Author(s): VILVERT, J. C.; FREITAS, S. T. de; SANTOS, L. F. dos; RIBEIRO. T. da S.; VELOSO, C. M.

Summary: Acerola (Malpighia emarginata DC) is a cherry-like tropical fruit well-known for being a rich source of ascorbic acid (vitamin C) and phenolic compounds. This review provides a complete overview on aspects related to phenolic compounds of acerola fruit and by-products, comprising the identification and quantification of phenolic compounds, influencing fac- tors, and biological properties. Scientific evidences suggest that the acerola is a promising superfruit with great potential in the food and pharmaceutical industries. At least 76 phenolic compounds were identified using high performance liquid chromatography in acerolas, including 55 flavonoids (anthocyanins, flavan-3-ols, flavonols, flavones, flavanones, isoflavones and chalcones) and 21 non-flavonoids (phenolic acids, stilbenes and lignans). Phenolic compounds in acerola show several biological properties, including antioxidant, antibacterial, antihyperglycemic, antihyperlipidemic, anti-inflammatory, and hepatoprotective activities. However, studies are further required to assess the seasonal and genotypic influence on the phenolics of acerola and their bioaccessibility. Acerola is an anthocyanin-rich fruit with high potential for pigment extraction, but stabilization of anthocyanins in juice and pulp should be further elucidated and improved.

Publication year: 2024

Types of publication: Journal article

Unit: Embrapa Semi-arid Region

Keywords: Acerola, Antioxidant activity, Atividade antioxidante, Composto Fenólico, Fitoquímicos, Fruta Tropical, Malpighia emarginata, Phenolic compounds, Polifenóis, Polyphenols, Propriedades biológicas, Subproduto, Vitamina C