail when plant species are very close to each other. In these cases, DNA barcoding proves to be the most reliable methodology. It doesn’t matter if the sample is dried or powdered: even a very small portion of vegetable material is sufficient to perform the analysis. It is even possible to isolate and analyze traces of DNA in extracts and finished products. The analysis with DNA barcoding allows to exclude possible adulteration and to certify the quality of suppliers. It thus becomes a central element in the reputation of the manufacturer towards its customers and in the safeguard of consumers. In short, DNA barcoding is an essential tool for monitoring the entire supply chain. Natural extracts and adulteration Counterfeiting of botanical extracts is a sadly topical issue, as evidenced by a 2019 review published in Frontiers in Pharmacology. A total of 5,957 botanical extract products sold in 37 countries were analyzed using DNA barcoding. Comparing their content to what was declared on the label, it was found that 27% of the products on the global market were adulterated. The percentage varies according to continent: it is highest in Australia (79%) and South America (67%), and lowest in North America (33%), Africa (27%), and Asia (23%). In Europe, 47% of products presented mislabeling with respect to the botanical species declared, possibly affecting their safety. The case of Scutellaria An emblematic case is that of skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora), one of the most widely used plants in North America and in western herbal medicine against nervous system disorders, with sedative effect. Historically, Scutellaria has been adulterated with various species of germander such as Teucrium canadense and Teucrium chamaedrys, known for their liver toxicity. This adulteration was noted in the U.S. market as early as 2005. The example of Scutellaria shows us how important DNA barcoding is not only to ensure the quality of plant extracts and defend against adulteration but also to protect the safety of drugs and their consumers. Discover EPO’s DNA certified extracts At EPO we prioritize the efficacy and safety of our products. An accurate determination of all the components is carried out through sophisticated instrumental analysis, which has been supported in recent years by DNA barcoding analysis. The result is our DNA-certified line, which you can find here. The growing diffusion of DNA barcoding is the premise for a future in which quality and safety go hand in hand. There is still a long way to go, but the path is clear.
Voice drink with hedge mustard: a recipe from the University of Milan The singers’ plant: this is the popular name given to hedge mustard, a wild plant found all over Europe. Opera singers have always sung its praises as a miracle remedy for throat disorders. Today, hedge mustard is also used in food preparations, where it stands out for its pungent flavour. In this article, we will shed light on its properties and present a recipe to fully appreciate them. Hedge mustard, the singers’ plant loved by the chefs Hedge mustard – Sisymbrium officinale (L.) Scopoli – belongs to the Brassicaceae family and grows throughout the Mediterranean basin, favouring uncultivated land such as courtyards and roadsides, even in cities. This plant has always been famous for its ability to alleviate inflammation of the throat and respiratory tract: aphonia, hoarseness, laryngitis and pharyngitis. The Italian name ‘erisimo’ (from the Greek ‘I save the singing’) shows that these properties were also known in the classical world. Its fame spread during the Renaissance and continues to this day: the Italian Supplemento al Dizionario di Sanità, a medical book published in 1784 by Giovanni Pietro Fusanacci, mentions its benefits against hoarseness. During the 19th century, hedge mustard accompanied opera singers before their performances and is still used today as a voice tonic. The therapeutic action of hedge mustard is attributed to its glucosinolate compounds. The highest concentration of bioactives, reached between May and August, is found in the flowering tops. Despite being an edible plant, hedge mustard has long been forgotten in traditional cuisine, except for Northern Europe, where it is widely used as a condiment. Hedge mustard shares its pungent and bitter taste with other plants of the Brassicaceae family, such as mustard and rocket. Dried in herbal tea preparations it has a sour aftertaste, while in cooking it preserves its organoleptic properties and active compounds below 70° C. The ‘Erisimo in Milan’ project In Italy, recent scientific studies on this plant are linked to the ‘Erisimo in Milan’ project, promoted by the Faculty of Agricultural and Food Sciences at the University of Milan, with which we had the pleasure of collaborating. The objectives of the initiative were to safeguard the spontaneous growth area of hedge mustard, develop its cultivation, study new food applications and encourage cultural activities related to the use of the voice. Finally, this exceptional plant is brought to new life through musical and gastronomic events. We would like to conclude our journey into the world of hedge mustard with a recipe from the book In cucina con l’erisimo (‘Cooking with hedge mustard’). Recipe: Procurando você – Voice Drink Ingredients 1 liter of water zest of half a lemon 1 apple, sliced but not peeled 20 g of fresh ginger 1 or 2 fresh okra fruits 2 tablespoons of honey 1 tablespoon of hedge mustard flowers (fresh, dried or frozen) 2 teaspoons of hedge mustard seeds Preparation Pour the water into a saucepan, add the sliced apple, lemon zest, peeled ginger in pieces and sliced okra. Bring to the boil; simmer covered over low heat for 8-10 minutes. Turn off the flame; allow to cool to about 60°. Add the hedge mustard flowers and seeds and leave to infuse. The drink can be consumed hot, warm or cold. In the latter case, try serving it in a jug with pieces of fruit, like sangria, but without adding ice. Our voice drink is ready. Cheers!