Exploring the potential of common iceplant, seaside arrowgrass and sea fennel as edible halophytic plants

The alphabet of sea fennel: Comprehensive phytochemical characterisation of Croatian populations of Crithmum maritimum L

Extreme environmental conditions affect the synthesis and accumulation of bioactive metabolites in halophytic plants. The aim of this study was to investigate the presence and quantity of key health-promoting phytochemicals in Croatian sea fennel, one of the most popular Mediterranean halophytes with a wide range of uses. The EOs were characterised by a high content of limonene (up to 93%), while the fatty acid profile shows a low content of oleic acid and the presence of valuable linoleic acid (ω-6) and linolenic acid (ω-3) in high percentages. The dominances of lutein and α-tocopherol were also confirmed in all samples. The results confirm the great variability in the chemistry of sea fennel populations in the Mediterranean region, with significant differences in the composition of the Croatian samples compared to the others, as well as the presence and high concentrations of the analysed bioactive compounds that contribute to the plant's health-promoting attributes.

Can samphire be the new salt? Understanding the potential of samphire harvested from the UK coastline

Salicornia species have been explored as a substitute for salt, however the intensity of salty taste elicited remains unexplained by the sodium content alone. To investigate this, a study was conducted to determine the nutrient profile of samphire extract and relate this to its sensory quality in a nachos base. Freeze dried samphire extracts contain minerals, including Na (12-14 g/100 g), K (1-1.5 g/100 g) and Mg (0.3-0.5 g/100 g) and free amino acids such as lysine (28-41 mg/100 g), glutamic acid (20-31 mg/100 g), aspartic acid (20-56 mg/100 g) and arginine (54-109 mg/100 g), which are known to influence salty taste. The sensory panel found that 2.5 % addition of samphire extract produced a significantly saltier taste than the control product (0.7 % NaCl) at an equivalent sodium level. These findings suggest that the minerals and amino acids in samphire extract may collectively contribute to its salty taste, making it a viable option for reducing sodium in food products.

Exploring the Efficacy of Four Apiaceae Essential Oils against Nine Stored-Product Pests in Wheat Protection

The Apiaceae family, known for aromatic plants producing bioactive essential oils (EOs), holds significance across sectors, including agrochemicals. This study evaluated the insecticidal potential of four Apiaceae EOs from Crithmum maritimum L., Trachyspermum ammi (L.) Sprague ex Turrill, Smyrnium olusatrum L., and Elwendia persica (Boiss.) Pimenov and Kljuykov against various significant storage pests (Sitophilus oryzae (L.), Trogoderma granarium Everts, Rhyzopertha dominica (F.), Tribolium castaneum (Herbst), T. confusum Jacquelin du Val, Oryzaephilus surinamensis (L.), Alphitobius diaperinus (Panzer), Acarus siro L., and Tenebrio molitor L.) on wheat. Insect mortality rates were monitored at intervals of 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7 days. Smyrnium olusatrum EO exhibited the highest efficacy, followed by T. ammi, C. maritimum, and E. persica EOs, although efficacy varied by species, developmental stage, and concentration. Notably, complete mortality occurred for several pests at 1000 ppm of S. olusatrum and T. ammi EOs. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis revealed key compounds in these EOs, including myrcene, germacrone, and curzerene in S. olusatrum EO, and thymol, γ-terpinene, and p-cymene in T. ammi EO. These findings emphasize their potential as botanical insecticides. Smyrnium olusatrum and T. ammi EOs emerge as promising eco-friendly pest management options due to their efficacy, highlighted compound composition, and availability of biomass from both wild and cultivated sources.

Nutritive Value and Bioactivities of a Halophyte Edible Plant: Crithmum maritimum L. (Sea Fennel)

Crithmum maritimum L. (sea fennel), an edible xerophyte of coastal habitats, is considered an emerging cash crop for biosaline agriculture due to its salt-tolerance ability and potential applications in the agri-food sector. Here, the nutritional value and bioactive properties of sea fennel are described. Sea fennel leaves, flowers, and schizocarps are composed of carbohydrates (>65%) followed by ash, proteins, and lipids. Sea fennel's salty, succulent leaves are a source of omega-6 and omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, especially linoleic acid. Extracts obtained from flowers and fruits/schizocarps are rich in antioxidants and polyphenols and show antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermis, Candida albicans, and Candida parapsilosis. Plant material is particularly rich in sodium (Na) but also in other nutritionally relevant minerals, such as calcium (Ca), chlorine (Cl), potassium (K), phosphorus (P), and sulfur (S), beyond presenting a potential prebiotic effect on Lactobacillus bulgaricus and being nontoxic to human intestinal epithelial Caco-2 model cells, up to 1.0% (w/v). Hence, the rational use of sea fennel can bring nutrients, aroma, and flavor to culinary dishes while balancing microbiomes and contributing to expanding the shelf life of food products.

Identification of Polyphenols in Sea Fennel (Crithmum maritimum) and Seaside Arrowgrass (Triglochin maritima) Extracts with Antioxidant, ACE-I, DPP-IV and PEP-Inhibitory Capacity

Sea fennel and seaside arrowgrass are two abundant but underutilized halophytes along the Atlantic and Mediterranean coasts. This study investigated the antioxidant capacity and the potential antihypertensive (Angiotensin Converting Enzyme I, ACE-I inhibition), hypoglycaemic (Dipeptidyl Peptidase IV, DPP-IV inhibition), and nootropic (Prolyl Endopeptidase, PEP inhibition) activity of their polyphenol extracts. They had a high phenol content (21-24 mEq GA/g), antioxidant capacity evaluated using the ABTS (17-2 mg ascorbic acid/g) and FRAP (170-270 mM Mohr's salt/g) assays, and effective ACE-inhibiting properties (80-90% inhibiting activity at final concentration of 0.5 mg/mL). Additionally, the sea fennel extract displayed high DPP-IV inhibitory capacity (73% at 1 mg/mL), while the seaside arrowgrass extract exhibited potent Prolyl endopeptidase inhibitory capacity (75% at 1 mg/mL). Fractionation by HPLC concentrated the bioactive molecules in two fractions, for which the composition was analyzed by LC-MS/MS. Different chlorogenic acids seemed to play an important role in the bioactivity of sea fennel extract, and different flavonoids, mainly apigenin, luteolin and chrysoeriol, in the bioactivity of the seaside arrowgrass extract. Given their potential health benefits, these extracts could serve as valuable bioactive ingredients and could potentially encourage the cultivation of these species in regions where traditional crops face challenges in growth.

Vinegar-Preserved Sea Fennel: Chemistry, Color, Texture, Aroma, and Taste

The aim of this study was to produce non-fermented preserved sea fennel leaves in different pickle juices prepared with apple cider vinegar, wine vinegar and alcoholic vinegar, and to compare their chemical parameters (pH, titratable acidity and salt content), organoleptic properties (color and texture parameters; volatile aromatic compound profiles) and sensory attributes. The pH of the samples ranged from 3.49 to 3.64, the lowest being in the alcoholic vinegar sample and the highest being in the wine vinegar sample, while the titratable acidity and salinity were higher in the alcoholic vinegar pickle juice than those in the other two samples. The volatile aromatic compounds of the samples were also detected. The reddish color of the wine vinegar negatively affected the sea fennel color parameters (L* and b*), and was also negatively evaluated by the panelists, while the alcoholic vinegar maximally preserved the green tones of the leaf (a*). Firmness influences the quality perceived by consumers and was therefore also tested as one of the most important parameters for evaluating the textural and mechanical properties of the different products. All sensory parameters of the sea fennel preserved in alcoholic vinegar, namely color, texture, taste, aroma and overall impression, were given the highest scores, while the sample preserved in wine vinegar received the lowest scores. The intense aroma of the wine vinegar was described as a negative characteristic (off-flavor) of the sample.

From Threat to Opportunity: Harnessing the Invasive Carpobrotus edulis (L.) N.E.Br for Nutritional and Phytotherapeutic Valorization Amid Seasonal and Spatial Variability

Carpobrotus edulis (L.) N.E.Br. (Hottentot-fig) is a problematic invasive species found in coastal areas worldwide. Mechanical removal is a common control method, leaving the removed biomass available as a possible source of natural phytochemicals with prospective commercial applications. While the Hottentot-fig's vegetative organs have been studied previously, this work establishes for the first time a seasonal and spatial comparative analysis of its nutritional, chemical, and bioactivity profiles (in three locations over four seasons). Proximate and mineral contents were assessed, along with its phenolic composition and in vitro antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Hottentot-fig's biomass offered a good supply of nutrients, mainly carbohydrates, proteins, and minerals, with a tendency for higher concentrations of the most relevant minerals and proteins in autumn and winter, and in plants from sites A (Ria de Alvor lagoon) and B (Ancão beach). The extracts were rich in polyphenolics, with higher levels in spring and summer, especially for luteolin-7-O-glucoside and salicylic and coumaric acids. The extracts were also effective antioxidants, with stronger radical scavenging activities in spring and summer, along with anti-inflammatory properties. Our results suggest that the usually discarded plant material of this invasive halophyte could be valuable as a source of natural products with potential biotechnological applications in the food and nutraceutical industries.

Sea Fennel (Crithmum maritimum L.) as an Emerging Crop for the Manufacturing of Innovative Foods and Nutraceuticals

Sea fennel (Crithmum maritimum L.) is a perennial, strongly aromatic herb that has been used since ancient times in cuisine and folk medicine due to its renowned properties. Recently described as a "cash" crop, sea fennel is an ideal candidate for the promotion of halophyte agriculture in the Mediterranean basin due to its acknowledged adaptation to the Mediterranean climate, its resilience to risks/shocks related to climate changes, and its exploitability in food and non-food applications, which generates an alternative source of employment in rural areas. The present review provides insight into the nutritional and functional traits of this new crop as well as its exploitation in innovative food and nutraceutical applications. Various previous studies have fully demonstrated the high biological and nutritional potential of sea fennel, highlighting its high content of bioactive compounds, including polyphenols, carotenoids, ω-3 and ω-6 essential fatty acids, minerals, vitamins, and essential oils. Moreover, in previous studies, this aromatic halophyte showed good potential for application in the manufacturing of high-value foods, including both fermented and unfermented preserves, sauces, powders, and spices, herbal infusions and decoctions, and even edible films, as well as nutraceuticals. Further research efforts are needed to fully disclose the potential of this halophyte in view of its full exploitation by the food and nutraceutical industries.

Edible Halophytes with Functional Properties: In Vitro Protein Digestibility and Bioaccessibility and Intestinal Absorption of Minerals and Trace Elements from Australian Indigenous Halophytes

Halophytes are considered emerging functional foods as they are high in protein, minerals, and trace elements, although studies investigating halophyte digestibility, bioaccessibility, and intestinal absorption are limited. Therefore, this study investigated the in vitro protein digestibility, bioaccessibility and intestinal absorption of minerals and trace elements in saltbush and samphire, two important Australian indigenous halophytes. The total amino acid contents of samphire and saltbush were 42.5 and 87.3 mg/g DW, and even though saltbush had a higher total protein content overall, the in vitro digestibility of samphire protein was higher than the saltbush protein. The in vitro bioaccessibility of Mg, Fe, and Zn was higher in freeze-dried halophyte powder compared to the halophyte test food, suggesting that the food matrix has a significant impact on mineral and trace element bioaccessibility. However, the samphire test food digesta had the highest intestinal Fe absorption rate, whereas the saltbush digesta exhibited the lowest (37.7 vs. 8.9 ng/mL ferritin). The present study provides crucial data about the digestive "fate" of halophyte protein, minerals, and trace elements and increases the understanding of these underutilized indigenous edible plants as future functional foods.

Soil physicochemical properties associated with the yield and phytochemical composition of the edible halophyte Crithmum maritimum

There is growing interest in the consumption of halophytes due to their excellent nutritional profile and antioxidant properties, and their cultivation offers viable alternatives in the face of irreversible global salinization of soils. Nevertheless, abiotic factors strongly influence their phytochemical composition, and little is known about how growing conditions can produce plants with the best nutritional and functional properties. Crithmum maritimum is an edible halophyte with antioxidant properties and considerable potential for sustainable agriculture in marginal environments. However, it is found naturally in contrasting habitats with variable soil physicochemical properties and the extent to which edaphic factors can influence plant performance, accumulation of phytochemicals and their quality remains unknown. We investigated the influence of soil physicochemical properties (texture, pH, electrical conductivity, organic matter content and mineral element concentrations) on growth and reproductive performance, nutritional traits, and the accumulation of specific metabolites in C. maritimum. Soil, leaf and seed samples were taken from eight C. maritimum populations located on the southern coasts of Spain and Portugal. We found greater vegetative growth and seed production in coarser, sandier soils with lower microelement concentrations. The nutritional traits of leaves varied, with soil organic matter and macronutrient content associated with reduced leaf Na, protein and phenolic (mainly flavonoid) concentrations, whereas soils with lower pH and Fe concentrations, and higher clay content yielded plants with lower leaf Zn concentration and greater accumulation of hydroxycinnamic acids. The nutritional value of the seed oil composition appeared to be enhanced in soils with coarser texture and lower microelement concentrations. The accumulation of specific phenolic compounds in the seed was influenced by a wide range of soil properties including texture, pH and some microelements. These findings will inform the commercial cultivation of C. maritimum, particularly in the economic exploitation of poorly utilized, saline soils.

Conventional vs. Microwave-Assisted Hydrodistillation: Influence on the Chemistry of Sea Fennel Essential Oil and Its By-Products

The main objectives of this study were to investigate the effects of the applied essential oil (EO) isolation method, conventional hydro-distillation (HD), and microwave-assisted hydro-distillation (MHD) on the chemical profile of sea fennel (Crithmum maritimum L.) essential oil and to investigate the main constituents present in the liquid by-products of EOs isolation (hydrolate and residual wastewater). Headspace-solid phase microextraction (HS-SPME) was used to isolate hydrolate components, while gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC-MS) was used to detect and analyse the chemical constituents of the essential oils and hydrolates. The phenolic composition of the wastewater extracts was analysed by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The EO obtained by MHD had a higher yield of limonene and sabinene. The chemical composition of the hydrolates differed from the EO compositions. The content of terpinen-4-ol in the MHD hydrolate was higher, while several compounds were detected in relatively high proportions only in the HD hydrolate. MHD also resulted in a higher phenolic content of the wastewater, where an increase in the concentration of chlorogenic acid was also observed. It can be concluded that the isolation method had a great influence on the profile of sea fennel EOs, especially on their corresponding hydrolates and residual wastewater extracts. Due to their valuable chemical composition, these by-products can be a cost-effective source of bioactive compounds that have great potential for use in various industries.

Chemical Profiling of Sea Fennel (Crithmum maritimum L., Apiaceae) Essential Oils and Their Isolation Residual Waste-Waters

Sea fennel (Crithmum maritimum L.) is a wild-growing halophyte used in cuisine, traditional medicine or cosmetic products for its beneficial nutritive value and pleasant sensory characteristics. This study aimed to investigate sea fennel essential oils (EOs) from different parts of the plant (flowers, leaves and stems) and the corresponding hydrodistillation by-products (residual water) to validate their potential use and application in different industries. EOs were analyzed by gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC-MS), while the phenolic profile of the residual water was analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and spectrophotometric methods. The EO analysis confirmed the presence of 14 compounds, dominated by sabinene (from 42.55 to 51.47%) and limonene (from 36.28 to 43.58%), while among the 12 detected phenolics, chlorogenic acid and its isomers (cryptochlorogenic and neochlorogenic acid) were found in the highest concentrations. Total phenolic, flavonoid and tannin contents were concentrated in the order flowers > leaves > stems. Although the sea fennel samples showed differences in chemical profiles, overall they were rich in bioactive compounds with relatively high amounts of key compounds with already proved good biological properties, especially in waste-water, indicating great potential for re-use in accordance with green processing technology trends.

Antioxidant, Antihypertensive, Hypoglycaemic and Nootropic Activity of a Polyphenolic Extract from the Halophyte Ice Plant (Mesembryanthemum crystallinum)

This study aims to determine the potential antioxidant, antihypertensive, hypoglycaemic and nootropic activity of a purified polyphenolic extract from the halophyte ice plant (Mesembryanthemum crystallinum). The ice plant extract showed good antioxidant activity measured by DPPH, ORAC, TEAC, FRAP and ferrous ion chelating activity. Moreover, the extract showed potent ACE, DPP-IV and PEP-inhibitory activity (90.5%, 98.6% and 73.1%, respectively, at a final concentration of 1 mg/mL). The extract was fractionated and the fraction with the highest content of total phenolic compounds showed the highest bioactivity, suggesting that polyphenols could be mainly responsible for the abovementioned activities. The tentative polyphenol identification by HPLC-ESI-QTOF-MS in this fraction revealed that flavones (>65%) are the major group, with apigenin (38%) predominating, followed by diosmin (17.7%) and luteolin (11.9%). They could presumably be the main elements responsible for the enzymatic inhibition activity. Additionally, 4-hydroxybenzoic acid, p-coumaric acid and a hydroxycinnamic acid derivative (2-O-(p-cumaroyl)-l-malic acid) were found in the extract. To our knowledge, this is the first time that some of these activities have been reported for halophyte extracts.

Metabolomic Fingerprinting and Molecular Characterization of the Rock Samphire Germplasm Collection from the Balkan Botanic Garden of Kroussia, Northern Greece

The traditionally edible aerial parts of rock samphire (Crithmum maritimum L.) could be a valuable functional food or feed ingredient due to their high antioxidant capacity, ascorbic acid content, and rich content in secondary metabolites such as phenolics and flavonoids. The first objective of this study was to evaluate eighteen genotypes derived from different regions of Greece regarding the phytochemical contents of their soluble extracts in total phenolics, total flavonoids, and individual polyphenols as determined by LC-MS analysis, as well as ascorbic acid content and their antioxidant capacity as determined by different assays, including ABTS (2,2-azino-bis-3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid), DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging activity), and FRAP (ferric reducing antioxidant power) assays. The second objective of the study was the molecular characterization of native Greek C. maritimum genotypes. Great variation among genotypes was observed in terms of the antioxidant capacity, ascorbic acid content, and phenolic compounds (total phenolic content and total flavonoid content), as well as in caffeolquinic acids and flavonoids. The principal component analysis highlighted genotypes with a higher potential in antioxidants and polyphenolics. The most promising genotypes were G9 from Kefalonia, followed by G4 from Ikaria, where both clearly exhibited a similar response with high values of evaluated traits. The molecular characterization of genotypes revealed low variability and low to moderate genetic diversity between populations. Our data indicated that the rock samphire germplasm collection from the Balkan Botanic Garden of Kroussia could serve as an important source of documented genetic material and, thus, it is suggested for further investigation to provide insight regarding cultivation and agro-processing aspects, artificial selection, or plant breeding aimed at developing C. maritimum genotypes of high-bioactive value.

Effect of Saline-Nutrient Solution on Yield, Quality, and Shelf-Life of Sea Fennel (Crithmum maritimum L.) Plants

In this study, the effect of salinity (150 mM NaCl) compared to a control (9 mM NaCl) on growth, quality and shelf-life of fresh-cut sea fennel was evaluated. For that, sea fennel plants were cultivated in a hydroponic floating system and the sea fennel leaves were stored for 12 days at 5 °C. At harvest, leaves from plants grown in salinity had a lower content of NO3−, K+ and Ca2+ and an increased Cl− and Na+ concentration when compared to the control. There was a positive effect in the aerial part with increased fresh weight due to salt stress, but a reduction in the root biomass. During storage, weight loss and colour changes were not significant while leaves’ firmness was higher for control and increased during storage, probably due to lignification. Microbial growth (psychrophiles, yeast and moulds and enterobacteria) was higher at harvest for control and increased during storage, with no differences between treatments after 12 days at 5 °C. Sensory quality was similar for both treatments but leaves from NaCl treatment had a salty taste that was easily detected by panelists. These results show that saline-nutrient solution applied in hydroponics is a suitable system for sea fennel growth. It gives a slightly salty but high-quality product, acceptable as a “ready-to-eat” vegetable.

Rock Samphire, a Candidate Crop for Saline Agriculture: Cropping Practices, Chemical Composition and Health Effects

The recent market trends for functional healthy foods have rekindled the interest in wild edible species and created a market niche for high added value products. The current supply, mainly supported by plants collected from the wild, cannot meet increasing market needs; therefore, it is of major importance to establish cropping protocols and further valorize wild plants for culinary and industrial applications. Sea fennel is a wild edible halophyte that is an important ingredient in local cuisines and is also used in folk medicine for its beneficial health effects. Its valorization has not been commercially explored on a great scale and more efforts are needed to integrate the species in farming systems. The present review compiles the most recent reports regarding the farming practices that could allow for the establishment of cultivation protocols for farmers, while the main constraints that hinder the further exploitation of the species are also presented. Moreover, this review presents the most up-to-date information regarding the chemical composition (e.g., chemical composition of the aerial parts and volatile compounds in essential oils) and the health-related effects of various plant parts (e.g., antimicrobial, insecticidal and anticholinesterase activities) aiming to reveal possible alternative uses that will increase the added value of the species and will contribute to its commercial exploitation. Finally, the future remarks and the guidelines that have to be followed are also discussed.

Anti-Inflammatory Properties, Bioaccessibility and Intestinal Absorption of Sea Fennel (Crithmum maritimum) Extract Encapsulated in Soy Phosphatidylcholine Liposomes

A sea fennel (Crithmum maritimum) aqueous extract was prepared and loaded into soybean phosphatidylcholine liposomes. Both the free extract (FE), and the empty (L) and loaded (L-FE) liposomes were shown to be non-cytotoxic to THP-1 and Caco-2 cells. The anti-inflammatory effect was tested on THP-1 cells differentiated into macrophages. FE showed anti-inflammatory activity, revealed by the induced secretion of IL-10 cytokines in macrophages that were subsequently stimulated with LPS. Also, a decrease in TNF-α production by L was observed, evidencing that liposomes reduced the pro-inflammatory mediators' secretion. The liposomes (L) showed protective anti-inflammatory activity and also were able to downregulate the inflammation. Furthermore, L-FE were also found to downregulate the inflammation response, as they were able to decrease TNF-α secretion in macrophages previously exposed to LPS. The simulated in vitro gastrointestinal digestion (GID) of FE diminished the chlorogenic acid content (the main polyphenolic compound of the extract) by 40%, while in L-FE, the amount of this phenolic compound increased with respect to the undigested liposomes. The amount of bioaccessible chlorogenic, however, was similar for FE and L-FE. The percentage of chlorogenic acid absorbed through a Caco-2 cell monolayer after 3 h of incubation, was significantly similar for the extract and the liposomes (~1.5%), without finding significant differences once the extract and liposomes were digested.

Halophytes as a potential source of melanosis-inhibiting compounds. Mechanism of inhibition of a characterized polyphenol extract of purslane (Portulaca oleracea)

The market value of crustaceans depreciates during storage due to the appearance of melanosis caused by polyphenol oxidases. Sulfite derivatives are used as melanosis-inhibiting agents, but their unhealthy effects make it preferable to replace them with natural preservatives. In this work, a crude enzymatic extract from whiteleg shrimp (Penaeus vannamei) was characterized and used to test the diphenol oxidase-inhibiting activity of polyphenol extracts of five underutilized halophyte plants, namely crystalline ice plant, seaside arrowgrass, purslane, sea fennel, and seashore aster. The extracts inhibited diphenol oxidase activity more efficiently than sodium sulfite. The purslane extract was rich in isoorientins, isovitexin, and apigenin, and showed the highest inhibiting effect, being this classified as mixed or non-competitive. Hydroxyl groups in the phenyl B ring could be responsible for the inhibitory activity of the extract. The polyphenol extracts tested in this work could be promising melanosis-inhibiting agents of interest for seafood industries.

Influence of soil salinity on the protein and fatty acid composition of the edible halophyte Halimione portulacoides

As the worldwide population continues to rise, so does global demand for agricultural production. This scenario of uncertain food supply is exacerbated by the high salinization of soils worldwide, a serious constraint to crop productivity. In this context, there is an increasing need for alternative sustainable crops. Halophytes are thought to be a promising alternative food source due to their natural ability to grow in saline soils and their multiple potential uses in the food industry. In this study, the protein and fatty acid content of the halophyte Halimione (Atriplex) portulacoides (L.) was studied in different saline conditions. Although more studies are needed to explore the nutritional properties of H. portulacoides, the data presented here suggest that this halophyte should be considered as a promising food crop for saline agriculture.

Characterisation of Muffins with Upcycled Sunflower Flour

There is an increased interest and need to make our economy more circular and our diets healthier and more sustainable. One way to achieve this is to develop upcycled foods that contain food industry by-products in their formulation. In this context, the aim of this study was to develop muffins containing upcycled sunflower flour (a by-product from the sunflower oil industry) and assess the effects of sunflower flour addition on the fibre, protein, amino acid, mineral content, and antioxidant activity measured by a Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power (FRAP) assay and Photo chemiluminescence (PCL) assay. Results show that the sunflower flour inclusion significantly improved all the parameters analysed as part of this study. A more balanced muffin amino acid profile was achieved, thanks to the increased levels of lysine, threonine, and methionine, the limiting essential amino acids of wheat flour. We can conclude that upcycled ingredients, such as sunflower flour, could be used for the nutritional improvement of baked goods, such as muffins. Their addition can result in several nutritional advantages that could be communicated on packaging through the use of the appropriate EU nutrition claims, such as those on protein, fibre, and mineral content.

Halophytes of the Mediterranean Basin-Underutilized Species with the Potential to Be Nutritious Crops in the Scenario of the Climate Change

Halophyte plants are adapted to saline environments and represent a novel type of crops given their possible uses at both culinary and industrial levels. In this work, the nutritional quality of different Mediterranean halophyte species, Atriplex halimus, Salicornia fruticosa, and Cakile maritima, was evaluated under conditions of high salinity. For this, plants were grown at different NaCl concentrations (0, 100, 200, and 300 mM) and the contents of proteins, total lipids, polyphenols, and mineral elements were analyzed as well as growth. Of the three species, C. maritima was the most sensitive to salt stress and therefore showed the highest phenolic compounds content. By contrast, whereas salinity increased the amounts of proteins and phenolics with respect to the control in A. halimus and S. fruticosa, it decreased them in C. maritima. Plants of A. halimus accumulated higher amounts of Na+ in their leaves, but the level of this ion, considering human consumption, was below that of other culinary halophyte species. In conclusion, all the results indicate that these three halophyte species grown at high salt levels represent optimal crops for-new foodstuff-production as green salt or spice due to their nutritional potential.

Use of Sea Fennel as a Natural Ingredient of Edible Films for Extending the Shelf Life of Fresh Fish Burgers

The growing interest from consumers toward healthy and nutritious products and their benefits for health has increased the consumption of whole and processed fish. One of the main problems of fish is the short shelf life, especially when it is processed as in the case of burgers. The use of edible coating is an interesting strategy to extend the quality and safety of the product, reducing the need for artificial preservatives. This study evaluated the use of chitosan-based edible film formulated with sea fennel plant and sea fennel extracts. The analyses showed than the use of edible film extended the shelf life of fish burgers regardless of the incorporation of sea fennel mainly associated to the gas barrier properties and selective permeability of the film applied to the fish surface. The incorporation of sea fennel in the films did not produce any antimicrobial enhancement, although sea fennel (mostly extract) produced a better pH and enhanced the antioxidant properties and lipid oxidation of fish burgers. However, sensory analyses showed than fish burgers coated with sea fennel film plant had better acceptability than those with sea fennel extracts, probably due to the better odour and colour of the whole plant during storage. The study showed that the use of sea fennel plant at 12.5% extended the shelf life of fish burgers using a safe and clean label strategy.