Bioactive Compounds and Antioxidant Activity in Persimmon Systems
Summary
Persimmon fruits and their processing by-products represent a rich source of bioactive compounds, notably phenolic acids, flavonoids and carotenoids, which contribute to significant antioxidant activity. The composition of these phytochemicals varies with cultivar, maturation stage and post-harvest treatment, influencing both nutritional value and functional potential. Phenolic acids such as ferulic, p-coumaric and gallic acids have been identified alongside condensed tannins, which collectively scavenge free radicals and chelate transition metals. Carotenoids including β-cryptoxanthin, β-carotene, lutein and zeaxanthin further enhance antioxidant capacity and exhibit roles in photoprotection and cellular signalling. Recent advances in extraction technologies—such as ultrasound-assisted treatment and the use of natural deep eutectic solvents—have improved yield and selectivity of these constituents, enabling their incorporation into functional foods, nutraceuticals and cosmetic formulations. Valorisation of persimmon processing residues as fibre-rich carriers of bound bioactives has opened avenues for sustainable development of dietary supplements and fortified beverages, emphasising global relevance in waste reduction and health promotion.
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Bioactive Compounds and Antioxidant Activity in Persimmon Systems publication trend
The graph below shows the total number of articles in bioactive compounds and antioxidant activity in persimmon systems across all publications each year (not limited to Nature Index journals).
Technical terms
Bioactive compounds: Naturally occurring molecules in foods that exert biological effects beyond basic nutrition.
Polyphenols: A class of antioxidants characterised by multiple phenol units, including flavonoids and phenolic acids.
Carotenoids: Lipid-soluble pigments with antioxidant properties, encompassing β-carotene, lutein and zeaxanthin.
Antioxidant activity: The capacity of compounds to neutralise free radicals and inhibit oxidative damage.
Natural deep eutectic solvents (NADES): Biocompatible solvent systems formed from hydrogen-bond donors and acceptors to enhance phytochemical extraction.
Dietary fibre: Indigestible plant carbohydrates that support gut health and act as carriers for bound bioactives.
References
- Green Technologies for Persimmon By-Products Revalorisation as Sustainable Sources of Dietary Fibre and Antioxidants for Functional Beverages Development. Antioxidants (2023).
- Chemistry and Functionality of Bioactive Compounds Present in Persimmon. Journal of Chemistry (2016).
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