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Lentils are known to be an integral part of a nutritionally balanced diet. Their sprouts are considered even more nutritional since they contain phytonutrients that confer health benefits. As such, incorporating them into a human diet can be advantageous. In this study, seeds from brown and black lentils were germinated aiming to study the changes in their nutritional value after they were grown for different amount of days to different lengths. Since the sprouts can be consumed at various stages of their growth, four growth stages were studied. For each stage, three batches were grown, and one sample of each batch was randomly picked and analyzed in triplicates. The sprouts were examined for their nutritional value. To this end, their content of proteins and carbohydrates was determined, as well as their content in carotenoids and vitamin C. Moreover, emphasis was placed on the phytochemical compounds contained in the sprouts. As results indicate, lentil sprouts not only exhibit high nutritional value but they are also rich in antioxidant compounds. More specifically, an increase of up to 18.8% in the protein content was recorded for 15 cm length sprouts (compared to lentil seeds), accompanied by a decrease in the carbohydrate content of up to 68.9%. Carotenoids and vitamin C content increased up to 224% and 389%, respectively. Additionally, a 34% increase in the polyphenol content was recorded. Moreover, a direct correlation between sprout length and nutritional value was observed, using principal component analysis (PCA) and multivariate correlation analysis (MCA).

The climate crisis is one of the biggest challenges for humanity in the 21st century. Production and consumption of meat contributes to global warming by causing emissions of climate-relevant gases. Freshly grown sprouts are part of an alternative, as they are less polluting but still a nutritious food. However, warm humid sprouting conditions may cause pathogenic microorganisms to thrive. Decontamination methods for raw sprouts are therefore relevant. Photodynamic Inactivation (PDI) is a novel approach that uses photoactivatable molecules (photosensitisers, PS) and visible or near-infrared light to produce reactive oxygen species (ROS). These ROS kill microorganisms by oxidative processes. Here, we test the application of PDI based on sodium-magnesium-chlorophyllin (Chl, approved as food additive E140) for photo-decontamination of mung bean, radish, and buckwheat seeds. Seeds were contaminated with Listeria innocua, serving as a model system for Listeria monocytogenes, subjected to PDI using an LED array with 395 nm and tested for remaining bacterial contamination by CFU counting. PDI based on 100 µM Chl reduces the bacterial load of mung bean and radish seeds by 99.9% (radiant exposure 56.4 J/cm2 and 28.2 J/cm2, respectively), and of buckwheat seeds by

Following a request from the European Commission, the EFSA Panel on Nutrition, Novel Foods and Food Allergens (NDA) was asked to deliver an opinion on whole seeds of oilseed rape as a novel food (NF) pursuant to Regulation (EU) 2015/2283. The NF consists of seeds of oilseed rape, in particular double low white flowering varieties of Brassica napus (oilseed rape Brassica napus L. emend. Metzg). The NF's oilseed rape is produced following drying, cleaning and storage procedures traditionally used for oilseed rape in oil production. The NF is proposed to be used as an ingredient in 'Bread and rolls with special ingredients added' and 'Gluten free bread'. The target population is the general population. The highest daily intake of the NF was estimated for young children as 92.6 mg/kg body weight (bw) per day. The Panel notes that intakes of the NF can result in considerably increased levels of glucosinolates consumption as compared to intakes of glucosinolates from background diets. The Panel asked the applicant for additional studies to support the safety of the NF, but these were not provided. The Panel concludes that the safety of whole seeds of oilseed rape under the proposed conditions of use has not been established.

Разработанные в середине прошлого столетия технологии размножения картофеля позволяют получить оздоровленный исходный материал. Одна из наиболее распространенных технологий – клональное микроразмножение. Эта высокотехнологичная методика включает несколько сложных этапов. Для ее реализации необходимо создание стерильной среды и дорогостоящее оборудование. Тем не менее, благодаря своей эффективности и высокой надежности она широко используется для получения семенных клубней картофеля, освобожденных от инфекционных заболеваний. В настоящее время одной из наиболее острых проблем семеноводства остается возможность ускоренного размножения полученных in vitro клубней, которые позволяют исключить вероятность повторного заражения. Разработано несколько способов ускоренного размножения семенных клубней: при помощи микроспорофитов, ярусный способ, использование зеленых черенков, этиолированных ростков и их частей и т.п. Требуется методика размножения, которую можно использовать непосредственно в семеноводческих хозяйствах без сложного и дорогостоящего оборудования. Объектом исследований являлись микрорастения сортов картофеля отечественной селекции. Полевые условия выращивания: высокогорье, северные широты, умеренно-континентальный климат Новгородской области. Получение исходного материала в указанных экологических условиях существенно облегчает процесс отбора исходного материала и подготовки его к клональному микроразмножению. Для выращивания биоматериала использовали питательную среду модификации ВНИИКХ. Для опытов с ускоренным размножением использовали клубни сорта Вымпел. Проводили отчуждение этиолированных ростков и пикировку ростков в сосуд с субстратом (суглинистая почва и торф в соотношении 1:2). Рассаду картофеля высаживали в суглинистую почву по схеме 40 х 20. Предлагается способ ускоренного размножения оздоровленных клубней картофеля посредством отчуждения этиолированных ростков. В среднем с клубня получено 26,3 ростка с корнями и зачатками корней. На одном растении, полученном из ростка, сформировалось 1,7 клубня. Коэффициент размножения составил 1:43,7., Unique technologies developed in the middle of the last century make it possible to get a healthy source material. One of the most common technologies is clonal micropropagation. This is a high-tech method that includes several complex stages. A sterile environment and expensive equipment are required to tool it. Even so, due to the efficiency and high reliability, it is widely used to produce potato seed tubers that are free from infectious diseases. Plants of the species Solanum tuberosum L. have a good regenerative ability that allows to reproduce them in vitro. One of the most important factors that ensure success is the plant genotype. At the same time, the final results of field selection are strongly influenced by environmental conditions. This is primarily due to the presence of insects that transfer the viral infection from infected plants to healthy ones. The most favourable in this respect are the northern latitudes and the highlands. Obtaining the source material under these conditions significantly facilitates the selection of source material and its preparation for clonal micro-reproduction. Several methods of accelerated propagation of seed tubers are currently available: that with the help of microsporophytes, a tiered method, the use of green cuttings, etiolated sprouts and their parts, etc. A breeding technique is required that can be applied in seed breeding farms without the use of complex and expensive equipment. The research object was micro-plants of domestic potato varieties. Field growing conditions were highlands, northern latitudes, temperate continental climate of the Novgorod Region. The biomaterial was grown on the nutrient medium of VNIIKh modification. The experiments on accelerated propagation were performed on Vympel potato tubers. The etiolated sprouts were isolated, and the sprouts were picked into a vessel with a substrate consisting of loamy soil and peat in a ratio of 1:2. Potato plantlets were planted in loamy soil by 40 x 20 pattern. A method was proposed for accelerated propagation of healthy potato tubers by isolating etiolated sprouts. On average, 26.3 sprouts with roots and root primordia were obtained per tuber. One plant obtained from the sprout formed 1.7 tubers The multiplication factor was 1:43.7.

Edible sprouts are rich in flavonoids and other polyphenols, as well as proteins, minerals, and vitamins. Increasing sprout consumption necessitates improving their quality, palatability, and bioactivity. The purpose of this study was to test how KNO3 priming affects the sprouting process species on three Medicago species (Medicago indicus, Medicago interexta, and Medicago polymorpha) and their nutritional values. Targeted species of Medicago were primed with KNO3, and the levels of different primary and secondary metabolites were determined. KNO3 induced biomass accumulation in the sprouts of the three species, accompanied by an increased content of total mineral nutrients, pigments, vitamins, and essential amino acids. Besides, our results showed that KNO3 enhanced the activity of nitrate reductase (NR), glutamate dehydrogenase (GDH), and glutamine synthetase (GS) enzymes, which are involved in the nitrogen metabolism and GOGAT cycle, which, in turn, increase the nitrogen and protein production. KNO3 treatment improved the bioactive compound activities of Medicago sprouts by increasing total phenolic and flavonoid contents and enhancing the antioxidant and antidiabetic activities. Furthermore, species-specific responses toward KNO3 priming were noticeable, where Medicago interexta showed the highest antioxidant and antidiabetic activities, followed by Medicago polymorpha. Overall, this study sheds the light on the physiological and biochemical bases of growth, metabolism, and tissue quality improvement impact of KNO3 on Medicago sprouts.

Vine shoots resulting from vine pruning can become valuable products of interest for many industries. Research conducted to date showed that resveratrol is found in many parts of the vine. The aim of the present study was to determine the resveratrol content in Romanian vine sprouts samples by direct injection into the HPLC instrument coupled with diode array detector after being filtered through 0.45 μm PTFE membrane filters. The resveratrol content varied from 5.44 mg/100 g to 10.27 mg/100 g in ethanolic extracts. For aqueous extract, the resveratrol was found in only two samples in very low concentration. Thise paper aimed to contribute to the research on the capitalization of residual products from viticulture industry.

Mung bean (Vigna radiata L.) sprouts are increasingly consumed and have become part of a healthy diet. The sprouts are composed of proteins, carbohydrates, and biochemical compounds. During germination, the phytochemical compounds are significantly elevated, especially under stress conditions such as salinity, drought, extreme temperature, and illumination. The present study examined the effects of light and germination time on the bioactive compounds in mung bean sprout extracts. Mung bean seeds were sprouted under different light exposure conditions, and the phytochemical composition and antioxidant activity of sprout extracts were determined compared to seeds. The results show that tryptophan sharply decreased during germination. On the contrary, melatonin, polyphenols, and total phenolic content (TPC) were elevated with increased germination time, correlated with increased antioxidant activity. Sprouts germinated in the dark presented higher levels of melatonin and TPC compared with those germinated under 12 h light exposure (3.6- and 1.5-fold, respectively). In conclusion, germination can enhance valuable phytochemicals and antioxidant activity of mung bean sprouts. Mung bean sprouts may be a good alternative functional food for promoting human health.

This study investigated the effects of naringin on soybean and mung bean sprouts postharvest quality. It was found that naringin could maintain the appearance and quality of soybean sprouts and mung bean sprouts during a 6-day storage period as well as delay the occurrence of browning in mung bean sprouts and soybean sprouts. The optimal application rate of naringin was 50–100 μg/mL, which could effectively inhibit the activity of polyphenol oxidase (PPO) and peroxidase (POD) in bean sprouts and increase the ascorbic acid content, where this inhibition response to the browning of mung bean sprouts and soybean sprouts was significantly reduced. Naringin treatment increased gallic acid and p-coumaric acid content in mung bean sprouts as well as the daidzin and rutin content in soybean sprouts, which was also reflected in the improvement of antioxidant activity. The binding of naringin with PPO and POD was analyzed with molecular docking, naringin, and PPO had a lower binding energy (−1.09 Kcal/mol). In conclusion, naringin application in postharvest preservation of mung bean sprouts and soybean sprouts can maintain favorable consumer quality.

Nata de coco is made from raw coconut water which is fermented using the Acetobacter xylinum bacteria. This product has the characteristics of a white color, a thickness of approximately 1-2 cm and a chewy texture like a gel. The largest content in nata de coco is fiber known as bacterial cellulose. In addition to requiring sugar as a carbon source, making nata de coco also requires a source of nitrogen to activate the extracellular enzymes of the Acetobacter xylinum bacteria in the manufacture of nata cellulose. Sources of nitogen used in the manufacture of nata de coco generally use inorganic nitrogen sources, which in their development have caused many pros and cons, especially with regard to food safety issues when this product is consumed as a beverage. This study aims to obtain the best alternative nitrogen source and concentration in making nata de coco. The experimental design used in this study was nested randomized design with 2 factors as the first factor, the type of nitrogen source, while the second factor was the concentration of the nitrogen source in the first factor. The types of nitrogen sources used as the first factor were tofu industrial wastewater, green bean sprouts and Azolla microphylla, while the second factor was the concentration of nitrogen sources consisting of 4 levels, namely 0.5%, 1%, 1.5% and 2%. The parameters observed in this study were thickness of nata de coco, weight of nata de coco, crude fiber of nata de coco, number of Acetobacter xylinum cells in the nata de coco layer. The results showed that organic nitrogen sources (tofu, sprouts and Azolla microphylla liquid waste can be an alternative substitute for inorganic nitrogen sources (urea, ZA and ammonium sulfate) which have been commonly used in making nata. The highest quality nata de coco is produced from the treatment of organic nitrogen sources. sprouts with a concentration of 1.5% with a thickness of 2.83 cm, a weight of 279.33 grams, a crude fiber content of 4.14% and the number of Acetobacter xylinum cells in the cellulose layer 0.4 x 107 cells / ml.

Rice sprouts are reported to have potential as a functional food agent for health promotion, but studies on the biological activity of rice sprouts are insufficient. Thus, in this study, we investigated whether WERS exhibits immunostimulatory activity in macrophages. WERS increased the production of immunomodulatory factors such as nitric oxide (NO), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) in RAW264.7 cells. In addition, WERS activated the phagocytosis of RAW264.7 cells. The inhibition of toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2) and toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) blocked WERS-mediated production of immunomodulatory factors in RAW264.7 cells. In addition, the inhibition of p38 and JNK suppressed the production of immunomodulatory factors by WERS, and the activation of p38 and JNK was blocked by the inhibition of TLR2 and TLR4. Taken together, WERS induced macrophage activation through TLR2/4-dependent activation of p38 and JNK.

Consumers are increasingly consuming sprouted seeds due to their low calories content, nutritional value, as well as beneficial effects on human health. Sprouts contain many bioactive compounds such as minerals, fibre, vitamin C, carotenoids and phenolic compounds. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of darkness, light and time total phenolic content and scavenging activity in alfalfa (Medicago sativa), radish (Raphanus sativus), broccoli (Brassica oleracea) and hemp (Cannabis sativa) seeds during germination. The seeds were washed, soaked in water by ratio of 2:1 (water : seeds) for 12±1 h and then germinated in light and dark conditions at a temperature of 22±2 °C and a relative humidity of 85±2% for different times (12, 24, 36 and 48 hours) in a climatic chamber ICH110 (Memmert, Germany). The quality changes of germinated seeds are determined by phenol content and scavenging activity. Un-germinated seeds were used as a control. The results of current studies show that after germination the highest increase in total phenols was in radish, broccoli and alfalfa seeds. The scavenging activity (SA) was higher after 48 hours of germination in all seed types compared to un-germinated seeds both in darkness and in light. This study shows that sprouted edible seeds are an excellent source of total phenolic compounds and has a high scavenging activity.

Copper metal as a contact surface was studied during the germination of alfalfa seeds (Medicago sativa L.) inside a rotating drum on a laboratory scale and compared with a plastic surface of food-grade. A system of three rotating drums was used inside a thermo-regulated chamber to germinate seeds. Alfalfa seeds were inoculated with 4.2 log cfu g-1 of Escherichia coli and after 84 h of germination sprouts were evaluated for E. coli, mesophilic aerobic bacteria, the content of copper and other minerals (potassium, calcium, magnesium, sodium, iron, manganese, and zinc), total mass, unit mass and length, and color. The contact of alfalfa sprouts with copper sheets allowed to reduce the E. coli load from 6.54 to 10 ppm) according to Food Sanitary Regulations. Germinated mass and length decreased after copper treatments. No statistically significant differences were observed between treatments for the remaining quality parameters. Finally, it is concluded that copper was very efficient in reducing the microbial load of E. coli in alfalfa sprouts, complying with the regulations established by the Chilean Ministry of Health.

Introduction. The present research featured the antioxidant complex of Russian tea varieties. The research objective was to study the formation patterns of the components responsible for the quality characteristics of tea as a raw material and finished product. The paper describes the changes that the biochemical composition of tea undergoes during the growing season and during processing. The study focused on pigments, vitamins, caffeine, and amino acids. Study objects and methods. The research featured the following varieties of tea grown in the Krasnodar region of Russia: “Kolkhida” (control) and “Sochi”; forms – No. 582, 3823, 855, and 2264. The research was performed on the foundation plantation of collection tea in the village of Uch-Dere (Lazarevsky district of Sochi, Krasnodar region, Russia) and in the laboratory of plant physiology and biochemistry. The study involved traditional and advanced research methods. Results and discussion. The paper introduces some results of a comprehensive analysis of the biochemical composition of various tea sorts. Shoots No. 2264, 3823, and the “Sochi” variety demonstrated high values of ascorbic acid. Form No. 3823 and the “Sochi” variety proved to have a relatively stable content of ascorbic acid. All experimental plants had the highest caffeine synthesis in July (from 24.633 to 28.614 μg/100 g). Processing destroyed caffeine and reduced its amount. The experimental samples of raw materials had eleven amino acids, the largest number being synthesized in May. Processing triggered both general changes in their quantity and varietal differences in the metabolic reactions of amino acid conversion. Conclusion. The tea flushes and finished products differed in all biologically active substances, which is associated with both varietal characteristics and the effect of weather conditions during vegetation.

This study aimed to evaluate the bio‐accessibility of the phenolics and flavonoid, the polyphenolic profile and the antioxidant activity of sprouts obtained from four different quinoa genotypes and one djulis cultivar during in vitro gastrointestinal digestion. Compared to their content in sprouts, the bioavailable phenolics after the oral phase, the gastric phase, the intestinal phase, and in the dialyzable fraction were in the ranges of 45.7%–63.5%, 87.6%–116.7%, 89.6%–124.5%, and 7.4%–10.9%, respectively. The trend in flavonoid bio‐accessibility was similar to the polyphenols. The dialyzable flavonoid recoveries varied between 4.2% and 12.4%. Correspondingly, the free radical scavenging activity of the dialyzable phase decreased significantly from 84.7% to 96.5%. The main phenolic acids were vanillic acid, caffeic acid, and syringic acid during digestion. The results suggest that gastrointestinal digestion greatly affected the absorption of polyphenols and flavonoid of quinoa and djulis sprouts, as well as their antioxidant capacity., In this study, we preliminary studied the bio‐accessibility of phenolic compounds and antioxidant activities from quinoa and djulis sprouts by in vitro simulated gastrointestinal digestion. Digestion significantly decreased the absorption of polyphenols and flavonoid, as well as the antioxidant activity.

Summary Introduction: Due to the content of nutrients and taste attributes, the plant sprouts could become a valuable component of a healthy diet. Objective: The aim of the study was to evaluate the antioxidant potential of various sprouts extracts depending on the processing method of the plant material. Methods: The extracts in 96%(v/v) ethanol were prepared from fresh, frozen, dry and homogenized sprouts of alfalfa, broccoli, radish, lentil, mung bean, beetroot, sunflower, and kale, using ultrasound-assisted extraction. The antioxidant potential and total polyphenols content were evaluated by the in vitro methods. Results: The highest antioxidant activity was observed for beetroot and kale as well as broccoli sprouts extracts. The lower potential, in general, was observed in the case of alfalfa, lentil, and mung bean sprouts samples. The lowest activity was observed most frequently for the extracts from dry material, whereas the highest for homogenized as well as frozen and fresh. Conclusion: The plant sprouts, particularly beetroot, kale, and broccoli, could be a valuable source of natural antioxidants.

Wheat, alfalfa, and radish sprouts are well-renowned for their high nutritional content. However, their optimal imbibition and germination durations are rarely considered in the literature. In this study, reduced imbibition times of 3 h, 10 h, and 4 h were demonstrated for the wheat, alfalfa, and radish seeds, respectively. The evolution of their crude fat, proteins, polyphenols, antioxidant activity, and vitamins were investigated over 7 days of germination. The crude fat and protein loads of these sprouts slightly varied during germination, whereas the phenolic compounds and antioxidant activity maxed out at day 7, 5, and 6 for the wheat, alfalfa, and radish sprouts, respectively, with significant levels of catechin. The vitamins highly increased, showing noteworthy yet different peaks of growth depending on the seed and the vitamin analyzed. Interestingly, alfalfa and radish sprouts, taken at their optimal germination day, would decidedly contribute to meet our Recommended Daily Allowances (RDAs) of vitamins E, A, and B6. Overall, for a greater nutritional content and a potential use of these sprouts as nutraceutical ingredients, our results suggested to leave the wheat, alfalfa, and radish seeds to germinate only over 7, 4, and 6 days, respectively, after which their nutritional quality tended to decrease.

Background: elemental deficiency may result in the malfunctioning of human organisms. Sprouts, with their attractive looks and well-established popularity, may be considered as alternative sources of elements in the diet. Moreover, the uptake of micro- and macronutrients from sprouts is better when compared to other vegetable sources. The aim of the study was to determine and compare the level of the selected essential minerals and trace elements in 25 sprouts from different botanical families, to preselect the richest species of high importance for human diets. Methods: the Cu, Zn, Mn, Fe, Mg, Ca determinations were performed using atomic absorption spectrometry with flame atomization and iodine by the colorimetric method. Results: beetroot sprouts had the highest levels of Zn, Fe, and Mg, while onion sprouts were the richest in Mn and Ca, among all of the tested sprouts. Sprouts of the Brassicaceae family were generally richer in Ca, Mg, and Zn than sprouts from the Fabaceae family. Results allow preselection of the most perspective sprouts as possible dietary sources of essential minerals and trace elements. For rucola, leeks, onions, and beetroot sprouts, the data on minerals and trace element compositions were performed for the first time. info:eu-repo/semantics/publishedVersion

Broccoli sprouts are known as a rich source of health-beneficial phytonutrients: glucosinolates and phenolic compounds. The production of phytonutrients can be stimulated by elicitors that activate the plant stress response. The aim of this study was enhancing the nutritional value of broccoli sprouts using hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) as an elicitor. Daily spraying with H2O2 (500–1000 mM) enhanced the accumulation of glucosinolates, doubling their content in the cotyledons of 16/8 h photoperiod-grown 7-day sprouts compared to the water-treated controls. The application of H2O2 on dark-grown sprouts showed a smaller extent of glucosinolate stimulation than with light exposure. The treatment affected sprout morphology without reducing their yield. The H2O2-treated sprouts had shorter hypocotyls and roots, negative root tropism and enhanced root branching. The activated glucosinolate production became evident 24 h after the first H2O2 application and continued steadily until harvest. Applying the same treatment to greenhouse-grown wild rocket plants caused scattered leaf bleaching, a certain increase in glucosinolates but decline in phenolics content. The H2O2 treatment of broccoli sprouts caused a 3.5-fold upregulation of APK1, a gene related to sulfur mobilization for glucosinolate synthesis. Comparing the APK1 expression with the competing gene GSH1 using sulfur for antioxidant glutathione production indicated that glutathione synthesis prevailed in the sprouts over the formation of glucosinolates.

Black soybeans contain several bioactive compounds and commonly consumed due to their health-related activities but rarely cultivated as edible sprouts. The present study investigated the changes that occurred during germination in two new genotypes black soybeans. Raw and germinated seeds were tested against in vitro Alzheimer’s disease (AD) biomarkers, including oxidative stress, inflammatory factors and cholinesterase enzymes as well as γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) levels. Sprouts significantly inhibited the cholinesterase enzymes and inflammatory factors (protein denaturation, proteinase and lipoxygenase) than seeds. An increase in phenolic, flavonoid and GABA (10-folds) content and antioxidant capacity (ABTS, DPPH, and FRAP) was observed in germinated seeds. However, anthocyanin content was decreased in sprouts. UHPLC-ESI-QTOF-MS2 metabolites profiling approach identified 22 compounds including amino acids, peptides, fatty acids, and polyphenols. Among identified compounds, daidzein, genistein, gallic acid, spermidine, L-asparagine, and L-lysine exhibited the highest increase after germination. The current study reveals that germination of black soybeans have promising potential to inhibit/prevent AD and can be used to develop functional foods.

Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) belongs to the group of the most important bacteria that can cause serious food poisoning and disorders in humans such as diarrhea, hemorrhagic colitis, and hemolytic-uremic syndrome. Cattle are considered a natural reservoir of STEC, and many poisonings have been linked to ground beef, but often raw milk and sprouts were the cause of food poisoning. Some of the sprouts that are most often used in food are vetch, cereals, cabbage, and plants from the onion family. Sprouts are highly valuable food that is rich in vitamins, proteins, and minerals. They are low in carbohydrates, but they contain a high amount of fiber, so they effectively promote digestion. There is a lot of evidence of the health and nutritional value of sprouts, but also numerous poisonings caused by the consumption of sprouts that were not safe have been recorded. The first warning related to STEC in sprouts was issued by the US Food and Drug Administration back in 1999, and from March 11, 2013, STEC was included in the legal framework of the EU through Commission Regulation (EU) no. 209/2013 of March 11, 2013. The detection method by classical cultivation is carried out according to HRN EN ISO 16654:2003. This method is intended only for serotype O157, while this serotype and all others mentioned in the Regulation (O157, O26, O103, O111, O145, and O104:H4) can be detected by the real-time PCR method. The paper presents the results of STEC detection (8 serotypes) in the sprout samples (n = 113) during the period from 2017 to 2022.

Germination increases total phenolic compounds (TF) concentration and antioxidant activity (AOx). The characterization and quantification of TPC, total flavonoids content (TPC), and AOx of beans (Phaseolus vulgaris) and peas (Pisum sativum) sprouts, germinated for ten days was performed. Results showed that the highest concentration of TPC for both sprouts was in days 6 and 7 (685.21 and 910.69 mg GAE/100 g dry matter) and TF varied only for beans. AOx of the pea sprouts was 512.64 and 6083.55 mg ET/100 g dry matter to DPPH and ORAC method, respectively, is higher than for bean. Regarding FRAP, bean sprouts showed better values (421.07 mg ET/100 g dry matter) compared to pea; in the CUPRAC analysis, sprouted bean showed better activity than a pea (85.76 and 44.05% inhibition). Germination induced variations in gallic and syringic acids in pea sprouts and of catechin and quercetin in the bean. Germination time and legume type are important factors the biological activity of sprouts.

Selenium is an essential trace element in the human diet and has anti-aging, anti-tumor, and immunity boosting effects. In this study, the effects of selenium on Tartary buckwheat (Fagopyrum tataricum L.) sprouts were investigated. A suitable concentration of selenium had no adverse effects on the growth of Tartary buckwheat seedlings. The soluble sugar, protein, total flavonoid, and total phenol concentrations in the selenium-treated sprouts were higher than those in the untreated control sprouts. Electronic tongue measurements indicated that the taste characteristics, especially the sweetness and umami, of the selenium-treated and untreated groups were significantly different. Sensory analysis showed that selenium-treated Tartary buckwheat sprouts had good acceptability. Selenium-enriched Tartary buckwheat sprouts are a promising product, both in terms of flavor and as a useful source of selenium to increase human dietary intake.

Eggs are a complete food with high-quality proteins; a 2:1 ratio of unsaturated to saturated fatty acid (SFA); and a good amount of minerals, as well as vitamins or antioxidant compounds. Seeds or mature plants were usually added to the feed to improve egg quality. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of alfalfa and flax freeze-dried sprouts supplementation in diets of laying hens on egg oxidative status and key bioactive compounds. Thirty Sassò hens were fed with three different diets: standard, standard + 3% freeze-dried alfalfa sprouts, or flaxseed sprouts. Ten pools of 10 egg yolks per group were collected at 0, 4, and 8 weeks and analyzed. Supplementation with sprouts enriched the phytosterols, phytoestrogens, tocols, carotenes, vitamin D, and n-3 fatty acid contents in the eggs. Cholesterol content was lower in both sprout-supplemented groups, and a decrease in its oxidative products was also observed. It was found that a 3% freeze-dried sprouts supplementation of approximately 56 days improves the egg quality. Further studies are necessary to verify higher supplementing doses and the applicability of this strategy in the commercial egg production chain.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the variation of the chemical composition and the performance of the oats-vetch, wheat-vetch and barley-vetch associations in various proportions of sowing in the form of hydroponic crops. The study was carried out in the city of Huancavelica, Peru, at 3690 meters above sea level. In total, 90 trays of 704 cm2 were used, with a density of 2.5 kg of seed/m2. Associations of oats/vetch (O/V), barley/ vetch (B/V) and wheat/vetch (W/V) with six proportions of grass/legume were used: 100/0, 80/20, 60/40, 40/60, 20/80 and 0/100. The fresh biomass production (FBP) and the chemical composition of the percentage fractions of dry matter (DM%), organic matter (OM%), neutral detergent fibre (NDF%), ethereal extract (EE%), crude protein (CP%) and total minerals (TM%) were determined. A completely randomized experimental design was used, with a factorial arrangement of 3x6 (associations x proportions) with 5 repetitions. The association, the proportion and the interaction showed significant differences (p, El presente trabajo tuvo como objetivo evaluar la variación de la composición química y el rendimiento de las asociaciones avena-vicia, trigo-vicia y cebada-vicia en diversas proporciones de siembra asociada en la forma de cultivos hidropónicos. El estudio se realizó en la ciudad de Huancavelica, Perú, a 3690 msnm. Se emplearon 90 bandejas de 704 cm2, con una densidad de 2.5 kg de semilla/m2. Se utilizaron asociados de avena/vicia (A/V), cebada/vicia (C/V) y trigo/vicia (T/V) con seis proporciones de gramínea/leguminosa: 100/0, 80/20, 60/40, 40/60, 20/80 y 0/100. Se determinó la producción de la biomasa en fresco (PBF) y la composición química de las fracciones porcentuales de materia seca (MS%), materia orgánica (MO%), fibra detergente neutra (FDN%), extracto etéreo (EE%), proteína cruda (PC%) y minerales totales (MT%). Se utilizó un diseño experimental completamente al azar, con arreglo factorial de 3x6 (asociado x proporciones) con 5 repeticiones. El asociado, la proporción y la interacción presentaron diferencias significativas (p

Sprouts are regarded as an untapped source of bioactive components that display various biological properties. Endophytic bacterium inoculation can enhance plant chemical composition and improve its nutritional quality. Herein, six endophytes (Endo 1 to Endo 6) were isolated from Chenopodium plants and morphologically and biochemically identified. Then, the most active isolate Endo 2 (strain JSA11) was employed to enhance the growth and nutritive value of the sprouts of three Chenopodium species, i.e., C. ambrosoides, C. ficifolium, and C. botrys. Endo 2 (strain JSA11) induced photosynthesis and the mineral uptake, which can explain the high biomass accumulation. Endo 2 (strain JSA11) improved the nutritive values of the treated sprouts through bioactive metabolite (antioxidants, vitamins, unsaturated fatty acid, and essential amino acids) accumulation. These increases were correlated with increased amino acid levels and phenolic metabolism. Consequently, the antioxidant activity of the Endo 2 (strain JSA11)-treated Chenopodium sprouts was enhanced. Moreover, Endo 2 (strain JSA11) increased the antibacterial activity against several pathogenic bacteria and the anti-inflammatory activities as evidenced by the reduced activity of cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase. Overall, the Endo 2 (strain JSA11) treatment is a successful technique to enhance the bioactive contents and biological properties of Chenopodium sprouts.

Functional and nutritional characteristics of seed sprouts and their association with oxidative stress-related disorders have recently become a focus of scientific investigations. The biological activities of fennel seeds (FS) and fennel seed sprouts (FSS) were investigated in vitro and in vivo. The total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoids (TF), total flavonols (TFF), and antioxidant activity (AOA) of FS and FSS were examined. HPLC and GC–MS analyses for FS and FSS were carried out. Consequently, the nephroprotective and antioxidative stress potential of FS and FSS extracts at 300 and 600 mg kg−1 on CCl4-induced nephrotoxicity and oxidative stress in rats was investigated. In this context, kidney relative weight, blood glucose level (BGL), lipid profile, kidney function (T. protein, albumin, globulin, creatinine, urea, and blood urea nitrogen (BUN)), and oxidative stress biomarkers (GSH, CAT, MDA, and SOD) in the rat’s blood as well as the histopathological alteration in kidney tissues were examined. Results indicated that the sprouting process of FS significantly improved TPC, TF, TFL, and AOA in vitro. HPLC identified nineteen compounds of phenolic acids and their derivatives in FS. Thirteen phenolic compounds in FS and FSS were identified, the highest of which was vanillic acid. Six flavonoids were also identified with a predominance of kaempferol. GC–MS indicated that the trans-anethole (1-methoxy-4-[(E)-prop-1-enyl]benzene) component was predominant in FS and FSS, significantly increasing after sprouting. In in vivo examination, administering FS and FSS extracts ameliorated the BGL, triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (CHO), and their derivative levels compared to CCl4-intoxicated rats. A notable improvement in FS and FSS with 600 mg kg−1 compared to 300 mg kg−1 was observed. A dose of 600 mg FSS kg−1 reduced the TG, CHO, and LDL-C and increased HDL-C levels by 32.04, 24.62, 63.00, and 67.17% compared to G2, respectively. The atherogenic index (AI) was significantly improved with 600 mg kg−1 of FSS extracts. FS and FSS improved kidney function, reduced malondialdehyde (MDA), and restored the activity of reduced glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT). Both FS and FSS extracts attenuated the histopathological alteration in CCl4-treated rats. Interestingly, FSS extract presented better efficiency as a nephroprotection agent than FS extract. In conclusion, FSS can potentially restore oxidative stability and improve kidney function after acute CCl4 kidney injury better than FS. Therefore, FS and FSS extracts might be used for their promising nephroprotective potential and to help prevent diseases related to oxidative stress. Further research on their application in humans is highly recommended.

There is an increasing interest in the development of meat processed products enriched with antioxidant dietary fiber to augment the consumption of these health beneficial compounds. This study aimed to evaluate the nutritional, nutraceutical, and antioxidant potential, as well as the physicochemical properties of minced tilapia fillets (meat) gels with added amaranth seed or sprout flours (0%, 2%, 4%, 8%, and 10% w/w). Dietary fiber content was significantly increased with the addition of amaranth seed (1.25–1.75-fold) and sprout flours (1.99–3.21-fold). Tilapia gels with added 10% amaranth seed flour showed a high content of extractable dihydroxybenzoic acid and cinnamic acid, whereas the addition of 10% amaranth sprout flour provided a high and wide variety of bioactive compounds, mainly amaranthine and bound ferulic acid. The addition of amaranth seed and sprout flours increased hardness (1.01–1.73-fold) without affecting springiness, decreased luminosity (1.05–1.15-fold), and increased redness and yellowness. Therefore, amaranth seed and sprout flours could be used as functional ingredients for the development of fish products rich in bioactive compounds.

Microalgae are a rich source of plant hormones, vitamins, and other substances that can influence plant physiological metabolism, which in turn affects plant development, biotic and abiotic stress resistance, and yield. This study aimed at testing microalgae Planktochlorella nurekis clones obtained by co-treatment with colchicine and cytochalasin on four plant species to check their potential use as biostimulators in agriculture. The results are valuable for breeders, farmers, and microgreen producers. Eleven clone extracts in 1%, 5%, and 10% concentration were tested on four plant species: lettuce, wheat, broccoli, and radish. Germination and seedling characteristics (leaf and root length, fresh weight) were measured for each species. P. nurekis extracts show both a stimulating and inhibitory effect on tested plants, depending on the tested concentration, plant species, and algal clone tested. Co-treatment with colchicine and cytochalasin may be a good source of clones for potential use in agriculture as biostimulators and herbicides.

Among all legumes sprouts’ active compounds, isoflavones seem to be the most important; nevertheless, their high content is not always associated with beneficial effects. These compounds may prevent or stimulate hormone-dependent cancers due to their estrogen-like activity. Different LED light quality can change the synthesis of active compounds and significantly influence the biological activity of the sprouts. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of LED light (red, blue, green, yellow), as well as total darkness, and natural light conditions (as reference), on isoflavones content, determined by HPLC-UV-VIS, during 10 days of harvesting of chickpea and lupin sprouts. Due to the ambiguous estrogenic potential of isoflavones, the impact of these sprouts on normal and cancer prostate and breast cells was evaluated. Yellow LED light resulted in the highest sum of isoflavones in chickpea sprouts (up to 1 g/100 g dw), while for green LED light, the isoflavones sum was the lowest. The exact opposite effect was noted for lupin sprouts, with the predominance of green over the yellow LED light. The examined sprouts were of high safety to non-neoplastic breast and prostate cells, with interesting cytotoxic effects on breast MCF7 and prostate DU145 cancer cells. No clear relationship was observed between the activity and isoflavones content.

Edible sprouts are rich in flavonoids and other polyphenols, as well as proteins, minerals, and vitamins. Increasing sprout consumption necessitates improving their quality, palatability, and bioactivity. The purpose of this study was to test how KNO3 priming affects the sprouting process species on three Medicago species (Medicago indicus, Medicago interexta, and Medicago polymorpha) and their nutritional values. Targeted species of Medicago were primed with KNO3, and the levels of different primary and secondary metabolites were determined. KNO3 induced biomass accumulation in the sprouts of the three species, accompanied by an increased content of total mineral nutrients, pigments, vitamins, and essential amino acids. Besides, our results showed that KNO3 enhanced the activity of nitrate reductase (NR), glutamate dehydrogenase (GDH), and glutamine synthetase (GS) enzymes, which are involved in the nitrogen metabolism and GOGAT cycle, which, in turn, increase the nitrogen and protein production. KNO3 treatment improved the bioactive compound activities of Medicago sprouts by increasing total phenolic and flavonoid contents and enhancing the antioxidant and antidiabetic activities. Furthermore, species-specific responses toward KNO3 priming were noticeable, where Medicago interexta showed the highest antioxidant and antidiabetic activities, followed by Medicago polymorpha. Overall, this study sheds the light on the physiological and biochemical bases of growth, metabolism, and tissue quality improvement impact of KNO3 on Medicago sprouts.

Food operations use vast amounts of water. To reduce utility costs as well as concerns regarding water depletion in ecosystems, food businesses usually try to reuse their water. However, this often needs a recycling process to ensure the water is of good quality and safe to reuse in a food environment. This paper presents a case study of a grower of beansprouts and other varieties of sprouted seeds that uses six million litres of water weekly. Approximately 60% of their spent irrigation water is recycled using both 50 µm and 20 µm drum filtration. In addition, chlorine dioxide is used as part of the recycling process as a disinfectant. Our analysis demonstrated that the size of suspended solid particles in over 90% of the cumulative sample tested was smaller than the current 20 µm filter in place, highlighting that the existing system was ineffective. We, then, explored options to enhance the water recycling system of the company. After careful analysis, it was proposed to install a membrane-filtration system with ultraviolet technology to increase the finest level of filtration from the existing 20 µm to 0.45 µm absolute and sterilize any remaining bacteria. This not only improved water quality, but also allowed for the removal of chemicals from the recycling system, delivering both financial and technical improvements.

Gymnosperms are generally regarded as poor resprouters, especially when compared to angiosperms and particularly following major disturbance. However, is it this clear-cut? This review investigates two main aspects of gymnosperm resprouting: (i) various papers have provided exceptions to the above generalization—how frequent are these exceptions and are there any taxonomic trends?; and (ii) assuming gymnosperms are poor resprouters are there any anatomical or physiological reasons why this is the case? Five of six non-coniferous gymnosperm genera and 24 of 80 conifer genera had at least one species with a well-developed resprouting capability. This was a wider range than would be expected from the usual observation ‘gymnosperms are poor resprouters’. All conifer families had at least three resprouting genera, except the monospecific Sciadopityaceae. Apart from the aboveground stem, buds were also recorded arising from more specialised structures (e.g., lignotubers, tubers, burls and underground stems). In some larger genera it appeared that only a relatively small proportion of species were resprouters and often only when young. The poor resprouting performance of mature plants may stem from a high proportion of apparently ‘blank’ leaf axils. Axillary meristems have been recorded in a wide range of conifer species, but they often did not form an apical dome, leaf primordia or vascular connections. Buds or meristems that did form often abscised at an early stage. While this review has confirmed that conifers do not resprout to the same degree as angiosperms, it was found that a wide diversity of gymnosperm genera can recover vegetatively after substantial disturbance. Further structural studies are needed, especially of: (i) apparently blank leaf axils and the initial development of axillary meristems; (ii) specialised regeneration structures; and (iii) why high variability can occur in the resprouting capacity within species of a single genus and within genera of the same family.

Sprouts are particularly prone to microbial contamination due to their high nutrient content and the warm temperatures and humid conditions needed for their production. Therefore, disinfection is a crucial step in food processing as a means of preventing the transmission of bacterial, parasitic and viral pathogens. In this study, a dielectric coplanar surface barrier discharge (DCSBD) system was used for the application of cold atmospheric plasma (CAP), plasma activated water (PAW) and their combination on mung bean seeds. Germination assessments were performed in a test tube set-up flled with glass beads and the produced irrigation water. Overall, it was found that the combined seed treatment with direct air CAP (350W) and air PAW had no negative impact on mung bean seed germination and growth, nor the concentration of secondary metabolites within the sprouts. These treatments also reduced the total microbial population in sprouts by 2.5 log CFU/g. This research reports for frst time that aside from the stimulatory efect of plasma discharge on seed surface disinfection, sustained plasma treatment through irrigation of treated seeds with PAW can signifcantly enhance seedling growth. The positive outcome and further applications of diferent forms, of plasma i.e., gaseous and aqueous, in the agro-food industry is further supported by this research., peer-reviewed

Following a request from the European Commission, the EFSA Panel on Nutrition, Novel Foods and Food Allergens (NDA) was asked to deliver an opinion on mung bean protein as a novel food (NF) pursuant to Regulation (EU) 2015/2283. The NF, which is the subject of the application, is mung bean protein extracted from seeds of the plant Vigna radiata. The NF is proposed to be used as a food ingredient added to 'protein products, excluding products covered in category 1.8'. The target population is the general population. The maximum estimated intake of the NF is 758 and 260 mg/kg body weight (bw) per day in children and adults, respectively. The major constituents of this NF are protein (similar to 85%), fat (3-4%) and moisture (3-5.5%). The NF is rich in protein which is well digestible and provides sufficient amounts of most essential amino acids but only limited amounts of sulfu-rcontaining amino acids. The Panel notes that the cumulative exposure to the minerals analysed does not raise concern. The reported values for the levels of antinutritional factors in the NF are comparable to those in other foodstuffs. The Panel considers that taking into account the composition of the NF and the proposed conditions of use, consumption of the NF is not nutritionally disadvantageous. No toxicological studies with the NFs were provided by the applicant; however, the Panel considers that no toxicological studies are required on this NF. This NF has the potential capacity to sensitise individuals and to induce allergic reactions in individuals allergic to soybean, peanuts, lupin and to birch pollen. The Panel considers that the NF, i.e. mung bean protein, is safe at the proposed conditions of use. (C) 2021 European Food Safety Authority. EFSA Journal published by John Wiley and Sons Ltd on behalf of European Food Safety Authority.

Light quality exerts considerable effects on crop development and phytochemical content. Moreover, crops grown as microgreens are ideal for plant factories with artificial lighting, since they contain greater amounts of bioactive compounds compared to fully-grown plants. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of broad-spectra light with different red/blue ratios on the yield, morphology, and phytochemical content of seven microgreens. Mustard, radish, green basil, red amaranth, garlic chives, borage, and pea shoots were grown in a vertical farming system under three light sources emitting red/blue ratios of about 2, 5, and 9 units (RB2, RB5, and RB9, respectively). Mustard exhibited the most profound color responses. The yield was enhanced in three microgreens under RB9 and in garlic under RB2. Both the hypocotyl length and the leaf and cotyledon area were significantly enhanced by increasing the red light in three microgreens each. Total soluble solids (Brix) were reduced in 4 microgreens under RB2. The total phenolic content and antioxidant capacity were reduced under RB2 in 6 and 5 microgreens, respectively. The chlorophylls were variably affected but total the carotenoid content was reduced in RB9 in three microgreens. Overall, light wavelength differentially affected the microgreens’ quality, while small interplays in spectral bands enhanced their phytochemical content.

Magnetic stimulation of seeds before sowing can have a significant impact on the speed of their germination. Sprouts are sought after by consumers for their high nutrient content. The purpose of the study was to investigate the influence of a pulsed magnetic field on the dynamics of seed germination and on the content of ions in sunflower, cress, and radish sprouts. The research material in the experiment was provided by seeds of sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.), garden cress (Lepidium sativum L.), and garden radish (Raphanus sativus L.) intended for sprouting, which were supplied by PNOS Ożarów Mazowiecki. The research methods involved germinating seeds under strictly defined conditions for 14 days. Then, the mineral composition of the previously mineralised sprout material was determined using emission spectrometry on a ICP-OES iCAP Duo 6500 Termo spectrometer. Greater dynamics of germination were noted in the first half of the growth period in seeds stimulated with a pulsed magnetic field with the parameters 100 µT and 100 Hz. However, the application of the magnetic field produced no increase in the capacity of the seeds to germinate. The research showed an increase in the content of macronutrients in sprouts, such as calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and sulphur. In the case of the field with parameters of 100 µT and 200 Hz, the effect was similar for both the germination percentage and the accumulation of macronutrients. However, in the case of both frequencies of magnetic field applied, the effect on individual plant seed species was different. Pre-sowing stimulation of seeds with a pulsed magnetic field may affect the rate of seed germination and the content of ions in the sprouts, however, these effects vary in individual plant matrices.

V delu obravnavamo igro Brstički (angl. Sprouts). Igralca na listu papirja izmenjaje rišeta poteze in z njimi dodajata nove brstičke. Zmagovalec je tisti, ki nariše zadnjo potezo. Brstički so nepristranska kombinatorična igra in zato po Sprague-Grundyjevem izreku enakovredni igranju igre Nim. Osnovo za modeliranje igre predstavljajo ravninski grafi. Kombinatorično lahko igro opišemo kot ravninski graf, kjer so brstički vozlišča, poteze pa povezave. Geometrijsko lahko poteze predstavimo z Bézierjevimi zlepki. Naš prispevek je pajčevina. Gre za navidezne povezave na začetku igre, ki brstičke povežejo v vpeto drevo. Pajčevina zagotavlja povezanost slike igre skozi celo igro, s čimer je vsaka poteza nedvoumno določena. V sklopu dela smo izdelali tudi aplikacijo za igranje. Sprouts is a paper-and-pencil game where two players take turns connecting sprouts and adding a new sprout along the connection. The player who makes the last move wins. The game of Sprouts is an impartial combinatorial game and thus by Sprague-Grundy theorem equivalent to a game of Nim. Planar graphs are the basis for a computer representation of Sprouts. Combinatorically, a game is a planar graph with sprouts as its vertices and moves as its edges. In addition, player's moves also have geometric components. Each move is a sequence of Bézier splines. Our contribution is the cobweb. A cobweb is comprised of the virtual edges which connect the initial sprouts into a spanning tree. The cobweb guarantees uniqueness of moves by maintaining a connected structure. As part of this work, a multi-platform application for playing Sprouts has been developed.

Glukozinolati (β-tioglukozidni-N-hidroksisulfati) su velika grupa sekundarnih metabolita koji daju karakterističan gorki i oštri okus kupusnjačama te su njihovi razgradni produkti biološki aktivni spojevi. Razgradnja može biti termička, enzimska ili kemijska pri čemu nastaju brojni razgradni produkti kao što su tiocijanati i izotiocijanati. Klice rikule su nutritivno bogate, a prednost im je vrlo laki uzgoj. Klijanjem se nutrijenti u sjemenci razgrađuju na sastavne dijelove, razvija se klorofil i povećava se količina proteina, minerala i elemenata u tragovima. Dodatna prednost je da su bogate vitaminima, čiji se sadržaj povećava klijanjem, esencijalnim masnim kiselinama i vlaknima te imaju pozitivan učinak na organizam. Biljke nemaju potrebu za selenom i uglavnom ne podnose koncentracije veće od 10-100 μg/g suhe mase u tkivima, no vrste koje pripadaju obitelji Brassicaceae mogu akumulirati selen u tkivima i tolerirati koncentracije do 1000 μg/g suhe mase. Na taj način, biljke proizvode razne seleno metabolite koji mogu imati ulogu kao sredstva za sprječavanje raka. Istraživanja su pokazala da se u bočni lanac glukozinolata umjesto sumpora može ugraditi atom selena. U ovom diplomskom radu uzgojene su klice rikule te zalijevane otopinama selena različitih koncentracija (1; 2,5; 5; 7,5; 10 ppm). Razvoj biljaka praćen je tijekom 7 dana i jedino pri najvišoj koncentraciji selena nije došlo do razvoja biljke. Nakon sabiranja glukozinolati su izolirani ekstrakcijom 70%-tnim metanolom te analizirani UHPLC-DAD-MS/MS, a njihovi hlapljivi razgradni produkti su izolirani ekstrakcijom diklormetanom i identificirani GC-MS tehnikom. Identificirana su 4 glukozinolata: glukorafanin, glukoerucin, dimer glukosativina i 4-metoksiglukobrasicin, dok je GC-MS tehnikom identificiran erucin kao razgradni produkt glukoerucina. Glucosinolates (β-thioglucoside-N-hydroxysulfates) are a large group of secondary metabolites that give a characteristic bitter and pungent taste to cabbages and their degradation products are biologically active compounds. Degradation can be thermal, enzymatic, or chemical and it forms several degradation products such as thiocyanates and isothiocyanates. Rocket sprouts are nutritionally rich, and their advantage is very easy cultivation. By germination, the nutrients in the seed are broken down into their main components, chlorophyll develops and the amount of proteins, minerals and trace elements increases. An additional advantage is that they are rich in vitamins whose content increases with germination, essential fatty acids and fiber and have a positive effect on the body. Plants do not need selenium and generally do not tolerate concentrations higher than 10-100 μg/g dry weight in tissues, but species belonging to the Brassicaceae family can accumulate selenium in tissues and tolerate concentrations up to 1000 μg/g dry weight. In this way, plants produce various selenium metabolites that can play a role as a means of preventing cancer. Studies have shown that a selenium atom can be incorporated into the side chain of glucosinolates instead of sulfur. In this diploma thesis, rocket sprouts were grown and watered with selenium solutions of different concentrations (1; 2.5; 5; 7.5; 10 ppm). The development of the plants was monitored for 7 days, and only at the highest concentration of selenium the plant did not develop. After collection, glucosinolates were isolated by extraction with 70% methanol and analyzed by UHPLC-DAD-MS / MS, and their volatile degradation products were isolated by extraction with dichloromethane and identified by GC-MS technique. 4 glucosinolates were identified: glucoraphanin, glucoerucine, glucosatin dimer and 4-methoxyglucobrasicin, while GC-MS technique identified erucin which originate from degradation of glucoerucin.

Resumen La nutrición forestal es un tema en desarrollo actual tanto en las etapas de vivero como en las plantaciones. En algunos casos se presentan evidencias de deficiencias nutricionales desde los minijardines clonales, los cuales son una de las etapas iniciales en un vivero clonal. En un minijardín clonal de Tectona grandis (Linn. F) se evaluó el sistema de riego y la aplicación de distintas dosis junto con criterios de riego variados para así poder aplicar la técnica de fertirriego. Se determinaron los coeficientes de uniformidad de Christiansen y de distribución. Aparte de los tratamientos, también se utilizó el factor de semanas medidas para evaluar el comportamiento de las plantas madre de la teca ante la cosecha de brotes. El sistema de riego fue catalogado como inaceptable por lo que no fue uniforme. En cuanto a las variables medidas (diámetro, altura y cantidad de brotes) no se encontraron diferencias significativas (p ≤ 0,05) entre tratamientos, pero si entre semanas. En este proyecto se concluye que a pesar de que no existieron diferencias significativas entre tratamientos, los costos de utilizar sales como fertilizante son considerablemente menores. Abstract Forestry nutrition is a current development topic into in the nursery stages and in plantations. In some cases, there is evidence of nutrition deficiencies from the clonal minigardens, which are one of the initial stages in a clonal nursery. In a clonal minigarden with Tectona grandis we evaluated the irrigation system and treatment applications mixing fertilizer doses with varied irrigation criteria to apply the fertigation technique. The Christiansen and distribution uniformity coefficients were determined for the irrigation system. In addition to the treatments, the weekly factor was also used to evaluate the behavior of teak mother plants considering the sprouts harvest. The irrigation system showed results of its uniformity that placed it in an unacceptable level. Regarding the variable measures (diameter, height and number of sprouts) there were not significant differences (p ≤ 0.05) between treatments but if were between weeks. In this project we concluded that although there were not significant differences between treatments, the costs for using salts as fertilizer are considerably lower.

Questions of quality of the sowed seeds in agriculture have paramount value. Use of highquality uniform seeds is the key to successful production of crop production. Vegetable seeds, in particular, leaf vegetables, are most vulnerable in this plan in view of their shallow amount, the long period of fructing time and some other factors. The modern tool methods of evaluation test allow to glance in internal structure of seeds and to scoop more information. The most suitable for these purposes is us the developed method of microfocal X-ray of vegetable seeds. In this work seeds of different types of green and spicy and flavoring vegetable crops are analysed: melissa, marjoram, asparagus, spinach and garden cress. The analysis was carried out both by a method of r of seeds, and by a standard technique. The most typical defects and shortcomings of internal structure of seeds influencing their economic and biological indicators are identified. Comparison of methods is carried out. It is shown that X-ray analysis of quality of seeds, in particular, viability, by visualization of images efficient and rather precise. The small error of a method is compensated with its bigger informational content: that is, the analysis is carried out not by the principle of viable and not viable seeds, there is their division as on viability (full, low quality), and on defects and shortcomings (outstanding, ugly, the defective, injured, etc.). At the same time seeds as a result of the analysis aren't utilized and remain for further work. The method differs in speed and ease of execution. The prospects of development of a method are specified. It is the integrated automatic analysis of quality of seeds. The algorithm of automatic computer X-ray analysis of quality of vegetable seeds is so far developed, the first version of the program is approved.

Researchers recently focused on studying the nutritional and functional qualities of sprouts generated from seeds. The current study investigated the total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoids (TF), total flavonols (TFL), antioxidant activity (AOA), specific phenolic acids, and volatile chemicals in fennel seeds (FS) and fennel seed sprouts (FSS). The oxidative DNA damage prevention activity of selected FS and FSS extracts against DNA was examined. Consequently, the antioxidative stress potential of FS and FSS extracts at 300 and 600 mg kg−1 on CCl4-induced hepatotoxicity and oxidative stress in rats weas investigated. The liver’s functions and oxidative stress biomarkers in rat blood were examined. FSS exhibited rich phytochemical content such as TPC, TF, TFL, and AOA with altered phenolics and volatiles. HPLC identified nineteen compounds of phenolic acids and their derivatives in FS. Thirteen phenolics and six flavonoids were predominantly identified as Vanillic acid and Kaempferol, respectively. GC-MS analysis identified fifty and fifty-one components in FS and FSS, respectively. The predominant component was Benzene, [1-(2-propenyloxy)-3-butenyl] (trans-Anethole) (38.41%), followed by trans-Anethole (Benzene, 1-methoxy-4-(2-propenyl)) (23.65%), Fenchone (11.18%), and 1,7-Octadiene, 2-methyl-6-methylene- Cyclohexene (7.17%). Interestingly, α-Pinene, Fenchone, trans-Anethole (Benzene, 1-methoxy-4-(2-propenyl)), 4-Methoxybenzaldehyde (4-Anisaldehyde), Benzeneacetic acid, α-hydroxy-4-methoxy, and Nonacosane contents were increased. While Dillapiole, 7-Octadecenoic acid, and methyl ester were newly identified and quantified in FSS. The oxidative DNA damage prevention capability of FSS and FS extracts indicated remarkable DNA protection. Administrating FS and FSS extracts at 300 and 600 mg kg−1 ameliorated AST, ALT, and ALP, as well as GSH, CAT, MDA, and SOD, in a dose-dependent manner. The most efficient treatment of FS or FSS was using a dose of 600 mg Kg−1, which recorded an improvement rate of 20.77 and 24.17, 20.36 and 24.92, and 37.49 and 37.90% for ALT, AST, and ALP, respectively. While an improvement rate of 40.08 and 37.87%, 37.17 and 46.52%, 114.56 and 154.13%, and 66.05 and 69.69% for GSH, DMA, CAT, and SOD compared to the CCl4-group, respectively. The observed protection is associated with increased phenolics and volatiles in F. vulgare. Therefore, FS and FSS are recommended as functional foods with bioactive functionality, health-promoting properties, and desired prevention capabilities that may help prevent oxidative stress-related diseases.

Mustard is an edible vegetable in the genus Brassica with tender and clean sprouts and short growth cycles that has become a rich source of nutrients required by humans. Here, the effects of dark exposure duration and planting density on the health-promoting phytochemicals and the antioxidant capacity of mustard sprouts were evaluated. The content of soluble sugar, soluble protein, chlorophyll, and carotenoids and the antioxidant capacity of mustard were higher in the two-day dark treatment; the content of indolic glucosinolates was also more affected in the dark day experiment than in the planting density experiment. The soluble sugar, soluble protein, and aliphatic and total glucosinolate levels were higher when sprouts were grown at high densities (6–7 g per tray); however, no significant variation was observed in the content of chlorophyll and carotenoids and the antioxidant capacity. The results of this study show that the optimum cultivation regime for maximizing the concentrations of nutrients of mustard plants is a planting density of 6 g of seeds per tray and a two-day dark treatment.

The consumption of plant sprouts as part of human day-to-day diets is gradually increasing, and their health benefit is attracting interest across multiple disciplines. The purpose of this review was to (a) critically evaluate the phytochemicals in selected sprouts (alfalfa, buckwheat, broccoli, and red cabbage), (b) describe the health benefits of sprouts, (c) assess the recent advances in sprout production, (d) rigorously evaluate their safety, and (e) suggest directions that merit special consideration for further novel research on sprouts. Young shoots are characterized by high levels of health-benefitting phytochemicals. Their utility as functional ingredients have been extensively described. Tremendous advances in the production and safety of sprouts have been made over the recent past and numerous reports have appeared in mainstream scientific journals describing their nutritional and medicinal properties. However, subjects such as application of sprouted seed flours in processed products, utilizing sprouts as leads in the synthesis of nanoparticles, and assessing the dynamics of a relationship between sprouts and gut health require special attention for future clinical exploration. Sprouting is an effective strategy allowing manipulation of phytochemicals in seeds to improve their health benefits.

The essentiality of selenium (Se) and iodine (I) to human beings and the widespread areas of selenium and iodine deficiency determine the high significance of functional food production with high levels of these elements. In this respect, joint biofortification of agricultural crops with Se and I is especially attractive. Nevertheless, in practice this topic has raised many problems connected with the possible utilization of many Se and I chemical forms, different doses and biofortification methods, and the existence of wide species and varietal differences. The limited reports relevant to this subject and the multiplicity of unsolved questions urge the need for an adequate evaluation of the results obtained up-to-date, useful for developing further future investigations. The present review discusses the outcome of joint plant Se–I biofortification, as well as factors affecting Se and I accumulation in plants, paying special attention to unsolved issues. A particular focus has been given to the prospects of herb sprouts production enriched with Se and I, as well as the interactions between the latter microelements and arbuscular-mycorrhizal fungi (AMF).

Mung bean (Vigna radiata L.) sprout is a popular fresh vegetable, tasty and high in antioxidants. To increase yield and quality after the occurrence of both abiotic and biotic stresses, the application of seaweed extracts is of great importance. Hence, this study was conducted to determine the effect of Ascophyllum nodosum extract (ANE) in the presence of salt on the antioxidant potential of V. radiata sprouts. Different concentrations of ANE viz. 0.00, 0.01, 0.05, 0.10, and 0.50% and NaCl 0, 25, 50, 75, and 100 mM alone and in combinations were tested for researching the antioxidant potential of V. radiata sprouts at 0, 24, and 36 h of sprouting. The DPPH free-radical-scavenging activity of sprouts of V. radiata was found to increase with time and peaked at 24 h of treatment. The A. nodosum extract (0.01%) could reverse the ill effect of the low level of salinity posed by up to 25 mM NaCl. The increasing salinity deteriorated the antioxidant activity using ABTS method of sprouts down to 20.45% of the control at 100 mM NaCl. The total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), and reducing power of V. radiata sprouts was found to increase till 36 h of sprouting. A slight increase in TPC, TFC and reducing power was observed when seeds were treated with low concentrations of ANE. The elevation in TPC, TFC and reducing power upon treatment with low concentrations of ANE was also noticed in sprouts in saline combinations. Alpha amylase inhibition activity was found to reach a (67.16% ± 0.9) maximum at 24 h of sprouting at a 0.01% concentration of ANE. Tyrosinase inhibition and alpha glucosidase inhibition was 88.0% ± 2.11 and 84.92% ± 1.2 at 36 h of sprouting, respectively, at 0.01% concentration of ANE. A. nodosum extract is natural, environmentally friendly, and safe, and could be used as one of the strategies to decline stress at a low level and enhance the antioxidant activities in V. radiata sprouts, thus increasing its potential to be developed as an antioxidant-based functional food.

Digital, La finalidad de la presente investigación fue realizar una monografía de compilación donde se llevó a cabo la recolecta de información de 100 diferentes fuentes bibliográficas desde los años 2000 en adelante, con el objetivo de dar a conocer los germinados como una alternativa alimenticia y las condiciones requeridas necesarias para su germinación y consumo evitando contaminaciones de microorganismos patógenos que pueden causar enfermedades a los consumidores. Para mantener una alimentación saludable es necesario consumir variados alimentos, mejorando así los hábitos alimenticios, entre los cuales uno de los más novedosos son los llamados germinados, conocidos desde la antigüedad por diferentes culturas, que se han caracterizado por su alto valor nutritivo y medicinal, debido a su gran contenido de vitaminas A, B1, B3, B6, B12, C, D, E y K, fibra, grasas, enzimas y otras propiedades que los hacen llamativos para una adecuada dieta. Los germinados se presentan en gran variedad en el mercado, como los granos, las semillas y las leguminosas, destacándose, los germinados de soja verde y cereales, como el trigo; el problema radicó en que muchas de las enfermedades existentes, son causa de una mala alimentación, debido a la presencia en los alimentos de altos contenidos de conservantes, aditivos, entre otras sustancias que resultan nocivas para el cuerpo humano. Los germinados son en cambio, un alimento funcional, que a diferencia de otros contiene clorofila, altos contenidos enzimáticos y antioxidantes, para su producción requieren el uso de agua, que puede llegar a tener microorganismos patógenos y contaminar estos alimentos de consumo directo, ocasionando intoxicaciones e incluso la muerte en los consumidores finales, como se ha reportado en diferentes investigaciones la presencia de enterobacterias en germinados de semillas de alfalfa y de legumbres. Sin embargo, la aplicación de sistemas de aseguramiento de calidad durante la producción de estos germinados, permite obtener un alimento seguro y apto para su consumo., The purpose of this research was to make a compilation monograph where the collection of information from 100 different bibliographic sources was carried out from the 2000 years onwards, with the aim of making sprouts known as a food alternative and the required conditions. Necessary for their germination and consumption avoiding contaminations of pathogenic microorganisms that can cause diseases to consumers. To maintain a healthy diet, it is necessary to consume various foods, thus improving eating habits, among which one of the newest are the so-called sprouts, known since ancient times by different cultures, which have been characterized by their high nutritional and medicinal value. Due to its high content of vitamins A, B1, B3, B6, B12, C, D, E and K, fiber, fats, enzymes and other properties that make them attractive for a proper diet. The sprouts are presented in a wide variety in the market, such as grains, seeds and legumes, standing out, the sprouts of green soybeans and cereals, such as wheat; The problem was that many of the existing diseases are the cause of a poor diet, due to the presence in foods of high content of preservatives, additives, among other substances that are harmful to the human body. On the other hand, sprouts are a functional food, which, unlike others, contains chlorophyll, high enzymatic and antioxidant contents, for their production they require the use of water, which can have pathogenic microorganisms and contaminate these foods for direct consumption, causing poisoning. and even death in final consumers, as the presence of Enterobacteriaceae in alfalfa and legume seed sprouts has been reported in different investigations. However, the application of quality assurance systems during the production of these sprouts makes it possible to obtain a food that is safe and suitable for consumption., Pregrado, Microbiólogo Industrial, 1 ed., Resumen .......................................................................................................................................... 7 Generalidades de los Germinados ................................................................................................. 14 ¿Que son los Germinados?............................................................................................................ 14 Historia de los Germinados ........................................................................................................... 16 Clasificación de los Germinados .................................................................................................. 19 Tipos y propiedades de germinados .............................................................................................. 20 Producción de germinado ............................................................................................................. 27 Fase de Hidratación....................................................................................................................... 28 Fase de germinación ..................................................................................................................... 28 Fase de crecimiento....................................................................................................................... 28 Remojo: ......................................................................................................................................... 29 Germinación:................................................................................................................................. 29 Cosecha: ........................................................................................................................................ 30 Consumo de los Germinados ........................................................................................................ 33 Riesgos de los Germinados ........................................................................................................... 37 Riesgos microbiológicos de los germinados ................................................................................. 37 Riesgos Químicos de los Germinados .......................................................................................... 41 Control de Calidad de los Germinados ......................................................................................... 42 Conclusiones ................................................................................................................................. 49 Referencias Bibliográficas……………………………………………………………………….51

In recent years, there has been a great deal of consumer interest in consuming vegetables in the form of sprouts, characterized by high nutritional value. The disadvantage of sprouts is the loss of bioactive compounds during storage and the relatively short shelf life, due to the fact that they are a good medium for microorganisms, especially yeasts and molds. The aim of the study was to compare the content of polyphenols, antioxidant properties, color and microbiological quality of red cabbage sprouts preserved by the use of mild organic acids: Citric, ascorbic, lactic, acetic and peracetic. In the study, the content of polyphenols and antioxidant properties of sprouts was examined using the spectrophotometric method, instrumental color measurement was done using an “electronic eye” and the content of mold, yeast and the total number of mesophilic microorganisms was determined using the plate inoculation method. Taking into account the content of polyphenols and the antioxidant potential of sprouts, it was found that the addition of all organic acids contributed to the preservation of the tested compounds during their 14-day storage under refrigerated conditions, depending on the type of organic acid used, from 71 to 86% for polyphenols and from 75 to 96% for antioxidant properties. The best results were obtained by treating the sprouts with peracetic acid and ascorbic acid, respectively, at a concentration of 80 ppm and 1%. The conducted research on the possibility of extending the storage life and preserving the bioactive properties of fresh sprouts showed that the use of peracetic acid in the form of an aqueous solution during pre-treatment allows to reduce the content of microorganisms by one logarithmic order. Ascorbic acid did not reduce the content of microorganisms in the sprout samples tested. Considering the content of bioactive ingredients, as well as the microbiological quality of fresh sprouts, it can be said that there is a great need to use mild organic acids during the pre-treatment of sprouts in order to maintain a high level of health-promoting ingredients during their storage, which may also contribute to their prolongation durability.

The duration of the dormancy period in tubers is a determining factor in the planning of potato planting and production. The effect of two plant growth regulators on the dormancy period and sprouting of cv. Diacol Capiro tubers was evaluated in this study. The experiment was carried out under storage conditions (15°C and 75% RH) using a completely randomized block design with 3x3x3 factorial arrangement. The factors were: gibberellic acid-3 (GA3) and 6-benzylaminopurine (6BAP) (0, 25, and 50 mg L-1) and the immersion time (iT) (10, 60, and 120 min). The application of GA3 and iT had an effect on dormancy breakage; the treatments with 25 mg L-1 GA3 and 60 min of immersion were enough to reduce dormancy by 18 d (35%) compared to untreated tubers. The factor GA3 increased tuber weight loss (10.2%), generated sprouts with higher weight (25.6-28.4%), higher length growth rate (42.3%), and lower dry matter content (21.8-28.4%), and it increased secondary sprouting (36.2-57.9%) in comparison with untreated tubers. This way, despite the treatments with 25 mg L-1 GA3 reduced the dormancy period, this dose generated sprouts more susceptible to mechanical damage. The treatments with 6BAP did not significantly affect the evaluated variables. Resumen La duración del periodo de reposo en tubérculos es un factor determinante en la planeación de las siembras y la producción de papa. En este estudio se evaluó el efecto de dos reguladores de crecimiento sobre el periodo de reposo y la brotación de tubérculos de papa cultivar Diacol Capíro. El experimento se realizó en condiciones de almacenamiento (15°C y 75% HR) con un diseño de bloques completamente al azar en arreglo factorial 3x3x3. Los factores fueron: ácido giberélico-3 (AG3) y 6-bencilaminopurina (6BAP) (0, 25 y 50 mg L-1) y el tiempo de inmersión (Ti) (10, 60 y 120 min). La aplicación de AG3 y Ti tuvo efecto en interrumpir el periodo de reposo y tratamientos con 25 mg L-1 de AG3 y 60 min de inmersión fueron suficientes para disminuir el reposo en 18 días (35%) con respecto a los tubérculos no tratados. El factor AG3 aumentó la pérdida de peso de los tubérculos (10.2%), generó brotes de mayor peso (25.628.4%), con mayor tasa de crecimiento en longitud (42.3%), con menor contenido de masa seca (21.8-28.4%) y aumentó la brotación secundaria (36.2-57.9%) con respecto a tubérculos no tratados. De esta forma, a pesar de que los tratamientos con 25 mg L-1de AG3 redujeron el periodo de reposo, esta dosis generó brotes más susceptibles al daño mecánico. Los tratamientos con 6BAP no afectaron significativamente las variables evaluadas.

Vigna aconitifolia (Jacq.), locally known as moth bean, is a drought‐resistant pulse crop and grown in arid and semi‐arid areas of India. Green pods and grains, in cooked or sprouted form, are a mostly consumable part of the plant as they are rich in protein. Sprouting increases the bioavailability of protein by 30%, but bacterial contamination is high in sprouts due to its high initial moisture content that creates a problem for its storage. Hence, to rectify the said problem, drying the sprouts up to storable moisture level can be the best solution. The microwave drying was investigated for drying of sprouted moth beans. The microwave drying of sprouted moth beans using single microwave power was not suitable for drying, as the burning of the product takes place before reaching desired moisture content while dried at a microwave power of 900, 720, 540, and 360 W. During the drying at a microwave power of 180 W, it took about an hour for drying. However, during this drying, by the time it reaches moisture content at around 57.89 kg per 100 kg dm, the product shows browning. Therefore, a new technique was employed for drying sprouted moth beans, that is, Stepwise Decreasing Microwave Power Drying (SDMPD). The sprouts were dried at each microwave power level, in decreasing order for a particular time at each respective microwave power, to reduce the browning effect thus protecting the product from burning. The sprouted moth beans were dried in 19 min using SDMPD. The rehydration ratio was found to be 1.96. The moisture content of resultant dried sprouted moth beans was found to be 4.95 kg per 100 kg dm with a minimum color change (∆e*) of 10.46, which was found to be reduced up to 6.84 after rehydration, indicating the improved color.

Compared to seeds and mature plants, sprouts are well characterized based on their nutritive values and biological properties. Moreover, laser light application is known to be a promising approach to improving plant growth, photosynthesis, and nutraceutical values. However, no studies have investigated the phytochemicals and biological activity of lemongrass (Cymbopogon proximus (Hochst. ex A.Rich.) Chiov.) sprouts or the further improvement of their quality by applying laser light treatment. We carried out a preliminary experiment for the optimization of laser treatment conditions, finding that a helium neon (He–Ne) laser at 632 nm and 5 mW for 5 min provided the most favorable conditions. We then investigated fresh weight, photosynthetic reactions, and primary and secondary metabolites, including sugars, amino acids, organic acids, essential oils, and phenolic compounds. Moreover, we studied the effect of laser light-induced changes in chemical compositions on the antioxidant, anti-diabetic, and anti-cholesterol activities of Cymbopogon proximus sprouts grown from laser-treated seeds. Laser light treatment increased the photosynthesis and respiration and hence the fresh weight of Cymbopogon proximus sprouts. Overall, sprouting increased most bioactive primary and secondary metabolites as compared to seeds. Increased photosynthesis by laser light improved carbon allocation and raised non-structural carbohydrates, which in turn led to improved synthesis of amino acids, organic acids, and essential oils, as well as phenolic and flavonoid compounds. As a result, laser light significantly improved the antioxidant capacity in terms of increasing the levels of ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) (from 9.5 to 21 µmole trolox/g fresh weight (FW)), oxygen radical absorbance (ORAC) (from 400 to 1100 µmole trolox/100g FW), and DPPH (from 5% to 25% of inhibation) and enhanced the hypocholesterolemic and antidiabetic activity through increasing the percentage of cholesterol micellar solubility (CMS) inhibition (from 42% to 62%) and glycemic index (from 33 to 17 µmole/g) over sprouts and seeds. In conclusion, the synergism of seed laser treatment and sprouting induced the health-promoting bioactive compounds in Cymbopogon proximus as compared to seeds, which can be applied at a large scale to improve the biochemical, physiological, and nutraceutical values of medicinal and crop sprouts.