Search Results (166)

The ‘Mollar de Elche’ pomegranate cultivar is highly valued for its organoleptic properties, yet it often suffers from inadequate fruit pigmentation, reducing its commercial competitiveness. This study, carried out in a mature commercial orchard located in Spain (Alicante), evaluated the impact of preharvest applications of sorbitol at different concentrations (0, 0.1, 0.5, and 1% in 2023, and 2.5 and 5% in 2024) and three application periods: S1 (nine applications from fruit set), S2 (six applications from seed hardening), and S3 (three applications at the onset of colour change) over two consecutive growing seasons (2023 and 2024). Treatments were applied via foliar spraying from the time of fruit set until the onset of external colour change. The results showed that sorbitol acted as an effective metabolic ‘vector’, significantly increasing fruit weight and total yield, particularly at concentrations of 1 and 5%. Furthermore, sorbitol treatments enhanced fruit firmness by stabilizing cell wall structures and significantly improved exocarp red pigmentation by reducing the hue angle. While the highest doses (1, 2.5, and 5%) enhanced biomass accumulation, they also triggered a potential negative feedback loop in sugar sensing that could interfere with secondary metabolism at excessive thresholds. These findings suggest that preharvest sorbitol applications, particularly at concentrations between 1 and 5% starting from early application period (S1), serve as an effective strategy for improving yield and external pigmentation in ‘Mollar de Elche’ pomegranate fruit. Full article

Plants from the eudicot Celastraceae family are primarily cultivated for ornamental use due to their colourful autumn foliage, and, as such, their chemical composition is rarely investigated. In total, 125 samples from, altogether, 40 shrub, vine and tree species (Catha, Celastrus, Euonymus, Gymnosporia, Maytenus, Parnassia, and Tripterygium) were investigated to confirm tocotrienol dominance in the family, which was observed in the initial screenings. The tocochromanol–tocopherol (T) and tocotrienol (T3) contents ranged from 3.04 to 66.22 mg 100 g⁻¹ dw. Almost all the samples were tocotrienol-dominated (50.1–98.5% of total tocochromanols), except for Parnassia. The two most prevalent compounds were γ-T3 and α-T3. Most Euonymus species’ seeds contained primarily α-T3 (16.2–86.0% of total tocochromanols) and tocopherol (up to 35.0%), while the other species had higher γ-T3 (36.0–87.2%) and tocopherol (up to 29.9%) contents, except the Parnassia samples, which contained primarily γ-T and δ-T. The highest total tocochromanol content was observed in E. scandens, but it was highly variable. The content of α-T3 was less variable than γ-T3 (coefficients of variation of 0.74 and 1.46, respectively). This study shows that tocotrienols are predominant in the Celastraceae family. A streamlined ethanolic extraction protocol was evaluated and deemed suitable for routine screening and, potentially, bioactive extraction. Full article

Background: Obesity-associated inflammation arises from adipose dysfunction and intestinal disturbances, including altered microbiota and short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) metabolism. Beans (Phaseolus vulgaris) are rich in non-digestible carbohydrates and polyphenols, but whether kidney bean varieties differing in seed coat colour exert distinct effects on inflammation in obesity remains unclear. Objective: To determine whether supplementation of an obesogenic high-fat (HF) diet with white or dark red kidney beans modulates gut microbiota, SCFAs, and intestinal, systemic, and neuroinflammatory outcomes. Methods: Male C57Bl/6N mice (n = 12/group) were fed a basal diet (BD; modified AIN-93G), an HF diet (60% kcal from fat), or an HF diet supplemented with 15% cooked white (HF + WK) or dark red kidney beans (HF + DK) for nine weeks. Outcomes included cecal microbiota composition, predicted KEGG pathways with taxon contributors mapped with BURRITO (a tool for linking predicted microbial functions to contributing taxa), and SCFA-related pathways; cecal and fecal SCFA concentrations; colon histomorphometry and expression of gut barrier junction and inflammatory genes; serum cytokines and adipose hormones; and hippocampal inflammatory and barrier genes. Results: Mice consuming bean-supplemented HF diets had higher microbial diversity, enrichment of SCFA-producing taxa (Prevotella, Lactobacillus, Muribaculaceae), and lower obesity-associated genera versus HF alone (Mucispirillum, rc4-4). Bean diets elevated cecal acetate and butyrate concentrations, which aligned with increases in predicted acetate kinase in both bean groups versus HF and BD, and butyrate kinase in HF + DK versus BD. Bean supplementation attenuated HF-induced reduction of goblet cells and systemic interleukin (IL)-10. The HF + DK group had lower colonic tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α and partially attenuated hippocampal IL-6. SCFAs were inversely associated with systemic and neuroinflammatory markers in HF + DK mice. Conclusions: Kidney bean supplementation mitigated HF diet-induced intestinal, systemic, and neuroinflammatory disturbances in male mice, with microbiota and SCFA modulation. Further, dark red beans exerted stronger anti-inflammatory effects, highlighting the role of seed coat colour in bean-mediated obesity outcomes. Full article

This study investigated gluten- and lactose-free cookies enriched with pomegranate seed flour (PSF, 5 and 10% w/w), a sustainable by-product of juice processing. LC-ESI/HRMS/MS analysis of PSF identified 36 bioactive compounds, mainly flavonoids, phenolic acids, hydrolysable tannins, and polar lipids. PSF incorporation significantly affected colour and texture, increasing friability, as evidenced by a reduction in breaking force from 35.37 N in the control cookie to 21.72 N in cookies enriched with 10% PSF, while maintaining good sensory acceptability. Total phenol (≈1.60–1.82 mg GAE/g) and flavonoid contents were only slightly affected by PSF addition; however, antioxidant activity markedly increased, with FRAP values rising from 55.8 to 67.82 μM Fe (II)/g and DPPH IC₅₀ values decreasing from 31.38 to 12.72 μg/mL in the 10% PSF-enriched cookies. The enriched cookies inhibited pancreatic lipase, α-amylase, and α-glucosidase in a clear concentration-dependent manner and showed a reduced predicted glycaemic index (pGI 46.80 vs. 50.08 in the control). Multivariate analysis confirmed a clear dose-dependent effect of PSF on functional, textural, and sensory properties. Overall, pomegranate seed flour proved to be an effective upcycled ingredient for enhancing the functional profile of gluten- and lactose-free bakery products. Further studies using digestion models and in vivo or clinical approaches are needed to clarify the nutritional relevance and health effects of PSF-enriched foods. Full article

The research for crop improvement is a continuous process that enhances plant quality, yield, and ameliorates their adaptability to changing climatic conditions. Chilli is cultivated worldwide as a vegetable, spice, or natural colour additive and is an economically and medicinally important crop. A basic requirement for crop improvement in breeding programmes is the presence of genetic diversity within the crop. Smallholder farmers of chilli usually face challenges in acquiring commercial hybrid seeds because of their high cost and the need for annual purchases. Open-pollinated varieties (OPVs) can serve as a sustainable alternative that provides broader genetic variability, allowing adaptation to local growing conditions, and enabling farmers to save seeds for successive planting season. These characteristics make OPVs economically viable and valuable genetic resources for future chilli cultivation and breeding programmes. This review highlights the potential of OPVs in promoting sustainable chilli cultivation, enhancing genetic diversity, and supporting breeding to develop resilient and economically viable cultivars. Full article

The mezquite “algarroba” fruit, produced by species of the Neltuma genus in the Gran Chaco Americano region, has historically been used by indigenous communities to produce flour. In Paraguay, the value chain surrounding it is still in its infancy, but there is growing interest in its full utilisation. The seeds, which are commonly discarded as biowaste, contain galactomannans with technological properties that make them a potential natural alternative to commercial hydrocolloids. This study aimed to characterise the physical properties and chemical composition of Neltuma chilensis seeds from the Paraguayan Chaco and evaluate their potential as a source of dietary fibre and galactomannans. Physical parameters (weight, dimensions and colour) as well as moisture content, protein, lipid, dietary fibre and mineral content were determined using official methods (AOAC). Available carbohydrates, total sugars and caloric value were also quantified. Galactomannans were extracted with isopropanol using two treatments. Mannose and galactose were quantified using liquid chromatography with a refractive index detector (HPLC/RID). The results revealed high levels of dietary fibre (47.39 ± 2.25 g/100 g) and protein (27.55 ± 2.92 g/100 g) in the seeds, as well as notable concentrations of phosphorus, potassium, and magnesium. No statistically significant differences were observed in the mannose/galactose ratio (1.38 ± 0.02) between the treatments used (p < 0.05). Beyond their composition, the technological potential of these seeds supports their use in functional foods that could contribute to digestive and metabolic health. This work provides novel evidence for the revaluation of this traditionally underutilised by-product, in line with strategies for functional nutrition, waste reduction, and the development of a sustainable bioeconomy in the Paraguayan Chaco. Full article

Background: The use of baobab seed beverages as coffee alternatives represents a novel approach to upcycling by-products. Baobab seed aqueous extract is caffeine-free and contains numerous compounds of nutritional interest. The composition and sensory characteristics of baobab seed beverage can be modulated by roasting and brewing conditions. Objective: This study aimed to assess the effect of using different fluidised bed roasting temperatures and microwave infusion on the nutritional and functional properties of the beverage. Results: Higher roasting temperatures increased solubility, melanoidin content, pH, titratable acidity, colour, phenolic content, and antioxidant activity, while the concentration of chlorogenic acid and caffeic acid decreased. Upon microwave infusion, antioxidant activity, phenolic content (gallic acid, coumaric acid, caffeic acid, and vanillic acid), protein content, and soluble fibre content increased. Chlorogenic acid was not present in microwave-infused samples, and the amount of caffeic acid decreased. The fat content remained similar across all samples. The major volatile components identified in the roasted seeds were furans and pyrazines. Conclusions: These findings highlight the potential of baobab seed beverages as coffee alternatives and the impact of roasting and brewing conditions on their nutritional and functional properties. Full article

Cauliflower landraces (Brassica oleracea var. botrytis) safeguard allelic diversity for adaptation, yet their phenotypic breadth under winter field conditions remains under-documented. We evaluated 69 Spanish landraces and two commercial checks from the COMAV-UPV genebank using 15 quantitative and 21 qualitative descriptors. Seed viability ranged from 0 to 92%, and mature plants showed wide ranges in stem length (coefficient of variation ≈ 72%), leaf size, and head weight (100–723 g). Six curd-colour classes—including uncommon purple and Romanesco green—were recorded. Most accessions (>88%) required more than 120 days from sowing to harvest, but a distinct subset (12%) matured within 60–120 days. Plant stature tended to be positively associated with head mass, whereas highly branched inflorescences matured earlier. Variation was dominated by curd size and plant architecture. Multivariate analyses—principal component analysis for quantitative traits, multiple correspondence analysis for qualitative traits, factor analysis of mixed data, and clustering of FAMD scores by k-means—resolved three phenotypic clusters spanning a gradient of curd size/architecture and plant stature. The collection includes accessions with compact curds, earliness, or distinctive pigmentation that are immediately useful for breeding and for prioritizing regeneration. These results provide a phenotypic baseline for future genomic association studies and the development of cultivars adapted to winter production. Full article

The centre of origin of Bambara groundnut (BGN; Vigna subterranea L.) is Western Sub-Saharan Africa. Due to its high nutritional value and tolerance to biotic and abiotic stresses, this neglected and underutilised species has recently gained significant attention. However, BGN production faces several challenges, including a lack of quality varieties. This study describes a selected core collection based on phenotypic traits, investigates relevant selection criteria and identifies a set of landraces according to participants’ preferences. A core collection of landraces was generated, described, and then subjected to participatory varietal selection. Through individual semi-structured interviews, key selection criteria were identified. Focus group discussions were organised to explore group criteria and to support and validate information from personal interviews. The varietal selection involved choosing three landraces per participant. The results highlighted that seed colour, seed size, cultural value, market value, seed taste, storage, and seed cooking duration were the main selection criteria; however, specific trait preferences varied by gender and participants. Two of 14 selected BGN landraces were considered by the panel of evaluators to be most suitable for recommendation to growers and breeders. They can be disseminated in BGN production regions and used for plant breeding. Full article

Studying comprehensive performance is fundamental for the effective utilisation of broomcorn millet (Panicum miliaceum L.) germplasm resources and breeding of new varieties. However, compared with other major crops, research on broomcorn millet germplasm resources is limited, and the trait variations of broomcorn millet are unclear. In this study, three qualitative and seven quantitative traits of 933 broomcorn millet core collections were analysed to provide the basis for improving utilisation of broomcorn millet germplasm resources. The seed colour was a strong phenotypic trait and had eight variants. The 933 resources exhibited three panicle types: lateral (74.5%), scattered (18.4%), and compact (7.1%). They exhibited two inflorescence colours: green (54.7%) and purple (45.3%). Pearson’s correlation analysis revealed that 1000-seed weight significantly correlated with plant height, length of panicle, and number of main stem segments. The period of duration positively correlated with 1000-seed weight but negatively correlated with the number of uniserial panicles. Cluster analysis based on the quantitative traits indicated that all resources were divided into three groups, and each group had its respective characteristics. The analysis of core germplasm resources of broomcorn millet in this study provided a basis to explore excellent genes and for breeding of excellent varieties. Full article

The incorporation of Cannabis sativa L. seeds into barley wort was investigated to enhance the functional profile of beer. Hemp seeds (cv. Henola) were malted via controlled steeping, germination, and kilning, then added to barley malt at 10% and 30% (w/w) in both malted and unmalted forms. Standard congress mashing produced worts whose physicochemical parameters (pH, extract, colour, turbidity, filtration and saccharification times) were assessed, alongside profiles of fermentable sugars, polyphenols, B-group vitamins, and cannabinoids. Addition of hemp seeds reduced extract yield without impairing saccharification or filtration and slightly elevated mash pH and turbidity. Maltose and glucose levels declined significantly at higher hemp dosages, whereas sucrose remained stable. Wort enriched with 30% unmalted seeds exhibited the highest levels of trans-ferulic (20.61 µg/g), gallic (5.66 µg/g), trans-p-coumaric (3.68 µg/g), quercetin (6.07 µg/g), and trans-cinnamic (4.07 µg/g) acids. Malted hemp addition enhanced thiamine (up to 0.302 mg/mL) and riboflavin (up to 178.8 µg/mL) concentrations. Cannabinoids (THCA-A, THCV, CBDV, CBG, CBN) were successfully extracted at µg/mL levels, with the total cannabinoid content peaking at 14.59 µg/mL in the 30% malted treatment. These findings demonstrate that hemp seeds, particularly in malted form, can enrich barley wort with bioactive polyphenols, vitamins, and non-psychoactive cannabinoids under standard mashing conditions, without compromising key brewing performance metrics. Further work on fermentation, sensory evaluation, stability, and bioavailability is warranted to realise hemp-enriched functional beers. Full article

Ricinus communis (Euphorbiaceae), commonly known as the castor oil plant, is prized for its versatile applications in medicine, industry, and agriculture. It features large, deeply lobed leaves with vibrant colours, robust stems with anthocyanin pigments, and extensive root systems for nutrient absorption. Its terminal panicle-like inflorescences bear monoecious flowers, and its seeds are enclosed in prickly capsules. Throughout its various parts, R. communis harbours a diverse array of bioactive compounds. Leaves contain tannins, which exhibit astringent and antimicrobial properties, and alkaloids like ricinine, known for anti-inflammatory properties, as well as flavonoids like rutin, offering antioxidant and antibacterial properties. Roots contain ellagitannins, lupeol, and indole-3-acetic acid, known for anti-inflammatory and liver-protective effects. Seeds are renowned for ricin, ricinine, and phenolic compounds crucial for industrial applications such as biodegradable polymers. Pharmacologically, it demonstrates antioxidant effects from flavonoids and tannins, confirmed through minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) assays for antibacterial activity. It shows potential in managing diabetes via insulin signalling pathways and exhibits anti-inflammatory properties by activating nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2). Additionally, it has anti-fertility effects and potential anticancer activity against cancer stem cells. This review aims to summarize Ricinus communis’s botanical properties, therapeutic uses, chemical composition, pharmacological effects, and industrial applications. Integrating the current knowledge offers insights into future research directions, emphasizing the plant’s diverse roles in agriculture, medicine, and industry. Full article

Legumes are vital sources of protein, dietary fibre and nutrients, making them crucial for global food security and sustainable agriculture. However, their widespread acceptance and consumption are often limited by undesirable sensory characteristics, such as “a beany flavour”, bitterness or variable textures. Addressing these challenges requires a comprehensive understanding of the complex molecular mechanisms governing appearance, aroma, taste, flavour, texture and palatability in legumes, aiming to enhance their sensory appeal. This review highlights the transformative power of multi-omics approaches in dissecting these intricate biological pathways and facilitating the targeted enhancement of legume sensory qualities. By integrating data from genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics and metabolomics, the genetic and biochemical networks that directly dictate sensory perception can be comprehensively unveiled. The insights gained from these integrated multi-omics studies are proving instrumental in developing strategies for sensory enhancement. They enable the identification of key biomarkers for desirable traits, facilitating more efficient marker-assisted selection (MAS) and genomic selection (GS) in breeding programs. Furthermore, a molecular understanding of sensory pathways opens avenues for precise gene editing (e.g., using CRISPR-Cas9) to modify specific genes, reduce off-flavour compounds or optimise texture. Beyond genetic improvements, multi-omics data also inform the optimisation of post-harvest handling and processing methods (e.g., germination and fermentation) to enhance desirable sensory profiles and mitigate undesirable ones. This holistic approach, spanning from the genetic blueprint to the final sensory experience, will accelerate the development of new legume cultivars and products with enhanced palatability, thereby fostering increased consumption and ultimately contributing to healthier diets and more resilient food systems worldwide. Full article

Dialium guineense (velvet tamarind), Parkia biglobosa Jacq. (African locust bean) and Adanosonia digitata L. (baobab) are fruits from African plants whose nutritional potential remains poorly characterised. As such, their pulps and seeds were analysed for colour (CIELab system), moisture, ash, protein, fat, soluble and insoluble dietary fibre, free sugars (HPLC-RI), organic acids (HPLC-PDA), macro and microelements (XRF analyser) and amygdalin (HPLC-PDA). The colours of their pulps differed considerable (ΔE > 38 between the velvet tamarind and African locust bean) and the moisture content was lower in seeds (about 7%) compared to pulps (9–13%). Seeds were more concentrated in protein (20–28%) and fat (5–22%), whereas pulps were richer in sugar (1–12%). African locust bean pulp was the sweetest (39% total sugar), while baobab pulp contained the highest soluble fibre (>30%) and citric acid (3.2%), and velvet tamarind pulp was distinguished by its tartaric acid content (3.4%). Seeds of the African fruits presented higher Ca, P, S and Fe contents, whereas pulps had higher K content. No amygdalin (<6.34 mg per 100 g of dry weight) or toxic heavy metal contents were detected. The PCA segregated samples by pulp and seed and the PC1 explains the sugar and moisture of the pulps, while protein, fat and minerals are associated with the seeds. These data confirm that African fruit pulps and seeds have distinct functional profiles, are safe for food use and can be consumed, which is important for efforts to promote the conservation of these tropical plant species. Full article

Dietary bitter compounds such as caffeine have the potential to reduce backfat in pigs. However, the use of caffeine as a feed additive has restrictions in many countries. It was hypothesised that grape seed and gentian plant extracts (GG) could replace caffeine in feed due to their bitterness and antiadipogenic effects. The effect of caffeine (0.5 g/kg), GG (2 g/kg) alone or in combination with caffeine (BM) at increasing concentrations (0.5, 1, 1.5, or 2 g/kg) on feed efficiency, carcass, and meat quality was assessed in finishing pigs (Large White × Landrace). Growth performance and carcass traits were evaluated at a pen level (n = 14). Loins (longissimus thoracis) were removed from eight pig/treatment at the abattoir to assess drip loss, lightness (L*), redness (a*), yellowness (b*), chroma (C*), hue angle (h°), pH, cook loss, and shear force. A linear increase (p < 0.05) in loin a*, b*, and C* values and a linear decrease (p < 0.05) in ADFI, ADG, backfat, dressing percentage, and HSCW were observed with increasing BM levels. At 1.5 g/kg, BM increased the loins a* (p < 0.05), b* (p < 0.05) and C* values (p < 0.05) compared to the control. Twenty-two proteins related to energy metabolism and myofibril assembly were identified to be upregulated (FDR < 0.05) in BM vs. control loins. In conclusion, GG could be used in combination with low doses of caffeine to modulate appetite and carcass leanness and improve pork colour. Full article