HEALTHONLINEUS

**Lavender-Infused Blueberry Muffins: A Delightful Twist on a Classic Treat**

Lavender-infused blueberry muffins offer a unique and aromatic twist to the traditional blueberry muffin. The subtle floral notes of lavender complement the sweet and tangy blueberries, creating a delightful flavor profile that is both refreshing and comforting. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a delightful snack, these muffins are sure to impress family and friends.

**Ingredients:**

– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 tablespoon culinary lavender buds
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– Zest of 1 lemon (optional)

**Instructions:**

1. **Preheat the Oven:**
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it lightly with butter or cooking spray.

2. **Prepare Lavender Sugar:**
In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar and lavender buds. Use your fingers to gently rub the lavender into the sugar, releasing the oils and infusing the sugar with a floral aroma.

3. **Mix Dry Ingredients:**
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, lavender-infused sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.

4. **Combine Wet Ingredients:**
In another bowl, whisk together the melted butter, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.

5. **Create the Batter:**
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in dense muffins.

6. **Fold in Blueberries:**
Gently fold the blueberries and lemon zest (if using) into the batter, ensuring they are evenly distributed.

7. **Fill the Muffin Tin:**
Divide the batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups, filling each about two-thirds full.

8. **Bake:**
Bake in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.

9. **Cool and Serve:**
Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm or at room temperature.

**Tips for Success:**

– **Culinary Lavender:** Ensure you use culinary-grade lavender to avoid any bitterness or soapy taste. This type of lavender is specifically grown for cooking and is safe to consume.
– **Fresh or Frozen Blueberries:** Both fresh and frozen blueberries work well in this recipe. If using frozen, do not thaw them before adding to the batter to prevent excess moisture.
– **Storage:** Store muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or freeze for longer storage.

Lavender-infused blueberry muffins are a delightful way to elevate a classic recipe with a touch of elegance. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or simply enjoying a quiet morning at home, these muffins are sure to bring a sense of calm and joy to your day.

### Apple Scones with Spiced Glaze: An Ideal Cozy Autumn Recipe

As the foliage changes and the air gets brisk, nothing compares to the comfort of warm, freshly baked scones that capture the cozy essence of fall. Apple scones with spiced glaze provide a wonderful indulgence that melds the sweetness of apples with the soothing tastes of cinnamon and nutmeg. This recipe is excellent for a relaxing weekend brunch or a midday snack paired with tea.

#### Ingredients

**For the Scones:**
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
– 1 cup peeled and chopped apples (approximately 1 large apple)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

**For the Spiced Glaze:**
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 2-3 tablespoons milk (or as necessary for texture)
– A pinch of salt

#### Instructions

1. **Preheat the Oven:**
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.

2. **Prepare the Dry Ingredients:**
In a sizable mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg by whisking.

3. **Incorporate the Butter:**
Introduce the cold, cubed butter into the dry ingredients. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, blend the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.

4. **Add the Apples:**
Carefully fold in the chopped apples, ensuring they are uniformly spread throughout the mixture.

5. **Mix the Wet Ingredients:**
In another bowl, whisk the heavy cream, egg, and vanilla extract together. Pour this mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just incorporated. Take care not to overmix; the dough should be a bit sticky.

6. **Shape the Scones:**
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and lightly knead it a few times until it forms a cohesive mass. Flatten the dough into a circle about 1-inch thick. Cut the circle into wedges (like a pizza) or use a round cutter for individual scones.

7. **Bake:**
Arrange the scones on the prepared baking sheet with about 2 inches of space between them. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown.

8. **Prepare the Spiced Glaze:**
While the scones bake, mix the powdered sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, milk, and salt in a small bowl. Adjust the milk until you achieve your preferred glaze consistency.

9. **Glaze the Scones:**
After removing the scones from the oven and allowing them to cool slightly, drizzle the spiced glaze on top of each scone.

10. **Serve:**
Savor the apple scones warm or at room temperature alongside your favorite autumn beverage.

#### Tips for Success

– **Apple Variety:** Combine sweet and tart apples, like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp, for a richer flavor profile.
– **Storage:** Keep leftover scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze for extended preservation.
– **Customization:** Feel free to mix in nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, or dried fruits like cranberries for extra texture and flavor.

### Conclusion

Apple scones with spiced glaze are a delightful way to embrace the flavors of fall. Their soft crumb and sweet, spiced topping render them a comforting treat that will surely satisfy family and friends. Whether enjoyed right from the oven or as part of a cozy gathering, these scones are an exceptional element to your autumn baking collection.

**Chilled Sesame Noodle Dish: A Refreshing Culinary Delight**

The chilled sesame noodle dish, a staple in many Asian cuisines, is a refreshing and flavorful meal perfect for warm weather or as a light yet satisfying option any time of the year. Originating from Chinese cuisine, this dish has gained popularity worldwide due to its simple preparation, versatility, and delightful taste.

**Ingredients and Preparation**

At its core, the chilled sesame noodle dish consists of noodles, a sesame-based sauce, and a variety of toppings. The noodles can range from traditional Chinese wheat noodles to soba or even rice noodles, depending on personal preference or dietary needs. The key component, however, is the rich and creamy sesame sauce, which is typically made from sesame paste or tahini, soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and a touch of sweetness from sugar or honey.

To prepare the dish, the noodles are cooked until al dente, then rinsed under cold water to halt the cooking process and cool them down. This step is crucial as it ensures the noodles remain firm and do not become mushy when mixed with the sauce. The chilled noodles are then tossed with the sesame sauce until evenly coated.

**Toppings and Variations**

One of the appealing aspects of the chilled sesame noodle dish is its adaptability. A variety of toppings can be added to enhance both the flavor and nutritional value. Common toppings include sliced cucumbers, julienned carrots, scallions, and crushed peanuts. For added protein, cooked chicken, tofu, or shrimp can be included. Some variations also incorporate a hint of spice with chili oil or red pepper flakes for those who enjoy a bit of heat.

**Cultural Significance and Popularity**

In Chinese culture, chilled sesame noodles are often enjoyed during the summer months as a cooling dish. They are also popular in Taiwan and Japan, where similar versions exist, such as “liang mian” and “hiyashi chuka,” respectively. The dish’s popularity has spread globally, with many Western restaurants offering their own takes on this classic.

**Health Benefits**

Apart from being delicious, chilled sesame noodles offer several health benefits. Sesame seeds are rich in healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals, including calcium and magnesium. The dish can be made more nutritious by incorporating whole grain or buckwheat noodles and a variety of fresh vegetables. Additionally, it can be easily adapted to suit vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free diets.

**Conclusion**

The chilled sesame noodle dish is a testament to the beauty of simple yet flavorful cooking. Its ease of preparation, combined with the ability to customize ingredients, makes it a versatile choice for any meal. Whether enjoyed as a quick lunch, a side dish, or a light dinner, chilled sesame noodles offer a delightful taste of Asian cuisine that can be appreciated by food lovers everywhere.

**7-Day High-Protein Diet Meal Plan for Optimal Nutrition**

A protein-rich diet can be a beneficial approach to enhance muscle development, assist with weight management, and improve overall wellness. This 7-day meal schedule aims to deliver excellent nutrition while maintaining a high protein intake. Each day encompasses breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks, concentrating on whole foods that are abundant in protein.

### Day 1

**Breakfast:**
– Scrambled eggs (3 eggs) with spinach and feta cheese
– 1 slice of whole-grain toast
– 1 cup of Greek yogurt with berries

**Lunch:**
– Grilled chicken breast (150g) served on a mixed greens salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and balsamic vinaigrette
– 1 apple

**Dinner:**
– Baked salmon (150g) accompanied by quinoa and steamed broccoli
– 1 small sweet potato

**Snacks:**
– 1 protein shake
– 1 handful of almonds

### Day 2

**Breakfast:**
– Overnight oats prepared with 1 cup of rolled oats, 1 scoop of protein powder, almond milk, and sliced banana

**Lunch:**
– Turkey and avocado wrap in a whole-grain tortilla with lettuce and tomato
– 1 cup of carrot sticks

**Dinner:**
– Stir-fried tofu (150g) with assorted vegetables and brown rice
– 1 cup of edamame

**Snacks:**
– Cottage cheese (1 cup) with pineapple
– 1 hard-boiled egg

### Day 3

**Breakfast:**
– Smoothie containing 1 scoop of protein powder, spinach, banana, and almond milk
– 1 slice of whole-grain toast with peanut butter

**Lunch:**
– Quinoa salad featuring black beans, corn, diced bell peppers, and lime dressing
– 1 orange

**Dinner:**
– Grilled shrimp (150g) with whole-wheat pasta and marinara sauce
– Side salad with olive oil dressing

**Snacks:**
– 1 protein bar
– 1 cup of assorted nuts

### Day 4

**Breakfast:**
– Greek yogurt parfait layered with granola and mixed berries
– 1 boiled egg

**Lunch:**
– Lentil soup paired with a side of whole-grain bread
– 1 pear

**Dinner:**
– Beef stir-fry (150g) with broccoli, bell peppers, and brown rice
– 1 cup of steamed green beans

**Snacks:**
– Hummus with sliced cucumbers and bell peppers
– 1 protein shake

### Day 5

**Breakfast:**
– Omelet made with 3 eggs, mushrooms, and cheese
– 1 slice of whole-grain toast

**Lunch:**
– Grilled chicken salad featuring mixed greens, avocado, and vinaigrette
– 1 cup of mixed berries

**Dinner:**
– Baked cod (150g) served with asparagus and quinoa
– 1 small baked potato

**Snacks:**
– Greek yogurt drizzled with honey
– 1 handful of walnuts

### Day 6

**Breakfast:**
– Smoothie bowl blended with protein powder, mixed fruits, and topped with seeds and nuts

**Lunch:**
– Chickpea salad consisting of diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta cheese
– 1 apple

**Dinner:**
– Turkey meatballs (150g) paired with whole-wheat spaghetti and marinara sauce
– Side of sautéed spinach

**Snacks:**
– 1 protein bar
– 1 hard-boiled egg

### Day 7

**Breakfast:**
– Chia seed pudding created with almond milk and topped with berries
– 1 slice of whole-grain toast spread with almond butter

**Lunch:**
– Tuna salad featuring mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and olives
– 1 orange

**Dinner:**
– Grilled chicken thighs (150g) accompanied by roasted vegetables and quinoa
– 1 cup of steamed broccoli

**Snacks:**
– Cottage cheese with sliced peaches
– 1 handful of assorted nuts

### Conclusion

This 7-day high-protein meal schedule offers a range of nutrient-rich foods that can assist in fulfilling your protein requirements while enhancing overall health. Modify portion sizes and snacks based on your specific caloric needs and preferences. Always seek advice from a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian before commencing any new dietary plan.

### Fast and Simple Instant Pot Spaghetti with Meat Sauce Recipe

#### Introduction
Instant Pot spaghetti with meat sauce is a flavorful and easy meal that can be made in a fraction of the time required for traditional cooking. This recipe merges the deep tastes of a robust meat sauce with perfectly cooked spaghetti, all in a single pot. Perfect for hectic weeknights or a warm family gathering, this dish is bound to delight everyone around the table.

#### Ingredients
– 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
– 2 cups beef broth or water
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– 1 pound spaghetti (uncooked)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
– Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish, optional)

#### Instructions

1. **Sauté the Meat and Vegetables**
– Set the Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode. Pour in olive oil and allow it to heat.
– Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent.
– Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until aromatic.
– Incorporate the ground beef or Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until it’s browned, roughly 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.

2. **Add the Sauce Ingredients**
– Mix in the crushed tomatoes, beef broth (or water), oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.

3. **Add the Spaghetti**
– Snap the spaghetti in half and gently place it into the sauce mixture. Do not stir; simply ensure the pasta is mostly submerged in the liquid.

4. **Pressure Cook**
– Secure the lid of the Instant Pot and set the valve to “Sealing.” Choose the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” option and set the timer for 8 minutes.
– After the cooking time ends, let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then carefully switch the valve to “Venting” to release any remaining pressure.

5. **Serve**
– Remove the lid and mix the spaghetti and sauce together until well blended. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a bit more broth or water to achieve your preferred consistency.
– Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs if desired.

#### Tips
– For an extra kick, consider adding red pepper flakes to the sauce.
– Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative.
– Add veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for additional nutrition.

#### Conclusion
This fast and simple Instant Pot spaghetti with meat sauce recipe is a lifesaver for busy cooks. With minimal preparation and cleanup, you can savor a warm and fulfilling meal in no time. Ideal for families or meal prepping, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your weeknight dinner lineup. Enjoy!

On International Clinical Trials Day, the UK’s MHRA unveiled a major shift: a consultation on using external control arms (ECAs) based on real-world data (RWD) for regulatory decisions. This move aims to leverage patient-level data collected outside clinical studies to compare the efficacy and safety of interventions in clinical trials. Stakeholders have until the end […]

The post External Control Arms Based on Real World Data: MHRA Consultation Opens appeared first on Healthcare & Life Sciences Blog.

Brussels has finally blinked. On 8 September 2025, the European Commission launched a call for evidence to simplify the MDR and IVDR. The window is short — it closes on 6 October 2025, but the signal is clear: the Commission is ready to revisit rules that have become heavier than the risk they were meant […]

The post Medical Devices and In Vitro Diagnostic Regulations: Brussels Signals It’s Ready to Cut Red Tape? appeared first on Healthcare & Life Sciences Blog.

### Fast Instant Pot Pozole Rojo Recipe

Pozole Rojo is a classic Mexican soup that features hominy, meat (typically pork or chicken), and a flavorful red chili broth. This warm dish is commonly topped with fresh ingredients such as cabbage, radishes, lime, and avocado. Utilizing an Instant Pot greatly shortens the cooking time, making it convenient for a weeknight meal. Here’s a quick and straightforward recipe for Instant Pot Pozole Rojo.

#### Ingredients

– **For the Pozole:**
– 2 lbs pork shoulder, diced into 1-inch chunks
– 1 can (15 oz) hominy, drained and rinsed
– 4 cups chicken or pork broth
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2-3 dried guajillo chiles, stems and seeds removed
– 1-2 dried ancho chiles, stems and seeds removed
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil

– **For Garnishing:**
– Shredded cabbage
– Sliced radishes
– Chopped cilantro
– Lime wedges
– Avocado slices
– Crumbled queso fresco (optional)

#### Instructions

1. **Prepare the Chiles:**
– In a small saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the guajillo and ancho chiles and let them soak for about 15 minutes until they are softened. Drain and set aside.

2. **Blend the Sauce:**
– In a blender, combine the soaked chiles, garlic, cumin, oregano, and 1 cup of broth. Blend until smooth. Set aside.

3. **Sauté the Pork:**
– Set the Instant Pot to the sauté mode. Add vegetable oil and allow it to heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for approximately 3-4 minutes until translucent.
– Introduce the pork pieces and brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.

4. **Add Ingredients:**
– Pour the blended chili sauce over the browned pork. Add the remaining broth and hominy. Stir to mix well.

5. **Pressure Cook:**
– Close the Instant Pot lid and make sure the valve is set to sealing. Select the manual or pressure cook function and set the timer for 30 minutes on high pressure.

6. **Release Pressure:**
– After the cooking time concludes, allow for a natural release for 10 minutes, then cautiously switch the valve to venting to release any remaining pressure.

7. **Serve:**
– Taste the pozole and modify the seasoning with salt and pepper as necessary. Spoon the pozole into bowls and serve hot with garnishes on the side.

#### Tips

– For a spicier pozole, add extra chiles or incorporate a jalapeño into the blend.
– If you prefer chicken, swap the pork shoulder for boneless, skinless chicken thighs and shorten the cooking time to 20 minutes.
– This dish can be prepared in advance and kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will intensify as it sits.

#### Conclusion

This Fast Instant Pot Pozole Rojo recipe provides a delightful and filling meal that captures the essence of traditional Mexican cuisine in a fraction of the time. With its rich flavors and customizable toppings, it’s ideal for family gatherings or a cozy evening at home. Savor your homemade pozole with your favorite garnishes for a truly fulfilling experience!

Amid fluctuating tariffs and complex trade policies, healthcare and life sciences (HLS) companies face mounting operational and legal challenges within their global supply chains. Organizations are taking steps to retool their supply chains in response to threats against stability, but change introduces myriad knock-on implications.   In the second article of the series, we explore four key […]

The post Healthcare & Life Sciences Supply Chains Series: Trade Winds, Tariffs, and Optimizing Operations (2 of 4) appeared first on Healthcare & Life Sciences Blog.

### Wholesome Creamy Chicken Corn Chowder Made Without Heavy Cream

#### Introduction
Corn chowder is a delightful dish that typically showcases a rich, creamy foundation. Nonetheless, classic recipes may contain high calories and fat owing to the inclusion of heavy cream. This piece introduces a healthier take on creamy chicken corn chowder that preserves the dish’s comforting nature while incorporating lighter components.

#### Ingredients
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 3 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish

#### Instructions

1. **Sauté the Chicken**: In a large saucepan, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped chicken breasts and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.

2. **Cook the Vegetables**: In the same saucepan, incorporate the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion turns translucent.

3. **Add Corn and Potatoes**: Mix in the corn kernels and chopped potatoes. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to come together.

4. **Combine with Broth**: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mix to a boil. Lower the heat to a simmer and cook until the potatoes are soft, around 15 minutes.

5. **Blend for Creaminess**: After the potatoes are tender, use an immersion blender to puree a portion of the chowder right in the pot. This will yield a creamy consistency without using heavy cream. If you like a chunkier chowder, blend only half of the mixture.

6. **Add Chicken and Milk**: Return the cooked chicken to the pot and incorporate the almond milk, dried thyme, and smoked paprika. Simmer for another 5 minutes to heat it through. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary.

7. **Serve**: Spoon the chowder into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or chives. Savor your wholesome creamy chicken corn chowder!

#### Nutritional Benefits
This chowder is loaded with nutrients:
– **Lean Protein**: Chicken breast offers a significant source of lean protein, vital for muscle recovery and overall wellness.
– **Vitamins and Minerals**: Corn and potatoes provide an abundance of vitamins A and C, potassium, and fiber, supporting digestive health.
– **Lower in Calories**: By substituting almond milk for heavy cream, this recipe markedly cuts calories and fat while still achieving a creamy texture.

#### Conclusion
This wholesome creamy chicken corn chowder is an excellent substitute for conventional recipes that depend on heavy cream. With its nourishing ingredients and comforting tastes, it’s ideal for a cozy meal at any time of the year. Relish this guilt-free version that fulfills your cravings without sacrificing your health!