Abstract (EN):
This study evaluated the fruit by-products (peels, seeds, and fibrous strands) from 11 pumpkin genotypes cultivated in Greece aiming to valorize them as natural sources of bioactive compounds. Five compounds, including (-)-epicatechin and chicoric acid isomers, were identified in peels, while seeds and fibrous strands mainly contained (-)-epicatechin. Organic acids and tocopherols varied significantly among genotypes, with oxalic, quinic, and malic acids being predominant. Total tocopherols content (mg/100 g) ranged up to 7.38 +/- 0.03 in fibrous strands, 30.7 +/- 0.2 in peels, and 14.58 +/- 0.09 in seeds. Extracts exhibited potent antioxidant activity, particularly the seeds of genotypes V5 and V6, and strong antimicrobial effects, notably the peels of V2 T and V11, which showed significant inhibition of microbial strains. These findings contribute to the advancement of sustainable practices in the agro-industrial waste management, as well as to the production of functional natural ingredients for various industrial applications.
Idioma:
Inglês
Tipo (Avaliação Docente):
Científica
Nº de páginas:
13