The Periodic Table of Food Initiative

Introduction: Food composition databases (FCDBs) are essential resources for characterizing, documenting, and advancing scientific understanding of food quality across the entire spectrum of edible biodiversity. This knowledge supports a wide range of applications with societal impact spanning the global food system. To maximize the utility of food composition data, FCDBs must adhere to criteria such as validated analytical methods, high-resolution metadata, and FAIR Data Principles (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, and Reusable). However, complexity and variability in food data pose significant challenges to meeting these standards. Methods: In this study, we conducted an integrative review of 35 data attributes across 101 FCDBs from 110 countries. The data attributes were categorized into three groups: general database information, foods and components, and FAIRness. Results: Our findings reveal evaluated databases show substantial variability in scope and content, with the number of foods and components ranging from few to thousands. FCDBs with the highest numbers of food samples (≥1,102) and components (≥244) tend to rely on secondary data sourced from scientific articles or other FCDBs. In contrast, databases with fewer food samples and components predominantly feature primary analytical data generated in-house. Notably, only one-third of FCDBs reported data on more than 100 food components. FCDBs were infrequently updated, with web-based interfaces being updated more frequently than static tables. When assessed for FAIR compliance, all FCDBs met the criteria for Findability. However, aggregated scores for Accessibility, Interoperability, and Reusability for the reviewed FCDBs were 30, 69, and 43%, respectively. Discussion: These scores reflect limitations in inadequate metadata, lack of scientific naming, and unclear data reuse notices. Notably, these results are associated with country economic classification, as databases from high-income countries showed greater inclusion of primary data, web-based interfaces, more regular updates, and strong adherence to FAIR principles. Our integrative review presents the current state of FCDBs highlighting emerging opportunities and recommendations. By fostering a deeper understanding of food composition, diverse stakeholders across food systems will be better equipped to address societal challenges, leveraging data-driven solutions to support human and planetary health.

Introduction Climate change is impacting forest-based agricultural systems with implications for producer decision-making and livelihoods. This article presents a case study on the observations, perceptions, knowledge, and adaptation strategies of maple syrup producers in the United States to climate change. Methods We carried out two semi-structured surveys with maple producers on: (1) climate change and its impacts on the maple system ( n = 106 participants); and (2) responses to climate adaptation scenarios ( n = 98 participants). Additionally, we carried out two focus groups and key informant interviews ( n = 70+) to understand barriers and opportunities for climate adaptation. One of these focus groups and follow up key informant interviews was with tribally affiliated community members with the intention to acknowledge Indigenous Peoples’ voices, history, and relationships to the land. Results Findings highlight that most of the surveyed producers (89%) have experienced the negative impacts of climate on maple syrup production. While 40% of participants feel concerned regarding the future of the maple system, 39% feel hopeful, with significant differences based on the age of the surveyed producers. The majority of producers have adapted their harvesting practices to climate effects. Producers shared knowledge of multiple adaptation strategies in response to climate scenarios comprised of: (1) stand management practices such as diversification of sap species tapped; (2) harvesting practices such as changing the type and number of taps; (3) sap processing practices focused on the integration of technology such as the use of an evaporator and reverse osmosis; and (4) marketing practices such as innovation of products and marketing different maple syrup characteristics. Responses shared by tribally affiliated producers highlight knowledge of multiple adaptation strategies that focus on long-term ecological management of forests rather than technological solutions. Discussion Overall, findings emphasize the importance of cooperation and diversification at every level and dimension of the maple system for its long-term resilience.

Agricultural practices play a crucial role in shaping food composition, directly influencing nutritional quality and the ability to address food and health challenges. This review, conducted following PRISMA guidelines, evaluated the effects of agricultural interventions on crop composition. From 2271 articles identified across Scopus, Taylor & Francis, and CABI Direct, 190 studies were included. Fertilizer application was the most reported intervention, followed by bio-stimulants, irrigation strategies, and harvesting timing. Organic amendments and deficit irrigation increased phenolics and other bioactive compounds in fruits and vegetables. Macro- and micronutrient fertilizers enhanced protein, mineral, and antioxidant levels but, when misapplied, often led to nutrient dilution, antagonism, or reduced accumulation of other beneficial compounds. Foliar and soil amendments proved adequate zinc, iron, and selenium biofortification strategies in grains. Amino acid applications reduced heavy metal uptake in cereals grown in contaminated soils, lowering toxic exposure risks. Modern agricultural practices demonstrate strong potential to enhance crop nutrition and mitigate nutrient deficiencies, but these practices must be carefully managed to avoid unintended trade-offs that compromise food quality. These findings highlight the need for evidence-based, context-specific agricultural policies and farmer training to maximize nutritional gains while safeguarding long-term food security.

Background Measuring food environments in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) can inform and support the design of interventions aimed at improving diets and reducing malnutrition in all its forms. Most food environment measurement tools have been developed for high-income countries, however, and do not sufficiently capture the diverse and dynamic food environments in LMICs. Objectives The objective of this study was to develop, modify, implement, and refine a suite of tools to measure the different dimensions of diverse food environments in LMICs. Methods Through an iterative process, we: 1 ) identified the food environment dimensions to be measured; 2 ) identified existing tools using literature searches; 3 ) modified and developed tools based on feedback from team members of study settings, an expert advisory board, and workshops with key food environment experts in India and Cambodia; 4 ) implemented the tools by piloting the suite in rural, peri-urban, and urban settings in India and Cambodia; and 5 ) finalized tools based on feedback from experts and our tool piloting implementation and analysis experience. Results Overall, we included 7 tools in the finalized Toolbox (Participatory Mapping, Seasonal Food Availability Calendar, Food Environment Perceptions Survey, Community Food Environment Mapping, Market Mapping, In-depth Vendor Assessment, and a Cost of a Healthy Diet data collection protocol), all of which were rated positively by workshop participants. On the basis of piloting experiences, the tools were relatively easy to implement in the field. Apart from the Seasonal Food Availability Calendar being better suited to rural or peri-urban settings and the In-depth Vendor Assessment being less suitable for large formal supermarkets, we found that the tools were feasible and useful across pilot settings in India and Cambodia. Conclusions The suite of tools included in the Food Environment Toolbox can be used to measure diverse food environments in LMICs, with minimal anticipated adaptations across contexts.

Transforming food systems to improve health amidst accelerating climate and environmental change is a critical global challenge. This paper addresses the imperative and complexity of translating scientific evidence into actionable policies and practices at the climate-food-health nexus. We propose a conceptual and operational framework grounded in ecological systems thinking, highlighting the interdependencies across biological, social, and economic domains. Drawing on existing translational science models from public health, environmental health, and convergent food systems research, we distill 5 core principles for effective translation: 1) integration of transdisciplinary evidence across scales; 2) early and sustained engagement with policymakers, practitioners, and affected communities; 3) contextually nuanced application of evidence; 4) systematic identification of tradeoffs, conflicts of interest, and unintended consequences; and 5) strategic communication that bridges knowledge and action. To illustrate these principles, we analyze 5 case studies spanning local, national, and global contexts. Each illustrates the pragmatic and political dimensions of evidence translation, including stakeholder alignment, data infrastructure, and institutional leadership. This paper underscores the need for adaptive governance, cross-sectoral convergence, and innovative implementation science to advance food systems that are resilient, equitable, and sustainable. Our recommendations are intended to inform researchers, decision-makers, and practitioners seeking to enact evidence-informed change in dynamic sociopolitical environments and diverse food systems contexts.

Genetic diversity, which encompasses variations in gene sequences within a species, significantly impacts traits such as yield, nutrient content, resilience, and adaptability. This systematic review focuses on the nutritional profiles of key food crops: cassava ( Manihot esculenta ), tomato ( Solanum lycopersicum) , bambara groundnut ( Vigna subterranea ), and fonio ( Digitaria exilis ), following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines and examining studies from the past 20 years. After a comprehensive search of four databases, 5 studies on cassava, 9 on tomato, 6 on bambara groundnut, and 1 on fonio were selected. The findings reveal notable nutritional variations based on genotype: cassava genotypes exhibited high range hydrogen cyanide levels and starch content; tomato genotypes varied moderately in lycopene levels, and bambara groundnut accessions showed moderate protein levels and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) content up to 51.6%. Although fonio exhibited limited genetic diversity, it maintained unique nutritional properties. Overall, the review indicates that utilising genetic diversity can aid in breeding nutrient-rich, resilient crops, enhancing food and nutrition security in resource-limited areas. • Genetic diversity influences nutritional traits in cassava, tomato, fonio, and bambara. • Cassava genotypes showed protein up to 18.5% and starch up to 95.1%. • Tomato genotypes varied in lycopene (1.74–7.96 mg/100 g) and vitamin C (12–86 mg/100 g). • Bambara accessions had PUFA content up to 51.6% and protein up to 22.4%. • PCA and clustering revealed distinct genetic-nutritional trait groupings in crops.

Omics science has expanded rapidly with innovations in analytical chemistry and data science, yet equitable global participation remains limited by uneven access to infrastructure, training, and additional complex barriers. Recognition of the value and necessity of large, comparable datasets has motivated community-wide efforts to build consensus, develop open-source resources, and promote methodological standardization. One such initiative, The Periodic Table of Food Initiative (PTFI), recently distributed standardized workflows for food analysis to 19 international partner laboratories. Here, we share stories and lessons learned from the initial dissemination of these methods, highlighting obstacles encountered across global laboratories. Specifically, we document widespread logistical challenges, ranging from instrument procurement to routine operation, faced by low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). These barriers highlight stark contrasts in scientific infrastructure. For example, common reagent shipments averaged 4.25 days in high-income countries (HICs, four responses) compared to 65.6 days in LMICs (six responses), a staggering 1444% increase. Equally important, our findings reveal key drivers of laboratory adoption of standardized omics, which directly influence the long-term viability of global omics initiatives. As omics science continues to evolve, the community faces both opportunities and responsibilities to develop globally accessible, end-to-end workflows that support the generation of harmonious data. By sharing these stories, we aim to raise awareness of the challenges and opportunities inherent in global standardization efforts, emphasizing that democratizing omics and sustaining such initiatives will require collective commitment from the international scientific community.

Societal Impact Statement Agricultural management and environmental conditions influence the biochemical composition of food crops; however, the specific drivers of this variation remain insufficiently understood, despite their importance for climate change adaptation and human health. This review synthesizes evidence on upstream agricultural and environmental drivers of food crop composition and analyzes subdrivers identified in the literature. The main findings indicate that most research addresses heavy metal bioaccumulation and the application of amendments in major crops such as vegetables and cereals, whereas relatively few studies examine agroecological management, atmospheric conditions, or impacts on lipids and broader phytochemical diversity. These findings highlight persistent knowledge gaps, particularly concerning the effects of less‐studied drivers on food quality. The results emphasize the need for integrative, cross‐disciplinary research, and standardized foodomics tools within global food systems. Summary The biomolecular composition of our food, a critical determinant of human health and nutrition, is shaped by complex interactions between plants, agricultural management, and the environment. Understanding the drivers of variation in food composition is essential for addressing major global challenges including malnutrition, food safety, and sustainability. Following the PRISMA‐ScR protocol, we conducted a scoping review to investigate the agricultural and environmental drivers that impact food composition across 482 included studies to map research trends and knowledge gaps. Our analysis reveals that agricultural drivers' impact on food composition were the most examined across the literature (51.7% of studies, 249 studies), followed by studies examining both environmental and agricultural drivers (31.3%, 151) and environmental drivers alone the least investigated (17.0%, 82). Among agricultural drivers, nutrient management (185 studies) was the most studied, and agroecology (23 studies) was the least examined subdriver. Among environmental drivers, ecological conditions (232 studies) were most studied, whereas atmospheric conditions (28 studies) were the least examined subdriver. Overall, the literature reflected 154 unique food crops, with vegetable and cereal crops the most represented, and underutilized crops the least represented. The literature further focused on food components with significant public health implications, including heavy metals (259 studies), micronutrient minerals (188), and broad classes of macronutrients, such as total protein (106) and total sugars (100). This scoping review disaggregates the research gaps and opportunities to further elucidate how agricultural management and environmental drivers contribute to variation in food composition, informing nutrition security interventions and the development of resilient food systems for human and planetary health.

In October 2024, Parties to the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity agreed to a new multilateral mechanism to fund biodiversity conservation through the sharing of benefits from open biodiversity data. Biological databases hosting genetic and other biological data, known as digital sequence information (DSI), are central to the implementation of the mechanism. This paper assesses the new international agreement and its implications for DSI databases. We walk through the database provisions in COP16 Decision 16/2, which include notifying users and submitters about the mechanism, improving metadata on geographical location of sample collection, and consistency with open access, as well as consideration of the FAIR, CARE, and TRUST principles. Drawing on surveys, interviews, and a workshop with biological database managers, we identify practical and scalable measures including updating terms of use, revising submission procedures, and strengthening user communication. We also propose approaches to capture and report non-monetary benefits such as capacity building, publications, interoperability, and training. These actions illustrate how DSI databases can remain open, sustainable, and globally connected while supporting benefit-sharing from the use of DSI on genetic resources.

) are globally prized for their sensory qualities, including flavour, aroma, texture, and appearance, which shape consumer preference and marketability. This systematic review explores the influence of soil health on these attributes, focusing on nutrient composition, microbial activity, and management practices. Following PRISMA guidelines, 598 records from three databases were initially identified: Scopus (43), PubMed (18), and Taylor & Francis (537). After duplicate removal and successive screening steps; title, abstract, and full-text review, a total of twelve (12) studies met the inclusion criteria and were retained for the final analysis. All twelve studies (100%) assessed flavour, ten (10) analyzed appearance, while aroma and texture were each evaluated in six (6) studies. Nine (9) of the papers reveal that balanced macronutrients (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium) and soil amendments like biochar and organic fertilizers significantly enhance tomato sensory profiles by optimizing sugar-acid balance, aroma compound synthesis, and fruit firmness. Seven (7) studies found that sustainable practices, including reduced synthetic fertilizer use and improved microbial diversity, were shown to mitigate soil degradation while boosting nutrient cycling and water retention. Conversely, four papers found that soil contamination with heavy metals and poor management practices were linked to diminished sensory quality, including off-flavors and reduced sweetness. Soil health strongly affects tomato sensory quality. Organic amendments such as biochar and compost substantially enhance flavour, aroma, texture, and visual appeal. Integrated soil management strategies and farmer training are recommended. Future research should quantify long-term effects and explore links between sensory quality and nutritional outcomes.

The Dietary Fiber (fiber) Terminology Roundtable was organized to address crucial issues concerning current definitions of dietary fiber and the pressing need to resolve inconsistencies and ambiguities in fiber terminology. This publication captures valuable insights and diverse perspectives from a multidisciplinary group of experts who span research areas, including fiber and carbohydrate research in human health, fiber analysis and methodology, and food and nutrition ontology development and application, as well as food composition data and public health. Although health is a critical concern, the use of the word "health" here is directly tied to its intrinsic role in regulatory definitions of dietary fiber. The presentations supported the view of dietary fiber as an essential food component with significant potential to improve health, underscoring the need for clarity in language and communication. Additionally, the concept of a systematic ontological framework was introduced as a highly valuable and most suitable solution to facilitate clear communication about fiber in research, education, healthcare, and industry. As a result, a Dietary Fiber Ontology Working Group has been formed, and the collective expertise within the group will contribute to the creation of an open-access fiber ontology. This effort aims to not only address educational aspects but also support the identification of fiber-related health outcomes and the underlying mechanisms responsible for biological effects.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to develop, implement and refine a food environment survey to capture people's perceptions of their food environments in low-and middle-income countries: the Food Environment Perceptions Survey (FEPS). DESIGN: Identifying aspects of food environment to include drawing from existing survey instruments, a Delphi survey with food environment experts working globally, workshops with local experts in India and Cambodia, cognitive testing of the survey items and piloting the tools in diverse field settings in India and Cambodia. SETTING: Rural, peri-urban and urban communities in India and Cambodia. PARTICIPANTS: Global food environment experts for the Delphi survey, food environment experts in India and Cambodia for workshops and a convenience sample of participants in India (n 44) and Cambodia (n 60) for FEPS piloting. RESULTS: The FEPS underwent many iterations prior to piloting. The initial versions of the survey were long, leading us to remove questions and reconfigure the survey to streamline it. The workshop participants rated the revised survey versions relatively favourably. The final survey consists of 109 questions covering six sections: accessibility and availability (forty-eight questions); affordability (five questions), convenience (seventeen questions); quality and safety (three questions); information, promotion and labelling (sixteen questions); and an optional sustainability section (twenty questions). Based on pilot data, we found significant differences in how participants interacted with different food environment types across rural, peri-urban and urban transects. CONCLUSIONS: The finalised FEPS is a newly developed survey instrument that can be incorporated by other researchers to characterise diverse perceptions of food environments in low-and middle-income countries.

High Resolution Image Download MS PowerPoint Slide Comprehensive profiling of Phaseolus species revealed key biochemical differences relevant to nutrition and crop improvement. Genotyping confirmed species-level separation and two gene pools in P. vulgaris, with evidence of introgression. Proteomic analysis identified over 11100 proteins, with P. vulgaris showing the highest diversity. Functional proteins, storage proteins, digestive enzymes, and protease inhibitors were linked to amino acid composition and digestibility. All 20 standard and nine essential amino acids were detected, with P. lunatus displaying a distinct essentials profile. Metabolomics identified 6717 compounds, 57% shared across species, dominated by flavonoids, polyphenols, and terpenoids. P. lunatus had 592 unique metabolites, while P. acutifolius had 98, suggesting a conserved, drought-adapted metabolome. Although the total fat was low, P. vulgaris accessions had higher omega-3 content and favorable omega-6/omega-3. Ionomic profiling revealed a variation in Ca, Fe, and Zn, with one P. vulgaris line accumulating unsafe Pb and Cd. Multiomics enables identification of nutrient-rich, climate-resilient, food-safe accessions.