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<p>Humans have been processing food for millenniums. Neanderthals sizzled meat over open flames; hunter-gatherers ground wild wheat to make bread; and factory workers canned fruit for soldiers during the Civil War.</p><p>But in the late 1800s, food companies began concocting products that were wildly different from anything people could make themselve.</p><p>Coca-Cola was introduced in 1886.Jell-O in 1897. Crisco in 1911.Spam, Velveeta, Kraft Mac &amp; Cheese and Oreos arrived in the following decades.</p><figure id="figure-ornauqa0ttmhzigdrt"><img id="ornauqa0ttmhzigdrt" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/24vQ1SEPxt9nib2KoXJOZjLUQLIrdGdB8vDHtwePu87hcjmROUlqWAYNjgoiX6Aq.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/24vQ1SEPxt9nib2KoXJOZjLUQLIrdGdB8vDHtwePu87hcjmROUlqWAYNjgoiX6Aq.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><p>In the 1950s and ’60s, more women began working outside of the home, but were still expected to feed their families.</p><p>Wonder Bread commercials from the 1950s claimed the product’s added vitamins and minerals would <strong>help children “grow bigger and stronger.”</strong></p><p>Home refrigerators offered modern freezer compartments, ready to fill with fish sticks, frozen waffles and TV dinners.The earliest processed foods promised ease and convenience.</p><figure id="figure-yu95bwwjcmhzi9e9g"><img id="yu95bwwjcmhzi9e9g" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/9hg3R7FH5aXLhPgmWgo6NKewk89iP6cw6dPlSINMX8tpYvMB9f6YTdfK2yrrJ3OM.jpg" alt="How did we get here? Let’s take a tour through history." title="How did we get here? Let’s take a tour through history." class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="The earliest processed foods promised ease and convenience." data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/9hg3R7FH5aXLhPgmWgo6NKewk89iP6cw6dPlSINMX8tpYvMB9f6YTdfK2yrrJ3OM.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">The earliest processed foods promised ease and convenience.</figcaption></figure><p><strong>1970s-1990s - An Ultraprocessed Food Explosion</strong></p><p>Click: <a data-mce-href="https://nyti.ms/4i1M6db" href="https://nyti.ms/4i1M6db">Continue Reading</a>.</p>

How America Got Hooked on Ultraprocessed Foods

<p><strong>The study’s findings track with recent research on the alarming rise of the cancer in younger adults.</strong></p><p><a data-mce-href="https://nyti.ms/49RJJHR" href="https://nyti.ms/49RJJHR">Colorectal cancer rates</a> have been mysteriously climbing among people under 50. In a <a data-mce-href="https://bit.ly/3LGNINw" href="https://bit.ly/3LGNINw">study published today in JAMA Oncology</a>, Dr. Chan and his colleagues suggest that ultraprocessed foods — which <a data-mce-href="https://nyti.ms/49hc1vn" href="https://nyti.ms/49hc1vn">have increased in our diets over the decades</a> — may be playing a role.</p><p>He and his team looked at women in their 20s, 30s and 40s.....</p><p>Click: <a data-mce-href="https://nyti.ms/4oG9XBJ" href="https://nyti.ms/4oG9XBJ">Continue Reading</a>&nbsp;</p>

Ultraprocessed Foods Linked to Colorectal Cancer Risk in Women Under 50

A row of glass vials filled with a yellow liquid, a solution of gold. Chemical Mining Laboratory with glass flasks.

<h2>Introduction to Solution Chemistry in Gold Processing</h2><p>Solution chemistry plays a pivotal role in the world of advanced gold processing techniques. It involves the study of solutes, solvents, and their interactions, which are essential for extracting and refining gold. Understanding these interactions allows for more efficient and environmentally friendly processing methods.</p><h2>The Basics of Gold Extraction</h2><p>Gold extraction often relies on hydrometallurgical processes, which involve leaching gold from ores using chemical solutions. The choice of solvent and its chemical properties are crucial for maximizing gold recovery. Cyanide leaching is a traditional technique, but new methods are emerging to minimize environmental impact.</p><h3>Cyanide Leaching</h3><p>Cyanide leaching has been the industry standard for decades due to its effectiveness in dissolving gold. However, due to its toxicity, there is a growing interest in alternative solutions. Researchers are exploring non-toxic leaching agents like thiosulfate and chloride solutions as safer alternatives.</p><figure id="figure-jkpn3vcc6mhwoawtw"><img id="jkpn3vcc6mhwoawtw" src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/2f9rj1Hdfsrwb7EBHLGVT8fHenI62cwJ2etGhrYm0drAB86903oWmABKuiwgLHXl.jpeg" alt="cyanide leaching process" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/2f9rj1Hdfsrwb7EBHLGVT8fHenI62cwJ2etGhrYm0drAB86903oWmABKuiwgLHXl.jpeg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><h2>Innovations in Solution Chemistry</h2><p>Recent advancements in solution chemistry have led to innovative gold processing techniques. These include the development of more selective leaching agents that target gold with minimal interaction with other metals. This selectivity reduces waste and improves overall efficiency.</p><h3>Eco-Friendly Leaching Agents</h3><p>Eco-friendly leaching agents are gaining traction in the industry. Thiosulfate and glycine-based solutions offer a promising future for gold extraction. These agents are not only less harmful to the environment but also enhance the extraction process by improving gold recovery rates.</p><figure id="figure-xxcmj3qgbjmhwob03c"><img id="xxcmj3qgbjmhwob03c" src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/33SkIl7WB1WjKGKabYrNBAvcjpfXjm24cpQF7Cb0r9scWesYOncPU3ydtJzdnR5I.jpeg" alt="eco-friendly leaching" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/33SkIl7WB1WjKGKabYrNBAvcjpfXjm24cpQF7Cb0r9scWesYOncPU3ydtJzdnR5I.jpeg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><h2>The Role of pH and Redox Potential</h2><p>The pH and redox potential of a solution are critical parameters in gold processing. These factors influence the solubility of gold and the efficiency of the leaching process. Maintaining optimal pH and redox conditions ensures that gold is effectively dissolved and recovered.</p><h3>Optimizing Conditions</h3><p>By carefully controlling the pH and redox potential, operators can optimize the conditions for gold extraction. This involves adjusting the chemical composition of the solution to achieve the desired balance, leading to enhanced gold recovery and reduced environmental impact.</p><figure id="figure-kcb9aiqa1rmhwob3jc"><img id="kcb9aiqa1rmhwob3jc" src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/37f1FIB5Xo2rDP1wjLv2qG2K9dhKy2APg8iXjgf5O0d0V0RllNZtkxtuxOlxNLxT.jpeg" alt="solution optimization" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/37f1FIB5Xo2rDP1wjLv2qG2K9dhKy2APg8iXjgf5O0d0V0RllNZtkxtuxOlxNLxT.jpeg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><h2>Conclusion</h2><p>As the demand for gold continues to rise, the role of solution chemistry in advanced processing techniques becomes increasingly important. By harnessing the power of chemistry, the industry can develop more efficient, sustainable, and environmentally friendly methods for gold extraction. This progress not only benefits the industry but also contributes to a more sustainable future.</p>

The Role of Solution Chemistry in Advanced Gold Processing Techniques

<h3>Research Update: Okra, fenugreek extracts remove most microplastics from water.</h3><p>PressPacs May 6, 2025 ACS Omega</p><p>The substances behind the slimy strings from okra and the gel from fenugreek seeds could trap microplastics better than a commonly used synthetic polymer. Previously, researchers proposed using these sticky natural polymers to clean up water. Now, they report in ACS Omega that okra and/or fenugreek extracts attracted and removed up to 90% of microplastics in ocean water, freshwater and groundwater.</p><p>“Utilizing these plant-based extracts in water treatment will remove microplastics and other pollutants without introducing additional toxic substances to the treated water,” says Srinivasan, “thus reducing long-term health risks to the population.”&nbsp;</p><p>Click: <a data-mce-href="https://bit.ly/4oDSDNS" href="https://bit.ly/4oDSDNS" data-mce-selected="inline-boundary">Continue Reading</a></p>

Research Update: Okra, fenugreek extracts remove most microplastics from water.

<p>05-15-2025 08:52 AM CET | Chemicals &amp; Materials<br>Press release from: Persistence Market Research Report</p><p><strong>Overview of the Market</strong></p><p>The global sodium cyanide market is experiencing steady expansion, driven by its indispensable role in gold and silver extraction. Sodium cyanide (NaCN), a water-soluble inorganic compound, is primarily used in the mining sector due to its effectiveness as a flotation agent for metal ores. In 2023, the market was valued at USD 2,202.2 million and is projected to reach USD 3,452.9 million by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 4.6%. This growth is underpinned by rising global demand for precious metals and expanding mining operations in emerging economies.</p><p>The mining and metallurgy sector leads sodium cyanide consumption, accounting for over 90% of the compound's global usage. Regionally, the Asia-Pacific is the dominant market, with China spearheading demand due to its substantial gold production and industrial capabilities. China's increasing mining activities and its role as both a leading consumer and producer of sodium cyanide underscore the region's continued dominance through the forecast period.</p><p>Click here: <a href="https://bit.ly/3Jpd1TH" data-mce-href="https://bit.ly/3Jpd1TH">Continue Reading</a>&nbsp;</p>

Mining Industry to Fuel Sodium Cyanide Market Growth to USD 3.45 Billion by 2033.

<p><strong>Geneva, 7 November 2025</strong>. The sixth meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Minamata Convention on Mercury (COP-6), held in Geneva from 3 to 7 November 2025, brought together over 1,000 participants in person and nearly 4,000 online viewers. Parties adopted 22 decisions to advance the Convention’s objective of protecting human health and the environment from mercury pollution, marking a week of collaboration, determination, and shared purpose.</p><p>Click: <a data-mce-href="https://bit.ly/4hTbm5k" href="https://bit.ly/4hTbm5k" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-mce-selected="inline-boundary">Continue Reading﻿</a></p>

Minamata Convention COP-6 agrees to end the use of dental amalgam by 2034, marking a historic milestone in reducing mercury pollution

Bruce A. Cosgrove BSc, MSc (Solution Chemistry) - Independent Scientific Researcher

Bruce A. Cosgrove, BSc, MSc in Solution Chemistry, operates as an independent scientific researcher who conceived a 4-stage transformative strategy designed to replace the use of mercury- a potent neurotoxin in artisanal gold ore processing in the Portovelo-Zaruma mining district, Ecuador. Through his personal bio and blog, he shares insights and updates on his research journey, highlighting his expertise while the venture is just starting out.

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How America Got Hooked on Ultraprocessed Foods

Ultraprocessed Foods Linked to Colorectal Cancer Risk in ...

The Role of Solution Chemistry in Advanced Gold Processin...

Research Update: Okra, fenugreek extracts remove most mic...

Mining Industry to Fuel Sodium Cyanide Market Growth to U...

Minamata Convention COP-6 agrees to end the use of dental...