Search

Prunus spinosa L., commonly known as blackthorn, is rich in bioactive compounds such as flavonoids, anthocyanins, phenolic acids, vitamins, minerals, and organic acids, displaying strong antioxidant and antibacterial properties. This investigation aims to assess bioactive compounds in fresh and lyophilized blackthorn fruits and analyze ethanolic extracts for phenolic content, antioxidant activity, and antimicrobial effects. The primary objective was to develop a chitosan-based film with antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, targeting the enhancement of food packaging solutions, along with inhibition of S. aureus bacteria. Results showed that ethanolic extracts of blackthorn possess significant antimicrobial efficacy, demonstrating notable effectiveness against S. aureus. Notably, the film incorporating an 80% ethanolic extract demonstrated greater effectiveness against S. aureus-inoculated cheese. This outcome underscores the inhibitory potential of blackthorn extracts on S. aureus growth within a food matrix.

Liposomes are nanoscale spheroidal vesicles, predominantly composed of phospholipids, that offer a hydrophilic core surrounded by a hydrophobic bilayer. Their unique structure endows them with excellent biocompatibility and the ability to house both hydrophilic and lipophilic agents, making them exceptionally suited for targeted delivery applications. This versatility has seen liposomes gain widespread use in various industries, including medicine, pharmaceuticals, and nutraceuticals. This comprehensive review meticulously examines the spectrum of liposome fabrication techniques, providing insight into their respective advantages and limitations. Specifically, we scrutinize methods such as reverse phase evaporation, freeze drying, the Bangham method (also known as the thin film hydration technique), ethanol injection, the emulsion method, and ultrasonication. Each of these methodologies contributes to the array of liposomal forms, influencing their final characteristics and suitability for different applications. The present review categorizes liposomes based on the fabrication technique, offering a comparative perspective that is instrumental for researchers and practitioners in selecting the optimal method for their specific delivery system needs.

In recent years, essential oils (EOs) have received increased attention from the research community, and the EOs of cinnamon, patchouli, and geranium have become highly recognized for their antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, and antioxidant effects. Due to these properties, they have become valuable and promising candidates for addressing the worldwide threat of antimicrobial resistance and other diseases. Simultaneously, studies have revealed promising new results regarding the effects of physical fields (magnetic and electric) and LASER (MEL) exposure on seed germination, plant growth, biomass accumulation, and the yield and composition of EOs. In this frame, the present study aims to investigate the influence of MEL treatments on cinnamon, patchouli, and geranium EOs, by specifically examining their composition, antimicrobial properties, and antioxidant activities. Results showed that the magnetic influence has improved the potency of patchouli EO against L. monocytogenes, S. enteritidis, and P. aeruginosa, while the antimicrobial activity of cinnamon EO against L. monocytogenes was enhanced by the electric and laser treatments. All exposures have increased the antifungal effect of geranium EO against C. albicans. The antioxidant activity was not modified by any of the treatments. These findings could potentially pave the way for a deeper understanding of the efficiency, the mechanisms of action, and the utilization of EOs, offering new insights for further exploration and application.

The scientific interest in natural food flavors is growing considering concerns of the population related to food safety. Aromatic plants and their concentrated forms (essential oils and phenolic extracts) are highly considered for health benefits, mainly due to antioxidant and antibacterial properties. Meanwhile the authenticity and safety of essential oils is a strong concern. Comparative signatures of six genuine, essential oils (Thyme, Juniperus, Oregano, Tea tree, Clove and Cinnamon) was obtained by Gas chromatography coupled with Mass Spectrometry, using a metabolomic approach, by an updated statistical tool available online Metaboanalyst 5.0. The key-molecules of each oil were identified and the multivariate analysis combined with correlation heatmaps reflected the predictability of around 15 putative biomarkers, such as thymol and p-cymene for Thyme, α-pinene, β-myrcene and sabinene for Juniperus, carvacrol for Oregano, terpinene derivatives for Tea tree, eugenol, eugenol acetate for Clove, cinnamaldehyde for Cinnamon. Since these oils are used frequently as ingredients in food supplements and food flavors, this study offers an accurate evaluation and interpretation of the authenticity of these oils based on biomarker identification, easy to be done also from food matrices. The adulteration of similar commercial oils, of synthetic or degraded specimens is also possible using this model.

Abstract Although a vast number of Aloe species are known, only the Aloe vera and Aloe arborescens species are currently used by cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries. Therefore, the current study aims to complete the existent literature data with new information on the phytochemical composition of some lesser-known Aloe species, with the main focus on carotenoids and fatty acids. Among the analyzed species, Aloe aculeata and Aloe ferox had the highest content in carotenoids, the major pigments being lutein and β-carotene (according to HPLC analysis). The fatty acid profile of each Aloe species was analysed by GC–MS. Linolenic and linoleic acids were the major polyunsaturated fatty acids found in higher percent in Aloe ferox, Aloe spectabilis and Aloe marlothii. Instead, Aloe aculeata proved to have a distinct fatty acid profile, rich in monounsaturated fatty acids. Species such as Aloe arborescens and Aloe marlothii proved to have the highest antioxidant potential according to data of DPPH, ORAC, HPS assays, even if the richest one in vitamin C was found to be Aloe spectabilis. Though the scientific research is mainly focused on the common species Aloe barbadensis, the current data suggests that other Aloe species could receive more attention from industry part, being great sources of bioactive compounds.

Solanum bulbocastanum is a wild potato species, intensively used in potato breeding programs due to its resistance to environmental factors. Thus, its biochemical profile and putative human health-related traits might be transferred into potato cultivars aimed for consumption. This study aims to assess the phytochemical profile and the selective cytotoxicity of an S. bulbocastanum extract against breast cancer cells. Dry leaves were subjected to ultrasonication-assisted extraction in methanol [70%]. The phenolic and glycoalkaloid profiles were determined by HPLC-PDA/-ESI+-MS. The volatile profile was investigated by nontargeted ITEX/GC-MS. The extract was tested against three breast cancer cell lines (MCF7, MDA-MB-231, HS578T) and a healthy cell line (HUVEC) by the MTT assay, to assess its selective cytotoxicity. The phenolic profile of the extract revealed high levels of phenolic acids (5959.615 µg/mL extract), and the presence of flavanols (818.919 µg/mL extract). The diversity of the volatile compounds was rather low (nine compounds), whereas no glycoalkaloids were identified, only two alkaloid precursors (813.524 µg/mL extract). The extract proved to be cytotoxic towards all breast cancer cell lines (IC50 values between 139.1 and 356,1 µg/mL), with selectivity coefficients between 1.96 and 4.96 when compared with its toxicity on HUVECs. Based on these results we conclude that the exerted cytotoxic activity of the extract is due to its high polyphenolic content, whereas the lack of Solanaceae-specific glycoalkaloids might be responsible for its high selectivity against breast cancer cells in comparison with other extract obtained from wild Solanum species. However, further research is needed in order to assess the cytotoxicity of the individual compounds found in the extract, as well as the anti-tumor potential of the S. bulbocastanum tubers.

This study presents phytochemical characterization and biological evaluation of Origanum vulgare L. essential oil (OEO) formulated as polymeric micelles drug delivery systems as a possible non-invasive approach for the management of skin tags. GC-MS analysis of Romanian OEO revealed the identification and quantification of 43 volatile compounds (thymol and carvacrol being the main ones). The antioxidant activity was shown by four consecrated methods: CUPRAC, ABTS, ORAC and DPPH. OEO was incorporated by micellar solubilization into a binary hydrogel based on a Pluronic F 127/L 31 block-copolymers mixture. The pH, consistency, spreadability, particle size, polydispersity index and zeta potential of the OEO-loaded poloxamer-based binary hydrogel (OEO-PbH) were investigated. OEO-PbH was skin compatible in terms of pH and exhibited adequate spreadability and consistency. The minimal inhibitory concentrations of the tested OEO were similar to those obtained for the formulation, lower (2.5 µg/mL) for yeast and higher (40–80 µg/mL) for Gram-negative bacilli. As keratinocytes are among main components of skin tags, an in vitro evaluation was conducted in order to see the effect of the formulation against HaCaT human keratinocytes. OEO-PbH decreased HaCaT cells migration and proliferation and elicited a cytotoxic and pro-apoptotic effect in a dose- and time-dependent manner. No harmful effect on the viability of dendritic cells (DCs) was detected following the incubation with different concentrations (0–200 µg/mL) of the 5% formulation. Treatment in inflammatory DCs (+LPS) indicated a decrease in cytokine production of IL-6, TNF-α and IL-23 but no significant effect on IL-10 in any of the tested concentrations.

Essential oils are a category of agro-based industrial products experiencing increasing demand. In this research, three essential oils obtained by steam distillation from lavender, sage and basil plants cultivated in temperate continental conditions of Transylvania were investigated for chemical composition, physical characteristics and biological activity (antimicrobial and cytotoxic effect on cancer cell lines). The number of identified compounds varied: 38 for lavender, 29 for sage essential oil and 41 for basil. The volatile profile was dominated by terpenes and terpenoids (>80%). Major components were beta-linalool and linalool acetate in lavender essential oil; thujones and camphor in sage essential oil; beta-linalool, thujone, camphor and eucalyptol in basil essential oil. Refractive index of the essential oils was lowest for lavender and highest for sage. Antibacterial activity was strongest for basil, moderate for lavender and weakest for sage essential oil. The most active on both colon adenocarcinoma (Caco-2) and ovary carcinoma (A2780) was sage essential oil.

Although there is still no legal definition, functional foods are considered by the scientific community as providing additional benefits beyond the general benefits of nutrient intake and satisfaction of hunger. The bioactive compounds present in these products should provide a scientifically proven health benefit for the prevention, management or treatment of chronic disease. The aim of the present study was to investigate the consumers’ awareness, knowledge and interest for functional food consumption. The study was conducted on 120 respondents that answered a 16-questionaire distributed online. The participants were adults from rural and urban area, with different levels of education. The data collected from the respondents showed that women are more aware and interested in functional foods than the male respondents. Only 15% of the participants said that they do not know the meaning of the term “functional foods”. This study has shown that the knowledge and interest of consumers’ for the functional foods is influenced by factors such as gender, age, education or income level. The prices together with the sensorial and health benefits were among the decisive factors.

Acheta domesticus (L.1758) has been recently accepted by the European Union as a novel food, being the third insect that has been approved for human consumption. Nowadays, researchers’ attention is focused on exploiting new protein sustainable sources, and, therefore, insect flour has gained more and more interest. Organic acids, fatty acids, amino acids, aroma volatile compounds, and minerals were analyzed through HPLC-RID (High-performance liquid chromatography), GC-MS (Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry), LC-MS (Liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry), ITEX/GC-MS and AAS (Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry), respectively. Fermentation of the insect flour with Lactobacillus plantarum ATCC 8014 strain (Lp) leads to an increase in organic acids such as lactic, acetic, and oxalic, whilst citric acid decreases its value. SFA (saturated fatty acids) and MUFA (monosaturated fatty acids) groups were positively influenced by Lp fermentation; meanwhile, PUFA (polysaturated fatty acids) decreased during fermentation. A positive trend was observed for amino acids, aroma volatile content, and minerals enhancement during insect sourdough fermentation, mainly at 24 h of fermentation. Acheta domesticus (A. domesticus) sourdough fermentation represents a new tool that needs to be further exploited aiming to improve the nutritional qualities of the final products.

Calendula officinalis extracts have been known to possess anti-tumor properties, but questions regarding their mechanisms of action still need to be answered. Therefore, the present study aims to investigate the selective cytotoxicity, the biochemical profile and the corresponding molecular effects of two extracts of C. officinalis: flowers and leaves, against several breast cancer cell lines in vitro. Dry flowers and leaves were subjected to ultrasonication assisted extraction in methanol 70%. The phenolic and volatile profiles of the extracts, determined by HPLC-MS and nontargeted GC-MS, revealed high levels of specific phenolic acids, flavonols and coumarin and several volatile compounds, including mono- and sesquiterpenes, ketones, aldehydes and esters. Both extracts proved to possess selective cytotoxic activities against tumor cells in comparison to healthy endothelial cells, according to the MTT assay. The flower extract was superior in terms of both cytotoxicity and selectivity when compared to the leaf extract, in accordance to their biochemical profiles. The gene expression pattern for 10 genes of interest was evaluated by RT-qPCR. The expression level of several genes involved in apoptosis (BCL2, BAX, BBC3, ZMAT3), and cell cycle progression (NFkB, CCND1, STAT3) was modulated by the treatment with both extracts. Therefore, C. officinalis extracts proved to be rich in compounds characterized by cancer-related cytotoxicity and are capable of inducing selective cytotoxicity on breast cancer cell lines.

Functional vegetable oils are highly considered not only for their nutritional value, but also for their health benefits. The profile of phytochemicals responsible for their quality is useful also for the identification of possible mislabeling or adulteration. The comparative composition of eight categories (sunflower, pumpkin, hempseed, linseed, soybean, walnut, sea buckthorn and olive) of commercial vs. authentic oils was determined. Fatty acids, volatiles, carotenoids, tocopherols, and phenolic components were analyzed by gas- and liquid chromatography-based techniques coupled with diode array, mass spectrometry, or fluorescence detection. Classification models, commonly used in metabolomics, e.g., principal component analysis, partial least squares discriminant analysis, hierarchical clusters and heatmaps have been applied to discriminate each category and individual samples. Carotenoids, tocopherols, and phenolics contributed mostly, qualitatively, and quantitatively to the discrimination between the eight categories of oils, as well as between the authentic and the commercial ones. This metabolomic approach can be easily implemented and the heatmaps can be considered as “identity” cards of each oil category and the quality of commercial oils, comparative to the authentic ones of the same botanical and geographical origin.

Food additives are substances of natural or synthetic origin, which are added to foods to serve a certain technological or sensory function, for example, to counter food perishability and bacterial degradation, give or restore color or impart flavor to foods.These additives generally provide some type of benefit for the food producer, processor or consumer. For example: acids that may be added to prevent the growth of microorganisms that cause spoilage may also prevent the growth of microorganisms that can cause foodborne illness. Some additives are directly added to food and ingredients, while others are added indirectly through contact with packaging materials as are, for example the preservatives BHA and BHT on the inside of breakfast cereal bags. The benefit of some food additives is enhancing health status or prevents disease; most benefits reflect economic considerations for food processors and sensory attributes and convenience for consumer.

The objective of this study was to characterize two varieties of apple (Florina and Liberty) grown in the North-West of Romania, with a focus on their volatile compounds, bioactive compounds and their antioxidant capacity. The content of bioactive compounds and antioxidant capacity was also tracked during pasteurization at different times (15, 20 and 25 minutes). Among bioactive compounds, the total phenol content was determined, as well as the total flavonoid and vitamin C content. The antioxidant capacity of fruits and pasteurized juice was evaluated by three different methods (DPPH, FRAP and ABTS). Of the 2 apple cultivars, Florina showed a remarkably higher content of total phenolic compounds (657.97 mg GAE/kg fw), flavonoids (122.07 mg QE/kg fw) and vitamin C (94.62 mg/kg), compared to the Liberty cultivar. Following pasteurization, the vitamin C contents decreased significantly relative to pasteurization time. However, in the case of total phenols content, only insignificant decreases were registered, compared to unpasteurized juice. The content of total flavonoids increased significantly after 15 minutes of pasteurization in apple cultivars juices. The apple varieties investigated are rich in bioactive compounds, and pasteurization treatment does not lead to drastic decreases in these compounds and in the antioxidant capacity of apple juices.

Apple is an important dietary source of carotenoids and phenolic compounds, and its regular consumption is associated with several health benefits. The aim of this study was to evaluate the phytochemical composition of fresh peels of four red-skinned (“Champion”, “Generos”, “Idared”, “Florina”) and two yellow-skinned (“Golden Delicious”, “Reinette Simirenko”) apple varieties. Antioxidant activity of apple peel extracts was determined by ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) and ABTS radical scavenging capacity assays. Total carotenoid and polyphenolic contents were determined spectrophotometrically, while the profile of individual carotenoids and anthocyanins (in red-skinned varieties) was analyzed using high-performance liquid chromatography coupled to a photodiode array detector (HPLC-PDA). Carotenoid composition was specific for each variety, and total carotenoid content was slightly higher in yellow-skinned apple peels compared to red-skinned varieties. In contrast, total phenolic content was higher in the peels of red-skinned cultivars. Anthocyanin profile was predominated by cyanidin-3-O-galactoside. Antioxidant potential followed the trend of the total polyphenolic content, being highest in “Florina”, as measured by both FRAP and ABTS assays. Our results demonstrated apple peels have high phytochemical content with diverse compositions, and their regular consumption can be an excellent source of antioxidants.

Liposome-based delivery systems have been studied and used more frequently in recent years due to their advantages, such as low toxicity, specificity, and the ability to protect the encapsulated substance from environmental factors, which could otherwise degrade the active compound and reduce its effectiveness. Given these benefits, many researchers have encapsulated polyphenols in liposomes, thus increasing their bioavailability and stability. Similarly, polyphenols encapsulated in liposomes are known to produce more substantial effects on targeted cells than unencapsulated polyphenols, while having minimal cytotoxicity in healthy cells. Although polyphenols play a role in preventing many types of disease and generally have beneficial effects on health, we solely focused on their chemopreventive effects on cancer through liposomes in this review. Our goal was to summarize the applicability and efficacy of liposomes encapsulated with different classes of polyphenols on several types of cancer, thus opening the opportunity for future studies based on these drug delivery systems.

Over the last decades, the consumption of mushrooms has significantly increased due to the scientific evidence of their ability to help the organism in the combat and prevention of several diseases (Kalac, 2009). Fruiting bodies of mushrooms are consumed as a delicacy for their texture and flavour, but also for their nutritional properties that makes them even more attractable (Heleno S. 2015). In this paper data were collected from several scientific studies with the aim to characterize the chemical composition and content of bioactive compounds of various mushrooms species: Agaricus bisporus, Boletus edulis, Cantharellus cibarius, Pleurotus ostreatus, Lactarius piperatus. The chemical composition of 5 wild edible studied mushrooms, including moisture, ash, total carbohydrates, total sugars, crude fat, crude protein and energy were determined according to AOAC procedures.

In the last decade by-products of food and beverage processing have attracted much attention due to their functionality and potential as food ingredients. Brewers’ spent grain is the major by-product of the brewing industry representing a valuable source of bioactive ingredients. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of extraction time and temperature on the efficiency of water as solvent for the extraction of bioactive compounds from brewers’ spent grain (BSG). In terms of extraction efficiency, the results from polyphenols, flavonoids and antioxidant activity, showed that the best extraction parameters for aqueous extracts are 90⁰C and 60 minutes. In comparison with the control, the best extraction method generated 87% of the phenolics and 43.46% of the flavonoids obtained by a methanol extraction. The preliminary results for the aqueous extracts showed that water can be used as extraction solvent, but a higher extraction time and temperature are needed in order to have a content in bioactive compounds similar to that of methanolic extracts. The obtained values for polyphenols, flavonoids and antioxidant activity, emphasize the importance and the opportunities of the reuse of this agro-industrial waste.

Attenuated total reflectance-Fourier transform infrared ppectroscopy (ATR-FTIR) proved to be a reliable, rapid, and easy-to-use technique to evaluate vegetable oils quality and authenticity. The spectral range of the middle infrared region (MIR) of FTIR spectra, from 4000 to 600 cm−1, has been commonly used to fingerprint specific functional groups of lipids and their modified forms induced by oxidation of thermal treatment. The applicability of FTIR-MIR spectroscopy in assessing oil fingerprinting and quality parameters is crucially dependent on the chemometric methods, including calibrations with authentic samples. We report here the evaluation of seven types of cold-pressed functional oils (sunflower, pumpkin, hempseed, soybean, walnut, linseed, sea buckthorn) produced in Romania, provided directly from small enterprises (as genuine, process-controlled authentic samples) comparative to commercialized samples. Concomitantly, olive oils of similar claimed quality were investigated. The ATR-FTIR-MIR data were complemented by UV–Vis spectral fingerprints and multivariate analysis using Unscrambler X.10.4 and Metaboanalyst 4.0 software (e.g., PCA, PLSDA, cluster analysis, heatmap, Random forest analysis) and ANOVA post-hoc analysis using Fischer’s least significant difference. The integration of spectral and chemometric analysis proved to offer valuable criteria for their botanical group recognition, individual authenticity, and quality, easy to be applied for large cohorts of commercialized oils.

Glucosinolates (GLs) and S-methyl cysteine sulfoxide (SMCSO) are natural sulphur containing phytochemicals. They are two of the most important bioactive compounds found in brassica vegetables, which are highly regarded for their health-promoting activity. In this study we have analysed the content of GLs and SMCSO in white radish, by an HPLC-MS method, in order to illustrate their biosynthesis and accumulation during the first 72 hours of sprouting. Total GLs content ranged between 54.17 and 126.86 µmol/g DW. There were eight GLs identified, in radish sprouts and around 94 % of them were aliphatic. Obvious differences, during the 72 hours of sprouting, were noticed in glucoraphenin and glucoraphasatin. S-methyl cysteine sulfoxide content ranged between 0.21 and 35.95 µmol/g DW. Our results revealed a negative strong correlation between GLs and SMCSO.

This study investigates the influence of the variety and vegetative stage on the total phenolic content and antioxidant capacity of radish. Samples of seeds, sprouts (day-3, day-5 and day-7) and roots of three varieties (red, white and black) of radish (Raphanussativus) were collected and tested for the above-mentioned parameters. Determination of total phenolic content was performed by Folin-Ciocalteau assay and antioxidant activity by DPPH assay. The total phenolic content ranged between 4.75 and 19.44 mg GAE/g DW and the antioxidant capacity between 12 and 75%. The highest total phenolic content and antioxidant capacity was found in radish sprouts and the lowest in radish roots, and among samples in the black radish variety.

This study was carried out to evaluate the effect of parameters the extraction process of grape seeds extracts on the bioactive compounds. The aqueous extracts were screened for total polyphenol content and total flavonoid content wich were determined spectrophotometrically using a modified Folin-Ciocalteu method, respectively a chromogenic system of NaNO2–Al (NO3)3–NaOH based method. The antioxidant activity was determined using DPPH method while their polyphenolic composition by means of HPLC-DAD- MS/ ESI(+) analysis. Total phenols content and flavonoid content varied between 37.835 and 31.830 mg GAE/g, 23.420 and 17.645 mg QE/g respectively in Fetească Neagră seeds; between 24.265 and 27.065 mg GAE/g, 17.970 and 15.205 mg QE/g respectively in Fetească Regală seeds. All extracts showed remarkable DPPH radical-scavenging activity ranging from 94.110 to 95.515%. The study revealed 14 phenolic compounds belonging to the following groups: flavan-3-ol monomers, proanthocyanidins, hydroxycinnamic acid and hydroxybenzoic acid derivatives. Quantitative differences among the varieties and the level of temperature applied of the extraction process were observed. The results suggested that the heat treatment of grape seeds liberated phenolic compounds having a significant effect in increasing the amounts of active when a 90°C extraction temperature was used.

This study investigates the influence of vintage on the aroma compounds of white wine Episcopal from vineyard Ciumbrud, located in central Transylvania, by a non-destructive head space in tube extraction technique in tandem with GC-MS. The samples selected for analysis come from three consecutive years (2009, 2010 and 2011) from Episcopal assortment, a high quality wine obtained by blending three types of wine varieties: Sauvignon Blanc, Traminer and Pinot Gris. The results reflect the compositional similarities but also the influence of vintage on the composition of wine aroma compounds. Results showed significant similarities between the composition of major compounds, 2-methyl-1-butanol, butanoic acid ethyl ester, hexanoic acid ethyl ester, octanoic acid ethyl ester, which together account for over 50% of the compounds identified. Significant differences appear both on the number of identified compounds in wine harvest 2010 compared to the other two years as well as through differences in concentration of two compounds: 3-methyl-butanol and 2,4-hexadienoic acid ethyl ester.

The composition of hop oil contributes to the aroma of beer and the essential oil profile of hop samples contains valuable information for brewers. The aim of this study was to characterize the Hüller Bitterer hop variety, during the development of hop cones, by analysis the composition of volatile oil using in-tube extraction gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (ITEX-GC–MS). The obtained results show that the ITEX-GC/MS method is suitable for the determination of volatile compounds from hop samples. A number of 60 compounds were separated and 50 of them were identified. The most important volatile compounds found in Hüller Bitterer hop variety belonging to the monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes classes are represented by: β-myrcene, β-caryophyllene and α-humulene.

Reverse-phase high performance liquid chromatography technique was used for studying the evolution of bitter acids from three varieties of hop growing in Romania during the development of hop cones and the pelletisation process in order to provide the information on the bitter acids profile of each cultivar. Chemometrics methods were applied for highlighting the statistical correlations existing between the genotype (variety), chemotype (composition), and phenotype (phenophase of cone development) with respect to the classes of biologically active compounds investigated (bitter acids). The bitter acid content of each hop cultivar was not only significantly dependent on the phenophases of the cones, but was also influenced by the harvest year. The variations in the α/β ratio as well as cohumulone and colupulone contents were low in both experimental years and the cohumulone/∑α did fraction not exceed 30% in any of the three varieties.

The known confectionery spreadable cream product category includes well-known cocoa - hazelnut pastes as well as peanut butter, products that became very popular in the last decades due to their pleasant taste and ease of eating. However, health constraints appeared both hazelnut and peanut are food allergens, while cocoa excites central nervous system (CNS) and on everyday consumption causes dependence. The aim of this work was to characterize the aroma and sensory of an innovative product that belongs to the same confectionery spreadable cream product category. Six spreadable cream prototypes were produced by using sugar, roasted sunflower kernel, carob or cocoa powder, palm or coconut fat and, lecithin. The obtained samples were firstly analyzed by using the nine point hedonic scale test. The volatile compounds profile analysis (“In Tube Extraction”- GC-MS) was performed on the best samples (in terms of sensory) containing cocoa or carob powder, as well as a control. The main volatile compound of all three samples was pinene (42-51%) which is a characteristic flavor of turpentine, wood. Acetophenone instead (20-25%) gives flavors of almond, floral, sweetish. Benzaldehyde (8.11-9.73%) is characteristic for almond flavor with hints of caramel. The study revealed that the analyzed spreadable creams have similar volatile profiles, even if carob and cocoa powder showed different volatile compounds profiles, with the major compound for both being Propanoic acid, 2-methyl. Thus, with similar taste to cocoa sample, carob-sunflower spreadable cream is an alternative that not include ingredients with allergic potential or CNS stimulants.

The research was designed to quantify the carotenoid compounds from the experimental variability of the corn genotypes. The experimental material for the present investigation consisted of 19 corn hybrids from Agricultural Research and Development Station (ARDS)Turda, Romania. The experiment was carried out during two seasons 2011 and 2012. Corn hybrids Turda 215, Mold Turda 188, Turda 200, Turda SU 181 and HS 105 were noticed by the fact that in the year of culture 2012, they showed a beginning of accumulation of total content of carotenoids more than 27 µg/g DW as compared to 15 µg/g DW corresponding to the year o culture 2011 due to soil and climate conditions favoring the accumulation of carotenoid compounds. According to our study, the highest concentration of TC was recorded in light yellow, dark yellow and orange hybrids.

The purpose of this study was to extract the volatile oil from St. John's wort and use it to obtain a new product with improved qualities and real health benefits. In order to characterize the innovative product, several physicochemical analyses were conducted (dry matter, ash content, total sugar, total acidity, vitamin C, flavonoid content and antioxidant capacity). Also the consumer perception was followed by conducting a sensory analysis. The study revealed that the adition of H. perforatum essential oil in the rose petal jam imporved the vitamin C and flavoinoid content and also the antioxidant capacity of the product, meanwhile the dry matter, ash content and total sugar determinations were normal for the free pectin jam category.

Vegetables comprise a significant portion of our daily diet with their high content in nutrients including fiber, vitamins, minerals, as well as phenolic compounds. Vegetable consumption has been shown to be positively associated with the prevention of several degenerative diseases thanks to their bioactive compounds. Accordingly, five selected vegetables, namely, red chicory, red onion, eggplant, purple sweet potato, and black carrot were thoroughly assessed for their phenolic content in this study. For this purpose, the total phenolic and flavonoid content of these five vegetables and their antioxidant activities that are based on three common methods ABTS radical cation decolorization assay (ABTS), Cupric Ion Reducing Antioxidant Capacity (CUPRAC), and DPPH scavenging activity assay were determined. Additionally, HPLC-PDA/Electrospray ionization coupled with mass spectrometry (HPLC-PDA/-ESI+-MS)-based identification and quantification of the members belonging to polyphenols present in each vegetable were determined. Statistical correlations between antioxidant activities and the specific type of phenolic compounds, such as anthocyanins, flavonoids, anthocyanins, and phenolic acids were further elucidated. Phenolic acids (chlorogenic and syringic acids) were found to be the most abundant compounds that are present in all samples. Among the anthocyanins, cyaniding derivatives were present in all vegetables. In terms of their antioxidant activities, the analyzed vegetables were ranked as red chicory > purple sweet potato > black carrot > eggplant > red onion, in descending order. Superior antioxidant activities exhibited by red chicory and purple sweet potato were attributed to the high content of phenolic compounds, especially flavonols (quercetin-3,4-O-diglucoside) in red chicory and anthocyanins (peonidin-3-caffeoyl p-hydroxybenzoylsophoroside-5-glucoside) in purple sweet potato.

Brewing yeast is an important waste product from beer production. The valorification of slurry yeast mainly consists of separation of vitamins and important nitrogen compounds. The hops compounds, one of the most important raw materials in beer technology are removed beforehand valorification. The prenylflavonoids compounds from hops are important bioactive compounds that can be revaluation with proper technology. Revaluation of prenylflavonoids from waste yeast into dietary supplement, identification and quantification of xanthohumol by HPLC method. Waste yeast from brewery pilot plant of USAMV Cluj Napoca it was dried by atomization and the powder was analyzed on xanthohumol content by HPLC method. For quantification a calibration curve it was used. The process of drying by atomisation lead to a powder product. It was used malt dextrin powder for stabilisation. The final product it was encapsulated. The xanthohumol content of powdered yeast it was 1.94 µg/ml. In conclusion the slurry yeast from beer production it is an important source of prenylflavonoids compounds.

A diversity of secondary plant metabolite with an antioxidant character are present in the vegetal extracts, such as: tocopherols, carotenoids, phenolic acids, flavonoids, etc. These compounds intervene in the cellular defense mechanisms against the free radicals and oxidative stress, as they possess anticancer and anti mutation effect. The aim of this work was to study the antioxidant capacity and polyphenol content of methanolic extracts obtained from seeds of fruits: Vitis vinifera, Malus domestica and Citrullus lanatus. Grape seeds have a high content of antioxidants and polyphenols compounds, due to this, it is recommended their used in obtaining functional food with benefit on the human body.

Increased consumer interest in healthier food products is driven by a variety of factors including growing awareness of the link between diet and health, the desire to age ‘gracefully’ by maintaining good health, greater convenience in meeting nutritional needs and preventing chronic diseases. In raw food diet, food is consumed predominantly or exclusively as uncooked and unprocessed raw food; the main components of the diet are fruits, nuts, seeds, and sprouted grains and beans. The aim of this study was to obtain two raw-vegan bars using dry raw materials and to establish the physicochemical and sensory characteristics of the products. Raw-vegan bars were formulated using fruits and seeds (cranberries, figs, raisins, raspberries, cashew, chia seeds, etc.) and binding agents (honey). Raw-vegan bars stands out among fast foods due to their balanced nutritional content and convenience.

Products that contain both probiotics and prebiotics are known as symbiotic, these products are able to modify the composition of the internal microflora, with the beneficial effects on the consumer's body. The objective followed in this study was the obtaining of probiotic yogurt in which inulin is added. The control consists in an organoleptic examination, a physicochemical examination and monitoring of the evolution of bifidobacteria. The results obtained showed a progressive evolution by adding inulin. The highest difference was recorded for yogurt type 3 with an addition of 3% inulin, the number of bifidobacteria increased with 1.04x109 cfu/g in only 7 days, reaching 1.30 x 109 cfu/g.

Consumers today want healthful foods that provide phytonutrients to promote good health and well-being without sacrificing taste, texture, or convenience. Consumption of fruits and vegetables is part of maintaining a healthy lifestyle, in order to diversification of jellies and promote healthy eating, it was intended to valorification a raw material such as carrots and strawberry. The aim of the study was to investigate potential use of some fruits or vegetables in jelly candies, by physicochemical analyses and general consumer’s acceptance. To achieve the proposed goal, two kinds of jellies (with carrots and strawberry) was obtained.

Nowadays traditional pork is still remaining the most popular meat in many European countries. The aim of this work was to evaluate spices for the development of functional food with high antioxidant capacity. To achieve the proposed goal, two specialties meat (chops and roulade pork) with mixtures of spices was obtained. According to our results, the spices with the highest antioxidant capacity was basil and mace.

Cruciferous vegetables are rich in nutrients and bioactive compounds. Seeds are highly nutritious and they are becoming more and more popular in nowadays diets. In the present study various types of radish and mustard seeds were evaluated on the basis of the total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC) and the antioxidant potential, using simple spectrophotometric methods.

In the latest period of time the people’s interest for natural products without synthetic dyes, with benefits to the human body has significantly increased. Chocolate is widely consumed all over the world. The pleasure derived from the consumption of chocolate is accompanied by a whole range of effects on the human health, which may explain their its attractiveness. One of the objectives of this reaserch was to extract dyes from various plants (fruits and vegetables) and incorporating them in white chocolate. In order to characterize the new product, several physicochemical analyses were conducted (moisture, dry matter, ash content, total extract and acidity). Also the consumer perception was followed by conducting a sensory analysis. The new product can be placed in the free synthetic dyes category

The fir buds as well as the fir buds extracts (such as fir buds syrup) are used in traditional medicine and phytotheraphy for the alleviation of light to medium forms of respiratory diseases and for the prophylaxis or treatment of some childhood disorders. The antioxidant and antimicrobial properties of the two types fir buds syrups (cold pressed and boiled) taken into study were demonstrated by its content in vitamin C, flavonoids and by the inhibitory effect on E.coli, B. cereus, S.aureus, L. monocytogenes, Salmonella thypi.

Hop cones have lupulin glands which occur on the outer lower surface of the bracteoles and the entire surface of the perianth. The constituents of these glands include bitter acids and essential oil components (Auerbach et.al., 2000). Dry hop contains 0.5-2.0% of essential oil. Hop essential oils consist of a large number of different components and although their composition is influenced by the environment (Ĉerenak et.al., 2011). Aims: This study is a continuation of the research started in 2011 (Salanţă et.al., 2012), where the dynamic of essential oil accumulation in hop cones during 2011 year, were reported. In this paper, samples from 2012 year crop were subjected to hydrodistillation in order to content in essential oils. All reported results will be used in a future research, to determine the gas chromatographic composition of essential oils extracted.

Brewer’s spent grain (BGS) is a by-product of thebrewing process, consisting of the solid fraction of barley malt remainingafter separation of worth. In this research, raw materials and discharged waste from beer production were evaluated on the basis of starch content, using Ewers polarimetric method.

In this study, different solvents were used to achieve the maximum extractibility of total carotenoids. The extracted total carotenoids were estimated using UV- visible spectrophotometer. Carotenoids from vegetable matrix can be used as a food colorant, food additive, cosmetics, antioxidants and nutraceuticals.