Postnatal depression affects up to 20% of Australian mothers, approximately 60,000 women annually, and imposes an estimated economic burden of $877 million per year(1,2). Postnatal depression is a complex and multifactorial condition, with its aetiology still not fully understood, making prevention challenging. Nutrition has been identified as a modifiable factor that may influence the risk of developing postnatal depression. A recent systematic review in non-pregnant, adult populations found folic acid supplementation was associated with reduced depression scores in individuals with clinical depression, though study quality was a limitation(3). Observational studies suggest folic acid supplementation throughout pregnancy may lower the risk of postnatal depression(4,5). However, no randomised controlled trials have investigated whether continuing folic acid supplementation throughout pregnancy influences postnatal depression. To determine whether continuing folic acid supplementation throughout pregnancy, compared to ceasing after the first trimester, reduces postnatal depression risk as assessed by Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS). A secondary aim is to examine whether polymorphisms in folate metabolism genes influence response to folic acid and postnatal depression risk. This sub-study is embedded within the Folic Acid in Gestation (FIG) trial—a decentralised, double-blind, randomised controlled trial with two parallel groups. A total of 2,826 pregnant women (1,413 per group), between 12+0 and 15+6 weeks’ gestation, will be randomised to receive either a standard prenatal vitamin and mineral supplement containing either 0 µg folic acid or 500 µg folic acid. Supplementation will continue from 12+0 weeks of gestation until three months postpartum. Participants will be asked to provide a saliva sample for DNA extraction and analysis, to explore how polymorphisms in genes related to folate metabolism influence risk of postnatal depression. The primary outcome of this sub-study is postnatal depression, assessed using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS). The EPDS is a validated 10-item questionnaire designed to identify symptoms and risk of depression in the postnatal period. Participants will be invited to complete the EPDS at six months postpartum. Scores of ≥ 13 indicate a higher risk of depression and warrant referral for clinical assessment. To account for baseline mental health status, participants will be screened for depression during pregnancy using the Centre for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D) at enrolment and 28 weeks’ gestation. Based on an approximate depression rate of 20% in Australia, this sample size will allow us to detect a 25% reduction in the risk of postnatal depression. Given the burden of postnatal depression in Australia, even modest reductions in prevalence could yield significant societal and economic benefits.

Diet is one of the strongest modulators of the gut microbiome, which is increasingly implicated in metabolic, immunological, and neurological programming in early life(1). To explore associations between diet, the microbiome, and health outcomes, stool samples are commonly collected from pregnant women participating in longitudinal birth cohorts. However, many cohorts recently established in Australia have recruited pregnant women who are highly educated(2) and likely to be of higher socioeconomic status (SES)(3). The generalisability of research findings is limited when people living with socioeconomic disadvantage, who may benefit most from interventions and support, are underrepresented. Understanding the demographical differences between those interested and uninterested in participating in maternal microbiome studies may assist with devising recruitment strategies and/or eligibility criteria for future research. This study aimed to describe the sociodemographic and dietary characteristics of pregnant women who expressed interest in participating a gut microbiome study, compared to those who did not. Pregnant women aged ≥ 16 years were recruited to complete an online survey (estimated duration: 25–35 minutes; prize draw entry offered to win one of three AUD 200 vouchers) about food insecurity and diet via social media and flyers/posters at three public hospitals in South-East Queensland. The survey included the Household Food Security Survey Module and a food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). Dietary Guidelines Index 2013 criteria were applied to FFQ responses to obtain an overall diet quality score. At the end of the survey, participants indicated if they were interested in a related study about the gut microbiome. Of the 1,492 women who completed the survey, approximately half (n = 742, 49.7%) were interested in participating in a gut microbiome study. Those who expressed interest were more likely to be married or in a de facto relationship (odds ratio [OR]: 1.7, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.1–2.6, p = 0.009), to have a Bachelor degree or higher (OR: 1.3, 95% CI: 1.1–1.6, p = 0.007), to live in a high SES area (OR: 1.4, 95% CI: 1.1–1.7, p = 0.001), and in a food secure household (OR: 1.3, 95% CI: 1.0–1.6, p = 0.016). On average, diet quality scores were 2.7 points higher (95% CI: 1.3–4.0, p < 0.001) among those who expressed interest; this difference may be clinically important. These findings indicate that pregnant women interested in taking part in a gut microbiome study are likely to be more ‘advantaged’, with higher diet quality. More research is needed to improve understanding of barriers and enablers to participation in maternal microbiome research, particularly among those with lower SES. Additionally, to ensure pregnant women from a range of SES backgrounds are represented in microbiome research, a targeted effort is required to recruit pregnant women living with disadvantage in future studies.

In Australia, approximately 5.1% (i.e., over 1.3 million) of individuals have been diagnosed with any type of diabetes (excluding gestational diabetes)(1) and 16.7% (> 2 million) over the age of 25 have possible or ‘pre-diabetes’(2). We previously conducted a pragmatic cluster randomised controlled trial, the Healthy Rural Hearts trial (HealthyRHearts)(3), in primary care practices within a large rural region categorised as Modified Monash Model (MMM) regions 3–5 in NSW, Australia. The HealthyRHearts RCT evaluated the impact of providing medical nutrition therapy (MNT) by Accredited Practising Dietitians (APD) via telehealth, versus usual GP care on CVD risk factors in rural adults screened by their GP as being at moderate-to-high CVD risk. It found that providing two hours of MNT delivered by APDs via telehealth achieved significantly greater improvement in diet quality, body weight and HbA1C with similar change in lipids, with benefits continuing to 12-months. Given that less than half the sample has pre-existing diabetes, this secondary analysis sought to evaluate diabetes-related outcomes at 12 months in adults enrolled in HealthyRHearts who received telehealth MNT compared to usual GP care. This secondary analysis used a subsample of participants (n = 81, n = 56 intervention, n = 25 control) with diagnosed or possible diabetes from the HealthyRHearts cluster RCT. ‘Diagnosed’ diabetes was reported by a primary care physicians, while ‘possible diabetes’ was defined from a baseline fasting blood glucose level [FBG] ≥ 5.5 mmol/L or HbA1c ≥ 6.0%). The intervention group received five telehealth-based MNT sessions over six-months and up to four personalised nutrition reports. Both control (n = 7 primary care practices) and intervention groups (n = 9 primary care practices) received usual care from their general practitioner. Within and between group changes in FBG and HbA1c were calculated from baseline up to 12-months using Bayesian hierarchical regression models. Results indicated that participants in the intervention group showed greater reductions in FBG (−0.43 mmol/L, 95% CrI [−1.05, 0.19]) and Hba1c (−0.26% 95% CrI [−0.51, −0.00]) compared to controls at 12 months, when accounting for medication. The Bayes Factor indicated strong evidence of a greater reduction in FBG in the intervention group (10.64) and very strong evidence for HbA1c (39.45), supporting these findings. Current results indicate that MNT delivered via telehealth supports improvement in blood glucose variables in individuals with diagnosed diabetes and possible or pre-diabetes. A key strength of this study is that it captured diabetes care offered by primary care in rural areas of Australia, where access to services may be limited. Importantly, it tested the impact of MNT using a rigorous clustered RCT design in a pragmatic, real-world setting and hard-to-reach population. Future studies with larger sample sizes are needed to confirm these findings in similar populations.

This commentary explores the shift from WEIRD to WILD psychologies, showing how a focus on cultural diversity and meaning-making aligns with this movement. Using examples, we argue that the epistemic recognition of Global South realities is an urgent act of justice – one that frees psychology from its colonial imagination and opens space for many ways of knowing, caring, and becoming human.

Why does quantum theory need the complex numbers? With a view toward answering this question, this article argues that the usual Hilbert-space formalism is a special case of the general method of Markovian embeddings. This article then describes the “indivisible interpretation” of quantum theory, according to which a quantum system can be regarded as an “indivisible” stochastic process unfolding in an old-fashioned configuration space, with wave functions and other exotic Hilbert-space ingredients demoted from having an ontological status. The complex numbers end up being necessary to ensure that the Hilbert-space formalism is indeed a Markovian embedding.

Accurate dietary assessment is essential for informing public health strategies, especially in culturally and linguistically diverse populations. South Asian (SA) migrants the second largest and one of the fastest-growing migrant groups in Australia experience a significantly higher burden of diet-related chronic conditions, including type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease(1). Despite this, their dietary behaviours remain underrepresented in national data and nutrition surveillance. Compounding this issue are unique cultural food practices, varied levels of dietary acculturation, and limited access to validated dietary assessment tools that reflect traditional eating patterns(2). The Australian Eating Survey Food Frequency Questionnaire (AES-FFQ) is a commonly used tool in Australian dietary research and clinical practice. However, its validity in culturally diverse populations such as SA migrants has not been evaluated. This study aimed to assess the comparative validity of the AES-FFQ in estimating macro- and micronutrient intakes in SA adults living in Australia, using a three-day weighed food record (WFR) as the reference method. A cross-sectional validation study was conducted among SA adults residing in Victoria, Australia. Participants completed both the AES-FFQ and a three-day WFR. Nutrient intakes from both tools were compared using paired t-tests or Wilcoxon signed-rank tests for group-level differences, and Pearson or Spearman correlations to assess associations. Bland-Altman analyses were used to evaluate individual-level agreement and systematic bias. Participants also completed a structured feedback survey exploring the acceptability and cultural relevance of the AES-FFQ. Of the 218 individuals who completed initial screening, 21 participants completed both the AES-FFQ and WFR. Moderate correlations were found for protein (r = 0.490, p = 0.024), niacin, vitamin B12, and beta-carotene, indicating acceptable agreement for some nutrients. However, intakes of energy (–953.2 kcal), total fat (–12.55 g), saturated fat (–4.54 g), sodium (–1476.46 mg), and added sugars (–16.1 g) were significantly underestimated by the AES-FFQ compared to the WFR. Bland-Altman plots revealed wide limits of agreement and systematic underreporting, particularly for energy and sodium. Participant feedback reinforced these findings, with 85.7% reporting that the AES-FFQ did not reflect their typical dietary intake due to a lack of culturally specific food items and portion sizes. This study is one of the first to evaluate the AES-FFQ in a South Asian migrant population and highlights critical limitations in its use for this group. The findings support the urgent need to develop culturally tailored dietary assessment tools that better reflect the food practices of SA Australians. Doing so will improve the accuracy of dietary data and support more equitable and effective public health nutrition policies.

The potential benefits of regular legume consumption on human health are well recognized, including reductions in CVD risk, improved glycaemic control and insulin sensitivity, reductions in cancer risk and diversification of the gut microbiome(1). In addition to the proposed health benefits, one of the key advantages of legumes is their potential impact of planetary health due to their low environmental footprint from their cultivation(2). However, previous data has shown that intake amongst Australian adults is suboptimal(3). Nevertheless, the recent emergence of new legume-based products onto Australian supermarket shelves suggests the possibility of greater acceptance and uptake(4). Therefore, this study aimed to quantify frequency of consumption as well as potential barriers and motivators toward legume intake, using a convenience sample of Australian adults. This was a cross-sectional online survey undertaken in Australian adults aged ≥ 18 years. The survey tool included questions related to the types of legumes and legume-based products preferentially consumed, frequency of their intake, and the barriers and motivators toward consumption. A total of n = 437 participants completed the survey (47.7 ± 15.4 years; BMI: 25.3 ± 5.0 kg/m(2)). Canned legumes (n = 400; 91.5%), legume-based dips (n = 400; 91.5%) and fresh legumes (n = 392; 89.7%) were amongst the most frequently consumed legume type. Of these, almost two-thirds of participants (n = 278; 63.6%) reported consuming canned legumes on a weekly basis, with twice weekly the most reported frequency of consumption (n = 89; 20.4%). Chickpeas (n = 206; 47.1), lentils (n = 109; 24.9%) and peas (n = 92; 21.1%) were the most frequently consumed legume type. Taste preferences (n = 194; 48.4%), meat alternative protein options (n = 187; 46.6%), health (n = 171; 42.6%) and nutritional benefits (n = 138; 34.4%) were identified as key motivators toward consumption. Few respondents identified cultural (n = 17; 4.2%) or environmental (n = 9; 2.2%) influences as key motivators for legume consumption. In contrast, not being a key component of the habitual diet (n = 82; 18.8%) and the potential to trigger gut related symptoms (n = 15; 18.3%) were identified as key barriers hindering regular consumption. Despite identifying key motivators toward legume consumption, it remains important to continue to address barriers which may impede regular consumption through avenues including ongoing food innovation and establishing clear dietary recommendations consistent with optimal health outcomes.

Compliance with epidemic prevention norms has been found to be higher in developing regions than in developed regions; however, the nature and underlying mechanisms remain unclear. We propose that socioeconomic development of environments changes the adaptive benefits of fundamental social motives, especially disease avoidance and familial motives, which shape variations in compliance during pandemics. To examine the effects of these motives on the relationship between socioeconomic environments and compliance, we conducted three studies measuring environmental socioeconomic development with the Human Development Index (HDI). Study 1 (with two datasets: N = 43,244, 53 countries; N = 94,657, 71 countries) revealed a stable negative correlation between country-level HDI and compliance, even after controlling disease severity, government responses, and individualism. Studies 2 (an analysis of social media text data; N = 22,588, 31 provinces) and 3 (a large-sample survey; N = 6,122, 31 cities) replicated this correlation in China at the provincial and city levels, and identified disease avoidance and familial motives as mediators. These findings provide evidence for how socioeconomic environments shape compliance during pandemics, highlight the importance of familial motives alongside disease avoidance, and offer insights into tailoring public health strategies across diverse environments.

Gut micro-organisms possess biochemical capabilities that far exceed those of their mammalian hosts, particularly in the ability to gain energy from the breakdown of diet-derived plant material (fibre). This article reviews investigations into gut microbial communities conducted by Harry Flint and his research group. First, extracellular cellulosome and amylosome enzyme complexes were found to mediate the breakdown of plant cell walls and resistant starch by specialised Firmicutes bacteria, both in the human colon and in the rumen. In contrast, Bacteroidetes (Bacteroides, Prevotella spp.) rely on their ability to capture soluble carbohydrates. Human dietary studies examining the impact of fibre sources upon microbiota composition and metabolism identified ‘diet-responsive’ species. In addition, dominant species of butyrate-producing bacteria, including a subset able to convert lactate to butyrate, were isolated from healthy human volunteers. Most produce butyrate from carbohydrates via butyryl-CoA:acetate CoA-transferase, with uptake of external acetate, while lactate conversion is associated with a highly inducible gene cluster (lct). In pH-controlled chemostat studies, mildly acid pH depressed growth of propionate-producing Bacteroidetes, but favoured butyrate production by Firmicutes. This may explain why % butyrate among SCFA increases with total faecal SCFA concentration in human studies. Although lactate is normally consumed by lactate-utilising bacteria, destabilisation of the microbial community associated with lactate accumulation can result in radically altered microbiota and metabolite profiles. A theoretical model based on microbial functional groups (MFG) was developed to better understand community dynamics. Consequences for nutritional research of our expanding knowledge of the microbial ecology of the human gut are considered.

The shift toward more plant-based foods presents an opportunity to improve both health and sustainability. However, fortification of key nutrients such as calcium or vitamin B12 is not mandatory in Australia and raises concerns about the nutritional adequacy of plant-based alternatives. Additionally, many plant-based alternatives are classified as ultra-processed foods (UPFs) and may inadvertently contribute to poorer diet quality despite being perceived as healthier choices. Therefore, this study aimed to examine the fortification and extent of processing of plant-based meat and dairy alternatives from Australian supermarkets. Data on plant-based alternatives were collected from eight Melbourne supermarkets in 2022 using the CSIRO FoodTrackTM methodology. Products were included if they were meat or dairy substitutes outlined in the Australian Food Composition Database, or, plant-based alternatives for core meat and dairy in the Australian Dietary Guidelines. Product images were taken, and data was transcribed. Fortificants were recorded from the product ingredients list and nutrition information panel if listed on the Food Standards Australia New Zealand permitted forms of vitamins and minerals list(1). Products were classified as UPF if their ingredients list contained a marker of ultra-processing from the Australian food supply(2). In total, 455 meat alternatives (n = 219 legumes/pulses; n = 15 falafel; n = 183 novel meat alternatives; n = 6 tempeh; n = 32 tofu) and 249 dairy alternatives (n = 52 cheese; n = 34 flavoured milk; n = 123 milk; n = 40 yoghurt) were identified. Ninety-nine (22%) meat alternatives and 136 (55%) dairy alternatives were fortified. Meat alternatives were most commonly fortified with iron (n = 51, 11%), vitamin B12 (n = 41, 9%), and zinc (n = 28, 6%), while dairy alternatives were most mostly fortified with calcium (n = 127, 51%), vitamin B12 (n = 35, 14%), and riboflavin (n = 32, 13%). Over 218 (48%) of meat alternatives, were classified as UPF. Of these, novel meat alternatives (n = 167, 91%), and tempeh (n = 3, 50%) categories had a higher proportion of foods classified as UPF, while legumes/pulses (n = 34, 16%), falafel (n = 3, 20%), and tofu n = 11 (34%) had a lower proportion. Over three quarters (n = 188, 76%) of dairy alternatives were classified as UPF, including the majority of flavoured milks (n = 30, 88%), cheeses (n = 45, 87%), yoghurts (n = 32, 80%) and unflavoured milks (n = 81, 66%). This study highlights the low rates and variability of fortification and large proportion of UPFs across plant-based alternatives. These findings make it difficult for consumers to choose healthy plant-based alternatives for animal-sourced foods when supermarket shopping. Outcomes from this study also have implications for future policies to improve the healthiness of plant-based foods.

Ultra-processed foods (UPFs) have been shown to play a role in promoting inflammation and oxidative stress(1). Emerging research suggests an association between UPF consumption and neurodegenerative conditions, including multiple sclerosis (MS)(2), an inflammatory neurological and immune-mediated disease. Australian research has unveiled a need for evidence-based MS-specific dietary advice to facilitate self-management of the disease(3). As interest into health impacts of UPFs grows, it is timely and relevant to investigate the MS community’s understanding of UPFs. This study aimed to explore the understanding of UPFs among people living with MS in Australia. We used a sequential, mixed-methods approach to comprehensively assess knowledge and attitudes associated with UPFs among the MS community. We conducted an online survey (Phase 1), followed by in-depth discussion via online focus groups (Phase 2). Phase 1: Participants (n = 64) completed a structured questionnaire via Qualtrics, previously piloted in the general Australian population. The survey collected data relating to socio-demographic characteristics, the ability to identify UPFs using a UPF identification task, and UPF knowledge measured through open-ended questions which were content-analysed. Phase 2: Twelve people living with MS attended one of five focus groups. These were recorded and transcribed verbatim. A general inductive approach was undertaken for thematic analysis using a combination of latent and semantic coding. Phase 1: Mean (SD) age of survey participants was 64 (12.3) years. Most were female (91%), educated beyond Year 12 (89%), and born in an English-speaking country (95%). Eighty-six percent were aware of the UPF term and described UPFs based on ingredients. Twenty-nine percent were unable to correctly identify UPFs, with packaged multigrain bread (53%) and pasta sauce (66%) misclassified most often as non-UPFs. Phase 2: Mean (SD) age of focus group participants was 51 (13.3) years and they were mostly female (83%). Six themes emerged: (i) identifying UPFs (‘anything that’s more chemical compound than raw ingredient is a red flag to me’); (ii) scepticism towards food manufacturers (‘UPFs are primarily designed to promote overconsumption’); (iii) barriers and facilitators influencing UPF consumption (‘when I eat out I accept that I’m going to be eating something ultra-processed’); (iv) perceived dis-/advantages of UPFs (‘convenience is the big factor’); (v) confusion about where to seek MS-specific dietary advice (‘trying to find evidence-based sources rather than just opinions which are everywhere and can be quite conflicting’); and (vi) wanting trustworthy advice surrounding UPFs and MS (‘it would be nice to have credible, trustworthy, unbiased information for people with MS to make dietary decisions’). These results enhance our understanding of how people living with MS perceive UPFs and may inform evidence-based nutrition interventions. Additionally, they may support the development of clear, tailored messaging to improve dietary awareness and encourage healthier food choices within this population.

Food insecurity, defined as limited or uncertain access to adequate, safe, and nutritious food, is a growing concern in high-income countries(1). University students are particularly vulnerable due to rising tuition fees, high living costs, limited financial support, and the transitional nature of student life(2). Food insecurity may significantly impact students’ academic performance, physical health, and mental well-being, potentially undermining their educational success(3). Given the unique financial and social circumstances shaping food insecurity in the Australian context, a focused review is needed to understand its prevalence, predictors, and impacts among university students. This systematic review synthesises empirical evidence on the prevalence, predictors, and impacts of food insecurity among Australian university students. This review followed PRISMA guidelines to identify, appraise, and synthesise relevant studies. Eight databases (Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, ERIC, MEDLINE, CINAHL, Informit, PsycINFO) were searched from inception to 2024 using keywords related to food insecurity, university students, and Australia. Studies were screened by two independent reviewers against predefined inclusion criteria. Of 1,450 screened studies, 23 met the inclusion criteria and were included in the review. Twenty studies were quantitative (sample sizes ranging from n = 105 to 3077) and two studies were qualitative or mixed methods (sample sizes from n = 14 to 64). Studies that assessed the prevalence of food insecurity (n = 17) identified prevalence statistics ranging from 9.0% to 77.9% of the student sample. Studies employed a range of tools, most commonly the 6, 10 and 18-item Household Food Security Survey Modules (n = 17). Across n = 15 studies that explored predictors of food insecurity, demographic determinants associated with increased food insecurity risk included being an international student (n = 2), having low income or limited financial resources (n = 3), unstable employment (n = 3), being younger (n = 5), and living alone (n = 9). Six studies linked food insecurity to poor dietary patterns and five studies demonstrated a significant inverse association between food insecurity and poor physical health. Qualitative findings explained students perceived that food insecurity exacerbated existing health issues and weight management problems. Other studies (n = 6) reported a strong association between food insecurity and increased anxiety, depression, and stress, while two out of four studies found a significant association with to poorer academic performance. Food insecurity is a widespread issue that compromises student health, well-being, and academic success, highlighting the need for urgent, targeted interventions. Organisational and national policy are needed to support student financial wellbeing and improve accessible food support programs for Australian university students, particularly younger and international cohorts.

Slow-growing piglets during the post-weaning period continue to lag behind their fast-growing counterparts through to the finishing period, leading to a weight variability at slaughter that reduces farm profitability. Fast-growing piglets are associated with higher feed intake(1), yet nutritional strategies to increase nutrient intake in slow-growers around weaning have had limited success. In addition, light-weight piglets may not respond to increased nutrient supply(2), suggesting that growth variability may reflect intrinsic metabolic differences in nutrient processing and utilisation. The metabolic phenotypes emerging during the early post-weaning transition among healthy piglets with divergent growth trajectories remain poorly characterised. This study aimed to identify baseline differences in nutrient metabolic pathways between slow- versus fast-growing piglets in the post-weaning phase. We hypothesised that plasma metabolic profiles would reveal alterations in carbohydrate, fatty acid, and amino acid metabolism in slow-growers. Two extreme growth phenotypes were characterised from 23 piglets weaned at 21 days of age into fast (9.57 ± 1.45 kg, n = 12) and slow (5.06 ± 1.49 kg, n = 11) groups, initially blocked by weaning weight and monitored for 14 days after weaning. Untargeted metabolomic profiling of blood plasma collected at weaning was performed using liquid chromatography–time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LC-TOF-MS) in sequential window acquisition of all theoretical ion spectra (SWATH) mode. Chromatography data were analysed in MetaboAnalyst 6.0. Differential metabolites were identified by volcano plot analysis (fold change > 1 and p < 0.05) and annotated using MS-FINDER (v3.61). The abundance of 395 metabolites differed significantly between the two groups, with 214 upregulated and 181 downregulated in slow- compared to fast-growing piglets. These metabolites were mapped to 24 enriched KEGG pathways, including biosynthesis of unsaturated fatty acids, arachidonic acid metabolism, phenylalanine/tyrosine/tryptophan metabolism, and ascorbate and aldarate metabolism. Slow-growing piglets exhibited marked downregulation of several long-chain and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), notably arachidonic acid (AA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), γ-linolenic acid, palmitic acid, and docosadienoate (22:2n6). Consistent with the reduced arachidonic acid profile, slow-growers also had lower levels of eicosanoid derivatives such as leukotriene C4. Sow milk contains adequate essential fatty acids, thus, the observed PUFA deficits in slow-growers may reflect intrinsic inefficiencies in uptake or reduced milk intake(3). Limited literature on baseline PUFA deficiency in suckling or newly weaned piglets underscores the novelty of these findings and highlights a potentially underexplored mechanism in early-life growth restriction. Human and rodent models link low DHA and AA to systemic inflammation in neonates and growth-restricted phenotypes(4,5). These results identify early-life metabolic signatures that may underpin growth divergence and highlight lipid metabolism as a potential target for nutritional intervention.

Nutrient security refers a country’s ability to provide a food supply that meets the energy, macronutrient, and micronutrient requirements of its population. While Australia is generally considered food secure(1), micronutrient deficiencies persist in the population(2). To date, no studies have comprehensively estimated or assessed Australia’s nutrient security. This study aimed to evaluate the adequacy of Australia’s food supply in meeting population nutrient requirements and the extent of reliance on imported foods to do so. The national food supply in 2019 was estimated using Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) Food Balance Sheets and data from the 2011–2012 National Nutrition and Physical Activity Survey (NNPAS). The supply of energy, macronutrients, and micronutrients was estimated using the Australian Food Composition Database (AUSNUT). The resulting estimates of nutrient supply were compared to population-weighted Nutrient Reference Values (NRVs). To assess reliance on imports, nutrient supply from domestically produced foods were estimated and compared to population requirements. In 2019, Australia’s food supply exceeded population energy requirements by 23%. The estimated supply of protein and essential fatty acids, including linoleic acid, α-linolenic acid, and long-chain omega-3s, was more than double the population’s needs. The supply of dietary fibre was estimated to meet only 82% of the population requirements. The supply of micronutrients met most population requirements, except for calcium, which was estimated to meet 99% of the population’s needs. Imports contributed to meeting population requirements for energy, calcium, iron, and magnesium. Australia’s 2019 food supply was broadly sufficient in meeting national nutrient requirements. However, shortfalls in dietary fibre and calcium, along with reliance on imported foods for several key nutrients highlight areas of potential vulnerability in the national food system. Continued monitoring and further research are needed to ensure long-term nutrient security beyond basic food availability.

In African societies, cultural food practices often restrict or prohibit the consumption of certain foods during pregnancy(1). These practices are shaped by cultural, religious, or societal values and beliefs(2). For instance, in some African countries, pregnant women are advised to avoid red meat and eggs due to cultural beliefs that these foods may harm the mother or the foetus(1). Some of these practices may persist after migration, and how healthcare professionals (HCPs) perceive their influence on African migrant women’s food practices in Australia remains unexplored. Gaining insight into HCPs’ perceptions is essential for improving culturally responsive care and supporting African migrant women in making informed dietary choices during pregnancy and postpartum. Understanding HCPs’ perceptions will provide insight into how these practices are understood and addressed in clinical settings. The aim of this study was to explore HCPs’ perceptions of the cultural food practices of African migrant women during pregnancy and the postpartum period in Australia. HCPs were recruited through convenience and snowball sampling. In-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted with 15 HCPs who had experience providing antenatal care to African migrant women in Australia. Interviews were transcribed verbatim, inductively coded using NVivo 14, and analysed using Braun and Clarke’s reflexive thematic analysis(3). Most participants (n = 13) were midwives, and two were obstetricians and gynaecologists. Three themes were identified: (i) HCPs’ perceptions of women’s cultural food practices, (ii) challenges in delivering general healthy eating information, and (iii) strategies for providing effective nutrition advice. Most participants (n = 10) discussed their perceptions of women continuing their traditional dietary practices after migrating to Australia; fewer than half (n = 5) were aware of specific restrictive food practices among the African migrant women they had supported. HCPs perceived that the healthy eating information provided to these women was not always effective and culturally appropriate due to limited consultation time and a lack of culturally appropriate resources. Participants expressed a need for in-service education, tailored nutrition resources including common African foods to enhance culturally appropriate care, and increased continuity of care. This study highlights a gap in HCPs’ awareness of food related cultural practices among African migrant women. Limited awareness of potential food restrictions during pregnancy may negatively impact maternal and infant health. The challenges HCPs face in providing culturally appropriate healthy eating information underscore the need for systemic changes in healthcare. Addressing these gaps through supportive training for HCPs and increasing access to culturally tailored resources, ideally developed in collaboration with dietitians, is urgently needed.

In the 1960s and 1970s, the South Korean government, scientists, and farmers fostered the promotion of a domestic dairy and grassland agriculture. With the technical and financial cooperation of the Australian, Canadian, Danish, Japanese, New Zealand, and West German governments, the Korean actors imported livestock, established model farms, and conducted research projects on grassland and forage. Dairy production played a crucial role, as it combined agriculture with modern technology. While researchers have pointed out the ‘civilizing force’ of cattle in colonialism, this article extends the role played by dairy agriculture in post-colonial societies. In the wake of the Cold War developmentalist framework, both domestic and transnational actors shaped not only dairy agriculture, but also Korea’s environment and diet long term. Aside from American-backed efforts around the ‘green revolution’, multiple other actors cooperated in rural development and represented a different understanding of dairy and agriculture. They actively transferred new cow breeds, grass seeds, and milking technology to the South Korean countryside; their efforts were partly welcomed and partly rejected by Korean locals. The article focuses especially on two Korean-German projects—the bilateral model dairy farm in Anseong and the grassland research project—and locates them in the context of this transnational cooperation.

There is international recognition that investing in children and in their nutrition is pivotal for their immediate and long-term health and wellbeing. Schools are a critical setting with food and nutrition education (FNE) essential to whole-of-school health promoting approaches(1). Research suggests that self-efficacy among staff development specialists such as curriculum planners can improve teacher competence, and by extension enhance student outcomes(1). The project used data from two scoping reviews, a survey of teachers (n = 139), principals (n = 139) and a deep-dive ethnography into four schools as case studies in Queensland, Australia(2–4). This data informed the co-design of a scalable FNE Curriculum Planning Toolkit that integrated a whole-of-school systems approach. The Toolkit had to explicitly reduce the burden on teachers by simplifying FNE and ensuring it could be adapted to individual school contexts. The approach used a collaborative, scaffolded design-thinking framework for groups to develop solutions and prototypes using a ‘how might we…’ method for reframing challenges(5). Two workshops led by a curriculum designer with experience in design-thinking were held online. The thirteen participants were heads of curriculum, principals and HPE teachers from a diverse range of primary schools across Queensland. In addition, alongside the workshops an environmental scan was undertaken of FNE resources, and a tool was developed to assess the credibility and accuracy of the resources. The two workshops identified key features for the Toolkit as: easy access to curriculum-aligned achievement standards and content descriptions; a bank of elaborations that are food and nutrition related; unit planning templates; access to curated resources that are credible and accurate; a process for inquiry planning that integrated food and nutrition across a variety of subjects; sample inquiry based unit plans, curriculum aligned assessment and marking guidance. Participants also generated ideas for cross-curricular integration. Through a series of workshops and an iterative design process involving ongoing input and feedback from participants, the curriculum designer, and the web designer; the website www.schoolfoodies.org.au was developed. It was soft launched with positive feedback provided by teachers, teacher-educators and pre-service teachers. A co-designed FNE Curriculum Toolkit has the potential to integrate food and nutrition across the Australian Curriculum: F–10 and support a whole-of-school approach. It can also save teachers time and engage students in inquiry-based learning directly linked to their health and wellbeing. The next steps are to scale-up dissemination and trial the efficacy of the SchoolFoodies Toolkit as a gateway to health and wellbeing.

Menopausal transitioning is a period where women experience changes to their eating behaviours, appetite, mood, and food intake. More severe menopausal symptoms are associated with increased consumption of discretionary foods (high in energy, sodium, sugar, and fat) and inadequate intake of nutritious alternatives(1). This may contribute to the increased risk of non-communicable diseases (NCD), such as cardiovascular disease, observed in older women(2). Taste perception is one biological mechanism that mediates cravings, selection, and intake of discretionary foods. Understanding taste perception is important for interceding food preferences, dietary patterns, and eating behaviours. Taste sensitivities are known to decline with aging(3), although female-specific taste loss is not well studied in current research. Considering the prevalence of NCDs in post-menopausal women, targeting taste perception as a biological mechanism driving consumption could aid in prevention and treatment of NCDs in older women. This prompted the research question: Do taste sensitivities differ between pre-, peri-, and post-menopausal women? This exploratory research was a quantitative cross-sectional online survey. The survey contained five sections: menopausal status and symptoms; self-reported taste perception; a food liking questionnaire; a food frequency questionnaire; and general dietary health questions. Adult females (based on biological sex) aged 18+ years were recruited; and excluded if they had ever experienced any sexual health disorders (e.g., polycystic ovary syndrome), were using or had used hormonal contraceptives in the last 6 months, have had hormone replacement therapy, were pregnant or lactating, or were current or previous smokers. One-way ANOVAs were conducted to compare the means of the primary outcomes to determine differences between women based on menopausal status. Preliminary analysis of 141 participants suggest that peri-menopausal women (n = 51) were more likely to report a decreased ability to perceive all tastes (sweet, sour, salty, bitter, umami, and fatty) in the last 12 months compared to pre-menopausal (n = 39) and post-menopausal (n = 51) women (p < 0.05). Further outcomes from this survey are under investigation. The outcomes from this study aim to provide an improved understanding of the relationship between ovarian hormones and taste perception as a potential mediator of eating behaviour across different life-stages of females. It may also provide rationale for personalised dietary interventions to consider the impact of menopause on taste perception and dietary behaviour.