Showing papers in "Current Nutrition & Food Science in 2014"

Phytochemical Characterization of Prickly Pear (Opuntia spp.) and of its Nutritional and Functional Properties: A Review

Abstract: Prickly pear is the fruit of the nopal cactus; native from Mexico, where approximately 80 species and 150 cultivars are harvested. Production of prickly pear has been expanded to more than 30 countries. In Latin America, almost 511,035 Ton per year of prickly pear are harvested, which represents more than 50% of the worldwide production of this fruit. There are studies that have demonstrated its importance as a source of nutritional and functional compounds that provide antioxidant, antiatherogenic, antiulcerogenic, immunomodulatory and anticarcinogenic properties. Prickly pear is commonly consumed fresh, since the pulp is the edible portion; while peel and seeds are discarded as waste, these residuals contain minerals, dietary fiber, phenolics, and flavonoids in higher levels than the pulp, which could be used as a source of functional ingredients. There are findings related to the phytochemical composition of the prickly pear with functional effects, and further clinical studies are still needed in order to determine the mechanisms of action of these compounds, which could provide a greater added value to this fruit in the health area.

Phytochemical Content, Nutraceutical Potential and Biotechnological Applications of an Ancient Mexican Plant: Nopal (Opuntia ficus-indica)

Abstract: Nopal is by far the most important cactus worldwide. Since its pre-Hispanic use for food and cochineal dye production, domestication of this plant was one of the most important inheritances left by ancient Mexicans. Nowadays, nopal research is increasing mainly due to the many nutraceutical properties that have been attributed to this plant. Its potential use against type 2 diabetes is gaining importance which has been related to its high antioxidant and dietary fiber contents. Even more, the consumption of nopal cladodes and fruits has been associated with anticancer properties or cancer chemoprevention issues. Other nutraceutical properties also elucidated include antiulcer activity, antiallergenic potential and helping long-term memory. Moreover, new biotechnological tools are now been applied in nopal such as in vitro tissue culture techniques and genetic plant transformation. Important industrial enzymes have been isolated, purified and characterized from nopal. Finally, food industry applications for nopal are increasing because of its nutraceutical properties and its potential use as a functional ingredient in the production of bakery products, bars and tortillas, among other interesting new technological uses. Therefore, the aim of the present review is to summarize the information generated in the last years around this important plant.

Changes of Physico-chemical Properties of Sequential Minimal Ozonetreated Ice-stored Pacific white shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei)

Abstract: In this study, changes of some physico-chemical properties of ice-stored Pacific white shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei) subjected to sequential minimal ozone treatment of 11 days were investigated. The physico-chemical proper- ties studied included proximal composition (fat, protein, moisture, ash), water activity (aw), water retention index (WRI), pH, thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), colour (L* a* b* and whiteness colour values), total carbohydrate (TC), total energy (TE), hardness and adhesiveness. The results indicated that the fat, protein, aw, WRI, pH, TBARS and colour of sequential minimal ozone-treated ice-stored shrimp were significantly affected with storage (P 0.05). For the first time, the effect of sequential minimal ozone treatment on some physico-chemical properties of ice-stored Pacific white shrimp is hereby reported.

Feasibility of Increased Navy Bean Powder Consumption for Primary and Secondary Colorectal Cancer Prevention

Abstract: Introduction: Emerging evidence supports that increased consumption of dry beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) reduces both the incidence and recurrence of adenomatous polyps or precancerous growths. Navy beans have been studied for dietary colorectal cancer (CRC) chemoprevention in animal models. Our main objectives were to assess the feasibility of increased navy bean consumption in adults with and without history of CRC and to achieve intake amounts associated with chemoprevention. Methods: Seven meals and six snacks were developed for both the absence and inclusion of cooked navy bean powder (35grams/day). Sixteen healthy adults (7 non-cancer and 9 CRC survivors) completed the placebo-controlled, randomized, single-blinded dietary intervention trial. Participants consumed one study-provided meal and snack daily for 28 days, which accounted for approximately one-third of their total recommended caloric intake (meals = 202-483 kcal and snacks = 194-401 kcal). Participants also recorded three-day dietary food logs each week. Results: The addition of 35g of cooked navy bean powder (NBP) into foods provided 5-8% daily caloric intake. The compliance to the meal and snack intervention ranged from 89-100%. Non-cancer participants in the NBP group had a significant decrease in total caloric intake after week 4 (p0.0001). CRC survivors in the NBP group significantly increased total fiber intake by week 4 (p0.0001). Conclusions: NBP are feasible to include in meals for increased total fiber intake and for consuming the amount that is associated with CRC chemoprevention outcomes. These findings warrant further evaluation of NBP consumption in clinical nutrition trials for CRC control and prevention.

Selenium-Enriched Yeast: As Selenium Source for Nutritional Purpose

Abstract: Selenium (Se)-enriched yeast is a common form of Se for supplementation purpose. In this paper Se retention and metabolism in body, content in natural food and supplements have been introduced. Then recent investigations on the beneficial health effects of Se-enriched yeast addition to foods and impact of process variables in its production as well as, product characteristic, Se species, intended dietary use for Se-enriched yeast, bioavailability and stability have been reviewed. Finally safety of the yeast source in Se-enriched yeast, probable toxicity including acute and chronic toxicity have been discussed. Application of Se-enriched yeast, complying with the general product characteristics outlined in paper when used in food supplements is safe at the proposed intake levels, which upper bound total estimated daily intake for adults was calculated to be 150 g as Se.

Antioxidant and Anti-fungal Effect of Caraway (Carum Carvi L.) Essential Oil in Real Food System

Abstract: The essential oil of caraway (CEO) was analyzed by GC/MS. Its predominant components were (Z)-anethole (26.34%), carvone (17.85%), limonene (15.45%), hydrocinnamyl acetate (8.29%) and carvacrol (6.68%). Antioxidant activity (AOA) of CEO was evaluated in cake during 60 days storage at 25°C. CEO at 0.10 and 0.15% could inhibit the rate of oxidation products formation in cake and their effect was almost equal to BHA at 0.02% (p<0.01). AOA of CEO maybe due to the presence of carvone, limonene and carvacrol. Also, the antimycotic effect of CEO was evaluated in cake during 60 days storage and results indicated that CEO at 0.10 and 0.15% could prevent the growth of fungi in it. Organoleptic evaluation of cakes containing 0.05, 0.10 and 0.15% of CEO showed no significant difference between them and the control sample (p<0.01). This essential oil could be used as natural preservative in foodstuffs especially those containing lipid.

An Update on the Cardiovascular Effects of Quercetin, a Plant Flavonoid

Abstract: Quercetin, a widely occurring plant flavonoid, is well-known for its antioxidant activity. A great deal of research in the form of animal and cell culture studies has been performed over the last 30 years, as well as a few clinical studies in human populations; however, its specific effects on various contributing factors to cardiovascular disease are not fully understood. This review seeks to summarize many of the latest studies regarding the effects of quercetin on cardiovascular health. Overall, the research reflects positive effects of quercetin on atherosclerosis, hypertension, dyslipidemia and endothelial function. However, in vivo studies have shown that quercetin imparts varying plasma levels due to its poor aqueous solubility and low stability in biological fluids. Research efforts are currently being devoted to overcome these limitations by designing and testing modified forms of quercetin or improved formulations which provide enhanced bioavailability and higher efficacy. The development of improved dosage forms for in vivo administration of quercetin and well-designed clinical studies are warranted for further evaluation of the effects of quercetin on cardiovascular health.

Shelf-life of Extra Virgin Olive Oils from Southern Italy

Abstract: This study investigated the effect of a 12 months storage period on quality, biochemical, and chemical parame- ters of three extra virgin olive oils (mono-cultivars Ortice and Ravece, and Bonito, a mix of different cultivars). Based on their free acidity, peroxide index, and spectrophotometric indices, all three analyzed oils produced values within the range of classification as "extra virgin olive oil". The content of total polyphenols, tyrosol, and hydroxytyrosol progressively decreased during their storage period in all varieties of oil, leading to deterioration in quality as a consequence of oxida- tive and hydrolytic degradations. The concentration of Fe, Cu, Mn, and Zn decreased in the oils during the storage period, while it increased in the sediment that formed in the containers.

Biotechnology and its Impact on Food Security and Safety

Abstract: A global recession, along with highly increased food prices in many countries in unregenerate manner, have caused some 100 million more people than last year suffering from silent hunger and poverty that would leave the world extremely vulnerable. The global food crisis potentially imposes a serious risk towards world peace and security. The crop production however will have to be dramatically increased to meet the need. The ability of biotechnology to act as a tool to assist in solving the issue is far from being fully exploited. Low crops production is considered to be the main reason for poverty and food insecurity in the world. High percentage of poor and food insecure people are living in developing countries and in rural aereas. Therefore, biotechnology can:1) increase the crops yield through introducing high-yielding varieties resistant to biotic and abiotic stresses; 2) reduce pest– associated losses; and 3) increase the nutritional values of foods which is a very important factor in rural areas or developing countries. Furthermore, in order to reduce or eliminate food insecurity, postharvest approach in wasting less is of a vital strategy to supplement increasing food productivity. Hence, the environmental issues in supplying safe and nutritious foods in a sustainable manner should be taken into account. Biotechnology research and development have already produced significant products on the market, and will further have a pivotal role to play in encouraging and enhancing food production, considering the safety and environmental quality. Although the major concern being the safety and potential impact of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) on human health, the future of biotech crops looks encouraging as the global area of biotech crops continue to increase yearly and commercialization of drought tolerant maize and Golden Rice are expected in 2013/2014. Thus, biotech crops could possibly contribute in accomplishing the 2015 Millennium Development Goal particularly in reducing poverty by half through maximizing crop productivity. Microorganisms play a vital role in sustaining soil health and productivity, in the process of plant biomass conversion to produce both food and fuel, and in the production of novel foods and feeds mainly by fermentation. This review discussed the current trends and future perspectives on how biotechnology and genetic engineering can help us to provide safe and secure food and can act as a valuable tool to reduce poverty.

The Use of Byssogenesis of Green Mussel, Perna Viridis, as a Biomarker in Laboratory Study

Abstract: Marine pollution monitoring is important for food bio-safety as well as the conservation of the environment. The green mussel, Perna viridis has previously been used as an eco-sentinel organism in marine pollution monitoring. In this study the byssogenesis of P. viridis was used as a biomarker during an in vivo study. Fifteen P. viridis were exposed for 14 days in filtered seawater to metal mixtures of lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd) containing 0.008, 0.04, 0.2, 1, 5 mg/l of each metal for 14 days. The results showed that Pb and Cd residues in the mussel tissue were proportional to the metal concentration in water. Kruskal-Wallis and Dunn’s Multiple Comparison tests were used to assess the effects of metal exposure on the production of byssus. The test results showed that the byssus production in 0.2 and 1 mg/l treatments was significantly different from controls (p < 0.05). Backward elimination regression was used to discern the role of Pb and Cd in the byssus productions. The regression demonstrated that Pb played a more important role than Cd in terms of byssogenesis. The study suggested that the byssogenesis production of P. viridis has potential to be used in biomarker studies.

Effect of Extracts and Components of Black Tea on the Activity of β- Glucuronidase, Lipase,α-Amylase,α-Glucosidase: An in vitro Study

Abstract: The objective of the present study was to determine the inhibitory properties of the infusions and decoctions of four samples of Indian black tea (BT) and some of the tea flavonoids, gallic acid and caffeine, in vitro, against β- glucuronidase, lipase,α-amylase and α-glucosidase. These enzymes are related to liver disorders, obesity and diabetes. The phenolic constituents and caffeine content in the BT extracts were measured quantitatively by HPLC. It was noted that both infusion and decoction of BT had β-glucuronidase inhibitory property close to that of silymarin. Epigallocatechin gallate, epicatechin, and gallocatechin showed higher β-glucuronidase inhibitory activity than that of BT extracts and silymarin. BT extracts also inhibited the enzyme lipase. Thearubigin, theaflavin, epigallocatechin gallate, epicatechin and gallocatechin showed significant lipase inhibitory properties that were superior to the drug orlistat. The tea extracts, flavonoids and gallic acid inhibited the activity of α-amylase and α-glucosidase. Theaflavin and catechin had α-amylase inhibitory activity better than that of acarbose. This in vitro study reveals that BT extract and the phenolic components may have potential benefit for controlling liver disorders, obesity and diabetes.

Prebiotics Decrease the Antibacterial Effect of Nano Silver and Nano TiO 2 Particles Against Probiotic Bacteria of Food

Abstract: Probiotics have been defined as “living microorganisms, which upon ingestion exert health benefits beyond inherent general nutrition”. Prebiotics are defined as short-chain carbohydrates, which are not digested by enzymes in the digestive system, which selectively stimulate the growth and activities of specific bacteria in the gut. Nano particles Ag and TiO 2 have been shown to have wide applications in medicine and food industry. We investigated the antimicrobial activity of Ag and TiO 2 nano particles on three species of Lactobacillus i.e. L. casei ATCC 39392, L. plantarum ATCC 8014 and L. fermentum ATCC 9338 in the presence and absence of Raffinose, Lactulose and Inulin, respectively. Result showed that nano silver particles decreased 85%, 85% and 71% of L. casei, L. plantarum and L. fermentum respectively after 48 hour and decreased percentages of L. casei, L. plantarum and L. fermentum that were 16%, 64% and 4% in the presence of the prebiotics and nano TiO 2 particles decreased 59%, 85% and 61% number of L. casei, L. plantarum and L. fermentum, respectively after 48 h and decreased percentages of L. casei, L. plantarum and L. fermentum were 16% and 2% and 4% in the presence of these prebiotics.

Cardioprotective Effects of Indian Gooseberry (Emblica officinalis Gaertn) and its Phytochemicals: A Review

Abstract: Emblica officinalis Gaertn or Phyllanthus emblica Linn, colloquially known as the Indian gooseberry or amla, is an important medicinal plant in the Indian traditional system of medicine, the Ayurveda and is classified as a Hrudya which when translated means cardiotonic drug. Numerous preclinical studies with laboratory animals have shown that amla does possess cardioprotective and anticoagulant effects and is useful in delaying/preventing/ reducing experimentally induced cardiotoxicity, atherosclerosis, myocardial infarction, hypertension and reducing ischemic-reperfusion injury. The pleiotropic effect of amla is believed to be due to the presence of various phytochemicals and studies have shown that the tannoids (emblicanin-A and –B), gallic acid, ellagic acid and corilagin also possess cardioprotective properties. Additionally, clinical studies have also shown that the regular intake of amla was effective in reducing the cholesterol levels and the effect to be similar to that of the conventionally used HMG CoA reductase inhibitor, simvastatin. Recent studies have also shown that amla improves endothelial function and reduced biomarkers of oxidative stress and systemic inflammation in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. This review for the first time summarizes the results related to these properties and also emphasizes the aspects that warrant future research to establish its activity and utility as a cardioprotective/ cardiotonic therapeutic drug in humans.

Inclusion of Dietary Zeolite Reduces Aflatoxin B 1 Levels in Household Bread Waste Used as Cattle Feed

Abstract: This study aimed to examine the efficacy of zeolite addition in the reduction of aflatoxin B 1 (AFB 1 ) levels in household bread waste used as animal feed. Three levels of zeolite (1, 3 and 5%) were added to two dry bread waste samples naturally contaminated by AFB 1 at 11.48 and 4.8 ppm levels. Samples were then analyzed before zeolite treatment (day 0) and after 7 and 14 days of storage for chemical (pH, moisture content and ash) and microbial (mesophilic bacteria and molds) changes as well as aflatoxin levels relative to the control. Data analysis showed that aflatoxin levels significantly decreased as zeolite and storage time increased, so that the lowest level of aflatoxin was found in sample treated with 5% zeolite after 14 days of storage compared with the control (p 1 levels in household bread waste used as animal feed.

Total Lipids and Fatty Acid Methyl Esters of Germinated Seeds of Mangrove Wild Legume

Abstract: Uncooked and cooked germinated seeds and germinated ripened beans of the mangrove wild legume Canavalia cathartica of Southwest coast of India were evaluated based on hot-extraction (Soxhlet) and cold-extraction (chloroformmethanol- water) methods to evaluate total lipids and fatty acid methyl esters (FAMEs). Cooked germinated seeds and ripened beans consist of more quantity of total lipids compared to uncooked germinated seeds and ripened beans. The quantity of palmitic, arachidic, palmitoleic and oleic acids surpassed the quantity in soybean, whereas the palmitic, oleic and linolenic acids in cold-extraction were comparable or higher than the wheat. Cooked germinated seeds and ripened beans on cold-extraction showed moderate to high quantity of unsaturated fatty acids such as oleic acid, linoleic acid and linolenic acid with desired ratios of TUFA/TSFA, C 14:0 + C 15:0 + (C 16:0 ÷C 18:0 ) and ω-6/ω-3. Overall, cooked germinated ripened beans are superior in FAMEs and thus nutritionally and nutraceutically beneficial.

Effect of the Processing Steps (Harvesting Time to Pasteurization) on Percentage of Fatty Acids in Table Olive

Abstract: The properties of fatty acids (FA) of four olive cultivars (Mari, Zard Golole, Roghani, and Souri) during crude state, lye treatment, water washing, fermentation, and pasteurization steps were studied. According to the results obtained, during the processing steps, in all the cultivars, oleic, palmitic, linoleic, and stearic acids were higher; the highest changes in saturated and unsaturated fatty acids (SFAs (saturated fatty acids) and UFAs (unsaturated fatty acids), respectively) were in water washing and lye treatment steps, and water washing and pasteurization steps, respectively; the highest and the lowest ratios of ω6/ ω3 fatty acids were in Zard Golole (crude state) and Souri (water washing step), respectively.

Does Vitamin D Play a Role in Depression? A Review of Clinical, Epidemiological and Biological Studies

Abstract: There is a growing interest in the possible associations between vitamin D and depression. In this mini-review we present diagnostic criteria of different depression scales, with special focus on somatic complaints, possible links between depression and vitamin D and an overview of studies on vitamin D levels / vitamin D supplementation in depressed patients. We observed that complaints of a somatic character, potentially linked to vitamin D deficiency, are important parts of the diagnostic assessment in depression. Depressed patients often had low levels of vitamin D, and seven out of nine large (n>1000) observational studies showed an association between vitamin D levels and depression. Five studies of vitamin D supplementation in depressed patients with vitamin D deficiency showed significant reductions in depressive symptoms post-supplementation. However, only two of these studies were randomized controlled trials, and one of them had only 15 subjects. We recommend that depressed patients should generally be screened for vitamin D deficiency. Aside an increased risk of impaired bone health, individual patients may have symptoms of depression related to potentially deficient vitamin D levels. However, further randomized controlled studies of the effects of vitamin D supplementation in depressed patients are needed.

Vitamin D: A Regulator of Metabolism and Inflammation

Abstract: Vitamin D, a calciotropic hormone, is gaining attention for many aspects of health, particularly metabolic regulation. As societal trends towards increasing caloric intake become more prominent, the concern for diseases stemming from chronic inflammation grows. Excess caloric intake results in increased lipid and fatty acid storage in adipose tissue leading to adipocyte hypertrophy and hyperplasia. Adipocytes produce cytokines and adipose-related hormones and can promote a systematic chronic proinflammatory state with the development of the metabolic syndrome and increasing risk of cardiovascular disease. Proinflammatory cytokines can signal immunocytes to injure the pancreas and endothelium. This, in turn can result in a reduction in insulin secretion and increasing insulin resistance. Vitamin D may possess therapeutic potential for metabolism associated diseases, as a result of its role in metabolic regulation and its action on adipocytes and myocytes. Vitamin D inhibits adipocyte maturation and differentiation, and reduces the production of proinflammatory cytokines and adipose- related hormones by adipocytes. The purpose of this review is to elucidate the current literature on the therapeutic potential of vitamin D repletion in the treatment and prevention of metabolic and cardiovascular diseases. Although associations exist between vitamin D insufficiency and obesity, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, cardiovascular and all- cause mortality, there have not been prospective trials that have demonstrated the benefit of vitamin D in alleviating manifestations of disease. Nevertheless, correction of vitamin D insufficiency would be expected to confer many health benefits. A greater understanding of the interaction of vitamin D with not only adipose tissue but other components of the human metabolic regulatory system, such as the hypothalamus, pancreas, and bone, may help tailor interventions including vitamin D supplementations that address cardiovascular disease and obesity.

Physico-Chemical, Textural and Sensory Analysis of Aloe vera Fortified Probiotic Yoghurt

Abstract: In the modern era, interest of consumers is being shifted towards the potential health benefits of food products. Aloe vera possesses medicinal properties which augur good health. It is one of the oldest known medicinal plant which is being used as health food and for cosmetic purposes throughout the world. Also, the health benefits of consuming fermented dairy products containing probiotic bacteria are numerous. Therefore, Aloe vera fortification was carried out for the production of probiotic yoghurt with nutritional and therapeutic properties. Aloe vera fortified probiotic yoghurt was characterized in terms of physico-chemical, textural and sensory properties. Textural properties of the Aloe vera fortified yoghurt were better as compared to the skim milk yoghurt in terms of consistency and syneresis and the sensory attributes (especially taste, appearance, texture) of the final product indicated that the product can be acceptable to consumers.

Handling Practices and Safety of Street-Vended Milk in and Around Addis Ababa City

Abstract: Forty five milk producers (MP) and 45 street-vendors (SV) of milk were selected randomly from three locations (Kotebe, Bishoftu and Chancho), Ethiopia and interviewed using semi-structured questionnaire. A total of 30 samples purposively selected from MP (15) and SV (15) were used for milk quality determinations. Milk producers in the study area generally followed unhygienic milking and improper milk handling practices. Average total bacterial (TBC) and coliform counts (CC) of milk from SV were 8.69 ± 0.15 and 6.61 ± 0.16 log 10 cfu/ml and from MP the corresponding values were 6.98 + 0.15 and 4.88 ± 0.16 log 10 cfu/ml, respectively. TBC and CC of milk samples obtained from streetvendors were significantly (P < 0.05) higher (1.71 and 1.73 log units, respectively) than milk samples obtained from dairy farmers. Dominant microflora isolated from raw milk belonged to the genera Bacillus (11.7%), Micrococcus (8.3%), Pseudomonas (7.8%), Staphylococcus (24.4%), Streptococcus (5%) and family Enterobacteriaceae (lactose- (32.8%) and non-lactose fermentative (10%)). The results showed poor hygienic quality of milk that may pose public health hazards. This calls for milk quality and safety improvement in the study area.

Potential of Organic Farming in Production of Environment Friendly Sugarcane

Abstract: Sugarcane draws heavily from soil and requires corresponding replenishment of nutrients With the increasingly crop residue and farm waste, finding alternative uses for supplementing the soil has become more acute Long-term use of inorganic fertilizers and pesticides to enhance the productivity of sugarcane results in deterioration of soil quality and the decline in productivity It also contributes to the accumulation of heavy metals in soil and raising concern about crop production and potential impact on human health Stubble decline, characterized by progressive reductions of yield in successive crops, is a major constraint on productivity and profitability of the sugarcane industry due to poor soil aeration, drainage, weed competition and Pythium root rot To facilitate sugarcane cultivation on a sustainable basis, and at the same time obtain product more acceptable in international market, it is advisable to apply biofertilizers and promote organic farming Application of different biofertilizers such as Azotobacter, Pseudomonas, Azospirillum, Trichoderma, Gliocladium sp AM fungi (Glomus fasciculatum, Glomus intraradices and Gigaspora albida) and Seaweeds (Caulerpa racemosa, Ulva lactuca, Sargassum wightii, Gelidiella acerosa and Gracilaria edulis), has shown significant improvement in sugarcane yield Biofertilizers improve soil physical properties, such as porosity, aeration and water infiltration by forming and stabilizing soil aggregates Composted organic materials have been utilized with varying success for suppression of root rot in sugarcane that would result in increased production and productivity Studies have also indicated that it is feasible to make a comparable yield of sugarcane by meeting the nutrient demand entirely through organics The farm produce will not contain traces of hazardous substances and will be accepted across the globe as a premium organic product

Development of Functional Foods Enriched with Inulin

Abstract: The aim of this work was to develop products derived from fruits enriched with inulin, which is a carbohydrate seen as a functional or nutraceutical nutrient, consisting of fructose, found naturally in various vegetables, such as the Jerusalem artichoke. The first step of this work was to obtain fruit juices as well as compotes with inulin from Jerusalem artichoke. The second part of the work included the determination of some chemical, microbiological and sensorial analyses to the products. After one month of storage, the products were submitted to all the analyses again, to assure their stability. The results obtained allowed concluding that the products prepared could be considered as functional foods due to the high content of inulin and low percentage of fructose that they contained.