Mastitis is one of the most important economic impacts on Maine dairy farms. When prototheca is present on a farm, it can spread easily from the environment into the udder. Prototheca elevates the somatic cell count, a critical measure of milk quality for the dairy. Of Maine farms from which prototheca was isolated, one has […]
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According to the Maine Farm Bureau, Maine is home to 35,000 horses, with an economic impact of approximately $364 million. Although isolated, Maine is nevertheless on the front lines of national biosecurity due to its extensive sea and land borders and at risk for new outbreaks of diseases in animal populations. The economic impact of […]
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Various silage additives, which claim to improve forage quality, bunk life, and animal performance, are commercially available to Maine producers. These products often have little or no research data to support their claims and rely on user testimonials to document their efficacy. Our dairy farmers need more than testimonials on which to base their forage […]
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Invasive plant and animal species have been responsible for considerable problems in both natural and managed landscapes, with resulting damage, losses, and efforts to manage them estimated to cost the U.S. economy over $120 billion per year. Management of invasive species, particularly invasive insects, requires immediate, innovative, cost-effective strategies that are compatible with maintenance of […]
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Consumer demand for safe, minimally processed, additive-free, shelf-stable foods that retain the appearance, flavor, texture and nutritional qualities of raw or fresh foods has been a driving force for commercial application of non-thermal food processing methods, such as high pressure (HP) processing. Applying high pressure at 240-350 MPa for 3 min to live oysters to […]
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Excessive weight gain is associated with increased risk of developing many serious diseases, including cardiovascular disease, hypertension, and type 2 diabetes. Young adults are at a uniquely increased risk for weight gain because of rapidly changing social situations that influence eating and exercise behaviors. Despite extensive efforts to promote weight management, these efforts only reach […]
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Maine is a state endowed with many natural benefits but business opportunities are scarce. Development of new food and dietary supplement products, and processes to produce them, will benefit farmers, processors and consumers. Farmers, commodity groups and processors will be informed opportunities to produce and promote the health benefits of Maine botanicals and food crops. […]
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Agriculture and food processing plays a substantial role in support of the fragile Maine economy. Potato and blueberry production are vital to the depressed economies of northern and eastern Maine and valuable niche crops (i.e. tomato, elderberry, pepper, Chaga mushrooms) have the potential to provide additional employment opportunities. The shellfish industry also employs a significant […]
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Every day, the FDA implements recalls because of possible microbial or chemical contamination in fresh or processed foods. Maine has been a large producer of agricultural commodities such as berries, potatoes, and seafood commodities such as lobster. Safety of food products is a major concern to the growers and processors. This research, aimed at an […]
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Epidemiologic evidence supports consuming a variety of fruits and vegetables to promote health and to decrease risk for chronic diseases such as diabetes and cancer. Presently, the world is experiencing a dramatic increase in both obesity and type 2 diabetes and a major target area to address this rise is by addressing diet. Elderberry is […]
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