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In recent years, the awareness of healthier lifestyles among consumers has driven to an increased interest in more natural, nutritious, and low-processed foods. Ferulic acid, one of the most abundant phenolic acids in plants, has demonstrated a wide spectrum of antimicrobial activities and a range of biomedical effects, including antioxidant, antiallergic, hepatoprotective, anticarcinogenic, anti-inflammatory, and antithrombotic, among others. The objective of this work was to study the antilisterial effect of ferulic acid (FA, 1500 mg/L) on fresh, ready-to-eat orange (FOJ) and apple (FAJ) juices and evaluate its effect on product quality. The results showed that FA reduced the Listeria monocytogenes population after 9 days of storage at 4 °C, but no effect on the indigenous microbiota was observed. The titratable acidity and color significantly changed. The antioxidant capacity and total phenolic content significantly increased with the addition of FA, being at least two times greater in fortified juices. FAJ and FOJ containing FA were scored lower (6.8 and 5.7 on a 9-point hedonic scale, respectively) than their respective controls. Overall, our results demonstrated that FA treatment could be a useful strategy to maintain the safety of fresh apple and orange juices and increase the antioxidant activity and phenolic content. The potential industrial applications and health benefits of the fortification of fruit juices with FA should be further explored. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of the article is to investigate the chemical composition of Zanthoxylum armatum roots methanolic extract and to evaluate the polyphenol content and antioxidant potential. Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectroscopy (GC-MS) and High-Performance Liquid Chromatography – Photo Diode Array (HPLC-PDA) techniques were used to characterize chemical composition of methanolic extract of roots. The GC-MS analysis extract resulted in the isolation of thirty-seven phytochemical constituents in methanol extracts. The root extracts were strongly characterized by 1-Propene, 2-nitro-3-(1-cyclooctenyl), (2E,4E)-N-Isobutyldodeca-2,4-dienamide, (+)- Seasmin and Paulowin. The phenolic composition of the root extract quantified by using HPLC revealed Ascorbic acid as most abundant polyphenol, followed by Gallic acid, Chlorogenic acid, Epigallocatechin gallate, Vanillic acid and p-hydroxybenzoic acid, while Caffeic acid was the recorded as least. In addition, root extract also showed the presence of antioxidant activity (DPPH Free radical scavenging, Metal Chelating and Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Activity) and polyphenol content (Total Phenol, Flavonoid, and Tannin Content). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nasturtium officinale R.Br. (Betong watercress) contains high levels of secondary metabolites that offer health benefits. However, fresh-cut watercress has a short shelf life. This study aimed to assess the effect of drying methods on the phytochemical contents, antioxidant activity, and anti-diabetic activity of Betong watercress. The watercress was dried using three methods: roasting (R, 50 °C, 40 min); roasting and drying (RD, 40 min roasting at 50 °C and 1 h drying at 80 °C); and blanching, roasting, and drying (BRD, 30 s blanching at 80 °C, 20 min roasting at 50 °C, and 1 h drying at 80 °C). Aqueous extracts from each drying method were analyzed for total phenolic content, total flavonoid content, total glucosinolate content, antioxidant activities (FRAP, DPPH, and ABTS assays), and α-amylase enzyme inhibition. From the results, the R method provided the highest level of total phenolic, total flavonoid, and total glucosionolate content compared to the RD and BRD methods. Similarly, antioxidant activities and α-amylase enzyme inhibition were highest in the R method, followed by the RD and BRD methods. Our results demonstrate that roasting of Betong watercress without the addition of blanching or drying effectively preserves the phytochemical contents, antioxidant activities, and anti-diabetic activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the study was to design microcapsules with a core of blueberry fruit extracts (Vaccinium myrtillus L.) using the ionotropic gelation method and then assess the effect of the type of extracts used and the combination of polymers on the profile of phenolic compounds, their in vitro bioavailability, stability during storage, as well as their antioxidant characteristics and cytotoxic activity against colon cancer cells while assessing biocompatibility against normal colon epithelial cells. Encapsulation efficiency (EE), ranging from 8.79 to 74.55%, significantly depended on the extract used and the type of carrier. It was shown that the addition of pectin (Pect) and whey protein isolate (WPI) to alginate (Alg) improved the efficiency of the encapsulation process. For this version of microcapsules, the highest antioxidant activity, phenolic compound content and their stability during storage were also demonstrated. The estimated content of phenolic compounds ranged from 0.48 to 40.07 mg/g, and the dominant compound was cyanidin 3-O-glucoside. In turn, the highest bioavailability of these compounds and the highest cytotoxic activity against cancer cells were characterized by microcapsules with Alg and WPI. Nevertheless, good biocompatibility with normal colon epithelial cells was demonstrated for all versions of microcapsules. The obtained data indicate that the tested variants of microcapsules protect the bioactive compounds of blueberry fruit extracts, which translates into maintaining their health-promoting properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hawthorn seeds are a by-product of fruit processing and due to the scale of processing of this raw material, they can be an important source of bioactive compounds. This work is the first report on the phenolic composition of hawthorn seeds and their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, antiobesity and anticancer activities. In the isolated phenolic fraction of six seed species, 23 phenolic compounds were identified using the UPLC-ESI-TQD-MS/MS method, the key ones of which included the B-type procyanidin dimer. The seeds of the tested species showed high antioxidant activity (mainly by scavenging O2•− and OH• radicals), anti-inflammatory (mainly through LOX inhibition), anti-diabetic, anti-obesity and anti-cancer, with the highest activity against colon cancer cells (Dld-1 line), showing no activity against healthy colon epithelial cells (CCD841CoN). This activity was significantly dependent on the analyzed hawthorn species and, according to PCA analysis, on the content of flavan-3-ols. These discoveries provided the theoretical basis for the possibility of industrial use of hawthorn seeds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research Highlights: Environmental abiotic stressors generate secondary stresses in plants, such as osmotic and oxidative stresses, which negatively influence their normal growth, development, and metabolism. Research about other non-enzymatic components with antioxidant capacity has recently focused on polyphenols. However, their role as indicators of drought and shade tolerance in woody species leaves and roots has been poorly explored or was limited to leaves only. Background and Objectives: Under a scenario of increasing drought, understanding the seedling responses in terms of total polyphenols and their antioxidant activity, in particular at the fine root system level, may help to elucidate the native–alien species interaction. Materials and Methods: At the beginning of July, 5-month-old native Quercus robur and alien Quercus rubra seedlings were transferred indoors to the growth chamber and subjected to progressive soil drying for 21 days. Results: The decrease in soil water content was more pronounced for Q. robur (9%) than for Q. rubra (34% of field capacity). Leaf water potential significantly decreased over time in Q. robur but did not differ from the control in Q. rubra. The total polyphenol concentration in Q. robur was markedly lower in the leaves and significantly higher in the fine roots than in Q. rubra. For the leaves, both species showed markedly higher values if well-watered, and the values significantly decreased in response to drought only in Q. rubra. In contrast, the fine root values for both species were markedly higher if droughted and decreased significantly in time only in Q. robur. Differently from the polyphenol concentration, the antioxidant capacity of Q. rubra was always higher in both the leaves and fine roots. Conclusions: The higher antioxidant activity of the alien species Q. rubra revealed by this work, combined with its isohydric behaviour, could further shed some light on our understanding of its competitive performance at the seedling stage against the native Q. robur. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chili (Capsicum annuum) consumption is often suggested, and using functional food cultivars is the most effective strategy post COVID-19 pandemic. Controlling chili breeding activity is one of the most effective methods to produce new hybrid varieties. However, the general combining ability (GCA), specific combining ability (SCA), and heterotic effect of functional biochemicals (polyphenol content, antioxidant activities, and α-glucosidase inhibitory compounds) remain poorly known in C. annuum. This study aimed to estimate these parameters in C. annuum by using five different genotypes and their hybrid combinations based on growth characteristics, yield, yield components, and fruit functional biochemicals. The F1 and F1R progenies were obtained from crosses in a greenhouse with a full diallel mating design. Each parent used in this study had a GCA advantage for each characteristic. The hybrid combination of IPB074 × IPB005 and IPB435 × IPB367 displayed the best yield results. However, the results indicated the opposite regarding α-glucosidase inhibitory compounds. The heterotic effect of functional biochemicals was observed for traits related to genotypes, polyphenol content, antioxidant activity, α-glucosidase inhibitory compounds, and similar properties related to yield and yield components, indicating their use in hybrid chili production.

Ultrasound-assisted extraction for bioactive compound retrieval is a viable alternative to traditional extraction methods. Employing ultrasound-assisted extraction, this study aimed to enhance the scavenging capacity of 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothia-zoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS), total polyphenol content (TPC), and flavonoid content in Ainsliaea acerifolia (A. acerifolia) through response surface methodology (RSM). Initially, the impact of extraction temperature, time, and ethanol concentration on DPPH scavenging capacity, ABTS, TPC, and flavonoid content was assessed. Optimal conditions for maximizing antioxidant activity and TPC were determined as 78% (v/v) ethanol, 60 °C extraction temperature, and 91 min of extraction time. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis of the optimized extract revealed dicaffeoylquinic acid as the primary polyphenol in A. acerifolia extracts, comprising the majority of phenolic compounds (102.06 mg/g DW). This model enabled the optimization of conditions for phenolic compound extraction with antioxidant properties from A. acerifolia, highlighting its potential as a source of antioxidant compounds for industrial, pharmaceutical, and food applications.

Lonicera caerulea L. fruits are a rich source of vitamins, organic acids, and phenolic compounds, which are characterised by their health-promoting properties. The content of bioactive compounds in this fruit may vary depending on the cultivar and the harvest date. This study analysed the effect of applying 5 ppm gaseous ozone for 1, 3, and 5 min on the chemical properties of L. kamtschatica varieties and newly created clones of L. emphyllocalyx for three years of cultivation. The fruits harvested from L. emphyllocalyx, depending on the year of harvest, had significantly larger size and weight compared to L. kamtschatica. On average, the acidity of the L. emphyllocalyx clones was 6% higher than other tested varieties. The average content of ascorbic acid was highest in L. emphyllocalyx clone '21-17'—57.80 mg·100 g−1; the year of harvest will significantly affect the content of vitamin C, reaching the highest level in 2022—53.92 mg·100 g−1. The total content of polyphenols was significantly dependent on the year of cultivation; reaching, on average, 54.8% more in 2022 compared to the rest of the years. The total antioxidant value using the FRAP, DPPH, and ABTS methods varied depending on the variety; exposure to ozone significantly increased the antioxidant value in each case. On the basis of the study, both botanical varieties can be used in food processing. Gaseous ozone exposure can significantly influence chemical composition, increasing the health-promoting value of fruit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The quantity and quality of sunflower oil are key factors for the crushing industry. This research presents a comprehensive analysis of the oil quality parameters of seven foreign sunflower hybrids grown in Morocco. Conducted over two consecutive years (2018 and 2019), the study focuses on key traits, including oil content, acidity index, peroxide index, refractive index, color index, total phenolic content, total flavonoid content, and antioxidant activity. Significant variations in most parameters, including color properties, were observed between the two years and among the seven varieties, indicating the influence of genetic and environmental factors. This highlights the importance of understanding the genetic potential of sunflower hybrids and the impact of environmental variables on oil quality. More favorable weather conditions in 2019, compared to 2018, contributed to better oil quality in all the varieties investigated. Overall, four homogeneous groups of hybrid varieties were identified based on oil content and other biochemical parameters. Some of these hybrids, like 'Niagara', had moderate oil content but high polyphenol content, flavonoid content and antioxidant activity, as well as a lower peroxide index, making them potential sources of natural antioxidant compounds as well as dietary supplements. Overall, this research provides sunflower breeders with valuable insights into the development of new high-performing hybrids with enhanced oil quality that could be used to produce functional foods with health benefits. These findings have implications for the use of seed oils from those hybrids in various industries and underscore the importance of further and more in-depth research on sunflower oil quality in the context of climate change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Prunus avium L. and Prunus spinosa L. are valuable fruit-bearing trees known for their bioactive compounds and medicinal properties. However, limited research exists regarding their kernel oils. This study aimed to compare the chemical composition, quality parameters, and bioactive potential of the kernel oils extracted from Prunus avium L. and Prunus spinosa L. The kernel oils' fatty acid and tocopherol profiles were characterized, and the presence of bioactive compounds were identified and quantified. Total polyphenol content (TPC) and antioxidant activity (AAC) were also measured, indicating the presence of bioactive compounds in both oils. Additionally, the main quality parameters, including oxidative status, were evaluated. The fatty acid analysis revealed a higher proportion of polyunsaturated fatty acids compared to monounsaturated fatty acids in both kernel oil samples. Linoleic acid (57–64%) and oleic acid (18–29%) were the major fatty acids in both Prunus avium L. and Prunus spinosa L. kernel oils. α-Eleostearic acid (11.87%) was quantified only in Prunus avium kernel oil. Furthermore, the α-, β-, γ-, and δ-tocopherol content were determined, and it was found that both kernel oils contained γ-tocopherol as the major tocopherol (~204–237 mg/Kg). TPC in Prunus avium L. kernel oil was measured at 9.5 mg gallic acid equivalents (GAE)/Kg and recorded as ~316% higher TPC than Prunus spinosa L. kernel oil. However, the recorded AAC were 11.87 and 14.22 μmol Trolox equivalent (TE)/Kg oil, respectively. Both oils recorded low peroxide values (~1.50 mmol H2O2/Kg), and low TBARS value (~0.4 mmol malondialdehyde equivalents, MDAE/Kg oil), but high p-anisidine value (23–32). The results indicated that both Prunus avium L. and Prunus spinosa L. kernel oils exhibited unique chemical compositions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Prunus avium L. and Prunus spinosa L. are valuable fruit-bearing trees known for their bioactive compounds and medicinal properties. However, limited research exists regarding their kernel oils. This study aimed to compare the chemical composition, quality parameters, and bioactive potential of the kernel oils extracted from Prunus avium L. and Prunus spinosa L. The kernel oils’ fatty acid and tocopherol profiles were characterized, and the presence of bioactive compounds were identified and quantified. Total polyphenol content (TPC) and antioxidant activity (AAC) were also measured, indicating the presence of bioactive compounds in both oils. Additionally, the main quality parameters, including oxidative status, were evaluated. The fatty acid analysis revealed a higher proportion of polyunsaturated fatty acids compared to monounsaturated fatty acids in both kernel oil samples. Linoleic acid (57–64%) and oleic acid (18–29%) were the major fatty acids in both Prunus avium L. and Prunus spinosa L. kernel oils. α-Eleostearic acid (11.87%) was quantified only in Prunus avium kernel oil. Furthermore, the α-, β-, γ-, and δ-tocopherol content were determined, and it was found that both kernel oils contained γ-tocopherol as the major tocopherol (~204–237 mg/Kg). TPC in Prunus avium L. kernel oil was measured at 9.5 mg gallic acid equivalents (GAE)/Kg and recorded as ~316% higher TPC than Prunus spinosa L. kernel oil. However, the recorded AAC were 11.87 and 14.22 μmol Trolox equivalent (TE)/Kg oil, respectively. Both oils recorded low peroxide values (~1.50 mmol H2O2/Kg), and low TBARS value (~0.4 mmol malondialdehyde equivalents, MDAE/Kg oil), but high p-anisidine value (23–32). The results indicated that both Prunus avium L. and Prunus spinosa L. kernel oils exhibited unique chemical compositions.

In recent years, the awareness of healthier lifestyles among consumers has driven to an increased interest in more natural, nutritious, and low-processed foods. Ferulic acid, one of the most abundant phenolic acids in plants, has demonstrated a wide spectrum of antimicrobial activities and a range of biomedical effects, including antioxidant, antiallergic, hepatoprotective, anticarcinogenic, anti-inflammatory, and antithrombotic, among others. The objective of this work was to study the antilisterial effect of ferulic acid (FA, 1500 mg/L) on fresh, ready-to-eat orange (FOJ) and apple (FAJ) juices and evaluate its effect on product quality. The results showed that FA reduced the Listeria monocytogenes population after 9 days of storage at 4 °C, but no effect on the indigenous microbiota was observed. The titratable acidity and color significantly changed. The antioxidant capacity and total phenolic content significantly increased with the addition of FA, being at least two times greater in fortified juices. FAJ and FOJ containing FA were scored lower (6.8 and 5.7 on a 9-point hedonic scale, respectively) than their respective controls. Overall, our results demonstrated that FA treatment could be a useful strategy to maintain the safety of fresh apple and orange juices and increase the antioxidant activity and phenolic content. The potential industrial applications and health benefits of the fortification of fruit juices with FA should be further explored.

Nasturtium officinale R.Br. (Betong watercress) contains high levels of secondary metabolites that offer health benefits. However, fresh-cut watercress has a short shelf life. This study aimed to assess the effect of drying methods on the phytochemical contents, antioxidant activity, and anti-diabetic activity of Betong watercress. The watercress was dried using three methods: roasting (R, 50 °C, 40 min); roasting and drying (RD, 40 min roasting at 50 °C and 1 h drying at 80 °C); and blanching, roasting, and drying (BRD, 30 s blanching at 80 °C, 20 min roasting at 50 °C, and 1 h drying at 80 °C). Aqueous extracts from each drying method were analyzed for total phenolic content, total flavonoid content, total glucosinolate content, antioxidant activities (FRAP, DPPH, and ABTS assays), and α-amylase enzyme inhibition. From the results, the R method provided the highest level of total phenolic, total flavonoid, and total glucosionolate content compared to the RD and BRD methods. Similarly, antioxidant activities and α-amylase enzyme inhibition were highest in the R method, followed by the RD and BRD methods. Our results demonstrate that roasting of Betong watercress without the addition of blanching or drying effectively preserves the phytochemical contents, antioxidant activities, and anti-diabetic activity.

The aim of the study was to design microcapsules with a core of blueberry fruit extracts (Vaccinium myrtillus L.) using the ionotropic gelation method and then assess the effect of the type of extracts used and the combination of polymers on the profile of phenolic compounds, their in vitro bioavailability, stability during storage, as well as their antioxidant characteristics and cytotoxic activity against colon cancer cells while assessing biocompatibility against normal colon epithelial cells. Encapsulation efficiency (EE), ranging from 8.79 to 74.55%, significantly depended on the extract used and the type of carrier. It was shown that the addition of pectin (Pect) and whey protein isolate (WPI) to alginate (Alg) improved the efficiency of the encapsulation process. For this version of microcapsules, the highest antioxidant activity, phenolic compound content and their stability during storage were also demonstrated. The estimated content of phenolic compounds ranged from 0.48 to 40.07 mg/g, and the dominant compound was cyanidin 3-O-glucoside. In turn, the highest bioavailability of these compounds and the highest cytotoxic activity against cancer cells were characterized by microcapsules with Alg and WPI. Nevertheless, good biocompatibility with normal colon epithelial cells was demonstrated for all versions of microcapsules. The obtained data indicate that the tested variants of microcapsules protect the bioactive compounds of blueberry fruit extracts, which translates into maintaining their health-promoting properties.

Mediterranean countries are known for their high-quality olives and the production and consumption of olive oil. Olive pomace (OP), the major by-product of olive oil extraction, is receiving attention for its potential as a functional compound in food products, reflecting its physiology- and health-promoting attributes. This study assessed the physico-chemical characteristics of OP obtained from two Sardinian olive cultivars, Bosana and Semidana, and the effect of OP incorporation on the baking performance of wheat dough. We assessed the rheological parameters, pasting profile, and fermentation of doughs obtained through the partial substitution of wheat flour with OP at 0 (control), 1, 2, 3, and 5%. OP inclusion resulted in significant differences in the studied parameters compared with control samples. Positive effects included a decrease in development time, improved dough stability and storage, and superior loss modulus and gas retention capacity. Negative effects comprised an increase in dough resistance and a decrease in dough development height, gas production, gas retention, pasting profile, stickiness, and elasticity. These differences in the OP dough were due to the interactions between polyphenols and fibre with water and the starch–gluten matrix. This study found improvements in dough characteristics following the substitution of wheat flour with low percentages of OP, especially Semidana at 1%. Although higher percentages of OP would be associated with greater nutritional and health benefits, they resulted in a degradation of the dough's attributes, producing a gluten-free-like matrix in the final product. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Folia Pharmaceutica Cassoviensia is the property of University of Veterinary Medicine & Pharmacy in Kosice and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Lonicera caerulea L. fruits are a rich source of vitamins, organic acids, and phenolic compounds, which are characterised by their health-promoting properties. The content of bioactive compounds in this fruit may vary depending on the cultivar and the harvest date. This study analysed the effect of applying 5 ppm gaseous ozone for 1, 3, and 5 min on the chemical properties of L. kamtschatica varieties and newly created clones of L. emphyllocalyx for three years of cultivation. The fruits harvested from L. emphyllocalyx, depending on the year of harvest, had significantly larger size and weight compared to L. kamtschatica. On average, the acidity of the L. emphyllocalyx clones was 6% higher than other tested varieties. The average content of ascorbic acid was highest in L. emphyllocalyx clone ‘21-17’—57.80 mg·100 g−1; the year of harvest will significantly affect the content of vitamin C, reaching the highest level in 2022—53.92 mg·100 g−1. The total content of polyphenols was significantly dependent on the year of cultivation; reaching, on average, 54.8% more in 2022 compared to the rest of the years. The total antioxidant value using the FRAP, DPPH, and ABTS methods varied depending on the variety; exposure to ozone significantly increased the antioxidant value in each case. On the basis of the study, both botanical varieties can be used in food processing. Gaseous ozone exposure can significantly influence chemical composition, increasing the health-promoting value of fruit.

The object of research is organic and inorganic lemon balm. The subject of research is the antioxidant properties of these plants. One of the most problematic areas is that organic products have a slightly different chemical composition, which is due to the lack of fertilizers during their cultivation. The research hypothesis is that organic plants naturally release more phenols and polyphenols, which are needed to fight pests. At the same time, polyphenol compounds have antioxidant properties. The work investigated the total content of polyphenols in organic and inorganic lemon balm. The content of polyphenols in terms of gallic acid was determined by the spectrophotometric method by reaction with the Folin-Chocalteu reagent. In order to determine the antioxidant properties, the content of the peroxide number and the acid number of the fatty base during storage were determined. As a fat base, a mixture of organic butter and organic rye oil was chosen in a ratio of 75:25. Dried lemon balm was added in the amount of 4 % to the mass of fat. Changes in the fat base were determined in three samples: without the addition of lemon balm, with the addition of dried inorganic and organic lemon balm. The samples were stored in a thermostat at a temperature of 50 °C for 10 days. Studies were conducted every 2 days. The amount of peroxides was determined by the iodometric method. The acid number content was determined every 5 days by the titration method. It has been established that organic lemon balm has better antioxidant properties. This is due to the content of polyphenolic substances. So, the content of polyphenols in ordinary lemon balm is 14.1 mg/g, and in organic – 26.5 mg/g. Research has established that the value of the peroxide number after 10 days of storage was 17 ½O for the sample with the addition of organic lemon balm and 22 ½O for the sample with the addition of ordinary lemon balm. The sample without the addition of lemon balm had a value of 25 ½O. The value of acid number of fat on the tenth day of storage was 1.4 for the sample with the addition of inorganic lemon balm and 1.1 for the sample with the addition of organic lemon balm. Further research is planned to be devoted to the effect of plant organic antioxidants on the lipid fraction of food products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to improve functional characteristics of standard milk chocolate (C) was enriched by the addition of whey protein concentrate (WPC) and whey proteins hydrolyzed by trypsin (H-WPC) in the amount of 6%. The chocolate samples were analyzed by determination of antioxidant capacity, particle size distribution, textural, rheological, and sensory properties. The obtained results revealed that chocolate enriched by whey protein hydrolysate (H-WPC) possesses higher content of total polyphenols (1007.8 ± 96.8 mg GAE/100 g), increased ability to inhibit ABTS radicals (66.30 ± 1.99%), and increased ability to inhibit DPPH radicals (56.34 ± 3.20%), compared to the standard milk chocolate (C) (877.1 ± 56.0 mg GAE/100g; 48.46 ± 2.11%; 48.07 ± 2.80%, respectively). The additional ingredients do not significantly affect the hardness and enthalpy of chocolates. The hydrolyzed whey proteins increase the viscosity of chocolate (11.81 ± 0.11 Pa·s) to a greater extent than non-hydrolyzed whey proteins (9.17 ± 0.09 Pa·s), relative to the control sample (3.53 ± 0.05 Pa·s). Regardless of the fact that the WPC sample has slightly better rheological characteristics and particle size distribution compared to the H-WPC sample, no major changes in the sensory characteristics of chocolate were observed. Based on the results, whey protein hydrolysate can be marked as an exceptional ingredient for improving the quality of chocolate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sulphur dioxide (SO2) is usually used in winemaking due to its effectiveness as an antimicrobial and antioxidant agent. However, there is growing interest in finding alternatives to SO2 because of its adverse effects on human health. Therefore, in this work, a low-SO2-producing Saccharomyces cerevisiae strain was selected and the AIR-MIXINGTM M.ITM (A.M.) system, capable of determining a high extraction of polyphenols, was used to produce a red wine without added sulphites. A tank managed with the traditional pumping-over technique was used as a comparison. Microbiological and chemical monitoring of both fermentations performed by plate counts and HPLC analyses, respectively, did not indicate significant differences as regards the yeast growth kinetics and the degradation of the sugars, while it highlighted a faster extraction kinetics of colour and total polyphenols in the fermentation carried out with the A.M. system. Both experimental wines showed a total SO2 content <10 mg/L, but in the wine produced with A.M., a higher content of the polymeric forms of anthocyanins and non-anthocyanin phenols was found in favour of a higher stability of the wine achieved in a shorter time than the control. Furthermore, a higher concentration of reduced glutathione, a compound well-known for its antioxidant activity, occurred in wine obtained with the A.M. system. In conclusion, the use of low-SO2-producing yeasts in combination with the A.M. system could be a suitable approach to produce wines without sulphites added. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Wool Textile Journal is the property of National Wool Textile Science & Technology Information Center and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The present study carried out to investigate the bioactive chemical compounds, total polyphenol content and antioxidant potential of different extracts of the Zanthoxylum armatum leaves collected from the Nainital, Uttarakhand. The GC-MS analysis of Z. armtum leaves extract resulted in the isolation of sixty, twelve, twenty-three and nineteen phytochemical constituents in methanol, ethanol, chloroform and water extracts respectively. The leaves extracts were strongly characterised by Heneicosane, Tetratetracontane, Phytol, Fargesin, (+)- Seasmin and Paulowin. Methanol extract showed maximum DPPH (2,2-Di-phenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl) Free radical scavenging activity (IC 50 15.63 ± 0.31), Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Activity (88.98 ± 3.34 AAE ± SD) and Metal Chelating Activity (IC 50 9.89 ± 0.83). The results showed that the methanolic extract exhibited the highest phenolic content for total phenol content (98.26 ± 0.8 mg of Gallic acid equivalent/g of dry weight), total flavonoid content (61.50 ± 1.62 mg of Quercetin equivalent/g of dry weight) and total tannin content (79.96 ± 0.81 mg of Tannic acid equivalent/g of dry weight). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The incorporation of 5 and 10% freeze-dried grape pomace powder (GPP) in fresh tagliatelle pasta preparation was evaluated for its effect on chemical composition, gluten protein structure, and sensory properties. The addition of the freeze-dried GPP led to a significant increase (p < 0.05) in polyphenol content in the raw and cooked fortified pasta samples with respect to 100% semolina pasta, although the phenolic content decreased after the cooking process. The opposite phenomenon was observed with the antioxidant activity, which increased significantly (p < 0.05) when switching from raw to cooked pasta samples fortified with GPP. The formation of a proper gluten structure was found in the fortified raw pasta, even if a change in the protein arrangement was shown in the fortified cooked samples, confirmed by a significant reduction (p < 0.05) in both the unextractable polymeric protein percentage (% UPP) and disulfide bond (S-S) formation. These results suggest a possible interaction between the protein sulfhydryl groups (-Cys) and polyphenols of grape pomace during cooking through non-disulfide covalent bonds, which was confirmed by the significant (p < 0.05) decrease in the -SH groups when comparing 100% semolina pasta with fortified pasta sample. Finally, a sensory analysis showed that the highest significant score (p < 0.05) was achieved by the 5% GP-fresh pasta sample. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ocimum basilicum L. is the most common Ocimum species, and it is used as an ornamental plant and in food condiments. This unique study examined the chemical composition and biological activities of six extracts from five basil cultivars, including their antimicrobial, antidiabetic, antilipidemic, neuroprotective, and anticollagenase activity. Moreover, their toxicological effects were studied using the zebrafish Danio rerio. Volatile components were determined using HS-SPME and GC-MS, while total polyphenols were detected using HPLC and the spectrophotometric Folin–Ciocalteu method. Spectrophotometric assays (DPPH, ABTS, ORAC, FRAP) were performed to determine antioxidant activity, collagenase inhibition, acetylcholinesterase inhibition, and pancreatic lipase inhibition. Antimicrobial activity was determined using the broth microdilution test. The study found that the biological activities of different basil cultivars varied depending on the proportion of active compounds, as determined by chemical analyses. All six basil extracts significantly inhibited α-amylase, while Purple basil extract most significantly inhibited the activity of collagenase, acetylcholinesterase, and pancreatic lipase. Purple basil and Dark Opal basil I extracts exhibited the highest antimicrobial activity, while the Dark Opal basil II extract had the most significant antioxidant potential. The findings in this study suggest that ethanolic basil extracts have the potential to be used as dietary drugs and implemented in antiaging products. This study is unique in its aims to compare the chemical composition and biological activities of basil cultivars from Croatia and to evaluate potential toxicological effects through embryotoxicity tests on zebrafish Danio rerio embryos, and it reports the first evidence of anticollagenase, antidiabetic, and antilipidemic activities for these cultivars. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chili (Capsicum annuum), economically important, is one of the world's most popular horticultural plants. Functional biochemical components, such as polyphenol content, antioxidants, and α-glucosidase inhibitory properties, are found in chili. The purpose of this study was to evaluate a chili hybrid that resulted through full diallel crosses for its yield components, total phenolic (TPC) and flavonoid content (TFC), antioxidants, and α-glucosidase inhibitory (AGI) activities. The Folin-Ciocalteu and AlCl3-colorimetric assays were, respectively, used for TPC and TFC analyses. Using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazy (DPPH) and ferric reducing antioxidant power assay (FRAP) techniques, the antioxidant activity of a sample was determined. The bioassay of α-glucosidase inhibition was used to evaluate the antidiabetic activity of the sample. The twenty-five genotypes (hybrid and parent) have diverse yield components and biochemical contents. The highest fruit weight per plant was found in IPB074005 (1008.85 g). IPB114367 showed a high AGI (80.25%), antioxidant FRAP (43.42 µmol TE g−1 DW), TFC (3.97 mg QE g−1 DW), and TPC (37.51 mg GAE g−1 DW). These findings suggested that hybrid plants that suppress α-glycosidase and oxidative stress may prevent diabetes and its complications. This vital information could help design replacement drugs and diabetes diets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

为了对我国油橄榄产业提供基础数据支持，采用国际油橄榄理事会推荐的HPLC法检测特级初榨橄榄油中的多酚含量，分析了我国不同产地的28份市售食用特级初榨橄榄油样品的多酚含量，并对不同生产年度和不同产地单果级特级初榨橄榄油中多酚含量变化规律进行了分析。结果表明：市售国产特级初榨橄榄油中均含有较为丰富的多酚类化合物，多酚含量范围为（63.885±2.345）mg/kg~（307.325±6.865）mg/kg；特级初榨橄榄油中多酚含量受贮存时间的影响较大，同时不同产地中适合生产高多酚含量特级初榨橄榄油的品种具有差异。不同特级初榨橄榄油样品之间多酚含量波动较大，需要通过多种方法来防止油脂中多酚类化合物的降解，以保证油品的质量，并因地制宜对油橄榄品种进行优化筛选。 In order to provide basic data support for Chinese olive industry, 28 commercial edible extra virgin olive oils produced in different origins of China was analyzed by the HPLC method recommended by the International Olive Council for the detection of polyphenol content in extra virgin olive oil.The variation law of polyphenol content in single-fruit grade extra virgin olive oil with different production years and different origins were analyzed. The result showed that the commercial extra virgin olive oils produced in China were rich in polyphenolic compounds, and the polyphenol content ranged from (63.885±2.345)mg/kg to (307.325±6.865) mg/kg.Moreover,the polyphenol content in extra virgin olive oil was greatly affected by the storage time. At the same time, the optimal varieties for the production of extra virgin olive oil with high polyphenol content were also different in various origins. The polyphenol content in different extra virgin olive oil samples fluctuated greatly.Various methods are needed to prevent the degradation of polyphenolic compound in the oil and ensure the quality of the oil, and olive varieties should be optimized and screened according to local conditions.

In order to evaluate the antioxidant capacity of the new variety GC30 processed bananas, develop their functional products and broaden the banana industry chain, five representative banana varieties including GC02 Tianbaogao bananas, GC07 chicken bananas, GC09 powder bananas, GC25 big bananas and GC30 processed bananas were used to study. Specifically, this paper was to analyze the total phenol content and antioxidant capacities of banana peel, pulp and fruit with different varieties and maturity, as well as to statistically analyze antioxidant capacities of different banana varieties and maturity using principal component analysis. The results showed that banana peel had the highest phenol content (P0.05). The scavenging activities on DPPH, superoxide anion and hydroxyl free radicals of banana peel, pulp and fruit at grade-7 maturity was significantly higher than that at grade-1 maturity (P0.05). Moreover, the antioxidant activities of banana fruit, pulp and peel with different varieties at grade-7 maturity were better than those of fruit, pulp and peel at grade-1 maturity. The GC30 banana peel at grade-7 maturity had the strongest antioxidant properties in the comprehensive evaluation of antioxidants. The findings of this research could provide a theoretical basis for the breeding, processing and application of banana varieties, and promote the commercial value of banana.

Soy, red clover, chaste tree, hop and flax have all been found to contain a wide range of phytoestrogenic compounds, and a large number of dietary supplements contain their extracts as principal ingredients. This study is aimed to evaluate the total polyphenolic content and antioxidant activity of phytoestrogen-containing food and formulated dietary supplements. The HPLC-DPPH method was applied for DPPH free radical scavenging activity testing of various phytoestrogen-containing samples. Polyphenol content and antioxidant activity in dietary supplements were higher than in functional food samples; multiple-botanical-source preparations showed higher polyphenol content and antioxidant activity than the mono-botanical counterparts. Furthermore, the correlation between polyphenol content and anti-oxidant activity was strongly statistically significant, so it might be concluded that antioxidant activity is proportional to the content of these secondary metabolites. The most striking batch-to-batch deviations were represented by one chaste berry-based product (RSD 41.3 %) and one red clover derived product (RSD 57.9 %). The results of this study contribute to a better understanding of the phenolic profile and antioxidant properties of phytoestrogen containing food and dietary supplements.

Maintaining a diverse diet is essential for the preservation of one's health and may contribute to the fight against significant civilization diseases such as obesity or diabetes. Sweet potato can be fitted into a diverse diet and serve as a functional food with its antioxidant content. Therefore, it is important to know how the production technology alters the content and composition of these antioxidant compounds. The objective of this study was to collect information on how the increased potassium dominant fertilizer levels and also the additional high-dose fertigation can affect the phytonutrient contents and yields in an orange- and a purple-fleshed sweet potato cultivar. Field experiments were conducted in the Hungarian county of Heves in two consecutive growing seasons in 2021–2022. Different doses of potassium-predominant fertilizer were applied to an orange flesh (Beauregard) and a purple flesh (Stokes Purple) varieties of sweet potatoes. Different application techniques were used in the form of base and top dressing at different rates. The effect on yield and polyphenol content of the different fertilizer rates was investigated. Analytical studies were carried out by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). In the case of the Beauregard variety, in addition to identifying the carotenoids, we also performed their quantitative determination. We found that 87% of the carotenoid content was ß-carotene. The total anthocyanin content was investigated for the purple variety—Stokes Purple, for which a new extraction method was developed. In our study, the split dosages, when the pre-planting fertilizer was supplemented with additional liquid fertilization, resulted in 36 and 30.5% higher yields in the Beauregard in Experiment I and Experiment II, respectively, compared to the untreated control plots over the two years. The additional liquid fertilizer increased the yield to a lesser extent when compared to treatments received only pre-planting fertilizer. As for Experiment III, the split dosages resulted in 34.4% higher yields in the Stokes Purple compared to the control plots. However, the additional liquid fertilizer was not effective at all when the plants received a double dose of pre-planting fertilizer in the case of Stokes Purple. Total carotenoid (Experiment I–II) was higher and anthocyanin yield per plant (Experiment III) was significantly higher in the split-dosage treatment than in the untreated control plots. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) of bioactive compounds has been increasing because it is a good alternative to the conventional extraction methods. UAE was used to maximize total polyphenol content (TPC), 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging capacity, and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) of the mushroom Inonotus hispidus using response surface methodology (RSM). Firstly, the effect of 40% (v/v) ethanol and 80% (v/v) methanol on the TPC, DPPH scavenging capacity, and FRAP was evaluated. The ethanolic extracts showed a significantly higher (p < 0.0001) TPC, DPPH scavenging capacity, and FRAP than the methanolic extracts. The best condition to produce an extract with the higher TPC and antioxidant activity was achieved when using 40% (v/v) ethanol, a ratio of 75 mL/g, and an extraction time of 20 min. The chromatographic profile of the extract obtained in the optimized condition revealed that hispidin is the main polyphenol present in the extracts of I. hispidus, representing, together with hispidin-like compounds, the majority of the phenolic compounds (159.56 µg/g DW out of 219.01 µg/g DW). The model allowed us to optimize the conditions to maximize the extraction of phenolic compounds with antioxidant activity from I. hispidus, demonstrating its potential as a source of antioxidant compounds, with possible industrial, pharmaceutical, and food applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: The chemical composition, phenylalanine ammonia‐lyase (PAL), polyphenol oxidase (PPO) and peroxidase (POD) activity of the three main Portuguese elderberry cultivars were determined for the first time through five stages of maturation, in different harvesting years, to gain a deeper understanding of the effect of climatic conditions and enzymatic activity involved in the synthesis and degradation of phenolic compounds on the final quality of elderberries. RESULTS: Simple sugar and anthocyanin content increased with maturation but total acidity and flavonoids content decreased, and cinnamic acids did not show a clear trend. Climatic conditions seem to have a decisive influence on the elderberry maturation, namely the total number of hot (>30 °C) days. The PAL, PPO, and POD activity can explain the differences observed in elderberry phenolic content. CONCLUSION: These results highlighted the influence of climatic conditions in each harvesting season on elderberry development and quality. © 2022 The Authors. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mediterranean countries are known for their high-quality olives and the production and consumption of olive oil. Olive pomace (OP), the major by-product of olive oil extraction, is receiving attention for its potential as a functional compound in food products, reflecting its physiology- and health-promoting attributes. This study assessed the physico-chemical characteristics of OP obtained from two Sardinian olive cultivars, Bosana and Semidana, and the effect of OP incorporation on the baking performance of wheat dough. We assessed the rheological parameters, pasting profile, and fermentation of doughs obtained through the partial substitution of wheat flour with OP at 0 (control), 1, 2, 3, and 5%. OP inclusion resulted in significant differences in the studied parameters compared with control samples. Positive effects included a decrease in development time, improved dough stability and storage, and superior loss modulus and gas retention capacity. Negative effects comprised an increase in dough resistance and a decrease in dough development height, gas production, gas retention, pasting profile, stickiness, and elasticity. These differences in the OP dough were due to the interactions between polyphenols and fibre with water and the starch–gluten matrix. This study found improvements in dough characteristics following the substitution of wheat flour with low percentages of OP, especially Semidana at 1%. Although higher percentages of OP would be associated with greater nutritional and health benefits, they resulted in a degradation of the dough’s attributes, producing a gluten-free-like matrix in the final product.

Buckwheat hulls which are rich in fiber are good ingredients to increase the nutritional value of food products. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of the applied additives in the form of fiber and apple juice on the properties of both potato and corn starch (normal and waxy). In order to characterize the rheological properties of kissel, the pasting characteristic was measured. In the obtained gels, the basic quality parameters were determined. The analysis of texture, color parameters, and also total polyphenol content were determined. Buckwheat hulls, in addition to their high fiber content, are a valuable source of phenolic compounds and can be a great additive in starch desserts. The addition of buckwheat hulls and apple juice improved the nutritional value of the final products but also caused changes in the technological qualities: it increased the initial temperature of potato starch mixtures (by approx. 9 °C); it decreased the viscosity of cold desserts (from 8 to 55%); and increased the hardness of the final product by more than 7 times. In the case of other starches, the recorded changes were much smaller than for potato starch-based products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The appropriate use of avocado seed waste after industrial processing could reduce the problem of overconsumption and food waste in accordance with the "zero waste" concept. The presented study evaluates the physicochemical and bioactive properties of avocado seed and its possible use in functional food design, for example, cereal snacks in the form of cookies. The profile of polyphenol and lutein content was determined by chromatographic methodology, and the phenolic compounds content and antioxidant properties of the avocado seed powder were determined using spectrophotometric methods. The chemical composition (content of protein, carbohydrates, fiber, fat) and physicochemical properties, i.e., water activity, water holding capacity, and solubility in water of avocado seed powder, were examined. According to the fiber content (21.6 g/100 g) and bioactive compounds present in the avocado seed powder (content of phenolic 62.1 mg GAE/1 g, antioxidant potential (122.4 mmol Trolox/100 g), and low solubility in water (16.2%), it could be considered a valuable additive to cereal snacks. Our designed cereal products with various amounts of added avocado seed powder (6%, 12%, and 18%) showed that 6% added powder promoted an almost five-fold increase in the polyphenol content and four-fold higher antioxidant potential of the snacks compared to the control samples. In addition, the lowest level addition of avocado seed powder increased the dietary fiber content of the product to 4%; hence, they adhered to the nutrition claim of "source of fiber" in accordance with Regulation (EC) No. 1924/2006. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microgreens are a functional food that is very appreciated for their good taste and product features. They are produced all year without fertilizers and pesticides. In this paper, the effects of the application of commercial and natural biostimulants on the yield and nutraceutical properties of turnip greens and radish microgreens were investigated. The experiment consisted of four treatments based on biostimulants (Bio-1: TRAINER®; Bio-2: AQUAMIN®; Bio-3: leaf moringa extract; C: distilled water (control)) applied in two species (turnip greens and radish). Fresh and dry biomass, nitrate content, pigments, antioxidants, and antioxidant activity were measured. All biostimulants promoted biomass (both fresh and dry) accumulation in the radish but not in turnip greens. The treatment with biostimulant did not affect plant growth in the radish, while a depressive effect of Bio-1 upon plant growth was observed in turnip greens (−19% smaller than control). In radish, Bio-3 led to microgreens with the highest chlorophyll a content (+75% with respect to the control). Bio treatments did not affect the Chl (a, b, total) content in turnip greens. Biostimulants significantly lowered the nitrate content compared to the control (−27% nitrates) and significantly promoted TPC (+19% over the control) in the radish. They also stimulated antioxidant activity (DPPH), with the highest value in Bio-1, in the turnip, and in Bio-2 and Bio-3, in the radish. Conclusively, biostimulant treatments showed a positive effect on microgreens and, in particular, on those of the radish, improving various nutraceutical parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sulphur dioxide (SO2) is usually used in winemaking due to its effectiveness as an antimicrobial and antioxidant agent. However, there is growing interest in finding alternatives to SO2 because of its adverse effects on human health. Therefore, in this work, a low-SO2-producing Saccharomyces cerevisiae strain was selected and the AIR-MIXINGTM M.ITM (A.M.) system, capable of determining a high extraction of polyphenols, was used to produce a red wine without added sulphites. A tank managed with the traditional pumping-over technique was used as a comparison. Microbiological and chemical monitoring of both fermentations performed by plate counts and HPLC analyses, respectively, did not indicate significant differences as regards the yeast growth kinetics and the degradation of the sugars, while it highlighted a faster extraction kinetics of colour and total polyphenols in the fermentation carried out with the A.M. system. Both experimental wines showed a total SO2 content 2-producing yeasts in combination with the A.M. system could be a suitable approach to produce wines without sulphites added.

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In recent years, there has been an increase in consumer interest in functional foods enriched with health-promoting ingredients, which include dietary fiber. Therefore, the present study investigated the functional properties of fruit fiber preparations, i.e., cocoa, chokeberry, and apple fiber preparations, then designed wheat bakery products, kaiser rolls, with these fibers and evaluated the designed products. The fiber preparations selected for the study were evaluated for water binding properties (WHC), solubility (WSI), total polyphenol content, and antioxidant activity using a spectrophotometric method. In the designed bakery products, the weight losses occurring during baking were determined, specific mass, and hardness were evaluated, and sensory evaluation was carried out using a descriptive method. The tested fiber preparations showed varying water solubility, ranging from approximately 17% for cocoa fiber to approximately 30% for chokeberry one. The highest values, both in polyphenol content and antioxidant properties, were characteristic for chokeberry fiber, at 7.0 mg GAE/1 g and 10.1 Trolox/100 g, respectively, while the lowest values were for apple fiber (1.6 mg GAE/1 g, 3.6 Trolox/100 g). Baked products, kaiser rolls, with the proportion of the tested preparations at a lower addition level (3% flour replacement) had more favorable sensory characteristics than those containing a higher proportion of fiber (6% flour replacement). Considering all the tested fiber preparations, the rolls with the addition of chokeberry fiber preparation were the most favorable in terms of sensory characteristics. As the proportion of apple and cocoa fiber preparations in the rolls increased, the hardness and intensity of the bitter taste also increased. The designed bakery products could be a valuable addition to the assortment of semi-confectionery breads (yeast doughs), where the unfavorable bitter taste could be masked by the addition of, e.g., dried fruits (cranberries, raisins), nuts, sunflower seeds, or fruit filling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chili ( Capsicum annuum ) consumption is often suggested, and using functional food cultivars is the most effective strategy post COVID-19 pandemic. Controlling chili breeding activity is one of the most effective methods to produce new hybrid varieties. However, the general combining ability (GCA), specific combining ability (SCA), and heterotic effect of functional biochemicals (polyphenol content, antioxidant activities, and α-glucosidase inhibitory compounds) remain poorly known in C. annuum . This study aimed to estimate these parameters in C. annuum by using five different genotypes and their hybrid combinations based on growth characteristics, yield, yield components, and fruit functional biochemicals. The F1 and F1R progenies were obtained from crosses in a greenhouse with a full diallel mating design. Each parent used in this study had a GCA advantage for each characteristic. The hybrid combination of IPB074 × IPB005 and IPB435 × IPB367 displayed the best yield results. However, the results indicated the opposite regarding α-glucosidase inhibitory compounds. The heterotic effect of functional biochemicals was observed for traits related to genotypes, polyphenol content, antioxidant activity, α-glucosidase inhibitory compounds, and similar properties related to yield and yield components, indicating their use in hybrid chili production.

In the present study, the optimized solvent extraction conditions with regards to the total polyphenol content (TPC) and antioxidant capacity of rosemary leaf extract (RLE) were determined. The one-factor-at-a-time method was used to independently investigate the effect of several extraction parameters, including ethanol concentration (0–100% v/v), extraction temperature (50–80°C), extraction period (15–60 min), material–solvent ratio (1:5–1:10 g/mL), and extraction cycles (1, 2, and 3 times) on polyphenol content. Response surface methodology (RSM), in combination with a central composite design, was used to perform optimization. The following optimal conditions that gave maximal TPC were determined and experimentally verified: ethanol concentration of 65% (v/v), extraction temperature of 65°C, material–solvent ratio of 1:7.5 g/mL, extraction time of 15 min, and 2 cycles of extraction. These parameters corresponded with the TPC yield of 87.42 ± 0.25 mg gallic acid equivalent/g dried feed material (mg GAE/g DW). The optimal conditions gave a high extraction yield (337 ± 6 mg dried extract/g dried feed material) with 197.28 ± 3.11 mg GAE/g dried extract. The estimated models were strongly significant (p < 0.05) for TPC values with significant regression coefficients (R 2) of 0.9979. The obtained RLE was supposed to be the top grade of natural antioxidant with the IC50 (DPPH assays) value of 9.4 ± 0.1 μg/mL, which is higher than that of the vitamin C by just three times (IC50 = 3.2 ± 0.1 μg/mL). Current results justify RLE as a potential agent in food preservation applications.

Ocimum basilicum L. is the most common Ocimum species, and it is used as an ornamental plant and in food condiments. This unique study examined the chemical composition and biological activities of six extracts from five basil cultivars, including their antimicrobial, antidiabetic, antilipidemic, neuroprotective, and anticollagenase activity. Moreover, their toxicological effects were studied using the zebrafish Danio rerio. Volatile components were determined using HS-SPME and GC-MS, while total polyphenols were detected using HPLC and the spectrophotometric Folin–Ciocalteu method. Spectrophotometric assays (DPPH, ABTS, ORAC, FRAP) were performed to determine antioxidant activity, collagenase inhibition, acetylcholinesterase inhibition, and pancreatic lipase inhibition. Antimicrobial activity was determined using the broth microdilution test. The study found that the biological activities of different basil cultivars varied depending on the proportion of active compounds, as determined by chemical analyses. All six basil extracts significantly inhibited α-amylase, while Purple basil extract most significantly inhibited the activity of collagenase, acetylcholinesterase, and pancreatic lipase. Purple basil and Dark Opal basil I extracts exhibited the highest antimicrobial activity, while the Dark Opal basil II extract had the most significant antioxidant potential. The findings in this study suggest that ethanolic basil extracts have the potential to be used as dietary drugs and implemented in antiaging products. This study is unique in its aims to compare the chemical composition and biological activities of basil cultivars from Croatia and to evaluate potential toxicological effects through embryotoxicity tests on zebrafish Danio rerio embryos, and it reports the first evidence of anticollagenase, antidiabetic, and antilipidemic activities for these cultivars.

The incorporation of 5 and 10% freeze-dried grape pomace powder (GPP) in fresh tagliatelle pasta preparation was evaluated for its effect on chemical composition, gluten protein structure, and sensory properties. The addition of the freeze-dried GPP led to a significant increase (p < 0.05) in polyphenol content in the raw and cooked fortified pasta samples with respect to 100% semolina pasta, although the phenolic content decreased after the cooking process. The opposite phenomenon was observed with the antioxidant activity, which increased significantly (p < 0.05) when switching from raw to cooked pasta samples fortified with GPP. The formation of a proper gluten structure was found in the fortified raw pasta, even if a change in the protein arrangement was shown in the fortified cooked samples, confirmed by a significant reduction (p < 0.05) in both the unextractable polymeric protein percentage (% UPP) and disulfide bond (S-S) formation. These results suggest a possible interaction between the protein sulfhydryl groups (-Cys) and polyphenols of grape pomace during cooking through non-disulfide covalent bonds, which was confirmed by the significant (p < 0.05) decrease in the -SH groups when comparing 100% semolina pasta with fortified pasta sample. Finally, a sensory analysis showed that the highest significant score (p < 0.05) was achieved by the 5% GP-fresh pasta sample.

Among the ready-to-use products, baby leaf salads (both raw and cooked), especially those belonging to the Brassicaceae family, represent a very interesting food typology, with nutraceutical properties. Recently, to obtain products with lower levels of synthetic chemicals and to improve nutritional quality, attention has been paid to the use of natural biostimulants such as Moringa oleifera Lam. In this study, the aim was to investigate the effect of applying this natural biostimulant, at 15, 30, and 45 days from sowing, by spraying seedlings of radish (Raphanus sativus L.) each morning with Moringa oleifera leaf extract (MLE) at doses of 1:40 and 1:30 L−1 until dripping. Different morphological, physiological, and chemical parameters were determined. At harvesting time, the fresh biomass, total leaf area, and unit leaf area showed progressive increases as the dose of MLE was increased, while there were no significant difference in the dry biomass among the treatments. The quantum yield of PSII showed a significant increase in response to MLE treatments. The contents of chlorophylls and carotenoids were higher in both MLE treatments as compared with those of the control plants. The antioxidant capacity (DPPH) was not influenced by MLE treatment, while the influence was significant for total phenolic content (TPC). No significant differences were observed for the total sugar content, while the highest concentration of ascorbic acid was found with both MLE treatments; the MLE treatments did not modify the nitrate content. Therefore, MLE treatment showed a positive influence, although further studies are necessary to individuate the better doses and treatment modalities to improve the characteristics of radish baby leaf. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study presents an optimization strategy for recovery of oil from Japonica Luna rice bran using supercritical carbon dioxide (scCO2), based on design of experiments (DoE). Initially, a 24−1 two level fractional factorial design (FFD) was used, and pressure, temperature, and scCO2 flow rate were determined as the significant variables; while the yield, total flavonoids content (TFC), and total polyphenols content (TPC) were the response functions used to analyze the quality of the extracts recovered. Subsequently, central composite design (CCD) was applied to examine the effects of the significant variables on the responses and create quadratic surfaces that optimize the latter. The following values of pressure = 34.35 MPa, temperature = 339.5 K, and scCO2 flow rate = 1.8 × 10−3 kg/min were found to simultaneously optimize the yield (6.83%), TPC (61.28 μmol GAE/g ext), and TFC (1696.8 μmol EC/g ext). The fatty acid profile of the oils was characterized by GC-FID. It was demonstrated that the acids in largest quantities are C16:0 (15–16%), C18:1 (41%), and C18:2 (38–39%). Finally, three mass transfer models were applied to determine the mass transfer coefficients and assess the cumulative extraction curves, with an AAD% of 4.16, for the best model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Phenolic acids have more efficient compounds on antioxidant activity than anthocyanins. • Ellagic acid has the most important role in antioxidant activity. • Harvest date is more determinant on bioactive compounds than genotype. • 33-bred line stands out with its antioxidant activity and some individual phenolics level. • Temperature affected the phenolic compounds accumulation in fruits. Secondary compounds of fruit are among the essential concerns due to their positive effects on human health. Many studies have attempted to improve these compounds by applying different genotype or cultivation practices such as irrigation and fertilization. This study aimed to find out the effect of different harvest dates on strawberry genotypes in terms of total phenolic (TP), total antioxidant activity (TAA), total monomeric anthocyanin (TMA), and some crucial individual phenolic compounds during the five-month growing season (January - May periods) with one month intervals. Besides, superior bred lines ('33′, '36′ and '61′) were compared with widely grown cultivars ('Rubygem', 'Festival' and 'Fortuna') under the Mediterranean climate conditions. Regarding the genotypes, it was observed that TMA, TP, TAA, (−) epicatechin, (−) epicatechin gallate, pelargonidin 3- glucoside (P3G), and pelargonidin 3- rutinoside (P3R) values were the highest values in the 33-bred line, while the 36-bred line stood out in terms of ferulic acid and cyanidin 3- glucoside (C3G). This study also has shown that the chlorogenic acid and sinapic acid contents of the 61-bred line were found in the highest level compared with the others. Regarding the harvest date, fruit antioxidant activity, total phenolic compounds, and individual phenols such as gallic, syringic, ferulic, (−) epicatechin and ellagic acid were measured the highest in May-harvested fruits, whereas these values were observed at the lowest level in March, except for syringic and (−) epicatechin. On the other hand, rutin, quercetin, sinapic acid, chlorogenic and caffeic acids, and P3G and P3R levels of fruits were the highest in April, when it was the most intense harvest period in Mediterranean climate conditions. These observations indicated that these compounds could be increased by choosing the right genotype and suitable environmental conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Borassus flabellifer L., belonging to the Arecaceae family, is less explored for its nutritional and biological properties. The plant parts such as the tender kernel, tender water, Borassus flabellifer sap, and haustorium are consumed by various communities in India. The present study first time analyzed the cytoprotective and anti-inflammatory properties of Borassus flabellifer haustorium extract (BHE). The protective effect of BHE was estimated in the normal intestinal epithelial cell (IEC-6) against the pro-oxidant insults induced by hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and malondialdehyde (MDA). Further, the change in redox status was estimated in terms of antioxidant enzyme activities or the oxidative stress markers. The anti-inflammatory potential of BHE was analyzed in macrophage cells (Raw 264.7) stimulated by lipopolysaccharide (LPS). BHE had a total polyphenols and flavonoids content of 37.92 ± 4.03 mg GAE and 7.02 ± 0.61 mg QE. The pretreatment with BHE has significantly reduced the cytotoxic effect of H2O2 and MDA (p < 0.01) in IEC-6 cells; restoration of cellular glutathione levels and catalase activity (p < 0.05), with a concomitant reduction in the thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances and conjugated dienes (p < 0.05) maybe the plausible mode of action. Further, H2O2 and MDA induced expression of apoptotic genes caspase 3/7 and apaf-1 was significantly reduced by BHE pretreatment (p < 0.05). Similarly, BHE dose-dependently reduced the LPS (1 µg/mL) induced release of pro-inflammatory cytokines including IL-1β, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) in Raw 264.7 cells. The study concludes that Borassus flabellifer haustorium can be an efficient antioxidant and anti-inflammatory functional food. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]