Effects of natural (grape seed and chestnut extract) and synthetic antioxidants (buthylatedhydroxytoluene, BHT) on the physical, chemical, microbiological and sensory characteristics of dry cured sausage “chorizo”

In vitro antioxidative activity of Fritillaria cirrhosa D. Don straw ethanolic extract and its effect on lipid, protein oxidation, and quality of Chinese-style sausage

Fritillaria cirrhosa D. Don, which can be used for medicine and food, contains a variety of chemicals including polyphenols, alkaloids, terpenoid, and others that have beneficial biological properties like antihypertension, bacteriostasis, and anti-inflammatory. The ethanolic extract of Fritillaria straw was obtained for this study using ultrasonic-aided extraction, and the amounts of total phenols and total flavonoids were 26.56 ± 1.36 mg GAE/g dw and 18.75 ± 0.80 mg RE/g dw, respectively. Ultra-performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight-mass spectrometry technology was utilized to identify 50 major chemicals in the Fritillaria straw extract (FSE). Meanwhile, the antioxidative activities of FSE were evaluated by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl, 2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) and Ferric reducing antioxidant power assays in vitro, which pointed out the antioxidative potential of FSE. Additionally, 0.1%, 0.5%, and 1% of FSE and 0.02% butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) + butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) (1:1) were separately added to Chinese-style sausage to study their effects on the lipid oxidation, protein oxidation, and quality of the sausage at different storage times. The study found that the effect of adding 1% FSE on carbonyl content, total volatile basic nitrogen, and TVC of sausage could achieve the effect of the 0.02% BHA + BHT (1:1) group on the 35th day, and the thiobarbituric acid reactive substances value and peroxide value of sausage were significantly lower than the control group. Therefore, as one of the candidates to replace synthetic antioxidants, the FSE can be used in the production of Chinese sausages, which has a positive effect on improving the product's quality and extending the shelf life. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: The antioxidative activities of 50 main compounds were identified after the ethanolic extraction of Fritillaria straw. This Fritillaria straw extract was added to Chinese sausage, effectively inhibiting the oxidation of lipids and proteins as well as the decomposition of proteins. Obviously, the Fritillaria straw extract, one of the choices to replace synthetic antioxidants, may be useful for future meat processing, because of its positive impact on the product's quality and shelf life.

Reformulation of Bologna Sausage by Total Pork Backfat Replacement with an Emulsion Gel Based on Olive, Walnut, and Chia Oils, and Stabilized with Chitosan

Bologna sausage, also called "la grassa", is a very popular meat product despite its high fat content and lipidic profile raising serious negative health concerns. An emulsion gel containing olive, walnut, and chia oils, stabilized with soy protein isolate, transglutaminase, and chitosan, was used as total pork backfat replacer in Bologna sausage. The nutritional, textural, and technological properties were assessed and sensory analyses were conducted. Color, pH, and lipid oxidation were monitored during 18 days of cold storage (4 °C). A normal fat Bologna sausage was used as a control reference. A decrease in the n-6/n-3 ratio from 16.85 to 1.86 (by 9 times) was achieved in the reformulated product as compared with the control, while the PUFA/SFA ratio increased from 0.57 to 1.61. Color measurements indicated that the lightness and yellowness increased while redness slightly decreased in the reformulated product. The total substitution of pork backfat in Bologna sausage by the emulsion gel developed in the present study was realized without significantly affecting the technological properties, the oxidative stability and the overall acceptance by the consumers.

Changes in the Sensory Odor Profile during Chorizo Maturation and Their Relationship with Volatile Compound Patterns by Partial Least Square Regression (PLS)

Odor is one of the most important attributes to determine the overall acceptance of a product. The aim of this investigation is to evaluate the changes in the odor profile and the volatile compounds during thirty-three days of ripening to obtain the pattern of volatile compounds necessary to integrate the odor profile of chorizo (fermented sausage), using Partial Least Squares (PLS). The chili and pork meat odors were predominant during the first five days, vinegar and fermented odors at days twelve and nineteen days, and finally a rancid odor predominated at the end. Only the vinegar, rancid, and fermented odors could be predicted with a good fit model, with the R² coefficient above 0.5, using linear PLS, and the pork meat odor using logarithmic PLS. Each group of volatile compounds interacted in different ways; esters had a positive influence on the vinegar and rancid odors, but a negative on the fermented odor. Some volatile compounds contributed to more than one odor, such as hexanal, ethanol, and ethyl octanoate. This work allowed us to understand the pattern of volatile compounds required to generate some of the specific odors of chorizo; further studies are required to explore the effect of other food components on these patterns of odors.

New formulation of fermented sausages towards healthier and quality rectification by adding <em>Ferulago angulata</em> essential oil

The demand is improved for ready-to-eat meals by lifestyle changes and fermented sausages are popular meat products because of their flavor. Natural compositions are considered as substitutes of synthetic preservatives in products, which have been extensively employed. The aim of present research is to investigate the impact of Ferulago Angulata Essential Oil (FAEO) as an antimicrobial and antioxidant factor for preserving of dry fermented sausages throughout storage. Initially, FAEO was extracted using microwave assisted hydrodistillation and its components were identified by gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy. Fermented sausages were treated by starter culture (Biobak K) and FAEO at various concentrations (0, 400, 800 and 1000 ppm). Afterwards, tests such as pH, moisture, thiobarbituric acid, texture, microbial growth, electron microscope images, and sensory evaluation were conducted during storage (28 d). The high levels of bioactive compositions such as limonene (30.71%) and α-pinene (19.02%) were indicated in FAEO. The results illustrated that pH and moisture of all fermented sausages were within the standard range during storage. At different concentrations, FAEO significantly decreased thiobarbituric acid of treated samples compared to control (p<0.05). Furthermore, FAEO was able to improve cohesiveness and elasticity of fermented sausages, which were also visible in electron microscope images. Antimicrobial feature of FAEO was distinguished by evaluating microbial attributes (total viable count, lactic acid bacteria and yeast) in fermented sausages. Ultimately, FAEO at 800 ppm concentration was detected as a promising and appropriate natural preservative during storage in fermented sausages.

Bibliometric Review on the Volatile Organic Compounds in Meat

Meat flavor is an important aspect of meat quality that also influences consumer demand, and is therefore very important for the meat industry. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) contribute in large part to the flavor of meat, and while increasing numbers of articles are published on this topic, reviews of these articles are very scarce. Therefore, our aim was to perform a bibliometric analysis of the scientific publications on VOCs in meat over the period 2000-2020. We selected 611 scientific sources from the Scopus database related to VOCs in meat (seafood excluded). The bibliometric information retrieved included journals, authors, countries, institutions, keywords, and citations. From this analysis, we drew up a list of the most important journals, authors, countries, and institutions, and the trends in VOC research on meat. We conducted a social network analysis (SNA) to identify the collaborations among the many authors and countries, and a keyword analysis to generate a network map of the authors' keywords. We also determined which meat species were most frequently chosen as research subjects, traced the evolution of the various methods/instruments used, and explored the research tendencies. Finally, we point out the need for further research in defining meat quality, improving meat flavor, identifying adulterants, and certifying the authenticity of meat.

Substituting Fat with Olive Oil, Mash Potato, or a Gelatin Matrix in Low-Salt-Content Dry-Fermented Sausages

It was investigated whether physicochemical properties and consumer perception of dry-fermented sausages were affected by the partial replacement of fat and salt by other compounds. A control batch and nine experimental batches, following 3 × 3 factorial design, were manufactured. The NaCl was replaced with of calcium lactate, magnesium chloride, or a blend 85% NaCl (sodium chloride) and 15% KCl (potassium chloride). The fat was partially substituted by olive oil, potato puree, or commercial gelatin. The pH, dry matter, fat content, free fatty acid content, peroxide index, microbial analysis, and tasting, were measured. Both fat type and slat type were affected to measured variables. In terms of moisture, gelatin would be the most recommendable substitute for fat, whereas KCL would be the better substitute for salt. The three oil batches and the potato-magnesium batches presented lower fat content than the control batch. Both the free fatty acid content and the peroxide values increased over the ripening time. At the end of the ripening, the three oil batches presented the highest values for free fatty acids, but there were no differences among the batches of peroxide index. Regarding bacterial counts, the potato-KCL batch was the most like the control batch. In visual appraisal, none of the scores of the measured variables were affected by the batch. Nevertheless, the batch of oil-magnesium would be purchased less than expected. The tasting quality was affected only by the salt type, but all of the batches were different from the control. Neither the gender (p > 0.05) nor the age (p > 0.05) of the respondents affected the taste scores, visual appraisal, or purchase intent. Results shows that the partial substitution of fat and salt in dry-fermented sausages is possible, even in greater percentages than those stated in the literature, without a detriment of sensory properties. Nevertheless, further experiments would be necessary to adjust the formulation, as well as to explore other possibilities.

Antioxidant Activity of Gracilaria lemaneiformis Polysaccharide Degradation Based on Nrf-2/Keap-1 Signaling Pathway in HepG2 Cells with Oxidative Stress Induced by H2O2

The objective of this research was to investigate the antioxidant activity of Gracilarialemaneiformis polysaccharide degradation and its underlying mechanism involved in the Nrf-2/Keap-1 signaling pathway in HepG2 cells with oxidative stress induced by H2O2. The result of the scavenging ability of free radicals showed that GLP-HV (polysaccharide degraded by H2O2–vitamin C (Vc)) performed a better scavenging ability than GLP (G.lemaneiformis polysaccharide). Moreover, the scavenging ability of polysaccharide to these free radicals from strong to weak was as follows: superoxide radical, ferric ion, ABTS+, and DPPH radical, and their IC50 values were 3.56 ± 0.0028, 4.97 ± 0.18, 9.62 ± 0.35, and 23.85 ± 1.78 mg/mL, respectively. Furthermore, GLP-HV obviously relieved oxidative stress in HepG2 cells, which strengthened the activity of T-AOC, CAT, GSH-PX, and SOD, and diminished the intensity of MDA, intracellular ROS, and calcium ion based on the Nrf-2/Keap-1 signaling pathway. The PCR result revealed that polysaccharide upregulated the expression of the genes Nrf-2, HO-1, NQO-1, and ZO-1 and downregulated Keap-1. The correlation between chemical properties and antioxidant mechanism of GLP-HV was evaluated via a heat map. The results illustrated that reducing sugar and active groups presented a positive correlation, and molecular weight and viscosity exhibited a negative relation with antioxidant activity.

Astaxanthin Extract from Shrimp (Trachypenaeus curvirostris) By-Products Improves Quality of Ready-to-Cook Shrimp Surimi Products during Frozen Storage at -18 °C

The effects of astaxanthin extract (AE) from shrimp by-products on the quality and sensory properties of ready-to-cook shrimp surimi products (RC-SSP) during frozen storage at −18 °C were investigated. Changes in 2-thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) value, sulfhydryl groups, carbonyls, salt-soluble protein content, textural properties, color, and sensory quality over specific storage days were evaluated. The AE from shrimp by-products contained 4.49 μg/g tocopherol and 23.23 μg/g astaxanthin. The shrimp surimi products supplemented with 30 g/kg AE had higher redness values and greater overall acceptability and texture properties after cooking (p < 0.05). AE showed higher oxidative stability in RC-SSP than the control, as evidenced by lower TBARS and carbonyl content, and higher sulfhydryl and salt-soluble protein content. AE from shrimp by-products had positive effects on the antioxidant activity and color difference of RC-SSP, and could be used as a potential multifunctional additive for the development of shrimp surimi products.

Functional and Clean Label Dry Fermented Meat Products: Phytochemicals, Bioactive Peptides, and Conjugated Linoleic Acid

Consumer demand for specific dietary and nutritional characteristics in their foods has risen in recent years. This trend in consumer preference has resulted in a strong emphasis in the meat industry and scientific research on activities aimed at improving the nutritional value of fermented meat products. These types of meat products are valued by modern consumers due to their nutritional value resulting, among others, from the method of production. One of the major focuses of the current innovations includes the incorporation of bioactive compounds from plant-based food, in relation to the replacement of additives that may raise concerns among consumers (mainly nitrate and nitrite) as well as the modification of processing conditions in order to increase the content of bioactive compounds. Many efforts have been focused on reducing or eliminating the presence of additives, such as curing agents (nitrite or nitrate) in accordance with the idea of “clean label”. The enrichment of fermented meat products in compounds from the plant kingdom can also be framed in the overall strategies of functional meat products design, so that the meat products may be used as the vehicle to deliver bioactive compounds that may exert benefits to the consumer.

Extraction, Biochemical Characterization, and Health Effects of Native and Degraded Fucoidans from Sargassum crispifolium

In the current investigation, a native crude fucoidan (Ex) was extracted from Sargassum crispifolium, pretreated by single-screw extrusion, and two degraded fucoidans, i.e., ExAh (degradation of Ex by ascorbic acid) and ExHp (degradation of Ex by hydrogen peroxide), were obtained. The extrusion pretreatment increased the extraction yield of fucoidan by approximately 1.73-fold as compared to the non-extruded sample. Among Ex, ExAh, and ExHp, their molecular weight and chemical compositions varied, but the structural features were similar. ExHp possessed the greatest antioxidant activities among the extracted fucoidans. According to the outcome, ExAh exhibited the maximum immune promoting effects via enhanced NO, TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-10 secretion. Thus, both ExHp and ExAh may potentially be used as an effective antioxidant and as immunostimulant agents, which could be of great value in the development of food and nutraceutical products.

Nitrite-Free Implications on Consumer Acceptance and the Behavior of Pathogens in Cured Pork Loins

Cured pork loins are valued products due to their particular sensory characteristics. These products are usually prepared with nitrite to guarantee adequate color and pathogen control. The use of nitrite in meat products has been criticized due to its potential contribution to carcinogenic N-nitroso-compound formation. The present work aimed to evaluate the effect of eliminating nitrite from the manufacturing of cured loins made with wine- and water-based marinades on the color evaluation of consumers and on the behavior of Clostridium sporogenes, Listeria monocytogenes, and Salmonella. The use of nitrite in processing cured loins resulted in a color considered adequate by more than 50% of the consumers. When nitrite was not used, the color was described mainly as weak. The hedonic evaluation of cured loins did not reflect the color evaluation. The samples with a weak and an adequate color had similar hedonic evaluations. The present work did not allow us to infer the potential interest in injecting S. xylosus into meat to prepare cured loins. The use of nitrite did not affect the survival of Cl. sporogenes, L. monocytogenes, or Salmonella. The reduction in the aw was the primary determinant influencing pathogen survival. The production of nitrite-free cured loins seems possible once the control of pathogens can be achieved. However, the product will have a weaker color. Consumers appreciate sensory aspects other than color, which, combined with the positive impact of the “additive-free” claim, can support the possibility of producing cured loins without nitrite.

State-of-Art on the Recycling of By-Products from Fruits and Vegetables of Mediterranean Countries to Prolong Food Shelf Life

Annually, 1.3 billion tons of food are wasted and this plays a major role in increasing pollution. Food waste increases domestic greenhouse gas emissions mainly due to the gas emissions associated with its production. Fruit and vegetable industrial by-products occur in the form of leaves, peel, seeds, pulp, as well as a mixture of them and represent the most abundant food waste. The disposal of agricultural by-products costs a large amount of money under certain governmental regulations. However, fruit and vegetable by-products are rich in valuable bioactive compounds, thus justifying their use as food fortifier, active food packaging or as food ingredients to preserve food quality over time. The present review collects the most recent utilization carried out at lab-scale on Mediterranean fruit and vegetable by-products as valid components to prolong food shelf life, providing a detailed picture of the state-of-art of literature on the topic. Bibliographic research was conducted by applying many keywords and filters in the last 10 years. Several scientific findings demonstrate that by-products, and in particular their extracts, are effectively capable of prolonging the shelf life of dairy food, fresh-cut produce, meat and fish-based products, oil, wine, paste and bakery products. All of the studies provide clear advances in terms of food sustainability, highlight the potential of by-products as a source of bioactive compounds, and promote a culture in which foods are intended to receive a second useful life. The same final considerations were also included regarding the current situation, which still limits by-products diffusion. In addition, a conclusion on a future perspective for by-products recycling was provided. The most important efforts have to be conducted by research since only a multidisciplinary approach for an advantageous investigation could be an efficient method to promote the scale up of by-products and encourage their adoption at the industrial level.

Biological Approaches for Extraction of Bioactive Compounds From Agro-industrial By-products: A Review

Bioactive compounds can provide health benefits beyond the nutritional value and are originally present or added to food matrices. However, because they are part of the food matrices, most bioactive compounds remain in agroindustrial by-products. Agro-industrial by-products are generated in large quantities throughout the food production chain and can—when not properly treated—affect the environment, the profit, and the proper and nutritional distribution of food to people. Thus, it is important to adopt processes that increase the use of these agroindustrial by-products, including biological approaches, which can enhance the extraction and obtention of bioactive compounds, which enables their application in food and pharmaceutical industries. Biological processes have several advantages compared to nonbiological processes, including the provision of extracts with high quality and bioactivity, as well as extracts that present low toxicity and environmental impact. Among biological approaches, extraction from enzymes and fermentation stand out as tools for obtaining bioactive compounds from various agro-industrial wastes. In this sense, this article provides an overview of the main bioactive components found in agroindustrial by-products and the biological strategies for their extraction. We also provide information to enhance the use of these bioactive compounds, especially for the food and pharmaceutical industries.

Condensed Tannins as Antioxidants in Ruminants-Effectiveness and Action Mechanisms to Improve Animal Antioxidant Status and Oxidative Stability of Products

Condensed tannins (CTs) are widely distributed in plants, and due to their recognized antioxidant activity are considered as possible natural antioxidants for application in ruminant diets. A wide range of CT-rich sources has been tested in ruminant diets, and their effects on animal antioxidant status and oxidative stability of their products are reviewed in the present work. Possible mechanisms underlying the CT antioxidant effects in ruminants are also discussed, and the CT chemical structure is briefly presented. Utilization of CT-rich sources in ruminant feeding can improve the animals' antioxidant status and oxidative stability of their products. However, the results are still inconsistent. Although poorly understood, the evidence suggests that CTs can induce an antioxidant effect in living animals and in their products through direct and indirect mechanisms, which can occur by an integrated and synergic way involving: (i) absorption of CTs with low molecular weight or metabolites, despite CTs' poor bioavailability; (ii) antioxidant action on the gastrointestinal tract; and (iii) interaction with other antioxidant agents. Condensed tannins are alternative dietary antioxidants for ruminants, but further studies should be carried out to elucidate the mechanism underlying the antioxidant activity of each CT source to design effective antioxidant strategies based on the use of CTs in ruminant diets.

Açaí extract powder as natural antioxidant on pork patties during the refrigerated storage

The current trends among consumers are pushing for the use of natural antioxidants options. Açaí fruit is rich on polyphenolic components but no studies have been carried out to evaluate their effect in meat products. The objective was to investigate the effect of açaí extract on refrigerated pork patties quality. Five treatments were done: without antioxidant (CON), Sodium Erythorbate 500 mg.kg ^-1 (ERY), Açaí Extract: 250 (AEL), 500 (AEM), 750 mg.kg ^-1 (AEH). Açaí extract did not affect the proximate composition, pH and cooking parameters. The concentrations of açaí extract studied increased antioxidant activity and reduced lipid oxidation (0.379, 0.293, and 0.217 vs. 0.889 mg MDA.kg^-1 for AEL, AEM, AEH vs. CON, respectively). However, only the AEL treatment did not affect the color parameters, showing the best option for the application on pork patties. Thus, açaí extract at 250 mg.kg^-1 can be used as a natural antioxidant replacing sodium erythorbate to preserve the quality of refrigerated pork patties.

Revalorization of Cava Lees to Improve the Safety of Fermented Sausages

The revalorization of food processing by-products not only reduces the environmental impact of their disposal, but also generates added economic value. Cava lees consist of inactive cells of Saccharomyces cerevisiae, and though regarded as a valueless winery by-product, they are rich in fiber and phenolic compounds. In this study, a challenge test was performed to assess the effect of cava lees and a phenolic extract (LPE) derived therefrom on the behaviour of technological microbiota (lactic acid bacteria used as a starter culture) and the foodborne pathogens Salmonella spp. and Listeria monocytogenes during the fermentation and ripening of pork sausages. Ten batches of fermented sausages were prepared with and without cava lees or the LPE, and with or without different strains of Latilactobacillus sakei (CTC494 or BAP110). The addition of cava lees reduced the pH values of the meat batter throughout the fermentation and ripening process. No growth-promoting effect on spontaneous lactic acid bacteria (LAB) or the starter culture was observed. In contrast, the presence of cava lees prevented the growth of the tested pathogens (Salmonella and L. monocytogenes), as did the starter culture, resulting in significantly lower counts compared to the control batch. In addition, the combination of cava lees with L. sakei CTC494 had a bactericidal effect on Salmonella. LPE supplementation did not affect the pH values or LAB counts but reduced the mean counts of Salmonella, which were 0.71 log10 lower than the control values at the end of the ripening. The LPE did not exert any additional effect to that of the starters applied alone. The revalorization of cava lees as a natural ingredient to improve the microbiological safety of fermented sausages is a feasible strategy that would promote a circular economy and benefit the environment.

The Antioxidant Effect of Colombian Berry (Vaccinium meridionale Sw.) Extracts to Prevent Lipid Oxidation during Pork Patties Shelf-Life

A scarce amount of knowledge about the use of Colombian berry (CB) in meat products is available in the literature. This work studies the impact of the addition of CB extracts (CBE) on pork patties at three different concentrations in the range 250–750 mg/kg. CBE were characterized in terms of their polyphenolic profile and antioxidant activity [1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging capacity, half maximal inhibitory antioxidant concentration (IC₅₀), 2,2′-azino-bis-3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS), ferric reducing antioxidant power assay (FRAP) and oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) tests)]. After pork patties elaboration, instrumental and sensorial colour, as well as lipid oxidation measured as thiobarbituric acid reactive substances assay (TBARS) values, were evaluated for 10 days of refrigerated storage in a modified atmosphere (80% O₂–20% CO₂). The total anthocyanin composition represented 35% of the polyphenolic substances of the CBE, highlighting high contents in cyanidin derivatives. Additionally, other flavonoids (quercetin and kaempferol compounds) and phenolics acids, substances positively related to antioxidant activity, were identified and quantified. In addition, the incorporation of CBE resulted in improvements in colour and lipid stability of pork patties, especially for the highest concentration used. Our findings demonstrated that CBE could be added to pork patties without impairing their sensorial profile. Overall, our results indicate that the use of CBE as a source of natural antioxidant, natural colourant, or even as a functional ingredient could be promising, but more studies are necessary to confirm it.

Terpenoids and Polyphenols as Natural Antioxidant Agents in Food Preservation

Synthetic antioxidant food additives, such as BHA, BHT and TBHQ, are going through a difficult time, since these products generate a negative perception in consumers. This has generated an increased pressure on food manufacturers to search for safer natural alternatives like phytochemicals (such as polyphenols, including flavonoids, and essential oils rich in terpenoids, including carotenoids). These plant bioactive compounds have antioxidant activities widely proven in in vitro tests and in diverse food matrices (meat, fish, oil and vegetables). As tons of food are wasted every year due to aesthetic reasons (lipid oxidation) and premature damage caused by inappropriate packaging, there is an urgent need for natural antioxidants capable of replacing the synthetic ones to meet consumer demands. This review summarizes industrially interesting antioxidant bioactivities associated with terpenoids and polyphenols with respect to the prevention of lipid oxidation in high fat containing foods, such as meat (rich in saturated fat), fish (rich in polyunsaturated fat), oil and vegetable products, while avoiding the generation of rancid flavors and negative visual deterioration (such as color changes due to oxidized lipids). Terpenoids (like monoterpenes and carotenoids) and polyphenols (like quercetin and other flavonoids) are important phytochemicals with a broad range of antioxidant effects. These phytochemicals are widely distributed in fruits and vegetables, including agricultural waste, and are remarkably useful in food preservation, as they show bioactivity as plant antioxidants, able to scavenge reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, such as superoxide, hydroxyl or peroxyl radicals in meat and other products, contributing to the prevention of lipid oxidation processes in food matrices.

Phytochemical Content, Antioxidant, Alpha-Glucosidase Inhibitory and Antibacterial Activities of Spineless Cactus Pear Cultivars

Variation in cultivars can influence plant biological activities. This study aimed to identify superior cultivars while determining the variability in the phytochemical content, antioxidant, alpha-glucosidase inhibitory and antibacterial activities of cladode extracts from selected spineless Burbank cactus pear (Opuntia ficus-indica and Opuntia robusta) cultivars. Total phenolic and flavonoid contents were determined using the Folin-Ciocalteu and aluminum chloride spectrophotometric methods, respectively. Antioxidant activity was investigated using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical scavenging and β-carotene linoleic acid assays. Alpha-glucosidase inhibition was determined using a spectrophotometric method and antibacterial activity using a non-polar (petroleum ether) and polar (50% methanol) extracts against two Gram-positive and two Gram-negative bacteria. Significant variation in phytochemical content, antioxidant, antidiabetic and antibacterial activities was observed amongst the cultivars. Alpha-glucosidase inhibitory activity varied widely with IC₅₀ values ranging from 0.06 to 1.85 mg/mL. Radical scavenging activity of Polypoly cultivar was about seven fold higher than that recorded in other cultivars with low activity. Turpin and Berg x Mexican cultivars had the highest total phenolic and flavonoid contents, whilst the non-polar extract of Turpin also exhibited higher antibacterial activity against Bacillus subtilis and Escherichia coli. Sicilian Indian Fig was amongst the cultivars with a higher antioxidant activity, whilst also showing a strong inhibition against B. subtilis and E. coli. Polypoly cultivar demonstrated strong antioxidant and antidiabetic activities while its polar extract showed the highest total antibacterial activity against B. subtilis. The cultivar Malta was superior in terms of its antibacterial potency and efficacy against B. subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus and E. coli. The potential of using spineless cactus pear cladodes as a functional food with antioxidant, antidiabetic and antibacterial properties against pathogenic food spoilage bacteria in place of synthetic compounds was established. The significance of cultivar selection to increase this potential was highlighted.

Antimicrobial Polyamide-Alginate Casing Incorporated with Nisin and ε-Polylysine Nanoparticles Combined with Plant Extract for Inactivation of Selected Bacteria in Nitrite-Free Frankfurter-Type Sausage

The effects of combining a polyamide-alginate casing incorporated with nisin (100 ppm and 200 ppm) and ε-polylysine (500 ppm and 1000 ppm) nanoparticles and a mixed plant extract as ingredient in sausage formulation (500 ppm; composed of olive leaves (OLE), green tea (GTE) and stinging nettle extracts (SNE) in equal rates) were studied to improve the shelf life and safety of frankfurter-type sausage. The film characteristics and microbiological properties of sausage samples were evaluated. Sausage samples were packaged in polyethylene bags (vacuum condition) and analysed during 45 days of storage at 4 °C. Control sausages were also treated with 120 ppm sodium nitrite. Polyamide-alginate films containing 100 ppm nisin and 500 ε-PL nanoparticles had the highest ultimate tensile strength compared to other films. However, 100 ppm nisin and 500 ε-PL nanoparticles decreased water vapour permeability of films. The results also revealed that nisin nanoparticles had significantly (p < 0.05) low inhibitory effects against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, molds and yeasts and total viable counts compared to control and ε-PL nanoparticles. Furthermore, 1000 ppm ε-PL nanoparticles displayed the highest antimicrobial activity. Based on the obtained results, the films containing ε-PL nanoparticle could be considered as a promising packaging for frankfurter-type sausages.

Superhydrophobic and Antioxidative Film Based on Edible Materials for Food Packaging

Significant wastage of the food deterioration in the food preserving process and residual liquid in a container has become a major concern for scientists and the whole society. In this study, an edible multifunctional film integrated superhydrophobicity and antioxidant ability is constructed by chitosan, tea polyphenol, carnauba wax material that is food and drug administration (FDA)-approved for food packaging. The formed edible packaging materials that exhibit great antioxidant property and extremely low water-absorbing quality, was thus proven to display excellent fresh beef preservation effect during storage of 14 days. Importantly, the formed edible multifunctional interface was also demonstrated to perform excellent superhydrophobicity due to the carnauba wax and exhibited large contact angles for various liquid foods, which could effectively reduce the liquid residue. Moreover, the formed edible multifunctional packaging materials showed good thermostability and biocompatibility, which has the potential to be applied as a functional packaging material.

Utilization of Astaxanthin as a Synthetic Antioxidant Replacement for Emulsified Sausages

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of astaxanthin (AX) on the quality and sensory characteristics of emulsified pork sausages during cold storage. The changes of Peroxide value (PV), 2-thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances (TBARS), thiol content, texture profile analysis, instrumental color, and sensorial qualities were assessed on specific storage days. The emulsified sausages with added AX exhibited significantly (p < 0.05) higher redness values and total color differences (ΔE) on all storage days. Sensory values recorded the reddest color and greater overall acceptability scores to the sample with AX. In addition, AX had a significantly (p < 0.05) greater effect on PV, TBARS, and thiol content of sausages, compared with the control (CON). AX showed higher oxidation stability than CON for regression coefficient, and the level of inhibition of malondialdehyde formation was similar to that of butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) on storage days. Synthetically, AX had a desirable consequence on antioxidant activity and color of emulsified sausages; therefore, it can be used as a multifunctional additive in emulsified pork sausages.

Plant-Based Phenolic Molecules as Natural Preservatives in Comminuted Meats: A Review

Comminuted meat products are highly susceptible to safety and quality degradation partly because of their large interfacial area in the emulsion. The food industry extensively uses synthetic chemical preservatives to delay that degradation which is caused by microbial growth, enzyme activities and oxidation reactions. However, due to the potential health damage (e.g., cardiovascular diseases, neurodegenerative diseases, cancers among others) synthetic preservatives in meat may cause, consumers are becoming skeptical to buy meat products containing such additives. In the meat industry, the interest of finding natural food preservatives is intensifying. Polyphenolic-rich plants used as natural food preservatives offer the best alternative for a partial or a complete replacement of their synthetic counterparts. They can be extracted from natural sources such as olives, fruits, grapes, vegetables, spices, herbs, and algae, and among others. The common feature of these phenolic compounds is that they have one or more aromatic rings with one or more -OH group which are essential for their antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. This review article is intended to provide an overview of the plant-based phenolic molecules used as natural food preservative, their antimicrobial and antioxidant mechanism of action, and their potential application in comminuted meat.

Innovative Natural Functional Ingredients from Olive and Citrus Extracts in Spanish-Type Dry-Cured Sausage "Fuet"

The main objective of the present study was to evaluate the antioxidant capacity of hydroxytyrosol derived from synthetic (HT_s) and organic (HT_o) sources, and citrus (C) extract, by incorporating them in a dry-cured meat product: fuet. Firstly, antioxidant extracts were tested in an oxidized pork meat model system, avoiding by 100% the protein oxidation against AAPH and AMVN. After that, four batches of fuet were made, namely Control, HT_s, HT_o, and C, which incorporated antioxidant extracts as substitutes of synthetic additives. A hundred-day shelf-life study was carried out. The incorporation of phenolic extracts neither affected proximal composition, nor ripening process (airing losses, a_w, and pH), nor color development. However, the incorporation of HT increased Fe, Mn, and Si mineral content. At the same time, HT extracts inhibited lipid and protein oxidation and microbiological growth by 50%. Regarding sensory analysis, HT_o was the most unpalatable (extract flavor apparition), while HT_s and C samples were equally accepted as the Control sample. In addition, HT fuet samples showed two-fold higher antioxidant activity and total phenolic content than the Control sample. In conclusion, the use of HT_s in dry-cured sausages was demonstrated to be the best option to the development of clean label meat products, with promising antioxidant properties and the best standards of quality and acceptability.

Overview of Studies on the Use of Natural Antioxidative Materials in Meat Products

Studies conducted in the past decade related to the use of natural antioxidants in meat products revealed the prevalent use of plant-based antioxidative materials added as powders, extracts, or dried or raw materials to meat products. The amount of antioxidative materials varied from 7.8 ppm to 19.8%. Extracts and powders were used in small amounts (ppm to grams) and large amounts (grams to >1%), respectively. Antioxidative materials used in meat products are mainly composed of phenolic compounds and flavonoids, which are able to inhibit lipid peroxidation of meat products, thereby preserving meat quality. However, the main ingredients used in processed meat products are the traditional additives, such as sodium erythorbate, sodium hydrosulfite, and synthetic antioxidants, rather than natural antioxidants. This difference could be attributed to changes in the sensory quality or characteristics of meat products using natural antioxidants. Therefore, novel research paradigms to develop meat products are needed, focusing on the multifunctional aspects of natural antioxidants.

Plant-Derived Natural Antioxidants in Meat and Meat Products

The global meat industry is constantly evolving due to changes in consumer preferences, concerns and lifestyles, as well as monetary, geographical, political, cultural and religious factors. Part of this evolution is the introduction of synthetic antioxidants to increase meat and meat products' shelf-life, and reduce meat spoilage due to lipid and protein oxidation. The public perception that natural compounds are safer and healthier per se has motivated the meat industry to replace synthetic antioxidants with plant-derived ones in meat systems. Despite several promising results from in vitro and in situ studies, the effectiveness of plant-derived antioxidants against lipid and protein oxidation has not been fully documented. Moreover, the utility, usability, marketability and potential health benefits of natural antioxidants are not yet fully proven. The present review aims to (i) describe the major chemical groups of plant-derived antioxidants and their courses of action; (ii) present the application of spices, herbs and fruits as antioxidants in meat systems; and (iii) discuss the legislative framework, future trends, challenges and limitations that are expected to shape their acceptance and mass exploitation by the meat industry.

Pig feedstuff effect on the physicochemical and sensory properties of low-salt, dry-fermented sausages

This study investigates the effect of the addition of plant-derived extracts (control, garlic extract or a combination of carvacrol, thymol, cinnamic aldehyde and eugenol oils extracts) to pig feedstuff and the reduction in salt content (NaCl or a mixture 60:40 sodium chloride:potassium lactate) on some physicochemical characteristics and consumer acceptability of dry-fermented sausages. Six different batches were formulated. The pH, color, lipid oxidation, and microbial counts were measured, and a consumer home test was performed. Both the use of a plant-derived extract and salt type affected the dry-fermented sausage characteristics. The low-salt batches presented a lower pH and higher microbial counts than the control. The salt reduction affected the color but only in the oil batches, resulting in higher L* and lower a* values. The oil batches presented the highest TBAR values (>1 mg/kg), suggesting that antioxidant compounds present into the meat were not bioavailable on the sausages or were missed during the curing process. The use of plant-derived extracts affected to consumer acceptability, whereas salt replacement did not. Oil batches scored lower than the other. From the current results, the oil extract would not be a recommended additive in pig feedstuff, especially when a low-salt strategy will be employed.

Phenolic Compounds Obtained from Olea europaea By-Products and their Use to Improve the Quality and Shelf Life of Meat and Meat Products-A Review

Consumers are interested in consuming clean label foods. Replacing synthetic additives with natural alternatives (especially sources rich in polyphenols) is a valid solution to produce and also preserve foods, especially meat and meat products. Olea europaea leaves and olive pomace and wastewater contain polyphenols that can be explored in this context. In this review, we summarize the main aspects related to the phenolic composition, extraction conditions, antimicrobial potential, and antioxidant activity (in vitro and in vivo) of Olea europaea leaves, olive pomace and wastewater as well as their applications in the production of meat and meat products. This review found evidence that extracts and isolated polyphenols from the Olea europaea tree and olive processing by-products can be explored as natural antioxidant and antimicrobial additives to improve the preservation of meat and meat products. The polyphenols found in these residues (especially oleuropein, hydroxytyrosol and tyrosol) increased the redox state in the main meat-producing animals and, consequently, the oxidative stability of fresh meat obtained from these animals. Moreover, the extracts and isolated polyphenols also improved the shelf life of fresh meat and meat products (as additive and as active component in film) by delaying the growth of microorganisms and the progression of oxidative reactions during storage. The accumulated evidence supports further investigation as a natural additive to improve the preservation of reformulated muscle products and in the production of edible and sustainable films and coatings for fresh meat and meat products.

Substitution of synthetic nitrates and antioxidants by spices, fruits and vegetables in Clean label Spanish chorizo

Natural extracts obtained from fruits and vegetables processing are important sources of phenolic compounds and nitrates, with excellent antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. The aim of this study was to elaborate a Clean label dry-cured meat product (Spanish "chorizo") using Mediterranean Diet ingredients (Citrus, Acerola, Rosemary, Paprika, Garlic, Oregano, Lettuce + Arugula + Watercress, Spinach + Celery, Chard + Beet). For that, a self-life study for 150 days was carried out, when physical-chemical (colour, pH, a_w, thiol loss, volatile compounds profile), microbiological, and organoleptic changes were determined. The combination of citrus extracts and leafy green vegetables halved the hexanal and nonanal content for 150 days. In addition, this change did not affect to the sensory properties of the product, which obtained the highest acceptance avoiding the oxidative damage (colour, volatile compounds release, thiol loss) and the microbiological growth. Nevertheless, rosemary extract incorporation altered sensory quality, unless it also avoided protein and lipid oxidation, as well as microbiological growth. Otherwise, Control sample elaborated with synthetic sources of nitrates and nitrites showed a lower sensory quality due to the increased hardness, protein oxidation, hexanal, and nonanal concentrations, related to lipid oxidation, and hence, to rancid flavour apparition.

Ultrasonic-assisted extraction of polyphenol from the seeds of Allium senescens L. and its antioxidative role in Harbin dry sausage

The ultrasonic-assisted extraction of total polyphenol from Allium senescens L. (ASL) seeds was conducted, and the antioxidant efficacy of ASL seed extract (ASLSE) was assessed in Harbin dry sausages. ASLSE extracted with 1:30 g/mL water at 150 W for 15 min had the highest antioxidant capacities (P < 0.05). Subsequently, different addition levels (0, 2, 4, 6 and 8 g/kg) of freeze-dried ASLSE were applied in dry sausages during a twelve-day fermentation, and BHT treatment was the positive control. The lower pH values and carbonyl contents were detected in the treatments with 6 and 8 g/kg ASLSE than those in the other treatments at 12 d (P < 0.05). However, there was no difference in the water activity, lipid oxidation and color among the treatments with 6 and 8 g/kg ASLSE and 0.2 g/kg BHT (P > 0.05) at 12 d. These results indicated that 6 g/kg ASLSE could be effective in inhibiting lipid and protein oxidation and reducing color deterioration of dry sausages.

The effect of chitosan coatings enriched with the extracts and essential oils of Elettaria Cardamomum on the shelf-life of chicken drumsticks vacuum-packaged at 4 °C

This study was conducted to investigate the microbial, chemical, and sensory quality of chicken drumsticks vacuum-packaged at 4 °C, using chitosan (CH) coating containing ethanol extracts and the essential oils (EO) of Elettaria Cardamomum. The treatments were stored for 16 days in cold conditions and investigated in three-day intervals. Total volatile base nitrogen analysis showed that, on the 6th day, the uncoated treatment showed unacceptable values, while treatments containing the EO and extracts stayed below the specified level even on the 16th day. In addition, during storage, the Peroxide values for the uncoated sample were higher than the documented for the coated groups. Results of the Thiobarbituric acid reactive substances index revealed that the sample containing the EO of E. Cardamomum is the best treatment. Regarding to pH on the 16th day, the microbial growth in the mixed sample was 0.46 units lower than the control group. Microbial analysis showed that coating significantly reduce the growth of all five groups of bacteria at 4 ± 1 °C; thus, on the 6th day, the differences between mesophiles, Enterobacteriaceae, psychrotrophic, and H₂S-producing bacteria with the control group were 4.5, 4.5, 2.5, and 2 logs Cfu/g, respectively (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the lactic acid bacteria growth was completely stopped. Finally, it was found that adding EO and extracts could significantly preserve the sensory quality of the samples. Thus, it was concluded that vacuum-packaged CH coatings enriched with the extract and EO of E. Cardamomum can preserve the quality of chicken drumsticks during storage in refrigerators.

Value-Added Compound Recovery from Invasive Forest for Biofunctional Applications: Eucalyptus Species as a Case Study

From ancient times, the medicinal properties of the different Eucalyptus species are well known. In fact, plants from this family have been used in folk medicine as antiseptics, and to treat different ailments of the upper respiratory tract such as sinus congestion, common cold, or influenza. Moreover, other biological activities were described for Eucalyptus species such as antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. In the last few decades, numerous investigations revealed that the compounds responsible for these properties are secondary metabolites that belonging to the group of phenolic compounds and are present in different parts of the plants such as leaves, bark, wood, fruits, and stumps. The increasing demand for natural compounds that can substitute synthetic antioxidants and the increase in resistance to traditional antibiotics have boosted the intense search for renewable natural sources containing substances with such bioactivities, as well as greener extraction technologies and avant-garde analytical methods for the identification of the target molecules. The literature data used in this paper were collected via Scopus (2001-2020) using the following search terms: Eucalyptus, extraction methods, phenolic compounds, and biological activities. This review collects the main studies related to the recovery of value-added compounds from different Eucalyptus species, as well as their biofunctional applications.

Sheep and Goat Meat Processed Products Quality: A Review

Even though sheep and goat processed meat products are not as popular as pork, beef or poultry and are generally considered not as important, they have a very important role in meat consumption around the world. A concise review of the origin and type of the most important sheep and goat processed meat products produced in different countries and world regions is made. The manuscript also summarizes the most recent studies on sheep and goat processed meats on the physicochemical characterizations, sensory quality, microbiological quality and safety. Some conclusions and future trends in production, processing and commercial potentiality for sheep and goat processed meat products are discussed. Several possibilities exist to make them more diversified and appealing to the market. Processing meat from culled animals is an interesting way to value animals with low market acceptability. Some as fermented sausages, cured legs and pâtés have great commercial potential as highly acceptable consumer commodities. An interesting field of food research is the rediscovery of a new generation of goat and sheep meat products as functional foods that will respond to the constant innovation required by the meat industry. Everything related to food safety must be considered in the future.

Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) extract on oxidative stability, physicochemical and sensory properties of fresh lamb sausage with fat replacement by tiger nut (Cyperus esculentus L.) oil

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of turmeric extract as natural antioxidant on modified atmosphere-packaged fresh lamb sausages with fat replacement during storage (2 °C). Five treatments were prepared: control without antioxidant (CONT); with 500 mg/kg sodium erythorbate (E500); and three batches with 250, 500 or 750 mg/kg turmeric extract (T250, T500 and T750), respectively. The proximate composition, pH, color, texture, oxidative stability, sensorial analysis, free fatty acids and volatile compounds of sausages were analyzed. Turmeric extract improved the antioxidant capacity of lamb sausages and also slowed lipid oxidation and the generation of related volatile compounds. Moreover, physic-chemical parameters of lamb sausages were not greatly influenced by turmeric addition and concentration, except for yellow color. All samples were considered acceptable by consumers. These findings showed that turmeric extract is effective against lipid oxidation and could be a good strategy to enhance the shelf life of lamb sausage.

Natural Phenolic Compounds for the Control of Oxidation, Bacterial Spoilage, and Foodborne Pathogens in Meat

Alternative technologies for long-term preservation, quality assurance, and safety of meat are continuously pursued by the food industry to satisfy the demands of modern consumers for nutritious and healthy meat-based products. Naturally occurring phenolic compounds are considered promising substances by the meat industry for their antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, while consumers seem to embrace them for their claimed health benefits. Despite the numerous in vitro and in situ studies demonstrating their beneficial effects against meat oxidation, spoilage, and foodborne pathogens, wide application and commercialization has not been yet achieved. Major obstacles are still the scarcity of legislative framework, the large variety of meat-based products and targeted pathogens, the limited number of case-specific application protocols and the questionable universal efficiency of the applied ones. The objectives of the present review are i) to summarize the current knowledge about the applications of naturally occurring phenols in meat and meat-based products, emphasizing the mechanisms, determinants, and spectrum of their antioxidant and antimicrobial activity; ii) to present state-of-the-art technologies utilized for the application of phenolic compounds in meat systems; and iii) to discuss relevant regulation, limitations, perspectives, and future challenges for their mass industrial use.

Improvement of oxidative stability and textural properties of fermented sausage via addition of pistachio hull extract

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of pistachio hull extract (PHE) as an antioxidant and antimicrobial agent for preservation of dry fermented sausages during fermentation and storage period. Sausages were prepared using starter culture (Biobak K) and treated with three levels of PHE (500, 750 and 1,000 ppm). The results showed that PHE at concentrations of 500 ppm and 750 ppm decreased significantly (p < .05) the TBARS content of the sausage samples compared to control (without PHE). Moreover, PHE increased L* and a* value of samples during fermentation period but did not affect the color of samples during storage period. The PHE was also able to improve the chewiness and gumminess of the fermented sausage. Evaluation of microbial properties (total viable count, yeast and molds, lactic acid bacteria, staphylococci and Enterobacteriaceae) also showed that antimicrobial activity of PHE in fermented sausage.