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19 pages, 1373 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Promising Preserving Agents from Sage and Basil: A Case Study with Yogurts

by Jonata M. Ueda, Mariana C. Pedrosa, Filipa A. Fernandes, Paula Rodrigues, Bruno Melgar, Maria Inês Dias, José Pinela, Ricardo C. Calhelha, Marija Ivanov, Marina Soković, Sandrina A. Heleno, Márcio Carocho, Rafael P. Ineu, Isabel C. F. R. Ferreira and Lillian Barros

Foods 2021, 10(3), 676; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods10030676 - 22 Mar 2021

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 3804

Abstract

In the present work, sage (Salvia officinalis L.) and basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) were exploited for their preservative purposes, as viable alternatives to artificial ones. The ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) of bioactive compounds was pre-optimized using factorial screening analysis, prior to applying [...] Read more.

In the present work, sage (Salvia officinalis L.) and basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) were exploited for their preservative purposes, as viable alternatives to artificial ones. The ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) of bioactive compounds was pre-optimized using factorial screening analysis, prior to applying response surface methodology (RSM). The obtained extracts were characterized in terms of phenolic compounds by high-performance liquid chromatography coupled to photodiode array detector and mass spectrometer HPLC-DAD-ESI/MS and bioactivities, namely the antioxidant, antimicrobial and cytotoxic potential. In addition, the most promising extracts were incorporated into yogurts, that were further screened for nutritional and physico-chemical properties and microbial load, over a shelf life of 14 days. According to the obtained results, the solvent percentage is the most relevant factor for obtaining rosmarinic acid-rich extract, followed by the extraction time and ultrasonic power. For the antioxidant and antimicrobial activity, sage showed the best result for both analysis and none of the two plant extracts were hepatotoxic. Finally, both extracts did not show changes in the physicochemical and nutritional characteristics of the yogurts and did not interfere with the growth of lactic acid bacteria, an important microorganism during yogurt fermentation. These results highlight the high potential of sage and basil as natural preservatives. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactive/Nutraceutical Compounds in Plant Foods)

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17 pages, 2661 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Resistant Starch Combined with Whey Protein Increases Postprandial Metabolism and Lowers Glucose and Insulin Responses in Healthy Adult Men

by Alex E. Mohr, Olivia Minicucci, Dale Long, Jr., Vincent J. Miller, Allison Keller, Caitlin Sheridan, Gabriel O’brien, Emery Ward, Brad Schuler, Scott Connelly, Jens J. Holst, Arne Astrup, Feng He, Christopher L. Gentile and Paul J. Arciero

Foods 2021, 10(3), 537; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods10030537 - 5 Mar 2021

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 4325

Abstract

Resistant starch (RS) and/or protein consumption favorably influence energy metabolism, substrate utilization, and weight management. The current study administered four different versions of a pancake breakfast containing waxy maize or RS with and without whey protein (WP) and measured postprandial thermogenesis (TEM), fuel [...] Read more.

Resistant starch (RS) and/or protein consumption favorably influence energy metabolism, substrate utilization, and weight management. The current study administered four different versions of a pancake breakfast containing waxy maize or RS with and without whey protein (WP) and measured postprandial thermogenesis (TEM), fuel utilization, and circulating satiation and appetite factors for 180 min in a group of healthy, adult men. On four separate visits to the laboratory, eight participants were administered four different pancake breakfast meal challenges using a single-blind, randomized crossover design: (1) waxy maize starch (WMS) control; (2) WMS and WP (WMS + WP); (3) RS; or (4) RS and WP (RS + WP). TEM (kcals/180 min) was significantly greater (p < 0.05) in RS + WP (45.11; confidence interval (CI), 33.81–56.41) compared to WMS (25.61; CI, 14.31–36.91), RS (29.44; CI, 18.14–40.74), and WMS + WP (24.64; CI, 13.34–35.94), respectively. Fat oxidation was enhanced (p < 0.05) after RS + WP compared to RS at 60 min (+23.10%), WMS at 120 min (+27.49%), and WMS and WMS + WP at 180 min (+35.76%; +17.31%, respectively), and RER was decreased with RS + WP versus the other three meals (mean differences: ≥−0.021). Insulin concentrations were decreased (p < 0.05) following RS + WP compared to WMS, whereas both RS (−46.19%) and RS + WP (−53.05%) insulin area under the curve (AUC) were greatly reduced (p < 0.01) compared to WMS. While limited by sample size, meals containing both RS and WP increased postprandial thermogenesis and fat oxidation, and lowered insulin response compared to isocaloric meals without this combination. Therefore, RS + WP may favorably impact energy metabolism and thus weight control and body composition under chronic feeding conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactive/Nutraceutical Compounds in Plant Foods)

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15 pages, 1747 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Atherosclerosis Development and Aortic Contractility in Hypercholesterolemic Rabbits Supplemented with Two Different Flaxseed Varieties

by Jolanta Bujok, Dorota Miśta, Edyta Wincewicz, Bożena Króliczewska, Stanisław Dzimira and Magdalena Żuk

Foods 2021, 10(3), 534; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods10030534 - 4 Mar 2021

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2574

Abstract

Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) is widely regarded as the main beneficial component of flax for the prevention of cardiovascular disease. We evaluated the effect of the transgenic flaxseed W86—which is rich in ALA—on the lipid profile, atherosclerosis progression, and vascular reactivity in hypercholesterolemic rabbits [...] Read more.

Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) is widely regarded as the main beneficial component of flax for the prevention of cardiovascular disease. We evaluated the effect of the transgenic flaxseed W86—which is rich in ALA—on the lipid profile, atherosclerosis progression, and vascular reactivity in hypercholesterolemic rabbits compared to the parental cultivar Linola with a very low ALA content. Rabbits were fed a basal diet (control) or a basal diet supplemented with 1% cholesterol, 1% cholesterol and 10% flaxseed W86, or 1% cholesterol and 10% Linola flaxseed. A high-cholesterol diet resulted in an elevated plasma cholesterol and triglyceride levels compared to the control animals. Aortic sections from rabbits fed Linola had lower deposits of foamy cells than those from rabbits fed W86. A potassium-induced and phenylephrine-induced contractile response was enhanced by a high-cholesterol diet and not influenced by the W86 or Linola flaxseed. Pretreatment of the aortic rings with nitro-L-arginine methyl ester resulted in a concentration-dependent tendency to increase the reaction amplitude in the control and high-cholesterol diet groups but not the flaxseed groups. Linola flaxseed with a low ALA content more effectively reduced the atherosclerosis progression compared with the W86 flaxseed with a high concentration of stable ALA. Aorta contractility studies suggested that flaxseed ameliorated an increased contractility in hypercholesterolemia but had little or no impact on NO synthesis in the vascular wall. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactive/Nutraceutical Compounds in Plant Foods)

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15 pages, 967 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Stabilisation of Lutein and Lutein Esters with Polyoxyethylene Sorbitan Monooleate, Medium-Chain Triglyceride Oil and Lecithin

by Zala Gombač, Ilja Gasan Osojnik Črnivec, Mihaela Skrt, Katja Istenič, Andreja Knez Knafelj, Igor Pravst and Nataša Poklar Ulrih

Foods 2021, 10(3), 500; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods10030500 - 26 Feb 2021

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 4000

Abstract

Lutein is a challenging compound to incorporate into food, as it is poorly soluble and unstable in aqueous solutions. In this study, the aim was to prepare stable encapsulates of lutein and lutein esters using feasible and straightforward techniques. Fine suspensions based on [...] Read more.

Lutein is a challenging compound to incorporate into food, as it is poorly soluble and unstable in aqueous solutions. In this study, the aim was to prepare stable encapsulates of lutein and lutein esters using feasible and straightforward techniques. Fine suspensions based on polyoxyethylene sorbitan monooleate and medium-chain triglyceride oil micelle-like units with 3.45% lutein esters or 1.9% lutein equivalents provided high encapsulation efficiencies of 79% and 83%, respectively. Lutein encapsulated in fine suspensions showed superior stability, as 86% was retained within the formulation over 250 days at 25 °C in the dark. Under the same storage conditions, only 38% of lutein remained in corresponding formulations. Higher encapsulation efficiencies were achieved with lecithin emulsions, at up to 99.3% for formulations with lutein, and up to 91.4% with lutein esters. In lecithin emulsions that were stored for 250 days, 17% and 80% of lutein and lutein esters, respectively, were retained within the formulations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactive/Nutraceutical Compounds in Plant Foods)

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26 pages, 3858 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Carotenoid and Carotenoid Ester Profile and Their Deposition in Plastids in Fruits of New Papaya (Carica papaya L.) Varieties from the Canary Islands

by Sara Lara-Abia, Gloria Lobo-Rodrigo, Jorge Welti-Chanes and M. Pilar Cano

Foods 2021, 10(2), 434; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods10020434 - 17 Feb 2021

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 5418

Abstract

The carotenoid profile of non-saponified and saponified extracts of different tissues (pulp and peel) of fruits of three new papaya varieties, Sweet Mary, Alicia, and Eksotika, was characterized for the first time, and almost all carotenoid compounds were quantified. Carotenoids and carotenoid esters [...] Read more.

The carotenoid profile of non-saponified and saponified extracts of different tissues (pulp and peel) of fruits of three new papaya varieties, Sweet Mary, Alicia, and Eksotika, was characterized for the first time, and almost all carotenoid compounds were quantified. Carotenoids and carotenoid esters were analyzed and characterized using HPLC-photo diode array (PDA-MS with atmospheric pressure chemical ionization with positive ion mode (APCI⁺) with a C₃₀ reversed-phase column. The carotenoid deposition in collenchyma and chlorenchyma cells of papaya pulp and peel tissues was assessed by optical microscopy, confocal laser scanning microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy. The most abundant carotenoids in the fruit of the three papaya varieties (pulp and peel) were (all-E)-lycopene (230.0–421.2 µg/100 g fresh weight), (all-E)-β-carotene (120.3–233.2 µg/100 g fresh weight), and (all-E)-β-cryptoxanthin laurate (74.4–223.2 µg/100 g fresh weight. Moreover, high concentrations of (all-E)-lutein (922.5–1381.1 µg/100 g fresh weight) and its esters, such as (all-E)-lutein-3-O-myristate and (all-E)-lutein dimyristate, were found in peel extracts. The optical microscopy study of papaya pulps showed that carotenoid deposition in all papaya varieties, including Maradol, was mainly localized close to the cell walls, showing the presence of some crystalloids and round-shaped structures, with different sizes and distribution due to the different carotenoid content among varieties. No crystalloids or globular depositions were found in any of the peel sections, and no remarkable differences were found in the papaya peel microstructure of the different papaya varieties. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactive/Nutraceutical Compounds in Plant Foods)

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16 pages, 1696 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Small Functional Foods: Comparative Phytochemical and Nutritional Analyses of Five Microgreens of the Brassicaceae Family

by Ilaria Marchioni, Marco Martinelli, Roberta Ascrizzi, Costanza Gabbrielli, Guido Flamini, Luisa Pistelli and Laura Pistelli

Foods 2021, 10(2), 427; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods10020427 - 15 Feb 2021

Cited by 44 | Viewed by 7154

Abstract

Microgreens are the seedlings of herbs and vegetables which are harvested at the development stage of their two cotyledonary leaves, or sometimes at the emergence of their rudimentary first pair of true leaves. They are functional foods, the consumption of which is steadily [...] Read more.

Microgreens are the seedlings of herbs and vegetables which are harvested at the development stage of their two cotyledonary leaves, or sometimes at the emergence of their rudimentary first pair of true leaves. They are functional foods, the consumption of which is steadily increasing due to their high nutritional value. The species of the Brassicaceae family are good sources of bioactive compounds, with a favorable nutritional profile. The present study analyzed some phytochemical compounds with nutritional values, such as chlorophylls, polyphenols, carotenoids, anthocyanins, ascorbic acid, total and reducing sugars, and the antioxidant activity of five Brassicaceae species: broccoli (Brassica oleracea L.), daikon (Raphanus raphanistrum subsp. sativus (L.) Domin), mustard (Brassica juncea (L.) Czern.), rocket salad (Eruca vesicaria (L.) Cav.), and watercress (Nasturtium officinale R.Br.). Broccoli had the highest polyphenol, carotenoid and chlorophyll contents, as well as a good antioxidant ability. Mustard was characterized by high ascorbic acid and total sugar contents. By contrast, rocket salad exhibited the lowest antioxidant content and activity. The essential oil (EO) composition of all of these species was determined in order to identify their profile and isothiocyanates content, which are compounds with many reported health benefits. Isothiocyanates were the most abundant group in broccoli (4-pentenyl isothiocyanate), mustard (allyl isothiocyanate), and watercress (benzyl isothiocyanate) EOs, while rocket salad and daikon exhibited higher contents of monoterpene hydrocarbons (myrcene) and oxygenated diterpenes (phytol), respectively. Broccoli microgreens exhibited the overall best nutritional profile, appearing as the most promising species to be consumed as a functional food among those analyzed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactive/Nutraceutical Compounds in Plant Foods)

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18 pages, 2787 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Tackling Food Insecurity in Cabo Verde Islands: The Nutritional, Agricultural and Environmental Values of the Legume Species

by Miguel Brilhante, Eromise Varela, Anyse P. Essoh, Arlindo Fortes, Maria Cristina Duarte, Filipa Monteiro, Vladimir Ferreira, Augusto Manuel Correia, Maria Paula Duarte and Maria M. Romeiras

Foods 2021, 10(2), 206; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods10020206 - 20 Jan 2021

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 6078

Abstract

Legume species are important food sources to reduce hunger and deal with malnutrition; they also play a crucial role in sustainable agriculture in the tropical dry islands of Cabo Verde. To improve the knowledge of the heritage of plant genetic resources in this [...] Read more.

Legume species are important food sources to reduce hunger and deal with malnutrition; they also play a crucial role in sustainable agriculture in the tropical dry islands of Cabo Verde. To improve the knowledge of the heritage of plant genetic resources in this Middle Income Country, this study had three main goals: (i) to provide a checklist of food legumes; (ii) to investigate which species are traded in local markets and, based on field surveys, to compare species for their chemical, phenolic, antioxidant, and nutritional composition; and (iii) to discuss the agronomic value and contribution to food security in this archipelago. Our results revealed that 15 species are used as food and 5 of them are locally traded (Cajanus cajan, Lablab purpureus, Phaseolus lunatus, Phaseolus vulgaris, and Vigna unguiculata). The role of these species as sources of important minerals, antioxidants, and nutritional components for food security is highlighted, and the native ones (Lablab purpureus and Vigna unguiculata) stand-out as particularly well-adapted to the climate of these islands, which are already experiencing the adverse effects of climate change. We conclude that the sustainable use of these genetic resources can contribute to the reduction of hunger and poverty, thus meeting some challenges of the Sustainable Development Goals. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactive/Nutraceutical Compounds in Plant Foods)

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18 pages, 1630 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Preservation of Chocolate Muffins with Lemon Balm, Oregano, and Rosemary Extracts

by Mariana C. Pedrosa, Jonata M. Ueda, Bruno Melgar, Maria Inês Dias, José Pinela, Ricardo C. Calhelha, Marija Ivanov, Marina Soković, Sandrina Heleno, Aline Bruna da Silva, Márcio Carocho, Isabel C. F. R. Ferreira and Lillian Barros

Foods 2021, 10(1), 165; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods10010165 - 15 Jan 2021

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3952

Abstract

Muffins are snacks made from flour and chocolate and preserved with synthetic additives. Following consumer trends, the search for natural food additives has gained traction. Plants such as rosemary, lemon balm, and oregano were analyzed following an optimization of ultrasound assisted extraction, screened [...] Read more.

Muffins are snacks made from flour and chocolate and preserved with synthetic additives. Following consumer trends, the search for natural food additives has gained traction. Plants such as rosemary, lemon balm, and oregano were analyzed following an optimization of ultrasound assisted extraction, screened for their antioxidant and antimicrobial activity and incorporated in chocolate muffins, comparing them to synthetic preservatives over the course of 8 days. The nutritional profile, organic and fatty acids, soluble sugars, texture profile, external color and digital imaging of the muffin pores were analyzed. Slight changes were sought for the muffins incorporated with the natural extracts. By means of linear discriminant analysis, rosemary extract was considered the most promising extract to preserve the muffins due to its similarity to potassium sorbate, showing no changes in the muffins it was incorporated in, although it showed a lower amount of phenolic compounds when compared to lemon balm. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactive/Nutraceutical Compounds in Plant Foods)

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15 pages, 1929 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Transglycosylation of Steviol Glycosides and Rebaudioside A: Synthesis Optimization, Structural Analysis and Sensory Profiles

by Ana Muñoz-Labrador, Silvana Azcarate, Rosa Lebrón-Aguilar, Jesús E. Quintanilla-López, Plácido Galindo-Iranzo, Sofia Kolida, Lisa Methven, Robert A. Rastall, F. Javier Moreno and Oswaldo Hernandez-Hernandez

Foods 2020, 9(12), 1753; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods9121753 - 26 Nov 2020

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 3825

Abstract

To improve flavor profiles, three cyclodextrin glucosyltransferases (CGTases) from different bacteriological sources, Paenibacillus macerans, Geobacillus sp. and Thermoanaerobacter sp., were used with an extract of steviol glycosides (SVglys) and rebaudioside A (RebA) as acceptor substrates in two parallel sets of reactions. A [...] Read more.

To improve flavor profiles, three cyclodextrin glucosyltransferases (CGTases) from different bacteriological sources, Paenibacillus macerans, Geobacillus sp. and Thermoanaerobacter sp., were used with an extract of steviol glycosides (SVglys) and rebaudioside A (RebA) as acceptor substrates in two parallel sets of reactions. A central composite experimental design was employed to maximize the concentration of glucosylated species synthesized, considering temperature, pH, time of reaction, enzymatic activity, maltodextrin concentration and SVglys/RebA concentration as experimental factors, together with their interactions. Liquid chromatography coupled to a diode-array detector (LC-DAD), liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-ESI-MS) and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF-MS) were used to characterize and identify the chemical structures obtained along the optimization. To assess the impact on the sensory properties, a sensory analysis was carried out with a group of panelists that evaluated up to 16 sensorial attributes. CGTase transglucosylation of the C-13 and/or C-19 led to the addition of up to 11 glucose units to the steviol aglycone, which meant the achievement of enhanced sensory profiles due to a diminution of bitterness and licorice appreciations. The outcome herein obtained supposes the development of new potential alternatives to replace free sugars with low-calorie sweeteners with added health benefits. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactive/Nutraceutical Compounds in Plant Foods)

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21 pages, 2852 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Aloe vera Flowers, a Byproduct with Great Potential and Wide Application, Depending on Maturity Stage

by Ascensión Martínez-Sánchez, María Elena López-Cañavate, Josefa Guirao-Martínez, María José Roca and Encarna Aguayo

Foods 2020, 9(11), 1542; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods9111542 - 26 Oct 2020

Cited by 23 | Viewed by 9887

Abstract

Flowers of Aloe vera are a byproduct providing a valuable source of bioactive compounds with different functions for health benefits. The characterization in amino acids, organic acids, sugars, trigonelline, volatiles compounds, fatty acids, total phenolic, carotenoids, vitamin C content, and antioxidant capacity of [...] Read more.

Flowers of Aloe vera are a byproduct providing a valuable source of bioactive compounds with different functions for health benefits. The characterization in amino acids, organic acids, sugars, trigonelline, volatiles compounds, fatty acids, total phenolic, carotenoids, vitamin C content, and antioxidant capacity of Aloe flowers (Aloe barbadensis Miller) has been studied at three maturity stages (I: immature; II: mature; III: mature, with flowers buds opened). Immature flowers presented the highest content in phenyl alanine, tyrosine, citric acid, trigonelline, carotenoids, retinol activity equivalent, vitamin C, and total phenolic and antioxidant capacity. As the flower develops, the content of these compounds decreases. Aloe vera flowers presented an important content in fatty acids, and the principal concentration was identified in polyunsaturated unsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) as α-linolenic acid, and linoleic acid, with a ratio close to one. The main saturated fatty acid was palmitic acid, followed by stearic acid. Maturity stage III showed the lowest fatty acid content. The bioactive compounds found in Aloe vera flowers have potential applications in the cosmetic, pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, and food industries. Depending on the compound of interest, it could be worthwhile harvesting flowers at maturity stage I, thereby reducing the energy consumption of flowers from the plant and thus favoring plant development. This is an example of a circular economy for Aloe vera producers, generating economic and business opportunities and thus providing environmental and social benefits. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactive/Nutraceutical Compounds in Plant Foods)

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15 pages, 357 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Compositional Features of the “Kweli” Red Raspberry and Its Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Activities

by Ana Luísa Vara, José Pinela, Maria Inês Dias, Jovana Petrović, António Nogueira, Marina Soković, Isabel C. F. R. Ferreira and Lillian Barros

Foods 2020, 9(11), 1522; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods9111522 - 23 Oct 2020

Cited by 24 | Viewed by 3602

Abstract

Red raspberries (Rubus idaeus L.) are increasingly popular foods in contemporary diets due to their freshness, nutritional value and health claims. Among the existing cultivars, “Kweli” is one of the most productive and widely cultivated. In this study, the nutritional value and [...] Read more.

Red raspberries (Rubus idaeus L.) are increasingly popular foods in contemporary diets due to their freshness, nutritional value and health claims. Among the existing cultivars, “Kweli” is one of the most productive and widely cultivated. In this study, the nutritional value and chemical composition of “Kweli” red raspberry were characterized by the official method of food analysis and chromatographic techniques, and its antioxidant and antimicrobial activities were tested against biological/biochemical oxidizable substrates and foodborne bacteria and fungi strains, respectively. Carbohydrates (including fructose and glucose, 14.3 and 12.6 g/100 g dw, respectively), proteins (6.8 g/100 g dw), and ashes (3.90 g/100 g dw) were major constituents. The fat content was quite low and constituted mainly by unsaturated fatty acids (58.3%), with a predominance of oleic acid. Fresh red raspberry also contained high levels of citric (2.7 g/100 g) and ascorbic (17 mg/100 g) acids. The anthocyanins (4.51 mg/g extract) cyanidin-O-hexoside and mostly cyanidin-O-sophoroside were identified in the red raspberry hydroethanolic extract, which was able to inhibit thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) formation (EC₅₀ of 122 µg/mL), oxidative hemolysis (IC₅₀ of 298 µg/mL), and β-carotene bleaching (EC₅₀ of 18.7 µg/mL). In turn, the extract was more effective than the food additive E224 against Bacillus cereus. All these results highlighted the nutritional quality of “Kweli” red raspberry and showed some compositional differences in relation to other cultivars. Therefore, its inclusion in a daily diet can be helpful to obtain nutrients and antioxidants and bring health benefits. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactive/Nutraceutical Compounds in Plant Foods)

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17 pages, 568 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Procyanidin-Rich Extract from Grape Seeds as a Putative Tool against Helicobacter pylori

by Jose Manuel Silvan, Alba Gutiérrez-Docio, Silvia Moreno-Fernandez, Teresa Alarcón-Cavero, Marin Prodanov and Adolfo J. Martinez-Rodriguez

Foods 2020, 9(10), 1370; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods9101370 - 26 Sep 2020

Cited by 30 | Viewed by 4921

Abstract

Strains of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) resistant to various antibiotics have increased in recent years. In this context, the search for new therapeutic approaches is crucial. The aim of the present study was to demonstrate the antibacterial activity of a procyanidin-rich extract obtained [...] Read more.

Strains of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) resistant to various antibiotics have increased in recent years. In this context, the search for new therapeutic approaches is crucial. The aim of the present study was to demonstrate the antibacterial activity of a procyanidin-rich extract obtained from food-grade winery grape seeds against 14 H. pylori strains and elucidate its phenolic composition. Ten strains (71.4%) showed resistance to at least some of the tested antibiotics, while four isolates (28.6%) were susceptible to all antibiotics. Resistance to more than one class of antibiotics was observed in six strains (42.9%). The extract was able to inhibit the growth of all H. pylori strains in a range of a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) from 0.015 mg/mL to 0.125 mg/mL, confirming also the existence of a strain-dependent effect. The phenolic composition determined by reverse phase high pressure liquid chromatography, photodiode array, and mass spectrometry detection (RP-HPLC-PAD-MS) analysis revealed the presence of 43 individual compounds and allowed the quantification of 41 of them, including seven procyanidin tetramers, seven procyanidin pentamers, and six galloylated procyanidin dimers, trimers, and tetramers. The extract was composed mainly by catechin and procyanidin oligomers with a total amount of 5801 mg/100 g, which represent 92% of the total individual phenolic content. Among them, the most abundant were catechins (2047 mg/100 g), followed by procyanidin dimers (1550 mg/100 g), trimers (1176 mg/100 g), tetramers (436 mg/100 g), and pentamers (296 mg/100 g) that represent 35, 27, 20, 8, and 5%, respectively of the total flavanol constituents. The composition profile information may help to improve the production process of useful antibacterial extracts against H. pylori. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactive/Nutraceutical Compounds in Plant Foods)

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23 pages, 2989 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Comparison of Phenolic Compounds, Carotenoids, Amino Acid Composition, In Vitro Antioxidant and Anti-Diabetic Activities in the Leaves of Seven Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) Cultivars

by Mapula R. Moloto, Anh Dao T. Phan, Jerry L. Shai, Yasmina Sultanbawa and Dharini Sivakumar

Foods 2020, 9(9), 1285; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods9091285 - 12 Sep 2020

Cited by 37 | Viewed by 5858

Abstract

Cowpea is a well-known nutrition rich African leafy vegetable that has potential to sustain food and nutrition insecurity in sub-Saharan Africa. Consumption of cowpea legumes is associated with reduced risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus. Therefore, the present study was designed to evaluate [...] Read more.

Cowpea is a well-known nutrition rich African leafy vegetable that has potential to sustain food and nutrition insecurity in sub-Saharan Africa. Consumption of cowpea legumes is associated with reduced risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus. Therefore, the present study was designed to evaluate the (i) variation in phenolic metabolites in seven cowpea cultivars (VOP1, VOP2, VOP3, VOP4, VOP5, VOP7, and VOP8 using UHPLC coupled with high resolution Q-TOF-MS technique, (ii) in vitro antioxidant activity using ferric reducing/antioxidant capacity (FRAP) assay (iii) in vitro anti-diabetic effects and (iv) composition of carotenoids and amino acids of theses cowpea cultivars. The results of this study demonstrated that gentisic acid 5-O-glucoside, quercetin 3-(2G-xylosylrutinoside) and Quercetin 3-glucosyl-(1->2)-galactoside were highest in VOP1 VOP4 and VOP5, respectively. High inhibition (>50%) of α-glucosidase and α-amylase activities was shown by the leaf extracts (50 and 25 mg/mL) of VOP1 and VOP4. Cowpea cultivars VOP1 and VOP4 demonstrated the highest gene expression levels of regulation of glucose transporter GLUT4 in C2C12 skeletal muscle cells, similar to insulin. A positive correlation exited between the phenolic components and the inhibitory effect of antidiabetic enzymes and FRAP activity. Cytotoxic effect was not detected in vitro in any cowpea cultivar. Lutein (124.6 mg/100 g) and all-trans-beta-carotene (92.6 mg/100 g) levels were highest in VOP2 and VOP1, respectively. Cowpea cultivars VOP3 and VOP4 showed potential to fulfil the daily requirements of essential amino acids. Thus, based on this information, cowpea (leaves) genotypes/cultivars can be selected and propagated for the further development of supplementary foods or functional food ingredients. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactive/Nutraceutical Compounds in Plant Foods)

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18 pages, 3109 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Comparative Analysis of Physicochemical Characteristics, Nutritional and Functional Components and Antioxidant Capacity of Fifteen Kiwifruit (Actinidia) Cultivars—Comparative Analysis of Fifteen Kiwifruit (Actinidia) Cultivars

by Hexin Zhang, Qinyu Zhao, Tian Lan, Tonghui Geng, Chenxu Gao, Quyu Yuan, Qianwen Zhang, Pingkang Xu, Xiangyu Sun, Xuebo Liu and Tingting Ma

Foods 2020, 9(9), 1267; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods9091267 - 10 Sep 2020

Cited by 48 | Viewed by 6287

Abstract

Physicochemical characteristics, nutritional and functional components, and the antioxidant capacity of 15 kinds of domestic and imported kiwifruit in China were studied. Kiwifruit was classified according to flesh color or species, and the differences were analyzed and compared. Results demonstrated Ruiyu had the [...] Read more.

Physicochemical characteristics, nutritional and functional components, and the antioxidant capacity of 15 kinds of domestic and imported kiwifruit in China were studied. Kiwifruit was classified according to flesh color or species, and the differences were analyzed and compared. Results demonstrated Ruiyu had the highest sugar-acid ratio, and Hongshi No.2 was an excellent cultivar with strong antioxidant capacity. TPC (total polyphenol content) and AAC (ascorbic acid content) showed a significant positive correlation. TPC was the greatest antioxidant contributor in the DPPH and FRAP assays. The sugar–acid ratio and TFC (total flavonoids content) in red-fleshed kiwifruit were significantly higher than those in yellow-fleshed and green-fleshed ones. The composition of free amino acids had a tendency to distinguish A. deliciosa and A. chinensis, but this needs further verification. In addition, the contents of mineral elements, folic acid and L-5-methyltetrahydrofolate were also analyzed. Generally, kiwifruit contains comprehensive nutrients and has strong antioxidant capacity. Cultivar is one of the main factors affecting nutritional and functional properties and antioxidant capacity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactive/Nutraceutical Compounds in Plant Foods)

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13 pages, 2497 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Transcriptome Analysis and Metabolic Profiling of Green and Red Mizuna (Brassica rapa L. var. japonica)

by Chang Ha Park, Sun Ju Bong, Chan Ju Lim, Jae Kwang Kim and Sang Un Park

Foods 2020, 9(8), 1079; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods9081079 - 8 Aug 2020

Cited by 24 | Viewed by 4507

Abstract

Mizuna (Brassica rapa L. var. japonica), a member of the family Brassicaceae, is rich in various health-beneficial phytochemicals, such as glucosinolates, phenolics, and anthocyanins. However, few studies have been conducted on genes associated with metabolic traits in mizuna. Thus, this study [...] Read more.

Mizuna (Brassica rapa L. var. japonica), a member of the family Brassicaceae, is rich in various health-beneficial phytochemicals, such as glucosinolates, phenolics, and anthocyanins. However, few studies have been conducted on genes associated with metabolic traits in mizuna. Thus, this study provides a better insight into the metabolic differences between green and red mizuna via the integration of transcriptome and metabolome analyses. A mizuna RNAseq analysis dataset showed 257 differentially expressed unigenes (DEGs) with a false discovery rate (FDR) of <0.05. These DEGs included the biosynthesis genes of secondary metabolites, such as anthocyanins, glucosinolates, and phenolics. Particularly, the expression of aliphatic glucosinolate biosynthetic genes was higher in the green cultivar. In contrast, the expression of most genes related to indolic glucosinolates, phenylpropanoids, and flavonoids was higher in the red cultivar. Furthermore, the metabolic analysis showed that 14 glucosinolates, 12 anthocyanins, five phenolics, and two organic acids were detected in both cultivars. The anthocyanin levels were higher in red than in green mizuna, while the glucosinolate levels were higher in green than in red mizuna. Consistent with the results of phytochemical analyses, the transcriptome data revealed that the expression levels of the phenylpropanoid and flavonoid biosynthesis genes were significantly higher in red mizuna, while those of the glucosinolate biosynthetic genes were significantly upregulated in green mizuna. A total of 43 metabolites, such as amino acids, carbohydrates, tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle intermediates, organic acids, and amines, was identified and quantified in both cultivars using gas chromatography coupled with time-of-flight mass spectrometry (GC-TOFMS). Among the identified metabolites, sucrose was positively correlated with anthocyanins, as previously reported. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactive/Nutraceutical Compounds in Plant Foods)

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16 pages, 677 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Quantification of Carotenoids, α-Tocopherol, and Ascorbic Acid in Amber, Mulligan, and Laird’s Large Cultivars of New Zealand Tamarillos (Solanum betaceum Cav.)

by Tung Thanh Diep, Chris Pook, Elaine C. Rush and Michelle Ji Yeon Yoo

Foods 2020, 9(6), 769; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods9060769 - 11 Jun 2020

Cited by 25 | Viewed by 4211

Abstract

Amber (yellow), Laird’s Large (red) and Mulligan (purple–red) cultivars of New Zealand tamarillo fruit were separated into pulp (endo- and mesocarp) and peel (exocarp), and analyzed by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry/mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) for carotenoids, α-tocopherol and ascorbic acid contents. Fresh Mulligan pulp had [...] Read more.

Amber (yellow), Laird’s Large (red) and Mulligan (purple–red) cultivars of New Zealand tamarillo fruit were separated into pulp (endo- and mesocarp) and peel (exocarp), and analyzed by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry/mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) for carotenoids, α-tocopherol and ascorbic acid contents. Fresh Mulligan pulp had the highest content of β-carotene (0.9 mg/100 g), α-tocopherol (1.9 mg/100 g), and ascorbic acid (28 mg/100 g). Higher concentrations of β-carotene and ascorbic acid, and lower concentrations of α-tocopherol were detected in pulps compared with peels. Compared with standard serves of other fruit, tamarillo had the highest β-carotene (9–20% RDI (recommended dietary intake)/serve), high ascorbic acid (67–75% RDI/serve), and α-tocopherol (16–23% adequate intake/serve). All cultivars had diverse carotenoid profiles dominated by provitamin A carotenoids (β-carotene and β-cryptoxanthin) and xanthophyll carotenoids (lutein; zeaxanthin and antheraxanthin). Favorable growth conditions (high light intensity and low temperature) may explain the higher antioxidant vitamin content in New Zealand tamarillos compared to those from other countries. Tamarillo peels may be used as natural food coloring agent to reduce waste and deliver sustainable production. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactive/Nutraceutical Compounds in Plant Foods)

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Review

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28 pages, 1269 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Bioactive Ingredients and Medicinal Values of Grifola frondosa (Maitake)

by Jian-Yong Wu, Ka-Chai Siu and Ping Geng

Foods 2021, 10(1), 95; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods10010095 - 5 Jan 2021

Cited by 93 | Viewed by 15268

Abstract

Grifola frondosa (G. frondosa), generally known as hen-of-the-woods or maitake in Japanese and hui-shu-hua in Chinese, is an edible mushroom with both nutritional and medicinal properties. This review provides an up-to-date and comprehensive summary of research findings on its bioactive constituents, [...] Read more.

Grifola frondosa (G. frondosa), generally known as hen-of-the-woods or maitake in Japanese and hui-shu-hua in Chinese, is an edible mushroom with both nutritional and medicinal properties. This review provides an up-to-date and comprehensive summary of research findings on its bioactive constituents, potential health benefits and major structural characteristics. Since the discovery of the D-fraction more than three decades ago, many other polysaccharides, including β-glucans and heteroglycans, have been extracted from the G. frondosa fruiting body and fungal mycelium, which have shown significant antitumor and immunomodulatory activities. Another class of bioactive macromolecules in G. frondosa is composed of proteins and glycoproteins, which have shown antitumor, immunomodulation, antioxidant and other activities. A number of small organic molecules such as sterols and phenolic compounds have also been isolated from the fungus and have shown various bioactivities. It can be concluded that the G. frondosa mushroom provides a diverse array of bioactive molecules that are potentially valuable for nutraceutical and pharmaceutical applications. More investigation is needed to establish the structure–bioactivity relationship of G. frondosa and to elucidate the mechanisms of action behind its various bioactive and pharmacological effects. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactive/Nutraceutical Compounds in Plant Foods)

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