Search Results (755)

Carotenoids are a diverse group of isoprenoid compounds found in nature. As natural pigments and bioactive compounds, carotenoids are used in various industries as functional additives. The increasing knowledge about the disadvantages of synthetic carotenoid production has drawn attention to the potential of carotenogenic yeasts and the use of food industry waste. This study analyzed the potential of post-fermentation waste from fermented quinoa production as a culture medium. For this purpose, reference yeast strains and strains isolated from various environments were used. The C:N ratio in the waste used was determined, and then the yeast was cultured in waste medium with the isolated strains and in a mixed culture with L. plantarum, using three culture variants. In subsequent stages, carotenoid powder was produced, and the carotenoid content, antioxidant capacity, and FTIR spectrum distribution were determined. The studies confirmed the possibility of using plant ferments as culture media. The extraction of powder enabled the concentration of carotenoids, obtaining the highest total fraction of carotenoids (TFC) for strains R-1 (2.85 mg/g d.w.) and R-2 (3.05 mg/g d.w.). FTIR spectra confirmed the presence of functional groups found in β-carotene standards in the resulting powders. At the same time, the obtained formulate exhibited bioactive properties by binding DPPH oxygen free radicals at a level of 66.80–78.05%. Full article

This research aimed to assess the effect of chitosan nanoparticles (ChNPs) during in vitro shoot proliferation of vanilla using temporary immersion bioreactors (TIB). TIB culture is a biotechnological process that uses semiautomated containers for the production of explants exposed in liquid culture medium. Concentrations of control, 25, 50, 100, 200, and 400 mg/L ChNPs were evaluated in Murashige and Skoog culture medium. Morphological characterization of ChNPs was performed using scanning electron microscopy. At 60 days of culture, survival (%), development variables, photosynthetic pigment content, lipid peroxidation expressed in malondialdehyde, total phenolic content (TPC), hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) content, and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) expressed in trolox equivalents were evaluated. The data were analyzed with analysis of variance, with a Tukey test (p ≤ 0.05) using SPSS statistics software, version 29. The results revealed that the greatest survival (%) was obtained at concentrations of control, 25, and 50 mg/L ChNPs, while the lowest survival (%) was observed at concentrations of 400 mg/L ChNPs. Growth stimulation was found, as well as an increase in chlorophyll and β-carotene at concentrations of 25 and 50 mg/L ChNPs. The level of H₂O₂ increased at 25 and 50 mg/L ChNPs. Lipid peroxidation showed no differences among treatments. TPC increased at 100 and 200 mg/L ChNPs, while TAC increased at 200 and 400 mg/L ChNPs. In conclusion, the administration of ChNPs at low concentrations can stimulate growth, while at high concentrations they can inhibit it, a response known as hormesis or hormetic effect. Full article

Opportunities to capture anticipated niche markets for diverse populations continue to rise. Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.), considered a high-value crop, is rich in nutritional and medicinal properties; however, fresh okra is highly perishable. This study examined the effects of thermal pre-treatments and drying processes in combination on the nutritional quality of dried okra. The experiment consisted of two thermal treatments (steam-blanched and hot water-blanched, and the control) and three drying treatments (freeze-dried, hot air-dried, and infrared-dried). Okra was grown in black plastic mulch, harvested twice per week, and processed three times throughout the growing season. The study analyzed moisture content, water activity, phytonutrients, ascorbic acid, β-carotene, and antioxidant activities. No significant differences were observed in moisture content and water activity among the treatments. Significant differences were observed among treatments and harvest time for total phenolic and flavonoid contents and antioxidant activity. Notable differences in β-carotene content were observed across all treatments. Based on the findings, the steam-blanched freeze-dried treatment was the most effective preservation technique for maintaining the nutritional and functional quality of dried okra. Hot water-blanching, hot air-drying, and infrared-drying were the least effective for the development of a high-value, nutrient-dense dried okra value-added product. Full article

Edible pumpkin flowers represent a promising but still underutilized source of nutrients and bioactive compounds. Despite their traditional culinary use in various regions of the world, comprehensive studies comparing the nutritional and chemical composition of flowers from different Cucurbita species are limited. This study conducted a detailed chemical analysis of flowers from five pumpkin species: Cucurbita maxima (giant pumpkin), C. pepo (summer squash), C. moschata (butternut squash), C. ficifolia (fig-leaf gourd), and C. argyrosperma (cushaw squash). The analyses included the determination of basic nutritional components, amino acids, minerals, vitamins, and fatty acid profiles using standard analytical methods (AOAC, ISO, and HPLC). Significant interspecific differences were observed. The flowers of butternut squash exhibited the highest protein and fat contents, while the flowers of cushaw squash contained the largest amounts of dietary fiber and total sugars. Flowers of giant pumpkin were distinguished by their elevated contents of vitamin C and β-carotene. Amino acid analysis revealed a rich protein profile, particularly in cushaw squash, characterized by high lysine and cysteine levels, whereas fig-leaf gourd contained the greatest amounts of leucine and isoleucine. The fatty acid composition was dominated by oleic, stearic, and myristic acids, while a considerable proportion of linoleic acid (PUFA) indicated potential health benefits, such as anti-inflammatory effects. Mineral analysis showed that giant pumpkin was richest in potassium, summer squash in zinc, and butternut squash in calcium and sodium. The findings confirm that pumpkin flowers are a valuable source of nutrients and bioactive compounds. Their composition highlights their potential as functional food ingredients and as raw materials for use in the dietary, food, and pharmaceutical industries. Further studies on bioavailability and antioxidant capacity are recommended to better define their nutritional and functional value. Full article

Tropaeolum majus L. is a popular ornamental plant. All parts of T. majus plant (flowers, leaves, and seeds) are edible and are appreciated for their pungent taste, although their chemical composition varies. T. majus is known for its many health benefits. It is a source of trace elements and bioactive compounds that are easily absorbed by the human body. The flowers of T. majus contain flavonoids from the flavone and flavonol groups, as well as their glycosides, which exhibit antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral activity. They also inhibit the activity of certain enzymes. Among the flavonoids, the flowers and leaves of T. majus contain derivatives of kaempferol and quercetin. Flavonoids also include anthocyanins, which are responsible for the color of T. majus flowers. In red flowers, delphinidin predominates; in orange flowers, pelargonidin; and in yellow flowers, pelargonidin and delphinidin are present in similar amounts. In the flowers of T. majus, seven carotenoids have been identified: violaxanthin, antheraxanthin, lutein, zeaxanthin, α, β and γ-carotene. In the leaves, however, lutein, violaxanthin, β-carotene and neoxanthin were detected. In T. majus, the presence of two glucosinolates has been reported: glucotropaeolin and sinalbin. The flowers and leaves of T. majus also contain both macroelements (N, P, K, Ca, Mg, Na) and microelements (Fe, Mn, Cu, Zn, Mo), and essential oils which have anti-cancer, antibacterial, and antiviral properties. The quality and flowering of T. majus are enhanced by fungi of the Trichoderma genus, which is important both ecologically and in terms of increasing the yield of raw material extracted from the plant. T. aureoviride, T. hamatum, and T. harzianum stimulated the flowering of the T. majus ‘Spitfire’. The plants treated with T. harzianum after being planted in pots flowered the most abundantly. Trichoderma spp. caused the plants to grow more intensively, producing longer and more leafy shoots with a greater number of offshoots. Trichoderma spp. stimulated the uptake of macronutrients, except for P. In the case of Ca and Na, this phenomenon was only observed in plants treated with T. aureoviride and T. hamatum, and for Mg, only when T. hamatum was applied to sown seeds. As for the developed root systems, as far as the micronutrients are concerned, Trichoderma spp. stimulated the uptake of Zn and Mn. Additionally, there was a higher Fe content in the plants treated with T. harzianum on both dates and T. aureoviride after planting the plants in pots. Full article

Cerrado fruits are rich sources of bioactive compounds with antioxidant and immunomodulatory properties. However, it remains unclear whether the complexes of non-conventional starch with extracts from these fruits can modulate oxidative stress in human cells, under diabetic conditions. This study evaluated the effects of lobeira (Solanum lycocarpum) starch complexed with hydrophilic and lipophilic extracts of mirindiba (Buchenavia tomentosa) on redox parameters in mononuclear cells from normoglycemic and diabetic individuals. The extracts showed high phenolic (1362.70 mg gallic acid equivalent (GAE)/100 g) and carotenoid content (7.07 mg β-carotene/100 g) and strong antioxidant capacity (58.42–140.19 μmol Trolox/g by FRAP and DPPH). Structural analyses (Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM)) confirmed complexation via hydrogen bonding and inclusion-type interactions, which partially modified the crystalline order of starch. The complexes exhibited high biocompatibility (>97% cell viability) and adaptively modulated oxidative and antioxidant responses under different metabolic and infectious conditions. Normoglycemic cells showed enhanced redox balance, with moderate superoxide generation and higher SOD activity, while cells from diabetic individuals displayed elevated oxidative stress and reduced SOD induction upon treatment. Under the E. coli challenge, the complexes modulated redox equilibrium through compensatory antioxidant responses. These findings position lobeira starch–mirindiba extract complexes as promising dietary immunomodulators against oxidative stress in metabolic and infectious contexts. Full article

Growing concern about the environmental impact of traditional packaging has driven the development of biodegradable edible films made from natural and functional biopolymers. Various by-products generated during harvesting can be subjected to valorization. Potato, a tuber with high starch content, and carrot, rich in β-carotene, represent important sources of polymeric matrix and bioactive compounds, respectively. Similarly, the use of biodegradable plasticizers such as pectin and polysaccharides derived from nopal mucilage is a viable alternative. This study assessed the physical and chemical properties of edible films composed of potato starch (PS), cactus mucilage (NM), carrot extract (CJ), citrus pectin (P), and glycerin (G). The films were produced by means of casting, with three mixtures prepared that had different proportions of CJ, P, and PS. The experiments were adjusted to a simple mixture design, and the data were analyzed in triplicate, using Pareto and Tukey diagrams at 5% significance. Results showed that adding CJ (between 5 to 6%), P (between 42 to 44%) and PS (between 43 to 45%) significantly affects all of the evaluated physical and chemical properties, resulting in films with luminosity values greater than 88.65, opacity ranging from 0.20 to 0.54 abs/mm, β-carotene content up to 26.11 μg/100 g, acidity between 0.22 and 0.31% and high solubility with a significant difference between treatments (p-value < 0.05) and low water activity (around of 0.47) (p-value > 0.05). These characteristics provide tensile strength up to 5.7 MPa and a suitable permeability of 1.6 × 10⁻² g·mm/h·m²·Pa (p-value < 0.05), which ensures low diffusivity through the film. Similarly, increasing the CJ addition enables the functional groups of the other components to interact. Using carrot extract and potato starch is a promising approach for producing edible films with good functional qualities but with high permeability. Full article

This study aimed to develop a sustainable approach for isolating bioactive lipophilic components from Taraxacum officinale flowers using supercritical carbon dioxide extraction (SFE-CO₂) and to assess the effect of adding 5% ethanol (EtOH) as a co-solvent on extraction yield, in vitro antioxidant capacity in CUPRAC and ABTS assays (TEAC_CUPRAC and TEAC_ABTS), total phenolic (TPC) and flavonoid (TFC) content, β-carotene concentration, and photoprotective potential, expressed as the sun protection factor (SPF). SFE-CO₂ at 35 MPa and 40 °C resulted in 50% of the total yield within 15 min, with equilibrium reached after 120 min (final yield of 4.6 g/100 g flowers). Co-solvent addition increased yield by ~50% and shortened extraction time. The EtOH-modified extract exhibited markedly higher antioxidant activity, with a 2-fold increase in TEAC_CUPRAC (167 mg TE/g E), an 11-fold increase in TEAC_ABTS (194 mg TE/g E), and a 3-fold increase in TPC (91 mg GAE/g E), along with improved recovery of flavonoids and β-carotene. Volatile profiling revealed monoterpenoids, aldehydes, and esters as dominant groups, with carvone (14.0–16.5%) and dill ether (4.2–5.8%) as major contributors to aroma. The SFE-CO₂ + 5% EtOH extract achieved the highest SPF value (49.5 at 1 mg/mL; SPF > 6 at >0.1 mg/mL), indicating strong photoprotective potential and potential suitability for natural antioxidant and cosmetic applications. Full article

Agricultural by-products, such as tomato peels and sugar beet leaves, represent valuable sources of bioactive compounds that can be efficiently recovered using advanced extraction techniques. This study investigated the efficiency of high-voltage electrical discharge (HVED) extraction of bioactive compounds and antioxidant properties from tomato peel (TP) and sugar beet leaves (SBLs). The target compounds were total phenolic content (TPC), lycopene, β-carotene, and chlorophylls. HVED treatments of 1, 3, and 5 min were applied using 30% and 50% methanolic solutions. A 5 min treatment enhanced the extraction of lycopene (2.04 mg/100 mL) and β-carotene (1.14 mg/100 mL) in the 50% methanolic solution, while the shorter 3 min treatments increased TPC (0.117 mg GAE/mL in TP; 0.280 mg GAE/mL in SBLs) and chlorophyll content (25.47 mg/100 mL). For both TP and SBLs, the more concentrated methanolic solvent (50%) was more efficient in extracting bioactive components than the 30% solution. Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy confirmed increases in antioxidant activity in all treated samples, with the highest values of 45.27% for TP and 53.16% for SBLs. As a direct and sensitive technique for detecting free-radical scavenging, EPR proved highly suitable for evaluating the impact of HVED treatments. Overall, HVED demonstrated strong potential as a green and effective method for enhancing the recovery of valuable bioactives and antioxidant properties from tomato and sugar beet by-products. Full article

Contemporary seed gene bank management emphasizes the importance of understanding seed storage behaviour to maximize the preservation of genetic material. In this context, the patterns of naturally occurring ageing-related changes in physiological and biochemical markers were evaluated by comparing the performance of freshly regenerated seed samples (control) to samples kept under cold storage (CS) for 37 years (original, CS1 samples) and five years (CS2 samples). A significant decline in seed viability and physiological quality—initial seedling development—was directly associated with the duration of cold storage, leading to a marked reduction in seedling vigour index (SVI) performance. Key biochemical markers influencing early seedling growth and vigour included total protein, the glutelins protein fraction, fructose, sucrose, both insoluble-bound and soluble-free phenolics—including phenolic acids, and β-carotene. The CS2 samples, which experienced severe water deficit during the post-zygotic phase, exhibited increased sucrose, insoluble-bound p-coumaric acid (p-CouA), insoluble-bound ferulic acid (FA), and α-tocopherol contents. Conversely, glutelins and glucose contents decreased, while genotype-specific variations were observed in albumins, globulins, fructose, maltose, insoluble-bound caffeic acid, and soluble-free p-CouA, as well as in β+γ- and δ-tocopherol contents. Given the consistent pattern of natural ageing-related changes, β-carotene, lutein+zeaxanthin, insoluble-bound FA, and particularly soluble-free FA emerge as relevant biomarkers for improved monitoring of ageing processes under ex situ conservation. Full article

Recent research has focused on yogurts supplemented with plant-derived and apiculture ingredients to enhance functional properties. This study evaluates the symbiotic potential of provitamin A carotenoids, dietary fiber, and oligosaccharides from carrots, mangoes, and honeydew honey in probiotic-enriched bioyogurt. Formulations were assessed during fermentation (45 °C ± 1 °C for 5 h) and refrigerated storage (4 °C ± 1 °C for 21 days). Probiotic and starter culture viability was determined using pour-plate counts on MRS agar. Physicochemical parameters including pH, titratable acidity, total soluble solids, water-holding capacity, and antioxidant metrics (total phenolics and carotenoids) were analyzed. After 21 days of storage, the probiotic culture (VEGE 092) reached 10.26 log CFU/mL and the starter culture (YOFLEX) achieved 8.66 log CFU/mL, maintaining therapeutic thresholds. Total carotenoid content increased significantly (p < 0.05) from 2.15 to 3.96 µg β-carotene/g, indicating synergistic interactions between lactic acid bacteria and plant-derived bioactive compounds. These findings demonstrate that combining plant-derived carotenoids, prebiotic fibers, and honeydew oligosaccharides effectively maintains probiotic viability and enhances antioxidant stability throughout fermentation and refrigerated storage, supporting the development of functional dairy products with improved nutritional profiles. Full article

This study aimed to investigate the behavior and fermentation performance of Lactobacillus in peach purees and juice prepared using different pretreatments, and characterized the nutrition and flavor profiles of various fermented peach samples by using HPLC, HS-SPME-GC/MS and sensory evaluation. The findings showed that fermented peach products made from different raw material methods displayed distinct nutritional and sensory properties. The fermented CWP (crushing into puree with peel) had the highest total phenol content (145.20 μg/mL) and antioxidant activity (96.19 μg VC/mL), and fermented COP (crushing into puree without peel) was rich in carotenoids (1575.33 μg/100 mL), with β-carotene (1134.89 μg/100 mL) being the characteristic bioactive compound in this group. Moreover, fermented CWP and COP purees were also notable for their elevated aroma compounds, with total volatile organic compounds increasing 2.35 and 3.29 times after fermentation, respectively. However, fermented SWP juice (squeezing juice with peel) was primarily distinguished by polyphenol biotransformation, and had a similar polyphenol composition to the CWP group. These findings evidenced the advantages and characteristics of different peach matrices as raw materials for plant-based fermentation beverages, and offer strategies for developing functional probiotic fermented drinks. Full article

Increased levels of pro-vitamin A carotenoids in cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) roots is a valuable contribution toward reducing widely spread vitamin A deficiency in vulnerable human populations worldwide. This study aimed to evaluate five yellow-fleshed cassava genotypes with higher β-carotene contents for fresh consumption in the Cauca River Valley and the Pacific regions of Colombia. Agronomic performance, productivity, and culinary quality were assessed across four locations. The results showed that two yellow-fleshed genotypes had adequate performance in the subregions. SM3677-74 was identified for the Cauca River Valley subregion, and GM3650-51 for the Pacific subregion. These genotypes showed competitive performance compared to the regional checks (often outperforming them) and showed good adaptability to the target environments. The excellent productivity and enhanced nutritional quality (>5 µg/g β-carotene and >11 µg/g total carotenes) of these genotypes make them suitable for potential for release as new varieties in those specific subregions. The experimental genotypes demonstrated acceptable quality for consumption, with low HCN content (less than 50 µg/g) and cooking time was <30 min. The successful adaptation and superiority of improved cassava genotypes ensure the future availability of carotenes-enhanced cassava varieties the Pacific and Andean Regions in Colombia. Full article

Hemp (Cannabis sativa) seed oil is recognized as a valuable oil due to its beneficial fatty acid profile, which includes a favorable balance of omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids, making it highly desirable for edible and bioproduct applications. Crude hempseed oil contains high concentrations of chlorophyll, carotenoids, and other amphiphilic compounds that can negatively affect its appearance, stability, and downstream processing. Therefore, bleaching is a crucial step in removing these pigments after the degumming and neutralization processes. To optimize the bleaching process, a Box–Behnken response surface methodology was employed, focusing on three factors: time (15, 30, 45 min), temperature (100, 120, 140 °C), and bleaching earth concentration (2.5, 5, and 7.5% w/w). The key response variables were β-carotene, chlorophyll content, and antioxidant activity. For chlorophyll removal, bleaching earth concentration accounted for 83.82% and 81.84% of the variation in the solvent-extracted and mechanically extracted oils, respectively. For β-carotene, the bleaching earth concentration accounted for over 93% of the variation in both types of oil. The optimal bleaching earth concentrations were determined to be 4.87% and 5.36% for the solvent-extracted and mechanically extracted oils, respectively, to achieve the target chlorophyll level of ≤150 ppb. Mechanically extracted oil had lower antioxidant activity after bleaching compared to solvent-extracted oil. The addition of bleaching earth, up to 5%, removed polar antioxidants, further lowering the oil’s antioxidant capacity. These findings suggest that optimizing bleaching conditions can significantly affect both pigment removal and the antioxidant profile of the final product. Full article

Global warming has intensified water scarcity, while excessive fertilizer use has caused soil acidification and limited nutrient availability. This study investigated the effects of biochar and chitosan xerogel on water spinach (Ipomoea aquatica Forsk.) growth under water- and fertilizer-deficient conditions. Individually, either biochar or chitosan xerogel provided limited improvement. However, the combined application of 4% biochar and 0.8% chitosan xerogel significantly restored plant performance. Under water deficiency, fresh, stem, and leaf weights increased by 1.2-, 1.3-, and 1.7-fold, while plant height and stem diameter rose by 1.2- and 1.3-fold. Similar improvements were observed under fertilizer deficiency, with up to 1.3-fold, 2.0-fold, and 1.4-fold increases in fresh, stem and leaf weight. Chlorophyll and β-carotene contents were also enhanced under both stress conditions. Additionally, the dual amendment improved uptake of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), magnesium (Mg), and manganese (Mn), achieving growth comparable to optimal irrigation and fertilization. These findings demonstrate the synergistic potential of biochar and chitosan xerogel to enhance water and nutrient efficiency, supporting sustainable agriculture under resource limitations. Full article