SS Food Science Issue 16

SCIENCESTARS Issue 16 | 2017

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FOOD SCIENCE

Additives: Additives are additional substances that are added to food products to preserve, lengthen shelf life, improve taste or the appearance.

Additives are not always harmful, but can lead to serious side effects when ingested.

MSG or Monosodium Glutamate MSG is the salt of the amino acid glutamic acid and is used to enhance the savoury quality of foods. It is said to make food taste more appetising, but side effects can be headaches, chest pains and weakness.

Found in canned foods, soups and chips.

Artificial Sweeteners or Aspartame Aspartame is 180 times sweeter than sugar. It is believed to be a neurotoxin and can lead to dizziness, headaches and nausea.

Found in diet cold drinks, jelly and sweets.

Sodium Nitrate Is a chemical compound used to prevent bacterial growth and maintain the pinkish colour of meats. Under favourable conditions, the nitrate can damage cells and increase the risk of cancer.

Found in packaged or cured meats and viennas.

Food Colouring Certain countries have banned colourants because some colourants, like Tartrazine, can cause allergic reactions like hives, skin rashes and nasal congestion.

Found in cereals, concentrated beverages, chips, biscuits.

Sodium Phosphate Made from sodium and phosphate, it is used to keep meats moist and tender while it is being stored or frozen. Phosphates are necessary in our diets, but high levels can seep into our blood, increasing the risk of heart disease.

Found in nuggets, processed meat, hams and canned fish.

Corn Syrup The liquid sweetener and food thickener is cheap and plentiful in most food products. It provides almost no nutritional value and is said to cause weight gain.

Found in bread, soup, sauces, frozen foods.

CONTENTS CONTENTS

FEATURES

1 1 2 2 2 2 3 3

4

Protective Measures

6 Mashesha stove a game changer for rural communities 2

Busy Bees

5

Life Long Student

6 TIA

8

South African Seafood Initiative

0

Food allergies

1

Combating Anaemia

REGULARS

5 6 8 2 3 3 3 3

Foreword

Editor’s note

Cover feature

7

Events

3 available Bursaries

4

Quiz

5

Puzzles

7

Science news

FOREWORD

the

To meet the demand of increased agricultural productivity there

FOREWORD

is a need to focus on innovative applications or solutions that address South Africa’s national priorities and mostly innovative

Harnessing South Africa’s competitive advantage

solutions with a socio-economic impact.

Innovation is sometimes defined as a process of translating an

Technology Innovation Act (Act 26 of 2008), which establishes

idea or invention into a good or service that creates value or for

TIA as an Agency to promote the development and exploitation,

which customers will pay. To be called an innovation, an idea must

in the public interest, of discoveries, inventions, innovations and

be replicable at an economical cost and must satisfy a specific

improvements.

The mandate of TIA is derived from the provisions of the

need. Innovation involves deliberate application of information, imagination and initiative in deriving greater or different values

TIA’s Agriculture STA encourages all South Africans of all ages

from resources, and includes all processes by which new ideas are

to consider venturing into entrepreneurship with innovation as

generated and converted into useful products.

they invest in the research and development space. Agriculture STA prioritises many innovation themes, namely, Production

Technology Innovation Agency (TIA)’s vision for the agriculture

and Productivity in livestock and field crops; plant health and

sector is to have a vibrant and economically sustainable sector

nutrition and post-harvest technologies (e.g. agro-processing).

through innovative technologies; products; processes and; services, contributing to increased productivity, food security and rural development.

Mr Sibusiso Manana Head of Agriculture STA at Technology Innovation

Science Stars Magazine Food Science Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

5

ED’S NOTE

team Science Stars

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

Editor • Nadine Sims

Food for thought - and much more Our theme for this month’s issue of Science Stars is Food Science.

When I first gave the theme some thought, I kept thinking about saying ‘you are what you eat’.

I have since realised that food science is much more than just the consumption of food.

Food Science, is a huge subject, with many different aspects and branches. In this issue, the team of writers tried to cover as many spheres as possible.

the importance of food science.

We tried capturing a small part of what food science means in these different fields. Starting off with our cover story which highlights

We also looked into the problem of food waste. According to the World Wide Fund for Nature one third of food is never consumed and ends up at landfills - which is a hugely problematic figure.

In this edition we also touch on the topic of being self-sufficient and sustainable. The global population is on the rise and we ultimately are needing more food and as a result our resources are taking strain.

Graphic designers • Cinzia-Joey Swartz • Stacey Okkers Contributing writers • Moeketsi Tigeli • Nicole Ludolph • Pamela Yoli • Danielle Scheepers Chairman • Madambi Rambuda Ambassador • Prof. Azwindinni Muronga Sales & Marketing Rep • Ntombizanele Thangayi Subscriptions • info@sciencestars.co.za Copyright 2017 Roswika Media. All Rights Reserved.

No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or any means, electronically or mechanically, without prior permission.

Science Stars is published by Roswika Media.

Many say that we are headed in the direction of no return and therefore we should start making, growing and producing our own food. There is an interesting take on this subject on page 25.

When I started my research for this edition, I could not believe how many moving parts there are on the topic.

The broad range of subfields include restrictions, testing and a lot of interesting innovations happening in the food industry, as a whole.

An interesting example of this is AgriProtein and the profile I did on their Lab Manager is on page 12.

I hope that you enjoy this exciting issue and you learn something that you didn’t know about the science of food.

Nadine Sims Editor

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Science Stars Magazine Food Science Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

10th Floor, The Pinnacle 2 Burg Street Cape Town, 8000 021 839 2507 info@sciencestars.com www.sciencestars.co.za

SPEED DATING FOR THE BRAIN MAKES MATHS AND SCIENCE FUN It’s a fun, fast-paced game that lets you test your knowledge of subjects such as Maths and Science, and learn something in the process. Speed Dating for the Brain, an initiative of the Capitec Foundation in partnership with the Department of Science and Technology, is returning for its fourth year in all nine provinces during National Science Week.

The game, based on the popular speed dating concept, has participants move in rapid succession among six booths to complete fun and educational Science-based tasks. A bell marks the time for you to switch to the next booth.

After visiting all booths, participants post their entry forms in a ballot box for a lucky draw at the end of each event.

Speed Dating for the Brain took place at the launch of National Science Week at the Nelson Mandela University on 5 August 2017. The theme for this year’s Science week was Advancing Science Tourism, and the Speed Dating for the Brain was based on the country’s top tourist attractions and the Science behind it.

Participants tested the impact of everyday household items on radio frequency, played music on wine bottles filled with water, completed brain maths teasers and more.

“Each year, National Science Week gets bigger and better,” says National Science Week co-ordinator, Bafedile Kgwadi, from the South African Agency for Science and Technology Advancement. “It is exciting to see this engaging activity continue and expand its reach across the country.”

This is why we are taking the concept to schools around the country, “ says Fischer. “But we will also be holding Speed Dating for the Brain at malls, where everyone can participate, young and old.”

“Having a sound grasp of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics has never been more important to South African learners and students. As Capitec Foundation, we are proud to be part of this important initiative,” he adds.

THE SCIENCE OF FOOD What is it and why is it important?

By: Nadine Sims

W

e all need food to survive. Views differ on the matter, but most people agree that 3 weeks without food is as long as a human can go without dying of starvation. Food on its own is a huge subject and there are many different fields and food science is just as broad and has many different realms.

On top of survival, food is there to give us nutrients and a result of not consuming food at regular intervals, can be drowsiness and tiredness. This is because food is what gives us energy.

Pinpointing an exact definition of what food science is and describing it is difficult because of the broad range of topics and subjects that fall under the umbrella of food science.

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Science Stars Magazine Food Science Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

COVER STORY

Shannon Williams, Lab Manager at

it also impacts on their intellectual

AgripProtein describes Food Science as,

development, “Which also impacts on

“Applying different fields of science, like

their later life ability to be able to sustain

chemistry, microbiology, for example, to

themselves and ability to solve complex

food. And testing if the food is safe or

problems the world will throw at them.”

while trying to maybe extract more protein or fat from the product, to improve the

The importance

quality of the product.”

When asked about the importance of food science, Williams said, “We are a rapidly

As the Earth’s population grows each

growing population and the demand for

year, our need and demand for food is

good quality food products is significantly

increasing and our current resources are

increasing. Food science is important

taking a tremendous strain.

to keep providing safe, edible food for consumers. Also, most of us aren’t farmers

Based on this increasing demand, keeping

and we don’t depend on our own food

up with the need for good quality food is

source, we depend on other companies to

difficult, but also very necessary.

provide us with food sources.”

Cassiem Khan, Food Security expert, says,

As Williams said, most of us don’t farm or

“The right to nutritional food, to have

grow our own food sources and we trust

access to food, to have availability of food,

and rely on the goods and groceries that

to utilise the food in the right way and to

we buy in shops. Behind all of that are

have a continuous uninterrupted supply

food scientists.

of food is what makes a community food Most of the groceries that we buy in

secure.”

the shop have labels on them with the Food security and stability, especially in

nutritional facts on the packaging. This

the early development stages of childhood

will tell you how much sugar, salt and

is very important to their development

other ingredients make up that product.

physically and mentally.

This labelling was not always on products “If the community is not food secure and

and they were not always accurate, but we

the right food isn’t eaten, you will find

have Michael Jacobson to thank for taking

that children who do not get the proper

big companies to book and interrogating

nutritional value, they can become stunted

what they claimed was in the products

in their growth,” he says.

and what in actual fact was in their

He says that when they become stunted

products.

Science Stars Magazine Food Science Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

9

COVER STORY

This is an exemplary illustration of food

During that period Cubans were forced to

Lifestyle diseases

science at work. Knowing what we put into

work out how to do sustainable agriculture.

Lifestyle diseases are medical diagnoses

our bodies is important, especially for our

Jacques believes that what happened in

that are determined and influenced by the

physical well-being.

Cuba is a microcosm of what’s going to

way an individual lives their life. Statistics

happen in the rest of the world in the next

show that globally, lifestyle diseases are

couple of year.

steadily on the increase.

to-Food says that a great example is Cuba

Our resources are strained and we are

Included heart disease, stroke, obesity,

in the 1990’s. He explains that when the

experiencing abnormal climatic changes,

diabetes, hypertension and the list goes

Berlin Wall fell, Russia stopped providing

bring with it droughts, El Nino’s and other

on. These life-threatening ailments are

and sending fuel and fertiliser to Cuba.

extreme weather conditions. Hopefully,

sometimes a result of poor eating choices.

“This meant that their agriculture fell

the future brings with it more awareness

Smoking, drinking and other lifestyle

apart overnight and they then had to work

surrounding food.

choices are also factors, but eating is

What next?

Roger Jaques, Managing Director of Waste-

out how to grow food using organics and in urban spaces,” he says.

an important element. Treatment is not Jacques says, “We have made nature take

always easy and change for many is a

a back seat, but nature is the source of

difficult task.

They developed a whole lot of different

all value. Minerals are part of nature, so

ways of growing produce and developed

what humans have done is force nature in

Building a healthy relationship with food

a lot of organic pests and disease controls

a way to give us what we want. We seek

from a young age is so important to

and people grew food on roof tops and in

maximum yield or maximum profit, but

combatting lifestyle diseases, as well as

their houses.

that’s not necessarily how nature works.”

the way people look at food.

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Science Stars Magazine Food Science Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

Celebrating the great women of UWC The University of the Western Cape is home to many inspiring women – who are making their mark at the University and far beyond. Here are just a few.

Dr Fanelwa Ngece-Ajayi Dr Ngece-Ajayi is a senior lecturer in Physical Chemistry at UWC, and a research leader in the field of drug metabolism nanobiosensors for antiretrovirals and Tuberculosis treatment drugs.

Apart from her role at the University, Dr Ngece-Ajayi also leads a non-profit organisation called AmaQawe ngeMfundo, which she founded along with five other academics. Together, they aim to change the negative stereotypes about townships and instil confidence among pupils living there to study maths and science.

fishgate.co.za_UW7891

Through their efforts, they have empowered more than 60 pupils from different schools in Khayelitsha using motivational seminars, workshops and talks. These events are also tailored to provide pupils with information pertaining to bursary and scholarship applications, apart from assisting them with placement at institutions of higher learning.

Dr Imogen Wright

Dr Mmaki Jantjies

Dr Wright, a scientist and researcher at UWC’s South African Bioinformatics Institute (SANBI), was instrumental in the development of a software solution called Exatype, which enables health workers to determine a patient’s responsiveness to antiretroviral drugs.

Dr Jantjies is one of the first black women to obtain a Ph.D. in Computer Science, and has greatly contributed to research on mobile learning technology development for mathematics and science in South African schools, with a focus on multilingual content presentation.

Through a simple report, Exatype detects drug resistance in patients – highlighting the need to avoid certain drugs to ensure successful treatment. The software has the potential to contribute towards effectively managing HIV/AIDS in Africa, and also holds promise in helping detect drug resistance for other disease burdens such as Tuberculosis, Malaria and antimicrobial resistance.

She is currently the head of the Information Systems Department at UWC, and also coordinator of the Mozilla and UN Women technology clubs for girls. These clubs are focused on teaching basic technology skills to young girls in disadvantaged communities, with the aim of introducing the technology industry as a viable career option.

This noteworthy work, done in conjunction with UWC spin-off company, Hyrax Biosciences, earned Dr Wright a second place at the 2016 Innovation Prize for Africa (IPA) Awards.

Dr Jantjies’ passion for ICT development earned her a spot on the 2017 Mail & Guardian Young 200 Top Achievers’ list, as well as a place on the list of South Africa’s top 50 inspiring women in technology.

For more inspiring stories, visit www.uwc.ac.za

Science Stars Magazine Food Science Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

11

PROFILE

IN CONVERSATION WITH SHANNON Discussing the significance of sustainability

S

By: Nadine Sims

hannon Williams, a Lab Manager, at AgripProtein, says

Initially, Williams knew she wanted to do science, but was not

that in the beginning of her career, she didn’t know and

sure what she wanted to major in. The fact that at school she

understand the importance of her role, but now she is

had always been interested in human anatomy and microbiology

proud to say that she is part of this bigger picture.

12

is what prompted her to pursue a BSc degree.

Science Stars Magazine Food Science Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

PROFILE

She started studying in 2009 and majored in Medical Biology Science, at the University of the Western Cape.

This year marks her 2 year anniversary of working at AgriProtein.

Williams responsibilities includes testing waste streams, making

building a sustainable environment.

sure if it safe to be used and also writing internal reports about her findings.

Williams explains that her job, at AgriProtein, is an important one and depends on her research because based on that they

She feeds waste to black soldier fly, weighs them in the

make the decision if it will be worthwhile or not to use the waste

beginning and weighs them at the end and she then calculates

stream.

their efficiency.

“If we don’t check our waste streams before using it on large She also checks if the waste streams are harmful to the larvae,

scale in the factor, we could kill our entire colony. Then we won’t

because sometimes they do encounter waste streams that include

have a product and we have to start from the beginning again,”

pesticides that end up killing the larvae.

she explains.

Williams explains, “The purpose of

Williams says it is exciting knowing that something

feeding the waste to the larvae is to

she discovered made a big change to their

monogastric animals, hence leaving

says, “It challenges me, especially when trials fail. I

more fish in the sea for consumption.”

want to find the reason why it failed.”

harvest the larvae and make MagMeal According to a 2012 study by the processing at AgriProtein.

World Bank, South Africa was out of the larvae. This can be used ranked the 15th largest generator as a fish meal replacement to feed The job is not by any means an easy one Williams of waste in the world.

Agriprotein itself, are the leaders in a new and exciting industry

When asked what individuals can do to be active and practically

called nutrient recycling and are always looking for new and

sustainable Williams says that making your own compost bins at

sustainable sources of protein.

home is an excellent idea.

According to AgriProtein, “Nutrient recycling would mean reduced

“Throw all your food waste into a bin, get some earthworms and

landfill, lower pressure on marine stocks and a far lower carbon

make your own compost. Instead of throwing all of your food

impact.”

waste away,” she said.

In 2016 they opened the world’s first industrial scale insect

Dr Cameron Richards, the Head of Research at AgriProtein, also

recycling site, with the capacity of diverting 100 tonnes of waste

suggested, “A business idea for someone young, would be to go to

from landfills, per day.

houses and collect waste and come sell it to us (AgriProtein).”

Simply, they are taking waste feed that would have gone to

Williams says one of her biggest motivators is Richards and she

landfills, feeding it to the larvae and subsequently reducing the

credits him for helping her expand on her capabilities by getting

waste going to landfills.

out of her comfort zone.

According to a 2012 study by the World Bank, South Africa was

When asked what she has to say to students hoping to get in

ranked the 15th largest generator of waste in the world.

STEM, she said, “Science saves lives. Everyone has an amazing

With discussions of legislation changes and landfill tax looming,

contribution to make to the lives of others. Don’t be scared to

the work Agriprotein is doing is significant and essential to

express your opinions and ideas - ideas inspire change.”

Science Stars Magazine Food Science Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

13

FOOD SAFETY

PROTECTIVE MEASURES The discipline behind food safety By: Moeketsi Tigeli

T

he food we consume on a daily

consumers alike.

basis undergoes rigorous tests and regulations to ensure it meets

industry standards for consumption.

The DuPont Foundation for science and technology assists industry to develop

For example, according to the Department

sustainable solutions for challenges in

of Labour’s Health and Safety in the

food protection needs; they highlight the

Food and Beverage Industry report,

need for employee protection through

From production, packaging and handling,

industry workers are exposed to extreme

protective garments.

to distribution and shelf life, there are

temperature changes. Namely the heat

scientific disciplines behind the processes

conditions during pasteurisation (the

In events like slaughtering or meat

of food that can help prevent illnesses.

process of filtering unnecessary organisms

processing, the handling of dairy

without altering the food) and cold

products, nuts and fish, even processing

conditions from the canning process.

vegetables that are grown with organic

It is worth mentioning that - due to climate change - there’s a need for a

fertilisers, workers can get exposed to the

GREEN approach to food sanitation. The

In the processing industry specifically, food

salmonella bacteria - the bacteria that

use of chemicals and added preservatives

contamination and risk of infection by

causes food poisoning.

as well as oxidants, have detrimental

workers can occur by various means, most

effects on both the environment and

of which can be avoided.

Another form of biological hazards in the food industry is the Hepatitis A virus - a virus that causes liver dysfunction - and is common when handling seafood like oysters and shellfish or salads produced by means of organic fertilisers.

Some use of biological agents is acceptable, and is most commonly used in the processing stage of dairy products during production.

Accreditation is of utmost importance in industry efforts to enhance food safety and food quality standards, the international ISO 17025 standard is applied to laboratories as a form of quality assurance.

And in terms of protective clothing, the EN 14126 is a standard used as a yardstick for quality high performance working gear.

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Science Stars Magazine Food Science Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

IDENTITY IS IN THE

EYE OF THE BEHOLDER “Dare to be different, but at the same time, stay true to yourself.” GUGULETHU MABUZA-HOCQUET These are very appropriate words indeed from the woman who has committed her research to identity protection.

The way Gugu sees it, your identity is all you really have – and the answer to protecting it, lies in iris biometrics.

She is exploring the unique iris properties of the South African population that may just hold the key to a uniquely South African security encryption system.

“Your iris does not only hold information such as your age, gender and race, it also says you are part of a demographic mix that is not found elsewhere in the world. Now imagine a future where those unique features in your eyes will protect the most valuble thing you have – your identity.”

Gugu describes the way she ended up in science as a “beautiful accident”. It’s certainly one to be thankful for.

BRIGHT YOUNG SCIENTISTS BEHIND IDEAS THAT WORK. www.csirideasthatwork.co.za

DST

MASHESHA STOVE A GAME CHANGER FOR RURAL COMMUNITIES By: Julian Leshilo-Sebake

D

isruptive technologies aimed at

warming impact countries around the

and low-carbon economy will be well

mitigating the effects of climate

world. More extreme weather, droughts

underway by 2030.

change and global warming were

and floods are to be expected.

featured at the recent Innovation Bridge

A huge part of the strategy is ensuring

Technology Showcase and Matchmaking

The government has acknowledged the

that the country embraces an energy

Event hosted by the Department of

problem and has taken concrete steps

mix, using environment-friendly energy

Science and Technology (DST).

to deal with the fallout. The National

sources. The Department is supporting a

Development Plan’s vision and trajectory

number of initiatives for the development

South Africa is expected to become hotter

for climate change expect that South

of such technologies. Higher education

and drier over the next 30 years as the

Africa’s transition to an environmentally

institutions, science councils, private

effects of climate change and global

sustainable, climate change resilient

companies, youth start-ups and

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Science Stars Magazine Food Science Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

DST

government-funded entities showcased

The innovator, Louise Williamson of

Sustainability Professionals is based in

these disruptive technologies at the

Sustainability Professionals (Pty) Ltd, has

Mpumalanga and has received funding

Innovation Bridge.

an enormous passion for the environment

and support from the Technology

and strives to make a positive impact

Innovation Agency, an entity of the DST.

Among these was the Mashesha stove, an

in communities. Williamson has 16

The Mashesha stove is currently in its

invention that is revolutionising cooking in

years’ experience in working with rural

commercialisation phase and is being

the country’s rural areas.

communities on sustainable development

marketed to local wholesale stores.

projects.

Countries like Mozambique and Swaziland

Cooking on an open fire is not only

have already given the stove the thumbs

harmful to the environment, but also

The Mashesha stove uses half of the fuel

up and distribution will be rolled out

hazardous. Statistics show that 70% of

required with open fires, and is a lot safer

soon.

people in Sub-Saharan Africa and 11% of

as it uses a closed gasification process for

South Africans rely on wood fuel to meet

combustion. “This means that the stove has

their daily energy requirements. These

nearly complete combustion as it burns all

figures served as an inspiration for the

the smoke”, says Williamson.

development of the Mashesha stove.

For the women in Mpumalanga who The Mashesha stove is fuel efficient and

prepare food for learners at Thanda

burns with a clean, hot flame that saves

Primary School in Hectorspruit as part

roughly 56% of wood fuel. The stove is

of the national nutrition programme, the

a double-barreled metal chamber with

Mashesha stove has changed their lives.

strategically placed air vents to allow for natural convection airflow, which promotes

The women received the stoves in August

high heated combustion and a secondary

2017 and started seeing results almost

ignition of syngas. For durability, it is made

immediately. The innovation has saved

with mild steel and painted with high heat

them cooking time and reduced smoke

black paint.

production, improving lung and eye health.

The stove is ideal for individual users

The Mashesha stove has already earned

and is a cost-effective and healthier

several accolades including the 2016

alternative option to substandard paraffin

GCIP-SA Social Impact Award. It was also

stoves which pose a fire risk. The fact that

nominated in Round 3 of the African

cardboard briquettes, made from waste

Entrepreneurship Awards, to be announced

found in the community, can be used as a

in October 2017. Williamson says that

viable fuel source also makes this stove

these awards speak volumes about the

appealing.

need and value of the stove.

Science Stars Magazine Food Science Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

17

FOOD WASTE

BATTLING FOOD WASTE Transforming Waste to Food

T

By: Moeketsi Tigeli

he latest Statistics SA poverty

tonnes of different types of wasted food

the only way to go as fossil fuels become

report of 2017 revealed that over

into compost.

more expensive” he said.

The company also works with the Philippi

Traditionally, farmers use fertilizers

Economic Development Initiative (PEDI).

instead of organic compost because they

Amongst the causes (which include a high

Backed by the City of Cape Town and

are cheaper, easier to spread and have

unemployment rate and a weak economy)

situated on the same site, the organisation

proven reliable results, despite being

is the skyrocketing food prices.

teaches locals farming skills, using the

harmful to both the soil and crops.

30 million South Africans currently

live in poverty.

Waste-to-Food compost to farm their crops.

In spite of this, there is an alarming

While creating job opportunities, this

amount of food that goes to waste. The

initiative also ensures food security.

By: Moeketsi Tigeli

World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) published a report titled ‘Food loss and

Another element of the Waste-to-Food

Waste: Facts and Futures’, which revealed

site pointed out by Operations Manager

that out of the 31 million tonnes of food

Phumlani Dlongwane, is their use of

produced locally, 10 million is wasted.

methane extracted from the waste and use

This amount of waste, according to Council

of a bio-digester, converting it into gas for

for Scientific and Industrial Research

cooking and heating.

(CSIR), costs the economy R61 million every year. Much of the spending happens

Managing Director, Roger Jaques says

through the process of transporting and

that one of the challenges they face is

dumping the food.

educating the customer and the markets about the long term benefits of organic

Most food, however, is wasted in the

compost.

production process and is hard to track

“We are stuck in a negative cycle, until we

throughout the supply chain, according to

reach a tipping point where organics is

the WWF. The need for intervention led corporates to form partnerships with organisations in the field of waste management, in efforts to remedy the dire phenomenon.

Worth mentioning is the Pick n Pay and Waste-to-Food initiative. Based Philippi, Cape Town, Waste-to-Food was founded in 2012 with the aim of reducing food waste through the creation of organic compost.

To make organic compost, Waste-to-Food uses a machine called the HotRot, an in-vessel composter. It converts multiple 18

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Science Stars Magazine Food Science Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

©Photographs by Karin Schermbrucker

ORGANIC FOOD

UNDERSTANDING

ORGANIC EATING Is it healthier and eco-friendly?

By: Nicole Ludolph

T

he organic food movement has been growing steadily across the world in the last few years.

According to the South African Organic Sector Organisation (SAOSO), South Africa has been lagging behind the rest of Africa in terms of organic agriculture. In South Africa, most of the organic food is imported.

What is organic food?

Organic food is grown without chemical fertilizers, pesticides or weed killers. In the case of meat, the animals are grown without ingesting hormones or drugs.

Farmers who grow organic food or raise animals for organic consumption do

pesticides and synthetic fertilizers as the

number of reasons for why they think

not use Genetically Modified Organisms

reason organic food is healthier. Those

organic production is better. Among

(GMOs). GMOs are plants or animals that

who support the idea that there is no

those reasons are that it eliminates soil

have been altered genetically so that

real difference between organic and non

and water contamination because it

they exhibit certain desirable traits. For

organic food cite the lack of proof that

prohibits the use of all artificial fertilizers

instance, apples can be genetically altered

harm is caused by the small amounts of

and pesticides. It’s prohibition of toxic

so they no longer brown or bruise.

pesticide left on food.

chemicals also helps preserve local

Is organic food healthier than conventionally processed food?

Is organic food production better for the environment?

Organic food seems to be universally

Supporters of the organic food movement

accepted as a healthier and more

claim that organic food production is

Despite the lack of decisive scientific

nutritious alternative to conventionally

better for the environment. As with the

evidence proving the superiority of

processed food. Various studies have

consumption of organic food, not enough

organic food, the movement is definitely

been conducted to test this idea, but not

scientific evidence was found proving

not going anywhere. More and more

enough evidence was found to prove the

it better for the environment than

people are moving over to organic eating,

superiority of organic food. Advocates in

conventional food production.

with the only stumbling block seeming to

favour of organic food cite the absence of

Organic food campaigners provide a

be high costs.

wildlife, as natural pest control measures are used. Instead of altering the natural habitat, it forms part of it.

Science Stars Magazine Food Science Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

19

BEES

BUSY BEE Life and Times of Bees By: Nadine Sims

T

here are many different types of bees, which all serve their own purpose, and it is widely known that without bees, the world would be a very different place.

Believe it or not, phrases like ‘worker bee’ or ‘busy bee’ do come from the fact that honey bees are very hard working.

Bees have an important role to play in the pollination of plants, fruits and vegetables and this means that they help other plants

Although honey bees work as hard as they do to produce honey,

to grow.

they surprising only make less than half a teaspoon of honey, at most.

Mike Allsopp the Head of Honey Bee Research at the Agricultural Research Council, says that bees are actively involved in

Over the last couple of years there has been many worrying

pollinating 80% of indigenous plants.

statements put forth saying that bees are disappearing and dying in great numbers, but there are many conflicting reports.

“The fact that they visit about 80% of plants, any disturbance to bees would cause a disruption at a conservation and floral level,”

According to National Geographic billions of honey bees

said Allsopp in a radio interview on Cape Talk.

worldwide are leaving their hives, never to return and in some regions, 90% of bees have disappeared.

One Green Planet writes, “Without help from animal pollinators (bees), our everyday food supply would look much different - at

Allsopp says it is not as bad as we are led to believe, “There are

least one third of our staples we’ve come to rely on would no

more honey bees now on the planet than there has ever been.

longer be available.”

There is no basis to think that honey bees are threatened in terms of them going extinct.”

Honey bees are probably amongst the most interesting of all the members of the bee family. On average, a honey bee lives for

In spite of the differing views on the matter, bees play an

about 5 to 6 weeks and some scientists say that they work so

important and crucial role in our ecosystem and our well-being

hard that they actually die from exhaustion.

as humans.

22

Science Stars Magazine Food Science Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

VEGAN

TOFU VS T-BONE STEAKS Is being a herbivore good for your health?

By: Danielle Scheepers

P

lant-based eating is a lifestyle that

eggs are also not included and neither are

intake are deficient. This increases the

has become very trendy in the last

refined foods, oil and refined sugar.

risk of heart disease, bone loss and other health issues.

few years, especially among young

people. According to the Mail & Guardian,

Mary Ann Shearer, the owner of Mary Ann’s

nearly half of vegans are between the ages

Natural Emporium in Gordon’s Bay, has

Still, Abigail Wheeler (17) says she went

of 15 and 34 years.

been involved with plant-based eating

vegan for three reasons: animals, health

for almost two decades. She says that

and the environment.

Even celebrities like Miley Cyrus, Lea

the benefits include weight loss, energy

On how others react, she comments,

Michele, Jay Z and Beyonce have cut down

increase, disappearing aches and pains and

“People worry about the lack of B vitamins

their meat consumption for a period of

better sleep.

when going vegan, especially B12, so I eat food supplemented with it, such as

time. So, what is plant-based eating really, and are there any benefits to becoming a

As with most extreme life decisions, there

nutritional yeast. Being vegan is inherently

herbivore?

are downsides. One of these is the problem

quite healthy, however, because you eat so

that the Vitamin A, D and K2, the basis

much fruit and veg.”

Plant-based eating expert Dr Craig

of vitamin B12 and iron, which is easily

McDougall defines it as, “A whole-food diet

absorbed in the body, is found only in

In the end, it’s up to you what best suits

centered on whole, unrefined, or minimally

animal sources.

your lifestyle and body’s needs. The simplest advice to follow is American

refined plants.”

A journal article published in 2014

author and journalist Michael Pollan

Essentially that means eating a lot of fruit

on the link between Vitamin B12 and

saying, “Don’t eat anything your great-

and vegetables, whole grains and legumes,

Cardiovascular Health claims that 80% of

great-great grandmother wouldn’t

while excluding meat. Dairy products and

vegans who do not supplement their B12

recognise as food.”

Science Stars Magazine Food Science Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

23

SCIENCE STARS BUILDING LEGENDS

021 839 2507 info@sciencestars.co.za www.sciencestars.co.za /sciencestars.faceb.co.za @ScienceStars2

PROFILE

LIFE LONG STUDENT A Fruitful Journey By: Nadine Sims

C

assiem Khan, life long student and food security expert, is older than the average student and is currently

completing his Masters in Faith and Food Security.

Born in Cape Town, Khan grew up the youngest of 10 children and his relationship with food started at a very young age.

There were many mouths to feed and the family struggled financially. When Khan was born, he was not a healthy child and he was underweight. It later became clear, because of nutritional issues, that Khan was stunted in his growth.

When he started becoming older he formed a close bond with his mother and spent a lot of time with her planting fruit and vegetables in their small garden.

His mother came from India as a young woman, “She wasn’t big on sewing, she wasn’t into baking, she did cook for us, but

“Whether it was a creche, or a sewing

she would also plant things in the limited

group, or a small farmers group, a

space we had.”

fundamental thing people were grappling

He asks himself, “Is this altruistic

the ‘teach a man to fish’ ideology.

around was trying to sustain and nourish

suggestion to the poor that they must go

Khan started studying and became a

themselves, by being involved in some

and catch their own fish, realistic?”

qualified Social Worker and he started

form of growing and producing food,” he

working for an organisation called the

says.

Khan says he is atoning for bad advice or

Equal Opportunity Organisation.

false hope that he may have given a poor He says that food has been a constant and

person, by telling them their world will be

He started travelled through the country

central theme in his life and work and this

okay by planting their own vegetables.

and he says one of the things that

is why he decided to start studying again.

stuck with him while travelling was the

He does this by trying to improve his own

similarities each province has, when it

Now that he has more free time on his

skills and seeing how much his family can

came to food.

hands, he questions bigger narratives like

eat from the vegetables that he grows.

Science Stars Magazine Food Science Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

25

TIA

INNOVATION TO

CURB FOOD INSECURITY Author: Dr Xolisa L. Melamane is a Portfolio Manager at Technology Innovation Agency in the Agriculture STA.

T

he FAO definition of food insecurity

livestock diseases.

TIA through its sector named Agriculture

is: “A situation that exists when

https://www.theguardian.com/global-

Strategic Technology Area (AgriSTA)

people lack secure access to

development-professionals-network/2015/

invests financially in research and

sufficient amounts of safe and nutritious

jan/05/eight-steps-to-straight-as-in-food-

development of new products that curb

food for normal growth and development

security, discusses many steps to curb

food insecurity in its thematic areas for

and an active and healthy life.� The other

food insecurity. Intervention by Technology

example Nutrition and Food Productivity.

popular definition states that food security

Innovation Agency (TIA) emphasizes

AgriSTA encourages entrepreneurs to be

the state of having reliable access to a

financial investments in research and

innovative and develop new products to

sufficient quantity of affordable, nutritious

development of new products, this strategy

assist in curbing food insecurity.

foods.

is the one aligned to its mission.

Food security has declined dramatically in

The mandate of TIA is derived from the

agricultural activities is dependent on

many developing countries. Some of the

provisions of the Technology Innovation

the continuous improvement of crops

reasons on food insecurity in African and

Act (Act 26 of 2008), which establishes TIA

and animals and improvement of traits

other Third World countries include rapid

as an Agency to promote the development

on highly traded commodities necessary

population growth. Most of the time poor

and exploitation, in the public interest, of

for South Africa to compete in the

countries have the highest population

discoveries, inventions, innovations and

global market. Entrepreneurs must find

growth rate in the world and this places

improvements. The objective of TIA is to

new innovative ways to address food

them at increased risk of food crises or

support the State, through the Department

insecurity; poverty; malnutrition and;

insecurity. Population growth rate then call

of Science and Technology, in stimulating

sustainable development especially for

for increased agricultural activity to meet

and intensifying technological innovation

emerging and smallholder farmers.

the nutrition and food security demand.

to improve economic growth and the

AgriSTA is of the view that expansion of

quality of life of all South Africans; by

Email: Xolisa.melamane@tia.org.za

Other factors that causes food insecurity

developing and exploiting technological

Contact: 102 Stephen Dlamini Road, 4th

include drought; climate change; pests;

innovations.

Floor, Musgrave, 4001, Telephone 031 271 4534

26

Science Stars Magazine Food Science Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

EVENTS

EVENTS 12 OCT

21 OCT

Inside The World of Snakes

Drone Building Course

Hosted by Cape Union Mart and Wild Card Magazine, the venue

The event, taking place in Cape Town, offers drone enthusiasts

for the event will be at the Cape Union Mart Adventure Centre,

an opportunity to learn how to build their own drones and

at Canal Walk, Cape Town. Dr Bryan Maritz from the University

race them possible. The course offers basic drone circuitry

of the Western Cape has been studying snakes for 10 years,

theory and teaches you how to safely configure your drone.

will be sharing new and exciting insights in his presentation.

The course runs over two days and payment is required 7 days before the events ensure your place.

Go to their Facebook page for more details.

Book your place with Quicket.

13 OCT TEDxYouth@CapeTown

26 NOV

The TEDx brand has become well-known worldwide for their

Spider Field Trip for Capetonians

talks that host and this time is no different. This year the youth

If spiders don’t scare you this event is for you, taking place

event will be taking place at Bergvliet High School, in Cape

in Capricorn Park, in Muizenberg Cape Town. Hosted by the

Town, under the theme Embracing Diversity. The platform is

Spider Club of Southern Africa, there will be a walk around

for the youth to voice their opinions, idea’s and inspire those

the park looking to build an arachnid list for the Capricorn

around them.

Business Park. Even if you don’t see any spiders, you might learn a thing or two from other spider enthusiasts.

For more information email sian@tedxcapetown.org or book your seat through Quicket.

No entry fee, for more information contact Colin Budworth 082 788 3875.

SASSI

SOUTHERN AFRICAN SEAFOOD INITIATIVE Making Sustainable Seafood Choices By: Nadine Sims

T

he Southern African Seafood

prevalently in society, but when you look

Supplier Participation Scheme.

Initiative’s (SASSI’s) main aim is

down to the nuts and bolts, you realise

Each retailer has made a public and

to create awareness amongst

that we are actually in trouble.”

formal commitment to becoming sustainable with its seafood, each with its

consumers, about the consumption of sustainable seafood. It does this is by

The ocean is different because we don’t

own targeted year in which to meet these

using an easy traffic light system.

have concrete statistics, Pillay explains,

goals.

“It is so easy to ask how many kudu’s in SASSI falls under the ambit of the World

Kruger National Park, you can see it and

“Now we are more aware of the issues

Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) and this

count it. If you asked, I couldn’t tell you

around the oceans. Around 89% of our

year the awareness tool will see its 15th

how many snoek are in the sea.”

commercial fish stocks are fully exploited, globally,” she Pillay.

year of helping consumers make informed The self-regulatory campaign does not

Pillay says SASSI’s biggest success is the

have the authority to fine anyone, that

improvement of awareness and that is the

The SASSI Programme Director, Pavs Pillay,

is the responsibility of the Department

big win for them.

says its reason for coming into being was

of Agriculture and Fisheries compliance

because of the lack of understanding

centre, but SASSI has seen consumers put

Realising that your actions contribute to

around issues of the ocean, by the

more pressure on the big retailers.

the plight of the oceans is essential and

decisions about fish species.

if you want to find out more, you can

consumer and the fishermen.

Having started out as a tool to help

download the application for Android or

Pillay says, “The ‘plenty of fish in the

consumers, SASSI now has the buy in from

iOS phones. Or visit the website:

sea’ myth unfortunately still exists so

all 7 of the 9 big retailers, in their Retailer

wwfsassi.co.za

28

Science Stars Magazine Food Science Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

It’s what we build

3112

We all dream of a better future. For ourselves, our families and our country.

SANRAL, as part of the National Development Plan, is improving and expanding vital road infrastructure.

In the process we are creating jobs, transferring skills and developing opportunities for all South Africans.

We are proud to be a part of the National Development Plan, because we know that roads are more than just roads, they pave the way to a better future.

More than just roads

FOOD ALLERGIES

FOOD ALLERGIES Everything you need to know By: Nicole Ludolph

F

ood allergies occur when the body rejects a particular food

blood vessels. It also makes the lining of the nose produce more

as harmful, and overreacts to the consumption of that food.

mucus.

In South Africa, there is little data available about exactly

however, that South Africans are becoming more and more prone

What is the difference between having a food allergy and food intolerance?

to allergies in general.

A food allergy is the rejection of the allergen by the immune

how many people are affected by food allergies. Scientists agree,

system. It can affect some of the organs of the body, and in

What causes food allergies?

some cases, the symptoms can be severe or life-threatening.

Food that causes an allergic reaction is referred to as an

Food intolerances, however are generally limited to digestive

allergen. The immune system treats the allergen as if it is a toxic

problems. The symptoms are not as serious as those related to a

substance. It develops a sensitivity to the allergen over time,

food allergy.

and starts building antibodies against the allergen. Allergies can develop in both adults and children. The most common foods to

What are the symptoms of a food allergy?

cause allergies are eggs, milk, nuts, wheat or shellfish.

Food allergy symptoms vary. Generally, food allergies can cause vomiting, swelling of the throat, lips, and face, stomach

The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) describes

cramps, diarrhea and shortness of breath. When these symptoms

the process the body goes through when someone has an

become life threatening, the allergic reaction is referred to as

allergic reaction:

Anaphylaxis.

When the immune system reacts to an allergen, it releases

Are there treatments available for food allergies?

immunoglobulin E (IgE), a type of antibody. IgE is released to

The best treatment for a food allergy is simply not to consume

destroy the allergen. IgE causes chemicals in the body to be

the food that triggers allergic reactions. If this is not possible,

produced. These chemicals cause the allergic reaction. One of

allergy sufferers can use an antihistamine when their reaction is

these chemicals is called histamine. Histamine causes tightening

mild. If they have a severe reaction, they would need to go to a

of the muscles, including those in the airways and the walls of

hospital and given a shot of epinephrine.

30

Science Stars Magazine Food Science Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

ANAEMIA

COMBATING ANAEMIA Important facts about anaemia By: Moeketsi Tigeli

A

naemia is not a straightforward

cells responsible for carrying oxygen in the

condition, there are different forms

body to nourish tissues and sustain life.

and possible causes. Two common

types of anaemia are the iron deficiency

Less iron intake - in children who have not

and anaemia of chronic disease (ACD).

consumed iron-fortified formulas or iron-

Simply put, anaemia – also referred to

enriched cereal may also become anaemic.

as lack of blood – is a medical condition that occurs when there’s a significantly

Genetic cause - Some people are simply

less amount of red blood cells. This is an

born anaemia or there is a family history.

indicator that something is wrong in the Loss of blood - although one can get

blood.

anaemia from undetected gradual internal Anaemia causes lightheadedness, nausea

bleeding, in most common cases with

and abnormal depletion of energy leading

women, it is due to heavy bleeding during

to premature fatigue and sustained

menstruation.

tiredness. Some people even having fainting spells.

Anaemia can also be as a result of medical treatments. For example, specific cancer

Facts

treatments has been proven to cause

There are around 1.2 Billion people in the

anaemia.

world who have an iron deficiency, which is the leading cause of anaemia.

Possible remedies Oral iron supplements such as iron help to

Red blood cells are the most abundant in

restore iron levels.

the human body, with around 5.2 million per cubic millimeter of blood in males,

Breastfeeding is strongly advised because

and women with 4.7 million per cubic

babies absorb iron faster through the

millimeter of blood.

process.

There are 280 million hemoglobin

Children aged six to nine months need

molecules in each red blood cell.

seven times more iron than adults. It is

Hemoglobin binds to iron and oxygen. The

important at this stage to provide food

oxygenated red blood cells are transported

that is naturally rich in iron.

to the body’s tissues, and hemoglobin releases the oxygen in exchange for

For people with hereditary iron-deficiency

carbon dioxide, in a continuous cycle.

anaemia, maintaining a healthy blood sugar level and getting enough rest is

Causes

advised to try and regulate the effects.

Anaemia can be caused by a few factors,

Alternatively, an iron replacement can help

including the damage or loss of red blood

curb the condition.

Science Stars Magazine Food Science Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

31

CULTURAL FOOD

CULTURAL EATING HABITS Food in Different Communities By: Moeketsi Tigeli

W

e all prefer our food done a

Foods that contain alcohol are not

certain way, from liking your

considered halaal and some foods are

bacon extra crispy, wanting your

combined or cooked in the same dish.

deemed haram (forbidden) if they include

For meat to be considered kosher, it must

chicken without skin or having onions on

pork. All meat needs to also be ritually

be ritually slaughtered and salted using

your burger.

slaughtered for it to be halaal.

coarse salt to remove all the blood.

We each have our own methods of eating

Many food outlets offer ready made halaal

Hinduism

and preference, as well as forbidden foods,

foods and products and it is reported to be

Hindu’s usually follow a vegetarian diet,

that we would rather steer clear of.

one of the biggest growing food markets

which is no meat, no eggs, poultry or

in the world.

fish, but dairy is allowed and usually

Similarly, different cultural communities

encouraged.

have different food preferences as well

Judaism

as different methods of preparation and

Although dishes are very diverse and

Hindu traditions do not prohibit eating

to sometimes serving. There are many

varying throughout Jewish communities

meat, but they do recommend non-

different reasons why, with the main factor

around the world, one thing that ties them

violence against all life forms, including

would be for religious reasons.

all together is the law of kosher, loosely

animals.

translated to ‘proper’.

Islam

Those that do eat meat, do not eat beef.

Muslims eat food that is referred to as

Certain foods are forbidden, and they

This is because cows are considered

halaal, meaning ‘permissible’ and it applies

include shellfish and pork. Jewish law

sacred, treated as a motherly, giving

to food and drinks.

says meat and dairy products may not be

animal and considered part of the family.

32

Science Stars Magazine Food Science Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

BURSARIES

2018

limited area of study fields. Candidates

KANTEY & TEMPLER BURSARY

may have a look on their website for

Fields of study:

BURARIES

bursary opportunities. These will be found

• Mechanical Engineering

under the ‘Careers’ tab, then ‘Vacancies’

• Electrical Engineering

and on the left-hand side within the

YOUNG LEADERS BURSARY

• Civil Engineering

menu, candidates can find the ‘Graduate

How to apply:

Field of study:

Opportunities’ tab.

Kantey & Templer bursary applications

• Engineering

online can be found on their website:

• Medical

MAYORAL BURSARY

• Technology

Field of study:

including all the relevant documentation.

• Education

• Agriculture

Candidates who cannot download

• Computer Science

• Electrical Engineering

the forms may send a request for the

How to apply:

• Civil Engineering

application to be e-mailed to them, using

Young Leaders bursary applications

• Mechanical Engineering

this e-mail address: info@ct.kanteys.co.za.

online are made available through the

• Science

Alternatively, candidates can also call their

Dell Foundation offices at the selected

• IT

Cape Town offices at 021 – 405 9600.

Universities. This program invites talented

How to apply:

candidates that are in need of financial

Mayoral bursary application is available

AFRISAM BURSARY

assistance and in their first year of study.

online within some of the provinces,

Field of study:

however, not all provide online

MULTICHOICE BURSARY

• Mining – Engineering

applications. Interested candidates may

• Civil – Engineering

Field of study:

collect an application form from their

• Finance

• Research

local Municipality Offices. Completed

• Artisans

• Information Technology

applications along with all required

How to apply:

• Engineering

documentation must then be delivered

AfriSam bursary application online can be

• Software Development

back to the local Municipality Office

accessed on their website. Please ensure

• Information Security

where candidates collected them. These

you have all documentation is ready and

How to apply:

applications must be placed in an A4

up to date. Then register, create an online

MultiChoice bursaries applications online

envelope and addressed to The Office of

CV and apply.

are only made available yearly within a

the Executive Mayor.

The application must be submitted

QUIZ

TEST YOURSELF

1 2 3 4 5

1. The study of animal behaviour is known as?

A. Sociology B. Ethology C. Anthropology

2. Which human gland secretes the growth hormone?

A. Pancreas B. Liver

7 8

C. Pituitary Gland

7. What is known as the factory of ribosomes?

A. Mitochondria B. Vacuole C. Nucleolus

8. The Ozone layer protects Earth from what kind of radiations from the Sun? A. Infrared B. Ultraviolet C. X-rays

3. When a body undergoes acceleration: A. Its velocity increases B. A force acts upon it C. Its speed increases

4. The scientific study of animals is called?

A. Zoology B. Biology C. Taxonomy

5. The pitch of a sound is determined by?

A. Frequency B. Speed C. Direction

6

6. The study of internal organs of an organism is known as?

A. Physiology B. Cell biology C. Anatomy

34

Science Stars Magazine Food Science Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

PUZZLES

SUDUKO Fill in the 9×9 grid with digits so that each column, row, and 3×3 section contain the numbers between 1 to 9

2 8

5

3

6

8 9

4 7

1

4 3 6

7

5 7

8

9 8 3

9 7

2

1

6

3 9

4 3

2 6

CROSSWORD Down

2

1. Which is the most abundant element in the Universe?

2. Chemistry is the study of?

1

3. Which is the most widespread parasitic infection?

3

4. True or False – The pH of water is 7

3

5. Bile is produced by which organ?

3 5

5

Across 1. What is the technical name for abnormally high

4

blood pressure?

2. What scale is used to measure earthquakes?

6

3. What is the scientific study of plants called?

4. True or False – Neptune is the outer most planet in the solar system 5. True or False – Nuclear energy is not a renewable energy source 6. The study of insects is called?

Science Stars Magazine Food Science Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

35

ANSWERS

TEST RESULTS What was your score for the Women in Science Issue?

SUDUKO

SCIENCESTARS

Special Edition | 2017

THE SCIENCE BEHIND SKINCARE

1 7 4

5 3 6

2 9 8

4 2 3

8 5 7

9 6 1

3 8 2

7 4 9

6 1 5

3 5 2

8 9 4

7 1 6

1 7 8

2 6 9

4 3 5

6 4 7

5 2 1

9 8 3

9 6 8

1 2 7

4 5 3

6 9 5

3 4 1

7 8 2

5 1 9

8 3 6

2 7 4

QUIZ

CROSSWORD 1

H

1

E

L

I

U

1. B - 1000 years M 2

P 2

M

I

T

O

C

H

O

N

D

R

I

D 3

4

J

U

B

O

5

T

A

N

N

E

T

I

C

S

7

R

5

N

5. A - Osmium

M

I

E

N

A

I

T

E

R

T

D I

R U

S

O

Y

36

4. B - 120

K

Y

A

3. C - Horse

R

A

U

P A

6. C - Citric

C

U

R E

P

E

S

A 6

G

3

2. B - Neutrino

Science Stars Magazine Food Science Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

E

7. A - Graphite 8. C - 15 000 – 20 000

SCIENCE NEWS

SCIENCE NEWS • Astronauts

to Grow Food in Space

Scientists at the University of Arizona are working on developing a kind of greenhouse for when astronauts are travelling in space. The amount time spent on long space missions means they need to be able to grow fresh crops.

The ‘greenhouse’ is collapsible and lightweight and it has lights which replicate the heat and light from the sun.

• Coca-Cola

Competition

Coca-Cola has jumped on the bandwagon and realised that a vast majority of consumers are cutting sugar out of their diets. As a result, they have launched a crowd-sourcing project and are in search of a ‘naturally sourced, safe, low or no-calorie compound that creates the taste sensation of sugar when used in beverages’. The winner will be awarded $1million in October 2018. Are you the scientist that has what it takes?

• Eco-friendly

Greener Cows

Cattle gas makes up about 10% of greenhouse gas emissions worldwide and Canada has decided to combat this with their Genome project. Their aim is to naturally raise the cows, with as little food as possible, while reducing emissions of methane. The starting point is their diets and then testing on the amount of methane they produce, begins.

• Rock

Discovery Dates Back 3.95 Billion Years

Scientists from Canada, claim to have discovered rocks that hold evidence of life on earth, that date back 3.95 billion years. The evidence is not in the form of a fossil, like Naledi, but rather microorganisms and possibly bacterium. If verified, this discovery confirms that Earth saw microbial life earlier than previously assumed.

• Jupiter

Excites and Confuses Scientists

The NASA’s Juno mission started orbiting Jupiter in last July. Scientists working on the project say that the data they received found that everything we assumed about the largest planet in our solar system was somewhat incorrect.

From the colour of its poles, to the fluctuations in its gravity field; the Juno mission is giving us new and exciting discoveries every week.

• Australia’s

New Space Agency

After years of back and forth lobbying, the Australian government has announced that they launching a space agency.

Australia already depends on satellites for produce deliveries, banking, mobile services and disaster relief efforts. The new agency is estimated to create around 11 700 jobs.

Science Stars Magazine Food Science Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

37

DST

HYDROPOWER PLANT TO PROVIDE ELECTRICITY TO RURAL AREA Reliable electricity improves standard of living

T

he electrification of urban and

The hydropower plant is located at

improving access to the downstream side,

informal settlements in South Africa

Thina Falls on the Thina River within the

that was previously inaccessible.

has increased rapidly over the last

Mhlontlo Local Municipality, which falls

20 years, but the provision of electricity to

under the OR Tambo District Municipality.

To date, the project has created 76 jobs, nearly half of which have been allocated

rural areas is still a challenge.

According Thato Seabi, an on-site manager,

to local labourers from the Mhlontlo Local

Many remote areas, especially small

says the project plays a crucial role in

Municipality.

settlements or farms, will never be

energy access to the remote area. Seabi

connected to a national grid. Due to

says the project will have a significant

the remoteness, sparse population and

impact on the quality of life since

relatively low average energy demands,

electricity would be generated at no cost.

rural electrification has the potential to improve the standard of living of people in

The introduction of electricity will make

a developing country such as South Africa.

it possible for the community, who rely on subsistence farming, to irrigate their crops

In line with the Department of Science

with an electric pump.

and Technology’s (DST) commitment to exploring alternative technologies to

Local municipal manager of the Mhlonto,

achieve universal access to power, 54

Sibongile Sotshongaye, says the location

households in the KwaMadiba settlement

of the hydropower plant will create

in the rural Eastern Cape will soon receive

the opportunity to develop Thina Falls

access to electricity through a small-scale

as a tourist attraction, not only by the

hydropower scheme.

introduction of electricity but also by

In partnership with local municipalities, the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs and the Department of Rural Development and Land Reform, the scheme forms part of the DST’s Innovative Partnership for Rural Development Programme which is piloting innovative technology solutions to enhance service delivery.

The programme involves the prioritised needs of 23 district municipalities and is intended to provide rural communities with a reliable electricity supply, improving their standard of living.

38

Science Stars Magazine Food Science Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

Cut out and place on your wall for easy reference

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Draw up a study timetable.

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Study tips

Don’t procrastinate!

Make flashcards, use acronyms, sing jingles - anything to help you remember.

Exercise and eat correctly to combat stress.

Use tables, flowcharts and figures - pictures can help you remember facts.

Get up a little earlier on the morning of an exam - it will allow you time to have a proper breakfast and you will feel calm when you arrive at your exam venue.

Create a study environment free from clutter and distractions.

If the workload is too big, join a study group. But make sure you actually study.

Get a decent night’s sleep. It helps with your concentration.

Go over as many past papers as you can.

Don’t postpone difficult topics when studying tackle the hard bits first.

Good luck!

At Engen, we want to give you some extra encouragement during your final exams because we understand that education is the first step to a brighter future.

That’s one of the reasons why we invest in subjects that will be of long-term value to our business and South Africa. For nearly 3 decades, Engen Maths and Science Schools have provided extra tuition to learners in grades 10 to 12 across the country. Engen wishes you every success for your final matric exams. www.engenoil.com/education