Biochemistry Department, Chemistry Institute, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Avenida Athos da Silveira Ramos 149, Cidade Universitária, Rio de Janeiro 21941-909, RJ, Brazil.
Published: August 2024
AI Article Synopsis
Article Abstract
Capsaicin, carotenoids, and phenolic compounds from cumari-do-Pará peppers ( Jacq.) harvested from two different locations in Pará, Brazil, and at different ripening stages were extracted by employing green methodologies as an alternative to organic solvents. Edible vegetable oils from soybeans (), Brazilian nuts ( H.B.), and palm olein were used in combination with ultrasonic-assisted extraction (UAE). The proximate composition of the pepper extracts and vitamin C were determined through AOAC methods, total phenolics and carotenoids were assessed by UV/Vis spectrophotometry, and capsaicin by high-performance liquid chromatography. Antioxidant cumari-do-Pará extract activities were evaluated by the ABTS radical scavenging and β-carotene/linoleic acid assays. The vegetable oils were suitable for extracting and preserving bioactive pepper compounds, especially mature ones harvested from Igarapé-Açu. Bioactive compound content and antioxidant activity varied with harvesting location and ripening stage. Soybean oil was the most effective in extracting bioactive pepper compounds, particularly carotenoids, with 69% recovery. Soybean oil extracts enriched in capsaicin, carotenoids, and phenolics obtained from cumari-do-Pará can be used as spices in foodstuffs and/or as additives in pharmaceutical and nutraceutical formulations. Edible vegetable oils combined with UAE are promising for bioactive compound extraction, representing an environmentally friendly, safe, low-cost, versatile, and fast alternative.
Miller is a highly valued aromatic and nutritious plant. The unique compositions of its essential oil make it more valuable in the flavor, fragrance, and medicinal industries. However, the potential of superheated steam distillation for obtaining essential oils from its seeds has not been explored in detail.
Cold atmospheric pressure plasma (CAPP) comprises an ensemble of ionized gas, neutral particles, and/or reactive species. Electricity is frequently used to produce CAPP via a variety of techniques, including plasma jets, corona discharges, dielectric barrier discharges, and glow discharges. The type and flow rates of the carrier gas(es), temperature, pressure, and vacuum can all be altered to control the desired properties of the CAPP.
Thymol is a phenol monoterpene that is naturally derived from cymene and is an isomer of carvacrol. It constitutes a significant portion (10%-64%) of the essential oils found in thyme ( L., Lamiaceae), a medicinal plant renowned for its therapeutic properties.
State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, School of Food Science and Technology, Collaborative Innovation Center of Food Safety and Quality Control in Jiangsu Province, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China.
There is growing concern about the potential risks posed by synthetic additives in industrial products, such as foods, cosmetics, agrochemicals, and personal care products. Many plant-derived essential oils (EOs) have been shown to exhibit excellent antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, and antioxidant activities, and may therefore be used as natural preservatives in these applications. However, most EOs have relatively low water solubility and are prone to chemical degradation during storage.
The intake of trans-fatty acids (TFA) is strongly associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases and elevated low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels in blood. This review explores the critical factors influencing TFA formation during industrial vegetable oil processing and home cooking practices, particularly deep-frying. While hydrogenation, a major source of TFA, has been largely eliminated in developed countries, it remains unregulated in many developing countries, posing significant health risks.
