Original Article
Food Science and Technology
Sabri Sudirman; Bernica Toyba; Herpandi Herpandi; Indah Widiastuti; Puspa Ayu Pitayati; Miftahul Janna; Rahmadiana Utami
Abstract
Purpose: Oxidative stress is a condition caused by an imbalance between free radicals and the body's antioxidant defense system. Antioxidants are substances that reduce or inhibit the formation of free radicals. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of different extraction temperatures on the polyphenol ...
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Purpose: Oxidative stress is a condition caused by an imbalance between free radicals and the body's antioxidant defense system. Antioxidants are substances that reduce or inhibit the formation of free radicals. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of different extraction temperatures on the polyphenol content of nipa palm (Nypa fruticans) fruit husk and to determine its antioxidant activity. Research method: The nipa palm fruit husk was extracted using different temperatures (30°C, 45°C, and 60°C) and the antioxidant activity was determined using the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl method. The data were presented as mean ± standard deviation and analyzed by one-way analysis of variance (one-way ANOVA) followed by Duncan multiple comparison tests. Findings: The results showed that an extraction temperature of 60°C produced the highest total phenolic (44.50 mg Gallic acid equivalent per g of sample), flavonoid (8.75 mg Quercetin equivalent per g of sample), and tannin (50.30 mg Tannic acid equivalent per g of sample). Fourier transform infrared analysis detected hydroxyl groups, indicating the presence of polyphenol compounds in the nipa palm fruit husk extract. Furthermore, the extraction temperature of 60°C exhibited the highest radical scavenging activity (52.79%) compared to other temperatures (30°C and 45°C). These findings suggest that nipa palm fruit husk extract can serve as a natural antioxidant and has potential applications as a pharmaceutical agent. Research limitations: There were no limitations identified. Originality/Value: This study is the first to report the effect of temperature on the extraction of polyphenol content from nipa fruit husks. It also highlights the potential of nipa fruit husk extract as a natural source of antioxidant agents.
Original Article
Medicinal Plants
Tran Thien Hien; Tran Trong Kieu Ngoc; Nguyen Manh Ngoc Bao; Vo Trung Tinh; Pham Nguyen Thuy Dung
Abstract
Purpose: The study was conducted to optimize the extraction process with high polyphenol and flavonoid content from O. gratissimum L. and evaluate their biological activities. Research Method: The extraction of O. gratissimum L. extract was performed by combining ultrasound-assisted and hot extraction ...
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Purpose: The study was conducted to optimize the extraction process with high polyphenol and flavonoid content from O. gratissimum L. and evaluate their biological activities. Research Method: The extraction of O. gratissimum L. extract was performed by combining ultrasound-assisted and hot extraction methods. Findings: The results showed that extraction of O. gratissimum L. was performed under optimal conditions by response surface methodology (RSM), including ethanol concentration of 70%, raw material: ethanol ratio of 1: 35.71 (g.g-1), time extraction of 69.77 min, and at a temperature of 89.82 °C, with a total polyphenol content and a total flavonoid content of 190.987 (mgGAE.gDW-1) and 27.10 (mgQE.gDW-1), respectively. The extract was concentrated by vacuum rotary evaporation to obtain the total extract which was subjected to evaluation for its physicochemical components and biological activities. The results showed that the total extract quality met the current standards of Vietnam without heavy metals and pesticide residues. In addition, the antibacterial, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of the total extract sample from O. gratissimum L. also gave positive results, confirming the significant biological activity. Research limitations: No limitations were encountered. Originality/Value: Ocimum gratissimum L. is a medicinal herb widely used in traditional medicine across East Asia, especially in Vietnam. Due to the high content of physiochemical components, including essential oils and phenolic compounds such as polyphenols and flavonoids, O. gratissimum L. exhibits antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties. Therefore, studies on the biological activity of solution extracts and total extracts from O. gratissimum L. are essential for evaluating the potential applications in the fields of medicine, foods, and cosmetics.
Original Article
Medicinal Plants
Abolfazl Mohammadi Khorzani; Heshmat Omidi; Mohammad Hosein Bijeh Keshavarzi
Abstract
Purpose: This study investigated the effects of phosphorus, potassium, and humic acid fertilizers on growth, yield, and physiological traits of chicory under Arak’s climatic conditions using a factorial experiment. Research Method: The experiment was conducted in a randomized complete block design ...
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Purpose: This study investigated the effects of phosphorus, potassium, and humic acid fertilizers on growth, yield, and physiological traits of chicory under Arak’s climatic conditions using a factorial experiment. Research Method: The experiment was conducted in a randomized complete block design with three replications. Experimental factors included levels of phosphorus fertilizer (0, 8 and 12 kgha-1), potassium fertilizer (0, 10 and 15 kgha-1), and humic acid (0, 0.5 and 2 kgha-1). Findings The results showed that the highest Leaf Area Index was observed in the treatment of 12kg/ha phosphorus+10 kg/ha potassium sulfate+2 kg/ha humic acid, with a mean of 2.9. The highest number of flowers and the highest total chlorophyll content were obtained in 12 kg/ha phosphorus + 10 kg/ha potassium sulfate + 0.5 kg/ha humic acid treatment with averages of 49.11 per plant and 39.5µg/g FW respectively. The highest flower yield was in 10 kg/ha potassium sulfate treatment with an average of 330.6 kgha-1. The highest content of free proline was obtained in 8 kg/ha phosphorus+15kg/ha potassium sulfate+2 kg/ha humic acid treatment with 0.97μmol/g FW. Combined phosphorus, potassium, and humic acid application significantly improved chicory growth, yield, and physiology, increasing leaf area index, flower number/yield, shoot yield, biomass, and chlorophyll content, while decreasing free proline. Research limitations: No significant limitations were identified in this study. Originality/Value: To maximize chicory growth and yield in the specific climatic conditions of this study, a balanced fertilizer application is crucial, as excessive fertilization can be harmful. This study suggests a combination of 8 kg/ha of superphosphate, 10kg/ha of potassium sulfate, and 0.5 kg/ha of humic acid powder. Future research should focus on understanding how these nutrients affect chicory at a mechanistic level and on evaluating the long-term consequences of various fertilization programs for soil fertility and environmental health.
Review Article
Postharvest Biology and Technology
Mawela Aluthgedara Ralala Madhushika Pushpamali Jayathilaka; Jayalathpurage Imakli Sasanka Jayalath; Wickrema Arachchige Harindra Champa; Thushanthi Perera
Abstract
Purpose: Mango (Mangifera indica L.) is a globally choicest fruit crop facing substantial pre- and post-harvest challenges, resulting in significant postharvest losses worldwide. These losses impact food security, economic growth, and the sustainability of the mango supply chain. This systematic review ...
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Purpose: Mango (Mangifera indica L.) is a globally choicest fruit crop facing substantial pre- and post-harvest challenges, resulting in significant postharvest losses worldwide. These losses impact food security, economic growth, and the sustainability of the mango supply chain. This systematic review explores existing literature on causes and mitigation strategies of postharvest losses of mango supply chain providing a comprehensive overview of the sector. Findings: Mango faces significant postharvest losses due to damage caused by faulty handling practices, diseases and pest infestations. Key challenges include inadequate packaging, poor storage, and inefficient transport facilities alongside insufficient knowledge dissemination mechanisms, disorganized marketing systems, and limited government interventions leading to exacerbate losses. Providing improved mango varieties, investing in infrastructure, strengthening stakeholder collaboration, enhancing knowledge dissemination and establishing mango-based value-added industries are critical for the sustainability of the sector. Adopting standardized harvest maturity indices, consumer friendly methods for pest and disease prevention, and applying edible coatings to maintain fruit quality play a pivotal role for supply of quality mangoes to fresh and processed markets. The findings emphasize immediate necessity for collaboration between government, non-government, and private sector companies to make available funds for research and startups in mango sector. Limitations: This review is limited by the availability of region-specific data and variations in postharvest loss assessment methodologies. Directions for future research: Future research should focus on the development of non-destructive techniques to determine correct harvest maturity stage of mango precisely, advanced technologies to monitor and manage the losses, such as digital tracking systems, smart packaging solutions, and eco-friendly preservation techniques.
Original Article
Postharvest Biology and Technology
Chiman Tashan; Mousa Rasouli; Mahmoud Koushesh Saba; Hazhir Tashan
Abstract
Purpose: Unfortunately, the quick quality loss in strawberry fruit decreases its marketability. The purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of pre- and post-harvest treatments on the enhancement of fruit storability. Research method: Pre-harvest treatment of calcium chloride (Ca) 2% and nano ...
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Purpose: Unfortunately, the quick quality loss in strawberry fruit decreases its marketability. The purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of pre- and post-harvest treatments on the enhancement of fruit storability. Research method: Pre-harvest treatment of calcium chloride (Ca) 2% and nano calcium (nCa) 0.01%, and post-harvest treatments of Chitosan (CH) 1% and Carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) 1% on strawberry storability were investigated for 15 days and under 95% relative humidity at 1 ˚C. Traits of fruits such as weight loss, firmness, decay amount, total soluble solid, anthocyanin concentration, total phenol, ascorbic acid and antioxidant activity were measured. Findings: 15 days after treatment, treated samples showed decreased weight loss (WL), which was 18% for the untreated sample and 12% for treated samples. A delayed decline in firmness was observed in treated samples and nCa+CH treatment had the highest firmness 15 days after cold storage. Fruit decay was the most in the control sample and the least in Ca+CH treatments. Total soluble solids and anthocyanin increased in control, but remained stable in treated samples. Total phenol (TP) amount was the least in control. CH treated samples had the highest level of TP. Ca+CMC treated samples gradually showed higher level of vitamin C (AA) than other treatments. Research limitations: There was not limitations. Originality/Value: These results proved that using edible coatings of CMC and CH, and pre-harvest treatment with Ca and nCa increase the storability of strawberry, and can be used commercially to increase storage time.
Original Article
Food Science and Technology
Thanh Viet Nguyen; Le Hoang Phuc; Ngoc Quy Nguyen; Minh Tien Nguyen; Van Chi Khang
Abstract
Purpose: This study evaluated how ripening stages and anatomical parts affect the nutritional composition, physicochemical attributes, and antioxidant potential of Ri6 Durian (Durio zibethinus Murr.). The goal was to determine the optimal harvest stage and explore full fruit utilization to reduce postharvest ...
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Purpose: This study evaluated how ripening stages and anatomical parts affect the nutritional composition, physicochemical attributes, and antioxidant potential of Ri6 Durian (Durio zibethinus Murr.). The goal was to determine the optimal harvest stage and explore full fruit utilization to reduce postharvest losses. Research method: Peel, flesh, and seed samples were collected at 15 weeks (mature fruit, MF) and 17 weeks (ripe fruit, RF) after flowering. Ethanol extracts were analyzed for proximate composition, pH, titratable acidity, total soluble solids, total polyphenol content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), and antioxidant activity using DPPH and ABTS assays. Findings: Ripening increased moisture (36.7-80.8%) and sugars (16.7-55.5 mg/g DW), while reducing acidity. The peel consistently exhibited the highest bioactive levels, with TPC reaching 2.91 mg GAE/g and TFC 0.21 mg QE/g at MF. Antioxidant activity was stronger in the peel, with DPPH values up to 0.67 mg AAE/g DW, exceeding ABTS activity (0.50 mg AAE/g DW). Research limitations: The study was limited to one Durian cultivar (Ri6) and two ripening stages, which may restrict generalizability to other cultivars or maturity levels. Originality/Value: This research highlights the underutilized value of Durian peel and seed for functional food or nutraceutical development, and provides practical guidance for ripening-based harvest decisions to support sustainable postharvest strategies. The findings contribute innovative insights into full-fruit utilization and promote value addition for tropical fruits, offering practical applications for both industry and farmers.
Original Article
Postharvest Biology and Technology
Samane Mollaei; Seyed Hossein Mirdehghan; Mahdi Shariat; Fatemeh Nazoori
Abstract
Purpose: This study evaluated the effects of cold plasma (CP) treatment using argon (Ar), nitrogen (N₂), and oxygen (O₂) gases at two voltages (5 and 8 kV) on the postharvest quality and shelf life of fresh in-hull pistachio (Pistacia vera L.) during cold storage. Research Method: Treatments were ...
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Purpose: This study evaluated the effects of cold plasma (CP) treatment using argon (Ar), nitrogen (N₂), and oxygen (O₂) gases at two voltages (5 and 8 kV) on the postharvest quality and shelf life of fresh in-hull pistachio (Pistacia vera L.) during cold storage. Research Method: Treatments were applied, and the samples were stored at 4°C for 25 and 50 days. Key parameters, including decay index (DI), water activity, total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), total chlorophyll content, electrolyte leakage (EL), and sensory attributes, were assessed. Findings: Decay index (DI) measurements demonstrated that CP treatments significantly inhibited microbial spoilage, and argon-CP reduced decay by up to 40% compared to untreated controls. Water activity declined from 0.957 in the controls to as low as 0.952 in the argon-treated samples, indicating reduced free water available for microbial growth. Biochemical analyses revealed that total phenolic content (TPC) increased the most under nitrogen-CP (0.485 mg GAE/100 g at 50 days vs. 0.350 mg in controls). Total chlorophyll content was highest in N₂-treated pistachios (2.96 g kg⁻¹), and electrolyte leakage (EL), an indicator of membrane integrity, was lowest in argon-CP samples (74.82% vs. 88.67% in controls), reflecting reduced cellular damage. Sensory analysis confirmed that CP-treated samples, particularly those treated with Ar, improved texture, taste, color, and aroma. Research limitations: This study was limited to laboratory-scale conditions and storage durations. Originality/Value: This research provides new insights into non-thermal postharvest preservation of pistachios and highlights cold plasma, particularly Ar-treatment, as a practical, chemical-free method to enhance quality and extend shelf life.
Original Article
Food Science and Technology
Sonu Sharma; V. Ramana Rao Tadapaneni; Prakash R. Patel
Abstract
Purpose: The study examined the effectiveness of polysaccharide-based edible coatings enriched with citral microencapsulated in β-cyclodextrin for extending shelf-life and maintaining the quality of fresh-cut ‘Totapuri’ mango. Research Method: The sodium alginate (AG), carrageenan (CG), ...
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Purpose: The study examined the effectiveness of polysaccharide-based edible coatings enriched with citral microencapsulated in β-cyclodextrin for extending shelf-life and maintaining the quality of fresh-cut ‘Totapuri’ mango. Research Method: The sodium alginate (AG), carrageenan (CG), pectin (PT), and polycationic chitosan (CH) were applied as layer-by-layer through electrostatic deposition and single layer. The changes in quality properties of coated and uncoated fresh-cut ‘Totapuri’ mango were evaluated during 18 days of storage period at 5°C. Physicochemical properties like colour change, firmness, weight loss, carotenoids, vitamin C and phenolics were measured. Sensory characteristics such as color, taste, texture and odor were evaluated. Additionally, enzymatic activities of polygalacturonase, peroxidase, polyphenol oxidase and phenylalanine ammonia-lyase were evaluated and microbial growth was examined to check for contamination during storage. Findings: The application of AG and CH as single layer and layer-by-layer coatings especially AG+CH and CG+CH better maintained chroma (C), hue angle (h°), and lightness (L*), slowed down firmness and weight loss, retained carotenoids, vitamin C and phenolics as compared to single-layered and uncoated fresh-cut mango. Furthermore, layer-by-layer coatings of CH+AG and CH+CG reduced enzymatic activities of polygalacturonase (PG), peroxidase (POX), polyphenol oxidase (PPO) and phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL) and prevented microbial growth during 18 days of storage at 5°C. The application of alginate and chitosan as single-layered and layer-by-layer on fresh-cut ‘Totapuri’ scored the highest overall consumer acceptability when compared to other coating treatments. Research limitations: There were no limitations. Originality/Value: The study suggest that application of AG and CH as single layer and layer-by-layer polysaccharide-based edible coating of CH+AG and CH+CG are effective and safe method of preserving the quality and extending the shelf-life of fresh-cut ‘Totapuri’ mango for 18 days at 5°C.
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