Faculty of Veterinary Medicine
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Item type:Publication, Systematic multi-year surveillance of honey compliance and fraud in North Macedonia, 2020–2024(Springer Nature, 2026-02-20); ; Trajkovska Melita J.Honey adulteration represents a significant food safety and economic concern globally, yet comprehensive data from North Macedonia remains lacking. This study evaluated 538 honey samples (391 domestic, 147 imported) collected between 2020 and 2024 for compliance with national and EU quality standards. Overall, 9.48% of samples failed at least one quality parameter, with domestic honey showing higher non-compliance (12.53%) than imported (1.4%). The primary causes of non-compliance were elevated hydroxymethylfurfural (64.7%) and reduced diastase activity (43.1%), indicating heat-related exposure. Among 16 samples failing C4 sugar analysis, 7 (43.8%) met all other regulatory requirements, suggesting sophisticated adulteration methods that evade routine testing. Statistical analysis revealed very strong associations between heat-related parameters. Temporal analysis showed declining overall non-compliance but increasing prevalence of diastase-related failures. These findings, representing the first systematic assessment of honey adulteration in North Macedonia, indicate that while basic market surveillance appears effective, current testing protocols may miss economically motivated adulteration. Implementation of routine C4 sugar analysis, particularly for samples passing conventional parameters, is essential for comprehensive fraud detection and consumer protection. - Some of the metrics are blocked by yourconsent settings
Item type:Publication, RADIONUCLIDES IN THE FOOD CHAIN: FOCUS ON ANIMAL DERIVED FOOD(Goce Delchev University - Shtip, 2025-12-31); ; ; The paper presents an analytical overview of the occurrence, movement, and accumulation of both natural and anthropogenic radionuclides in food of animal origin. The research encompasses the main pathways through which these substances enter animal organisms, together with the environmental and agricultural factors influencing their distribution in soil, vegetation, and animal tissues such as meat, milk, eggs, and fish during the period 1989 to 2025. The review was conducted based on a literature search performed in the Elsevier, Hinari, PubMed, and other relevant scientific databases. The study focuses on isotopes including uranium-238, thorium-232, potassium-40, cesium-137, and strontium-90 as key indicators of naturally occurring and technologically induced radioactivity within the biosphere. The analysis demonstrates the interconnection between geological, climatic, and agricultural conditions that determine the levels and variability of radionuclides in animal-derived food. It was established that radionuclide concentrations in North Macedonia fall within internationally accepted limits and correspond with values observed in other European countries. The study emphasizes the importance of continuous monitoring of both natural and anthropogenic sources of radioactivity to enable timely detection of fluctuations in radiological balance and to ensure the long-term safety of food and public health protection.</jats:p> - Some of the metrics are blocked by yourconsent settings
Item type:Publication, THE INFLUENCE OF THE LEPTIN GENE ON MILK PRODUCTION IN THREE CONSECUTIVE LACTATIONS IN HOLSTEIN FRIESIAN CATTLE(Faculty of Agriculture, University of East Sarajevo, Republic of Srpska, Bosnia and Herzegovina..., 2025-10-02); ; ; This study uses a PCR method to detect allelic polymorphisms of the LEP gene. The study was conducted among 100 Holstein cows owned by private breeders. The study was conducted on Pelagonija farm, located in the Southwestern part of Republic of North Macedonia, over a period of three lactations or 915 days. The research focused on the health status of the animal and animal welfare. This study will identify all genotypes of the LEP gene and determine associations between the polymorphism of the leptin gene and the dynamics of milk production during three lactations of the cows. The best indicators for all three lactations will be identified in the group of animals with the TT genotype of the LEP gene. These individuals are characterized by increased milk yield, a high yield index and a tendency to increase the average daily milk yield during three lactations. In cattle, the LEP gene provides instructions for synthesizing leptin, a protein hormone predominantly expressed by white adipocytes (fat cells). Leptin's physiological roles include the regulation of energy intake, body mass, immune competence, and reproductive function. Its mechanism involves binding to receptors in the lateral hypothalamus to curb appetite and to those in the medial hypothalamus to induce satiety. Genetic variations within the LEP gene have been implicated in modulating circulating leptin concentrations and are associated with economically significant production characteristics, such as milk yield and quality. - Some of the metrics are blocked by yourconsent settings
Item type:Publication, SCIENTIFIC AND REGULATORY PERSPECTIVES ON IRRADIATED FOOD: DETECTION STANDARDS AND SAFETY EVALUATION(Faculty of Agriculture, University of East Sarajevo, Republic of Srpska, Bosnia and Herzegovina..., 2025-10-02); ; ; ; Food irradiation is a scientifically validated and internationally endorsed technology that applies ionizing radiation to improve the microbiological safety and shelf life of food products. By effectively inactivating pathogens, parasites, and pests without significantly compromising nutritional or sensory quality, irradiation serves as a potent alternative to conventional decontamination methods. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the scientific principles underlying irradiation, detailing the mechanisms of action, microbiological efficacy, toxicological safety, and minimal impact on nutritional value. These findings are supported by extensive evaluations from authoritative bodies, including the World Health Organization (WHO), the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The paper also explores the regulatory landscape surrounding food irradiation, with particular focus on the European Union’s limited list of approved irradiated food categories under Directives 1999/2/EC and 1999/3/EC. The implications of regulatory fragmentation within the EU and the contrasts with countries such as the United States, Canada, India, and Thailand are assessed. Key applications, such as pathogen reduction in meat and poultry, insect control in spices and grains, and phytosanitary treatment for exportable fruits are discussed alongside economic and logistical benefits. Consumer perception remains a major barrier to widespread acceptance, often shaped by misconceptions and negative associations with the term “irradiation.” Strategies for effective communication, labeling transparency, and public education are examined. The review further assesses CEN (the European Committee for Standardization)-standardized and emerging detection methodologies critical for regulatory enforcement and traceability. Finally, it highlights the role of irradiation in advancing climateresilient food systems, reducing post-harvest losses, and supporting global food security, while calling for harmonized regulation and greater international cooperation. - Some of the metrics are blocked by yourconsent settings
Item type:Publication, ASSESSMENT OF RADIOACTIVITY AND RADIOLOGICAL HAZARD FROM NATURAL RADIONUCLIDES CONTAINED IN RICE FROM NORTH MACEDONIA(Faculty of Agriculture, University of East Sarajevo, Republic of Srpska, Bosnia and Herzegovina..., 2025-10-02); ; ; Jovanov, StefanStudies on radioactivity in consumable food are becoming increasingly important from a safety perspective as it is necessary to estimate the dose of ingestion by the public. For this reason, the focus of this study was on determining the activity concentrations of 226Ra, 232Th, and 40K. Thirty-eight rice samples were collected during 2024 from rice fields (city of Kochani) in the Republic of North Macedonia and the samples were analyzed by using a high-purity germanium (HPGe) detector for assessment of natural and artificial radioactivity. The average activity concentrations of 226Ra, 232Th, and 40K of the tested samples were 2.17±0.70, 1.78±0.72, and 48.48±1.92 Bq/kg, respectively. No artificial radionuclide was found in any of these samples. The total absorbed dose (D) was 4.10 D (nGy h-1), while the average value of the radium equivalent activity in all samples was 8.10 Bq kg-1, which was less than the maximum permitted value of 370 Bq kg-1. The values of Hex, Hin and 𝐼γ for the samples were 0.02, 0.027 and 0.064, which are less than one in all samples indicating the harmlessness of the samples. The average activity concentrations of 226Ra, 40K, and 232Th (Bq kg-1) in the samples were used to calculate the annual effective dose equivalent (AEDE), whose average value for all samples was 0.005(μSv/y). The average calculated cancer risk due to the intake of the tested radionuclides found in the rice samples was estimated at 0.017, which is within the range of acceptable risk values recommended by USEPA. The results of this study indicate that the intake of radionuclides due to consumption of the mentioned food does not have a harmful effect on public health. These data would be useful for establishing a baseline for the concentrations of natural radioactivity in food products consumed in the Republic of North Macedonia. - Some of the metrics are blocked by yourconsent settings
Item type:Publication, ASSESSMENT OF NATURAL RADIOACTIVITY LEVELS IN AGRICULTURAL SOIL AND TRANSFER IN RICE IN THE KOCHANI REGION, NORTH MACEDONIA(Faculty of Agriculture, University of East Sarajevo, Republic of Srpska, Bosnia and Herzegovina..., 2025-10-02); ; ; Soil can transfer radionuclides to plants which are subsequently consumed by humans. Sometimes their levels are so high that they are a concern for human health. Rice has an important share in the Macedonian diet, especially in the Kochani region, which is famous for its rice fields. Therefore, the main goal of this study was to measure the natural radioactivity in agricultural soil and rice crops in the Kochani region and to study the interaction between soil and rice by calculating the transfer factor (TF). The activity concentrations of 226Ra, 232Th and 40K were determined by using gamma spectrometry, i.e. a high purity germanium (HPGe) gamma-ray spectrometer. In agricultural soils, the mean activity concentrations of 226Ra, 232Th and 40K were 33.72 Bq kg-1, 37.62 Bq kg-1 and 152.90 Bq kg-1, while the mean activity concentrations of rice were 1.99 Bq kg-1, 2.51 Bq kg-1and 49.44 Bq kg-1, respectively. The world’s mean soil values of 226Ra, 232Th and 40K are 35, 30 and 400 Bq kg-1, respectively, hence these obtained values are lower compared to those obtained from research. This may be due to improved agricultural practices in the country and the geology of the area itself. However, we found that the radioisotopes have a heterogeneous distribution which must be caused by the nature and soil types in the area for which this study was conducted. However, the radioisotopes showed a heterogeneous distribution, likely influenced by the nature and soil types in the region. The mean transfer factors (TF) were very low for all samples, indicating a slow transport of these radionuclides to the rice grains. The results confirm that rice grown in these areas is safe for consumption. Further research on the TF across different rice varieties and geographical areas would allow for the development of predictive models for potential radiation exposure from rice consumption and help identify locations requiring additional monitoring. All mean transfer factors (TF) for the samples were very low, implying a very slow transport of these radionuclides to the rice grains. The obtained results make rice grown in these areas safe for consumption. By studying the TF among different rice varieties and geographical areas, researchers will be able to develop models to predict possible radiation exposure from rice consumption and locate activities or areas that require additional attention. - Some of the metrics are blocked by yourconsent settings
Item type:Publication, Ionizing Radiation in Meat Processing and its Effects(VINČA INSTITUTE OF NUCLEAR SCIENCES, 2025-10); ; ; From a historical perspective, even in ancient times there was an awareness of the connection between food and human health. Hippocrates (460 BC), the father of medicine, emphasized that many diseases could be linked to diet, highlighting the idea that “let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food.” This early recognition of the importance of safe and high-quality nutrition laid the foundations for later efforts to preserve food and protect it from harmful influences. Over the centuries, various preservation methods were developed, ranging from drying, salting, and smoking to modern technologies that include ionizing radiation as an effective way of extending shelf life and maintaining the nutritional properties of meat. This paper provides a overview of ionizing radiation in meat processing. The advantages of this technology are evident in the elimination of pathogenic microorganisms, the extension of shelf life, and the preservation of nutritional properties, while acknowledging the limitations that may occur at higher doses. The analysis encompasses microbiological, chemical, physical, and sensory aspects, along with relevant regulatory frameworks at both international and national levels. It is concluded that ionizing radiation offers considerable potential for improving food safety and sustainability in the food industry, but requires careful application and transparent communication with consumers. - Some of the metrics are blocked by yourconsent settings
Item type:Publication, A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW OF THE IMPACT OF CLIMATE CHANGE ON AGRICULTURE AND FUTURE ADAPTATION STRATEGIES FOR NORTH MACEDONIA(Agrosym 2024, 2024-10-10); ; ; ; Angeleska, AleksandraClimate change poses significant challenges to agriculture worldwide, with implications for food security, livelihoods, and ecosystems. This review paper examines the impact of climate change on agriculture and explores adaptation strategies for North Macedonia. The paper synthesizes existing literature on the subject, drawing from peer-reviewed articles, academic papers, and reports. The introduction provides an overview of the interconnectedness between climate change and agriculture, emphasizing the vulnerability of the agricultural sector to changing climatic conditions. The materials and methods section outlines the methodology employed, including a systematic literature search, source selection criteria, data extraction, analysis, and synthesis. Results and discussion focus on five key areas: crop adaptation, water management, pests and diseases in crops, biodiversity, and agroforestry. Each subsection discusses the challenges posed by climate change in these areas and explores potential adaptation measures tailored to North Macedonian context. The conclusion highlights the urgency of addressing climate change impacts on agriculture and emphasizes the importance of adopting climate-smart agricultural practices. It underscores the need for collaborative efforts between stakeholders to promote knowledge exchange, capacity building, and policy interventions. This paper highlights the importance of adapting agricultural practices to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change on food production and rural livelihoods in North Macedonia. By embracing adaptation strategies, policymakers, farmers, and other stakeholders can enhance resilience and ensure sustainable agricultural development in the face of a changing climate. - Some of the metrics are blocked by yourconsent settings
Item type:Publication, Cleaning and Management of Water Contaminated with Pesticides through the Process of Adsorption in the Natural Clay of Brari(Polskie Towarzystwo Inżynierii Ekologicznej (PTIE) – Polish Society of Ecological Engineering, Politechnik, WNGB Wydawnictwo Naukowe – WNGB Scientific Publishing Housea Lubelska – Lublin University of Technology,, 2024-01-01) - Some of the metrics are blocked by yourconsent settings
Item type:Publication, TOTAL PHOSPHORUS QUANTIFICATION IN ANIMAL FEED, MILK, MEAT AND THEIR PRODUCTS USING THE ISO 13730:1996 METHOD(Faculty of Veterinary Medicine - Skopje, 2024-09-22); ; Phosphorus is a macro-element naturally present in animal feed, meat, milk and their products. Due to its beneficial properties, it is also used as an additive in these food groups. Monitoring total phosphorus concentrations in all food and feed products, whether it occurs naturally or is added during processing, is crucial for health safety. A high and unregulated intake of phosphorus can lead to side effects such as cardiovascular and kidney diseases as well as other complications in both humans and animals. The aim of this study was to integrate the phosphorus quantification method for animal feed described in ISO 6491:1998, into the previously optimized spectroscopy conditions for total phosphorus quantification in both meat and milk food matrices as a continuation of the research. The proficiency test results, with assigned value of 5870 mg / kg yielded a Z – score of - 0.3. Following this, the method was verified by determining the standard deviation (SD) for each sample series, the repeatability (r), and the expanded uncertainty (U). The results have confirmed that the conditions of the ISO 13730:1996 method are suitable for accurately quantifying total phosphorus content in all animal feed, meat and milk matrices. This unification contributes to reducing the cost and time required for performing the analysis, and ensures excellent precision in quantifying total phosphorus content, thus expanding the scope of application.