A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW ON: NUTRACEUTICALS AND FUNCTIONAL ATTRIBUTES OF TROPICAL FRUITS

Abstract: A diet high in fruits has been associated with a lower risk of chronic disease, as, in addition to their vitamin and mineral content, they contain various compounds with health-protective effects, particularly antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. Wild plant species are of interest to the food industry because of their ability to replace synthetic chemicals and nutraceuticals; however, the nutritional, economic, and sociocultural values of some neglected and underutilized natural resources have not yet been fully exploited. Some of these less wellknown and underutilized fruits, which have the potential to provide novel sources of healthpromoting agents, are presented in this chapter (i.e., Asimina triloba (L.) Donal, Crataegus azarolus L., Lycium barbarum L., Morus nigra L., and Amelanchier canadensis(L). Medicus). Underutilized fruits could present an opportunity for growers to access special markets where consumers emphasize high nutrient content capable of preventing degenerative diseases. The development of specific horticultural models for nutraceutical fruit production could be an interesting opportunity to obtain a highly standardized raw material for fresh or derived products.

Keywords: Nutraceuticals, Tropical Fruits, Functional Food, Antioxidants, Health Benefits

Author: Saurabh Singh, Deepak Lall and Aascharya Pandey

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