Avian Influenza (AI): From Human Infection to Chicken Economy, Egg Wave, and Demand for Samgyetang

As the frequency of AI (avian influenza) outbreaks has increased worldwide, it has had a wide-ranging impact on human health and life, as well as the chicken and egg markets, and even the demand for certain foods.

Recent outbreaks of AI in the United States and Brazil have had a major impact on the supply and demand of eggs and chicken.

In this article, we will analyze the impact of AI on human health and the economy, and examine changes in the demand for Samgyetang in Korea.

1. Avian Influenza and Human Infection

Depending on the variant, avian influenza viruses can infect humans. In particular, cases of human infection have been reported with the H5N1 and H7N9 variants. If infected, symptoms such as high fever, cough, and breathing difficulties appear, and in severe cases, pneumonia can develop.

- Main infection routes and symptoms

Humans can be infected with the AI ​​virus mainly through direct contact with infected birds, inhalation of contaminated feces or dust, etc. Initial symptoms are similar to the common flu, such as fever, cough, and sore throat, but it can quickly progress to pneumonia, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), etc., so special care is required.

- Status of vaccine development and importance of prevention

Although human infection cases are rare, research on AI vaccine development is steadily underway because the possibility of a pandemic cannot be ruled out. Prevention efforts such as following personal hygiene rules, refraining from visiting areas where AI has occurred, and refraining from eating uncooked poultry are of the utmost importance.

2. Chicken food consumption and economic chain reaction

News of AI outbreaks have a significant negative impact on consumers' psychology of consuming chicken.

Chicken consumption decreases due to concerns about safety, which leads to a drop in chicken prices and economic difficulties for poultry farmers.

- Reduced supply due to quarantine measures and culling

Culling, an inevitable measure to prevent the spread of AI, can lead to a sharp decrease in chicken supply, which can temporarily increase prices.

This can have an economic impact on related industries, including the restaurant industry.

- Long-term market recovery and consumption promotion efforts

After the outbreak of AI, the government and related industries will carry out publicity campaigns on chicken safety and consumption promotion campaigns. It is important to restore consumer sentiment through thorough quarantine management and establishment of a safe distribution system.

3. Egg supply and demand fluctuations in the US

In the US, egg prices have skyrocketed as 17.2 million laying hens have died due to avian influenza. As of the end of 2024, the average price of a dozen eggs in the US was $4.10, nearly doubling from the previous year.

- Impact on the overall restaurant and food industry

The rise in egg prices is not only affecting household economy, but also increasing production costs and putting pressure on prices across the food industry that uses eggs as a main or secondary ingredient, such as bakery, confectionery, and restaurant.

- Importability and domestic market impact

The instability in the supply and demand of eggs in the US can also indirectly affect the domestic market. The possibility of importing eggs from the US may be discussed, which can act as a factor in fluctuations in domestic egg prices.

4. Possibility of Increase in Demand for Samgyetang in Korea due to the Outbreak of AI in Brazil

Recently, the Korean government implemented an import ban on Brazilian poultry due to the outbreak of AI in Brazil.

Since Brazil is one of the major importers of chicken to Korea, this import ban may affect the domestic chicken market.

- Potential Factors for Increase in Demand for Samgyetang

In particular, Samgyetang, which is popular as a summer health food, uses chicken as its main ingredient. The ban on importing Brazilian chicken is likely to increase demand for domestic chicken, which may lead to the revitalization of the Samgyetang market.

- Role of Domestic Poultry Farms and Establishment of a Stable Supply Chain

In order to respond to the increase in domestic demand for Samgyetang due to the decrease in imports of Brazilian chicken, stable production and supply by domestic poultry farms are important. The stability of the domestic chicken market should be secured through government-level support and management.

Conclusion

Avian influenza (AI) is not simply a disease that occurs in birds, but also has a significant impact on human health, chicken and egg prices, and Samgyetang consumption.

The prices of chicken and eggs in Korea are likely to fluctuate due to the AI ​​outbreak in Brazil and the United States, and it is important to continuously monitor the economic impact of the AI ​​outbreak and provide information for safe food consumption.

All About Mad Cow Disease (BSE): From Its Causes to Beef Consumption

Mad Cow Disease, officially known as Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE), is a terrible disease that causes holes in the brain like a sponge.

Mad Cow Disease, which once terrified the world, has been recognized as a serious problem that goes beyond a simple disease of cattle and threatens human health.

Today, we will take a closer look at the causes of mad cow disease, its effects on the human body, and various stories related to the consumption of beef that we enjoy eating.

1 Tragic Transformation of Herbivores: Causes of Mad Cow Disease

Mad cow disease originally occurs in cows, which are herbivores that live by eating grass.

But how does a terrible disease that causes holes in the brain occur in cows?

The cause is not only grain feed called 'concentrated feed', but also shockingly, behavior that is no different from 'fratricide'.

Cows have stomach structures that are optimized for digesting grass rich in fiber.

However, they are often fed grain-based concentrated feed to induce rapid growth and increase productivity.

This not only puts a strain on the digestive system of cows, but can also cause more serious problems.

The problem does not end here.

Mad cow disease is known to be caused by a mutated protein called 'prion'.

This prion is a terrifying entity that destroys brain tissue by modifying the normal protein structure.

What is even more shocking is that mad cow disease can be transmitted when certain parts (brain, spinal cord, etc.) of a cow infected with mad cow disease are used as feed and fed to other cows.

This is a tragedy caused by an act that goes against the order of nature, just like the cannibalism of Papua New Guinea or some animals that are omnivorous but feed their own kind.

Shadows on Humans: Human Mad Cow Disease, Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease (vCJD)

The dangers of mad cow disease are not limited to cows.

Humans who consume certain parts of cows infected with mad cow disease can develop a fatal disease called 'variant Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (vCJD)'.

This is a scary disease that causes holes in the brain like a sponge, causing neurological dysfunction and ultimately death.

Because of this seriousness, governments of each country are taking strong measures such as strictly restricting beef imports from countries where mad cow disease has occurred, prioritizing the safety of their citizens.

This is an inevitable choice to fulfill the national responsibility of protecting the citizens.

Beef Consumption Status in South Korea: Number 1 Importer of US Beef?

According to recent reports, South Korea is the number 1 importer of US beef.

American cattle, which are raised by grazing on wide lands, are known to have a relatively low risk of mad cow disease compared to cattle in Korea that are raised in densely populated areas.

In reality, cattle require a large area of ​​pasture for grazing, but in Korea, where the land area is small, densely populated farming is inevitable.

How to enjoy beef: Cooking methods and marbling debate

In the West, beef is mainly consumed by grilling it like steak, but in Korea, various cooking methods such as grilling, steaming, and soup are used.

In particular, at one time, beef with a rich marbling of the top plus grade was considered high-quality and enjoyed great popularity.

However, recently, as interest in health has increased, some say that the preference for marbling with high fat content is not as high as it used to be.

In fact, there are research results that show that fat, the main component of marbling, can oxidize when grilled directly over charcoal, etc., and produce harmful substances such as benzopyrene that are not good for the body.

Also, the meat juice that flows out when grilling meat is melted fat, which may be pleasing to the mouth, but may not be good for your health.

As the saying goes, "Bitter taste is good for the body," it can be said that eating habits that consider health are more important than immediate gustatory satisfaction.

Healthy eating habits: The virtue of moderation

In the East, it has long been considered important to refrain from speaking and eating moderately.

It is a wise teaching that you can maintain health only when you excrete more (output) than you consume (input).

Eating excessive food in pursuit of momentary pleasure can ultimately result in harming your health.

It's like when you gain one, you lose the other.

For this reason, many people have difficulty managing their weight, and the diet market may be constantly growing.

A balanced diet and appropriate exercise are essential for a healthy life, and when consuming beef, you need to consider the fat content and use various cooking methods to enjoy it healthily.

Mad cow disease is an incident that reminds us once again of the importance of safe food.

With a proper understanding of beef consumption and healthy eating habits, we will be able to live a healthier and safer life.

 

Low-code system AppSheet linked with Google Spreadsheet

In the early 2000s, personal computers, PCs, were rapidly moving to personal devices such as smartphones and tablet PCs.

If Windows and Macintosh are representative of PCs, Android and Apple are representative of personal mobile devices. What binds these two together is Google Sheet, commonly referred to as a spreadsheet, and AppSheet based on it.

If we look at the view through this,

We will probably find that utilizing Google programs well is a way to increase the competitiveness of ourselves and our company.

If Microsoft dominated the world by releasing Windows in the PC era, now in the mobile era, Google is releasing various programs and launching many useful programs by linking them with PCs.

Not only large distribution companies, but also retail stores with their own brands are using Google Analytics to understand consumer trends and use various methods to increase sales.

Here, we will learn about the main programs of Google that companies need.

---

In Korea, there was a time when the government led the small and medium-sized enterprise information project in the early 2000s.​

As a result, it did not achieve good results, and one of the reasons may have been that the requirements did not match each other.

Now, Google has various Workspaces, and among them, Google Sheets and App Sheets can be used to build programs that companies absolutely need.

The following is a screen shot of a small and medium-sized manufacturing company implementing a list of equipment and inspection and replacement details using Google Sheets and App Sheets.

Differences between winners and losers

*Winners speak with their actions, while losers make excuses with their words.

*Winners live with a responsible attitude, while losers make a lot of promises.

*Winners live prepared to be punished and receive rewards, while losers cheat and receive punishment.

*Winners serve people and wear their hats, while losers serve their hats and wear their bowls.

*When winners make mistakes, they say they were wrong, while losers say things appropriately.

*Winners are honest, while losers are full of excuses.

*Winners say yes and no clearly, while losers say things vaguely.

*Winners can apologize to small people, but losers can't even apologize to big people.

*Winners get up after falling and look forward, while losers get up and look only behind.

*Winners work hard, play hard, and rest hard, while losers work hurriedly, play lazily, and rest carelessly. *Winners live by seizing and managing time, while losers are chased by or dragged by time.

*Winners are not afraid of losing, but losers are secretly worried about winning.

*Winners live for the process, while losers live for the result.

*Winners see the sun above the clouds, while losers see the rain in the clouds.

*Winners know the pleasure of getting up after falling, while losers lament the bad luck of falling.

*Winners make a path by stepping on the snow, while losers wait for the snow to melt.

*Winners use failure as a mirror, while losers use success as waste paper.

*Winners raise their sails when they see the wind, while losers lower their sails when they see the wind.

*Winners control money, while losers are controlled by money.ir pockets. 

*Winners like to say, "Let's try again," while losers say, "There's no point in trying."

*Winners believe in the ground, while losers believe in luck.

*Winners fall down seven times and get up eight times, while losers regret each of the seven times they fell.

*Winners calculate while running, while losers calculate before they even start.

*Winners listen, but losers wait for their turn to speak.

*Winners are gentle and natural, while losers brag and inflate themselves.

*Winners think there must be another way, while losers think there is only one way.

[From the Diaspora Jewish Scriptures]

The flavors that enrich Korean dining tables and drinking parties: A Closer Look at Pork Cuts

Korean tables are filled with colorful and attractive foods.

Among them, there are two special foods that have been loved for a long time.

They are pork cuts, which have a chewy texture and a light taste, and beef jerky, which is a nutritious snack that is rich and filling the more you chew it.

These two foods each have their own unique charms and stories, and they are deeply rooted in the lives and culture of Koreans.

Today, we will learn more about the charms of pork cuts through an in-depth story about pork cuts.

The colorful charms of pork cuts, an essential menu for banquets

There is a food that is always featured at important banquets for Koreans, such as wedding receptions, funerals, and various anniversaries.

It is pork cuts made by boiling and pressing pork head meat.

The neatly arranged boiled meat on a white plate gives off a rich and neat feeling just by looking at it, and it plays a role in further enhancing the banquet atmosphere.

Why is boiled pork special?

 1 Unique texture and mild flavor: 

Various parts of the pig's head meat are combined to give it a chewy yet soft taste, and the more you chew, the more savory it becomes.

Especially, if you lightly dip it in shrimp sauce, the savory taste is added, so anyone of any age or gender can enjoy it.

 2 Symbol of banquet culture: 

Since ancient times, abundant food has been essential for banquets, and boiled pork has been one of the representative foods that symbolizes this abundance.

Breaded pork was an indispensable presence in places where the joys and sorrows of the community were shared.

 3 Harmony with various side dishes: 

Breaded pork is delicious on its own, but it also goes well with various alcoholic beverages such as soju and beer.

In particular, you can enjoy an even richer drinking party when you eat it with spicy yukgaejang or other dry side dishes.

Interesting Stories About Pork Bone

 1 The Specialness of Pig Ears: 

Just as the tongue of a cow is considered a precious delicacy, pig ears are also considered a special delicacy among gourmets for their chewy texture.

 2 Pork from a Global Perspective: 

Pork is prohibited by the Halal and Kosher regulations of Islam and Judaism.

This is related to the historical background that pigs were not suitable for the breeding environment in the Middle Eastern desert and were not of much help to nomadic life.

3 Unique Korean Food Culture: 

It is difficult to find similar foods made by pressing pig head meat in Southeast Asia or Western cultures.

This shows that pork bone is a unique Korean food culture.

4 Potential for K-Food: 

In countries that do not follow Halal and Kosher regulations, the unique taste and texture of pork bone has the potential to become popular as a new K-Food.

 5 Nutritional Value: 

Pork bone is rich in gelatin and collagen, which are known to help with skin beauty and joint health.

 6 Harmony of tradition and modernity: 

In the past, pigs were slaughtered directly and byproducts were used to make boiled meat, but in modern times, hygienic factory-style production methods have made it easier to enjoy.

 7 Good food for mothers: 

In some regions, boiled pork is known as a food that helps mothers produce breast milk. This is probably related to the rich nutritional content of pork.

Delicious Homemade Sundae Recipe

1 Clean the pork intestines and blanch them in boiling water.

2 Soak the noodles and wash the glutinous rice and soak them in water.

3 Prepare the minced pork, onions, chives, green onions, garlic, and ginger.

4 Place the soaked noodles, glutinous rice, prepared vegetables, and pork in a bowl.

5 Season with salt, pepper, sesame oil, etc. to make the sundae filling.

6 Tie one end of the pork intestines and fill them generously with the filling.

7 Tie the other end of the intestines to shape them.

8 Put the sundae in boiling water and boil over medium heat for about 30-40 minutes.

9 Take out the boiled sundae and cut it into bite-sized pieces.

10 Dip it in salt or soy sauce to your taste and enjoy!

Coffee  tea 

Conclusion: 

Pork Bone Meat, a Taste that Accompanies the Life of Koreans

Pork Bone Meat is not just a simple food; it is a special existence that contains Korean history and culture.

Pork slices, which symbolize the abundance of a feast, and beef jerky, which has been loved as a nutritious snack for a long time, will continue to show their charms by our side.

I hope you will feel the depth and diversity of Korean food culture through these two foods.

Qi (氣) and Modern Science: In Search of the Secret of Unsolved Energy

Modern science has made remarkable progress, but it is having difficulty explaining the phenomenon of entropy decrease in the natural world.

The key to understanding this unknown area may lie in **Qi (氣)**, a core concept of Eastern philosophy.

1. Does modern science understand Qi?

Classically, Qi is energy containing information and has the properties of being clear and turbid.

Clear Qi can be likened to laser light that has strong cohesion and spreads far and wide, while turbid Qi can be likened to ordinary light that has weak cohesion and easily scatters.

Clear Qi with good internal order has the solidity of **Vajra Body** that does not easily collapse even under external shocks.

In other words, strong Qi can be interpreted to mean high energy density and stability.

However, modern science has not been able to clearly elucidate the existence of this immaterial energy.

In the process of developing Western science, as material-centered thinking became mainstream, the concept of qi, which is invisible and difficult to measure, was excluded from the realm of scientific inquiry.

2. There is evidence, but no physical evidence

In our daily lives, we vaguely feel the existence of qi in the form of vitality and life force.

Examples include training to improve health or energy felt from people around us.

However, the scientific community maintains a skeptical view of such subjective experiences and demands objective evidence.

The development of science is in line with the development of measurement technology.

Various phenomena that could not be perceived by the human senses have been newly discovered with the development of measurement equipment.

Just as the existence of gravitational waves was confirmed after a long period of exploration, the existence of qi cannot be denied just because it is not currently measured.

3. Is qi a science of the periphery?

Recently, research on qi has been conducted mainly in China, but it is still insufficient to be recognized by the mainstream scientific community. However, regardless of the East or the West, there has been a steady interest in and research on qi.

The most important prerequisite for qi science to establish itself as mainstream science is securing measurement technology.

Order is also one of the important topics of science.

The principle behind seemingly disorderly phenomena such as turbulence has not yet been clearly discovered.

It is known that qi is related to the decrease in entropy, that is, the power to restore order, and this suggests the possibility of developing a new level of healing.

In the future, it is possible that sensors that can precisely measure qi will be developed with the development of nanotechnology.

4. Is it too early?

As of now, it seems difficult for the mainstream scientific community to accept the concept of qi and begin full-scale research.

This is because objective measurement devices have not yet been developed.

However, some people report that they recognize the existence of qi through various senses such as sight and touch.

This ability to detect qi, like the ability to detect light in the ultraviolet range or the sense of distinguishing the polarity of a magnet, may also be improved through training.

An individual's sensory experience is difficult to provide objective evidence for scientific research.

Only the development of objective measurement devices can elevate Qi science to the realm of mainstream science.

The development of nanotechnology is expected to provide a clue to the development of such sensors someday.

5. If diagnostic technology using Qi is developed

Although it is not possible to determine for certain that aura or hand sensations are the actual entities of Qi, it is highly likely that they are phenomena that appear as a result of the functioning of Qi within the human body.

Attempts to determine the health status of the human body through these senses are ongoing.

Current health diagnostic technology is based on a materialistic perspective and is mainly focused on observing changes in the body.

However, if diagnostic technology using Qi is developed, it will be possible to detect energetic imbalances, or disease Qi, before the disease manifests as physical symptoms, dramatically increasing the possibility of early diagnosis of diseases such as cancer.

6. What will happen if Qi measurement technology is developed? 

Technology that measures and utilizes qi can be a key to solving various crises facing humanity, not just in the field of health care.

Technological developments to date have often been biased toward the material aspect and run counter to natural phenomena.

Technologies that utilize explosive power or increase entropy are representative examples.

However, there are also functions that reduce entropy in nature, and modern science has not yet clearly understood the principles of these functions.

Qi science can explore and utilize this unknown energy to build an energy circulation system, fundamentally solve environmental pollution, and contribute to the development of sustainable technologies.

Examples include pollution-free energy technologies and environmental restoration technologies.

In conclusion, 

scientific understanding of qi and advancements in measurement technologies have the potential to bring about a paradigm shift not only in modern medicine but also in science as a whole.

Although it is still an unknown area, qi science can be an important clue that will illuminate the future of humanity.

https://www.koreascience.or.kr/main.page

https://impas.co.kr/home

Human Nature Undaunted by Technological Advancement: From Blockchain to Metaverse

Recent advancements in science and technology have been dazzling. They have deeply permeated our lives.

The Rise and Fall of Blockchain and Cryptocurrency

The innovative potential of blockchain technology. In the latter half of 2017, cryptocurrencies experienced dramatic price fluctuations. They garnered significant attention but are now recognized as volatile, risky assets.

Remembering the Ubiquitous Era

In the early 2000s, it was said that the ubiquitous era would arrive. There was heated discussion about the future society. However, now, even that term has become unfamiliar.

The Flow of the Fourth Industrial Revolution

The Fourth Industrial Revolution advocated by Klaus Schwab. It seems to be gradually fading from public attention, overshadowed by the huge issue of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the movement for change continues.

Age Group	ChatGPT (Estimated Daily Usage)	Gemini (Estimated Daily Usage)	Copilot (Estimated Daily Usage)
18-29	High	Medium	Medium
30-44	High	Medium	Medium
45-64	Medium	Low	Low
65+	Low	Very Low	Very Low

< Daily usage time of AI tools by age group >

The Emergence of New Technological Terms

New terms such as virtual currency, blockchain, NFT, AI, and IoT. They herald changes in future society. Even I, unfamiliar with new technologies, encounter them. This means they have already deeply penetrated our lives.

Nothing is Permanent

Looking at history, nothing is permanent. Future opportunities depend on who prepares for change. In a world filled with numerous technical terms, the benefits will ultimately go to a select few. To those who have prepared steadily for a long time.

The Expansion of the Virtual World

Over 7 billion people, diverse individuals. Technology creates a virtual world beyond imagination. Beyond AR and VR, to XR. The experience of the virtual world merges further with reality. Now, a transcendent virtual space called the metaverse has even emerged. It blurs the boundaries between reality and virtuality, suggesting new forms of social interaction.

Human Intelligence and Artificial Intelligence

In the Book of Changes, ghosts are Yin, and humans are Yang. Virtual environments within physical devices. It is difficult to completely replace human intelligence. Despite the advancement of AI technology. Entities like Skynet from the movie 'Terminator' still seem like a distant future. It is not easy for AI to perfectly imitate the complex thinking and emotions of humans.

Unchanging Human Nature

Water possesses homeostasis, always trying to return to its original state. I hope that even amidst the rapid advancement of science and technology, human nature will not be forgotten. Technological advancement enriches our lives. However, it is important to preserve the unique characteristics of humanity. While embracing technological innovation, a deep understanding of human nature is necessary.

Pew Research Center: (https://www.pewresearch.org/science/2023/02/15/public-awareness-of-artificial-intelligence-in-everyday-activities/)

Statista: (https://www.statista.com/)

All about edible insects, the potential future food resource

Do you remember the delicious pupae you ate at amusement parks or sports days when you were young?

They were enjoyed as a nutritious snack because of their high protein content, but many people avoided them because they were gross.

However, due to the recent problems of excessive energy consumption and carbon emissions in the food production process, there has been a long-standing movement to utilize insects as a future food resource.

How far have edible insects come? Let's find out together.

Feature	Trend (English)
Overall Perception	Progressively shifting towards a more positive direction, with particularly high interest among younger generations and consumers concerned about the environment.
Acceptance	Decreased aversion towards powdered or additive forms where the insect's shape is not visible, and increasing acceptance of insect-added foods.
Purchase Intention	Purchase intention is emerging among some consumer segments due to expectations as a future food resource and environmental benefits, but it is still limited.
Taste Evaluation	Positive taste evaluations are emerging among consumers who have tried insect-added foods, with particularly high scores in Belgium and France.
Major Barriers	Aversion to the appearance of insects, cultural factors, and lack of information remain major barriers.
Influencing Factors	Taste, market accessibility, health benefits, price, environmental sustainability, and food origin are analyzed as factors influencing changes in preference for edible insects.
Preferred Product Form	A tendency to prefer powdered forms processed and added to existing foods rather than whole insect forms.
Positive Perception Factors	High nutritional value, environmentally friendly production methods, and potential as a future food resource.
Negative Perception Factors	Aversion, concerns about safety, and cultural resistance.

1. Types of edible insects: What insects can we eat?

The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety's Food Codex lists a total of 7 insects as food ingredients: grasshoppers, silkworm pupae, brown mealybug larvae, two-spotted crickets, white-spotted flower chafer larvae, American king beetle larvae, and honeybee pupae.

(Temporary standard and standard conversion raw materials 6 types: brown mealworm larvae (mealworm, gosoa), double-spotted crickets, white-spotted flower chafer larvae (grasshopper, flower beetle), American king beetle larvae, and grasshoppers added to honeybee pupae)

2. How far are edible insects being used?

It is not easy to touch them because of their disgusting appearance, but if insects are processed into powder form, their shape does not remain, so the aversion is reduced.

Currently, rather than being consumed directly in powder form, they are used as ingredients in various foods such as bread, cookies, protein bars, burger patties, pasta, and snacks.

In addition, they are attracting attention as space food for the future space age, and various cooking methods using insects are being developed.

3. Advantages and disadvantages of edible insects

Advantages

- Less water and land use: Production is possible with much less resources than existing livestock farming.

- Low energy consumption: It is environmentally friendly because it consumes less energy such as electricity.

- High productivity: It is efficient because the production volume per unit area is high. - Rich nutrition: High in protein content and contains potential ingredients that can be used as herbal medicine.

Disadvantages

- Digestion problems of chitin components: Chitin, the main component of insects, has the disadvantage of being difficult to digest.

- Disgust: Depending on the shape of the insect, you may feel aversion.

- Difficulty in developing various food forms: It is still difficult to process it into various forms.

4. Future possibilities of utilizing edible insects?

In the future, plant-based meat, insect meat, and cultured meat are mentioned as the three major foods that will replace livestock products such as pork and chicken.

However, as laboratory-grown cultured meat becomes possible through factory-style production, the advantages of edible insects may be somewhat diluted due to the development of cultured meat, which is more familiar to people and is evaluated better in terms of ethics.

However, this does not mean that edible insects will be completely replaced, and it is expected that they will compete with alternative meats.

Rather, insects are considered more valuable as feed or agricultural fertilizer because they are good food and nutrients for animals and plants and can produce inexpensive protein.

5. Personal thoughts

Edible insects have various advantages, but in the future, competition with alternative meats is inevitable, and I think that their excellent protein components are likely to be used as health functional foods or livestock feed.

We will have to keep an eye on the development of insect-based foods, but from a business perspective, we will have to wait a little longer to see how they will change in the face of competition with alternative meats.

#edibleinsects #futurefood #alternativefood #insectindustry #protein #sustainablefood

Core standards for achieving carbon neutrality: Opening a sustainable future for manufacturers

Climate change is no longer a story of the distant future, but a serious threat that is right before our eyes.

In particular, the manufacturing industry must play a key role in solving the era's challenge of carbon neutrality due to its enormous energy consumption and carbon emissions.

In this blog, we will deeply analyze the international standards essential for manufacturers to effectively achieve carbon neutrality goals and create a sustainable future, and provide optimized information from an SEO perspective.

1 Systematic First Steps to Achieving Carbon Neutrality: PAS 2060

The journey to carbon neutrality requires clear goal setting and systematic management.

PAS 2060 is an international standard that presents a four-step process so that companies can actually achieve carbon neutrality and transparently prove it.

- Accurate greenhouse gas emissions calculation: 

The beginning of carbon neutrality begins with accurately measuring a company's current greenhouse gas emissions.

PAS 2060 guides companies to objectively understand their carbon footprint based on reliable measurement data.

- Establishing a target-centered carbon management plan and reducing emissions: 

It is important to set specific reduction goals based on measured emissions and establish an actionable carbon management plan to achieve them.

We must make real efforts to reduce emissions through various methods such as improving energy efficiency, introducing renewable energy, and innovating production processes.

- Offsetting emissions: 

Carbon neutrality can be achieved through carbon offsetting for residual emissions that inevitably occur no matter how hard we try.

It is important to fulfill corporate responsibility through internationally recognized carbon offset projects.

- Transparent documentation, verification, and disclosure: 

The process and results of achieving carbon neutrality must be transparently documented, and its reliability must be secured through verification by an independent third-party organization.

In addition, the company's efforts and achievements must be actively communicated by disclosing relevant information to stakeholders. - Key words: PAS 2060, Carbon Neutral Standard, Greenhouse Gas Emissions Accounting, Carbon Management Plan, Emissions Reduction, Carbon Offset, Documentation and Verification, Carbon Neutral Certification

2 International Standard for Effective Greenhouse Gas Management: BS EN ISO 14064 Series

BS EN ISO 14064 series is an international standard that provides comprehensive guidance for quantifying, reporting and verifying greenhouse gas emissions at the organizational and project level.

By adopting this standard, manufacturers can achieve various benefits, including:

- Uncover cost-saving opportunities: 

Reduce unnecessary energy consumption and resource waste through energy efficiency improvements, process optimization, etc., thereby improving profitability.

- Improve corporate reputation and trust: 

Build an environmentally responsible corporate image and gain trust from various stakeholders, including customers, investors, and local communities.

- Attract potential investment: 

As ESG management becomes more important, companies with systematic greenhouse gas management systems can become more attractive options for investors. - Prepare for future legal regulations: You can proactively respond to strengthening environmental regulations and reduce potential legal risks.

- Benchmarking against competitors: 

You can objectively evaluate your environmental performance against competitors based on greenhouse gas emission data and set improvement directions.

- Key words: 

BS EN ISO 14064, greenhouse gas emissions, carbon emissions reporting, carbon emissions verification, ESG management, environmental regulations, benchmarking

3 How to reduce the carbon footprint of a product: BS EN ISO 14067

Carbon footprint, which refers to greenhouse gas emissions generated throughout the entire life cycle of a product, is an element that must be managed to achieve the carbon neutrality goal.

BS EN ISO 14067 clearly presents principles and guidelines for analyzing and verifying the carbon footprint of each stage of the product life cycle, including agriculture, transportation, packaging, and waste management.

Manufacturers can utilize this standard to establish and implement strategies to reduce carbon emissions not only during the product production process but also throughout the entire process from raw material procurement, distribution, use, and disposal.

- Key words: 

BS EN ISO 14067, carbon footprint, product life cycle assessment (LCA), carbon emissions analysis, eco-friendly products, sustainable production

4 Improving the environmental performance of an organization: BS EN ISO 14001

BS EN ISO 14001 is an international standard that stipulates requirements for establishing and operating an environmental management system so that companies in all industries, including food production, can continuously improve efficiency and environmental performance within the organization.

This standard focuses on minimizing negative impacts on the environment across various aspects of business activities, from supplier procurement to product production, storage, and distribution.

By introducing BS EN ISO 14001, manufacturers can set environmental goals and establish a systematic system to achieve them, thereby reducing environmental risks and realizing sustainable management.

- Key words: 

BS EN ISO 14001, Environmental Management System (EMS), Environmental Performance, Sustainable Management, Environmental Risk Management, Supply Chain Management

5 Reducing Carbon Emissions through Energy Efficiency Improvement: BS EN ISO 50001

Energy usage is directly related to carbon emissions, so improving energy efficiency is one of the key strategies for achieving carbon neutrality.

BS EN ISO 50001 provides a way for all companies, including food manufacturers, to establish an energy management system to effectively manage and continuously improve energy usage.

The standard provides a framework that includes setting energy efficiency targets, developing policies to improve energy efficiency, making decisions based on energy usage data, and measuring and reviewing energy performance. BS EN ISO 50001 enables manufacturers to reduce energy costs and carbon emissions effectively.

- Key words:

 BS EN ISO 50001, Energy Management System, Energy Efficiency, Energy Saving, Carbon Emission Reduction, Continuous Improvement

6 Conclusion: 

Carbon Neutrality and Sustainable Growth through International Standards

The international standards mentioned can be powerful tools for manufacturers to achieve their carbon neutrality goals and create a sustainable future.

By demonstrating carbon neutrality in practice through PAS 2060, systematically managing greenhouse gas emissions through the BS EN ISO 14064 series, reducing the carbon footprint of products through BS EN ISO 14067, improving the environmental performance of the organization through BS EN ISO 14001, and maximizing energy efficiency through BS EN ISO 50001, manufacturers can fulfill their environmental responsibility and strengthen their competitiveness at the same time.

Actively introduce these international standards now and lay the foundation for sustainable growth.

https://blog.naver.com/tgconsulting/221227127158

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Deogyusan Hyangjeokbong(Peak) that I Want to Visit

1 Introduction to Deogyusan Hyangjeokbong

Deogyusan Mountain, which rises in Muju-gun, Jeollabuk-do, is like a mother mountain with numerous peaks and deep valleys.

Hyangjeokbong Peak (香積峰, 1,614m) standing tall in the center is the highest peak of Deogyusan Mountain and a famous place boasting beautiful natural scenery.

Just like its name, this place with clear and clean energy presents diverse beauty in all four seasons and constantly attracts hikers.

In spring, the area around Hyangjeokbong Peak transforms into a gorgeous wildflower colony.

Azaleas and rhododendrons bloom red, and unknown wild flowers show off their fresh vitality.

In particular, the flowers blooming in the highlands near the summit are impressive, showing strong vitality even in the harsh environment.

In summer, Hyangjeokbong Peak is covered in lush greenery, casting a cool shade.

As you enjoy trekking along the deep green forest path, your sweat will soon cool down in the cool breeze.

When you stand at the top, the endless blue mountain ranges are spectacular, and on a clear day, you can even see Jirisan in the distance.

Autumn is the peak of Hyangjeokbong.

The entire mountain is covered in red and yellow maple leaves, creating a landscape that looks like a giant firework.

The sight of the colorful maple leaves fluttering in the wind is like a watercolor painting.

In particular, the red sunset and the maple leaves at sunset create an unforgettable beauty.

In winter, Hyangjeokbong is covered in white snow, boasting a magnificent and mysterious snowy landscape.

The snow flowers and frost blooming on each tree branch look like silver sculptures.

The surrounding scenery viewed from the snow-covered peak makes you feel as if you have entered another world.

However, it is important to wear thorough safety equipment and go with an experienced hiker when climbing in winter.

Hyangjeokbong has a relatively gentle hiking trail, so it is a place that anyone of any age or gender can challenge.

You can climb to the summit relatively easily by taking the gondola from Muju Resort, which is why more and more people are visiting.

There is a small shelter and a signpost at the summit, and you can take a short break while enjoying the wide open view.

Deogyusan Hyangjeokbong is more than just a mountain peak; it is a special place that offers beautiful nature, clean air, and unforgettable memories.

This place, where you can enjoy the beauty of nature that changes with the four seasons and regain vitality in your mind and body, always leaves visitors with deep impressions and lingering emotions.

If you visit Muju, Jeollabuk-do, be sure to climb Hyangjeokbong and experience its beauty for yourself.

2 How to get to Hyangjeokbong(Peak)

- Inquiries and information: 063-322-3174

- Website: http://www.grandculture.net/muju

- Address: Seolcheon-myeon, Muju-gun, Jeollabuk-do

- Hours of operation: Summer 04:00~18:00

- Holidays: Open year-round

- Parking: Available

3 The scenery of Hyangjeokbong(Peak).

4 Map

5 Surrounding information

 - Deogyusan National Park (Main Office)

Address: 159 Gucheon-dong 1-ro, Seolcheon-myeon, Muju-gun, Jeollabuk-do

Website: Deogyusan National Park Official Website

 - Muju Deogyusan Resort

Address: 185 Manseon-ro, Seolcheon-myeon, Muju-gun, Jeollabuk-do (Simgok-ri)

Website: Muju Deogyusan Resort Official Website

 - Bandi Land

Address: 1324 Musul-ro, Seolcheon-myeon, Muju-gun, Jeollabuk-do

Website: Muju-gun Office Bandi Land Introduction

 - Gucheon-dong 33 Views

Address: Gucheon-dong, Seolcheon-myeon, Muju-gun, Jeollabuk-do (no specific address)

Website: Muju-gun Office Gucheon-dong 33 Views Introduction

 - Rajetongmun

Address: 2 Rajetongmun-ro, Seolcheon-myeon, Muju-gun, Jeollabuk-do

Website: Muju-gun Office Rajetongmun Introduction

The Indian Economy and Investment Suitability from a Korean Perspective

 Between War Risk and Growth Potential

The World's Largest Population, India

In 2023, India will surpass China to become the world's largest country with a population of approximately 1.4 billion.

In the past, there was a saying that "even if you sell just one toothpick to China, you will become rich," but now India is emerging as a new land of opportunity.

1. The Light and Shadow of the Indian Economy

Although its economic size is still incomparable to that of advanced countries, its growth potential and industrial expansion speed are remarkable. In particular, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is strengthening his political leadership by successfully winning a third term, and is also expanding his international presence by establishing a close relationship with former US President Donald Trump.

With an average economic growth rate of 7%, India has emerged as an alternative for global manufacturing based on cheap labor and abundant manpower. 

In particular, IT outsourcing, which takes advantage of the time difference opposite to that of the US, is competitive worldwide.

India is growing into an all-round industrial partner that encompasses not only manufacturing but also development and after-sales service.

2. Limitations due to lack of infrastructure

However, India still has problems with underdeveloped industrial infrastructure. 

The lack of basic infrastructure such as transportation, electricity, and education hinders foreign investment.

Korean companies are not actively investing in India, and major export items are concentrated in semiconductors, steel, portable devices, and automobile parts. 

As seen in the case of the Indian Mahindra Group that acquired Ssangyong Motors, there is always the possibility of conflict rather than cooperation.

3. Current status of Korean companies entering India: Cooperation and challenges

Currently, major domestic companies such as Samsung Electronics, Hyundai Motors, and LG Electronics have entered the Indian market and are actively operating.

In particular, Samsung Electronics is emphasizing the importance of the Indian market by operating the world's largest smartphone factory in Noida, near the capital city of New Delhi.

Hyundai Motors and LG Electronics are also seeking cooperation in the smartphone and electric vehicle sectors as they secure a foothold in the Indian market. 

Mahindra Group, which previously pursued the acquisition of Ssangyong Motors, is also an Indian company.

The Korea-India Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), which came into effect in January 2009, lowered tariff barriers between the two countries and laid the institutional foundation for opening the service market and expanding trade.

This is a positive signal that economic cooperation between Korea and India can be further expanded in the future.

4. Geopolitical Risk and Investment Strategy: Relations with Pakistan and Investment Direction

Recently, geopolitical risks have been highlighted due to heightened tensions between India and Pakistan.

This is an important factor that should be carefully considered when considering investment in the Indian market.

Political instability can cause short-term market volatility and have a negative impact on investment sentiment.

In the short term, it is necessary to pay attention to the raw materials market related to infrastructure construction and daily necessities in India.

Basic industrial goods such as food and cement are relatively less sensitive to political and economic volatility and can be expected to have steady demand.

Conclusion

India is clearly an attractive market. No country can ignore its population size, growth rate, and abundant human resources.

However, at the same time, there are many realistic difficulties such as outdated infrastructure, political risks, and intensifying competition.

Korean companies need to diversify risks and strengthen cooperative structures from a mid- to long-term perspective rather than viewing India as a simple production base or consumer market.

Strategic partnerships will be the key to success.