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Plants
Special Issues
Plant-Based Foods and By-Products
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Plant-Based Foods and By-Products

A special issue of Plants (ISSN 2223-7747). This special issue belongs to the section "Plant Nutrition".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (20 March 2026) | Viewed by 13541

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Adriano Costa de Camargo

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Nutrition and Food Technology Institute, University of Chile, Santiago 7830490, Chile
Interests: natural antioxidants; bioactive compounds; functional foods; food processing and preservation; valorization of agro-industrial by-products
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Raquel Bridi

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Facultad de Ciencias Químicas y Farmacéuticas, Universidad de Chile, Santiago 8380000, Chile
Interests: natural products; bioactive compounds; secondary metabolites; phytochemistry; medicinal plants; bee products; phenolic compounds; antioxidants; bioaccessibility
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Prof. Dr. Paula Porrelli Moreira Da Silva

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Food Science and Technology, “Luiz de Queiroz” College of Agriculture, University of Sao Paulo, Pádua Dias Av. 11, Piracicaba 13418-900, SP, Brazil
Interests: science and technology of plant-based food products; postharvest and preservation technologies for fruits and vegetables; sensory analysis; statistical analysis

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The global shift towards sustainable and plant-based foods is reshaping the agri-food sector. Moreover, the production of plant-based foods also generates significant by-products, which, if properly valorized, can be transformed into valuable resources.

The Special Issue “Plant-Based Foods and By-Products” will focus on exploring the latest research and innovations in plant-based foods, as well as their by-products. We aim to highlight cutting-edge technologies and green chemistry approaches that can recover valuable compounds, improve resource efficiency, and contribute to the sustainability of food systems. Topics may include, but are not limited to, the nutritional composition and health benefits of plant-based foods; the development of novel plant-based food products; sustainable processing technologies for plant-based foods; and innovative ways to utilize plant-based by-products in food, agriculture, and industry.

Dr. Adriano Costa de Camargo
Dr. Raquel Bridi
Dr. Paula Porrelli Moreira da Silva
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 250 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for assessment.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Plants is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2700 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • plant-based foods
  • food waste
  • food by-product
  • food nutrition
  • vegetables
  • fruits

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Published Papers (6 papers)

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Research

Jump to: Review

25 pages, 8615 KB  
Article
Valorization of Bayberry (Morella rubra) Leaf By-Products: Impact of Growth Stage and Drying Method on Phytochemical Profile and Potential as Functional Food Ingredients
by Yoko Tsurunaga, Tomoyoshi Hara, Yasuo Oowatari, Masatomo Makino, Junko Kasuga and Shingo Matsumoto
Plants 2026, 15(6), 945; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15060945 - 19 Mar 2026
Viewed by 576
Abstract
Bayberry (Morella rubra Lour.; syn. Myrica rubra (Lour.) Siebold & Zucc.) leaves are rich in bioactive compounds but remain underutilized. This study investigated the optimal harvest stage and processing methods to develop high-quality functional powder. We first compared three growth stages: red [...] Read more.
Bayberry (Morella rubra Lour.; syn. Myrica rubra (Lour.) Siebold & Zucc.) leaves are rich in bioactive compounds but remain underutilized. This study investigated the optimal harvest stage and processing methods to develop high-quality functional powder. We first compared three growth stages: red buds (RB), new leaves (NL), and old leaves (OL). RB exhibited the highest antioxidant capacity and unique volatile profile; however, NL was selected for processing optimization due to the balance between quality and biomass availability. Subsequently, NL was subjected to freeze-drying (FD), mechanical drying (MD), steaming followed by MD (S-MD), and shade drying (SD). Results showed that FD preserved the vibrant green color, glandular trichome structure, ascorbic acid, and fresh volatiles (monoterpenes). Conversely, thermal drying (MD and S-MD) disrupted cellular barriers, which facilitated the extraction of minerals and robust polyphenols like myricitrin, yielding the highest extraction of flavonoids and corresponding antioxidant activity, measured by hydrophilic oxygen radical absorbance capacity (H-ORAC), in hot water extracts than FD. SD significantly degraded quality due to prolonged enzymatic oxidation. While FD is ideal for preserving aesthetics and heat-sensitive nutrients, low-cost MD and S-MD are recommended for producing antioxidant-rich powders for functional food applications where extraction efficiency is prioritized. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant-Based Foods and By-Products)
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15 pages, 867 KB  
Article
In Vivo Assessment of the Photoprotective Potential of Underutilized Carob Fractions by Using Caenorhabditis elegans
by Héctor Gómez-Llorente, Samuel Furones, Noelia Castillejo, Sara Tortajada, Samuel Verdú, Raúl Grau, Édgar Pérez-Esteve and José M. Barat
Plants 2025, 14(21), 3257; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14213257 - 24 Oct 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 991
Abstract
The revalorization of agro-industrial by-products is a key strategy for promoting sustainability and the circular economy. This study assessed the photoprotective potential of underutilized carob (Ceratonia siliqua L.) fractions, including unripe and mature pods, leaves, and seed tissues, through chemical characterization, in [...] Read more.
The revalorization of agro-industrial by-products is a key strategy for promoting sustainability and the circular economy. This study assessed the photoprotective potential of underutilized carob (Ceratonia siliqua L.) fractions, including unripe and mature pods, leaves, and seed tissues, through chemical characterization, in vitro assays, and in vivo validation. Extracts showed high polyphenol contents (up to 4.8 g GAE/100 g) and strong antioxidant activity (up to 45 g TE/100 g). Photoprotective properties were confirmed by a solar protection factor of up to 17 and erythema transmission values of 3–6, indicating efficient UV absorption and anti-inflammatory potential, which together support overall skin protection. To validate these effects under physiological conditions, Caenorhabditis elegans was used as an in vivo model under three exposure modalities: complete exposure (contact and ingestion), the barrier effect (UV shielding by the medium), and the physiological effect (systemic protection after ingestion). Seed episperm and unripe pods showed the highest efficacy. Notably, complete exposure reduced UV-induced lethality from 98% to below 50%, mainly due to the barrier effect. This is the first report demonstrating the photoprotective activity of carob by-products in C. elegans, supporting their potential as natural ingredients for cosmetic and nutraceutical applications, and contributing to the sustainable revalorization of local agricultural residues. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant-Based Foods and By-Products)
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28 pages, 3187 KB  
Article
The Journey of Mango: How the Shipping Systems Affect Fruit Quality, Consumer Acceptance, and Environmental Impact
by Cosimo Taiti, Bruno Bighignoli, Giulia Mozzo, Elettra Marone, Elisa Masi, Diego Comparini and Edgardo Giordani
Plants 2025, 14(21), 3241; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14213241 - 22 Oct 2025
Viewed by 2439
Abstract
Mango (Mangifera indica L.) is a popular tropical fruit enjoyed worldwide, with Europe being a significant importer of this fruit. Its climacteric nature and short shelf-life pose challenges for maintaining quality, while emissions from transportation threaten the sustainability of the supply chain. [...] Read more.
Mango (Mangifera indica L.) is a popular tropical fruit enjoyed worldwide, with Europe being a significant importer of this fruit. Its climacteric nature and short shelf-life pose challenges for maintaining quality, while emissions from transportation threaten the sustainability of the supply chain. This highlights the importance of low-impact logistics in maintaining fruit quality. This study aimed to evaluate the quality of fresh mangoes in Italy by comparing the different shipping systems (air, sea, and road) for seven cultivars sourced from seven countries. Quality assessment included pomological analysis, PTR-ToF-MS for volatile profiling (n = 11 cultivars × 2 years × 3 replicates), and consumer sensory analysis (n = 65 for untrained panellists in 1 year, n = 8 for trained panellists over 2 years). Results indicated that air and truck transport better preserved fruit quality compared to sea freight, primarily due to shorter transit times, which allowed for harvesting at more advanced ripeness stages. The combination of PTR-ToF-MS and PLS-DA effectively differentiated samples based on the method of transport, showcasing its potential as a quick quality monitoring tool. Mangoes transported by air showed significantly higher levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), a 29% greater total soluble solids (TSSs) content, and a 44% lower acidity (TA). Sensorial tests indicated that consumers preferred these mangoes. However, air transport resulted in 30 times higher CO2 emissions per kg of fruit compared to sea freight (~642,117 CO2e (kg) vs. ~19,132 CO2e (kg)), highlighting a critical dilemma between sustainability and quality. These findings provide a framework for developing hybrid logistics strategies that strike a balance between preserving quality and environmental responsibility. Additionally, they support the development of European mango cultivation, which can optimise harvest timing, reduce emissions, and enhance fruit quality. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant-Based Foods and By-Products)
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19 pages, 3620 KB  
Article
Inhibitory Effects of Aqueous and Hydroalcoholic Extracts from Jatobá Coat (Hymenaea courbaril L.) on Pancreatic Amylase and Starch Absorption
by Ana Caroline Polo, Thaís Marques Uber, Gustavo Henrique Souza, Rúbia Carvalho Gomes Corrêa, José Rivaldo dos Santos Filho, Anacharis Babeto de Sá-Nakanishi, Flávio Augusto Vicente Seixas, Adelar Bracht and Rosane Marina Peralta
Plants 2025, 14(7), 1133; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14071133 - 5 Apr 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1744
Abstract
Jatobá (Hymenaea courbaril) is a native tree abundant in Brazil. The fruit coat is an industrial by-product of jatobá flour processing, typically discarded. Presently, within the circular bioeconomy concept, there are efforts underway that aim at finding economically viable applications for [...] Read more.
Jatobá (Hymenaea courbaril) is a native tree abundant in Brazil. The fruit coat is an industrial by-product of jatobá flour processing, typically discarded. Presently, within the circular bioeconomy concept, there are efforts underway that aim at finding economically viable applications for the bio-residues of jatobá. Within this context, the present work attempts to find possible applications for the jatobá coat in glycemic control through inhibition of α-amylase activity. Aqueous and hydroethanolic extracts were used. In vitro experiments included detailed kinetic studies with an α-amylase catalyzed reaction. Starch absorption in vivo was assessed by means of a starch tolerance test in mice. Both extracts inhibited α-amylase. The IC50 values for the aqueous and hydroalcoholic extracts were 81.98 ± 3.53 µg/mL and 51.06 ± 0.42 µg/mL, respectively. The inhibition was of the non-competitive type. Both extracts reduced hyperglycemia caused by starch administration in mice, the aqueous extract being effective over a larger dose range. This action can be attributed to the α-amylase inhibition. In silico studies suggested that procyanidin dimers, taxifolin 7-O-rhamnoside, and quercetin 7-rhamnoside contribute, but several other not-yet-identified substances may be involved. The findings suggest that aqueous and hydroalcoholic extracts from jatobá coat warrant further investigations as potential modulators of glycemia following starch ingestion. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant-Based Foods and By-Products)
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Review

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26 pages, 1825 KB  
Review
Pathways in Agro-Industrial Waste Upcycling: A Review of Sustainable Textile Innovations and Economic Perspectives
by Marina Proença Dantas, Carlos Rafael Silva de Oliveira, Natália Ueda Yamaguchi, Afonso Henrique da Silva Júnior, Rosane Marina Peralta, Adelar Bracht and Rúbia Carvalho Gomes Corrêa
Plants 2025, 14(23), 3574; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14233574 - 22 Nov 2025
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2336
Abstract
The growing concern over the environmental impacts caused by plant agriwaste has intensified the search for sustainable alternatives in manufacturing processes. This review explores the valorization of agro-industrial residues, such as those derived from banana, coconut, and pineapple, for example. It highlights their [...] Read more.
The growing concern over the environmental impacts caused by plant agriwaste has intensified the search for sustainable alternatives in manufacturing processes. This review explores the valorization of agro-industrial residues, such as those derived from banana, coconut, and pineapple, for example. It highlights their potential to be converted into value-added products, particularly within the textile sectors. Emphasis is given to the environmental and economic benefits of reusing biomass rich in fibers and bioactive compounds while discussing key technological, regulatory, and logistical barriers that still limit large-scale applications. In parallel, it presents recent advances in processing technologies, such as biocomposites and biochar, and the integration of circular economy principles to promote resource efficiency and waste reduction. The analysis also underscores the importance of public policies and financial incentives to drive innovation and ensure the viability of sustainable practices in industrial contexts. The article proposes an ideal circular production flow model that contrasts current linear practices with a regenerative, bio-based alternative. By mapping current challenges and future perspectives, this review expects to contribute to the debate on environmental responsibility, green technologies, and the economic potential of plant residue reuse in manufacturing chains. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant-Based Foods and By-Products)
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26 pages, 1614 KB  
Review
The Role of LC-MS in Profiling Bioactive Compounds from Plant Waste for Cosmetic Applications: A General Overview
by Gilda D’Urso, Alessandra Capuano, Francesca Fantasma, Maria Giovanna Chini, Vincenzo De Felice, Gabriella Saviano, Gianluigi Lauro, Agostino Casapullo, Giuseppe Bifulco and Maria Iorizzi
Plants 2025, 14(15), 2284; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14152284 - 24 Jul 2025
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 4528
Abstract
The agro-industrial sector produces large amounts of by-products that have a high environmental impact, so it has become essential to recover food waste at all levels. This is because it often contains bioactive molecules that can be a valuable source of new products [...] Read more.
The agro-industrial sector produces large amounts of by-products that have a high environmental impact, so it has become essential to recover food waste at all levels. This is because it often contains bioactive molecules that can be a valuable source of new products such as animal feed, biopolymers, or products for human use, (e.g., cosmetics and nutraceuticals) due to its antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties. Advanced analytical methodologies such as liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (LC-MS) are crucial for the characterisation of bioactive chemicals in these waste materials. LC-MS enables both targeted and untargeted metabolomic approaches, facilitating the identification and quantification of a wide range of secondary metabolites, including polyphenols, flavonoids, alkaloids, and terpenoids. The choice of extraction methodology is essential for the precise identification and quantification of these metabolites. This study provides an overview of LC-MS as an effective tool for analysing complex extracts derived from plant waste, discussing both methodological aspects and typical bioactive metabolites identified, and offering examples of their potential applications in cosmeceutics. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant-Based Foods and By-Products)
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