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Search Results (3,328)

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Keywords = total content of polyphenolics

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24 pages, 4476 KB  
Article
Successive Harvesting Interval and Salinity Level Modulate Biomass Production and Nutritional Value in Sarcocornia fruticosa and Arthrocaulon macrostachyum
by Tesfaye Asmare Sisay, Jaykumar Patel, Kusum Khatri, Babita Choudhary, Dominic Standing, Zai Du Nja, Muki Shpigel, Luísa Margarida Batista Custódio, Ilya Gelfand and Moshe Sagi
Agriculture 2025, 15(21), 2182; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15212182 - 22 Oct 2025
Abstract
Halophyte bio-saline agriculture can supplement conventional farm methods in salinized soils and salty water. The current study compares the yield and nutritional value of new Sarcocornia fruticosa ecotypes (Shikmona, Megadim, Naaman, and Ruhama) to those of the current ecotype (VM). Additionally, Arthrocaulon macrostachyum [...] Read more.
Halophyte bio-saline agriculture can supplement conventional farm methods in salinized soils and salty water. The current study compares the yield and nutritional value of new Sarcocornia fruticosa ecotypes (Shikmona, Megadim, Naaman, and Ruhama) to those of the current ecotype (VM). Additionally, Arthrocaulon macrostachyum, phenotypically similar to Sarcocornia, was compared to Sarcocornia ecotypes, and the effects of the harvesting regime and irrigation water salinity on yield and nutritional value were studied. At both salinity levels (50 and 150 mM NaCl), 30-day harvesting intervals over a 210-day growth period increased plant yield compared to a 21-day regime. It also tended to improve electrical conductivity (EC) and total soluble sugars (TSS), lower malondialdehyde levels (a marker of toxic stress), and enhance radical inhibition activity in most ecotypes. Compared to VM, the Sarcocornia ecotypes Ruh and Naa exhibited much higher biomass with similar radical inhibition activity but lower total protein content. Higher salinity improved fresh biomass, shoot diameter, relative water content, chlorophyll level, TSS, and EC and tended to increase anthocyanin and carotenoid levels. In contrast, lower salinity tended to increase total flavonoids, polyphenols, and radical inhibition activity. In the 30-day harvest regime, A. macrostachyum exhibited the highest and second-highest yields at high and low salinity, respectively; the highest shoot diameter, total flavonoids, and radical inhibition activity; and one of the lowest malondialdehyde levels. The current study highlights the importance of optimizing harvest frequency and the advantages of employing A. macrostachyum and the Sarcocornia ecotypes Ruhama, Naaman, and Megadim with a 30-day harvesting regime under higher-salinity conditions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Agricultural Product Quality and Safety)
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24 pages, 1613 KB  
Article
Characterization of Anthocyanins and Lipid Components in Berries of Nine Red Grapevine Cultivars
by Cosmin-Alin Faur, Dragoș Ola, Claudiu Ioan Bunea, Anamaria Călugăr, Florin-Dumitru Bora, Francisc Dulf and Andrea Bunea
Agronomy 2025, 15(10), 2443; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15102443 - 21 Oct 2025
Abstract
Red grapes are recognized as valuable sources of phenolic compounds with nutritional and technological importance. Anthocyanins strongly influence the color, stability, and antioxidant activity of wines, thereby contributing to both quality and potential health effects. In this study, berries of nine red grapevine [...] Read more.
Red grapes are recognized as valuable sources of phenolic compounds with nutritional and technological importance. Anthocyanins strongly influence the color, stability, and antioxidant activity of wines, thereby contributing to both quality and potential health effects. In this study, berries of nine red grapevine cultivars (Alicante Bouschet, Burgund Mare, Busuioacă de Bohotin, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cadarcă, Malbec, Sangiovese, and Syrah) were examined for their anthocyanin composition, total phenolic and flavonoid content, physicochemical parameters, and fatty acid profiles. Anthocyanins were characterized using High Performance Liquid Chromatography coupled with Mass Spectrometry (HPLC-MS), total polyphenols and flavonoids were quantified spectrophotometrically, and fatty acids were determined by Gas Chromatography coupled with Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). Substantial variability was observed across cultivars for the analyzed traits, with nine anthocyanins identified (total levels ranging from 70.79 ± 13.84 to 335.75 ± 87.62 mg malvidin-3-O-glucoside equivalents (MGE) per 100 g fresh weight (FW). Total phenolics ranged from 107.51 ± 11.11 to 432.13 ± 42.91 mg gallic acid equivalents (GAE) per 100 g FW, and flavonoids from 34.23 ± 11.45 to 162.51 ± 39.63 mg catechin equivalents (CE) per 100 g FW. Ten fatty acids were identified, with linoleic acid being the most abundant. Alicante Bouschet and Burgund Mare showed the highest levels of total anthocyanins, polyphenols, and flavonoids, while Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Sangiovese exhibited the richest profiles of polyunsaturated fatty acids, together highlighting their potential as valuable sources of bioactive and nutritional compounds for functional food applications. Cabernet Franc and Sangiovese, characterized by higher titratable acidity and balanced pH, showed favorable traits for producing stable, high-quality wines. Analysis of the data further grouped the cultivars based on their chemical and lipid profiles. Overall, these findings show the notable biochemical differences among the red grapevine cultivars and their potential uses in food and wine production. Full article
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39 pages, 4444 KB  
Article
Gemmotherapy Extracts Like the Dog Rose, Lingonberry, Sea Buckthorn, Blackthorn, Common Grape, Hawthorn, Raspberry and Boxwood Feature Variable Yet Excelling Antimicrobial Effects
by Melinda Héjja, Éva György, Ferenc Ádám Lóga, Róbert Nagy, Tünde Pacza, Péter Sipos, György Tankó, Éva Laslo, Noémi Mészáros, Violeta Turcuș, Neli-Kinga Oláh and Endre Máthé
Antibiotics 2025, 14(10), 1052; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics14101052 - 21 Oct 2025
Abstract
Background: Antibiotic resistance is spreading, and the effectiveness of the most widely used antibiotics is decreasing. These issues are global health and food safety concerns that require immediate attention. One potential solution is the use of various gemmotherapy extracts (GTEs). However, there is [...] Read more.
Background: Antibiotic resistance is spreading, and the effectiveness of the most widely used antibiotics is decreasing. These issues are global health and food safety concerns that require immediate attention. One potential solution is the use of various gemmotherapy extracts (GTEs). However, there is a paucity of studies investigating the presumptive antimicrobial activity of GTEs. Methods: In this comparative study, we are assessing the antimicrobial properties of eight selected GTEs, as well as their polyphenol content and antioxidant activity, against a panel of microorganisms (Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, yeasts, and molds). We are using the agar diffusion method (ADM) and the broth microdilution method (BMD) to determine the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and the minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC). Results: Among the analyzed extracts, dog rose, lingonberry, sea buckthorn, blackthorn, and common grape GTEs showed the highest total phenolic content, antioxidant activity, and the most relevant antimicrobial activity including certain differences with respect to the microbiostatic and/or microbicidal properties. These results demonstrate the relative strength of the antimicrobial effects of specific GTEs against certain microbial species, which could facilitate the use of these GTEs in personalized and/or specific antimicrobial therapies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antimicrobial Activity of Extracts from Plants, 2nd Edition)
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14 pages, 1585 KB  
Article
Antioxidant-Rich Clitoria ternatea Flower Extract Promotes Proliferation and Migration of Human Corneal Epithelial Cells
by Karthini Devi Rajan, Nahdia Afiifah Abdul Jalil, Taty Anna Kamarudin and Fairus Ahmad
Plants 2025, 14(20), 3216; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14203216 - 20 Oct 2025
Viewed by 159
Abstract
A corneal abrasion results from the disruption or loss of cells in the corneal epithelium. If inadequately treated, it can compromise visual clarity. The wound healing process of a corneal abrasion involves epithelial migration, proliferation and adhesion. Clitoria ternatea flower extract (CTE) is [...] Read more.
A corneal abrasion results from the disruption or loss of cells in the corneal epithelium. If inadequately treated, it can compromise visual clarity. The wound healing process of a corneal abrasion involves epithelial migration, proliferation and adhesion. Clitoria ternatea flower extract (CTE) is rich in flavonoids, anthocyanins and other bioactive compounds. It has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties. This study explores the potential of CTE to be used as a natural supplement to improve corneal wound healing. Phytochemical profiling via LC–MS identified a total of 51 distinct bioactive constituents. The anthocyanin content, quantified in terms of cyanidin-3-glucoside equivalent, was quantified at 33.06 mg per gram of extract. The extract exhibited 33.8% DPPH radical scavenging activity and a total polyphenol content equivalent to 24.14 mg/g gallic acid. Human telomerase-immortalized corneal epithelial (hTCEpi) cells maintained in keratinocyte basal medium were utilized to determine cytotoxicity and wound-healing effects. The optimal extract concentration of 0.08 mg/mL, quantified via MTT assay, resulting in enhanced cell viability. Scratch assays demonstrated a higher percentage of wound closure in the CTE-treated group at 6 and 12 h relative to the untreated group, with statistical significance (p < 0.05). The gene expressions of CK3 and Cx43, quantified via qRT-PCR, showed no significant differences between groups. However, within the CTE-treated group, CK3 expression increased at 12 h relative to 0 h and 6 h, and Cx43 expression rose significantly at 12 h compared with 0 h (p < 0.05). Immunofluorescence confirmed positive protein expression of both markers. These findings suggest that CTE possesses potent antioxidant properties and promotes corneal epithelial wound healing through upregulation of CK3 and Cx43 in vitro. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Phytochemistry and Pharmacological Properties of Medicinal Plants)
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18 pages, 1749 KB  
Article
Effect of Nitric Oxide on Adventitious Root Development from Cuttings of Sweetpotato and Associated Biochemical Changes
by Meng Wang, Jianghui Li, Yuhao Wu, Hongxing Zhang, Hui Wang and Lingyun Wang
Plants 2025, 14(20), 3183; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14203183 - 16 Oct 2025
Viewed by 262
Abstract
Adventitious rooting is a key step for the clonal propagation of many economically important horticultural and woody species. Accumulating evidence suggests that nitric oxide (NO) serves as a key signaling molecule with key roles in root organogenesis. However, the role of NO in [...] Read more.
Adventitious rooting is a key step for the clonal propagation of many economically important horticultural and woody species. Accumulating evidence suggests that nitric oxide (NO) serves as a key signaling molecule with key roles in root organogenesis. However, the role of NO in adventitious root development and its underlying mechanism in sweetpotato cuttings remain to be clarified. In this study, a pot experiment was conducted using hydroponically cultured sweetpotato cuttings (Ipomoea batatas cv. ‘Jin Ganshu No. 9’) treated with different concentrations of sodium nitroprusside (SNP, an NO donor) solution (0, 10, 50, 100, 200, and 500 μmol·L−1). Three treatments were established: Control, SNP (the optimal concentration of SNP), and SNP + 2-(4-carboxyphenyl)-4,4,5,5-tetramethylimidazoline-1-oxyl-3-oxide (cPTIO, an NO scavenger). The results showed that NO promoted adventitious rooting in a dose-dependent manner, with the maximal biological response observed at 100 μM SNP. At this concentration, the root number and length of adventitious roots increased by 1.22 and 2.36 times, respectively, compared to the control. SNP treatment increased fresh root weight, dry root weight, the content of soluble sugar, soluble protein, chlorophyll a (Chl a), chlorophyll b (Chl b), and total chlorophyll (a + b) [Chl(a + b)], as well as the activities of peroxidase (POD), polyphenol oxidase (PPO), and indole acetic acid oxidase (IAAO). It also enhanced the levels of maximum fluorescence (Fm), maximum photochemical efficiency of photosystem II (Fv/Fm), absorbed light energy (ABS/RC), trapped energy flux (TRo/RC), and electron transport flux (ETo/RC), while decreasing starch content and initial fluorescence (Fo). On the 7th day, the SNP treatment significantly enhanced several biochemical parameters compared to the control. We observed an increase in many of the parameters: POD activity by 1.35 times, PPO activity by 0.55 times, chlorophyll content (Chl a by 0.66 times, Chl b by 0.22 times, and Chl a + b by 0.57 times), and photosynthesis parameters by 28–98%. Meanwhile, starch content and Fo in the SNP treatment decreased by 10.77% and 23.86%, respectively, compared to the control. Furthermore, the positive effects of NO on adventitious root development and associated biochemical parameters were reversed by the NO scavenger cPTIO. Additionally, significant and positive correlations were observed between morphological characteristics and most physiological indicators. Collectively, these results demonstrate that NO promotes adventitious root formation, which may be by enhancing rooting-related enzyme activities, improving photosynthetic performance in leaves, and accelerating the metabolism of soluble sugar, soluble protein, and starch. Full article
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21 pages, 2583 KB  
Article
Soil Amendment with Poultry Manure, Biochar, and Coenzyme A Enhances Yield and Nutritional Composition of Moringa oleifera Lam.
by Baba Mamudu, Cristina García-Viguera, Diego A. Moreno, Eli Gaveh, Francis Appiah, Irene Idun, Sonia Medina and Raúl Domínguez-Perles
Foods 2025, 14(20), 3527; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods14203527 - 16 Oct 2025
Viewed by 255
Abstract
This study assessed the combined application of poultry manure (Pm), biochar (B), and coenzyme A (CoA) into soils to enhance Moringa oleifera Lam. growth, biomass yield, and nutritional and phytochemical composition. This approach allowed us to cover the gap of knowledge on sustainable, [...] Read more.
This study assessed the combined application of poultry manure (Pm), biochar (B), and coenzyme A (CoA) into soils to enhance Moringa oleifera Lam. growth, biomass yield, and nutritional and phytochemical composition. This approach allowed us to cover the gap of knowledge on sustainable, low-cost agronomic management alternatives suitable for smallholder systems. To achieve this objective a field experiment was conducted using three treatments (control (no amendment), Pm + B, and Pm + B + CoA) and four consecutive harvests were monitored. Morphological traits (height, stem diameter, number of branches, and leaf yield) were recorded, and phytochemical analyses of glucosinolates and (poly)phenols were performed via HPLC-DAD-ESI/MSn. Mineral and trace elements were quantified by ICP-OES. The main results retrieved allowed describing the capacity of the combined use of Pm + B + CoA to enhance plant growth and productivity, thus increasing the moringa trees’ height of 226.3 by 39.5%, on average, relative to control plants. ILeaf yield and branch number augmented up to 7.0-fold and 2.5-fold, respectively, under amendment treatments. Petiole girth also increased significantly by >50% (p < 0.01). Phytochemically, Pm + B + CoA significantly elevated total phenolics, vicenin-2, and quercetin acetyl-hexoside in leaves by 2.8-fold, on average, relative to control. The glucosinolate content also augmented as a result of the soil amendments assayed by 51.0%, on average, in stems and petioles, under Pm + B + CoA, compared to control samples. From these results, it can be concluded that the combined use of poultry manure, biochar, and CoA significantly improved M. oleifera growth, biomass yield, and nutritional quality, with a particular efficiency concerning (poly)phenolic accumulation. This low-cost, sustainable amendment strategy provides a viable agronomic solution in regions suffering socioeconomic constraints that hinder access to high-cost agronomic management options. Therefore, this approach effectively links ecological soil management with improved productivity, nutritional value, and potential for food industries. Full article
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18 pages, 1835 KB  
Article
Comprehensive Assessment of Nitrosamine Formation in Meat Products Using UHPLC-HRMS: Analytical Challenges and Potential Dietary Implications
by Tiziana Nardin, Jakob Franceschini, Francesca Martinelli, Elena Franciosi and Roberto Larcher
Molecules 2025, 30(20), 4107; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30204107 - 16 Oct 2025
Viewed by 199
Abstract
Nitrosamines (NAs) pose a risk due to their carcinogenic properties, especially in processed and cured meats where nitrites and nitrates are widely used. The objective of this study was to develop an integrated Ultra-High-Performance Liquid Chromatography–High-Resolution Mass Spectrometry (UHPLC–HRMS) workflow for detecting both [...] Read more.
Nitrosamines (NAs) pose a risk due to their carcinogenic properties, especially in processed and cured meats where nitrites and nitrates are widely used. The objective of this study was to develop an integrated Ultra-High-Performance Liquid Chromatography–High-Resolution Mass Spectrometry (UHPLC–HRMS) workflow for detecting both volatile (VNAs) and non-volatile (NVNAs) nitrosamines in meat matrices. Comparison of two ionization techniques showed that heated electrospray ionization (HESI) and atmospheric pressure chemical ionization (APCI) provided complementary coverage and sensitivity. Extraction and cleanup were optimized for meat, although recovery rates remained variable, underscoring the analytical complexity. The method was applied to raw, cooked, cured, and grilled meats, as well as to in vitro gastric digestion and co-digestion with spinach. Results revealed that some NAs were present even in untreated raw meat (≈3.0 µg/kg, N-nitrosodi-n-butylamine), while the addition of nitrites and nitrates significantly increased their levels (more than 10 µg/kg, N-nitrosodiethylamine, N-nitrosodimethylamine, N-nitrosodi-n-butylamine). Gastric digestion was the most critical condition, further promoting nitrosamine formation, particularly for N-nitrosodiethylamine, N-nitrosodi-n-butylamine, and N-nitrosopiperidine. Ascorbate exhibited a dual role, acting as an inhibitor at low nitrite concentrations but becoming pro-oxidant at high levels (300 mg/kg). Cooking alone had limited impact, whereas cooking combined with digestion yielded the highest and most consistent nitrosamine concentrations. The inclusion of spinach during digestion modestly altered nitrosamine levels, reflecting both its nitrate content and polyphenolic profile. Nonparametric ANOVA (aligned rank transform) confirmed that preservative treatment, rather than processing or interaction effects, was the main driver of variability (total nitrosamines: H = 24.15, p = 2.33 × 10−5), with the combination of preservative ascorbate plus nitrite producing significantly higher levels than other treatments (q = 0.000656). N-nitrosodimethylamine consistently emerged as the most relevant marker for dietary exposure, in agreement with EFSA guidance. Overall, this study underscores both the analytical and biochemical complexity of nitrosamine detection and formation in meat products, while highlighting the importance of preservative formulation and the potential role of dietary antioxidants in mitigating exposure. Full article
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18 pages, 2737 KB  
Article
Whole Wheat Bread Improves the Nutritional Composition and Quality of Beer During Long-Term Storage
by Carlos Martin-Lobera, Carlos A. Blanco and Isabel Caballero
Beverages 2025, 11(5), 149; https://doi.org/10.3390/beverages11050149 - 16 Oct 2025
Viewed by 248
Abstract
Beer is one of the most widely consumed alcoholic beverages worldwide, whereas surplus bread constitutes a significant environmental burden; repurposing this bread as a brewing adjunct offers a sustainable mitigation strategy. In this study, we replaced 50% of the malt grist in American [...] Read more.
Beer is one of the most widely consumed alcoholic beverages worldwide, whereas surplus bread constitutes a significant environmental burden; repurposing this bread as a brewing adjunct offers a sustainable mitigation strategy. In this study, we replaced 50% of the malt grist in American Lager, India Pale Ale and Bavarian Weiss with stale whole wheat bread, brewed each beer and its malt control in duplicate, and stored them for 12 months at 15 °C. Bread addition raised turbidity and soluble protein at bottling; however, after 12 months, the bread lagers clarified to 101 NTU while the controls stayed above 600 NTU. Alcohol content, pH and titratable acidity were unaffected. All bread beers retained more total polyphenols and showed stronger DPPH radical-scavenging activity than controls, especially in lager and IPA. Lactobacillus (<100 CFU mL−1) and Enterobacteriaceae (<10 CFU mL−1) remained below detection limits in bread samples, whereas the malt-only Weiss displayed Lactobacillus spoilage. Sensory panels noted fuller body, livelier carbonation and enhanced toasted-malt aroma in bread beers, with no sensory off-flavour defects detected. Repurposing surplus bread therefore improves clarity, preserves bioactive compounds and yields distinctive, shelf-stable beers while advancing circular-economy goals. Full article
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21 pages, 7305 KB  
Article
Integration of Physiological and Transcriptomic Analyses Provides Insights into the Regulatory Mechanisms of Adventitious Root Formation in Phoebe bournei Cuttings
by Yuhua Li, Haining Xu, Yongjie Zheng, Chenglin Luo, Yueting Zhang, Xinliang Liu and Yanfang Wu
Horticulturae 2025, 11(10), 1238; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11101238 - 13 Oct 2025
Viewed by 474
Abstract
Phoebe bournei is an important economic tree species in China, its large-scale propagation is limited by the difficulty of adventitious root (AR) formation in cuttings. In this study, morphological, physiological, and transcriptomic analyses were conducted to investigate the process of AR formation in [...] Read more.
Phoebe bournei is an important economic tree species in China, its large-scale propagation is limited by the difficulty of adventitious root (AR) formation in cuttings. In this study, morphological, physiological, and transcriptomic analyses were conducted to investigate the process of AR formation in P. bournei. The results showed that ARs mainly originated from callus tissue. During AR formation, soluble sugar and soluble protein contents changed significantly. Malondialdehyde (MDA) and oxygen free radicals (OFRs) peaked at first sampling stage (PB0), while the activities of polyphenol oxidase (PPO) and indoleacetic acid oxidase (IAAO) exhibited similar patterns. Lignin content increased during callus induction stage, whereas phenolic content continuously declined throughout rooting. Endogenous hormone levels also changed markedly, and Orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA) analysis indicated that indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) and abscisic acid (ABA) played dominant roles in this process. KEGG enrichment analysis revealed significant enrichment of the phenylpropanoid biosynthesis pathway in all three comparison groups. A total of 48 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were enriched in plant hormone signal transduction pathways, with 22 and 14 genes associated with IAA and ABA signaling, respectively. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) further identified two hub modules related to IAA and ABA contents, including eight hub genes such as D6PKL1 and ISTL1. Correlation analysis revealed that the hub genes D6PKL1 and HSP were significantly positively correlated with IAA4 in the IAA signaling pathway. Overall, this study provides new insights into the mechanisms underlying AR formation in P. bournei cuttings and offers a theoretical basis for optimizing its clonal propagation system. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Propagation and Seeds)
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11 pages, 1808 KB  
Article
Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction Optimization and Flash Chromatography Fractionation of Punicalagin from Pomegranate Peel (Punica granatum L.)
by Erick M. Raya-Morquecho, Pedro Aguilar-Zarate, Leonardo Sepúlveda, Mariela R. Michel, Anna Iliná, Cristóbal N. Aguilar and Juan A. Ascacio-Valdés
Separations 2025, 12(10), 279; https://doi.org/10.3390/separations12100279 - 11 Oct 2025
Viewed by 370
Abstract
Background: Pomegranate peel (Punica granatum L.) is a rich source of phenols, particularly ellagitannins, highlighting punicalagin, a bioactive compound with recognized antioxidant potential. However, efficient recovery and purification methods are required to enable its application in food and health-related products. This study [...] Read more.
Background: Pomegranate peel (Punica granatum L.) is a rich source of phenols, particularly ellagitannins, highlighting punicalagin, a bioactive compound with recognized antioxidant potential. However, efficient recovery and purification methods are required to enable its application in food and health-related products. This study aimed to obtain a partially purified fraction of punicalagin from pomegranate peel using optimized extraction and purification strategies. Methods: A Taguchi L9 (3)3 experimental design was employed to optimize ultrasound-assisted extraction, evaluating extraction time (10, 20, 30 min), ethanol concentration (20, 40, 80%), and solid-to-solvent ratio (1:12, 1:14, 1:16). Total polyphenol content was quantified using the Folin–Ciocalteu method. Extracts obtained under optimized conditions were concentrated by rotary evaporation and subjected to semipurification using flash chromatography with Amberlite XAD-16 resin. Subsequently, the fractions were lyophilized and analyzed by HPLC/ESI/MS. Results: The Statistica software determined the optimal conditions for polyphenol extraction (20 min, 40% ethanol, 1:12), with the signal-to-noise (S/N) ratio reaching 88.43 ± 0.66, surpassing the predicted value of 77.42. Flash chromatography yielded four fractions, and HPLC/ESI/MS analysis revealed the presence of ellagitannins in all of them, with fraction number 2 showing the highest relative abundance of punicalagin (89.25%). Conclusions: The combination of ultrasound-assisted extraction and flash chromatography proved effective for obtaining punicalagin-rich fractions from pomegranate peel, supporting its potential for nutraceutical applications. Full article
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19 pages, 1403 KB  
Article
Phenolic Profiling of Albanian Honeys by LC–MS/MS: Gallic Acid as a Predictive Marker of Antioxidant Potential
by Xhulieta Hamiti, Gjyliza Shallari, Blerina Pupuleku, Alp Yücel, Saffet Çelìk, Erhan Sulejmani and Pranvera Lazo
Molecules 2025, 30(20), 4037; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30204037 - 10 Oct 2025
Viewed by 312
Abstract
Phenolic compounds are key contributors to the bioactivity and antioxidant potential of honey, yet reliable indicators for rapid quality assessment remain limited. This study characterized phenolic profiles in 44 mono-floral and poly-floral honey samples from 11 Albanian regions using LC–MS/MS method. Total phenolic [...] Read more.
Phenolic compounds are key contributors to the bioactivity and antioxidant potential of honey, yet reliable indicators for rapid quality assessment remain limited. This study characterized phenolic profiles in 44 mono-floral and poly-floral honey samples from 11 Albanian regions using LC–MS/MS method. Total phenolic content ranged from 29.8 to 171 mg·kg−1, with flavonoids accounting for 6.1–56.4% of total phenolics. Gallic acid was the dominant phenolic compound (5.5–127 mg·kg−1), which is strongly correlated with the total content of polyphenols (r = 0.863, p < 0.001). Analysis of variance (ANOVA) confirmed significant differences in phenolic and flavonoid levels across geographic zones and floral types, with mono-floral honeys consistently exhibiting higher bioactive parameters. These findings demonstrate that gallic acid may serve as a practical biochemical marker for estimating antioxidant potential in honey. This insight has implications for authenticity verification and quality control, particularly in regions like Albania where diverse floral sources contribute to honey variability. By linking phenolic composition to antioxidant potential, this study supports the broader application of phenolic markers for the standardization and valorization of honey as a functional food. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Advances in Food Chemistry)
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24 pages, 3171 KB  
Article
Investigating the Biocontrol and Plant Growth-Promoting Potential of Pseudomonas yamanorum for Sustainable Management of Tomato Early Blight (Alternaria alternata)
by Lobna Hajji-Hedfi, Takwa Wannassi, Amira Khlif, Nyasha J. Kavhiza and Nazih Y. Rebouh
Plants 2025, 14(20), 3117; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14203117 - 10 Oct 2025
Viewed by 454
Abstract
Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) is among the most economically significant and nutritionally valuable vegetable crops grown globally. However, fungal diseases such as Early Blight caused by Alternaria alternata are a major factor limiting yield and fruit quality in tomato production. This study [...] Read more.
Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) is among the most economically significant and nutritionally valuable vegetable crops grown globally. However, fungal diseases such as Early Blight caused by Alternaria alternata are a major factor limiting yield and fruit quality in tomato production. This study investigates the biocontrol potential of locally isolated rhizobacterium Pseudomonas yamanorum against A. alternata, the causal agent of early blight in tomato, under both in vitro and in planta conditions. In vitro assays demonstrated significant antifungal activity; in the dual confrontation assay, P. yamanorum (108 CFU/mL) reduced A. alternata mycelial growth by 68.7%, while spore germination was inhibited by 88.7%. In planta trials demonstrated that plants treated with P. yamanorum (107 CFU/mL) alone exhibited the lowest disease severity (2.5). The treatments also significantly enhanced plant growth, with shoot length reaching 45 cm versus 26 cm in infected controls. Biochemical analyses revealed increased catalase (94.84 units mg−1 protein min−1), peroxidase (5.83), and ascorbate peroxidase (67.01) activities in treated plants. Total polyphenol and protein contents also increased (0.81 mg/g and 15.82 mg/g, respectively). Furthermore, P. yamanorum treatments maintained fruit quality parameters such as firmness (3.13), sugar content (6.43 °Brix), and juice yield (55.88%), while reducing malondialdehyde (2.02 µmol/g Dry Weight) and electrical conductivity (0.59 mS/cm). These findings highlight P. yamanorum as a promising biocontrol agent and plant growth-promoting bacteria that improve disease resistance, which can be combined with salicylic acid to further enhance crop vigor and fruit quality under biotic stress. Full article
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26 pages, 9077 KB  
Article
Post-Fermentation Application of Pea Protein-Based Fining Agents: Effects on Aromatic White Wine from Tămâioasa Românească
by Oana Arina Antoce and George Adrian Cojocaru
Foods 2025, 14(19), 3448; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods14193448 - 9 Oct 2025
Viewed by 402
Abstract
Pea protein is increasingly used as a plant-based alternative for fining white wines, aiming to reduce excessive polyphenols while replacing animal-derived or synthetic agents such as PVPP. This study compared pea protein alone (P), PVPP (PV), and untreated control wines (V0) with five [...] Read more.
Pea protein is increasingly used as a plant-based alternative for fining white wines, aiming to reduce excessive polyphenols while replacing animal-derived or synthetic agents such as PVPP. This study compared pea protein alone (P), PVPP (PV), and untreated control wines (V0) with five combinations containing pea protein and additional agents, such as activated carbon (C), bentonite (B), yeast hulls (Y), and fungal chitosan (K), forming the variants PCB, PYB, PCY, PKY, and PKC applied in doses of 20 g/hL. Fining was applied to aromatic white wines of Tămâioasa Românească in triplicate (50 L tanks), obtained and followed by standard vinification steps. Main wine parameters (ethanol, malic acid, acetic acid, pH) were largely unaffected by the treatments, while free sugar levels showed only slight variations. Some significant differences were observed in total acidity. Total polyphenol content was significantly reduced by ternary fining combinations containing pea protein and yeast extract (PCY and PKY), as well as by PVPP, with reductions of approximately 37% compared to the control. Proanthocyanidins were largely preserved irrespective of the treatment, whereas flavan-3,4-diols were significantly reduced by PVPP. The fining treatments induced only small, imperceptible differences in colour, detectable solely through CIELab measurements, with the classical PVPP treatment producing wines with wines with the greenest colour tones. Volatile profiles, assessed using a GC analyser with two columns (Heracles electronic nose), were analysed in detail. Of all the 8 experimental variants, chitosan- and yeast hull-containing combinations (PKY and PCY) enhanced both varietal and fermentation-derived aromas, particularly terpenes and key esters, producing the most expressive and complex wines. In these variants, compared to control wines, eucalyptol, linalool, and trans-linalool oxide increased approximately by 13.1–23.2%, 16.7–19.3% and 341.5–428.7%, respectively. Pea protein alone preserved the aroma profile closest to the untreated control, inducing no significant differences in all the compound classes, making it a suitable alternative to PVPP. In contrast, bentonite-containing treatments reduced ester and terpene concentrations, simplifying the aroma profile and diminishing varietal characteristics. In bentonite variants, especially PCB, reduced key aroma compounds such as 2-phenylethyl acetate by 17.9%, ethyl octanoate by 12.9% and ethyl decanoate by 33.0%, linalool and trans-linalool oxide, by 18.5%, and 22.7%, respectively. These results support the use of pea protein as a selective and minimally disruptive fining agent, suitable for reducing polyphenol content while preserving wine quality. Pea protein combinations with yeast hulls, and to some extent with chitosan or other fining agents, can further enhance aroma complexity and varietal expression. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Food Engineering and Technology)
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25 pages, 5732 KB  
Article
1-Carboxy-2-phenylethan-1-aminium Iodide 2-Azaniumyl-3-phenylpropanoate Crystals: Properties and Its Biochar-Based Application for Iodine Enrichment of Parsley
by Aitugan Sabitov, Seitzhan Turganbay, Almagul Kerimkulova, Yerlan Doszhanov, Karina Saurykova, Meiram Atamanov, Arman Zhumazhanov and Didar Bolatova
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(19), 10752; https://doi.org/10.3390/app151910752 - 6 Oct 2025
Viewed by 338
Abstract
Iodine deficiency remains a significant nutritional problem, which stimulates the search for sustainable approaches to biofortification of vegetable crops. The aim of the work was to develop a “smart” bio-iodine fertilizer based on the organoiodide complex 1-carboxy-2-phenylethan-1-aminium iodide 2-azaniumyl-3-phenylpropanoate (PPI) and highly porous [...] Read more.
Iodine deficiency remains a significant nutritional problem, which stimulates the search for sustainable approaches to biofortification of vegetable crops. The aim of the work was to develop a “smart” bio-iodine fertilizer based on the organoiodide complex 1-carboxy-2-phenylethan-1-aminium iodide 2-azaniumyl-3-phenylpropanoate (PPI) and highly porous biochar from agro-waste, assessing its efficiency on the parsley model. PPI was synthesized and characterized (IR/UV spectroscopy, thermal analysis), and biochar was obtained by KOH activation and studied by low-temperature nitrogen adsorption (S_BET) methods, as well as standard physico-chemical characterization. The granulated composition PPI + biochar (BIOF) was tested in pot experiments in comparison with KI and control. The biomass of leaves and roots, iodine and organic nitrogen content, and antioxidant indices (ascorbic acid, total polyphenols, antioxidant activity) were assessed. BIOF provided a significant increase in yield and nutrition: leaf mass reached 86.55 g/plant versus 77.72 g/plant with KI and 65.04 g/plant in the control; root mass—up to 8.25 g/plant (p < 0.05). Iodine content in leaves and roots increased to 11.86 and 13.23 mg/kg (d.w.), respectively, while organic nitrogen levels increased simultaneously (57.37 and 36.63 mg/kg). A significant increase in the antioxidant status was noted (ascorbic acid 36.46 mg/100 g dry weight; antioxidant activity 44.48 mg GA/g; polyphenols 23.79 mg GA/g). The presented data show that the combination of PPI with activated biochar forms an effective platform for controlled supply of iodine to plants, increasing the yield and functional qualities of products; the prospects for implementation are associated with field trials and dosage optimization. Full article
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23 pages, 1782 KB  
Review
From Olive Oil to Pomace: Sustainable Valorization Pathways Linking Food Processing and Human Health
by Lucia Bubulac, Claudia Florina Bogdan-Andreescu, Daniela Victorița Voica, Bogdan Mihai Cristea, Maria Simona Chiș and Dan Alexandru Slăvescu
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(19), 10717; https://doi.org/10.3390/app151910717 - 4 Oct 2025
Viewed by 1015
Abstract
The olive tree (Olea europaea L.) has been cultivated for millennia, with olive oil representing both a cornerstone of the Mediterranean diet and a major agricultural commodity. Its composition, rich in monounsaturated fatty acids, polyphenols, tocopherols and squalene, supports well-documented cardioprotective, antioxidant [...] Read more.
The olive tree (Olea europaea L.) has been cultivated for millennia, with olive oil representing both a cornerstone of the Mediterranean diet and a major agricultural commodity. Its composition, rich in monounsaturated fatty acids, polyphenols, tocopherols and squalene, supports well-documented cardioprotective, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits. Olive oil production generates substantial secondary streams, including pomace, leaves, pits and mill wastewater, which are rich in phenols, triterpenes and fibers. This review consolidates recent advances in their phytochemical characterization, innovative extraction technologies and health-promoting effects, while highlighting the economic and regulatory prospects for industrial adoption. Comparative analysis shows that olive leaves can produce up to 16,674.0–50,594.3 mg/kg total phenolics; oleuropein 4570.0–27,547.7 mg/kg, pomace retains 2.24 g GAE/100 g dried matrix (DM)total phenolics; oil 13.66% DM; protein 6.64% DM, and wastewater contains high concentration of phenolics content of olives. Innovative extraction techniques, such as ultrasound and microwave-assisted methods, allow for a recovery, while reducing solvent use and energy input. The analysis highlights opportunities for integrating these by-products into circular bioeconomy models, supporting the development of functional foods, nutraceutical applications and sustainable waste management. Future research should address techno-economic feasibility, regulatory harmonization and large-scale clinical validation to accelerate market translation. Full article
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