Future Innovation and Challenges in Bioactive Compounds from Plant Foods: Towards Sustainable Health

Dear Colleagues,

Bioactive compounds from plant-based foods are leading a global shift toward more sustainable and health-oriented nutrition as these naturally derived molecules—such as antioxidants, anti-inflammatory agents, and functional phytochemicals—are increasingly recognized for their ability to support health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

However, unlocking their full potential still presents challenges. These include improving eco-friendly extraction methods; exploring new sources such as agro-industrial byproducts, microalgae, and lab-grown foods; and enhancing bioavailability and functional performance. There is also a growing need to clarify their mechanisms of action through advanced biological models.

Looking to the future means addressing today’s most pressing global challenges—like growing populations, shrinking arable land, nutritional disparities, and the urgent need for sustainable food systems—through bold, science-driven innovation.

This Special Issue offers a platform for research that bridges current needs and future directions in this evolving field. We welcome original articles and reviews exploring the extraction, characterization, and functional evaluation of plant-based bioactive compounds, with a focus on sustainability, circular approaches, and emerging applications. Contributions on innovative food production in controlled environments or extreme contexts are also encouraged.

You may choose our Joint Special Issue in Foods.

Dr. Giacomo Fais
Dr. Giorgia Sarais
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

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