Juice components and antioxidant capacity of citrus varieties cultivated in China

Stability of vitamin C, carotenoids, phenols, and antioxidant capacity of pasteurised orange juice with resistant maltodextrin storage

Resistant maltodextrin (RMD) was added at increasing concentrations (0%, 2.5%, 5% and 7.5%) before pasteurisation to orange juice to analyse its potential protective effect on the health-related bioactive compounds of pasteurised orange juice throughout its storage time. Samples were characterised in terms of basic physico-chemical properties and bioactive compounds at the beginning of the storage. Higher concentrations of RMD proved to better preserve the bioactive compounds of orange juice, thus obtaining a higher antioxidant capacity (AC). Stability of all samples was determined by measuring the same parameters at days 0, 15, 45, 75, 105, 136 and 170 of storage. °Brix and pH were very stable in all samples along storage, while all bioactive compouds had negative variations. However, RMD addition slightly improved ascorbic acid, vitamin C, total phenols, and total carotenoids retention, improving then its AC. This effect was greater in the 5% RMD-added samples. All bioactive compounds showed a positive Pearson's correlation coefficient with AC. Colour variations were also measured at days 105 and 170. All samples had a positive variation of all colour parameters, being this clearer at day 170. This work enlights the potential functionality of RMD to better preserve the health-related compounds of pasteurised orange juice.

Sonication and thermal treatment of pineapple juice: Comparative assessment of the physicochemical properties, antioxidant activities and microbial inactivation

Sonication is a novel processing method that is perceived as a substitute for heat treatment to ensure the safety of juice while reducing the loss of nutrients during processing. The impacts of sonication and thermal processing on pineapple juice, including physicochemical properties, antioxidant activities, and microbial inactivation, were studied. Pineapple juice was sonicated at 100 W and 140 W (for 5, 10 and 15 min) and heat-treated at 70 °C, 80 °C and 90 °C (for 1 min). Results indicated minor alterations in physicochemical characteristics after sonication and thermal processing, while sonication treatment showed better retention of the color, clarity, and browning index of pineapple juice. Moreover, sonication significantly increased the bioactive compounds (total carotenoids, ascorbic acid, phenolics, and flavonoids) and boosted the antioxidant activity of pineapple juice compared to the heat-processed juice. Although sonication reduced the microbial load significantly with the increasing exposure time, it could not thoroughly inactivate microorganisms like thermal treatment. Therefore, optimal sonication processing conditions are required to be determined. This study will help the food processors utilize sonication treatment in pineapple juice processing plants to inactivate microorganisms thoroughly while also boosting the nutritional value.

Orange-derived extracellular vesicles nanodrugs for efficient treatment of ovarian cancer assisted by transcytosis effect

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) have recently received much attention about the application of drug carriers due to their desirable properties such as nano-size, biocompatibility, and high stability. Herein, we demonstrate orange-derived extracellular vesicles (OEV) nanodrugs (DN@OEV) by modifying cRGD-targeted doxorubicin (DOX) nanoparticles (DN) onto the surface of OEV, enabling significantly enhancing tumor accumulation and penetration, thereby efficiently inhibiting the growth of ovarian cancer. The obtained DN@OEV enabled to inducement of greater transcytosis capability in ovarian cancer cells, which presented the average above 10-fold transcytosis effect compared with individual DN. It was found that DN@OEV could trigger receptor-mediated endocytosis to promote early endosome/recycling endosomes pathway for exocytosis and simultaneously reduce degradation in the early endosomes-late endosomes-lysosome pathway, thereby inducing the enhanced transcytosis. In particular, the zombie mouse model bearing orthotopic ovarian cancer further validated DN@OEV presented high accumulation and penetration in tumor tissue by the transcytosis process. Our study indicated the strategy in enhancing transcytosis has significant implications for improving the therapeutic efficacy of the drug delivery system.

Comparative Analysis of Concurrent (CC), Mixed Flow (MX), and Combined Spray Drying Configurations on the Physicochemical Characteristics of Satsuma Mandarin (Citrus unshiu) Juice Powders

Satsuma mandarins are good sources of vitamin C and can be used as raw materials to produce novel plant-based food ingredients including satsuma mandarin juice powders (SJP). Food powders produced via spray drying often show thermal degradation due to the drying conditions and high drying air temperatures. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of using different spray drying configurations, including concurrent (CC), mixed flow (MX), and combined (CC + MX), at two inlet air temperatures (160 and 180 °C) on the physicochemical properties of SJP. Remarkably, SJP produced using the CC spray drying configuration exhibited a higher vitamin C content (3.56-4.01 mg/g) and lower moisture levels (15.18-16.35 g/100 g) than powders produced via MX or CC + MX. The vitamin C content of MX and CC + MX powders ranged from 2.88 to 3.33 mg/g. Meanwhile, all SJP had water activity values below 0.19. Furthermore, MX powders displayed the largest mean particle sizes (D50) (8.69-8.83 µm), higher agglomeration, and a rapid dissolution. Despite these differences, all SJP variants exhibited consistent color, surface area, and pore volumes. Notably, powders dried at higher inlet air temperatures (180 °C) showed less vitamin C content and increased thermal damage when compared with powders dried at 160 °C inlet air temperature. This study demonstrated the feasibility of producing high-quality SJP with an extended shelf life. SJP can be used as a novel plant-based ingredient in different food applications.

Multivariate Profiling of Metabolites and Volatile Organic Compounds in Citrus depressa Hayata Fruits from Kagoshima, Okinawa, and Taiwan

Citrus depressa Hayata is a small-fruit citrus species; it is indigenous to Kagoshima, Okinawa, and Taiwan. The metabolites and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that affect the flavor of its fruits have not been investigated based on geographical origin. In the present study, we investigated the metabolite and VOC profiles of 18 C. depressa cultivation lines from these regions. Multivariate analysis revealed differences in the metabolites of C. depressa based on its cultivation origins; variations in sugar, sugar alcohol, and amino acid contents were also observed. Fruits from Kagoshima and Okinawa had higher galactinol, trehalose, xylose, glucose, and sucrose intensities than fruits from Taiwan (log2-fold change; 2.65-3.44, 1.68-2.13, 1.37-2.01, 1.33-1.57, and 1.07-1.43, respectively), whereas the Taiwanese lines contained higher leucine, isoleucine, serine, and alanine. In contrast to the Taiwanese Nantou line, other cultivation lines had comparable total VOC contents, and the VOCs of all lines were dominated by limonene, γ-terpinene, and p-cymene. Accordingly, the highest VOC intensities were recorded in the Nantou line, which was followed by Shikunin sweet (Kagoshima) and Taoyuan (Taiwan) (log10 normalize concentration; 5.11, 3.08, and 3.01, respectively). Moreover, multivariate analysis plots elucidated the difference in the VOCs of Ishikunibu (Okinawa), Shikunin sweet, and Taoyuan and between those of most Kagoshima and Okinawa cultivation lines. These results suggest that both the cultivation line and origin influence the metabolites and VOCs of C. depressa, thus possibly affecting its flavor quality; the data provide a valuable insight for utilizing C. depressa of different cultivation lines and origins to produce foods and beverages.

Taming Food-Drug Interaction Risk: Potential Inhibitory Effects of Citrus Juices on Cytochrome Liver Enzymes Can Safeguard the Liver from Overdose Paracetamol-Induced Hepatotoxicity

Paracetamol overdose is the leading cause of drug-induced hepatotoxicity worldwide. Because of N-acetyl cysteine's limited therapeutic efficacy and safety, searching for alternative therapeutic substitutes is necessary. This study investigated four citrus juices: Citrus sinensis L. Osbeck var. Pineapple (pineapple sweet orange), Citrus reticulata Blanco × Citrus sinensis L. Osbeck (Murcott mandarin), Citrus paradisi Macfadyen var. Ruby Red (red grapefruit), and Fortunella margarita Swingle (oval kumquat) to improve the herbal therapy against paracetamol-induced liver toxicity. UHPLC-QTOF-MS/MS profiling of the investigated samples resulted in the identification of about 40 metabolites belonging to different phytochemical classes. Phenolic compounds were the most abundant, with the total content ranked from 609.18 to 1093.26 μg gallic acid equivalent (GAE)/mL juice. The multivariate data analysis revealed that phloretin 3',5'-di-C-glucoside, narirutin, naringin, hesperidin, 2-O-rhamnosyl-swertisin, fortunellin (acacetin-7-O-neohesperidoside), sinensetin, nobiletin, and tangeretin represented the crucial discriminatory metabolites that segregated the analyzed samples. Nevertheless, the antioxidant activity of the samples was 1135.91-2913.92 μM Trolox eq/mL juice, 718.95-3749.47 μM Trolox eq/mL juice, and 2304.74-4390.32 μM Trolox eq/mL juice, as revealed from 2,2'-azino-bis-3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulfonic acid, ferric-reducing antioxidant power, and oxygen radical absorbance capacity, respectively. The in vivo paracetamol-induced hepatotoxicity model in rats was established and assessed by measuring the levels of hepatic enzymes and antioxidant biomarkers. Interestingly, the concomitant administration of citrus juices with a toxic dose of paracetamol effectively recovered the liver injury, as confirmed by normal sections of hepatocytes. This action could be due to the interactions between the major identified metabolites (hesperidin, hesperetin, phloretin 3',5'-di-C-glucoside, fortunellin, poncirin, nobiletin, apigenin-6,8-digalactoside, 6',7'-dihydroxybergamottin, naringenin, and naringin) and cytochrome P450 isoforms (CYP3A4, CYP2E1, and CYP1A2), as revealed from the molecular docking study. The most promising compounds in the three docking processes were hesperidin, fortunellin, poncirin, and naringin. Finally, a desirable food-drug interaction was achieved in our research to overcome paracetamol overdose-induced hepatotoxicity.

Quantitative metabolomic analysis reveals the fractionation of active compounds during lemon fruit juicing

In this study, metabolomic analysis was employed to investigate the separation (fractionation) of active compounds into lemon juice (LJ) and lemon pomace (LP) during lemon juicing. A total of 968 metabolites were identified, and 438 differentially abundant metabolites (DAMs) were screened out between LJ and LP, suggesting significant metabolite fractionation during juicing. The "flavonoids", "phenolic acids", and "saccharides and alcohols" were mainly retained in the LP, while the fractionation of major "organic acids" was differentiated. Seven of the 12 potential bitter metabolites were more abundant in the LP and two were more abundant in the LJ, suggesting that LP would be more bitter. L-Ascorbic acid, thiamine, and acitretin were significantly lost during juicing, while riboflavin was newly dissolved during juicing. The antioxidant capacity of LP was significantly higher than that of LJ, which was closely related to the higher abundance of phenolic acid metabolites in LP. These findings suggtested that promoting the release of flavonoids and phenolic acids from LP is a potential strategy to improve the quality of LJ. Results also provides important information and reference for developing high-value products by using LP.

Comparison of Some Fruit Quality Parameters of Selected 12 Mandarin Genotypes from Black Sea Region in Turkey

Mandarins are mostly preferred specie of Citrus genus, and there has been a continuous rise in consumption and global marketing due to having easy-to-peel, attractive flavor, and fresh consumption advantages. However, most of the existing knowledge on quality traits of citrus fruit comes from research conducted on oranges, which are the main products for the citrus juice manufacturing industry. In recent years, mandarin production in Turkey surpassed orange production and took the first place in citrus production. Mandarins are mostly grown in the Mediterranean and Aegean Regions of Turkey. Due to suitable climatic conditions, they are also grown in the microclimatic condition in Rize province located in the Eastern Black Sea region. In this study, we reported the total phenolic content, total antioxidant capacity, and volatiles of 12 Satsuma mandarin genotypes selected from Rize province of Turkey. Considerable differences in the total phenolic content, total antioxidant capacity (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl assay), and fruit volatile constituent were found among the 12 selected Satsuma mandarin genotypes. The total phenolic content ranged from 3.50 to 22.53 mg of gallic acid equivalent per 100 g of the fruit sample in the selected mandarin genotypes. The total antioxidant capacity was the highest in genotype HA2 as 60.40%, and followed by IB (59.15%) and TEK3 (58.36%), respectively. A total of 30 aroma volatiles were detected from the juice samples of 12 mandarin genotypes by GC/MS, which comprised six alcohols, three aldehydes (including one monoterpene), three esters, one ketone, and one other volatiles. The main volatile compounds were identified in fruits of all Satsuma mandarin genotypes as α-terpineol (0.6-1.88%), linalool (1.1-3.21%), γ-terpinene (4.41-5.5%), β-myrcene (0.9-1.6%), dl-limonene (79.71-85.12%), α-farnesene (1.1-2.44), and d-germacrene (0.66-1.37%). Limonene accounts for most of the aroma compounds (79.71-85.12%) in fruits of all Satsuma genotypes. The genotypes MP and TEK8 had the highest total phenolic content, and HA2, IB, and TEK 3 had the highest antioxidant capacity. The YU2 genotype was found to contain more aroma compounds than the other genotypes. The genotypes selected on the basis of their high bioactive content could be used to develop new Satsuma mandarin cultivars with high human health promoting contents.

Quality evaluation of citrus varieties based on phytochemical profiles and nutritional properties

Introduction

China is one of the major producers and exporters of various kinds of citrus fruits. As one of China's major citrus planting bases, Sichuan has a citrus planting area that exceeds 400,000 hectares. Meanwhile, citrus cultivation has become one of the important agricultural pillar industries in the region. Citrus fruits are reported to show various health-promoting effects, especially antioxidant activity. However, reports on the functional, nutritional and qualitative characteristics of different citrus varieties in Sichuan are still scarce.

Methods

The quality attributes (color parameters, shape, and size), juice properties (titratable acids and total soluble sugar), mineral elements, and health-promoting nutritional and functional components (protein, carbohydrates, fat, dietary fiber, ascorbic acid, phenolic acids, and flavonoids), as well as antioxidant properties of 10 typical citrus varieties cultivated in Sichuan, were systematically investigated and analyzed.

Results and Discussion

Significant differences among different citrus varieties were found. In particular, the total soluble sugar content of Mingrijian was higher than that of other citrus, suggesting its potential for fresh consumption and food processing. Moreover, a total of five flavonoids and nine phenolic acids were identified and quantified. Yuanhong, with higher contents of ascorbic acid and phenolic acids, was considered to be a valuable variety with excellent antioxidant capacity and can be used for value-added processing in the food industry. Principal component analysis and hierarchical cluster heatmap analysis suggested that there were significant differences among the 10 citrus varieties. Correlation analysis confirmed the significant contribution of ascorbic acid and phenolic acids to antioxidant capacity in citrus. The results can provide some references for the cultivation and selection of nutritious citrus fruits.

Anxiolytic, analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects of Citrus maxima (Burm.) Merr. Seed extract in Swiss albino mice model

Background

Citrus maxima (Burm.) Merr. is traditionally used for its diverse pharmacological properties. Therefore, there remains a possibility that the seed extract may contain some bioactive compounds. The present study was carried out to evaluate the anxiolytic, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory effects of methanolic seed extract of Citrus maxima (MECM).

Method

The effect of MECM on the rodent central nervous system was evaluated using the hole-board and elevated plus-maze method. Analgesic effect was measured with the acetic acid-induced writhing and formalin-induced paw licking method. The anti-inflammatory effect was examined using a formalin and carrageenan-induced mice paw edema model.

Results

The MECM at doses of 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg significantly (p < 0.01) increased the number of head dipping in the hole-board test. Additionally, the test subjects entered into the open arm and spent more time in it at an increased rate (p < 0.01) in the elevated plus-maze test. In the acetic acid-induced writhing method, the extract showed high potential (p < 0.001) as an analgesic agent. In the case of formalin-induced pain assessment, MECM demonstrated a significant effect (p < 0.01) at the early phase as a centrally acting anti-nociceptive agent and very high potential (p < 0.001) to reduce pain during the late phase as a peripherally acting analgesic. The extract also showed potency (p < 0.01) as an anti-inflammatory agent in formalin and carrageenan-induced mice paw edema test.

Conclusion

The findings of the current study indicate that MECM can be a promising new candidate for searching novel anxiolytic, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory compounds through further investigation.

Comprehensive studies of biological characteristics, phytochemical profiling, and antioxidant activities of two local citrus varieties in China

Citrus is widely grown all over the world, and citrus fruits have long been recognized for their nutritional and medical value for human health. However, some local citrus varieties with potentially important value are still elusive. In the current study, we elucidated the biological characteristics, phylogenetic and phytochemical profiling, antioxidants and antioxidant activities of the two local citrus varieties, namely Zangju and Tuju. The physiological and phylogenetic analysis showed that Zangju fruit has the characteristics of wrinkled skin, higher acidity, and phylogenetically closest to sour mandarin Citrus sunki, whereas, Tuju is a kind of red orange with vermilion peel, small fruit and high sugar content, and closely clustered with Citrus erythrosa. The phytochemical analysis showed that many nutrition and antioxidant related differentially accumulated metabolites (DAMs) were detected in the peel and pulp of Zangju and Tuju fruits. Furthermore, it was found that the relative abundance of some key flavonoids and phenolic acids, such as tangeritin, sinensetin, diosmetin, nobiletin, and sinapic acid in the peel and pulp of Zangju and Tuju were higher than that in sour range Daidai and satsuma mandarin. Additionally, Zangju pulp and Tuju peel showed the strongest ferric reducing/antioxidant power (FRAP) activity, whereas, Tuju peel and pulp showed the strongest DPPH and ABTS free radical scavenging activities, respectively. Moreover, both the antioxidant activities of peel and pulp were significantly correlated with the contents of total phenols, total flavonoids or ascorbic acid. These results indicate that the two local citrus varieties have certain nutritional and medicinal value and potential beneficial effects on human health. Our findings will also provide an important theoretical basis for further conservation, development and medicinal utilization of Zangju and Tuju.

In Vitro Bioaccessibility of Bioactive Compounds of Freeze-Dried Orange Juice Co-Product Formulated with Gum Arabic and Modified Starch

The large amount of waste generated by the orange juice industry has sparked the interest of many researchers in incorporating recycling systems and following a much more sustainable circular economy model. This work proposes the valorization of the co-product generated in the orange juice extraction industry after freeze-drying for its subsequent reuse as a natural ingredient in the food industry. In addition, the possible protective effect of gum Arabic and corn starch esterified with octenyl succinic groups, in proportions optimised in previous studies 0.25 and 0.45 g/g orange co-product dry solutes, on the main bioactive compounds of orange peel during the freeze-drying process has been studied. The samples were characterised for their content of vitamin C (ascorbic and dehydroascorbic acids), flavonoids (hesperidin and narirutin), total phenols and total carotenoids, as well as their antioxidant capacity (DPPH and FRAP assays). In addition, samples were digested, mimicking the human enzymatic oral gastro-intestinal digestion process, and the bioaccessibility of the bioactive compounds was evaluated. It was observed that the addition of both biopolymers improved the stability of the hydrophilic compounds during freeze-drying. This conservative effect was more remarkable for higher biopolymer concentrations. However, no protective effect on carotenoid compounds was observed. This trend was reflected in the antioxidant activity of the different samples. In addition, the incorporation of biopolymers improved the bioaccessibility of the bioactive compounds studied. In conclusion, the results supported the feasibility of the freeze-dried orange juice co-product as a natural, sustainable source of health-promoting compounds.

Integrated Analysis of Metabolome and Transcriptome Reveals the Difference in Flavonoid Biosynthesis between the Red- and White-Sarcocarp Pomelo Fruits

Flavonoids are bioactive secondary metabolites that play multiple roles in plants. However, studies on the flavonoid accumulation of the pomelo fruit are rare. In this study, we conducted a widely targeted metabolome analysis by using ultra-performance liquid chromatography and tandem mass spectrometry and identified 550 metabolites in the sarcocarp from red (C. maxima Merr. var. Tubtim Siam) and white pomelos (C. maxima (Burm.) Osbeck). A total of 263 significantly changed metabolites were detected from the 550 metabolites. Content analysis of the significantly changed metabolites (SCMs) showed that 138 SCMs were highly accumulated, whereas 125 SCMs were observed with lower content in red-sarcocarp pomelo. Importantly, 103 of the 263 SCMs were flavonoids, including 34 flavonoids, 29 flavonols, 18 flavonoid carbonosides, 9 dihydroflavones, 6 isoflavones, 5 anthocyanins, 1 dihydroflavonol, and 1 chalcone. Gene ontology analysis indicated that upregulated genes in red-sarcocarp pomelo were significantly enriched in GO terms related to flavonoids including flavonoid biosynthetic processes. Several important differentially expressed genes were detected in the correlation network, especially Cg2g009540 which is an orthologous gene of AtCHS, also detected in flavonoid biosynthesis networks, and which could be related to the high level of total flavonoids in the red-sarcocarp pomelo. Our study demonstrated the fluctuation of flavonoid biosynthesis in the two pomelo cultivars and laid a theoretical foundation for pomelo breeding to generate fruits with a high flavonoid content.

Phenolic profiles, phytochemical composition and vitamin C content of selected horticultural produce from Central Queensland

The Central Queensland region of Australia is a large producer of horticultural produce; however, there are limited studies on the phytochemical composition of the produce from this region. Additionally, some crops or cultivars are poorly known in domestic markets; hence are currently only grown for niche markets. There is opportunity to expand production of these crops if they contain higher levels of health-benefiting compounds compared to existing cultivars. Hence this work aimed to elucidate the phytochemical composition of such under-marketed and/or under-utilised crops, including their phenolic acid and flavonoid profiles. The samples included nine cucurbits, two citrus fruits, dragonfruit and Brazilian cherry. The vitamin C (ascorbic acid) content was quantified using high-performance liquid chromatography with diode array detection, while the phenolic profiles were gathered using targeted liquid chromatograph tandem mass spectrometry analysis. Antioxidant activity was quantified using the FRAP and CUPRAC assays, while total phenolic content was measured using the Folin-Ciocalteu assay. The results revealed extensive variation in the levels of health-benefiting compounds between the samples. The phenolic profiles of several species/cultivars are reported for the first time. The highest ascorbic acid content was found in blood orange skin (817 mg/100 g DW), while the highest total phenolic content was found in blood orange skin (1988 mg GAE/100 g). Samples showing high antioxidant capacity included blood orange skin, Brazilian cherry and spaghetti squash. These results may support the prospect of marketing several of the crops/cultivars as functional food crops in domestic or export markets.

Phytochemicals and Antioxidant Capacities of Young Citrus Fruits Cultivated in China

Fruits of six varieties of young citrus cultivated in China were collected for phytochemical composition analysis and antioxidant activity determination. The phenolic acids, synephrine, flavone, and flavanone were analyzed using HPLC, and the total phenolic content and antioxidant capacity were determined by Folin-Ciocalteu, Ferric ion reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), 2,2- 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), and 2,2′-azino-bis-3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulphonic acid (ABTS) analysis. The results indicated that Ougan variety had the highest total phenolic content (125.18 GAE mg/g DW), followed by the Huyou variety (107.33 mg/g DW), while Wanshuwenzhoumigan variety had the lowest (35.91 mg/g DW). Ferulic acid was the most dominant soluble phenolic acid in the selected young citrus, followed by p-coumaric acid and p-hydroxybenzoic acid, whereas nobiletin and tangeretin were the most abundant flavones in the Ponkan, Ougan, and Wanshuwenzhoumigan varieties. Antioxidant capacity that measured by ABTS, FRAP, and DPPH showed similar trends and was positively correlated with the total phenolic and total flavonoid contents (p < 0.05). Considering the high content of phenolics in the young fruits of Ougan and Huyou variety, those two varieties might be potential resources for extracting phytochemicals for health promotion.

Differentiation of juice of mandarin-like hybrids based on physicochemical characteristics, bioactive compounds, and antioxidant capacity

In this study, samples of mandarin-like hybrids (Clemenvilla, Nadorcott and Ortanique) from two harvesting seasons (2017−2018 and 2018−2019) were analyzed, to evaluate its differences in physicochemical characteristics and nutritional properties and establish the parameters that allow classify these citrus cultivars. Results showed that Clemenvilla juice had the highest concentration of total phenolic and ascorbic acid and are strongly correlated to its higher antioxidant capacity. Flavonoids were higher in Nadorcott samples. Large differences of total carotenoids were observed in juice analyzed. Varieties and harvesting seasons significantly influenced (p < 0.05) the physicochemical properties, bioactive compounds content and antioxidant capacity of samples. The pH, flavonoids, ascorbic acid, DPPH and TEAC values were determined as predictor parameters to classify the groups according to the varieties, concluding that Nadorcott samples were clearly different. The data presented in this research will currently provide information about the physicochemical evaluation of mandarin-like hybrid varieties and their potential as source of bioactive compounds and antioxidant capacity.

A Targeted Metabolomics Approach to Study Secondary Metabolites and Antioxidant Activity in 'Kinnow Mandarin' during Advanced Fruit Maturity

In this study, we investigated the impact of harvest maturity stages and contrasting growing climates on secondary metabolites in Kinnow mandarin. Fruit samples were harvested at six harvest maturity stages (M1−M6) from two distinct growing locations falling under subtropical−arid (STA) and subtropical−humid (STH) climates. A high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS/MS) technique was employed to identify and quantify secondary metabolites in the fruit juice. A total of 31 polyphenolics and 4 limonoids, with significant differences (p < 0.05) in their concentration, were determined. With advancing maturity, phenolic acids and antioxidant activity were found to increase, whereas flavonoids and limonoids decreased in concentration. There was a transient increase in the concentration of some polyphenolics such as hesperidin, naringin, narirutin, naringenin, neoeriocitrin, rutin, nobiletin and tangeretin, and limonoid aglycones such as limonin and nomilin at mid-maturity stage (M3) which coincided with prevailing low temperature and frost events at growing locations. A higher concentration of limonin and polyphenolics was observed for fruit grown under STH climates in comparison to those grown under STA climates. The data indicate that fruit metabolism during advanced stages of maturation under distinct climatic conditions is fundamental to the flavor, nutrition and processing quality of Kinnow mandarin. This information can help in understanding the optimum maturity stage and preferable climate to source fruits with maximum functional compounds, less bitterness and high consumer acceptability.

Effects of edible whole citrus fruits on endogenous antioxidant enzymes of HepG2 cells

The effects of eating fresh citrus fruits including two varieties of mandarins, one of sweet oranges, one of grapefruit, two of pomelo, and one of kumquat cultivated in China on endogenous antioxidant enzymes were investigated by in vitro digestion and HepG2 cells. The correlations between enzyme activity and cell uptake of phytochemicals, and cellular antioxidant capacities were analyzed. The results showed that most of fresh citrus fruits increased the endogenous antioxidant activity. Bairoumiyou, Hongroumiyou, Ponkan, and Jinju after digestion significantly increased the activity of catalase (CAT) (P &lt; 0.05). Hongroumiyou, Bairoumiyou, Ponkan navel orange, and Jinju after digestion significantly increased glutathione peroxidases (GPxs) activity (P &lt; 0.05), while Huyou and Satsuma could not increase the activity of GPxs after digestion. Thioredoxin oxidoreductase (TrxR) activity was improved significantly by most of the digested whole citrus fruits except Ponkan (P &lt; 0.05) and the one added whole citrus fruits had higher increase than added citrus fruits extracts. The results indicated that edible whole citrus fruits had similar effects as extracts on enzymes.

Metabolic Diversity of Flavonoids and Antioxidant Potential for Characterization of Underutilized Citrus Species for Nutritional Security

Citrus fruits are grown commercially throughout the world. They are widely consumed due to their nutrients, use in energy supplements, and numerous health benefits. There is significant interest among consumers about this naturally available source, rich in flavonoids and antioxidants. However, underutilized citrus varieties remain unexplored due to the lack of information about the pool of nutritive properties they confer. Ten underutilized citrus varieties were collected from Nokrek Biosphere Reserve, West Garo Hills, Meghalaya, India, identified by UNESCO as a Biosphere reserve, to study the diversity in terms of limonin, ascorbic acid, carotenoids, browning, flavonoids, total phenol, and antioxidant activity, the contents of which varied significantly among different citrus cultivars. The results indicated that Citron and Pomelo were good sources of ascorbic acid (29.50 and 45.09 mg/100 mL), and that Khasi papeda was found to contain lower limonin content (9.21 ppm). However, in terms of flavonoids, Khasi papeda and Pomelo were found to exhibit a higher naringin content (189.13 ppm and 32.15 ppm), whereas the hesperidin content was highest in Kachai lemon, Khasi papeda, and Chinotto, at 199.51 ppm, 148.04 ppm, and 135.88 ppm, respectively. Antioxidant activity was assessed by three antioxidant assays (ABTS+ (radical cation azino-bis [3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulfonic acid]) (ABTS), 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical (DPPH), and Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power (FRAP)). Khasi papeda (7.48 mM L−1 Trolox), Chinotto (7.48 mM L−1 Trolox), and Pomelo (7.48 mM L−1 Trolox) exhibited the highest reducing power with DPPH radical scavenging activity, and Khasi papeda (15.41 mg GAE L−1) possessed a higher phenolic content, whereas the antioxidant activity when assessed with ABTS and FRAP assays was highest among the underutilized species of Khasi papeda (4.84 mM L−1 Trolox, 1.93 mM L−1 Trolox) and Ada Jamir (4.96 mM L−1 Trolox, 2.03 mM L−1 Trolox), respectively. To the best of our knowledge, this is among the very few papers presenting comprehensive data on the metabolic diversity of flavonoids and antioxidant potential to characterize the underutilized citrus species. This study also demonstrated that Khasi papeda, Pomelo, Chinotto, and Kachai lemon can serve as potential sources of functional components, bioactive compounds, and antioxidants, which can be explored for further application in the processing industry for nutritional security.

Flowability, Rehydration Behaviour and bioactive Compounds of an Orange Powder Product as Affected by Particle Size

By offering a powder that ensures the healthy value of the fruits, a proper flowability and adequate viscosity after rehydration, there could be an opportunity to promote fruit consumption. The particle size is of critical importance with regard to the properties of a powder. But the separation of a product by particle size is usually associated with compositional changes. In this study, an orange powder product with the same composition but different particle size was compared. The particle sizes considered (269 ± 4, 189 ± 4, 118 ± 3 µm) offer a product with the same bioactive compound content and guarantee a good powder flowability: angle of repose, compressibility, density, porosity and Hausner’s and Carr’s indexes. Nevertheless, grinding can be used as a simple green technology with which to adjust the particle size so as to obtain rehydrated products with differing viscosities and, therefore, powders with different applications: the smaller the particle size, the lower the viscosity.

Flowability, Rehydration Behaviour and bioactive Compounds of an Orange Powder Product as Affected by Particle Size

By offering a powder that ensures the healthy value of the fruits, a proper flowability and adequate viscosity after rehydration, there could be an opportunity to promote fruit consumption. The particle size is of critical importance with regard to the properties of a powder. But the separation of a product by particle size is usually associated with compositional changes. In this study, an orange powder product with the same composition but different particle size was compared. The particle sizes considered (269 ± 4, 189 ± 4, 118 ± 3 µm) offer a product with the same bioactive compound content and guarantee a good powder flowability: angle of repose, compressibility, density, porosity and Hausner’s and Carr’s indexes. Nevertheless, grinding can be used as a simple green technology with which to adjust the particle size so as to obtain rehydrated products with differing viscosities and, therefore, powders with different applications: the smaller the particle size, the lower the viscosity.

Determination of Bioactive Components in Mandarin Fruits: A Review

During the last decade, there has been a continuous rise in the consumption of fresh easy-to-peel mandarins. However, the majority of the knowledge comes from other citrus fruit, like orange, while there are relatively few studies about mandarins and no comprehensive research on literature data about them. One of the most important steps in the analytical process is sample preparation. Its value is evident in analyzing the samples with complex matrices, such as in mandarin fruit. In addition, mandarin contains hundreds to thousands of various compounds and metabolites, some of them present in extremely low concentrations, that interfere with the detection of one another. Hence, mandarin samples are commonly pretreated by extraction to facilitate analysis of bioactive compounds, improve accuracy and quantification levels. There is an abundance of extraction techniques available, depending on the group of compounds of interest. Finally, modern analytical techniques, have been applied to cope with numerous bioactive compounds in mandarins. Considering all the above, this review aims to (i) list the most valuable procedures of sample preparation, (ii) highlight the most important techniques for extraction of bioactive compounds from mandarin fruit, and (iii) summarize current trends in the identification and determination of bioactive compounds in mandarin.

Valorization of Taiwan's Citrus depressa Hayata peels as a source of nobiletin and tangeretin using simple ultrasonic-assisted extraction

As the highest yield crop worldwide, citrus peels that possess bioactive compounds were discarded as a futile by-product. Ultrasonication with environmentally friendly solvent (50% ethanol and ddH₂O) were used in the present study to extract flavonoids from Citrus depressa Hayata peels with extraction period and fruit maturity as other variables. DPPH scavenging activity was investigated. Qualitative flavonoid content analysis was done by UV/Vis and FTIR-ATR spectra. Quantification of flavonoid using LC-MS/MS found that solvent type, fruit maturity, and ultrasonication period significantly affect the extracted flavonoid yield (p < 0.05). Extraction using 50% ethanol showed a higher yield than ddH₂O. Flavonoid content was also higher in unripe than ripe samples. Nobiletin, tangeretin, and rutin were dominant among the identified compounds in all sample treatments. Flavonoid content in Citrus depressa Hayata extract was found to negatively correlate to DPPH scavenging activity, which needs further research to identify other bioactivities of these flavonoids.

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Utilization of simple ultrasonication method with less preparation to extract flavonoids from Citrus depressa Hayata peels.

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Fruit maturity, extraction time and solvent preference significantly affect the yield of extracted flavonoid.

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Environmentally friendly solvent for extraction, deliver a comparable yield of flavonoid compounds to other methods.

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The negative correlation of extracted flavonoid to DPPH scavenging activity.

Analysis of the Phytochemical Composition of Pomegranate Fruit Juices, Peels and Kernels: A Comparative Study on Four Cultivars Grown in Southern Italy

The increasing popularity of pomegranate (Punica granatum L.), driven by the awareness of its nutraceutical properties and excellent environmental adaptability, is promoting a global expansion of its production area. This investigation reports the variability in the weight, moisture, pH, total soluble solids, carbohydrates, organic acids, phenolic compounds, fatty acids, antioxidant activities, and element composition of different fruit parts (juices, peels, and kernels) from four (Ako, Emek, Kamel, and Wonderful One) of the most widely cultivated Israeli pomegranate varieties in Salento (South Italy). To the best of our knowledge, this is the first systematic characterization of different fruit parts from pomegranate cultivars grown simultaneously in the same orchard and subjected to identical agronomic and environmental conditions. Significant genotype-dependent variability was observed for many of the investigated parameters, though without any correlation among fruit parts. The levels of phenols, flavonoids, anthocyanins, and ascorbic and dehydroascorbic acids of all samples were higher than the literature-reported data, as was the antioxidant activity. This is likely due to positive interactions among genotypes, the environment, and good agricultural practices. This study also confirms that pomegranate kernels and peels are, respectively, rich sources of punicic acid and phenols together, with several other bioactive molecules. However, the variability in their levels emphasizes the need for further research to better exploit their agro-industrial potential and thereby increase juice-production chain sustainability. This study will help to assist breeders and growers to respond to consumer and industrial preferences and encourage the development of biorefinery strategies for the utilization of pomegranate by-products as nutraceuticals or value-added ingredients for custom-tailored supplemented foods.

Valorization of Rose Hip (Rosa canina) Puree Co-Product in Enriched Corn Extrudates

Serious issues and challenges of the world’s population are represented by dwindling natural food resources and the scale-up of sustainable food manufacturing. Therefore, the valorization of co-products from the food industry represents new methods for food development. The principal goal of the study was to capitalize rose hip (Rosa canina) co-product powder in extrudates, highlighting its influence on extrusion parameters, physicochemical, and nutritional characteristics. The water absorption index, swelling index, and hygroscopicity increased with the rose hip co-product addition. Furthermore, water solubility index, expansion index, porosity, image parameters (area and perimeter) of the extrudates decreased. Lycopene, β-Carotene, Zea-esters, and lutein were the main carotenoids identified in the extrudates; whereas Catechin, Di-gallic acid, Procyanidin dimmer 1, Procyanidin dimmer 2, and Isorhamnetin-glucuronide were the main flavonoids. Strong Pearson correlations were identified between carotenoids, total flavonoids, vitamin C, total folate, and antioxidant activity. Valorization of the Rosa canina powder co-product led to value-added products—corn extrudates—rich in bioactive compounds.

Effect on Nutritional and Functional Characteristics by Encapsulating Rose canina Powder in Enriched Corn Extrudates

Wild Rose canina fruit represents a rich source of bioactive compounds such as minerals, phenolic compounds, vitamins, carotenoids, folate, and antioxidant activity that still needs to be further exploited. Thus, this study aimed to use wild Rosa canina fruit encapsulated powder with different biopolymers aiming to manufacture ready-to-eat products, such as corn extrudates. To achieve this goal, extrudate physicochemical characteristics, such as water content (x_w), water activity (a_w), water absorption index (WAI), water solubility index (WSI), swelling index (SWE), hygroscopicity (Hy), expansion index (SEI), bulk density (ρ_b), porosity (ε), textural, optical; nutritional; and functional analysis (phenolic acids, flavonoids, ascorbic and dehydroascorbic acids, vitamin C, carotenoids, folates, antioxidant activity, and minerals) were determined. Results highlighted that 4 and 8% addition of wild Rose canina fruit encapsulated powder could be successfully used in the corn extrudates, showing the positive influence on its nutritional and functional value. Strong positive Pearson correlations were identified between antioxidant capacity and total flavonoids, carotenoids, folates, and vitamin C of mixtures and extrudates Minerals increased their amount during the extrusion process, reaching the highest values at an addition of 8% rosehip encapsulated with pea protein biopolymer. Furthermore, from the biopolymers used in the present study, pea protein powder exhibited the highest protection on the analyzed bioactive compounds against the extrusion process.

Nutrients and bioactives in citrus fruits: Different citrus varieties, fruit parts, and growth stages

Citrus fruits are consumed in large quantities worldwide due to their attractive aromas and taste, as well as their high nutritional values and various health-promoting effects, which are due to their abundance of nutrients and bioactives. In addition to water, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, and dietary fibers are important nutrients in citrus, providing them with high nutritional values. Citrus fruits are also rich in various bioactives such as flavonoids, essential oils, carotenoids, limonoids, and synephrines, which protect from various ailments, including cancer and inflammatory, digestive, and cardiovascular diseases. The composition and content of nutrients and bioactives differ significantly among citrus varieties, fruit parts, and growth stages. To better understand the nutrient and bioactive profiles of citrus fruits and provide guidance for the utilization of high-value citrus resources, this review systematically summarizes the nutrients and bioactives in citrus fruit, including their contents, structural characteristics, and potential health benefits. We also explore the composition variation in different citrus varieties, fruits parts, and growth stages, as well as their health-promoting effects and applications.

Role of non-thermal treatments and fermentation with probiotic Lactobacillus plantarum on in vitro bioaccessibility of bioactives from vegetable juice

BACKGROUND

Lactic acid fermentation is a natural way to increase the bioactive and functional properties of fruit and vegetable juices. In this study, the in vitro gastrointestional digestion of phenolics, flavonoids, anthocyanins, and antioxidant activity of mixed vegetable juice was investigated as affected by fermentation with probiotic Lactobacillus plantarum and non-thermal treatments (ultraviolet (UV) and/or ultrasonic (US) treatment). For this purpose heat, US, UV or US/UV treated vegetable juice samples were fermented by probiotic L. plantarum and percentage recovery of bioactive (total phenolic (TPC), total flavonoid (TFC) and total anthocyanin contents (TAC) and antioxidant (DPPH [1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl] and CUPRAC [CUPric Reducing Antioxidant Capacity]) properties was evaluated during simulated gastrointestinal digestion.

RESULTS

Total mesophilic aerobic bacteria (TMAB) and total yeast-mold (TYM) counts were significantly decreased by thermal and non-thermal processes and coliforms were fully eliminated. The bioaccessibility of total phenolics, anthocyanins, and flavonoids decreased after in vitro digestion. In general, recovery (5.78-34.71%) and serum availability of the bioactives was positively influenced by the fermentation and non-thermal treatments. Phenolics and anthocyanins exhibited the highest and the lowest recovery, respectively, while post-digestion recovery of antioxidant was between that of the phenolics and anthocyanins.

CONCLUSIONS

This study confirmed that US and UV treatment could be advantageous alternatives to heat treatment for ensuring the microbial safety of vegetable juices with increased in vitro bioaccessibility of bioactive compounds while probiotic fermentation with L. plantarum contributed to the improvement of the bioactive profile. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.

Ultrasonication of Thawed Huyou Juice: Effects on Cloud Stability, Physicochemical Properties and Bioactive Compounds

In order to remove the flocculent precipitation in Huyou juice after frozen storage and thawing process, the thawed juice was ultrasonically treated with different power (45-360 W) and time (10-60 min) in ice bath (~0 °C), and its sedimentation behavior during storage was observed. After optimization, the cloud stability of juice could be improved by ultrasonic treatment with ultrasonic power of 360 W or more for at least 30 min, which could be stable during 7 days of storage at 4 °C. Under this optimal condition (360 W, 30 min), the effects of ultrasound on the physicochemical properties and bioactive compounds of thawed Huyou juice during storage were investigated. The results showed that with smaller particle size and lower polymer dispersity index, ultrasonic treatment did not significantly change the color, soluble solids, titratable acidity, and bioactive compounds including flavonoids and other phenolics. In addition, all properties of samples were at the same level during storage. Thus, ultrasound was applicable since it can improve the cloud stability of Huyou juice with minimal impact on its physicochemical properties and nutritional quality compared to the untreated one.

In Vitro Selection of Probiotics, Prebiotics, and Antioxidants to Develop an Innovative Synbiotic (NatuREN G) and Testing Its Effect in Reducing Uremic Toxins in Fecal Batches from CKD Patients

We aimed to develop an innovative synbiotic formulation for use in reducing dysbiosis, uremic toxins (e.g., p-cresol and indoxyl sulfate), and, consequently, the pathognomonic features of patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Twenty-five probiotic strains, belonging to lactobacilli and Bifidobacterium, were tested for their ability to grow in co-culture with different vegetable (pomegranate, tomato, and grapes) sources of antioxidants and prebiotics (inulin, fructo-oligosaccharides, and β-glucans). Probiotics were selected based on the acidification rates and viable cell counts. Inulin and fructo-oligosaccharides reported the best prebiotic activity, while a pomegranate seed extract was initially chosen as antioxidant source. The investigation was also conducted in fecal batches from healthy and CKD subjects, on which metabolomic analyses (profiling volatile organic compounds and total free amino acids) were conducted. Two out of twenty-five probiotics were finally selected. After the stability tests, the selective innovative synbiotic formulation (named NatuREN G) comprised Bifidobacterium animalis BLC1, Lacticaseibacillus casei LC4P1, fructo-oligosaccharides, inulin, quercetin, resveratrol, and proanthocyanidins. Finally, NatuREN G was evaluated on fecal batches collected from CKD in which modified the viable cell densities of some cultivable bacterial patterns, increased the concentration of acetic acid and decane, while reduced the concentration of nonanoic acid, dimethyl trisulfide, and indoxyl sulfate.

Effect of Adding Resistant Maltodextrin to Pasteurized Orange Juice on Bioactive Compounds and Their Bioaccessibility

Resistant maltodextrin (RMD) is a water-soluble and fermentable functional fiber. RMD is a satiating prebiotic, reducer of glucose and triglycerides in the blood, and promoter of good gut health, and its addition to food is increasingly frequent. Therefore, it is necessary to study its potential effects on intrinsic bioactive compounds of food and their bioaccessibility. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of adding RMD on the bioactive compounds of pasteurized orange juice with and without pulp, and the bioaccessibility of such compounds. RMD was added at different concentrations: 0 (control sample), 2.5%, 5%, and 7.5%. Ascorbic acid (AA) and vitamin C were analyzed using HPLC, whereas total phenols, total carotenoids (TC), and antioxidant capacity were measured using spectrophotometry. After that, sample in vitro digestibility was assessed using the standardized static in vitro digestion method. The control orange juice with pulp presented significantly higher values of bioactive compounds and antioxidant capacity than the control orange juice without pulp (p < 0.05). RMD addition before the juice pasteurization process significantly protected all bioactive compounds, namely total phenols, TC, AA, and vitamin C, as well as the antioxidant capacity (AC) (p < 0.05). Moreover, this bioactive compound protective effect was higher when higher RMD concentrations were added. However, RMD addition improved phenols and vitamin C bioaccessibility but decreased TC and AA bioaccessibility. Therefore, the AC value of samples after gastrointestinal digestion was slightly decreased by RMD addition. Moreover, orange pulp presence decreased total phenols and TC bioaccessibility but increased AA and vitamin C bioaccessibility.

Protective capacity of gum Arabic, maltodextrin, different starches, and fibers on the bioactive compounds and antioxidant activity of an orange puree (Citrus sinensis (L.) Osbeck) against freeze-drying and in vitro digestion

Dehydrated fruit puree may be a convenient way to promote the healthy consumption of fruit based foods. Drying carriers, highly used by the food industry to stabilize dried fruit products, may show a potential encapsulating capacity of the biocompounds, that could also limit their bioaccesibility. This study analyzed the impact of gum Arabic (GA), bamboo fiber (BF), native corn starch, starch substituted with octenylsuccinic groups, pea fiber, and maltodextrin on the in vitro bioaccessibility of vitamin C (VC), total phenols (TP), and β-carotene, as well as on the antioxidant capacity during the freeze-drying and in vitro digestion of an orange puree. Amongst the formulations studied, GA + BF was the most effective for phytochemicals protection of the freeze-dried orange puree during the intestinal stage of digestion, resulting in a higher TP and VC bioaccessibility (59% and 36%, respectively).

GC-MS Analysis of Bioactive Compounds in Ethanol and Ethyl Acetate Fraction of Grapefruit (Citrus maxima L.) Rind

The grapefruit (Citrus maxima L.) is a plant known by the public as a fruit consumed with various properties. This plant's use is well known, such as antioxidants, enhancing immunity, anti-aging, and antibacterial properties. This study aimed to identify and analyze the chemical compounds contained in C. maxima rind. The extract was obtained by the maceration method using ethanol and ethyl acetate as solvents. The fractionation process was carried out by Column Chromatography. Observation of thin-layer chromatography profiles with UV lamps 254 and 366 nm. Analysis of chemical compound components using GC-MS and data interpretation based on the Wiley 7.0 data library. The interpretation results of the EF1 fraction are β-copaen-4-α-ol; pentadecanoic acid; hexadecanoic acid; tetradecanoic acid; dotriacontane; osthol; 2H-1-benzopyran-2-one, 7-methoxy-8-(3-methyl-2-oxobutyl); furfural; 6-(2,3-Dihydroxy-3-methylbutyl)-7-methoxycoumarin; and 6-(iodomethyl)-5-methyl-4-oxahexanolide. The chemical compounds identified in EAF2 are 1-octadecanol; decane; tetracosane; hexacosane; and 1,2-benzenedicarboxylic acid (2-ethylhexyl) ester. It can be concluded that these compounds have biological and pharmacological activities.

Lime Juice Enhances Calcium Bioaccessibility from Yogurt Snacks Formulated with Whey Minerals and Proteins

Yogurt-based snacks originally with a calcium content between 0.10 and 0.17 mmol/g dry matter were enriched with a whey mineral concentrate and whey protein isolate or hydrolysate. Whey mineral concentrate was added to increase the total amount of calcium by 0.030 mmol/g dry matter. Calcium bioaccessibility was determined following an in vitro protocol including oral, gastric, and intestinal digestion, with special focus on the effect of lime juice quantifying calcium concentration and activity. Calcium bioaccessibility, defined as soluble calcium divided by total calcium after intestinal digestion amounted to between 17 and 25% for snacks without lime juice. For snacks with lime juice, the bioaccessibility increased to between 24 and 40%, an effect attributed to the presence of citric acid. Citric acid increased the calcium solubility both from whey mineral concentrate and yogurt, and the citrate anion kept supersaturated calcium soluble in the chyme. The binding of calcium in the chyme from snacks with or without lime juice was compared electrochemically, showing that citrate increased the amount of bound calcium but with lower affinity. The results indicated that whey minerals, a waste from cheese production, may be utilized in snacks enhancing calcium bioaccessibility when combined with lime juice.

Citrus species: A Review of Traditional Uses, Phytochemistry and Pharmacology

The Citrus species from family Rutaceae has worldwide applications such as cardiovascular and gastrointestinal problems. Phytochemical investigations have shown that these plants have constituents including flavonoids, limonoids and carotenoids. There are many reports on a wide range of activities such as antiinflammatory, anti-oxidant, immunomodulatory, metabolic, cardiovascular and neuroprotective effects. In the current review, we discuss information regarding botany, phytochemistry, ethnobotany uses, traditional knowledge and pharmacological aspects of the Citrus species.

Quality Evaluation and Functional Properties of Reduced Sugar Jellies Formulated from Citrus Fruits

In Tunisia, despite the large annual production and the numerous citrus varieties under cultivation, citrus processing industries lack product diversity. Products based on dietary properties are a new trend aiming to develop innovative foods and to meet the requirements of the new customer class. In the present study, formulations of reduced sugar jelly products using antioxidant rich-fruit, citrus, were carried out. The effects of citrus juices on the jelly’s antioxidant properties, colour, consistency, and sensory evaluation were also investigated. Results showed that all citrus jellies maintain their antioxidant activity, correlated with phenolic content presence. In fact, total phenolic contents ranged between 123.16 and 192.76 mg GAE/100 g, while flavonoid content varied between 1.54 and 9.06 mg QE/100 g for grapefruit jelly and blood orange jelly, respectively. Results illustrated that antioxidant activity varies according to the variety. A sensory evaluation employing hedonic scale technique exhibited satisfactory acceptance of the reduced sugar blood orange and blond maltase jellies. These results highlight and promote the potential use of these citrus varieties in jelly industry as they present a rich source of phenolic compounds and may generate numerous phytochemicals with potential health promoting properties.